Quezon City News December 2018

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Quezon City - Archived News
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Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Quezon City launched many ‘firsts in PH’ in 2018

By Perfecto Raymundo, Jr. (PNA)

MANILA -- The Quezon City local government has launched many “firsts in the Philippines” in 2018.

On Nov. 6, 2018, the Quezon City Council, headed by Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, launched the “Batas QC”, the Philippines’ first mobile application or app on local ordinances, to spread awareness about the rules and penalties concerning local laws in order to reduce the high record of ordinance violations in the city.

“This is the first user-friendly, city-based database that everyone can easily access, and it aims to counter ordinance violations by educating residents on the penalties they will be incurring,” Belmonte said during the launching of the app at the Quezon City Hall.

Records from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) showed that from June 13 to Nov. 2, 2018, the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) apprehended the highest number of ordinance violators at 262,847, which is 58.4 percent of all the arrests made for ordinance penalties in Metro Manila.

Belmonte said the high number of apprehensions has led the local government to implement Ordinance 2752-2018, which mandates law enforcers to issue ordinance violation receipts (OVR) instead of jailing ordinance violators in the city.

With an OVR, the violator can pay a fine within five days at the barangay hall or Quezon City Hall for offenses such as drinking, being half-naked and smoking in public places.

Belmonte noted that the launching of the app is “timely” since it will help residents understand ordinances as the OVR system is rolled out.

“One objective of the OVR is to mitigate the congestion in jails and detention centers, but we want to go one step further through 'Batas QC' by helping residents know our ordinances, so they will not have to violate the laws in the first place,” she said.

She added that aside from the city’s priority to maintain peace and order by reducing ordinance violators, “Batas QC” aims to educate residents about ordinances concerning roads, transportation, garbage, healthcare and other issues.

Copies of the ordinance are also downloadable through the app.

“Batas QC” was developed by Thinc Office Corporation which also created MyLegalWhiz, the pioneering online legal resource in the Philippines.

On Dec. 6, 2018, the local government of Quezon City also launched a campaign dubbed as “#healthierQC” at the Nicanor Reyes Jr. Hall, FEU-Diliman, Quezon City. Mayor Herbert Bautista was represented by City Health Officer Dr. Verdades P. Linga.

“#healthierQC” is the first of its kind and the newest health campaign by the city government in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies and Vital Strategies.

In her speech, Linga said “the campaign is geared towards reducing the incidence of non-communicable diseases among children.”

Linga added “Quezon City is building a #healthierQC” in a commitment to fight non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which is now the leading cause of death in the world.” The NCDs, including stroke, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases are on the rise and a leading cause of death in the Philippines.

In a statement, Bautista said “At Quezon City, we are committed to building capacities so that our residents can have longer, healthier, and happier lives. We encourage the community -- our parents, teachers, schools, and our youth -- to get behind “healthierQC.”

“We believe that, in the long run, being healthy is the best gift we could ever give to our loves ones. Nutritious diets are ultimately a better way of showing how much we care for our family and our children,” Bautista added.

The initiative was in collaboration with Partnership for Health Cities, a global network of cities led by Michael R. Bloomberg, World Health Organization Global Ambassador for NCDs and former New York City mayor.

On Nov. 13, 2018, Belmonte divulged plans to automate city hall transactions using technology.

The vice mayor cited how technology can help reduce corruption in government transactions, saying “Automation would also minimize face-to-face interaction that can help eliminate corruption, so we have to use technology to its utmost potential in our city.”

The Quezon City local government has also partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Securities and Exchange Commission and other agencies in a pilot project that will allow new business registrants to apply for business permits on their mobile phones.

In line with the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s “Bantay Korapsyon” campaign, Belmonte has also committed to use technology to stamp out corruption and reward outstanding and honest public servants.

She has pledged to back the use of performance indicators in government transactions.

For instance, she said, through a new feedback system, constituents can digitally submit their feedback after completing a transaction. Good performers will then be given incentives by the city government.

On Nov. 7, 2018, Belmonte bared plans to put up a drug rehabilitation facility for women and a recovery clinic for voluntary surrenderers to more effectively treat drug-dependent patients from the city in line with Quezon City’s campaign against illegal drugs.

“We have been discussing with the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime, and by next year, we will have a partnership to establish a facility just for women,” said Belmonte, who is also the chairperson of the Quezon City Anti-Drug Abuse Advisory Council (QCADAAC).

Belmonte cited studies from the city showing that women are more hesitant to go to drug rehabilitation facilities since many of them could not leave their children behind.

She noted that the additional facilities will be welcome additions to Quezon City’s Tahanan rehabilitation center and will help address the influx of drug dependents who have surrendered after the launch of Oplan Tokhang.

Tahanan is the Philippines’ first treatment facility for drug dependents that is accredited by the Department of Health and is fully-funded and managed by a local government unit. It was first opened in 1993 and is being operated by the Office of the Vice Mayor.

Since 2016, around 16,000 have surrendered to QCADAAC and the Quezon City Police District.

After graduating from the community-based drug recovery treatment, the reformed drug users are provided with free skills and livelihood training and starter kits by the Office of the Vice Mayor, Quezon City Skills and Livelihood Foundation, Inc. and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

QC cops hailed for ‘zero-crime’ Christmas revelry

By Perfecto Raymundo, Jr. (PNA)

MANILA -- Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte on Thursday hailed the city police’s efforts in ensuring the peace and order during the celebration of Christmas, saying the "zero-crime" rate in the city was due to the intensive police visibility among public places throughout the holiday.

Belmonte noted that the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) had applied proactive measures to secure the safety of the public which included the deployment of 2,287 policemen in malls, churches, transport terminals, and other massively visited places in the City.

“I want to recognize the efforts of our policemen, and of course our QCPD Director Joselito Esquivel for securing our people during the celebration of Christmas. They have been very hard-working despite the holiday that is why we should really commend them,” Belmonte said in a statement.

Esquivel announced on Wednesday that there were no crime reports on the eight major crimes -- homicide, murder, physical injury, robbery, theft, rape, carnapping and motorcycle robbery-- in the city.

He noted that this had been the 10th time the city recorded a zero-crime rate since he took over the post.

“They (QCPD policemen) were not able to get leaves and breaks during Christmas; they did not celebrate with their families because of the call of service, and for that, we should really admire their dedication to their duty,” Belmonte added.

The local official expressed her hope for a peaceful New Year celebration in the city, and that the same intensity of security measures will be maintained until the first few days of January 2019.

“I hope we can maintain this until the New Year’s Eve celebration na (which is) zero-crime rate din (also). I think it is possible, with our intensified police visibility, and now that our people are more vigilant,” Belmonte said.

Moms urged to be more open to early childhood education

By Perfecto Raymundo, Jr. (PNA)

MANILA -- Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte has urged mothers to change their mindset and be more open to early childhood education, saying children aged five and below should be taught reading at least a few letters of the alphabet.

During the inauguration of the two Masaganang Bukas Learning Centers on Wednesday, Belmonte addressed the issue of some elementary graduates who still do not know how to read, which can be solved through teaching kids to read and write during their toddler years.

“Sa tingin ko, panahon na para baguhin natin ang pag-iisip natin dahil mayroong mga naniniwala na dapat naglalaro palang ang mga five years old pababa at dapat ang pagbabasa matutunan kapag six or seven years old na (In my view, it’s now time to change our mentality because there are those who believe that five years old should only play and the reading should be learned when they are six years old already),” Belmonte said.

“Sa akin naman, kahit tatlong taon palang ang bata pwede na natin silang turuan magbasa, magsulat, kahit paisa-isang titik lang. Kasi napapansin ko, maraming kabataang nasa elementary na, Grade 4, Grade 5 pero hindi pa rin marunong magbasa (For me, even if the child is only three years old, we can already teach them to read, write, even on a letter by letter. Because I’m noticing, many youth already in the elementary, Grade 4, Grade 5 but could not read),” she added.

