BACK BRIDGING COMMUNITIES From providing insurance to frontliners, turning trash to rice, and curbing HIV/AIDS cases—local officials are working hard to better serve their communities. MANILA CITY GOV’T APPROVES PHP7.5-M BUDGET FOR INSURANCE OF BRGY. OFFICIALS Manila City Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso approved a budget of P7.5 million to provide all barangay officials with accident insurance. The Letter of Confirmation was signed by Mayor Domagoso, along with Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Manila City Director Atty. Rolynne Javier, CESO V, and officials of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). Over 45,000 barangay officials are set to receive insurance coverage, including barangay chairpersons, Sangguniang Barangay members, Sangguniang Kabataan chairpersons, barangay secretaries, barangay treasurers, Lupong Tagapamayapa members, and Barangay Tanod brigade members. “We let them man the frontlines so this is really needed. We’ve waited for this for a long time,” Domagoso said in the vernacular. With this insurance, each official is entitled to accidental death compensation worth P150,000, medical reimbursement of P5,000, and burial assistance worth P10,000 BRGY. 183 SK OFFERS FREE HIV/AIDS TESTING In the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines has the fastestgrowing HIV epidemic with a 174% increase compared to figures in 2010. But there’s a window of opportunity to put a stop to it before it spreads to more than 0.1% of the total population. Those 15 to 30 years old are most susceptible to transmission due to lack of sex education, stigma, and lack of awareness and access to testing. This is precisely the reason why the Sangguniang Kabataan of Brgy. 183, Villamor Airbase, Pasay City decided to launch free HIV/AIDS testing for its residents. “It’s our responsibility as youth leaders to create awareness and understanding in the community to end apathy and ignorance. Stigma always starts from lack of information, so that’s where we start by providing the correct information. It’s also important to educate using testimonials of PLHIV (or People Living With HIV) because they are living proof that life still goes on even if you acquire [HIV or AIDS],” SK Kagawad PJ Tronco said. As Committee on Health head, Tronco led the program, which was well-received by their community and resulted in 80 people getting tested. Participants were given selfcare kits, which included feminine wash, masculine wash, condoms, lubricants, vitamins, and a toothbrush set. Others were also given hygiene kits, which contained face masks and alcohol. Part of the program was also the webinar, “eYOUTHed,” led by Eryl Hagoriles of Love Yourself PH and Pepper Sanchez of I Stand with Pride. Brgy. 183’s SK plan includes conducting more activities to provide sex education and further HIV/AIDS and SOGIE awareness. They also plan on engaging nearby schools and establishments. BRGY. MAMBUGAN, ANTIPOLO LAUNCHES BASURA PARA SA BIGAS PROGRAM Residents of Brgy. Mambugan, Antipolo City are given a chance to exchange their trash for rice through the latest program of the local Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), “May bigas ka, because?” According to SK Secretary Rianne Dominique Magsino, “The aim of this project is to help our garbage collectors to segregate the used face masks and plastic bottles. All facemasks will be turned over to the City Health Office of Antipolo which will sanitize the masks and dispose of them properly since they are hazardous wastes. In addition, the plastic bottles will be turned over to our Barangay Material Recovery Facility which will use these bottles to produce Eco Bricks.” To receive 2 kilograms of rice, residents may exchange either 50 pieces of used face masks, 10 pieces of 1L to 2L plastic bottles, 15 pieces of 300 ml plastic bottles, or 5 pieces of 1 gallon plastic bottles. As a safety measure, face masks should be disinfected and folded before they are secured inside a plastic bag. The strings of the masks should also be removed. Also, the plastic bottles must be completely empty and clean. A total of 3,000 youth residents participated in the projects and over 6,000 kilos of rice were exchanged for the trash. “Most of the youths who participated in the program are very thankful for this project because it helped with their basic needs, especially considering that many are struggling during this pandemic. Most of their parents lost their jobs and so this rice exchange program, while it’s a ‘small thing,’ was a really big help,” Magsino shared. The project was launched by the SK Council, spearheaded by SK Chairwoman Camille T. Alfante, with the support of Brgy. Mambugan Captain Marlon Zingapan and the barangay council. Hopefully, Magsino reveals, they can continue the project someday. But since they are lacking in supplies, they are looking for donors who could help them with their needs.

