During its 169th regular meeting conducted via Google Meet on 18 June 2020, Regional Development Council (RDC) IX passed a resolution creating a Special Committee on “Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa” (BP2) Program.

The BP2 Program aims to decongest the National Capital Region and direct growth to key centers throughout the country. The same is adopted as a continuing strategy to drive inclusive and balanced urban and rural development, ensure rural prosperity and complement initiatives towards attaining resilient and sustainable communities. The key areas of the program are: (1) Empowerment of Local Industries; (2) Food Security and Agricultural Productivity; (3) Social Welfare, Health and Employment; and (4) Development of Infrastructure.

The Special Committee, which shall be chaired by the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security, is tasked to: (1) coordinate BP2 activities in the region and act on matters needing immediate attention; and (2) advise the RDC on resolutions that need to be formulated to ensure the effective and efficient implementation of the Regional BP2 Action Plan. The Regional Director of NEDA Regional Office shall serve as the Vice-Chairperson of the Committee.

The said meeting of the Council was presided by Hon. Victor J. Yu, RDC IX Chairperson and Governor of Zamboanga del Sur. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the need to adapt to the “new and better normal.” He also encouraged the members to stay resilient and steadfast in the work of sustaining the gains in the fight against COVID-19. Continued efforts should also be undertaken toward balancing health and the socio-economic development growth of the region.

A total of 28 government agencies/units and 11 private sector representatives were present/represented during the meeting. The Council passed 23 resolutions. Among these were the approval, endorsement and support to the following:

a. Creation of the Special Committee on BP2 Program;b. Feasibility Study of Zamboanga City East Diversion Road;c. DICT IX Connectivity Infrastructure Plan in Zamboanga Peninsula;d. Learning Continuity Plan of DepEd IX; and e. Road Safety Program of Land Transportation Office IX.

The 170th regular meeting of the Council is tentatively scheduled on 03 September 2020 via videoconference. (Ric Luke B. Garcia, NEDA IX)

RDC IX Creates Special Committee on “Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa” Program

Gov. Victor J. Yu, Chairperson of RDC IX presiding over the meeting. To his left is OIC-RD Phlorita A. Ridao of NEDA IX, Vice-Chairperson of RDC IX.

EDITORIAL STAFF

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFPhlorita A. Ridao, OIC-RD

ASSOCIATE EDITORSSusan C. Valerio, OIC-ARDRenato C. Herrara, CEDS, PDIPBDEleanor M. Reyes, CEDS, DRDLeticia O. Lobren, OIC, PMEDRodrigo A. Manuel, OIC, PFPDRonald Von D. Rivera, CAO FAD

PUBLICATION COORDINATORSArthur N. de GuzmanGraebert S. Echin

DESIGN AND LAYOUTLloyd E. Duhaylungsod

CONTRIBUTORSRic Luke B. Garcia, NEDA IXGaryl Jay N. Pepito, NEDA IXI. Cabeguin, DA IXCCRResente, DOST IXBon Padayhag, DOST IXCarolina Priscilla Elan P. Ebillo, DA IXEdward S. Non, DA IXMarnette Luzon, DA IXJKCabral, DOST IXHannah Segovia, DOT IXDICT IXJRMSU

INFO

The RDC Communicator is published quarterly by the Regional Development Council (RDC) IX. The Editorial Board reserves the right to choose the articles to be published due to space limitation. Articles and pictures will become property of RDC IX. Comments and suggestions are welcome.

Contact:The Editorial Board: NEDA Regional Office IXPresident Corazon C. Aquino Regional Government Center Balintawak, Pagadian City 7016Telephone Nos: (062) 913-0164, 0165, 0168Fax No: (062) 945-0049Email Address: ord@nro9.neda.gov.ph, nedazampen@gmail.comURL: http://nro9.neda.gov.ph

RDC IX and RDRRMC IX approve the ZamPen’s Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan

The Zamboanga Peninsula Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan (RRP) was approved during the Joint Meeting of Regional Development Council (RDC) IX and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) IX on May 13, 2020 through Google Meet.

The RRP aims to: (a) assess the short and long-term impacts of Corona Virus Disease pandemic in the region; (b) recommend mitigating measures/remedial actions in the short and long-term; (c) recommend policies, measures and funding sources; and (d) propose implementation mechanisms and coordination arrangements. The long-term goal of the RRP is to have a safer, adaptive and resilient Zamboanga Peninsula that is protected from the risks brought about by COVID-19 and can cope and recover quickly from the negative impacts of the pandemic.

The RRP also contains a list of programs, projects and activities proposed to be implemented by the various regional line agencies in 2020-2022 in support of the rehabilitation and recovery efforts of the region. It is estimated that about PHP70.20 Billion is needed to finance the projects proposed for 2020, broken down by sector as follows: (a) economic sector, PHP814 Million; (b) social sector, PHP25.56 Billion; (c) infrastructure sector, PHP44.64 Billion; and (d) development administration sector, 94.13 Billion.

The meeting was co-presided by Hon. Victor J. Yu, Chairperson of RDC IX and Governor of Zamboanga del Sur, and Dir. Manuel Luis M. Ochotorena, Chairperson of RDRRMC IX and Regional Director of the Office of Civil Defense IX.

In their opening remarks, Gov. Yu and Dir. Ochotorena stressed the importance of adhering to relevant guidelines issued by concerned authorities pertaining to the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 in the region and the citizen’s adaption to the “new normal.”

Dr. Joshua Brillantes, Assistant Regional Director of Department of Health IX, presented the COVID-19 Situationer in Zamboanga Peninsula during the meeting. The Chairpersons of the RDC IX Sectoral Committees (SecComs) presented the sectoral components of the RRP and other matters that emanated from their respective special meetings on May 11-12, 2020. The SecCom Chairpersons were Mr. Nestor R. Carbonera of the Regional Social Development Committee IX, Mr. Pedro Rufo N. Soliven of the Economic Development Committee IX, Atty. Carl Andrew M. Rubio of the Infrastructure Development Committee IX, and Msgr. Enrico V. Montano of the Development Administration Committee IX.

