4th Quarter 2015 RDC Newsletter

Calabarzon adopts new R&D database /p.4

The Official Newsletter of the Regional Development Council IV-A Fourth Quarter December 2015

RDC adopts the local planning guide for international M&D /p.5

Story on pp. 10-11

Calabarzon there is knowledge in news 2

Published quarterly by the Regional Deve lo pment Coun ci l I V-A (Calabarzon). The Editorial Board reserves the right to choose the articles to be published due to the limited space.

4th Quarter 2015

Page 2 • NEDA Region IV-A holds

RPFP Stakeholders’ Forum Page 3 • RDC conducts 3rd Quarter

Full Council Meeting Page 4 • Calabarzon adopts new

R&D database • RDC supports Senate Bills

on income tax adjustment and tax exemption for start-up enterprises

Page 5 • RDC adopts the local

planning guide for international M&D

• Calabarzon RDC pioneers academe-industry linkages

Page 6 • SUMMID capacitates LGUs

on Survey of Overseas Filipinos

Page 7 • PNP Region IV-A delivers

efficient and excellent public service

• RDC X hosts the 6th RDC-PSR National Convention

Page 8-9 • Provincial News Page 10-11 • Championing good

governance: The case of General Trias

Page 12 • Taytay receives Galing

Pook Award for institutionalizing local garments industry

• NEDA Region IV-A celebrates Month of the Elderly with Sinag Kalinga Foundation

Page 13-16 • Quarterly Regional

Economic Situationer Page 17-20 • RPMC Bulletin

On this Issue EDITORIAL BOARD

Editor-in-Chief OIC-RD Luis G. Banua

Managing Editors ARD Gina T. Gacusan

Arlita E. Lopez

Editors Agnes A. Daantos

Donald James D. Gawe Valter L. Morada

Marcelo Cesar R. Palacio

Layout and Design Alvin Caezar V. Olanday

Feedbacks and article contributions

are welcome. Please contact: NEDA Regional Office IV-A 4/F Marcelita Building, Nat’l

Highway, Brgy. Real, Calamba City, Laguna 4027

Tel: (049) 545-77-56 / 0091 Email: [email protected]

The cover highlights some of the initiatives and programs of the Local Government of General Trias, Cavite for its constituents. It sets a good example on its good governance, and was awarded the most competitive LGU in 2015 by the National Competitiveness Committee.

About the Cover

NEDA Region IV-A holds RPFP Stakeholders’ Forum by Alvin Caezar V. Olanday, NEDA Region IV-A

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region IV-A conducted the Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation Enhanced Regional Physical Framework Plan (RPFP) 2017-2046 Stakeholders’ Forum on November 20, 2015 at One Tagaytay Place, Tagaytay City, Cavite. “Our goal is to improve the content of the RPFP by verifying the consistency of the data and confirm relevance of the proposed strategies and policy options”, said RDC Vice Chairperson and NEDA Region IV-A, Director Luis G. Banua in his opening message. Mr. Donald James D. Gawe, Chief of the NEDA Region IV-A Policy Formulation and Planning Division, presented the overall Regional Spatial Strategy. Dr. Renato Solidum, Director of the Philippine Volcanology and Seismology, and Dr. Marish Madlangbayan, Vice-Chancellor for Planning at the UP Los Baños served as panel of experts during the open forum. The stakeholders provided valuable inputs during the parallel sessions which were grouped into RPFP components: a) Production Land Use; b) Protection Land Use; c) Settlements Development; and d) Infrastructure and Utilities Development.

Representatives from various sectors have stated their commitment for the implementation and advocacy of the RPFP 2017-2046. Assistant Regional Director Gina T. Gacusan of the NEDA Region IV-A presented the next steps. The Regional Development Council recognized the members of the Technical Working Group and the Geographic Information System experts for their contributions in the preparation of the RPFP.

Dir. Luis G. Banua of the NEDA Region IV-A awards a certificate of appreciation to Dir. Renato Solidum of the PHIVOLCS for serving as one of the panel of experts on the open forum during the DRR/CCA Regional Physical Framework Plan (RPFP) 2017-2046 Stakeholders’ Forum on November 20, 2015 in Tagaytay City. (Photo: Farhad E. Ali Asgari, NEDA Region IV-A)

Fourth Quarter 2015 3

RDC holds 3rd Quarter Full Council Meeting by Armina O. Espiritu, NEDA Region IV-A

The Provincial Government of Rizal under the leadership of Governor Rebecca A. Ynares hosted the 3rd Quarter 2015 Calabarzon Regional Development Council (RDC) Full Council meeting held on September 10 at the Ynares Center, Rizal Provincial Capitol Building, Antipolo City. On behalf of Governor Ynares, Vice Gov. Frisco S. San Juan, Jr. welcomed the members and guests of the meeting. He commended the RDC members for their efforts in pursuing the development and growth of the Calabarzon Region. During the meeting, the LGUs from Calabarzon who made in the top ten most competitive provinces, cities and municipalities for 2015 were recognized. The choir from Imus,

Cavite was given a plaque of recognition for winning 1st place in Art Song and 2nd place in Folk Song in the 52nd International Choir Competition 2015. Former RDC members who are now assigned to other regions were given plaques of appreciation for serving in the RDC. Forty seven resolutions were passed by the Council, including endorsement of the following: a) 15 project proposals for funding under the Energy Regulation Fund 1-94; b) Establishment of Halal Laboratory; c) Development of a Prototype for Real-Time Water Quality Monitoring of Lipote River using the ICT-Enhanced Remote Sensing Protocol; d) Development of an Infrastructure Audit Procedures/Protocol Manual and Capacity

Building for Infrastructure Assessment; e) Inclusive Partnerships for Agricultural Competitiveness Project; and f) Establishment of an Extension Office of the Land Bank of the Philippines in the Municipality of Alabat, Quezon. The Council approved the: a) conduct of a Regional Migration and Development Forum; b) Exchange of Probes, Learning and Outputs of Researches System; c) Localization of the Industry Roadmaps and Its Priority Sectors; d) Change in Location of the Antipolo City Hospital Project in the Revalidated Regional Development Investment Program 2011-2016; e) Guidelines on the Three-Year Rolling Investment Program; and f) RDC Calabarzon Logo and Branding.