< Back A More Inclusive Economy The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) greases up the gears of doing business with a recently enacted law and a lofty goal for 2020 BY MAIELLE MONTAYRE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MANUEL GENEROSO In the latest Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Survey Report, as of December 2017, the Philippines currently ranks 113 among 190 nations, a decline from the previous ranking of 99. The survey, which is conducted by the World Bank, compares countries on how conducive the local rules and regulations are to business opportunities and economic growth. There are four classifications —Very Easy, Easy, Medium, and Below Average—with the Philippines falling under the third classification. EODB is based on the following key indicators: (1) Starting a business, (2) dealing with construction permits, (3) getting electricity, (4) registering property, (5) getting credit, (6) protecting investors, (7) paying taxes, (8) trading across borders, (9) enforcing contracts, and (10) resolving insolvency. In particular, the rankings are tested on the procedures, time, and cost of the above-mentioned indicators. To compare, the current world ranking of the US in the EODB is 6, United Kingdom is 7, Australia is 14, and Germany is 20. In Asia, South Korea is ranked 4, Japan is 34, and China is 78. In Southeast Asia, the Philippines has been overtaken by most of its neighbors, ranking 7 out of 10. Singapore ranks a high 2 in the index–beaten only by New Zealand, with Hong Kong close at 5. Malaysia ranks 24; Thailand, 26; Brunei, 56; Vietnam, 68; and Indonesia, 72. Only Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar are behind the Philippines at 135, 141, and 171, respectively. “Our goal is to be number one, but our first stop is to reach the top 20% of the competitiveness ranking by 2020,” Undersecretary Rowel S. Barba said during his welcome remarks at the 6th Ease of Doing Business Summit at the Philippine International Convention Center last June 13. At the summit, which had the theme “Shifting Gears: Destination 20-2020,” Usec Barba reminded everyone that all stakeholders–employees from different government agencies to those in the private sector–has a role to play. “Let me remind everyone that we are in a race, and as we always say, the competition never sleeps.” Guillermo Luz of the National Competitiveness Council explained that economies compete for investments, trade or goods, service or jobs, tourists, and the local people. “Every year, we are working against tougher competition, higher standards. The bar always rises,” he declared. THE ONSET OF EXTENSIVE REPAIRS DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez, on his EODB Report to the People, said shifting gears also signifies a shifting of mindsets. He discussed the streamlining of government processes through E.A.S.E., (E for efficient or effective means, A for automated or accessible anywhere, S for seamless due to the interconnectivity and coordination among agencies, and E for economical or less costly). “We will have efficient or streamlined, and fast government services that are automated, and can be accessed electronically anytime, anywhere, making it convenient,” he announced. Lopez mentioned the 19 EODB reforms and two data correction requests concerning seven out the 10 key indicators of the World Bank EODB Index. These reforms include the Company Registration System implemented by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the creation of a Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) for business and building permits by Quezon City, Single Window Transaction by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), implementation of Customer eXperience Engine by MERALCO, implementation of the Land Titling Computerization Project by the Land Registration Authority (LRA), and deployment of electronic case management system through the eCourts project, among others. The reforms have resulted in the reduction of procedural steps and processing times. However, Lopez lamented whether the reforms are known to the public, and thus, felt by the stakeholders. To achieve the goal of improving the EODB ranking by 2020, the reforms must be executed by December 2018 and felt by the respondents by May 2019, in time for the 2020 DB Survey Report. The recent enactment of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018, is a game-changer, according to Lopez. It amends the longstanding R.A No. 9485 or the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007, expanding its coverage and prescribing stricter measures, while adding new provisions. R.A. 11032 serves to cut bureaucratic red tape by expediting applications for permits and licenses making it easier to put up or renew businesses. It also aims to eliminate corruption by mandating a zero-contact policy during the application process. Senator Aquilino Pimentel III, in his keynote address as Chairman of Senate Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship, said the law answers Priority 3 of President Duterte’s 10-Point Socio-Economic Agenda in increasing competitiveness and the ease of doing business. “The DTI is correct. R.A. 11032 can be a gamechanger, but how much of a game-changer it is will depend on everyone here today. This landmark law should be implemented 100% and there should be no excuses,” Pimentel challenged. REVVING THE ENGINE FORWARD With the passage of R.A. 11032, the DTI seeks to implement Project One with the help of New Zealand’s Creative HQ. Aimed at streamlining business registration in the country, Project One uses “Design Sprints” methods developed by Google Venture to find business solutions. Under this project, there will be a database of LGU registration processes; a mechanism for Philippine Business Number or a single, unique identifier to track applications; and a prototype for online registration application from beginning to end. “We are ready to initiate online application, One Form, One Number, One Portal for business registration, and we could realize this by putting technology to work. We do not just automate the process but transform the way government is doing business,” Lopez said in a statement. The DTI also has plans to amend the outdated Corporation Code to address two EODB indicators– Starting a Business and Protecting Minority Investors; enact the Secured Transactions Bill, seeking to improve the ways on Getting Credit; and, develop a Unified Employee Enrolment Portal as an online reporting system for employees of newly registered businesses. Reforms have already been under way, backed further by a new law. The goal is set, plans have been made, and the wheels are turning–all geared towards progress. As Undersecretary Barba enjoined everyone, “Let us together step on the gas and speed away towards our destination of being number 1.