Belmonte also called on the pre-school teachers to think out of the box and incorporate modern techniques in teaching to make the learning experience of the children more fun and effective.

“That's why at our day care [centers] let’s try the new way of teaching, maybe we can prepare the children the soonest possible time. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Let’s not remain in the box in trainings because our youth will also benefit from these),” Belmonte said.

The vice mayor also advised pre-school teachers to expand the minds of their students and bring them to their limits to help the children develop their talents.

She said she wanted to prioritize the founding of child-minding services, where single parents could entrust their child if they have any other things to do.

DSWD reports 2018 accomplishments

By Lucia F. Broño (PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY (PIA)--Despite the various changes within the organization, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) officials and employees remained united and continued performing their tasks with the same commitment to quality service that they have demonstrated over the years.

DSWD Secretary Rolando Bautista who took the helm of the Department in the last quarter of the year, jumpstarted his leadership role by spearheading the response efforts for families affected by disasters such as Typhoon Rosita and the landslide in Natonin, Mountain Province.

Bautista, with his own brand of leadership focused on the principle of unity and teamwork, steered the Department towards achieving its 2018 targets.

In their year ender accomplishment report on Friday, December 14, Undersecretary Florita Villar representing Bautista shared the highlights of the Department’s accomplishments in 2018.

PROMOTIVE PROGRAMS

The Promotive Programs are the strategic grouping of the flagship social protection programs of the Department that provide investment to human capital through conditional cash transfer, community-driven development, and sustainable livelihood.

Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program

Now on its 10th year of implementation, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) continues to invest in the health and education of poor and vulnerable households to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty in the country.

As of October, 4Ps is being implemented in 145 cities and 1,489 municipalities in 81 provinces.

A total of 4,178,985 are active household-beneficiaries. Of the 4.1 million active beneficiaries, 3,950,012 are covered by the regular Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program while 228,973 are covered by the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer (MCCT).

The MCCT includes beneficiaries who are not covered by the regular CCT, such as homeless street families, victims of natural and man-made disasters who are rendered homeless and with no means of livelihood, and Indigenous People in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA).

Sustainable Livelihood Program

The DSWD also continues to provide indigent Filipinos with access to sustainable livelihood opportunities through its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). It is the Department’s capacity-building program that provides opportunities to increase the productivity of the livelihood assets of the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized communities, helping them improve their socio-economic well-being.

Under the SLP, beneficiaries are given the option to take either the micro-enterprise development track, which supports microenterprises to become organizationally and economically viable, or the employment facilitation track, which assists Filipinos to access appropriate employment opportunities.

As of October, the program was able to serve a total of 82, 455 households nationwide. Of this number, 73,546 households or 89.20 percent were served under the micro-enterprise development track while 8,909 households or 10.80 percent were served under the employment facilitation track.

Out of the total number of households served by the SLP, 70,073 are beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Some 63,600 4Ps households were assisted under the micro-enterprise development track, while 6,473 were facilitated for employment.

Unconditional Cash Transfer

In continuation of the implementation of the Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) program, the largest tax reform mitigation program under the current administration’s Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, the Department has prepared and uploaded the payroll documents for the P2,400 UCT grants of some 8,603,905 beneficiaries to the Land Bank of the Philippines.

The remaining 2,600,000 beneficiaries are expected to have their scheduled payouts via over-the-counter or conduits this December.

Kalahi-CIDSS National Community-Driven Development Program

The DSWD continues to empower communities in targeted poor and disaster-affected municipalities to achieve improved access to social services through the implementation of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi CIDSS) National Community-Driven Development Program.

The program provides assistance by enhancing communities’ and local government units’ (LGU) capacity and by providing seed funding for community implementation of priority social infrastructure sub-projects that helps reduce poverty and improve sustainability. As of November, 412 municipalities have been implementing the program while a total of 4,558 sub-projects have been completed and have benefitted 1,536,100 households.

PROTECTIVE PROGRAMS

The protective programs serve the DSWD’s primary clients—the poor and vulnerable groups and communities – so that they are provided with the necessary safety nets and safeguards against social exclusion and further impoverishment and are given the opportunities to improve their resiliency and welfare.

Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations

The DSWD continues to support the recovery of individuals and families from unexpected crisis through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS). It is delivered through the various Crisis Intervention Units (CIU) at the DSWD Central Office, Field Offices, and satellite offices in the provinces, provides educational, medical, transportation, burial, and food and non-food assistance.

From January to October, the Department has released P2,794,260,205.28 to 671,192 clients of DSWD CIUs nationwide. Medical assistance remains the top aid with disbursement amounting to P1,926,892,425, followed by burial and educational assistance with P386,361,798 and P324,626,840, respectively.

Supplementary Feeding Program

As part of the DSWD’s contribution to the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program of the government and Republic Act 11037 institutionalizing a National Feeding Program for Undernourished Children in Public Day Care, Kindergarten and Elementary Schools, the Department continues to implement its Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP), which is the provision of snacks and hot meals in addition to the regular meals to children currently enrolled in child development centers and supervised neighborhood play.

As of November, a total of 1,543,903 children in 52,949 day care centers from all regions have benefitted from SFP with a total budget of P3,153,931,755.95.

Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens and Implementation of Centenarians Act

In adherence to Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act which seeks to help augment the daily subsistence and medical needs of indigent senior citizens, the DSWD continues to implement the Social Pension Program for Indigent Senior Citizens. The program provides P500 monthly stipend to poor seniors who are frail, sickly, and with disability; without regular income or support from family; and with no existing pension from the Social Security System, Government Service Insurance System, and other organizations.

As of October, a total of 3,114,064 indigent seniors have benefitted from the program with the total pension amounting to P13,976,334,000.

Meanwhile, the Department has recognized and awarded a total of 977 centenarians in all regions for 2018 for a total of P97,700,00. Under Republic Act 10868 or the Centenarians Act of 2016, all Filipinos who have reached 100 years old and above, whether residing in the Philippines or abroad, will be given a Centenarian gift amounting to P100,000 and a Letter of Felicitation signed by the President. The highest number of centenarians came from Region NCR with 381.

Services for trafficked persons

The DSWD also provided assistance to trafficked persons under the Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP). It is a comprehensive program that ensures adequate recovery and reintegration services provided to trafficked persons. It utilizes a multi-sectoral approach and delivers a complete package of services to enhance the psychosocial, social, and economic needs of the clients.

The beneficiaries of the program include the victims-survivors of trafficking who are returning or have returned to the Philippines, families, and relatives of the victims-survivors, and communities with a high incidence of trafficking.

As of September, the DSWD has served a total of 1,984 trafficked persons in all regions under the RRPTP.

Field Office NCR served the highest number of new Trafficking in Persons (TIP) cases with a total number of 580 followed by FO IX and III with 338 and 235 cases, respectively.

Lingap at Gabay Para sa May Sakit (LinGAP sa MaSa)

In line with its mandate to provide accessible social welfare assistance, the DSWD, through the Lingap at Gabay Para sa May Sakit (LinGAP sa MaSa), continues to serve the medical needs of indigent Filipinos.

LinGAP sa MaSa is the P1billion medical program of President Rodrigo R. Duterte implemented by the DSWD which initially began as a free medicines program. The medical program is being implemented by the Department’s Field Offices in the National Capital Region (NCR) and in Regions III, VI, VII, and XI in partnership with various government hospitals.

As of October, the LinGAP sa MaSa has already served a total of 69,805 indigent patients with a total amount of ₱712,588,740.40.

