Special Report:Sharing Best Practices

on Good Local Governance

Legislative UpdatesSorsogon City bagsSeal of Good Local

Governance& Gawad

Gobernador saKapaligiran

RompeolasThe Official Quarterly Publication of the City Government of Sorsogon

Volume 1, Issue no. 3, 2017

It is a story that has often been told: when I ran for public office in 2000, I had no first-hand experience in governance. I was a housewife and mother for the better part of 50 years. Aside from

my intermittent duties as first lady of the municipality and—eventually—of the province of Sorsogon, I made the rounds in hopes of evangelizing and spreading the Good News.

Admittedly, the first few years were difficult. There was the challenge of reconciling two disparate former municipalities. We had to raise revenues, lay down the necessary infrastructure and keep up with other cities. Nevertheless, we persisted. We built, we kept our house in order, and we learned. There may have been numerous hurdles, but we tried our best. We got up and got back on track.

Fast forward to 2017. Sorsogon turned 17 on December 16. There was the threat of an impending typhoon, but we’ve weathered enough storms to be fazed by anything. So much has changed, and we are thankful for the blessings—big and small. We are especially proud of the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), which was conferred by the Department of the Interior and Local Government on the City Government for two consecutive years now. If anything, the SGLG is an affirmation of what we have been practicing all these years: Good Governance.

Good governance is a concept that I easily embraced in my commitment to transform Sorsogon. For governance to be considered good, it has to be participatory, consensus-oriented, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective and efficient, equitable and inclusive and follows the rule of law. While this may seem daunting, it is something to aspire for. For only then, can we achieve our vision of progress for Sorsogon City.

In this issue, we take you through the initiatives that have helped shape our city into a model of local governance. We hope that you will continue to be part of our journey. After all, governance is not the sole responsibility of the city government. It is yours as well.

From The Mayor

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SALLY A. LEECity Mayor

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CONTENTS

Seal of Good Local Governance

From the Mayor

Table of Contents

Press Releases

Photo Gallery

News Features

Special Report: Sharing Best Practices onGood Governance

Feature Article: Business With A Heart(The CERAGEM Story)

Showcasing Sorsogon City's Good Governance in the International Arena

Legislative Updates

HEARTS Program

Officials of the City Government ofSorsogon/Vision Statement

2017 Sorsogon City Awards/Rompeolas Magazine Team

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20% Development Fund for 2018, inaprubahan ng City Development Council

Inaprubahan na ng City Development Council sa pamumuno ni City Mayor Sally A. Lee ang 20% Development Fund sa taong 2018. Ang pag aproba ng development fund ay nabuo sa isinagawang City Development Council Full Council Meeting noong Oktubre 06, 2017 sa Function Room, City Hall, Cabid-an, Sorsogon City. Kabilang sa binigyan ng pondo ay ang Barangay Development Program na mula sa dating dalawandaang libong piso (₧ 200,000.00) ay itinaas ito sa tatlongdaang libong piso (₧ 300,000.00) bawat barangay sa buong lungsod. Naglaan din ng limang milyon (₧ 5,000,000.00) na pondo para sa rehabilitasyon ng Sorsogon City Public Market sa barangay Sirangan habang dalawandaang libong piso (₧ 200,000.00) naman para sa pagpapatayo ng bamboo plantation. Ang ibang pondo naman ay nakalaan para sa construction ng mga drainage system, construction at repair of roads mula sa barangay Pamurayan, Peñafrancia hanggang Cambulaga at iba pang mga pangunahing programa at proyekto ng lokal na gobyerno ng lungsod para sa taong 2018.

Deep-dive immersion pinangunahan ng DOH at LGU Nanguna ang grupo ng Department of Health at

Local Government Unit kasama si City Mayor Sally A. Lee sa isinagawang deep dive immersion sa San Ramon, Bacon District, Sorsogon City noong October 10, 2017 kung saan binisita nila ang ilang pamilyang may sakit. Kasama sina Dr. Ruel Reynario Rebustillo, Ms. Rosy Abay at mga DOH personnel nang personal na hinarap ni City Mayor Sally A. Lee ang mga residente doon na may matinding sakit gaya ng colon cancer, inborn skin disease, malnutrition, kidney disease at iba pa. Layunin ng aktibidad na ma-monitor at ma check ng personal ang kalusugan ng mga pasyenteng may ganoong uri ng karamdaman. Nagbigay din sila ng tulong hindi lamang check-up kundi maging ang libreng sakay sa ambulansya. Labis ang pasasalamat ng mga residenteng pasyente sa ginawang pagmomonitor at pagbibigay ng serbisyo sa kanila.

City Government nakiisa sa mga aktibidad ng Kasanggayahan Festival 2017

Nakiisa ang lokal na gobyerno ng lungsod ng Sorsogon sa mga aktibidad ng Kasanggayahan Festival 2017. Sa pagbubukas pa lamang ng naturang festival ipinakita na ng city government sa pamumuno ni Mayor Sally Lee ang suporta nito sa mga aktibidad kung saan bawat aktibidad ay mayroong partisipasyon ang lokal na gobyerno ng lungsod. Ilan sa mga ito ay ang Linig Kasanggayahan, Pantomina sa Tinampo, kung saan tinanghal ang LGU-Sorsogon City bilang 1st runner-up, Kasanggayahan Trade Fair at marami pang iba. Itinanghal ding 1st runner-up ang

pambato ng lungsod sa Ms. Kasanggayahan Festival Queen na si Claudine Timola ng barangay Buhatan na bumisita sa opisina ng alkalde at ng mga opisyal ng City Government para magpasalamat sa ibinigay na suporta sa kaniya at sa iba pang kandidata ng lungsod.

Relaunching ng Sorsogon bilang Smoke Free City, naging matagumpay

Naging matagumpay ang isinagawang re-launching ng lungsod ng Sorsogon bilang smoke free city noong Oktubre 16, 2017 na pinangunahan ng City Health Office kasama ang Rotary Club of Sorsogon, Philippine National Police at Department of Health. Bago ang re-launching ay nagkaroon ng blessing and inauguration ng smoking cessation clinic sa San Juan, Roro, Sorsogon City kasunod ang isang motorcade patungo sa gymnasium ng barangay Balogo. Ayon kay Mayor Sally A. Lee, ang ganitong programa ay isa sa paraan ng kanyang administrasyon upang makasalba ng buhay ayon sa adhikaing "Sorsogon City Loves Life." Pinasalamatan din ng alkalde ang mga taong tumulong sa aktibidad, dahilan upang maging matagumpay ito lalo pa at matagal na itong pinaghahandaan ng city government. Sa kabilang dako papatawan naman ng penalidad ang sinumang lalabag sa anti-smoking ordinance ng lungsod (City Ordinance No. 15 series of 2012). Samantala hiniling naman ng alkalde ang pakikiisa ng mga taga lungsod para sa mas maayos, malinis at maunlad na lungsod.

City Government nakiisa sa pagdiriwang ng Elderly Filipino Week

Nakiisa ang City Government of Sorsogon sa pagdiriwang ng Elderly Filipino Week ngayong taon. Sa unang linggo ng buwan ng Oktubre ipinagdiriwang ng mga lolo at lola sa buong bansa ang Elderly Filipino Week. Kaugnay nito ay iba’t-ibang aktibidad ang isinagawa ng lokal na gobyerno ng lungsod sa pamamagitan ng Office of the Senior Citizens Affair (OSCA) at ng Sorsogon City Senior Citizens Federation. Sa pamamagitan naman ng opisina ni City Vice Mayor Atty. Jonathan Balintong nabigyan ang mga elderly ng libreng masahe, manicure, pedicure at hair cut. Personal naman na iniabot ni City Mayor Sally A. Lee sa mga pre-centenarians, centenarians at post centenarians ng insentibo mula sa City Government bilang pagkilala sa kanilang naiambag sa komunidad.

“Enjoy life everyday and live simply,” ito ang binigyang diin ng alkalde sa kanyang mensahe sa pagdiriwang ng Elderly Filipino Week. Sinabi pa nito na hindi sa pagiging senior citizen nagtatapos ang halaga ng isang tao dahil sa kabila ng edad ay marami pa ring maaring maiambag ang isang lolo o lola. Samantala sa pagtatapos ng Elderly Filipino week ay ipinamalas ng mga lolo at lola ang kanilang

Press Releases

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mga talent sa pagkanta at pagsasayaw na sinabayan naman ni Mayor Lee.

LGU-Sorsogon City, awardee ng 2017 Seal of Good Local Governance

Isang karangalan na naman sa mga ciudadano ang natanggap na award galing sa Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). Ito matapos na mapabilang ang Ciudad ng Sorsogon sa ginawaran ng 2017 Seal of Good Local Governance o SGLG.