< Back Celebrating Half a Century of Friendship BY RAGIE MAE TANO-ARELLANO HUNGARIAN AMBASSADOR HER EXCELLENCY TITANILLA TÓTH REVEALS THAT A PROMISING FUTURE IS IN STORE FOR BOTH NATIONS AS WE CONTINUE TO FORGE STRONGER TIES. S even years have passed since Hungary reopened its Embassy in the Philippines, but the two countries’ friendship is much older. The official establishment of diplomatic relations between these two countries dates back to September 28, 1973. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Hungary and the Philippines, the Hungarian Embassy in Manila will host a reception showcasing “Hungarikum.” The term refers to Hungary’s special and distinctive products, traditions, or cultural elements that are considered emblematic of Hungarian identity and heritage. EXPLORING TIES THROUGH FOOD, POETRY, AND FRIENDSHIP The two countries are almost 6,000 miles apart and located on opposite sides of the globe, with the Philippines in Southeast Asia and Hungary in Central Europe. However, many similarities between the two nations are evident. One common thread is our mutual affinity for festivities, which is why they will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations. During the event, not only will “Hungarikum” be featured, but also the many similarities between the two countries, which will explain why friendships are anticipated to grow. Hungarian Ambassador to the Philippines Titanilla Tóth told LEAGUE that the famous Filipino bulalo or beef bone marrow stew, is very similar to the Hungarian broth húsleves. Ambassador Tóth is a big fan of lechon de Cebu (Cebu-style roast pig) and buko (coconut) pie from Tagaytay. In addition to the delicious food, she is astounded by the Filipinos’ exceptional and one-of-a-kind hospitality. Her Excellency Tóth, a three-year resident of the Philippines, says, “Filipinos are always smiling; they can keep their positive aura even in times of difficulty, and their good mood soon spreads to the foreigners who visit here.” Beyond food and hospitality, both countries have lavish, history-oriented classical poetry with many metaphors relating to nature and all other fields of interest. This similarity inspired the Ateneo de Naga University to translate 20 Hungarian poems into six Filipino regional languages and publish such into a book, “Hindi Pasisiil Ang Pagsibol (The Growth Cannot Be Subdued).” It is as if the book contains six different books because each chapter contains a Philippine regional language translation of the 20 Hungarian nature-themed poems. This book is the centerpiece of the 50th anniversary celebration of diplomatic relations between Hungary and the Philippines. It is funded by a grant from the Hungarian Literary Fund because it coincides with the 200th birth anniversary of one of the greatest Hungarian poets, Sándor Petőfi. Ambassador Tóth hopes that Filipinos who read the poems in this book will gain a sense of Hungary’s profound appreciation for nature-related metaphors in literature. “We wanted to enrich these special bonds through poetic metaphors and allegories to encourage reflection. Some of which, even though written by a Hungarian mind, can be perfectly applied to the heart of a Filipino. Ultimately, my hope is that everyone can take a poem or even just one line from the book,” the Hungarian ambassador shares. FOSTERING INNOVATION AND TRADE Through its Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship program, Hungary is committed to assisting deserving Filipino students in obtaining an international education. Since 2017, this opportunity has benefited 35 Filipino scholars annually. Ambassador Tóth expresses delight because the science and technology relations between the two countries are flourishing. Both countries agree that technology development, the use of cutting-edge technology, and technology transfer play crucial roles in promoting economic growth and public welfare. As a result, a delegation from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) headed by Undersecretary Leah Buendia visited Hungary and met with representatives who are part of the Hungarian Joint Committee on Science and Technology that was established in 2022 between the two countries.. According to Dr. Tóth, the results of Hungary’s study into quantum technology impressed the Philippine delegation. In November 2022, the Hungarian Embassy participated in the National Science and Technology Week in the Philippines alongside two Hungarian companies from the agriculture and drone industries, and the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), showcasing their innovations. Hungary aspires to serve as a pivotal link between the Eastern and Western regions, using its strategic geographical position at the centre of Europe. The implementation of the Eastern Opening Policy was initiated in 2012, with a primary emphasis on the Asian Region. Hungary is actively pursuing enhanced collaboration with the Philippines and is committed to undertaking the requisite measures aimed at fostering and strengthening bilateral trade relations. According to Ambassador Tóth, the Philippines holds a significant role in the economic strategy of the Hungarian foreign market, as it is perceived as a gateway to the Southeast Asian Region. In the year 2022, the bilateral trade volume between Hungary and the Philippines exceeded 216 million dollars, indicating