The 2015 3rd Quarter Full Council Meeting was hosted by the Provincial Government of Rizal headed by Governor Rebecca A. Ynares. The Full Council Meeting was held on September 10 at the Ynares Center, Rizal Provincial Capitol Building, Antipolo City. Fruitful discussions, productive presentations, and awarding of most competitive LGUs comprised the meeting.(Photo: Farhad E. Ali Asgari, NEDA Region IV-A)


Calabarzon adopts new R&D database by Juan Carlo M. Manas, DOST Region IV-A

The RDC, during its 3rd Quarter 2015 Full Council Meeting on September 10 at the Rizal Provincial Capitol, Antipolo City, passed resolutions supporting the Senate Bill (SB) No. 2217, “An Act Exempting Start-Up Enterprises from Taxes Arising From the First Two Years of Operation”, and Senate Bill No. 1942 “An Act Adjusting the Level Net Taxable Income and Nominal Tax Rates for Purposes of Promoting the Individual Income Tax Amending Section 24 (A) (2) of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997”. The SB 2217 proposes for national and local tax exemption for start-ups for the first two years of operation provided that these enterprises meet the conditions set forth by the bill. Among the conditions are start-up enterprises should be duly registered businesses that are not affiliates, subsidiaries or franchises of any existing company and do not have any previous or other existing registered businesses.

The bill increases the chances of new business succeeding given the tax exemption for the first two years. Since startups do not normally exhibit significant profits during infancy stage, the money saved from tax exemptions can be used to grow the business. On the other hand, SB 1942 seeks to review and reform the current tax system to reflect current prices and enable a more equitable distribution of wealth among the Filipino taxpayers and citizens. It seeks to exempt the lower level and adjusts the tax of the upper one percent of the taxpayers. SB 1942 provides that not later than six years after the effectivity of the act and every six years thereafter, the net taxable income levels and nominal tax rates stated in the SB shall be adjusted to its present value using the consumer price index, as published by the Philippine Statistics Authority. These Senate Bills were authored by Senator Benigno “Bam” Aquino.

RDC supports Senate Bill on income tax adjustment and tax exemption for start-up enterprises by Alvin Caezar V. Olanday, NEDA Region IV-A

EXPLORE stands for Exchange of Probes, Learnings and Outputs of Researches. This online system targets to give easy access to researchers on studies uploaded by different academic and research and development (R&D) institutes. Access to highly reputable works of intellect is now just a click away through this “first online compendium of R&D achievements”. The EXPLORE System was approved by the RDC during its 3rd Quarter 2015 Full Council Meeting held on September 10, 2015 at Rizal Provincial Capitol, Antipolo City. The system will be used by the Regional Research Committee in the consolidation of R&D projects and initiatives of academic institutions and government agencies in Calabarzon. The system will help harmonize R&D activities and disseminate information on

R&D activities of the academe and other research institutions in the region. The Management Information System (MIS) of DOST Region IV-A started the deployment of EXPLORE to State Universities and Colleges and Higher Education Institutes and research institutions in the region, through the conduct of users training orientation.

The EXPLORE system and other systems such as Local Government Unit Information Dissemination System (LGUIDS), Hazard Notification and Awareness (HANDA), and the Sensing Environmental Parameters through Telemetry (SENTRY) were developed by the MIS-DOST Region IV-A and are all ready for implementation and adoption to interested parties.

Screenshot of the home page of the EXPLORE System.


Calabarzon RDC pioneers academe-industry linkages by Donna Riza Ronquillo, NEDA Region IV-A

The newly created Special Committee on Academe-Industry Linkages (AIL) conducted its organizational meeting on September 23, 2015 at NCST, Dasmarinas City, Cavite. Mr. Emerson Atanacio of the National College of Science and Technology (NCST), Private Sector Representative of the RDC was chosen as chairperson, due to his organization’s extensive experiences. Atanacio said that the committee is initially composed of 8 regional line agencies, 6 state university and colleges and 12 private sector representatives and academe but will add representatives from the industry sector to be members of the committee. Dir. Luis Banua of NEDA Region IV-A and the ex-officio Committee Vice Chairperson explained that the Roadmap of the committee is focused on achieving the following: 1) map existing AIL initiatives in the region; 2) increase awareness on the benefits of AIL; 3) identify and implement AIL initiatives beyond apprenticeship programs; and 4) sustain commitment of

stakeholders on strengthening AIL. He encouraged the members to provide their comments and suggestions to improve the Roadmap of the committee. Dir. Banua said that the RDC approved the creation of the committee to provide a platform where the issue on the mismatch of skills produced by the higher education learning institutions with the needs of the industry will be tackled and possible partnerships will be identified. He said that producing the required manpower for the industry’s labor requirements is important for the region as it has the biggest student population size, second biggest economy and first on industry gross

value added in the country. Dir. Ericson Atanacio of NCST, presented the NCST’s experience in partnership with industries. He said that they are listening to what the industry needs as a training partner, thinking of ways on how they can continuously adapt through changing times and technology, and acting in good faith towards the common good. Mr. Atanacio also reminded the academe to be careful in choosing partners as they may be used as accessories of exploitation. He advised the academe to register all their partnerships. The committee is co-chaired by Dir. Emmylou Yanga of CHED Region IV-A.

RDC adopts the local planning guide for international migration and development by Alvin Caezar V. Olanday, NEDA Region IV-A

The RDC adopted the Guide on Mainstreaming International Migration and Development (M&D) in Local Development Planning and Governance during its 3rd Quarter 2015 Full Council Meeting held on September 10, 2015 in Rizal Provincial Capitol, Antipolo City. The Guide is one of the outputs of the “Strengthening, Upscaling and Mainstreaming International Migration and Development (SUMMID)” Project in Calabarzon. The Guide will serve as a tool for planning and budget officers and other relevant stakeholders in determining appropriate programs, activities and projects including

the investment requirements needed to implement them. The RDC endorsed the Guide to the NEDA Sub-committee on International Migration, the NEDA Regional Development Committee, the Department of Interior and Local Government, and the Commission on Filipinos Overseas to promote its use by all local government units in the country. The Guide was subjected to a consultation meeting last April 21 to 22, 2015 wherein participants from Calabarzon and Bicol gave their comments and suggestions to improve the Guide.

