April 13-19, 2022 ISSUE

DOH: MANDATORY BOOSTERING WILL AID 

GOV’T WIDEN VACCINATION COVERAGE

Coming up with a legislation making vaccination mandatory specially the administration of COVID-19 booster shot will be helpful in the government’s immunization drive, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said on Tuesday.

In his report to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during the latter’s public address, Duque said the government is having difficulty encouraging the people to get COVID-19 jab, especially booster dose.

He told the President that the National Vaccine Operations Center has done everything possible and carried out measures to widen vaccination coverage such as tapping pharmacies and clinics, and tying up with the transport sector to reach more unvaccinated people.

“Although, we would welcome, Mr. President, if the Senate or Congress will — if they can muster that will, political will, to make vaccination and booster a mandatory like in other countries ‘no,” he said.

“Pero alam ko po this is going to be very controversial pero sana naman po ay intindihin nila na tayo po ay nag — bumili ng mga bakuna, tama po kayo, Mr. President, para maproteksiyunan ang publiko, ang atin pong mga kababayan.”

“Eh hindi naman po natin makontrol kung ayaw nung tao ang magpabakuna. Hindi naman natin puwede sapilitan. Pero kahit na ganoon din po, gumagawa pa rin tayo ng paraan.”

During the government’s initial vaccination drive, local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila passed ordinances such as “No Vax, No Ride” policy, “No Vax, No Entry” in several establishments which have been successful, according to the health chief.

There is a proposal to adopt similar measures to widen the coverage of administering COVID-19 booster dose, which, Duque said, only 25 percent of the eligible population has received the jab out of around 46.4 million individuals who are supposed to get it.

For a variety of reasons, Duque said the public is delaying to get the booster dose. He encouraged Filipinos to get the jab, saying, “So sana po ay ‘wag nating antayin magkaroon ng surge at saka doon po tayo magpapabakuna. Ngayon na po ang pinakamagandang panahon para magpabakuna.”

Duque also reported that despite the lackluster vaccination, the country’s infection rate continues to drop, with its case classification still at minimal risk, while the healthcare utilization rates remain at low risk.

The country’s experts are also monitoring regional trends as well as the transmission of COVID-19 variants and its sublineages in Asia and throughout the world.

“At sinisigurado din natin na nananatili po tayong handa sa kabila ng mababa nating bilang ng kaso sa kasalukuyan, we are ready, Mr. President, in case of another surge and hopefully it doesn’t happen. But we are ready, Mr. President,” Duque said. PND

KAUNA-UNAHANG E-PATROL NG MPT SOUTH, GUGULONG NA

ni: Kevin Pamatmat

Ibinida ng Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South), isang subsidiary ng Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), ang toll road development arm ng Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), ang kauna-unahang fully-electric patrol vehicle nito sa Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) na ginanap sa World Trade Center mula Abril 7 hanggang Abril 10. 

Ang e-patrol vehicle ng MPT South ay isa rin sa mga kauna-unahang fully-electronic SUVs sa bansa. Ang EV ay pinapagana ng permanent magnet synchronous motor at kaya nitong tumakbo ng 400km matapos ang 45-minute charging lamang. Plano rin ng toll road company na mapalitan ang lahat ng fleet nito ng mga EV sa hinaharap. 

Mayroon ring nakatayong e-charging station sa MPT South Hub, ang headquarters nito sa Imus, Cavite, na kamakailan lamang ay nakakuha ng LEED Gold certification mula sa U.S. Green Building Council (USBGC).

"Ang paggamit ng MPT South sa mga EV ay hakbang tungo sa aming layon na makatulong sa pag-decarbonize sa transport sector sa bansa, at parte ng stratehiya tungo sa layuning gawing ‘green highway’ ang 45-km Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX), " ani MPTC Chief Finance Officer and Senior Executive Sponsor for Sustainability, Christopher C. Lizo. 

Sinimulan na ng CALAX ang paggamit ng mga energy-efficient at resource-saving technologies habang pinapanatili ang mga high standard road safety features sa kahabaan ng expressway.

Ang mga toll plazas sa operational sections nito ay pinapatakbo ng mga solar panels na kayang pagganahin ang operasyon ng gusali. Ang mga roadway light naman ay gumagamit ng LED fixtures na nakatutulong rin sa pagiging energy efficient nito. 

"Ang mga sustaintable practices na ito ay pinatutupad din sa buong MPTC group: pagsisiguro na ang aming mga infrastructure projects ay isinasagawa with the least disruption para sa ating mga komunidad at kalikasan," dagdag pa ni Lizo. 

Bukod sa CALAX, hawak rin ng MPTC ang concession para sa Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (CAVITEX), North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), NLEX Connector Road, at ang Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) sa Cebu.

DENR DENIES ECC APPLICATION

OF UDENNA WATER PROJECT IN QUEZON

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) has denied the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) application of Dennis Uy-led Udenna Water Integrated, Inc. for its proposed Lumbo Spring Bulk Water Supply Project in Dolores, Quezon, due to “mounting opposition from various stakeholders in the area.”

In a letter to Tiaong, Quezon Mayor Ramon Preza, the Regional Director of DENR-EMB’s CALABRZON Regional Office, Dir. Noemi Paranada, confirmed that the Udenna Water does not have a valid ECC for the project after the agency denied their application last November 2021.

The DENR-EMB’s letter was a response to Mayor Preza’s call upon the DENR to restrain 

the ongoing implementation of the project despite the lack of an ECC and the lack of any public consultations with the affected downstream users.

“We have been made aware that no ECC has been issued prior to any of their construction activities. We believe that this project poses an imminent environmental threat not only to the communities within the immediate vicinity of the project, but also to our municipality downstream,” said Mayor Preza in his letter to the DENR-EMB.

Preza stressed that before any resource extractive activity is undertaken, there must be a public consultation wherein all stakeholders are given the opportunity to discuss their concerns on the project. “With the proposed extraction of water from Lumbo Spring, our farmers are gravely concerned about how this will negatively impact their livelihoods and food production in the region,” he added.

Under P.D. 1586, it is unlawful to operate and implement any environmentally critical projects or in any environmentally critical areas without first securing an ECC. The Lumbo spring is considered an environmentally critical area.

In November of 2020, the San Pablo City Water District (SPCWD) in Laguna and the Dolores Water District (DWD) in Quezon jointly issued a Notice of Award for the P103 Million Lumbo Spring Bulk Water Supply Project to a consortium led by Udenna Water Integrated, Inc. through a public-private partnership scheme. The Udenn aconsortium is responsible for the construction of a facility to draw about 12 million liters of water daily from Lumbo Spring, which will mostly be diverted and sold to users from San Pablo, Laguna.

Opposition to the water project has been mounting, as various sectors, including the office of Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and concerned civic organizations have warned of the threats the project poses to the area’s water supply, irrigation, livelihood and food security – especially since Lumbo Spring contributes to the irrigation of over 1000 hectares of rice land in the area. Even the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Quezon Province has issued a resolution demanding SPCWD and DWD to suspend the implementation of the project.

The Mamamayan Para sa Kapakanan ng Kalikasan ng Bukal ng Lumbo or Mapakalikasan, consisting of farmers and residents affected by the project, earlier called on local government officials as well as the DENR to look into the absence of an ECC for the Lumbo Spring water project, stating that any project in the Philippines that may pose an environmental risk or impact is required to secure an ECC from the DENR-EMB.

Mapakalikasan noted that beginning 2021, the SPCWD, DWD and their contractors Udenna Water and Optimus Engineering and Construction, had already been conducting construction and clearing activities even without applying for an ECC or the necessary local government permits; and without consultation with the downstream stakeholders such as farmers and irrigators who will be most affected by this project. “This constitutes a clear violation of Philippine regulatory and environmental laws,” the group stressed.

NIA also released a position paper on behalf of its farmer beneficiaries, opposing the completion of the Lumbo Spring Bulk Water Supply Project given the already significant decline in water discharge which is expected to worsen due to the Lumbo water extraction.

“There is a clear threat of irrigation water shortage due to the increasing number of water users both for domestic and agricultural use. The SPCWD-DWD proposed water project and the continuous decrease of water discharge will jeopardize the government’s thrust towards food security and will decrease farmers’ potential income,” the NIA paper said.

Senator and vice presidential aspirant Pangilinan already filed a Senate resolution in November 2021 expressing support for the local farmers, as well as for the positions taken by NIA, and the local governments of Dolores and Tiaong against the water project

Pangilinan, who is a former food security chief and previously chaired the Senate committee on agriculture, echoed the sentiments of the groups, particularly mentioning the dilemma that local farmers would face in case the project pushes through.

BAGONG FEATURES NG VOTE COUNTING 

MACHINE, IPINALIWANAG NG COMELEC

San Pablo City, Laguna--Sa pangunguna ni Atty. Arnulfo H. Pioquinto, Provincial Election Supervisor, COMELEC-Laguna kasama sina Election Officer Lara Monica C. Urbanozo ng Alaminos; Acting Election Officer Patrick H. Arbilo ng San Pablo City; Election Officer Randy P. Banzuela ng Rizal, at Election Officer Bonifacio Glenn L. Coronado ng Cavinti ay ipinaliwanag ang mga bagong features ng Voting Counting Machine o VCM sa naganap na 2022 NLE VCM Road Show noong nakaraang Miyerkoles ng umaga sa San Pablo Central School Gymnasium na dinaluhan ng mga opisyales ng barangay, mga guro, kinatawan ng mga kandidato, miyembro ng media at watchers ng 3rd District ng Laguna. 

Nagkaroon rin ng Mock Election bilang patunay sa mga dumalo na ang VCM ay may accurate na resulta. Ilan sa mga bagong features nito o ay ang pagkakaroon ng Electoral Board o EB Assignment, kung saan ini-encode ang mga pangalan ng mga EB na naka-assign sa isang presinto at naka-print na rin ang mga pangalan sa resulta ng balota. Ipinaliwanag naman nina Election Officers Urbanozo at Arbilo ang mga safety features ng VCM at mga dapat gawin sa araw ng eleksyon. 

Nakiisa rin sa nasabing VCM Road Show sina DILG-San Pablo City LGOO Maria Alma L. Barrientos; Lt. Col. Garry C. Alegre, Chief of Police, at Election Assistant Isabel B. Cabisuelas, SPC Election Office. (CIO-San Pablo City)

ANTI-DRUG OPERATIVES NET BIGGEST DRUG HAUL--DILG

The country’s anti-illegal drugs campaign has gained significant strides as combined operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) seized a total of P13.2-billion worth of illegal drugs from March 6-19 alone, said the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año said that it was the biggest drug haul in the history of the anti-illegal drugs program of the government within a two-week period, which include 1,775.2 kilos of shabu and 421.5 kilos of marijuana.

“Isang napakalaking tagumpay sa ating kampanya laban sa iligal na droga ang pagkakasabat ng tone-toneladang shabu at marijuana. Binabati ko ang ating mga drug enforcement agencies sa pangunguna ng PDEA at PNP sa kanilang sipag at pagiging masigasig sa pagsasagawa ng mga anti-illegal drugs operations,” he said in his report to President Duterte during the recent Talk to the People.

According to Año, one of the major operations was conducted in Karuhatan, Valenzuela on March 8 which yielded 160 kilos of shabu worth P1.08-billion and where a Chinese national and Filipina were among those arrested.

Meanwhile, the second major anti-illegal drugs operation was conducted in Infanta, Quezon last March 16, where 1,600 kilos of shabu worth P12-billion were seized and ten suspects were arrested.

The DILG Secretary said that the two operations were part of the 1,794 drug raids conducted from March 6-19 which led to 61 suspects who personally presented themselves or surrendered, 2,471 arrested, and two who died.

“Dahil sa mabilis na aksyon at pagpupursigi ng PNP at PDEA, maraming kabataan, pamilya at kinabukasan ang naisalba mula sa perwisyo at salot na dulot ng iligal na droga. I urge our drug enforcement agencies to further intensify their operations and target big drug syndicates so we can protect and save our people and our country from the ill effects of illegal drugs,” he said.

In reply, Duterte expressed disgust over the gravity of the drug problem from the weight and worth of the seized substances and vowed to support the anti-illegal drugs initiatives of the two agencies.

In the same occasion, Año reported that a total of 90,585 individuals nationwide were caught not wearing face mask during the two-week period, 66,746 were warned, 16,449 were fined/cited, 5,320 were required to do community service, and 2,070 were arrested and charged in court.

Meanwhile, as of March 19, 2022, he said only three cities/municipalities, five barangays, and seven areas are under granular lock down because of the high number of COVID-19 cases and transmission. Because of this, seven households and seven individuals are restricted to their homes to prevent virus transmission.

SUMMER MUST-HAVES FROM THE SM STORE

After two years, suddenly it feels like summer again. And it’s a great time to enjoy the beach and great outdoors, as well as the city streets with family and friends again.

It’s also a great time to shop for breezy, summer-ready styles for brighter days at The SM Store. Whether you are headed for a pool party or enjoying time with the family at the mall, the warmer months are an excellent opportunity to look and feel great. Here are some exciting summer must-haves from The SM Store.

Keep fit and fab – and fashionable - with athleisure outfits from SM Woman’s Active Department, which are made from polyester-spandex blend, stretched, and with a regular fit for all body types. A water bottle by your side from the Women’s Accessories Department will keep you cool and hydrated.

If you’re headed for the beach, make a splash with Coco Cabana’s swimwear and rash guards at the Women’s Wear Department. There are also board shorts for surfing, swimming, and chillin’ under the sun at Coco Republic at the Men’s Department. Also, go for brighter colors and bold prints like tie dye tees at Tee Culture at The SM Store.

Walk the summer streets with cool and comfy sandals from Parisian Women and sneakers and rubber shoes from the Men’s Shoes Department. Don’t be afraid to express your accessories like cross body bags from Parisian Women and the Men’s Accessories Department Hatchet Backpacks from Jansen.

Kids, too can have a lot of summer fashion fun with Swim Printed Rash guards for boys and girls, Printed Shirts and Shorts from Just tees and Fashionable and printed Maxi dresses for girls from Little Miss. They also offer comfy and stylish shoes, slip-ons and casual footwear which are a great outfit for kids this summer in Sugar Kids and Tough Kids. All available at The SM Store’s Kids Department.

Shop in-store or online and celebrate the vibe of everyday summer at The SM Store. Visit www.thesmstore.com or order via The SM Store Call To Deliver services at #143SM (#14376) and have a personal shopper assists you. For more updates and exciting deals, follow TheSMStore in Facebook and on Instagram.

SAN PABLO CITY’S YOUTH AND CLIMATE CHANGE

by Rolando A. Inciong

I congratulate San Pablo City’s leading youth environmentalist Jedryc Romero and the participants to the historic event held recently at the boardwalk of Sampalok Lake – the first youth climate change strike. The youth of San Pablo City joined this global youth action to call the attention of governments and citizens to the serious threat of climate change.

For the past two years, the world has been struggling to survive the COVID pandemic. COVID kills in a matter of a few days; that is why people are afraid of it. Under climate change, we only feel the heat and drought, the cold, typhoons and floods. They come a few times a year. That is why many people do not care about climate change. Even governments are acting slowly to prevent and mitigate climate change.

Climate change, also known as global warming, causes significant harm to our health through decreasing food production, declining water supplies, increasing risks of sickness and death due to infectious diseases and heat stress. Climate change causes rising sea levels, increased heat, drought and wildfires, and insect outbreaks. 

All of us will be victims of climate change, especially the youth. But aside from being victims, the youth are valuable contributors to climate action. They are agents of change, whether through education, science or technology. The youth are leading our citizens; they are even giving good examples for adults to emulate. Mas marami pang nagagawa para sa kalikasan and mga kabataan kaysa sa mga matatanda, lalo na ang maraming pulitikong walang ginawa kundi mangako at magnakaw.

I appeal to the youth of San Pablo City to continue what they are doing, especially the group of Jedryc, who has presented their environment agenda to our local candidates. I read the agenda and they have better environmental advocacy than the City Government. Continue joining environmental organizations or groups, especially the Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation headed by Monsignor Jerry Bitoon and Bobby Azores. Participate in governmental, non-governmental, school or community programs and projects against climate change; join clean-up drives in our lakes, at your schools or in your barangays; participate in tree growing activities; and in garbage recycling. Set good examples by reducing your consumption, thus, reducing your garbage. Segregate wastes, save on water and energy.

Most of all, be the guardians of our environment by calling the attention of the City Government when they fail to implement environmental laws. Report crimes against the environment. And lastly, never be afraid to make your voices heard. Cheers for Jedryc and his team.

EDUKASYON SA PAGPAPAKATAO SA PANAHON NG PANDEMYA

ni Nayla C. Pasco

Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao Coordinator

Col. Lauro D. Dizon Memorial 

Integrated High School 

Ngayon panahon ng pandemya lahat tayo ay nabubuhay sa nakasasabik na panahon ngunit puno ng hamon dulot ng pandemya.Mabilis lumipas ang panahon sa loob ng dalawang taon nabuhay tayo na balot ng pangamba at pag-asa na may bukas na masisilayan na wala na ang salot na virus na nagdudulot ng takot sa bawat isa,subalit lalo’t higit sa mga kabataang mag-aaral dahil di na nila nasilayan ang apat na sulok ng silid-aralan.Di tayo sumuko di napigilan ang marubdob na pagnanais na matuto,magkaroon ng bagong kaalaman,makipag-ugnayan sa lahat ng paraan upang matuloy ang daloy ng karunungan para matamo ang inaasam na magandang buhay.

Ang asignaturang Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao ay isa sa naging kalasag ng mga mag-aaral upang maging matatag sa ganitong hamon ng buhay, tuloy ang laban,tuloy ang pag-aaral.Sa tulong ng teknolohiya nagkaroon ng mga pamamaraan upang maabot ng mga guro sa ESP ang mga kabataang nagpupursiging makatapos sa gabay ng mga magulang napagtagumpayan ng bawat mag-aaral online man o modular class, nabalik ang sigla ang liwanag na makakamit ang pangarap sa kabila ng pandemya.

Patuloy ang pagsasagawa ng mga programa ng departamento sa tulong ng mga religious group at ibat-ibang samahan upang mapagtagumpayan ang mga layuning nilalatag sa sa taong punuruan. Nakapagsagawa ng mga programa ukol sa paglinang ng Ispiritwaliad at Moralidad ng mga kabataan sa tulong ng Alagad ni Maria at Mary Help of Christian Crusade,nagkaroon ng mga Gawain na luminang sa kagandahang asal at pakikipag kapwa tao sa pamamagitan ng “feeding program” at “gladly gift giving”. Nagpatuloy sa pagsasanay ang mga guro upang mas higit na maiangkop ang kaalaman sa tinatawag na Edukasyon sa New Normal sa pamamagitan ng pakikilahok sa mga INSET at SLAC sa paaralan.

Sa kabila ng pandemya di nagpahuli ang Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao sa paglahok sa mga paligsahan pang rehiyon at pinalad na magwagi bilang tandan a walang makakahadlang sa mga kabataang marubdob pagnanasang matamo ang magang kinabukasan sa gabay ng mga guro,magulang at mga grupong kaagapay ng paaralan. Ang Batang Dizonian patuloy na tatayo at lalaban kahit pandemya matatamo ang “Magandang Buhay”.

DIZON HIGH GOES BACK TO BASICS

by Marielle Kristin Joy A. Belen

Since we are still facing the current COVID-19 pandemic, Col. Lauro D. Dizon Memorial Integrated High School conducted a virtual webinar about Back to Basics where all students were invited to attend. This webinar aims to provide additional knowledge on the Basic Lessons in Algebra that will help them understand their lessons in Mathematics. Mrs. Kirstie Marice R. Calabia from Grade 9 and Mrs. Marielle Kristin Joy A. Belen from Grade 7 were the speakers of the said webinar. They discussed the operations on integers and fractions which many are really confused.

The program together with the webinar was conducted via Zoom platform and was attended by 250 participants composed of Grade 7 to Grade 10 students, Mathematics Faculty, stakeholders and student interns of CLDDMIHS. The activity was also attended by the school Principal Mrs. Editha L. Fule, the San Pablo City Division EPS in Mathematics, Mrs. Ma. Filipina M. Drio and the school’s PTA President, Mrs. Alma A. Luce who all delivered messages and gave their commendations to the Mathematics Department headed by its Department Head, Mrs. Maria Shirley E. Montaña, for keeping up with the Department of Education’s battle cry to continue education amidst the pandemic. The students participated and actively answered the speakers’ questions and participated in the online activities. After the webinar, evaluation links were sent to the participants followed by the digital certificates of participation.

MANAGEMENT OF SCHOOL RESOURCES: ITS CORRELATION

TO PUPILS PERFORMANCE IN TIME OF PANDEMIC

by Emmanuel M. Cruz Jr.

Teacher III, Division of San Pablo City 

Management is the arrangement of available human and material resources to achieve desired goals and objectives (Nwune, Nwogbo&Okonkwo, 2016). It is the productive use of available resources efficiently and effectively geared towards goals realization. Nkwoh (2011) observed that school principals must possess a wide array of competencies to lead schools effectively towards accomplishing educational goals, which has led to changing expectations of what leaders need to know and must be able to do. Heller (2012) outlines school administrators’ functions, including instructional programs, staff personnel administration, students’ personnel administration, finance, physical resource management, and community relationship management. Effective management of human, material, time, and financial resources is crucial for institutional sustainability and a school action plan. 

This Study focused on the Management of school resources and its correlation to pupil’s performance in time of pandemic. Specifically, this study proposed to answer the following questions: What is the perception of the respondents on the management of school for instructional resources in terms of: Teaching materials; and Learners’ supply? To what extent do respondents perceive the management of school for human resources on: health, staff development; and incentives? What is the perceived level of management of school’s Financial Resources in terms of: utility support and facility development? How do respondents view the pupils’ performance in this time of pandemic? 

The salient findings of the study were the following:

1. Instructional Resources including teaching materials and learners supply were perceived by teachers as “Much Provided” by the school.

2. Human Resources including health, staff development, and incentives were likewise perceived by teachers as “Much Provided” by the school. 

3. Financial Resources related to utility support and facility development were perceived by teachers as "Much provided" by the school.

4. Management of resources (instructional, human and financial) is significantly correlated to pupil’s academic performance.

Instructional Resources including teaching materials and learners supply, Human Resources including health, staff development, and incentives. Financial Resources related to utility support and facility development were perceived by the teachers as "Much provided" to them as part of managing their resources within their school. It has a great impact on pupils academic performance as they giving importance to this matter related to resources that enhanced and leveled up the quality of education and for giving services that benefit both the teachers and pupils. As Covid19 pandemic truly affect our normal education and a lot of adjustment was made to make sure the continuity of education in our country. Pupils academic performance cannot be totally achieved compare before as we are in this type of distance learning. With the good managerial skills and strategies made by every school head and teachers, and with good management of these resources, pupils academic performance was able to caught up on the level of education even in this very crucial time.

Correlation between Management of Resources and Pupils Academic and Performance likewise, a significant positive relationship is found between their variables., The management of resources variables shows a great impact on Pupils' performance. Through strengthening these variables related to resources that include Instructional and teaching materials that enhanced the quality of education even in this kind of situation we have. Human resources are correlated in maintaining a well-equipped staff to be more ready and also a healthy mind and body to be a more productive individual. With the financial resources, it supports the needs of teachers and pupils in maintaining a safe and good place to continue education even in this trying times.

SAVE NOW, NO WORRIES LATER

Having savings gives one’s self a sense of security. Being able to prepare for the future is something that everyone should be ready for. 

Maria Cristina Mendoza, a 40-year-old woman, dreams of a secured future. As a single woman, she wants to make sure that when the time comes that she is unable to do things for a living, she has a back-up plan to support her finances and her family living in Cuenca, Batangas. She has been living on her own in Bacoor, Cavite since 2006.

A client of Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (CARD), Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) since 2015, Cristina is an owner of a small sari-sari store. She is living a simple and contented life until the pandemic happened. She is one of the Filipinos who has been greatly affected by the lockdown. Good thing, she was able to learn about the moratorium that temporarily suspended loan payments. This gave her time and resources to recover since she can use the money she had to buy more goods for her small business. Now, aside from her sari-sari store, she is now a seller of frozen goods like tocino and hotdogs. In the afternoon, she will sell balut, daing, tinapa and fruits just in front of her house to manage her store at the same time. 

Being a 6-year member of CARD, Inc, her main goal was just to buy the house she is renting and be able to renovate it for herself and for her family, especially for her mother. She then added that it is really important to save for emergencies just like what happened during the lockdown. This is why she always makes sure that the loan she availed in CARD, Inc. will never be put to waste by adding it to her capital and improving her business gradually. She had a hard time adjusting to the new normal, had thought of giving up during the first few months of lockdown but later on was able to see the silver lining. “Parang di ko na kaya. Naisip ko, kung sumuko ako, walang mangyayari lalo. Paano ko matutupad ang mga pangarap ko?” Mendoza said. “Kahit gaano kahina ‘yan, kahit gaano katumal ang [negosyo] mo, push mo pa rin.” She added.

CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) is a member of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions, a group of institutions with a vision of eradicating poverty in the Philippines. As of February 2022, CARD, Inc. has reached 2.3 Million clients nationwide.

CHIZ: EXERCISING YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE IS THE ACT OF HEROISM PH NEEDS

Turning the spotlight on voters, not candidates a month before the May 9 elections, Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero said the biggest act of heroism Filipinos can do this year is to participate in the electoral process and exercise their right to vote.

The senatorial candidate said that amid the noise of the political campaign, people should look for leaders who will put the interests of the country above their own, work with integrity, and serve those who have been neglected by government for a long time—the farmers, fisherfolk and micro entrepreneurs.

“Sa araw lamang ng halalan tayo nagkakapantay-pantay—gobernador, bise-gobernador, congressman, tricycle driver, kasambahay, nagtitinda sa palengke, kargador sa palengke, walang trabaho, mayaman o mahirap, babae o lalaki, nakapag-aral o hindi, may itsura o wala. Pagdating ng eleksyon, pantay-pantay tayo. Tig-i tig-isa lang tayo ng boto,” Escudero said.

“Huwag natin sayangin ‘yung pagkakataon na ‘yun. Pumili at piliin kung sino talaga ang nararapat at karapat-dapat. At hindi natin trabaho husgahan ang ating kapwa dahil iba lamang ang pananaw niya,” he said.

The veteran legislator noted how this year’s presidential campaign has divided families and friends because of their overzealous support for their chosen candidates. He reminded voters that most candidates were friends away from the campaign stage.

“Huwag nating pakaseryosohin na dumating sa puntong makakaaway na natin ang ating mga kaibigan, kamag-anak at kapitbahay…. Ulitin ko, hanggang May 9 po lamang ito. Sana pagkatapos nito, tingnan natin ang ating mga sarili, hindi bilang Bicolano, Ilocano, Cebuano, Waray, Kapampangan, Batangueño o kung saan man galing—pare-pareho pa rin tayong Pilipi-

no,” Escudero said.

As Filipinos observe Araw ng Kagitingan exactly one month before the elections, Escudero reiterated the obligation of elected leaders to serve all Filipinos, not just their supporters.

“Sa dulo, sinuman ang mananalong pangulo ng bansa, dapat pantay niyang pagsilbihan ang bawat isa sa atin. Binoto man siya o hindi, sinuportahan man siya o hindi, gusto man siya o minumura siya ngayong panahon ng kampanyahan, dapat pantay niyang pagsilbihan yun,” he said.

There are 65.7 million registered voters for the 2022 polls, which is 3.9 million more than those who registered to vote in the 2019 national elections. In addition to this, there are 1.6 million registered overseas Filipino voters.

EGGS-TRAORDINARY EASTER TREATS at SM

Easter makes a stop at SM! And bunnies, toys, chocolates, candies and lots of egg-citement celebrate the hope and new life that comes with spring and Christ’s resurrection.

The SM Store’s Kids’ Accessories section is a great Easter bunny stop. There are fun and functional plush Bunny Headphones, Bunny Arm Pillows, Bunny Plush Round pillows, Plush Cuddle Buddies Rabbit pillows, and Bunny fans. 

Snack Exchange has chocolates, candies, and other sweet treats for your Easter Egg Hunt! There are colorful toy eggs and baskets from Dutche Chocolates; as well as lollipops in festive spring colors, swirls, and Easter shapes like bunny ears and colored eggs. An egg-citing surprise awaits kids with Kinder Joy’s hidden toys.

Toy Kingdom has amazing stuff that highlight the Easter Spirit with its cuddly Kawaii Bunny plushies. There are colorful and delightful eggs, wonderful pails and baskets that you can design for Easter egg hunting.

Shop in-store or online and celebrate the Eggs-traordinary Easter Fun with the SM Store, SM Snack Exchange and Toy Kingdom. Visit www.thesmstore.com or order via The SM Store Call To Deliver services at #143SM (#14376) and have a personal shopper assists you. For more updates and exciting deals, follow TheSMStore in Facebook and on Instagram.

THE CALABARZON PHILSYS BIRTH 

REGISTRATION ASSISTANCE PROJECT 2022

On March 17 to 18, 2022, PSA RSSO 4A conducted an online training for the hired Birth Registration Agents in CALABARZON. 

This is to prepare the agents who will guide and assist in the processing of the delayed registrations of births of unregistered Filipinos. 

Resource speakers from RSSO IV-A and PSA Cavite tackled the Basic Concepts and Procedures on Civil Registration, PhilSys and Birth Registration Assistance MOA, the memo on the hiring of Birth Registration Agents and the use of PhilCRIS during the training. 

With the bright aim to provide good quality of service on increasing the level of civil registration of Indigenous People, Muslim Filipinos, the trainers ensures that the Birth Registration Agents are readily prepared to take hand the project thru interactive discussion and collaborative activities. 

With an estimated 2 million target nationwide, CALABARZON targets to assist 251 thousand Filipinos. BRA is said to act as the focal person for the PhilSys Birth Registration Assistance Project in the region/province.

SANTA ROSA RIVER GREENWAY PROJECT, NAISAKATUPARAN NA

Nina Kevin Pamatmat

at Shekinah Joy Pamatmat

Santa Rosa City, Laguna--Ang Santa Rosa River Greenway Project ay opisyal nang binuksan sa publiko ngayong buwan ng Marso na isa sa mga imprastrakturang ipinagawa ng lungsod sa inisyatiba ni Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas upang mapaganda at maisaayos ang kapaligiran.

Layunin nitong magkaroon ng mas ligtas na lakaran ang mga mamamayan at maipakita ang mga magagandang tanawin dito.

Hangad din nitong bawasan ang pagsikip ng trapiko, polusyon sa hangin at ingay sa pamamagitan ng paghikayat sa mga tao na maglakad sa halip na mag-commute o gumamit ng kanilang mga pribadong sasakyan at motorsiklo.

Ang proyekto ito ay sadyang dinisenyo na mataas upang magsilbing likasan kung sakaling bumaha sa kahabaan ng LCA Boulevard.

VINCENT D. DELA VEGA INDUCTED AS HOST LIONS CLUB PRESIDENT

by Ruben E. Taningco

With District 301-A2 Governor Maria Jesusa W. Antiporda 4PMJF as keynote speaker, and DENR Undersecretary Benny A. Antiporda 3PMJF as Guest of Honors and Main Speaker, the officers of the San Pablo City (Host) Lions Club for Lion Year 2021-2022 led by President Vincent D. dela Vega MJF were formally inducted into office during the commemoration of the club’s 69th Anniversary and 70TH Induction Ceremonies held at their clubhouse along Dagatan Boulevard in Barangay V-A last Sunday, March 13, 2022.

Undersecretary Benny A. Antiporda, himself is a Lion, is the Immediate Past District Governor of Lions Clubs International District 301-A2 that have jurisdiction over the clubs I n the Province of Laguna.

As mentioned, they were formally inducted, because in accordance with the Manual of Procedures of Lions Clubs International, they automatically assumed theirs positions last July 1, 2021, as they have already taken their oath of office during the District Mass Induction held last June, making Lion Vincent D. dela Vega MJF as the new King of the Pride of Lions in the Lake Territory.

Other club officers for Lion Year 2021-2022 are: Lion Jerry Chua, MJF, Immediate Past President; Lion Darryl Jourdan Wong, 1st Vice President; Lion Richard Benson Tan, 2nd Vice President; Lion Jose Miguel Alvero, 3rd Vice President; Lion PP Alfredo B. Tongson, Secretary; Lion PP Apolinar Cortez, MJF, Treasurer; Lion PP Eduardo E. Tabayoyong, Auditor; Lion Ariel (Boy) Garcia, Lion Tamer; and Lion PP Billy Baldag Calalo, Tail Twister.

Membership Chairperson: Lion PP Paul Michael M. Cuadra, MJF; Service Chairperson: Lion PP Alfredo B. Tongson; Marketing Chairperson: Lion Irvin A. Azor; and Advisory Council Chairperson: Lion PP Jeciel C. Almario; Co-Chairmen: Lion PP Corsini R. Salcedo and Lion PP Elmer R. Reyes.

BIR: FILE YOUR INCOME TAX EARLY, CORRECTLY

by Ruben E. Taningco

San Pablo City-based Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)-Revenue Region No. 9B (LAQUEMAR) official reiterated his advised to taxpayers to file their income statement for 2021 correctly and early to avoid the hassle.

BIR-Revenue Region No. 9B Assistant Regional Director Ray Anthony O. Geli urged tax payers to review and file the correct 2021 income statement.

Geli described this “honest gesture demonstrate one’s love of country“ as every Filipino must pay taxes correctly.

ARD Geli also reminded taxpayers to avoid the rush and filing last minute to beat the April 15 deadline since payments or filing of the 2021 income tax returns could be done through the banks aside from the BIR district offices and collection offices.

He reiterated to taxpayers to review their declarations over the weekend to ensure the correct entry and avoid long queues due to discrepancies noted in their tax assessments.

The BIR official also urged taxpayers to submit income tax on or before Wednesday, April 13, since April 14 is Maundy Thursday and April 15 is Black Friday.

PEACE NGO SEEKS TO INSTITUTIONALIZE PEACE 

TO COUNTERACT THE THREATS OF GLOBAL CONFLICTS

In the present era where the safety of individual lives is constantly threatened by widespread conflicts, peacebuilding is currently demanded to develop into a system that promotes the values, norms, and culture of peace for all countries, communities, and individuals based on the shared principles of coexistence and interdependence of the global community.

To amplify the campaign for peacebuilding, HWPL held its 6th Annual Commemoration of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) online on March 14, 2022 with over 5,000 participants under the theme, “Institutionalizing Peace: Building a Legal Foundation for Sustainable Peace”.

A UN-affiliated NGO, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), has endorsed combined efforts of governments and civil society that lead to the institutionalization of peace in each society. Its DPCW, proclaimed in 2016, has provided a guide to citizen-led peace advocacy, in line with international organizations including the UN, the African Union (AU), and the EU that have stressed normative guidance as a standard for substantial conflict resolution with the participation of women and youth.

As for the need to ‘build a legal foundation for sustainable peace’, Dr. Kamal Hossain, the President of International Law Association (ILA) Bangladesh Branch said, "The precondition for achieving peace is securing peoples’ inalienable rights, which include equality before the law, equal protection of the law, non-discrimination, freedom to associate, freedom to assemble, and freedom to express."

In addition, Ms. Anna Cervenakova, a member of HWPL International Law Peace Committee, mentioned, "In the world’s ongoing crisis, governments question themselves, what kind of action would be the best action to take in order to overcome the emergency crisis… Much of the burden of the work is, therefore, on the side of the governments, so it is important what are the priorities in their institutional agenda."

As one of the speakers, Prof. Rommel Santos Diaz of international law at the Universidad INCE said that government offices including the Senate, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Attorney General’s Office in the Dominican Republic have been working with NGOs for the purpose of the ‘state’s decision-making for public policies on citizen security and human rights’ based on the DPCW.

Responding to prevalent threats from religious conflicts, Imam Moulana Shafiek Nolan in Westridge of South Africa expressed, "The DPCW emphasizes the importance of peace between religions and the cessation of religious conflict. The monthly scripture dialogue hosted by HWPL particularly aims to create a platform to break down misunderstandings of religious scripture and practices, mirroring the values expressed in the DPCW”.

Mr. John Rommel Garces, Chief Branch Manager of HWPL Philippines Branch, shared how the DPCW’s Article 10 ‘Spreading the Culture of Peace’ has paved the way for peace education to ‘reach the hearts of every learner’. HWPL Peace Education is now being adopted in the Philippines, from basic to tertiary education.

“We envision every school, college, and university all across the globe starting in the Philippines will nurture the students and embed peace education in their hearts and minds. Eventually, the leaders of the next generation will rise up and will lead the world with peace and love.”

Chairman Lee Man-hee of HWPL said that wars and conflicts continue to occur since ‘wars can be triggered if it is allegedly necessary according to the current international law, which is why this cannot put an end to war’. He highlighted that all members of the global village need to be united as one as ‘messengers of peace’ to ‘certainly create a thing (international law for peace) that can bring about peace’.

On February 28, HWPL issued a statement on Russia's invasion of Ukraine that includes refugee protection and global youth solidarity against war and is delivering it to 192 countries. The DPCW presents principles of peace to be promoted by the international society such as prohibiting the use of force, fostering religious freedom, and civic participation to spread a culture of peace. It highlights that sustainable peace can be achieved through all members of the global society by identifying not only nation-states but also international organizations and all citizens as the main actors in building peace.

For the full text of the DPCW or Statement Regarding Russia and Ukraine, you may visit: www.hwpl.kr

PRO 4A ALL SET FOR LIGTAS SUMVAC 2022

by Roselle R. Aquino

Camp BGen Vicente P Lim, Calamba City - The Police Regional Office CALABARZON is all set for the vacation season, to bolster security measures through the “Ligtas Sumvac (Summer Vacation) 2022” campaign, a total of 1,459 PNP personnel are ready for deployment for SumVac 2022. 

To augment the strength of the CALABARZON PNP, 2, 706 Force Multipliers and Volunteer Groups will support the deployment of 866 PNP personnel deployed in places of convergence, 249 in transportation terminals, 244 in tourist destinations, 100 in road constructions.

SUMVAC 2022 signals the end of the school calendar, hence various activities are being observed such as the observance of the Lenten season, the commemoration of the national holidays like Philippine Veterans Week, Araw ng Kagitingan, Labor Day, National Flag Day, and Flores de Mayo, fiestas and other related gatherings are also expected.

PRO 4A also anticipates an influx of visitors, both local and foreign, since many tourist spots in CALABARZON have been re-opening following the long break due to the strict quarantine restrictions in the past two years brought about the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“We are putting all police stations and units in full alert status to ensure that safety and security are maintained. All personnel is strongly advised to strictly adhere to the minimum public health standards so we can avoid the resurgence of Covid case”, Regional Director Brig Gen Antonio Yarra said. 

The PNP National Headquarters also released a set of operational guidelines to better ensure that minimum public health standards and peace and order are maintained especially in tourist destinations or places of worship.

Under the new normal, police station and units are encouraged to constantly coordinate with community-based volunteers and force multipliers whenever there is a significant activity in their area of responsibility. 

The PNP and Department of Tourism in their localities must work together to produce and distribute safety tips that shall guide the tourists to be safe at all times. 

“We will activate the tourist police in each police station in the cities and municipalities to assist the tourists and focus on security concerns so that our personnel can immediately take action in their complaints”, Yarra said.  The Ligtas Sumvac 2022 will also encompass the election security operations of the upcoming national and local elections this May 9, 2022.

Yarra reminded all unit commanders to double their efforts in ensuring the security and safety of the public during this season and maximize target hardening measures about the operational guidelines of the Ligtas Sumvac 2022.

He further emphasized the cooperation between the members of CALABARZON Police, Support Units, AFP counterparts, other law enforcement agencies, local government units, NGOs, force multipliers, and other civilian volunteer groups for their assistance in providing public safety services.

Yarra also appeals to the public for full support and cooperation in this season. He urges the public to stay vigilant and encourages them to report to the nearest police stations or any law enforcement agencies any suspicious activities in their area.

Safety tips and hotline numbers will be posted on the respective Facebook page of every police station and on the official Facebook page of Police Regional Office 4A to inform the public on the do’s and don’ts during traveling when going outside, when leaving their houses and when driving, and be aware on whom they should called whenever they need assistance. 

Moreover, Yarra assured that PRO 4A is mobilizing a sufficient number of policemen personnel ready to respond immediately in case of contingencies aside from other participating agencies and AFP counterparts.

“Ang kaligtasan po ng ating mga kababayan ang ating top priority. Dito sa CALABARZON makakaasa kayo na pananatilihin naming ang seguridad ng bawat mamamayan gayundin ang kaligtasang pangkalusugan ng bawat isa sa pamamagitan ng palagiang pagsunod sa health protocol upang maging masaya at ligtas ang bakasyon ng ating mga kababayan”, Yarra added.

WORLD CLASS WATER THEME PARK SPLASH ISLAND 

GETS NEW LOOK, ADDED ATTRACTIONS

by Paolo Manuel C. Fule

The country’s premiere, world class water theme park Splash Island gets a massive make over to satisfy the carvings of people amidst the pandemic. Splash Island has many new things to offer including splash out activities great for team building, kayak, and sky bike as some of their new attractions. They also offer Glamping or Glamorous Camping which includes an overnight stay at Splash Island. 

The hot summer is just around the corner and what better way to spend it with family and friends is to dip and plunge our bodies in cool getaways like Splash Island-- one of the best places to be at. Splash Island is a perfect place to relax and can also be for team buildings and family outings for everyone to cherish especially during the summer season. The place also appeals to those adventure-seeking people who want extreme activities as well. 

Splash Island is located at Southwoods Ecocentrum Binan, Laguna Philippines. For more information or inquiry you may call or text (smart) 0918-9129177/ 0918-5742462/ (globe) 0917-5095835/ 0917-5060576 or email globalgutzsplash_island@yahoo.com Splash Island is open during Saturdays and Sundays and weekdays and accepts reservations for big corporate events, reunion, family outing, school pouting, company outing and team building. 

Splash Island boosts off activities and attractions like paintball, Dos Supremos, Rio Montanosa, Magellan’s drop, King Pilipit, Big Bam Boo, Twisted Palms, Balsa River, Boon Docks, Agos Grandes, The Harbor, Water Wahoo and a lot more. Indeed, it is one of the best water theme parks our country should be proud of in this part of the South East Asia. Some of the best attractions they have would be Magellan’s Drop where one will be delighted because of its bumps in its slides, plus the King Pilipit where adventure seekers will find satisfaction. 

Splash Island is also a good place to have your team building seminars, especially if you have sports teams in swimming, football, basketball, volleyball varsities and the like because of its various interactive activities that will surely test the team’s stamina, strength and agility. 

For everyone’s safety and convenience, the water theme park also regulates ticket sales and admission upon reaching the maximum capacity all to everyone’s convenience of the water theme park. For sure adventure seekers who love safe extreme activities and bonding with family and friends will truly enjoy Splash Island. 

Email the author at: paolomanuelfule@yahoo.com

CARD MBA OPENS FIRST PROVINCIAL OFFICE OF 2022

After participating in the recent National Microinsurance Forum in January, CARD Mutual Benefit Association (CARD MBA) continues its move to providing affordable microinsurance by opening its 79th provincial office (PO) on February 14, 2022 in Cotabato City.

The first PO opened in 2022 aims to bring the products of CARD MBA and CARD Pioneer Microinsurance Inc. (CPMI) to its members and clients to further the institutions’ goal of nationwide financial inclusivity and insuring millions of lives. 

Serving as a multipurpose place of transaction for CARD MRI members, clients, and staff, the new PO opens its doors to better serve its patrons. For CARD MBA Coordinators, who serve as the direct link of the Association to its members, they can submit filed insurance claims and validated claims to the PO for faster processing. This is to achieve the “8-24 settlement strategy” of CARD MBA that aims to release a member’s claim within eight to 24 hours of filing. 

Members can also proceed to the PO to get their claims, as well as inquire and avail other products that are available through walk-ins such as the Family Security Plan for additional benefits and Remitter Protek Plan for center members tasked to bring their collections to CARD offices. 

In her message, CARD MBA Chief Executive Officer Jocelyn D. Dequito reiterated the importance of establishing more POs in the Philippines. “Our goal is to bring our services closer to our members and to hasten the processing of their claims. This is also an opportunity for our microfinance operations to bring our services, such as the Paglambo Program, closer to our members and clients,” Dequito said. 

The Paglambo Program is a Shari’ah-inspired microfinance program of CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) for CARD’s Muslim clients, promoting financial inclusivity in accordance with Islamic laws and traditions. 

Located at Block 5, Loro St., Federville Subdivision, Cotabato City, the PO will cater to a total of 24 units, accommodating 33,393 CARD, Inc. clients in the vicinity. It is also the first out of the five planned POs for 2022. To know more about CARD MBA, visit their website at www.cardmba.com or their official Facebook page, @CARDMBAOfficial.

COLLEGE BASKETBALL HEARTTHROBS 

TO SHOWCASE SKILLS IN NCAA SEASON 97 ON GMA7

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

The exciting and exhilarating collegiate basketball games are back in NCAA season 97 to be aired on GMA7 this coming March 26, 2022. Here are some of the heartthrob athletes to watch out for in the upcoming NCAA season. 

Born Kyle Dominic P. Tolentino on September 25, 2001 in New York, USA to Marikina City Councilor Mr. Elvis Tolentino and Ms. Aileen Tolentino, the 6-foot-2 cager is currently playing for Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights as a college student. “My favorite shot is 3-points because I’m confident with it”, quipped Kyle. Aside from basketball, he is also fond of watching movies. Being able to represent Letran is what he likes most about being a student-athlete. Asked how he prepares for the upcoming NCAA season, “I strengthen my body and condition it for me to prepare for the upcoming games”, said Kyle.

Born Ray Rogil Benedict Carlos on June 13, 2000 in San Juan City to Mr. Roel Carlos and Ms. Olive Carlos, the 5-foot-11 combo guard is currently playing for the College of Saint Benilde (CSB) Blazers. Prince loves playing sports and aside from basketball, he is also into swimming, football, volleyball and acting on TV. His idols in the PBA are Jayson Castro and Alex Cabagnot while in the NBA, he likes Kyrie Irving and Stephen Curry because of their capabilities of making plays for their teammates and at the same time they are also able to make plays for themselves. 

Born Alex Roeland A. Visser on May 9, 1999 to Mr. Leen Visser and Ms. Gina Visser, the 6-foot-4 cager is currently playing as center for San Beda Red Lions. He is currently taking up Marketing Management. He avoids junk food and soft drinks and try to stay away from fast food to maintain a physically healthy body. Alex also trains almost every day for basketball and goes to the gym. “The best thing about being a basketball player is just the whole experience. The people you meet, the games you play, the experiences you have. It’s irreplaceable,” said Alex. 

Born Andrey U. Doria and Adam U. Doria on April 11, 2000 to Mr. Manolito Doria and Ms. Lourdes Doria, the 6-foot-1 twins hails from Rizal, Laguna. They spent their secondary education at Saint Mary’s Academy of Nagcarlan (SMAN) in Nagcarlan, Laguna before playing for the UAAP league for the Adamson University Baby Falcons in Manila. Recently, they decided to take their talents to NCAA’s Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC). Both have the same charisma and ability to be tough inside the hard court. Asked how they keep their body healthy and fit, “We always have our daily workout and exercise and eating eggs, fruits, and vegetables”, said the twin magic of Laguna. Their ambition in life is to be successful in their chosen endeavor. 

Born Adrian Clarence Go Nocum on August 10, 1999 in Manila to Mr. Anthony P. Nocum and Ms. Cecilia G. Nocum, the 6-foot cager is currently playing for the Mapua University Cardinals as a shooting guard. Aside from playing basketball, he is also fond of watching tv and on tiktok. He is also a well-known social media personality having more than 57k followers on Instagram and 319k followers on tiktok.

PSA TO CONDUCT THE 2022 COMMODITY

and Outlet Survey

The 2022 Commodity and Outlet Survey (COS) will be conducted to gather data on commodities/services that a household purchased/availed of most of the time and the type of outlets/stores where these commodities/services are being purchased/availed of within the country. 

The collected data will be used to determine the commodities in the 2018-based Consumer Price Index (CPI) market basket for All Income Households that will be used to generate the 2018-based CPI for the Poor Income Households or the Bottom 20% Income Households. The results of the survey will be also used for the rebasing of the CPI (All Income and Poor Income Households) to base year 2021.

This survey will cover a total of 157 sample households in the province of Laguna. The enumeration period for 2022 COS will be from 1 April 2022 to 20 April 2022. Field Interviewers of the PSA will conduct the interview.

PSA Laguna headed by Ms. Magdalena T. Serqueña, Provincial Statistics Officer, is asking the public to support this undertaking.

For more information, please contact Statistical Specialist II Ulyses D. Villostas of PSA-Laguna at telephone numbers (049)562-6401 or telefax number (049)562-9605 or e-mail psalaguna34@gmail.com.

SANTA ROSA GOV'T JOINS SM FOR A SAFE, FUN VAX FOR KIDS

Santa Rosa City government officially rolled out the jabs for children aged 5 to 11 years old on Monday, February 14th Valentine’s Day.

Santa Rosa Mayor Arlene Arcillas said this is part of the efforts to reduce fear or vaccine hesitancy among the age group. 

"Here in Santa Rosa we strongly believe that vaccination is our strongest weapon to fight the virus. We want to give our youth the safest option and we have to protect them to be able to do this," Arcillas added.

"To complement the pediatric vaccination initiative, the city generously added vaccination sites at SM Malls in Laguna which specifically turned to a children friendly venue. We have installed kid-friendly waiting areas where they can stay before and after getting vaccinated. Vaccinees are greeted by SM Cares bears and delighted with different attractions. As a simple token for their bravery, every minor vaccinee is given a loot bag after receiving their shot," Ms. Niña Wong, Public Relations Manager said. Ms. Wong also stressed that safety protocols were observed during the vaccination process at all times.

As of Monday, the number of children belonging to the 5 to 11 age group who were pre-registered for their Covid-19 shots through Santa Rosa LGU efforts reached 12,000

To date, SM has successfully administered 8.5M jabs, on record as the most number of Filipinos vaccinated by a single company in the private sector, under its multi-mall vaccination program. With its long-standing commitment to ensuring the health and safety of the public, SM continues to provide not just a #SafeMalling experience to shoppers, but also a convenient, accessible, and FUN venue where their communities can get vaccinated.

The SM City Santa Rosa vaccination site targets to vaccinate around 500-1000 children daily.And as Laguna Province shifts to Alert Level 2 Children below 12 are now allowed to go malling provided they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult.

For more information and up-to-date news on #KidsVaxxatSM vaccination schedules at the SM malls in your LGU, click here. Register online here. For more updates, follow SM Supermalls on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

5 TO 11 YEARS OLD CAN NOW GET THEIR VAX AT SM MALLS IN LAGUNA

As the Philippines entered year 3 of battling the coronavirus pandemic, The Department of Health (DOH) has finally greenlighted the vaccination of children aged 5 to 11 starting February 7 and the 3 SM malls in located in Laguna have been chosen as LGU’s partner venues.

Even better: Kids can finally—and conveniently—get their jabs at SM vax sites as SM continues its multi-mall vaccination program in collaboration with local government units (LGUs). The rollout started in Metro Manila venues first and is set to expand to areas outside NCR. SM City San 

Pablo will start their kids’ vaccination on February 15th, SM City Santa Rosa had their kids’ vaccination a day earlier last February 14th and SM City Calamba is set mid February.

To make the experience less scary and more enjoyable for the little ones, the vaccination areas for the pediatric sites have been designed to be extra kid-friendly. For starters, the children will be greeted and guided by costumed staff, treats will be given out post-vax, and fun activities will be available at the observation and monitoring areas. Of course, all these were implemented while following safety protocols and observing minimum health standards. SM City San Pablo kid vaxx site was transform into a candy wonderland. And as Laguna Province shifts to Alert Level 2 Children below 12 are now allowed to go malling provided they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult.

How to register and get a pediatric vax schedule?

Check with your LGU for the registration process as each city and/or municipality has its own portal for proper processing. It is also best to consult with your child’s pediatrician for guidance prior to getting the shot. Parents of kids with comorbidities will also be required to present a medical certificate.

A reformulated dosage of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will be administered to children 5 to 11 years old (lower than the dosage given to minors aged 12 to 17) as this was the only vaccine granted emergency use approval by the country’s Food and Drug Administration.

COVID-ready tips for parents

Here’s an important reminder, though: Having your child receive the vaccine will not make him or her completely immune to COVID-19. Instead, it lowers the risk of getting and spreading the virus, and helps prevent severe illness and even death. That said, in case you and your family—including your little ones—contract COVID, it’s good to be prepared with these practical tips when caring for children:

Inform your pediatrician

The recent Omicron surge has affected a lot of children, but thankfully the symptoms reported have been mostly mild and manageable with home care. Even so, it’s important to inform your doctor and closely monitor symptoms. According to the DOH’s Home Care Guide for Children, the usual symptoms in kids include fever, cough, colds, sore throat, headaches, body pain, and loss of appetite.

That said, make sure to stock up on fever and cold medicine, as well as other emergency equipment such as a nebulizer and pediatric pulse oximeter.

Make sure your child gets lots of rest and fluids

Most people with a mild illness do not really need specific treatment and usually get better by getting lots of sleep and loading up on water and juices. Healthy food helps a lot, too—so make sure you keep those little bellies nourished with their favorite eats. .For more info, you can download the DOH’s official guide for home care for children. Follow SM Supermalls on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more updates. 

ALAMINOS CANDIDATES INK 2022 POLLS PEACE ACCORD

By Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna--Chief of Police Edwin R. Goyena said the four mayoral candidates, along with the candidates for other positions, attended the Signing of Peace Covenant, Lighting of the Unity Candle, Pinning of SAFE 2022, and Releasing of White Doves for National and Local Elections 2022 held at the Municipal Multi-Purpose Building here last Friday morning, February 18.

Goyena reported that the ceremony opened with an ecuminical prayer tled by Parish Priest James A. Contreras and Pastor Alfredo Delantar Jr, and witnessed by Election Officer Lara Monica Urbanozo, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Ma. Kerstine Azucena of DILG, and PSSg Santos Briones of the Philippine Army.

The mayoral aspirants are former Councilor Glenn P. Flores of the LAKAS CMD, Dr. Clarinda S. Magampon, an independent candidate, LnB President Lorenzo B. Zuñiga Jr. of Aksyon Demokratiko, and incumbent Mayor Ruben D. Alvarez of Nacionalista Party.

BISTEK THANKS PEOPLE FOR HIGH RANKING IN

PULSE ASIA SURVEY, VOWS TO WORK HARDER

Senatorial candidate Herbert “Bistek” Bautista thanked the people for his high ranking in the latest Pulse Asia survey which showed him to be within striking distance of the winning circle in the race for Senate seats.

The January 19 to 24 face-to-face survey by Pulse Asia showed Bautista at the 14th to 16th rank in the 12-seat race to fill half of the Senate. The results, according to Pulse Asia, has a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percent.

According to an explanation by Pulse Asia, at least 53 percent of survey respondents have already made up their minds on who to vote for in the Senate race. This means 47 percent, or nearly half, has yet to decide who to vote for among more than 64 candidates for senator.

Bautista said the results of the survey were encouraging given the fact that he has not yet saturated areas with high voting populations in his sorties.

Bautista said the survey results were likely to still change in the coming weeks as more and more of his supporters are still coming out.

“What this tells me is I should work harder,” said Bautista, who is running for senator under the Bongbong-Sara ticket on a platform of Internet reforms, Livelihood for all and Youth protection and welfare, or ILY.

“I am grateful to the people for giving me a push in my campaign to bring real change to our country,” said Bautista, who served as mayor of Quezon City for three terms and brought the city economy to unprecedented heights under his watch.

SAN PABLEÑO YOUTH LAUNCHES LOCAL GREEN AGENDA

San Pablo City, Laguna - Challenging local electoral candidates, a non-partisan pro-planet and pro-people youth-led coalition launched its green agenda for the city of San Pablo, Laguna this Saturday, February 19.

The 2022 San Pablo Green Flag Eco Agenda was formed from the ideas and solutions of the ten member organizations of the San Pablo Green Flag Coalition, and the more than 180 San Pableños gathered in on-ground and online interviews, roundtable discussions, and an online survey.

The agenda tackles the main environmental issues in the city which include waste management, climate change, conservation of the seven lakes, as well as pandemic recovery.

“We call on our local candidates and decision-makers to prioritize a green and just recovery. It is crucial that environmental protection be included in every candidate’s agenda to ensure a better normal for the planet and the people. Every life in our city and this planet lies in the hands of the citizens who will elect our leaders, and the leaders themselves who shall be the ones to build the systems all of us live in.” said Jedryc Romero, convener, San Pablo Green Flag Coalition.

“We the youth will not let our future be stolen. We have united to form this coalition and agenda to assert our rights to life and a better tomorrow. We’re counting on voters to elect a green and just leadership in the coming 2022 national and local elections.” He affirmed.

The coalition will be engaging with the city’s local candidates who they hope will support the agenda through pro-planet and pro-people platforms, policies, and programs. They have also begun a signature campaign at https://change.org/GreenFlagAgenda where the agenda can also be accessed.

KalikaSan Pablo convened the Green Flag Coalition with the support of the Advocacy Lab Program of KAMARA PH and the National Society of Parliamentarians Inc.

The following are the member organizations of the coalition: KalikaSan Pablo, Canossa College Student Council, Canossian Newsette, SciHigh Supreme Student Government (SSG), Dizon High SSG, SciHigh Youth for Environment in Schools Organization (YES-O), San Pablo City National High School YES-O, College Red Cross Youth PLSP Council, El Valero, and Rotaract Club of San Pablo City.

MAXIMUM PARTICIPATION IN HOME GARDENING OF GRADE VI-DILAY 

LEARNERS THROUGH RECOGNITION AND AWARDS

by: Ivan Dyem C. San Pedro

Teacher I, San Pablo City Integrated High School

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to know the level of participation of Grade VI – Dilay in Agriculture by giving recognition and awards in Bagumbayan Elementary School, S.Y. 2020-2021.

Specifically, it aimed to answer the following questions: What is the level of performance of the learners before introducing the merit system and What is the level of performance of the learners after the implementation of the merit system?

The descriptive method was used to find out if there is significant relationship exists between the status of learner’s performance in agriculture and the implementation of merit system.

Veggie rubrics was given before the implementation of the research was distributed and followed by Veggie Rubrics after to measure the competence level of the learners in agriculture.

The level of performance of the learners on recognition and awards in agriculture through veggie rubrics system has found out that Crop management before the merit system got a (M= 2),(SD= 0.72) with a mean difference of 0.16 to the result after the implementation of merit system which resulted to a p-value of 1.18. While Maintenance before the merit system got a mean of 2 and SD=0.70 compared to the result of after the implementation which got 4 and SD = 0.59 which attained a p-value of 2.06. Before the implementation of recognition and awards, Creativity got (M=2), (SD=4) while after the implementation of recognition got a Mean of 4 and an SD 0.66 and a p-value of 1.31. While in terms of Sustainability, the result before the implementation got a mean of 2 and an SD of 0.69 which directly compared to the result after the implementation that got a Mean of 3 and an SD of 0.74 that achieved a p-value of 2.38. Lastly, monitoring before result got a mean of 1 and SD of 0.55 while after the implementation, it got a Mean of 4 and an SD 0.65 which resulted to a p-value of 3.29. The researcher have found out based on the result that the recognition and awards in Agriculture though Veggie Rubrics were all Significant.

BANGON PILIPINO

ni Jaymee R. Estrada

Santa Cruz Central Elementary School

Pandemyang ating kinaharap,

Tayong tao ang magwawakas

Buong pusong ibigay ang lakas

Para sa pagbangon bukas….

Bangon Pilipino, isigaw sa buong mundo,

Pagsubok, kaya natin ito

Tulad ng mga bayaning,

Nagbuwis ng buhay para sa iyo.

Kaya’t ating pahalagahan,

Kasaysayang nakaraan

Sa puso at isipan….

Ako, ikaw, tayo dapat magtulungan

pagkat ang bukas,

nasa ating mga kamay…

LOVE, EDUCATION AND POVERTY (VALENTINE RUMINATIONS)

by Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, PhD

There are many reasons to celebrate this month. February 1 marks the Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, which will be celebrated across the world until February 15. Omicron may have given us an inauspicious start in January, but I am so glad that we are kicking off the Year of the Water Tiger with news that COVID-19 cases are declining nationwide.

February 14, of course, is Valentine’s Day. Many lucky couples will celebrate this holiday with love, flowers and chocolates. My wife and I will make do with our usual morning tête-à-tête over kapeng barako and pandesal, our weathered hearts full of celebrations past. With our kids and apos, the love of friends and colleagues who are like extended family to us, every day feels like Valentine’s. And we are grateful for that.

I am also praying that the IATF will brighten our hearts on February 14, when it announces the updated alert levels as it continues to monitor existing restrictions in light of the decline in COVID-19 infections. The Philippines is now back to moderate risk status, an improvement from the previous high and critical risk classification. I hope that we can all look forward to the reopening of the economy. Let us show our love for others by following health safety standards like frequent handwashing, observing physical distance, and wearing of face masks.

There is another reason to celebrate February 14. It is the 21st anniversary of the CARD-MRI Development Institute (CMDI), a globally-recognized learning institution grown from our humble corner of the world, the scenic province of Laguna. How CMDI came about is also a love story, hewn from our decades of rural development work with the marginalized sectors.

CMDI began as the training unit for personnel of the Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (CARD), a non-government organization, which provides microfinance and related services to poor women. As CARD grew into several mutually-reinforcing institutions (MRIs) in response to the needs of our expanding clientele, our capacity-building needs also became more complex. We were rather naïve when we started CARD in 1986. Full of idealism, armed with limited funds and boundless hope, we thought we only needed to provide microcredit to transform the lives of our clients. But things were not that simple. 

You see, poverty has many roots, and lack of education is one of them. Working directly with the poor --especially those in the rural areas -- we saw this firsthand. Our clients suffer many forms of deprivation and their needs go beyond microfinance. Providing them with funds for livelihood is good, yes, but more is needed: financial literacy, training in microenterprises, marketing support, microinsurance, and a host of other things.

Thus, we established the CARD Training Center in 2000 in Barangay Tranca, Bay, Laguna. In there, we trained not just our staff, but our clients. Later on, other organizations also approached us for their training needs. And this is how our training unit evolved into the CMDI: a learning resources network that provides an array of practitioner-led training and education services to our staff and members, as well as other microfinance practitioners seeking advanced education in applied microfinance. It is now a government-recognized educational institution with facilities in Baguio, Pasay, and Masbate, as well as a campus in Tagum, Davao. 

Nelson Mandela once said that “Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.” The story of CMDI certainly proves this truth. As of December 2021, CMDI has trained 1,570,848 clients under its Credit with Education (CwE) program. Imagine the multiplier effect that more than a million individuals trained on health, business, microinsurance, disaster preparedness, and credit discipline could have on their communities. The impact of these trainings had been felt not just by our clients and their families. Through many disasters and emergencies, our clients have become community leaders, sharing with others what they have learned from us. 

To help break the inter-generational cycle of poverty, CMDI now offers affordable education to clients and their children. It offers Senior High School, TESDA-accredited courses and baccalaureate programs. CMDI has granted more than 15,000 educational scholarships to poor and deserving students.

Why focus on education? 

Education is crucial because it directly correlates with many solutions to poverty, including economic growth and reduced income inequality. It is also the highest aspirations of our clients: that their children get an education. To poor parents, sending their children to school is the greatest act of love.

Many Filipinos lack access to education. According to DepEd, more than 3 million were not able to enroll last year, while the latest PSA data (2017) show that we have 3.53 million out-of-school youth, half of them from families whose income fall within the bottom 30 percent of the population. Based on PSA’s 2018 Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which serves to complement the income-based measure of poverty, indicators on educational attainment consistently had the highest incidence of deprivation among Filipino families. 

CMDI, then, is our humble contribution to filling this educational gap. Providing training to clients empowers and enables them to change their lives. We provide affordable quality education to help our clients realize their dream of securing their children’s future. It is also an act of love on our part.

And because February is the month of love, let me end with this quote from Brazilian educator and philosopher Paulo Freire: “Education is an act of love, thus, an act of courage.”

We are courageous in our love.

2-DAY OPERATION LABAN ILEGAL NA GAWAIN SA 

KAGUBATAN, ISINAGAWA NG CENRO STA CRUZ

Isang intelligence report ang nakarating sa tanggapan ng CENRO Sta. Cruz patungkol sa di umanoý putol na mga puno sa Brgy. Udia, Cavinti, Laguna. Kaugnay nito ay agad tumulak ang grupo mula sa Enforcement and Monitoring Section (EMS) sa pangunguna ni OIC, Chief Daniel Arthur sa tanggapan ng Philippine National Police (PNP) Cavinti upang makipag-ugnayan patungkol sa nasabing ulat at pag-usapan ang mga susunod na hakbangin.

Isang joint-operation katuwang ang PNP Cavinti ang naikasa sa Brgy. Udia, Cavinti, Laguna upang maberipika ang nasabing ulat. Tumambad sa grupo ang 14 piraso ng Santol round logs.

Noong sumunod na araw, muling nagkasa ng isang joint operation ang mga nasabing tanggapan sa mga barangay ng Udia at Bangco, Cavinti, Laguna sa pangunguna ni OIC, CENRO Venerando Garcia. Nasabat ang 11 na sako ng uling, tatlong (3) furniture sets, 19 piraso ng Santol Lumber at sampung (10) piraso na Maytalang, Poas, Paitan, Santol at Malapapaya Round Logs.

Naging matagumpay ang mga nasabing operasyon ng CENRO Sta. Cruz sa pamamagitan ng pakikipagtulungan at pakikipag-ugnayan kina CENRO Oliver Olivo ng CENRO Real, Mayor Milbert Oliveros ng Lokal na Pamahalaan ng Cavinti, at PLT. Sergio Amaba Jr. ng PNP Cavinti. 

Ang mga nasabat na kahoy, uling at furniture sets ay nasa pangangalaga ngayon ng CENRO Sta. Cruz na matatagpuan sa Brgy. Duhat, Sta. Cruz, Laguna upang pangalagaan ang mga naturang produktong gubat.

LAGUNA DAY CARE WORKERS, NAKAKUHA NA NG ALLOWANCE 

by Jonna S. Coroza

STA. CRUZ, Laguna - Tinanggap ng 611 Day Care Workers (DCW) mula kay Gob. Ramil L. Hernandez ang kanilang allowance na may kabuuang halagang P 1, 262,772.54 para sa mga buwan ng Oktubre-Disyembre 2021, kung saan 258 DCW ang galing sa una at ikalawang distrito ng lalawigan, at 353 mula sa ikatlo at ikaapat na distrito.

Katuwang ni Gob. Hernandez sa pamamahagi si Bise Gob. Atty. Karen Agapay sa Laguna Sports complex sa bayan ng Sta. Cruz noong Pebrero 14 para sa mga DCW sa 3rd at 4th distrito. Ang allowance distribution para sa mga DCW ng 1st at 2nd distrito ay ay isinagawa naman nitong Pebrero 16, 2022 sa Laguna Provincial Capitol Extension Office sa lungsod ng Calamba.

Ang mga DCW ang matiyagang nagtuturo sa mga batang may edad na 3-5 taong gulang sa bawat barangay. Dito hinuhubog ang unang kaalaman, kakayahan at tamang asal. Kahit na may pandemya ay patuloy silang nagtuturo sa mga bata sa pamamagitan ng paghahanda ng modules para sa kanila. 

Ang programang ito ay nagpapatuloy at pinamamahalaan ng tanggapapan ng Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office. (Photo by Angel Bert Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

DILG DIRECTS LGUS, PNP TO STRICTLY 

IMPLEMENT ANTI-COVID POLL ACTIVITIES

As the campaign period is set to start on February 8 for national candidates and on March 25 for local candidates, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today urged local government units (LGUs) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to strictly implement and/or enforce the allowable and prohibited election-related activities per alert level in their area of jurisdiction pursuant to Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution 10732 to stop the spread of Covid-19.

DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año said LGUs and the PNP must be on top of ensuring that minimum public health standards (MPHS) are enforced depending on the alert level during in-person campaigns, rallies, caucuses, meetings and conventions; motorcades and caravans; and miting de avance.

“Sisiguraduhin po nating tumutupad ang mga LGU sa Comelec Resolution 10732 bilang pagtitiyak na magiging ligtas ang ating mga kababayan sa panahon ng kampanya. We are facing a much transmissible variant kaya naman hindi tayo dapat magpabaya maging ngayong panahon ng halalan,” Año said.

“Una pa din ang kalusugan at kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan kaya mariing ipinapaalala ng DILG ang pagsunod ng LGUs at PNP sa mga panuntunan ng COMELEC,” he added.

Comelec issued Resolution 10732 dated November 24, 2021 outlining the guidelines for the conduct of 2022 Election-related activities amid the new normal and the continuous threat of COVID-19’s Omicron variant.

In an advisory released recently, the DILG Chief likewise said LGUs must adopt necessary measures and strategies to comply with the Comelec Resolution; streamline existing LGU policies with the issuance; and, ensure observance of the guidelines’ entirety within their locality.

“The 2022 Election is a very important event for the country but we must take into consideration that we are still currently battling an enemy that thrives in gatherings. We expect LGUs and the PNP to strictly enforce the poll guidelines,” Año said.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is also called to maintain order and security and to impose strict observance of MPHS during any election-related campaigns in coordination with the barangay officials, tanods, and the Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams.

“Kailangang pagalawin ng mga LGU ang lahat ng kanilang law enforcement units upang tiyakin na magiging ligtas at malayo sa COVID-19 ang mga makikiisa nating kababayan sa mga kampanyang ito,” Año said.

He further pushed for impartiality and nudged the LGUs and the Municipal or City Comelec Campaign Committee (M/CCCC)M/CCCC to stay the course of public service and avoid politics in granting campaign permits to both national and local candidates alike.

“To the LGUs and M/CCCC, please avoid partiality and bias in granting approval for these campaign activities. Unahin po natin ang kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan bago ang pamumulitika,” Año said.

Prohibited activities during campaign period

DILG Secretary Año said that Comelec Resolution 10732 states specific conditions and allowable campaign activities that LGUs and M/CCCC must implement "to safeguard both the citizens and candidates alike" during the campaign period.

"Depending on the Alert Level, kailangang maging mahigpit ang mga LGU at M/CCCC sa pagpapatupad ng resolusyon ng Comelec," Año said.

The Comelec Resolution states that in-person campaigning is not allowed for Alert Levels 4 and 5 while candidates or campaign leaders must only be accompanied by maximum of five campaign support staff in Alert Level 2 and three for Alert Level 3. For Alert Level 1, there's no limit to the number of companions the candidates can have.

Also, for in-house cazzmpaigning, entering any private dwelling during house-to-house campaigning, even with the express permission of the homeowner; and, crowding, or allowing crowds that violate MPHS around the candidate and his or her companions are not allowed.

For caucuses, meetings, convention, rallies, and miting de avance, 70% of the operational capacity of the venue, whether indoor or outdoor is allowed for Alert Level 1; 50% of the operational capacity of the venue, whether indoor or outdoor for Level 2; 50% of the operational capacity of the venue for enclosed outdoor only for Level 3; 30% of the operational capacity of the venue for enclosed outdoors only for Level 4 while for Level 5, none among the gatherings mentioned are permitted.

During motorcades in all category levels, stopovers, layovers, and other similar stoppages for the conduct of other election campaign activities are likewise not permitted.

Meanwhile, in all Alert Levels, handshakes, hugs, kisses, going arm-in-arm, or any action that involves physical contact among the candidate, their companions, and the public; taking selfies, photographs and other similar activities that require close proximity between the candidate and their companions, and the public; and, distribution of food and drink, and all other goods or items are not allowed in all campaign activities mentioned.

CALABARZON PNP HAS NEW DIRECTOR

by Roselle R. Aquino

Camp Vicente Lim, Calamba City--Brig Gen Antonio Yarra took the helm of leadership as the newly installed Regional Director of Police Regional Office CALABARZON in a simple turn-over ceremony held this camp.

Presided over the Deputy Chief, PNP for Operations, Lt Gen Israel Ephraim Dickson, the office symbol, property, equipment inventory book, unit saber, unit color, and property pook were turned-over by the outgoing Regional Director, Brig Gen Eliseo Cruz accepted by the incoming director.

Delivering his message, Yarra acknowledged the achievements of his predecessors and the previous regional directors of PRO CALABARZON who have done the most of the thinking and instituted into the PNP system. “We don’t have to reinvent the wheel. What we should do is to improve on the actions they took to have better results,” he said.

Yarra briefly presented his 4A’s ideals to PRO CALABARZON personnel. “As we work together starting today, let us embody the ideals of the PNP. We will do that by developing Aptitude, by taking Action, by having the right Attitude, and by facing Accountability. Encourage the local government officials and the communities you serve to join us in our quest to having a safer CALABARZON through the 4A’s,” he explained.

Prior to his designation as the Regional Director, he spent almost one third of his police career in PRO CALABARZON. Yarra served as Chief Comptrollership in 2014, Quezon Police Provincial Director in 2016 and Deputy Regional Director for Administration in 2020. After his stint in PRO CALABARZON, he was assigned at NCRPO as Deputy Regional Director for Operations and Administration respectively. In April of 2021 he was designated as the District Director of Quezon City Police District.

In his closing message, he asked the entire CALABARZON police force to join him in the journey guided by the 4A’s while building the culture of service, honor, and justice. “As professional police officers, I believe that we all know what we ought to do. We should have the moral courage to stand for what is right and to uphold the rule of law,” he concluded.

Yarra is a member of PMA Class “Sambisig” of 1991. He replace, 

Cruz who is set to lead the Area Police Command, in Visayas as the Acting Deputy Commander.

SSS ADVISES MEMBERS AND PENSIONERS

TO GET PROTECTED FROM COVID-19

The Social Security System (SSS) reminds its members and pensioners to abide by the enhanced workplace safety systems following the nationwide surge of COVID-19 cases.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Aurora C. Ignacio stated that despite the pandemic, members still continue to visit SSS offices to file and follow up on their claims.

“Our desire is to continuously provide the benefits and services for our members. However, in order to do so, we must observe basic health precautionary measures as mandated by the government to ensure the safety of both members and SSS employees.” Ignacio said.

In this line, SSS enjoins it stakeholders to get protected from COVID-19 by adopting these following steps:

• Getting vaccinated,

• Wearing masks in public, especially in closed, crowded areas

• Practicing social distancing,

• Frequently washing our hands,

• Limiting travel,

• Avoid crowded areas,

• Transacting online,

• Isolate if with COVID-like symptoms, and

• Monitor daily health status.

Further, SSS enjoins its members, pensioners, employers, and the general public to continue using its online services when transacting with its offices and branches for faster, simpler, more efficient, and more convenient ways to avoid face-to-face interaction. Further information on the mandatory online transactions and other online services can be viewed through this link: http://bit.ly/expreSSS.

Transacting members and employers are also mandatorily required to create an account in order to transact and enjoy the online services at the My.SSS Portal through the SSS website www.sss.gov.ph or use the SSS Mobile App which is downloadable for free in Google Play Store, Apple App Store and Huawei App Gallery, or send inquiries through Text-SSS at 2600.