Issuance of Travel Certificate to Minors Travelling Abroad

To promote the rights and protect children from any form of abuse, the DSWD, through its Field Offices, issues Travel Clearance to children, 17 years old and below, who are traveling abroad alone or who are accompanied by a person other than their parents or legal guardian.

As of November 30, the Department has issued a total of 31,909 clearances to minors traveling abroad. Of this number, 15,109 were issued to males and 16,800 to females in 16 regions.

In July, the DSWD launched its DSWD eServices establishing the online application and processing for the issuance of travel clearance certificate for minors traveling abroad.

DISASTER RESPONSE

The DSWD continues to strengthen its commitment as the lead disaster response agency in the country through the provision of relief supplies and augmentation support to local government units (LGUs), mobilization of disaster response teams, monitoring and coordination with other concerned disaster response agencies, and setting up of Rapid Emergency Telecommunications Teams (RETT) in areas hit by disasters this year.

From January to December 2018, the country was hit by 20 tropical depressions in varying intensity, the most destructive of which were Typhoons Ompong in September and Rosita in October.

Typhoon Ompong displaced 931,892 families or 3,816,989 persons in 6,504 barangays in Regions NCR, I, II, III, CaLaBaRZon, MiMaRoPa, and CAR while Typhoon Rosita affected 136,273 families or 567,691 persons in 1,921 barangays in Regions I, II, III, VIII, and CAR.

These tropical depressions also intensified southwest monsoon rains affecting 532,066 families or 2,331,101 persons in 1,835 barangays in Regions I, III, VI, CAR, NCR, CALABARZON, and MIMAROPA.

The Department provided P72,437,893.68 worth of food aid to the affected families and non-food items including hygiene kits worth P36,095,131.00.

The Department also assisted communities affected by the eruption of the Mayon Volcano which displaced a total of 23,786 families or 91,055 persons from 61 barangays in the province of Albay. A total of P100,694,318.72 worth of food and non-food items was provided to the affected locals and some P61,973,000.00 was disbursed for the implementation of the cash-for-work program in the municipalities of Bacacay, Guinobatan, Malilipot, Santo Domingo, Daraga, and in City of Ligao, City of Tabaco, and Legazpi City.

Boracay Island rehabilitation

Apart from providing assistance to victims of natural calamities and hazards, the DSWD also extended aid to communities affected by the temporary closure of Boracay Island which started from April to Octobe4r.

As of November, the DSWD Field Office VI has provided financial assistance worth P43,967,347.58 to beneficiaries who availed of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS); P53,571,600 for the implementation of the cash-for-work program; P158,940,000.00 for the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP); and, 28,915 family food packs for 12,431 families amounting to P10,409,400.60.

Aid for IDPs of Marawi crisis

The DSWD also continues its provision of relief assistance for families affected by the Marawi crisis. To date, a total of P718,369,837.20 worth of relief assistance has been provided to the internally displaced persons (IDPs).

In a statement, Bautista said that in 2019, the Department will continue to be faithful to its mandate of empowering and serving the vulnerable sectors of society.

Bautista said the DSWD aims to improve its operations and program implementation to become more responsive to existing and emerging social welfare issues.

“Foremost in this goal of an improved DSWD are stronger disaster preparedness and response effort and intensified implementation of the policy on “ease of doing business” in all DSWD transactions, among others, Bautista said.

Bautista also vowed to put premium consideration on the welfare of personnel whom he considers instrumental to the overall success of the Department.

560 more surrenderers graduate from QC drug rehab

By Perfecto Raymundo, Jr. (PNA)

MANILA -- A total of 560 drug surrenderers from the Quezon City drug rehabilitation center have recently graduated after completing the rehabilitation modules and counseling.

During the commencement ceremony on Wednesday, Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte congratulated the graduates for being able to finish the treatment.

“I want to congratulate all of you for staying committed and dedicated to change your lives and quit the use of illegal drugs. I am sure your families are very proud now that you are finally drug-free,” she said.

She also vowed to extend help to the graduates in acquiring jobs through the QC Public Employment Service Office (PESO), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), which will provide services to ensure the hiring of the graduates.

“For those who do not have jobs yet, the city will help you through PESO, TESDA, and other private sectors to acquire skills and jobs so you will stay busy and productive now that you have finished the treatment. Don’t worry, because the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) of your own barangays and the city government have prepared opportunities for you,” she said.

“Because we have found out in our profiling that one of the major causes of drug abuse among our people is idleness -- wala lang silang pinagkakaabalahan, wala silang ibang ginagawa (they only do not have anything to be busy about, they are not doing other things). So we will do everything we can to provide jobs for you,” Belmonte said.

She noted that the city government's intervention to those who finished the drug rehabilitation does not stop, for they will still closely monitor and provide after-care services to ensure a low relapse rate.

“However, our aid doesn’t stop here because we will continue monitoring and ensuring that all of you will not be just drug-free, but drug-resistant as well. And it is another challenge for you because every day, you have to decide for yourselves to say 'no' to drugs,” she added.

To date, the city has a total of 2,300 persons, who undertook the drug rehabilitation program out of the 20,000 surrenderers since 2016.

First 1,000 Days Law to benefit kids' health, nutrition

By Perfecto Raymundo, Jr. (PNA)

MANILA -- A children's welfare advocacy group, Save the Children Philippines (SCP), on Thursday assured that the enactment of the “First 1,000 Days Law” gives children the chance to grow and develop through health and nutrition programs.

Republic Act 11148, or the “Kalusugan at Nutrition ng Mag-Nanay Act” (The First 1,000 Days Law), was signed into law by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Nov. 29, 2018, nine days after 29th Anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

It was co-authored by Senator Risa Hontiveros, the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality chairperson and Quezon City (4th District) Rep. Angelina Tan.

In a press conference in Quezon City, SCP chief executive officer Alberto Muyot said the newly-signed measure will provide children of indigent families an "optimum growth and development through health and nutrition programs in their first 1,000 days.”

“The enactment of the law is a welcome Christmas gift to children of poor and marginalized families who can now access better health and nutrition services,” Muyot added.

Hontiveros, meanwhile, echoed Muyot's remark, saying it is “a perfect Christmas gift to mothers and infants”.

"The challenge now is to ensure that RA 11148 will be immediately and effectively implemented, and that ample funding will be provided by government to support the many reforms the law introduces,” she said.

The lawmaker also urged the government to provide funding and the resources that the law requires.

“The state must be true to its mandate and promise of protecting mothers and their young children, whose development will determine the future of our nation,” she added.

The measure was co-sponsored by Senate Preside Pro-Tempore Ralph Rector and Senators Sonny Angara, Grace Poe, Nancy Binay, Bam Aquino IV, Joseph Victor Ejercito, Loren Legarda and Grace Poe, with inputs from Senator Cynthia Villar.

The new law ensures mothers are given proper nutrition and health care before, during and after giving birth. It also supports provision of health and nutrition services for children from conception up to two years old or known as the “window of opportunity” for every child.

It strengthens training for barangay health workers and support and training for mothers to ensure their health and their children's as well.

Even before the law was enacted, the cities of Malabon and Navotas have passed their respective ordinances pertaining to the “First 1,000 Days”.

Under the new law, the implementation of a comprehensive nutrition intervention program will be headed by the Department of Health, in coordination with the National Nutrition Council, Department of Agriculture, local government units, with other government agencies, for the benefit of infants during their first 1,000 days of life, as well as their mothers and other “nutritionally-at-risk” individuals like pregnant women, lactating women or teenage mothers.

Included under the program are nutrition, counseling, consultations on various health issues, psycho-social support for mothers, oral health and lactation management services to social-welfare support for economically-challenged families and home visits for families in far-flung places.