PSR Emerson Atanacio presides during the Special Committee on Academe-Industry Linkages organization meeting. PSR Atanacio is the President of the National College of Science and Technology, and an active member of the Regional Development Council. With him are (L-R): Ms. Delia Rodriguez representing Dir. Emmylou Yanga of CHED Region IV-A, Dir. Luis G. Banua and Mr. Donald James D. Gawe of NEDA Region IV-A.


A total of 28 local planners and social welfare officers from selected local government units in the Calabarzon and representatives from the Committee on Migration and Development joined the training on Survey of Overseas Filipinos on October 22 to 23, 2015 at Batangas State University-Main Campus, Batangas City.

The training is part of the SUMMID’s activities on enhancing overseas Filipinos (OFs) database in the region to facilitate mainstreaming M&D in local planning. With the objective of enhancing the capacities of migration focal persons on data generation and processing, the training consisted of two main parts. The first is on the preparation of the enumeration manual where the participants learned the concepts and operational definitions and how to fill up the questionnaire. For the second part, the participants were taught encoding, tabulation and analysis of data from survey questionnaires using CsPro. The training was capped with commitment setting where all the participants said they will share the knowledge they gained from the

training with their colleagues while some will suggest to their Local Chief Executives the posting of the final questionnaire in their respective websites and seek the assistance of the barangay officials and schools in the conduct of the survey. The participants are enthusiastic to join similar trainings after they are able to undertake the survey. The training was organized by the National Economic and Development Authority Regional Office IV-A through the SUMMID Calabarzon Project and supported by the project partners: UNDP Joint Migration and Development Initiative, Commission of Filipinos

Overseas, Local Government Academy, Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, and Atikha Overseas Workers and Communities Initiative, Inc. The trainers are from the Philippine Statistics Authority Region IV-A headed by Dir. Rosalinda Bautista.

SUMMID capacitates LGUs on Survey of Overseas Filipinos by Mariell A. Evasco, SUMMID Calabarzon Project

The participants the training on the Survey of Overseas Filipinos on October 22 to 23, 2015 at Batangas State University-Main Campus, Batangas City. The training is part of the SUMMID’s activities on enhancing overseas Filipinos (OFs) database in the region to facilitate mainstreaming M&D in local planning. (Photo: Mariell A. Evasco, SUMMID Calabarzon Project)

Clockwise: Mr. Donald James D. Gawe of the NEDA Region IV-A delivers the closing remarks; Participants join in the fun activities for an enjoyable training. (Photo: Mariell A. Evasco, SUMMID Calabarzon Project)


PNP Region IV-A delivers efficient and excellent public service by PNP Region IV-A

The Philippine National Police sets standards to ensure the prompt and precise delivery of public service through the effective implementation of crime prevention and solution. Since Regional Director PCSUPT. Richard A. Albano resumed office, several accomplishments were recognized. The Lambat-Sibat Strategy, which is the brainchild of the former DILG Secretary Mar Roxas,was implemented by PNP Regional Office (PRO) IV-A. The Oplan Lambat-Sibat is a “deliberate, programmatic, and sustained” police operations with “scientific crime reporting and solving” based on crime statistics. The Oplan Lambat-Sibat is a reinvigorated crime prevention effort through intensified police operations such as Checkpoint, Oplan Bakal-Sita, Mobile Patrol, Beat Patrol and Oplan Bulabog. PRO IV-A registered an unprecedented accomplishments in police operations against criminality with 2, 527 incidents in

the 2nd Quarter of 2015 compared to 2, 774 incidents in the 1st Quarter of 2015 a drop of 247 crime incidents or 9 percent on the 6 focused crimes which includes murder, homicide, theft, robbery, and carnapping of motor vehicles and motorcycles. From April-October 2015, Operations on Prohibited Drugs resulted to confiscation of 23, 941.99 grams of Marijuana, and 5, 960.05 grams of shabu with a total market value of P72million. The operations on prohibited drugs were conducted in collaboration with PDEA Region IV-A under the leadership of Dir. Yogi Filemon L. Ruiz. Since its implementation in April, PRO IV-A’s initial contribution under Oplan Lambat operations was the confiscation and recovery of 5,436 assorted firearms through different police operations such as Oplan Sita, Checkpoint, Oplan Bakal, service of search warrants and other police operations.

Similarly, 209 motor vehicles and 3,105 motorcycles were recovered and impounded for their involvement in different kinds of crimes, and the use of illegal plate numbers. Operations against wanted persons resulted in the arrest of 301 most wanted person and 2,490 other wanted persons, including 10,041 arrested persons without warrant of arrest for a total of 12,832 arrested persons. On the Sibat Operations, 363 most wanted persons and 71 members of criminal gangs that are included in the priority target list. The implementation of Oplan Lambat-Sibat proved its effectivity in eliminating crimes if not totally eradicating them. With the proper execution of police deployment and operations, PRO IV-A personnel familiarized themselves on the strategies and schemes of the program resulting in positive result thus winning back the trust and confidence of the community.