For more information, visit the uSSSapTayo Portal at https://crms.sss.gov.ph, follow the SSS on Facebook at “Philippine Social Security System - SSS,” Instagram and YouTube at “mysssph,” Twitter at “PHLSSS,” or join its Viber Community at “MYSSSPH Updates.”

EVACUATION CENTER AT COMMUNITY 

SUPPORT FACILITY BUILDING PARA SA RIZAL

ni Ruben E. Taningco

RIZAL, Laguna--Matapos malagdaan ang Memorandum of Agreement sap ag-itan ng pamunuan ng Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) at ng Municipal Government of Rizal noong nakaraang Biyernes ng umaga sa isang seremonyang ginanap sa bagong Municipal Hall, ay isinagawa na kaagad ang tradisyonal na “ground breaking ceremony” para sa pagtatayo ng isang Evacuation Center at isang Community Support Facility Building sa New Municipal Government Center  sa Barangay Pauli 2 sa bayang ito.

Ang Memorandum of Agreement na nilagdaan nina DHSUD Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario, DHSUD-Region IV-A Director Jann Roby R. Otero, at ilan pang matataas na opisyal sa panig ng Kagawaran ng Pananahanang Pangtao at Pagpapaunlad ng Kalunsuran, at nina Alkalde Vener P. Muñoz at Bise Alkalde Antonino A. Aurelio sa panig ng Pamahalaang Munisipal ng Rizal ay para sa pagkakaloob ng may kabuuang halagang Walumpung Milyong Piso (₱80,000,000.00)  na  mula sa Developer’s Incentivized Compliance sa ilalim ng Balai Filipino Program na pinangangasiwaan ng DHSUD upang gugulin sa pagtatayo ng dalawang gusali na nagkakahalaga ng ₱40,000,000.00 bawa’t isa.

Ayon kay Regional Director Jann Roby R. Otero, ang mga gusaling itatayo ay sunod sa makabagong disenyo sa layuning “to build safer and more structurally sound, dual-purpose evacuation centers that are hazard-adaptive and sensitive to the needs of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), women and children.”

ELECTRONIC LOS BAÑOS JEEPNEY (ELBEEP), 

PINASINAYAAN NG UPLB

Pinasinayaan ng University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) noong ika-31 ng Enero, ang Electric Los Baños Jeepney (eLBeep) na tutulong hindi lamang sa transportasyon ng mga mag-aaral kundi pati na rin sa kalikasan.

Sa pamamagitan ng eLBeep ay inaasahang mababawasan ang iba’t ibang uri ng polusyon tulad ng gas emission, air, at noise pollution na malaki ang epekto sa kalikasan. 

Ang UPLB ang kauna-unahang campus na magkakaroon ng electronic jeep bilang mode of transportation. Bukod sa eLBeep, target din ng pamunuan ng unibersidad na maging una sa pagkakaroon ng ebikes at electronic scooter upang makamit at mapanatiling Green Campus ang buong pamantasan.

Bilang bahagi ng programa, nagpasalamat ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Los Baños sa pangunguna ni Mayor Antonio Kalaw para sa panibagong proyekto na magbibigay rin ng tulong at benepisyo sa mga mamamayan ng Los Baños. (Maine Odong)

TECHNOLOGY-BASED PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT IN THE “NEW NORMAL"

by Cherry R. De Alday, Teacher - III

Dr. Panfilo Castro National High School, Candelaria, Quezon

Black and Wiliam in 1998 defined assessments broadly to include “all those activities undertaken by teachers, and by their students in assessing themselves, which provide information to be used as feedback to modify the teaching and learning activities in which they are engaged”. Activities may include classroom observation, class discussions, quizzes, homework, and tests. However, the design of outcome measures for instructional or learning interventions has become transformed as the promise of computer technology has begun to be realized.

The 20th century has given technology the way to alter the speed and location of assessment, in which the days of hand written records and paper copies of classroom’ assessments are quickly fading. In the “new normal educational set-up, teachers’ means of assessment can be done only in two ways: through written outputs of modular classes and a variety of technology tools available for online classes. Electronic response systems and softwares are all technology-based formative assessment tools that have the power to help each teacher effectively individualize instruction for all students. In some cases, blogs, chats, and Wikis used in the distance learning environment help teachers gain an understanding of what students know or don’t know. 

Now that face-to-face classes are still on hold, the department of education is utilizing technology-based programs and systems that provide teachers with formal and informal assessments to track student progress weekly or quarterly. These types of formative assessments help keep students on-track with achievement, while also providing opportunities for students to participate in engaging activities based upon abilities and needs. Using technology based formative assessments to individualize instruction aims to improve student achievement, to remediate before it’s too late, to track individual student growth and progress, and to achieve school improvement goals.

Technology-based performance assessment is evident among teachers’ part in which electronic records (E-class records) of students’ performance is recommended instead of the traditional class record. It has the same purpose of tracking students’ performances. It can be made available to students in case-to-case basis or whenever necessity arises. Confidentiality must always remain. 

Some teachers require students to have on-line submission of requirements in compliance with all their incomplete learning tasks and activities. However, the assessment result is not always visible upon acknowledgement of the tasks for some reasons. Thus, students still do not have the track of their accomplishments. One acceptable reason for this perhaps is for security purposes. Another consideration is the time required for a task to be completed. In most cases, submission of students online takes place on due dates or a day or two before the deadlines. When this happens, teachers don’t find ways to give feedback to students’ performance online. What is happening, comments and suggestions and even the assessment are given during virtual meetings and discussions. 

Additionally, technology-based performance assessment in the “new normal” can be present among students’ collaborative efforts in small group differentiated activities (SGDA) wherein they utilize innovations during their presentations. Interpretative dance of literature excerpt, instead of summarizing the texts, role playing and movie making instead of reading story, debate on a contemporary issue, instead of news reporting, and the like, in which all of these are expected to submit through video recording send through e-mails, messenger or the file saved in CD or USB flash drive. These kinds of performances are assessed having the highest percentage in the computation of their grades, thus the system calls it performance-based assessment. It is very apparent that students could acquire high grades if they will employ technology through innovations, either digital or non-digital. 

Looking back with those school days during face-to-face classes in the past, it made every student happy whenever an appraisal was given by the teachers such as “very good”, “job well-done”, “keep up the good work” and so on. For students, these were proofs of positive assessment on their part because application of technology during those times was not yet evident. A transfer of words from one teacher’s mouth to another made students feel good that they were admired by both teachers and other students. As a system practice, students would only know of their accomplishments during end of every quarter and of the school year. But now, through the advent of technology, the whole world could easily learn of students’ accomplishments, either digital through social media or non-digital such as printed and posted on tarpaulin or posters. That’s how amazing technology works! That’s how remarkable assessment of performance can be made through technology, formal or informal, it doesn’t matter anymore. What is important is to let the concerned be informed about his/her performance.

Negative reflections on what a technology-based performance assessment is cannot be avoided. Yet, there should also be a realization that for whatever new interventions, the objective is always on the benefits of the performers. Moreover, technology-based performance is a promising step towards our system realization of a globally competitive arena in education. If we could fully implement the beneficial effects of this assessment, then the whole system could easily address the needs of the learners in the best possible time. 

At present wherein the country is experiencing the greatest challenge in education brought about by pandemic, teachers as the main catalysts of change can either enjoy the full benefit of this type of assessment or can just remain in the comfort zone of their own horizon. 

"Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives—choice, not chance, and determines your destiny.” –Aristotle

COVID-19 PANDEMIC BROUGHT A GREAT IMPACT 

IN EDUCATION SYSTEM IN THE PHILIPPINES

by Jaymee R. Estrada

Santa Cruz Central Elementary School

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc across the globe affecting various sectors as it paved way for major changes and adjustments which we all must deal with. More than just a health crisis, it also resulted in an educational crisis as schools, universities, and colleges ceased its normal operation. 

Brought by the lack of physical contact and difficulties in communication, problems involving effective learning process and absorbing new information emerged. Responding to the needs of learners amidst the global crisis, the continuation of classes was implemented through several proactive approaches.  The shift to online learning is the most notable policy which facilitates student learning despite the closure of educational institutions.  While it seems to be the only feasibly way to continue learning, different groups and organizations opposed such alternative claiming that it is not ideal nor conducive. Problems involving internet connection and learning devices were raised as well since an alarming number of students do not have the capability to acquire such. 

Two years since the pandemic began, the Philippine Government is still struggling to balance the imperative of health and safety with its utmost duty to educate the youth. In fact, the Philippines is one of the few countries which haven’t re-opened its educational institutions yet. As the Chinese proverb goes, “Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.” But in the country where health protocols, mass vaccination, heightened social control and alternative learning were mandated, are the Filipino learners well-equipped for what’s next?

MANAGING HUMAN RESOURCES IN THE SCHOOL SETTING

By: Antonio E. Delos Santos

Teacher II, San Jose National High School

In Managing human resources, it is very important to know what the needs of the teachers are especially when it comes to giving and executing the proper trainings. This is also one aspect of management which is to search for a good training to its employees. When it comes to the various careers of Human Resources Specialties, Employee Development is one area that deserves a closer look. An important aspect of employee retention is the training and development of existing staff. 

For one, proper and efficient training enhance the skills of the teachers or the professionals to which better services can be expected with the proper amount of training and retention and enhancement of skills. We all know that skills are always enhances thru constant practice and reminders just like what an athlete does to his career that is why trainings are very important aspect of management. 

Providing the proper training often calls on creativity. Not all learnings should be achieved through the process of reading, memorization, and spitting of information. Good training allows for the trainee to learn a new skill by doing, and then by practicing. An example of this would be basketball to which a neophyte is learning a new skill set like assisting or rebounding. Constant practice and being able to compete with more experienced player will result into being a good player when the time comes that he has developed the said skills. 

Planning and organizing are key concepts to providing great training.  First and foremost is knowing your material and resources. But once that has been taken cared of in consideration, planning and organization come next in line. The trainings may focus on delivering better performance in the current role or to overcome future changes in the organization. Overall, these skills trainings can be of great help individually and also to the organization as a whole in moving forward to achieve its goals. If we want our school to improve, we must invest on the school leaders, educators and facilities so we can provide a better education for the future our nation.

ADVANCED PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION TRACES 

PRESENT EDUCATIONAL THOUGHTS TO THEIR ORIGINS

by Cherry R. De Alday, Teacher - III

Dr. Panfilo Castro National High School, Candelaria, Quezon

Dr. Jose Rizal once said, “No one can move forward without tracing the history of the past”. This is true in the present set up of educational system in the country. Even before in the past, there were already many great philosophers who had discovered and identified different philosophies in which the purpose was to improve the quality of education. From the oldest philosophies, which were believed to be the parents of all educational philosophies, the Perennialism of Mortimer Adler and Robert Maynard Hutchins and the Essentialism of William Bagley and E.D. Hirsch, borne the other educational philosophies purposively putting into realization the academic mission of the education: to provide learnings among our students. 

Philosophy of Education by its definition is a set of related beliefs that influences what and how students are taught. This alone supports that there is really a need for teachers to trace the origins of educational thoughts so it could be related to the present. By tracing the different beliefs of the famous educational philosophers which had been applied already in transferring learnings to students, one may be able to identify which had been effective that will help in doing the most appropriate actions in achieving the educational goals and objectives in the country. Tracing the origins of the different educational thoughts is a guidance to make the necessary changes and adjustments that will address any existing problems in enhancing the country’s present educational situations. 

In relation to this, the study of Advanced Philosophy of Education aside from exposing the teachers to the wide spectrum of educational thoughts also enables them to realize the importance of tracing the origins of educational thoughts in conceptualizing new educational views that will be beneficial for both the system and the recipients. Realizing what makes an original educational thought a success or failure leads to the discovery of new educational theories that will cater the needs of the learners from any generations. Changes are always expected to happen, especially in the country’s educational system, but as the primary catalyst of these changes, teachers are deemed necessary to continue on discovering thoughts and formulating theories to provide the learners of what they are entitled to achieve from education. Teachers should always uphold that the past is a good basis for conceptualizing what is better for the present to create the best in the future. They should never forget that ORIGIN is the beginning of what we are now and what we have become and as individuals imbued with knowledge of educational thoughts at different times and places, they can make changes to make this knowledge a great help to the PRESENT.

NETFLIX SERIES APOCALYPTIC THRILLER “ALL OF US ARE DEAD” HAS 

HIGH-OCTANE ENTERTAINMENT, TACKLES TEEN & SOCIAL ISSUES

by Paolo Manuel C. Fule

The Korean apocalyptic hit zombie series in Netflix is currently trending atop the streaming giant worldwide as it also mesmerized K-Pop fans around the world including here in the Philippines. The series started on January 28 of this year and was touted to be the next smash hit on tv after the phenomenal ‘Squid Game’ that also happened to be a Korean series. True to the hype, this oeuvre is worth watching. First, it is highly entertaining and each cut to end the series is really worth going on to the next because of its suspended endings each episode. Secondly, this is a refreshing take on the zombie apocalypse genre as it is seen thru the lens of the teenagers’ point of view. Lastly, it tackles various social themes like how government reacts to such kind of emergencies and how the powerful and ordinary people respond to these situations. Moreover, it tackles teenager themes like bullying, high school love, teen pregnancies, and their place in society. 

It follows the story of a group of high school students in class 2-5 trapped at Hyosan High School during an outbreak of a zombie virus that came from an experiment in a science laboratory. The four lead characters were Cheong-san (Yoon Chan-young), his crush On-jo (Park Ji-hu), class president Nam-ra (Cho Yi-hyun), and popular school athlete Lee Su-hyeok (Park Solomon). 

I would like to tackle more on the issues regarding bullying and government emergency response in the context of the series and of today’s society as well. First is the bullying part. It is actually the cornerstone issue of the whole series as bully Gwi-nam (played by Yoo In-Soo) was one of the prime reasons why the Science teacher Lee Byeong-chan developed the virus in order for his son Jin-su to be strong for him to fight the school bullies after all efforts to expose the bullies are gone into waste.  Bullying has been tackled in schools pre pandemic and there had been seminars for teens about the issue. There has been the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 or RA 10627. 

This law finds applicability in school-related bullying, student to student bullying in particular, which covers those uttered in social media. “Bullying”, as defined, refers to any severe or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another student that has the effect of actually causing or placing the latter in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm or damage to his property; creating a hostile environment at school; infringing on the rights of another; or materially or substantially disrupting the education process. This kind of bullying was manifested in three students in the series, all of which had a major impact on the survival and some of the deaths of the main and supporting characters in the series. 

Those scenes that tackle bullying have their compelling moments that define the characters and sets the tone of the series. One thing I learned more about the issue is that there are more people who would not even talk about being bullied in school out of fear for their bullies, and the embarrassment they might get once they even exposed their predator bullies. This was evident to the son of the science teacher because he won’t even talk about it inside their home. This makes severe cases of bullying hard to see in the school setting because of this seemingly “unseen force” of silence among bullying victims. I hope that schools and other similar institutions be more proactive regarding sever cases of bullying among teenagers especially inside school premises. Although I know that there are programs in schools regarding this issue, I think we should empower and encourage victims of severe bullying to speak up and talk to proper psychologists or authorities regarding this issue.  

Email the author at: paolomanuelfule@yahoo.com

AIR WARFARE CENTER CONDUCTS 

OUTREACH PROGRAM IN LIPA CITY

The Air Warfare Center (AWC) unit of the Air Education, Training and Doctrine Command (AETDC) recently conducted an Outreach Program at Tahanan ng Mahal na Ina ng Guadalupe,’ Marauoy, Lipa City, Batangas.

Led by Maj Apple Gay L Medroso, Executive Officer, AWC personnel handed over food packs and financial assistance to Sister Marina and Sister Helen in support of the elderlies being cared of by the said nursing home.

According to Major Medroso, the Missionary Sisters of the Catechism manages the said institution with the primary mission of welcoming the abandoned and poor elderly women.

She also explained that the activity is part of their regular program for the communities and and the 20th Founding Anniversary celebration of AWC with the theme "AWC @ 20: Pagbibigay Halaga at Kaalaman sa Doktrina, Gabay  sa Paglilinang at Pag-unlad  sa Gitna ng Pandemya." (AETDC CMO)

A TREASURE NO ONE CAN TAKE AWAY

There are always two options ahead of us, either to quit or to move forward; but for Karen Reyes, a mother of three children, this is not the time to quit – not when her children’s education is on the line. 

Karen believes that education is a treasure no one can take away. This is her guiding force in making sure that her children, particularly her eldest son, Karl Rafael Reyes, receives his education the best possible way despite the pandemic. This is a treasure she would like her children to inherit from her. 

To achieve this, Karen took the role of being a konek2CARD Agent in CARD Bank Pili, Bula 2 Unit, Center Camay 5, while she sells kikiam, fishball, and siomai outside their home. Her husband, on the other hand, works in a sugar mill near their hometown in Camarines Sur. Together, they work hard to provide for the basic needs of their children. However, they admit that the amount they earn from their small business is not enough. 

Putting their trust in CARD Bank is the solution they came up with and is the best decision they made for their children. CARD Bank supports low-income families through the bank’s affordable loan products and services. Among these services include the Zero Dropout Program, a low-interest educational loan, exclusive for CARD clients with children in elementary, high school, and senior high school. At CARD Bank, clients may avail up to PhP 3,000 to help them with their children’s educational needs. 

Through this program, it became possible for Karen, not only to provide her eldest son’s school supplies but also his miscellaneous fees in school. More importantly, the Zero Dropout Program has sustained Karl Rafael’s education seven times since 2016, from when Karl Rafael is in Grade 1. 

Now, Karl Rafael is in Grade 5. With modular distance learning taking the place of face-to-face classes, being a mother and a teacher to her son is quite challenging for Karen. Fortunately, with the help of CARD Bank and the right people, including her in-laws who have continuously shared their Wi-Fi to support Karl Rafael’s online education, Karen knows that his son will achieve whatever it is that he dreams of in the future. 

With Karen’s sixth year at CARD Bank, she looks forward to availing of the institution’s educational loan program once again to support Karl Rafael until he reaches college. 

Since Karl Rafael is an achiever, a consistent honor student from Grades 1 to 4, Karen is even more optimistic that her son will achieve his dream of being a policeman in the future. Indeed, with the help of CARD Bank and its Zero Dropout Program, education is a treasure no one can take away from them.

Karl Rafael is one of the more than 58,000 beneficiaries of the Zero Dropout Program in Bicol as of September 2021. To know more about CARD Bank’s educational loan program, leave a message at CARD Bank’s official Facebook page, @CARDBankOfficial.

PSA LAGUNA TO CONDUCT 2022 MISSI AND 2022 PPS

The Philippine Statistics Authority will carry out the 2022 Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries (MISSI) and 2022 Producers Price Survey (PPS) this February 2022. 

The data to be collected for the 2022 MISSI are: employment, compensation value of production, sales, other income, and inventories of finished products, work-in-progress, raw materials; and capacity utilization rate. These data will provide government planners and policy makers including the private sectors with timely flash indicators on the performance of growth-oriented industries in the manufacturing sector. These will be used as inputs to monitor the business cycle of key manufacturing sectors of the economy.

The 2022 PPS on the other hand, will collect monthly producer price data of manufactured products produced by establishments in the manufacturing sector. The producer prices generated from the PPS is used in the generation and compilation of the monthly Producer Price Index (PPI) for the manufacturing sector. It measures yearly and monthly changes in the producer prices of key commodities in the manufacturing sector. It serves as a deflator in MISSI to derive indicators such as the Volume of production Index (VoPI) and Volume of Net Sales Index (VoNSI).

Selected regular employees of the PSA Laguna together with hired Statistical Researchers (SRs) will visit the sample manufacturing establishments to distribute the 2022 MISSI and 2022 PPS questionnaires. Sample establishments are located in City of San Pedro, City of Biñan, City of Sta. Rosa, City of Cabuyao and Calamba City. The sample establishments may also opt to use the soft copy of the questionnaires in excel format upon request. As to the number of sample establishments, PSA Laguna may have 126 sample establishments for each survey based on the 2021 MISSI and 2021 PPS.  

As a precautionary measures, involved PSA regular employees and SRs for these surveys will adhere to the health protocols and restrictions which are being implemented and observed by the sample establishments due to COVID-19 pandemic. 

Provincial Statistics Officer Magdalena T. Serqueña, is enjoining all sample establishments to support this undertaking of the PSA. She is also asking for support particularly from the economic zone managers and administrators to allow the door-to-door visit to sample establishments to meet up the possible contact person and to discuss with him briefly the survey objectives.

#SURESAFESASANJOSE AS SAN JOSE NHS 

PREPARES FOR FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES 

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

Department of Education Secretary Leonor Briones ordered the resumption and progressive expansion of limited face-to-face classes in areas under Alert level 2 upon the approval of President Rodrigo Duterte. The pilot testing of the limited face-to-face classes is being prepared in the Division of San Pablo City and one of the first two schools to adhere to the pilot testing here in San Pablo City Division is San Jose National High School.

Safe back to school in San Jose National High School #SureSafesaSanJose was ensured upon the leadership of its School Head Ms. Cristeta Uy, Principal III.

San Jose National High School has doubled its effort for the handwashing facilities, proper ventilation of classrooms to be used, made appropriate barriers for the safety of the students, ensuring social distancing of the students, body temperature check, alcohol and hand sanitizers were also properly placed, and isolation tents were built. These are just some of the things that San Jose National High School has prepared for the upcoming pilot testing of limited face to face classes.  

The San Jose NHS promotions team also uploaded in its social media platforms the video infomercial showing the preparations of San Jose National High School for the upcoming face-to-face classes exhibiting the safe back to school features that SJNHS has to offer with the hashtag #SureSafesaSanJose as its return to school mantra. (Photo credits to Mr. Ronnel Lising, San Jose NHS teacher)

Mga batang edad 5-11 sa Santa Rosa, pwede 

nang magparehistro para sa Covid-19 vax

ni Fredmoore Cavan

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Hinihikayat ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Santa Rosa ang mga magulang na ipa-rehistro ang kanilang mga anak sa Covid-19 vaccination program ng pamahalaan para sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 taong gulang.

Sa opisyal na pabatid ng pamahalaang lungsod, inihayag nito na maaaring iparehistro ang mga batang kabilang sa nasabing age group sa pamamagitan ng vaccination portal nito: https://www.santarosacity.ph/SCVT/.

Kabilang sa prayoridad na mabakunahan ang mga batang kabilang sa pediatric A3 o mga batang may comorbidities.

“Piliin lamang ang kategoryang pediatric A3 kung mayroong comorbidities ang bata o pediatric C kung walang sakit ang bata. Antabayanan lamang ang mga susunod pang anunsyo kung kailan sisimulan ang pagbabakuna para sa edad 5 hanggang 11,” pahayag ng pamahalaang lungsod sa kanilang Facebook post.

Inilunsad ang pre-registration para makakalap ng inisyal na datos sa bilang ng mga batang babakunahan sa lungsod habang naghihintay pa ng kaukulang guidelines mula sa Department of Health (DOH).

Noong Disyembre 23 ay inaprubahan ng Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ang paggamit ng mas mababang dosage ng bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech para sa pagbabakuna sa mas nakababatang miyembro ng pediatric population.

Ayon sa FDA, mahigit 90-porsiyento ang efficacy rate ang Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine habang banayad lamang ang mga adverse effects nito, batay sa mga isinagawang clinical trials.

Sa ngayon, tanging mga bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech at Moderna ang binigyan ng emergency use authorization ng FDA para sa pagbabakuna sa mga kabataang may edad 12 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sa pagpupulong ng National Task Force at Regional Task Force Against Covid-19 kamakailan, inihayag ni Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr., na planong simulan ng pamahalaan ang pagbabakuna sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 sa ikatlong linggo ng Enero, depende sa pagdating sa supply ng bakuna.

Sa ngayon, tuloy-tuloy ang isinasagawang pagbabakuna ng pamahalaang lungsod para sa mga residenteng kabilang sa adult population gayundin sa mga menor de edad na 11 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sinimulan na rin nito ang pagtuturok ng booster shots para sa mga indibidwal na mayroon nang kumpletong bakuna, bilang dagdag na proteksiyon laban sa iba’t ibang variants ng Covid-19. (PIA LAGUNA)

Alaminos treasurer: Buwis sa mejoras 

maagang bayaran o hulugan

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna–Hinihikayat ni Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz ang mga propetaryo o may-ari ng mga lupain at mga gusali sa bayang ito na maagang magbayad ng obligasyon nilang bayarang buwis upang makaiwas na malapatan ng multa o rekardo, at halip ay magtamo pa ng diskwento.

Malaki ang maitutulong ng maagang pagbabayad ng real estate taxes, sapagkat karagdagan sa bahagi ng munisipyo sa Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) na kaloob ng pangasiwaang pambansa, ang bahagi ng pangasiwaang lokal sa buwis sa mejoras ang pinagkukunan ng gugulin upang makapagpatayo ng mga impraistraktura, 

tulad ng mga gusaling pampaaralan, at pangkalusugan, gayon na rin sa paghahatid ng mga paglilingkod na panglipunan sa mga mamamayan. 

Sang-ayon kay Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz, na pag-alinsunod sa ipinahihintulot sa Section 251 ng Local Government Code of 1991 o Republic Act No. 7160, ang lahat ng magbabayad ng buwis sa lupa o pag-aaring di-natitinag (Real Estate Property Tax) para sa taong kasalukuyan, sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31, 2022 ay pagkakalooban ng diskwentong 10 porsyento.

Halimbawa, kung ang isang na matatagpuan sa Barangay San Agustin lote ay may bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00, na kasama na ang para sa Special Education Fund (SEF), ang babayaran lamang ay ₱4,500.00 o may diskwentong ₱500.00. Kung hindi naman mababayaran ang bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00 hanggang sa Marso 31, 2022, ito ay lalapatan ng multang 2% kada lalakarang buwan, kaya kung magbabayad sa Abril 16, 2022, ito ay lalapatan na ng multang 8% ng bayaring buwis o ang kabuuang babayaran ay ₱5,400.00.

Kung mamarapatin naman ang bayaring buwis ay bayaran sa paraang hulugan o tuwing ikatlong buwan, nagpapayo si Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz na mangyari lamang makipag-ugnayan sa Land Tax Division ng Municipal Treasurer’s Office na nasa Groundfloor ng Municipal Multi-Purpose Building bago matapos ang buwan ng Marso upang magawa ang paghahati ng bayarin sa apat, kung saan ang unang hulog o first instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31; ang ikalawang hulog o second instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Hunyo 30, ang ikatlong hulog o third instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Setyembre 30; at ang pang-apat na hulog o fourth instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Disyembre 31, 2022, ito ay pagkakalooban din ng 10% diskwento kung mababayan bago sumapit ang itinakdang petsa na dapat mabayaran.

Friends of 7 Lakes Foundation sets targets for 2022

The establishment of a floating garden, removal of debris left by the clearing of the shorelines of Sampaloc Lake, and promotion of the propagation of bamboos are some of the priority targets set by the Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF) for the year 2022. The targets were approved by the FSLF Board of Trustees (BOT) during its year-end meeting.

Held at the RX Garden Resort owned by Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia in Barangay San Gregorio, the BOT meeting also agreed to propose to the San Pablo City Government the creation of a Lakes Management Office, install information billboards at Sampalok Lake, and hold a youth environmental camp.

President Roberto Azores explained that the floating gardens or floating green filters (FGF) will consist of a network of floating indigenous plants found in the locality. The roots will host bacteria/microbes that will absorb pollutants, promote biodiversity within the FGF structures as these will attract birds, fish, insects and other wildlife species, and add aesthetic beauty to the lake waters. 

Noting the successful clearing of the Sampaloc Lake shores by the San Pablo City Government, FSLF Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon said the foundation will take the lead in a multi-sector effort to clean the debris that are still submerged under water so that the lake will be safe for water-based activities in the future. 

Trustee Romeo Race reported that last December 2021, the FSLF in cooperation with the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the San Pablo City Water District, conducted a training workshop on the propagation of bamboos. To sustain the effort, the FSLF will promote the planting of bamboos in San Pablo City. Bamboos produce oxygen and absorbs enormous volume of carbon dioxide. It serves as a protection against soil erosion.

Trustee Rolly Inciong said that the FSLF will propose to the City Government to create a Lakes Management Office, either under the City Environment and Natural Resources Office or the City Tourism Office, so that all development and conservation projects in the city’s seven lakes will have a focal office that will ensure integration of efforts. The proposed office will serve as local partner of the LLDA in managing the lakes.

Trustee Arvin Carandang added that the foundation will install information billboards at the Sampalok Lake area that will feature basic lake information so that tourists will learn about the lake, including its legend. Similar billboards will later be installed in the other lakes.

Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia and Environment Youth Leader Jedryc Romero announced that the FSLF will continue engaging the youths in environmental conservation through a face-to-face or online environment camp where best environmental practices will be shared and discussed with students.

Present during the year-end meeting were Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon, President Roberto Azores, Trustees Rolly Inciong, Dr. Elvie Galicia, Jose Reano, Sylvia Inciong, Ricky Tan, Arvin Carandang and Romy Race; and Members Cari Azores, Ambassador Romy Manalo, Jedryc Romero and Rissa Race.

Mga magsasaka ng Laguna, tumanggap ng tulong pinansiyal

STA. CRUZ, Laguna - Sa maayos na ugnayan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna na pinamumunuan ni Gob. Ramil Hernandez at ng Department of Agriculture (DA) IV- CALABARZON ay tagumpay na naipamahagi ang tulong pinansyal para sa mga magsasaka ng Laguna nitong ika-13 ng Enero 2022.

May kabuuang 1,410 magsasaka ng palay ang tumanggap ng P5,000 piso bawat isa: mula sa Pagsanjan (79), Lumban (203), Kalayaan (385), Cavinti (602) at Luisiana ( 141) na isinagawa sa panlalawigang kapitolyo sa Sta. Cruz. 

Ito ay sa ilalim ng programang Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) ng DA-4A, alinsunod sa Republic Act No. 11203 o ang “Rice Tariffication Law (RTL),” na nagpapataw ng taripa sa mga angkat na bigas.

Ang mga nakolektang taripa ay ilalaan sa ipinamamahaging tulong sa maliliit na magsasaka. Karagdagang kapital ito para sa pagtatanim ng palay kasabay ng pagtaas ng presyo ng pataba at iba pang gamit sa rice production. 

Katuwang sa pamamahaging ito ang Field Agriculture Extension Services kung saan sinunod ng lahat ang minimum health standard para sa maayos na distribyusyon ng nasabing tulong pinansyal. (Jonna S. Coroza, photo by Angel Bert Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

Chiz: Dropping mass testing, 

contact tracing a big mistake

Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero has lambasted the Department of Health (DOH) for tossing contact tracing and mass testing as part of its COVID-19 response strategy, saying these measures are necessary to isolate and treat people infected with the coronavirus and prevent the spread of the highly transmissible disease.

Escudero described this latest shift in DOH policy as “complete abdication and surrender,” and not a strategy in controlling the dizzying speed of Omicron spread across the country.

“What DOH is doing is not a ‘COVID-19 response strategy’ but a complete abdication and surrender,” said Escudero, who is running for Senate come May election. “It’s a strategy of ‘if you can’t beat them, join them.’”

“This is big mistake and a costly one,” Escudero warned.

The DOH, which is spearheading the government’s overall game plan to defeat COVID second year into the pandemic, said it will focus on community interventions rather than use Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test that is very useful to immediately detect, isolate and quarantine individuals who are positive with the coronavirus. Testing will be done for proper clinical management of high risk patients, community management, isolation and vaccination, it added.

The agency also said that contact tracing will take a back seat.

“Wala na ngang libreng mass testing, babawasan pa ang testing! Kawawa naman po tayo. I cannot fathom, much less understand, the logic behind this policy,” Escudero said, who recently called the attention of the DOH to make COVID testing accessible and affordable, if not free at all, to encourage more people to get tested following the spike in coronavirus infection.

“Again, after trillions of pesos in borrowings, they are still ‘cutting corners,’” he lamented.

Rivers, givers of life

by Rolando A. Inciong

The early human civilizations were established along the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq, Syria and Turkey; the Nile in Egypt; the Indus River in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan; and the Mekong River in China, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. All early civilizations prospered alongside rivers because of the availability of fresh water for daily activities, and fertile land for agriculture near those rivers.

Humans settle in places where there are rivers because rivers are the givers of the ingredients of life: water, food and income. Water from rivers sustains socio-economic development, including energy and food production. Rivers drain rainwater towards the seas and provide healthy ecosystems for many species of plants and animals.

Today, the United Nations estimate that around two billion people get their drinking water from rivers. Rivers provide income to many communities depending on them for their livelihoods such as fish culture. Many river systems are used for recreation and tourism, irrigation, industry and commerce. hydropower generation, and transporting people and goods

If living near a river is good, it also has a bad. Flooding is the most dangerous risk for riverside settlers and landowners. Flooding results in loss of lives, property damage, and expensive repairs and rehabilitation.

Today, rivers are among the much-abused bodies of water, most especially in the Asian continent. Irresponsible human activities such as garbage and chemical dumping, illegal human settlement, and many more, are the causes of river degradation.

Governments and citizens need to protect rivers to ensure clean source of drinking water and provide a safe place for tourism and recreation,. In San Pablo City, many community volunteers conduct river cleanups. The Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF), headed by Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon and President Roberto Azores, spearheads the promotion of rivers and lakes conservation. The FSLF is promoting the development of San Pablo as a city whose lakes, rivers, watersheds and the environment in general are protected, conserved and sustainably developed for the well-being of present and future generations. 

Here are some river trivia: Russia has 36 rivers, the most number in the world. The Vatican, which is classified as a country, has no river. The Congo River is the world's deepest river at 720 feet. It is also the second-longest river in Africa, approximately 4,700 kilometers in length. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippines has 421 river basins, 140 of them are heavily polluted and 50 are biologically dead. The longest rivers in the Philippines are Cagayan, 314 miles; Mindanao, 232 miles; Agusan, 217 miles; and Pulangi, 199 miles.

Guro Ako

Ni: Annabel I. De Rama

Bilang isang Guro

Tungkulin naming na magturo

Iba-iba man tayo ng kuro-kuro

Iisa ang namamayani sa Puso

Mapaglingkuran ang Bayang sinilangan

Mabigyang aliw ang Inang Bayan

Sa saliw mula sa tinig ng kabataan

Ay may nag-aalab na karunungan

Dumaan man ang unos ng kapalaran

Sanlibong pangarap man ay matabunan

Susubuking hamunin ang kinabukasan

Pilit aabutin tala ng kapayapaan

Sa araw-araw ay itatawid

Papel ng pagiging matuwid

Upang mga bata’y makamit

Tagumpay na kaakit-akit

Kung balat man ay kumupas

At kamay ay huminto sa pagkumpas

Aawitin pa rin ng buong pitangan

Ang koro ng pagiging Makabayan.

“Live to Teach” or “Teach to Live”?

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT– I

Recto Memorial National High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Life is a battle ground that offers a lot of challenges and opportunities to everyone. One among the opportunities is our profession that’s why it’s very necessary to choose the profession that will best fit you. However, there are times that though the best preparation has been made, some still failed realizing that such a profession is not what they like. However, those persons who found out to be in this situation have their own choices to either enjoy what they have or to feel forever regretful in their lives. 

Teaching may not be the dreamed profession of all teachers. However, due to some unexpected undertakings they had into, plus the age factor, most of them are obliged to prefer a course that would help them fulfill many responsibilities life has bestowed upon them. Security of tenure is one of the common reasons that pushed many to earn the Bachelor’s degree of Education. Age at early 30s, which is no longer within the limit of age qualification of neither any industries nor any companies, is another consideration. The notion of having a profession that would ensure to provide better future for the family especially for those who have children already, considering husband’s work as an ordinary worker, brings not a single doubt in taking the education course. This is a clear manifestation that many want the course because they want to live. Hypocrisy it is if no one from the teachers has ever said, “I teach to live”. 

Teaching in a public school undoubtedly is a secured profession. Aside from the continuous compensation as a government employee in whatever situation the country may be, the fear of immediate dismissal occupies a very little space in the teachers’ minds for as long as they are working and performing their duties and responsibilities. As a matter of fact, any offenses intentionally or unintentionally done shall undergo due process of law before any disciplinary actions be rendered. To some teachers, years of teaching could be for the sort of compliance and an embedded obligation of the profession and seeing all achievements they have earned, may it be sending their loved ones to school earning their degrees, putting up businesses, investing real properties and the like, everything proves that they teach to live.

People might say that teachers’ achievements are common life story of “rugs to riches”, though researches have proven that no teacher becomes rich in teaching. Yet for teachers, those accomplishments gained during the period wherein teaching becomes part of almost all their lives, these are investments earned because they live to teach. Teachers best achievement is when they have created better individuals to their fullest potentials equipped either with mental or emotional intellect and imbued with good values and high moral respect for others. It is an honor for them realizing that they have crafted individuals who became worthy of the community where they belong. No means of measurement can determine the amount of fulfillment teachers’ hearts could carry for every successful student they have crafted and for every waning individual they have rescued with the seeds of inspiration and hope that life has to go on. 

God’s plan may not be the teachers’ choice, but, God always has the purest intention for everyone and God’s purpose for teachers is, for them to “live to teach”. It would take a lot of time for many teachers to realize that they are chosen to live to teach but what matters most now is the opportunity granted upon them to teach their students the value and the beauty of appreciating life challenges by turning these into opportunities inspite of whatever situation it may be. At the moment in which globe is engulfed with fear and anxiety brought about by pandemic, the sincerest call of the teaching profession is right there infront of us… “Teachers, let us live to teach!”

Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin

ni Mary Jane R. Cadugo

Teacher III, Sinait National High School

Ilang dekada man ang nakalipas, hindi pa rin ibinabaon sa limot ang mga pamanang ating nakuha sa ating mga ninuno. Maging tradisyon, kultura, sining at panitikan man, tayo ay umaangat. Patunay na ang pamanang Pilipino ay hindi matutumbasan ng kahit na ano.

Bawat kaugalian, tradisyon o kultura ay talaga namang isinasabuhay ng mga mamamayang Pilipino. Partikular na sa pelikula o dula na palabas na aking napapanood at naririnig gaya na lamang ng "Ang Probinsyano" kung saan itinatampok ang ilan sa mga kaugaliang Pilipino --- pagiging palaban, may paninindigan, bayanihan, at hindi basta basta sumusuko sa hamon ng buhay.

Bawat pelikula na ating napapanood ay sumisimbolo ng bayanihan ng mga pinoy, pagiging masayahin sa anumang oras, pagkakaisa sa mga hamon, pagiging matatag ng pamilyang Pilipino, at ang pagiging maka-Diyos ng mamamayang Pilipino. Hindi rin mawawala ang mga talentong Pilipino na ipinapakitang gilas sa pelikula - maging aksiyon man o romans.

Tila ang pelikula at dula ang nagsilbing salamin ng pamanang Pilipino. Higit sa lahat naging instrumento ito upang mas makilala pa ng lahat ang tradisyon, kaugalian, sining at panitikan ng isang nayon. Naging daan din ito upang lalong manuot ang mga mensahe at aral na nais ipahiwatig ng isang palabas. Sadyang patunay ito kung bakit tinatangkilik ang sariling atin hindi lamang sa ating bansa bagkus sa buong daigdig.

Sa pamamayagpag ng mga pelikula at dula, naging tulay ito upang lumago pa at mahasa ito. Gamit ang sarilin nating wika, nagkaroon ng pangkakataon ang lahat upang kumonekta at ilabas ang talentong Pilipino. Sa bawat linyang kanilang binibitawan, sa bawat pagpapahayag ng kanilang damdamin at sa bawat luha at pawis na kanilang ibinubuwis - pusong wika ang kanilang naging sandata.

Higit ngang nakamamangha ang pamanang Pilipinong ating tinataglay. Patunay na ang lingguwistika at kultural na ugnayan ay sumasalamin sa mga pelikula at dulang Filiino. Buhat ng tayo'y sinakop ng mga dayuhan, naging bihasa tayo sa lahat ng larangan. Samakatuwid, naging daan ito upang lalo pa nating tangkilikin ang sariling atin.

Tanikala

ni Joselito I. Remolacio, 

Master Teacher I, Sinait National High School

Lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab…

Bawat pagtibok na puso’y, takot ang nadarama. Magmula magkapandemya hindi na mawari kung saan patungo ang pagbabagong kinakaharap natin sa kasalukuyan. Nasaan na na tanglaw na ating inaasam na makamit at muling masilayan? Tulog ba ang lahat ng ipagkait ng pandemya ang ating kalayaan? Nakalulungkot ngunit tila ang direksyon ng hanging banayad ay paliko na, gaya ng ating ekonomiya kung walang pagkakaisa, maghihingalo na. Isang tanikalang hindi makawala sa pandemya, ang istatistika’y nabahala.

Marahil ang ating kinasasadlakan ngayon ay mahirap at tanging impit na pag-iyak ang naghahari sa kadiliman. Marami itong pinsalang nadala sa lahat ng mamamayan, mga pangangatog ng tuhod sa tuwing malalaman na may nawala na namang buhay sa isang araw na pakikibaka sa buhay. Bunga nito, talamak ang nailunsad na patakaran, ang bawat galaw ay pinaghihigpitan. Higit sa lahat, ang mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nawalan ng kabuhayan, ang ekonomiya’y patuloy na bumabagsak, ang ayuda’y hindi na mahanap sa mga mata ng iba. Nagmistulang dilim ang kalangitan dulot ng kawalan ng pag-asa na muling mabuhay ang pagbabagong inaasam ng bawat madla.

Hindi maikakailang lubos na mahalaga ang ekonomiya sa ating pag-unlad. Ito ang nagiging tulay upang magkaisa ang lahat patungo sa paglaban sa hindi mawaksing pandemya. Datapuwa’t, ang ayudang ibinibigay ng gobyerno ay malaking bagay sa ibang tao, ang isang karampot na tulong na siyang magbibigay tanglaw sa lahat ng nangangailangan. Hindi ko tuloy maiwasang maghinagpis sa mga nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Kailan nga ba masusugpo itong krisis na ating hinaharap sa buong mundo? Kailan natin muling masasaksihan ang sikat ng araw na nagbibigay pag-asa sa lahat? Magkagayon, dapat na tayong magkaroon ng aksiyon upang tumugon sa pinsalang dulot ng pandemya sa ating ekonomiya.

Hindi lingid sa atin na sa anumang oras dilat ang mga mata, bukas ang mga tainga, at gising ang diwa sa lahat ng nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Hindi niyo ba naririnig ang kanilang mga hinaing? Hindi niyo ba nakikita ang pagod sa kanilang mga mata? Hindi niyo ba nararamdaman ang mga pasakit na kanilang dinadala? Mga takas nilang hikbi sa gabi na tahimik, nangangapa ng kamay na maaring mahawakan o makasagip sa kanila sa bingit ng paghihirap. Bawat gising natin ay panibagong araw ngunit bawat gising nila'y hatid ay panibagong pagod at butil na naman ng mga pawis.

Tulong! Tulong! Tulong! 

Sa tuwing maririnig ang mga katagang ito, kusang may kamay ang dadapo at yayakap ng mahigpit dito. Nakatutuwang malaman na kahit pandemya, bawat tao ay nagkakaisa. Na ang pakikisama’y dumadaloy sa katawan ng bawat isa. Kung minsan man ay nawawalan ng pag-asa ang lahat, ngunit ang isang salita na kababayan ay malaking dahilan upang magpatuloy sa laban. Nagmistula man tayong nakakulong sa isang tanikalang pinalibutan ng pandemya, ang ekonomiya man ay urong sulong sa ating bansa ngunt ang bayanihan ng bawat mamamayan ay kailanma’y hindi mapapantayan.

Kung ating pagninilayan, kung magkakaroon ng pagkakaisa ang lahat, ang ekonomiyang ating inaalagaan simula pa noong walang pandemya ay magiging isang liwanag ng pag-asa na siyang magbibigkis sa pagkakaiba ng bawat lahi. Ang pagsibol ng maluwalhating pakikisama tungo sa ibang aspeto ng ating buhay. Pagyayakapan, pangangamustahan, pagbibigay ng kaunting ayuda, pagiging inspirasyon ng isang tao upang lumaban sa buhay ay tunay ngang natatangi sa paglaban nating lahat sa pandemya.

Oo, mahirap ngang magkaroon ng maunlad na ekonomiya sapagkat hindi ito kusa na lamang yayabong. Tila ang ekonomiya ay isang butil na kailangan payabungin at bigyang halaga sa pamamagitan ng pagiging madisiplinang mamamayan, pagsunod sa mga alituntunin na ipinapatupad, at higit sa lahat pagkakaroon ng pagkakaisa sa kung paano bubukadkad ang rikit na tinatagong taglay at pag-ulad ng ating ekonomiya. Sa kabila nito, ang ating damdamin pa rin ay hindi maipaliwanag, magkahalong saya sa pagkakaisa at takot sa hindi masugpong pandemya. Aligaga, hindi mapalagay, sa kung ano pa ang dapat gawin, at mga tanong na paulit-ulit umiikot sa ating isipan na kailanman hindi mahanapan ng kasagutan. 

Kailan nga ba muling masasaksihan ang tanglaw sa gitna ng karimlan? Kailan nga ba muling aahon ang ekonomiya sa kanyang kinasasadlakan? Kailan nga ba masusugpo ang pandemya? Buksan natin ang ating mga mata, pakinggang maigi ang hinaing nila, bigyang pansin ang kapaligiran. Dapat tayong magbigayan ng lubid ng tulong, magkaroon ng kamay na aakay sa atin - at ito ay ang Panginoon. Siya ang ating tanglaw sa ating sariling mga tanikala na bunga ng pandemya. Siya ang nagbibigkis sa lahat at naniniwala ako na ang pagkakaisa at pakikisama ng mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nakamarka na sa kaibuturan nila simula ng tayo’y mamulat sa mundong ginagalawam. Kung kaya’t magkaisa at makisama hindi lang tungo sa pag-unlad ng ekonomiya bagkus huwag nating hayaan na manatili tayong nasa tanikala na lamang dulot ng pandemya.

CARD MRI ties up with Moreta Shipping Lines to aid Odette victims

In line with the donation drive of CARD MRI for the victims of Typhoon Odette, CARD MRI teamed up with Moreta Shipping Lines to deliver 14 boxes of in-kind goods to Talisay, Cebu on December 28, 2021.

To help those affected by the typhoon, several shipping lines offered free cargo shipping to transport donations from various groups and companies. Meeting the requirements for the in-kind donations on hand, CARD MRI tapped Moreta Shipping Lines to bring the donations on a port-to-port basis. Through the collaboration, in-kind donations were swiftly delivered to typhoon-hit communities in Cebu. 

From December 24 to 28, CARD MRI gathered donations composed of necessities such as food, clothing, and hygiene products. Cash donations were also accumulated during the drive, involving CARD MRI offices located at City Subdivision and M. Paulino St. in San Pablo City, Laguna.

“Besides our cash assistance through the different products of CARD MRI, being able to give essentials that families can immediately use, especially when almost everything was wiped out by Odette, is a step towards the immediate recovery of our fellowmen in Cebu. We hope that these items will be of use to the families,” CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito said on the initiatives taken by the organization.

Helping Hand

Besides the donation drive, CARD MRI started to receive monetary donations to help the victims starting December 22, 2021. Accumulating a total of PhP 2,452,814 as of January 12, 2022, the donations came from partner organizations and individuals of CARD MRI. 

“The destruction caused by Typhoon Odette is surely unfathomable, especially as a lot of lives are affected, but through the combined efforts of organizations and individuals extending their helping hand, we can holster up those affected to stand back up once again. We Filipinos are always ready to help those in need,” Dequito further said on the willingness of the Filipinos to help and the spirit of bayanihan.

CARD MRI, through CARD Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), is still accepting monetary donations for the victims of Typhoon Odette. For more information, message CARD Inc.’s official Facebook Page, @CARDIncOfficial.

Covid-19 Vaccination a Community Perspective: We All Play A Role

by: Jenny A. Capistrano

Lowland Integrated National High School

World Health Organization declared Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic and reiterated the call for countries to take immediate actions and scale up response to treat, detect and reduce transmission to save people's lives. 

According to Department of Health, Vaccines mimic the virus or bacteria that causes disease and triggers the body’s creation of antibodies. These antibodies will provide protection once a person is infected with the actual disease-causing virus or bacteria.

The Municipal Health Unit - Nagcarlan Rural Health Unit scheduled vaccination at the covered court of Barangay Manaol, Nagcarlan, Laguna on December 23, 2021.

RHU nurses together with the barangay health workers, and local government unit (LGU) worked together in the administration of covid-19 vaccine to the members of the community within Brgy. Manaol and nearby barangays. 

First dose of Moderna vaccine for ages 12-17 and Pfizer vaccine for adults ages 18-60 were given.

A grade 7 student of Lowland Integrated National High School, Jairus Nograda is one of the students who got vaccinated. He says, “I feel comfortable, safe and happy after my vaccination.” 

In addition, Midwife of Brgy. Manaol Mrs. Cheryl C. Marfil says, “No report of adverse effect due to covid-19 vaccine for ages 12-17.” 

Mrs. Marlene Coronacion, Leader of BHW believed that vaccination is important for face to face and compulsory for protection especially for younger people and to avoid worst effect. 

Furthermore, Mrs. Judith H. Esler, BHW of Brgy. Manaol remarks, “Vaccination is a protection against the virus.” 

BHW Mrs. Juanita Bibon believed that “The result of the vaccination is good and organized because of the cooperation of all the people involved.” 

Health and safety of the students and the community is the utmost concern of vaccination against covid-19. 

These action of the students, parents, community and health department will benefit with the healing of the world through vaccination by following the plan of WHO and DOH.

Teaching Mathematics thru innovative strategies

by Luningning Alcantara

Teacher II, San Jose National High School

Innovation is a portal towards the creation of something new. When there is innovation, progress and development are evident and the path in connection with advancement is not far-fetched. In this fast-paced world where technology abound and to the speed at which everything is at a quick pace, the call to innovate is almost a duty put in our hands as members of our community of educators. 

Innovation is a necessity for an individual or an organization. Because of innovation, the productivity of an organization improves over time. It also increases competitiveness and there is a fruitful competition for the enhancement of a project that will be beneficial for individuals in an organization. 

Some individuals and organizations are more innovative than others because of persistence and perseverance to attain excellence in our respective fields. When we are diligent in the things we do, there are no obstacles that cannot be overturned along the way. Indeed, we always find ways. There is always something to change for the better. There is always a challenge to accept and overcome. 

When we have the passion in our chosen field, the best comes out in all of us. Indeed, the strongest of storms prove the strength of our ship’s anchor. This is true to our searching for ways to create something new and innovate. There is always that passion burning in our hearts that spells the difference between mediocrity and creativity. 

One of our innovative teaching strategies is the Ethnomathematics comics making which is a fusion between the artistic merits of learners and their mathematical abilities to come up with varied comics while learning the applications of mathematics. It also uses localized materials within the vicinity of San Pablo City or Laguna and contextualize these materials to deepen the learner’s appreciation to our local culture while at the same time gaining not only knowledge in Math but also the enjoyment it brings when making a comics. 

ICT Assessment Approach: Digital Literacy

in Acquiring Test Result and Analysis

by Edna P. Cortez

Teacher III, Bagumbayan Elementary School

Teachers can benefit from ICT by storing and recording information about how students are developing understanding of new material, as well as taking on some of the role of assessing and providing feedback to students, allowing teachers to focus on other aspects of supporting learning.

Because of its adaptability and ability to foster relationships among students, ICT plays an important role in knowledge. The change-oriented approach believes in the change of ICT, has changed the tools, and has fundamentally changed the policies and educational goals. It can improve educational quality in a variety of ways, including increasing learner motivation and engagement, facilitating the acquisition of fundamental skills, and improving teacher training. ICTs are also transformational tools that, when used correctly, can promote the transition to a learner-centered environment.

Digital literacy entails comprehending and employing technology. We can use digital literacy skills to find, use, and create information online in a productive and useful manner. Understanding digital literacy means being able to use technology safely and avoid its risks.

Many teachers use technology in their classrooms to support different learning styles and engage students; however, guidelines to help them do so in ways that promote innovative thinking and collaborative work, ethical practices, and their own professional development are lacking.

In a variety of ways, it has the potential to significantly improve educational quality. It provides students and teachers with access to a wealth of information, knowledge, and educational resources, thereby expanding learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers use online materials to prepare lessons, and students use them to broaden their learning opportunities.

ICT serves a variety of functions and aids in educational assessment practices. It can be used in testing to administer tests, score tests, analyze results, and help teachers evaluate learning outcomes.

Teachers and students who become digitally literate learn technological skills, authorship rules such as copyright and plagiarism, how to access online information, and social responsibility through social networking. ... Above all, digital literacy is a critical component of today's education.

DepEd Usec. San Antonio Issues Regional 

Memorandum for Suspension of Classes 

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT-I

Recto Memorial National 

High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Wednesday, January 21 announces the issuance of the Regional Memorandum DM-CI-2022-009 by the Department of Education Undersecretary for Curriculum and Planning Diosdado M. San Antonio allowing the suspension of classes and other teaching-related activities in the midst of the surge in Covid-19 cases. The memorandum requires schools to continuously implement the Suggested Measures to Foster Academic Ease During the COVID-19 Pandemic as stated in DM-CI 2020-307 in order to ensure flexibility in the teaching-learning process amid the pandemic by recalibrating the strategy of assigning teaching responsibilities and leaning activities in order to safeguard the well-being of both teachers and learners (Deped RO, 2022). The issuance covers the dates January 17-29, 2022 which aims to provide all the stakeholders particularly the students, parents and school-based personnel to have a two-week health break, thus, all school activities are suspended whether physical or virtual (online). 

It has been more than two years already when Covid-19 pandemic has brought chaos to the whole world. Until now, its effect can be felt anywhere and one most affected field is in education. School stakeholders experience a lot of challenges and issues to cope up with the “new normal” educational set-up. The abrupt changes cause both teachers and students to adjust with everything, from the face-to-face classes to distance learning modalities. These changes, aside from the threat of the corona virus, have a big impact to their health. Studies show that stress increases among many students as well as to teachers. From the comparative study made by Frontier Psychiatry on February 2021 between China and Philippines, Filipino respondents were reported significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress than Chinese during the Covid-19 Pandemic. It is a clear manifestation that the corona virus has a great influence on one’s physical and mental well-being. Thus, there is a need for the department of education to think of the best possible way that will respond to the needs of school stakeholders to impart learning amidst pandemic without sacrificing their health. 

One evident action is the department’s immediate compliance with the AITF guidelines on health and safety protocols, such as wearing of facemask and faceshield, social distancing and disinfection, strictly implemented among teachers during their on-site reporting in school or even during their duties in barangay. The same instructions are given to parents and students whenever necessity arises. Yet, these do not stop the reports of incidents in which teachers and students got sick. Students’ common reasons are the waning of their immune system due to lack of sleep and stress of answering a number of learning tasks without the assistance of those knowledgeable than them and the tension for meeting the deadlines. On the teachers’ part, checking all the activities of the modular students, -an estimated of at least 200 students with 4-5 learning tasks every week-, the preparation and printing of the next modules for the succeeding weeks, distribution, sorting, parent online conferences and some other-related activities are really challenging and sometime stressful for them. Nonetheless, these have not become sentiments of all teachers. Instead, most of them feel regretful that the current academic situation prohibits them from rendering full-time service and ensure that quality learning still takes place among all students. This notion somehow contributes to their health deterioration. 

Later last year, November 2021, the department of Education in Region IV has seen hope for possible face-to-face classes to some areas for year 2022 since reports on Covid-19 incidences have subsided already because more than 90% of the population is already vaccinated. Nevertheless, the whole archipelago once again is dismayed when a certain “Poblacion Girl” brought back the fear and tension of probable surge of the new variant of Covid-19 pandemic, the Omicron virus. Though, the possibility originated from the NCR, its repercussion reaches the different regions of the country. As a matter of fact, the Philippine Covid-19 tracker shows that as of January 2022, Region IV-A CALABARZON ranks 2nd to NCR with active cases. Thus, the announcement for suspension of classes in the region eases the predicaments teachers, parents and students feel, knowing that the virus is just around the corner. This will give teachers and students to look after their health and boost their immune system. Furthermore, with the cancellation of all activities, teachers find the announcement very timely because, while it will protect them from the threat of any possible transmission, it will also provide them with ample time to make follow-ups to students-at-risk and render appropriate intervention.

Volunteer health frontliner, pinahalagahan 

ng Alaminos Rotarian

Ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna – Bago natapos ang Taong 2021, ay napahalagahan at napasalamatan ng Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (RCAD) ang 126 na Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) at Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) na mga kusangloob na nakikipagtulungan sa Municipal Health Office dito bilang mga volunteer frontliner upang magtagumpay ang palatuntunan sa pagbabakuna laban sa Covid-19 sa bayang ito.

Iniulat ni Club Auditor Russel Arida, Project Chairman, na sa pakikipag-ugnayan kay Dra. Jelidora “Jing” B. Refrea, Municipal Health Officer, noong umaga ng Lunes, Disyembre 20, 2021, ang RCAD sa pangunguna ni Club President Romeo S. Faylon ay nagtaguyod ng isang palatuntunan na ginanap sa maaliwalas na “covered court” sa mismong harapan ng Municipal Health Office nang naaayon sa kaayusang itinatagubilin ng National Inter-Agency Task Force, upang ang mga volunteer frontliner na naglilingkod sa 15 barangay sa bayang ito ay mapahalagahan, at tuloy mapagkalooban ng Christmas package na binansagan nilang “Gifts of Joy.” 

Kaugnay ng umiiral na pandemya, nananawagan si RCAD President Romeo S. Faylon sa lahat na umalinsunod sa ano mang tagubiling pangkalusugan na ihahatid sa kanila ng mga Barangay Health Worker and Barangay Nutrition Scholar sapagkat ito ay para na rin sa kanilang kagalingan.

Magugunitang noong nakaraang buwan ng Nobyembre, ang Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (D-3820) ay naghandog ng basic medical kit sa Municipal Disater Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), at sa mga Pangasiwaang Barangay ng San Agustin, San Andres, Del Carmen, at Palma, na binubuo ng isang yunit ng Nebgulizer, isang Stetoscope, isang yunit ng Sphygmomanometer o pagtingin ng presyon ng dugo, isang Thermometer, at isang Oximeter o pantaya sa taglay na oksihino ng dumadaloy na dugo sa katawan.

San Pablo Chamber sends aid to Palawan and Surigao

Typhoon-damaged Palawan and Surigao were the recipients of P100,000 cash assistance from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of San Pablo City (PCCI-SPC). This was announced by PCCI-SPC President Bernard Deriquito.

The cash donation for the victims of Typhoon Odette were received by the Palawan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry at P50,000 each. The fundraising campaign was spearheaded by Past President Rolly Inciong and Charter President Sofronio Exconde.

Assisting disaster victims is one of the major programs of PCCI-SPC for 2022-2023, along with tourism and agriculture promotion, support to micro, small and medium enterprises in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry in Laguna, promotion of the ease of doing business, environmental conservation, local investment promotion, youth entrepreneurship, use of information technology in business, and support to technical vocational education.

PCCI-SPC, established in San Pablo City in May 199, is affiliated with the National PCCI, the biggest business organization in the Philippines. President Deriquito said the PCCI-SPC is a voluntary organization of business people and professionals who share the common goal of a more vibrant economy for San Pablo City. Chamber membership covers micro, small, medium and big enterprises serving as the voice of business in San Pablo City. A multi-awarded Chamber, PCCI-SPC has won a number of Most Outstanding Chamber awards in the Regional (Southern Tagalog), Area (South Luzon), National (Philippines) and International (Asia-Pacific) levels during the last 10 years.

CALABARZON STARTS COVID-19 BOOSTER ROLL-OUT

by Roselle R. Aquino

Calamba City, Laguna--Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Francisco Duque III led the ceremonial booster vaccination for senior citizens and immunocompromised individuals of CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) held at DREAM Zone, Capitol Compound, Batangas City, which is also the designated vaccination site of the province.

“This third shot of Covid-19 vaccine will provide the optimum protection from the virus. It is essential to strengthen the efficacy of the two doses of vaccines received,” Duque reiterated.

The Covid-19 booster campaign for senior citizens and individuals with comorbidities and immunocompromised started on Monday, November 22, 2021. “This is to enable our elderly population to have an extra vax, and for them to become fully vaccinated and protected against the virus,” Duque emphasized.

He also pointed out that individuals who have received two vaccines can choose which booster shot they prefer depending on the availability of vaccine brands at the vaccination site.

Vaccines from Moderna, Gamaleya Sputnik, Pfizer and AstraZeneca have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be used as a third dose.

Person with comorbidities and immunocompromised individuals who are eligible to receive the booster shot includes those with immunodeficiency state, people living with HIV, active or malignant cancer, transplant patients and patients under immunosuppressive treatments.

DOH-CALABARZON Regional Director Ariel Valencia added that individuals who are eligible for booster doses can have their shot at any vaccination site by presenting their vaccination card and a valid ID.

“Kailangang din na mayroong maipakitang doctor’s clearance bago sila mabakunahan ng booster shot upang masiguro ang kanilang kalusugan,” he added.

A total of 3 million individuals are targeted for booster shots in the region.

As of November 22, 2021, the regional office recorded 884,737 or 79% of senior citizens (priority group A2) are now fully vaccinated from the 1,117,555-target population while a total of 922,318 or 56% of persons with comorbidities received full vaccination from the 1,636,173-target population for priority group A3.

For the whole of CALABARZON, a total of 70% of the eligible population or 11,452,775 individuals need to be vaccinated. There are 7,060,956 individuals who received their first dose and a total of 5,190,892 are now fully vaccinated.

BAYANIHAN BAKUNAHAN SA SANTA CRUZ: 

APAT NA VACCINATION SITE, BINUKSAN

Apat na vaccination site ang binuksan ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Santa Cruz upang mas maraming mamamayan ang mabakunahan sa pagsisimula ng Bayanihan Bakunahan ng pamahalaang nasyunal noong Nobyembre 29.

Ayon kay Mayor Egay San Luis, maaaring magtungo ang mga mamamayan na kabilang sa Pediatric Category sa alinman sa dalawang vaccination sites tulad ng Mormons Church at Municipal Auditorium.

Tumatanggap naman ng mga residenteng edad 18 taong gulang pataas ang mga vaccination site sa Pedro Guevara Memorial National High School (PGMNHS) at Metro Central Mall. Dalhin lamang ang mga kailangang dokumento upang kayo ay mabakunahan. 

“Huwag po tayong matakot magpabakuna 

mga kababayan upang maging ligtas ang ating sarili at ang mga taong nakapaligid sa atin,” ani San Luis. Para sa mga katanungan, magtungo lamang sa inyong mga Barangay Health Center o sa Rural Health Unit upang kayo ay matulungan na mabakunahan kontra Covid-19. 

LAGUNA 3RD DISTRICT BM ANGELICA JONES ALARVA 

RECEIVES GINTONG PARANGAL FOR PUBLIC SERVICE

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

Laguna 3rd District Board Member Honorable Angelica Jones Alarva received the Gintong Parangal “Most Outstanding Woman in Public Service and Resilient Women in Time of Crisis” at the Grand Ballroom, Manila Hotel on November 26, 2021. 

The recognition was bestowed for her outstanding public service. It has been almost two years since the pandemic started and the public servant from Laguna Hon. Angelica Jones Alarva has been helping families most especially in the 3rd District of Laguna. “ 

Ang award po na ito ay inaalay ko sa Panginoon, my constituents, and my family”, quipped the beaming Laguna legislator. 

This is the 11th year of her “Bawat Pamilya Mahalaga” project that has helped many families. Her “Libro Mo Sagot Ko Para sa Batang Bibo” in partnership with Children International has provided books and knowledge for thousands of children to which she reaches personally. 

Her ordinances too which she sees implemented stood for the rights of women, solo parents, LGBT’s, Persons with disability, BHW’s and even benefits for senior citizens. 

One of her ordinances is “Laguna Muna—Tangkilikin ang sariling atin” which became of big help to local and small markets and gives support for Laguna-made products. 

She also authored ordinances to protect the rights of the youth. 

MGA BAWAL PARA MAPANGALAGAAN ANG 

KAPALIGIRAN, INILAHAD NI MAYOR ALVAREZ

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna--Nagpalabas noong nakaraang isang Lunes, Nobyembre 22, 2021, ng isang Paalaalang Pangmadla si Alkalde Ruben D. Alvarez ukol sa mga ipinaiiral na batas o kautusan na nagtatadhana ng mga pagbabawal na mahigpit na ipatutupad sa bayang ito, na gaya ng mga sumusunod: 

1. Pagbabawal ng pagkakalat ng basura sa mga pampublikong lugar, lalo na ng mga basurang nalilikha sa loob 

ng tahanan, gaya ng itinatagubilin ng Republic Act No. 9003, na lalong kilala bilang Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, sa halip, sa tahanan pa lamang ay pinipili na sa natitipong basura ang mga maaaring pakinabangan pa bago ito ilagay sa lugar kung saan kinukuha ng basurero; at dapat magsagawa ng segregasyon o paghihiwahiwalay ng nabubulok sa mga hindi nabubulok, upang maging maayos ang pagdadala nito sa Material Recovery Facilities ng Pangasiwaang Munisipal sa San Juan. Ang mga mararapatang lumalabag sa batas na ito ay maaaring maparusahan ng pagmumulta o pagkabilanggo.

2. Mahigpit ding ipinagbabawal ang pagsusunog ng basura bilang pag-alinsunod sa Provincial Ordinance No. 10, Series of 2015, o An Ordinance Prohibiting Open Burning of Garbages, Trash and Other Refuse Materials Within The Territorial Jurisdiction of the Province of Laguna.

3. Ipinagbabawal ang walang kapahintulutang pagpuputol ng mga punong kahoy, kasama na ang pagsira ng mga sanga nito, dahil sa sinasabi sa Section 3 ng Presidential Decree No. 953 na ipinagbabawal ang pagputol, pagsira, at pagsugat ng lahat ng uri ng puno, maging ito ay punong kahoy na tumubo o itinanim sa baybayin ng lansangan, liwasan, bakuran ng paaralan, pook liwaliwan, baybayin ng mga ilog at sapa, at maging sa mga gilid ng subdivision roads. Ang mga mapatutunayang lumabag sa kautusang ito ay maaring maparusahan ng pagkabilanggong hindi bababa sa anim (6) buwan subali’t hindi hihigit sa dalawang (2) taon, o multang mula sa P500, subalit hindi tataas sa P5,000, o ang dalawang kaparusahan batay sa magiging kapasiyahan ng hukumang didinig dito.

Ayon sa punumbayan, ang mga pagbabawal na ito ay iniuugnay sa tamang pangangalaga sa kalikasan ng kapaligiran upang makatulong sa pandaigdigang pagsasakit na mapabagal ang pagtaas ng temperatura sa kapaligiran ng daigdig na nagdudulot ng masamang epekto sa buhay at pamumuhay ng tao. 

Kung may katanungan tungkol sa paalaalang pangmadalang ito, ay ipinapayo ni Alkalde Ruben D. Alvarez na maaring tumawag sa Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) sa mga sumusunod na numero, 09914579857 (DITO); 09163388755 (Globe); at 09618527661 (Smart).

VON VALDEPEÑAS IS BUHAY PARTY-LIST 1ST NOMINEE

by: Pio N. Platon

Buhay Party-list (Buhay Hayaan Yumabong) was founded on October 22, 1999 by former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza with Malquuides Robles to cultivate and propagate Buhay advocacy – Pro – God, life and family. 

Twenty-two (22) year old party-list has been supported by multiple congregations and religious groups on nation building, democracy, and human rights. 

This May, 2022 election, it has 3 nominees – Von Valdepeñas, Mark Brian Paz and Xavy Padilla. 

First nominee is Vladimir Von P. Valdepeñas who was former number 1 municipal councilor (Los Baños, Laguna) in 2004, Committee chair in Public Works, Infrastructure and Telecommunication; Regional Executive Director (Philippine Councilors’ League – Region IV-A) and National Liaison Officer for Luzon (National Movement of Young Legislators), IT consultant to DENR secretary and had been a “KALIPI”-Liberal Party vice-chair. 

Born entrepreneur, Von started putting and running his own businesses since 1997 namely Von’s Coconut Lumber; Petron Gasoline Station (manager/dealer – Los Baños); Asianware Technologies Corporation (2003-present); Baseline Unlimited Inc. (2009-to date) and Vladimir “V1” Corporation (real estate, transportation, construction and trading). 

In 2019, Von worked as Goodwill Philippines president and at present Country Manager who champions the cause of PWDs. 

Von Valdepeñas is BA Management Economics graduate (Ateneo de Manila University), Advance Management Program and Senior Executive Fellows (development program for executives) at Harvard University, Massachusetts. He is married to Chi Atienza (daughter of former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza) with 3 kids. 

His political, entrepreneurial and educational background made him voted as Buhay Party-List first nominee.

CHIZ: ADDRESS GAPS IN REMOTE LEARNING 

DUE TO LACK OF INTERNET CONNECTION

With no end in sight yet to the coronavirus pandemic, senatorial candidate and Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero is pushing for better internet service across the country to close some gaps in distance schooling in light of a recent study which confirmed that poor or lack of connectivity had significantly hindered children’s learning ability during the pandemic.

The hard and long lockdowns in the country, considered one of the most stringent in the world by far, following the coronavirus outbreak in the country in March 2020 had prompted the Department of Education (DepEd) to halt in-person classes nationwide and shift to online learning as way to ensure that students and faculty members are safe and protected.

But a recent World Bank report, “Remote Learning During COVID-19: Lessons for Today,” showed that lack of access to 

the internet and slow connection had adversely affected the education of Filipino schoolchildren, as it noted that nine out 10 pupils cannot read.

This means that the country’s learning poverty is now at a high of 90% by August 2021, from 69.5% before the pandemic, according to World Bank estimates. Distance learning in the Philippines only covered 20% of households with schoolchildren, it added, similar to Ethiopia, the lowest rate.

“Ito na nga ang masakit at hubad na katotohanan ng remote learning na ipinilit ipatupad sa buong bansa kahit sa mga lugar na wala naman o mababa ang kaso ng COVID-19,” Escudero lamented. “Nakaka-alarma na nga ang estado ng edukasyon bago mag-pandemya, tapos nabiktima naman ang ating mga mag-aaral ng magulong pagpapatupad ng distance learning.”

He cited the case of Sorsogon where more than 50% of the barangays are COVID-free, which could have been exempt from the remote learning imposed by the DepEd.

Escudero, a veteran legislator, is calling for massive investments for faster internet speed and wider coverage to make connectivity accessible to more students, as he expects hybrid learning to continue for some time even with the limited face-to-face classes recently implemented by the education department.

“Sa datos ng World Bank, mga 26.9 porsyento lamang ng mga estudyante ang may access sa internet sa bansa. Paano naman ang mahigit na 70 porsyento na wala na ngang gadget, wala na ngang internet at paminsa-minsan ay walang kuryente sa kanilang mga kabahayan? Pababayaan na lamang ba natin silang maging mangmang?” said Escudero, who is seeking a fresh six-year mandate in the coming national elections.

As of January 2021, the country is now in sixth place in mobile internet speed among the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Globally, the country moved up to 86th spot in the mobile internet speed rankings in the same period, a marked improvement from its 111th rank in 2020.

Average download rate in th Philippines improved to 38.12 megabits per second (Mbps) last October from previous month’s 35.03 Mbps, or an 8.82% improvement for mobile internet speed, according to Ookla Speedtest Global Index. However, fixed broadband speed slightly dipped to 71.08 Mbps from 71.85 Mbps during the same period.

“Even as we enter the new normal, expect that distance learning modalities will be here for some time,” Escudero said. “Kaya kailangang mag-invest talaga sa internet connectivity para sa blended future distance learning ng ating mga estudyante. Huwag naman nating iwanan ang mga kabataan,” the former senator said.

NATURE AND RELIGION 

by Rolando A. Inciong

We always relate nature or environment to science but never to religion because science and religion have opposing views. But all religions of the world have teachings on respecting nature and living in harmony with it.

The Catholic Church, through Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si, a Latin phrase meaning Praise Be to You, is a global wake up call to help humanity understand the destruction that man is causing to the environment and his fellow man. The Pope’s letter is addressed to "every person living on this planet" and calls for a global dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet through our daily actions and decisions. Laudato Si, the most comprehensive Vatican document on environmentalism, ethics, and Christian faith, is an important tool for motivating Catholics, as well as those of other religious faiths. 

Christians are all aware of the Bible’s Noah, who saved animals from the great flood, as instructed by God. The Lord’s instruction to Noah showed the importance he gives to biodiversity – the variety of life on earth – when he told Noah to bring to the ark all pairs of animals. The Bible clearly says, “For that which befalls the sons of men befalls beasts . . . as the one die, so dies the other . . . a man has no preeminence above a beast” (Ecclesiastes 3:19). This means if we lose our biodiversity, the human race will also be extinct. 

For Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), tree planting and cleanup activities form part of the church’s ongoing program on environmental protection and preservation. It has also supported the global Earth Hour and promotes eco-farming and a variety of environment-friendly practices.

According to the INC, eco-farming should enable farmers and customers to control the food products grown and offered; farmers should be compensated for their work; it is important to work with the land to get higher food yields while respecting the environment; and it is important to grow different types of plants to protect the environment

Today, the INC members operate hundreds of eco-friendly farms around the world, especially in the Philippines and Africa. The INC, the largest and fastest growing church in the Philippines, also sees irresponsible human activities as factors that result in environmental degradation and calamities.

Islam, through the Koran, emphasizes that disrespecting Allah’s creation is like disrespecting Him. The Koran also states that “With it we have produced diverse pairs of plants separate from each other. Eat and pasture your cattle; verily, in these are signs for men endowed with understanding.’’ Again, this is proof of the importance of biodiversity to humanity.

Islam teachings emphasize that animals are an important part of the community. The Koran reads: “There is not an animal (that) lives on Earth nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you.” Islam further teaches “to help animals since this means helping mankind as well.” 

There are over 400 million Buddhists all over the world. Buddhists are the most respectful of nature, especially the living things. The Buddha said that humans must be compassionate to all living things. Clearly, Buddhism promotes respect for nature and biodiversity.

The United Church of Christ in its Toxic 100 Report, listed 100 facilities in the United States that produce the most toxic air pollution. The report, titled “Breath to the People: Sacred Air and Toxic Pollution,” is “a moral spotlight on the places where that sacred air is being poisoned and where children often suffer the most,” said the Rev. Brooks Berndt, United Church of Christ’s minister of environmental justice.

The report revealed how dangerous levels of toxic chemicals — ethylene oxide, hexavalent chromium, nickel — are associated with illnesses such as asthma, brain damage, cancer and birth defects. The United Church of Christ report called for the polluting facilities — which produce nearly 39 percent of all the toxic emissions in the nation — to be held accountable for both their carbon footprint and the negative health effects experienced by nearby residents. 

When it comes to nature or the environment, religion and science sing the same tune!

HIRAYA MANAWARI

ni: Arlene V. Umila 

CGMES, Nagcarlan

Sisimulan natin pagkwentuhan

Ang isang bagay na di pa natin alam ang petsa ng katapusan

Nagsimula ito sa isa, dalwa, tatlo, hanggang sa nalimutan nalang ang bilang at tamang numero hanggang ngayon

Nasaulo mo na ba?