Dir. Martin Wee of DOST IX presented the Feasibility Analysis of Syndromic Surveillance using a Spatio-Temporal Epidemiological Modeler for Early Detection of Diseases or FASSSTER and TANOD COVID.

Among the resolutions passed during the said meeting were: (a) Approving the Zamboanga Peninsula COVID-19 Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan; (b) Adopting the Balik Probinsya Program as one of the Strategies in the Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan; (c) Recommending to LGUs the use of FASSSTER and TANOD COVID as Tools in Managing the Spread of COVID-19; and (d) Approving the Zamboanga Peninsula Repatriation Implementation Guidelines.

In attendance were the representatives of 5 local government units, regional directors/heads and representatives of 38 regional line agencies and government owned and controlled corporations, 9 Private Sector Representatives of RDC IX, and 6 special non-voting members of RDC IX. (Ric Luke B. Garcia, NEDA IX).

Gov. Victor J. Yu, Chairperson of RDC IX presiding over the meeting. To his left is OIC-RD Phlorita A. Ridao of NEDA IX, Vice-Chairperson of RDC IX.

Governor Victor Yu, Chairperson of RDC IX, and Dir. Manuel Luis Ochotorena, Chariperson of RDRRMC IX, co-presiding the meeting

April - June 3

The Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office 9 joined all DA offices in the country in celebrating its 122nd Anniversary on June 23, 2020 with the theme “Agrikultura ang Pag-asa sa Kabila ng Pandemya.”

DA 9 highlights every occasion with giving recognition to DA employees who have served valuable years in government service. The Service and Loyalty Awards, as a mandate of the Civil Service Commission, encourage creativity, innovativeness, efficiency, integrity and productivity in public service.

This year, ten employees served for 15 years, two for 25 years, five for 30 years, three for 35 years, and five for 40 years. All presented with a service plaque, cash award, gold ring, and gold necklace, respectively. Sixteen employees will also be retiring this year.

In a short program held at the DA RFO 9 Covered Court in Pagadian City, Regional Executive Director Rad Donn L. Cedeño reminded how every employee was important in the department. “Be proud to be a part of the Department of Agriculture. Our department continues to deliver services to our farmers, fisherfolk, stakeholders and consumers amid the COVID19 crisis.” he said.

“When everyone stays at home, we are releasing food passes and farm worker passes for the free movement and production

DA9 celebrates 122nd anniversaryof food. We are holding Kadiwa on Wheels, Kadiwa online and Kadiwa gawa sa Pamahalaan. Indeed, our farmers and fishers are worthy frontliners who provide food stability, availability, and affordability for our people.” added RED Cedeño.

The weeklong celebration from June 22-26, 2020 featured the simultaneous bloodletting activities, in coordination with the Philippine Red Cross Chapters, where a total of 79 bags of blood were collected from qualified donors: 23 bags from Zamboanga City, 27 from Pagadian City, and 29 from Ipil.. As part of the celebration, RED Cedeño, together with the Regional Technical Directors Maria Melba B. Wee and Ferdinand D. Gamorot, led the inauguration of the newly renovated regional satellite office at Gen. Vicente Alvarez Street, Zamboanga City.

Also featured was the simultaneous tree planting activity in Ipil and Zamboanga City in observance of the #SOILCONSERVATIONMONTH2020 this June and #ARBOYDAY2020 on June 25. One hundred aromatic coconut palms, 20 ornamental bamboos and 38 assorted fruit trees seedlings were planted in Sanito, Ipil and Pamucutan, Zamboanga City by the DA employees of the Research Division and Regional Soils Laboratory. (Inelin R. Cabeguin/DA9-PR)

A grant worth ₱846,165.05 was handed to the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) of Zamboanga del Sur to strengthen its cacao and coffee industries covering 15 municipalities of the province.

Funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through its local Grants-In-Aid (GIA), the project entitled, “Support to Science and Technology Community-Based Farm on Enhanced Cacao and Coffee Production in District II, Zamboanga del Sur”, aims to enhance the yield of cacao and coffee through the application of scientific farming methods, the acquisition of supplies, materials, and equipment intended to aid soil fertility, and promote efficient growth of products.

Aside from enhancing the production quantity and quality, the project also anticipates to contribute to the improvement of the local economy, and availability of employment opportunities for the municipalities’ residents.

One (1) demo farm for each commodity has been assigned by the PLGU to pilot and carry out applications acquired through the grant. The initiative is expected to generate actionable findings by 2022. (CCRResente, DOST IX)

Region IX cacao and coffee industries get 800k S&T boost

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) allocated a total of ₱17,845,000.00 to assist the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Zamboanga del Sur in 2020.

The funding is intended to improve the technological capabilities of firms through the DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

During the S&T forum in the area, 12 business firms from various sectors were introduced to SETUP and were briefed on the various requirements needed to avail of the program.

SETUP is a nationwide strategy that encourages and assists SMEs through technology transfer and scientific approaches to improve operations and boost productivity and competitiveness. (CCRResente, DOST IX Press Release)

DOST allocates 17.8 M assistance to Zamboanga del

Sur MSMEs

4 The RDC Communicator

Around 6,000 newly-designed face shields for the use of hospitals and frontline facilities throughout Region IX are produced and distributed for free by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in partnership with its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) beneficiary, Zinex Zign Express.

The BLAZED face shields (Beneficial Life Apparatus by Zinex Express and DOST) allow users to quickly replace used shields through a practical locking mechanism, and can easily be adjusted based on the user’s preference. The new design is also cheaper and faster to produce, and yields more face shields (150 pieces) per acrylic sheet.

A total of 1,140 face shields have since been produced, with 435 already released: 300 to the Zamboanga City Medical Center, 50 to Hospital de Zamboanga, 35 to PhilHealth Regional Office IX, and 50 to the recently accredited COVID-19 testing center of the Department of Agriculture.