Calabarzon Private Sector Representatives (PSRs) attended the 6th RDC-PSRs National Convention last October 14-16, 2015 at Limketkai Luxe Hotel, Cagayan De Oro City. The theme of the convention was: “Enhancing Public and Private Partnership in the ASEAN Market”. Dr. Ceferino Rodolfo, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry was the Keynote Speaker. He shared the opportunities and challenges of the ASEAN Integration and emphasized the roles of the private sector in pursuing innovations, forging strong partnerships, and creating inclusive businesses. Mayor Oscar S. Moreno of Cagayan De Oro City welcomed the guests and participants to their progressive city. The speakers shared the best practices of public and private partnership, and highlighted that multi-stakeholder collaboration ensures long-term success. Delegates also participated in the discussions during the workshop and came out with an action plan to enhance their role in the Regional Development

Council. The updates and agreements during 5th National Convention held in Iloilo City were also presented during the convention. The participants enjoyed the beauty of Dahilayan Forest and Adventure Park in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, and were treated with sumptuous lunch at the Del Monte Club House in which the closing ceremony was also held. Region V (Bicol Region) will host the 7th Convention on April 2016. The convention concluded with the impressive cultural presentation performed by Kagayan Performing Arts as they showcased the rich culture of Northern Mindanao and immersed the delegates to different cultural dances. Among the 173 delegates from the 15 regions that participated in the three-day convention, the Calabarzon with its 18 delegates was the biggest group. The group was noticed because of their attractive barong tagalogs. Aside from the great experience, new learning and exposure, the convention promoted camaraderie with PSRs from other regions.

RDC X hosts the 6th RDC-PSR National Convention by PSR Aileen Constantino-Peñas, Atikha Overseas Workers and Communities Initiative, Inc.


Cavite commits ISO re-certification

Provincial News

by Evelyn M. Reyes, Cavite Provincial Information and Community Affairs Department

Good Governance has always been the core value of the Provincial Government of Cavite under the leadership of Governor Jonvic Remulla. Aside from reforms and innovations in local administration, the Provincial Government has institutionalized a model of governance through a Quality Management System. In May 2012, the Cavite Provincial Government received its ISO 9001:2008 certification. Starting with only four core processes and three support processes, the certification earned Cavite the distinction of being the first ISO certified provincial government in the Philippines. After three years, Cavite has completed the first cycle of ISO certification and is now on its second cycle of Quality Management System Implementation with 27 offices and more than 40 core and support processes involved. It was re-certified in May 11, 2015 by Anglo-American (AJA) Registrars with its Vice President, Mr. Paul Bagatsing conferring the Certificates of Registration to the different PGC departments.

Prior to the re-certification, the Cavite Quality Management Office, under the supervision of Quality Management Representative Dr. Eva R. Defiesta, has worked closely with the different departments to ensure continual improvement of

by Batangas Provincial Planning and Development Office

Batangas Province receives 2015 Seal of Good Local Governance Award

The Provincial Government of Batangas was awarded with the 2015 Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) last September 2, 2015 at the Development Academy of the Philippines, Tagaytay City, Cavite. The assessment was conducted in 2014 as basis for the conferment of the 2015 SGLG. Batangas, being the only province in the Calabarzon that qualified, got the award after meeting all the criteria of the core components of the seal that include good financial housekeeping, social protection and disaster preparedness and three essential components of the seal-business friendliness and competitiveness, environmental management, and peace and order. In January 2014, former DILG Secretary Mar Roxas

introduced SGLG as an “improved version”of the Seal of Good Housekeeping which was introduced by the late DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo in 2010. The Seal of Good Housekeeping monitors and awards LGUs with good performance in internal housekeeping, specifically in terms of local legislation, development planning, resource generation and resource allocation. As a recipient of the award, the province will receive a Performance Challenge Fund worth P 7M to be utilized for projects as specified in the guidelines. The municipalities of Agoncillo, San Nicolas, San Luis and Taysan were also awarded with the seal and are entitled to receive P 3M each.

Governor Vilma Santos Recto receiving the Seal of Good Local Governance at the Development Academy of the Philippines on September 2.

Cavite Governor Junvic Remulla and Anglo-American Registrars Vice President Mr. Paul Batasing.


The Provincial Government of Laguna, under the leadership of Governor Ramil L. Hernandez, strongly adheres to Good Governance and Rule of Law, under the “Serbisyong Tama, Rise High Laguna” advocacy. It is focused on achieving its vision – “to create a legacy of responsible and honest provincial government that every Lagunense can be proud of”. To realize the vision, provincial government is continuously identifying the needs of its people in order to best deliver its commitment of service. The Provincial Government is working towards strengthening and empowering every unit/department by continuously conducting seminars and planning workshops to increase technical knowledge, improve leadership skills, and upgrade competency while improving skills and competencies. The Provincial Government is also establishing closer and stronger linkages with private and government entities. Some of the initiatives undertaken and continuously being

implemented by the Provincial Government are: a) Improved Health Management Program; b) Improved Scholarship Program; c) Improved Agricultural and Environmental Program; d) Appropriate Infrastructure Program; e) Transformative and Professionalized Provincial Bureaucracy Program; and f) Improved Peace and Order and Traffic Management Program. The Provincial Government’s compliance with the Seal of Good Local Governance of the Department of Interior and Local Government, earned Certificate of Recognition last July 13, 2015 in Quezon City, symbolizing the province’s commitment towards good local governance. The province passed four out of six Local Governance Assessment Areas for the year 2014, namely: a) Good Financial Housekeeping, b) Disaster Preparedness, c) Business-Friendliness and Competitiveness, and d) Peace and Order. The award is a living proof that Laguna is indeed serious in pursuing a Provincial Government that is anchored on Good Governance and Rule of Law.

Laguna continues legacy on good governance and rule of law by Laguna Provincial Information Office

their respective processes. The Quality Management Office has facilitated trainings and workshops to assist process owners in the different aspects of the Quality Management System. Cause analysis echo seminars, planning workshops, Quality Objectives leveling up are some of the learning sessions provided for personnel involved in the QMS implementation. These efforts are also in preparation for the shift in the international standards manual from ISO

9001:2008 to ISO 9001:2015 which is gradually being introduced and implemented in the Provincial Government of Cavite. The new standard provides for a dynamic approach to risk management which will allow organizations a more proactive stance in identifying and addressing risks before they become non-conformities. This will ensure a more stable flow in the processes that will in turn translate to a more effective and efficient service delivery to clients.