Kahit nakapikit ay tila kaya

mo na iguhit ang larawan ng bawat

sulok ng iyong tahanan

Tila lahat tayo ay naging bilanggo sa rehas ng kuwarentenas

Nakakainip

Nakakasakal

Lahat yan ay ating danas

Nagsimula na 

Nagsimula na rin ang pagsusuot

ng maskara ng lahat

Maskara ng lahat na ang gusto'y kaligtasan

Maskara ng takot na pagkabilang ng tatlo lalayo sila sayo

Distansya ang hiling

Paunahan sa pila at tila naging isang laro na ang pamimili,

Ang makakarami'y buhay ang tropeyo

Pagpapasalamat kung may matitira sayo

Pagpapasalamat, may salapi pang natitira sayo

Pagpapasalamat sa pag-asang pinanghahawakan mo

Pananatili ng pagitan sa isa't isa

Gaano kalayo?

Gaano kasakit ang malayo?

Malayo sa mga taong dahilan ng pagsusumikap

Apat, lima, anim na talampakan

Pipiliing lumayo dahil mahalaga sila sayo

Ikaw nalang ang susubok

Ikaw nalang ang sumabak sa giyera ng

buhay sa pakikisalamuha

Naghigpit at nagkaroon ng hangganan

Magsisihigpit din ang kapit na ito'y matatapos din

Maraming buhay ang nawala

Maraming bagay ang di nagawa

Maraming plano ang bigla nalang naging bula

Lumipas ang mga araw at buwan

Bawat sigundo tila mabilis na dumaan

Mayroong sa trabaho nanatili

Ang iba'y kumalas

Isa ka ba sa kanila?

Na ang buhay ang nakataya kapalit ng buhay ng iba?

Sinuong kahit di sigurado

Kahit delikado

Kahit nakakapagod

Kahit marami ang umayaw

Kahit marami na ang bumitaw

Isa ka ba sa kanila?

Tuloy ang dalangin

Ang kaliwa at kanang kama'y nagdigkit

Tayo ay lalaya din

Ang pandemya'y paalala

Buhay ko, buhay mo at buhay nating lahat

Ay mahalaga

Maglalapit lapit tayong muli

Hiraya Manawari

MY PROFESSIONAL REFLECTION IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF LEARNING DELIVERY MODALITIES 2 COURSE FOR TEACHERS

By: John Rainier T. Bolado

San Agustin Integrated School, Ibaan, Batangas

This Learning Delivery Modalities 2 Course for teachers is an integral part of my teaching career because it served as a compilation of my knowledge and understanding of my profession. It also measures effectively my consciousness/ awareness and even judgment of the different phases of learning, which can pour out my ideas, analysis, and understanding to a road to change, improve, and make the teaching process more convenient and readily available even in changing times. Learning must continue no matter what the situation is and learning is possible because there are other learning modalities that can be used to make learning effective to happen.

As an educator, it helped me a lot to realize my goal to make effective learning happen in the new normal using teaching strategies that fit modular distance learning. The necessary information, knowledge and insights that I obtained in this course assisted me with addressing the necessities of the learners during this time. I am also eager to make better plans which are versatile to the current circumstances of education process- the shift to modular distance learning. 

Upon discussing with my co-teacher regarding how I will respond to the completion of this LDM2 modules, I had gained optimistic spirit of enlightenment. Subjecting myself to undergo through this process will not only benefit me a lot but it will also benefit my learners under the new normal school setting wherein face-to-face learning is prohibited because of the health risks brought about by CoVid 19. Learning must continue no matter what the situation is. Learning is possible because there are other learning modalities that can be used to make learning effective to happen. 

Simultaneously it is better to consider everything required for the continuation of the learning interaction of my students like the planning of the virtual interaction, making learning activity sheets, appraisal of educational instruments and assessment of learning with incorporation of ICT.

Through this, I can lay out my achievements inside the portfolio to acquire information and use it for the progression of the teaching and learning process. The shift of the teaching-learning delivery in schools to modular distance learning made it more challenging on the part of the teachers. This LDM course helps ensure that I will be able to deliver quality instruction in the new normal through better understanding of the learning continuity platforms to make learning effective to happen in the new normal school setting wherein blended learning modalities are significant concerns to this current time. The conveyance of fundamental quality training is convoluted which is the reason that the Department of Education (Deped) is continually discovering roads to tackle the issues and capacitating its educators and school leaders to turn out to be more effective. This serves as an urgent response to continuity of education and a great help to ensure the delivery of quality instruction for it help teachers be prepared for this distant learning in this new normal situation. It helps teachers to gain knowledge, skills and mindset that are necessary in this new teaching and learning way.

ALS TEACHER AT THIS TIME OF PANDEMIC

By: Aldrin M. Balaaldia

ALS - Mobile Teacher

“In the midst of the corona virus crisis, the call remains the same that education must continue, whether face-to-face or virtual with or without physically going to school.” - Department of Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones 

There are lots of things that challenged us in this time of pandemic as Alternative Learning System (ALS) Mobile Teacher. All of us have been battling this very minute virus, that could take away one’s life. Everyone is affected, welfare of every individual is at stake. These scenarios led me to realized and came up with these questions. First, how can we conduct Literacy Mapping and reach the target number of learners to be mapped? Before, we enthusiastically visit different barangays in our city to conduct the face to face literacy mapping to convince and encourage Out of School Children, Youths and Adults to enroll in ALS program, unlike in formal school, learners automatically go and enroll in their respective grade level. Second, how will I convince the learners to enroll and be interested to try our program in this time, where technology will take a big role in the learning process? Third, the issued learning module, will they be suited to learners’ level of understanding? Is it easily comprehend by the learners, a self-learning module as it is described? And lastly, how can we reach those learners that really want to enroll to the ALS program but don’t have any gadgets or internet connection? Today, we are not allowed to do the face to face literacy mapping and learning session to ensure one’s health. 

Changes is inevitable, and as a teacher, we are trained to adapt and be flexible to whatever situation we are in, specially this time of pandemic. Together with my co-educators, we came up with solutions to address the needs. We crafted some learning materials and innovated strategies so we can conduct the Literacy Mapping without doing the house to house traditional mapping. We use the social media to disseminate the Advocacy and Social Mobilization about the ALS program, creating google forms for the Online Literacy Mapping, Enrollment form and Functional Literacy Test (FLT). Also, we constructed and transferred different forms which before, learners are asked to answer those forms personally through pen and paper. My doubts about the use of technology in this new normal set-up have been paved off. Now learners who want to enroll in ALS can access it in the internet. Making learning exemplars and other learning activities that are suited to the needs of learners were developed. Moreover, we are very thankful for the barangay officials who whole heartedly help us reach and disseminate ALS Program to those learners despite of lack of internet connection and gadget. 

With the help of different people who continuously improve and support the system, we overcome all of the challenges to deliver the “ALS 2.0 the Second Chance Education but not a second class. 

“So together as one, we can move forward.”

PROTECT BIODIVERSITY TODAY AND PROTECT THE FUTURE

By: Joebert G. Abila

Teacher III , Sta. Veronica Elementary School

Just try to imagine a world where biodiversity thrives, where flora and fauna nourish in the wild forest of Amazon, or the clean waters of the Niagara Falls flow in its grandeur. Philippine Eagles soar high above the sky without the fear that humans might shoot them. Just how important biodiversity is in our world today? Students should learn this so that we can protect the future of humanity. 

Humanity must stop the pace of wildlife extinctions — or face extinction itself, according to a growing body of research. At a time when more than 1 million animals are at risk of extinction — and the links between human health and the health of the planet are clear — the stakes have never been higher.

With COVID-19, we’ve seen the damage that diseases can do not only to human health, but also to the global economy. By protecting biodiversity in Earth’s ecosystems, countries could save lives and money, while helping to prevent future pandemics. Biodiversity is an essential part of the solution to climate change. In a landmark study published in 2017, a group of researchers led by Bronson Griscom, who researches natural climate solutions at Conservation International, discovered that nature can deliver at least 30 percent of the emissions reductions needed by 2030 to prevent climate catastrophe. Protecting biodiversity plays a crucial part in achieving these emissions reductions. So how can you be of great help in your own simple way to protect biodiversity? One, if you have pets at home, make sure they are well fed, well groomed, and had been vaccinated by your veterinarian. Domesticated animals are a great part of the biodiversity that helps to balance the earth’s environment. 

You can buy from your local farmer at a farmers’ market or through a farm stand gives you the ability to find out how your food was grown and learn what they are doing on the farm to help conserve biodiversity. Educating people about the importance of biodiversity conservation increases public awareness of the issue. As public awareness increases, people become more involved in caring about their environment.

The earth doesn’t need us because it has long survived even before humanity came but we need mother earth because without it, we will not exist in this universe so we should take good care of our planet. The dreaded diseases, catastrophic calamities are all made worse by humans. Maybe it’s true that this could be Mother Earth’s way of fighting back what humanity destroyed and we humans are learning that lesson, sadly, in a very painful way. Let us heal earth again and go green and save our only mother earth.

Reference: Shaw, J. (2018) Why is biodiversity important URL: https://www.conservation.org/blog/why-is-biodiversity-important

CARD MBA ELECTS NEW BOT; TRANSFORMS MEMBERS TO LEADERS

Empowering its members to lead, CARD Mutual Benefit Association (CARD MBA) elected a new set of Board of Trustees (BOT) during the 22nd Annual General Membership Meeting on November 4, 2021 . 

CARD MBA, the microinsurance arm of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), is 100% owned and managed by CARD MRI clients who are also members of the Association. With this, CARD MBA installs 12 BOT from its members and three independent trustees to complete the Association’s line-up of BOT. 

Inducted through proxy votes via online conference meeting, the six new board members include Rowena R. Bayuga and Filda R. Tolen from Ilocos Norte, Mylin M. Chozas from Cabuyao, Laguna, Marjorie I. Quisoy from Albay, Jenelyn A. Sanchez from Occidental Mindoro, and Beverly A. Sinadjan from Masbate. The all-women ensemble is composed of CARD MBA Coordinators, member-borrowers of CARD MRI, who are originally tasked to voluntarily coordinate with their unit and provincial offices in terms of claims validation and reports. 

According to CARD MBA Chief Executive Officer Jocelyn D. Dequito, the new BOT will assist in governing the Association to address the needs of their fellow members. “Our MBA Coordinators are the direct link between the clients of CARD MRI’s financial institutions and CARD MBA itself. They are the best people to communicate with when it comes to the concerns of their co-members on the ground, and we need to work with them hand-in-hand to better serve our communities through our microinsurance services,” Dequito said.

Meanwhile, the two new independent trustees include Francis M. Puzon from Taytay, Rizal and Rolando A. Robles from Las Piñas City. Puzon and Robles both have decades of experience when it comes to risk management and compliance as well as life insurances and asset management respectively.  

From simple mothers to leaders

“Aside from being the recipients of our microfinance and microinsurance services, we believe that our client-members also have the power to bring about change in their community when given the right resources,” said CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito. “This is what urges us to seek their help to better our services and to lead their co-members out of poverty.” 

Anchored to its goal of empowering women, CARD MRI acknowledges the capacity of its women members to gain control of their assets and take part in managing an association such as CARD MBA. As a result, CARD MRI transforms simple mothers into members, and later on, to leaders of the community. 

“Since 1986, it has always been CARD MRI’s mission to provide the landless poor with a venue for asset ownership through our microfinance services. We equip them with the appropriate resources that they may utilize in order to carve their own path and be catalysts of change. At CARD MRI, we do not only lead people out of poverty; we also train them to influence other people to do the same,” concluded CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip. 

CARD MRI is a group of social development institutions with a mission to eradicate poverty by providing financial assistance, microinsurance, and other community development services in health and education. As of September 2021, CARD MRI has served 7,890,261 clients and has insured 26,999,910 individuals nationwide.

MPT SOUTH AT DILG 4A, NILAGDAAN ANG KASUNDUAN 

SA PAGSULONG NG ROAD SAFETY AT TURISMO SA CALABARZON 

nina Kevin Pamatmat

at Shekinah Joy Pamatmat

Nilagdaan ngayong araw ang Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) sa pagitan ng Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South), isa sa mga subsidiary ng Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), ang infrastructure arm ng Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) at Department of Interior and Local Government – CALABARZON (DILG IV-A) para sa pagsasagawa ng road safety education campaign at tourism promotion activities para sa rehiyon. 

Sa bisa ng MOU, magtutulungan ang DILG IV-A at MPT South sa pagbibigay ng dagdag na kaalaman patungkol sa local governance at social development- sa pamamagitan ng Local Gorvernance Resource Center (LGRC) facility- isang dynamic, interactive at virtual program na nagsisilbing sentro ng kaalaman sa pagbabahagi sa mga lokal na pamahalaan sa rehiyon ng iba’t ibang impormasyon na makatutulong sa pagpapaunlad ng kanilang mga kapasidad sa pagpapatakbo ng kani-kanilang mga bayan at siyudad. 

Katuwang ang DILG IV-A, inaaasahan ng MPT South na mapapaigting nito ang pagsasakatuparan ng iba’t ibang social advocacy projects nito gaya ng ‘Drayberks’ at ‘Bayani Ka’ na parehong road safety programs na naghihikayat at nagtuturo sa iba’t ibang motorista at komunidad ng mga alituntunin sa expressway at mga pamamaraan upang maturing na road safety advocates. 

Layun ng “Drayberks” road safety seminar, isa sa mga social advocacy programs ng MPT South na hango mula sa salitang "Drayber" at "Barkada", na maiwasan ang pagkakaroon ng mga road accidents sa mga mga toll roads ng MPT South: Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX); CAVITEX C5 Link; at Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX). Habang ang Bayani Ka naman, na ang ibig sabihin ay Bayani ng Kalsada, ay nagnanais na magbigay ng karagdagang kaalaman hinggil sa batas na Limited Access Facility Act (R.A. 2000).

Kasama rin sa mga nakalatag na proyekto ng MPT South kasama ang DILG IV-A ang pagsusulong ng turismo sa CALABARZON sa pamamgitan ng paggawa ng mga multimedia materials upang maibida ang iba’t ibang mga pagkain, lokasyon at tanawin sa rehiyon gamit ang Biyaheng South social media accounts at iba pang programa ng DILG IV-A. 

Nagsilbing kinatawan ng MPT South sa virtual signing ang Spokesperson at Assistant Vice President for Communications and Stakeholder Management nito na si Bb. Arlette V. Capistrano habang si Regional Director, Ariel O. Iglesia, CESO IV naman para sa DILG Region IV-A. 

“Ikinagagalak ng MPT South ang aming pakikiisa sa DILG Region IV-A para sa aming mga social development projects para sa pagpapalawig ng aming pagbibigay ng kaalaman ukol sa road safety at mga kaakibat nitong mga batas. Gayundin, katuwang ang DILG Region IV-A, kami ay lalong mas makakatulong sa muling pagpapaangat ng ekonomiya ng rehiyon, sa pamamagitan ng pagsulong sa turismo nito,” ani MPT South Spokesperson at Assistant Vice President for Communications and Stakeholder Management, Bb. Arlette V. Capistrano. 

“The Department through the Local Governance Resource Center has always banked on partnerships with agencies and organizations to deliver our mandate of guiding and empowering LGUs in effective program implementation and local governance. We are thankful for MPT South’s interest in collaborating with us on social development projects and we are looking forward to empowering our LGUs together.”, ani DILG IVA Regional Director Ariel O. Iglesia. 

Bukod sa CAVITEX, CAVITEX C5 Link, at CALAX, hawak din ng MPTC ang concessions para sa North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), NLEX Connector Road, Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), at Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) sa Cebu.

SAN PABLO CITY CENTRAL ROTARIANS RAISE HITO TO FUND PROJECTS

Give yourself and your loved ones with a gift of beauty from SM. With things opening up as Christmas approaches, it’s a good time to look good and feel great with gift sets from SM Beauty.

Luxe brands like Laura Mercier and Estee Lauder lead the way with their spectacular selections; while iconic MAC has a new dazzling lipstick collection, Benefit delights us with a beauty box, and Nars’s fashion forward gift set that will enhance your holiday look.

You’ll double the drama with Bobbi Brown’s smokey eye mascara, and make heads turn with Make Up Forever’s holiday collection. Vice Cosmetics has sweet treats with names like Kookie Dough and Peppermint for the lips, while Pretty Secret unlocks the key to great brow-works for the blushing diva.

Give your skin some TLC with Clinique’s Merry Moisture Set and Olay’s serums and moisturizers for younger looking skin.

All these and other personal care products like fragrances, hair care, vitamins, supplements, and more are available at SM Beauty located at The SM Stores in most SM Supermalls nationwide.  Just in time for Christmas, SM Beauty also has exclusive gifts for all SMAC members- a free bear or luggage for a minimum purchase of P10,000 single receipt, available in select SM stores. Keep shopping because you can get more points for selected items all season! 

You can also enjoy an exciting but worry-free shopping experience with our online shopping platforms; shop with SM Beauty Personal Shoppers and discover more products when you check out the SM Catalog https://thesmstorecatalog.com/collections/beauty-and-health. You can also buy your beauty gifts through Shop SM, our Viber community, Messenger, and the SM Store’s Call to Deliver service by calling #143SM or #14376.

 PCOL. ROGARTH B. CAMPO IS LAGUNA 

POLICE PROVINCIAL OFFICE NEW DIRECTOR

by Roselle R. Aquino

Camp Vicente Lim, Calamba City--PRO4A Regional Director, Brig Gen eliseo Cruz presides the turn-over of Command between the outgoing Provincial Director, Col Serafin Petalio II, and oncoming Provincial Director PCol Rogarth B Campo of the Laguna Police Provincial Office in a simoke ceremony at Camp B/Gen Paciano Rizal, Sta Cruz, Laguna. 

Cruz commends the efforts of the outgoing Provincial Director for initiating numerous projects in Laguna PPO. “When Chief PNP, Gen Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar implemented the Intensified Cleanliness Policy, Laguna PPO was the first to comply on his direcrive. 

Also, Laguna PPO under the leadership of Petalio was recognized by the National Historical Commission because of the construction of the Paciano Rizal Park. Many projects were initiated by the outgoing PD. He is doing this not only to comply with ICP by the Chief PNP but because that is his style. Kung lahat tayong mga officers do the same thing that Petalio has done I am sure we will go above the standard of our organization. Sana tularan natin ang mga ginawa ni Petalio”, Cruz in his message. 

He also wishes the best to the Incoming Provincial Director, “I am confident that Laguna PPO is in good hands under Campo. 

Cruz undercores the importance of Change of Command in an Office. According to him, it has to happen for us to move forward and to accomplish the mission of PNP. 

In parting, he calls on the support of all the personnel to continuously support the Intensified Cleanliness Policy of our Chief PNP.

CONG SOL: DAPAT TULUNGAN ANG MGA 

NASA DI-PORMAL NA SEKTOR NG PAGGAWA

ni Ruben E. Taningco

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Naniniwala si Congresswoman Sol Aragones ng 3rd District of Laguna na ang informal sector sa lipunan ng paggawa ay dapat na masinop na pinagtutuunan ng pansin ng mga pangasiwaang lokal, sapagka’t sila ay bahagi ng sandigan ng ating kabuhayang pambansa. Ito ang ipinadama ng mambabatas sa ilang lider ng samahan ng mga manggagawa na kanyang nakatagpo sa isang barangay hall sa lunsod na ito noong nakaraang Sabado ng hapon.

Ayon kay Sol Aragones, sa isang pag-aaral ng Department of Labor and Employment, napag-alamang ang 80% ng manggagawa sa bansa ay nabibilang sa mga manggagawang impormal, tulad ng mga jeepney and tricycle driver, magtitinda sa bangketa, mga komukontrata ng gawain sa sistemang pakyawan, mangingisda at magsasaka, o ang mga manggagawang walang katiyakan ang pagkita, na karaniwang ang mga ito ay walang tinatanggap na tulong na panglipunan, tulad ng health insurance, at sistema ng pag-iimpok para mapaghandaan ang panahon ng kanilang katandaan, tulad ng pensyon. Kaya, para sa makatotohanang katatagan ng bansa, ang sektor na ito ay 

dapat tulungan upang maging malakas, matatag, napangangalagaan, at napagkakalooban ng kapanatagan upang maging produktibo at kapakipakinabang sa lipunan.

Sa dipinisyong ibinigay ni Sol Aragones, ang manggagawang nabibilang sa informal sector ay ang mga karpintero at mason na namamakyaw ng gawain, mga tsuper, mga magtitinda sa bangketa o walang regular na puwesto, mangingisda, magsasaka, at kasama na ang mga nagsusulong ng cottage industry na sila ang gumagawa, namumuhunan, nagbibili o namamahagi ng produkto o paglilingkod na kanilang ipinagkakaloob kapalit ng napagkakasunduang kabayaran. Maitutulad sila sa may paggawaan na sila rin ang tauhang gumagawa.

Ang isang paraan na maitutulong ng mga yunit ng pamahalaang lokal ay ang paglalaan ng pondo, upang mga nabibilang sa informal sector ay masakop ng Pambansang Palatuntunang sa Kaseguruhang Pangkalusugan. Sana ang lahat ng mga jeepney driver at marginal fishermen ay mapagkalooban ng life insurance coverage. 

Bilang kongresista, kanyang pananagutan ang bumalangkas ng mga batas na ang layunin ay ang kagalingang pambansa, subalit pananagutan ng mga nangangasiwa ng mga yunit ng pamahalaang lokal ang implementasyon o pagpapatupad ng mga palatuntunang binalangkas ng Kongreso, tulad ng pagkakaloob ng scholarship sa mga anak ng mahihirap na pamilya, at pagsisikap na ang mga paglilingkod na pangkalusugan ay madama ng mga mahihirap na karaniwang naninirahan sa mga liblib na kanayunan, o sa mga masisikip na bahagi o blighted areas ng kabayanan.

‘PANGANGAILANGAN ANG CUL DE SAC’

Ni Ruben E. Taningco

SANTA CRUZ, Laguna--Bahagi ng konsepto ni Congresswoman Sol Aragones para mapaunlad pa ang mga bayang bumubuo ng 4th Provincial District of Laguna na halos ay kabalantay ng mga lawak na bulubundukin ng Lalawigan ng Quezon, na patuloy na palawakin pa ang sistema ng lansangan upang maging maluwag at mabilis ang daloy ng ating mga economic goods, at mapasigla ang industriya ng turismo sa mga bayang ito.

Dapat ding mapag-aralan ang posibilidad na sa tulong ng makabagong teknolohiya, ay mapalawak at mapatatag ang watershed area ng seven lakes sa San Pablo City upang maitaas ang out-put ng Hydro-Electric Plant sa Calauan, na magiging malaking katulungan sa pangangailangan sa kuryente para sa industriyalisasyong nagaganap dito sa Laguna Province..

Dapat ding magkaroon ng isang palatuntunan, upang magawa ng Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), dagdag pa ni Cong. Sol Aragones, na makapagbukas ng mga cul de sac o mga maiikling lansangan mula sa national road, papasok sa mga likuran ng umiiral na residential area sa baybayin ng mga pambansang lansangan, sapagka’t ang pangunahing suliranin ng mga magtatanim ng halaman ay ang pagdadala ng ani sa pamilihan.

Kung ang pamahalaan ay makakapaglunsad ng palatuntunang makapagbukas ng lansangang papasok sa likuran ng mga kabahayan o residential area, ang mga propetaryo na sa likuran ay nagkakaroon na ng pagkukusa na madugtungan ang lansangan papapasok sa dakong interyor ng barangay. Sa mga lansangang ito maipapasok ang linya ng kuryente, telepono, at cable tv; at maging ang mga bata ay magiging maluwag sa kanilang pagpasok sa paaralan, at ang matatanda at mahihinang mamamayan sa kanilang pamimili at pagsisimba. Sa pangkalahatan ay gagawa sa mga mamamayang maunlad at masaya ang pamumuhay. 

Kaugnay ng pagbubukas ng mga cul de sac, nasa kaisipan ni Cong Aragones ang pangangailangang masusugan ang batas na nagtatakda na kung ang lupang apektado ng pagbubukas ng lansangan ay sakop ng o covered by Free Patent Title, ay hindi binabayaran ang nakukuhang lote, upang magkaroon ng pamantayan sa pagbabayad bilang kompentasyon sa may-ari ng lupa na maaaring mapipilitang lumipat ng tahanan, at tuwirang maapektuhan ang kanilang kabuhayan. Hindi masamang pag-aralan ang Sistemang Solatium sa Englatera at India upang mabayaran ang mga loteng ginagamit sa pagbubukas ng mga lansangan sa makatarungang halaga, at hindi iyong batay lamang sa “assessed value” na isinasagawa ng mga “assessor” na lubhang napakababa at mapanggipit.

SMALL TALK WITH SMALL LAUDE AND SM

Although her name is Small, Filipina socialite, entrepreneur, and celebrity vlogger Small Laude knows what it is to live large. Funny, exuberant, and down to earth, her effortless humor has gained her 350K subscribers and followers who love her videos on fashion, lifestyle and her own shopping adventures in her YouTube channel. She also stars in her own 4-part TV special, It’s a Small World on Metro Channel.

Her latest shopping adventure takes her to SM, as host of Shop All You Can with Small Laude, where she highlights SM’s Call to Deliver service from October 15 to November 15, 2021 at The SM Store's Facebook page facebook.com/thesmstore.

As someone who has traveled and lived abroad extensively, Small admits “I didn’t shop a lot in Manila before.” She was therefore amazed when she started shopping at SM and discovered the store’s extensive offerings.

“SM has everything,” she enthuses. “Even some of the items I have from abroad, SM has them! So many nice things. I enjoy shopping at SM now, the experience is exciting!”

She has been especially delighted with SM’s Call to Deliver service, which she calls “a great and modern experience.”

Small describes the Call to Deliver service as “quite easy and convenient! The personal shoppers are competent and very accommodating. They will find and source all your needs.”

She was impressed with the service “because of the vast merchandise that’s available to choose from. Being able to get everything in one place and the convenience of having the personal shopper complete all you need and deliver it right to your door was fun and exhilarating!”

Her personal picks from her Call to Deliver shopping adventure? “Of course my Kitchen Aid!” she quickly answers. “I never knew The SM Store has it. I love the clothes and shoes, and perfumes that I selected. The scent collection of SM can compare those of other stores abroad! Too many to mention, really.”

Small’s shopping tips for the new normal” “Everything SM because they’ve got it all for you!”

Watch Small Laude's Shop All You Can video, and use her promo code to avail of FREE Delivery, with a minimum P1,000 The SM Store Call To Deliver purchase. 

As SM continues to celebrate the birth month of its founder Henry Sy Sr. this October with Super Month, you can get a chance to win exclusive vouchers and freebies from The SM Store Call to Deliver Scratch & Win promotion starting October 15, 2021 to January 15, 2022. Play Scratch & Win by registering a Philippine-issued mobile number using mobile phones or tablets at rewards.thesmstore.com. 

Celebrate Super Month with The SM Store Call to Deliver! Order from the comforts of your home and we will shop for you. Chat with us now via The SM Store’s Facebook Messenger bit.ly/CTD-Messenger and Viber comm: bit.ly/JoinSMViber Viber admin: thesmstore.hiallie.com. Check out The SM Store’s facebook page facebook.com/thesmstore Call #143SM.

CONVERGENCE AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN, PINASINAYAAN SA BAYAN NG RIZAL

nina Kevin Pamatmat at Shekinah Joy Pamatmat

Rizal, Laguna--Pinasinayaan sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon sa Calabarzon ang Convergence Area Developement Plan o CADP sa Tanaw De Rizal, Brgy. Tala sa bayang ito kamakailan.

Dumalo sa pagtitipon sina Department of Agriculture Regional Executive Director Vilma Dimaculangan, Usec. Atty. Ranibai Dilangalen, tagapagsalita ni Usec.Waldo Carpio na si Ms. Elaine Gener, PARO Elizabeth Z. Villapando at DENR Regional Executive Director Nilo B.Tamora.

Ang CADP ay bahagi ng programa ng National Convergence Iniative for Sustainable Rural Development kung saan naisakatuparan ito sa tulong ng apat na ahensya tulad ng 

Department of Agriculture, Dapartment of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Interior and Local Government, at Department of Agrarian Reform.

Ayon kay Mayor Vener P. Muñoz, natatanaw na ang pag-unlad ng bayan ng Rizal dahil sa patuloy na proyektong dumatating sa kanila. Nagpapasalamat din siya dahil sa suportang ibinibigay ng buong Sanggunian.

Sa panayam naman kay Vice Mayor Tony Aurelio, labis ang kanyang pasasalamat sa National Covergence Iniative for Sustainable Rural Developement dahil natupad na ang matagal nilang minimithing tulong mula sa mga ahensyang ito na siyang kauna-unahang inilunsad sa buong Calabarzon.

JERA PARTNERSHIP SEEN AS ‘ENABLER’ IN 

ABOITIZPOWER’S 10-YEAR RE EXPANSION JOURNEY

AboitizPower’s renewable energy aspirations are taking a huge leap forward following Japanese firm JERA’s recent acquisition of a 27-percent stake in the Aboitiz-led power company for $1.46 billion.

The sale was announced on Tuesday, September 28, 2021, and was characterized as a “transaction [that] unlocks significant capital that will be used toward fueling the [Aboitiz Equity Ventures] Group’s growth initiatives.”

“This transaction will deepen our bonds and represents a leap forward in our shared mission to support economic development in the Philippines and beyond while supporting the energy transition towards a decarbonized future,” AboitizPower President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel V. Rubio said.

JERA is one of the world’s largest power producers and the largest single liquefied natural gas (LNG) buyer in the world. Rubio said that as the energy sector undergoes a transition, this presents a great opportunity for AboitizPower. 

With a presence in more than 10 countries across the globe, JERA’s international footprint provides AboitizPower with further opportunities for collaboration and new market entry.

Rubio shared that this partnership with JERA will result in a more future-ready organization with access to new perspectives, capabilities, and a global network. 

“Through this partnership, we hope to build on our 10-year plan, where we aim to reduce the carbon intensity of our business. We intend to explore new pathways toward decarbonization that will complement our renewable energy growth plan and our nature-based carbon sequestration program,” said Rubio.

AboitizPower earlier announced its 10-year growth ambition, where it aims to exponentially increase its Cleanergy capacity to 4,600 MW to achieve a 50:50 balance between its renewable and thermal portfolios. The company’s top executive pointed out that its “partnership with JERA will be a key enabler in this journey.”

Both parties have already identified potential areas for collaboration across multiple fronts including joint development of LNG-to-power projects, LNG fuel sourcing and management, potential participation in aspects of plant operations and maintenance, as well as the exploration of the use of new generation technologies.

Rubio assured that there will be no management changes resulting from the partnership, but rather a “greater diversity of perspective at the board and enhanced governance.”

“We are optimistic that our partnership will bring about positive change not only for our organizations but, ultimately, for the customers and communities we serve,” Rubio said.

TEACHER! TEACHER! MAY I GO OUT?

by Joseph Regalado Tambio

This is probably the most famous question that every student has ever asked. Truth maybe told, it has sometimes been a point of humour and even mocked as an excuse for one reason or another. But this is voice echoing the real essence of an educational reform, a call more than a question and a cry more than simple request…to be free from traditional and old-fashioned teaching.

Although it is not something new, Outcome Based Education (OBE) has become subject of many learning institutions and tried to adopt and implement in their curriculum. In 2014, the Commission on Higher Education came out with the guidelines for OBE and has since then become subject for change and revision of existing curricular designs. 

When do we say a student has actually achieved the objective of a particular course? Will it be based on the mark and numerical grades given by the teacher or as they would always say, “hindi ako ang gumagawa ng grade, taga-compute lang ako” (I don’t make the grade, I just compute). Following the same line of thought, it gives a better understanding of OBE. That indeed, education is based on what the student can do and not just on what can be computed. Sadly, we have been misled the irony that a student may achieve 100% in the course of learning but at the same time confronted by the premise that nobody is perfect. OBE then is more than the numeracy of grading and evaluating output. It is rather a paradigmatic change which calls for transformation of perspective and approach to teaching as not just a transfer of learning but rather the realization of the educational objectives scaffolded of course by standards and logical parameters. 

Where are we in terms of assessing the learners academic achievement? Has the Philippine educational system been able to go along with the demands and standards of the international arena or remains traditional giving emphasis on skills and competencies which are rather irrelevant and unnecessary in the current century?

OBE challenges the time-honoured teaching approaches and pedagogies by transcending the paradigm of education. Learning is never a one-size-fit all approach but sadly, this has been the case as long as I can remember. Students inside the classroom are discriminated based on their academic status, or most apt term is they are measured based on their intelligence excluding other facets of learning. On the wall of many classrooms is the coveted TOP OF THE CLASS. Sometimes this feudal award was even the cause of many disputes and animosities among parents. 

This is very unfortunate because many if not all teachers were taught of the different theories of learning and levels of intelligence. They may have the mastery of these tenets but never put such essential in actual classroom setting. Now we ask a resounding why? What keeps them from not being able to carry on with the more pragmatic way of teaching which gives way to education that gravitates on outcomes with broader scope rather than focusing on the report card as the sole basis of scholastic success. 

OBE proposes what it calls as “Power” principles namely: Clarity of Focus, Expanded Opportunity, High Expectations and Design Down. These principles will hopefully help educators to set a clearer goal for not just for their own key performance but more importantly for the learners. Educators are given a way to re-think and undo some of the feudal practices. Outcome is now targeted using the correct lens and arrows posing a higher chance of success which OBE believes to be possible for ALL learners and not just of the academically competent. 

On a bigger scale, there remains to be many unresolved challenges which many teachers probably more for those in the public schools with regard to implementation of curriculum vis-à-vis realities of daily classroom experiences. Without prejudice to the teachers’ expertise and professional qualifications, most teachers are still zealous in doing their mission, to educate and bring about transformation and hope to their students. But more often than not, they are not able to fully function and adapt because they are limited, disabled by incongruent circular, wordy memoranda, orders, and some generic guidelines from responsible or rather controlling department of the Philippine government. 

Practically, every classroom has door for students to enter and daily they are challenged to learn, be moulded and transformed by the carefully crafted lessons of teachers. Aided by various innovative and arousing techniques and pedagogical approaches, all subjects are taught with the objective of transferring knowledge to students. Everyday is a tag of war between attaining the desired outcome or completion of the lesson plan notwithstanding the student’s potential. May all educators provide them with every opportunity to succeed, make them understand that it is in making mistakes that they can be perfectly normal for 100% is just an illusion so focus on the reality that they are unique and success can never be defined by grades. 

With OBE, we answer the title of this article. Let us allow our students to be critical in their learning journey and tell them…YES, you may go out!

KAWALAN NG KREDIBILIDAD NG MGA ULAT SA COVID 19, BINABATIKOS

ni Atty. Batas Mauricio 

INSPIRASYON SA BUHAY: “… `ang salita mo ang katotohanan’…” (ang pahayag ni Jesus sa Juan 17:17, Ang Tanging Daan Bibliya).

-ooo-

MGA DALUBHASA SA COVID 19, NAGTATALO-TALO KUNG BUMABABA NA NGA BA ANG BILANG NG MGA NAHAHAWA NG VIRUS: Nababalot ngayon sa matinding pagtatalo-talo ang mga dalubhasa sa COVID 19 sa Pilipinas sa isyu ng sinasabing patuloy na pagbaba ng bilang ng mga nahahawa ng nasabing virus at ng kaniyang Delta variant, kasama na ang iba’t-iba pang mga uri nito na nakakahawa at nakakamatay.

Sa pangunguna ng Department of Health, ng Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases, at ng OCTA Research Group, sinasabi ng isang grupo na nakikita na ang tuloy-tuloy na pagbaba ng infection rate ng COVID 19.

Ayon naman sa isa pang grupo ng mga dalubhasa, ipinapakita ng pandaigdigang impormasyon sa COVID 19 na hindi bumababa kundi sumasargo o dumadami pang muli ang nahahawa.

Sa ulat ng OCTA noong umaga ng Oktubre 21, 2021, bumababa na ng husto ang mga nahahawa ng COVID 19, at nakikita na diumano na babalik na ang dating regular na bilang ng pagdami ng tinatamaan ng infection ng virus sa mga huling araw ng buwan ng Oktubre.

Sa ulat ng mb.com.ph, ang online version ng pahayagang Manila Bulletin, nakatampok doon ang pahayag ni OCTA fellow Dr. Guido David na sa nakaraang pitong araw, nasa halos 6,000 katao na lamang ang mga nahahawa sa virus.

-ooo-

PANDAIGDIGANG TREND SA COVID 19 AY NAGPAPAKITANG DUMADAMI PA DIN ANG TINATAMAAN NG VIRUS: “Cases are expected to decrease to pre-delta surge level by end of October. Current 7-day average in PH is 6416 and 1156 in the NCR. Reproduction number in PH is 0.55 and 0.47 in the NCR,” dagdag ni Dr. David sa kaniyang Tweeter account na @iamguidodavid.

Sa kabilang dako, batay naman sa mga ulat na nagmumula sa mga international news agencies gaya ng pahayagang The Independent, lumilitaw na dumagsa na naman ang bilang ng mga mamamayan doon na nahahawa ng COVID 19 araw-araw.

Ngayon, ayon sa The Independent, hindi na bumababa ang bilang sa 50,000 katao ang nagkaka-COVID 19, bagamat ang marami sa mga nagkakasakit na ito ay di na nagpapa-admit muna sa mga ospital.

Nababahala na din ang mga autoridad sa gobyerno doon dahil sa pagdami na naman ng mga namamatay araw-araw dahil sa COVID 19, na inaasahang lolobo sa hindi bababa sa 100,000 katao araw-araw.

Isinisisi ng mga authoridad sa London ang muling paglala ng COVID 19 infections doon sa pagbubukas ng mga eskuwelahan kung saan face to face, o pumapasok sa classrooms, na naman ang estilo ng pag-aaral ng mga kabataan.

-ooo-

KAWALAN NG KREDIBILIDAD NG MGA ULAT SA COVID SA PILIPINAS, BINABATIKOS: Isinisisi din ng marami sa nasabing bansa ang pagdami ng mga nahahawa sa kasalukuyan sa pagluluwag na ipinatupad ng pamahalaan matapos bumaba ang bilang ng mga nahahawa noong Marso.

Batay sa obserbasyon ng marami, madaling nakakalimot ang mga tao na bagamat binawi ang mga limistasyon upang maiwasan ang COVID 19, nananatili pa din ang virus sa kapaligiran at hindi nawawala ang bisa nito na maminsala at makapatay ng mga biktima.

Sa Pilipinas, marami ang sumisilip sa katapatan o katotohanan ng mga bilang ng mga nahahawa o namamatay sa COVID 19 na iniuulat ng DOH at ng iba pang ahensiya ng pamahalaan.

Bunga ito ng madalas na pabago-bago at papalit-palit na datos ng nasabing mga ahensiya, at ng hindi pag-uulat, sinasadya man o hindi, ng mga datos na nagmumula sa ilang mga COVID treatment centers o hospitals.

Nagiging isyu din ang pananaw ng iba na may mga “lihim” sa mga pag-uulat sa COVID sa bansa, na dahilan upang magkaroon ng kamalayan ang maraming Pilipino na pagdudahan o di kaya ay lantarang hindi na paniniwala sa mga iniuulat na bilang ng DOH at ng gobyerno.

-ooo-

MANOOD, MAKINIG: Kakampi Mo Ang Batas, www.facebook.com/attybatas, www.facebook.com/radyopilipino, YouTube.com/kakampimoangbatas, Radyo Pilipino stations nationwide, at mga affiliated radio stations ng Kiss FM network, Sunrise News network, PowerNews Broadcasting Network, 95.5. J FM network.

COMMUNAL WATER AND LAKE SEEDING, ISINAGAWA SA SAN PABLO CITY

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna - Pinangunahan ni Gob. Ramil L. Hernandez ang ginanap na Communal Water and Lake Seeding kung saan nagbigay ang pamahalaang panlalawigan ng 30,000 tilapia fingerlings para sa mga mangingisda ng Bantay Lawa ng Mohicap Lake, Brgy. San Buenaventura sa lungsod na ito nitong Oktubre 20, 2021.

Ang mga programang katulad nito na sumusuporta sa kabuhayan ng mangingisdang Lagunense, kasama na ang mga programang para sa edukasyon, tulong sa nangangailangan, at iba pa, ay patuloy na ginagawa at pinaglalaanan ng pondo ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna para tunay na mapakinabangan ng bawat sektor ng lalawigan. 

Ani Gob. Hernandez, “Sa mga masisipag na mangingisda ng lalawigan, sa tulong-tulong nating pagsisikap ay makakaraos din tayo sa pandemyang ating kinakaharap.”

Nagpapasalamat ang Gobernador sa lahat ng mga tumulong sa programang ito, una na kay Vice Governor Atty. Karen Agapay na lagi ang suporta sa mga proyekto ng lalawigan at sa Field Agricultural Extension Services-Office of the Provincial Agriculturist na pinamumunuan ni Mr. Marlon Tobias. (PGL SocMed Team, photo by Jun Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

LAGUNA 3RD DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER ALEJANDRO “ABI” YU: 

SINCERITY AND HEART FOR THE PEOPLE

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

The true hallmark of a good leadership rests on the laurels of a better community that has been served by the people who sits on the threshold of power. Indeed, with great power comes great responsibility as the adage by Uncle Ben in Spider Man rings so true, even in this day and age most especially in this time where election season is just around the corner. Let us meet one of our public servants in the 3rd District of Laguna in the person of respected businessman and public servant Mr. Alejandro “Abi” Yu. 

Board Member Alejandro Abi Yu is currently the Majority Floor Leader of the Sangguniang Panglalawigan Council and also the Chairman of the Committee on Rules. “Napakarami pong tungkulin ng isang bokal, asahan ninyo po sa mga Bokal na gumawa ng batas at laging pumapasok sa session” said Hon. Abi Yu. When it comes to educational background, Board Member Abi Yu studied Master in Development Management and Governance at University of Makati and studied Master in Public Administration at Philippine College of Health Sciences. 

Asked about his advice to the youth in particular, “Sana alamin ninyo pong mabuti kung ano po ang maitutulong ng isang kandidato sa bayan. Ano ang track record at experience. Alamin ninyo pong mabuti ang pagkatao ng inyong ibobotong politiko. Naglingkod po tayo ng tama sa ating tungkulin bilang bokal. Sana po ay muli ninyo akong pagkatiwalaan” said Hon. Abi Yu. During the height of the Covid19 pandemic and even before it strike, Hon. Abi Yu gave nebulizers and medical assistance to those in need. He also joined the local government in giving aid to the people who are affected during the pandemic.

Hon. Board Member Abi Yu is on his way to a third term as Board member of Laguna’s 3rd District. He is also a former three-termer San Pablo Councilor and during his term as a City Councilor, he became the President of the League of Councilors in Laguna not just once but twice and also became a chairman in the entire Calabarzon area. 

Transparency, genuine and sincere service to his constituency, and above all, fear of God Almighty is the mantra of the good Board Member of the 3rd District of Laguna Honorable Alejandro Abi Yu. For more information regarding BM Abi Yu, you can visit his face book page at Abi Yu https://www.facebook.com/Abi-Yu-103951125375332

LETRAN KNIGHTS CAGER KYLE TOLENTINO: SPORTS AND PUBLIC SERVICE 

Being a basketball player playing for the NCAA and the son of a City Councilor and basketball coach, the expectations for a young lad are genuinely there. That is why by no means, this heartthrob athlete from Letran Knights is doing his best to meet everyone’s expectations with his stature. Such is the case of this up and coming talent from Letran Knights team, Filipino-American Kyle Dominic Tolentino. 

Born Kyle Dominic P. Tolentino on September 25, 2001 in New York, USA to Marikina City Councilor Mr. Elvis Tolentino and Ms. Aileen Tolentino, the 6-foot-2 cager is currently playing for Colegio de San Juan de Letran as a grade 12 student. In the previous typhoons that devastated the country that caused floods particularly in their place in Marikina, Kyle was one of the persons who took the frontlines for donations and had helped in relief operations in their community even in this time of pandemic. 

In the world of basketball, Kyle is also someone who can deliver for the team when it matters. In the Manila Elite Basketball League, he was awarded as player of the game when he scored 20 points coupled with 2 rebounds and 1 assist to help beat Titan Angels. Kyle’s idols in the PBA and NBA are Paul Lee and Golden State Warriors’ Klay Thompson. Asked on how he balances studies and the sports, “Time management is always the key”, said Kyle. His career high in points is 39 in Marist Basketball League.

“My favorite shot is 3-points because I’m confident with it”, added Kyle. Aside from basketball, he is also fond of watching movies. His ambition in life is to become a PBA player in the near future. With determination to succeed and a heart for public service, this young lad will go a long way. 

Email the author at: paolomanuelfule@yahoo.com

PAALAALA SA MGA SENIOR CITIZEN

ni Ruben E. Taningco

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna--Nagpapaalaala si G. Efren B. Azusano, Head of the Office of the Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA) ng City Government of San Pablo sa lahat ng mga senior citizen sa lunsod na tiyaking maayos pa ang kalalagayan ng kanilang Senior Citizen’s Identification Card; at ang mga umabot na sa gulang na 60 taon na wala pang ID ay mangyari lamang magsadya sa OSCA Office sa Groundfloor ng Old City Hall Building para sila ay mapagkalooban ng naaayon sa mga umiiral na batas at alituntunin ukol dito.

Ito ay upang matiyak na bilang mga nakatatandang mamamayan ng lunsod, sila ay makakapagtamo ng 20% diskwento sa pagbili ng mga pangunahing pangangailangan, lalo na ng gamot at groserya na bahagi ng pagkain ng mga matatanda.

Ang mga may Senior Citizen’s ID ay may 20% diskwento sa pagbabayad sa mga food chain at restoran, sa mga otel, at sa transportasyon, kasama na ang pagsakay sa eroplano at barko. 20% rin ang diskwento sa pagbabayad sa serbisyo ng mga manggagamot at sa bayarin sa mga medical laboratory.

Upang matamo ang 20% diskwento sa pagbili ng gamot sa botika, nabanggit ni OSCA Head Efren B. Azusano na kumuha sa kanilang tanggapan ng Senior Citizen Purchase Slip Booklet na may control number at panahon na ito ay dapat kilalanin. Samantala para sa 5% diskwento sa grocery items, ang hihilingin sa kanilang tanggapan ay ang Senior Citizen Commodities Purchase Slip Booklet na mayroon din kanyang control number and period covered.

Ang Office of Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA) ay nasa groundfloor ng Old City Hall Building, na ang pasukan ay ang pintong paharap sa 8-Storey Building.

Konek2card Ramps Up Campaign To Advance Digital Financial Inclusion In The Country

To achieve its goal of bringing digital banking services to 3.5 million clients by June 2022, konek2CARD of the CARD MRI Banking Group launches several campaigns starting the fourth quarter of 2021.

konek2CARD, a mobile banking application that allows CARD MRI clients to do their banking transactions safely and more conveniently at home, first achieved its milestone on June 28, 2021, when it reached one million konek2CARD registrations. Now, it aims to achieve 3.5 million registered users by the end of the year. 

“For the final quarter of 2021, konek2CARD’s push for increasing our users is fueled by our goal of bringing safer transaction options for our clients. With different variants of COVID-19 emerging in the country, we want to improve our service delivery for our clients and bring our financial services at the palm of their hands,” CARD SME Bank President and CEO and konek2CARD Champion Cynthia B. Baldeo shared as to why konek2CARD strives to increase its users before the year ends. 

Specifically, the organization aims to lessen their clients’ inconvenience when it comes to doing their financial transactions by encouraging konek2CARD agent-mediated transactions instead of heading to CARD’s offices and Branch-Lite Units. These konek2CARD agents are accredited by CARD MRI and can be found within the clients’ communities. 

Another part of the improvement of CARD’s digital financial transactions is the launching and campaigning of konek2CARD Plus or kPlus. This improved version of konek2CARD allows the clients of CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), CARD Bank, CARD SME Bank, and CARD MRI RIZAL BANK to use a single mobile banking application to simplify transactions. 

Identifying specific targets

Although accessible nationwide, konek2CARD still needs to widen its reach in some parts of the country to bring its services closer to its clients; thus, CARD MRI has identified specific locations on which they plan to campaign and encourage the use of konek2CARD. These are Baguio, La Union, Candon, Vigan, Laoag, Aparri, Bicol, and Cebu. 

Programs and Awards

To entice its clients to use konek2CARD for safer transactions, konek2CARD launched several campaigns and contests that will last until December 2021.

konek2CARD will recognize its top performing agents monthly and quarterly. The contest will run from September to November 2021.

For centers, the “Center Level App Challenge” encourages 100% of its members to use konek2CARD. The first 14 centers per institution to reach 100% konek2CARD membership will receive cash prizes and limited-edition items from their respective institutions. Account Officers handling top performing centers will also receive prizes. Centers may race to 100% konek2CARD center membership until December 2021.

As frontrunners of konek2CARD’s campaign, konek2CARD Agents are given recognition in the “Flex your konek2CARD Agent and Win” contest. In this, clients will post a selfie with their konek2CARD Agents after having their transactions. Each selfie will count as a raffle entry in the weekly raffle, and winners will get PhP300 worth of load. The campaign will end on October 15, 2021

Meanwhile, konek2CARD also makes sure that clients will get to experience transacting using the mobile banking application with “Level App your Savings and WIN” contest. In this, selected financial transactions done by a client will serve as a raffle entry to win PhP300 worth of cashback. Draw date will be on October 11, 2021, via Zoom.

Bigger Picture

CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito weighs in on the impact of konek2CARD in the lives of CARD MRI’s clients. “Based on the interactions and response of our clients in our social media pages and even on the field with our Account Officers and konek2CARD Agents, we can definitely say that our innovation is well-received among our clients. There will always be technical difficulties and confusion on technology, but with our well-trained and knowledgeable staff and agents, as well as our various campaigns, I am sure that konek2CARD will reach more clients and be of help to them for the years to come,” he said.

CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip sees the goal of having 3.5 million konek2CARD registered users as another step towards the organization’s goal of financial inclusivity and poverty eradication. “The goal of reaching 3.5 million konek2CARD users is just a portion of what we truly aim, which is having more than 20 million members served after 10 years. CARD MRI truly believes that through innovation and technology, we can lift the lives of the Filipinos, especially during the pandemic,” Dr. Alip said on how innovation paves the path of a better tomorrow for the country.

CARD MRI follows the 10-20-80 strategic direction that aims to have 20 million members and 80 million insured individuals within 10 years. The path of digital transformation, including konek2CARD, is CARD MRI’s way of making financial products and services available and affordable to the public. For more information about konek2CARD, visit their official Facebook page @konek2CARDOfficial.

PNP LEGAL SERVICE CELEBRATES 29TH FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY

By: Roselle Aquino

Camp Vicente Lim, Calamba City – The PHP Legal Service (LS) celebrated their 29th founding anniversary in a simple rite.

The celebration focused on tier theme “PNP Legal Service in the face of the pandemic: Unfalteringly upholding the rule of law and the best interest of the police organization”.

The Chief PNP himself, General Guillermo Eleazar was the guest of honor and speaker where he awarded medals to deserving members of the service.

Brig General George Almaden, Director of the Legal Service assisted Eleazar in giving out awards to their deserving personnel and units.

Among them are Regional Legal Office 3 as Best Regional Office. Regional office Calabarzon earned the second best.

Lt Col Emely Trinidad of Regional Office Calabarzon was awarded as the Best Provincial Legal Officer and one of the “Lawyers with successful DLR Cases. 

Trinidad was accorded such honors for her commitment to excellence in carrying out the mandate of the PNP Legal Service by providing legal services to Laguna Provincial Police Office, RLO4A and its personnel.

DILG DIRECTS LGUS, PNP TO STRICTLY 

IMPLEMENT ANTI-COVID POLL ACTIVITIES

As the campaign period is set to start on February 8 for national candidates and on March 25 for local candidates, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today urged local government units (LGUs) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to strictly implement and/or enforce the allowable and prohibited election-related activities per alert level in their area of jurisdiction pursuant to Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution 10732 to stop the spread of Covid-19.

DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año said LGUs and the PNP must be on top of ensuring that minimum public health standards (MPHS) are enforced depending on the alert level during in-person campaigns, rallies, caucuses, meetings and conventions; motorcades and caravans; and miting de avance.

“Sisiguraduhin po nating tumutupad ang mga LGU sa Comelec Resolution 10732 bilang pagtitiyak na magiging ligtas ang ating mga kababayan sa panahon ng kampanya. We are facing a much transmissible variant kaya naman hindi tayo dapat magpabaya maging ngayong panahon ng halalan,” Año said.

“Una pa din ang kalusugan at kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan kaya mariing ipinapaalala ng DILG ang pagsunod ng LGUs at PNP sa mga panuntunan ng COMELEC,” he added.

Comelec issued Resolution 10732 dated November 24, 2021 outlining the guidelines for the conduct of 2022 Election-related activities amid the new normal and the continuous threat of COVID-19’s Omicron variant.

In an advisory released recently, the DILG Chief likewise said LGUs must adopt necessary measures and strategies to comply with the Comelec Resolution; streamline existing LGU policies with the issuance; and, ensure observance of the guidelines’ entirety within their locality.

“The 2022 Election is a very important event for the country but we must take into consideration that we are still currently battling an enemy that thrives in gatherings. We expect LGUs and the PNP to strictly enforce the poll guidelines,” Año said.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is also called to maintain order and security and to impose strict observance of MPHS during any election-related campaigns in coordination with the barangay officials, tanods, and the Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams.

“Kailangang pagalawin ng mga LGU ang lahat ng kanilang law enforcement units upang tiyakin na magiging ligtas at malayo sa COVID-19 ang mga makikiisa nating kababayan sa mga kampanyang ito,” Año said.

He further pushed for impartiality and nudged the LGUs and the Municipal or City Comelec Campaign Committee (M/CCCC)M/CCCC to stay the course of public service and avoid politics in granting campaign permits to both national and local candidates alike.

“To the LGUs and M/CCCC, please avoid partiality and bias in granting approval for these campaign activities. Unahin po natin ang kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan bago ang pamumulitika,” Año said.

Prohibited activities during campaign period

DILG Secretary Año said that Comelec Resolution 10732 states specific conditions and allowable campaign activities that LGUs and M/CCCC must implement "to safeguard both the citizens and candidates alike" during the campaign period.

"Depending on the Alert Level, kailangang maging mahigpit ang mga LGU at M/CCCC sa pagpapatupad ng resolusyon ng Comelec," Año said.

The Comelec Resolution states that in-person campaigning is not allowed for Alert Levels 4 and 5 while candidates or campaign leaders must only be accompanied by maximum of five campaign support staff in Alert Level 2 and three for Alert Level 3. For Alert Level 1, there's no limit to the number of companions the candidates can have.

Also, for in-house cazzmpaigning, entering any private dwelling during house-to-house campaigning, even with the express permission of the homeowner; and, crowding, or allowing crowds that violate MPHS around the candidate and his or her companions are not allowed.

For caucuses, meetings, convention, rallies, and miting de avance, 70% of the operational capacity of the venue, whether indoor or outdoor is allowed for Alert Level 1; 50% of the operational capacity of the venue, whether indoor or outdoor for Level 2; 50% of the operational capacity of the venue for enclosed outdoor only for Level 3; 30% of the operational capacity of the venue for enclosed outdoors only for Level 4 while for Level 5, none among the gatherings mentioned are permitted.

During motorcades in all category levels, stopovers, layovers, and other similar stoppages for the conduct of other election campaign activities are likewise not permitted.

Meanwhile, in all Alert Levels, handshakes, hugs, kisses, going arm-in-arm, or any action that involves physical contact among the candidate, their companions, and the public; taking selfies, photographs and other similar activities that require close proximity between the candidate and their companions, and the public; and, distribution of food and drink, and all other goods or items are not allowed in all campaign activities mentioned.

CALABARZON PNP HAS NEW DIRECTOR

by Roselle R. Aquino

Camp Vicente Lim, Calamba City--Brig Gen Antonio Yarra took the helm of leadership as the newly installed Regional Director of Police Regional Office CALABARZON in a simple turn-over ceremony held this camp.

Presided over the Deputy Chief, PNP for Operations, Lt Gen Israel Ephraim Dickson, the office symbol, property, equipment inventory book, unit saber, unit color, and property pook were turned-over by the outgoing Regional Director, Brig Gen Eliseo Cruz accepted by the incoming director.

Delivering his message, Yarra acknowledged the achievements of his predecessors and the previous regional directors of PRO CALABARZON who have done the most of the thinking and instituted into the PNP system. “We don’t have to reinvent the wheel. What we should do is to improve on the actions they took to have better results,” he said.

Yarra briefly presented his 4A’s ideals to PRO CALABARZON personnel. “As we work together starting today, let us embody the ideals of the PNP. We will do that by developing Aptitude, by taking Action, by having the right Attitude, and by facing Accountability. Encourage the local government officials and the communities you serve to join us in our quest to having a safer CALABARZON through the 4A’s,” he explained.

Prior to his designation as the Regional Director, he spent almost one third of his police career in PRO CALABARZON. Yarra served as Chief Comptrollership in 2014, Quezon Police Provincial Director in 2016 and Deputy Regional Director for Administration in 2020. After his stint in PRO CALABARZON, he was assigned at NCRPO as Deputy Regional Director for Operations and Administration respectively. In April of 2021 he was designated as the District Director of Quezon City Police District.

In his closing message, he asked the entire CALABARZON police force to join him in the journey guided by the 4A’s while building the culture of service, honor, and justice. “As professional police officers, I believe that we all know what we ought to do. We should have the moral courage to stand for what is right and to uphold the rule of law,” he concluded.

Yarra is a member of PMA Class “Sambisig” of 1991. He replace, 

Cruz who is set to lead the Area Police Command, in Visayas as the Acting Deputy Commander.

SSS ADVISES MEMBERS AND PENSIONERS

TO GET PROTECTED FROM COVID-19

The Social Security System (SSS) reminds its members and pensioners to abide by the enhanced workplace safety systems following the nationwide surge of COVID-19 cases.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Aurora C. Ignacio stated that despite the pandemic, members still continue to visit SSS offices to file and follow up on their claims.

“Our desire is to continuously provide the benefits and services for our members. However, in order to do so, we must observe basic health precautionary measures as mandated by the government to ensure the safety of both members and SSS employees.” Ignacio said.

In this line, SSS enjoins it stakeholders to get protected from COVID-19 by adopting these following steps:

• Getting vaccinated,

• Wearing masks in public, especially in closed, crowded areas

• Practicing social distancing,

• Frequently washing our hands,

• Limiting travel,

• Avoid crowded areas,

• Transacting online,

• Isolate if with COVID-like symptoms, and

• Monitor daily health status.

Further, SSS enjoins its members, pensioners, employers, and the general public to continue using its online services when transacting with its offices and branches for faster, simpler, more efficient, and more convenient ways to avoid face-to-face interaction. Further information on the mandatory online transactions and other online services can be viewed through this link: http://bit.ly/expreSSS.

Transacting members and employers are also mandatorily required to create an account in order to transact and enjoy the online services at the My.SSS Portal through the SSS website www.sss.gov.ph or use the SSS Mobile App which is downloadable for free in Google Play Store, Apple App Store and Huawei App Gallery, or send inquiries through Text-SSS at 2600.

For more information, visit the uSSSapTayo Portal at https://crms.sss.gov.ph, follow the SSS on Facebook at “Philippine Social Security System - SSS,” Instagram and YouTube at “mysssph,” Twitter at “PHLSSS,” or join its Viber Community at “MYSSSPH Updates.”

EVACUATION CENTER AT COMMUNITY 

SUPPORT FACILITY BUILDING PARA SA RIZAL

ni Ruben E. Taningco

RIZAL, Laguna--Matapos malagdaan ang Memorandum of Agreement sap ag-itan ng pamunuan ng Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) at ng Municipal Government of Rizal noong nakaraang Biyernes ng umaga sa isang seremonyang ginanap sa bagong Municipal Hall, ay isinagawa na kaagad ang tradisyonal na “ground breaking ceremony” para sa pagtatayo ng isang Evacuation Center at isang Community Support Facility Building sa New Municipal Government Center  sa Barangay Pauli 2 sa bayang ito.

Ang Memorandum of Agreement na nilagdaan nina DHSUD Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario, DHSUD-Region IV-A Director Jann Roby R. Otero, at ilan pang matataas na opisyal sa panig ng Kagawaran ng Pananahanang Pangtao at Pagpapaunlad ng Kalunsuran, at nina Alkalde Vener P. Muñoz at Bise Alkalde Antonino A. Aurelio sa panig ng Pamahalaang Munisipal ng Rizal ay para sa pagkakaloob ng may kabuuang halagang Walumpung Milyong Piso (₱80,000,000.00)  na  mula sa Developer’s Incentivized Compliance sa ilalim ng Balai Filipino Program na pinangangasiwaan ng DHSUD upang gugulin sa pagtatayo ng dalawang gusali na nagkakahalaga ng ₱40,000,000.00 bawa’t isa.

Ayon kay Regional Director Jann Roby R. Otero, ang mga gusaling itatayo ay sunod sa makabagong disenyo sa layuning “to build safer and more structurally sound, dual-purpose evacuation centers that are hazard-adaptive and sensitive to the needs of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), women and children.”

ELECTRONIC LOS BAÑOS JEEPNEY (ELBEEP), 

PINASINAYAAN NG UPLB

Pinasinayaan ng University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) noong ika-31 ng Enero, ang Electric Los Baños Jeepney (eLBeep) na tutulong hindi lamang sa transportasyon ng mga mag-aaral kundi pati na rin sa kalikasan.

Sa pamamagitan ng eLBeep ay inaasahang mababawasan ang iba’t ibang uri ng polusyon tulad ng gas emission, air, at noise pollution na malaki ang epekto sa kalikasan. 

Ang UPLB ang kauna-unahang campus na magkakaroon ng electronic jeep bilang mode of transportation. Bukod sa eLBeep, target din ng pamunuan ng unibersidad na maging una sa pagkakaroon ng ebikes at electronic scooter upang makamit at mapanatiling Green Campus ang buong pamantasan.

Bilang bahagi ng programa, nagpasalamat ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Los Baños sa pangunguna ni Mayor Antonio Kalaw para sa panibagong proyekto na magbibigay rin ng tulong at benepisyo sa mga mamamayan ng Los Baños. (Maine Odong)

TECHNOLOGY-BASED PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT IN THE “NEW NORMAL"

by Cherry R. De Alday, Teacher - III

Dr. Panfilo Castro National High School, Candelaria, Quezon

Black and Wiliam in 1998 defined assessments broadly to include “all those activities undertaken by teachers, and by their students in assessing themselves, which provide information to be used as feedback to modify the teaching and learning activities in which they are engaged”. Activities may include classroom observation, class discussions, quizzes, homework, and tests. However, the design of outcome measures for instructional or learning interventions has become transformed as the promise of computer technology has begun to be realized.

The 20th century has given technology the way to alter the speed and location of assessment, in which the days of hand written records and paper copies of classroom’ assessments are quickly fading. In the “new normal educational set-up, teachers’ means of assessment can be done only in two ways: through written outputs of modular classes and a variety of technology tools available for online classes. Electronic response systems and softwares are all technology-based formative assessment tools that have the power to help each teacher effectively individualize instruction for all students. In some cases, blogs, chats, and Wikis used in the distance learning environment help teachers gain an understanding of what students know or don’t know. 

Now that face-to-face classes are still on hold, the department of education is utilizing technology-based programs and systems that provide teachers with formal and informal assessments to track student progress weekly or quarterly. These types of formative assessments help keep students on-track with achievement, while also providing opportunities for students to participate in engaging activities based upon abilities and needs. Using technology based formative assessments to individualize instruction aims to improve student achievement, to remediate before it’s too late, to track individual student growth and progress, and to achieve school improvement goals.

Technology-based performance assessment is evident among teachers’ part in which electronic records (E-class records) of students’ performance is recommended instead of the traditional class record. It has the same purpose of tracking students’ performances. It can be made available to students in case-to-case basis or whenever necessity arises. Confidentiality must always remain. 

Some teachers require students to have on-line submission of requirements in compliance with all their incomplete learning tasks and activities. However, the assessment result is not always visible upon acknowledgement of the tasks for some reasons. Thus, students still do not have the track of their accomplishments. One acceptable reason for this perhaps is for security purposes. Another consideration is the time required for a task to be completed. In most cases, submission of students online takes place on due dates or a day or two before the deadlines. When this happens, teachers don’t find ways to give feedback to students’ performance online. What is happening, comments and suggestions and even the assessment are given during virtual meetings and discussions. 

Additionally, technology-based performance assessment in the “new normal” can be present among students’ collaborative efforts in small group differentiated activities (SGDA) wherein they utilize innovations during their presentations. Interpretative dance of literature excerpt, instead of summarizing the texts, role playing and movie making instead of reading story, debate on a contemporary issue, instead of news reporting, and the like, in which all of these are expected to submit through video recording send through e-mails, messenger or the file saved in CD or USB flash drive. These kinds of performances are assessed having the highest percentage in the computation of their grades, thus the system calls it performance-based assessment. It is very apparent that students could acquire high grades if they will employ technology through innovations, either digital or non-digital. 

Looking back with those school days during face-to-face classes in the past, it made every student happy whenever an appraisal was given by the teachers such as “very good”, “job well-done”, “keep up the good work” and so on. For students, these were proofs of positive assessment on their part because application of technology during those times was not yet evident. A transfer of words from one teacher’s mouth to another made students feel good that they were admired by both teachers and other students. As a system practice, students would only know of their accomplishments during end of every quarter and of the school year. But now, through the advent of technology, the whole world could easily learn of students’ accomplishments, either digital through social media or non-digital such as printed and posted on tarpaulin or posters. That’s how amazing technology works! That’s how remarkable assessment of performance can be made through technology, formal or informal, it doesn’t matter anymore. What is important is to let the concerned be informed about his/her performance.

Negative reflections on what a technology-based performance assessment is cannot be avoided. Yet, there should also be a realization that for whatever new interventions, the objective is always on the benefits of the performers. Moreover, technology-based performance is a promising step towards our system realization of a globally competitive arena in education. If we could fully implement the beneficial effects of this assessment, then the whole system could easily address the needs of the learners in the best possible time. 

At present wherein the country is experiencing the greatest challenge in education brought about by pandemic, teachers as the main catalysts of change can either enjoy the full benefit of this type of assessment or can just remain in the comfort zone of their own horizon. 

"Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives—choice, not chance, and determines your destiny.” –Aristotle

COVID-19 PANDEMIC BROUGHT A GREAT IMPACT 

IN EDUCATION SYSTEM IN THE PHILIPPINES

by Jaymee R. Estrada

Santa Cruz Central Elementary School

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc across the globe affecting various sectors as it paved way for major changes and adjustments which we all must deal with. More than just a health crisis, it also resulted in an educational crisis as schools, universities, and colleges ceased its normal operation. 

Brought by the lack of physical contact and difficulties in communication, problems involving effective learning process and absorbing new information emerged. Responding to the needs of learners amidst the global crisis, the continuation of classes was implemented through several proactive approaches.  The shift to online learning is the most notable policy which facilitates student learning despite the closure of educational institutions.  While it seems to be the only feasibly way to continue learning, different groups and organizations opposed such alternative claiming that it is not ideal nor conducive. Problems involving internet connection and learning devices were raised as well since an alarming number of students do not have the capability to acquire such. 

Two years since the pandemic began, the Philippine Government is still struggling to balance the imperative of health and safety with its utmost duty to educate the youth. In fact, the Philippines is one of the few countries which haven’t re-opened its educational institutions yet. As the Chinese proverb goes, “Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.” But in the country where health protocols, mass vaccination, heightened social control and alternative learning were mandated, are the Filipino learners well-equipped for what’s next?

MANAGING HUMAN RESOURCES IN THE SCHOOL SETTING

By: Antonio E. Delos Santos

Teacher II, San Jose National High School

In Managing human resources, it is very important to know what the needs of the teachers are especially when it comes to giving and executing the proper trainings. This is also one aspect of management which is to search for a good training to its employees. When it comes to the various careers of Human Resources Specialties, Employee Development is one area that deserves a closer look. An important aspect of employee retention is the training and development of existing staff. 

For one, proper and efficient training enhance the skills of the teachers or the professionals to which better services can be expected with the proper amount of training and retention and enhancement of skills. We all know that skills are always enhances thru constant practice and reminders just like what an athlete does to his career that is why trainings are very important aspect of management. 

Providing the proper training often calls on creativity. Not all learnings should be achieved through the process of reading, memorization, and spitting of information. Good training allows for the trainee to learn a new skill by doing, and then by practicing. An example of this would be basketball to which a neophyte is learning a new skill set like assisting or rebounding. Constant practice and being able to compete with more experienced player will result into being a good player when the time comes that he has developed the said skills. 

Planning and organizing are key concepts to providing great training.  First and foremost is knowing your material and resources. But once that has been taken cared of in consideration, planning and organization come next in line. The trainings may focus on delivering better performance in the current role or to overcome future changes in the organization. Overall, these skills trainings can be of great help individually and also to the organization as a whole in moving forward to achieve its goals. If we want our school to improve, we must invest on the school leaders, educators and facilities so we can provide a better education for the future our nation.

ADVANCED PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION TRACES 

PRESENT EDUCATIONAL THOUGHTS TO THEIR ORIGINS

by Cherry R. De Alday, Teacher - III

Dr. Panfilo Castro National High School, Candelaria, Quezon

Dr. Jose Rizal once said, “No one can move forward without tracing the history of the past”. This is true in the present set up of educational system in the country. Even before in the past, there were already many great philosophers who had discovered and identified different philosophies in which the purpose was to improve the quality of education. From the oldest philosophies, which were believed to be the parents of all educational philosophies, the Perennialism of Mortimer Adler and Robert Maynard Hutchins and the Essentialism of William Bagley and E.D. Hirsch, borne the other educational philosophies purposively putting into realization the academic mission of the education: to provide learnings among our students. 

Philosophy of Education by its definition is a set of related beliefs that influences what and how students are taught. This alone supports that there is really a need for teachers to trace the origins of educational thoughts so it could be related to the present. By tracing the different beliefs of the famous educational philosophers which had been applied already in transferring learnings to students, one may be able to identify which had been effective that will help in doing the most appropriate actions in achieving the educational goals and objectives in the country. Tracing the origins of the different educational thoughts is a guidance to make the necessary changes and adjustments that will address any existing problems in enhancing the country’s present educational situations. 

In relation to this, the study of Advanced Philosophy of Education aside from exposing the teachers to the wide spectrum of educational thoughts also enables them to realize the importance of tracing the origins of educational thoughts in conceptualizing new educational views that will be beneficial for both the system and the recipients. Realizing what makes an original educational thought a success or failure leads to the discovery of new educational theories that will cater the needs of the learners from any generations. Changes are always expected to happen, especially in the country’s educational system, but as the primary catalyst of these changes, teachers are deemed necessary to continue on discovering thoughts and formulating theories to provide the learners of what they are entitled to achieve from education. Teachers should always uphold that the past is a good basis for conceptualizing what is better for the present to create the best in the future. They should never forget that ORIGIN is the beginning of what we are now and what we have become and as individuals imbued with knowledge of educational thoughts at different times and places, they can make changes to make this knowledge a great help to the PRESENT.

NETFLIX SERIES APOCALYPTIC THRILLER “ALL OF US ARE DEAD” HAS 

HIGH-OCTANE ENTERTAINMENT, TACKLES TEEN & SOCIAL ISSUES

by Paolo Manuel C. Fule

The Korean apocalyptic hit zombie series in Netflix is currently trending atop the streaming giant worldwide as it also mesmerized K-Pop fans around the world including here in the Philippines. The series started on January 28 of this year and was touted to be the next smash hit on tv after the phenomenal ‘Squid Game’ that also happened to be a Korean series. True to the hype, this oeuvre is worth watching. First, it is highly entertaining and each cut to end the series is really worth going on to the next because of its suspended endings each episode. Secondly, this is a refreshing take on the zombie apocalypse genre as it is seen thru the lens of the teenagers’ point of view. Lastly, it tackles various social themes like how government reacts to such kind of emergencies and how the powerful and ordinary people respond to these situations. Moreover, it tackles teenager themes like bullying, high school love, teen pregnancies, and their place in society. 

It follows the story of a group of high school students in class 2-5 trapped at Hyosan High School during an outbreak of a zombie virus that came from an experiment in a science laboratory. The four lead characters were Cheong-san (Yoon Chan-young), his crush On-jo (Park Ji-hu), class president Nam-ra (Cho Yi-hyun), and popular school athlete Lee Su-hyeok (Park Solomon). 

I would like to tackle more on the issues regarding bullying and government emergency response in the context of the series and of today’s society as well. First is the bullying part. It is actually the cornerstone issue of the whole series as bully Gwi-nam (played by Yoo In-Soo) was one of the prime reasons why the Science teacher Lee Byeong-chan developed the virus in order for his son Jin-su to be strong for him to fight the school bullies after all efforts to expose the bullies are gone into waste.  Bullying has been tackled in schools pre pandemic and there had been seminars for teens about the issue. There has been the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 or RA 10627. 

This law finds applicability in school-related bullying, student to student bullying in particular, which covers those uttered in social media. “Bullying”, as defined, refers to any severe or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another student that has the effect of actually causing or placing the latter in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm or damage to his property; creating a hostile environment at school; infringing on the rights of another; or materially or substantially disrupting the education process. This kind of bullying was manifested in three students in the series, all of which had a major impact on the survival and some of the deaths of the main and supporting characters in the series. 

Those scenes that tackle bullying have their compelling moments that define the characters and sets the tone of the series. One thing I learned more about the issue is that there are more people who would not even talk about being bullied in school out of fear for their bullies, and the embarrassment they might get once they even exposed their predator bullies. This was evident to the son of the science teacher because he won’t even talk about it inside their home. This makes severe cases of bullying hard to see in the school setting because of this seemingly “unseen force” of silence among bullying victims. I hope that schools and other similar institutions be more proactive regarding sever cases of bullying among teenagers especially inside school premises. Although I know that there are programs in schools regarding this issue, I think we should empower and encourage victims of severe bullying to speak up and talk to proper psychologists or authorities regarding this issue.  

Email the author at: paolomanuelfule@yahoo.com

AIR WARFARE CENTER CONDUCTS 

OUTREACH PROGRAM IN LIPA CITY

The Air Warfare Center (AWC) unit of the Air Education, Training and Doctrine Command (AETDC) recently conducted an Outreach Program at Tahanan ng Mahal na Ina ng Guadalupe,’ Marauoy, Lipa City, Batangas.

Led by Maj Apple Gay L Medroso, Executive Officer, AWC personnel handed over food packs and financial assistance to Sister Marina and Sister Helen in support of the elderlies being cared of by the said nursing home.

According to Major Medroso, the Missionary Sisters of the Catechism manages the said institution with the primary mission of welcoming the abandoned and poor elderly women.

She also explained that the activity is part of their regular program for the communities and and the 20th Founding Anniversary celebration of AWC with the theme "AWC @ 20: Pagbibigay Halaga at Kaalaman sa Doktrina, Gabay  sa Paglilinang at Pag-unlad  sa Gitna ng Pandemya." (AETDC CMO)

A TREASURE NO ONE CAN TAKE AWAY

There are always two options ahead of us, either to quit or to move forward; but for Karen Reyes, a mother of three children, this is not the time to quit – not when her children’s education is on the line. 