Maaalala na noong nakaraang taon nasungkit din ng City Government ang prestihiyosong award kung saan pinagbasehan ng mga nag-validate ang financial administration, social protection, disaster preparedness, business friendliness and competitiveness, peace & order at environmental management. Ito ay patunay lamang na maayos ang pamumuno ni Mayor Sally A. Lee sa Ciudad ng Sorsogon.

Sa kabilang dako, isang malaking parangal din ito para sa mga empleyado ng ciudad dahil sa nakita ng DILG ang pagpupursigi ng lokal na gobyerno na mabigyan ng maganda at maayos na serbisyo ang mga ciudadano.

Kampanya at adbokasiya kontra air pollution, isinagawa sa Bucalbucalan

Nagsagawa ang gobyerno nasyonal at lokal ng isang Information Education Campaign for Community Mobilization and Clean Air Advocacy sa Barangay Bucalbucalan, West District Sorsogon City noong Nobyembre 17, 2017.

Ayon sa mga speaker na galing sa Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau, Department of Energy at Energy Development Corporation, mahigpit nang ipinagbabawal ang pagsunog ng basura at ang smoke belching ng lahat na sasakyan alinsunod sa Republic Act 8749 o ang Clean Air Act of 1999.

Dumalo sa nasambit na kampanya kontra air pollution ang mga residente at opisyales ng Bucalbucalan sa pamumuno ni Punong Barangay Pelagia Agnote.

Selebrasyon ng 25th National Children’s MonthIpinamalas ng mga bata na kabilang sa contest ng

poster making, slogan making at editorial cartooning ang kanilang talento sa pagguhit.

Mga elementarya ang kasali sa nasabing contest na kinilatis ng mga hurado na sina Engr. Brando Jejillos, Engr. Dineros, Christian Jamisola, at Atty. Lina Jimenez.

Presente din si Mr. Josie L. Jadie na naniniwala sa kakayahang taglay ng kabataan. Sinabi niyang isa ang contest na ito para ipakita at maintindihan ng marami ang

taglay na creativity ng mga bata.Ayon kay Atty. Lina Jimenez, kinatawan ni Mayor

Sally A. Lee, naniniwala siyang ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan at sa paraan ng paglinang nito matutulungan ang mga bata na maging matagumpay. Paalala din niya sa mga may edad at mga coaches na “never lose your idealism” dahil isa ito sa makakatulong sa atin na maging creative sa ating mga ginagawa.

2017 Caravan for Rural WomenIsa si Mayor Sally A. Lee sa mga local leaders na

naimbitahan sa ikinunduktang 2017 Caravan for Rural Women noong Nobyembre 15, 2017 sa Bibincahan Multi-purpose Gymnasium, Sorsogon City kung saan ang Department of Agrarian Reform o DAR ang nag-initiate at nag spearhead nito.

Ang activity ay nagsilbing showcase ng women empowerment. Kabilang din sa mga panauhin sina Mayor Sharon Escoto ng Gubat at Mayor Carolyn Reyes ng Pilar.

Suportado ang Caravan for Rural Women ng ibang line national government agencies tulad ng Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Environment and Natural resources, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority at PhilHealth.

Blessing at turnover ng mga equipment para sa mga mangingisda at magsasaka

Pinangunahan nina Mayor Sally A. Lee, City Councilors Jonas Duran, Melchor Atutubo at ABC President Edwin Divina ang blessing at turnover ng mga kagamitan para sa mga mangingisda at magsasaka sa City Hall Lobby. Ang mga ibinigay na tractor, cultivator, fiberglass fishing boats, farmtools at equipment ay tulong ng ciudad sa kanila dahil alam ng butihing Mayor na ang trabaho nila ay hindi madali kaya nangangailangan ng mga kagamitan. Pinursigi ito upang matutunan nilang pahalagahan ang gamit na kahit hindi galing sa pinaghirapan ay magagamit sa kanilang hanapbuhay.

Hangad ni City Mayor ang maayos na paggamit ng mga ito at taos-pusong pag-iingat upang makatulong sa kanila sa mahabang panahon. Hangad din ni Councilor Duran na magkaroon pa ng mga biyayang dumating sa kanila at tumagal ang buhay ng mga gamit.

Pagkatapos ng blessing at turnover, lalong sumaya ang mga recipients nang ipamigay na ang mga nasabing gamit. Walang anumang salita ang makakatumbas sa saya ng bawat isa dahil sa oras na natanggap nila ang mga gamit, pwede na nila itong mapakinabangan, kaya sobra ang pasasalamat ng mga ito sa City Mayor sa pag-isip sa kanilang pangangailangan. CPIO

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photo gallery

2017 Caravan for Rural Women

KALIPI and ERPAT

Christmas Party

City Development CouncilMeeting

photo gallery8

Linig Kasanggayahan

Kasanggayahan Opening

Pantomina sa Tinampo

photo gallery9

Elderly Filipino Week(October 2017)

Emergency Medical Technician

Training

GSP Kasanggayahan

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Sorsogon City bags Seal of Good Local Governance

NEWSfeatures

Sorsogon City receives GawadGobernador sa Kapaligiran

Once again, LGU Sorsogon City got the nod of DILG National and Regional evaluators for a “back-to-back” win in the much-coveted national government award for the most effective and efficient Local Government Unit (LGU) award for good governance. This is a rare feat because it is not only national in scope but the awardee must pass the very stringent assessment criteria on the following core areas: a) Social Protection; b) Disaster Preparedness; c) Peace & Order; and d) Financial Administration. In addition, the LGU must pass the following essential areas: a) Business Friendliness & Competitiveness; b) Environmental Management; and c) Tourism & Culture. For the entire province, only the City of Sorsogon and the Municipality of Juban bagged the prestigious award.

Once again, LGU Sorsogon City bags the coveted Gawad Gobernador sa Kapaligiran Award for 2017 after besting the other LGUs in the Province of Sorsogon. The award honors Sorsogon LGUs advocating and implementing environment-friendly programs and practices in the following areas: 1) Public Market; 2) Public Terminal; 3) School; 4) Barangay; 5) Municipal Nursery; 6) Roadside Beautification; 7) Central Materials Recovery Facility; 8) Support System; 9) Other Facilities and Establishments; and 10) DRR-CCA.

The awarding ceremony was held last November 24, 2017 at the Tent City, Manila Hotel, Metro Manila. The City Government Delegation was headed by the Hon. Mayor Sally A. Lee and Ms. Linda S. Fornelosa (LGO III) of the DILG City Office.

The award signifies the unrelenting efforts, teamwork, able leadership, persistence, integrity, responsive social services and effective management skills demonstrated by the men and women of the city government. The award also means that there is no room for complacency among the officers and employees of the city government and this great achievement must be sustained for the benefit of the succeeding administrations and the entire constituency. Keep up the good work! (T.Fortes)

Complementing the prestigious award are special citations for the city’s Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) and Best Implementor of Ecological Solid Waste Management. Beaming with pride and joy, Hon. City Mayor Sally A. Lee and City ENRO, Ronando F. Gerona received the award last October 18, 2017 at Annabel’s Garden, Bibincahan, Sorsogon City.

The LGU was also cited for its environmental programs such as the Anti-Plastic Ordinance as well as Waste Segregation and Disaster Preparedness Programs. In addition, the Buhatan Integrated National High School (Brgy. Buhatan, Sorsogon City) was cited as the best implementor of Ecological Solid Waste Management and Disaster Risk Reduction Management programs, among the schools in the province.

These back-to-back victories in addition to the numerous awards and citations received by the LGU, catapult Sorsogon City to the roster of premier and best performing cities in the country. Congratulations ! Keep up the good work! (T. Fortes)

11Sorsogon City observesWorld AIDS Day

Sorsogon City shares best practices with LGU Aringay

LGU Sorsogon City through the City Health Office (CHO) spearheaded the observance of the World Aids Day on November 13-17, 2017. The main objective of the event is to foster awareness and disseminate correct information on the dreaded disease. Thus, Ms. Rosana J. Jordan, STI-HIV AIDS program coordinator, made use of radio, television and print media to spread the “gospel” on the realities of HIV/AIDS.

Other activities included the joint celebration of the World Aids Day by the Provincial and City Governments on HIV/AIDS, flying of the advocacy balloons, HIV/AIDS testing and data updates on HIV/AIDS.

The Aringay Delegation headed by its Coordinator, Ms. Teresita D. Wong visited Sorsogon City on October 23-27, 2017 for benchmarking purposes on the LGU’s best practices, specifically on Gender and Development (GAD) programs. Aringay, a municipality of La Union Province with 24 barangays and a population of 49,000, is headed by its LCE, Mayor Eric O. Sibuma.