In Zamboanga City, the following have been slated to receive the new face shields:

• AdZU-Lantaka Campus Isolation Facility • Camp Navarro General Hospital • Mindanao Central Sanitarium and General Hospital • Zamboanga Puericulture Maternity and Lying-in • PhilHealth Zamboanga City Field Office• Universidad de Zamboanga Medical Center • Zamboanga Peninsula Medical Center

DOST leads production and distribution of 6 thousand new face shields in Region IX

• Cuidad Medical Zamboanga • Zamboanga Doctors Hospital • Brent Hospital and Colleges, Inc. • West Metro Medical Center • Labuan (Satellite Hospital)• Quiniput (Satellite Hospital)

One thousand three hundred (1,300) pieces of the new face shields are also set to be delivered: 300 to the province of Zamboanga Sibugay, 300 to Zamboanga del Sur, 200 to Pagadian City, 300 to Zamboanga del Norte, 100 to Dipolog City, and 100 to Dapitan City.

The undertaking is part of the Regional Office IX DOST SAVES Program (Devising Operational Strategies and Tools to Safeguard Against the Virulent Epidemic Situation), which focuses on developing pragmatic solutions to COVID-19 efforts.

Throughout its involvement, Zinex has shouldered the repair and maintenance of their equipment, utilities, operational and miscellaneous expenses, as well as the salaries of their workforce.

The firm has also produced 1,100 washable face masks which were distributed to front-liners, and with the Tzu Chi Foundation, 35 protective enclosures called “aerosol boxes” used by doctors in treating patients with COVID-19. (Bon Padayhag, DOST IX)

(Left) ZCMC Staff and DOST-IX with the new face shields (left), while Dr. Saude Imlan goes on social media with the new design; (Right) Nurse Rasheed Dantes giving the new design a thumbs-up (left), while Philhealth CARES Team Leader Ms. Happy Mojica (right) receiving a batch of face shields from DOST-IX.

Zinex Zign Express putting together the BLAZED face shields.

April - June 5

DOST prepares 1,300 face shields for hospitals in ZamPen provinces

DOST staff checking boxes of face shields for distribution

Four corn farmers in the Province of Zamboanga del Sur received their Philippine Good Agricultural Practice (PhilGAP) certificates on July 7, 2020.

The Manuel D. Amaya Farm located in the municipality of San Miguel, the Melania Farm in Molave, and Lando & Lelits Farm and Tessie & Bobby’s Farm in Mahayag received their PhilGAP Certification for White Corn at the DA regional office in Lenienza, Pagadian City.

Dr. Darwin Lloyd Sulay, alternate FOD focal person said that Zamboanga Peninsula needs more ‘certified’ quality corn growers. “We are glad to say that Region IX now has four GAP certified corn growers. This means there will be more opportunities in the supply of quality corn in our markets. We will be more competitive in terms of corn,” he said.

As mandated by RA 10611 or Food Safety Act of 2013, PhilGAP ensures food safety and product quality, while strictly observing environmental protection and workers’ health, safety and welfare. It also facilitates access of Philippine agricultural crops to neighboring ASEAN and foreign markets.

Orlando Rafol, manager of Lando and Lelit’s Farm, said that he was able to learn about GAP when the Municipal Agriculturist

of Mahayag encouraged him to apply for the certification program. “Before we applied for the certification, we have undergone GAP training. There, I realized that some of my previous management practices were not beneficial to my farm, my products and to my customers. We immediately put to practice what we learned and it led us to beneficial results.”

“Because we now have PhilGAP certification, I can truly say that my corn products have an edge over other corns. We produce quality corns in our farms, and we strictly follow the national environmental, health and farm standards from production to harvesting,” he added.

PhilGAP certified farms are also priority beneficiaries for government assistance. I was highly encouraged to apply for the certification because of its other benefits. When your farm is certified, there are opportunities for assistance from DA and the government agencies.” mentioned Eufrocena Amaya, owner of the Manuel D. Amaya Farm.

DA9 continues to support and assist farmers applying for PhilGAP certication to ensure food safety, sustainability of good farm practices, and competitive edge in bigger markets locally and across regions. (Carolina Priscilla Elan P. Ebillo / DA9-PR)

Zambo Sur corn farmers receive PhilGap Certificates

6 The RDC Communicator

The Department of Science and Technology IX (DOST-IX) prepared 1,300 face shields for delivery to various hospitals in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

The Zamboanga Provincial hospital was allocated 150 face shields, 100 for the Wilfredo C. Palma Memorial Hospital, 50 for Alicia District hospital, and 10 for the Danao-Sale Hospital, or a total of 310 face shields for Zamboanga Sibugay.

Zamboanga del Sur Medical Center will receive 200 face shields, Margosatubig Regional Hospital will have 100, while the Pagadian City Medical Center is set to receive 100 pieces.

A total of 490 pieces will be sent to the province of Zamboanga del Norte, with 300 allocated to the Zamboanga Del Norte Medical Center, 95 to the Corazon C. Aquino Hospital in Dipolog City, and 95 to the Dr. Jose Rizal Memorial Medical Center in Dapitan City.

Designed by Zinex Zign Express, one of the agency’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) beneficiaries, the BLAZED (Beneficial Life Apparatus by Zinex Express and DOST) face shields allows users to quickly replace used shields through a practical locking mechanism, and can easily be adjusted based on the user’s preference. The new design is also cheaper and faster to produce, and yields more face shields (150 pieces) per acrylic sheet. Throughout its involvement, Zinex has shouldered the repair and maintenance or their equipment, utilities, operational and miscellaneous expenses, as well as the salaries of their workforce.

The undertaking is part of the Regional Office IX DOST

SAVES Program (Devising Operational Strategies and Tools to Safeguard Against the Virulent Epidemic Situation), which focuses on developing pragmatic solutions to be used in the COVID-19 efforts. (Bon Padayhag, DOST IX)

The Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) - Regional Veterinary Quarantine Services Region 9 (RVQS), in coordination with Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Zamboanga Port Police, confiscated 194 kilos of pork meat products on June 18, 2020.

On board a cargo shipping vessel, the meat products arrived at the Zamboanga City Port from Cebu City at around nine o’clock in the evening. The PPA port police conducted the initial inspection and as it turned out, the documents manifested 50 kilos of chorizo with no Certificate of Product Registration. All products were immediately turned over to the quarantine personnel as protocol in the confiscation of unregistered meat and meat products shipments.