QC backs campaign to fight violence against women, kids

By Alexandria San Juan

The Quezon City local government has expressed its support to the “Respeto Naman” campaign, a nationwide advocacy against gender-based violence as it affirmed its commitment in upholding women’s rights and fighting violence against women and children (VAWC).

The campaign, led by Embassy of Sweden in Manila, Office of the Vice President, United Nations Women Safe Cities Metro Manila, SPARK Philippines, and Empower, is part of the 18-day activism on the fight against versus violence against women and children.

Apart from the “Respeto Naman” campaign, the UN Women Safe Cities Metro Manila also launched the “Don’t tell me how to dress” campaign which aims to stop victim blaming among women who experience sexual harassment and abuse.

Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte boasted the city’s successful campaign on violence against women and children as well as the actions of the City in addressing these concerns.

“We have the most progressive Gender and Development Code in the country, including being the partner of UN Women Safe Cities advocacy project,” Belmonte said in her speech during the launching.

Based on the data from the Quezon City government, the reported cases of rape increased from 196 in 2017 to 259 in 2018, showing that more people are getting aware of sexual harassment and abuse.

Quezon City was cited as a model city when it comes to fighting violence against women and children through their policies such as the Anti-Catcalling Ordinance which penalizes street-level harassment on women.

In the “Don’t tell me how to dress” campaign, clothes worn by sexual harassment victims were shown in the exhibit, telling each of their stories.

According to a study conducted by the UN, three out of five women who were harassed were not wearing revealing clothes and most of the women wore school uniform or business attire.

The UN Women Safe Cities also emphasizes the four R’s, which stands for Realize, Respond, Report, and Reform in combating VAWC.

QC repulses Laguna at home for 3rd straight win

By Ivan Stewart Saldajeno (PNA)

MANILA -- Quezon City Capitals won its third straight game in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Datu Cup after subduing Laguna Heroes at home, 85-80, at the Blue Eagle Gym in Quezon City on Thursday night.

In a highly-physical clash that saw both squads putting up a total of 84 free throw attempts, 42 for each team, and even Jay Collado leaving the game due to an apparent elbow injury after a hard fall, the Capitals held on against the Heroes in a long showdown that ended just before the clock struck midnight despite actually struggling from the foul line.

QC actually had a chance to pull away early as the team opened a 26-16 lead with six and a half minutes left in the second quarter.

But Laguna caught fire later in the second with a 10-0 run to take a 34-33 lead and eventually stretched it to four, 40-36, at halftime.

The road team, however, could not pull away from the host squad, and the latter ended the third quarter ahead, 61-60.

However, the Capitals also had a tough time in finishing off the Heroes as they struggled from the free throw line, and the latter regained the lead, 76-75, on a Ralf Olivarez triple with 1:37 left.

QC, despite the free throw woes still haunting the team, finally stole the home win with the game-deciding 8-1 run for an 83-77 cushion capped by a 2-for-2 trip from the charity stripe by Jeff Morillo.

James Castañares still put a bit of a scare with a corner triple with eight seconds left, but Jomar Santos found a blitzing Peejay Barua for the insurance layup.

Barua finished with 20 points and six rebounds for the Capitals, who zoomed up to sixth place in the Northern Division at 6-8.

Collado and Hesed Gabo each added 14 markers.

Michael Mabulac put up 21 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, three blocks, and one steal for the Heroes, but he had to watch the final 80 seconds of the game at the bench as he and Raymond Ilagan fouled out at crunch time.

Denok Miranda added 20 points, six rebounds, eight assists, and one steal.

Olivarez had his own double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds with one steal and one block.

Catriona Gray visits orphanage in Quezon City

(ABS-CBN News)

MANILA – Work has officially begun for Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.

On Thursday, Gray took part in a charity event for Gentle Hands, an orphanage in Quezon City.

The event is a partnership between the Miss Universe Organization and Frontrow, a homegrown multi-level marketing company.

“We are giving gifts to the children today,” the beauty queen said during a press conference at a hotel in Taguig, shortly before heading to the Gentle Hands orphanage in Cubao.

“We hope this inspires each and every one of you… to open up your heart this Christmas and give – whether it be small, whether it be large, or anything to make someone’s Christmas season happy,” she added.

Gray said the charity event for Gentle Hands was planned for the new Miss Universe, and not specifically for her.

“The new Miss Universe of 2018 just so happened to be a Filipina,” she said with a huge smile.

She went on to explain why she always had a soft spot for children: “I’m drawn to working with children specifically because I’m an only child. Growing up, I always wished for siblings, so I guess when I became an adult and I reached out to charity, working with children just really touched my heart.”

“They’re so pure, and simple things make them happy.”

After giving gifts to children at Gentle Hands, Gray lent her Miss Universe sash to one of the girls at the orphanage and taught her how to turn and wave like a beauty queen.

Gray arrived in Manila via a private jet on Wednesday, two days after winning the Philippines’ fourth Miss Universe crown.

Her return will only be a short visit which includes private engagements.

The beauty queen’s official homecoming, which traditionally includes a motorcade and TV appearances, has yet to be arranged.

Gray is expected to be based in New York to fulfill her duties as Miss Universe just like her predecessors, which include her compatriot, Pia Wurtzbach.

400 AFP scholars get Xmas packs from PAGCOR

By Priam Nepomuceno (PNA)

MANILA -- With the Yuletide Season now in full swing, 400 scholars of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday received Christmas gift packs from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

In a statement, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato said recipients are children of active, wounded, and deceased military personnel who are continuing their studies through the help of the AFP Educational Benefits System.

They came from various areas in National Capital Region and Luzon participating in the third “Pamaskong Handog ng PAGCOR” that started in 2016, he added.

AFP deputy chief-of-staff for personnel, Major Gen. Erickson Gloria, presided over the event held at the General Headquarters Canopy Area in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

He represented Vice Admiral Gaudencio Collado Jr, AFP deputy chief-of-staff, who is also the chairman of the AFP Educational Benefit System.

“I express my appreciation to PAGCOR for being one of our partners in recognizing the gallantry of our soldiers. Our partnership is very instrumental in turning the lives of soldiers’ children towards the fulfilment of their dreams,” Gloria added.

Also present in the activity is Lt. Col. Antonio Dulunuan Jr, AFP Educational Benefits System Office (AFPEBSO) chief and Jimmy Bondoc, PAGCOR vice president for corporate social responsibility.

The AFP, through the AFPEBSO, continues to partner with other agencies and organizations as part of its mission to uplift the morale and welfare of its members. It also conducts fund-raising projects to further support its growing number of grantees.

Following the gift-giving activity, the AFPEBSO held the draw for its “P50 Mo, Aral Ko” raffle project.

Winners received up to PHP80,000 worth of prizes. The proceeds of the ticket sales will be used to boost financial assistance being given to current grantees.

As of December 2018, the AFPEBSO is serving more than 3,500 grantees nationwide. Most of which are dependents of soldiers who were either killed or wounded in battle.

Since its establishment in 2001, the office has already helped around 5,000 dependents to finish their studies through various law-mandated and partnership programs.

NPO boosts leadership dev’t efforts

By Filane Mikee Cervantes (PNA)

MANILA -- The National Printing Office (NPO) on Friday culminated its five-month management training program to boost the leadership of its executive ranks in support of its plans for organizational change and development.

NPO Director Francisco Vales Jr. led the recognition and pinning ceremony for around 60 participants of the “Leaders Capacity Building and Strategic Planning” at the agency’s headquarters at Edsa corner NIA North Road, Diliman in Quezon City.

In his speech, Vales highlighted the need to introduce necessary changes within the organization to remain relevant and responsive to the demand for quality printing products and client satisfaction.