The said event was actively participated by the officers and employees of the provincial and city governments, local and national agencies, private institutions, schools and the general public. To supplement the HIV/AIDS information campaign, a number of messages and inspirational talks were delivered by Hon. Mayor Sally A. Lee, Dr. Edgar F. Garcia, Head of the Provincial Hospital, DOH OIC Director, Dr. Napoleon Arevalo, Councilor Ellen Jamisola, Dr. Ruel Rebustillo (CHO Head), Dr. James Apin (CHO), Ms. Alma Ruzgal and Ms. Rose Jordan (CHO).

The organizers of the event are very hopeful and optimistic that the yearly celebration of the World Aids Day would inculcate full awareness and correct information on the dreaded disease and erase misconceptions and eventually reduce, if not totally eliminate, the prevalence of the disease. (R. Jordan/T. Fortes)

On the GAD Programs, officers of CSWDO, Mr. Josie Jadie and Ms. Rosie Abay briefed the delegation on the following : Accomplishments relating to Women Empowerment, Special Program for abused women & children, Counselling, Barangay GAD Council, Natural Family Planning program, livelihood programs for women, operation of the “Bahay Bukas Palad” and other related programs. Sorsogon LGU is proud to inform the delegation that it has exceeded the 5% of IRA funding for GAD programs.

On their side, the visitors likewise shared their GAD Programs on women empowerment, self-enhancement programs, reproductive health services, nutrition, maternal & child care, education, community involvement, women’s organizations and other related programs.

To supplement the briefing, other Department Heads of LGU Sorsogon City shared their programs relating to

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The City Government through CENRO aims to sustain the gains of its environmental best practices among the 64 barangays especially with regard to “cleaning and greening” the communities. It is for this reason that the city has reaped various environmental awards.

The 2017-2018 “Clean and Green” Contest was formally launched last June 22, 2017 and shall run onwards up to March 20, 2018. It is open to all 64 barangays each receiving P10,000.00 as seed money. There are two (2) categories: Pilot an Non-Pilot. Those belonging to the Pilot Category are the 25 barangays that were capacitated by the City Government in 2016 and 2017. Non-Pilot Category include

agriculture, disaster preparedness, veterinary programs, city planning, zoning, social welfare, housing & urban development, barangay affairs, education, legislative measures and other programs and projects of the City Government.

On the lighter side, the delegation had the chance to enjoy the wonders of Barcelona, Bulusan Lake, Irosin Hot Springs and Buhatan River Cruise, spiced with a shopping spree at the local trade fairs.

Impressions

The Aringay Delegation were full of praises and admiration for the city. From the personality of the leaders, (Governor Bobet and Mayor Sally), down to the rank and file, the warmth and hospitality of the people is extraordinary. They see Sorsogon as a safe and clean city with a very promising future. Local governance is beyond reproach and tourism is growing at a tremendous pace. And because of these achievements, it’s not surprising for them to know that the LGU has been a recipient of various awards and recognition both local and international. (T. Fortes)

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Sorsogon City LaunchesClean and Green Contest

DTI-LGU Sorsogon City forgeMOA on Food and Crafts

Training and Services

the 39 remaining barangays.The contest activities include orientation, launching, contest proper, Board of Judges Meeting, Re-orientation, 1st Monitoring, Preliminary Awarding, 2nd Monitoring, 2nd Deliberation by the BOJ and Final Awarding.

The criteria for judging include: 1) Documentation of Environmental Education Activities (5%); 2) Documentation of Waste Collection Activities (15%); 3) Documentation of Waste Recovery Activities (15%); 4) Documentation of Enforcement Activities (15%); 5) Greening and Reforestation Activities (40%); and 6) Other Solid Waste Management Initiatives (10%). The Board of Judges is composed of a Chairman and 4 members from reputable agencies and institutions. The City ENRO will serve as the Secretariat.

In order to further motivate the barangays, a Preliminary Awarding was conducted wherein the top 3 barangays in each category resulting from the 1st monitoring activity will receive P10,000.00 each while the 4th-6th places will receive P5,000.00 each. Preliminary Awarding was conducted during the City Foundation Day on 16 December 2017.

Final awarding of winners will be conducted on March 28, 2018. The top 10 barangays in each category shall be awarded with certificates of recognition and prizes. In addition, top 3 schools in solid waste management and greening program in each category will also be awarded with certificates of recognition and prizes. There are also individual awards to be given to the Best Punong Barangay and Best Household in Clean and Green in each category. (CENRO/CPMU)

The Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) got another “shot-in-the-arm” boost upon implementation of the DTI-LGU Sorsogon City MOA starting CY 2014 up to CY 2018 under the Bottom-up Budgeting (BUB) Fund.

The first tranche (1st Batch) amounting to P2.4M (with P300,000.00 City counterpart ) benefitted about 200 entrepreneurs/trainees from barangays Basud, Buhatan, Del Rosario, Balete among others, who underwent training on food processing at the SCC Food Training Center and are now selling their products in local and national food outlets. Among the food and crops processed are pili, camote, cassava, coconut, seaweeds, bagoong, tilapia, siomai, fish, meal, fruits, vegetables, imbotido and sardines. Utensils and equipment are provided during the training.

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The second tranche (2nd Batch) amounting to P7.6M (with P2.4M City counterpart) was allocated for Crafts and Food Processing training at Osiao, Panlayaan

and the City Shellcraft Center in Bibincahan among the 500 entrepreneurs/trainees from Panlayaan, San Isidro, Bucal-bucalan, Rizal, Salvacion, Macabog, Basud, Balete, Del Rosario, Nagkakaisang Kababaihan ng Sorsogon and Buenavista, among others. The project includes trainings on bamboo crafts, soft-broom making, pili shell craft, coco shell craft, novelties, accessories, home decors, abaca and karagumoy bags, etc.

DTI assists budding entrepreneurs in product development, packaging and marketing at the local and national outlets and also at the Mega Trade Fair and World Trade Center. The City Government provides trainors, food for participants and training venue.

The Over-all Coordinator of the project is Ms. Teresita A. Dave of the City Agriculture Office under the supervision of its head, Ms. Deline Detera. (CAO/CPMU)

Michael V. Banta was one of the Student-Leaders not only of the City Scholars Organization but also of Sorsogon State College as a whole.

He is that person who was our frequent visitor at the Barangay Affairs and Public Assistance, and he always tells us of his activities in school, his dreams for his Family and their economic status. He said that, he was never ashamed of their economic status, because he believed that once he finds a job he will see to it that they will have a house of their own.

When he passed the Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination last October 2017, we immediately received the news directly from him; who told us, that soon, his dreams will be fulfilled. Such was the humility and simplicity of this new Engineer, who thinks and puts his family’s welfare

Iskolar Ako and This is My Storyfirst, over himself.

Together with other Passers like Gladys Ebdani, Meldon Logronio, Jennefer Hubilla, and Jilyn Kristal Geronimo, they came over to the City Government to personally inform Mayor Sally Lee that they passed the Board and to thank her for the financial assistance and emotional support given to them while they were in school.

Mayor Sally Lee on the other hand, was so happy to have learned of their success. She said that, this was what she dreamt for the City Scholars, that eventually, they will be able to help their respective families. She gave them a “love gift” so it could help them, in any way, especially, in paying for their licenses.

Michael V. Banta is now gainfully employed in a private company in Manila.

City Scholar-Passers in the Licensure Examination for Mechanical Engineers personally visited Mayor Sally A. Lee to give her the good news. With them in the picture are Executive Assistant Amy V. Deniega and the BAPAS Staff

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The new Mechanical Engineers (October 2017 Passers) : L-R; Meldon Logronio, Jennefer Hubilla, Gladys Ebdani, Michael Banta and Jilyn Kristal Geronimo.

List of City Scholar-Passers inThe Board Examinations For 2017:

Accountancy Board Examination (April 2017)Daryl A. PagpagitanKristine JimenezMae F. Doloiras

Electrical Engineering Board Examination (April 2017)Christian D. NolsolJennen B. HayaganPaulin Cris F. ChavezArvin J. Arevalo

Civil Engineering Board Examination (May 2017)Ma. Micaela D. TanCarla Mae J. FullenteChristian Rey A. Ansus

Mechanical Engineering Board Examination(September 2017)

Michael V. BantaGladys M. EbdaniJilyn Kristal J. GeronimoJennefer C. HubillaMeldon G. Logronio

Licensure Examination for Teachers (April 2017)Richelle D. Arabaca –Rank 2 for Region V

Accountancy Board Examination (October 2017)Jomelyn L. Dador

Daryl A. Pagpagitan, CPA

Richelle D. ArabacaRank 2 for Region V

Mae F. Doloiras, CPA

Jomelyn L. Dador, CPA,with Mayor Sallly A. Lee

(who is also a CPA)

The new Engineers with Admin Malyn Dimaano and Accounting Head Isagani Doloiras, L-R Christian D. Nolsol, EE;

Jenine B. Hayagan, EE; Micaela D. Tan, CE;Karla Mae Fullente, CE, Arvin J. Arevalo, EE.