“We have imposed the proper protocols in handling confiscated effects since the owner of the meat products was not able to show pertinent documents for the packages brought in. Our office, together with concerned agencies, enforce the burn and bury method as proper disposal of these products. We do not know if these products are clean and safe for consumption, and they do not have the proper permit to carry these products.” said Dr. Jose Leo P. Galicia, Regional Veterinary Quarantine Services Officer.

The confiscated items were burned and buried at a vacant lot inside the Maritime compound on June 22 as witnessed by DA RED Rad Donn Cedeño, and representatives from PPA,

Pork products seized at Zamboanga City port

DA, NMIS, and other agencies.

As a gesture of gratitude to the Port police for their continued support to the department’s strict implementation of entry regulations for pork meat, pork products, processed meat, and by-products and effects, RED Cedeño handed over a cash reward of ₱10,000.00 and a Certificate of Appreciation to PPSupt. Jezrel J. Gesulgon, Division Manager, Port Police Division, PPA-Zamboanga City on June 23.

“DA is very much grateful for the show of support by the PPA port police on this matter. To date, the confiscation of 194 kilos of meat products is the biggest in Zamboanga City. DA, BAI, FDA and partner agencies shall continue monitoring and coordinating with other agencies to keep a disease-free region. We will not permit entry of unregistered animals and products. Part of our campaign for the prevention of African Fever (ASF) is the massive public information dissemination and education on the strict guidelines against this disease to stop its entry or any possible contamination in our region.” said RED Cedeño.

Also present during the ceremony to stand as witnesses were Maria Melba B. Wee, Regional Technical Director for Policy, Planning, Research and Regulatory, Dr. Marie France Q. Jalao, DA9 Chief Regulatory Division, and Dr. Jose Leo P. Galicia, BAI Regional Quarantine Officer (Edward S. Non/DA9-PR)

Through DICT’s Free Wifi 4 All and government network programs, more than 300 sites, including public places, government agencies, COVID isolation centers, hospitals, DRRM offices, schools, and local government units in Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, and Tawi-tawi were able to utilize internet access for continued operations during community quarantine. Broadband technology emerged as a major necessity at a time when physical distancing and self-isolation became the new normal.

DICT’s flagship programs are the Free Wifi 4 All, which supplied internet access to public places nationwide, and Government Network, which interconnects government agencies to a data center that enable high speed broadband connection through fiber optic technology.

Secretary Gregorio B. Honasan emphasized the urgent need to connect the government to other government institutions, to businesses, and to citizens in a faster, cheaper, and more secure manner as he calls to align efforts towards a digital government.

“We need to shift our approach to a digital government, grounded in Information and Communications Technology, rooted in collaboration, and enabled by innovation. A Digital Government is envisioned to be a better government in how

DICT provides connectivity to 300+ sites in ZamPen, BaSulTa during COVID-19 crisis

we work, how we govern, and how we deliver public services. With this, your DICT launches the Philippine Government Network to ensure that government services are fast, efficient, and accessible to the Public,” ICT Secretary quipped during the launch of Zamboanga City Government Network program in June.

“DICT’s provision of a stable internet connectivity to Philippine Information Agency IX is a laudable contribution to the RIATF-COVID-19. PIA as Strategic Communications Technical Group chair has been capacitated to produce and disseminate information regionwide via Kapihan na Zamboanga, since March 23, 2020 up to the present. In this pandemic where media are unable to go out and interview their target news sources, the online briefing has become their stable source of information and they have become the RIATF COVID-19 constant information multipliers,” said Director Noemi Edaga, PIA IX Regional Director, as she shares how DICT’s free internet program paved the prompt release of COVID-19 updates and news.

“The provision of internet connectivity especially in isolation facilities is a great help. It gave comfort to the people who are quarantined, and helped a lot in our operations in the City Hall,” shared Zamboanga City Health Officer, Dr. Dulce Maravite. 

April - June 7

The Project Monitoring Team (PMT) of the Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) IX conducted its 2nd Quarter Field Monitoring Visit (FMV) amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the imposition of Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) in Zamboanga del Sur (ZDS). The PMT together with the other participants of the FMV strictly observed health protocols prescribed by IATF-EID and DOH to avoid contamination of the virus due to the Covid19 Pandemic.

The RPMC came up with the Health Guidelines and Protocols which were observed before, during and after the conduct of actual FMV by the PMT. It included the wearing of face masks and face shields at all times. Physical distancing was observed inside the vehicle and when interacting with people. Team members brought their own hand sanitizers/alcohol for general use inside their pockets for easy accessibility. Each member also did hazard assessment in each FMV site. Risk factors were identified especially in areas where health protocols were not strictly followed. Using other member’s work equipment was also avoided, whenever possible. Upon arrival at home or temporary residence, the monitors sprayed the bottom of their shoes/slippers with a disinfectant solution, washed hands and applied alcohol. Clothes/linen were left outside the bedroom to avoid infecting the said area and shower/wash-off the area exposed to people.

The PMT visited three projects of National Irrigation Administration (NIA) IX, three projects of Department of Science and Technology (DOST) IX, and two projects of Department of Agriculture (DA) IX in the different municipalities of the province on June 23-25, 2020, to wit:

NIA IX - Communal Irrigation System (CIS) / Small Irrigation Project (SIP)•Katipunan/Lower Guipos SIP•Navalan CIS Extension•Tukuran CIS

RPMC IX adopts health standards during FMVs

DOST IX – Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP)-Assisted Projects•Paglinawan Organic Eco Farm•Tamin Farms•Arquillano Electromechanical Works

DA IX - Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) implemeneted by ZDS PLGU•Provincial Road Junction (PRJ) Gumahan-Diwan-Parasan-Mabuhay-Sudlon Farm-to-Market Road (FMR)•National Road Junction (NRJ) Gapasan-Laperian-Buenasuerte-Sambulawan-Navalan FMR

Good practices were noted by the team in some of the DOST IX’s SETUP-assisted projects. Among those practices included proper 5S implementation and well-trained safety officers. Nonetheless, most of the other projects visited by the team faced the same problem on delayed delivery of materials and equipment needed in project construction.