a significant increase in commercial connections between the two countries. During the initial quarter of 2023, there was a notable surge of 20 percent in the volume of bilateral trade. Her Excellency expresses a strong belief in the existence of significant opportunities for further growth in bilateral commerce. They assert that fostering collaboration grounded in mutual advantages is vital in the realm of economics. The foundation of this economic relationship is reinforced by the Joint Committee for Economic Cooperation (JCEC), which serves as a platform for the evaluation and advancement of bilateral economic relations. Additionally, it facilitates highlevel discussions and the negotiation of new agreements. The fourth meeting of the JCEC was held in December 2022, during which a business forum was organized, with the participation of around 100 Filipino and Hungarian entrepreneurs. There exists an ongoing dialogue that substantiates the significant level of shared interest among entrepreneurs from both nations. JOINING HANDS FOR SUSTAINABLE WATER SOLUTIONS Hungary is prepared to work with the Philippines in the future to strengthen resilience to climate change’s effects, such as rising sea levels, an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events, rising temperatures, extreme rainfall, and threats to biodiversity and food security. As a developing nation, the Philippines is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change. Hungary’s cutting-edge water management technologies and solutions will benefit the Philippines’ water quality, particularly in the fields of integrated river basin management, flood management, water resource management, transboundary cooperation, and water-related education. Ambassador Tóth claims that they are willing to impart their knowledge and skills in the building of decentralised wastewater treatment facilities for small towns and residences in some regions of the Philippines, as well as the development of urban wastewater networks. They will also share how Hungarian businesses use cutting-edge technology, such as water loss analysis, to find hidden faults in pipelines and to clean and repair pipelines without having to dig. In 2020, the Hungarian government and the Hungarian Water Technology Corporation Ltd. donated an emergency water treatment unit to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, which provided clean water to thousands of Catanduanes residents who had been impacted by Typhoon Rolly. According to her, challenges with the provision of clean drinking water, the filtration of water, and waste management could be solved by the exchange of expertise between specialists from Hungary and the Philippines through conferences, exhibitions, and meetings. EXPANDING HORIZONS Geographically, the Philippines and Hungary are distant from one another, but they share similarities in national identity, religion, and Christian cultural traditions. According to Ambassador Tóth, the relationship between the two countries has evolved into a respectful, mutually supportive partnership. Friendship can be tested at the most trying times. During the pandemic, the Philippines had the strictest lockdown regulations, while Hungarian officials were permitted to enter the country. Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Péter Szijjártó was the first leader permitted to visit the Philippines in 2020. “We are pleased to note that both Hungary and the Philippines successfully overcame the pandemic, and Hungary supports all means of cooperation to face the remaining challenges posed by the coronavirus,” the ambassador explains. The Hungarian government follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration with sympathy, noting that it has already produced impressive results. As a result, the two governments have been able to expand their cooperation in many areas because they recognize that both the Marcos administration and the Hungarian government share a belief in democracy and national sovereignty. The Department of Agriculture (DA) recently granted accreditation for Hungarian companies to export meat to the Philippines. “Hopefully, soon, Filipinos can experience quality Hungarian meats, including but not limited, to our famous sausages and salamis, to deepen our culinary bonds,” adds Ambassador Tóth. The lady ambassador is pleased to report that since the reopening of the Hungarian Embassy in Manila in 2016, the two countries’ bilateral cooperation has increased rapidly and is evident every day in numerous sectors. We are currently in the most exciting period of Hungarian- Philippine relations, she confidently asserts. High-level visits and government meetings are frequent; economic and trade ties are growing quickly; and interpersonal relationships are vibrant and diverse. Ambassador Tóth adds that the 50th anniversary of Hungary and the Philippines’ establishment of diplomatic relations is a major occasion worth commemorating in September 2023. She claims that the Philippines is already very interested in the milestone year, which she had the privilege of witnessing during their recent diplomatic interactions, cultural events, and business activities. She is confident that the focus on Hungary during the anniversary celebration will significantly help to deepen the bilateral ties and offer up new opportunities for both countries.