“There is really a need for us to change for the betterment. To be efficient, productive and responsive to the printing needs of the public means to change our old ways of thinking and habits which compromises the results that we need to deliver,” Vales said.

The six-module leadership workshop is in line with the NPO’s Roadmap Vision 2020 aimed at propelling the agency to greater heights by expanding its services and strengthening its internal system even while continuing to uphold the integrity of public service.

The main objectives of the workshop is to present the NPO’s overall direction to employees and stakeholders; review and update its vision and mission, goals and core values; and power up its leaders.

The final output is the formulation of a three-year strategic plan for the different divisions of the NPO.

The following are the agenda of the NPO, which is geared toward organizational change and development: 1) to continue to promote NPO’s distinct brand of quality service with a professional and capable workforce that is fully committed towards change; 2) to continue to uphold the brand of the NPO as a reliable partner in development as it expands its market base and partnership with other printers; 3) to continue with the joint venture opportunity to reinforce NPO’s capability and enlarge its operations by infusing resources with the private printers; 4) to strengthen NPO’s own base -- its internal capability and capacity as an organization to respond with dynamism to change; 5) to work further in strengthening NPO’s operation to be more economical, efficient and effective; 6) to increase revenue growth and find ways to maintain an efficient internal control system to safeguard resources from wastage, ensure that information within the organization are reliable and uphold the value of participation and partnership among and within the people in the workplace.

QC bats for converging area for elderly, PWDs

By Perfecto Raymundo, Jr. (PNA)

MANILA -- The Quezon City local government is pushing for a converging area for senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs).

The Quezon City Council has passed a resolution requesting barangays and homeowners’ associations in charge of city-built covered courts to prioritize senior citizens and PWDs in using these places as converging area for their physical, moral and social well-being.

Quezon City has 142 barangays and a population of about 3 million, 51,000 of whom are considered PWDs.

Authored by Councilor Melencio Castelo Jr., City Resolution 7487-2018 requests all barangays, homeowners’ associations (HOA) and other entities in-charge of the administration of city-built covered courts and areas in the city to give priority to senior citizens and PWDs in using these as points of convergence from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m., Monday to Friday, free of charge.

“Napakahalaga na magkaroon ng converging area para sa mga senior citizens at PWDs dahil may mga barangay dito sa ating lungsod na salat sa mga areas na pagdarausan (It’s very important to have a converging area for the senior citizens and PWDs because there are barangays here in our city that have no sufficient areas to converge),” Quezon City Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA) personnel officer Erlinda Bañego said in an interview on Thursday.

Based on OSCA statistics, 375,000 senior citizens live in Quezon City.

“Sa amin sa Barangay Tatalon, hindi kami nakakagamit ng facilities ng barangay hall. Kaya, sa kalsada kami nagpupulong at nagdaraos ng physical fitness activities (In our place in Barangay Tatalon, we could not use the facilities of the barangay hall. Hence, we hold our meetings on the street and conduct physical fitness activities),” Bañego added.

The resolution noted that it is the policy of the government to extend full support for the betterment of the physical, moral and social well-being of senior citizens and PWDs in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act Nos. 7432, or the “Senior Citizen Law”, as amended and 7277, or the “Magna Carta for Disabled Persons”, as amended.

"Senior citizens and PWDs should be provided an area in their barangay or community that will serve as their converging area in order to nurture and foster their capacity and ability to attain a more meaningful and productive life," the resolution added.

Women urged to speak up vs. violence

By Perfecto Raymundo, Jr. (PNA)

MANILA -- Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte is urging women to speak up against violence, especially victims of any forms of harassment, violence, and abuse.

“Speak up. Do not be afraid nor be ashamed to report because the city government is here to provide any kind of assistance to punish the perpetrator and serve justice,” Belmonte said in an interview on Wednesday, during the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), spearheaded by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW).

The city official has been vocal on her stand to uphold women empowerment and cease violence against women in Quezon City, where she founded various programs for women protection.

One of those is the Quezon City Protection Center (QCPC) that provides free legal, medical, and psychological assistance to victims of gender-based violence. The QCPC has saved almost a thousand women, children, and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people since its launch in 2011.

In April this year, Belmonte also pursued the use of the city's Gender and Development (GAD) budget to put up more women and children help desks and protection centers in several barangays, alongside those in the police stations to expand its services in the whole city.

“We hope that, through these measures, we can alleviate the cases of violence against women,” she added.

At the same time, Belmonte called for respect towards women for their significant role and immeasurable contribution to various aspects of society.

“Regardless of gender, women, men, and members of our LGBT community have to be respected. We must also all be made to feel safe in public places,” she said.

According to the PCW, one out of four women aged 15-49 has experienced physical, emotional, and sexual violence committed by their husband or partner in 2017.

In a statement, the PCW also called for compassion for women, especially for the victims of gender-based violence, and also for women to take courage and seek help to attain healing and justice.

QC Public Library holds ‘Storytelling at the Park’

By Susan G. De Leon (PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY (PIA)--The Quezon City Public Library (QCPL) recently hosted a storytelling activity to encourage love of reading especially among the youth.

Dubbed as ‘Storytelling at the Park’, the activity was held at the Quezon City Circle which was participated in by pupils of Pinyahan Elementary School as part of the city government's “Back To Reading” campaign.

Earlier, the QC government launched the “Back to Reading” campaign to encourage the publics to read more and visit libraries, especially the Quezon City Public Library that has been repeatedly adjudged as the best public library in the country.

Puppeteers from the QCPL Children’s Section performed a puppet show featuring several skits and songs to entertain the pupils.

Several guest storytellers were also invited in the event, including Councilor Roderick Paulate.

“We usually conduct storytelling activities in schools and libraries. This is the first time that we conducted the activity outdoors to promote it to people strolling at the park,” said Assistant City Librarian Mariza Chico.

The storytelling activity was also a part of QCPL’s Library and Information Services (LIS) Month, which is commemorated every November, pursuant to Proclamation No. 837 s. 1991.

“The proclamation is in recognition for the need to focus public awareness to the invaluable service that libraries and information centers render,” Chico said.

Activa to spur strong business growth in Quezon City

By Leony Garcia

CUBAO, one of the oldest business districts in the country, is set for a grand transformation soon with the rise of Activa, a mixed-use development seamlessly integrates a lifestyle mall, offices and BPOs, hotel and residential condominium.

Activa is one of Gotianun-led Filinvest projects, which offers a holistic live-work-play lifestyle. A dynamic, refreshing and chic concept, the development’s wide variety of components complement a slew of well-appointed amenities for both business and residential buildings—making Activa an ideal place where one can thrive.

The 1-hectare property is situated at the corner of Edsa and Aurora Boulevard in Cubao, Quezon City. Activa’s enviable location provides close proximity to various central business districts, commercial centers, health and wellness hubs, educational institutions, places of worship, and other office developments in the Metro.

Activa is also conveniently connected to the north and south of Metro Manila via Edsa, while the east and west is easily reachable via Aurora Boulevard. Aside from this, Activa also boasts of being a transit-oriented development, being accessible to various city and provincial bus stations and to the two main train lines—MRT and LRT. It is also commuter-friendly with the planned bus lay-by, taxi stands, vehicle pickup points and pedestrian link to the train stations.

Mixed-use lifestyle

Activa Flex, the development’s 24-story building, is comprised of 40 Compound Office units, 112± Regular Office units and 168± versatile SoHo units. With unit size ranging from 20± square meter to 240± sq m, Activa Flex provides the much-needed space for flexibility and functionality.

Ideal for start-ups to medium-sized firms, Activa Flex’s units with small office home office spaces grant forward-looking entrepreneurs the flexibility and convenience of living and working in one place, all within a master-planned cityscape. Each unit is equipped with fiber-optic cable and telecommunications backbone for high-speed connectivity. It also features six high-speed elevators, providing efficiency and convenience to its occupants.