Christian Rey A. Ansus, CE

(M.L. Alindogan)

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It is true that sometimes, being trapped in the tight chains of poverty can really hinder one’s dreams in becoming a reality but this is not the case for most of Sorsogon City’s Scholars who proved to us that with sheer determination, diligence and hard work, academic excellence can be achieved hence changing an individual’s life for the better.

Now let us look back to how the Sorsogon City Scholarship Program has helped them achieve their goals as aspiring engineers, teachers and accountants.

Greetings!

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the government and the staff composing the City Scholar Organization, for the financial support that I have received for the past five years of taking Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. Because of your guidance and support I pursued my dreams and continued my studies. Now, I am a Registered Master Electrician and a graduating student ready to face the reality of the world and one step closer to become a Registered Electrical Engineer. I will never forget to look back to the persons who helped me with my studies specially the City Government. God bless you all! Thanks and More Power!

Yours truly,Paulin Cris F. Chavez

City Scholar(Electrical Engineering Board Examination Passer, April 2017)

To: Honorable Sally A. LeeTo be one of the scholars of the Sorsogon City Government is

both an honor and a responsibility. Not everyone is given the chance to study in college and not everyone is fortunate enough to study in college for free.

For five years of studying Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in Sorsogon State College, I never paid a single peso for my tuition and miscellaneous fees. I also get monthly allowance aside from the extra allowance I receive for books and projects, and uniform for every semester and school year respectively. It is a whole package of convenience on my part.

So to the Sorsogon City Government most especially to Hon. Mayor Sally A. Lee and to all the staff of City Scholarship Management Program, I extend my deepest gratitude. Thank you for this great opportunity and privilege you have given us.

More power and God Bless!

Sincerely yours,

Carla Mae J. FullenteCity Scholar

(Civil Engineering Board Examination Passer, May 2017)

Dear Ma’am,I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to you and to

your good office for giving me the privilege to become one of the city scholars. Being a scholar has been a great help for me, for my family and most especially to my study. Thank you for the help and support that you had given me and it really helped me to finish my study.

To be one of the Regional Topnotchers (Rank 2) of the March 2017 Licensure Examination for Teachers, I feel so blessed because God always makes a way to make my dreams come true. That’s why I am very thankful to God because you are one of the ways. Without you I will not be where I am now. Thus, I want to be like you whose pleasure is to serve the people. Ma’am Sally, I wish you to have a healthy life so you can continuously extend your helping hands for those who are in need like me. Again, thank you so much Ma’am Sally A. Lee for not only changing my life but also my entire world for the better.

May God shower you with His Blessings!

Respectfully yours,Richelle D. Arabaca

City Scholar(LET Passer, Regional Topnotcher, Rank 2, April 2017)

Madam,I am a graduating student from Sorsogon State College taking up

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. I am one of the lucky beneficiaries of your program which is the City Scholarship Program. This program has helped me in making my dreams come true.

Way back in high school, I always thought of going to college. Having this dream, I studied hard and gained the highest honor in class. But this did not necessarily mean that my ticket to college is a sure thing. That’s why when my teacher told us that the City Government is giving a scholarship, I did not hesitate and wholeheartedly took the exam. And luckily, I passed and became a City Scholar. Being a scholar is both a privilege and a responsibility. Why? Because every time I go out, it is not only my family name that I am carrying but also the image of our city. Five years of being a scholar and an engineering student is both a challenge and pleasure for me because it pushed me to study hard so that this blessing won’t slip from my hands.

I would like to thank the staff of the program for their undying support and understanding. You always entertain us every time we have concerns. To our Honorable City Mayor Sally A. Lee, thank you mam for letting me be a part of your extended family. Thank you for the opportunity and thank you for the scholarship. May the Almighty God bless you always. Thank you mam.

Yours truly,Jeneffer C. Hubilla

City Scholar (Mechanical Engineering Board Examination Passer, September 2017)

LETTERS TO THE MAYOR

The Buhatan River Eco-Adventure Project has caught the attention of local and foreign tourists

in view of its natural and unadulterated scenic attractions as well as the very inspiring story of how the locals painstakingly demonstrated their unwavering support and cooperation to develop the project from scratch to what it is now. From enjoying the sumptuous local delicacies in the floating cabanas, bird watching, fish catching and firefly gazing to just savoring the fresh natural smell of nature while sailing along the majestic stream of the river, one cannot help but return for another enjoyable trip. No wonder, the project has become a word of mouth among local and international adventure seekers.

It is not surprising then that the project had been nominated and eventually bagged the Lopez Achievement and the BPI Sinag Awards for 2017. It is not a “walk in the park” to win the said awards due to the very stringent criteria and selection process among countless candidates nationwide. The Lopez Achievement Award focused on promotion of its corporate core values such as public responsibility, impact to the community and the environment as well as community self-help and sustainability. The BPI Sinag Award on the other hand, emphasized social entrepreneurship, business viability and sustainability.

The project truly deserves the accolades and the significant amount of money as prizes and incentives to be expended for its expansion projects such as additional floating cabanas, mangrove walk and the visitors’ center. Hon. Edwin Divina (Barangay Chairman) and Ms. Myrna Fulo (Project Manager) received the awards during the glittering and momentous awarding ceremonies held at the ABS-CBN’s Studio 10 last October 19, 2017 and the Manila Yatch Club on August 20, 2017, respectively. Kudos and Congratulations!

(T.Fortes)

Buhatan RiverEco-Adventure Project bags

twin awards

16

17Hitting The Mark:

Running Forward To 2020The Socialized Housing Program of the City Government

of Sorsogon under the leadership of City Mayor Sally A. Lee has been on a fast paced gear in realizing the vision “Zero Informal Settlers by 2020.” With this, four (4) resettlement sites located in the three districts of the City of Sorsogon are being developed by the City Government together with its partners.

‘CFC-ANCOP-Bancal San Roque Relocation Site’With the benevolence of the partners of the City

Government of Sorsogon, City Mayor Sally A. Lee as well as the Couples for Christ Answering the Cry of the Poor(CFC-ANCOP) team has been able to request for the necessary assistance in the construction of duplex houses at the CFC-ANCOP-Bancal San Roque Relocation Site.

The funding has been generated by the Cross Catholic Outreach, a non-government organization who believed in the vision of the good Mayor and the CFC-ANCOP team that providing one of the most basic necessities, such as shelter can alleviate the situation of our brethren who have less in life. In December of this year, fifty (50) housing units are expected to be constructed by the CFC-ANCOP team with the help of the beneficiaries. This will constitute as an addition to the fourteen (14) units already turned-over last February 21, 2017. Thus, a total of 64 housing units will rise in the San Roque Relocation Site by the end of this year and another turn-over ceremony will be conducted by the City Government to award the units to the intended beneficiaries.

These beneficiaries are already considered as home partners since they are actively involved in the construction of the housing units. Through the “sweat equity scheme”, the beneficiaries are required to render a certain number of hours in the site and participate in the process of building their homes. This gives them a sense of ownership and value to what they have built with their own “sweat”, time and effort.

‘CSAP San Lorenzo Relocation Site’The San Lorenzo Relocation Site Phase II commonly known

as CSAP San Lorenzo is projected to cater to 200 informal settler families from the barangays of Sirangan, Balogo, and Cabid-an. This site is purposely chosen for the Core Shelter Assistance Project (CSAP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Office (DSWD). Through this project, the beneficiaries will have the capacity to build their homes in the lots provided to them by the City Government of Sorsogon.

A full amount of 32 million pesos as core shelter assistance have been received by the beneficiaries. One hundred sixty (160) thousand pesos has been programmed for each core shelter unit. A total of 200 core shelter unit are expected to rise by the end of March next year as per agreement embodied in the Memorandum of Agreement executed by and between the DSWD, City Government of Sorsogon and the Homeowner’s Association of the Beneficiaries.

The DSWD has made a commitment to the City Government of Sorsogon that after the completion of the 200 core shelter

units in San Lorenzo, they can grant another financial assistance that can accommodate almost 300 informal settler families of Sorsogon City. This commitment has been a result of the series of dialogue and lobbying made by our City Mayor Sally A. Lee.