Karen believes that education is a treasure no one can take away. This is her guiding force in making sure that her children, particularly her eldest son, Karl Rafael Reyes, receives his education the best possible way despite the pandemic. This is a treasure she would like her children to inherit from her. 

To achieve this, Karen took the role of being a konek2CARD Agent in CARD Bank Pili, Bula 2 Unit, Center Camay 5, while she sells kikiam, fishball, and siomai outside their home. Her husband, on the other hand, works in a sugar mill near their hometown in Camarines Sur. Together, they work hard to provide for the basic needs of their children. However, they admit that the amount they earn from their small business is not enough. 

Putting their trust in CARD Bank is the solution they came up with and is the best decision they made for their children. CARD Bank supports low-income families through the bank’s affordable loan products and services. Among these services include the Zero Dropout Program, a low-interest educational loan, exclusive for CARD clients with children in elementary, high school, and senior high school. At CARD Bank, clients may avail up to PhP 3,000 to help them with their children’s educational needs. 

Through this program, it became possible for Karen, not only to provide her eldest son’s school supplies but also his miscellaneous fees in school. More importantly, the Zero Dropout Program has sustained Karl Rafael’s education seven times since 2016, from when Karl Rafael is in Grade 1. 

Now, Karl Rafael is in Grade 5. With modular distance learning taking the place of face-to-face classes, being a mother and a teacher to her son is quite challenging for Karen. Fortunately, with the help of CARD Bank and the right people, including her in-laws who have continuously shared their Wi-Fi to support Karl Rafael’s online education, Karen knows that his son will achieve whatever it is that he dreams of in the future. 

With Karen’s sixth year at CARD Bank, she looks forward to availing of the institution’s educational loan program once again to support Karl Rafael until he reaches college. 

Since Karl Rafael is an achiever, a consistent honor student from Grades 1 to 4, Karen is even more optimistic that her son will achieve his dream of being a policeman in the future. Indeed, with the help of CARD Bank and its Zero Dropout Program, education is a treasure no one can take away from them.

Karl Rafael is one of the more than 58,000 beneficiaries of the Zero Dropout Program in Bicol as of September 2021. To know more about CARD Bank’s educational loan program, leave a message at CARD Bank’s official Facebook page, @CARDBankOfficial.

PSA LAGUNA TO CONDUCT 2022 MISSI AND 2022 PPS

The Philippine Statistics Authority will carry out the 2022 Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries (MISSI) and 2022 Producers Price Survey (PPS) this February 2022. 

The data to be collected for the 2022 MISSI are: employment, compensation value of production, sales, other income, and inventories of finished products, work-in-progress, raw materials; and capacity utilization rate. These data will provide government planners and policy makers including the private sectors with timely flash indicators on the performance of growth-oriented industries in the manufacturing sector. These will be used as inputs to monitor the business cycle of key manufacturing sectors of the economy.

The 2022 PPS on the other hand, will collect monthly producer price data of manufactured products produced by establishments in the manufacturing sector. The producer prices generated from the PPS is used in the generation and compilation of the monthly Producer Price Index (PPI) for the manufacturing sector. It measures yearly and monthly changes in the producer prices of key commodities in the manufacturing sector. It serves as a deflator in MISSI to derive indicators such as the Volume of production Index (VoPI) and Volume of Net Sales Index (VoNSI).

Selected regular employees of the PSA Laguna together with hired Statistical Researchers (SRs) will visit the sample manufacturing establishments to distribute the 2022 MISSI and 2022 PPS questionnaires. Sample establishments are located in City of San Pedro, City of Biñan, City of Sta. Rosa, City of Cabuyao and Calamba City. The sample establishments may also opt to use the soft copy of the questionnaires in excel format upon request. As to the number of sample establishments, PSA Laguna may have 126 sample establishments for each survey based on the 2021 MISSI and 2021 PPS.  

As a precautionary measures, involved PSA regular employees and SRs for these surveys will adhere to the health protocols and restrictions which are being implemented and observed by the sample establishments due to COVID-19 pandemic. 

Provincial Statistics Officer Magdalena T. Serqueña, is enjoining all sample establishments to support this undertaking of the PSA. She is also asking for support particularly from the economic zone managers and administrators to allow the door-to-door visit to sample establishments to meet up the possible contact person and to discuss with him briefly the survey objectives.

#SURESAFESASANJOSE AS SAN JOSE NHS 

PREPARES FOR FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES 

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

Department of Education Secretary Leonor Briones ordered the resumption and progressive expansion of limited face-to-face classes in areas under Alert level 2 upon the approval of President Rodrigo Duterte. The pilot testing of the limited face-to-face classes is being prepared in the Division of San Pablo City and one of the first two schools to adhere to the pilot testing here in San Pablo City Division is San Jose National High School.

Safe back to school in San Jose National High School #SureSafesaSanJose was ensured upon the leadership of its School Head Ms. Cristeta Uy, Principal III.

San Jose National High School has doubled its effort for the handwashing facilities, proper ventilation of classrooms to be used, made appropriate barriers for the safety of the students, ensuring social distancing of the students, body temperature check, alcohol and hand sanitizers were also properly placed, and isolation tents were built. These are just some of the things that San Jose National High School has prepared for the upcoming pilot testing of limited face to face classes.  

The San Jose NHS promotions team also uploaded in its social media platforms the video infomercial showing the preparations of San Jose National High School for the upcoming face-to-face classes exhibiting the safe back to school features that SJNHS has to offer with the hashtag #SureSafesaSanJose as its return to school mantra. (Photo credits to Mr. Ronnel Lising, San Jose NHS teacher)

Mga batang edad 5-11 sa Santa Rosa, pwede 

nang magparehistro para sa Covid-19 vax

ni Fredmoore Cavan

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Hinihikayat ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Santa Rosa ang mga magulang na ipa-rehistro ang kanilang mga anak sa Covid-19 vaccination program ng pamahalaan para sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 taong gulang.

Sa opisyal na pabatid ng pamahalaang lungsod, inihayag nito na maaaring iparehistro ang mga batang kabilang sa nasabing age group sa pamamagitan ng vaccination portal nito: https://www.santarosacity.ph/SCVT/.

Kabilang sa prayoridad na mabakunahan ang mga batang kabilang sa pediatric A3 o mga batang may comorbidities.

“Piliin lamang ang kategoryang pediatric A3 kung mayroong comorbidities ang bata o pediatric C kung walang sakit ang bata. Antabayanan lamang ang mga susunod pang anunsyo kung kailan sisimulan ang pagbabakuna para sa edad 5 hanggang 11,” pahayag ng pamahalaang lungsod sa kanilang Facebook post.

Inilunsad ang pre-registration para makakalap ng inisyal na datos sa bilang ng mga batang babakunahan sa lungsod habang naghihintay pa ng kaukulang guidelines mula sa Department of Health (DOH).

Noong Disyembre 23 ay inaprubahan ng Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ang paggamit ng mas mababang dosage ng bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech para sa pagbabakuna sa mas nakababatang miyembro ng pediatric population.

Ayon sa FDA, mahigit 90-porsiyento ang efficacy rate ang Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine habang banayad lamang ang mga adverse effects nito, batay sa mga isinagawang clinical trials.

Sa ngayon, tanging mga bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech at Moderna ang binigyan ng emergency use authorization ng FDA para sa pagbabakuna sa mga kabataang may edad 12 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sa pagpupulong ng National Task Force at Regional Task Force Against Covid-19 kamakailan, inihayag ni Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr., na planong simulan ng pamahalaan ang pagbabakuna sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 sa ikatlong linggo ng Enero, depende sa pagdating sa supply ng bakuna.

Sa ngayon, tuloy-tuloy ang isinasagawang pagbabakuna ng pamahalaang lungsod para sa mga residenteng kabilang sa adult population gayundin sa mga menor de edad na 11 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sinimulan na rin nito ang pagtuturok ng booster shots para sa mga indibidwal na mayroon nang kumpletong bakuna, bilang dagdag na proteksiyon laban sa iba’t ibang variants ng Covid-19. (PIA LAGUNA)

Alaminos treasurer: Buwis sa mejoras 

maagang bayaran o hulugan

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna–Hinihikayat ni Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz ang mga propetaryo o may-ari ng mga lupain at mga gusali sa bayang ito na maagang magbayad ng obligasyon nilang bayarang buwis upang makaiwas na malapatan ng multa o rekardo, at halip ay magtamo pa ng diskwento.

Malaki ang maitutulong ng maagang pagbabayad ng real estate taxes, sapagkat karagdagan sa bahagi ng munisipyo sa Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) na kaloob ng pangasiwaang pambansa, ang bahagi ng pangasiwaang lokal sa buwis sa mejoras ang pinagkukunan ng gugulin upang makapagpatayo ng mga impraistraktura, 

tulad ng mga gusaling pampaaralan, at pangkalusugan, gayon na rin sa paghahatid ng mga paglilingkod na panglipunan sa mga mamamayan. 

Sang-ayon kay Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz, na pag-alinsunod sa ipinahihintulot sa Section 251 ng Local Government Code of 1991 o Republic Act No. 7160, ang lahat ng magbabayad ng buwis sa lupa o pag-aaring di-natitinag (Real Estate Property Tax) para sa taong kasalukuyan, sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31, 2022 ay pagkakalooban ng diskwentong 10 porsyento.

Halimbawa, kung ang isang na matatagpuan sa Barangay San Agustin lote ay may bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00, na kasama na ang para sa Special Education Fund (SEF), ang babayaran lamang ay ₱4,500.00 o may diskwentong ₱500.00. Kung hindi naman mababayaran ang bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00 hanggang sa Marso 31, 2022, ito ay lalapatan ng multang 2% kada lalakarang buwan, kaya kung magbabayad sa Abril 16, 2022, ito ay lalapatan na ng multang 8% ng bayaring buwis o ang kabuuang babayaran ay ₱5,400.00.

Kung mamarapatin naman ang bayaring buwis ay bayaran sa paraang hulugan o tuwing ikatlong buwan, nagpapayo si Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz na mangyari lamang makipag-ugnayan sa Land Tax Division ng Municipal Treasurer’s Office na nasa Groundfloor ng Municipal Multi-Purpose Building bago matapos ang buwan ng Marso upang magawa ang paghahati ng bayarin sa apat, kung saan ang unang hulog o first instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31; ang ikalawang hulog o second instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Hunyo 30, ang ikatlong hulog o third instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Setyembre 30; at ang pang-apat na hulog o fourth instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Disyembre 31, 2022, ito ay pagkakalooban din ng 10% diskwento kung mababayan bago sumapit ang itinakdang petsa na dapat mabayaran.

Friends of 7 Lakes Foundation sets targets for 2022

The establishment of a floating garden, removal of debris left by the clearing of the shorelines of Sampaloc Lake, and promotion of the propagation of bamboos are some of the priority targets set by the Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF) for the year 2022. The targets were approved by the FSLF Board of Trustees (BOT) during its year-end meeting.

Held at the RX Garden Resort owned by Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia in Barangay San Gregorio, the BOT meeting also agreed to propose to the San Pablo City Government the creation of a Lakes Management Office, install information billboards at Sampalok Lake, and hold a youth environmental camp.

President Roberto Azores explained that the floating gardens or floating green filters (FGF) will consist of a network of floating indigenous plants found in the locality. The roots will host bacteria/microbes that will absorb pollutants, promote biodiversity within the FGF structures as these will attract birds, fish, insects and other wildlife species, and add aesthetic beauty to the lake waters. 

Noting the successful clearing of the Sampaloc Lake shores by the San Pablo City Government, FSLF Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon said the foundation will take the lead in a multi-sector effort to clean the debris that are still submerged under water so that the lake will be safe for water-based activities in the future. 

Trustee Romeo Race reported that last December 2021, the FSLF in cooperation with the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the San Pablo City Water District, conducted a training workshop on the propagation of bamboos. To sustain the effort, the FSLF will promote the planting of bamboos in San Pablo City. Bamboos produce oxygen and absorbs enormous volume of carbon dioxide. It serves as a protection against soil erosion.

Trustee Rolly Inciong said that the FSLF will propose to the City Government to create a Lakes Management Office, either under the City Environment and Natural Resources Office or the City Tourism Office, so that all development and conservation projects in the city’s seven lakes will have a focal office that will ensure integration of efforts. The proposed office will serve as local partner of the LLDA in managing the lakes.

Trustee Arvin Carandang added that the foundation will install information billboards at the Sampalok Lake area that will feature basic lake information so that tourists will learn about the lake, including its legend. Similar billboards will later be installed in the other lakes.

Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia and Environment Youth Leader Jedryc Romero announced that the FSLF will continue engaging the youths in environmental conservation through a face-to-face or online environment camp where best environmental practices will be shared and discussed with students.

Present during the year-end meeting were Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon, President Roberto Azores, Trustees Rolly Inciong, Dr. Elvie Galicia, Jose Reano, Sylvia Inciong, Ricky Tan, Arvin Carandang and Romy Race; and Members Cari Azores, Ambassador Romy Manalo, Jedryc Romero and Rissa Race.

Mga magsasaka ng Laguna, tumanggap ng tulong pinansiyal

STA. CRUZ, Laguna - Sa maayos na ugnayan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna na pinamumunuan ni Gob. Ramil Hernandez at ng Department of Agriculture (DA) IV- CALABARZON ay tagumpay na naipamahagi ang tulong pinansyal para sa mga magsasaka ng Laguna nitong ika-13 ng Enero 2022.

May kabuuang 1,410 magsasaka ng palay ang tumanggap ng P5,000 piso bawat isa: mula sa Pagsanjan (79), Lumban (203), Kalayaan (385), Cavinti (602) at Luisiana ( 141) na isinagawa sa panlalawigang kapitolyo sa Sta. Cruz. 

Ito ay sa ilalim ng programang Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) ng DA-4A, alinsunod sa Republic Act No. 11203 o ang “Rice Tariffication Law (RTL),” na nagpapataw ng taripa sa mga angkat na bigas.

Ang mga nakolektang taripa ay ilalaan sa ipinamamahaging tulong sa maliliit na magsasaka. Karagdagang kapital ito para sa pagtatanim ng palay kasabay ng pagtaas ng presyo ng pataba at iba pang gamit sa rice production. 

Katuwang sa pamamahaging ito ang Field Agriculture Extension Services kung saan sinunod ng lahat ang minimum health standard para sa maayos na distribyusyon ng nasabing tulong pinansyal. (Jonna S. Coroza, photo by Angel Bert Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

Chiz: Dropping mass testing, 

contact tracing a big mistake

Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero has lambasted the Department of Health (DOH) for tossing contact tracing and mass testing as part of its COVID-19 response strategy, saying these measures are necessary to isolate and treat people infected with the coronavirus and prevent the spread of the highly transmissible disease.

Escudero described this latest shift in DOH policy as “complete abdication and surrender,” and not a strategy in controlling the dizzying speed of Omicron spread across the country.

“What DOH is doing is not a ‘COVID-19 response strategy’ but a complete abdication and surrender,” said Escudero, who is running for Senate come May election. “It’s a strategy of ‘if you can’t beat them, join them.’”

“This is big mistake and a costly one,” Escudero warned.

The DOH, which is spearheading the government’s overall game plan to defeat COVID second year into the pandemic, said it will focus on community interventions rather than use Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test that is very useful to immediately detect, isolate and quarantine individuals who are positive with the coronavirus. Testing will be done for proper clinical management of high risk patients, community management, isolation and vaccination, it added.

The agency also said that contact tracing will take a back seat.

“Wala na ngang libreng mass testing, babawasan pa ang testing! Kawawa naman po tayo. I cannot fathom, much less understand, the logic behind this policy,” Escudero said, who recently called the attention of the DOH to make COVID testing accessible and affordable, if not free at all, to encourage more people to get tested following the spike in coronavirus infection.

“Again, after trillions of pesos in borrowings, they are still ‘cutting corners,’” he lamented.

Rivers, givers of life

by Rolando A. Inciong

The early human civilizations were established along the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq, Syria and Turkey; the Nile in Egypt; the Indus River in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan; and the Mekong River in China, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. All early civilizations prospered alongside rivers because of the availability of fresh water for daily activities, and fertile land for agriculture near those rivers.

Humans settle in places where there are rivers because rivers are the givers of the ingredients of life: water, food and income. Water from rivers sustains socio-economic development, including energy and food production. Rivers drain rainwater towards the seas and provide healthy ecosystems for many species of plants and animals.

Today, the United Nations estimate that around two billion people get their drinking water from rivers. Rivers provide income to many communities depending on them for their livelihoods such as fish culture. Many river systems are used for recreation and tourism, irrigation, industry and commerce. hydropower generation, and transporting people and goods

If living near a river is good, it also has a bad. Flooding is the most dangerous risk for riverside settlers and landowners. Flooding results in loss of lives, property damage, and expensive repairs and rehabilitation.

Today, rivers are among the much-abused bodies of water, most especially in the Asian continent. Irresponsible human activities such as garbage and chemical dumping, illegal human settlement, and many more, are the causes of river degradation.

Governments and citizens need to protect rivers to ensure clean source of drinking water and provide a safe place for tourism and recreation,. In San Pablo City, many community volunteers conduct river cleanups. The Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF), headed by Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon and President Roberto Azores, spearheads the promotion of rivers and lakes conservation. The FSLF is promoting the development of San Pablo as a city whose lakes, rivers, watersheds and the environment in general are protected, conserved and sustainably developed for the well-being of present and future generations. 

Here are some river trivia: Russia has 36 rivers, the most number in the world. The Vatican, which is classified as a country, has no river. The Congo River is the world's deepest river at 720 feet. It is also the second-longest river in Africa, approximately 4,700 kilometers in length. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippines has 421 river basins, 140 of them are heavily polluted and 50 are biologically dead. The longest rivers in the Philippines are Cagayan, 314 miles; Mindanao, 232 miles; Agusan, 217 miles; and Pulangi, 199 miles.

Guro Ako

Ni: Annabel I. De Rama

Bilang isang Guro

Tungkulin naming na magturo

Iba-iba man tayo ng kuro-kuro

Iisa ang namamayani sa Puso

Mapaglingkuran ang Bayang sinilangan

Mabigyang aliw ang Inang Bayan

Sa saliw mula sa tinig ng kabataan

Ay may nag-aalab na karunungan

Dumaan man ang unos ng kapalaran

Sanlibong pangarap man ay matabunan

Susubuking hamunin ang kinabukasan

Pilit aabutin tala ng kapayapaan

Sa araw-araw ay itatawid

Papel ng pagiging matuwid

Upang mga bata’y makamit

Tagumpay na kaakit-akit

Kung balat man ay kumupas

At kamay ay huminto sa pagkumpas

Aawitin pa rin ng buong pitangan

Ang koro ng pagiging Makabayan.

“Live to Teach” or “Teach to Live”?

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT– I

Recto Memorial National High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Life is a battle ground that offers a lot of challenges and opportunities to everyone. One among the opportunities is our profession that’s why it’s very necessary to choose the profession that will best fit you. However, there are times that though the best preparation has been made, some still failed realizing that such a profession is not what they like. However, those persons who found out to be in this situation have their own choices to either enjoy what they have or to feel forever regretful in their lives. 

Teaching may not be the dreamed profession of all teachers. However, due to some unexpected undertakings they had into, plus the age factor, most of them are obliged to prefer a course that would help them fulfill many responsibilities life has bestowed upon them. Security of tenure is one of the common reasons that pushed many to earn the Bachelor’s degree of Education. Age at early 30s, which is no longer within the limit of age qualification of neither any industries nor any companies, is another consideration. The notion of having a profession that would ensure to provide better future for the family especially for those who have children already, considering husband’s work as an ordinary worker, brings not a single doubt in taking the education course. This is a clear manifestation that many want the course because they want to live. Hypocrisy it is if no one from the teachers has ever said, “I teach to live”. 

Teaching in a public school undoubtedly is a secured profession. Aside from the continuous compensation as a government employee in whatever situation the country may be, the fear of immediate dismissal occupies a very little space in the teachers’ minds for as long as they are working and performing their duties and responsibilities. As a matter of fact, any offenses intentionally or unintentionally done shall undergo due process of law before any disciplinary actions be rendered. To some teachers, years of teaching could be for the sort of compliance and an embedded obligation of the profession and seeing all achievements they have earned, may it be sending their loved ones to school earning their degrees, putting up businesses, investing real properties and the like, everything proves that they teach to live.

People might say that teachers’ achievements are common life story of “rugs to riches”, though researches have proven that no teacher becomes rich in teaching. Yet for teachers, those accomplishments gained during the period wherein teaching becomes part of almost all their lives, these are investments earned because they live to teach. Teachers best achievement is when they have created better individuals to their fullest potentials equipped either with mental or emotional intellect and imbued with good values and high moral respect for others. It is an honor for them realizing that they have crafted individuals who became worthy of the community where they belong. No means of measurement can determine the amount of fulfillment teachers’ hearts could carry for every successful student they have crafted and for every waning individual they have rescued with the seeds of inspiration and hope that life has to go on. 

God’s plan may not be the teachers’ choice, but, God always has the purest intention for everyone and God’s purpose for teachers is, for them to “live to teach”. It would take a lot of time for many teachers to realize that they are chosen to live to teach but what matters most now is the opportunity granted upon them to teach their students the value and the beauty of appreciating life challenges by turning these into opportunities inspite of whatever situation it may be. At the moment in which globe is engulfed with fear and anxiety brought about by pandemic, the sincerest call of the teaching profession is right there infront of us… “Teachers, let us live to teach!”

Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin

ni Mary Jane R. Cadugo

Teacher III, Sinait National High School

Ilang dekada man ang nakalipas, hindi pa rin ibinabaon sa limot ang mga pamanang ating nakuha sa ating mga ninuno. Maging tradisyon, kultura, sining at panitikan man, tayo ay umaangat. Patunay na ang pamanang Pilipino ay hindi matutumbasan ng kahit na ano.

Bawat kaugalian, tradisyon o kultura ay talaga namang isinasabuhay ng mga mamamayang Pilipino. Partikular na sa pelikula o dula na palabas na aking napapanood at naririnig gaya na lamang ng "Ang Probinsyano" kung saan itinatampok ang ilan sa mga kaugaliang Pilipino --- pagiging palaban, may paninindigan, bayanihan, at hindi basta basta sumusuko sa hamon ng buhay.

Bawat pelikula na ating napapanood ay sumisimbolo ng bayanihan ng mga pinoy, pagiging masayahin sa anumang oras, pagkakaisa sa mga hamon, pagiging matatag ng pamilyang Pilipino, at ang pagiging maka-Diyos ng mamamayang Pilipino. Hindi rin mawawala ang mga talentong Pilipino na ipinapakitang gilas sa pelikula - maging aksiyon man o romans.

Tila ang pelikula at dula ang nagsilbing salamin ng pamanang Pilipino. Higit sa lahat naging instrumento ito upang mas makilala pa ng lahat ang tradisyon, kaugalian, sining at panitikan ng isang nayon. Naging daan din ito upang lalong manuot ang mga mensahe at aral na nais ipahiwatig ng isang palabas. Sadyang patunay ito kung bakit tinatangkilik ang sariling atin hindi lamang sa ating bansa bagkus sa buong daigdig.

Sa pamamayagpag ng mga pelikula at dula, naging tulay ito upang lumago pa at mahasa ito. Gamit ang sarilin nating wika, nagkaroon ng pangkakataon ang lahat upang kumonekta at ilabas ang talentong Pilipino. Sa bawat linyang kanilang binibitawan, sa bawat pagpapahayag ng kanilang damdamin at sa bawat luha at pawis na kanilang ibinubuwis - pusong wika ang kanilang naging sandata.

Higit ngang nakamamangha ang pamanang Pilipinong ating tinataglay. Patunay na ang lingguwistika at kultural na ugnayan ay sumasalamin sa mga pelikula at dulang Filiino. Buhat ng tayo'y sinakop ng mga dayuhan, naging bihasa tayo sa lahat ng larangan. Samakatuwid, naging daan ito upang lalo pa nating tangkilikin ang sariling atin.

Tanikala

ni Joselito I. Remolacio, 

Master Teacher I, Sinait National High School

Lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab…

Bawat pagtibok na puso’y, takot ang nadarama. Magmula magkapandemya hindi na mawari kung saan patungo ang pagbabagong kinakaharap natin sa kasalukuyan. Nasaan na na tanglaw na ating inaasam na makamit at muling masilayan? Tulog ba ang lahat ng ipagkait ng pandemya ang ating kalayaan? Nakalulungkot ngunit tila ang direksyon ng hanging banayad ay paliko na, gaya ng ating ekonomiya kung walang pagkakaisa, maghihingalo na. Isang tanikalang hindi makawala sa pandemya, ang istatistika’y nabahala.

Marahil ang ating kinasasadlakan ngayon ay mahirap at tanging impit na pag-iyak ang naghahari sa kadiliman. Marami itong pinsalang nadala sa lahat ng mamamayan, mga pangangatog ng tuhod sa tuwing malalaman na may nawala na namang buhay sa isang araw na pakikibaka sa buhay. Bunga nito, talamak ang nailunsad na patakaran, ang bawat galaw ay pinaghihigpitan. Higit sa lahat, ang mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nawalan ng kabuhayan, ang ekonomiya’y patuloy na bumabagsak, ang ayuda’y hindi na mahanap sa mga mata ng iba. Nagmistulang dilim ang kalangitan dulot ng kawalan ng pag-asa na muling mabuhay ang pagbabagong inaasam ng bawat madla.

Hindi maikakailang lubos na mahalaga ang ekonomiya sa ating pag-unlad. Ito ang nagiging tulay upang magkaisa ang lahat patungo sa paglaban sa hindi mawaksing pandemya. Datapuwa’t, ang ayudang ibinibigay ng gobyerno ay malaking bagay sa ibang tao, ang isang karampot na tulong na siyang magbibigay tanglaw sa lahat ng nangangailangan. Hindi ko tuloy maiwasang maghinagpis sa mga nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Kailan nga ba masusugpo itong krisis na ating hinaharap sa buong mundo? Kailan natin muling masasaksihan ang sikat ng araw na nagbibigay pag-asa sa lahat? Magkagayon, dapat na tayong magkaroon ng aksiyon upang tumugon sa pinsalang dulot ng pandemya sa ating ekonomiya.

Hindi lingid sa atin na sa anumang oras dilat ang mga mata, bukas ang mga tainga, at gising ang diwa sa lahat ng nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Hindi niyo ba naririnig ang kanilang mga hinaing? Hindi niyo ba nakikita ang pagod sa kanilang mga mata? Hindi niyo ba nararamdaman ang mga pasakit na kanilang dinadala? Mga takas nilang hikbi sa gabi na tahimik, nangangapa ng kamay na maaring mahawakan o makasagip sa kanila sa bingit ng paghihirap. Bawat gising natin ay panibagong araw ngunit bawat gising nila'y hatid ay panibagong pagod at butil na naman ng mga pawis.

Tulong! Tulong! Tulong! 

Sa tuwing maririnig ang mga katagang ito, kusang may kamay ang dadapo at yayakap ng mahigpit dito. Nakatutuwang malaman na kahit pandemya, bawat tao ay nagkakaisa. Na ang pakikisama’y dumadaloy sa katawan ng bawat isa. Kung minsan man ay nawawalan ng pag-asa ang lahat, ngunit ang isang salita na kababayan ay malaking dahilan upang magpatuloy sa laban. Nagmistula man tayong nakakulong sa isang tanikalang pinalibutan ng pandemya, ang ekonomiya man ay urong sulong sa ating bansa ngunt ang bayanihan ng bawat mamamayan ay kailanma’y hindi mapapantayan.

Kung ating pagninilayan, kung magkakaroon ng pagkakaisa ang lahat, ang ekonomiyang ating inaalagaan simula pa noong walang pandemya ay magiging isang liwanag ng pag-asa na siyang magbibigkis sa pagkakaiba ng bawat lahi. Ang pagsibol ng maluwalhating pakikisama tungo sa ibang aspeto ng ating buhay. Pagyayakapan, pangangamustahan, pagbibigay ng kaunting ayuda, pagiging inspirasyon ng isang tao upang lumaban sa buhay ay tunay ngang natatangi sa paglaban nating lahat sa pandemya.

Oo, mahirap ngang magkaroon ng maunlad na ekonomiya sapagkat hindi ito kusa na lamang yayabong. Tila ang ekonomiya ay isang butil na kailangan payabungin at bigyang halaga sa pamamagitan ng pagiging madisiplinang mamamayan, pagsunod sa mga alituntunin na ipinapatupad, at higit sa lahat pagkakaroon ng pagkakaisa sa kung paano bubukadkad ang rikit na tinatagong taglay at pag-ulad ng ating ekonomiya. Sa kabila nito, ang ating damdamin pa rin ay hindi maipaliwanag, magkahalong saya sa pagkakaisa at takot sa hindi masugpong pandemya. Aligaga, hindi mapalagay, sa kung ano pa ang dapat gawin, at mga tanong na paulit-ulit umiikot sa ating isipan na kailanman hindi mahanapan ng kasagutan. 

Kailan nga ba muling masasaksihan ang tanglaw sa gitna ng karimlan? Kailan nga ba muling aahon ang ekonomiya sa kanyang kinasasadlakan? Kailan nga ba masusugpo ang pandemya? Buksan natin ang ating mga mata, pakinggang maigi ang hinaing nila, bigyang pansin ang kapaligiran. Dapat tayong magbigayan ng lubid ng tulong, magkaroon ng kamay na aakay sa atin - at ito ay ang Panginoon. Siya ang ating tanglaw sa ating sariling mga tanikala na bunga ng pandemya. Siya ang nagbibigkis sa lahat at naniniwala ako na ang pagkakaisa at pakikisama ng mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nakamarka na sa kaibuturan nila simula ng tayo’y mamulat sa mundong ginagalawam. Kung kaya’t magkaisa at makisama hindi lang tungo sa pag-unlad ng ekonomiya bagkus huwag nating hayaan na manatili tayong nasa tanikala na lamang dulot ng pandemya.

CARD MRI ties up with Moreta Shipping Lines to aid Odette victims

In line with the donation drive of CARD MRI for the victims of Typhoon Odette, CARD MRI teamed up with Moreta Shipping Lines to deliver 14 boxes of in-kind goods to Talisay, Cebu on December 28, 2021.

To help those affected by the typhoon, several shipping lines offered free cargo shipping to transport donations from various groups and companies. Meeting the requirements for the in-kind donations on hand, CARD MRI tapped Moreta Shipping Lines to bring the donations on a port-to-port basis. Through the collaboration, in-kind donations were swiftly delivered to typhoon-hit communities in Cebu. 

From December 24 to 28, CARD MRI gathered donations composed of necessities such as food, clothing, and hygiene products. Cash donations were also accumulated during the drive, involving CARD MRI offices located at City Subdivision and M. Paulino St. in San Pablo City, Laguna.

“Besides our cash assistance through the different products of CARD MRI, being able to give essentials that families can immediately use, especially when almost everything was wiped out by Odette, is a step towards the immediate recovery of our fellowmen in Cebu. We hope that these items will be of use to the families,” CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito said on the initiatives taken by the organization.

Helping Hand

Besides the donation drive, CARD MRI started to receive monetary donations to help the victims starting December 22, 2021. Accumulating a total of PhP 2,452,814 as of January 12, 2022, the donations came from partner organizations and individuals of CARD MRI. 

“The destruction caused by Typhoon Odette is surely unfathomable, especially as a lot of lives are affected, but through the combined efforts of organizations and individuals extending their helping hand, we can holster up those affected to stand back up once again. We Filipinos are always ready to help those in need,” Dequito further said on the willingness of the Filipinos to help and the spirit of bayanihan.

CARD MRI, through CARD Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), is still accepting monetary donations for the victims of Typhoon Odette. For more information, message CARD Inc.’s official Facebook Page, @CARDIncOfficial.

Covid-19 Vaccination a Community Perspective: We All Play A Role

by: Jenny A. Capistrano

Lowland Integrated National High School

World Health Organization declared Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic and reiterated the call for countries to take immediate actions and scale up response to treat, detect and reduce transmission to save people's lives. 

According to Department of Health, Vaccines mimic the virus or bacteria that causes disease and triggers the body’s creation of antibodies. These antibodies will provide protection once a person is infected with the actual disease-causing virus or bacteria.

The Municipal Health Unit - Nagcarlan Rural Health Unit scheduled vaccination at the covered court of Barangay Manaol, Nagcarlan, Laguna on December 23, 2021.

RHU nurses together with the barangay health workers, and local government unit (LGU) worked together in the administration of covid-19 vaccine to the members of the community within Brgy. Manaol and nearby barangays. 

First dose of Moderna vaccine for ages 12-17 and Pfizer vaccine for adults ages 18-60 were given.

A grade 7 student of Lowland Integrated National High School, Jairus Nograda is one of the students who got vaccinated. He says, “I feel comfortable, safe and happy after my vaccination.” 

In addition, Midwife of Brgy. Manaol Mrs. Cheryl C. Marfil says, “No report of adverse effect due to covid-19 vaccine for ages 12-17.” 

Mrs. Marlene Coronacion, Leader of BHW believed that vaccination is important for face to face and compulsory for protection especially for younger people and to avoid worst effect. 

Furthermore, Mrs. Judith H. Esler, BHW of Brgy. Manaol remarks, “Vaccination is a protection against the virus.” 

BHW Mrs. Juanita Bibon believed that “The result of the vaccination is good and organized because of the cooperation of all the people involved.” 

Health and safety of the students and the community is the utmost concern of vaccination against covid-19. 

These action of the students, parents, community and health department will benefit with the healing of the world through vaccination by following the plan of WHO and DOH.

Teaching Mathematics thru innovative strategies

by Luningning Alcantara

Teacher II, San Jose National High School

Innovation is a portal towards the creation of something new. When there is innovation, progress and development are evident and the path in connection with advancement is not far-fetched. In this fast-paced world where technology abound and to the speed at which everything is at a quick pace, the call to innovate is almost a duty put in our hands as members of our community of educators. 

Innovation is a necessity for an individual or an organization. Because of innovation, the productivity of an organization improves over time. It also increases competitiveness and there is a fruitful competition for the enhancement of a project that will be beneficial for individuals in an organization. 

Some individuals and organizations are more innovative than others because of persistence and perseverance to attain excellence in our respective fields. When we are diligent in the things we do, there are no obstacles that cannot be overturned along the way. Indeed, we always find ways. There is always something to change for the better. There is always a challenge to accept and overcome. 

When we have the passion in our chosen field, the best comes out in all of us. Indeed, the strongest of storms prove the strength of our ship’s anchor. This is true to our searching for ways to create something new and innovate. There is always that passion burning in our hearts that spells the difference between mediocrity and creativity. 

One of our innovative teaching strategies is the Ethnomathematics comics making which is a fusion between the artistic merits of learners and their mathematical abilities to come up with varied comics while learning the applications of mathematics. It also uses localized materials within the vicinity of San Pablo City or Laguna and contextualize these materials to deepen the learner’s appreciation to our local culture while at the same time gaining not only knowledge in Math but also the enjoyment it brings when making a comics. 

ICT Assessment Approach: Digital Literacy

in Acquiring Test Result and Analysis

by Edna P. Cortez

Teacher III, Bagumbayan Elementary School

Teachers can benefit from ICT by storing and recording information about how students are developing understanding of new material, as well as taking on some of the role of assessing and providing feedback to students, allowing teachers to focus on other aspects of supporting learning.

Because of its adaptability and ability to foster relationships among students, ICT plays an important role in knowledge. The change-oriented approach believes in the change of ICT, has changed the tools, and has fundamentally changed the policies and educational goals. It can improve educational quality in a variety of ways, including increasing learner motivation and engagement, facilitating the acquisition of fundamental skills, and improving teacher training. ICTs are also transformational tools that, when used correctly, can promote the transition to a learner-centered environment.

Digital literacy entails comprehending and employing technology. We can use digital literacy skills to find, use, and create information online in a productive and useful manner. Understanding digital literacy means being able to use technology safely and avoid its risks.

Many teachers use technology in their classrooms to support different learning styles and engage students; however, guidelines to help them do so in ways that promote innovative thinking and collaborative work, ethical practices, and their own professional development are lacking.

In a variety of ways, it has the potential to significantly improve educational quality. It provides students and teachers with access to a wealth of information, knowledge, and educational resources, thereby expanding learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers use online materials to prepare lessons, and students use them to broaden their learning opportunities.

ICT serves a variety of functions and aids in educational assessment practices. It can be used in testing to administer tests, score tests, analyze results, and help teachers evaluate learning outcomes.

Teachers and students who become digitally literate learn technological skills, authorship rules such as copyright and plagiarism, how to access online information, and social responsibility through social networking. ... Above all, digital literacy is a critical component of today's education.

DepEd Usec. San Antonio Issues Regional 

Memorandum for Suspension of Classes 

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT-I

Recto Memorial National 

High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Wednesday, January 21 announces the issuance of the Regional Memorandum DM-CI-2022-009 by the Department of Education Undersecretary for Curriculum and Planning Diosdado M. San Antonio allowing the suspension of classes and other teaching-related activities in the midst of the surge in Covid-19 cases. The memorandum requires schools to continuously implement the Suggested Measures to Foster Academic Ease During the COVID-19 Pandemic as stated in DM-CI 2020-307 in order to ensure flexibility in the teaching-learning process amid the pandemic by recalibrating the strategy of assigning teaching responsibilities and leaning activities in order to safeguard the well-being of both teachers and learners (Deped RO, 2022). The issuance covers the dates January 17-29, 2022 which aims to provide all the stakeholders particularly the students, parents and school-based personnel to have a two-week health break, thus, all school activities are suspended whether physical or virtual (online). 

It has been more than two years already when Covid-19 pandemic has brought chaos to the whole world. Until now, its effect can be felt anywhere and one most affected field is in education. School stakeholders experience a lot of challenges and issues to cope up with the “new normal” educational set-up. The abrupt changes cause both teachers and students to adjust with everything, from the face-to-face classes to distance learning modalities. These changes, aside from the threat of the corona virus, have a big impact to their health. Studies show that stress increases among many students as well as to teachers. From the comparative study made by Frontier Psychiatry on February 2021 between China and Philippines, Filipino respondents were reported significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress than Chinese during the Covid-19 Pandemic. It is a clear manifestation that the corona virus has a great influence on one’s physical and mental well-being. Thus, there is a need for the department of education to think of the best possible way that will respond to the needs of school stakeholders to impart learning amidst pandemic without sacrificing their health. 

One evident action is the department’s immediate compliance with the AITF guidelines on health and safety protocols, such as wearing of facemask and faceshield, social distancing and disinfection, strictly implemented among teachers during their on-site reporting in school or even during their duties in barangay. The same instructions are given to parents and students whenever necessity arises. Yet, these do not stop the reports of incidents in which teachers and students got sick. Students’ common reasons are the waning of their immune system due to lack of sleep and stress of answering a number of learning tasks without the assistance of those knowledgeable than them and the tension for meeting the deadlines. On the teachers’ part, checking all the activities of the modular students, -an estimated of at least 200 students with 4-5 learning tasks every week-, the preparation and printing of the next modules for the succeeding weeks, distribution, sorting, parent online conferences and some other-related activities are really challenging and sometime stressful for them. Nonetheless, these have not become sentiments of all teachers. Instead, most of them feel regretful that the current academic situation prohibits them from rendering full-time service and ensure that quality learning still takes place among all students. This notion somehow contributes to their health deterioration. 

Later last year, November 2021, the department of Education in Region IV has seen hope for possible face-to-face classes to some areas for year 2022 since reports on Covid-19 incidences have subsided already because more than 90% of the population is already vaccinated. Nevertheless, the whole archipelago once again is dismayed when a certain “Poblacion Girl” brought back the fear and tension of probable surge of the new variant of Covid-19 pandemic, the Omicron virus. Though, the possibility originated from the NCR, its repercussion reaches the different regions of the country. As a matter of fact, the Philippine Covid-19 tracker shows that as of January 2022, Region IV-A CALABARZON ranks 2nd to NCR with active cases. Thus, the announcement for suspension of classes in the region eases the predicaments teachers, parents and students feel, knowing that the virus is just around the corner. This will give teachers and students to look after their health and boost their immune system. Furthermore, with the cancellation of all activities, teachers find the announcement very timely because, while it will protect them from the threat of any possible transmission, it will also provide them with ample time to make follow-ups to students-at-risk and render appropriate intervention.

Volunteer health frontliner, pinahalagahan 

ng Alaminos Rotarian

Ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna – Bago natapos ang Taong 2021, ay napahalagahan at napasalamatan ng Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (RCAD) ang 126 na Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) at Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) na mga kusangloob na nakikipagtulungan sa Municipal Health Office dito bilang mga volunteer frontliner upang magtagumpay ang palatuntunan sa pagbabakuna laban sa Covid-19 sa bayang ito.

Iniulat ni Club Auditor Russel Arida, Project Chairman, na sa pakikipag-ugnayan kay Dra. Jelidora “Jing” B. Refrea, Municipal Health Officer, noong umaga ng Lunes, Disyembre 20, 2021, ang RCAD sa pangunguna ni Club President Romeo S. Faylon ay nagtaguyod ng isang palatuntunan na ginanap sa maaliwalas na “covered court” sa mismong harapan ng Municipal Health Office nang naaayon sa kaayusang itinatagubilin ng National Inter-Agency Task Force, upang ang mga volunteer frontliner na naglilingkod sa 15 barangay sa bayang ito ay mapahalagahan, at tuloy mapagkalooban ng Christmas package na binansagan nilang “Gifts of Joy.” 

Kaugnay ng umiiral na pandemya, nananawagan si RCAD President Romeo S. Faylon sa lahat na umalinsunod sa ano mang tagubiling pangkalusugan na ihahatid sa kanila ng mga Barangay Health Worker and Barangay Nutrition Scholar sapagkat ito ay para na rin sa kanilang kagalingan.

Magugunitang noong nakaraang buwan ng Nobyembre, ang Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (D-3820) ay naghandog ng basic medical kit sa Municipal Disater Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), at sa mga Pangasiwaang Barangay ng San Agustin, San Andres, Del Carmen, at Palma, na binubuo ng isang yunit ng Nebgulizer, isang Stetoscope, isang yunit ng Sphygmomanometer o pagtingin ng presyon ng dugo, isang Thermometer, at isang Oximeter o pantaya sa taglay na oksihino ng dumadaloy na dugo sa katawan.

San Pablo Chamber sends aid to Palawan and Surigao

Typhoon-damaged Palawan and Surigao were the recipients of P100,000 cash assistance from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of San Pablo City (PCCI-SPC). This was announced by PCCI-SPC President Bernard Deriquito.

The cash donation for the victims of Typhoon Odette were received by the Palawan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry at P50,000 each. The fundraising campaign was spearheaded by Past President Rolly Inciong and Charter President Sofronio Exconde.

Assisting disaster victims is one of the major programs of PCCI-SPC for 2022-2023, along with tourism and agriculture promotion, support to micro, small and medium enterprises in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry in Laguna, promotion of the ease of doing business, environmental conservation, local investment promotion, youth entrepreneurship, use of information technology in business, and support to technical vocational education.

PCCI-SPC, established in San Pablo City in May 199, is affiliated with the National PCCI, the biggest business organization in the Philippines. President Deriquito said the PCCI-SPC is a voluntary organization of business people and professionals who share the common goal of a more vibrant economy for San Pablo City. Chamber membership covers micro, small, medium and big enterprises serving as the voice of business in San Pablo City. A multi-awarded Chamber, PCCI-SPC has won a number of Most Outstanding Chamber awards in the Regional (Southern Tagalog), Area (South Luzon), National (Philippines) and International (Asia-Pacific) levels during the last 10 years.

Mga batang edad 5-11 sa Santa Rosa, pwede 

nang magparehistro para sa Covid-19 vax

ni Fredmoore Cavan

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Hinihikayat ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Santa Rosa ang mga magulang na ipa-rehistro ang kanilang mga anak sa Covid-19 vaccination program ng pamahalaan para sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 taong gulang.

Sa opisyal na pabatid ng pamahalaang lungsod, inihayag nito na maaaring iparehistro ang mga batang kabilang sa nasabing age group sa pamamagitan ng vaccination portal nito: https://www.santarosacity.ph/SCVT/.

Kabilang sa prayoridad na mabakunahan ang mga batang kabilang sa pediatric A3 o mga batang may comorbidities.

“Piliin lamang ang kategoryang pediatric A3 kung mayroong comorbidities ang bata o pediatric C kung walang sakit ang bata. Antabayanan lamang ang mga susunod pang anunsyo kung kailan sisimulan ang pagbabakuna para sa edad 5 hanggang 11,” pahayag ng pamahalaang lungsod sa kanilang Facebook post.

Inilunsad ang pre-registration para makakalap ng inisyal na datos sa bilang ng mga batang babakunahan sa lungsod habang naghihintay pa ng kaukulang guidelines mula sa Department of Health (DOH).

Noong Disyembre 23 ay inaprubahan ng Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ang paggamit ng mas mababang dosage ng bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech para sa pagbabakuna sa mas nakababatang miyembro ng pediatric population.

Ayon sa FDA, mahigit 90-porsiyento ang efficacy rate ang Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine habang banayad lamang ang mga adverse effects nito, batay sa mga isinagawang clinical trials.

Sa ngayon, tanging mga bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech at Moderna ang binigyan ng emergency use authorization ng FDA para sa pagbabakuna sa mga kabataang may edad 12 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sa pagpupulong ng National Task Force at Regional Task Force Against Covid-19 kamakailan, inihayag ni Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr., na planong simulan ng pamahalaan ang pagbabakuna sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 sa ikatlong linggo ng Enero, depende sa pagdating sa supply ng bakuna.

Sa ngayon, tuloy-tuloy ang isinasagawang pagbabakuna ng pamahalaang lungsod para sa mga residenteng kabilang sa adult population gayundin sa mga menor de edad na 11 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sinimulan na rin nito ang pagtuturok ng booster shots para sa mga indibidwal na mayroon nang kumpletong bakuna, bilang dagdag na proteksiyon laban sa iba’t ibang variants ng Covid-19. (PIA LAGUNA)

Alaminos treasurer: Buwis sa mejoras 

maagang bayaran o hulugan

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna–Hinihikayat ni Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz ang mga propetaryo o may-ari ng mga lupain at mga gusali sa bayang ito na maagang magbayad ng obligasyon nilang bayarang buwis upang makaiwas na malapatan ng multa o rekardo, at halip ay magtamo pa ng diskwento.

Malaki ang maitutulong ng maagang pagbabayad ng real estate taxes, sapagkat karagdagan sa bahagi ng munisipyo sa Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) na kaloob ng pangasiwaang pambansa, ang bahagi ng pangasiwaang lokal sa buwis sa mejoras ang pinagkukunan ng gugulin upang makapagpatayo ng mga impraistraktura, 

tulad ng mga gusaling pampaaralan, at pangkalusugan, gayon na rin sa paghahatid ng mga paglilingkod na panglipunan sa mga mamamayan. 

Sang-ayon kay Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz, na pag-alinsunod sa ipinahihintulot sa Section 251 ng Local Government Code of 1991 o Republic Act No. 7160, ang lahat ng magbabayad ng buwis sa lupa o pag-aaring di-natitinag (Real Estate Property Tax) para sa taong kasalukuyan, sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31, 2022 ay pagkakalooban ng diskwentong 10 porsyento.

Halimbawa, kung ang isang na matatagpuan sa Barangay San Agustin lote ay may bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00, na kasama na ang para sa Special Education Fund (SEF), ang babayaran lamang ay ₱4,500.00 o may diskwentong ₱500.00. Kung hindi naman mababayaran ang bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00 hanggang sa Marso 31, 2022, ito ay lalapatan ng multang 2% kada lalakarang buwan, kaya kung magbabayad sa Abril 16, 2022, ito ay lalapatan na ng multang 8% ng bayaring buwis o ang kabuuang babayaran ay ₱5,400.00.

Kung mamarapatin naman ang bayaring buwis ay bayaran sa paraang hulugan o tuwing ikatlong buwan, nagpapayo si Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz na mangyari lamang makipag-ugnayan sa Land Tax Division ng Municipal Treasurer’s Office na nasa Groundfloor ng Municipal Multi-Purpose Building bago matapos ang buwan ng Marso upang magawa ang paghahati ng bayarin sa apat, kung saan ang unang hulog o first instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31; ang ikalawang hulog o second instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Hunyo 30, ang ikatlong hulog o third instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Setyembre 30; at ang pang-apat na hulog o fourth instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Disyembre 31, 2022, ito ay pagkakalooban din ng 10% diskwento kung mababayan bago sumapit ang itinakdang petsa na dapat mabayaran.

Friends of 7 Lakes Foundation sets targets for 2022

The establishment of a floating garden, removal of debris left by the clearing of the shorelines of Sampaloc Lake, and promotion of the propagation of bamboos are some of the priority targets set by the Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF) for the year 2022. The targets were approved by the FSLF Board of Trustees (BOT) during its year-end meeting.

Held at the RX Garden Resort owned by Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia in Barangay San Gregorio, the BOT meeting also agreed to propose to the San Pablo City Government the creation of a Lakes Management Office, install information billboards at Sampalok Lake, and hold a youth environmental camp.

President Roberto Azores explained that the floating gardens or floating green filters (FGF) will consist of a network of floating indigenous plants found in the locality. The roots will host bacteria/microbes that will absorb pollutants, promote biodiversity within the FGF structures as these will attract birds, fish, insects and other wildlife species, and add aesthetic beauty to the lake waters. 

Noting the successful clearing of the Sampaloc Lake shores by the San Pablo City Government, FSLF Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon said the foundation will take the lead in a multi-sector effort to clean the debris that are still submerged under water so that the lake will be safe for water-based activities in the future. 

Trustee Romeo Race reported that last December 2021, the FSLF in cooperation with the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the San Pablo City Water District, conducted a training workshop on the propagation of bamboos. To sustain the effort, the FSLF will promote the planting of bamboos in San Pablo City. Bamboos produce oxygen and absorbs enormous volume of carbon dioxide. It serves as a protection against soil erosion.

Trustee Rolly Inciong said that the FSLF will propose to the City Government to create a Lakes Management Office, either under the City Environment and Natural Resources Office or the City Tourism Office, so that all development and conservation projects in the city’s seven lakes will have a focal office that will ensure integration of efforts. The proposed office will serve as local partner of the LLDA in managing the lakes.

Trustee Arvin Carandang added that the foundation will install information billboards at the Sampalok Lake area that will feature basic lake information so that tourists will learn about the lake, including its legend. Similar billboards will later be installed in the other lakes.

Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia and Environment Youth Leader Jedryc Romero announced that the FSLF will continue engaging the youths in environmental conservation through a face-to-face or online environment camp where best environmental practices will be shared and discussed with students.

Present during the year-end meeting were Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon, President Roberto Azores, Trustees Rolly Inciong, Dr. Elvie Galicia, Jose Reano, Sylvia Inciong, Ricky Tan, Arvin Carandang and Romy Race; and Members Cari Azores, Ambassador Romy Manalo, Jedryc Romero and Rissa Race.

Mga magsasaka ng Laguna, tumanggap ng tulong pinansiyal

STA. CRUZ, Laguna - Sa maayos na ugnayan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna na pinamumunuan ni Gob. Ramil Hernandez at ng Department of Agriculture (DA) IV- CALABARZON ay tagumpay na naipamahagi ang tulong pinansyal para sa mga magsasaka ng Laguna nitong ika-13 ng Enero 2022.

May kabuuang 1,410 magsasaka ng palay ang tumanggap ng P5,000 piso bawat isa: mula sa Pagsanjan (79), Lumban (203), Kalayaan (385), Cavinti (602) at Luisiana ( 141) na isinagawa sa panlalawigang kapitolyo sa Sta. Cruz. 

Ito ay sa ilalim ng programang Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) ng DA-4A, alinsunod sa Republic Act No. 11203 o ang “Rice Tariffication Law (RTL),” na nagpapataw ng taripa sa mga angkat na bigas.

Ang mga nakolektang taripa ay ilalaan sa ipinamamahaging tulong sa maliliit na magsasaka. Karagdagang kapital ito para sa pagtatanim ng palay kasabay ng pagtaas ng presyo ng pataba at iba pang gamit sa rice production. 

Katuwang sa pamamahaging ito ang Field Agriculture Extension Services kung saan sinunod ng lahat ang minimum health standard para sa maayos na distribyusyon ng nasabing tulong pinansyal. (Jonna S. Coroza, photo by Angel Bert Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

Chiz: Dropping mass testing, 

contact tracing a big mistake

Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero has lambasted the Department of Health (DOH) for tossing contact tracing and mass testing as part of its COVID-19 response strategy, saying these measures are necessary to isolate and treat people infected with the coronavirus and prevent the spread of the highly transmissible disease.

Escudero described this latest shift in DOH policy as “complete abdication and surrender,” and not a strategy in controlling the dizzying speed of Omicron spread across the country.

“What DOH is doing is not a ‘COVID-19 response strategy’ but a complete abdication and surrender,” said Escudero, who is running for Senate come May election. “It’s a strategy of ‘if you can’t beat them, join them.’”

“This is big mistake and a costly one,” Escudero warned.

The DOH, which is spearheading the government’s overall game plan to defeat COVID second year into the pandemic, said it will focus on community interventions rather than use Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test that is very useful to immediately detect, isolate and quarantine individuals who are positive with the coronavirus. Testing will be done for proper clinical management of high risk patients, community management, isolation and vaccination, it added.

The agency also said that contact tracing will take a back seat.

“Wala na ngang libreng mass testing, babawasan pa ang testing! Kawawa naman po tayo. I cannot fathom, much less understand, the logic behind this policy,” Escudero said, who recently called the attention of the DOH to make COVID testing accessible and affordable, if not free at all, to encourage more people to get tested following the spike in coronavirus infection.

“Again, after trillions of pesos in borrowings, they are still ‘cutting corners,’” he lamented.

Rivers, givers of life

by Rolando A. Inciong

The early human civilizations were established along the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq, Syria and Turkey; the Nile in Egypt; the Indus River in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan; and the Mekong River in China, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. All early civilizations prospered alongside rivers because of the availability of fresh water for daily activities, and fertile land for agriculture near those rivers.

Humans settle in places where there are rivers because rivers are the givers of the ingredients of life: water, food and income. Water from rivers sustains socio-economic development, including energy and food production. Rivers drain rainwater towards the seas and provide healthy ecosystems for many species of plants and animals.

Today, the United Nations estimate that around two billion people get their drinking water from rivers. Rivers provide income to many communities depending on them for their livelihoods such as fish culture. Many river systems are used for recreation and tourism, irrigation, industry and commerce. hydropower generation, and transporting people and goods

If living near a river is good, it also has a bad. Flooding is the most dangerous risk for riverside settlers and landowners. Flooding results in loss of lives, property damage, and expensive repairs and rehabilitation.

Today, rivers are among the much-abused bodies of water, most especially in the Asian continent. Irresponsible human activities such as garbage and chemical dumping, illegal human settlement, and many more, are the causes of river degradation.

Governments and citizens need to protect rivers to ensure clean source of drinking water and provide a safe place for tourism and recreation,. In San Pablo City, many community volunteers conduct river cleanups. The Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF), headed by Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon and President Roberto Azores, spearheads the promotion of rivers and lakes conservation. The FSLF is promoting the development of San Pablo as a city whose lakes, rivers, watersheds and the environment in general are protected, conserved and sustainably developed for the well-being of present and future generations. 

Here are some river trivia: Russia has 36 rivers, the most number in the world. The Vatican, which is classified as a country, has no river. The Congo River is the world's deepest river at 720 feet. It is also the second-longest river in Africa, approximately 4,700 kilometers in length. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippines has 421 river basins, 140 of them are heavily polluted and 50 are biologically dead. The longest rivers in the Philippines are Cagayan, 314 miles; Mindanao, 232 miles; Agusan, 217 miles; and Pulangi, 199 miles.

Guro Ako

Ni: Annabel I. De Rama

Bilang isang Guro

Tungkulin naming na magturo

Iba-iba man tayo ng kuro-kuro

Iisa ang namamayani sa Puso

Mapaglingkuran ang Bayang sinilangan

Mabigyang aliw ang Inang Bayan

Sa saliw mula sa tinig ng kabataan

Ay may nag-aalab na karunungan

Dumaan man ang unos ng kapalaran

Sanlibong pangarap man ay matabunan

Susubuking hamunin ang kinabukasan

Pilit aabutin tala ng kapayapaan

Sa araw-araw ay itatawid

Papel ng pagiging matuwid

Upang mga bata’y makamit

Tagumpay na kaakit-akit

Kung balat man ay kumupas

At kamay ay huminto sa pagkumpas

Aawitin pa rin ng buong pitangan

Ang koro ng pagiging Makabayan.

“Live to Teach” or “Teach to Live”?

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT– I

Recto Memorial National High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Life is a battle ground that offers a lot of challenges and opportunities to everyone. One among the opportunities is our profession that’s why it’s very necessary to choose the profession that will best fit you. However, there are times that though the best preparation has been made, some still failed realizing that such a profession is not what they like. However, those persons who found out to be in this situation have their own choices to either enjoy what they have or to feel forever regretful in their lives. 

Teaching may not be the dreamed profession of all teachers. However, due to some unexpected undertakings they had into, plus the age factor, most of them are obliged to prefer a course that would help them fulfill many responsibilities life has bestowed upon them. Security of tenure is one of the common reasons that pushed many to earn the Bachelor’s degree of Education. Age at early 30s, which is no longer within the limit of age qualification of neither any industries nor any companies, is another consideration. The notion of having a profession that would ensure to provide better future for the family especially for those who have children already, considering husband’s work as an ordinary worker, brings not a single doubt in taking the education course. This is a clear manifestation that many want the course because they want to live. Hypocrisy it is if no one from the teachers has ever said, “I teach to live”. 

Teaching in a public school undoubtedly is a secured profession. Aside from the continuous compensation as a government employee in whatever situation the country may be, the fear of immediate dismissal occupies a very little space in the teachers’ minds for as long as they are working and performing their duties and responsibilities. As a matter of fact, any offenses intentionally or unintentionally done shall undergo due process of law before any disciplinary actions be rendered. To some teachers, years of teaching could be for the sort of compliance and an embedded obligation of the profession and seeing all achievements they have earned, may it be sending their loved ones to school earning their degrees, putting up businesses, investing real properties and the like, everything proves that they teach to live.

People might say that teachers’ achievements are common life story of “rugs to riches”, though researches have proven that no teacher becomes rich in teaching. Yet for teachers, those accomplishments gained during the period wherein teaching becomes part of almost all their lives, these are investments earned because they live to teach. Teachers best achievement is when they have created better individuals to their fullest potentials equipped either with mental or emotional intellect and imbued with good values and high moral respect for others. It is an honor for them realizing that they have crafted individuals who became worthy of the community where they belong. No means of measurement can determine the amount of fulfillment teachers’ hearts could carry for every successful student they have crafted and for every waning individual they have rescued with the seeds of inspiration and hope that life has to go on. 

God’s plan may not be the teachers’ choice, but, God always has the purest intention for everyone and God’s purpose for teachers is, for them to “live to teach”. It would take a lot of time for many teachers to realize that they are chosen to live to teach but what matters most now is the opportunity granted upon them to teach their students the value and the beauty of appreciating life challenges by turning these into opportunities inspite of whatever situation it may be. At the moment in which globe is engulfed with fear and anxiety brought about by pandemic, the sincerest call of the teaching profession is right there infront of us… “Teachers, let us live to teach!”

Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin

ni Mary Jane R. Cadugo

Teacher III, Sinait National High School

Ilang dekada man ang nakalipas, hindi pa rin ibinabaon sa limot ang mga pamanang ating nakuha sa ating mga ninuno. Maging tradisyon, kultura, sining at panitikan man, tayo ay umaangat. Patunay na ang pamanang Pilipino ay hindi matutumbasan ng kahit na ano.

Bawat kaugalian, tradisyon o kultura ay talaga namang isinasabuhay ng mga mamamayang Pilipino. Partikular na sa pelikula o dula na palabas na aking napapanood at naririnig gaya na lamang ng "Ang Probinsyano" kung saan itinatampok ang ilan sa mga kaugaliang Pilipino --- pagiging palaban, may paninindigan, bayanihan, at hindi basta basta sumusuko sa hamon ng buhay.

Bawat pelikula na ating napapanood ay sumisimbolo ng bayanihan ng mga pinoy, pagiging masayahin sa anumang oras, pagkakaisa sa mga hamon, pagiging matatag ng pamilyang Pilipino, at ang pagiging maka-Diyos ng mamamayang Pilipino. Hindi rin mawawala ang mga talentong Pilipino na ipinapakitang gilas sa pelikula - maging aksiyon man o romans.

Tila ang pelikula at dula ang nagsilbing salamin ng pamanang Pilipino. Higit sa lahat naging instrumento ito upang mas makilala pa ng lahat ang tradisyon, kaugalian, sining at panitikan ng isang nayon. Naging daan din ito upang lalong manuot ang mga mensahe at aral na nais ipahiwatig ng isang palabas. Sadyang patunay ito kung bakit tinatangkilik ang sariling atin hindi lamang sa ating bansa bagkus sa buong daigdig.

Sa pamamayagpag ng mga pelikula at dula, naging tulay ito upang lumago pa at mahasa ito. Gamit ang sarilin nating wika, nagkaroon ng pangkakataon ang lahat upang kumonekta at ilabas ang talentong Pilipino. Sa bawat linyang kanilang binibitawan, sa bawat pagpapahayag ng kanilang damdamin at sa bawat luha at pawis na kanilang ibinubuwis - pusong wika ang kanilang naging sandata.

Higit ngang nakamamangha ang pamanang Pilipinong ating tinataglay. Patunay na ang lingguwistika at kultural na ugnayan ay sumasalamin sa mga pelikula at dulang Filiino. Buhat ng tayo'y sinakop ng mga dayuhan, naging bihasa tayo sa lahat ng larangan. Samakatuwid, naging daan ito upang lalo pa nating tangkilikin ang sariling atin.

Tanikala

ni Joselito I. Remolacio, 

Master Teacher I, Sinait National High School

Lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab…

Bawat pagtibok na puso’y, takot ang nadarama. Magmula magkapandemya hindi na mawari kung saan patungo ang pagbabagong kinakaharap natin sa kasalukuyan. Nasaan na na tanglaw na ating inaasam na makamit at muling masilayan? Tulog ba ang lahat ng ipagkait ng pandemya ang ating kalayaan? Nakalulungkot ngunit tila ang direksyon ng hanging banayad ay paliko na, gaya ng ating ekonomiya kung walang pagkakaisa, maghihingalo na. Isang tanikalang hindi makawala sa pandemya, ang istatistika’y nabahala.

Marahil ang ating kinasasadlakan ngayon ay mahirap at tanging impit na pag-iyak ang naghahari sa kadiliman. Marami itong pinsalang nadala sa lahat ng mamamayan, mga pangangatog ng tuhod sa tuwing malalaman na may nawala na namang buhay sa isang araw na pakikibaka sa buhay. Bunga nito, talamak ang nailunsad na patakaran, ang bawat galaw ay pinaghihigpitan. Higit sa lahat, ang mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nawalan ng kabuhayan, ang ekonomiya’y patuloy na bumabagsak, ang ayuda’y hindi na mahanap sa mga mata ng iba. Nagmistulang dilim ang kalangitan dulot ng kawalan ng pag-asa na muling mabuhay ang pagbabagong inaasam ng bawat madla.

Hindi maikakailang lubos na mahalaga ang ekonomiya sa ating pag-unlad. Ito ang nagiging tulay upang magkaisa ang lahat patungo sa paglaban sa hindi mawaksing pandemya. Datapuwa’t, ang ayudang ibinibigay ng gobyerno ay malaking bagay sa ibang tao, ang isang karampot na tulong na siyang magbibigay tanglaw sa lahat ng nangangailangan. Hindi ko tuloy maiwasang maghinagpis sa mga nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Kailan nga ba masusugpo itong krisis na ating hinaharap sa buong mundo? Kailan natin muling masasaksihan ang sikat ng araw na nagbibigay pag-asa sa lahat? Magkagayon, dapat na tayong magkaroon ng aksiyon upang tumugon sa pinsalang dulot ng pandemya sa ating ekonomiya.

Hindi lingid sa atin na sa anumang oras dilat ang mga mata, bukas ang mga tainga, at gising ang diwa sa lahat ng nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Hindi niyo ba naririnig ang kanilang mga hinaing? Hindi niyo ba nakikita ang pagod sa kanilang mga mata? Hindi niyo ba nararamdaman ang mga pasakit na kanilang dinadala? Mga takas nilang hikbi sa gabi na tahimik, nangangapa ng kamay na maaring mahawakan o makasagip sa kanila sa bingit ng paghihirap. Bawat gising natin ay panibagong araw ngunit bawat gising nila'y hatid ay panibagong pagod at butil na naman ng mga pawis.

Tulong! Tulong! Tulong! 

Sa tuwing maririnig ang mga katagang ito, kusang may kamay ang dadapo at yayakap ng mahigpit dito. Nakatutuwang malaman na kahit pandemya, bawat tao ay nagkakaisa. Na ang pakikisama’y dumadaloy sa katawan ng bawat isa. Kung minsan man ay nawawalan ng pag-asa ang lahat, ngunit ang isang salita na kababayan ay malaking dahilan upang magpatuloy sa laban. Nagmistula man tayong nakakulong sa isang tanikalang pinalibutan ng pandemya, ang ekonomiya man ay urong sulong sa ating bansa ngunt ang bayanihan ng bawat mamamayan ay kailanma’y hindi mapapantayan.

Kung ating pagninilayan, kung magkakaroon ng pagkakaisa ang lahat, ang ekonomiyang ating inaalagaan simula pa noong walang pandemya ay magiging isang liwanag ng pag-asa na siyang magbibigkis sa pagkakaiba ng bawat lahi. Ang pagsibol ng maluwalhating pakikisama tungo sa ibang aspeto ng ating buhay. Pagyayakapan, pangangamustahan, pagbibigay ng kaunting ayuda, pagiging inspirasyon ng isang tao upang lumaban sa buhay ay tunay ngang natatangi sa paglaban nating lahat sa pandemya.

Oo, mahirap ngang magkaroon ng maunlad na ekonomiya sapagkat hindi ito kusa na lamang yayabong. Tila ang ekonomiya ay isang butil na kailangan payabungin at bigyang halaga sa pamamagitan ng pagiging madisiplinang mamamayan, pagsunod sa mga alituntunin na ipinapatupad, at higit sa lahat pagkakaroon ng pagkakaisa sa kung paano bubukadkad ang rikit na tinatagong taglay at pag-ulad ng ating ekonomiya. Sa kabila nito, ang ating damdamin pa rin ay hindi maipaliwanag, magkahalong saya sa pagkakaisa at takot sa hindi masugpong pandemya. Aligaga, hindi mapalagay, sa kung ano pa ang dapat gawin, at mga tanong na paulit-ulit umiikot sa ating isipan na kailanman hindi mahanapan ng kasagutan. 

Kailan nga ba muling masasaksihan ang tanglaw sa gitna ng karimlan? Kailan nga ba muling aahon ang ekonomiya sa kanyang kinasasadlakan? Kailan nga ba masusugpo ang pandemya? Buksan natin ang ating mga mata, pakinggang maigi ang hinaing nila, bigyang pansin ang kapaligiran. Dapat tayong magbigayan ng lubid ng tulong, magkaroon ng kamay na aakay sa atin - at ito ay ang Panginoon. Siya ang ating tanglaw sa ating sariling mga tanikala na bunga ng pandemya. Siya ang nagbibigkis sa lahat at naniniwala ako na ang pagkakaisa at pakikisama ng mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nakamarka na sa kaibuturan nila simula ng tayo’y mamulat sa mundong ginagalawam. Kung kaya’t magkaisa at makisama hindi lang tungo sa pag-unlad ng ekonomiya bagkus huwag nating hayaan na manatili tayong nasa tanikala na lamang dulot ng pandemya.

CARD MRI ties up with Moreta Shipping Lines to aid Odette victims

In line with the donation drive of CARD MRI for the victims of Typhoon Odette, CARD MRI teamed up with Moreta Shipping Lines to deliver 14 boxes of in-kind goods to Talisay, Cebu on December 28, 2021.

To help those affected by the typhoon, several shipping lines offered free cargo shipping to transport donations from various groups and companies. Meeting the requirements for the in-kind donations on hand, CARD MRI tapped Moreta Shipping Lines to bring the donations on a port-to-port basis. Through the collaboration, in-kind donations were swiftly delivered to typhoon-hit communities in Cebu. 

From December 24 to 28, CARD MRI gathered donations composed of necessities such as food, clothing, and hygiene products. Cash donations were also accumulated during the drive, involving CARD MRI offices located at City Subdivision and M. Paulino St. in San Pablo City, Laguna.

“Besides our cash assistance through the different products of CARD MRI, being able to give essentials that families can immediately use, especially when almost everything was wiped out by Odette, is a step towards the immediate recovery of our fellowmen in Cebu. We hope that these items will be of use to the families,” CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito said on the initiatives taken by the organization.

Helping Hand

Besides the donation drive, CARD MRI started to receive monetary donations to help the victims starting December 22, 2021. Accumulating a total of PhP 2,452,814 as of January 12, 2022, the donations came from partner organizations and individuals of CARD MRI. 

“The destruction caused by Typhoon Odette is surely unfathomable, especially as a lot of lives are affected, but through the combined efforts of organizations and individuals extending their helping hand, we can holster up those affected to stand back up once again. We Filipinos are always ready to help those in need,” Dequito further said on the willingness of the Filipinos to help and the spirit of bayanihan.

CARD MRI, through CARD Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), is still accepting monetary donations for the victims of Typhoon Odette. For more information, message CARD Inc.’s official Facebook Page, @CARDIncOfficial.

Covid-19 Vaccination a Community Perspective: We All Play A Role

by: Jenny A. Capistrano

Lowland Integrated National High School

World Health Organization declared Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic and reiterated the call for countries to take immediate actions and scale up response to treat, detect and reduce transmission to save people's lives. 

According to Department of Health, Vaccines mimic the virus or bacteria that causes disease and triggers the body’s creation of antibodies. These antibodies will provide protection once a person is infected with the actual disease-causing virus or bacteria.

The Municipal Health Unit - Nagcarlan Rural Health Unit scheduled vaccination at the covered court of Barangay Manaol, Nagcarlan, Laguna on December 23, 2021.

RHU nurses together with the barangay health workers, and local government unit (LGU) worked together in the administration of covid-19 vaccine to the members of the community within Brgy. Manaol and nearby barangays. 

First dose of Moderna vaccine for ages 12-17 and Pfizer vaccine for adults ages 18-60 were given.

A grade 7 student of Lowland Integrated National High School, Jairus Nograda is one of the students who got vaccinated. He says, “I feel comfortable, safe and happy after my vaccination.” 

In addition, Midwife of Brgy. Manaol Mrs. Cheryl C. Marfil says, “No report of adverse effect due to covid-19 vaccine for ages 12-17.” 

Mrs. Marlene Coronacion, Leader of BHW believed that vaccination is important for face to face and compulsory for protection especially for younger people and to avoid worst effect. 

Furthermore, Mrs. Judith H. Esler, BHW of Brgy. Manaol remarks, “Vaccination is a protection against the virus.” 

BHW Mrs. Juanita Bibon believed that “The result of the vaccination is good and organized because of the cooperation of all the people involved.” 

Health and safety of the students and the community is the utmost concern of vaccination against covid-19. 

These action of the students, parents, community and health department will benefit with the healing of the world through vaccination by following the plan of WHO and DOH.

Teaching Mathematics thru innovative strategies

by Luningning Alcantara

Teacher II, San Jose National High School

Innovation is a portal towards the creation of something new. When there is innovation, progress and development are evident and the path in connection with advancement is not far-fetched. In this fast-paced world where technology abound and to the speed at which everything is at a quick pace, the call to innovate is almost a duty put in our hands as members of our community of educators. 

Innovation is a necessity for an individual or an organization. Because of innovation, the productivity of an organization improves over time. It also increases competitiveness and there is a fruitful competition for the enhancement of a project that will be beneficial for individuals in an organization. 

Some individuals and organizations are more innovative than others because of persistence and perseverance to attain excellence in our respective fields. When we are diligent in the things we do, there are no obstacles that cannot be overturned along the way. Indeed, we always find ways. There is always something to change for the better. There is always a challenge to accept and overcome. 

When we have the passion in our chosen field, the best comes out in all of us. Indeed, the strongest of storms prove the strength of our ship’s anchor. This is true to our searching for ways to create something new and innovate. There is always that passion burning in our hearts that spells the difference between mediocrity and creativity. 

One of our innovative teaching strategies is the Ethnomathematics comics making which is a fusion between the artistic merits of learners and their mathematical abilities to come up with varied comics while learning the applications of mathematics. It also uses localized materials within the vicinity of San Pablo City or Laguna and contextualize these materials to deepen the learner’s appreciation to our local culture while at the same time gaining not only knowledge in Math but also the enjoyment it brings when making a comics. 

ICT Assessment Approach: Digital Literacy

in Acquiring Test Result and Analysis

by Edna P. Cortez

Teacher III, Bagumbayan Elementary School

Teachers can benefit from ICT by storing and recording information about how students are developing understanding of new material, as well as taking on some of the role of assessing and providing feedback to students, allowing teachers to focus on other aspects of supporting learning.

Because of its adaptability and ability to foster relationships among students, ICT plays an important role in knowledge. The change-oriented approach believes in the change of ICT, has changed the tools, and has fundamentally changed the policies and educational goals. It can improve educational quality in a variety of ways, including increasing learner motivation and engagement, facilitating the acquisition of fundamental skills, and improving teacher training. ICTs are also transformational tools that, when used correctly, can promote the transition to a learner-centered environment.

Digital literacy entails comprehending and employing technology. We can use digital literacy skills to find, use, and create information online in a productive and useful manner. Understanding digital literacy means being able to use technology safely and avoid its risks.

Many teachers use technology in their classrooms to support different learning styles and engage students; however, guidelines to help them do so in ways that promote innovative thinking and collaborative work, ethical practices, and their own professional development are lacking.

In a variety of ways, it has the potential to significantly improve educational quality. It provides students and teachers with access to a wealth of information, knowledge, and educational resources, thereby expanding learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers use online materials to prepare lessons, and students use them to broaden their learning opportunities.

ICT serves a variety of functions and aids in educational assessment practices. It can be used in testing to administer tests, score tests, analyze results, and help teachers evaluate learning outcomes.

Teachers and students who become digitally literate learn technological skills, authorship rules such as copyright and plagiarism, how to access online information, and social responsibility through social networking. ... Above all, digital literacy is a critical component of today's education.

DepEd Usec. San Antonio Issues Regional 

Memorandum for Suspension of Classes 

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT-I

Recto Memorial National 

High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Wednesday, January 21 announces the issuance of the Regional Memorandum DM-CI-2022-009 by the Department of Education Undersecretary for Curriculum and Planning Diosdado M. San Antonio allowing the suspension of classes and other teaching-related activities in the midst of the surge in Covid-19 cases. The memorandum requires schools to continuously implement the Suggested Measures to Foster Academic Ease During the COVID-19 Pandemic as stated in DM-CI 2020-307 in order to ensure flexibility in the teaching-learning process amid the pandemic by recalibrating the strategy of assigning teaching responsibilities and leaning activities in order to safeguard the well-being of both teachers and learners (Deped RO, 2022). The issuance covers the dates January 17-29, 2022 which aims to provide all the stakeholders particularly the students, parents and school-based personnel to have a two-week health break, thus, all school activities are suspended whether physical or virtual (online). 