Activa Office Tower is another key component in this development. It boasts of 14-story typical office floors ideal for BPOs and knowledge-based companies. Similar to Activa Flex, this office tower is also equipped with fiber-optic cable and telecommunications backbone for high-speed connectivity. It also boasts of acquiring a Gold LEED pre-certification, a rating system that aims to accelerate the development and implementation of “green” building practices. The office tower will likewise feature N+1 emergency back-up power and a rooftop garden that will offer a splendid view of the city’s skyline.

Other components of this mixed-use concept are the hotel, mall and residential condo—Activa Hotel will feature 11 premium floors with 200± well-appointed rooms, all-day dining, function rooms and rooftop amenities, such as an infinity pool, sunset bar, fitness center and a themed café.

Activa Mall, on the other hand, is a five-level shopping and leisure complex with a retail podium, specialty retail establishments, al-fresco area, food hall, cinema, supermarket, wellness hubs, fashion boutiques and digital establishments.

A residential component is also in the pipeline. It is envisioned to be a 32-story premium residential units that provide efficient and functional living spaces suited for young professionals, newly married couples, and start-up families, even for those looking for a sound and productive investment. It will also feature 4 high-speed elevators, infinity pool, sky terrace with barbeque deck and a fitness gym.

Now on its construction stage, buyers can enjoy investment growth until the project reaches completion.

Activa recognizes the need for everything to be within reach in this age of rapid advancement. For this purpose, Activa has put together the essentials that make a seamless mixed-use development—the convenience of condo living, the flexibility of being in a modern workplace set in an ideal location, and the revelry in its entertainment and leisure components.

Know more about Activa and other Filinvest projects by visiting www.filinvest.com.ph.

Youths told to look beyond Aguinaldo's sculpture

By Gladys Pino (PNA)

MANILA -- A bust monument of General Emilio Aguinaldo, the country's first President, was unveiled Monday inside Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo High School (CGEAHS) along Boni Serrano Avenue in Quezon City.

The bust will serve as a lifetime reminder of the great revolutionary leader's contribution in attaining the country's independence, officials said.

Speaking before scores of school teachers, alumni, and other guests including Aguinaldo’s descendants, Director Myrna De Persia-Medina, Acting Executive Officer of the National Police Commission (Napolcom), enjoined the youths to look beyond the sculpture and be inspired by Aguinaldo’s ideals.

Following Monday’s bust unveiling rites, Medina, the school’s Class of 1977 Salutatorian, spelled out these ideals, which include offering one’s self to the country by doing “ordinary things in extraordinary ways.”

Medina said that victory stems from “perseverance, discipline, being obedient, patient, and most importantly from having good manners.”

Aguinaldo’s examples during his historical life may serve as model to the youth – the future leaders – as they aim and work for positive changes in the country, much like other Filipino heroes who offered their lives for the country’s peace and prosperity.

The General, who became President at the young age of 29, maybe synonymous to a plethora of things – from his eventful and exciting life, his courageous and bold political actions, and the various accusations being thrown towards his name.

Aguinaldo’s most important role in history is his presidential proclamation of the Philippine Independence in Kawit, Cavite, which paved the way for the birth of the Philippine Republic on January 23, 1899.

The bust will help advocate his legacy and the family truly appreciates the honor, said the hero's great grandson and independent curator, Angelo Jarin Aguinaldo.

The occasion was also attended by school officials led by principal Dr. Zenaida U. Arao, Alumni Association President Edward Nel G. Beltran, Dr Emmanuel F. Calairo Cavite Historian and Vice Chancellor of Research of De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, Rhouz G. Camposanto from Kawit Tourism Office, and other descendants of Aguinaldo.

QC to promote talents via performers’ database

By Perfecto Raymundo, Jr. (PNA)

MANILA -- Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte on Monday vowed to give opportunities to the city's student performers to showcase their talents through a database which aims to track and scout every performing arts group that could represent the city during various events in and out of the country.

During her speech at the Pistang Pinoy 2018 at Barangay Veterans Village, Belmonte said the city has numerous talented individuals and performing arts groups deprived of platforms where they can express their artistry.

Belmonte said that Filipinos are among the talented race in the world but lack programs to hone and further develop their talents.

“That’s why I plan to establish a database of all our school-based performing arts groups because I know, there are heaps of talents waiting to be discovered; we just need to give them the opportunity to showcase it,” Belmonte said.

At the same time, the vice mayor said there are plans to put up the city’s own performing arts school where students can learn and enhance their skills in dancing, singing, acting and theater play.

“We also have talked about founding the Quezon City School for the Arts, of course, with the help from the Philippine School for the Arts. We are starting to plan for this project to happen,” Belmonte said.

“Because it’s sad that we lack a real performing arts theater. Hopefully, through this, we can help the youth improve their talents whether it be dancing, singing, acting, and we can live up our name “The City of Stars,”” she added.

CHR opens Liwasang Diokno freedom park in Quezon City

By Janvic Mateo (The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) yesterday opened a freedom park in its central office in Quezon City, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

Named after human rights champion and late senator Jose Diokno, the Liwasang Diokno features a 30-tier fountain representing the 30 articles of the UDHR.

“It is to commemorate the legacy of Pepe Diokno who, after being arrested and tortured, rather than keeping silent sought to defend the rights of others during the dark days of martial law,” CHR chairman Chito Gascon said.

“We want to introduce him to a new generation of human rights activists,” Gascon added.

The park also features a statue of Diokno, which was previously unveiled by the CHR.

The park and the statue were funded by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

Quezon City declares tax amnesty

By JAIME PILAPIL (TMT)

The Quezon City council has passed an ordinance exempting business establishments from book audit for the years 2016 to 2018 provided they pay 30 percent more in taxes for 2019.

Councilor Victor Ferrer Jr., author of the ordinance, said the additional 30 percent intends to offset the revenue lost due to the suspension of 2019 fair market values on property.

“The ordinance was welcomed by my colleagues. Both Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte and our acting city treasurer Ruby Guevarra are supporting this scheme. Our 70,000 business establishments will be happy with this program for sure,” the councilor told The Manila Times.

Ferrer said the basis of the new law is Section 192 of the Local Government Code of 1991.

About P1 billion will be collected from this tax scheme, which may fund allowances granted to public school teachers.

The tax amnesty, however, is not applicable to businesses who have pending cases in courts or any administrative office.

Estrella's historic triple-double lifts QC over Zambo

By Ivan Stewart Saldajeno (PNA)

MANILA -- Andoy Estrella became the first player to achieve two triple-doubles in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) as his latest 10-10-10 output helped Quezon City maul Zamboanga City, 109-81, at the San Andres Sports Complex in Manila on Saturday night.

Estrella tallied 19 points, 12 assists, and 10 rebounds to lead the Capitals, who banked on their run-and-gun game to waylay the struggling Valientes beginning late in the first quarter.

Jay Collado top scored for QC, which won back-to-back 100-point games and moved up to 5-8, with 21 markers alongside 13 rebounds for the double-double and four assists.

Hesed Gabo came close to his own double-double with 11 points and nine assists alongside three rebounds, five steals, and one block.

Overall, QC dished out 35 assists.

Reed Juntilla made 17 markers, nine boards, six dimes, and one block for Zamboanga, which slipped to 6-10.

Korean gov't, PAGASA inaugurate flood forecasting center in QC

By Ma. Cristina Arayata (PNA)

MANILA -- The Korean government, through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) inaugurated on Friday the Pasig-Marikina-Tullahan River Basin Flood Forecasting and Warning Center in Quezon City.

The center marks the completion of KOICA and PAGASA's Automation of Flood Early Warning System for Disaster Mitigation in Greater Metro Manila project.