‘Pier Site: Sorsogon Community Housing Project’ After waiting for almost three (3) years, following City

Mayor Sally A. Lee’s request for assistance from the National Housing Authority under its Resettlement Assistance Project (RAP) for the Local Government Unit, the beneficiaries of the Pier Site can finally see a promise being fulfilled.

It can be remembered that during Mayor Sally’s term on 2013-2016, a massive and immediate relocation of the informal settlers at the Rompeolas have been made because of their vulnerability. These informal settlers have been relocated to Barangay Cabid-an and have been given individuals lots wherein they have built their temporary shelter.

Seeing not onlythe necessity of providing these beneficiaries with decent home but also recognizing the limited fund of the City Government, City Mayor Sally A. Lee has actively appealed to the National Housing Authority for shelter assistance. The NHA has granted this request has allotted a budget for 100 core housing,

Construction of these 100 units has commenced last September. The NHA is eyeing the possibility of finishing the work prior to the end of the first quarter of 2018.

‘Bamboo Village Project’The DON JOSE M. BERENGUER SR. BAMBOO VILLAGE

commonly known as Bamboo Village is an off-shoot of the technological breakthrough of creating a climate adaptive-disaster resilient housing. Through the benevolence of Ms. Rosario J. Berenguer, the City Government has been able to obtain a lot where the said project will be implemented. On the other hand, the technology as well as the funding will be provided by the Base Bahay Inc. (BASE), the organization responsible for the creation of the Bagong Silangan Kawayan Initiative in Quezon City.

This will be the first time that BASE will venture with a government unit. Out of 145 cities in the Philippines, BASE opted to partner with the City Government of Sorsogon. The BASE executives have seen the expansive growth and development in Sorsogon City in terms of housing and resettlement for the underprivileged and homeless families. They have also witnessed the tremendous effort exhibited by the Chief Executive City Mayor Sally A. Lee in alleviating the situation of the informal settlers. BASE will be building 50 units which shall make use of bamboo as the primary construction material and has been guaranteed to withstand strong typhoons which constantly battered the City of Sorsogon.

The City Government’s role is to construct the necessary road network and drainage system within the village. Potential beneficiaries of the site shall also be screened and those that meet the required qualifications shall eventually be integrated in the project. They shall be required to render service in the site as part of their ‘sweat equity’. (Atty. L. Jimenez)

Transport Activity

A Busy Year For The Senior Citizens

FASTOD Sports Fest – Basketball, Chess and Dama The tricycle operators and drivers’ association in

partnership with Public Order & Safety Office conducted a sports friendly competition amongst TODA members sponsored by Cong. Bravo, the activity set in motion last November 5, 2017 kickstarted with a parade with their respective teams around the city area and followed by an opening program held at Provincial Gymnasium of Sorsogon City in which Basketball Games took place while Chess and Dama Games were accommodated at Sorsogon City Tricycle Terminal the idea of this is to develop camaraderie, sportsmanship, diversion and exercise amongst themselves.

CY 2017 was indeed a hectic year for the dynamic Federation of Senior Citizens of Sorsogon City spearheaded by the indefatigable Ms. Placer Balmaceda and Ms. Bernardita Divina. Following are some of the major activities of the Federation in 2017:

Pasko Kasiyahan 2017 - (Fastod & Kabalikat Charity Members)A merry making and gift sharing amongst TODA members

together with their families in celebration of this year’s Christmas season. The FASTOD president and Kabalikat Charity members intended a program of activity for this blissful celebration with honorable City Mayor Sally A. Lee who will give a meaningful message followed by the turnover of Toda uniforms, awarding ceremony, giving of trophies and gift giving, plus drinks and pulutan will be served together with 3u Performers that will serenade this event on December 15, 2017 at Balogo Gymnasium, Sorsogon City.

(V. Daria III)

Opening (Provincial Gymnasium)Champions of Chess Game (Team SOTRIDA)

• A seminar-workshop was conducted for the Federation Officers and Board of Trustees as well as BASCA Presidents on the Preparation of Action Plan, Program Design, Reports and Financial Statement last February 2017;

• A two-day training on the preparation of siomai, siopao, puto cake and other steamed food delicacies was conducted in partnership with TESDA;

• Lobbied for the increase in social pension with the endorsement of Hon Mayor Sally A. Lee with the increasing number of recipients from 426 in 2013 to 2229 in 2017;

• Participated in the celebration of of the Pili Festival highlighted by the Launching of the City Pharmacy and the selection and awarding of the Lolo King and Queen;

Who would have thought that these ladies in their twilight years would still have the energy and stamina to actively organize and participate in these very worthwhile activities. These “Golden Girls” are indeed invaluable assets of our society. (T. Fortes)

• Celebrated the Elderly Filipino Week from October 1-7, 2017 with varied activities in cooperation with CDRRMO and the Office of the City Vice Mayor. Highlighting the event was the full implementation of City Ordinance 001 honoring the Pre-Centenarians (90-99 yrs. Old), Centenarians (100 yrs. Old) and Post-Centenarians (101 and above). Other sidelights of the event included the awarding of the Best BASCA and the Best BASCA President which were awarded to Mrs. Salvacion Escolano of San Isidro, Bacon and Mr. Rene Dealca of Bibincahan, East District, respectively. The event was capped with singing and dancing, and the best singers and dancers were likewise given cash prizes.

• The Senior Citizens were also treated with a free tour to Tagaytay City courtesy of Mayor Sally A Lee. They were also feted with a welcome dinner by the Mayor’s Office and the Senior Citizens Federation of Tagaytay City.

18

Sorsogon City Foundation Anniversary Employees Intercolor

Sportsfest2017

The annual Sorsogon City Foundation Anniversary Employees Inter-Color Sportsfest

2017 has just concluded. This year, only two (2) sporting events were included – Basketball (Men) and Volleyball (Mixed). Departments, Offices, and Sections were clustered into five (5) colors. Composition of the teams are as follows:

In Basketball, the Green Team emerged as the Champion Team; 1st Runner-up was Orange Team; while the Red Team finished 2nd Runner-up. The Champion Team received a trophy and a cash prize of P 10,000.00. 1st Runner-up was awarded with a trophy and P 7,000.00. The 3rd Runner-up got a trophy and P 5,000.00.

In Volleyball (Mixed), Gold Team came out victorious and took the P 10,000.00 cash prize plus trophy. 1st Runner-up was the Red Team with P 7,000.00 cash prize and trophy. 3rd Runner-up was the Blue Team with a cash prize of P 5,000.00 plus trophy.

This inter-color tournament also served as a breather for city government employees during holiday season after months of dedicated service to the public.

(V. Daria IV)

Green Team Orange Team red Team gold Team blue TeamOffice of the City Mayor

Office of the City Administrator

City Legal Office

City Information Office

City Tourism Office

Market Operation

Office of the City Human Resource Management

Officer

Barangay Affairs and Public Assistance Section

Office of the City Environment and Nat.

Res. Officer

Office of the City Social Welfare and Dev't. Officer

Office of the City Health Officer

Office of the City Disaster Risk Reduction

Mgt. Officer

Office of the City Accountant

Office of the City Agriculturist

Office of the City Treasurer

Office of the City Budget Officer

Traffic and Security Office

Office of the City Veterinarian

City Planning and Development Office

Office of the City Vice-Mayor

Office of the Sangguniang Panlungsod

Office of the Secretary to the Sangguniang

Panlungsod

DILG

Office of the City General Services Officer

Office of the City Zoning Administrator

Office of the City Civil Registrar

Permits and Licensing Section

Civil Security Unit/Office of the City Engineer

19

Special REPORT

It is not surprising that LGU Sorsogon City has reaped various local and international awards and recognitions considering the different institutions and groups visiting Sorsogon City to learn from its sectoral best practices on good governance.

On the local front, various initiatives on health, environment, agriculture, veterinary, livelihood, social development, among others, have attracted various institutions and groups to learn from LGU Sorsogon City.

The Social Hygiene Clinic which has a complete line of medical equipment financed by DOH and the Global Fund, has attracted visitors from Naga, Daraga and Legaspi City to observe and learn how individuals with socially transmitted diseases such as STI and HIV are treated and rehabilitated. Its IEC activities using multi-media initiatives, not to mention the annual celebration of the World Aids Day, have inspired registered entertainment establishment workers, LGBTs and other individuals from all walks of life to avail of the services of the clinic.

In addition, the Cerebral Palsy Clinic which is a rarity in the region, has now an imposing building inside the City Hall Complex catering to patients even outside of Sorsogon City. The cooperative efforts of the City Government, political figures and the Celebral Palsy Association of Sorsogon City have contributed to the success of this very laudable project.