Rizal Gov’t intensifies fight against drugs by Rizal Provincial Information Office In an effort to curb drug abuse in the province, Rizal Governor Nini Ynares through the cooperation of the Rizal Provincial Police Office headed by PSSUPT. Bernabe Balba conducted the seminar on Barangay Drug Clearing Operation participated by all Barangay Captains and Councils of the province. The event was held to raise awareness among the constituents and encourage them to take part in combating the rapid proliferation of drug abuse especially among the youth. Series of lectures regarding the R.A. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and Memorandum Circulars on Barangay Drug Clearing Operations were the focus of the discussion. The event also paved the way for the creation of a new alliance in the province – Rizal Alliance on the Campaign Against Illegal Drugs (RACAID) - strongly advocating the fight against the drug menace. This union is a good manifestation of a collective desire of the various government agencies involved for a drug-free Rizal.

Included in the alliance are the Provincial Government of Rizal, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Provincial DILG, Rizal Provincial Police Office, Rizal Anti-Drug Office and the Rizal Anti-Drug Enforcement and Operations Task Force. “The creation of RACAID and the various anti-drug seminars conducted are clear indications that the Provincial Government of Rizal is serious in getting rid of the drugs problem. We mean business to have Rizal province drug-free!” remarked Governor Ynares.

Rizal Anti-Drug Abuse Office (RADAO) conducting various seminars in different schools in the province.


G ood governance is not just about making the “correct” decisions, it is about the process of making and implementing the best possible decisions that will have positive effects to the

community as a whole. These are the kind of decisions that the Chief Executive Officer of the Municipality of General Trias had been and still is making since he assumed the position last July 1, 2013. His vision of a “One and Only General Trias” was launched with a focus on three primary advocacies: DISIPLINA (Discipline), WASTONG SERBISYO (Quality Service) and PAG-ASENSO (Progress) – the blue print for the continuous advancement and development of the municipality as a booming agro-industrial community. Most Competitive Municipality The continuous advancement of General Trias was recognized by the National Competitiveness Council in the last three years, citing the Municipality of General Trias as the 5th Most Competitive Municipality in the Philippines in 2013, the 2nd Most Competitive Municipality in the 2014 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI), and the Overall Most Competitive Municipality for 2015. The CMCI measures the competitiveness of the local government using 28 indicators grouped into three equally-weighted pillars: Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, and Infrastructure. The advancement in ranking of the municipality from 5th to Overall in just a span of three years speaks of a local government that is responsive to the needs of its constituents and one that creates an economy that can sustain growth and development through the years. Several programs of the local government contributed to this sustained progress.

Wastong Serbisyo The full-implementation of the Biometrics System since 2014 for attendance monitoring of all municipal employees promoted discipline and accountability among the public servants and officials. It guaranteed availability, quality, and speed of service in all the different departments of the municipal government. With a “No Lunch Break Policy,” the local government services became more accessible to the public. Similarly, the NBI Clearance on Wheels as well as the Mobile Passport Service enables the public to obtain important documents with speed and little expense since they can process their transaction within the municipality. The same principle underlies the Public Service Caravan which began in 2015 and benefited thousands of Gentriseños. Its goal is to provide medical and legal services, as well as offer job opportunities to citizens living in the far-flung areas of the municipality Continuous dialogue between the local government and its constituents is still in place through the Serbisyo 24/7 Program. It’s a 24 hours, 7 days a week unlimited call and text service that has been instrumental for the LGU in sending text broadcasts of public service announcements, receiving other concerns from the residents, and returning public service feedback. The Business One-Stop-Shop (BOSS) still opens its doors annually to serve small and big business owners. It is a systemic and the fastest way of processing business permits and licenses, for both new applications and renewals, usually carried out every January. Business registration in the municipality significantly increases every year which shows trust and confidence in the current administration by entrepreneurs. The Aid for Individuals in Conflicting Situations

by Local Government of General Trias


reaches out to individuals who need financial assistance in purchasing medicines, settling hospital expenses, paying burial and internment fees, and other similar needs. Likewise, “Agarang Aksyon” is the LGU’s response to the needs of its constituents especially in the aftermath of natural disasters such as typhoons and heavy rains. Relief operations are immediately dispatched to the affected communities providing them with food, water, and clothing. Pag-Asenso Local revenues has been consistently growing as collections increased from of P764M in 2013, to P847M in 2014. Apart from encouraging macro, medium, and small scale enterprises, the LGU also supports the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in generating employment opportunities locally and overseas by organizing periodic Job Fairs on different areas of the municipality. On the other hand, Practical Skills Development (PSD) Training and other livelihood seminars are also offered by General Trias LGU through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development, which maximizes the skills and potential of individuals to have their own means of livelihood. These trainings include Massage Therapy, Bread & Pastries Production, Food & Beverage Servicing, Consumer Electronics Servicing, and Integrated Food Processing to name a few. With this, the Municipality of General Trias was chosen as one of the four areas for the JobStart Philippines pilot program, a partnership program of the DOLE, Asian Development Bank, and the Canadian International Development Agency which aims to increase the employability of the youth by providing them access to technical and life skills training demanded by employers and by mentoring and tooling them to improve their job searches and outcomes. In terms of Infrastructure, the opening the Governor’s

Drive-Governor’s Hills Diversion Road served as an alternative road for vehicles going to Brgy. Biclatan, Javalera, Panungyanan and Alingaro, as well as the towns of Amadeo, Silang, and Tagaytay, which greatly decongested the traffic at Manggahan junction. Similarly, the immediate repair and reconstruction of the collapsed breakwater and half of the road in Barangay Bacao was welcomed the by the commuters as it is a major thoroughfare for them. Other infrastructure projects include the building of overpass across the national road leading to the University of the Philippines – Cavite Campus, 2-storey, 6 classrooms in several public schools, and covered courts in some barangays. The Municipality of General Trias continues to thrive as a competitive municipality because of the concerted efforts of the incumbent Local Chief Executive, Mayor Antonio A. Ferrer, Vice Mayor Maurito Sison, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and chairmen of the 33 barangays, who together, placed the municipality onto the right track towards progress. Combined with the overwhelming support of the stakeholders of the community, General Trias has become a leading municipality in terms of economic growth, infrastructure development, agro-industrial balance, financial stability and sustainable productive expansion.