It has been more than two years already when Covid-19 pandemic has brought chaos to the whole world. Until now, its effect can be felt anywhere and one most affected field is in education. School stakeholders experience a lot of challenges and issues to cope up with the “new normal” educational set-up. The abrupt changes cause both teachers and students to adjust with everything, from the face-to-face classes to distance learning modalities. These changes, aside from the threat of the corona virus, have a big impact to their health. Studies show that stress increases among many students as well as to teachers. From the comparative study made by Frontier Psychiatry on February 2021 between China and Philippines, Filipino respondents were reported significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress than Chinese during the Covid-19 Pandemic. It is a clear manifestation that the corona virus has a great influence on one’s physical and mental well-being. Thus, there is a need for the department of education to think of the best possible way that will respond to the needs of school stakeholders to impart learning amidst pandemic without sacrificing their health. 

One evident action is the department’s immediate compliance with the AITF guidelines on health and safety protocols, such as wearing of facemask and faceshield, social distancing and disinfection, strictly implemented among teachers during their on-site reporting in school or even during their duties in barangay. The same instructions are given to parents and students whenever necessity arises. Yet, these do not stop the reports of incidents in which teachers and students got sick. Students’ common reasons are the waning of their immune system due to lack of sleep and stress of answering a number of learning tasks without the assistance of those knowledgeable than them and the tension for meeting the deadlines. On the teachers’ part, checking all the activities of the modular students, -an estimated of at least 200 students with 4-5 learning tasks every week-, the preparation and printing of the next modules for the succeeding weeks, distribution, sorting, parent online conferences and some other-related activities are really challenging and sometime stressful for them. Nonetheless, these have not become sentiments of all teachers. Instead, most of them feel regretful that the current academic situation prohibits them from rendering full-time service and ensure that quality learning still takes place among all students. This notion somehow contributes to their health deterioration. 

Later last year, November 2021, the department of Education in Region IV has seen hope for possible face-to-face classes to some areas for year 2022 since reports on Covid-19 incidences have subsided already because more than 90% of the population is already vaccinated. Nevertheless, the whole archipelago once again is dismayed when a certain “Poblacion Girl” brought back the fear and tension of probable surge of the new variant of Covid-19 pandemic, the Omicron virus. Though, the possibility originated from the NCR, its repercussion reaches the different regions of the country. As a matter of fact, the Philippine Covid-19 tracker shows that as of January 2022, Region IV-A CALABARZON ranks 2nd to NCR with active cases. Thus, the announcement for suspension of classes in the region eases the predicaments teachers, parents and students feel, knowing that the virus is just around the corner. This will give teachers and students to look after their health and boost their immune system. Furthermore, with the cancellation of all activities, teachers find the announcement very timely because, while it will protect them from the threat of any possible transmission, it will also provide them with ample time to make follow-ups to students-at-risk and render appropriate intervention.

Volunteer health frontliner, pinahalagahan 

ng Alaminos Rotarian

Ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna – Bago natapos ang Taong 2021, ay napahalagahan at napasalamatan ng Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (RCAD) ang 126 na Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) at Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) na mga kusangloob na nakikipagtulungan sa Municipal Health Office dito bilang mga volunteer frontliner upang magtagumpay ang palatuntunan sa pagbabakuna laban sa Covid-19 sa bayang ito.

Iniulat ni Club Auditor Russel Arida, Project Chairman, na sa pakikipag-ugnayan kay Dra. Jelidora “Jing” B. Refrea, Municipal Health Officer, noong umaga ng Lunes, Disyembre 20, 2021, ang RCAD sa pangunguna ni Club President Romeo S. Faylon ay nagtaguyod ng isang palatuntunan na ginanap sa maaliwalas na “covered court” sa mismong harapan ng Municipal Health Office nang naaayon sa kaayusang itinatagubilin ng National Inter-Agency Task Force, upang ang mga volunteer frontliner na naglilingkod sa 15 barangay sa bayang ito ay mapahalagahan, at tuloy mapagkalooban ng Christmas package na binansagan nilang “Gifts of Joy.” 

Kaugnay ng umiiral na pandemya, nananawagan si RCAD President Romeo S. Faylon sa lahat na umalinsunod sa ano mang tagubiling pangkalusugan na ihahatid sa kanila ng mga Barangay Health Worker and Barangay Nutrition Scholar sapagkat ito ay para na rin sa kanilang kagalingan.

Magugunitang noong nakaraang buwan ng Nobyembre, ang Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (D-3820) ay naghandog ng basic medical kit sa Municipal Disater Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), at sa mga Pangasiwaang Barangay ng San Agustin, San Andres, Del Carmen, at Palma, na binubuo ng isang yunit ng Nebgulizer, isang Stetoscope, isang yunit ng Sphygmomanometer o pagtingin ng presyon ng dugo, isang Thermometer, at isang Oximeter o pantaya sa taglay na oksihino ng dumadaloy na dugo sa katawan.

San Pablo Chamber sends aid to Palawan and Surigao

Typhoon-damaged Palawan and Surigao were the recipients of P100,000 cash assistance from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of San Pablo City (PCCI-SPC). This was announced by PCCI-SPC President Bernard Deriquito.

The cash donation for the victims of Typhoon Odette were received by the Palawan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry at P50,000 each. The fundraising campaign was spearheaded by Past President Rolly Inciong and Charter President Sofronio Exconde.

Assisting disaster victims is one of the major programs of PCCI-SPC for 2022-2023, along with tourism and agriculture promotion, support to micro, small and medium enterprises in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry in Laguna, promotion of the ease of doing business, environmental conservation, local investment promotion, youth entrepreneurship, use of information technology in business, and support to technical vocational education.

PCCI-SPC, established in San Pablo City in May 199, is affiliated with the National PCCI, the biggest business organization in the Philippines. President Deriquito said the PCCI-SPC is a voluntary organization of business people and professionals who share the common goal of a more vibrant economy for San Pablo City. Chamber membership covers micro, small, medium and big enterprises serving as the voice of business in San Pablo City. A multi-awarded Chamber, PCCI-SPC has won a number of Most Outstanding Chamber awards in the Regional (Southern Tagalog), Area (South Luzon), National (Philippines) and International (Asia-Pacific) levels during the last 10 years.

CALABARZON STARTS COVID-19 BOOSTER ROLL-OUT

by Roselle R. Aquino

Calamba City, Laguna--Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Francisco Duque III led the ceremonial booster vaccination for senior citizens and immunocompromised individuals of CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) held at DREAM Zone, Capitol Compound, Batangas City, which is also the designated vaccination site of the province.

“This third shot of Covid-19 vaccine will provide the optimum protection from the virus. It is essential to strengthen the efficacy of the two doses of vaccines received,” Duque reiterated.

The Covid-19 booster campaign for senior citizens and individuals with comorbidities and immunocompromised started on Monday, November 22, 2021. “This is to enable our elderly population to have an extra vax, and for them to become fully vaccinated and protected against the virus,” Duque emphasized.

He also pointed out that individuals who have received two vaccines can choose which booster shot they prefer depending on the availability of vaccine brands at the vaccination site.

Vaccines from Moderna, Gamaleya Sputnik, Pfizer and AstraZeneca have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be used as a third dose.

Person with comorbidities and immunocompromised individuals who are eligible to receive the booster shot includes those with immunodeficiency state, people living with HIV, active or malignant cancer, transplant patients and patients under immunosuppressive treatments.

DOH-CALABARZON Regional Director Ariel Valencia added that individuals who are eligible for booster doses can have their shot at any vaccination site by presenting their vaccination card and a valid ID.

“Kailangang din na mayroong maipakitang doctor’s clearance bago sila mabakunahan ng booster shot upang masiguro ang kanilang kalusugan,” he added.

A total of 3 million individuals are targeted for booster shots in the region.

As of November 22, 2021, the regional office recorded 884,737 or 79% of senior citizens (priority group A2) are now fully vaccinated from the 1,117,555-target population while a total of 922,318 or 56% of persons with comorbidities received full vaccination from the 1,636,173-target population for priority group A3.

For the whole of CALABARZON, a total of 70% of the eligible population or 11,452,775 individuals need to be vaccinated. There are 7,060,956 individuals who received their first dose and a total of 5,190,892 are now fully vaccinated.

BAYANIHAN BAKUNAHAN SA SANTA CRUZ: 

APAT NA VACCINATION SITE, BINUKSAN

Apat na vaccination site ang binuksan ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Santa Cruz upang mas maraming mamamayan ang mabakunahan sa pagsisimula ng Bayanihan Bakunahan ng pamahalaang nasyunal noong Nobyembre 29.

Ayon kay Mayor Egay San Luis, maaaring magtungo ang mga mamamayan na kabilang sa Pediatric Category sa alinman sa dalawang vaccination sites tulad ng Mormons Church at Municipal Auditorium.

Tumatanggap naman ng mga residenteng edad 18 taong gulang pataas ang mga vaccination site sa Pedro Guevara Memorial National High School (PGMNHS) at Metro Central Mall. Dalhin lamang ang mga kailangang dokumento upang kayo ay mabakunahan. 

“Huwag po tayong matakot magpabakuna 

mga kababayan upang maging ligtas ang ating sarili at ang mga taong nakapaligid sa atin,” ani San Luis. Para sa mga katanungan, magtungo lamang sa inyong mga Barangay Health Center o sa Rural Health Unit upang kayo ay matulungan na mabakunahan kontra Covid-19. 

LAGUNA 3RD DISTRICT BM ANGELICA JONES ALARVA 

RECEIVES GINTONG PARANGAL FOR PUBLIC SERVICE

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

Laguna 3rd District Board Member Honorable Angelica Jones Alarva received the Gintong Parangal “Most Outstanding Woman in Public Service and Resilient Women in Time of Crisis” at the Grand Ballroom, Manila Hotel on November 26, 2021. 

The recognition was bestowed for her outstanding public service. It has been almost two years since the pandemic started and the public servant from Laguna Hon. Angelica Jones Alarva has been helping families most especially in the 3rd District of Laguna. “ 

Ang award po na ito ay inaalay ko sa Panginoon, my constituents, and my family”, quipped the beaming Laguna legislator. 

This is the 11th year of her “Bawat Pamilya Mahalaga” project that has helped many families. Her “Libro Mo Sagot Ko Para sa Batang Bibo” in partnership with Children International has provided books and knowledge for thousands of children to which she reaches personally. 

Her ordinances too which she sees implemented stood for the rights of women, solo parents, LGBT’s, Persons with disability, BHW’s and even benefits for senior citizens. 

One of her ordinances is “Laguna Muna—Tangkilikin ang sariling atin” which became of big help to local and small markets and gives support for Laguna-made products. 

She also authored ordinances to protect the rights of the youth. 

MGA BAWAL PARA MAPANGALAGAAN ANG 

KAPALIGIRAN, INILAHAD NI MAYOR ALVAREZ

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna--Nagpalabas noong nakaraang isang Lunes, Nobyembre 22, 2021, ng isang Paalaalang Pangmadla si Alkalde Ruben D. Alvarez ukol sa mga ipinaiiral na batas o kautusan na nagtatadhana ng mga pagbabawal na mahigpit na ipatutupad sa bayang ito, na gaya ng mga sumusunod: 

1. Pagbabawal ng pagkakalat ng basura sa mga pampublikong lugar, lalo na ng mga basurang nalilikha sa loob 

ng tahanan, gaya ng itinatagubilin ng Republic Act No. 9003, na lalong kilala bilang Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, sa halip, sa tahanan pa lamang ay pinipili na sa natitipong basura ang mga maaaring pakinabangan pa bago ito ilagay sa lugar kung saan kinukuha ng basurero; at dapat magsagawa ng segregasyon o paghihiwahiwalay ng nabubulok sa mga hindi nabubulok, upang maging maayos ang pagdadala nito sa Material Recovery Facilities ng Pangasiwaang Munisipal sa San Juan. Ang mga mararapatang lumalabag sa batas na ito ay maaaring maparusahan ng pagmumulta o pagkabilanggo.

2. Mahigpit ding ipinagbabawal ang pagsusunog ng basura bilang pag-alinsunod sa Provincial Ordinance No. 10, Series of 2015, o An Ordinance Prohibiting Open Burning of Garbages, Trash and Other Refuse Materials Within The Territorial Jurisdiction of the Province of Laguna.

3. Ipinagbabawal ang walang kapahintulutang pagpuputol ng mga punong kahoy, kasama na ang pagsira ng mga sanga nito, dahil sa sinasabi sa Section 3 ng Presidential Decree No. 953 na ipinagbabawal ang pagputol, pagsira, at pagsugat ng lahat ng uri ng puno, maging ito ay punong kahoy na tumubo o itinanim sa baybayin ng lansangan, liwasan, bakuran ng paaralan, pook liwaliwan, baybayin ng mga ilog at sapa, at maging sa mga gilid ng subdivision roads. Ang mga mapatutunayang lumabag sa kautusang ito ay maaring maparusahan ng pagkabilanggong hindi bababa sa anim (6) buwan subali’t hindi hihigit sa dalawang (2) taon, o multang mula sa P500, subalit hindi tataas sa P5,000, o ang dalawang kaparusahan batay sa magiging kapasiyahan ng hukumang didinig dito.

Ayon sa punumbayan, ang mga pagbabawal na ito ay iniuugnay sa tamang pangangalaga sa kalikasan ng kapaligiran upang makatulong sa pandaigdigang pagsasakit na mapabagal ang pagtaas ng temperatura sa kapaligiran ng daigdig na nagdudulot ng masamang epekto sa buhay at pamumuhay ng tao. 

Kung may katanungan tungkol sa paalaalang pangmadalang ito, ay ipinapayo ni Alkalde Ruben D. Alvarez na maaring tumawag sa Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) sa mga sumusunod na numero, 09914579857 (DITO); 09163388755 (Globe); at 09618527661 (Smart).

VON VALDEPEÑAS IS BUHAY PARTY-LIST 1ST NOMINEE

by: Pio N. Platon

Buhay Party-list (Buhay Hayaan Yumabong) was founded on October 22, 1999 by former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza with Malquuides Robles to cultivate and propagate Buhay advocacy – Pro – God, life and family. 

Twenty-two (22) year old party-list has been supported by multiple congregations and religious groups on nation building, democracy, and human rights. 

This May, 2022 election, it has 3 nominees – Von Valdepeñas, Mark Brian Paz and Xavy Padilla. 

First nominee is Vladimir Von P. Valdepeñas who was former number 1 municipal councilor (Los Baños, Laguna) in 2004, Committee chair in Public Works, Infrastructure and Telecommunication; Regional Executive Director (Philippine Councilors’ League – Region IV-A) and National Liaison Officer for Luzon (National Movement of Young Legislators), IT consultant to DENR secretary and had been a “KALIPI”-Liberal Party vice-chair. 

Born entrepreneur, Von started putting and running his own businesses since 1997 namely Von’s Coconut Lumber; Petron Gasoline Station (manager/dealer – Los Baños); Asianware Technologies Corporation (2003-present); Baseline Unlimited Inc. (2009-to date) and Vladimir “V1” Corporation (real estate, transportation, construction and trading). 

In 2019, Von worked as Goodwill Philippines president and at present Country Manager who champions the cause of PWDs. 

Von Valdepeñas is BA Management Economics graduate (Ateneo de Manila University), Advance Management Program and Senior Executive Fellows (development program for executives) at Harvard University, Massachusetts. He is married to Chi Atienza (daughter of former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza) with 3 kids. 

His political, entrepreneurial and educational background made him voted as Buhay Party-List first nominee.

CHIZ: ADDRESS GAPS IN REMOTE LEARNING 

DUE TO LACK OF INTERNET CONNECTION

With no end in sight yet to the coronavirus pandemic, senatorial candidate and Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero is pushing for better internet service across the country to close some gaps in distance schooling in light of a recent study which confirmed that poor or lack of connectivity had significantly hindered children’s learning ability during the pandemic.

The hard and long lockdowns in the country, considered one of the most stringent in the world by far, following the coronavirus outbreak in the country in March 2020 had prompted the Department of Education (DepEd) to halt in-person classes nationwide and shift to online learning as way to ensure that students and faculty members are safe and protected.

But a recent World Bank report, “Remote Learning During COVID-19: Lessons for Today,” showed that lack of access to 

the internet and slow connection had adversely affected the education of Filipino schoolchildren, as it noted that nine out 10 pupils cannot read.

This means that the country’s learning poverty is now at a high of 90% by August 2021, from 69.5% before the pandemic, according to World Bank estimates. Distance learning in the Philippines only covered 20% of households with schoolchildren, it added, similar to Ethiopia, the lowest rate.

“Ito na nga ang masakit at hubad na katotohanan ng remote learning na ipinilit ipatupad sa buong bansa kahit sa mga lugar na wala naman o mababa ang kaso ng COVID-19,” Escudero lamented. “Nakaka-alarma na nga ang estado ng edukasyon bago mag-pandemya, tapos nabiktima naman ang ating mga mag-aaral ng magulong pagpapatupad ng distance learning.”

He cited the case of Sorsogon where more than 50% of the barangays are COVID-free, which could have been exempt from the remote learning imposed by the DepEd.

Escudero, a veteran legislator, is calling for massive investments for faster internet speed and wider coverage to make connectivity accessible to more students, as he expects hybrid learning to continue for some time even with the limited face-to-face classes recently implemented by the education department.

“Sa datos ng World Bank, mga 26.9 porsyento lamang ng mga estudyante ang may access sa internet sa bansa. Paano naman ang mahigit na 70 porsyento na wala na ngang gadget, wala na ngang internet at paminsa-minsan ay walang kuryente sa kanilang mga kabahayan? Pababayaan na lamang ba natin silang maging mangmang?” said Escudero, who is seeking a fresh six-year mandate in the coming national elections.

As of January 2021, the country is now in sixth place in mobile internet speed among the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Globally, the country moved up to 86th spot in the mobile internet speed rankings in the same period, a marked improvement from its 111th rank in 2020.

Average download rate in th Philippines improved to 38.12 megabits per second (Mbps) last October from previous month’s 35.03 Mbps, or an 8.82% improvement for mobile internet speed, according to Ookla Speedtest Global Index. However, fixed broadband speed slightly dipped to 71.08 Mbps from 71.85 Mbps during the same period.

“Even as we enter the new normal, expect that distance learning modalities will be here for some time,” Escudero said. “Kaya kailangang mag-invest talaga sa internet connectivity para sa blended future distance learning ng ating mga estudyante. Huwag naman nating iwanan ang mga kabataan,” the former senator said.

NATURE AND RELIGION 

by Rolando A. Inciong

We always relate nature or environment to science but never to religion because science and religion have opposing views. But all religions of the world have teachings on respecting nature and living in harmony with it.

The Catholic Church, through Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si, a Latin phrase meaning Praise Be to You, is a global wake up call to help humanity understand the destruction that man is causing to the environment and his fellow man. The Pope’s letter is addressed to "every person living on this planet" and calls for a global dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet through our daily actions and decisions. Laudato Si, the most comprehensive Vatican document on environmentalism, ethics, and Christian faith, is an important tool for motivating Catholics, as well as those of other religious faiths. 

Christians are all aware of the Bible’s Noah, who saved animals from the great flood, as instructed by God. The Lord’s instruction to Noah showed the importance he gives to biodiversity – the variety of life on earth – when he told Noah to bring to the ark all pairs of animals. The Bible clearly says, “For that which befalls the sons of men befalls beasts . . . as the one die, so dies the other . . . a man has no preeminence above a beast” (Ecclesiastes 3:19). This means if we lose our biodiversity, the human race will also be extinct. 

For Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), tree planting and cleanup activities form part of the church’s ongoing program on environmental protection and preservation. It has also supported the global Earth Hour and promotes eco-farming and a variety of environment-friendly practices.

According to the INC, eco-farming should enable farmers and customers to control the food products grown and offered; farmers should be compensated for their work; it is important to work with the land to get higher food yields while respecting the environment; and it is important to grow different types of plants to protect the environment

Today, the INC members operate hundreds of eco-friendly farms around the world, especially in the Philippines and Africa. The INC, the largest and fastest growing church in the Philippines, also sees irresponsible human activities as factors that result in environmental degradation and calamities.

Islam, through the Koran, emphasizes that disrespecting Allah’s creation is like disrespecting Him. The Koran also states that “With it we have produced diverse pairs of plants separate from each other. Eat and pasture your cattle; verily, in these are signs for men endowed with understanding.’’ Again, this is proof of the importance of biodiversity to humanity.

Islam teachings emphasize that animals are an important part of the community. The Koran reads: “There is not an animal (that) lives on Earth nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you.” Islam further teaches “to help animals since this means helping mankind as well.” 

There are over 400 million Buddhists all over the world. Buddhists are the most respectful of nature, especially the living things. The Buddha said that humans must be compassionate to all living things. Clearly, Buddhism promotes respect for nature and biodiversity.

The United Church of Christ in its Toxic 100 Report, listed 100 facilities in the United States that produce the most toxic air pollution. The report, titled “Breath to the People: Sacred Air and Toxic Pollution,” is “a moral spotlight on the places where that sacred air is being poisoned and where children often suffer the most,” said the Rev. Brooks Berndt, United Church of Christ’s minister of environmental justice.

The report revealed how dangerous levels of toxic chemicals — ethylene oxide, hexavalent chromium, nickel — are associated with illnesses such as asthma, brain damage, cancer and birth defects. The United Church of Christ report called for the polluting facilities — which produce nearly 39 percent of all the toxic emissions in the nation — to be held accountable for both their carbon footprint and the negative health effects experienced by nearby residents. 

When it comes to nature or the environment, religion and science sing the same tune!

HIRAYA MANAWARI

ni: Arlene V. Umila 

CGMES, Nagcarlan

Sisimulan natin pagkwentuhan

Ang isang bagay na di pa natin alam ang petsa ng katapusan

Nagsimula ito sa isa, dalwa, tatlo, hanggang sa nalimutan nalang ang bilang at tamang numero hanggang ngayon

Nasaulo mo na ba?

Kahit nakapikit ay tila kaya

mo na iguhit ang larawan ng bawat

sulok ng iyong tahanan

Tila lahat tayo ay naging bilanggo sa rehas ng kuwarentenas

Nakakainip

Nakakasakal

Lahat yan ay ating danas

Nagsimula na 

Nagsimula na rin ang pagsusuot

ng maskara ng lahat

Maskara ng lahat na ang gusto'y kaligtasan

Maskara ng takot na pagkabilang ng tatlo lalayo sila sayo

Distansya ang hiling

Paunahan sa pila at tila naging isang laro na ang pamimili,

Ang makakarami'y buhay ang tropeyo

Pagpapasalamat kung may matitira sayo

Pagpapasalamat, may salapi pang natitira sayo

Pagpapasalamat sa pag-asang pinanghahawakan mo

Pananatili ng pagitan sa isa't isa

Gaano kalayo?

Gaano kasakit ang malayo?

Malayo sa mga taong dahilan ng pagsusumikap

Apat, lima, anim na talampakan

Pipiliing lumayo dahil mahalaga sila sayo

Ikaw nalang ang susubok

Ikaw nalang ang sumabak sa giyera ng

buhay sa pakikisalamuha

Naghigpit at nagkaroon ng hangganan

Magsisihigpit din ang kapit na ito'y matatapos din

Maraming buhay ang nawala

Maraming bagay ang di nagawa

Maraming plano ang bigla nalang naging bula

Lumipas ang mga araw at buwan

Bawat sigundo tila mabilis na dumaan

Mayroong sa trabaho nanatili

Ang iba'y kumalas

Isa ka ba sa kanila?

Na ang buhay ang nakataya kapalit ng buhay ng iba?

Sinuong kahit di sigurado

Kahit delikado

Kahit nakakapagod

Kahit marami ang umayaw

Kahit marami na ang bumitaw

Isa ka ba sa kanila?

Tuloy ang dalangin

Ang kaliwa at kanang kama'y nagdigkit

Tayo ay lalaya din

Ang pandemya'y paalala

Buhay ko, buhay mo at buhay nating lahat

Ay mahalaga

Maglalapit lapit tayong muli

Hiraya Manawari

MY PROFESSIONAL REFLECTION IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF LEARNING DELIVERY MODALITIES 2 COURSE FOR TEACHERS

By: John Rainier T. Bolado

San Agustin Integrated School, Ibaan, Batangas

This Learning Delivery Modalities 2 Course for teachers is an integral part of my teaching career because it served as a compilation of my knowledge and understanding of my profession. It also measures effectively my consciousness/ awareness and even judgment of the different phases of learning, which can pour out my ideas, analysis, and understanding to a road to change, improve, and make the teaching process more convenient and readily available even in changing times. Learning must continue no matter what the situation is and learning is possible because there are other learning modalities that can be used to make learning effective to happen.

As an educator, it helped me a lot to realize my goal to make effective learning happen in the new normal using teaching strategies that fit modular distance learning. The necessary information, knowledge and insights that I obtained in this course assisted me with addressing the necessities of the learners during this time. I am also eager to make better plans which are versatile to the current circumstances of education process- the shift to modular distance learning. 

Upon discussing with my co-teacher regarding how I will respond to the completion of this LDM2 modules, I had gained optimistic spirit of enlightenment. Subjecting myself to undergo through this process will not only benefit me a lot but it will also benefit my learners under the new normal school setting wherein face-to-face learning is prohibited because of the health risks brought about by CoVid 19. Learning must continue no matter what the situation is. Learning is possible because there are other learning modalities that can be used to make learning effective to happen. 

Simultaneously it is better to consider everything required for the continuation of the learning interaction of my students like the planning of the virtual interaction, making learning activity sheets, appraisal of educational instruments and assessment of learning with incorporation of ICT.

Through this, I can lay out my achievements inside the portfolio to acquire information and use it for the progression of the teaching and learning process. The shift of the teaching-learning delivery in schools to modular distance learning made it more challenging on the part of the teachers. This LDM course helps ensure that I will be able to deliver quality instruction in the new normal through better understanding of the learning continuity platforms to make learning effective to happen in the new normal school setting wherein blended learning modalities are significant concerns to this current time. The conveyance of fundamental quality training is convoluted which is the reason that the Department of Education (Deped) is continually discovering roads to tackle the issues and capacitating its educators and school leaders to turn out to be more effective. This serves as an urgent response to continuity of education and a great help to ensure the delivery of quality instruction for it help teachers be prepared for this distant learning in this new normal situation. It helps teachers to gain knowledge, skills and mindset that are necessary in this new teaching and learning way.

ALS TEACHER AT THIS TIME OF PANDEMIC

By: Aldrin M. Balaaldia

ALS - Mobile Teacher

“In the midst of the corona virus crisis, the call remains the same that education must continue, whether face-to-face or virtual with or without physically going to school.” - Department of Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones 

There are lots of things that challenged us in this time of pandemic as Alternative Learning System (ALS) Mobile Teacher. All of us have been battling this very minute virus, that could take away one’s life. Everyone is affected, welfare of every individual is at stake. These scenarios led me to realized and came up with these questions. First, how can we conduct Literacy Mapping and reach the target number of learners to be mapped? Before, we enthusiastically visit different barangays in our city to conduct the face to face literacy mapping to convince and encourage Out of School Children, Youths and Adults to enroll in ALS program, unlike in formal school, learners automatically go and enroll in their respective grade level. Second, how will I convince the learners to enroll and be interested to try our program in this time, where technology will take a big role in the learning process? Third, the issued learning module, will they be suited to learners’ level of understanding? Is it easily comprehend by the learners, a self-learning module as it is described? And lastly, how can we reach those learners that really want to enroll to the ALS program but don’t have any gadgets or internet connection? Today, we are not allowed to do the face to face literacy mapping and learning session to ensure one’s health. 

Changes is inevitable, and as a teacher, we are trained to adapt and be flexible to whatever situation we are in, specially this time of pandemic. Together with my co-educators, we came up with solutions to address the needs. We crafted some learning materials and innovated strategies so we can conduct the Literacy Mapping without doing the house to house traditional mapping. We use the social media to disseminate the Advocacy and Social Mobilization about the ALS program, creating google forms for the Online Literacy Mapping, Enrollment form and Functional Literacy Test (FLT). Also, we constructed and transferred different forms which before, learners are asked to answer those forms personally through pen and paper. My doubts about the use of technology in this new normal set-up have been paved off. Now learners who want to enroll in ALS can access it in the internet. Making learning exemplars and other learning activities that are suited to the needs of learners were developed. Moreover, we are very thankful for the barangay officials who whole heartedly help us reach and disseminate ALS Program to those learners despite of lack of internet connection and gadget. 

With the help of different people who continuously improve and support the system, we overcome all of the challenges to deliver the “ALS 2.0 the Second Chance Education but not a second class. 

“So together as one, we can move forward.”

PROTECT BIODIVERSITY TODAY AND PROTECT THE FUTURE

By: Joebert G. Abila

Teacher III , Sta. Veronica Elementary School

Just try to imagine a world where biodiversity thrives, where flora and fauna nourish in the wild forest of Amazon, or the clean waters of the Niagara Falls flow in its grandeur. Philippine Eagles soar high above the sky without the fear that humans might shoot them. Just how important biodiversity is in our world today? Students should learn this so that we can protect the future of humanity. 

Humanity must stop the pace of wildlife extinctions — or face extinction itself, according to a growing body of research. At a time when more than 1 million animals are at risk of extinction — and the links between human health and the health of the planet are clear — the stakes have never been higher.

With COVID-19, we’ve seen the damage that diseases can do not only to human health, but also to the global economy. By protecting biodiversity in Earth’s ecosystems, countries could save lives and money, while helping to prevent future pandemics. Biodiversity is an essential part of the solution to climate change. In a landmark study published in 2017, a group of researchers led by Bronson Griscom, who researches natural climate solutions at Conservation International, discovered that nature can deliver at least 30 percent of the emissions reductions needed by 2030 to prevent climate catastrophe. Protecting biodiversity plays a crucial part in achieving these emissions reductions. So how can you be of great help in your own simple way to protect biodiversity? One, if you have pets at home, make sure they are well fed, well groomed, and had been vaccinated by your veterinarian. Domesticated animals are a great part of the biodiversity that helps to balance the earth’s environment. 

You can buy from your local farmer at a farmers’ market or through a farm stand gives you the ability to find out how your food was grown and learn what they are doing on the farm to help conserve biodiversity. Educating people about the importance of biodiversity conservation increases public awareness of the issue. As public awareness increases, people become more involved in caring about their environment.

The earth doesn’t need us because it has long survived even before humanity came but we need mother earth because without it, we will not exist in this universe so we should take good care of our planet. The dreaded diseases, catastrophic calamities are all made worse by humans. Maybe it’s true that this could be Mother Earth’s way of fighting back what humanity destroyed and we humans are learning that lesson, sadly, in a very painful way. Let us heal earth again and go green and save our only mother earth.

Reference: Shaw, J. (2018) Why is biodiversity important URL: https://www.conservation.org/blog/why-is-biodiversity-important

CARD MBA ELECTS NEW BOT; TRANSFORMS MEMBERS TO LEADERS

Empowering its members to lead, CARD Mutual Benefit Association (CARD MBA) elected a new set of Board of Trustees (BOT) during the 22nd Annual General Membership Meeting on November 4, 2021 . 

CARD MBA, the microinsurance arm of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), is 100% owned and managed by CARD MRI clients who are also members of the Association. With this, CARD MBA installs 12 BOT from its members and three independent trustees to complete the Association’s line-up of BOT. 

Inducted through proxy votes via online conference meeting, the six new board members include Rowena R. Bayuga and Filda R. Tolen from Ilocos Norte, Mylin M. Chozas from Cabuyao, Laguna, Marjorie I. Quisoy from Albay, Jenelyn A. Sanchez from Occidental Mindoro, and Beverly A. Sinadjan from Masbate. The all-women ensemble is composed of CARD MBA Coordinators, member-borrowers of CARD MRI, who are originally tasked to voluntarily coordinate with their unit and provincial offices in terms of claims validation and reports. 

According to CARD MBA Chief Executive Officer Jocelyn D. Dequito, the new BOT will assist in governing the Association to address the needs of their fellow members. “Our MBA Coordinators are the direct link between the clients of CARD MRI’s financial institutions and CARD MBA itself. They are the best people to communicate with when it comes to the concerns of their co-members on the ground, and we need to work with them hand-in-hand to better serve our communities through our microinsurance services,” Dequito said.

Meanwhile, the two new independent trustees include Francis M. Puzon from Taytay, Rizal and Rolando A. Robles from Las Piñas City. Puzon and Robles both have decades of experience when it comes to risk management and compliance as well as life insurances and asset management respectively.  

From simple mothers to leaders

“Aside from being the recipients of our microfinance and microinsurance services, we believe that our client-members also have the power to bring about change in their community when given the right resources,” said CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito. “This is what urges us to seek their help to better our services and to lead their co-members out of poverty.” 

Anchored to its goal of empowering women, CARD MRI acknowledges the capacity of its women members to gain control of their assets and take part in managing an association such as CARD MBA. As a result, CARD MRI transforms simple mothers into members, and later on, to leaders of the community. 

“Since 1986, it has always been CARD MRI’s mission to provide the landless poor with a venue for asset ownership through our microfinance services. We equip them with the appropriate resources that they may utilize in order to carve their own path and be catalysts of change. At CARD MRI, we do not only lead people out of poverty; we also train them to influence other people to do the same,” concluded CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip. 

CARD MRI is a group of social development institutions with a mission to eradicate poverty by providing financial assistance, microinsurance, and other community development services in health and education. As of September 2021, CARD MRI has served 7,890,261 clients and has insured 26,999,910 individuals nationwide.

MPT SOUTH AT DILG 4A, NILAGDAAN ANG KASUNDUAN 

SA PAGSULONG NG ROAD SAFETY AT TURISMO SA CALABARZON 

nina Kevin Pamatmat

at Shekinah Joy Pamatmat

Nilagdaan ngayong araw ang Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) sa pagitan ng Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South), isa sa mga subsidiary ng Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), ang infrastructure arm ng Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) at Department of Interior and Local Government – CALABARZON (DILG IV-A) para sa pagsasagawa ng road safety education campaign at tourism promotion activities para sa rehiyon. 

Sa bisa ng MOU, magtutulungan ang DILG IV-A at MPT South sa pagbibigay ng dagdag na kaalaman patungkol sa local governance at social development- sa pamamagitan ng Local Gorvernance Resource Center (LGRC) facility- isang dynamic, interactive at virtual program na nagsisilbing sentro ng kaalaman sa pagbabahagi sa mga lokal na pamahalaan sa rehiyon ng iba’t ibang impormasyon na makatutulong sa pagpapaunlad ng kanilang mga kapasidad sa pagpapatakbo ng kani-kanilang mga bayan at siyudad. 

Katuwang ang DILG IV-A, inaaasahan ng MPT South na mapapaigting nito ang pagsasakatuparan ng iba’t ibang social advocacy projects nito gaya ng ‘Drayberks’ at ‘Bayani Ka’ na parehong road safety programs na naghihikayat at nagtuturo sa iba’t ibang motorista at komunidad ng mga alituntunin sa expressway at mga pamamaraan upang maturing na road safety advocates. 

Layun ng “Drayberks” road safety seminar, isa sa mga social advocacy programs ng MPT South na hango mula sa salitang "Drayber" at "Barkada", na maiwasan ang pagkakaroon ng mga road accidents sa mga mga toll roads ng MPT South: Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX); CAVITEX C5 Link; at Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX). Habang ang Bayani Ka naman, na ang ibig sabihin ay Bayani ng Kalsada, ay nagnanais na magbigay ng karagdagang kaalaman hinggil sa batas na Limited Access Facility Act (R.A. 2000).

Kasama rin sa mga nakalatag na proyekto ng MPT South kasama ang DILG IV-A ang pagsusulong ng turismo sa CALABARZON sa pamamgitan ng paggawa ng mga multimedia materials upang maibida ang iba’t ibang mga pagkain, lokasyon at tanawin sa rehiyon gamit ang Biyaheng South social media accounts at iba pang programa ng DILG IV-A. 

Nagsilbing kinatawan ng MPT South sa virtual signing ang Spokesperson at Assistant Vice President for Communications and Stakeholder Management nito na si Bb. Arlette V. Capistrano habang si Regional Director, Ariel O. Iglesia, CESO IV naman para sa DILG Region IV-A. 

“Ikinagagalak ng MPT South ang aming pakikiisa sa DILG Region IV-A para sa aming mga social development projects para sa pagpapalawig ng aming pagbibigay ng kaalaman ukol sa road safety at mga kaakibat nitong mga batas. Gayundin, katuwang ang DILG Region IV-A, kami ay lalong mas makakatulong sa muling pagpapaangat ng ekonomiya ng rehiyon, sa pamamagitan ng pagsulong sa turismo nito,” ani MPT South Spokesperson at Assistant Vice President for Communications and Stakeholder Management, Bb. Arlette V. Capistrano. 

“The Department through the Local Governance Resource Center has always banked on partnerships with agencies and organizations to deliver our mandate of guiding and empowering LGUs in effective program implementation and local governance. We are thankful for MPT South’s interest in collaborating with us on social development projects and we are looking forward to empowering our LGUs together.”, ani DILG IVA Regional Director Ariel O. Iglesia. 

Bukod sa CAVITEX, CAVITEX C5 Link, at CALAX, hawak din ng MPTC ang concessions para sa North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), NLEX Connector Road, Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), at Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) sa Cebu.

SAN PABLO CITY CENTRAL ROTARIANS RAISE HITO TO FUND PROJECTS

Give yourself and your loved ones with a gift of beauty from SM. With things opening up as Christmas approaches, it’s a good time to look good and feel great with gift sets from SM Beauty.

Luxe brands like Laura Mercier and Estee Lauder lead the way with their spectacular selections; while iconic MAC has a new dazzling lipstick collection, Benefit delights us with a beauty box, and Nars’s fashion forward gift set that will enhance your holiday look.

You’ll double the drama with Bobbi Brown’s smokey eye mascara, and make heads turn with Make Up Forever’s holiday collection. Vice Cosmetics has sweet treats with names like Kookie Dough and Peppermint for the lips, while Pretty Secret unlocks the key to great brow-works for the blushing diva.

Give your skin some TLC with Clinique’s Merry Moisture Set and Olay’s serums and moisturizers for younger looking skin.

All these and other personal care products like fragrances, hair care, vitamins, supplements, and more are available at SM Beauty located at The SM Stores in most SM Supermalls nationwide.  Just in time for Christmas, SM Beauty also has exclusive gifts for all SMAC members- a free bear or luggage for a minimum purchase of P10,000 single receipt, available in select SM stores. Keep shopping because you can get more points for selected items all season! 

You can also enjoy an exciting but worry-free shopping experience with our online shopping platforms; shop with SM Beauty Personal Shoppers and discover more products when you check out the SM Catalog https://thesmstorecatalog.com/collections/beauty-and-health. You can also buy your beauty gifts through Shop SM, our Viber community, Messenger, and the SM Store’s Call to Deliver service by calling #143SM or #14376.

 PCOL. ROGARTH B. CAMPO IS LAGUNA 

POLICE PROVINCIAL OFFICE NEW DIRECTOR

by Roselle R. Aquino

Camp Vicente Lim, Calamba City--PRO4A Regional Director, Brig Gen eliseo Cruz presides the turn-over of Command between the outgoing Provincial Director, Col Serafin Petalio II, and oncoming Provincial Director PCol Rogarth B Campo of the Laguna Police Provincial Office in a simoke ceremony at Camp B/Gen Paciano Rizal, Sta Cruz, Laguna. 

Cruz commends the efforts of the outgoing Provincial Director for initiating numerous projects in Laguna PPO. “When Chief PNP, Gen Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar implemented the Intensified Cleanliness Policy, Laguna PPO was the first to comply on his direcrive. 

Also, Laguna PPO under the leadership of Petalio was recognized by the National Historical Commission because of the construction of the Paciano Rizal Park. Many projects were initiated by the outgoing PD. He is doing this not only to comply with ICP by the Chief PNP but because that is his style. Kung lahat tayong mga officers do the same thing that Petalio has done I am sure we will go above the standard of our organization. Sana tularan natin ang mga ginawa ni Petalio”, Cruz in his message. 

He also wishes the best to the Incoming Provincial Director, “I am confident that Laguna PPO is in good hands under Campo. 

Cruz undercores the importance of Change of Command in an Office. According to him, it has to happen for us to move forward and to accomplish the mission of PNP. 

In parting, he calls on the support of all the personnel to continuously support the Intensified Cleanliness Policy of our Chief PNP.

CONG SOL: DAPAT TULUNGAN ANG MGA 

NASA DI-PORMAL NA SEKTOR NG PAGGAWA

ni Ruben E. Taningco

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Naniniwala si Congresswoman Sol Aragones ng 3rd District of Laguna na ang informal sector sa lipunan ng paggawa ay dapat na masinop na pinagtutuunan ng pansin ng mga pangasiwaang lokal, sapagka’t sila ay bahagi ng sandigan ng ating kabuhayang pambansa. Ito ang ipinadama ng mambabatas sa ilang lider ng samahan ng mga manggagawa na kanyang nakatagpo sa isang barangay hall sa lunsod na ito noong nakaraang Sabado ng hapon.

Ayon kay Sol Aragones, sa isang pag-aaral ng Department of Labor and Employment, napag-alamang ang 80% ng manggagawa sa bansa ay nabibilang sa mga manggagawang impormal, tulad ng mga jeepney and tricycle driver, magtitinda sa bangketa, mga komukontrata ng gawain sa sistemang pakyawan, mangingisda at magsasaka, o ang mga manggagawang walang katiyakan ang pagkita, na karaniwang ang mga ito ay walang tinatanggap na tulong na panglipunan, tulad ng health insurance, at sistema ng pag-iimpok para mapaghandaan ang panahon ng kanilang katandaan, tulad ng pensyon. Kaya, para sa makatotohanang katatagan ng bansa, ang sektor na ito ay 

dapat tulungan upang maging malakas, matatag, napangangalagaan, at napagkakalooban ng kapanatagan upang maging produktibo at kapakipakinabang sa lipunan.

Sa dipinisyong ibinigay ni Sol Aragones, ang manggagawang nabibilang sa informal sector ay ang mga karpintero at mason na namamakyaw ng gawain, mga tsuper, mga magtitinda sa bangketa o walang regular na puwesto, mangingisda, magsasaka, at kasama na ang mga nagsusulong ng cottage industry na sila ang gumagawa, namumuhunan, nagbibili o namamahagi ng produkto o paglilingkod na kanilang ipinagkakaloob kapalit ng napagkakasunduang kabayaran. Maitutulad sila sa may paggawaan na sila rin ang tauhang gumagawa.

Ang isang paraan na maitutulong ng mga yunit ng pamahalaang lokal ay ang paglalaan ng pondo, upang mga nabibilang sa informal sector ay masakop ng Pambansang Palatuntunang sa Kaseguruhang Pangkalusugan. Sana ang lahat ng mga jeepney driver at marginal fishermen ay mapagkalooban ng life insurance coverage. 

Bilang kongresista, kanyang pananagutan ang bumalangkas ng mga batas na ang layunin ay ang kagalingang pambansa, subalit pananagutan ng mga nangangasiwa ng mga yunit ng pamahalaang lokal ang implementasyon o pagpapatupad ng mga palatuntunang binalangkas ng Kongreso, tulad ng pagkakaloob ng scholarship sa mga anak ng mahihirap na pamilya, at pagsisikap na ang mga paglilingkod na pangkalusugan ay madama ng mga mahihirap na karaniwang naninirahan sa mga liblib na kanayunan, o sa mga masisikip na bahagi o blighted areas ng kabayanan.

‘PANGANGAILANGAN ANG CUL DE SAC’

Ni Ruben E. Taningco

SANTA CRUZ, Laguna--Bahagi ng konsepto ni Congresswoman Sol Aragones para mapaunlad pa ang mga bayang bumubuo ng 4th Provincial District of Laguna na halos ay kabalantay ng mga lawak na bulubundukin ng Lalawigan ng Quezon, na patuloy na palawakin pa ang sistema ng lansangan upang maging maluwag at mabilis ang daloy ng ating mga economic goods, at mapasigla ang industriya ng turismo sa mga bayang ito.

Dapat ding mapag-aralan ang posibilidad na sa tulong ng makabagong teknolohiya, ay mapalawak at mapatatag ang watershed area ng seven lakes sa San Pablo City upang maitaas ang out-put ng Hydro-Electric Plant sa Calauan, na magiging malaking katulungan sa pangangailangan sa kuryente para sa industriyalisasyong nagaganap dito sa Laguna Province..

Dapat ding magkaroon ng isang palatuntunan, upang magawa ng Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), dagdag pa ni Cong. Sol Aragones, na makapagbukas ng mga cul de sac o mga maiikling lansangan mula sa national road, papasok sa mga likuran ng umiiral na residential area sa baybayin ng mga pambansang lansangan, sapagka’t ang pangunahing suliranin ng mga magtatanim ng halaman ay ang pagdadala ng ani sa pamilihan.

Kung ang pamahalaan ay makakapaglunsad ng palatuntunang makapagbukas ng lansangang papasok sa likuran ng mga kabahayan o residential area, ang mga propetaryo na sa likuran ay nagkakaroon na ng pagkukusa na madugtungan ang lansangan papapasok sa dakong interyor ng barangay. Sa mga lansangang ito maipapasok ang linya ng kuryente, telepono, at cable tv; at maging ang mga bata ay magiging maluwag sa kanilang pagpasok sa paaralan, at ang matatanda at mahihinang mamamayan sa kanilang pamimili at pagsisimba. Sa pangkalahatan ay gagawa sa mga mamamayang maunlad at masaya ang pamumuhay. 

Kaugnay ng pagbubukas ng mga cul de sac, nasa kaisipan ni Cong Aragones ang pangangailangang masusugan ang batas na nagtatakda na kung ang lupang apektado ng pagbubukas ng lansangan ay sakop ng o covered by Free Patent Title, ay hindi binabayaran ang nakukuhang lote, upang magkaroon ng pamantayan sa pagbabayad bilang kompentasyon sa may-ari ng lupa na maaaring mapipilitang lumipat ng tahanan, at tuwirang maapektuhan ang kanilang kabuhayan. Hindi masamang pag-aralan ang Sistemang Solatium sa Englatera at India upang mabayaran ang mga loteng ginagamit sa pagbubukas ng mga lansangan sa makatarungang halaga, at hindi iyong batay lamang sa “assessed value” na isinasagawa ng mga “assessor” na lubhang napakababa at mapanggipit.

SMALL TALK WITH SMALL LAUDE AND SM

Although her name is Small, Filipina socialite, entrepreneur, and celebrity vlogger Small Laude knows what it is to live large. Funny, exuberant, and down to earth, her effortless humor has gained her 350K subscribers and followers who love her videos on fashion, lifestyle and her own shopping adventures in her YouTube channel. She also stars in her own 4-part TV special, It’s a Small World on Metro Channel.

Her latest shopping adventure takes her to SM, as host of Shop All You Can with Small Laude, where she highlights SM’s Call to Deliver service from October 15 to November 15, 2021 at The SM Store's Facebook page facebook.com/thesmstore.

As someone who has traveled and lived abroad extensively, Small admits “I didn’t shop a lot in Manila before.” She was therefore amazed when she started shopping at SM and discovered the store’s extensive offerings.

“SM has everything,” she enthuses. “Even some of the items I have from abroad, SM has them! So many nice things. I enjoy shopping at SM now, the experience is exciting!”

She has been especially delighted with SM’s Call to Deliver service, which she calls “a great and modern experience.”

Small describes the Call to Deliver service as “quite easy and convenient! The personal shoppers are competent and very accommodating. They will find and source all your needs.”

She was impressed with the service “because of the vast merchandise that’s available to choose from. Being able to get everything in one place and the convenience of having the personal shopper complete all you need and deliver it right to your door was fun and exhilarating!”

Her personal picks from her Call to Deliver shopping adventure? “Of course my Kitchen Aid!” she quickly answers. “I never knew The SM Store has it. I love the clothes and shoes, and perfumes that I selected. The scent collection of SM can compare those of other stores abroad! Too many to mention, really.”

Small’s shopping tips for the new normal” “Everything SM because they’ve got it all for you!”

Watch Small Laude's Shop All You Can video, and use her promo code to avail of FREE Delivery, with a minimum P1,000 The SM Store Call To Deliver purchase. 

As SM continues to celebrate the birth month of its founder Henry Sy Sr. this October with Super Month, you can get a chance to win exclusive vouchers and freebies from The SM Store Call to Deliver Scratch & Win promotion starting October 15, 2021 to January 15, 2022. Play Scratch & Win by registering a Philippine-issued mobile number using mobile phones or tablets at rewards.thesmstore.com. 

Celebrate Super Month with The SM Store Call to Deliver! Order from the comforts of your home and we will shop for you. Chat with us now via The SM Store’s Facebook Messenger bit.ly/CTD-Messenger and Viber comm: bit.ly/JoinSMViber Viber admin: thesmstore.hiallie.com. Check out The SM Store’s facebook page facebook.com/thesmstore Call #143SM.

CONVERGENCE AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN, PINASINAYAAN SA BAYAN NG RIZAL

nina Kevin Pamatmat at Shekinah Joy Pamatmat

Rizal, Laguna--Pinasinayaan sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon sa Calabarzon ang Convergence Area Developement Plan o CADP sa Tanaw De Rizal, Brgy. Tala sa bayang ito kamakailan.

Dumalo sa pagtitipon sina Department of Agriculture Regional Executive Director Vilma Dimaculangan, Usec. Atty. Ranibai Dilangalen, tagapagsalita ni Usec.Waldo Carpio na si Ms. Elaine Gener, PARO Elizabeth Z. Villapando at DENR Regional Executive Director Nilo B.Tamora.

Ang CADP ay bahagi ng programa ng National Convergence Iniative for Sustainable Rural Development kung saan naisakatuparan ito sa tulong ng apat na ahensya tulad ng 

Department of Agriculture, Dapartment of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Interior and Local Government, at Department of Agrarian Reform.

Ayon kay Mayor Vener P. Muñoz, natatanaw na ang pag-unlad ng bayan ng Rizal dahil sa patuloy na proyektong dumatating sa kanila. Nagpapasalamat din siya dahil sa suportang ibinibigay ng buong Sanggunian.

Sa panayam naman kay Vice Mayor Tony Aurelio, labis ang kanyang pasasalamat sa National Covergence Iniative for Sustainable Rural Developement dahil natupad na ang matagal nilang minimithing tulong mula sa mga ahensyang ito na siyang kauna-unahang inilunsad sa buong Calabarzon.

JERA PARTNERSHIP SEEN AS ‘ENABLER’ IN 

ABOITIZPOWER’S 10-YEAR RE EXPANSION JOURNEY

AboitizPower’s renewable energy aspirations are taking a huge leap forward following Japanese firm JERA’s recent acquisition of a 27-percent stake in the Aboitiz-led power company for $1.46 billion.

The sale was announced on Tuesday, September 28, 2021, and was characterized as a “transaction [that] unlocks significant capital that will be used toward fueling the [Aboitiz Equity Ventures] Group’s growth initiatives.”

“This transaction will deepen our bonds and represents a leap forward in our shared mission to support economic development in the Philippines and beyond while supporting the energy transition towards a decarbonized future,” AboitizPower President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel V. Rubio said.

JERA is one of the world’s largest power producers and the largest single liquefied natural gas (LNG) buyer in the world. Rubio said that as the energy sector undergoes a transition, this presents a great opportunity for AboitizPower. 

With a presence in more than 10 countries across the globe, JERA’s international footprint provides AboitizPower with further opportunities for collaboration and new market entry.

Rubio shared that this partnership with JERA will result in a more future-ready organization with access to new perspectives, capabilities, and a global network. 

“Through this partnership, we hope to build on our 10-year plan, where we aim to reduce the carbon intensity of our business. We intend to explore new pathways toward decarbonization that will complement our renewable energy growth plan and our nature-based carbon sequestration program,” said Rubio.

AboitizPower earlier announced its 10-year growth ambition, where it aims to exponentially increase its Cleanergy capacity to 4,600 MW to achieve a 50:50 balance between its renewable and thermal portfolios. The company’s top executive pointed out that its “partnership with JERA will be a key enabler in this journey.”

Both parties have already identified potential areas for collaboration across multiple fronts including joint development of LNG-to-power projects, LNG fuel sourcing and management, potential participation in aspects of plant operations and maintenance, as well as the exploration of the use of new generation technologies.

Rubio assured that there will be no management changes resulting from the partnership, but rather a “greater diversity of perspective at the board and enhanced governance.”

“We are optimistic that our partnership will bring about positive change not only for our organizations but, ultimately, for the customers and communities we serve,” Rubio said.

TEACHER! TEACHER! MAY I GO OUT?

by Joseph Regalado Tambio

This is probably the most famous question that every student has ever asked. Truth maybe told, it has sometimes been a point of humour and even mocked as an excuse for one reason or another. But this is voice echoing the real essence of an educational reform, a call more than a question and a cry more than simple request…to be free from traditional and old-fashioned teaching.

Although it is not something new, Outcome Based Education (OBE) has become subject of many learning institutions and tried to adopt and implement in their curriculum. In 2014, the Commission on Higher Education came out with the guidelines for OBE and has since then become subject for change and revision of existing curricular designs. 

When do we say a student has actually achieved the objective of a particular course? Will it be based on the mark and numerical grades given by the teacher or as they would always say, “hindi ako ang gumagawa ng grade, taga-compute lang ako” (I don’t make the grade, I just compute). Following the same line of thought, it gives a better understanding of OBE. That indeed, education is based on what the student can do and not just on what can be computed. Sadly, we have been misled the irony that a student may achieve 100% in the course of learning but at the same time confronted by the premise that nobody is perfect. OBE then is more than the numeracy of grading and evaluating output. It is rather a paradigmatic change which calls for transformation of perspective and approach to teaching as not just a transfer of learning but rather the realization of the educational objectives scaffolded of course by standards and logical parameters. 

Where are we in terms of assessing the learners academic achievement? Has the Philippine educational system been able to go along with the demands and standards of the international arena or remains traditional giving emphasis on skills and competencies which are rather irrelevant and unnecessary in the current century?

OBE challenges the time-honoured teaching approaches and pedagogies by transcending the paradigm of education. Learning is never a one-size-fit all approach but sadly, this has been the case as long as I can remember. Students inside the classroom are discriminated based on their academic status, or most apt term is they are measured based on their intelligence excluding other facets of learning. On the wall of many classrooms is the coveted TOP OF THE CLASS. Sometimes this feudal award was even the cause of many disputes and animosities among parents. 

This is very unfortunate because many if not all teachers were taught of the different theories of learning and levels of intelligence. They may have the mastery of these tenets but never put such essential in actual classroom setting. Now we ask a resounding why? What keeps them from not being able to carry on with the more pragmatic way of teaching which gives way to education that gravitates on outcomes with broader scope rather than focusing on the report card as the sole basis of scholastic success. 

OBE proposes what it calls as “Power” principles namely: Clarity of Focus, Expanded Opportunity, High Expectations and Design Down. These principles will hopefully help educators to set a clearer goal for not just for their own key performance but more importantly for the learners. Educators are given a way to re-think and undo some of the feudal practices. Outcome is now targeted using the correct lens and arrows posing a higher chance of success which OBE believes to be possible for ALL learners and not just of the academically competent. 

On a bigger scale, there remains to be many unresolved challenges which many teachers probably more for those in the public schools with regard to implementation of curriculum vis-à-vis realities of daily classroom experiences. Without prejudice to the teachers’ expertise and professional qualifications, most teachers are still zealous in doing their mission, to educate and bring about transformation and hope to their students. But more often than not, they are not able to fully function and adapt because they are limited, disabled by incongruent circular, wordy memoranda, orders, and some generic guidelines from responsible or rather controlling department of the Philippine government. 

Practically, every classroom has door for students to enter and daily they are challenged to learn, be moulded and transformed by the carefully crafted lessons of teachers. Aided by various innovative and arousing techniques and pedagogical approaches, all subjects are taught with the objective of transferring knowledge to students. Everyday is a tag of war between attaining the desired outcome or completion of the lesson plan notwithstanding the student’s potential. May all educators provide them with every opportunity to succeed, make them understand that it is in making mistakes that they can be perfectly normal for 100% is just an illusion so focus on the reality that they are unique and success can never be defined by grades. 

With OBE, we answer the title of this article. Let us allow our students to be critical in their learning journey and tell them…YES, you may go out!

KAWALAN NG KREDIBILIDAD NG MGA ULAT SA COVID 19, BINABATIKOS

ni Atty. Batas Mauricio 

INSPIRASYON SA BUHAY: “… `ang salita mo ang katotohanan’…” (ang pahayag ni Jesus sa Juan 17:17, Ang Tanging Daan Bibliya).

-ooo-

MGA DALUBHASA SA COVID 19, NAGTATALO-TALO KUNG BUMABABA NA NGA BA ANG BILANG NG MGA NAHAHAWA NG VIRUS: Nababalot ngayon sa matinding pagtatalo-talo ang mga dalubhasa sa COVID 19 sa Pilipinas sa isyu ng sinasabing patuloy na pagbaba ng bilang ng mga nahahawa ng nasabing virus at ng kaniyang Delta variant, kasama na ang iba’t-iba pang mga uri nito na nakakahawa at nakakamatay.

Sa pangunguna ng Department of Health, ng Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases, at ng OCTA Research Group, sinasabi ng isang grupo na nakikita na ang tuloy-tuloy na pagbaba ng infection rate ng COVID 19.

Ayon naman sa isa pang grupo ng mga dalubhasa, ipinapakita ng pandaigdigang impormasyon sa COVID 19 na hindi bumababa kundi sumasargo o dumadami pang muli ang nahahawa.

Sa ulat ng OCTA noong umaga ng Oktubre 21, 2021, bumababa na ng husto ang mga nahahawa ng COVID 19, at nakikita na diumano na babalik na ang dating regular na bilang ng pagdami ng tinatamaan ng infection ng virus sa mga huling araw ng buwan ng Oktubre.

Sa ulat ng mb.com.ph, ang online version ng pahayagang Manila Bulletin, nakatampok doon ang pahayag ni OCTA fellow Dr. Guido David na sa nakaraang pitong araw, nasa halos 6,000 katao na lamang ang mga nahahawa sa virus.

-ooo-

PANDAIGDIGANG TREND SA COVID 19 AY NAGPAPAKITANG DUMADAMI PA DIN ANG TINATAMAAN NG VIRUS: “Cases are expected to decrease to pre-delta surge level by end of October. Current 7-day average in PH is 6416 and 1156 in the NCR. Reproduction number in PH is 0.55 and 0.47 in the NCR,” dagdag ni Dr. David sa kaniyang Tweeter account na @iamguidodavid.

Sa kabilang dako, batay naman sa mga ulat na nagmumula sa mga international news agencies gaya ng pahayagang The Independent, lumilitaw na dumagsa na naman ang bilang ng mga mamamayan doon na nahahawa ng COVID 19 araw-araw.

Ngayon, ayon sa The Independent, hindi na bumababa ang bilang sa 50,000 katao ang nagkaka-COVID 19, bagamat ang marami sa mga nagkakasakit na ito ay di na nagpapa-admit muna sa mga ospital.

Nababahala na din ang mga autoridad sa gobyerno doon dahil sa pagdami na naman ng mga namamatay araw-araw dahil sa COVID 19, na inaasahang lolobo sa hindi bababa sa 100,000 katao araw-araw.

Isinisisi ng mga authoridad sa London ang muling paglala ng COVID 19 infections doon sa pagbubukas ng mga eskuwelahan kung saan face to face, o pumapasok sa classrooms, na naman ang estilo ng pag-aaral ng mga kabataan.

-ooo-

KAWALAN NG KREDIBILIDAD NG MGA ULAT SA COVID SA PILIPINAS, BINABATIKOS: Isinisisi din ng marami sa nasabing bansa ang pagdami ng mga nahahawa sa kasalukuyan sa pagluluwag na ipinatupad ng pamahalaan matapos bumaba ang bilang ng mga nahahawa noong Marso.

Batay sa obserbasyon ng marami, madaling nakakalimot ang mga tao na bagamat binawi ang mga limistasyon upang maiwasan ang COVID 19, nananatili pa din ang virus sa kapaligiran at hindi nawawala ang bisa nito na maminsala at makapatay ng mga biktima.

Sa Pilipinas, marami ang sumisilip sa katapatan o katotohanan ng mga bilang ng mga nahahawa o namamatay sa COVID 19 na iniuulat ng DOH at ng iba pang ahensiya ng pamahalaan.

Bunga ito ng madalas na pabago-bago at papalit-palit na datos ng nasabing mga ahensiya, at ng hindi pag-uulat, sinasadya man o hindi, ng mga datos na nagmumula sa ilang mga COVID treatment centers o hospitals.

Nagiging isyu din ang pananaw ng iba na may mga “lihim” sa mga pag-uulat sa COVID sa bansa, na dahilan upang magkaroon ng kamalayan ang maraming Pilipino na pagdudahan o di kaya ay lantarang hindi na paniniwala sa mga iniuulat na bilang ng DOH at ng gobyerno.

-ooo-

MANOOD, MAKINIG: Kakampi Mo Ang Batas, www.facebook.com/attybatas, www.facebook.com/radyopilipino, YouTube.com/kakampimoangbatas, Radyo Pilipino stations nationwide, at mga affiliated radio stations ng Kiss FM network, Sunrise News network, PowerNews Broadcasting Network, 95.5. J FM network.

COMMUNAL WATER AND LAKE SEEDING, ISINAGAWA SA SAN PABLO CITY

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna - Pinangunahan ni Gob. Ramil L. Hernandez ang ginanap na Communal Water and Lake Seeding kung saan nagbigay ang pamahalaang panlalawigan ng 30,000 tilapia fingerlings para sa mga mangingisda ng Bantay Lawa ng Mohicap Lake, Brgy. San Buenaventura sa lungsod na ito nitong Oktubre 20, 2021.

Ang mga programang katulad nito na sumusuporta sa kabuhayan ng mangingisdang Lagunense, kasama na ang mga programang para sa edukasyon, tulong sa nangangailangan, at iba pa, ay patuloy na ginagawa at pinaglalaanan ng pondo ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna para tunay na mapakinabangan ng bawat sektor ng lalawigan. 

Ani Gob. Hernandez, “Sa mga masisipag na mangingisda ng lalawigan, sa tulong-tulong nating pagsisikap ay makakaraos din tayo sa pandemyang ating kinakaharap.”

Nagpapasalamat ang Gobernador sa lahat ng mga tumulong sa programang ito, una na kay Vice Governor Atty. Karen Agapay na lagi ang suporta sa mga proyekto ng lalawigan at sa Field Agricultural Extension Services-Office of the Provincial Agriculturist na pinamumunuan ni Mr. Marlon Tobias. (PGL SocMed Team, photo by Jun Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

LAGUNA 3RD DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER ALEJANDRO “ABI” YU: 

SINCERITY AND HEART FOR THE PEOPLE

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

The true hallmark of a good leadership rests on the laurels of a better community that has been served by the people who sits on the threshold of power. Indeed, with great power comes great responsibility as the adage by Uncle Ben in Spider Man rings so true, even in this day and age most especially in this time where election season is just around the corner. Let us meet one of our public servants in the 3rd District of Laguna in the person of respected businessman and public servant Mr. Alejandro “Abi” Yu. 

Board Member Alejandro Abi Yu is currently the Majority Floor Leader of the Sangguniang Panglalawigan Council and also the Chairman of the Committee on Rules. “Napakarami pong tungkulin ng isang bokal, asahan ninyo po sa mga Bokal na gumawa ng batas at laging pumapasok sa session” said Hon. Abi Yu. When it comes to educational background, Board Member Abi Yu studied Master in Development Management and Governance at University of Makati and studied Master in Public Administration at Philippine College of Health Sciences. 

Asked about his advice to the youth in particular, “Sana alamin ninyo pong mabuti kung ano po ang maitutulong ng isang kandidato sa bayan. Ano ang track record at experience. Alamin ninyo pong mabuti ang pagkatao ng inyong ibobotong politiko. Naglingkod po tayo ng tama sa ating tungkulin bilang bokal. Sana po ay muli ninyo akong pagkatiwalaan” said Hon. Abi Yu. During the height of the Covid19 pandemic and even before it strike, Hon. Abi Yu gave nebulizers and medical assistance to those in need. He also joined the local government in giving aid to the people who are affected during the pandemic.

Hon. Board Member Abi Yu is on his way to a third term as Board member of Laguna’s 3rd District. He is also a former three-termer San Pablo Councilor and during his term as a City Councilor, he became the President of the League of Councilors in Laguna not just once but twice and also became a chairman in the entire Calabarzon area. 

Transparency, genuine and sincere service to his constituency, and above all, fear of God Almighty is the mantra of the good Board Member of the 3rd District of Laguna Honorable Alejandro Abi Yu. For more information regarding BM Abi Yu, you can visit his face book page at Abi Yu https://www.facebook.com/Abi-Yu-103951125375332

LETRAN KNIGHTS CAGER KYLE TOLENTINO: SPORTS AND PUBLIC SERVICE 

Being a basketball player playing for the NCAA and the son of a City Councilor and basketball coach, the expectations for a young lad are genuinely there. That is why by no means, this heartthrob athlete from Letran Knights is doing his best to meet everyone’s expectations with his stature. Such is the case of this up and coming talent from Letran Knights team, Filipino-American Kyle Dominic Tolentino. 

Born Kyle Dominic P. Tolentino on September 25, 2001 in New York, USA to Marikina City Councilor Mr. Elvis Tolentino and Ms. Aileen Tolentino, the 6-foot-2 cager is currently playing for Colegio de San Juan de Letran as a grade 12 student. In the previous typhoons that devastated the country that caused floods particularly in their place in Marikina, Kyle was one of the persons who took the frontlines for donations and had helped in relief operations in their community even in this time of pandemic. 

In the world of basketball, Kyle is also someone who can deliver for the team when it matters. In the Manila Elite Basketball League, he was awarded as player of the game when he scored 20 points coupled with 2 rebounds and 1 assist to help beat Titan Angels. Kyle’s idols in the PBA and NBA are Paul Lee and Golden State Warriors’ Klay Thompson. Asked on how he balances studies and the sports, “Time management is always the key”, said Kyle. His career high in points is 39 in Marist Basketball League.

“My favorite shot is 3-points because I’m confident with it”, added Kyle. Aside from basketball, he is also fond of watching movies. His ambition in life is to become a PBA player in the near future. With determination to succeed and a heart for public service, this young lad will go a long way. 

Email the author at: paolomanuelfule@yahoo.com

PAALAALA SA MGA SENIOR CITIZEN

ni Ruben E. Taningco

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna--Nagpapaalaala si G. Efren B. Azusano, Head of the Office of the Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA) ng City Government of San Pablo sa lahat ng mga senior citizen sa lunsod na tiyaking maayos pa ang kalalagayan ng kanilang Senior Citizen’s Identification Card; at ang mga umabot na sa gulang na 60 taon na wala pang ID ay mangyari lamang magsadya sa OSCA Office sa Groundfloor ng Old City Hall Building para sila ay mapagkalooban ng naaayon sa mga umiiral na batas at alituntunin ukol dito.

Ito ay upang matiyak na bilang mga nakatatandang mamamayan ng lunsod, sila ay makakapagtamo ng 20% diskwento sa pagbili ng mga pangunahing pangangailangan, lalo na ng gamot at groserya na bahagi ng pagkain ng mga matatanda.

Ang mga may Senior Citizen’s ID ay may 20% diskwento sa pagbabayad sa mga food chain at restoran, sa mga otel, at sa transportasyon, kasama na ang pagsakay sa eroplano at barko. 20% rin ang diskwento sa pagbabayad sa serbisyo ng mga manggagamot at sa bayarin sa mga medical laboratory.

Upang matamo ang 20% diskwento sa pagbili ng gamot sa botika, nabanggit ni OSCA Head Efren B. Azusano na kumuha sa kanilang tanggapan ng Senior Citizen Purchase Slip Booklet na may control number at panahon na ito ay dapat kilalanin. Samantala para sa 5% diskwento sa grocery items, ang hihilingin sa kanilang tanggapan ay ang Senior Citizen Commodities Purchase Slip Booklet na mayroon din kanyang control number and period covered.

Ang Office of Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA) ay nasa groundfloor ng Old City Hall Building, na ang pasukan ay ang pintong paharap sa 8-Storey Building.

Konek2card Ramps Up Campaign To Advance Digital Financial Inclusion In The Country

To achieve its goal of bringing digital banking services to 3.5 million clients by June 2022, konek2CARD of the CARD MRI Banking Group launches several campaigns starting the fourth quarter of 2021.

konek2CARD, a mobile banking application that allows CARD MRI clients to do their banking transactions safely and more conveniently at home, first achieved its milestone on June 28, 2021, when it reached one million konek2CARD registrations. Now, it aims to achieve 3.5 million registered users by the end of the year. 

“For the final quarter of 2021, konek2CARD’s push for increasing our users is fueled by our goal of bringing safer transaction options for our clients. With different variants of COVID-19 emerging in the country, we want to improve our service delivery for our clients and bring our financial services at the palm of their hands,” CARD SME Bank President and CEO and konek2CARD Champion Cynthia B. Baldeo shared as to why konek2CARD strives to increase its users before the year ends. 

Specifically, the organization aims to lessen their clients’ inconvenience when it comes to doing their financial transactions by encouraging konek2CARD agent-mediated transactions instead of heading to CARD’s offices and Branch-Lite Units. These konek2CARD agents are accredited by CARD MRI and can be found within the clients’ communities. 

Another part of the improvement of CARD’s digital financial transactions is the launching and campaigning of konek2CARD Plus or kPlus. This improved version of konek2CARD allows the clients of CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), CARD Bank, CARD SME Bank, and CARD MRI RIZAL BANK to use a single mobile banking application to simplify transactions. 

Identifying specific targets

Although accessible nationwide, konek2CARD still needs to widen its reach in some parts of the country to bring its services closer to its clients; thus, CARD MRI has identified specific locations on which they plan to campaign and encourage the use of konek2CARD. These are Baguio, La Union, Candon, Vigan, Laoag, Aparri, Bicol, and Cebu. 

Programs and Awards

To entice its clients to use konek2CARD for safer transactions, konek2CARD launched several campaigns and contests that will last until December 2021.

konek2CARD will recognize its top performing agents monthly and quarterly. The contest will run from September to November 2021.

For centers, the “Center Level App Challenge” encourages 100% of its members to use konek2CARD. The first 14 centers per institution to reach 100% konek2CARD membership will receive cash prizes and limited-edition items from their respective institutions. Account Officers handling top performing centers will also receive prizes. Centers may race to 100% konek2CARD center membership until December 2021.

As frontrunners of konek2CARD’s campaign, konek2CARD Agents are given recognition in the “Flex your konek2CARD Agent and Win” contest. In this, clients will post a selfie with their konek2CARD Agents after having their transactions. Each selfie will count as a raffle entry in the weekly raffle, and winners will get PhP300 worth of load. The campaign will end on October 15, 2021

Meanwhile, konek2CARD also makes sure that clients will get to experience transacting using the mobile banking application with “Level App your Savings and WIN” contest. In this, selected financial transactions done by a client will serve as a raffle entry to win PhP300 worth of cashback. Draw date will be on October 11, 2021, via Zoom.

Bigger Picture

CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito weighs in on the impact of konek2CARD in the lives of CARD MRI’s clients. “Based on the interactions and response of our clients in our social media pages and even on the field with our Account Officers and konek2CARD Agents, we can definitely say that our innovation is well-received among our clients. There will always be technical difficulties and confusion on technology, but with our well-trained and knowledgeable staff and agents, as well as our various campaigns, I am sure that konek2CARD will reach more clients and be of help to them for the years to come,” he said.

CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip sees the goal of having 3.5 million konek2CARD registered users as another step towards the organization’s goal of financial inclusivity and poverty eradication. “The goal of reaching 3.5 million konek2CARD users is just a portion of what we truly aim, which is having more than 20 million members served after 10 years. CARD MRI truly believes that through innovation and technology, we can lift the lives of the Filipinos, especially during the pandemic,” Dr. Alip said on how innovation paves the path of a better tomorrow for the country.

CARD MRI follows the 10-20-80 strategic direction that aims to have 20 million members and 80 million insured individuals within 10 years. The path of digital transformation, including konek2CARD, is CARD MRI’s way of making financial products and services available and affordable to the public. For more information about konek2CARD, visit their official Facebook page @konek2CARDOfficial.

PNP LEGAL SERVICE CELEBRATES 29TH FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY

By: Roselle Aquino

Camp Vicente Lim, Calamba City – The PHP Legal Service (LS) celebrated their 29th founding anniversary in a simple rite.

The celebration focused on tier theme “PNP Legal Service in the face of the pandemic: Unfalteringly upholding the rule of law and the best interest of the police organization”.

The Chief PNP himself, General Guillermo Eleazar was the guest of honor and speaker where he awarded medals to deserving members of the service.

Brig General George Almaden, Director of the Legal Service assisted Eleazar in giving out awards to their deserving personnel and units.

Among them are Regional Legal Office 3 as Best Regional Office. Regional office Calabarzon earned the second best.

Lt Col Emely Trinidad of Regional Office Calabarzon was awarded as the Best Provincial Legal Officer and one of the “Lawyers with successful DLR Cases. 

Trinidad was accorded such honors for her commitment to excellence in carrying out the mandate of the PNP Legal Service by providing legal services to Laguna Provincial Police Office, RLO4A and its personnel.

DILG DIRECTS LGUS, PNP TO STRICTLY 

IMPLEMENT ANTI-COVID POLL ACTIVITIES

As the campaign period is set to start on February 8 for national candidates and on March 25 for local candidates, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today urged local government units (LGUs) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to strictly implement and/or enforce the allowable and prohibited election-related activities per alert level in their area of jurisdiction pursuant to Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution 10732 to stop the spread of Covid-19.

DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año said LGUs and the PNP must be on top of ensuring that minimum public health standards (MPHS) are enforced depending on the alert level during in-person campaigns, rallies, caucuses, meetings and conventions; motorcades and caravans; and miting de avance.

“Sisiguraduhin po nating tumutupad ang mga LGU sa Comelec Resolution 10732 bilang pagtitiyak na magiging ligtas ang ating mga kababayan sa panahon ng kampanya. We are facing a much transmissible variant kaya naman hindi tayo dapat magpabaya maging ngayong panahon ng halalan,” Año said.

“Una pa din ang kalusugan at kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan kaya mariing ipinapaalala ng DILG ang pagsunod ng LGUs at PNP sa mga panuntunan ng COMELEC,” he added.

Comelec issued Resolution 10732 dated November 24, 2021 outlining the guidelines for the conduct of 2022 Election-related activities amid the new normal and the continuous threat of COVID-19’s Omicron variant.

In an advisory released recently, the DILG Chief likewise said LGUs must adopt necessary measures and strategies to comply with the Comelec Resolution; streamline existing LGU policies with the issuance; and, ensure observance of the guidelines’ entirety within their locality.