The very informative and socially relevant projects and initiatives of the City Environment & Natural Resources Office (CENRO) have gained prominence in the region. These are : a) Barangay-based Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM) program; b) Anti-Plastic Ordinance; c) City-Level Materials Recovery Facility; d) Pili Tree Plantation; e) Mangrove Rehabilitation Project; f) River Stabilization Project; and g) Anti-Smoke Belching Unit (ASBU) Operation.

Some LGU Officials and students from the region requested audience from the City Agriculture Office (CAO) to study and observe the management of : a) Harmful Algal Bloom or “Red Tide”; b) Organic Farming; and c) Integrated Farming and Fishery Project.

Specifically, the LGU Aringay Delegation visited Sorsogon City on October 23 -27, 2017 to study the programs and activities of the LGU on women empowerment which include, among others, special programs for abused women & children; Barangay GAD Council; Natural Family Planning Program; Livelihood Program for women; Operation of “Bahay Bukas Palad, Financing of GAD Pograms; etc. In addition, the City Government was recently awarded for its pioneering efforts in Early Childhood Care.

Sorsogon City has established a modern semi-mechanized slaughtering facility and was given full accreditation as “Class AA” Slaughterhouse by the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) and the first slaughterhouse in the region compliant to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP). This is also the reason why other LGU Officials visited the city to study the physical structure and designs for them to get some ideas in putting up a slaughtering facility in their locality. To name a few of these officials are: Mayor Noel Rosal of Legaspi City; Mayor Ongjoco of Guinobatan, Albay; CPDO of Ligao City & her staff; Municipal Engineer of San Isidro, Samar and his staff; Municipal Engineer of Magallanes, Sorsogon and his staff and the Administrator & Municipal Planning Officer of LGU Gubat, Sorsogon. The facility has been used 3 times by TESDA Bulusan Campus as training venue for NC II course in Slaughtering Operation. Last September 2017, 15 Agricultural Extension Workers in the Province of Sorsogon used the slaughterhouse to practise the actual blood collection in hogs. From October 28 to November 5, 2017, 37 Senior High School Students from Capul Agro-Industrial School, Capul, Northen Samar conducted their Work Immersion Program at the city slaughterhouse.

HEALTH

AGRICULTURE

ENVIRONMENT

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

VETERINARY

Sharing Best Practices on Good Governance

Continued on next page...

20

As early as the first term of Hon. Sally A. Lee as City Mayor, Sorsogon City has been at the forefront of various development initiatives relating to good governance and public administration. Various fora and avenues for exchange of best practices and sound public management have recognized the ideas and initiatives of LGU Sorsogon City that could be replicated in other geographical areas of the country. These initiatives are the Shelter Program, Climate Change Program, Preservation of Human Life, Character City, Organic

The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the City Government has made a difference in the lives of countless micro-entreprenuers in the barangays. A number of success stories had been documented and featured in both print and broadcast media. The inspiring stories of budding entrepreneurs have encouraged the present administration to increase the amount and coverage of the livelihood loans (without interest). To name a few of the livelihood success stories are: Taro Chips Project of San Vicente, Bacon, Hollow Blocks Making of Sto. Domingo, Bacon, Fishing Project of Bulabog, West District, Soft Broom Making of Tublijon, West District, Handicrafts Making of Gatbo, Bacon, “Tiklad” making of Sugod, Bacod, among others. No wonder then that organized groups and students alike have visited and interviewed these successful projects to get some tips on how to manage successful livelihood projects.

The continuous Barangay Emergency Response Training (BERT) of the City Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) has been replicated in almost all the barangays city-wide. Other LGUs have undergone similar trainings in their localities. And a number of agencies have requested copies of Geographic Information System (GIS) Maps from the City Government to help them rationalize their disaster risk management systems.

LIVELIHOOD

DISASTER RISK REDUCTION

MANAGEMENT

GLOBAL SETTING

City, Healthy Lifestyle, Project SERVE, Smoke-Free City and Disaster Preparedness, among others.

In recent years, this achievement has levelled up not only in the local scene but also in the global arena. Mayor Sally A. Lee has had her “hands full” with international invitations for her to share her expertise on Sorsogon City’s best practices in different areas such as the Preservation of Human Life, Housing & Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Change, Summit of Regional Leaders, Localization of the Millenium Development Goals, New Urban Agenda, Women’s Forum, Migration, Gender and Equality, Youth Programs, Sustainable Resource Management, Resource-efficient Infrastructure, Open Space Program, Participative Budgeting, Graft & Corrupt Practices Prevention and others. This recognition of Mayor Sally’s expertise on various developmental subjects has brought her around the globe for her knowledge-sharing stints with other countries.

As testimonies of her impressive achievements in the global fora, a number of high-ranking officials conveyed congratulatory remarks relating to Mayor Sally Lee’s valuable contributions, to name a few:

“ We express our sincere gratitude for your valuable contribution and participation which contributed to the meeting’s success in the Localization of the Sustainable Goals & Implementation of the New Urban Agenda in Asia Pacific” ..Remarks of Curt Garrigan, Chief, UN –ESCAP Sustainable Urban Development Section, Environment & Development Division, after the conclusion of the Regional Partners Forum on the Implementation of the Outcome of the Habitat III Conference in Asia & the Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand, November 28-29, 2017.

“I was impressed with your passion for civil protection and the creativity with which you have engaged your citizens in the city”…Remarks of Steve Schwartz, CEO/Owner of Family Business, after the International Conference on WRC3 in Brussels.

“Your presentation on poverty issues and DRRM (which was greatly applauded) reflects your sincere concern for your constituents as well as your hands-on managerial expertise”… Remarks of Ms. Vilma Cabrera, Senior Specialist, UN World Food Programme Regional Bureau in Bangkok, after the conclusion of the UN-Habitat Partners Forum held in Bangkok, Thailand on November 28-29, 2017. (T. Fortes)

21

BUSINESS WITH A HEART(The CERAGEM Story)

Feature Article

One can’t help being curious about the long queue as early as 5:00 in the morning daily at Burgos Street, Sorsogon City where CERAGEM Office is located. To satisfy this curiousity, this writer interviewed Ms. Alva Fruto dela Merced, Dealer-Manager of the company’s Sorsogon Branch who revealed that eager and patient folks of all ages (mostly seniors) wait for their turn to avail of the unique and free treatment (for a variety of illnesses) --- a process of healing that is a result of a fusion of technology as well as traditional and alternative medical practices. Testimonials of those who benefitted from the treatment verbally relayed their experiences to other prospective beneficiaries which have resulted in the increase in the daily number of those wanting to avail of its services.

Orientation Session for Clients

Ms. Dela Merced further explained that the treatment (focusing on the spine) is a result of the interplay among the 5 CERAGEM principles of : a) Massage (relaxation of the muscles); b) Maxi-bustion (removes the frozen elements of the body); c) Acupressure (machine-generated therapy); d) Far-infrared ray (natural heat); and e) Chiropractic (realignment of the spine). These are made possible through the 3 popular CERAGEM apparatus/machines, namely: a) CERAGEM Compact (Manual); b) CERAGEM Reflax (Automatic); and c) CERAGEM Master V3 (Automatic), featuring spine scanning, temperature control and sound therapy, all in smart designs.

Group Dynamics for Participants

For those who decide to continue with the therapy, initial body reaction called Improvement Response (IR) can be expected as the patients’ bodies respond to the healing process.

The company does not prevent its clients from consulting medical professionals. It offers itself as alternative for those wishing to avail of its services and healing machines.

CERAGEM (from the Greek word “Cera”) which means heat and “gem” because of the presence of jade in its machines, the stone of choice due to its having negative charged ions and its capacity to produce far-infrared rays, started in 1998 in South Korea known as Samsung Medical Equipment Co., Ltd. but later changed to its present name. CERAGEM’s presence is felt in 80 countries worldwide.

Healing Session

True, it is a business venture, but what makes it unique is found in its offer of free thermal massage sessions catering mostly to senior citizens who usually do not have the capacity to pay for their hospital bills. Whether one buys the machines or not, it does not matter. Anybody can still continue to avail of this service even after the first trial, free of charge. City Mayor Sally A. Lee is most thankful for this and she commissioned this writer to feature the CERAGEM Story in the “Rompeolas” magazine, a quarterly publication of the City Government of Sorsogon.

As health and social welfare services are part of the flagship programs of the City Government, anchored on the “Sorsogon City Loves Life” slogan, CERAGEM’s missionary business venture is indeed a “business with a heart”. (T. Fortes)

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Showcasing Sorsogon City’s Good Governance in the International Arena

“What is good governance?” the Mayor asked on the day of her speech at the United Nations Anti-Corruption World Convention in Vienna, Austria. Good governance is something that she did not learn overnight. It took years of experience in the political arena where countless natural disasters had to be surpassed, trees to be planted, mouths to be fed and families to be sheltered while taking into consideration a growing economy alongside business sectors that have to be constantly monitored without compromising the flourishing natural environment that reflect the city’s prosperity.