The FMV culminated with the inspection of DA IX’s PRDP (NRJ Gapasan-Laperian-Buenasuerte-Sambulawan-Navalan FMR) in Ramon Magsaysay and Tukuran, ZDS and NIA IX’s Tukuran CIS in Baklay, Tukuran, ZDS, respectively. An exit conference was conducted in Chandler Suites, Pagadian City on June 25, 2020. (Garyl Jay N. Pepito, NEDA IX)

The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office IX (DA-RFO9), through the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), continues to distribute Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) cash cards of ₱5 ,000.00 to identified beneficiaries in Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga City.

The cash cards are released to rice farmers registered in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) who cultivate one-half to two hectares of ricefield. The subsidy will assist farmers affected by the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) and the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We will make sure that our farmers receive the financial assistance to cope with the challenges brought about by COVID-19. We honor our farmers for ensuring food availability and security. They are our strong frontliners during this pandemic,” said Rad Donn L. Cedeño, DA9 Regional Executive Director.

DA IX releases more cash cardsA thankful rice farmer-beneficiary Reya B. Romagos, 39, of barangay Liasan, Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur said that she will use the money for land preparation for the wet season and purchase of more seeds and fertilizers.

Sixty-year-old Enrico S. Nuevo of Barangay Sugbay Dos, Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur was also glad to receive the financial assistance, affirming that the RFFA is a great help to the farmers especially now that earning for a livelihood is difficult due to Covid-19.

For July 2020, a target of 10,796 rice farmers in Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga City will receive the RFFA under the DA-Rice Program. With the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) measures, the DA can be allowed to gather all identified rice farmer beneficiaries, while observing health protocols, for full distribution of the cash assistance. (Inelin R. Cabeguin/ DA9 PR)

Workers at Arquillano Electromechanical Works wearing face masks and observing physical distancing as part of health protocols.

8 The RDC Communicator

Zamboanga Peninsula's 7th “Kadiwa ni Ani” at “Kita on Wheels” rolled out simultaneously in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur and Sinunuc, Zamboanga City on April 24 generating a total sales of PHP 621,803.00.

"We purposely rolled Kadiwa in Labangan for two consecutive days (April 23-24) because of the high Muslim population in the municipality. This is to support our Muslim brothers and sisters as they observe the holy month of Ramadan. Farmers are able to earn a total of PHP 78.8 thousand in two days and serve 398 consumers in the area." said Rad Donn L. Cedeño, DA9 regional executive director.

Meanwhile in Sinunuc, Zambonaga City, Kadiwa generated a sales of ₱542.9 thousand in one day alone (April 24) serving 950 residents.

Kadiwa is a continuous collaboration between the Department of Agriculture (DA) through its Agribusiness and Marketing

Kadiwa generates P621.8 Thousand during Ramadan

Assistance Division (AMAD), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), National Food Authority (NFA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), provincial/ municipal and city local government units (LGUs) and the local barangay councils, to provide farmers and suppliers a direct link to consumers of food and other basic necessities.

“I’m glad DA tapped me to sell my products here. It's easy to sell our quail eggs and they were sold out early." said Karen Gumatay, a quail egg vendor in Labangan.

"With Kadiwa, we don't need to go to Pagadian City anymore since everything we need is here already. It's timely since we are about to start our Ramadan," said Nadzer Abbas, a Kagawad from barangay Dapalang in Labangan.

To date, a total of eight (8) Kadiwa stores has rolled out region-wide, generating sales of about 3.3 million pesos to 10,474 consumers, with a variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, eggs, meat, and other agri-fishery products, including basic grocery items.

RED Cedeño assures that the Kadiwa shall continue to operate and provide market linkage assistance to farmers and other food providers. “We are thankful to our DA9 frontliners who assist in our offices and in Kadiwa on Wheels. We also thank other agencies that, together, helped us ensure our communities access to adequate supply of food items during this Covid19 crisis.” (Marnette Luzon/DA9PR)

Rubber plays an important part in growing the Philippine economy. In 2018, the production value of rubber in the country was around 9.9 billion pesos.

To date, the Philippine rubber industry has shown no signs of slowing down. The trees that produce them, however – after a good number of years – eventually do.

Launched by the Department of Science and Technology-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) in 2018, the Tambanan Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (TARBEMCO) Rubberwood Processing Plant was designed to convert old and unproductive trees into high-value products, such as furniture, e.g., tables, chairs, cribs, dressers, beds, cupboards, among others.The ongoing 57-million-project funded by the DOST Grants-

Unlocking the hidden potential of Rubberwood

In-Aid (GIA) program is envisioned to become an Innovation center for Rubberwood processing in the Philippines upon completion.DOST-FPRDI provided technical training on Rubberwood Treatment, and Material Kiln Drying for the Manufacturing of Furniture and Handicrafts for the facility recipients.

The training is aimed at increasing the knowledge and skills of the participants on wood processing, treatment, and preservation.

Meanwhile, DOST Region IX through its provincial center in Zamboanga Sibugay is monitoring the progress of the project and provides assistance for any concerns or issues which may arise during its implementation. (JKCabral, DOST IX)

April - June 9

In response to the pandemic, the Jose Rizal Memorial State University recently completed a month-long series of webinars that equipped teachers with relevant skills on Flexible Learning System (FLS).

Dr. Alice Mae Arbon, OIC Vice President for Academic Affairs, disclosed in an interview that the faculty were immersed in making modules for subjects in preparation for the implementation of the FLS, which would be implemented in the coming school year.

The system has two modalities: Online Learning Modality for students who have access to internet connection, and Modular Learning Modality for students who do not have internet connectivity. Students who will opt for the Online Learning Modality will have synchronous and asynchronous classes wherein all learning materials will be uploaded online. Students who opt for the Modular Learning Modality will have complete modules. Students in this modality will be communicating with their instructors thru texts, calls or messenger platform.

The Flexible Learning System Committee was created last April. It formulated the FLS Handbook which underwent a series of consultations and was eventually approved by the JRMSU Board of Regents in June this year.

JRMSU bares own Flexible Learning System

A total of 3,354 students composing Batch 1 2019-2020 of the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) grantees from the five campuses of the Jose Rizal Memorial State University started receiving the PhP20k financial assistance from the government starting June 1, 2020.