“The 2022 Election is a very important event for the country but we must take into consideration that we are still currently battling an enemy that thrives in gatherings. We expect LGUs and the PNP to strictly enforce the poll guidelines,” Año said.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is also called to maintain order and security and to impose strict observance of MPHS during any election-related campaigns in coordination with the barangay officials, tanods, and the Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams.

“Kailangang pagalawin ng mga LGU ang lahat ng kanilang law enforcement units upang tiyakin na magiging ligtas at malayo sa COVID-19 ang mga makikiisa nating kababayan sa mga kampanyang ito,” Año said.

He further pushed for impartiality and nudged the LGUs and the Municipal or City Comelec Campaign Committee (M/CCCC)M/CCCC to stay the course of public service and avoid politics in granting campaign permits to both national and local candidates alike.

“To the LGUs and M/CCCC, please avoid partiality and bias in granting approval for these campaign activities. Unahin po natin ang kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan bago ang pamumulitika,” Año said.

Prohibited activities during campaign period

DILG Secretary Año said that Comelec Resolution 10732 states specific conditions and allowable campaign activities that LGUs and M/CCCC must implement "to safeguard both the citizens and candidates alike" during the campaign period.

"Depending on the Alert Level, kailangang maging mahigpit ang mga LGU at M/CCCC sa pagpapatupad ng resolusyon ng Comelec," Año said.

The Comelec Resolution states that in-person campaigning is not allowed for Alert Levels 4 and 5 while candidates or campaign leaders must only be accompanied by maximum of five campaign support staff in Alert Level 2 and three for Alert Level 3. For Alert Level 1, there's no limit to the number of companions the candidates can have.

Also, for in-house cazzmpaigning, entering any private dwelling during house-to-house campaigning, even with the express permission of the homeowner; and, crowding, or allowing crowds that violate MPHS around the candidate and his or her companions are not allowed.

For caucuses, meetings, convention, rallies, and miting de avance, 70% of the operational capacity of the venue, whether indoor or outdoor is allowed for Alert Level 1; 50% of the operational capacity of the venue, whether indoor or outdoor for Level 2; 50% of the operational capacity of the venue for enclosed outdoor only for Level 3; 30% of the operational capacity of the venue for enclosed outdoors only for Level 4 while for Level 5, none among the gatherings mentioned are permitted.

During motorcades in all category levels, stopovers, layovers, and other similar stoppages for the conduct of other election campaign activities are likewise not permitted.

Meanwhile, in all Alert Levels, handshakes, hugs, kisses, going arm-in-arm, or any action that involves physical contact among the candidate, their companions, and the public; taking selfies, photographs and other similar activities that require close proximity between the candidate and their companions, and the public; and, distribution of food and drink, and all other goods or items are not allowed in all campaign activities mentioned.

CALABARZON PNP HAS NEW DIRECTOR

by Roselle R. Aquino

Camp Vicente Lim, Calamba City--Brig Gen Antonio Yarra took the helm of leadership as the newly installed Regional Director of Police Regional Office CALABARZON in a simple turn-over ceremony held this camp.

Presided over the Deputy Chief, PNP for Operations, Lt Gen Israel Ephraim Dickson, the office symbol, property, equipment inventory book, unit saber, unit color, and property pook were turned-over by the outgoing Regional Director, Brig Gen Eliseo Cruz accepted by the incoming director.

Delivering his message, Yarra acknowledged the achievements of his predecessors and the previous regional directors of PRO CALABARZON who have done the most of the thinking and instituted into the PNP system. “We don’t have to reinvent the wheel. What we should do is to improve on the actions they took to have better results,” he said.

Yarra briefly presented his 4A’s ideals to PRO CALABARZON personnel. “As we work together starting today, let us embody the ideals of the PNP. We will do that by developing Aptitude, by taking Action, by having the right Attitude, and by facing Accountability. Encourage the local government officials and the communities you serve to join us in our quest to having a safer CALABARZON through the 4A’s,” he explained.

Prior to his designation as the Regional Director, he spent almost one third of his police career in PRO CALABARZON. Yarra served as Chief Comptrollership in 2014, Quezon Police Provincial Director in 2016 and Deputy Regional Director for Administration in 2020. After his stint in PRO CALABARZON, he was assigned at NCRPO as Deputy Regional Director for Operations and Administration respectively. In April of 2021 he was designated as the District Director of Quezon City Police District.

In his closing message, he asked the entire CALABARZON police force to join him in the journey guided by the 4A’s while building the culture of service, honor, and justice. “As professional police officers, I believe that we all know what we ought to do. We should have the moral courage to stand for what is right and to uphold the rule of law,” he concluded.

Yarra is a member of PMA Class “Sambisig” of 1991. He replace, 

Cruz who is set to lead the Area Police Command, in Visayas as the Acting Deputy Commander.

SSS ADVISES MEMBERS AND PENSIONERS

TO GET PROTECTED FROM COVID-19

The Social Security System (SSS) reminds its members and pensioners to abide by the enhanced workplace safety systems following the nationwide surge of COVID-19 cases.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Aurora C. Ignacio stated that despite the pandemic, members still continue to visit SSS offices to file and follow up on their claims.

“Our desire is to continuously provide the benefits and services for our members. However, in order to do so, we must observe basic health precautionary measures as mandated by the government to ensure the safety of both members and SSS employees.” Ignacio said.

In this line, SSS enjoins it stakeholders to get protected from COVID-19 by adopting these following steps:

• Getting vaccinated,

• Wearing masks in public, especially in closed, crowded areas

• Practicing social distancing,

• Frequently washing our hands,

• Limiting travel,

• Avoid crowded areas,

• Transacting online,

• Isolate if with COVID-like symptoms, and

• Monitor daily health status.

Further, SSS enjoins its members, pensioners, employers, and the general public to continue using its online services when transacting with its offices and branches for faster, simpler, more efficient, and more convenient ways to avoid face-to-face interaction. Further information on the mandatory online transactions and other online services can be viewed through this link: http://bit.ly/expreSSS.

Transacting members and employers are also mandatorily required to create an account in order to transact and enjoy the online services at the My.SSS Portal through the SSS website www.sss.gov.ph or use the SSS Mobile App which is downloadable for free in Google Play Store, Apple App Store and Huawei App Gallery, or send inquiries through Text-SSS at 2600.

For more information, visit the uSSSapTayo Portal at https://crms.sss.gov.ph, follow the SSS on Facebook at “Philippine Social Security System - SSS,” Instagram and YouTube at “mysssph,” Twitter at “PHLSSS,” or join its Viber Community at “MYSSSPH Updates.”

EVACUATION CENTER AT COMMUNITY 

SUPPORT FACILITY BUILDING PARA SA RIZAL

ni Ruben E. Taningco

RIZAL, Laguna--Matapos malagdaan ang Memorandum of Agreement sap ag-itan ng pamunuan ng Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) at ng Municipal Government of Rizal noong nakaraang Biyernes ng umaga sa isang seremonyang ginanap sa bagong Municipal Hall, ay isinagawa na kaagad ang tradisyonal na “ground breaking ceremony” para sa pagtatayo ng isang Evacuation Center at isang Community Support Facility Building sa New Municipal Government Center  sa Barangay Pauli 2 sa bayang ito.

Ang Memorandum of Agreement na nilagdaan nina DHSUD Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario, DHSUD-Region IV-A Director Jann Roby R. Otero, at ilan pang matataas na opisyal sa panig ng Kagawaran ng Pananahanang Pangtao at Pagpapaunlad ng Kalunsuran, at nina Alkalde Vener P. Muñoz at Bise Alkalde Antonino A. Aurelio sa panig ng Pamahalaang Munisipal ng Rizal ay para sa pagkakaloob ng may kabuuang halagang Walumpung Milyong Piso (₱80,000,000.00)  na  mula sa Developer’s Incentivized Compliance sa ilalim ng Balai Filipino Program na pinangangasiwaan ng DHSUD upang gugulin sa pagtatayo ng dalawang gusali na nagkakahalaga ng ₱40,000,000.00 bawa’t isa.

Ayon kay Regional Director Jann Roby R. Otero, ang mga gusaling itatayo ay sunod sa makabagong disenyo sa layuning “to build safer and more structurally sound, dual-purpose evacuation centers that are hazard-adaptive and sensitive to the needs of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), women and children.”

ELECTRONIC LOS BAÑOS JEEPNEY (ELBEEP), 

PINASINAYAAN NG UPLB

Pinasinayaan ng University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) noong ika-31 ng Enero, ang Electric Los Baños Jeepney (eLBeep) na tutulong hindi lamang sa transportasyon ng mga mag-aaral kundi pati na rin sa kalikasan.

Sa pamamagitan ng eLBeep ay inaasahang mababawasan ang iba’t ibang uri ng polusyon tulad ng gas emission, air, at noise pollution na malaki ang epekto sa kalikasan. 

Ang UPLB ang kauna-unahang campus na magkakaroon ng electronic jeep bilang mode of transportation. Bukod sa eLBeep, target din ng pamunuan ng unibersidad na maging una sa pagkakaroon ng ebikes at electronic scooter upang makamit at mapanatiling Green Campus ang buong pamantasan.

Bilang bahagi ng programa, nagpasalamat ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Los Baños sa pangunguna ni Mayor Antonio Kalaw para sa panibagong proyekto na magbibigay rin ng tulong at benepisyo sa mga mamamayan ng Los Baños. (Maine Odong)

TECHNOLOGY-BASED PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT IN THE “NEW NORMAL"

by Cherry R. De Alday, Teacher - III

Dr. Panfilo Castro National High School, Candelaria, Quezon

Black and Wiliam in 1998 defined assessments broadly to include “all those activities undertaken by teachers, and by their students in assessing themselves, which provide information to be used as feedback to modify the teaching and learning activities in which they are engaged”. Activities may include classroom observation, class discussions, quizzes, homework, and tests. However, the design of outcome measures for instructional or learning interventions has become transformed as the promise of computer technology has begun to be realized.

The 20th century has given technology the way to alter the speed and location of assessment, in which the days of hand written records and paper copies of classroom’ assessments are quickly fading. In the “new normal educational set-up, teachers’ means of assessment can be done only in two ways: through written outputs of modular classes and a variety of technology tools available for online classes. Electronic response systems and softwares are all technology-based formative assessment tools that have the power to help each teacher effectively individualize instruction for all students. In some cases, blogs, chats, and Wikis used in the distance learning environment help teachers gain an understanding of what students know or don’t know. 

Now that face-to-face classes are still on hold, the department of education is utilizing technology-based programs and systems that provide teachers with formal and informal assessments to track student progress weekly or quarterly. These types of formative assessments help keep students on-track with achievement, while also providing opportunities for students to participate in engaging activities based upon abilities and needs. Using technology based formative assessments to individualize instruction aims to improve student achievement, to remediate before it’s too late, to track individual student growth and progress, and to achieve school improvement goals.

Technology-based performance assessment is evident among teachers’ part in which electronic records (E-class records) of students’ performance is recommended instead of the traditional class record. It has the same purpose of tracking students’ performances. It can be made available to students in case-to-case basis or whenever necessity arises. Confidentiality must always remain. 

Some teachers require students to have on-line submission of requirements in compliance with all their incomplete learning tasks and activities. However, the assessment result is not always visible upon acknowledgement of the tasks for some reasons. Thus, students still do not have the track of their accomplishments. One acceptable reason for this perhaps is for security purposes. Another consideration is the time required for a task to be completed. In most cases, submission of students online takes place on due dates or a day or two before the deadlines. When this happens, teachers don’t find ways to give feedback to students’ performance online. What is happening, comments and suggestions and even the assessment are given during virtual meetings and discussions. 

Additionally, technology-based performance assessment in the “new normal” can be present among students’ collaborative efforts in small group differentiated activities (SGDA) wherein they utilize innovations during their presentations. Interpretative dance of literature excerpt, instead of summarizing the texts, role playing and movie making instead of reading story, debate on a contemporary issue, instead of news reporting, and the like, in which all of these are expected to submit through video recording send through e-mails, messenger or the file saved in CD or USB flash drive. These kinds of performances are assessed having the highest percentage in the computation of their grades, thus the system calls it performance-based assessment. It is very apparent that students could acquire high grades if they will employ technology through innovations, either digital or non-digital. 

Looking back with those school days during face-to-face classes in the past, it made every student happy whenever an appraisal was given by the teachers such as “very good”, “job well-done”, “keep up the good work” and so on. For students, these were proofs of positive assessment on their part because application of technology during those times was not yet evident. A transfer of words from one teacher’s mouth to another made students feel good that they were admired by both teachers and other students. As a system practice, students would only know of their accomplishments during end of every quarter and of the school year. But now, through the advent of technology, the whole world could easily learn of students’ accomplishments, either digital through social media or non-digital such as printed and posted on tarpaulin or posters. That’s how amazing technology works! That’s how remarkable assessment of performance can be made through technology, formal or informal, it doesn’t matter anymore. What is important is to let the concerned be informed about his/her performance.

Negative reflections on what a technology-based performance assessment is cannot be avoided. Yet, there should also be a realization that for whatever new interventions, the objective is always on the benefits of the performers. Moreover, technology-based performance is a promising step towards our system realization of a globally competitive arena in education. If we could fully implement the beneficial effects of this assessment, then the whole system could easily address the needs of the learners in the best possible time. 

At present wherein the country is experiencing the greatest challenge in education brought about by pandemic, teachers as the main catalysts of change can either enjoy the full benefit of this type of assessment or can just remain in the comfort zone of their own horizon. 

"Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives—choice, not chance, and determines your destiny.” –Aristotle

COVID-19 PANDEMIC BROUGHT A GREAT IMPACT 

IN EDUCATION SYSTEM IN THE PHILIPPINES

by Jaymee R. Estrada

Santa Cruz Central Elementary School

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc across the globe affecting various sectors as it paved way for major changes and adjustments which we all must deal with. More than just a health crisis, it also resulted in an educational crisis as schools, universities, and colleges ceased its normal operation. 

Brought by the lack of physical contact and difficulties in communication, problems involving effective learning process and absorbing new information emerged. Responding to the needs of learners amidst the global crisis, the continuation of classes was implemented through several proactive approaches.  The shift to online learning is the most notable policy which facilitates student learning despite the closure of educational institutions.  While it seems to be the only feasibly way to continue learning, different groups and organizations opposed such alternative claiming that it is not ideal nor conducive. Problems involving internet connection and learning devices were raised as well since an alarming number of students do not have the capability to acquire such. 

Two years since the pandemic began, the Philippine Government is still struggling to balance the imperative of health and safety with its utmost duty to educate the youth. In fact, the Philippines is one of the few countries which haven’t re-opened its educational institutions yet. As the Chinese proverb goes, “Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.” But in the country where health protocols, mass vaccination, heightened social control and alternative learning were mandated, are the Filipino learners well-equipped for what’s next?

MANAGING HUMAN RESOURCES IN THE SCHOOL SETTING

By: Antonio E. Delos Santos

Teacher II, San Jose National High School

In Managing human resources, it is very important to know what the needs of the teachers are especially when it comes to giving and executing the proper trainings. This is also one aspect of management which is to search for a good training to its employees. When it comes to the various careers of Human Resources Specialties, Employee Development is one area that deserves a closer look. An important aspect of employee retention is the training and development of existing staff. 

For one, proper and efficient training enhance the skills of the teachers or the professionals to which better services can be expected with the proper amount of training and retention and enhancement of skills. We all know that skills are always enhances thru constant practice and reminders just like what an athlete does to his career that is why trainings are very important aspect of management. 

Providing the proper training often calls on creativity. Not all learnings should be achieved through the process of reading, memorization, and spitting of information. Good training allows for the trainee to learn a new skill by doing, and then by practicing. An example of this would be basketball to which a neophyte is learning a new skill set like assisting or rebounding. Constant practice and being able to compete with more experienced player will result into being a good player when the time comes that he has developed the said skills. 

Planning and organizing are key concepts to providing great training.  First and foremost is knowing your material and resources. But once that has been taken cared of in consideration, planning and organization come next in line. The trainings may focus on delivering better performance in the current role or to overcome future changes in the organization. Overall, these skills trainings can be of great help individually and also to the organization as a whole in moving forward to achieve its goals. If we want our school to improve, we must invest on the school leaders, educators and facilities so we can provide a better education for the future our nation.

ADVANCED PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION TRACES 

PRESENT EDUCATIONAL THOUGHTS TO THEIR ORIGINS

by Cherry R. De Alday, Teacher - III

Dr. Panfilo Castro National High School, Candelaria, Quezon

Dr. Jose Rizal once said, “No one can move forward without tracing the history of the past”. This is true in the present set up of educational system in the country. Even before in the past, there were already many great philosophers who had discovered and identified different philosophies in which the purpose was to improve the quality of education. From the oldest philosophies, which were believed to be the parents of all educational philosophies, the Perennialism of Mortimer Adler and Robert Maynard Hutchins and the Essentialism of William Bagley and E.D. Hirsch, borne the other educational philosophies purposively putting into realization the academic mission of the education: to provide learnings among our students. 

Philosophy of Education by its definition is a set of related beliefs that influences what and how students are taught. This alone supports that there is really a need for teachers to trace the origins of educational thoughts so it could be related to the present. By tracing the different beliefs of the famous educational philosophers which had been applied already in transferring learnings to students, one may be able to identify which had been effective that will help in doing the most appropriate actions in achieving the educational goals and objectives in the country. Tracing the origins of the different educational thoughts is a guidance to make the necessary changes and adjustments that will address any existing problems in enhancing the country’s present educational situations. 

In relation to this, the study of Advanced Philosophy of Education aside from exposing the teachers to the wide spectrum of educational thoughts also enables them to realize the importance of tracing the origins of educational thoughts in conceptualizing new educational views that will be beneficial for both the system and the recipients. Realizing what makes an original educational thought a success or failure leads to the discovery of new educational theories that will cater the needs of the learners from any generations. Changes are always expected to happen, especially in the country’s educational system, but as the primary catalyst of these changes, teachers are deemed necessary to continue on discovering thoughts and formulating theories to provide the learners of what they are entitled to achieve from education. Teachers should always uphold that the past is a good basis for conceptualizing what is better for the present to create the best in the future. They should never forget that ORIGIN is the beginning of what we are now and what we have become and as individuals imbued with knowledge of educational thoughts at different times and places, they can make changes to make this knowledge a great help to the PRESENT.

NETFLIX SERIES APOCALYPTIC THRILLER “ALL OF US ARE DEAD” HAS 

HIGH-OCTANE ENTERTAINMENT, TACKLES TEEN & SOCIAL ISSUES

by Paolo Manuel C. Fule

The Korean apocalyptic hit zombie series in Netflix is currently trending atop the streaming giant worldwide as it also mesmerized K-Pop fans around the world including here in the Philippines. The series started on January 28 of this year and was touted to be the next smash hit on tv after the phenomenal ‘Squid Game’ that also happened to be a Korean series. True to the hype, this oeuvre is worth watching. First, it is highly entertaining and each cut to end the series is really worth going on to the next because of its suspended endings each episode. Secondly, this is a refreshing take on the zombie apocalypse genre as it is seen thru the lens of the teenagers’ point of view. Lastly, it tackles various social themes like how government reacts to such kind of emergencies and how the powerful and ordinary people respond to these situations. Moreover, it tackles teenager themes like bullying, high school love, teen pregnancies, and their place in society. 

It follows the story of a group of high school students in class 2-5 trapped at Hyosan High School during an outbreak of a zombie virus that came from an experiment in a science laboratory. The four lead characters were Cheong-san (Yoon Chan-young), his crush On-jo (Park Ji-hu), class president Nam-ra (Cho Yi-hyun), and popular school athlete Lee Su-hyeok (Park Solomon). 

I would like to tackle more on the issues regarding bullying and government emergency response in the context of the series and of today’s society as well. First is the bullying part. It is actually the cornerstone issue of the whole series as bully Gwi-nam (played by Yoo In-Soo) was one of the prime reasons why the Science teacher Lee Byeong-chan developed the virus in order for his son Jin-su to be strong for him to fight the school bullies after all efforts to expose the bullies are gone into waste.  Bullying has been tackled in schools pre pandemic and there had been seminars for teens about the issue. There has been the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 or RA 10627. 

This law finds applicability in school-related bullying, student to student bullying in particular, which covers those uttered in social media. “Bullying”, as defined, refers to any severe or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another student that has the effect of actually causing or placing the latter in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm or damage to his property; creating a hostile environment at school; infringing on the rights of another; or materially or substantially disrupting the education process. This kind of bullying was manifested in three students in the series, all of which had a major impact on the survival and some of the deaths of the main and supporting characters in the series. 

Those scenes that tackle bullying have their compelling moments that define the characters and sets the tone of the series. One thing I learned more about the issue is that there are more people who would not even talk about being bullied in school out of fear for their bullies, and the embarrassment they might get once they even exposed their predator bullies. This was evident to the son of the science teacher because he won’t even talk about it inside their home. This makes severe cases of bullying hard to see in the school setting because of this seemingly “unseen force” of silence among bullying victims. I hope that schools and other similar institutions be more proactive regarding sever cases of bullying among teenagers especially inside school premises. Although I know that there are programs in schools regarding this issue, I think we should empower and encourage victims of severe bullying to speak up and talk to proper psychologists or authorities regarding this issue.  

Email the author at: paolomanuelfule@yahoo.com

AIR WARFARE CENTER CONDUCTS 

OUTREACH PROGRAM IN LIPA CITY

The Air Warfare Center (AWC) unit of the Air Education, Training and Doctrine Command (AETDC) recently conducted an Outreach Program at Tahanan ng Mahal na Ina ng Guadalupe,’ Marauoy, Lipa City, Batangas.

Led by Maj Apple Gay L Medroso, Executive Officer, AWC personnel handed over food packs and financial assistance to Sister Marina and Sister Helen in support of the elderlies being cared of by the said nursing home.

According to Major Medroso, the Missionary Sisters of the Catechism manages the said institution with the primary mission of welcoming the abandoned and poor elderly women.

She also explained that the activity is part of their regular program for the communities and and the 20th Founding Anniversary celebration of AWC with the theme "AWC @ 20: Pagbibigay Halaga at Kaalaman sa Doktrina, Gabay  sa Paglilinang at Pag-unlad  sa Gitna ng Pandemya." (AETDC CMO)

A TREASURE NO ONE CAN TAKE AWAY

There are always two options ahead of us, either to quit or to move forward; but for Karen Reyes, a mother of three children, this is not the time to quit – not when her children’s education is on the line. 

Karen believes that education is a treasure no one can take away. This is her guiding force in making sure that her children, particularly her eldest son, Karl Rafael Reyes, receives his education the best possible way despite the pandemic. This is a treasure she would like her children to inherit from her. 

To achieve this, Karen took the role of being a konek2CARD Agent in CARD Bank Pili, Bula 2 Unit, Center Camay 5, while she sells kikiam, fishball, and siomai outside their home. Her husband, on the other hand, works in a sugar mill near their hometown in Camarines Sur. Together, they work hard to provide for the basic needs of their children. However, they admit that the amount they earn from their small business is not enough. 

Putting their trust in CARD Bank is the solution they came up with and is the best decision they made for their children. CARD Bank supports low-income families through the bank’s affordable loan products and services. Among these services include the Zero Dropout Program, a low-interest educational loan, exclusive for CARD clients with children in elementary, high school, and senior high school. At CARD Bank, clients may avail up to PhP 3,000 to help them with their children’s educational needs. 

Through this program, it became possible for Karen, not only to provide her eldest son’s school supplies but also his miscellaneous fees in school. More importantly, the Zero Dropout Program has sustained Karl Rafael’s education seven times since 2016, from when Karl Rafael is in Grade 1. 

Now, Karl Rafael is in Grade 5. With modular distance learning taking the place of face-to-face classes, being a mother and a teacher to her son is quite challenging for Karen. Fortunately, with the help of CARD Bank and the right people, including her in-laws who have continuously shared their Wi-Fi to support Karl Rafael’s online education, Karen knows that his son will achieve whatever it is that he dreams of in the future. 

With Karen’s sixth year at CARD Bank, she looks forward to availing of the institution’s educational loan program once again to support Karl Rafael until he reaches college. 

Since Karl Rafael is an achiever, a consistent honor student from Grades 1 to 4, Karen is even more optimistic that her son will achieve his dream of being a policeman in the future. Indeed, with the help of CARD Bank and its Zero Dropout Program, education is a treasure no one can take away from them.

Karl Rafael is one of the more than 58,000 beneficiaries of the Zero Dropout Program in Bicol as of September 2021. To know more about CARD Bank’s educational loan program, leave a message at CARD Bank’s official Facebook page, @CARDBankOfficial.

PSA LAGUNA TO CONDUCT 2022 MISSI AND 2022 PPS

The Philippine Statistics Authority will carry out the 2022 Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries (MISSI) and 2022 Producers Price Survey (PPS) this February 2022. 

The data to be collected for the 2022 MISSI are: employment, compensation value of production, sales, other income, and inventories of finished products, work-in-progress, raw materials; and capacity utilization rate. These data will provide government planners and policy makers including the private sectors with timely flash indicators on the performance of growth-oriented industries in the manufacturing sector. These will be used as inputs to monitor the business cycle of key manufacturing sectors of the economy.

The 2022 PPS on the other hand, will collect monthly producer price data of manufactured products produced by establishments in the manufacturing sector. The producer prices generated from the PPS is used in the generation and compilation of the monthly Producer Price Index (PPI) for the manufacturing sector. It measures yearly and monthly changes in the producer prices of key commodities in the manufacturing sector. It serves as a deflator in MISSI to derive indicators such as the Volume of production Index (VoPI) and Volume of Net Sales Index (VoNSI).

Selected regular employees of the PSA Laguna together with hired Statistical Researchers (SRs) will visit the sample manufacturing establishments to distribute the 2022 MISSI and 2022 PPS questionnaires. Sample establishments are located in City of San Pedro, City of Biñan, City of Sta. Rosa, City of Cabuyao and Calamba City. The sample establishments may also opt to use the soft copy of the questionnaires in excel format upon request. As to the number of sample establishments, PSA Laguna may have 126 sample establishments for each survey based on the 2021 MISSI and 2021 PPS.  

As a precautionary measures, involved PSA regular employees and SRs for these surveys will adhere to the health protocols and restrictions which are being implemented and observed by the sample establishments due to COVID-19 pandemic. 

Provincial Statistics Officer Magdalena T. Serqueña, is enjoining all sample establishments to support this undertaking of the PSA. She is also asking for support particularly from the economic zone managers and administrators to allow the door-to-door visit to sample establishments to meet up the possible contact person and to discuss with him briefly the survey objectives.

#SURESAFESASANJOSE AS SAN JOSE NHS 

PREPARES FOR FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES 

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

Department of Education Secretary Leonor Briones ordered the resumption and progressive expansion of limited face-to-face classes in areas under Alert level 2 upon the approval of President Rodrigo Duterte. The pilot testing of the limited face-to-face classes is being prepared in the Division of San Pablo City and one of the first two schools to adhere to the pilot testing here in San Pablo City Division is San Jose National High School.

Safe back to school in San Jose National High School #SureSafesaSanJose was ensured upon the leadership of its School Head Ms. Cristeta Uy, Principal III.

San Jose National High School has doubled its effort for the handwashing facilities, proper ventilation of classrooms to be used, made appropriate barriers for the safety of the students, ensuring social distancing of the students, body temperature check, alcohol and hand sanitizers were also properly placed, and isolation tents were built. These are just some of the things that San Jose National High School has prepared for the upcoming pilot testing of limited face to face classes.  

The San Jose NHS promotions team also uploaded in its social media platforms the video infomercial showing the preparations of San Jose National High School for the upcoming face-to-face classes exhibiting the safe back to school features that SJNHS has to offer with the hashtag #SureSafesaSanJose as its return to school mantra. (Photo credits to Mr. Ronnel Lising, San Jose NHS teacher)

Mga batang edad 5-11 sa Santa Rosa, pwede 

nang magparehistro para sa Covid-19 vax

ni Fredmoore Cavan

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Hinihikayat ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Santa Rosa ang mga magulang na ipa-rehistro ang kanilang mga anak sa Covid-19 vaccination program ng pamahalaan para sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 taong gulang.

Sa opisyal na pabatid ng pamahalaang lungsod, inihayag nito na maaaring iparehistro ang mga batang kabilang sa nasabing age group sa pamamagitan ng vaccination portal nito: https://www.santarosacity.ph/SCVT/.

Kabilang sa prayoridad na mabakunahan ang mga batang kabilang sa pediatric A3 o mga batang may comorbidities.

“Piliin lamang ang kategoryang pediatric A3 kung mayroong comorbidities ang bata o pediatric C kung walang sakit ang bata. Antabayanan lamang ang mga susunod pang anunsyo kung kailan sisimulan ang pagbabakuna para sa edad 5 hanggang 11,” pahayag ng pamahalaang lungsod sa kanilang Facebook post.

Inilunsad ang pre-registration para makakalap ng inisyal na datos sa bilang ng mga batang babakunahan sa lungsod habang naghihintay pa ng kaukulang guidelines mula sa Department of Health (DOH).

Noong Disyembre 23 ay inaprubahan ng Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ang paggamit ng mas mababang dosage ng bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech para sa pagbabakuna sa mas nakababatang miyembro ng pediatric population.

Ayon sa FDA, mahigit 90-porsiyento ang efficacy rate ang Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine habang banayad lamang ang mga adverse effects nito, batay sa mga isinagawang clinical trials.

Sa ngayon, tanging mga bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech at Moderna ang binigyan ng emergency use authorization ng FDA para sa pagbabakuna sa mga kabataang may edad 12 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sa pagpupulong ng National Task Force at Regional Task Force Against Covid-19 kamakailan, inihayag ni Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr., na planong simulan ng pamahalaan ang pagbabakuna sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 sa ikatlong linggo ng Enero, depende sa pagdating sa supply ng bakuna.

Sa ngayon, tuloy-tuloy ang isinasagawang pagbabakuna ng pamahalaang lungsod para sa mga residenteng kabilang sa adult population gayundin sa mga menor de edad na 11 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sinimulan na rin nito ang pagtuturok ng booster shots para sa mga indibidwal na mayroon nang kumpletong bakuna, bilang dagdag na proteksiyon laban sa iba’t ibang variants ng Covid-19. (PIA LAGUNA)

Alaminos treasurer: Buwis sa mejoras 

maagang bayaran o hulugan

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna–Hinihikayat ni Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz ang mga propetaryo o may-ari ng mga lupain at mga gusali sa bayang ito na maagang magbayad ng obligasyon nilang bayarang buwis upang makaiwas na malapatan ng multa o rekardo, at halip ay magtamo pa ng diskwento.

Malaki ang maitutulong ng maagang pagbabayad ng real estate taxes, sapagkat karagdagan sa bahagi ng munisipyo sa Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) na kaloob ng pangasiwaang pambansa, ang bahagi ng pangasiwaang lokal sa buwis sa mejoras ang pinagkukunan ng gugulin upang makapagpatayo ng mga impraistraktura, 

tulad ng mga gusaling pampaaralan, at pangkalusugan, gayon na rin sa paghahatid ng mga paglilingkod na panglipunan sa mga mamamayan. 

Sang-ayon kay Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz, na pag-alinsunod sa ipinahihintulot sa Section 251 ng Local Government Code of 1991 o Republic Act No. 7160, ang lahat ng magbabayad ng buwis sa lupa o pag-aaring di-natitinag (Real Estate Property Tax) para sa taong kasalukuyan, sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31, 2022 ay pagkakalooban ng diskwentong 10 porsyento.

Halimbawa, kung ang isang na matatagpuan sa Barangay San Agustin lote ay may bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00, na kasama na ang para sa Special Education Fund (SEF), ang babayaran lamang ay ₱4,500.00 o may diskwentong ₱500.00. Kung hindi naman mababayaran ang bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00 hanggang sa Marso 31, 2022, ito ay lalapatan ng multang 2% kada lalakarang buwan, kaya kung magbabayad sa Abril 16, 2022, ito ay lalapatan na ng multang 8% ng bayaring buwis o ang kabuuang babayaran ay ₱5,400.00.

Kung mamarapatin naman ang bayaring buwis ay bayaran sa paraang hulugan o tuwing ikatlong buwan, nagpapayo si Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz na mangyari lamang makipag-ugnayan sa Land Tax Division ng Municipal Treasurer’s Office na nasa Groundfloor ng Municipal Multi-Purpose Building bago matapos ang buwan ng Marso upang magawa ang paghahati ng bayarin sa apat, kung saan ang unang hulog o first instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31; ang ikalawang hulog o second instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Hunyo 30, ang ikatlong hulog o third instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Setyembre 30; at ang pang-apat na hulog o fourth instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Disyembre 31, 2022, ito ay pagkakalooban din ng 10% diskwento kung mababayan bago sumapit ang itinakdang petsa na dapat mabayaran.

Friends of 7 Lakes Foundation sets targets for 2022

The establishment of a floating garden, removal of debris left by the clearing of the shorelines of Sampaloc Lake, and promotion of the propagation of bamboos are some of the priority targets set by the Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF) for the year 2022. The targets were approved by the FSLF Board of Trustees (BOT) during its year-end meeting.

Held at the RX Garden Resort owned by Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia in Barangay San Gregorio, the BOT meeting also agreed to propose to the San Pablo City Government the creation of a Lakes Management Office, install information billboards at Sampalok Lake, and hold a youth environmental camp.

President Roberto Azores explained that the floating gardens or floating green filters (FGF) will consist of a network of floating indigenous plants found in the locality. The roots will host bacteria/microbes that will absorb pollutants, promote biodiversity within the FGF structures as these will attract birds, fish, insects and other wildlife species, and add aesthetic beauty to the lake waters. 

Noting the successful clearing of the Sampaloc Lake shores by the San Pablo City Government, FSLF Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon said the foundation will take the lead in a multi-sector effort to clean the debris that are still submerged under water so that the lake will be safe for water-based activities in the future. 

Trustee Romeo Race reported that last December 2021, the FSLF in cooperation with the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the San Pablo City Water District, conducted a training workshop on the propagation of bamboos. To sustain the effort, the FSLF will promote the planting of bamboos in San Pablo City. Bamboos produce oxygen and absorbs enormous volume of carbon dioxide. It serves as a protection against soil erosion.

Trustee Rolly Inciong said that the FSLF will propose to the City Government to create a Lakes Management Office, either under the City Environment and Natural Resources Office or the City Tourism Office, so that all development and conservation projects in the city’s seven lakes will have a focal office that will ensure integration of efforts. The proposed office will serve as local partner of the LLDA in managing the lakes.

Trustee Arvin Carandang added that the foundation will install information billboards at the Sampalok Lake area that will feature basic lake information so that tourists will learn about the lake, including its legend. Similar billboards will later be installed in the other lakes.

Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia and Environment Youth Leader Jedryc Romero announced that the FSLF will continue engaging the youths in environmental conservation through a face-to-face or online environment camp where best environmental practices will be shared and discussed with students.

Present during the year-end meeting were Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon, President Roberto Azores, Trustees Rolly Inciong, Dr. Elvie Galicia, Jose Reano, Sylvia Inciong, Ricky Tan, Arvin Carandang and Romy Race; and Members Cari Azores, Ambassador Romy Manalo, Jedryc Romero and Rissa Race.

Mga magsasaka ng Laguna, tumanggap ng tulong pinansiyal

STA. CRUZ, Laguna - Sa maayos na ugnayan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna na pinamumunuan ni Gob. Ramil Hernandez at ng Department of Agriculture (DA) IV- CALABARZON ay tagumpay na naipamahagi ang tulong pinansyal para sa mga magsasaka ng Laguna nitong ika-13 ng Enero 2022.

May kabuuang 1,410 magsasaka ng palay ang tumanggap ng P5,000 piso bawat isa: mula sa Pagsanjan (79), Lumban (203), Kalayaan (385), Cavinti (602) at Luisiana ( 141) na isinagawa sa panlalawigang kapitolyo sa Sta. Cruz. 

Ito ay sa ilalim ng programang Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) ng DA-4A, alinsunod sa Republic Act No. 11203 o ang “Rice Tariffication Law (RTL),” na nagpapataw ng taripa sa mga angkat na bigas.

Ang mga nakolektang taripa ay ilalaan sa ipinamamahaging tulong sa maliliit na magsasaka. Karagdagang kapital ito para sa pagtatanim ng palay kasabay ng pagtaas ng presyo ng pataba at iba pang gamit sa rice production. 

Katuwang sa pamamahaging ito ang Field Agriculture Extension Services kung saan sinunod ng lahat ang minimum health standard para sa maayos na distribyusyon ng nasabing tulong pinansyal. (Jonna S. Coroza, photo by Angel Bert Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

Chiz: Dropping mass testing, 

contact tracing a big mistake

Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero has lambasted the Department of Health (DOH) for tossing contact tracing and mass testing as part of its COVID-19 response strategy, saying these measures are necessary to isolate and treat people infected with the coronavirus and prevent the spread of the highly transmissible disease.

Escudero described this latest shift in DOH policy as “complete abdication and surrender,” and not a strategy in controlling the dizzying speed of Omicron spread across the country.

“What DOH is doing is not a ‘COVID-19 response strategy’ but a complete abdication and surrender,” said Escudero, who is running for Senate come May election. “It’s a strategy of ‘if you can’t beat them, join them.’”

“This is big mistake and a costly one,” Escudero warned.

The DOH, which is spearheading the government’s overall game plan to defeat COVID second year into the pandemic, said it will focus on community interventions rather than use Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test that is very useful to immediately detect, isolate and quarantine individuals who are positive with the coronavirus. Testing will be done for proper clinical management of high risk patients, community management, isolation and vaccination, it added.

The agency also said that contact tracing will take a back seat.

“Wala na ngang libreng mass testing, babawasan pa ang testing! Kawawa naman po tayo. I cannot fathom, much less understand, the logic behind this policy,” Escudero said, who recently called the attention of the DOH to make COVID testing accessible and affordable, if not free at all, to encourage more people to get tested following the spike in coronavirus infection.

“Again, after trillions of pesos in borrowings, they are still ‘cutting corners,’” he lamented.

Rivers, givers of life

by Rolando A. Inciong

The early human civilizations were established along the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq, Syria and Turkey; the Nile in Egypt; the Indus River in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan; and the Mekong River in China, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. All early civilizations prospered alongside rivers because of the availability of fresh water for daily activities, and fertile land for agriculture near those rivers.

Humans settle in places where there are rivers because rivers are the givers of the ingredients of life: water, food and income. Water from rivers sustains socio-economic development, including energy and food production. Rivers drain rainwater towards the seas and provide healthy ecosystems for many species of plants and animals.

Today, the United Nations estimate that around two billion people get their drinking water from rivers. Rivers provide income to many communities depending on them for their livelihoods such as fish culture. Many river systems are used for recreation and tourism, irrigation, industry and commerce. hydropower generation, and transporting people and goods

If living near a river is good, it also has a bad. Flooding is the most dangerous risk for riverside settlers and landowners. Flooding results in loss of lives, property damage, and expensive repairs and rehabilitation.

Today, rivers are among the much-abused bodies of water, most especially in the Asian continent. Irresponsible human activities such as garbage and chemical dumping, illegal human settlement, and many more, are the causes of river degradation.

Governments and citizens need to protect rivers to ensure clean source of drinking water and provide a safe place for tourism and recreation,. In San Pablo City, many community volunteers conduct river cleanups. The Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF), headed by Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon and President Roberto Azores, spearheads the promotion of rivers and lakes conservation. The FSLF is promoting the development of San Pablo as a city whose lakes, rivers, watersheds and the environment in general are protected, conserved and sustainably developed for the well-being of present and future generations. 

Here are some river trivia: Russia has 36 rivers, the most number in the world. The Vatican, which is classified as a country, has no river. The Congo River is the world's deepest river at 720 feet. It is also the second-longest river in Africa, approximately 4,700 kilometers in length. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippines has 421 river basins, 140 of them are heavily polluted and 50 are biologically dead. The longest rivers in the Philippines are Cagayan, 314 miles; Mindanao, 232 miles; Agusan, 217 miles; and Pulangi, 199 miles.

Guro Ako

Ni: Annabel I. De Rama

Bilang isang Guro

Tungkulin naming na magturo

Iba-iba man tayo ng kuro-kuro

Iisa ang namamayani sa Puso

Mapaglingkuran ang Bayang sinilangan

Mabigyang aliw ang Inang Bayan

Sa saliw mula sa tinig ng kabataan

Ay may nag-aalab na karunungan

Dumaan man ang unos ng kapalaran

Sanlibong pangarap man ay matabunan

Susubuking hamunin ang kinabukasan

Pilit aabutin tala ng kapayapaan

Sa araw-araw ay itatawid

Papel ng pagiging matuwid

Upang mga bata’y makamit

Tagumpay na kaakit-akit

Kung balat man ay kumupas

At kamay ay huminto sa pagkumpas

Aawitin pa rin ng buong pitangan

Ang koro ng pagiging Makabayan.

“Live to Teach” or “Teach to Live”?

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT– I

Recto Memorial National High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Life is a battle ground that offers a lot of challenges and opportunities to everyone. One among the opportunities is our profession that’s why it’s very necessary to choose the profession that will best fit you. However, there are times that though the best preparation has been made, some still failed realizing that such a profession is not what they like. However, those persons who found out to be in this situation have their own choices to either enjoy what they have or to feel forever regretful in their lives. 

Teaching may not be the dreamed profession of all teachers. However, due to some unexpected undertakings they had into, plus the age factor, most of them are obliged to prefer a course that would help them fulfill many responsibilities life has bestowed upon them. Security of tenure is one of the common reasons that pushed many to earn the Bachelor’s degree of Education. Age at early 30s, which is no longer within the limit of age qualification of neither any industries nor any companies, is another consideration. The notion of having a profession that would ensure to provide better future for the family especially for those who have children already, considering husband’s work as an ordinary worker, brings not a single doubt in taking the education course. This is a clear manifestation that many want the course because they want to live. Hypocrisy it is if no one from the teachers has ever said, “I teach to live”. 

Teaching in a public school undoubtedly is a secured profession. Aside from the continuous compensation as a government employee in whatever situation the country may be, the fear of immediate dismissal occupies a very little space in the teachers’ minds for as long as they are working and performing their duties and responsibilities. As a matter of fact, any offenses intentionally or unintentionally done shall undergo due process of law before any disciplinary actions be rendered. To some teachers, years of teaching could be for the sort of compliance and an embedded obligation of the profession and seeing all achievements they have earned, may it be sending their loved ones to school earning their degrees, putting up businesses, investing real properties and the like, everything proves that they teach to live.

People might say that teachers’ achievements are common life story of “rugs to riches”, though researches have proven that no teacher becomes rich in teaching. Yet for teachers, those accomplishments gained during the period wherein teaching becomes part of almost all their lives, these are investments earned because they live to teach. Teachers best achievement is when they have created better individuals to their fullest potentials equipped either with mental or emotional intellect and imbued with good values and high moral respect for others. It is an honor for them realizing that they have crafted individuals who became worthy of the community where they belong. No means of measurement can determine the amount of fulfillment teachers’ hearts could carry for every successful student they have crafted and for every waning individual they have rescued with the seeds of inspiration and hope that life has to go on. 

God’s plan may not be the teachers’ choice, but, God always has the purest intention for everyone and God’s purpose for teachers is, for them to “live to teach”. It would take a lot of time for many teachers to realize that they are chosen to live to teach but what matters most now is the opportunity granted upon them to teach their students the value and the beauty of appreciating life challenges by turning these into opportunities inspite of whatever situation it may be. At the moment in which globe is engulfed with fear and anxiety brought about by pandemic, the sincerest call of the teaching profession is right there infront of us… “Teachers, let us live to teach!”

Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin

ni Mary Jane R. Cadugo

Teacher III, Sinait National High School

Ilang dekada man ang nakalipas, hindi pa rin ibinabaon sa limot ang mga pamanang ating nakuha sa ating mga ninuno. Maging tradisyon, kultura, sining at panitikan man, tayo ay umaangat. Patunay na ang pamanang Pilipino ay hindi matutumbasan ng kahit na ano.

Bawat kaugalian, tradisyon o kultura ay talaga namang isinasabuhay ng mga mamamayang Pilipino. Partikular na sa pelikula o dula na palabas na aking napapanood at naririnig gaya na lamang ng "Ang Probinsyano" kung saan itinatampok ang ilan sa mga kaugaliang Pilipino --- pagiging palaban, may paninindigan, bayanihan, at hindi basta basta sumusuko sa hamon ng buhay.

Bawat pelikula na ating napapanood ay sumisimbolo ng bayanihan ng mga pinoy, pagiging masayahin sa anumang oras, pagkakaisa sa mga hamon, pagiging matatag ng pamilyang Pilipino, at ang pagiging maka-Diyos ng mamamayang Pilipino. Hindi rin mawawala ang mga talentong Pilipino na ipinapakitang gilas sa pelikula - maging aksiyon man o romans.

Tila ang pelikula at dula ang nagsilbing salamin ng pamanang Pilipino. Higit sa lahat naging instrumento ito upang mas makilala pa ng lahat ang tradisyon, kaugalian, sining at panitikan ng isang nayon. Naging daan din ito upang lalong manuot ang mga mensahe at aral na nais ipahiwatig ng isang palabas. Sadyang patunay ito kung bakit tinatangkilik ang sariling atin hindi lamang sa ating bansa bagkus sa buong daigdig.

Sa pamamayagpag ng mga pelikula at dula, naging tulay ito upang lumago pa at mahasa ito. Gamit ang sarilin nating wika, nagkaroon ng pangkakataon ang lahat upang kumonekta at ilabas ang talentong Pilipino. Sa bawat linyang kanilang binibitawan, sa bawat pagpapahayag ng kanilang damdamin at sa bawat luha at pawis na kanilang ibinubuwis - pusong wika ang kanilang naging sandata.

Higit ngang nakamamangha ang pamanang Pilipinong ating tinataglay. Patunay na ang lingguwistika at kultural na ugnayan ay sumasalamin sa mga pelikula at dulang Filiino. Buhat ng tayo'y sinakop ng mga dayuhan, naging bihasa tayo sa lahat ng larangan. Samakatuwid, naging daan ito upang lalo pa nating tangkilikin ang sariling atin.

Tanikala

ni Joselito I. Remolacio, 

Master Teacher I, Sinait National High School

Lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab…

Bawat pagtibok na puso’y, takot ang nadarama. Magmula magkapandemya hindi na mawari kung saan patungo ang pagbabagong kinakaharap natin sa kasalukuyan. Nasaan na na tanglaw na ating inaasam na makamit at muling masilayan? Tulog ba ang lahat ng ipagkait ng pandemya ang ating kalayaan? Nakalulungkot ngunit tila ang direksyon ng hanging banayad ay paliko na, gaya ng ating ekonomiya kung walang pagkakaisa, maghihingalo na. Isang tanikalang hindi makawala sa pandemya, ang istatistika’y nabahala.

Marahil ang ating kinasasadlakan ngayon ay mahirap at tanging impit na pag-iyak ang naghahari sa kadiliman. Marami itong pinsalang nadala sa lahat ng mamamayan, mga pangangatog ng tuhod sa tuwing malalaman na may nawala na namang buhay sa isang araw na pakikibaka sa buhay. Bunga nito, talamak ang nailunsad na patakaran, ang bawat galaw ay pinaghihigpitan. Higit sa lahat, ang mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nawalan ng kabuhayan, ang ekonomiya’y patuloy na bumabagsak, ang ayuda’y hindi na mahanap sa mga mata ng iba. Nagmistulang dilim ang kalangitan dulot ng kawalan ng pag-asa na muling mabuhay ang pagbabagong inaasam ng bawat madla.

Hindi maikakailang lubos na mahalaga ang ekonomiya sa ating pag-unlad. Ito ang nagiging tulay upang magkaisa ang lahat patungo sa paglaban sa hindi mawaksing pandemya. Datapuwa’t, ang ayudang ibinibigay ng gobyerno ay malaking bagay sa ibang tao, ang isang karampot na tulong na siyang magbibigay tanglaw sa lahat ng nangangailangan. Hindi ko tuloy maiwasang maghinagpis sa mga nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Kailan nga ba masusugpo itong krisis na ating hinaharap sa buong mundo? Kailan natin muling masasaksihan ang sikat ng araw na nagbibigay pag-asa sa lahat? Magkagayon, dapat na tayong magkaroon ng aksiyon upang tumugon sa pinsalang dulot ng pandemya sa ating ekonomiya.

Hindi lingid sa atin na sa anumang oras dilat ang mga mata, bukas ang mga tainga, at gising ang diwa sa lahat ng nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Hindi niyo ba naririnig ang kanilang mga hinaing? Hindi niyo ba nakikita ang pagod sa kanilang mga mata? Hindi niyo ba nararamdaman ang mga pasakit na kanilang dinadala? Mga takas nilang hikbi sa gabi na tahimik, nangangapa ng kamay na maaring mahawakan o makasagip sa kanila sa bingit ng paghihirap. Bawat gising natin ay panibagong araw ngunit bawat gising nila'y hatid ay panibagong pagod at butil na naman ng mga pawis.

Tulong! Tulong! Tulong! 

Sa tuwing maririnig ang mga katagang ito, kusang may kamay ang dadapo at yayakap ng mahigpit dito. Nakatutuwang malaman na kahit pandemya, bawat tao ay nagkakaisa. Na ang pakikisama’y dumadaloy sa katawan ng bawat isa. Kung minsan man ay nawawalan ng pag-asa ang lahat, ngunit ang isang salita na kababayan ay malaking dahilan upang magpatuloy sa laban. Nagmistula man tayong nakakulong sa isang tanikalang pinalibutan ng pandemya, ang ekonomiya man ay urong sulong sa ating bansa ngunt ang bayanihan ng bawat mamamayan ay kailanma’y hindi mapapantayan.

Kung ating pagninilayan, kung magkakaroon ng pagkakaisa ang lahat, ang ekonomiyang ating inaalagaan simula pa noong walang pandemya ay magiging isang liwanag ng pag-asa na siyang magbibigkis sa pagkakaiba ng bawat lahi. Ang pagsibol ng maluwalhating pakikisama tungo sa ibang aspeto ng ating buhay. Pagyayakapan, pangangamustahan, pagbibigay ng kaunting ayuda, pagiging inspirasyon ng isang tao upang lumaban sa buhay ay tunay ngang natatangi sa paglaban nating lahat sa pandemya.

Oo, mahirap ngang magkaroon ng maunlad na ekonomiya sapagkat hindi ito kusa na lamang yayabong. Tila ang ekonomiya ay isang butil na kailangan payabungin at bigyang halaga sa pamamagitan ng pagiging madisiplinang mamamayan, pagsunod sa mga alituntunin na ipinapatupad, at higit sa lahat pagkakaroon ng pagkakaisa sa kung paano bubukadkad ang rikit na tinatagong taglay at pag-ulad ng ating ekonomiya. Sa kabila nito, ang ating damdamin pa rin ay hindi maipaliwanag, magkahalong saya sa pagkakaisa at takot sa hindi masugpong pandemya. Aligaga, hindi mapalagay, sa kung ano pa ang dapat gawin, at mga tanong na paulit-ulit umiikot sa ating isipan na kailanman hindi mahanapan ng kasagutan. 

Kailan nga ba muling masasaksihan ang tanglaw sa gitna ng karimlan? Kailan nga ba muling aahon ang ekonomiya sa kanyang kinasasadlakan? Kailan nga ba masusugpo ang pandemya? Buksan natin ang ating mga mata, pakinggang maigi ang hinaing nila, bigyang pansin ang kapaligiran. Dapat tayong magbigayan ng lubid ng tulong, magkaroon ng kamay na aakay sa atin - at ito ay ang Panginoon. Siya ang ating tanglaw sa ating sariling mga tanikala na bunga ng pandemya. Siya ang nagbibigkis sa lahat at naniniwala ako na ang pagkakaisa at pakikisama ng mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nakamarka na sa kaibuturan nila simula ng tayo’y mamulat sa mundong ginagalawam. Kung kaya’t magkaisa at makisama hindi lang tungo sa pag-unlad ng ekonomiya bagkus huwag nating hayaan na manatili tayong nasa tanikala na lamang dulot ng pandemya.

CARD MRI ties up with Moreta Shipping Lines to aid Odette victims

In line with the donation drive of CARD MRI for the victims of Typhoon Odette, CARD MRI teamed up with Moreta Shipping Lines to deliver 14 boxes of in-kind goods to Talisay, Cebu on December 28, 2021.

To help those affected by the typhoon, several shipping lines offered free cargo shipping to transport donations from various groups and companies. Meeting the requirements for the in-kind donations on hand, CARD MRI tapped Moreta Shipping Lines to bring the donations on a port-to-port basis. Through the collaboration, in-kind donations were swiftly delivered to typhoon-hit communities in Cebu. 

From December 24 to 28, CARD MRI gathered donations composed of necessities such as food, clothing, and hygiene products. Cash donations were also accumulated during the drive, involving CARD MRI offices located at City Subdivision and M. Paulino St. in San Pablo City, Laguna.

“Besides our cash assistance through the different products of CARD MRI, being able to give essentials that families can immediately use, especially when almost everything was wiped out by Odette, is a step towards the immediate recovery of our fellowmen in Cebu. We hope that these items will be of use to the families,” CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito said on the initiatives taken by the organization.

Helping Hand

Besides the donation drive, CARD MRI started to receive monetary donations to help the victims starting December 22, 2021. Accumulating a total of PhP 2,452,814 as of January 12, 2022, the donations came from partner organizations and individuals of CARD MRI. 

“The destruction caused by Typhoon Odette is surely unfathomable, especially as a lot of lives are affected, but through the combined efforts of organizations and individuals extending their helping hand, we can holster up those affected to stand back up once again. We Filipinos are always ready to help those in need,” Dequito further said on the willingness of the Filipinos to help and the spirit of bayanihan.

CARD MRI, through CARD Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), is still accepting monetary donations for the victims of Typhoon Odette. For more information, message CARD Inc.’s official Facebook Page, @CARDIncOfficial.

Covid-19 Vaccination a Community Perspective: We All Play A Role

by: Jenny A. Capistrano

Lowland Integrated National High School

World Health Organization declared Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic and reiterated the call for countries to take immediate actions and scale up response to treat, detect and reduce transmission to save people's lives. 

According to Department of Health, Vaccines mimic the virus or bacteria that causes disease and triggers the body’s creation of antibodies. These antibodies will provide protection once a person is infected with the actual disease-causing virus or bacteria.

The Municipal Health Unit - Nagcarlan Rural Health Unit scheduled vaccination at the covered court of Barangay Manaol, Nagcarlan, Laguna on December 23, 2021.

RHU nurses together with the barangay health workers, and local government unit (LGU) worked together in the administration of covid-19 vaccine to the members of the community within Brgy. Manaol and nearby barangays. 

First dose of Moderna vaccine for ages 12-17 and Pfizer vaccine for adults ages 18-60 were given.

A grade 7 student of Lowland Integrated National High School, Jairus Nograda is one of the students who got vaccinated. He says, “I feel comfortable, safe and happy after my vaccination.” 

In addition, Midwife of Brgy. Manaol Mrs. Cheryl C. Marfil says, “No report of adverse effect due to covid-19 vaccine for ages 12-17.” 

Mrs. Marlene Coronacion, Leader of BHW believed that vaccination is important for face to face and compulsory for protection especially for younger people and to avoid worst effect. 

Furthermore, Mrs. Judith H. Esler, BHW of Brgy. Manaol remarks, “Vaccination is a protection against the virus.” 

BHW Mrs. Juanita Bibon believed that “The result of the vaccination is good and organized because of the cooperation of all the people involved.” 

Health and safety of the students and the community is the utmost concern of vaccination against covid-19. 

These action of the students, parents, community and health department will benefit with the healing of the world through vaccination by following the plan of WHO and DOH.

Teaching Mathematics thru innovative strategies

by Luningning Alcantara

Teacher II, San Jose National High School

Innovation is a portal towards the creation of something new. When there is innovation, progress and development are evident and the path in connection with advancement is not far-fetched. In this fast-paced world where technology abound and to the speed at which everything is at a quick pace, the call to innovate is almost a duty put in our hands as members of our community of educators. 

Innovation is a necessity for an individual or an organization. Because of innovation, the productivity of an organization improves over time. It also increases competitiveness and there is a fruitful competition for the enhancement of a project that will be beneficial for individuals in an organization. 

Some individuals and organizations are more innovative than others because of persistence and perseverance to attain excellence in our respective fields. When we are diligent in the things we do, there are no obstacles that cannot be overturned along the way. Indeed, we always find ways. There is always something to change for the better. There is always a challenge to accept and overcome. 

When we have the passion in our chosen field, the best comes out in all of us. Indeed, the strongest of storms prove the strength of our ship’s anchor. This is true to our searching for ways to create something new and innovate. There is always that passion burning in our hearts that spells the difference between mediocrity and creativity. 

One of our innovative teaching strategies is the Ethnomathematics comics making which is a fusion between the artistic merits of learners and their mathematical abilities to come up with varied comics while learning the applications of mathematics. It also uses localized materials within the vicinity of San Pablo City or Laguna and contextualize these materials to deepen the learner’s appreciation to our local culture while at the same time gaining not only knowledge in Math but also the enjoyment it brings when making a comics. 

ICT Assessment Approach: Digital Literacy

in Acquiring Test Result and Analysis

by Edna P. Cortez

Teacher III, Bagumbayan Elementary School

Teachers can benefit from ICT by storing and recording information about how students are developing understanding of new material, as well as taking on some of the role of assessing and providing feedback to students, allowing teachers to focus on other aspects of supporting learning.

Because of its adaptability and ability to foster relationships among students, ICT plays an important role in knowledge. The change-oriented approach believes in the change of ICT, has changed the tools, and has fundamentally changed the policies and educational goals. It can improve educational quality in a variety of ways, including increasing learner motivation and engagement, facilitating the acquisition of fundamental skills, and improving teacher training. ICTs are also transformational tools that, when used correctly, can promote the transition to a learner-centered environment.

Digital literacy entails comprehending and employing technology. We can use digital literacy skills to find, use, and create information online in a productive and useful manner. Understanding digital literacy means being able to use technology safely and avoid its risks.

Many teachers use technology in their classrooms to support different learning styles and engage students; however, guidelines to help them do so in ways that promote innovative thinking and collaborative work, ethical practices, and their own professional development are lacking.

In a variety of ways, it has the potential to significantly improve educational quality. It provides students and teachers with access to a wealth of information, knowledge, and educational resources, thereby expanding learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers use online materials to prepare lessons, and students use them to broaden their learning opportunities.

ICT serves a variety of functions and aids in educational assessment practices. It can be used in testing to administer tests, score tests, analyze results, and help teachers evaluate learning outcomes.

Teachers and students who become digitally literate learn technological skills, authorship rules such as copyright and plagiarism, how to access online information, and social responsibility through social networking. ... Above all, digital literacy is a critical component of today's education.

DepEd Usec. San Antonio Issues Regional 

Memorandum for Suspension of Classes 

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT-I

Recto Memorial National 

High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Wednesday, January 21 announces the issuance of the Regional Memorandum DM-CI-2022-009 by the Department of Education Undersecretary for Curriculum and Planning Diosdado M. San Antonio allowing the suspension of classes and other teaching-related activities in the midst of the surge in Covid-19 cases. The memorandum requires schools to continuously implement the Suggested Measures to Foster Academic Ease During the COVID-19 Pandemic as stated in DM-CI 2020-307 in order to ensure flexibility in the teaching-learning process amid the pandemic by recalibrating the strategy of assigning teaching responsibilities and leaning activities in order to safeguard the well-being of both teachers and learners (Deped RO, 2022). The issuance covers the dates January 17-29, 2022 which aims to provide all the stakeholders particularly the students, parents and school-based personnel to have a two-week health break, thus, all school activities are suspended whether physical or virtual (online). 

It has been more than two years already when Covid-19 pandemic has brought chaos to the whole world. Until now, its effect can be felt anywhere and one most affected field is in education. School stakeholders experience a lot of challenges and issues to cope up with the “new normal” educational set-up. The abrupt changes cause both teachers and students to adjust with everything, from the face-to-face classes to distance learning modalities. These changes, aside from the threat of the corona virus, have a big impact to their health. Studies show that stress increases among many students as well as to teachers. From the comparative study made by Frontier Psychiatry on February 2021 between China and Philippines, Filipino respondents were reported significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress than Chinese during the Covid-19 Pandemic. It is a clear manifestation that the corona virus has a great influence on one’s physical and mental well-being. Thus, there is a need for the department of education to think of the best possible way that will respond to the needs of school stakeholders to impart learning amidst pandemic without sacrificing their health. 

One evident action is the department’s immediate compliance with the AITF guidelines on health and safety protocols, such as wearing of facemask and faceshield, social distancing and disinfection, strictly implemented among teachers during their on-site reporting in school or even during their duties in barangay. The same instructions are given to parents and students whenever necessity arises. Yet, these do not stop the reports of incidents in which teachers and students got sick. Students’ common reasons are the waning of their immune system due to lack of sleep and stress of answering a number of learning tasks without the assistance of those knowledgeable than them and the tension for meeting the deadlines. On the teachers’ part, checking all the activities of the modular students, -an estimated of at least 200 students with 4-5 learning tasks every week-, the preparation and printing of the next modules for the succeeding weeks, distribution, sorting, parent online conferences and some other-related activities are really challenging and sometime stressful for them. Nonetheless, these have not become sentiments of all teachers. Instead, most of them feel regretful that the current academic situation prohibits them from rendering full-time service and ensure that quality learning still takes place among all students. This notion somehow contributes to their health deterioration. 

Later last year, November 2021, the department of Education in Region IV has seen hope for possible face-to-face classes to some areas for year 2022 since reports on Covid-19 incidences have subsided already because more than 90% of the population is already vaccinated. Nevertheless, the whole archipelago once again is dismayed when a certain “Poblacion Girl” brought back the fear and tension of probable surge of the new variant of Covid-19 pandemic, the Omicron virus. Though, the possibility originated from the NCR, its repercussion reaches the different regions of the country. As a matter of fact, the Philippine Covid-19 tracker shows that as of January 2022, Region IV-A CALABARZON ranks 2nd to NCR with active cases. Thus, the announcement for suspension of classes in the region eases the predicaments teachers, parents and students feel, knowing that the virus is just around the corner. This will give teachers and students to look after their health and boost their immune system. Furthermore, with the cancellation of all activities, teachers find the announcement very timely because, while it will protect them from the threat of any possible transmission, it will also provide them with ample time to make follow-ups to students-at-risk and render appropriate intervention.

Volunteer health frontliner, pinahalagahan 

ng Alaminos Rotarian

Ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna – Bago natapos ang Taong 2021, ay napahalagahan at napasalamatan ng Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (RCAD) ang 126 na Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) at Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) na mga kusangloob na nakikipagtulungan sa Municipal Health Office dito bilang mga volunteer frontliner upang magtagumpay ang palatuntunan sa pagbabakuna laban sa Covid-19 sa bayang ito.

Iniulat ni Club Auditor Russel Arida, Project Chairman, na sa pakikipag-ugnayan kay Dra. Jelidora “Jing” B. Refrea, Municipal Health Officer, noong umaga ng Lunes, Disyembre 20, 2021, ang RCAD sa pangunguna ni Club President Romeo S. Faylon ay nagtaguyod ng isang palatuntunan na ginanap sa maaliwalas na “covered court” sa mismong harapan ng Municipal Health Office nang naaayon sa kaayusang itinatagubilin ng National Inter-Agency Task Force, upang ang mga volunteer frontliner na naglilingkod sa 15 barangay sa bayang ito ay mapahalagahan, at tuloy mapagkalooban ng Christmas package na binansagan nilang “Gifts of Joy.” 

Kaugnay ng umiiral na pandemya, nananawagan si RCAD President Romeo S. Faylon sa lahat na umalinsunod sa ano mang tagubiling pangkalusugan na ihahatid sa kanila ng mga Barangay Health Worker and Barangay Nutrition Scholar sapagkat ito ay para na rin sa kanilang kagalingan.

Magugunitang noong nakaraang buwan ng Nobyembre, ang Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (D-3820) ay naghandog ng basic medical kit sa Municipal Disater Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), at sa mga Pangasiwaang Barangay ng San Agustin, San Andres, Del Carmen, at Palma, na binubuo ng isang yunit ng Nebgulizer, isang Stetoscope, isang yunit ng Sphygmomanometer o pagtingin ng presyon ng dugo, isang Thermometer, at isang Oximeter o pantaya sa taglay na oksihino ng dumadaloy na dugo sa katawan.

San Pablo Chamber sends aid to Palawan and Surigao

Typhoon-damaged Palawan and Surigao were the recipients of P100,000 cash assistance from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of San Pablo City (PCCI-SPC). This was announced by PCCI-SPC President Bernard Deriquito.

The cash donation for the victims of Typhoon Odette were received by the Palawan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry at P50,000 each. The fundraising campaign was spearheaded by Past President Rolly Inciong and Charter President Sofronio Exconde.

Assisting disaster victims is one of the major programs of PCCI-SPC for 2022-2023, along with tourism and agriculture promotion, support to micro, small and medium enterprises in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry in Laguna, promotion of the ease of doing business, environmental conservation, local investment promotion, youth entrepreneurship, use of information technology in business, and support to technical vocational education.

PCCI-SPC, established in San Pablo City in May 199, is affiliated with the National PCCI, the biggest business organization in the Philippines. President Deriquito said the PCCI-SPC is a voluntary organization of business people and professionals who share the common goal of a more vibrant economy for San Pablo City. Chamber membership covers micro, small, medium and big enterprises serving as the voice of business in San Pablo City. A multi-awarded Chamber, PCCI-SPC has won a number of Most Outstanding Chamber awards in the Regional (Southern Tagalog), Area (South Luzon), National (Philippines) and International (Asia-Pacific) levels during the last 10 years.

Mga batang edad 5-11 sa Santa Rosa, pwede 

nang magparehistro para sa Covid-19 vax

ni Fredmoore Cavan

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Hinihikayat ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Santa Rosa ang mga magulang na ipa-rehistro ang kanilang mga anak sa Covid-19 vaccination program ng pamahalaan para sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 taong gulang.

Sa opisyal na pabatid ng pamahalaang lungsod, inihayag nito na maaaring iparehistro ang mga batang kabilang sa nasabing age group sa pamamagitan ng vaccination portal nito: https://www.santarosacity.ph/SCVT/.

Kabilang sa prayoridad na mabakunahan ang mga batang kabilang sa pediatric A3 o mga batang may comorbidities.

“Piliin lamang ang kategoryang pediatric A3 kung mayroong comorbidities ang bata o pediatric C kung walang sakit ang bata. Antabayanan lamang ang mga susunod pang anunsyo kung kailan sisimulan ang pagbabakuna para sa edad 5 hanggang 11,” pahayag ng pamahalaang lungsod sa kanilang Facebook post.

Inilunsad ang pre-registration para makakalap ng inisyal na datos sa bilang ng mga batang babakunahan sa lungsod habang naghihintay pa ng kaukulang guidelines mula sa Department of Health (DOH).

Noong Disyembre 23 ay inaprubahan ng Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ang paggamit ng mas mababang dosage ng bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech para sa pagbabakuna sa mas nakababatang miyembro ng pediatric population.

Ayon sa FDA, mahigit 90-porsiyento ang efficacy rate ang Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine habang banayad lamang ang mga adverse effects nito, batay sa mga isinagawang clinical trials.

Sa ngayon, tanging mga bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech at Moderna ang binigyan ng emergency use authorization ng FDA para sa pagbabakuna sa mga kabataang may edad 12 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sa pagpupulong ng National Task Force at Regional Task Force Against Covid-19 kamakailan, inihayag ni Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr., na planong simulan ng pamahalaan ang pagbabakuna sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 sa ikatlong linggo ng Enero, depende sa pagdating sa supply ng bakuna.

Sa ngayon, tuloy-tuloy ang isinasagawang pagbabakuna ng pamahalaang lungsod para sa mga residenteng kabilang sa adult population gayundin sa mga menor de edad na 11 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sinimulan na rin nito ang pagtuturok ng booster shots para sa mga indibidwal na mayroon nang kumpletong bakuna, bilang dagdag na proteksiyon laban sa iba’t ibang variants ng Covid-19. (PIA LAGUNA)

Alaminos treasurer: Buwis sa mejoras 

maagang bayaran o hulugan

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna–Hinihikayat ni Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz ang mga propetaryo o may-ari ng mga lupain at mga gusali sa bayang ito na maagang magbayad ng obligasyon nilang bayarang buwis upang makaiwas na malapatan ng multa o rekardo, at halip ay magtamo pa ng diskwento.

Malaki ang maitutulong ng maagang pagbabayad ng real estate taxes, sapagkat karagdagan sa bahagi ng munisipyo sa Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) na kaloob ng pangasiwaang pambansa, ang bahagi ng pangasiwaang lokal sa buwis sa mejoras ang pinagkukunan ng gugulin upang makapagpatayo ng mga impraistraktura, 

tulad ng mga gusaling pampaaralan, at pangkalusugan, gayon na rin sa paghahatid ng mga paglilingkod na panglipunan sa mga mamamayan. 

Sang-ayon kay Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz, na pag-alinsunod sa ipinahihintulot sa Section 251 ng Local Government Code of 1991 o Republic Act No. 7160, ang lahat ng magbabayad ng buwis sa lupa o pag-aaring di-natitinag (Real Estate Property Tax) para sa taong kasalukuyan, sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31, 2022 ay pagkakalooban ng diskwentong 10 porsyento.

Halimbawa, kung ang isang na matatagpuan sa Barangay San Agustin lote ay may bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00, na kasama na ang para sa Special Education Fund (SEF), ang babayaran lamang ay ₱4,500.00 o may diskwentong ₱500.00. Kung hindi naman mababayaran ang bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00 hanggang sa Marso 31, 2022, ito ay lalapatan ng multang 2% kada lalakarang buwan, kaya kung magbabayad sa Abril 16, 2022, ito ay lalapatan na ng multang 8% ng bayaring buwis o ang kabuuang babayaran ay ₱5,400.00.

Kung mamarapatin naman ang bayaring buwis ay bayaran sa paraang hulugan o tuwing ikatlong buwan, nagpapayo si Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz na mangyari lamang makipag-ugnayan sa Land Tax Division ng Municipal Treasurer’s Office na nasa Groundfloor ng Municipal Multi-Purpose Building bago matapos ang buwan ng Marso upang magawa ang paghahati ng bayarin sa apat, kung saan ang unang hulog o first instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31; ang ikalawang hulog o second instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Hunyo 30, ang ikatlong hulog o third instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Setyembre 30; at ang pang-apat na hulog o fourth instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Disyembre 31, 2022, ito ay pagkakalooban din ng 10% diskwento kung mababayan bago sumapit ang itinakdang petsa na dapat mabayaran.

Friends of 7 Lakes Foundation sets targets for 2022

The establishment of a floating garden, removal of debris left by the clearing of the shorelines of Sampaloc Lake, and promotion of the propagation of bamboos are some of the priority targets set by the Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF) for the year 2022. The targets were approved by the FSLF Board of Trustees (BOT) during its year-end meeting.

Held at the RX Garden Resort owned by Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia in Barangay San Gregorio, the BOT meeting also agreed to propose to the San Pablo City Government the creation of a Lakes Management Office, install information billboards at Sampalok Lake, and hold a youth environmental camp.

President Roberto Azores explained that the floating gardens or floating green filters (FGF) will consist of a network of floating indigenous plants found in the locality. The roots will host bacteria/microbes that will absorb pollutants, promote biodiversity within the FGF structures as these will attract birds, fish, insects and other wildlife species, and add aesthetic beauty to the lake waters. 

Noting the successful clearing of the Sampaloc Lake shores by the San Pablo City Government, FSLF Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon said the foundation will take the lead in a multi-sector effort to clean the debris that are still submerged under water so that the lake will be safe for water-based activities in the future. 

Trustee Romeo Race reported that last December 2021, the FSLF in cooperation with the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the San Pablo City Water District, conducted a training workshop on the propagation of bamboos. To sustain the effort, the FSLF will promote the planting of bamboos in San Pablo City. Bamboos produce oxygen and absorbs enormous volume of carbon dioxide. It serves as a protection against soil erosion.

Trustee Rolly Inciong said that the FSLF will propose to the City Government to create a Lakes Management Office, either under the City Environment and Natural Resources Office or the City Tourism Office, so that all development and conservation projects in the city’s seven lakes will have a focal office that will ensure integration of efforts. The proposed office will serve as local partner of the LLDA in managing the lakes.

Trustee Arvin Carandang added that the foundation will install information billboards at the Sampalok Lake area that will feature basic lake information so that tourists will learn about the lake, including its legend. Similar billboards will later be installed in the other lakes.

Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia and Environment Youth Leader Jedryc Romero announced that the FSLF will continue engaging the youths in environmental conservation through a face-to-face or online environment camp where best environmental practices will be shared and discussed with students.

Present during the year-end meeting were Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon, President Roberto Azores, Trustees Rolly Inciong, Dr. Elvie Galicia, Jose Reano, Sylvia Inciong, Ricky Tan, Arvin Carandang and Romy Race; and Members Cari Azores, Ambassador Romy Manalo, Jedryc Romero and Rissa Race.

Mga magsasaka ng Laguna, tumanggap ng tulong pinansiyal

STA. CRUZ, Laguna - Sa maayos na ugnayan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna na pinamumunuan ni Gob. Ramil Hernandez at ng Department of Agriculture (DA) IV- CALABARZON ay tagumpay na naipamahagi ang tulong pinansyal para sa mga magsasaka ng Laguna nitong ika-13 ng Enero 2022.

May kabuuang 1,410 magsasaka ng palay ang tumanggap ng P5,000 piso bawat isa: mula sa Pagsanjan (79), Lumban (203), Kalayaan (385), Cavinti (602) at Luisiana ( 141) na isinagawa sa panlalawigang kapitolyo sa Sta. Cruz. 

Ito ay sa ilalim ng programang Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) ng DA-4A, alinsunod sa Republic Act No. 11203 o ang “Rice Tariffication Law (RTL),” na nagpapataw ng taripa sa mga angkat na bigas.

Ang mga nakolektang taripa ay ilalaan sa ipinamamahaging tulong sa maliliit na magsasaka. Karagdagang kapital ito para sa pagtatanim ng palay kasabay ng pagtaas ng presyo ng pataba at iba pang gamit sa rice production. 

Katuwang sa pamamahaging ito ang Field Agriculture Extension Services kung saan sinunod ng lahat ang minimum health standard para sa maayos na distribyusyon ng nasabing tulong pinansyal. (Jonna S. Coroza, photo by Angel Bert Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

Chiz: Dropping mass testing, 

contact tracing a big mistake

Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero has lambasted the Department of Health (DOH) for tossing contact tracing and mass testing as part of its COVID-19 response strategy, saying these measures are necessary to isolate and treat people infected with the coronavirus and prevent the spread of the highly transmissible disease.

Escudero described this latest shift in DOH policy as “complete abdication and surrender,” and not a strategy in controlling the dizzying speed of Omicron spread across the country.

“What DOH is doing is not a ‘COVID-19 response strategy’ but a complete abdication and surrender,” said Escudero, who is running for Senate come May election. “It’s a strategy of ‘if you can’t beat them, join them.’”

“This is big mistake and a costly one,” Escudero warned.