< Back Carren Eistrup Merlion artist Carren Eistrup shares her love for singing and being discovered by the production company. MERLION EVENTS PRODUCTION INC. Eat Bulaga’s newest host is a talented teen from Cebu who is just beginning to develop her abilities. Carren Eistrup, who others say resembles American pop star Miley Cyrus in appearance, also possesses much talent. Carren, half-Danish and half-Filipino, was discovered for her singing ability. She has participated in singing competitions since the age of seven. “Pinag-workshop po ako ni mommy nung 5 years old, kaya sabi po niya since may potential po ako, pwede daw po ako mag-sali ng competitions. (My mother enrolled me in singing workshops since I was 5 because she recognized my great potential as a singer; which is also why she allowed me to join competitions),” recalls the most recent grand prize winner of Eat Bulaga’s Bida Next. Things moved much faster than Carren had anticipated. It didn’t take her long before Merlion, her producer, discovered her in Cebu and helped her in getting her big break. “We are grateful to Merlion for making the effort to visit me and my mother in Cebu, and persuading us to sign a contract with them,” Carren says of how she got started with Merlion. Her first project with Merlion was joining Bida Next; “Bida Next” is Eat Bulaga’s talent search to find the “next big thing” to join the show as one of the co-hosts. Carren never expected to win the grand prize because she says “the other competitors were so good.” She was only 13 when she competed and won. Eat Bulaga chose Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb” as her final performance piece; that somehow bolstered her image as the “little Miley Cyrus.” She is delighted that the hosts and talents of Eat Bulaga have warmly welcomed her as their newest “Dabarkads.” She claims that being invited to the room reserved for hosts only and welcomed to eat with them is proof of her status as an official member of the team. She told the LEAGUE that Ryza, one of the Dabarkads, is her closest friend because they are always paired up to appeal to the Gen Z audience. Carren is only 14 years old, but she is so confident and at ease in front of the camera when she hosts and sings. Carren admits that she is not confident in speaking or hosting, especially if she is given on-the-spot spiels, because she is not comfortable speaking Tagalog since she was born and raised in Cebu. “Even reading Tagalog words causes me to rattle at times. I don’t know how to pronounce or syllable the words correctly. But I ask the writers to brief me and allow me to read the spiels first so that I can make my ad-libs,” Carren shares. Carren does not wish to confine her career to singing alone. She desires to become an actress, particularly in television series. She hopes tosomeday play leading actress roles, but others claim that her appearance is more suited to that of a mean girl, or “kontrabida,” which she does not object to. “Minsan, mas sumisikat yung kontrabida (Villains are sometimes more popular),” quips Carren. She also hopes to have endorsements for food, skincare, and clothing brands. When asked of her goal in the next five years, Carren says, “I want to be known as more than just an artist with a pretty face; I want people to know about my talent. I also hope to see myself on billboards and advertisements.” Carren is still a student, but she opts to take her classes online to accommodate her busy schedule, especially with the daily work at Eat Bulaga. This is just the beginning of Carren’s rise to stardom, and she knows she could not do it without her mother’s support, who has been by her side ever since. She is also grateful to Merlion, for believing in her potential and talent; and to her supporters, who have been with her from the beginning. She encourages all young ladies who aspire to be artists to never give up because there will always be a time for them. She claims that there are always reasons why things happen, “The Lord is giving us the opportunity to shine. Never give up on your dreams. Be committed and determined to what you are doing.