Dr. Jay Telen, Dean of Student Affairs and Services disclosed that Batch 1 TES grantees had started claiming the subsidy from the office of the Student Affairs and Services in all of the JRMSU campuses. He further disclosed that the DSAS endorsed 83 names of stranded students in Dapitan City to the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRM) and the Dapitan City Health Office (CHO) personnel who facilitated the trip of the said students to their places of origin. The CDRRM and the Dapitan CHO facilitated documentary requirements and coordinated with the concerned local government units of the places of origin of the said students.

Dr. Daylinda Luz R. Laput welcomed these developments saying that the University’s initiatives will go a long way in helping students when the whole world is gripped by the pandemic. She also extended her gratitude to the government for its continued support to the Filipino youth especially those who come from the disadvantaged sector but who are earnest in their desire to pursue their education.

JRMSU releases subsidy to TES grantees

Students and faculty, or collectively named “Ilustrado”, from the five campuses of Jose Rizal Memorial State University took time out early morning of June 19, 2020 to commemorate the 159th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal.

Led by University President Daylinda Luz R. Laput, all campuses commemorated the birth anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal by offering flowers to pay homage, while observing CoViD-19 protocols, such as wearing face masks and maintaining physical distancing.

JRMSU joins nation in Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s 159th birth anniversary celebration

10 The RDC Communicator

Who can resist the enticing turquoise waters of Dakak Park and Beach Resort, the breathtaking landscape of Mt. Timolan, the splash of fun on the pink sand paradise of Sta. Cruz Island, or soothing waves of Malamawi White Beach Resort? Perhaps you are a traveler who enjoy taking a step back to the historical moments of our national hero at Rizal Shrine, buying pasalubong of colorful handicrafts by the finest Yakan weavers, or savoring the mouthwatering curacha in Alavar sauce. Those are few of the reasons why tourists visit Zamboanga Peninsula and explore the region once again and again.

However, this year’s travelers to Region 9 were interrupted by the unexpected health crisis sweeping the globe. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 or COVID-19 pandemic brought the tourism industry to a standstill. The suspension of air, sea, and land transports, and the implementation of community quarantine and lock downs brought abrupt cessation of travel activities. As a result, many tourists, both domestic and foreign nationals, were stranded in the region.

The tourism industry faced the unprecedented and daunting task of addressing the various concerns of the local tourism sector, particularly that of stranded tourists in the region. The Department of Tourism stepped up in providing the assistance, while ensuring the delivery of the Filipino brand of service to tourists during their temporary stay in the region up to the time they can journey back home.

DOT IX assists 271 stranded foreign nationals back home

To repatriate tourists, the Department of Tourism Region 9 facilitated the compliance of requirements, coordinated with embassies and other government agencies, and collaborated with commercial carriers to bring them back to their respective homes and families. At the onset of the outbreak and implementation of community quarantine in the region from March to June, DOT9 assisted a total of 271 stranded foreign nationals (SFNs).

DOT Mindanao Assistant Secretary and DOT Region 9 Concurrent Regional Director Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar spearheaded the send-off parties, together with DOT9 employees and personnel. As part of the assistance, SFNs were provided with MalasaKIT kits consisting of sanitation items, snacks, drinks, and tokens of appreciation.

The successful repatriation of these stranded foreign nationals was made possible through the sustained support of Platinum Skies Aviation Inc., Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Consular office IX, Regional Task Force-COVID 19, Local Government Units, Provincial Government, City Tourism Offices, and other stakeholders.

The COVID-19 pandemic may have halted the trips of foreign travelers to their planned tourist destinations and activities. However, it further proved the dedication and fortitude of the tourism sector to continue serving visitors despite the ongoing crisis. It was an ordeal that gave the region an opportunity to render the Filipino brand of service, with the hope of establishing goodwill, and etch a memorable experience as they travel back home safely to their families. For the stranded, it was a different kind of travel experience that they will never forget, but will always be thankful for.

The expressions of gratitude flooding the Department of Tourism affirmed that the tourism sector of the region had served them well. (Hannah Segovia, TOO I, DOT Region 9)

Nationality Number of SFN

American 46

Australian 12

Bahraini 2

Belgian 6

Brazilian 1

British 3

Canadian 38

Danish 1

Dutch 3

French 6

German 12

Indonesian 18

Japanese 2

Malaysian 97

New Zealander 4

Norwegian 6

Russian 1

Singaporean 2

Spanish 3

Swedish 1

Syrian 2

Taiwanese 5

TOTAL 271

DOT Mindanao Assistant Secretary and DOT9 Concurrent Regional Director Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar spearheading the send-off party for the chartered flight of Stranded Foreign Nationals at Zamboanga International Airport

April - June 11

REGIONAL ECONOMIC SITUATIONERSecond Quarter (April – June) 2020

MACROECONOMY

Prices and Inflation

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Zamboanga Peninsula’s average consumer price index (CPI) for the second quarter of the year accelerated to 127.3 from 123.7 of the same period in 2019. Among the provinces, Zamboanga del Norte posted the highest increase, averaging 130.6. The provinces of Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga del Sur recorded an average CPI of 126.5 and 125.3, respectively. Limited transportation facilities and supply due to the imposition of quarantine measures, among others, were cited as the reasons for the rising prices of goods.

Inflation Rate

For the second quarter of 2020, the region’s average inflation rate rose to 2.8 percent from 1.3 percent a year ago. The average inflation rates of the three provinces in Zamboanga Peninsula also increased. Zamboanga Sibugay registered the highest average inflation rate of 3.5 percent compared to 1.3 percent in the second quarter a year ago. Zamboanga del Norte posted an inflation rate of 3 percent compared to

1.6 percent in the same quarter in 2019. Zamboanga del Sur recorded an average inflation of 2.4 percent this year, as compared to 1.1 percent in the second quarter of 2019.

Purchasing Power of Peso

The average purchasing power of peso for the second quarter of 2020 went up to PHP0.79 from PHP0.78 of the preceding quarter. However, it dropped by 0.02 cent from the second quarter of 2019.

LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT

The labor force in the region fell by 5.8 percent in April 2020 from that of last year, based on the preliminary data of the Philippine Statistics Authority IX.