To be recognized in the international arena has been both an honor and privilege for the City of Sorsogon. Not long after receiving its second Seal of Good Local Governance, Mayor Sally A. Lee was hand-picked as the sole representative of the entire Asia Pacific to act as both speaker and panelist at the United Nations Anti-Corruption World Convention last November 9, 2017 in Vienna, Austria alongside other valued guests such as the Senate President himself, Senator Koko Pimentel and Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales. In discussing her own anti-corruption initiatives, programs and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), she emphasized that through Transformation Politics which follows the concept of “shared governance, shared responsibility” the Sorsogon City government has become more resilient, competitive, sustainable and inclusive.

“…we need to harness the amazing potentials of cities to spark and spur new technologies, practices and approaches to help achieve local and global environmental goals.” – Mayor Sally A. Lee

After her participation in the UN Anti-Corruption World Convention, Mayor Sally A. Lee was again invited to participate in another United Nations Conference that was held last November 28, 2017 in Bangkok, Thailand. The UN Conference focused on New Urban Agenda such as National Urban Policies; Urban Legislation, Rules and Regulations; Urban Planning and Design; and Urban Economy and Municipal Finance. During her speech, Mayor Lee was keen on presenting Alternative Climate Resilience plans that according to her are essential steps “… in working towards a future that is environmentally sustainable with ecological, healthy, low carbon, resource-efficient and resilient cities.” Towards the end of her speech she stressed that in order to achieve all of these local and environmental goals, there must be an efficient networking and consultation with agencies in a “public-private partnership” that would be beneficial for the government but of minimal environmental hazards. On top of all these, the Mayor shared that Sorsogon City’s Values Formation through its Character Development Programs has opened the eyes of many to the importance of a PRO-LIFE society in building a city like Sorsogon that truly “LOVES LIFE”.

The Mayor’s endeavors in Vienna and Bangkok weren’t hers alone but considered as a hard-earned victory of the people as well, for it is not only an affirmation of the consistency of governance but also a symbol of hope; that despite the inevitable ridicule and disorder, Sorsogon City still and will always adhere to the most important aspect of good local governance – meaningful service to the people. C. Buban

City Mayor Sally A. Lee, sharing Sorsogon City flagship program advocacy under her administration slogan

"Sorsogon City Loves Life"Bangkok, Thailand

United Nations Anti-Corruption ConventionVienna, Austria

23

A total of 30 o rd i n a n c e s

and 370 resolutions were passed by the 6th city council for the period July 2016 to November 2017.

Most notable of these were the City Pharmacy Ordinance, authored by City Vice Mayor Jonathan G.

Legislative Updates

Balintong. The City Pharmacy which opened last July 2017 is now serving indigent residents of the city and senior citizens. As of now, a total of 5,042 city indigents were given free medicine, 580 from Bacon District, 1,464 from the East District and 1,325 from the West District, 1,499 senior citizens, 86 from BJMP, and 88 from Sorsogon Provincial Jail. Other ordinances were the Prohibition in the Sneaking in/Smuggling of Contrabands in the City Jail facilities, the Sorsogon City Code of Parental Responsibility, an ordinance enforcing curfew to minors, an ordinance organizing the Sorsogon City Cultural Group, an ordinance renaming the three rural health units in Sorsogon City,etc. Ordinances such as renaming of several stands in the barangays, reclassification of lands, and appropriation ordinances were also in place.

The resolutions on the other hand had its share of cognizance as there were those that merited worthiness and actions. Examples of these are the resolution declaring utmost support and favorably endorsing the conversion of Sorsogon State College into a university, a resolution designating authorized selling areas for firecrackers and other pyrotechnics in the City of Sorsogon, a resolution enacting an ordinance promulgating Septage Management Program in the city, resolution giving due recognition to all past officials both in the then municipalities of Bacon and Sorsogon.

The 6th City council managed to hold 58 regular sessions. 2 special sessions, 1 joint session and 314 committee hearings for the past one and a half years.

Still, Vice Mayor Atan’s favorite - the feeding

The 6th City Council, The Year That Wasprogram, emboldens his utmost spirit in public service. Even with meager funding, the program continues to roll even more convincingly in all barangays in the City of Sorsogon.

“Dae matatawadan an ogma asin olok kan sarong aki pagkatapos niya magkakan kan lugaw kan feeding ni Vice Atan. Kun an sarong litrato nagsasabi ki totoo, despues gabos na aki namumuya sa feeding program ni Vice. “

Other extension services, meanwhile elicited positive response from the barangay folks.

Coastal Clean-upPreserving and taking good care of the

environment is tantamount to our responsibility of securing our environment for our children’s future. It is our task to render our best to protect our seas, rivers, mountains and all God’s gift to mankind. In answer to this, Coastal clean up drives were conducted in several barangays in the west district although the initial drive took place at the stretch of Salog River. (M. Daep)

Feeding Program

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Anchored on her “Sorsogon City Loves Life” slogan, Hon. Sally A. Lee is an ardent advo-

cate of of her “HEARTS” Programs which stand for:

H- Health E- Education/Environment A- Agriculture R- Rural Development T- Tourism S- Shelter/Social Welfare

HEALTHMayor Sally A. Lee gives utmost priority to the

preservation of human life. Hence, health programs and services are on top of her administrative agenda. Her “Pro-Life”, “Organic City,” “Disaster Risk Management”, ”Anti-Illegal Drugs” and “Smoke-Free City” advocacies are living testimonies of her relentless campaign to preserve the human life, consistent with her “Sorsogon City Loves Life” slogan.

Health programs and services are indeed wide-ranging. These cover medical, dental, nursing, environmental, laboratory, pharmacy, nutrition and other health-related services which are directly accessed by our constituents through the visiting doctors, nurses and medical missions of the City Health Office (CHO), as well as Barangay Health Workers (BHW) who have surpassed their counterparts in the region in terms of numbers. The City Infirmary Hospital, City Pharmacy and District Hospitals as well as “Project Serve” and “Peoples Day”, complement each other to provide greater access to health care services especially the Senior Citizens, PWDs and the less privileged.

EDUCATIONThe City Government’s Educational Program

focuses on giving priority to the less privileged sector. Hence, emphasis is on the implementation of the “City Scholarship Program”and the “Alternative Learning System” (ALS), where poor but deserving students

are given scholarships in the city’s respectable and prestigious educational institutions. A new addition is the “City’s Financial Assistance Program” wherein all students in the tertiary level who are enrolled in private educational institutions are given P2,000.00 per semester or P4,000.00 annually, with very minimal requirements. It is very heartwarming to note that a number of the city scholars are either topnotchers or passers in the Board or Licensure Examinations.

Furthermore, Mayor Sally believes in giving equal opportunity and access to education. Hence, out-of-school youth, undergraduates, correctional inmates, reformed drug offenders and those in the marginalized sectors are afforded basic education in spite of their handicaps and short-comings.

ENVIRONMENTThe Environmental Programs and Services of the

LGU are founded in the (3) pillars of the sector, which are 1) Solid Waste Management; 2) Environmental Management; and 3) Reforestation.

Solid Waste Management is anchored on the city’s slogan – “Mauswag na Ciudad; Malinig na Lugar”. The LGU started the implementation of “No Segregation; No Collection” Policy in April 2016 covering (10) urban barangays which make up the Central Business District (CBD).The LGU operates the city-level Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Barangay Buhatan to recover and process wastes collected from the CBD. To complement this initiative, the LGU partnered with the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) to provide P2 Million worth of logistical assistance (e.g. pedicabs, pushcarts, etc. ) to capacitate the barangays to become effective partners in solid waste management. The first-ever Sanitary Landfill will soon rise in Barangay Buenavista, West District to solve the problems encountered in operating controlled dumpsites. And as part of our source reduction campaign, the first phase of the implementation of the Sorsogon City Anti-Plastic Ordinance (SCAPO) covering large business

“HEARTS” Program

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establishments started last July 6, 2016 and will be pursued to cover all other establishments. Programs such as the annual Clean & Green Contest promotes general cleanliness & sanitation through the city.

On Environmental Management, the City Government strengthens ties with DENR- EMB V to become an effective partner in the enforcement of environmental laws such as the Clean Air Act (RA 8749) and Clean Water Act (RA 9275). The “Bantay Dagat” Program has been actively implemented to safeguard our waters from illegal fishing and poaching. Erring companies have been reprimanded and have complied with appropriate environmental laws.