< Back AN EMPLOYER’S GUIDE FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON By Atty. Joey Ramos, Atty. Herbert Hernane, and Atty. Mao Santos Learn about the benefits you should receive as employees during the holiday season. The holidays have always been a time of merriment and joy for the working Filipino. The Christmas parties, eventful family gatherings, and batch reunions have been a source of fun and laughter in these times. Equally joyous is opening your payslip and seeing that bonus you have long waited for. Here are the benefits typically received by employees during the holiday season. 13TH MONTH PAY The 13th month pay is a monetary benefit equivalent to at least 1/12 of the total basic salary earned by an employee in a calendar year. Basic salary, for purposes of computing 13th month pay, shall include all remunerations or earnings paid by the employer to the employee for services rendered. As a general rule, other benefits such as unused leave credits, overtime premium, night shift differential, holiday pay, and cost of living allowances are not part of the basic salary for purposes of computing the 13th month pay.1 An exemption to this rule is when these benefits are included in the computation for 13th month pay under company policy, collective bargaining agreement, or have ripened into company practice. COVERAGE Employers are mandated to give the 13th month pay to rank-and-file employees who have already worked for at least one month during a calendar year; employees who are paid on a piece-work basis; and employees who are paid a fixed or guaranteed wage plus commission. EXEMPTED EMPLOYERS The following employers are not required to pay 13th month pay: The government and any of its political subdivisions, including government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), except those corporations operating essentially as private subsidiaries of the government; employers who are already paying their employees 13th month pay or more in a calendar year or its equivalent at the time of the issuance of Presidential Decree (PD) No. 851; persons in the personal service of another in relation to such workers; and employers of those who are paid on purely commission, boundary, or task basis, and those who are paid a fixed amount for performing specific work, irrespective of the time consumed in the performance thereof (except those workers who are paid on a piece-rate basis, in which case their employer shall grant them 13th month pay). TIME OF PAYMENT OF 13TH MONTH PAY The 13th month pay shall be paid not later than December 24 of every year. The employer may, at his discretion, release one-half of the 13th month pay at an earlier date. 13TH MONTH PAY FOR RESIGNED OR SEPARATED EMPLOYEES An employee who has resigned or whose services are terminated at any time before the time of payment of the 13th month pay is entitled to this monetary benefit in proportion to the length of time he or she started working during the calendar year up to the time of his or her resignation or termination from the service. For example, if an employee worked from January to July, his proportionate 13th month pay should be equal to 1/12th of the total basic salary earned during that period DISTINGUISHING FROM CHRISTMAS BONUS Employers should distinguish between the 13th month pay and their annual Christmas bonus. The former is a mandated benefit under the law, while the latter is an optional benefit given by the employer as an incentive to the employees. The amount of the 13th month pay is dependent upon the total basic salary, while the amount of the Christmas bonus depends on the discretion of the employer. HOLIDAY PAY Aside from the Christmas season, we also encounter various working and non-working holidays throughout the year wherein employees are not mandated to work. If they do report for work, they are entitled to holiday pay. Holiday pay refers to the payment of the regular daily wage for any unworked regular holiday, which includes the following: New Year’s Day (January 1), Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Araw ng Kagitingan (April 9), Labor Day (May 1), Independence Day (June 12), Eid’l Fitr, Eid’l Adha, National Heroes Day (August 29), Bonifacio Day (November 30), Christmas Day (December 25), and Rizal Day (December 30). Article 94 of the Labor Code, as amended, provides that employers may require their employees to work during the holidays provided they shall be paid compensation equal to twice their regular rate (200 percent of the daily rate). Employees who do not work on regular holidays are still entitled to 100 percent of their daily rate. However, if the employee is absent without official leave on the day which immediately preceded the regular holiday, he is not entitled to any holiday pay, unless he works on that day. PREMIUM PAY Premium pay refers to additional compensation for work performed within eight hours on non-workdays, such as rest days and special holidays. Special non-working holidays include the following: Chinese New Year, EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary, Black Saturday, Ninoy Aquino Day, All Saints’ Day, and Feast of Immaculate Conception of Mary. Unlike regular holidays, the “no work, no pay” principle applies to those who are not required to work during special non-working holidays. Those that are required to work during these days are entitled to additional compensation of at least 30 percent of their basic wage. Employers should also note special working days which include: All Souls Day, Christmas Eve, and the last day of the year. For work rendered on special working days, an employee is not entitled to any additional compensation except for his daily wage. HOURS OF WORK DURING THE HOLIDAYS The general rule is that normal working hours shall not exceed eight hours a day. Any work rendered beyond eight hours is subject to payment of an overtime premium of at least 25 percent of the hourly rate. The same rules apply to overtime work rendered during holidays, whether regular or special non-working holidays, with the sole difference being the overtime premium paid which is 30 percent of the hourly rate. 14TH MONTH PAY? House Bill No. 520, filed by Kabayan Partylist Rep. Ron Salo last June 30, 2022, seeks to mandate employers in the private sector to provide 14th month pay, which shall also be equivalent to the employee’s monthly basic salary. Under its explanatory note, it was stated that despite companies granting 13th month pay, many Filipino families still struggle to make ends meet due to meager salaries and the growing cost of living. In this regard, the proposed 14th month pay aims to provide additional relief to most Filipino families, especially during the holidays. It should be noted that similar bills have been filed in previous years, but were not enacted into law by Congress. 1 See PD No. 851 and DOLE Labor Advisory No. 18-2021 entitled “Guidelines on the Payment of Thirteenth Month Pay.” Buy magazine here