"Among the priority areas of KOICA Philippine office is disaster preparation and preparedness. KOICA included this section in its Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) from 2016 to 2020," Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato dela Peña told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Friday.

He added that PAGASA has been a strong partner of KOICA in bringing development projects since 2007.

The Automation of Flood Early Warning System for Disaster Mitigation in Greater Metro Manila project aims to improve responsiveness to natural disasters and mitigate damages to residents in Tullahan and Pasig-Marikina river basins.

The project will help minimize property damages and casualties since this will enable PAGASA to forecast way ahead of flooding incident.

"This project is our way of addressing the challenge on massive flooding. We will use our foresight to see all the possible dangers, and we will utilize the technology," the DOST Secretary said.

KOICA provided PAGASA with a USD5.2 million for the project. The grant will be used to establish a command center with state-of-the-art equipment, specifically, for the installation of automatic water level gauges, automatic rain gauges, warning posts, close-circuit camera television units (CCTVs); the development of 10 units of software; and setting up relay stations and wireless network for the CCTVs.

"The money was not given to us. KOICA disburses. The total cost spent for the past three years was PHP250 million," dela Peña said.

As part of this project, Korean experts will share their technical know-how, and enhance the capabilities of PAGASA personnel to respond to natural disasters.

Training programs in Korea for PAGASA officials and other stakeholders, and workshops for local government units and their residents are also included in the project, according to KOICA.

“The Korean government recognizes the urgent need to address and mitigate the devastation caused by floods, as it is considered to be one of the most damaging natural disasters in the country. We recognize the need to strengthen disaster response capacities to save and protect more lives,” Korean Ambassador Han Dong-man said in his speech during the launch.

Dela Peña, for his part, recognized the dedication of PAGASA team and their counterparts in KOICA for their continuous effort to improve the country's disaster mitigation system.

QC barangay health centers to be modernized

By Chito Chavez

The Quezon City government wants to modernize the city’s barangay health centers by adopting a scheme where doctors can make medical consultation even without being physically present with the patient.

Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte said “there is a certain technology wherein a doctor is assigned to three to four health centers but he is not physically present in those health centers.

Through modern technology, Belmonte said the doctor just needs a big television screen, where nurses may secure relevant medical data about the patient.

These pieces of information include but not limited to the vital signs of the patient where the doctor may then give instructions on what the patient needs to do or to take.

“It is time to innovate the barangay health centers in the city to efficiently address various health problems and concerns,’’ Belmonte said.

She expressed her frustration over the lack of doctors in the Quezon City health centers prompting her to come up with a plan to modernize medical consultations through virtual checkup.

“That way, the doctors can give advice to several health centers to several patients all at the same time,” she added.

Belmonte said they are encouraged to consider the idea since the technology is now being used by other cities in the Philippines as well as in other neighboring countries.

“It’s time for a change. It’s time to think out of the box,” Belmonte said.

In the meantime, Belmonte said her team is still planning and studying the program carefully.

Belmonte also sees the need to address the lack of official data on the health status of residents which makes the city ill-equipped in providing programs for the people’s needs.

“I want the city to gather official data because as of the moment, we all know that there is none. And when it comes to health data—how many people are in need, how many people die every day, what are the usual causes of death, and statistics when it comes to mortality, morbidity, pregnancy rate—we will not know what programs we are supposed to give to our people without that data,” she added.

She also disclosed that data gathering will start in the first six months of 2019,

“I have already allocated P20 million for us to have a data gathering component so there will be some personnel who will ask the people about their health conditions and any other concern,” the vice mayor said.

Belmonte also stressed her vision of launching more Barangay Health Management Councils to provide adequate medical support to the wider range of population in the city..

“Dapat ngayon lahat ng barangay mayroon nang Barangay Health Management Council because after interacting a lot of the people of our city, nakita natin na ang pangunahing concern nila ay ang kalusugan kung kaya ang kailangan nating lahat ay paigtingin ang ating kampanya patungkol sa kalusugan sa antas ng komunidad (All of the city’s barangays should have a Barangay Health Management Council since after meeting a lot of the people I discovered that their primary concern is about health. So that is why I see the need to upgrade the delivery of public medical service),’’ Belmonte stressed.

“This institution, the Barangay Health Management Council, could address all the health concerns of our people,” she added.

Belmonte assured that “all of the city’s health concerns can get proper attention with proper planning, thinking out of the box, innovating ideas, and consulting the best practices of our LGUs (local government units) and our health management councils.”

Quezon City kicks off drive vs. obesity, diabetes

By Perfecto Raymundo, Jr. (PNA)

MANILA -- The local government of Quezon City on Thursday launched a campaign dubbed as “#healthierQC” at the Nicanor Reyes Jr. Hall, FEU-Diliman, Quezon City.

The “#healthierQC” drive is the first of its kind and the newest health campaign by the city government in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies and Vital Strategies.

Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista was represented by City Health Officer III Dr. Verdades Linga.

In her speech, Linga said “the campaign is geared toward reducing the incidence of non-communicable diseases among children.”

Linga added “Quezon City is building a #healthierQC” in a commitment to fight non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which is now the leading cause of death in the world.”

He cited the NCDs, including stroke, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, are on the rise and the leading cause of death in the Philippines.

“With the majority of the world’s population now living in urban settings, cities are uniquely positioned to transform the fight against diseases and injuries by implementing policies to significantly reduce exposure to risk factors,” Linga said.

To reduce deaths, illness and injuries related to NCDs, Linga said, Quezon City launched “healthierQC”, a campaign to encourage healthier diets among the youth.

“This means increasing the consumption of nutritious food and water, and avoiding consumption of junk food, processed food and sugary drinks,” she said.

“At Quezon City, we are committed to building capacities so that our residents can have longer, healthier, and happier lives. We encourage the community—our parents, teachers, schools, and our youth—to get behind “healthierQC,” Bautista’s message for the event read.

“We believe that, in the long run, being healthy is the best gift we could ever give to our loves ones. Nutritious diets are ultimately a better way of showing how much we care for our family and our children,” Bautista added.

Also present during the launch were the Quezon City Health Department officials and staff, Grade 3 students of FEU-Diliman, FEU-Diliman Executive Director Albert Cabasada III, representatives from the Bloomberg Philanthropies and implementing partner Vital Strategies.

The initiative was in collaboration with Partnership for Health Cities, a global network of cities led by Michael R. Bloomberg, World Health Organization Global Ambassador for NCDs.

It will enable cities around the world to deliver a high-impact policy or pragmatic intervention to reduce NCD risk factors in their communities.

DSWD chief cites children as drivers of dev't

By Lucia F. Broño (PIA-NCR)

QUEZON CITY (PIA)—“Children are also drivers of development,” Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rolando Bautista said in a statement at the start of the 7th Pantawid Pamilya National Children’s Congress (NCC) held in the National Capital Region recently.

Bautista said through the conduct of NCC, children beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilya are empowered to assert their right to voice their insights and experiences on what it takes to have a peaceful nation that can address their needs and protect them from different forms of abuse.

He added that as the lead agency that protects the rights and promotes the welfare of children, the Department works with other government agencies and policymakers toward achieving a ‘bayang mapagkalinga’ which Filipino children deserve

A total of 88 children beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program participated in the NCC which is part of the DSWD’s celebration of the National Children’s Month, in partnership with the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), with the theme “Bata, Magkaisa Tungo sa Bayang Mapagkalinga”.

The activity focused on the importance of making the country a nurturing and safe place where Filipino children can live and fulfill their dreams. It also informed the participants on the rights, roles, and responsibilities of a child.

NCC is a yearly gathering where provincial winners of the Search for Exemplary Pantawid Pamilya Children nationwide discussed current issues that affect them and propose solutions to address them.