General Trias, Most Competitive Municipality in the Philippines* • Overall Most Competitive

Municipality (2015) • 2nd Most Competitive

Municipality (2014) • 5th Most Competitive

Municipality (2013)

*Award was given by the National Competitiveness Council


by Taytay Municipal Information Office

The Local Government of Taytay was awarded the Oustanding Local Governance Programs at the Galing Pook Awards 2015 for their “Tiangge” or Local Garments Institutionalization. The award was received by Mayor Janet De Leon-Mercado, Vice Mayor Carlito Gonzaga, Sangguniang Bayan Members and other Department Heads during the ceremony held on September 1, 2015 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. Out of 153 LGUs who vied for the award, 10 were chosen. The top 10 LGUs were chosen based on the following criteria: positive results and impact (30 %), promotion of people’s participation and empowerment (30%), innovation (15%), transferability and sustainability (15%), and efficiency of program service delivery (10%). Taytay is considered as the Garments and Woodworks Capital

of the Philippines because of their numerous garments and woodworks establishments. These establishments are mostly informal small family owned businesses. To address the issue on low business registration, the various councils, such as the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council, the Tourism Council and the Local Finance Council were convened to explore the possibility of formalizing the small garments industry to improve the local economy. The LGU developed two strategies:1) institutionalization of the local garments market by making Taytay business-friendly; and 2) encouraging the participation of civil society organizations and non-government origanizations. The LGU also gathered inputs from local business organizations and cooperatives such as the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Taytay, Taytay Sash Contractors

Cooperative, Baclaran Garments Producers, Inc., and Freedom Bazaar sellers. Apart from reforms in business licensing, the LGU granted incentives to encourage informal establishments to be registered. Among the incentives to small businesses include exemptions from the business tax and minimum wage requirements. The small businesses were also bestowed priority status in obtaining business loans from government banks. Free training assistance and market linkages were also provided through partnerships with various government agencies. The municipality reaped a tenfold increase of small business registrants; from only 400 in 2011 to 4,000 by 2015. The collection from special permits also increased from only P 1,455 in 2011 to P 409,440 in 2015.

Taytay receives Galing Pook Award for institutionalizing local garments industry

"Kayo po ang nagpupuno sa pagmamahal na hindi na naibibigay ng aming mga sariling pamilya," said Lola Amy, one of elder-residents in the Sinag Kalinga Foundation. As part of the celebration of the Month of the Elderly, NEDA Region IV-A visited Sinag Kalinga Foundation, an elderly facility located in Barangay Ayuti, Lucban, Quezon on October 9, 2015. In a short program, the NEDA staff entertained the elderly residents with skit, songs and dance presentations and gave special gifts. The activity, called Harana para kina Lolo at Lola, was participated by representatives from DILG Region IV-A and DOT Region IV-A who also handed presents to the lolos and lolas, while DOH donated medicine and supplies. Ms. Hyacinth Oblea, Private Sector Representative of the Calabarzon Regional Development Council and

founder of Sinag Kalinga Foundation, said they were grateful to be visited by the government offices who shared their blessings to the elders. "We are happy to have people like you who continuously help us," she said. Sinag Kalinga Foundation started in 1995 through the efforts of Ms.Oblea to address the needs of the neglected elderly. The services of the foundation are for free. Most of the operational needs of the facility are provided by people and organizations in the surrounding communities. Caregivers, dieticians and even doctors serve the facility as volunteers. Mr. Donald James D. Gawe representing Dir. Luis Banua of Neda Region IV-A said that the agency was honored to be part of such activity of sharing joy and blessings with the elderly, even for a short while. "We hope we can be with you again next year,” he ended.

NEDA Region IV-A celebrates Month of the Elderly with Sinag Kalinga Foundation by Rolan B. Aldovino, NEDA Region IV-A


Regional Economic Situationer July - September 2015 by Policy Formulation and Planning Division, NEDA Region IV-A

The Third Quarter of 2015 showed relatively better performance compared to the previous quarter and the same period last year. The inflation rate and consumer price index are improving while corn, coconut, cattle, hog, chicken and municipal and aquaculture fisheries production are on the upward trend.

• The average inflation rate showed a 1.4 percentage point decrease from 1.2 percent in the second quarter to -0.2 percent in the current period.

• Calabarzon’s average consumer price index (CPI) in

the third quarter of 2015 reflected a decrease of 0.3 both on a quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year basis. While all commodities registered an increase in CPI based on year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter comparisons, the substantial decrease in housing, water, electricity, gas and transport may have induced the overall CPI decrease.

• The average purchasing power of peso (PPP) in the

region was retained at P0.72, both on a year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter basis.

• Across provinces, Batangas and Cavite registered

positive inflation rate at 0.2 percent and 0.7 percent, respectively. On the other hand, Laguna, Rizal and Quezon recorded negative inflation rates, with Quezon having the lowest inflation rate at -1.3.

• Accordingly, Quezon recorded the highest decrease in

average consumer price index from 149.9 in the second quarter to 149.3 in the third quarter. This is attributable to the decrease in CPI of food and non-alcoholic beverages, housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels and transport.

• Cavite and Rizal displayed a 0.4 CPI decrease as the

CPI of housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels and transport fell. Likewise, Laguna experienced a CPI decrease of 0.3 percent. Meanwhile, the CPI of Batangas increased.

Prices and Inflation


Labor and Employment

• Calabarzon’s corn, coconut, cattle, hog, chicken, and municipal and aquaculture fisheries production significantly improved during the third quarter of this year. However, declines in rice, corn, carabao, goat, and commercial and municipal fisheries production were posted compared to the same period in 2014.

• During the third quarter, the region produced less than

1,062 metric tons (MT) of rice, 2.78 percent lower than the previous year. The decrease is due to cutbacks in harvest area by 15.51 and 30.16percent for irrigated and rainfed rice, respectively. It may also be attributed to the hot weather condition, low irrigation level and insufficient rain water. Significant decline was noted in Quezon Province at 82.04 percent.