< Back Bridging the Gap Chairman Daniel Bocobo on balancing the goals and needs of Barangay Fort Bonifacio BY FREDERICK N. CASTILLO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAR CONCENGCO Mention Fort Bonifacio to anyone and it becomes immediately synonymous with Bonifacio Global City (BGC), a highly urbanized and rapidly growing business and commercial district within the barangay. Despite grabbing headlines due to its high profile, BGC is not the entire Barangay Fort Bonifacio as Chairman Jorge Daniel Bocobo is quick to point out. His barangay is composed of several lesser known areas and sitios, and he is on a mission to ensure that the needs and welfare of constituents from these areas are not left behind. A HEART FOR PUBLIC SERVICE Despite being raised in a relatively affluent community in Alabang, Chairman Bocobo knew early on that serving his countrymen is the path he wanted to pursue. He initially contemplated studying law after taking up history in UP Diliman, but eventually found his way to government service where he has worked in various capacities since 1997, beginning as a congressional staff member of Rep. Herminio Teves of Negros Oriental. It was in 2001, when he was the chief of staff of then Muntinlupa City Councilor Ren-Ren Cayetano, that Chairman Bocobo was first exposed to the harsh realities of community life, particularly in providing for the needs of the poorest of the poor. His experience drove home the importance and necessity of serving the grassroots through effective programs spearheaded by the government. He followed this up with a stint as a staff member in the Senate, where legislation and support to government policies were the tools of public service. He, however, felt that he needed to do more. “I was aware that I was already helping and serving the people, although indirectly through policies and administrative functions. Pero hinahanap ko pa rin yung direktang pagbibigay ng tulong sa mga nangangailangan. (But I still longed for the chance to have a direct impact on those in need).” His opportunity came when former TV director Lino Cayetano was elected chairman of Barangay Fort Bonifacio. He appointed Chairman Bocobo as his administrator, a position he held for two years before Direk Lino became a congressman of the City of Taguig. Working at the grassroots level once more, it became clear to him that this was where his heart lay. He was later appointed as head of the Taguig City Economic Investment Promotions Office for six years, but by this time he was already resolute in what he believed was his true purpose. Chairman Bocobo’s pivotal decision to pursue the chairmanship of Barangay Fort Bonifacio proved to be the turning point in his career. He credits the mentorship of former senator and Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, whose Christian values and exemplary public service record he draws inspiration from. He is grateful to the former senator for providing the motivation and guidance he needed as he prepared for the challenges ahead. As barangay chairman, his leadership style is anchored on collaboration and decisive action. He makes it a point to rally all the stakeholders and carefully considers their views and opinions, whether or not they align with his own. “Mahirap din talaga maging chairman ng isang barangay tulad ng Fort Bonifacio. (It is not easy being barangay chairman of Fort Bonifacio). You have to balance everything, from the requirements of thousands of business locators and their employees to the daily needs, such as food and shelter, of people in the sitios. “Mahirap din talaga maging chairman ng isang barangay tulad ng Fort Bonifacio. (It is not easy being barangay chairman of Fort Bonifacio). You have to balance everything, from the requirements of thousands of business locators and their employees to the daily needs, such as food and shelter, of people in the sitios. A BALANCING ACT One of Chairman Bocobo’s biggest challenges is addressing the economic inequality in his barangay. BGC may be the seat of fiscal power and opportunity, but the benefits must trickle down to the smaller areas. His primary role is to bridge the economic gap and bring progress to the sitios. He has outlined public safety, peace and order, health and education as his priorities. “Education has been a main priority of our City under the able leadership of Mayor Lani Cayetano. In fact, we have the highest budget for scholarships in the country. Part of my job now is to help our graduates find gainful employment, and provide additional training if necessary,” he states. He has taken on the task of matching job opportunities in the business districts to unemployed constituents of the city. With the healthy professional relationship he has cultivated with the private sector and the city government, there is every reason to feel optimistic. Chairman Bocobo launched one of his pet projects, the “I Show Malasakit (Empathy) program which aims to build a community that is self-reliant by engaging people to execute simple and basic tasks, such as garbage segregation and maintaining cleanliness in the community, automatically and on their own initiative. “I want to build a community that cares. Kasi noong campaign, ‘yan na ang advocacy ko. Ipinakilala ko sa mga kababayan natin na sama-sama dapat tayong magmalasakit sa barangay at sa ating syudad. (That has been my advocacy even during the campaign. I asked everyone to work in unison to care for our community, to work for each other and take care of each other.)” As busy as Chairman Bocobo is being the barangay chairman, he still has his hands full with additional responsibilities: He is the President of the Association of Barangay Councils (ABC), which earned him his status as a sitting member of the Taguig City Council, and he is also the Secretary-General of the Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas (League of Barangays in the Philippines). FULL STEAM AHEAD There is much to be done, but Chairman Bocobo remains undaunted. As he balances his civic duties with his role as a husband and father, he puts God at the center of all his endeavors, being actively involved in Ang Ligaya ng Panginoon, a Catholic charismatic community where he also serves as a leader. With Christian values and advocacy of good governance as the cornerstone of his administration, things are definitely looking up for this young public servant.