The labor participation rate in the region also slid to 52 percent, down by 4.5 percentage points from 56.5 percent in the same period of last year. The employment rate also decreased to 76.1 percent from 95.7 percent, losing a huge 19.6 percentage points. Hence, the unemployment rate swelled to 23.9 percent from 4.3 percent and the underemployment rate almost doubled to 23.5 percent from 12.2 percent.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) IX provided about PHP174.79 million through its employment and livelihood programs during the second quarter of 2020.

12 The RDC Communicator

An amount of PHP65.94 million came from the COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program wherein 13,188 beneficiaries covering 766 establishments were aided in the said program.

A total of 30,023 jobs were generated during the period, per initial report of Public Employment Service Offices in the region. Based on the preliminary data of DOLE IX, the jobs generated in Zamboanga City dropped to 136 in the second quarter of 2020 as compared to 1,114 in the same period of last year. Isabela City also experienced a huge decline of 426 from 902 in the previous year.

INVESTMENTS AND EXPORTS

Business name registration went up by 37.4 percent from that of the same period last year. However, the second quarter of 2020 figures showed a sharp decrease compared to the previous quarter due to the implementation of Enhanced or General Community Quarantine (E/GCQ).

The region’s export earnings in the second quarter of 2020 dropped to US$42.82 million. This was 60 percent lesser than the US$107.11 million of the same period last year. The decrease in value of crude coconut oil (-87.4 percent), copra

extraction pellet (-64.2 percent) and cochin oil (-35.6 percent) contributed to the decline in earnings.

The top ten exports of Region IX were cochin oil, crude coconut

oil, fish meal, semi-refined carrageenan, frozen mollusk, dried seaweeds, fish oil, rubber, copra extraction pellet and canned sardines.

REVENUE COLLECTION

The region’s revenue collection went up by 524.07 percent in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the collection the same period a year ago. Despite the implementation of ECQ in April and May, employees of the Bureau of Customs – Port of Zamboanga who were part of the skeleton workforce, continued to report to their office to ensure unhampered operation. The customs collection district was able to attain the target revenue of PHP719.43M in the second quarter of 2020 and posted a total surplus of PHP263.54M compared to the same quarter of last year. In the same period last year, the agency achieved a target revenue of PHP136.67M with a total surplus of PHP20.84M.

ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE

With the implementation of plea bargaining framework on drug cases, the total number of investigation cases handled by the Department of Justice-Parole and Probation Administration (DOJ-PPA) IX increased by 72 percent in the second quarter of 2020 as compared to the same period of last year. However, only 65.4 percent of these cases were completed and forwarded to courts or Board of Pardons and Parole. This was due to quarantine implementation where travels of investigating officers were restricted, offices were closed and the schedule of duty was on skeleton arrangement.

The total number of criminal cases handled by the Department of Justice-Public Attorney’s Office (DOJ-PAO) IX went down by 3.9 percent in the second quarter of 2020 as compared to the same period of last year. Its disposition rate decreased from 15 percent to 11 percent. Other cases handled by the office (e.g. civil, labor cases, and mediation and conciliation disputes) including their disposition rates also decreased in the same period compared to last year.

DOJ-PAO IX depended on the number of walk-in clients in the attainment of the targets. The decrease in the figures was partly due to the community quarantine in all local government units (LGUs) in the region.

April - June 13

PEACE AND ORDER

Philippine National Police IX reported that the total crime incidents in the region in the second quarter of 2020 was 2,006. A significant decrease of 1,590 or 44.2 percent in the total crime incidents was observed from the same quarter in 2019. This was attributed to the limited movement of people which deterred the perpetrators to commit crime. Crime Clearance Efficiency and Crime Solution Efficiency Rates in the region also improved compared to the same period of last year.

TRANSPORTATION

The COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected seaborne commerce, movement of people and vehicles transported via RORO mode of transportation.

With the different community quarantine measures instituted starting on March 20, 2020, the Philippine Ports Authority - Port Management Office-Zamboanga City posted a marked decrease on ship calls, container port, passenger and RORO traffic for the second quarter of 2020 compared to the same period a year ago.

TOURISM

The tourism sector of the Zamboanga Peninsula suffered a heavy blow due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the second quarter of 2020, based on preliminary data, the Department of Tourism (DOT) IX recorded 1,363 tourist arrivals, which was 99.6 percent lower than the 335,446 figure in the same period last year. The huge decrease was due to the implementation of the Community Quarantine throughout the country.

DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES

The COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected the economic activities in the Philippines, including Zamboanga Peninsula. In this regard, efforts are being undertaken by all sectors to balance health and the need to move forward to recover the vibrancy of the economy.

As the region prepares to gradually reopen the economic activities and allow other social activities, Zamboanga Peninsula shall adopt the General Concept of Zoning (Critical Zone, Containment Zone, Buffer Zone and Outside Buffer Zone) to ease the COVID-19 community quarantine measures

14 The RDC Communicator

and start moving to the “New Normal”. This concept will help in the prevention of the spread and resurgence of the virus, and at the same time balance the movement of the economy with public health safety.

Efforts in contact tracing will be stepped up. The cooperation of the public and private establishments will be requested to gather personal data from clients upon entry.

The LGUs play a vital role in ensuring that possible local transmission of COVID-19 in their respective areas of responsibility is controlled and managed.

Minimum health protocols (e.g. hand washing, wearing of facial mask and face shield) are expected to be observed by both the public and private sectors.

Government offices shall continue facilitating transactions through online or contactless mechanisms. Meetings and other formal activities are expected to be done through the use of online platforms to prevent physical contact.1

Other government agencies have launched essential programs and projects to address the needs of vulnerable families, displaced workers and Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Among these are: (a) Diskwento sa Caravan, (b) Kadiwa on Wheels, (c) Social Amelioration Package, (d) COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program, and (e) Livelihood Seeding Programs.