This year, the congress highlighted the Pantawid Pamilya children’s shared vision of a safe and nurturing society, how to achieve it through the help of the adults who surround them and the government that serves them, and how to influence other children to make this dream to fruition.

NCC uses the arts as development approach that employs singing, dancing, acting, visual arts, writing, and other activities that hone the participants’ creativity in expressing themselves, while instilling the value of leadership and volunteerism to help others and be part in the development of their own family and community. The children’s voices and hopes can be used as basis in reviewing the policies and procedures that can facilitate building a ‘bayang mapagkalinga’, through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

New book encourages grassroots to save PH forests

By Catherine Teves (PNA)

MANILA -- A new book jointly launched by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) seeks to mobilize more grassroots action on forest and biodiversity conservation nationwide.

Launched Monday (Dec. 3) in Quezon City, the book "In the Heart of the Forest" aims to promote such action by showcasing real-life stories of people working at the grassroots level, with assistance from the government.

Among conservation champions featured in the book are former rebel Mansueto Puerpas, who is helping monitor Negros Oriental province's forests, and Marisa Naputo, who lost her husband and two daughters when Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) struck Samar Island but is already helping educate communities about the importance of forest conservation.

"I support and encourage all of you to share our beautiful stories to others. Let's work hard to tell and spread narratives of commitment and service to the environment for our children and future generations of Filipinos," DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu said in a message read by DENR Undersecretary Rod Garcia at the book launch.

Cimatu thanked the USAID for partnering with DENR on B+WISER, which sought to boost forest and biodiversity conservation in the country.

"We preserve our memories of success through the launch of 'In the Heart of the Forest,' a beautiful book that collects photos of Philippine forests and people dependent on them," the Secretary said.

USAID Philippines Environment Office Chief John Edgar praised the people featured in the book for their dedication to and resilience in saving Philippine forests and biodiversity.

"Their stories are all inspiring and collectively demonstrate the strength of Filipinos," Edgar said at the event.

DENR and USAID came up with B+WISER, as data showed that during the 20th century, the Philippines lost nearly 75 percent of its natural forests to illegal logging and other causes.

"The B+WISER program started six years ago amidst need to address deforestation and biodiversity decline in the country," DENR's Forest Management Bureau (FMB) Director Nonito Tamayo said at the launch.

He said the DENR, the local governments concerned, the private sector, and upland communities have received local capacity-building through science-based strategies, so these can conserve biodiversity in forest areas, protect remaining natural forests, and reduce disaster risk.

FMB noted B+WISER has helped improve management for 6.3 million hectares or over 90 percent of forest areas nationwide, as well as livelihood for more than 29,000 people in communities that depend on natural resources.

"Indeed, the book 'In the Heart of the Forest' acknowledges milestones of the program, but it also aims to inspire more Filipinos to engage in forest protection and biodiversity conservation through its beautiful pictures and captions," Tamayo said.

Aside from launching the book, the DENR and the USAID further celebrated their partnership by planting on Monday two seedlings of the native tree species called "kamagong."

Garcia, Edgar, and Tamayo planted the seedlings at the DENR's Heroes Park in Quezon City after the book launch.

The planting symbolized solidarity of the two agencies in protecting forests and biodiversity nationwide, Tamayo said.

Over 1K jobs available for PWDs in QC on Dec. 5

By Ferdinand Patinio (PNA)

MANILA -- Over 1,000 employment opportunities are available in a special jobs and opportunities fair for persons with disability (PWDs) on Wednesday (Dec. 5) in Quezon City.

In a statement Monday, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said the job vacancies are in BPO, electronics, advertising, hotel, health and wellness, travel, media, logistics, manpower and security services, sales, property management, pharmaceutical, and memorial services, among others.

The one-day affair is spearheaded by the DOLE in partnership some 30 Rotary Clubs of District 3830, to be held at the covered walk of the Quezon City Hall.

Aside from jobs, the special activity will also provide skills and livelihood opportunities.

While DOLE conducts skills profiling of participants, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will provide livelihood and skills training for those interested during the event.

Applicants may pre-qualify for available positions or employers who wish to participate in the job fair may register at philjobnet.gov.ph.

The event is being held as a special offering of the Labor Department which celebrates its 85th founding anniversary this week, in partnership with the Rotary Club.

This is also the group’s contribution to the observance of the International Day for Persons with Disability, and part of the government’s awareness campaign encouraging private sector employers to allocate 1 percent of their workforce to persons with disability.

Republic Act 10524 mandates agencies of government to employ persons with disability to comprise at least 1 percent of their employees, while it provides incentives to private enterprises with more than 100 employees who take in disadvantaged persons into their workforce.

The Rotary Clubs from District 3830 mobilized more than 30 employers from various parts of Metro Manila to the activity, on top of a host of companies invited by DOLE.

The other offices collaborating in the activity are the Public Employment Service Offices, the National Council on Disability Affairs and the city government of Quezon City.

All local government units in Metro Manila were invited to participate by sending qualified persons with disability from their respective communities to the job fair.

PIA head talks media monitoring at nat’l conference

By Maverick Russel Flores (PIA)

QUEZON CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director-General Harold Clavite spoke on the essence and methods of media monitoring in government during the 6th National Communication Research Conference (NCRC), held at Cine Adarna, University of the Philippines-Diliman, Thursday, Nov. 22, 2018.

Clavite’s speech played right into the event’s theme, “Examining Philippine Media: Texts and Contexts,” as he tackled how the PIA analyzes content from various media platforms in order to provide valuable information in aid of governance.

“Not only do we pick up news, we pick up issues—and we manage those issues,” Clavite said.

He introduced the PIA’s dedicated team for media monitoring—the PIA Monitoring Unit—and explained their process consisting of issue identification, strategy-making and evaluation.

“Of course, all of these [processes] won’t be valuable if no action will be taken,” Clavite said. “We help them more if we give them strategic messaging plans.”

He said the PIA formulates monitoring reports that will then be used by concerned government agencies to respond to issues, survey public opinion and as reference for policymaking.

“The PIA prides itself in studying and keeping up with the current trends in communication to serve the country better, especially the grassroots.” he said. “Developing more ways to connect their grievances to the government… will help build to a more united, more progressive nation.”

The NCRC, conducted by the UP College of Mass Communication – Department of Communication Research and the Philippines Communication Society, is a venue for communication students, alumni and professionals to present their research output under scrutiny of an esteemed panel of experts. Outstanding outputs are awarded at the end of the conference.

Novaliches marks Bonifacio’s 155th birth anniversary

By Severino Samonte (PNA)

MANILA -- Residents of Novaliches in Quezon City joined the rest of the country in the celebration on Friday of the 155th birth anniversary of Gat Andres Bonifacio, considered as the father of the 1896 revolution against the tyrannous Spanish rule in the Philippines.

The local celebration was held at the Bonifacio monument along Quirino Highway at Novaliches Poblacion under the joint auspices of the descendants of Bonifacio, Novaliches Proper Barangay Council, and officers and members of the different Knights of Columbus assemblies and councils in Novaliches District.

Among the features of the celebration were floral offerings and reading of the “Kartilya” or Decalogue of the KKK (Kataas-taasan, Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan (Supreme and Venerable Society of the Children of the Nation) by Ms. Patricia P. Bonifacio, a descendant of the Great Plebeian.

Those who sent flowers included Quezon City 5th District Rep. Alfred Vargas, Councilor Jose Visaya, and Barangay Novaliches Proper Chairwoman Asuncion Visaya.

History shows that Bonifacio and his co-founders of the Katipunan led the uprising against Spain by tearing their “cedula” or residence certificate on Aug. 23, 1896.

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