The DOH, which is spearheading the government’s overall game plan to defeat COVID second year into the pandemic, said it will focus on community interventions rather than use Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test that is very useful to immediately detect, isolate and quarantine individuals who are positive with the coronavirus. Testing will be done for proper clinical management of high risk patients, community management, isolation and vaccination, it added.

The agency also said that contact tracing will take a back seat.

“Wala na ngang libreng mass testing, babawasan pa ang testing! Kawawa naman po tayo. I cannot fathom, much less understand, the logic behind this policy,” Escudero said, who recently called the attention of the DOH to make COVID testing accessible and affordable, if not free at all, to encourage more people to get tested following the spike in coronavirus infection.

“Again, after trillions of pesos in borrowings, they are still ‘cutting corners,’” he lamented.

Rivers, givers of life

by Rolando A. Inciong

The early human civilizations were established along the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq, Syria and Turkey; the Nile in Egypt; the Indus River in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan; and the Mekong River in China, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. All early civilizations prospered alongside rivers because of the availability of fresh water for daily activities, and fertile land for agriculture near those rivers.

Humans settle in places where there are rivers because rivers are the givers of the ingredients of life: water, food and income. Water from rivers sustains socio-economic development, including energy and food production. Rivers drain rainwater towards the seas and provide healthy ecosystems for many species of plants and animals.

Today, the United Nations estimate that around two billion people get their drinking water from rivers. Rivers provide income to many communities depending on them for their livelihoods such as fish culture. Many river systems are used for recreation and tourism, irrigation, industry and commerce. hydropower generation, and transporting people and goods

If living near a river is good, it also has a bad. Flooding is the most dangerous risk for riverside settlers and landowners. Flooding results in loss of lives, property damage, and expensive repairs and rehabilitation.

Today, rivers are among the much-abused bodies of water, most especially in the Asian continent. Irresponsible human activities such as garbage and chemical dumping, illegal human settlement, and many more, are the causes of river degradation.

Governments and citizens need to protect rivers to ensure clean source of drinking water and provide a safe place for tourism and recreation,. In San Pablo City, many community volunteers conduct river cleanups. The Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF), headed by Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon and President Roberto Azores, spearheads the promotion of rivers and lakes conservation. The FSLF is promoting the development of San Pablo as a city whose lakes, rivers, watersheds and the environment in general are protected, conserved and sustainably developed for the well-being of present and future generations. 

Here are some river trivia: Russia has 36 rivers, the most number in the world. The Vatican, which is classified as a country, has no river. The Congo River is the world's deepest river at 720 feet. It is also the second-longest river in Africa, approximately 4,700 kilometers in length. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippines has 421 river basins, 140 of them are heavily polluted and 50 are biologically dead. The longest rivers in the Philippines are Cagayan, 314 miles; Mindanao, 232 miles; Agusan, 217 miles; and Pulangi, 199 miles.

Guro Ako

Ni: Annabel I. De Rama

Bilang isang Guro

Tungkulin naming na magturo

Iba-iba man tayo ng kuro-kuro

Iisa ang namamayani sa Puso

Mapaglingkuran ang Bayang sinilangan

Mabigyang aliw ang Inang Bayan

Sa saliw mula sa tinig ng kabataan

Ay may nag-aalab na karunungan

Dumaan man ang unos ng kapalaran

Sanlibong pangarap man ay matabunan

Susubuking hamunin ang kinabukasan

Pilit aabutin tala ng kapayapaan

Sa araw-araw ay itatawid

Papel ng pagiging matuwid

Upang mga bata’y makamit

Tagumpay na kaakit-akit

Kung balat man ay kumupas

At kamay ay huminto sa pagkumpas

Aawitin pa rin ng buong pitangan

Ang koro ng pagiging Makabayan.

“Live to Teach” or “Teach to Live”?

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT– I

Recto Memorial National High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Life is a battle ground that offers a lot of challenges and opportunities to everyone. One among the opportunities is our profession that’s why it’s very necessary to choose the profession that will best fit you. However, there are times that though the best preparation has been made, some still failed realizing that such a profession is not what they like. However, those persons who found out to be in this situation have their own choices to either enjoy what they have or to feel forever regretful in their lives. 

Teaching may not be the dreamed profession of all teachers. However, due to some unexpected undertakings they had into, plus the age factor, most of them are obliged to prefer a course that would help them fulfill many responsibilities life has bestowed upon them. Security of tenure is one of the common reasons that pushed many to earn the Bachelor’s degree of Education. Age at early 30s, which is no longer within the limit of age qualification of neither any industries nor any companies, is another consideration. The notion of having a profession that would ensure to provide better future for the family especially for those who have children already, considering husband’s work as an ordinary worker, brings not a single doubt in taking the education course. This is a clear manifestation that many want the course because they want to live. Hypocrisy it is if no one from the teachers has ever said, “I teach to live”. 

Teaching in a public school undoubtedly is a secured profession. Aside from the continuous compensation as a government employee in whatever situation the country may be, the fear of immediate dismissal occupies a very little space in the teachers’ minds for as long as they are working and performing their duties and responsibilities. As a matter of fact, any offenses intentionally or unintentionally done shall undergo due process of law before any disciplinary actions be rendered. To some teachers, years of teaching could be for the sort of compliance and an embedded obligation of the profession and seeing all achievements they have earned, may it be sending their loved ones to school earning their degrees, putting up businesses, investing real properties and the like, everything proves that they teach to live.

People might say that teachers’ achievements are common life story of “rugs to riches”, though researches have proven that no teacher becomes rich in teaching. Yet for teachers, those accomplishments gained during the period wherein teaching becomes part of almost all their lives, these are investments earned because they live to teach. Teachers best achievement is when they have created better individuals to their fullest potentials equipped either with mental or emotional intellect and imbued with good values and high moral respect for others. It is an honor for them realizing that they have crafted individuals who became worthy of the community where they belong. No means of measurement can determine the amount of fulfillment teachers’ hearts could carry for every successful student they have crafted and for every waning individual they have rescued with the seeds of inspiration and hope that life has to go on. 

God’s plan may not be the teachers’ choice, but, God always has the purest intention for everyone and God’s purpose for teachers is, for them to “live to teach”. It would take a lot of time for many teachers to realize that they are chosen to live to teach but what matters most now is the opportunity granted upon them to teach their students the value and the beauty of appreciating life challenges by turning these into opportunities inspite of whatever situation it may be. At the moment in which globe is engulfed with fear and anxiety brought about by pandemic, the sincerest call of the teaching profession is right there infront of us… “Teachers, let us live to teach!”

Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin

ni Mary Jane R. Cadugo

Teacher III, Sinait National High School

Ilang dekada man ang nakalipas, hindi pa rin ibinabaon sa limot ang mga pamanang ating nakuha sa ating mga ninuno. Maging tradisyon, kultura, sining at panitikan man, tayo ay umaangat. Patunay na ang pamanang Pilipino ay hindi matutumbasan ng kahit na ano.

Bawat kaugalian, tradisyon o kultura ay talaga namang isinasabuhay ng mga mamamayang Pilipino. Partikular na sa pelikula o dula na palabas na aking napapanood at naririnig gaya na lamang ng "Ang Probinsyano" kung saan itinatampok ang ilan sa mga kaugaliang Pilipino --- pagiging palaban, may paninindigan, bayanihan, at hindi basta basta sumusuko sa hamon ng buhay.

Bawat pelikula na ating napapanood ay sumisimbolo ng bayanihan ng mga pinoy, pagiging masayahin sa anumang oras, pagkakaisa sa mga hamon, pagiging matatag ng pamilyang Pilipino, at ang pagiging maka-Diyos ng mamamayang Pilipino. Hindi rin mawawala ang mga talentong Pilipino na ipinapakitang gilas sa pelikula - maging aksiyon man o romans.

Tila ang pelikula at dula ang nagsilbing salamin ng pamanang Pilipino. Higit sa lahat naging instrumento ito upang mas makilala pa ng lahat ang tradisyon, kaugalian, sining at panitikan ng isang nayon. Naging daan din ito upang lalong manuot ang mga mensahe at aral na nais ipahiwatig ng isang palabas. Sadyang patunay ito kung bakit tinatangkilik ang sariling atin hindi lamang sa ating bansa bagkus sa buong daigdig.

Sa pamamayagpag ng mga pelikula at dula, naging tulay ito upang lumago pa at mahasa ito. Gamit ang sarilin nating wika, nagkaroon ng pangkakataon ang lahat upang kumonekta at ilabas ang talentong Pilipino. Sa bawat linyang kanilang binibitawan, sa bawat pagpapahayag ng kanilang damdamin at sa bawat luha at pawis na kanilang ibinubuwis - pusong wika ang kanilang naging sandata.

Higit ngang nakamamangha ang pamanang Pilipinong ating tinataglay. Patunay na ang lingguwistika at kultural na ugnayan ay sumasalamin sa mga pelikula at dulang Filiino. Buhat ng tayo'y sinakop ng mga dayuhan, naging bihasa tayo sa lahat ng larangan. Samakatuwid, naging daan ito upang lalo pa nating tangkilikin ang sariling atin.

Tanikala

ni Joselito I. Remolacio, 

Master Teacher I, Sinait National High School

Lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab…

Bawat pagtibok na puso’y, takot ang nadarama. Magmula magkapandemya hindi na mawari kung saan patungo ang pagbabagong kinakaharap natin sa kasalukuyan. Nasaan na na tanglaw na ating inaasam na makamit at muling masilayan? Tulog ba ang lahat ng ipagkait ng pandemya ang ating kalayaan? Nakalulungkot ngunit tila ang direksyon ng hanging banayad ay paliko na, gaya ng ating ekonomiya kung walang pagkakaisa, maghihingalo na. Isang tanikalang hindi makawala sa pandemya, ang istatistika’y nabahala.

Marahil ang ating kinasasadlakan ngayon ay mahirap at tanging impit na pag-iyak ang naghahari sa kadiliman. Marami itong pinsalang nadala sa lahat ng mamamayan, mga pangangatog ng tuhod sa tuwing malalaman na may nawala na namang buhay sa isang araw na pakikibaka sa buhay. Bunga nito, talamak ang nailunsad na patakaran, ang bawat galaw ay pinaghihigpitan. Higit sa lahat, ang mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nawalan ng kabuhayan, ang ekonomiya’y patuloy na bumabagsak, ang ayuda’y hindi na mahanap sa mga mata ng iba. Nagmistulang dilim ang kalangitan dulot ng kawalan ng pag-asa na muling mabuhay ang pagbabagong inaasam ng bawat madla.

Hindi maikakailang lubos na mahalaga ang ekonomiya sa ating pag-unlad. Ito ang nagiging tulay upang magkaisa ang lahat patungo sa paglaban sa hindi mawaksing pandemya. Datapuwa’t, ang ayudang ibinibigay ng gobyerno ay malaking bagay sa ibang tao, ang isang karampot na tulong na siyang magbibigay tanglaw sa lahat ng nangangailangan. Hindi ko tuloy maiwasang maghinagpis sa mga nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Kailan nga ba masusugpo itong krisis na ating hinaharap sa buong mundo? Kailan natin muling masasaksihan ang sikat ng araw na nagbibigay pag-asa sa lahat? Magkagayon, dapat na tayong magkaroon ng aksiyon upang tumugon sa pinsalang dulot ng pandemya sa ating ekonomiya.

Hindi lingid sa atin na sa anumang oras dilat ang mga mata, bukas ang mga tainga, at gising ang diwa sa lahat ng nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Hindi niyo ba naririnig ang kanilang mga hinaing? Hindi niyo ba nakikita ang pagod sa kanilang mga mata? Hindi niyo ba nararamdaman ang mga pasakit na kanilang dinadala? Mga takas nilang hikbi sa gabi na tahimik, nangangapa ng kamay na maaring mahawakan o makasagip sa kanila sa bingit ng paghihirap. Bawat gising natin ay panibagong araw ngunit bawat gising nila'y hatid ay panibagong pagod at butil na naman ng mga pawis.

Tulong! Tulong! Tulong! 

Sa tuwing maririnig ang mga katagang ito, kusang may kamay ang dadapo at yayakap ng mahigpit dito. Nakatutuwang malaman na kahit pandemya, bawat tao ay nagkakaisa. Na ang pakikisama’y dumadaloy sa katawan ng bawat isa. Kung minsan man ay nawawalan ng pag-asa ang lahat, ngunit ang isang salita na kababayan ay malaking dahilan upang magpatuloy sa laban. Nagmistula man tayong nakakulong sa isang tanikalang pinalibutan ng pandemya, ang ekonomiya man ay urong sulong sa ating bansa ngunt ang bayanihan ng bawat mamamayan ay kailanma’y hindi mapapantayan.

Kung ating pagninilayan, kung magkakaroon ng pagkakaisa ang lahat, ang ekonomiyang ating inaalagaan simula pa noong walang pandemya ay magiging isang liwanag ng pag-asa na siyang magbibigkis sa pagkakaiba ng bawat lahi. Ang pagsibol ng maluwalhating pakikisama tungo sa ibang aspeto ng ating buhay. Pagyayakapan, pangangamustahan, pagbibigay ng kaunting ayuda, pagiging inspirasyon ng isang tao upang lumaban sa buhay ay tunay ngang natatangi sa paglaban nating lahat sa pandemya.

Oo, mahirap ngang magkaroon ng maunlad na ekonomiya sapagkat hindi ito kusa na lamang yayabong. Tila ang ekonomiya ay isang butil na kailangan payabungin at bigyang halaga sa pamamagitan ng pagiging madisiplinang mamamayan, pagsunod sa mga alituntunin na ipinapatupad, at higit sa lahat pagkakaroon ng pagkakaisa sa kung paano bubukadkad ang rikit na tinatagong taglay at pag-ulad ng ating ekonomiya. Sa kabila nito, ang ating damdamin pa rin ay hindi maipaliwanag, magkahalong saya sa pagkakaisa at takot sa hindi masugpong pandemya. Aligaga, hindi mapalagay, sa kung ano pa ang dapat gawin, at mga tanong na paulit-ulit umiikot sa ating isipan na kailanman hindi mahanapan ng kasagutan. 

Kailan nga ba muling masasaksihan ang tanglaw sa gitna ng karimlan? Kailan nga ba muling aahon ang ekonomiya sa kanyang kinasasadlakan? Kailan nga ba masusugpo ang pandemya? Buksan natin ang ating mga mata, pakinggang maigi ang hinaing nila, bigyang pansin ang kapaligiran. Dapat tayong magbigayan ng lubid ng tulong, magkaroon ng kamay na aakay sa atin - at ito ay ang Panginoon. Siya ang ating tanglaw sa ating sariling mga tanikala na bunga ng pandemya. Siya ang nagbibigkis sa lahat at naniniwala ako na ang pagkakaisa at pakikisama ng mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nakamarka na sa kaibuturan nila simula ng tayo’y mamulat sa mundong ginagalawam. Kung kaya’t magkaisa at makisama hindi lang tungo sa pag-unlad ng ekonomiya bagkus huwag nating hayaan na manatili tayong nasa tanikala na lamang dulot ng pandemya.

CARD MRI ties up with Moreta Shipping Lines to aid Odette victims

In line with the donation drive of CARD MRI for the victims of Typhoon Odette, CARD MRI teamed up with Moreta Shipping Lines to deliver 14 boxes of in-kind goods to Talisay, Cebu on December 28, 2021.

To help those affected by the typhoon, several shipping lines offered free cargo shipping to transport donations from various groups and companies. Meeting the requirements for the in-kind donations on hand, CARD MRI tapped Moreta Shipping Lines to bring the donations on a port-to-port basis. Through the collaboration, in-kind donations were swiftly delivered to typhoon-hit communities in Cebu. 

From December 24 to 28, CARD MRI gathered donations composed of necessities such as food, clothing, and hygiene products. Cash donations were also accumulated during the drive, involving CARD MRI offices located at City Subdivision and M. Paulino St. in San Pablo City, Laguna.

“Besides our cash assistance through the different products of CARD MRI, being able to give essentials that families can immediately use, especially when almost everything was wiped out by Odette, is a step towards the immediate recovery of our fellowmen in Cebu. We hope that these items will be of use to the families,” CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito said on the initiatives taken by the organization.

Helping Hand

Besides the donation drive, CARD MRI started to receive monetary donations to help the victims starting December 22, 2021. Accumulating a total of PhP 2,452,814 as of January 12, 2022, the donations came from partner organizations and individuals of CARD MRI. 

“The destruction caused by Typhoon Odette is surely unfathomable, especially as a lot of lives are affected, but through the combined efforts of organizations and individuals extending their helping hand, we can holster up those affected to stand back up once again. We Filipinos are always ready to help those in need,” Dequito further said on the willingness of the Filipinos to help and the spirit of bayanihan.

CARD MRI, through CARD Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), is still accepting monetary donations for the victims of Typhoon Odette. For more information, message CARD Inc.’s official Facebook Page, @CARDIncOfficial.

Covid-19 Vaccination a Community Perspective: We All Play A Role

by: Jenny A. Capistrano

Lowland Integrated National High School

World Health Organization declared Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic and reiterated the call for countries to take immediate actions and scale up response to treat, detect and reduce transmission to save people's lives. 

According to Department of Health, Vaccines mimic the virus or bacteria that causes disease and triggers the body’s creation of antibodies. These antibodies will provide protection once a person is infected with the actual disease-causing virus or bacteria.

The Municipal Health Unit - Nagcarlan Rural Health Unit scheduled vaccination at the covered court of Barangay Manaol, Nagcarlan, Laguna on December 23, 2021.

RHU nurses together with the barangay health workers, and local government unit (LGU) worked together in the administration of covid-19 vaccine to the members of the community within Brgy. Manaol and nearby barangays. 

First dose of Moderna vaccine for ages 12-17 and Pfizer vaccine for adults ages 18-60 were given.

A grade 7 student of Lowland Integrated National High School, Jairus Nograda is one of the students who got vaccinated. He says, “I feel comfortable, safe and happy after my vaccination.” 

In addition, Midwife of Brgy. Manaol Mrs. Cheryl C. Marfil says, “No report of adverse effect due to covid-19 vaccine for ages 12-17.” 

Mrs. Marlene Coronacion, Leader of BHW believed that vaccination is important for face to face and compulsory for protection especially for younger people and to avoid worst effect. 

Furthermore, Mrs. Judith H. Esler, BHW of Brgy. Manaol remarks, “Vaccination is a protection against the virus.” 

BHW Mrs. Juanita Bibon believed that “The result of the vaccination is good and organized because of the cooperation of all the people involved.” 

Health and safety of the students and the community is the utmost concern of vaccination against covid-19. 

These action of the students, parents, community and health department will benefit with the healing of the world through vaccination by following the plan of WHO and DOH.

Teaching Mathematics thru innovative strategies

by Luningning Alcantara

Teacher II, San Jose National High School

Innovation is a portal towards the creation of something new. When there is innovation, progress and development are evident and the path in connection with advancement is not far-fetched. In this fast-paced world where technology abound and to the speed at which everything is at a quick pace, the call to innovate is almost a duty put in our hands as members of our community of educators. 

Innovation is a necessity for an individual or an organization. Because of innovation, the productivity of an organization improves over time. It also increases competitiveness and there is a fruitful competition for the enhancement of a project that will be beneficial for individuals in an organization. 

Some individuals and organizations are more innovative than others because of persistence and perseverance to attain excellence in our respective fields. When we are diligent in the things we do, there are no obstacles that cannot be overturned along the way. Indeed, we always find ways. There is always something to change for the better. There is always a challenge to accept and overcome. 

When we have the passion in our chosen field, the best comes out in all of us. Indeed, the strongest of storms prove the strength of our ship’s anchor. This is true to our searching for ways to create something new and innovate. There is always that passion burning in our hearts that spells the difference between mediocrity and creativity. 

One of our innovative teaching strategies is the Ethnomathematics comics making which is a fusion between the artistic merits of learners and their mathematical abilities to come up with varied comics while learning the applications of mathematics. It also uses localized materials within the vicinity of San Pablo City or Laguna and contextualize these materials to deepen the learner’s appreciation to our local culture while at the same time gaining not only knowledge in Math but also the enjoyment it brings when making a comics. 

ICT Assessment Approach: Digital Literacy

in Acquiring Test Result and Analysis

by Edna P. Cortez

Teacher III, Bagumbayan Elementary School

Teachers can benefit from ICT by storing and recording information about how students are developing understanding of new material, as well as taking on some of the role of assessing and providing feedback to students, allowing teachers to focus on other aspects of supporting learning.

Because of its adaptability and ability to foster relationships among students, ICT plays an important role in knowledge. The change-oriented approach believes in the change of ICT, has changed the tools, and has fundamentally changed the policies and educational goals. It can improve educational quality in a variety of ways, including increasing learner motivation and engagement, facilitating the acquisition of fundamental skills, and improving teacher training. ICTs are also transformational tools that, when used correctly, can promote the transition to a learner-centered environment.

Digital literacy entails comprehending and employing technology. We can use digital literacy skills to find, use, and create information online in a productive and useful manner. Understanding digital literacy means being able to use technology safely and avoid its risks.

Many teachers use technology in their classrooms to support different learning styles and engage students; however, guidelines to help them do so in ways that promote innovative thinking and collaborative work, ethical practices, and their own professional development are lacking.

In a variety of ways, it has the potential to significantly improve educational quality. It provides students and teachers with access to a wealth of information, knowledge, and educational resources, thereby expanding learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers use online materials to prepare lessons, and students use them to broaden their learning opportunities.

ICT serves a variety of functions and aids in educational assessment practices. It can be used in testing to administer tests, score tests, analyze results, and help teachers evaluate learning outcomes.

Teachers and students who become digitally literate learn technological skills, authorship rules such as copyright and plagiarism, how to access online information, and social responsibility through social networking. ... Above all, digital literacy is a critical component of today's education.

DepEd Usec. San Antonio Issues Regional 

Memorandum for Suspension of Classes 

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT-I

Recto Memorial National 

High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Wednesday, January 21 announces the issuance of the Regional Memorandum DM-CI-2022-009 by the Department of Education Undersecretary for Curriculum and Planning Diosdado M. San Antonio allowing the suspension of classes and other teaching-related activities in the midst of the surge in Covid-19 cases. The memorandum requires schools to continuously implement the Suggested Measures to Foster Academic Ease During the COVID-19 Pandemic as stated in DM-CI 2020-307 in order to ensure flexibility in the teaching-learning process amid the pandemic by recalibrating the strategy of assigning teaching responsibilities and leaning activities in order to safeguard the well-being of both teachers and learners (Deped RO, 2022). The issuance covers the dates January 17-29, 2022 which aims to provide all the stakeholders particularly the students, parents and school-based personnel to have a two-week health break, thus, all school activities are suspended whether physical or virtual (online). 

It has been more than two years already when Covid-19 pandemic has brought chaos to the whole world. Until now, its effect can be felt anywhere and one most affected field is in education. School stakeholders experience a lot of challenges and issues to cope up with the “new normal” educational set-up. The abrupt changes cause both teachers and students to adjust with everything, from the face-to-face classes to distance learning modalities. These changes, aside from the threat of the corona virus, have a big impact to their health. Studies show that stress increases among many students as well as to teachers. From the comparative study made by Frontier Psychiatry on February 2021 between China and Philippines, Filipino respondents were reported significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress than Chinese during the Covid-19 Pandemic. It is a clear manifestation that the corona virus has a great influence on one’s physical and mental well-being. Thus, there is a need for the department of education to think of the best possible way that will respond to the needs of school stakeholders to impart learning amidst pandemic without sacrificing their health. 

One evident action is the department’s immediate compliance with the AITF guidelines on health and safety protocols, such as wearing of facemask and faceshield, social distancing and disinfection, strictly implemented among teachers during their on-site reporting in school or even during their duties in barangay. The same instructions are given to parents and students whenever necessity arises. Yet, these do not stop the reports of incidents in which teachers and students got sick. Students’ common reasons are the waning of their immune system due to lack of sleep and stress of answering a number of learning tasks without the assistance of those knowledgeable than them and the tension for meeting the deadlines. On the teachers’ part, checking all the activities of the modular students, -an estimated of at least 200 students with 4-5 learning tasks every week-, the preparation and printing of the next modules for the succeeding weeks, distribution, sorting, parent online conferences and some other-related activities are really challenging and sometime stressful for them. Nonetheless, these have not become sentiments of all teachers. Instead, most of them feel regretful that the current academic situation prohibits them from rendering full-time service and ensure that quality learning still takes place among all students. This notion somehow contributes to their health deterioration. 

Later last year, November 2021, the department of Education in Region IV has seen hope for possible face-to-face classes to some areas for year 2022 since reports on Covid-19 incidences have subsided already because more than 90% of the population is already vaccinated. Nevertheless, the whole archipelago once again is dismayed when a certain “Poblacion Girl” brought back the fear and tension of probable surge of the new variant of Covid-19 pandemic, the Omicron virus. Though, the possibility originated from the NCR, its repercussion reaches the different regions of the country. As a matter of fact, the Philippine Covid-19 tracker shows that as of January 2022, Region IV-A CALABARZON ranks 2nd to NCR with active cases. Thus, the announcement for suspension of classes in the region eases the predicaments teachers, parents and students feel, knowing that the virus is just around the corner. This will give teachers and students to look after their health and boost their immune system. Furthermore, with the cancellation of all activities, teachers find the announcement very timely because, while it will protect them from the threat of any possible transmission, it will also provide them with ample time to make follow-ups to students-at-risk and render appropriate intervention.

Volunteer health frontliner, pinahalagahan 

ng Alaminos Rotarian

Ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna – Bago natapos ang Taong 2021, ay napahalagahan at napasalamatan ng Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (RCAD) ang 126 na Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) at Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) na mga kusangloob na nakikipagtulungan sa Municipal Health Office dito bilang mga volunteer frontliner upang magtagumpay ang palatuntunan sa pagbabakuna laban sa Covid-19 sa bayang ito.

Iniulat ni Club Auditor Russel Arida, Project Chairman, na sa pakikipag-ugnayan kay Dra. Jelidora “Jing” B. Refrea, Municipal Health Officer, noong umaga ng Lunes, Disyembre 20, 2021, ang RCAD sa pangunguna ni Club President Romeo S. Faylon ay nagtaguyod ng isang palatuntunan na ginanap sa maaliwalas na “covered court” sa mismong harapan ng Municipal Health Office nang naaayon sa kaayusang itinatagubilin ng National Inter-Agency Task Force, upang ang mga volunteer frontliner na naglilingkod sa 15 barangay sa bayang ito ay mapahalagahan, at tuloy mapagkalooban ng Christmas package na binansagan nilang “Gifts of Joy.” 

Kaugnay ng umiiral na pandemya, nananawagan si RCAD President Romeo S. Faylon sa lahat na umalinsunod sa ano mang tagubiling pangkalusugan na ihahatid sa kanila ng mga Barangay Health Worker and Barangay Nutrition Scholar sapagkat ito ay para na rin sa kanilang kagalingan.

Magugunitang noong nakaraang buwan ng Nobyembre, ang Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (D-3820) ay naghandog ng basic medical kit sa Municipal Disater Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), at sa mga Pangasiwaang Barangay ng San Agustin, San Andres, Del Carmen, at Palma, na binubuo ng isang yunit ng Nebgulizer, isang Stetoscope, isang yunit ng Sphygmomanometer o pagtingin ng presyon ng dugo, isang Thermometer, at isang Oximeter o pantaya sa taglay na oksihino ng dumadaloy na dugo sa katawan.

San Pablo Chamber sends aid to Palawan and Surigao

Typhoon-damaged Palawan and Surigao were the recipients of P100,000 cash assistance from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of San Pablo City (PCCI-SPC). This was announced by PCCI-SPC President Bernard Deriquito.

The cash donation for the victims of Typhoon Odette were received by the Palawan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry at P50,000 each. The fundraising campaign was spearheaded by Past President Rolly Inciong and Charter President Sofronio Exconde.

Assisting disaster victims is one of the major programs of PCCI-SPC for 2022-2023, along with tourism and agriculture promotion, support to micro, small and medium enterprises in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry in Laguna, promotion of the ease of doing business, environmental conservation, local investment promotion, youth entrepreneurship, use of information technology in business, and support to technical vocational education.

PCCI-SPC, established in San Pablo City in May 199, is affiliated with the National PCCI, the biggest business organization in the Philippines. President Deriquito said the PCCI-SPC is a voluntary organization of business people and professionals who share the common goal of a more vibrant economy for San Pablo City. Chamber membership covers micro, small, medium and big enterprises serving as the voice of business in San Pablo City. A multi-awarded Chamber, PCCI-SPC has won a number of Most Outstanding Chamber awards in the Regional (Southern Tagalog), Area (South Luzon), National (Philippines) and International (Asia-Pacific) levels during the last 10 years.

CALABARZON STARTS COVID-19 BOOSTER ROLL-OUT

by Roselle R. Aquino

Calamba City, Laguna--Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Francisco Duque III led the ceremonial booster vaccination for senior citizens and immunocompromised individuals of CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) held at DREAM Zone, Capitol Compound, Batangas City, which is also the designated vaccination site of the province.

“This third shot of Covid-19 vaccine will provide the optimum protection from the virus. It is essential to strengthen the efficacy of the two doses of vaccines received,” Duque reiterated.

The Covid-19 booster campaign for senior citizens and individuals with comorbidities and immunocompromised started on Monday, November 22, 2021. “This is to enable our elderly population to have an extra vax, and for them to become fully vaccinated and protected against the virus,” Duque emphasized.

He also pointed out that individuals who have received two vaccines can choose which booster shot they prefer depending on the availability of vaccine brands at the vaccination site.

Vaccines from Moderna, Gamaleya Sputnik, Pfizer and AstraZeneca have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be used as a third dose.

Person with comorbidities and immunocompromised individuals who are eligible to receive the booster shot includes those with immunodeficiency state, people living with HIV, active or malignant cancer, transplant patients and patients under immunosuppressive treatments.

DOH-CALABARZON Regional Director Ariel Valencia added that individuals who are eligible for booster doses can have their shot at any vaccination site by presenting their vaccination card and a valid ID.

“Kailangang din na mayroong maipakitang doctor’s clearance bago sila mabakunahan ng booster shot upang masiguro ang kanilang kalusugan,” he added.

A total of 3 million individuals are targeted for booster shots in the region.

As of November 22, 2021, the regional office recorded 884,737 or 79% of senior citizens (priority group A2) are now fully vaccinated from the 1,117,555-target population while a total of 922,318 or 56% of persons with comorbidities received full vaccination from the 1,636,173-target population for priority group A3.

For the whole of CALABARZON, a total of 70% of the eligible population or 11,452,775 individuals need to be vaccinated. There are 7,060,956 individuals who received their first dose and a total of 5,190,892 are now fully vaccinated.

BAYANIHAN BAKUNAHAN SA SANTA CRUZ: 

APAT NA VACCINATION SITE, BINUKSAN

Apat na vaccination site ang binuksan ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Santa Cruz upang mas maraming mamamayan ang mabakunahan sa pagsisimula ng Bayanihan Bakunahan ng pamahalaang nasyunal noong Nobyembre 29.

Ayon kay Mayor Egay San Luis, maaaring magtungo ang mga mamamayan na kabilang sa Pediatric Category sa alinman sa dalawang vaccination sites tulad ng Mormons Church at Municipal Auditorium.

Tumatanggap naman ng mga residenteng edad 18 taong gulang pataas ang mga vaccination site sa Pedro Guevara Memorial National High School (PGMNHS) at Metro Central Mall. Dalhin lamang ang mga kailangang dokumento upang kayo ay mabakunahan. 

“Huwag po tayong matakot magpabakuna 

mga kababayan upang maging ligtas ang ating sarili at ang mga taong nakapaligid sa atin,” ani San Luis. Para sa mga katanungan, magtungo lamang sa inyong mga Barangay Health Center o sa Rural Health Unit upang kayo ay matulungan na mabakunahan kontra Covid-19. 

LAGUNA 3RD DISTRICT BM ANGELICA JONES ALARVA 

RECEIVES GINTONG PARANGAL FOR PUBLIC SERVICE

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

Laguna 3rd District Board Member Honorable Angelica Jones Alarva received the Gintong Parangal “Most Outstanding Woman in Public Service and Resilient Women in Time of Crisis” at the Grand Ballroom, Manila Hotel on November 26, 2021. 

The recognition was bestowed for her outstanding public service. It has been almost two years since the pandemic started and the public servant from Laguna Hon. Angelica Jones Alarva has been helping families most especially in the 3rd District of Laguna. “ 

Ang award po na ito ay inaalay ko sa Panginoon, my constituents, and my family”, quipped the beaming Laguna legislator. 

This is the 11th year of her “Bawat Pamilya Mahalaga” project that has helped many families. Her “Libro Mo Sagot Ko Para sa Batang Bibo” in partnership with Children International has provided books and knowledge for thousands of children to which she reaches personally. 

Her ordinances too which she sees implemented stood for the rights of women, solo parents, LGBT’s, Persons with disability, BHW’s and even benefits for senior citizens. 

One of her ordinances is “Laguna Muna—Tangkilikin ang sariling atin” which became of big help to local and small markets and gives support for Laguna-made products. 

She also authored ordinances to protect the rights of the youth. 

MGA BAWAL PARA MAPANGALAGAAN ANG 

KAPALIGIRAN, INILAHAD NI MAYOR ALVAREZ

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna--Nagpalabas noong nakaraang isang Lunes, Nobyembre 22, 2021, ng isang Paalaalang Pangmadla si Alkalde Ruben D. Alvarez ukol sa mga ipinaiiral na batas o kautusan na nagtatadhana ng mga pagbabawal na mahigpit na ipatutupad sa bayang ito, na gaya ng mga sumusunod: 

1. Pagbabawal ng pagkakalat ng basura sa mga pampublikong lugar, lalo na ng mga basurang nalilikha sa loob 

ng tahanan, gaya ng itinatagubilin ng Republic Act No. 9003, na lalong kilala bilang Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, sa halip, sa tahanan pa lamang ay pinipili na sa natitipong basura ang mga maaaring pakinabangan pa bago ito ilagay sa lugar kung saan kinukuha ng basurero; at dapat magsagawa ng segregasyon o paghihiwahiwalay ng nabubulok sa mga hindi nabubulok, upang maging maayos ang pagdadala nito sa Material Recovery Facilities ng Pangasiwaang Munisipal sa San Juan. Ang mga mararapatang lumalabag sa batas na ito ay maaaring maparusahan ng pagmumulta o pagkabilanggo.

2. Mahigpit ding ipinagbabawal ang pagsusunog ng basura bilang pag-alinsunod sa Provincial Ordinance No. 10, Series of 2015, o An Ordinance Prohibiting Open Burning of Garbages, Trash and Other Refuse Materials Within The Territorial Jurisdiction of the Province of Laguna.

3. Ipinagbabawal ang walang kapahintulutang pagpuputol ng mga punong kahoy, kasama na ang pagsira ng mga sanga nito, dahil sa sinasabi sa Section 3 ng Presidential Decree No. 953 na ipinagbabawal ang pagputol, pagsira, at pagsugat ng lahat ng uri ng puno, maging ito ay punong kahoy na tumubo o itinanim sa baybayin ng lansangan, liwasan, bakuran ng paaralan, pook liwaliwan, baybayin ng mga ilog at sapa, at maging sa mga gilid ng subdivision roads. Ang mga mapatutunayang lumabag sa kautusang ito ay maaring maparusahan ng pagkabilanggong hindi bababa sa anim (6) buwan subali’t hindi hihigit sa dalawang (2) taon, o multang mula sa P500, subalit hindi tataas sa P5,000, o ang dalawang kaparusahan batay sa magiging kapasiyahan ng hukumang didinig dito.

Ayon sa punumbayan, ang mga pagbabawal na ito ay iniuugnay sa tamang pangangalaga sa kalikasan ng kapaligiran upang makatulong sa pandaigdigang pagsasakit na mapabagal ang pagtaas ng temperatura sa kapaligiran ng daigdig na nagdudulot ng masamang epekto sa buhay at pamumuhay ng tao. 

Kung may katanungan tungkol sa paalaalang pangmadalang ito, ay ipinapayo ni Alkalde Ruben D. Alvarez na maaring tumawag sa Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) sa mga sumusunod na numero, 09914579857 (DITO); 09163388755 (Globe); at 09618527661 (Smart).

VON VALDEPEÑAS IS BUHAY PARTY-LIST 1ST NOMINEE

by: Pio N. Platon

Buhay Party-list (Buhay Hayaan Yumabong) was founded on October 22, 1999 by former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza with Malquuides Robles to cultivate and propagate Buhay advocacy – Pro – God, life and family. 

Twenty-two (22) year old party-list has been supported by multiple congregations and religious groups on nation building, democracy, and human rights. 

This May, 2022 election, it has 3 nominees – Von Valdepeñas, Mark Brian Paz and Xavy Padilla. 

First nominee is Vladimir Von P. Valdepeñas who was former number 1 municipal councilor (Los Baños, Laguna) in 2004, Committee chair in Public Works, Infrastructure and Telecommunication; Regional Executive Director (Philippine Councilors’ League – Region IV-A) and National Liaison Officer for Luzon (National Movement of Young Legislators), IT consultant to DENR secretary and had been a “KALIPI”-Liberal Party vice-chair. 

Born entrepreneur, Von started putting and running his own businesses since 1997 namely Von’s Coconut Lumber; Petron Gasoline Station (manager/dealer – Los Baños); Asianware Technologies Corporation (2003-present); Baseline Unlimited Inc. (2009-to date) and Vladimir “V1” Corporation (real estate, transportation, construction and trading). 

In 2019, Von worked as Goodwill Philippines president and at present Country Manager who champions the cause of PWDs. 

Von Valdepeñas is BA Management Economics graduate (Ateneo de Manila University), Advance Management Program and Senior Executive Fellows (development program for executives) at Harvard University, Massachusetts. He is married to Chi Atienza (daughter of former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza) with 3 kids. 

His political, entrepreneurial and educational background made him voted as Buhay Party-List first nominee.

CHIZ: ADDRESS GAPS IN REMOTE LEARNING 

DUE TO LACK OF INTERNET CONNECTION

With no end in sight yet to the coronavirus pandemic, senatorial candidate and Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero is pushing for better internet service across the country to close some gaps in distance schooling in light of a recent study which confirmed that poor or lack of connectivity had significantly hindered children’s learning ability during the pandemic.

The hard and long lockdowns in the country, considered one of the most stringent in the world by far, following the coronavirus outbreak in the country in March 2020 had prompted the Department of Education (DepEd) to halt in-person classes nationwide and shift to online learning as way to ensure that students and faculty members are safe and protected.

But a recent World Bank report, “Remote Learning During COVID-19: Lessons for Today,” showed that lack of access to 

the internet and slow connection had adversely affected the education of Filipino schoolchildren, as it noted that nine out 10 pupils cannot read.

This means that the country’s learning poverty is now at a high of 90% by August 2021, from 69.5% before the pandemic, according to World Bank estimates. Distance learning in the Philippines only covered 20% of households with schoolchildren, it added, similar to Ethiopia, the lowest rate.

“Ito na nga ang masakit at hubad na katotohanan ng remote learning na ipinilit ipatupad sa buong bansa kahit sa mga lugar na wala naman o mababa ang kaso ng COVID-19,” Escudero lamented. “Nakaka-alarma na nga ang estado ng edukasyon bago mag-pandemya, tapos nabiktima naman ang ating mga mag-aaral ng magulong pagpapatupad ng distance learning.”

He cited the case of Sorsogon where more than 50% of the barangays are COVID-free, which could have been exempt from the remote learning imposed by the DepEd.

Escudero, a veteran legislator, is calling for massive investments for faster internet speed and wider coverage to make connectivity accessible to more students, as he expects hybrid learning to continue for some time even with the limited face-to-face classes recently implemented by the education department.

“Sa datos ng World Bank, mga 26.9 porsyento lamang ng mga estudyante ang may access sa internet sa bansa. Paano naman ang mahigit na 70 porsyento na wala na ngang gadget, wala na ngang internet at paminsa-minsan ay walang kuryente sa kanilang mga kabahayan? Pababayaan na lamang ba natin silang maging mangmang?” said Escudero, who is seeking a fresh six-year mandate in the coming national elections.

As of January 2021, the country is now in sixth place in mobile internet speed among the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Globally, the country moved up to 86th spot in the mobile internet speed rankings in the same period, a marked improvement from its 111th rank in 2020.

Average download rate in th Philippines improved to 38.12 megabits per second (Mbps) last October from previous month’s 35.03 Mbps, or an 8.82% improvement for mobile internet speed, according to Ookla Speedtest Global Index. However, fixed broadband speed slightly dipped to 71.08 Mbps from 71.85 Mbps during the same period.

“Even as we enter the new normal, expect that distance learning modalities will be here for some time,” Escudero said. “Kaya kailangang mag-invest talaga sa internet connectivity para sa blended future distance learning ng ating mga estudyante. Huwag naman nating iwanan ang mga kabataan,” the former senator said.

NATURE AND RELIGION 

by Rolando A. Inciong

We always relate nature or environment to science but never to religion because science and religion have opposing views. But all religions of the world have teachings on respecting nature and living in harmony with it.

The Catholic Church, through Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si, a Latin phrase meaning Praise Be to You, is a global wake up call to help humanity understand the destruction that man is causing to the environment and his fellow man. The Pope’s letter is addressed to "every person living on this planet" and calls for a global dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our planet through our daily actions and decisions. Laudato Si, the most comprehensive Vatican document on environmentalism, ethics, and Christian faith, is an important tool for motivating Catholics, as well as those of other religious faiths. 

Christians are all aware of the Bible’s Noah, who saved animals from the great flood, as instructed by God. The Lord’s instruction to Noah showed the importance he gives to biodiversity – the variety of life on earth – when he told Noah to bring to the ark all pairs of animals. The Bible clearly says, “For that which befalls the sons of men befalls beasts . . . as the one die, so dies the other . . . a man has no preeminence above a beast” (Ecclesiastes 3:19). This means if we lose our biodiversity, the human race will also be extinct. 

For Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), tree planting and cleanup activities form part of the church’s ongoing program on environmental protection and preservation. It has also supported the global Earth Hour and promotes eco-farming and a variety of environment-friendly practices.

According to the INC, eco-farming should enable farmers and customers to control the food products grown and offered; farmers should be compensated for their work; it is important to work with the land to get higher food yields while respecting the environment; and it is important to grow different types of plants to protect the environment

Today, the INC members operate hundreds of eco-friendly farms around the world, especially in the Philippines and Africa. The INC, the largest and fastest growing church in the Philippines, also sees irresponsible human activities as factors that result in environmental degradation and calamities.

Islam, through the Koran, emphasizes that disrespecting Allah’s creation is like disrespecting Him. The Koran also states that “With it we have produced diverse pairs of plants separate from each other. Eat and pasture your cattle; verily, in these are signs for men endowed with understanding.’’ Again, this is proof of the importance of biodiversity to humanity.

Islam teachings emphasize that animals are an important part of the community. The Koran reads: “There is not an animal (that) lives on Earth nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you.” Islam further teaches “to help animals since this means helping mankind as well.” 

There are over 400 million Buddhists all over the world. Buddhists are the most respectful of nature, especially the living things. The Buddha said that humans must be compassionate to all living things. Clearly, Buddhism promotes respect for nature and biodiversity.

The United Church of Christ in its Toxic 100 Report, listed 100 facilities in the United States that produce the most toxic air pollution. The report, titled “Breath to the People: Sacred Air and Toxic Pollution,” is “a moral spotlight on the places where that sacred air is being poisoned and where children often suffer the most,” said the Rev. Brooks Berndt, United Church of Christ’s minister of environmental justice.

The report revealed how dangerous levels of toxic chemicals — ethylene oxide, hexavalent chromium, nickel — are associated with illnesses such as asthma, brain damage, cancer and birth defects. The United Church of Christ report called for the polluting facilities — which produce nearly 39 percent of all the toxic emissions in the nation — to be held accountable for both their carbon footprint and the negative health effects experienced by nearby residents. 

When it comes to nature or the environment, religion and science sing the same tune!

HIRAYA MANAWARI

ni: Arlene V. Umila 

CGMES, Nagcarlan

Sisimulan natin pagkwentuhan

Ang isang bagay na di pa natin alam ang petsa ng katapusan

Nagsimula ito sa isa, dalwa, tatlo, hanggang sa nalimutan nalang ang bilang at tamang numero hanggang ngayon

Nasaulo mo na ba?

Kahit nakapikit ay tila kaya

mo na iguhit ang larawan ng bawat

sulok ng iyong tahanan

Tila lahat tayo ay naging bilanggo sa rehas ng kuwarentenas

Nakakainip

Nakakasakal

Lahat yan ay ating danas

Nagsimula na 

Nagsimula na rin ang pagsusuot

ng maskara ng lahat

Maskara ng lahat na ang gusto'y kaligtasan

Maskara ng takot na pagkabilang ng tatlo lalayo sila sayo

Distansya ang hiling

Paunahan sa pila at tila naging isang laro na ang pamimili,

Ang makakarami'y buhay ang tropeyo

Pagpapasalamat kung may matitira sayo

Pagpapasalamat, may salapi pang natitira sayo

Pagpapasalamat sa pag-asang pinanghahawakan mo

Pananatili ng pagitan sa isa't isa

Gaano kalayo?

Gaano kasakit ang malayo?

Malayo sa mga taong dahilan ng pagsusumikap

Apat, lima, anim na talampakan

Pipiliing lumayo dahil mahalaga sila sayo

Ikaw nalang ang susubok

Ikaw nalang ang sumabak sa giyera ng

buhay sa pakikisalamuha

Naghigpit at nagkaroon ng hangganan

Magsisihigpit din ang kapit na ito'y matatapos din

Maraming buhay ang nawala

Maraming bagay ang di nagawa

Maraming plano ang bigla nalang naging bula

Lumipas ang mga araw at buwan

Bawat sigundo tila mabilis na dumaan

Mayroong sa trabaho nanatili

Ang iba'y kumalas

Isa ka ba sa kanila?

Na ang buhay ang nakataya kapalit ng buhay ng iba?

Sinuong kahit di sigurado

Kahit delikado

Kahit nakakapagod

Kahit marami ang umayaw

Kahit marami na ang bumitaw

Isa ka ba sa kanila?

Tuloy ang dalangin

Ang kaliwa at kanang kama'y nagdigkit

Tayo ay lalaya din

Ang pandemya'y paalala

Buhay ko, buhay mo at buhay nating lahat

Ay mahalaga

Maglalapit lapit tayong muli

Hiraya Manawari

MY PROFESSIONAL REFLECTION IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF LEARNING DELIVERY MODALITIES 2 COURSE FOR TEACHERS

By: John Rainier T. Bolado

San Agustin Integrated School, Ibaan, Batangas

This Learning Delivery Modalities 2 Course for teachers is an integral part of my teaching career because it served as a compilation of my knowledge and understanding of my profession. It also measures effectively my consciousness/ awareness and even judgment of the different phases of learning, which can pour out my ideas, analysis, and understanding to a road to change, improve, and make the teaching process more convenient and readily available even in changing times. Learning must continue no matter what the situation is and learning is possible because there are other learning modalities that can be used to make learning effective to happen.

As an educator, it helped me a lot to realize my goal to make effective learning happen in the new normal using teaching strategies that fit modular distance learning. The necessary information, knowledge and insights that I obtained in this course assisted me with addressing the necessities of the learners during this time. I am also eager to make better plans which are versatile to the current circumstances of education process- the shift to modular distance learning. 

Upon discussing with my co-teacher regarding how I will respond to the completion of this LDM2 modules, I had gained optimistic spirit of enlightenment. Subjecting myself to undergo through this process will not only benefit me a lot but it will also benefit my learners under the new normal school setting wherein face-to-face learning is prohibited because of the health risks brought about by CoVid 19. Learning must continue no matter what the situation is. Learning is possible because there are other learning modalities that can be used to make learning effective to happen. 

Simultaneously it is better to consider everything required for the continuation of the learning interaction of my students like the planning of the virtual interaction, making learning activity sheets, appraisal of educational instruments and assessment of learning with incorporation of ICT.

Through this, I can lay out my achievements inside the portfolio to acquire information and use it for the progression of the teaching and learning process. The shift of the teaching-learning delivery in schools to modular distance learning made it more challenging on the part of the teachers. This LDM course helps ensure that I will be able to deliver quality instruction in the new normal through better understanding of the learning continuity platforms to make learning effective to happen in the new normal school setting wherein blended learning modalities are significant concerns to this current time. The conveyance of fundamental quality training is convoluted which is the reason that the Department of Education (Deped) is continually discovering roads to tackle the issues and capacitating its educators and school leaders to turn out to be more effective. This serves as an urgent response to continuity of education and a great help to ensure the delivery of quality instruction for it help teachers be prepared for this distant learning in this new normal situation. It helps teachers to gain knowledge, skills and mindset that are necessary in this new teaching and learning way.

ALS TEACHER AT THIS TIME OF PANDEMIC

By: Aldrin M. Balaaldia

ALS - Mobile Teacher

“In the midst of the corona virus crisis, the call remains the same that education must continue, whether face-to-face or virtual with or without physically going to school.” - Department of Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones 

There are lots of things that challenged us in this time of pandemic as Alternative Learning System (ALS) Mobile Teacher. All of us have been battling this very minute virus, that could take away one’s life. Everyone is affected, welfare of every individual is at stake. These scenarios led me to realized and came up with these questions. First, how can we conduct Literacy Mapping and reach the target number of learners to be mapped? Before, we enthusiastically visit different barangays in our city to conduct the face to face literacy mapping to convince and encourage Out of School Children, Youths and Adults to enroll in ALS program, unlike in formal school, learners automatically go and enroll in their respective grade level. Second, how will I convince the learners to enroll and be interested to try our program in this time, where technology will take a big role in the learning process? Third, the issued learning module, will they be suited to learners’ level of understanding? Is it easily comprehend by the learners, a self-learning module as it is described? And lastly, how can we reach those learners that really want to enroll to the ALS program but don’t have any gadgets or internet connection? Today, we are not allowed to do the face to face literacy mapping and learning session to ensure one’s health. 

Changes is inevitable, and as a teacher, we are trained to adapt and be flexible to whatever situation we are in, specially this time of pandemic. Together with my co-educators, we came up with solutions to address the needs. We crafted some learning materials and innovated strategies so we can conduct the Literacy Mapping without doing the house to house traditional mapping. We use the social media to disseminate the Advocacy and Social Mobilization about the ALS program, creating google forms for the Online Literacy Mapping, Enrollment form and Functional Literacy Test (FLT). Also, we constructed and transferred different forms which before, learners are asked to answer those forms personally through pen and paper. My doubts about the use of technology in this new normal set-up have been paved off. Now learners who want to enroll in ALS can access it in the internet. Making learning exemplars and other learning activities that are suited to the needs of learners were developed. Moreover, we are very thankful for the barangay officials who whole heartedly help us reach and disseminate ALS Program to those learners despite of lack of internet connection and gadget. 

With the help of different people who continuously improve and support the system, we overcome all of the challenges to deliver the “ALS 2.0 the Second Chance Education but not a second class. 

“So together as one, we can move forward.”

PROTECT BIODIVERSITY TODAY AND PROTECT THE FUTURE

By: Joebert G. Abila

Teacher III , Sta. Veronica Elementary School

Just try to imagine a world where biodiversity thrives, where flora and fauna nourish in the wild forest of Amazon, or the clean waters of the Niagara Falls flow in its grandeur. Philippine Eagles soar high above the sky without the fear that humans might shoot them. Just how important biodiversity is in our world today? Students should learn this so that we can protect the future of humanity. 

Humanity must stop the pace of wildlife extinctions — or face extinction itself, according to a growing body of research. At a time when more than 1 million animals are at risk of extinction — and the links between human health and the health of the planet are clear — the stakes have never been higher.

With COVID-19, we’ve seen the damage that diseases can do not only to human health, but also to the global economy. By protecting biodiversity in Earth’s ecosystems, countries could save lives and money, while helping to prevent future pandemics. Biodiversity is an essential part of the solution to climate change. In a landmark study published in 2017, a group of researchers led by Bronson Griscom, who researches natural climate solutions at Conservation International, discovered that nature can deliver at least 30 percent of the emissions reductions needed by 2030 to prevent climate catastrophe. Protecting biodiversity plays a crucial part in achieving these emissions reductions. So how can you be of great help in your own simple way to protect biodiversity? One, if you have pets at home, make sure they are well fed, well groomed, and had been vaccinated by your veterinarian. Domesticated animals are a great part of the biodiversity that helps to balance the earth’s environment. 

You can buy from your local farmer at a farmers’ market or through a farm stand gives you the ability to find out how your food was grown and learn what they are doing on the farm to help conserve biodiversity. Educating people about the importance of biodiversity conservation increases public awareness of the issue. As public awareness increases, people become more involved in caring about their environment.

The earth doesn’t need us because it has long survived even before humanity came but we need mother earth because without it, we will not exist in this universe so we should take good care of our planet. The dreaded diseases, catastrophic calamities are all made worse by humans. Maybe it’s true that this could be Mother Earth’s way of fighting back what humanity destroyed and we humans are learning that lesson, sadly, in a very painful way. Let us heal earth again and go green and save our only mother earth.

Reference: Shaw, J. (2018) Why is biodiversity important URL: https://www.conservation.org/blog/why-is-biodiversity-important

CARD MBA ELECTS NEW BOT; TRANSFORMS MEMBERS TO LEADERS

Empowering its members to lead, CARD Mutual Benefit Association (CARD MBA) elected a new set of Board of Trustees (BOT) during the 22nd Annual General Membership Meeting on November 4, 2021 . 

CARD MBA, the microinsurance arm of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), is 100% owned and managed by CARD MRI clients who are also members of the Association. With this, CARD MBA installs 12 BOT from its members and three independent trustees to complete the Association’s line-up of BOT. 

Inducted through proxy votes via online conference meeting, the six new board members include Rowena R. Bayuga and Filda R. Tolen from Ilocos Norte, Mylin M. Chozas from Cabuyao, Laguna, Marjorie I. Quisoy from Albay, Jenelyn A. Sanchez from Occidental Mindoro, and Beverly A. Sinadjan from Masbate. The all-women ensemble is composed of CARD MBA Coordinators, member-borrowers of CARD MRI, who are originally tasked to voluntarily coordinate with their unit and provincial offices in terms of claims validation and reports. 

According to CARD MBA Chief Executive Officer Jocelyn D. Dequito, the new BOT will assist in governing the Association to address the needs of their fellow members. “Our MBA Coordinators are the direct link between the clients of CARD MRI’s financial institutions and CARD MBA itself. They are the best people to communicate with when it comes to the concerns of their co-members on the ground, and we need to work with them hand-in-hand to better serve our communities through our microinsurance services,” Dequito said.

Meanwhile, the two new independent trustees include Francis M. Puzon from Taytay, Rizal and Rolando A. Robles from Las Piñas City. Puzon and Robles both have decades of experience when it comes to risk management and compliance as well as life insurances and asset management respectively.  

From simple mothers to leaders

“Aside from being the recipients of our microfinance and microinsurance services, we believe that our client-members also have the power to bring about change in their community when given the right resources,” said CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito. “This is what urges us to seek their help to better our services and to lead their co-members out of poverty.” 

Anchored to its goal of empowering women, CARD MRI acknowledges the capacity of its women members to gain control of their assets and take part in managing an association such as CARD MBA. As a result, CARD MRI transforms simple mothers into members, and later on, to leaders of the community. 

“Since 1986, it has always been CARD MRI’s mission to provide the landless poor with a venue for asset ownership through our microfinance services. We equip them with the appropriate resources that they may utilize in order to carve their own path and be catalysts of change. At CARD MRI, we do not only lead people out of poverty; we also train them to influence other people to do the same,” concluded CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip. 

CARD MRI is a group of social development institutions with a mission to eradicate poverty by providing financial assistance, microinsurance, and other community development services in health and education. As of September 2021, CARD MRI has served 7,890,261 clients and has insured 26,999,910 individuals nationwide.

MPT SOUTH AT DILG 4A, NILAGDAAN ANG KASUNDUAN 

SA PAGSULONG NG ROAD SAFETY AT TURISMO SA CALABARZON 

nina Kevin Pamatmat

at Shekinah Joy Pamatmat

Nilagdaan ngayong araw ang Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) sa pagitan ng Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South), isa sa mga subsidiary ng Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), ang infrastructure arm ng Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) at Department of Interior and Local Government – CALABARZON (DILG IV-A) para sa pagsasagawa ng road safety education campaign at tourism promotion activities para sa rehiyon. 

Sa bisa ng MOU, magtutulungan ang DILG IV-A at MPT South sa pagbibigay ng dagdag na kaalaman patungkol sa local governance at social development- sa pamamagitan ng Local Gorvernance Resource Center (LGRC) facility- isang dynamic, interactive at virtual program na nagsisilbing sentro ng kaalaman sa pagbabahagi sa mga lokal na pamahalaan sa rehiyon ng iba’t ibang impormasyon na makatutulong sa pagpapaunlad ng kanilang mga kapasidad sa pagpapatakbo ng kani-kanilang mga bayan at siyudad. 

Katuwang ang DILG IV-A, inaaasahan ng MPT South na mapapaigting nito ang pagsasakatuparan ng iba’t ibang social advocacy projects nito gaya ng ‘Drayberks’ at ‘Bayani Ka’ na parehong road safety programs na naghihikayat at nagtuturo sa iba’t ibang motorista at komunidad ng mga alituntunin sa expressway at mga pamamaraan upang maturing na road safety advocates. 

Layun ng “Drayberks” road safety seminar, isa sa mga social advocacy programs ng MPT South na hango mula sa salitang "Drayber" at "Barkada", na maiwasan ang pagkakaroon ng mga road accidents sa mga mga toll roads ng MPT South: Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX); CAVITEX C5 Link; at Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX). Habang ang Bayani Ka naman, na ang ibig sabihin ay Bayani ng Kalsada, ay nagnanais na magbigay ng karagdagang kaalaman hinggil sa batas na Limited Access Facility Act (R.A. 2000).

Kasama rin sa mga nakalatag na proyekto ng MPT South kasama ang DILG IV-A ang pagsusulong ng turismo sa CALABARZON sa pamamgitan ng paggawa ng mga multimedia materials upang maibida ang iba’t ibang mga pagkain, lokasyon at tanawin sa rehiyon gamit ang Biyaheng South social media accounts at iba pang programa ng DILG IV-A. 

Nagsilbing kinatawan ng MPT South sa virtual signing ang Spokesperson at Assistant Vice President for Communications and Stakeholder Management nito na si Bb. Arlette V. Capistrano habang si Regional Director, Ariel O. Iglesia, CESO IV naman para sa DILG Region IV-A. 

“Ikinagagalak ng MPT South ang aming pakikiisa sa DILG Region IV-A para sa aming mga social development projects para sa pagpapalawig ng aming pagbibigay ng kaalaman ukol sa road safety at mga kaakibat nitong mga batas. Gayundin, katuwang ang DILG Region IV-A, kami ay lalong mas makakatulong sa muling pagpapaangat ng ekonomiya ng rehiyon, sa pamamagitan ng pagsulong sa turismo nito,” ani MPT South Spokesperson at Assistant Vice President for Communications and Stakeholder Management, Bb. Arlette V. Capistrano. 

“The Department through the Local Governance Resource Center has always banked on partnerships with agencies and organizations to deliver our mandate of guiding and empowering LGUs in effective program implementation and local governance. We are thankful for MPT South’s interest in collaborating with us on social development projects and we are looking forward to empowering our LGUs together.”, ani DILG IVA Regional Director Ariel O. Iglesia. 

Bukod sa CAVITEX, CAVITEX C5 Link, at CALAX, hawak din ng MPTC ang concessions para sa North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), NLEX Connector Road, Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), at Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) sa Cebu.

SAN PABLO CITY CENTRAL ROTARIANS RAISE HITO TO FUND PROJECTS

Give yourself and your loved ones with a gift of beauty from SM. With things opening up as Christmas approaches, it’s a good time to look good and feel great with gift sets from SM Beauty.

Luxe brands like Laura Mercier and Estee Lauder lead the way with their spectacular selections; while iconic MAC has a new dazzling lipstick collection, Benefit delights us with a beauty box, and Nars’s fashion forward gift set that will enhance your holiday look.

You’ll double the drama with Bobbi Brown’s smokey eye mascara, and make heads turn with Make Up Forever’s holiday collection. Vice Cosmetics has sweet treats with names like Kookie Dough and Peppermint for the lips, while Pretty Secret unlocks the key to great brow-works for the blushing diva.

Give your skin some TLC with Clinique’s Merry Moisture Set and Olay’s serums and moisturizers for younger looking skin.

All these and other personal care products like fragrances, hair care, vitamins, supplements, and more are available at SM Beauty located at The SM Stores in most SM Supermalls nationwide.  Just in time for Christmas, SM Beauty also has exclusive gifts for all SMAC members- a free bear or luggage for a minimum purchase of P10,000 single receipt, available in select SM stores. Keep shopping because you can get more points for selected items all season! 

You can also enjoy an exciting but worry-free shopping experience with our online shopping platforms; shop with SM Beauty Personal Shoppers and discover more products when you check out the SM Catalog https://thesmstorecatalog.com/collections/beauty-and-health. You can also buy your beauty gifts through Shop SM, our Viber community, Messenger, and the SM Store’s Call to Deliver service by calling #143SM or #14376.

 PCOL. ROGARTH B. CAMPO IS LAGUNA 

POLICE PROVINCIAL OFFICE NEW DIRECTOR

by Roselle R. Aquino

Camp Vicente Lim, Calamba City--PRO4A Regional Director, Brig Gen eliseo Cruz presides the turn-over of Command between the outgoing Provincial Director, Col Serafin Petalio II, and oncoming Provincial Director PCol Rogarth B Campo of the Laguna Police Provincial Office in a simoke ceremony at Camp B/Gen Paciano Rizal, Sta Cruz, Laguna. 

Cruz commends the efforts of the outgoing Provincial Director for initiating numerous projects in Laguna PPO. “When Chief PNP, Gen Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar implemented the Intensified Cleanliness Policy, Laguna PPO was the first to comply on his direcrive. 

Also, Laguna PPO under the leadership of Petalio was recognized by the National Historical Commission because of the construction of the Paciano Rizal Park. Many projects were initiated by the outgoing PD. He is doing this not only to comply with ICP by the Chief PNP but because that is his style. Kung lahat tayong mga officers do the same thing that Petalio has done I am sure we will go above the standard of our organization. Sana tularan natin ang mga ginawa ni Petalio”, Cruz in his message. 

He also wishes the best to the Incoming Provincial Director, “I am confident that Laguna PPO is in good hands under Campo. 

Cruz undercores the importance of Change of Command in an Office. According to him, it has to happen for us to move forward and to accomplish the mission of PNP. 

In parting, he calls on the support of all the personnel to continuously support the Intensified Cleanliness Policy of our Chief PNP.

CONG SOL: DAPAT TULUNGAN ANG MGA 

NASA DI-PORMAL NA SEKTOR NG PAGGAWA

ni Ruben E. Taningco

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Naniniwala si Congresswoman Sol Aragones ng 3rd District of Laguna na ang informal sector sa lipunan ng paggawa ay dapat na masinop na pinagtutuunan ng pansin ng mga pangasiwaang lokal, sapagka’t sila ay bahagi ng sandigan ng ating kabuhayang pambansa. Ito ang ipinadama ng mambabatas sa ilang lider ng samahan ng mga manggagawa na kanyang nakatagpo sa isang barangay hall sa lunsod na ito noong nakaraang Sabado ng hapon.

Ayon kay Sol Aragones, sa isang pag-aaral ng Department of Labor and Employment, napag-alamang ang 80% ng manggagawa sa bansa ay nabibilang sa mga manggagawang impormal, tulad ng mga jeepney and tricycle driver, magtitinda sa bangketa, mga komukontrata ng gawain sa sistemang pakyawan, mangingisda at magsasaka, o ang mga manggagawang walang katiyakan ang pagkita, na karaniwang ang mga ito ay walang tinatanggap na tulong na panglipunan, tulad ng health insurance, at sistema ng pag-iimpok para mapaghandaan ang panahon ng kanilang katandaan, tulad ng pensyon. Kaya, para sa makatotohanang katatagan ng bansa, ang sektor na ito ay 

dapat tulungan upang maging malakas, matatag, napangangalagaan, at napagkakalooban ng kapanatagan upang maging produktibo at kapakipakinabang sa lipunan.

Sa dipinisyong ibinigay ni Sol Aragones, ang manggagawang nabibilang sa informal sector ay ang mga karpintero at mason na namamakyaw ng gawain, mga tsuper, mga magtitinda sa bangketa o walang regular na puwesto, mangingisda, magsasaka, at kasama na ang mga nagsusulong ng cottage industry na sila ang gumagawa, namumuhunan, nagbibili o namamahagi ng produkto o paglilingkod na kanilang ipinagkakaloob kapalit ng napagkakasunduang kabayaran. Maitutulad sila sa may paggawaan na sila rin ang tauhang gumagawa.

Ang isang paraan na maitutulong ng mga yunit ng pamahalaang lokal ay ang paglalaan ng pondo, upang mga nabibilang sa informal sector ay masakop ng Pambansang Palatuntunang sa Kaseguruhang Pangkalusugan. Sana ang lahat ng mga jeepney driver at marginal fishermen ay mapagkalooban ng life insurance coverage. 

Bilang kongresista, kanyang pananagutan ang bumalangkas ng mga batas na ang layunin ay ang kagalingang pambansa, subalit pananagutan ng mga nangangasiwa ng mga yunit ng pamahalaang lokal ang implementasyon o pagpapatupad ng mga palatuntunang binalangkas ng Kongreso, tulad ng pagkakaloob ng scholarship sa mga anak ng mahihirap na pamilya, at pagsisikap na ang mga paglilingkod na pangkalusugan ay madama ng mga mahihirap na karaniwang naninirahan sa mga liblib na kanayunan, o sa mga masisikip na bahagi o blighted areas ng kabayanan.

‘PANGANGAILANGAN ANG CUL DE SAC’

Ni Ruben E. Taningco

SANTA CRUZ, Laguna--Bahagi ng konsepto ni Congresswoman Sol Aragones para mapaunlad pa ang mga bayang bumubuo ng 4th Provincial District of Laguna na halos ay kabalantay ng mga lawak na bulubundukin ng Lalawigan ng Quezon, na patuloy na palawakin pa ang sistema ng lansangan upang maging maluwag at mabilis ang daloy ng ating mga economic goods, at mapasigla ang industriya ng turismo sa mga bayang ito.

Dapat ding mapag-aralan ang posibilidad na sa tulong ng makabagong teknolohiya, ay mapalawak at mapatatag ang watershed area ng seven lakes sa San Pablo City upang maitaas ang out-put ng Hydro-Electric Plant sa Calauan, na magiging malaking katulungan sa pangangailangan sa kuryente para sa industriyalisasyong nagaganap dito sa Laguna Province..

Dapat ding magkaroon ng isang palatuntunan, upang magawa ng Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), dagdag pa ni Cong. Sol Aragones, na makapagbukas ng mga cul de sac o mga maiikling lansangan mula sa national road, papasok sa mga likuran ng umiiral na residential area sa baybayin ng mga pambansang lansangan, sapagka’t ang pangunahing suliranin ng mga magtatanim ng halaman ay ang pagdadala ng ani sa pamilihan.

Kung ang pamahalaan ay makakapaglunsad ng palatuntunang makapagbukas ng lansangang papasok sa likuran ng mga kabahayan o residential area, ang mga propetaryo na sa likuran ay nagkakaroon na ng pagkukusa na madugtungan ang lansangan papapasok sa dakong interyor ng barangay. Sa mga lansangang ito maipapasok ang linya ng kuryente, telepono, at cable tv; at maging ang mga bata ay magiging maluwag sa kanilang pagpasok sa paaralan, at ang matatanda at mahihinang mamamayan sa kanilang pamimili at pagsisimba. Sa pangkalahatan ay gagawa sa mga mamamayang maunlad at masaya ang pamumuhay. 

Kaugnay ng pagbubukas ng mga cul de sac, nasa kaisipan ni Cong Aragones ang pangangailangang masusugan ang batas na nagtatakda na kung ang lupang apektado ng pagbubukas ng lansangan ay sakop ng o covered by Free Patent Title, ay hindi binabayaran ang nakukuhang lote, upang magkaroon ng pamantayan sa pagbabayad bilang kompentasyon sa may-ari ng lupa na maaaring mapipilitang lumipat ng tahanan, at tuwirang maapektuhan ang kanilang kabuhayan. Hindi masamang pag-aralan ang Sistemang Solatium sa Englatera at India upang mabayaran ang mga loteng ginagamit sa pagbubukas ng mga lansangan sa makatarungang halaga, at hindi iyong batay lamang sa “assessed value” na isinasagawa ng mga “assessor” na lubhang napakababa at mapanggipit.

SMALL TALK WITH SMALL LAUDE AND SM

Although her name is Small, Filipina socialite, entrepreneur, and celebrity vlogger Small Laude knows what it is to live large. Funny, exuberant, and down to earth, her effortless humor has gained her 350K subscribers and followers who love her videos on fashion, lifestyle and her own shopping adventures in her YouTube channel. She also stars in her own 4-part TV special, It’s a Small World on Metro Channel.

Her latest shopping adventure takes her to SM, as host of Shop All You Can with Small Laude, where she highlights SM’s Call to Deliver service from October 15 to November 15, 2021 at The SM Store's Facebook page facebook.com/thesmstore.

As someone who has traveled and lived abroad extensively, Small admits “I didn’t shop a lot in Manila before.” She was therefore amazed when she started shopping at SM and discovered the store’s extensive offerings.

“SM has everything,” she enthuses. “Even some of the items I have from abroad, SM has them! So many nice things. I enjoy shopping at SM now, the experience is exciting!”

She has been especially delighted with SM’s Call to Deliver service, which she calls “a great and modern experience.”

Small describes the Call to Deliver service as “quite easy and convenient! The personal shoppers are competent and very accommodating. They will find and source all your needs.”

She was impressed with the service “because of the vast merchandise that’s available to choose from. Being able to get everything in one place and the convenience of having the personal shopper complete all you need and deliver it right to your door was fun and exhilarating!”

Her personal picks from her Call to Deliver shopping adventure? “Of course my Kitchen Aid!” she quickly answers. “I never knew The SM Store has it. I love the clothes and shoes, and perfumes that I selected. The scent collection of SM can compare those of other stores abroad! Too many to mention, really.”

Small’s shopping tips for the new normal” “Everything SM because they’ve got it all for you!”

Watch Small Laude's Shop All You Can video, and use her promo code to avail of FREE Delivery, with a minimum P1,000 The SM Store Call To Deliver purchase. 

As SM continues to celebrate the birth month of its founder Henry Sy Sr. this October with Super Month, you can get a chance to win exclusive vouchers and freebies from The SM Store Call to Deliver Scratch & Win promotion starting October 15, 2021 to January 15, 2022. Play Scratch & Win by registering a Philippine-issued mobile number using mobile phones or tablets at rewards.thesmstore.com. 

Celebrate Super Month with The SM Store Call to Deliver! Order from the comforts of your home and we will shop for you. Chat with us now via The SM Store’s Facebook Messenger bit.ly/CTD-Messenger and Viber comm: bit.ly/JoinSMViber Viber admin: thesmstore.hiallie.com. Check out The SM Store’s facebook page facebook.com/thesmstore Call #143SM.

CONVERGENCE AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN, PINASINAYAAN SA BAYAN NG RIZAL

nina Kevin Pamatmat at Shekinah Joy Pamatmat

Rizal, Laguna--Pinasinayaan sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon sa Calabarzon ang Convergence Area Developement Plan o CADP sa Tanaw De Rizal, Brgy. Tala sa bayang ito kamakailan.

Dumalo sa pagtitipon sina Department of Agriculture Regional Executive Director Vilma Dimaculangan, Usec. Atty. Ranibai Dilangalen, tagapagsalita ni Usec.Waldo Carpio na si Ms. Elaine Gener, PARO Elizabeth Z. Villapando at DENR Regional Executive Director Nilo B.Tamora.

Ang CADP ay bahagi ng programa ng National Convergence Iniative for Sustainable Rural Development kung saan naisakatuparan ito sa tulong ng apat na ahensya tulad ng 

Department of Agriculture, Dapartment of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Interior and Local Government, at Department of Agrarian Reform.

Ayon kay Mayor Vener P. Muñoz, natatanaw na ang pag-unlad ng bayan ng Rizal dahil sa patuloy na proyektong dumatating sa kanila. Nagpapasalamat din siya dahil sa suportang ibinibigay ng buong Sanggunian.

Sa panayam naman kay Vice Mayor Tony Aurelio, labis ang kanyang pasasalamat sa National Covergence Iniative for Sustainable Rural Developement dahil natupad na ang matagal nilang minimithing tulong mula sa mga ahensyang ito na siyang kauna-unahang inilunsad sa buong Calabarzon.

JERA PARTNERSHIP SEEN AS ‘ENABLER’ IN 

ABOITIZPOWER’S 10-YEAR RE EXPANSION JOURNEY

AboitizPower’s renewable energy aspirations are taking a huge leap forward following Japanese firm JERA’s recent acquisition of a 27-percent stake in the Aboitiz-led power company for $1.46 billion.

The sale was announced on Tuesday, September 28, 2021, and was characterized as a “transaction [that] unlocks significant capital that will be used toward fueling the [Aboitiz Equity Ventures] Group’s growth initiatives.”

“This transaction will deepen our bonds and represents a leap forward in our shared mission to support economic development in the Philippines and beyond while supporting the energy transition towards a decarbonized future,” AboitizPower President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel V. Rubio said.

JERA is one of the world’s largest power producers and the largest single liquefied natural gas (LNG) buyer in the world. Rubio said that as the energy sector undergoes a transition, this presents a great opportunity for AboitizPower. 

With a presence in more than 10 countries across the globe, JERA’s international footprint provides AboitizPower with further opportunities for collaboration and new market entry.

Rubio shared that this partnership with JERA will result in a more future-ready organization with access to new perspectives, capabilities, and a global network. 

“Through this partnership, we hope to build on our 10-year plan, where we aim to reduce the carbon intensity of our business. We intend to explore new pathways toward decarbonization that will complement our renewable energy growth plan and our nature-based carbon sequestration program,” said Rubio.

AboitizPower earlier announced its 10-year growth ambition, where it aims to exponentially increase its Cleanergy capacity to 4,600 MW to achieve a 50:50 balance between its renewable and thermal portfolios. The company’s top executive pointed out that its “partnership with JERA will be a key enabler in this journey.”

Both parties have already identified potential areas for collaboration across multiple fronts including joint development of LNG-to-power projects, LNG fuel sourcing and management, potential participation in aspects of plant operations and maintenance, as well as the exploration of the use of new generation technologies.

Rubio assured that there will be no management changes resulting from the partnership, but rather a “greater diversity of perspective at the board and enhanced governance.”

“We are optimistic that our partnership will bring about positive change not only for our organizations but, ultimately, for the customers and communities we serve,” Rubio said.

TEACHER! TEACHER! MAY I GO OUT?

by Joseph Regalado Tambio

This is probably the most famous question that every student has ever asked. Truth maybe told, it has sometimes been a point of humour and even mocked as an excuse for one reason or another. But this is voice echoing the real essence of an educational reform, a call more than a question and a cry more than simple request…to be free from traditional and old-fashioned teaching.