• Corn posted more than half (61.21 percent) growth this

quarter compared to the previous quarter due to the

increase in white corn production in Cavite and Laguna. However, this is lower by 33.70 percent or about 6,321 MT than the previous year’s performance as areas planted with yellow corn significantly decreased by as much as 6.66 percent.

• Coconut production doubled from the second to third

Agriculture and Fishery

• Retrenchments and shutdowns of establishments still affected employment in the region during Q3 2015 as the number of retrenchments in the region increased to 387 from 352 recorded in the previous quarter. However, the number of affected employees decreased by 23.17 percent, from 13,146 in the previous quarter to 10,100 in the current period. More than 67 percent of retrenched establishments in the region are located in Cavite. This affected 5,720 employees in the province or almost 57 percent of the total number of affected employees in the region. Year-on-year, the number of retrenchments for the third quarter is far higher compared to the six cases recorded in the same period last year. The most common economic reasons on retrenchment given by employers for termination of workers are the following: redundancy of workers (39 percent), lack of market or slump in demand (17 percent), and reorganization or downsizing (17 percent).

• There were also 43 cases of shutdown establishments

recorded during the third quarter of 2015, which affected 1,345 employees in the region. These figures are higher than the 39 cases of shutdowns and 1,129 affected employees noted in the previous quarter. The current number of employees affected by shutdown is

much higher than the 225 employees recorded in the same period last year. Laguna has the most cases of shutdowns at 18, accounting for about 42 percent of the total number of shutdowns in the region. This affected 1,114 employees or about 83 percent of the total number of affected employees in the region. The most common economic reasons given by employers for termination of workers include financial loss (51 percent), lack of market or slump in demand (23 percent), and reorganization or downsizing (16 percent).


• Tourist arrivals in Batangas, Cavite and Rizal decreased by 52 percent compared with the 3rd quarter of 2014. Among the three provinces, Rizal registered the highest number of tourist arrivals at 367,603 while Batangas recorded the highest number of overnight tourists at 61,503, accounting for 80 percent of the total overnight tourists.

• Almost all or 96 percent of the tourists are domestic.

Most of the foreign tourists coming from European countries enjoy diving activities in Nasugbu, Mabini and Pico de Loro in Batangas while the golf courses in Cavite and Batangas are frequently visited by Koreans.

• The hot spring resorts in Laguna, tourist destinations in

Tagaytay City, the Kamay ni Hesus in Quezon, Regina Rica in Tanay, Rizal, Antipolo Church and various churches remain the top destinations in the region. The region has a lot more to offer, the pristine white sand in Cagbalete and organic farm experience in Costales Farm, in the provinces of Quezon, Cavite and Laguna.

• Tourism data collection for the region especially for

day tourists remains a challenge. Irregular submission of tourism data by the tourism offices and establishments, and tourism attraction facilities is still a problem.

Tourism

quarter this year and posted a year-on-year growth of 0.64 percent or 3,2780 MT. The increase in coconut production was due to the recovery of coconut trees from scale insect infestation. Decline in production of pineapple may be attributed to the seasonal cropping system.

• On a year-on-year basis, chicken, cattle, and hog

production increased to 18.65, 4.8 and 4.4percent, respectively. Improvement in cattle production was driven by the sustained demand and high commanding price of beef and its by-products while increase in demand for chicken and hog was observed during the period. Meanwhile, carabao and goat production declined. The year-on-year performance showed that goat production posted a decline of 2.91 percent (about 14 MT) while carabao production decreased to 0.65 percent or 31 MT.

• Fisheries sub-sector likewise performed well during

the third quarter with a production increase of 9.16 percent. Municipal and aquaculture fishing posted significant increases in production by 52.88 percent and 5.62 percent, respectively. Limited fishing operations resulted to a decrease of 39.60 percent in commercial fishing. On a year-on-year basis, municipal and commercial fishing production declined while aquaculture production posted a growth in volume by 1,483 MT.


• The crime situation in the region during the third quarter of this year has slightly increased by 1.14 percentage compared to the second. The increase is mainly attributed to non-index crime rate which was recorded at 20.49 percent during the third quarter.

• Following the directives from the higher office to

consider the traffic incidents as non-index crime, PNP Region IV-A has adjusted the crime statistics of 2015. Due to this changes the crime statistics of this year is not comparable to the crime statistics released in the newsletter of the previous year.

• On the other hand, the index crime rate post a

decreasing trend throughout the year as it was recorded at 9.71, 9.22 and 8.94 percent during the 1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter, respectively. This may still be attributed to the continuous implementation of Oplan Lambat-Sibat which intensified the police visibility and operation in the region. (See article on PNP Region IV-A delivers efficient and excellent public service for details).

• Crime solution rate was recorded at 54.43 percent

during the second quarter and 46.44 percent on the third quarter. This may increase whenever a crime filed under the respective quarter was solved.

Peace and Security

• The effect of the coming Christmas season will increase spending starting fourth quarter of the year and remittances of oversees Filipinos are expected to rise. Hence, the production and consumption in the region is expected to rise in the next quarter in

anticipation of the holiday season. With the PNP’s initiatives and visibility, the region is expected to have lower crime rate for the next quarters adding to the attractiveness of the region as tourist and investment destination.

Development Prospects

Figure 4: Crime Indeces Calabarzon Region: Q3 and Q2 2015


RPMC Bulletin

The Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) secretariat has reviewed and consolidated various progress monitoring reports of projects implemented in the region by the national government agencies. The projects include but not limited to road projects under the DOT-DPWH Convergence Program, Bottom-Up Budgeting, Accelerated and Sustainable Anti-Poverty Program, Strengthening, Upscaling and Mainstreaming International Migration and Development (SUMMID) in Calabarzon Project, Public-Private Partnership for School Infrastructure (PSIP) Project, Calabarzon Regional Government Center (RGC), among others.