On Reforestation, the LGU’s main strategy is to revegetate available lands which include uplands, riverbanks, coastal areas, schools, roadsides, and private lands in partnership with different agencies and private landowners. The current thrust in our reforestation efforts is the community involvement in environmental protection and preservation.

AGRICULTUREThis is one of the most important and critical sectors

that the City Government Sector is giving undivided attention in view of its immense productive potentials provided by mother nature. Agricultural programs and services are focused on technical assistance in both the urban and rural areas to make use of the bountiful resources. These are in the areas of Crop and Vegetable Production, High Value Commercial Crops, Organic Agriculture, Fishery Development and Livelihood Opportunities.

Regulatory activities are also being intensified to curtail abusive practices in critical areas such as illegal fishing, quarrying, use of pesticides, etc.

The City Agricultural Services Office ( CASO) likewise extends its services to strengthen farmers, fisherfolk and women’s organizations and provides financial support to rural-based organizations.

Finally, CASO implements special projects under the Grassroots Participatory Budgeting Program such as the provision of Pre- and Post Harvest Communal Machineries, Provision of Fishing Boats and Gears and Techno Demo on Organic Agriculture. The integrated approach to agricultural programs in fishery, farming and rural development is currently being implemented with the help of local and international funding agencies.

RURAL DEVELOPMENTComposite developmental services are diverted

to develop our once-forgotten “Land of Promise”---the rural areas. Hence, an integrated agricultural, fishery, infrastructure, medical, veterinary, senior citizen, technical, livelihood, trainings and other frontline services have been organized to deliver an integrated “One-Stop-Shop” services to the barangays in partnership with other government agencies such as the DA, DOLE, TESDA, DSWD, etc. These rural development projcts are being monitored by the City Project Monitoring Unit (CPMU).

TOURISMOne of the most promising development sectors

is the Tourism Sector. Huge potential and actual tourism sites abound in the City of Sorsogon. The “Rompeolas” which continues to be developed, has become a tourism hub of the city. Other prominent sites and attractions are the Buhatan River Cruise, Paguriran Island, Bacon Beach, Suhi Natural Springs, San Juan Surfing Site, Mt. Pulog, to name a few. The foremost tourism strategy being adopted by the City Government is the “Community-Based Eco-tourism Strategy” which focuses on the development of the area without causing any harm or damage to the environment. The City Government cannot do this alone. Hence, People’s Organizations and the business sector are being tapped to cooperate in this very laudable program. Likewise, in the management of Events and Festivals, public and private partnerships are being resorted to as both sectors are bound to benefit in the developmental and commercial aspects of tourism development. Necessarily, the Sorsogon City Tourism Office (SCTO) has to update the city’s Tourism Master Plan and conduct an intensive Information and Education Campaign to boost the Tourism Industry.

SHELTERAnother priority program of the City Government

is the relocation and resettlement of qualified informal settlers in the city such as those in Guinlajon, Caricaran, Cabid-an, Burabod, Mahingan, Balogo, Buhatan and San Lorenzo. Careful screening and social preparation are undertaken to systematize the fair distribution of housing amenities to deserving beneficiaries. Joint ventures and partnerships shelter programs with both local and international partners are being undertaken

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to complement the efforts of the City Government. The city has partnered with Gawad Kalinga, UN Habitat, Base Bahay (Hilti Foundation), NHA, DSWD and private land donors such as the Berengeur Family for the “Bamboo Village” at Gabao, San Roque and the Aytona Family for the “CFC-ANCOP Homes” at Sitio Bancal, San Roque. Likewise, middle income earners are afforded simple and decent housing programs to include employees housing projects and affordable housing subdivisions within the city. Social housing has been the thust of the city government.

The City Zoning Administrator’s Office (CZAO) complements the program through intensified information and education campaign on proper land utilization vis-à-vis approved comprehensive land use plan and implements with due diligence, all applicable and existing to land use/zoning laws, rules, regulations and policies.

SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENTThis program is “closest to the heart” of the Mayor

Sally because majority of the beneficiaries are the less fortunate and marginalized sector of our society. Hence, wide-ranging services have been packaged to address Family Welfare,Women’s Welfare, Emergency Assistance, Youth Welfare, Disabled Welfare, Children’s Welfare, Senior Citizens Welfare and needs of other less privileged sectors. Foremost among these services are Parent Effectiveness Service (PES), Capability and Skills Training for Women, Relief Assistance during calamities, Organization of Youth Activities, Feeding Program for Children, Community-Based Rehabilitation, 4Ps Program, Social Pension for Senior Citizens and other Skills and Sustainable Livelihood projects. It is the policy of the LGU to extend assistance to targeted beneficiaries as a developmental concern and not as “dole-outs”.

To complement the HEARTS Program, Business Development, Infrastructure and maintenance of public order and safety have been put in place to support the flagship programs of the City Government.

On Business Development, the current administration puts emphasis on a “business-friendly” environment by making business taxes affordable and institutionalizing the Enhanced and Simplified Business Registration System. Mayor’s Permit can be secured in a day. No wonder, the influx of big businesses have

been in an increasing trend. In 2015, there were 1,792 registered businesses, this was increased to 1,971 in 2016 and 2,018 as of the 2nd Quarter of 2017. Joining the bandwagon are SM, Gaisano Mall, City Mall, KFC, LCC, Jollibee, McDonalds, Chowking, Camella Homes, 7-11, Colonial as well as the presence of commercial banks, to name a few. This is the reason why the National Competitive Council ranked Sorsogon City as No. 20 in Competitive Index, No. 21 in Government Efficiency and No. 30 in infrastructure development, out of 144 cities nationwide.

In terms of Infrastructure Development, the current administration has surpassed the accomplishments of previous administrations. Infrastructure support has increased the productivity of various sectors such as agriculture, health, education, housing, environment, livelihood, disaster management, transport and public safety, rural development, etc. These are in the form of roads, pathways, irrigation canals, fish landing establishments, day care centers, health centers, water systems, street lights, MRFs, school buildings, tourism sites, housing projects, evacuation centers, sports facilities, etc.

The gains of the economic and social sectors will be meaningless if public order and safety are not maintained. These are the big contributions of the Public Order & Safety Office (POSO) and the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO). These offices had formulated plans and programs, in coordination with other offices and agencies, to address various sectoral concerns. They have conducted appropriate technical trainings on traffic, transport and disaster management as well as designed and established functional infrastructures and paraphernalia to meet the demands of the citizenry. Disaster preparedness trainings have been continuously conducted to better prepare the populace for calamities and other emergency situations.

Because of the City Government’s impressive accomplishments in public governance, it has reaped the fruits of its labor through the various awards given by local and national award giving bodies for Local Government Units (LGUs), most recent of which is the “Seal Of Good Local Governance “ which was awarded to the LGU for 2016 and 2017.

The flagship programs of Mayor Sally A. Lee are indeed developmental programs with a “heart”.

(T. Fortes)

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Officials of the City Government of Sorsogon

“A Life-Loving City of Healthy, Empowered,Values-Oriented and Resilient Sorsoganons in a Livable,

Competitive and Sustainable Environment,under an Inclusive and Humane Governance.”

- V I S I ON -

CI T

Y O F S O R S O GO

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ROMPEOLAS MAGAZINE TEAMEDITORIAL

ADVISERSCONTRIBUTORS

LAY-OUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

PHOTOGRAPHERS

CIRCULATION IN-CHARGE

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS

EDITORIALTEAM

PUBLICATIONCOORDINATORS

Hon. Sally A. LeeHon. Jonathan G. BalintongMarilyn D. DimaanoJose Vicente DuranAmy Maria V. Deniega

CPIOBAPASCAOCVOCPMUCHRMOCSWDO

CENROCDRRMOCHOPOSOOCVMCHUDOCMO

Tito D. Fortes, CESO VRosauro AmistosoAnna Carmencita L. DichosoRamil A. Marianito Ma. Lilibeth G. Alindogan Manny DaepVictorino Daria IIIVictorino Daria IVAtty. Lina G. JimenezCydin D. BubanEva Jardin

Roy Elli

Joselito L. DeritCPIO

CPIO

CPIO StaffCPMU Staff

CPIOCPMU

2017Seal of

Good LocalGovernance

2017

Sorsogon City Awards

(Smoke CessationProgram)

Red OrchidAward

Seal ofChild-Friendly

LocalGovernance

Early ChildhoodCare &

DevelopmentAward

Citation as the Pilot City for Natural Family Planning

Program

GawadGobernador sa

Kapaligiran2017

2nd Most Efficient City in the Implementation of Philippine Plan of

Action for Nutrition

Citation as Supporter & Partnerof the Programs of the National Center

for Culture & the Arts

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Busay FallsBrgy. Guinlajon, West District, Sorsogon City