Although it is not something new, Outcome Based Education (OBE) has become subject of many learning institutions and tried to adopt and implement in their curriculum. In 2014, the Commission on Higher Education came out with the guidelines for OBE and has since then become subject for change and revision of existing curricular designs. 

When do we say a student has actually achieved the objective of a particular course? Will it be based on the mark and numerical grades given by the teacher or as they would always say, “hindi ako ang gumagawa ng grade, taga-compute lang ako” (I don’t make the grade, I just compute). Following the same line of thought, it gives a better understanding of OBE. That indeed, education is based on what the student can do and not just on what can be computed. Sadly, we have been misled the irony that a student may achieve 100% in the course of learning but at the same time confronted by the premise that nobody is perfect. OBE then is more than the numeracy of grading and evaluating output. It is rather a paradigmatic change which calls for transformation of perspective and approach to teaching as not just a transfer of learning but rather the realization of the educational objectives scaffolded of course by standards and logical parameters. 

Where are we in terms of assessing the learners academic achievement? Has the Philippine educational system been able to go along with the demands and standards of the international arena or remains traditional giving emphasis on skills and competencies which are rather irrelevant and unnecessary in the current century?

OBE challenges the time-honoured teaching approaches and pedagogies by transcending the paradigm of education. Learning is never a one-size-fit all approach but sadly, this has been the case as long as I can remember. Students inside the classroom are discriminated based on their academic status, or most apt term is they are measured based on their intelligence excluding other facets of learning. On the wall of many classrooms is the coveted TOP OF THE CLASS. Sometimes this feudal award was even the cause of many disputes and animosities among parents. 

This is very unfortunate because many if not all teachers were taught of the different theories of learning and levels of intelligence. They may have the mastery of these tenets but never put such essential in actual classroom setting. Now we ask a resounding why? What keeps them from not being able to carry on with the more pragmatic way of teaching which gives way to education that gravitates on outcomes with broader scope rather than focusing on the report card as the sole basis of scholastic success. 

OBE proposes what it calls as “Power” principles namely: Clarity of Focus, Expanded Opportunity, High Expectations and Design Down. These principles will hopefully help educators to set a clearer goal for not just for their own key performance but more importantly for the learners. Educators are given a way to re-think and undo some of the feudal practices. Outcome is now targeted using the correct lens and arrows posing a higher chance of success which OBE believes to be possible for ALL learners and not just of the academically competent. 

On a bigger scale, there remains to be many unresolved challenges which many teachers probably more for those in the public schools with regard to implementation of curriculum vis-à-vis realities of daily classroom experiences. Without prejudice to the teachers’ expertise and professional qualifications, most teachers are still zealous in doing their mission, to educate and bring about transformation and hope to their students. But more often than not, they are not able to fully function and adapt because they are limited, disabled by incongruent circular, wordy memoranda, orders, and some generic guidelines from responsible or rather controlling department of the Philippine government. 

Practically, every classroom has door for students to enter and daily they are challenged to learn, be moulded and transformed by the carefully crafted lessons of teachers. Aided by various innovative and arousing techniques and pedagogical approaches, all subjects are taught with the objective of transferring knowledge to students. Everyday is a tag of war between attaining the desired outcome or completion of the lesson plan notwithstanding the student’s potential. May all educators provide them with every opportunity to succeed, make them understand that it is in making mistakes that they can be perfectly normal for 100% is just an illusion so focus on the reality that they are unique and success can never be defined by grades. 

With OBE, we answer the title of this article. Let us allow our students to be critical in their learning journey and tell them…YES, you may go out!

KAWALAN NG KREDIBILIDAD NG MGA ULAT SA COVID 19, BINABATIKOS

ni Atty. Batas Mauricio 

INSPIRASYON SA BUHAY: “… `ang salita mo ang katotohanan’…” (ang pahayag ni Jesus sa Juan 17:17, Ang Tanging Daan Bibliya).

-ooo-

MGA DALUBHASA SA COVID 19, NAGTATALO-TALO KUNG BUMABABA NA NGA BA ANG BILANG NG MGA NAHAHAWA NG VIRUS: Nababalot ngayon sa matinding pagtatalo-talo ang mga dalubhasa sa COVID 19 sa Pilipinas sa isyu ng sinasabing patuloy na pagbaba ng bilang ng mga nahahawa ng nasabing virus at ng kaniyang Delta variant, kasama na ang iba’t-iba pang mga uri nito na nakakahawa at nakakamatay.

Sa pangunguna ng Department of Health, ng Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases, at ng OCTA Research Group, sinasabi ng isang grupo na nakikita na ang tuloy-tuloy na pagbaba ng infection rate ng COVID 19.

Ayon naman sa isa pang grupo ng mga dalubhasa, ipinapakita ng pandaigdigang impormasyon sa COVID 19 na hindi bumababa kundi sumasargo o dumadami pang muli ang nahahawa.

Sa ulat ng OCTA noong umaga ng Oktubre 21, 2021, bumababa na ng husto ang mga nahahawa ng COVID 19, at nakikita na diumano na babalik na ang dating regular na bilang ng pagdami ng tinatamaan ng infection ng virus sa mga huling araw ng buwan ng Oktubre.

Sa ulat ng mb.com.ph, ang online version ng pahayagang Manila Bulletin, nakatampok doon ang pahayag ni OCTA fellow Dr. Guido David na sa nakaraang pitong araw, nasa halos 6,000 katao na lamang ang mga nahahawa sa virus.

-ooo-

PANDAIGDIGANG TREND SA COVID 19 AY NAGPAPAKITANG DUMADAMI PA DIN ANG TINATAMAAN NG VIRUS: “Cases are expected to decrease to pre-delta surge level by end of October. Current 7-day average in PH is 6416 and 1156 in the NCR. Reproduction number in PH is 0.55 and 0.47 in the NCR,” dagdag ni Dr. David sa kaniyang Tweeter account na @iamguidodavid.

Sa kabilang dako, batay naman sa mga ulat na nagmumula sa mga international news agencies gaya ng pahayagang The Independent, lumilitaw na dumagsa na naman ang bilang ng mga mamamayan doon na nahahawa ng COVID 19 araw-araw.

Ngayon, ayon sa The Independent, hindi na bumababa ang bilang sa 50,000 katao ang nagkaka-COVID 19, bagamat ang marami sa mga nagkakasakit na ito ay di na nagpapa-admit muna sa mga ospital.

Nababahala na din ang mga autoridad sa gobyerno doon dahil sa pagdami na naman ng mga namamatay araw-araw dahil sa COVID 19, na inaasahang lolobo sa hindi bababa sa 100,000 katao araw-araw.

Isinisisi ng mga authoridad sa London ang muling paglala ng COVID 19 infections doon sa pagbubukas ng mga eskuwelahan kung saan face to face, o pumapasok sa classrooms, na naman ang estilo ng pag-aaral ng mga kabataan.

-ooo-

KAWALAN NG KREDIBILIDAD NG MGA ULAT SA COVID SA PILIPINAS, BINABATIKOS: Isinisisi din ng marami sa nasabing bansa ang pagdami ng mga nahahawa sa kasalukuyan sa pagluluwag na ipinatupad ng pamahalaan matapos bumaba ang bilang ng mga nahahawa noong Marso.

Batay sa obserbasyon ng marami, madaling nakakalimot ang mga tao na bagamat binawi ang mga limistasyon upang maiwasan ang COVID 19, nananatili pa din ang virus sa kapaligiran at hindi nawawala ang bisa nito na maminsala at makapatay ng mga biktima.

Sa Pilipinas, marami ang sumisilip sa katapatan o katotohanan ng mga bilang ng mga nahahawa o namamatay sa COVID 19 na iniuulat ng DOH at ng iba pang ahensiya ng pamahalaan.

Bunga ito ng madalas na pabago-bago at papalit-palit na datos ng nasabing mga ahensiya, at ng hindi pag-uulat, sinasadya man o hindi, ng mga datos na nagmumula sa ilang mga COVID treatment centers o hospitals.

Nagiging isyu din ang pananaw ng iba na may mga “lihim” sa mga pag-uulat sa COVID sa bansa, na dahilan upang magkaroon ng kamalayan ang maraming Pilipino na pagdudahan o di kaya ay lantarang hindi na paniniwala sa mga iniuulat na bilang ng DOH at ng gobyerno.

-ooo-

MANOOD, MAKINIG: Kakampi Mo Ang Batas, www.facebook.com/attybatas, www.facebook.com/radyopilipino, YouTube.com/kakampimoangbatas, Radyo Pilipino stations nationwide, at mga affiliated radio stations ng Kiss FM network, Sunrise News network, PowerNews Broadcasting Network, 95.5. J FM network.

COMMUNAL WATER AND LAKE SEEDING, ISINAGAWA SA SAN PABLO CITY

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna - Pinangunahan ni Gob. Ramil L. Hernandez ang ginanap na Communal Water and Lake Seeding kung saan nagbigay ang pamahalaang panlalawigan ng 30,000 tilapia fingerlings para sa mga mangingisda ng Bantay Lawa ng Mohicap Lake, Brgy. San Buenaventura sa lungsod na ito nitong Oktubre 20, 2021.

Ang mga programang katulad nito na sumusuporta sa kabuhayan ng mangingisdang Lagunense, kasama na ang mga programang para sa edukasyon, tulong sa nangangailangan, at iba pa, ay patuloy na ginagawa at pinaglalaanan ng pondo ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna para tunay na mapakinabangan ng bawat sektor ng lalawigan. 

Ani Gob. Hernandez, “Sa mga masisipag na mangingisda ng lalawigan, sa tulong-tulong nating pagsisikap ay makakaraos din tayo sa pandemyang ating kinakaharap.”

Nagpapasalamat ang Gobernador sa lahat ng mga tumulong sa programang ito, una na kay Vice Governor Atty. Karen Agapay na lagi ang suporta sa mga proyekto ng lalawigan at sa Field Agricultural Extension Services-Office of the Provincial Agriculturist na pinamumunuan ni Mr. Marlon Tobias. (PGL SocMed Team, photo by Jun Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

LAGUNA 3RD DISTRICT BOARD MEMBER ALEJANDRO “ABI” YU: 

SINCERITY AND HEART FOR THE PEOPLE

By: Paolo Manuel C. Fule

The true hallmark of a good leadership rests on the laurels of a better community that has been served by the people who sits on the threshold of power. Indeed, with great power comes great responsibility as the adage by Uncle Ben in Spider Man rings so true, even in this day and age most especially in this time where election season is just around the corner. Let us meet one of our public servants in the 3rd District of Laguna in the person of respected businessman and public servant Mr. Alejandro “Abi” Yu. 

Board Member Alejandro Abi Yu is currently the Majority Floor Leader of the Sangguniang Panglalawigan Council and also the Chairman of the Committee on Rules. “Napakarami pong tungkulin ng isang bokal, asahan ninyo po sa mga Bokal na gumawa ng batas at laging pumapasok sa session” said Hon. Abi Yu. When it comes to educational background, Board Member Abi Yu studied Master in Development Management and Governance at University of Makati and studied Master in Public Administration at Philippine College of Health Sciences. 

Asked about his advice to the youth in particular, “Sana alamin ninyo pong mabuti kung ano po ang maitutulong ng isang kandidato sa bayan. Ano ang track record at experience. Alamin ninyo pong mabuti ang pagkatao ng inyong ibobotong politiko. Naglingkod po tayo ng tama sa ating tungkulin bilang bokal. Sana po ay muli ninyo akong pagkatiwalaan” said Hon. Abi Yu. During the height of the Covid19 pandemic and even before it strike, Hon. Abi Yu gave nebulizers and medical assistance to those in need. He also joined the local government in giving aid to the people who are affected during the pandemic.

Hon. Board Member Abi Yu is on his way to a third term as Board member of Laguna’s 3rd District. He is also a former three-termer San Pablo Councilor and during his term as a City Councilor, he became the President of the League of Councilors in Laguna not just once but twice and also became a chairman in the entire Calabarzon area. 

Transparency, genuine and sincere service to his constituency, and above all, fear of God Almighty is the mantra of the good Board Member of the 3rd District of Laguna Honorable Alejandro Abi Yu. For more information regarding BM Abi Yu, you can visit his face book page at Abi Yu https://www.facebook.com/Abi-Yu-103951125375332

LETRAN KNIGHTS CAGER KYLE TOLENTINO: SPORTS AND PUBLIC SERVICE 

Being a basketball player playing for the NCAA and the son of a City Councilor and basketball coach, the expectations for a young lad are genuinely there. That is why by no means, this heartthrob athlete from Letran Knights is doing his best to meet everyone’s expectations with his stature. Such is the case of this up and coming talent from Letran Knights team, Filipino-American Kyle Dominic Tolentino. 

Born Kyle Dominic P. Tolentino on September 25, 2001 in New York, USA to Marikina City Councilor Mr. Elvis Tolentino and Ms. Aileen Tolentino, the 6-foot-2 cager is currently playing for Colegio de San Juan de Letran as a grade 12 student. In the previous typhoons that devastated the country that caused floods particularly in their place in Marikina, Kyle was one of the persons who took the frontlines for donations and had helped in relief operations in their community even in this time of pandemic. 

In the world of basketball, Kyle is also someone who can deliver for the team when it matters. In the Manila Elite Basketball League, he was awarded as player of the game when he scored 20 points coupled with 2 rebounds and 1 assist to help beat Titan Angels. Kyle’s idols in the PBA and NBA are Paul Lee and Golden State Warriors’ Klay Thompson. Asked on how he balances studies and the sports, “Time management is always the key”, said Kyle. His career high in points is 39 in Marist Basketball League.

“My favorite shot is 3-points because I’m confident with it”, added Kyle. Aside from basketball, he is also fond of watching movies. His ambition in life is to become a PBA player in the near future. With determination to succeed and a heart for public service, this young lad will go a long way. 

Email the author at: paolomanuelfule@yahoo.com

PAALAALA SA MGA SENIOR CITIZEN

ni Ruben E. Taningco

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna--Nagpapaalaala si G. Efren B. Azusano, Head of the Office of the Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA) ng City Government of San Pablo sa lahat ng mga senior citizen sa lunsod na tiyaking maayos pa ang kalalagayan ng kanilang Senior Citizen’s Identification Card; at ang mga umabot na sa gulang na 60 taon na wala pang ID ay mangyari lamang magsadya sa OSCA Office sa Groundfloor ng Old City Hall Building para sila ay mapagkalooban ng naaayon sa mga umiiral na batas at alituntunin ukol dito.

Ito ay upang matiyak na bilang mga nakatatandang mamamayan ng lunsod, sila ay makakapagtamo ng 20% diskwento sa pagbili ng mga pangunahing pangangailangan, lalo na ng gamot at groserya na bahagi ng pagkain ng mga matatanda.

Ang mga may Senior Citizen’s ID ay may 20% diskwento sa pagbabayad sa mga food chain at restoran, sa mga otel, at sa transportasyon, kasama na ang pagsakay sa eroplano at barko. 20% rin ang diskwento sa pagbabayad sa serbisyo ng mga manggagamot at sa bayarin sa mga medical laboratory.

Upang matamo ang 20% diskwento sa pagbili ng gamot sa botika, nabanggit ni OSCA Head Efren B. Azusano na kumuha sa kanilang tanggapan ng Senior Citizen Purchase Slip Booklet na may control number at panahon na ito ay dapat kilalanin. Samantala para sa 5% diskwento sa grocery items, ang hihilingin sa kanilang tanggapan ay ang Senior Citizen Commodities Purchase Slip Booklet na mayroon din kanyang control number and period covered.

Ang Office of Senior Citizens’ Affairs (OSCA) ay nasa groundfloor ng Old City Hall Building, na ang pasukan ay ang pintong paharap sa 8-Storey Building.

Konek2card Ramps Up Campaign To Advance Digital Financial Inclusion In The Country

To achieve its goal of bringing digital banking services to 3.5 million clients by June 2022, konek2CARD of the CARD MRI Banking Group launches several campaigns starting the fourth quarter of 2021.

konek2CARD, a mobile banking application that allows CARD MRI clients to do their banking transactions safely and more conveniently at home, first achieved its milestone on June 28, 2021, when it reached one million konek2CARD registrations. Now, it aims to achieve 3.5 million registered users by the end of the year. 

“For the final quarter of 2021, konek2CARD’s push for increasing our users is fueled by our goal of bringing safer transaction options for our clients. With different variants of COVID-19 emerging in the country, we want to improve our service delivery for our clients and bring our financial services at the palm of their hands,” CARD SME Bank President and CEO and konek2CARD Champion Cynthia B. Baldeo shared as to why konek2CARD strives to increase its users before the year ends. 

Specifically, the organization aims to lessen their clients’ inconvenience when it comes to doing their financial transactions by encouraging konek2CARD agent-mediated transactions instead of heading to CARD’s offices and Branch-Lite Units. These konek2CARD agents are accredited by CARD MRI and can be found within the clients’ communities. 

Another part of the improvement of CARD’s digital financial transactions is the launching and campaigning of konek2CARD Plus or kPlus. This improved version of konek2CARD allows the clients of CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), CARD Bank, CARD SME Bank, and CARD MRI RIZAL BANK to use a single mobile banking application to simplify transactions. 

Identifying specific targets

Although accessible nationwide, konek2CARD still needs to widen its reach in some parts of the country to bring its services closer to its clients; thus, CARD MRI has identified specific locations on which they plan to campaign and encourage the use of konek2CARD. These are Baguio, La Union, Candon, Vigan, Laoag, Aparri, Bicol, and Cebu. 

Programs and Awards

To entice its clients to use konek2CARD for safer transactions, konek2CARD launched several campaigns and contests that will last until December 2021.

konek2CARD will recognize its top performing agents monthly and quarterly. The contest will run from September to November 2021.

For centers, the “Center Level App Challenge” encourages 100% of its members to use konek2CARD. The first 14 centers per institution to reach 100% konek2CARD membership will receive cash prizes and limited-edition items from their respective institutions. Account Officers handling top performing centers will also receive prizes. Centers may race to 100% konek2CARD center membership until December 2021.

As frontrunners of konek2CARD’s campaign, konek2CARD Agents are given recognition in the “Flex your konek2CARD Agent and Win” contest. In this, clients will post a selfie with their konek2CARD Agents after having their transactions. Each selfie will count as a raffle entry in the weekly raffle, and winners will get PhP300 worth of load. The campaign will end on October 15, 2021

Meanwhile, konek2CARD also makes sure that clients will get to experience transacting using the mobile banking application with “Level App your Savings and WIN” contest. In this, selected financial transactions done by a client will serve as a raffle entry to win PhP300 worth of cashback. Draw date will be on October 11, 2021, via Zoom.

Bigger Picture

CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito weighs in on the impact of konek2CARD in the lives of CARD MRI’s clients. “Based on the interactions and response of our clients in our social media pages and even on the field with our Account Officers and konek2CARD Agents, we can definitely say that our innovation is well-received among our clients. There will always be technical difficulties and confusion on technology, but with our well-trained and knowledgeable staff and agents, as well as our various campaigns, I am sure that konek2CARD will reach more clients and be of help to them for the years to come,” he said.

CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip sees the goal of having 3.5 million konek2CARD registered users as another step towards the organization’s goal of financial inclusivity and poverty eradication. “The goal of reaching 3.5 million konek2CARD users is just a portion of what we truly aim, which is having more than 20 million members served after 10 years. CARD MRI truly believes that through innovation and technology, we can lift the lives of the Filipinos, especially during the pandemic,” Dr. Alip said on how innovation paves the path of a better tomorrow for the country.

CARD MRI follows the 10-20-80 strategic direction that aims to have 20 million members and 80 million insured individuals within 10 years. The path of digital transformation, including konek2CARD, is CARD MRI’s way of making financial products and services available and affordable to the public. For more information about konek2CARD, visit their official Facebook page @konek2CARDOfficial.

PNP LEGAL SERVICE CELEBRATES 29TH FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY

By: Roselle Aquino

Camp Vicente Lim, Calamba City – The PHP Legal Service (LS) celebrated their 29th founding anniversary in a simple rite.

The celebration focused on tier theme “PNP Legal Service in the face of the pandemic: Unfalteringly upholding the rule of law and the best interest of the police organization”.

The Chief PNP himself, General Guillermo Eleazar was the guest of honor and speaker where he awarded medals to deserving members of the service.

Brig General George Almaden, Director of the Legal Service assisted Eleazar in giving out awards to their deserving personnel and units.

Among them are Regional Legal Office 3 as Best Regional Office. Regional office Calabarzon earned the second best.

Lt Col Emely Trinidad of Regional Office Calabarzon was awarded as the Best Provincial Legal Officer and one of the “Lawyers with successful DLR Cases. 

Trinidad was accorded such honors for her commitment to excellence in carrying out the mandate of the PNP Legal Service by providing legal services to Laguna Provincial Police Office, RLO4A and its personnel.

Mga batang edad 5-11 sa Santa Rosa, pwede 

nang magparehistro para sa Covid-19 vax

ni Fredmoore Cavan

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Hinihikayat ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Santa Rosa ang mga magulang na ipa-rehistro ang kanilang mga anak sa Covid-19 vaccination program ng pamahalaan para sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 taong gulang.

Sa opisyal na pabatid ng pamahalaang lungsod, inihayag nito na maaaring iparehistro ang mga batang kabilang sa nasabing age group sa pamamagitan ng vaccination portal nito: https://www.santarosacity.ph/SCVT/.

Kabilang sa prayoridad na mabakunahan ang mga batang kabilang sa pediatric A3 o mga batang may comorbidities.

“Piliin lamang ang kategoryang pediatric A3 kung mayroong comorbidities ang bata o pediatric C kung walang sakit ang bata. Antabayanan lamang ang mga susunod pang anunsyo kung kailan sisimulan ang pagbabakuna para sa edad 5 hanggang 11,” pahayag ng pamahalaang lungsod sa kanilang Facebook post.

Inilunsad ang pre-registration para makakalap ng inisyal na datos sa bilang ng mga batang babakunahan sa lungsod habang naghihintay pa ng kaukulang guidelines mula sa Department of Health (DOH).

Noong Disyembre 23 ay inaprubahan ng Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ang paggamit ng mas mababang dosage ng bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech para sa pagbabakuna sa mas nakababatang miyembro ng pediatric population.

Ayon sa FDA, mahigit 90-porsiyento ang efficacy rate ang Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine habang banayad lamang ang mga adverse effects nito, batay sa mga isinagawang clinical trials.

Sa ngayon, tanging mga bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech at Moderna ang binigyan ng emergency use authorization ng FDA para sa pagbabakuna sa mga kabataang may edad 12 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sa pagpupulong ng National Task Force at Regional Task Force Against Covid-19 kamakailan, inihayag ni Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr., na planong simulan ng pamahalaan ang pagbabakuna sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 sa ikatlong linggo ng Enero, depende sa pagdating sa supply ng bakuna.

Sa ngayon, tuloy-tuloy ang isinasagawang pagbabakuna ng pamahalaang lungsod para sa mga residenteng kabilang sa adult population gayundin sa mga menor de edad na 11 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sinimulan na rin nito ang pagtuturok ng booster shots para sa mga indibidwal na mayroon nang kumpletong bakuna, bilang dagdag na proteksiyon laban sa iba’t ibang variants ng Covid-19. (PIA LAGUNA)

Alaminos treasurer: Buwis sa mejoras 

maagang bayaran o hulugan

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna–Hinihikayat ni Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz ang mga propetaryo o may-ari ng mga lupain at mga gusali sa bayang ito na maagang magbayad ng obligasyon nilang bayarang buwis upang makaiwas na malapatan ng multa o rekardo, at halip ay magtamo pa ng diskwento.

Malaki ang maitutulong ng maagang pagbabayad ng real estate taxes, sapagkat karagdagan sa bahagi ng munisipyo sa Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) na kaloob ng pangasiwaang pambansa, ang bahagi ng pangasiwaang lokal sa buwis sa mejoras ang pinagkukunan ng gugulin upang makapagpatayo ng mga impraistraktura, 

tulad ng mga gusaling pampaaralan, at pangkalusugan, gayon na rin sa paghahatid ng mga paglilingkod na panglipunan sa mga mamamayan. 

Sang-ayon kay Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz, na pag-alinsunod sa ipinahihintulot sa Section 251 ng Local Government Code of 1991 o Republic Act No. 7160, ang lahat ng magbabayad ng buwis sa lupa o pag-aaring di-natitinag (Real Estate Property Tax) para sa taong kasalukuyan, sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31, 2022 ay pagkakalooban ng diskwentong 10 porsyento.

Halimbawa, kung ang isang na matatagpuan sa Barangay San Agustin lote ay may bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00, na kasama na ang para sa Special Education Fund (SEF), ang babayaran lamang ay ₱4,500.00 o may diskwentong ₱500.00. Kung hindi naman mababayaran ang bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00 hanggang sa Marso 31, 2022, ito ay lalapatan ng multang 2% kada lalakarang buwan, kaya kung magbabayad sa Abril 16, 2022, ito ay lalapatan na ng multang 8% ng bayaring buwis o ang kabuuang babayaran ay ₱5,400.00.

Kung mamarapatin naman ang bayaring buwis ay bayaran sa paraang hulugan o tuwing ikatlong buwan, nagpapayo si Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz na mangyari lamang makipag-ugnayan sa Land Tax Division ng Municipal Treasurer’s Office na nasa Groundfloor ng Municipal Multi-Purpose Building bago matapos ang buwan ng Marso upang magawa ang paghahati ng bayarin sa apat, kung saan ang unang hulog o first instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31; ang ikalawang hulog o second instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Hunyo 30, ang ikatlong hulog o third instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Setyembre 30; at ang pang-apat na hulog o fourth instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Disyembre 31, 2022, ito ay pagkakalooban din ng 10% diskwento kung mababayan bago sumapit ang itinakdang petsa na dapat mabayaran.

Friends of 7 Lakes Foundation sets targets for 2022

The establishment of a floating garden, removal of debris left by the clearing of the shorelines of Sampaloc Lake, and promotion of the propagation of bamboos are some of the priority targets set by the Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF) for the year 2022. The targets were approved by the FSLF Board of Trustees (BOT) during its year-end meeting.

Held at the RX Garden Resort owned by Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia in Barangay San Gregorio, the BOT meeting also agreed to propose to the San Pablo City Government the creation of a Lakes Management Office, install information billboards at Sampalok Lake, and hold a youth environmental camp.

President Roberto Azores explained that the floating gardens or floating green filters (FGF) will consist of a network of floating indigenous plants found in the locality. The roots will host bacteria/microbes that will absorb pollutants, promote biodiversity within the FGF structures as these will attract birds, fish, insects and other wildlife species, and add aesthetic beauty to the lake waters. 

Noting the successful clearing of the Sampaloc Lake shores by the San Pablo City Government, FSLF Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon said the foundation will take the lead in a multi-sector effort to clean the debris that are still submerged under water so that the lake will be safe for water-based activities in the future. 

Trustee Romeo Race reported that last December 2021, the FSLF in cooperation with the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the San Pablo City Water District, conducted a training workshop on the propagation of bamboos. To sustain the effort, the FSLF will promote the planting of bamboos in San Pablo City. Bamboos produce oxygen and absorbs enormous volume of carbon dioxide. It serves as a protection against soil erosion.

Trustee Rolly Inciong said that the FSLF will propose to the City Government to create a Lakes Management Office, either under the City Environment and Natural Resources Office or the City Tourism Office, so that all development and conservation projects in the city’s seven lakes will have a focal office that will ensure integration of efforts. The proposed office will serve as local partner of the LLDA in managing the lakes.

Trustee Arvin Carandang added that the foundation will install information billboards at the Sampalok Lake area that will feature basic lake information so that tourists will learn about the lake, including its legend. Similar billboards will later be installed in the other lakes.

Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia and Environment Youth Leader Jedryc Romero announced that the FSLF will continue engaging the youths in environmental conservation through a face-to-face or online environment camp where best environmental practices will be shared and discussed with students.

Present during the year-end meeting were Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon, President Roberto Azores, Trustees Rolly Inciong, Dr. Elvie Galicia, Jose Reano, Sylvia Inciong, Ricky Tan, Arvin Carandang and Romy Race; and Members Cari Azores, Ambassador Romy Manalo, Jedryc Romero and Rissa Race.

Mga magsasaka ng Laguna, tumanggap ng tulong pinansiyal

STA. CRUZ, Laguna - Sa maayos na ugnayan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna na pinamumunuan ni Gob. Ramil Hernandez at ng Department of Agriculture (DA) IV- CALABARZON ay tagumpay na naipamahagi ang tulong pinansyal para sa mga magsasaka ng Laguna nitong ika-13 ng Enero 2022.

May kabuuang 1,410 magsasaka ng palay ang tumanggap ng P5,000 piso bawat isa: mula sa Pagsanjan (79), Lumban (203), Kalayaan (385), Cavinti (602) at Luisiana ( 141) na isinagawa sa panlalawigang kapitolyo sa Sta. Cruz. 

Ito ay sa ilalim ng programang Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) ng DA-4A, alinsunod sa Republic Act No. 11203 o ang “Rice Tariffication Law (RTL),” na nagpapataw ng taripa sa mga angkat na bigas.

Ang mga nakolektang taripa ay ilalaan sa ipinamamahaging tulong sa maliliit na magsasaka. Karagdagang kapital ito para sa pagtatanim ng palay kasabay ng pagtaas ng presyo ng pataba at iba pang gamit sa rice production. 

Katuwang sa pamamahaging ito ang Field Agriculture Extension Services kung saan sinunod ng lahat ang minimum health standard para sa maayos na distribyusyon ng nasabing tulong pinansyal. (Jonna S. Coroza, photo by Angel Bert Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

Chiz: Dropping mass testing, 

contact tracing a big mistake

Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero has lambasted the Department of Health (DOH) for tossing contact tracing and mass testing as part of its COVID-19 response strategy, saying these measures are necessary to isolate and treat people infected with the coronavirus and prevent the spread of the highly transmissible disease.

Escudero described this latest shift in DOH policy as “complete abdication and surrender,” and not a strategy in controlling the dizzying speed of Omicron spread across the country.

“What DOH is doing is not a ‘COVID-19 response strategy’ but a complete abdication and surrender,” said Escudero, who is running for Senate come May election. “It’s a strategy of ‘if you can’t beat them, join them.’”

“This is big mistake and a costly one,” Escudero warned.

The DOH, which is spearheading the government’s overall game plan to defeat COVID second year into the pandemic, said it will focus on community interventions rather than use Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test that is very useful to immediately detect, isolate and quarantine individuals who are positive with the coronavirus. Testing will be done for proper clinical management of high risk patients, community management, isolation and vaccination, it added.

The agency also said that contact tracing will take a back seat.

“Wala na ngang libreng mass testing, babawasan pa ang testing! Kawawa naman po tayo. I cannot fathom, much less understand, the logic behind this policy,” Escudero said, who recently called the attention of the DOH to make COVID testing accessible and affordable, if not free at all, to encourage more people to get tested following the spike in coronavirus infection.

“Again, after trillions of pesos in borrowings, they are still ‘cutting corners,’” he lamented.

Rivers, givers of life

by Rolando A. Inciong

The early human civilizations were established along the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq, Syria and Turkey; the Nile in Egypt; the Indus River in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan; and the Mekong River in China, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. All early civilizations prospered alongside rivers because of the availability of fresh water for daily activities, and fertile land for agriculture near those rivers.

Humans settle in places where there are rivers because rivers are the givers of the ingredients of life: water, food and income. Water from rivers sustains socio-economic development, including energy and food production. Rivers drain rainwater towards the seas and provide healthy ecosystems for many species of plants and animals.

Today, the United Nations estimate that around two billion people get their drinking water from rivers. Rivers provide income to many communities depending on them for their livelihoods such as fish culture. Many river systems are used for recreation and tourism, irrigation, industry and commerce. hydropower generation, and transporting people and goods

If living near a river is good, it also has a bad. Flooding is the most dangerous risk for riverside settlers and landowners. Flooding results in loss of lives, property damage, and expensive repairs and rehabilitation.

Today, rivers are among the much-abused bodies of water, most especially in the Asian continent. Irresponsible human activities such as garbage and chemical dumping, illegal human settlement, and many more, are the causes of river degradation.

Governments and citizens need to protect rivers to ensure clean source of drinking water and provide a safe place for tourism and recreation,. In San Pablo City, many community volunteers conduct river cleanups. The Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF), headed by Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon and President Roberto Azores, spearheads the promotion of rivers and lakes conservation. The FSLF is promoting the development of San Pablo as a city whose lakes, rivers, watersheds and the environment in general are protected, conserved and sustainably developed for the well-being of present and future generations. 

Here are some river trivia: Russia has 36 rivers, the most number in the world. The Vatican, which is classified as a country, has no river. The Congo River is the world's deepest river at 720 feet. It is also the second-longest river in Africa, approximately 4,700 kilometers in length. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippines has 421 river basins, 140 of them are heavily polluted and 50 are biologically dead. The longest rivers in the Philippines are Cagayan, 314 miles; Mindanao, 232 miles; Agusan, 217 miles; and Pulangi, 199 miles.

Guro Ako

Ni: Annabel I. De Rama

Bilang isang Guro

Tungkulin naming na magturo

Iba-iba man tayo ng kuro-kuro

Iisa ang namamayani sa Puso

Mapaglingkuran ang Bayang sinilangan

Mabigyang aliw ang Inang Bayan

Sa saliw mula sa tinig ng kabataan

Ay may nag-aalab na karunungan

Dumaan man ang unos ng kapalaran

Sanlibong pangarap man ay matabunan

Susubuking hamunin ang kinabukasan

Pilit aabutin tala ng kapayapaan

Sa araw-araw ay itatawid

Papel ng pagiging matuwid

Upang mga bata’y makamit

Tagumpay na kaakit-akit

Kung balat man ay kumupas

At kamay ay huminto sa pagkumpas

Aawitin pa rin ng buong pitangan

Ang koro ng pagiging Makabayan.

“Live to Teach” or “Teach to Live”?

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT– I

Recto Memorial National High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Life is a battle ground that offers a lot of challenges and opportunities to everyone. One among the opportunities is our profession that’s why it’s very necessary to choose the profession that will best fit you. However, there are times that though the best preparation has been made, some still failed realizing that such a profession is not what they like. However, those persons who found out to be in this situation have their own choices to either enjoy what they have or to feel forever regretful in their lives. 

Teaching may not be the dreamed profession of all teachers. However, due to some unexpected undertakings they had into, plus the age factor, most of them are obliged to prefer a course that would help them fulfill many responsibilities life has bestowed upon them. Security of tenure is one of the common reasons that pushed many to earn the Bachelor’s degree of Education. Age at early 30s, which is no longer within the limit of age qualification of neither any industries nor any companies, is another consideration. The notion of having a profession that would ensure to provide better future for the family especially for those who have children already, considering husband’s work as an ordinary worker, brings not a single doubt in taking the education course. This is a clear manifestation that many want the course because they want to live. Hypocrisy it is if no one from the teachers has ever said, “I teach to live”. 

Teaching in a public school undoubtedly is a secured profession. Aside from the continuous compensation as a government employee in whatever situation the country may be, the fear of immediate dismissal occupies a very little space in the teachers’ minds for as long as they are working and performing their duties and responsibilities. As a matter of fact, any offenses intentionally or unintentionally done shall undergo due process of law before any disciplinary actions be rendered. To some teachers, years of teaching could be for the sort of compliance and an embedded obligation of the profession and seeing all achievements they have earned, may it be sending their loved ones to school earning their degrees, putting up businesses, investing real properties and the like, everything proves that they teach to live.

People might say that teachers’ achievements are common life story of “rugs to riches”, though researches have proven that no teacher becomes rich in teaching. Yet for teachers, those accomplishments gained during the period wherein teaching becomes part of almost all their lives, these are investments earned because they live to teach. Teachers best achievement is when they have created better individuals to their fullest potentials equipped either with mental or emotional intellect and imbued with good values and high moral respect for others. It is an honor for them realizing that they have crafted individuals who became worthy of the community where they belong. No means of measurement can determine the amount of fulfillment teachers’ hearts could carry for every successful student they have crafted and for every waning individual they have rescued with the seeds of inspiration and hope that life has to go on. 

God’s plan may not be the teachers’ choice, but, God always has the purest intention for everyone and God’s purpose for teachers is, for them to “live to teach”. It would take a lot of time for many teachers to realize that they are chosen to live to teach but what matters most now is the opportunity granted upon them to teach their students the value and the beauty of appreciating life challenges by turning these into opportunities inspite of whatever situation it may be. At the moment in which globe is engulfed with fear and anxiety brought about by pandemic, the sincerest call of the teaching profession is right there infront of us… “Teachers, let us live to teach!”

Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin

ni Mary Jane R. Cadugo

Teacher III, Sinait National High School

Ilang dekada man ang nakalipas, hindi pa rin ibinabaon sa limot ang mga pamanang ating nakuha sa ating mga ninuno. Maging tradisyon, kultura, sining at panitikan man, tayo ay umaangat. Patunay na ang pamanang Pilipino ay hindi matutumbasan ng kahit na ano.

Bawat kaugalian, tradisyon o kultura ay talaga namang isinasabuhay ng mga mamamayang Pilipino. Partikular na sa pelikula o dula na palabas na aking napapanood at naririnig gaya na lamang ng "Ang Probinsyano" kung saan itinatampok ang ilan sa mga kaugaliang Pilipino --- pagiging palaban, may paninindigan, bayanihan, at hindi basta basta sumusuko sa hamon ng buhay.

Bawat pelikula na ating napapanood ay sumisimbolo ng bayanihan ng mga pinoy, pagiging masayahin sa anumang oras, pagkakaisa sa mga hamon, pagiging matatag ng pamilyang Pilipino, at ang pagiging maka-Diyos ng mamamayang Pilipino. Hindi rin mawawala ang mga talentong Pilipino na ipinapakitang gilas sa pelikula - maging aksiyon man o romans.

Tila ang pelikula at dula ang nagsilbing salamin ng pamanang Pilipino. Higit sa lahat naging instrumento ito upang mas makilala pa ng lahat ang tradisyon, kaugalian, sining at panitikan ng isang nayon. Naging daan din ito upang lalong manuot ang mga mensahe at aral na nais ipahiwatig ng isang palabas. Sadyang patunay ito kung bakit tinatangkilik ang sariling atin hindi lamang sa ating bansa bagkus sa buong daigdig.

Sa pamamayagpag ng mga pelikula at dula, naging tulay ito upang lumago pa at mahasa ito. Gamit ang sarilin nating wika, nagkaroon ng pangkakataon ang lahat upang kumonekta at ilabas ang talentong Pilipino. Sa bawat linyang kanilang binibitawan, sa bawat pagpapahayag ng kanilang damdamin at sa bawat luha at pawis na kanilang ibinubuwis - pusong wika ang kanilang naging sandata.

Higit ngang nakamamangha ang pamanang Pilipinong ating tinataglay. Patunay na ang lingguwistika at kultural na ugnayan ay sumasalamin sa mga pelikula at dulang Filiino. Buhat ng tayo'y sinakop ng mga dayuhan, naging bihasa tayo sa lahat ng larangan. Samakatuwid, naging daan ito upang lalo pa nating tangkilikin ang sariling atin.

Tanikala

ni Joselito I. Remolacio, 

Master Teacher I, Sinait National High School

Lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab...lab-dab…

Bawat pagtibok na puso’y, takot ang nadarama. Magmula magkapandemya hindi na mawari kung saan patungo ang pagbabagong kinakaharap natin sa kasalukuyan. Nasaan na na tanglaw na ating inaasam na makamit at muling masilayan? Tulog ba ang lahat ng ipagkait ng pandemya ang ating kalayaan? Nakalulungkot ngunit tila ang direksyon ng hanging banayad ay paliko na, gaya ng ating ekonomiya kung walang pagkakaisa, maghihingalo na. Isang tanikalang hindi makawala sa pandemya, ang istatistika’y nabahala.

Marahil ang ating kinasasadlakan ngayon ay mahirap at tanging impit na pag-iyak ang naghahari sa kadiliman. Marami itong pinsalang nadala sa lahat ng mamamayan, mga pangangatog ng tuhod sa tuwing malalaman na may nawala na namang buhay sa isang araw na pakikibaka sa buhay. Bunga nito, talamak ang nailunsad na patakaran, ang bawat galaw ay pinaghihigpitan. Higit sa lahat, ang mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nawalan ng kabuhayan, ang ekonomiya’y patuloy na bumabagsak, ang ayuda’y hindi na mahanap sa mga mata ng iba. Nagmistulang dilim ang kalangitan dulot ng kawalan ng pag-asa na muling mabuhay ang pagbabagong inaasam ng bawat madla.

Hindi maikakailang lubos na mahalaga ang ekonomiya sa ating pag-unlad. Ito ang nagiging tulay upang magkaisa ang lahat patungo sa paglaban sa hindi mawaksing pandemya. Datapuwa’t, ang ayudang ibinibigay ng gobyerno ay malaking bagay sa ibang tao, ang isang karampot na tulong na siyang magbibigay tanglaw sa lahat ng nangangailangan. Hindi ko tuloy maiwasang maghinagpis sa mga nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Kailan nga ba masusugpo itong krisis na ating hinaharap sa buong mundo? Kailan natin muling masasaksihan ang sikat ng araw na nagbibigay pag-asa sa lahat? Magkagayon, dapat na tayong magkaroon ng aksiyon upang tumugon sa pinsalang dulot ng pandemya sa ating ekonomiya.

Hindi lingid sa atin na sa anumang oras dilat ang mga mata, bukas ang mga tainga, at gising ang diwa sa lahat ng nangyayari sa ating lipunan. Hindi niyo ba naririnig ang kanilang mga hinaing? Hindi niyo ba nakikita ang pagod sa kanilang mga mata? Hindi niyo ba nararamdaman ang mga pasakit na kanilang dinadala? Mga takas nilang hikbi sa gabi na tahimik, nangangapa ng kamay na maaring mahawakan o makasagip sa kanila sa bingit ng paghihirap. Bawat gising natin ay panibagong araw ngunit bawat gising nila'y hatid ay panibagong pagod at butil na naman ng mga pawis.

Tulong! Tulong! Tulong! 

Sa tuwing maririnig ang mga katagang ito, kusang may kamay ang dadapo at yayakap ng mahigpit dito. Nakatutuwang malaman na kahit pandemya, bawat tao ay nagkakaisa. Na ang pakikisama’y dumadaloy sa katawan ng bawat isa. Kung minsan man ay nawawalan ng pag-asa ang lahat, ngunit ang isang salita na kababayan ay malaking dahilan upang magpatuloy sa laban. Nagmistula man tayong nakakulong sa isang tanikalang pinalibutan ng pandemya, ang ekonomiya man ay urong sulong sa ating bansa ngunt ang bayanihan ng bawat mamamayan ay kailanma’y hindi mapapantayan.

Kung ating pagninilayan, kung magkakaroon ng pagkakaisa ang lahat, ang ekonomiyang ating inaalagaan simula pa noong walang pandemya ay magiging isang liwanag ng pag-asa na siyang magbibigkis sa pagkakaiba ng bawat lahi. Ang pagsibol ng maluwalhating pakikisama tungo sa ibang aspeto ng ating buhay. Pagyayakapan, pangangamustahan, pagbibigay ng kaunting ayuda, pagiging inspirasyon ng isang tao upang lumaban sa buhay ay tunay ngang natatangi sa paglaban nating lahat sa pandemya.

Oo, mahirap ngang magkaroon ng maunlad na ekonomiya sapagkat hindi ito kusa na lamang yayabong. Tila ang ekonomiya ay isang butil na kailangan payabungin at bigyang halaga sa pamamagitan ng pagiging madisiplinang mamamayan, pagsunod sa mga alituntunin na ipinapatupad, at higit sa lahat pagkakaroon ng pagkakaisa sa kung paano bubukadkad ang rikit na tinatagong taglay at pag-ulad ng ating ekonomiya. Sa kabila nito, ang ating damdamin pa rin ay hindi maipaliwanag, magkahalong saya sa pagkakaisa at takot sa hindi masugpong pandemya. Aligaga, hindi mapalagay, sa kung ano pa ang dapat gawin, at mga tanong na paulit-ulit umiikot sa ating isipan na kailanman hindi mahanapan ng kasagutan. 

Kailan nga ba muling masasaksihan ang tanglaw sa gitna ng karimlan? Kailan nga ba muling aahon ang ekonomiya sa kanyang kinasasadlakan? Kailan nga ba masusugpo ang pandemya? Buksan natin ang ating mga mata, pakinggang maigi ang hinaing nila, bigyang pansin ang kapaligiran. Dapat tayong magbigayan ng lubid ng tulong, magkaroon ng kamay na aakay sa atin - at ito ay ang Panginoon. Siya ang ating tanglaw sa ating sariling mga tanikala na bunga ng pandemya. Siya ang nagbibigkis sa lahat at naniniwala ako na ang pagkakaisa at pakikisama ng mga mamamayang Pilipino ay nakamarka na sa kaibuturan nila simula ng tayo’y mamulat sa mundong ginagalawam. Kung kaya’t magkaisa at makisama hindi lang tungo sa pag-unlad ng ekonomiya bagkus huwag nating hayaan na manatili tayong nasa tanikala na lamang dulot ng pandemya.

CARD MRI ties up with Moreta Shipping Lines to aid Odette victims

In line with the donation drive of CARD MRI for the victims of Typhoon Odette, CARD MRI teamed up with Moreta Shipping Lines to deliver 14 boxes of in-kind goods to Talisay, Cebu on December 28, 2021.

To help those affected by the typhoon, several shipping lines offered free cargo shipping to transport donations from various groups and companies. Meeting the requirements for the in-kind donations on hand, CARD MRI tapped Moreta Shipping Lines to bring the donations on a port-to-port basis. Through the collaboration, in-kind donations were swiftly delivered to typhoon-hit communities in Cebu. 

From December 24 to 28, CARD MRI gathered donations composed of necessities such as food, clothing, and hygiene products. Cash donations were also accumulated during the drive, involving CARD MRI offices located at City Subdivision and M. Paulino St. in San Pablo City, Laguna.

“Besides our cash assistance through the different products of CARD MRI, being able to give essentials that families can immediately use, especially when almost everything was wiped out by Odette, is a step towards the immediate recovery of our fellowmen in Cebu. We hope that these items will be of use to the families,” CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito said on the initiatives taken by the organization.

Helping Hand

Besides the donation drive, CARD MRI started to receive monetary donations to help the victims starting December 22, 2021. Accumulating a total of PhP 2,452,814 as of January 12, 2022, the donations came from partner organizations and individuals of CARD MRI. 

“The destruction caused by Typhoon Odette is surely unfathomable, especially as a lot of lives are affected, but through the combined efforts of organizations and individuals extending their helping hand, we can holster up those affected to stand back up once again. We Filipinos are always ready to help those in need,” Dequito further said on the willingness of the Filipinos to help and the spirit of bayanihan.

CARD MRI, through CARD Inc. (A Microfinance NGO), is still accepting monetary donations for the victims of Typhoon Odette. For more information, message CARD Inc.’s official Facebook Page, @CARDIncOfficial.

Covid-19 Vaccination a Community Perspective: We All Play A Role

by: Jenny A. Capistrano

Lowland Integrated National High School

World Health Organization declared Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic and reiterated the call for countries to take immediate actions and scale up response to treat, detect and reduce transmission to save people's lives. 

According to Department of Health, Vaccines mimic the virus or bacteria that causes disease and triggers the body’s creation of antibodies. These antibodies will provide protection once a person is infected with the actual disease-causing virus or bacteria.

The Municipal Health Unit - Nagcarlan Rural Health Unit scheduled vaccination at the covered court of Barangay Manaol, Nagcarlan, Laguna on December 23, 2021.

RHU nurses together with the barangay health workers, and local government unit (LGU) worked together in the administration of covid-19 vaccine to the members of the community within Brgy. Manaol and nearby barangays. 

First dose of Moderna vaccine for ages 12-17 and Pfizer vaccine for adults ages 18-60 were given.

A grade 7 student of Lowland Integrated National High School, Jairus Nograda is one of the students who got vaccinated. He says, “I feel comfortable, safe and happy after my vaccination.” 

In addition, Midwife of Brgy. Manaol Mrs. Cheryl C. Marfil says, “No report of adverse effect due to covid-19 vaccine for ages 12-17.” 

Mrs. Marlene Coronacion, Leader of BHW believed that vaccination is important for face to face and compulsory for protection especially for younger people and to avoid worst effect. 

Furthermore, Mrs. Judith H. Esler, BHW of Brgy. Manaol remarks, “Vaccination is a protection against the virus.” 

BHW Mrs. Juanita Bibon believed that “The result of the vaccination is good and organized because of the cooperation of all the people involved.” 

Health and safety of the students and the community is the utmost concern of vaccination against covid-19. 

These action of the students, parents, community and health department will benefit with the healing of the world through vaccination by following the plan of WHO and DOH.

Teaching Mathematics thru innovative strategies

by Luningning Alcantara

Teacher II, San Jose National High School

Innovation is a portal towards the creation of something new. When there is innovation, progress and development are evident and the path in connection with advancement is not far-fetched. In this fast-paced world where technology abound and to the speed at which everything is at a quick pace, the call to innovate is almost a duty put in our hands as members of our community of educators. 

Innovation is a necessity for an individual or an organization. Because of innovation, the productivity of an organization improves over time. It also increases competitiveness and there is a fruitful competition for the enhancement of a project that will be beneficial for individuals in an organization. 

Some individuals and organizations are more innovative than others because of persistence and perseverance to attain excellence in our respective fields. When we are diligent in the things we do, there are no obstacles that cannot be overturned along the way. Indeed, we always find ways. There is always something to change for the better. There is always a challenge to accept and overcome. 

When we have the passion in our chosen field, the best comes out in all of us. Indeed, the strongest of storms prove the strength of our ship’s anchor. This is true to our searching for ways to create something new and innovate. There is always that passion burning in our hearts that spells the difference between mediocrity and creativity. 

One of our innovative teaching strategies is the Ethnomathematics comics making which is a fusion between the artistic merits of learners and their mathematical abilities to come up with varied comics while learning the applications of mathematics. It also uses localized materials within the vicinity of San Pablo City or Laguna and contextualize these materials to deepen the learner’s appreciation to our local culture while at the same time gaining not only knowledge in Math but also the enjoyment it brings when making a comics. 

ICT Assessment Approach: Digital Literacy

in Acquiring Test Result and Analysis

by Edna P. Cortez

Teacher III, Bagumbayan Elementary School

Teachers can benefit from ICT by storing and recording information about how students are developing understanding of new material, as well as taking on some of the role of assessing and providing feedback to students, allowing teachers to focus on other aspects of supporting learning.

Because of its adaptability and ability to foster relationships among students, ICT plays an important role in knowledge. The change-oriented approach believes in the change of ICT, has changed the tools, and has fundamentally changed the policies and educational goals. It can improve educational quality in a variety of ways, including increasing learner motivation and engagement, facilitating the acquisition of fundamental skills, and improving teacher training. ICTs are also transformational tools that, when used correctly, can promote the transition to a learner-centered environment.

Digital literacy entails comprehending and employing technology. We can use digital literacy skills to find, use, and create information online in a productive and useful manner. Understanding digital literacy means being able to use technology safely and avoid its risks.

Many teachers use technology in their classrooms to support different learning styles and engage students; however, guidelines to help them do so in ways that promote innovative thinking and collaborative work, ethical practices, and their own professional development are lacking.

In a variety of ways, it has the potential to significantly improve educational quality. It provides students and teachers with access to a wealth of information, knowledge, and educational resources, thereby expanding learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers use online materials to prepare lessons, and students use them to broaden their learning opportunities.

ICT serves a variety of functions and aids in educational assessment practices. It can be used in testing to administer tests, score tests, analyze results, and help teachers evaluate learning outcomes.

Teachers and students who become digitally literate learn technological skills, authorship rules such as copyright and plagiarism, how to access online information, and social responsibility through social networking. ... Above all, digital literacy is a critical component of today's education.

DepEd Usec. San Antonio Issues Regional 

Memorandum for Suspension of Classes 

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT-I

Recto Memorial National 

High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Wednesday, January 21 announces the issuance of the Regional Memorandum DM-CI-2022-009 by the Department of Education Undersecretary for Curriculum and Planning Diosdado M. San Antonio allowing the suspension of classes and other teaching-related activities in the midst of the surge in Covid-19 cases. The memorandum requires schools to continuously implement the Suggested Measures to Foster Academic Ease During the COVID-19 Pandemic as stated in DM-CI 2020-307 in order to ensure flexibility in the teaching-learning process amid the pandemic by recalibrating the strategy of assigning teaching responsibilities and leaning activities in order to safeguard the well-being of both teachers and learners (Deped RO, 2022). The issuance covers the dates January 17-29, 2022 which aims to provide all the stakeholders particularly the students, parents and school-based personnel to have a two-week health break, thus, all school activities are suspended whether physical or virtual (online). 

It has been more than two years already when Covid-19 pandemic has brought chaos to the whole world. Until now, its effect can be felt anywhere and one most affected field is in education. School stakeholders experience a lot of challenges and issues to cope up with the “new normal” educational set-up. The abrupt changes cause both teachers and students to adjust with everything, from the face-to-face classes to distance learning modalities. These changes, aside from the threat of the corona virus, have a big impact to their health. Studies show that stress increases among many students as well as to teachers. From the comparative study made by Frontier Psychiatry on February 2021 between China and Philippines, Filipino respondents were reported significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress than Chinese during the Covid-19 Pandemic. It is a clear manifestation that the corona virus has a great influence on one’s physical and mental well-being. Thus, there is a need for the department of education to think of the best possible way that will respond to the needs of school stakeholders to impart learning amidst pandemic without sacrificing their health. 

One evident action is the department’s immediate compliance with the AITF guidelines on health and safety protocols, such as wearing of facemask and faceshield, social distancing and disinfection, strictly implemented among teachers during their on-site reporting in school or even during their duties in barangay. The same instructions are given to parents and students whenever necessity arises. Yet, these do not stop the reports of incidents in which teachers and students got sick. Students’ common reasons are the waning of their immune system due to lack of sleep and stress of answering a number of learning tasks without the assistance of those knowledgeable than them and the tension for meeting the deadlines. On the teachers’ part, checking all the activities of the modular students, -an estimated of at least 200 students with 4-5 learning tasks every week-, the preparation and printing of the next modules for the succeeding weeks, distribution, sorting, parent online conferences and some other-related activities are really challenging and sometime stressful for them. Nonetheless, these have not become sentiments of all teachers. Instead, most of them feel regretful that the current academic situation prohibits them from rendering full-time service and ensure that quality learning still takes place among all students. This notion somehow contributes to their health deterioration. 

Later last year, November 2021, the department of Education in Region IV has seen hope for possible face-to-face classes to some areas for year 2022 since reports on Covid-19 incidences have subsided already because more than 90% of the population is already vaccinated. Nevertheless, the whole archipelago once again is dismayed when a certain “Poblacion Girl” brought back the fear and tension of probable surge of the new variant of Covid-19 pandemic, the Omicron virus. Though, the possibility originated from the NCR, its repercussion reaches the different regions of the country. As a matter of fact, the Philippine Covid-19 tracker shows that as of January 2022, Region IV-A CALABARZON ranks 2nd to NCR with active cases. Thus, the announcement for suspension of classes in the region eases the predicaments teachers, parents and students feel, knowing that the virus is just around the corner. This will give teachers and students to look after their health and boost their immune system. Furthermore, with the cancellation of all activities, teachers find the announcement very timely because, while it will protect them from the threat of any possible transmission, it will also provide them with ample time to make follow-ups to students-at-risk and render appropriate intervention.

Volunteer health frontliner, pinahalagahan 

ng Alaminos Rotarian

Ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna – Bago natapos ang Taong 2021, ay napahalagahan at napasalamatan ng Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (RCAD) ang 126 na Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) at Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) na mga kusangloob na nakikipagtulungan sa Municipal Health Office dito bilang mga volunteer frontliner upang magtagumpay ang palatuntunan sa pagbabakuna laban sa Covid-19 sa bayang ito.

Iniulat ni Club Auditor Russel Arida, Project Chairman, na sa pakikipag-ugnayan kay Dra. Jelidora “Jing” B. Refrea, Municipal Health Officer, noong umaga ng Lunes, Disyembre 20, 2021, ang RCAD sa pangunguna ni Club President Romeo S. Faylon ay nagtaguyod ng isang palatuntunan na ginanap sa maaliwalas na “covered court” sa mismong harapan ng Municipal Health Office nang naaayon sa kaayusang itinatagubilin ng National Inter-Agency Task Force, upang ang mga volunteer frontliner na naglilingkod sa 15 barangay sa bayang ito ay mapahalagahan, at tuloy mapagkalooban ng Christmas package na binansagan nilang “Gifts of Joy.” 

Kaugnay ng umiiral na pandemya, nananawagan si RCAD President Romeo S. Faylon sa lahat na umalinsunod sa ano mang tagubiling pangkalusugan na ihahatid sa kanila ng mga Barangay Health Worker and Barangay Nutrition Scholar sapagkat ito ay para na rin sa kanilang kagalingan.

Magugunitang noong nakaraang buwan ng Nobyembre, ang Rotary Club of Alaminos Downtown (D-3820) ay naghandog ng basic medical kit sa Municipal Disater Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), at sa mga Pangasiwaang Barangay ng San Agustin, San Andres, Del Carmen, at Palma, na binubuo ng isang yunit ng Nebgulizer, isang Stetoscope, isang yunit ng Sphygmomanometer o pagtingin ng presyon ng dugo, isang Thermometer, at isang Oximeter o pantaya sa taglay na oksihino ng dumadaloy na dugo sa katawan.

San Pablo Chamber sends aid to Palawan and Surigao

Typhoon-damaged Palawan and Surigao were the recipients of P100,000 cash assistance from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of San Pablo City (PCCI-SPC). This was announced by PCCI-SPC President Bernard Deriquito.

The cash donation for the victims of Typhoon Odette were received by the Palawan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry at P50,000 each. The fundraising campaign was spearheaded by Past President Rolly Inciong and Charter President Sofronio Exconde.

Assisting disaster victims is one of the major programs of PCCI-SPC for 2022-2023, along with tourism and agriculture promotion, support to micro, small and medium enterprises in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry in Laguna, promotion of the ease of doing business, environmental conservation, local investment promotion, youth entrepreneurship, use of information technology in business, and support to technical vocational education.

PCCI-SPC, established in San Pablo City in May 199, is affiliated with the National PCCI, the biggest business organization in the Philippines. President Deriquito said the PCCI-SPC is a voluntary organization of business people and professionals who share the common goal of a more vibrant economy for San Pablo City. Chamber membership covers micro, small, medium and big enterprises serving as the voice of business in San Pablo City. A multi-awarded Chamber, PCCI-SPC has won a number of Most Outstanding Chamber awards in the Regional (Southern Tagalog), Area (South Luzon), National (Philippines) and International (Asia-Pacific) levels during the last 10 years.

Mga batang edad 5-11 sa Santa Rosa, pwede 

nang magparehistro para sa Covid-19 vax

ni Fredmoore Cavan

SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna--Hinihikayat ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Santa Rosa ang mga magulang na ipa-rehistro ang kanilang mga anak sa Covid-19 vaccination program ng pamahalaan para sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 taong gulang.

Sa opisyal na pabatid ng pamahalaang lungsod, inihayag nito na maaaring iparehistro ang mga batang kabilang sa nasabing age group sa pamamagitan ng vaccination portal nito: https://www.santarosacity.ph/SCVT/.

Kabilang sa prayoridad na mabakunahan ang mga batang kabilang sa pediatric A3 o mga batang may comorbidities.

“Piliin lamang ang kategoryang pediatric A3 kung mayroong comorbidities ang bata o pediatric C kung walang sakit ang bata. Antabayanan lamang ang mga susunod pang anunsyo kung kailan sisimulan ang pagbabakuna para sa edad 5 hanggang 11,” pahayag ng pamahalaang lungsod sa kanilang Facebook post.

Inilunsad ang pre-registration para makakalap ng inisyal na datos sa bilang ng mga batang babakunahan sa lungsod habang naghihintay pa ng kaukulang guidelines mula sa Department of Health (DOH).

Noong Disyembre 23 ay inaprubahan ng Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ang paggamit ng mas mababang dosage ng bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech para sa pagbabakuna sa mas nakababatang miyembro ng pediatric population.

Ayon sa FDA, mahigit 90-porsiyento ang efficacy rate ang Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine habang banayad lamang ang mga adverse effects nito, batay sa mga isinagawang clinical trials.

Sa ngayon, tanging mga bakunang gawa ng Pfizer-BioNTech at Moderna ang binigyan ng emergency use authorization ng FDA para sa pagbabakuna sa mga kabataang may edad 12 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sa pagpupulong ng National Task Force at Regional Task Force Against Covid-19 kamakailan, inihayag ni Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr., na planong simulan ng pamahalaan ang pagbabakuna sa mga batang may edad 5 hanggang 11 sa ikatlong linggo ng Enero, depende sa pagdating sa supply ng bakuna.

Sa ngayon, tuloy-tuloy ang isinasagawang pagbabakuna ng pamahalaang lungsod para sa mga residenteng kabilang sa adult population gayundin sa mga menor de edad na 11 hanggang 17 taong gulang.

Sinimulan na rin nito ang pagtuturok ng booster shots para sa mga indibidwal na mayroon nang kumpletong bakuna, bilang dagdag na proteksiyon laban sa iba’t ibang variants ng Covid-19. (PIA LAGUNA)

Alaminos treasurer: Buwis sa mejoras 

maagang bayaran o hulugan

ni Ruben E. Taningco

ALAMINOS, Laguna–Hinihikayat ni Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz ang mga propetaryo o may-ari ng mga lupain at mga gusali sa bayang ito na maagang magbayad ng obligasyon nilang bayarang buwis upang makaiwas na malapatan ng multa o rekardo, at halip ay magtamo pa ng diskwento.

Malaki ang maitutulong ng maagang pagbabayad ng real estate taxes, sapagkat karagdagan sa bahagi ng munisipyo sa Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) na kaloob ng pangasiwaang pambansa, ang bahagi ng pangasiwaang lokal sa buwis sa mejoras ang pinagkukunan ng gugulin upang makapagpatayo ng mga impraistraktura, 

tulad ng mga gusaling pampaaralan, at pangkalusugan, gayon na rin sa paghahatid ng mga paglilingkod na panglipunan sa mga mamamayan. 

Sang-ayon kay Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz, na pag-alinsunod sa ipinahihintulot sa Section 251 ng Local Government Code of 1991 o Republic Act No. 7160, ang lahat ng magbabayad ng buwis sa lupa o pag-aaring di-natitinag (Real Estate Property Tax) para sa taong kasalukuyan, sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31, 2022 ay pagkakalooban ng diskwentong 10 porsyento.

Halimbawa, kung ang isang na matatagpuan sa Barangay San Agustin lote ay may bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00, na kasama na ang para sa Special Education Fund (SEF), ang babayaran lamang ay ₱4,500.00 o may diskwentong ₱500.00. Kung hindi naman mababayaran ang bayaring buwis na ₱5,000.00 hanggang sa Marso 31, 2022, ito ay lalapatan ng multang 2% kada lalakarang buwan, kaya kung magbabayad sa Abril 16, 2022, ito ay lalapatan na ng multang 8% ng bayaring buwis o ang kabuuang babayaran ay ₱5,400.00.

Kung mamarapatin naman ang bayaring buwis ay bayaran sa paraang hulugan o tuwing ikatlong buwan, nagpapayo si Acting Municipal Treasurer Fely T. Cruz na mangyari lamang makipag-ugnayan sa Land Tax Division ng Municipal Treasurer’s Office na nasa Groundfloor ng Municipal Multi-Purpose Building bago matapos ang buwan ng Marso upang magawa ang paghahati ng bayarin sa apat, kung saan ang unang hulog o first instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Marso 31; ang ikalawang hulog o second instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Hunyo 30, ang ikatlong hulog o third instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Setyembre 30; at ang pang-apat na hulog o fourth instalment ay babayaran sa o bago sumapit ang Disyembre 31, 2022, ito ay pagkakalooban din ng 10% diskwento kung mababayan bago sumapit ang itinakdang petsa na dapat mabayaran.

Friends of 7 Lakes Foundation sets targets for 2022

The establishment of a floating garden, removal of debris left by the clearing of the shorelines of Sampaloc Lake, and promotion of the propagation of bamboos are some of the priority targets set by the Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF) for the year 2022. The targets were approved by the FSLF Board of Trustees (BOT) during its year-end meeting.

Held at the RX Garden Resort owned by Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia in Barangay San Gregorio, the BOT meeting also agreed to propose to the San Pablo City Government the creation of a Lakes Management Office, install information billboards at Sampalok Lake, and hold a youth environmental camp.

President Roberto Azores explained that the floating gardens or floating green filters (FGF) will consist of a network of floating indigenous plants found in the locality. The roots will host bacteria/microbes that will absorb pollutants, promote biodiversity within the FGF structures as these will attract birds, fish, insects and other wildlife species, and add aesthetic beauty to the lake waters. 

Noting the successful clearing of the Sampaloc Lake shores by the San Pablo City Government, FSLF Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon said the foundation will take the lead in a multi-sector effort to clean the debris that are still submerged under water so that the lake will be safe for water-based activities in the future. 

Trustee Romeo Race reported that last December 2021, the FSLF in cooperation with the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the San Pablo City Water District, conducted a training workshop on the propagation of bamboos. To sustain the effort, the FSLF will promote the planting of bamboos in San Pablo City. Bamboos produce oxygen and absorbs enormous volume of carbon dioxide. It serves as a protection against soil erosion.

Trustee Rolly Inciong said that the FSLF will propose to the City Government to create a Lakes Management Office, either under the City Environment and Natural Resources Office or the City Tourism Office, so that all development and conservation projects in the city’s seven lakes will have a focal office that will ensure integration of efforts. The proposed office will serve as local partner of the LLDA in managing the lakes.

Trustee Arvin Carandang added that the foundation will install information billboards at the Sampalok Lake area that will feature basic lake information so that tourists will learn about the lake, including its legend. Similar billboards will later be installed in the other lakes.

Trustee Dr. Elvira Galicia and Environment Youth Leader Jedryc Romero announced that the FSLF will continue engaging the youths in environmental conservation through a face-to-face or online environment camp where best environmental practices will be shared and discussed with students.

Present during the year-end meeting were Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon, President Roberto Azores, Trustees Rolly Inciong, Dr. Elvie Galicia, Jose Reano, Sylvia Inciong, Ricky Tan, Arvin Carandang and Romy Race; and Members Cari Azores, Ambassador Romy Manalo, Jedryc Romero and Rissa Race.

Mga magsasaka ng Laguna, tumanggap ng tulong pinansiyal

STA. CRUZ, Laguna - Sa maayos na ugnayan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Laguna na pinamumunuan ni Gob. Ramil Hernandez at ng Department of Agriculture (DA) IV- CALABARZON ay tagumpay na naipamahagi ang tulong pinansyal para sa mga magsasaka ng Laguna nitong ika-13 ng Enero 2022.

May kabuuang 1,410 magsasaka ng palay ang tumanggap ng P5,000 piso bawat isa: mula sa Pagsanjan (79), Lumban (203), Kalayaan (385), Cavinti (602) at Luisiana ( 141) na isinagawa sa panlalawigang kapitolyo sa Sta. Cruz. 

Ito ay sa ilalim ng programang Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) ng DA-4A, alinsunod sa Republic Act No. 11203 o ang “Rice Tariffication Law (RTL),” na nagpapataw ng taripa sa mga angkat na bigas.

Ang mga nakolektang taripa ay ilalaan sa ipinamamahaging tulong sa maliliit na magsasaka. Karagdagang kapital ito para sa pagtatanim ng palay kasabay ng pagtaas ng presyo ng pataba at iba pang gamit sa rice production. 

Katuwang sa pamamahaging ito ang Field Agriculture Extension Services kung saan sinunod ng lahat ang minimum health standard para sa maayos na distribyusyon ng nasabing tulong pinansyal. (Jonna S. Coroza, photo by Angel Bert Sapungan/PIO Laguna)

Chiz: Dropping mass testing, 

contact tracing a big mistake

Sorsogon Gov. Chiz Escudero has lambasted the Department of Health (DOH) for tossing contact tracing and mass testing as part of its COVID-19 response strategy, saying these measures are necessary to isolate and treat people infected with the coronavirus and prevent the spread of the highly transmissible disease.

Escudero described this latest shift in DOH policy as “complete abdication and surrender,” and not a strategy in controlling the dizzying speed of Omicron spread across the country.

“What DOH is doing is not a ‘COVID-19 response strategy’ but a complete abdication and surrender,” said Escudero, who is running for Senate come May election. “It’s a strategy of ‘if you can’t beat them, join them.’”

“This is big mistake and a costly one,” Escudero warned.

The DOH, which is spearheading the government’s overall game plan to defeat COVID second year into the pandemic, said it will focus on community interventions rather than use Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test that is very useful to immediately detect, isolate and quarantine individuals who are positive with the coronavirus. Testing will be done for proper clinical management of high risk patients, community management, isolation and vaccination, it added.

The agency also said that contact tracing will take a back seat.

“Wala na ngang libreng mass testing, babawasan pa ang testing! Kawawa naman po tayo. I cannot fathom, much less understand, the logic behind this policy,” Escudero said, who recently called the attention of the DOH to make COVID testing accessible and affordable, if not free at all, to encourage more people to get tested following the spike in coronavirus infection.

“Again, after trillions of pesos in borrowings, they are still ‘cutting corners,’” he lamented.

Rivers, givers of life

by Rolando A. Inciong

The early human civilizations were established along the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq, Syria and Turkey; the Nile in Egypt; the Indus River in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan; and the Mekong River in China, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. All early civilizations prospered alongside rivers because of the availability of fresh water for daily activities, and fertile land for agriculture near those rivers.

Humans settle in places where there are rivers because rivers are the givers of the ingredients of life: water, food and income. Water from rivers sustains socio-economic development, including energy and food production. Rivers drain rainwater towards the seas and provide healthy ecosystems for many species of plants and animals.

Today, the United Nations estimate that around two billion people get their drinking water from rivers. Rivers provide income to many communities depending on them for their livelihoods such as fish culture. Many river systems are used for recreation and tourism, irrigation, industry and commerce. hydropower generation, and transporting people and goods

If living near a river is good, it also has a bad. Flooding is the most dangerous risk for riverside settlers and landowners. Flooding results in loss of lives, property damage, and expensive repairs and rehabilitation.

Today, rivers are among the much-abused bodies of water, most especially in the Asian continent. Irresponsible human activities such as garbage and chemical dumping, illegal human settlement, and many more, are the causes of river degradation.

Governments and citizens need to protect rivers to ensure clean source of drinking water and provide a safe place for tourism and recreation,. In San Pablo City, many community volunteers conduct river cleanups. The Friends of the Seven Lakes Foundation (FSLF), headed by Chairman Monsignor Jerry Bitoon and President Roberto Azores, spearheads the promotion of rivers and lakes conservation. The FSLF is promoting the development of San Pablo as a city whose lakes, rivers, watersheds and the environment in general are protected, conserved and sustainably developed for the well-being of present and future generations. 

Here are some river trivia: Russia has 36 rivers, the most number in the world. The Vatican, which is classified as a country, has no river. The Congo River is the world's deepest river at 720 feet. It is also the second-longest river in Africa, approximately 4,700 kilometers in length. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippines has 421 river basins, 140 of them are heavily polluted and 50 are biologically dead. The longest rivers in the Philippines are Cagayan, 314 miles; Mindanao, 232 miles; Agusan, 217 miles; and Pulangi, 199 miles.

Guro Ako

Ni: Annabel I. De Rama

Bilang isang Guro

Tungkulin naming na magturo

Iba-iba man tayo ng kuro-kuro

Iisa ang namamayani sa Puso

Mapaglingkuran ang Bayang sinilangan

Mabigyang aliw ang Inang Bayan

Sa saliw mula sa tinig ng kabataan

Ay may nag-aalab na karunungan

Dumaan man ang unos ng kapalaran

Sanlibong pangarap man ay matabunan

Susubuking hamunin ang kinabukasan

Pilit aabutin tala ng kapayapaan

Sa araw-araw ay itatawid

Papel ng pagiging matuwid

Upang mga bata’y makamit

Tagumpay na kaakit-akit

Kung balat man ay kumupas

At kamay ay huminto sa pagkumpas

Aawitin pa rin ng buong pitangan

Ang koro ng pagiging Makabayan.

“Live to Teach” or “Teach to Live”?

by Lea R. Malaluan, MT– I

Recto Memorial National High School, Tiaong, Quezon

Life is a battle ground that offers a lot of challenges and opportunities to everyone. One among the opportunities is our profession that’s why it’s very necessary to choose the profession that will best fit you. However, there are times that though the best preparation has been made, some still failed realizing that such a profession is not what they like. However, those persons who found out to be in this situation have their own choices to either enjoy what they have or to feel forever regretful in their lives. 

Teaching may not be the dreamed profession of all teachers. However, due to some unexpected undertakings they had into, plus the age factor, most of them are obliged to prefer a course that would help them fulfill many responsibilities life has bestowed upon them. Security of tenure is one of the common reasons that pushed many to earn the Bachelor’s degree of Education. Age at early 30s, which is no longer within the limit of age qualification of neither any industries nor any companies, is another consideration. The notion of having a profession that would ensure to provide better future for the family especially for those who have children already, considering husband’s work as an ordinary worker, brings not a single doubt in taking the education course. This is a clear manifestation that many want the course because they want to live. Hypocrisy it is if no one from the teachers has ever said, “I teach to live”. 

Teaching in a public school undoubtedly is a secured profession. Aside from the continuous compensation as a government employee in whatever situation the country may be, the fear of immediate dismissal occupies a very little space in the teachers’ minds for as long as they are working and performing their duties and responsibilities. As a matter of fact, any offenses intentionally or unintentionally done shall undergo due process of law before any disciplinary actions be rendered. To some teachers, years of teaching could be for the sort of compliance and an embedded obligation of the profession and seeing all achievements they have earned, may it be sending their loved ones to school earning their degrees, putting up businesses, investing real properties and the like, everything proves that they teach to live.

People might say that teachers’ achievements are common life story of “rugs to riches”, though researches have proven that no teacher becomes rich in teaching. Yet for teachers, those accomplishments gained during the period wherein teaching becomes part of almost all their lives, these are investments earned because they live to teach. Teachers best achievement is when they have created better individuals to their fullest potentials equipped either with mental or emotional intellect and imbued with good values and high moral respect for others. It is an honor for them realizing that they have crafted individuals who became worthy of the community where they belong. No means of measurement can determine the amount of fulfillment teachers’ hearts could carry for every successful student they have crafted and for every waning individual they have rescued with the seeds of inspiration and hope that life has to go on. 

God’s plan may not be the teachers’ choice, but, God always has the purest intention for everyone and God’s purpose for teachers is, for them to “live to teach”. It would take a lot of time for many teachers to realize that they are chosen to live to teach but what matters most now is the opportunity granted upon them to teach their students the value and the beauty of appreciating life challenges by turning these into opportunities inspite of whatever situation it may be. At the moment in which globe is engulfed with fear and anxiety brought about by pandemic, the sincerest call of the teaching profession is right there infront of us… “Teachers, let us live to teach!”