The RPMC conducted its fourth quarter meeting on 16

November 2015. The major agenda items that were discussed include updates on the implementation status of the following projects and activities: a) Bottom-Up Budgeting; b) SUMMID Calabarzon; c) RPMES Orientation Seminar; d) PSIP project; e) DOT-DPWH Convergence Program; and f) RGC.

The Committee likewise endorsed the following: a) Geotagging of Projects; b) Calabarzon Project Monitoring System webpage ; c) RPMC Work and Field Monitoring Plan 2016; and d) Post-Evaluation Report of KR2 Projects. The committee likewise adopted the Fourth Quarter Field Monitoring Report.

4th Quarter CY 2015 RPMES Accomplishment Report

The Regional Project Monitoring Committee conducted monitoring visits of Accelerated and Sustainable Anti-Poverty (ASAP) Project of the Department of Education (DepEd) in Quezon province on November 5 and 6. The field visit was conducted in three municipalities namely: Atimonan, Plaridel and Gumaca, Quezon. The RPMC was composed of representatives from NEDA, DBM, DILG together with PPDC Quezon and DepEd Division of Quezon. The school projects were either for repair/rehabilitation and construction in preparation for the K to 12 implementation in 2016. The RPMC visited the following DepEd school projects in Quezon province namely: 1) Atimonan National High School; 2) Sta. Catalina Elementary School 3) Ponon Elementary School; 4) Malusak National High

School; 5) Gumaca West Central School; 6) Villa Perez Elementary School; 7) Panikihin National High School and; 8) Camohaguin Elementary School.

Issues/concerns identified on ASAP field monitoring were: 1) construction/rehabilitation delays due to bad weather ; 2) school officials were not furnished with the program of work; 3) incomplete data on project billboards; and 4) logistics and mobilization issues, among others. The RPMC recommended that the contractor shall present revised timetables for the school officials to speed-up implementation, provide complete information on each project billboards and provide Program of Work for the schools’ officials prior commencement of the repair/construction.

RPMC visits Accelerated and Sustainable Anti-Poverty Projects of DepEd in Quezon Province

by Richard P. Engasa, NEDA Region IV-A

Panikihin National High School Gumaca West Central School


RPMC Bulletin

The DOT and DPWH, with the participation of the RPMC conducted field monitoring visit of the Agoncillo and San Nicolas road sections of the Taal Lake Circumferential Road in Batangas Province on November 6, 2015.The road sections are tourism road projects under the DOT-DPWH Convergence Program. The 7.46 km road section in Agoncillo was already completed and turned over to the local government on November 6. The turnover ceremony was led by DOT Region IV-A Dir. Rebecca Labit, Cong. Sonny Collantes and Mayor Daniel Perez. RPMC Chairperson

RPMC joins DOT and DPWH in the turnover and site inspection of Taal Lake Circumferential Road projects by Luningning D. Llames, NEDA Region IV-A

Ongoing construction of the diversion dam (65.37% completed).

Camohaguin Elementary School Atimonan National High School

Malusak National High School

Plaza Rizal Elementary School Amontay National High School

Turnover ceremony of the 7.46 km road section in Agoncillo was led by DOT Region IV-A Dir. Rebecca Labit, Cong. Sonny Collantes and Mayor Daniel Perez. RPMC Chairperson Luis Banua, PSR Ladislao Andal and Engr. Melquides Sto. Domingo, DPWH Region IV-A witnessed the event.


RPMC Bulletin Luis Banua, PSR Ladislao Andal and Engr. Melquides Sto. Domingo, DPWH Region IV-A witnessed the event. The RPMC observed that drainage canals need to be constructed especially in Barangay Bilibinwang, Agoncillo to prevent runoff from a nearby hill which could obstruct the road. On the other hand, construction work is ongoing to open the 3.5 km road section in the municipality of San Nicolas. About 1.5 km of road has been opened. The RPMC noted that a 3-meter embankment is included in the construction design that could adversely affect the lake environment. Privately-owned building structures were observed within the road alignment. The RPMC

recommended to review the road design particularly the height of embankment in low lying areas only, new alignment to avoid existing structures, and establishment of government service area adjacent to the new road.

A total of 200 local planners and DILG operations officers from the 71 local government units and three provinces namely Batangas, Cavite and Laguna were given a one-day orientation seminar on Regional Project Monitoring and Evaluation System (RPMES). The series of seminar was conducted on October 29 for Batangas Province, November 17 for Cavite Province and November 19 for Laguna Province. The same seminar will be conducted for Quezon Province on December 2 and Rizal Province on December 4. The orientation seminar is a joint undertaking of the Regional Development Council through the Regional Project Monitoring Committee and the Calabarzon provinces. The seminar aims to enhance the awareness of LGU officials on the RPMES and the importance of local project monitoring committees (LPMCs). The seminar also provided the venue to promote the online Calabarzon Project Monitoring System, a priority

initiative of the RPMC. The Regional Project Monitoring Committee members and the technical secretariat acted as resource persons. Chairperson Luis Banua, and RPMC members PSR Ladislao Andal, PSR Edgardo Nicolas and PSR Teresita Leabres, and Mr. Robinson Maac, DILG representative participated in the event. The provincial administrators of the three provinces actively supported the activity. The main highlight of the seminar is the validation of an action plan to activate the LPMCs at the provincial, city and municipal levels. By 2016, the LGUs are expected to organize their LPMCs and operationalize the RPMES. The RDC-RPMC will recognize and award those LPMCs with outstanding performance. This is in line with the strengthening of monitoring and evaluation of programs and projects in the region.

Local Planners and DILG Operations Officers trained on project M&E by Josephine D. Hapil, NEDA Region IV-A

Participants of Cavite Province during the orientation seminar on Regional Project Monitoring and Evaluation System held on November 17 at the Provincial Capitol, Trece Martires City, Cavite . (Photo: Farhad E. Ali Asgari, NEDA Region IV-A)


by Ray Michael Kevin H. Abuso, NEDA Region IV-A

Documents

4th Quarter 2015 RDC Newsletter