To ensure continuous and unhindered food production, the food security frontliners – farmers, fishermen and other workers in the food value chain, shall continue their work. The Philippine government has allowed all farming and fishing activities amidst the state of public health emergency.2

To ensure the continuity of learning, the Department of Education implements the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LCP) to deliver education in time of the COVID-19 pandemic. BE-LCP ensures the health, safety, and welfare of all learners, teachers and personnel. One of the main features of the BE-LCP is the adoption of multiple learning delivery modalities, with blended learning and distance learning as major options.3

Growth in exports is expected to recover to 5 percent while growth in imports is projected to bounce back to 8 percent in FY 2021 to 2022.4 The Bayanihan to Recover Act (Bayanihan 2) will provide a breathing spell for the business sector, among others.

To improve the country’s trade performance, export manufacturers are encouraged to use digital technology and innovative approaches to continue operation and secure new markets. Firms will have to put in place alternative business processes that will become the new standards for engaging

1 RDRRMC IX, Regional Action Plan on COVID-19, May 4, 2020

2 https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/4/11/da-agriculture-and-fisheries-players-workers-frontlin-ers-coronavirus.html

3 https://www.deped.gov.ph/2020/06/24/briones-education-ministers-unite-to-ensure-learning-continu-ity-amid-covid-19/

4 https://www.neda.gov.ph/dbcc-revisits-medium-term-macroeconomic-assumptions-and-fiscal-pro-gram-amid-the-covid-19-pandemic/

with clients, buyers, and suppliers.5

The government’s infrastructure program and the agriculture sector will be among the main growth drivers of the Philippine economy despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government’s recovery program shall rely mostly on the implementation of projects under the priority “Build, Build, Build” program and the strengthening of the agriculture sector. The Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Works and Highways will be ready to implement their projects after weeks of delay due to the implementation of the community quarantine in the country. On the other hand, the agriculture sector will be a major contributor to the recovery of areas outside Metro Manila and a plus to the government’s “Balik Probinsya” program that encourages people to return to their provinces to decongest the capital.6

In the health sector, laboratory testing for COVID-19 is critical to be able to rapidly identify, treat and isolate the positive patients, and be able to see the bigger picture of how many people are infected and ultimately stop the transmission of the virus.

In times of extreme experiences brought by COVID-19, it is likely that people feel fearful and anxious. Providing mental health and psychosocial support during the time of COVID-19 pandemic will be part of government interventions.

Much more are to be done to break the chain of COVID-19 transmission. Some of the challenges are containing transmission of infection, mitigating the impact in high risk communities and confined settings, as well as, ensuring uniform enforcement of public health measures that are already in place.7

5 https://www.neda.gov.ph/ph-trade-drops-in-march-2020-due-to-covid-19-restrictions-neda/

6 https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106053, “BBB, agri to boost PH economy in 2020: DOF chief ”, 16 June 2020

7 https://www.who.int/philippines/news/feature-stories/detail/100-days-of-covid-19-in-the-philippines-how-who-supported-the-philippine-response

April - June 15

Erratum to the article “R9 OCD, DPWH turnover regional evacuation center to ZdN” of Volume XXXI, No. 2 of the RDC Communicator

DSWD, not DPWH, is the cluster lead in Camp Coordination and Camp Management as stated in the National Disaster Response Plan.

The RDC Communicator: Regional Development Council IXPresident Corazon C. Aquino Regional Government Center Balintawak, Pagadian City 7016Telephone Nos: (062) 913-0164, 0165, 0168, 945-0049Email Address: ord@nro9.neda.gov.ph, nedazampen@gmail.comURL: http://nro9.neda.gov.ph

RDC IXRes. No. series of 2020

Title

047 Approving the Agenda of the 169th Regular Meeting of Regional Development Council IX

048 Dispensing the Reading of the Highlights of the 168th Regular Meeting of Regional Development Council IX and Approving the Same

049 Creating the Regional Development Council IX Special Committee on BP2 Program050 Accepting the Report of Development Administration Committee IX

051 Enjoining Local Government Units to Meet the Recommended Coverage Rate of Operation Timbang Plus of at least Eighty Percent

052 Enjoining Local Government Units to Support the Demographic Vulnerability Tool053 Supporting RDC-CAR ExCom Res. No. 05, series 2019

054 Requesting Philippine Coconut Authority Central Office the retention of the 68 Job Orders/Contractual Staff of PCA IX

055 Supporting Senate Resolution No. 409, SB Nos. 1414, 1431, 1449, and 1474, series of 2020 to mitigate the impact of COVID-19

056 Requesting DILG IX and CDA IX to strengthen and enhance the implementation of DILG-CDA Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2019-01

057 Endorsing the Feasibility Study of Zamboanga City East Diversion Road

058 Supporting the Department of Information and Communications Technology IX Connectivity Infrastructure Plan in Zamboanga Peninsula

059 Reiterating the Inclusion of the Unfunded Water Related Priority Projects identified in the Zamboanga Peninsula Water Summit in the CY 2020 Annual Investment Program

060 Requesting the Concerned Agencies to Expedite the Implementation of Water Projects that have been provided with initial funding

061 Supporting the Program of the Land Transportation Office IX on Road Safety

062 Enjoining the Land Transportation Office IX to strengthen the Enforcement of RA 4136, otherwise known as the Land Transportation Traffic Code Throughout the Region

063 Requesting Department of Health IX, Government Agencies and Local Government Units to utilize Sex-Disaggregated Data in data collection for planning and analysis

064 Endorsing the Establishment of a Standard Referral System for Gender-Based Violence Cases

065 Enjoining Implementing Agencies to Submit Program/Project Progress Reports to the RPMC Secretariat in Compliance with EO 308, series of 1987

066

Approving The Zamboanga Peninsula Basic Education Learning And Continuity Plan For SY 2020-2021 and Appealing To Local Government Units, Through the Department Of The Interior and Local Government, to Mobilize Their Special Education Fund as Supplementary Funding Support For The Full Implementation Of The Plan

067 Requesting Department of Transportation to fast track the approval of Private Emission Testing Centers’ authorization permits in Zamboanga Peninsula

068 Requesting Department of Transportation not to Implement the Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Centers

069 Expressing Gratitude to Department of Information and Communications Technology IX for Hosting the Videoconference Meeting of RDC IX

169th REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL IX Regular Meetingvia Google Meet | 18 2020 June

Resolutions Passed