< Back Championing the Barangay System Martin Diño played a prominent role in implementing the Duterte administration’s various local government policies, specifically at the barangay level. BY FREDERICK N. CASTILLO PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROMEO PERALTA JR. GROOMING BY SHARLENE ANN LOMIBAO On October 16, 2015, Martin B. Diño, who was then chairman of the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC), was inevitably thrust into the national political scene when he filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for president before the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), mere minutes before the deadline. Although then-Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte eventually substituted for him as presidential standard bearer of PDPLaban (subsequently winning the presidency in the May 13, 2016 elections), Diño soon played a prominent role in implementing the Duterte administration’s various local government policies, specifically at the barangay level. ROAD TO GOVERNMENT SERVICE Known for his high-profile role as VACC chairman, Diño was particularly engaged in the group’s effort to seek justice for victims of heinous crimes and accountability for corrupt government officials, providing Filipinos with a glimpse of his capabilities as a leader of a non-government organization (NGO). However, he evidently honed his potential and then made his mark professionally as a public servant in various capacities. Not many may be aware that Diño actually started his career in government service in 1978, as area coordinator and then supervisor of the Quezon City government’s Barangay Operations Center. He likewise worked as part of the internal audit team of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). The year 1994 was Diño’s first foray in an elective government post, when he was elected chairperson of Barangay San Antonio in Quezon City, serving his constituents for 13 years until 2007. “Lahat ng natutuhan ko during the time na nasa Quezon City Barangay Operations Center ako at ‘yung experience ko na 13 years as barangay chairperson… kaya well-versed ako sa Local Government Code (I’m well-versed in the Local Government Code, given my learnings and experiences while working in the Quezon City Barangay Operations Center and 13 years as barangay chairperson).” Clearly, his extensive experience at the local government level enabled him to gain familiarity with the different facets of local governance, preparing him for his future role in the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). TEMPORARY DETOUR Diño explains that when the Duterte administration took over on June 30, 2016, the original plan was for him to be appointed to a position in DILG. However, a medical condition at the time prevented his immediate appointment in the department. On September 23, 2016, Duterte appointed Diño as chairman of the board of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and assumed office the week after. Among his goals as SBMA chairman were to rebuild the freeport’s ageing infrastructure, modernize the port facilities, and pursue various infrastructure projects to enhance Subic’s business appeal. Controversies surrounding the agency’s leadership structure inevitably led to his exit in September 2017. “Nanghinayang din ako dahil ang dami nang magagandang proyekto na dapat gawin doon (What happened was regrettable because there were still numerous worthwhile projects that should have been implemented there),” explains Diño. ‘HOMECOMING’ As fate would have it, Diño’s exit from SBMA was followed by his eventual homecoming in the field of local governance. On January 8, 2018, Duterte appointed him DILG Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs, several months after reports that he will be given the referred post. His appointment meant assuming responsibility in managing the affairs of over 42,000 barangays nationwide. As the country’s virtual lead “barangay chairperson,” Diño’s primary responsibilities were as follows: assist the DILG secretary in developing and implementing department policies, programs, and projects that reach/ cover barangays; ensure compliance and adherence of barangays with the various directives of the president; serve as DILG representative to other national government agencies on matters related to the implementation of community/barangay-level initiatives; represent the DILG in the Liga ng mga Barangay; supervise the National Barangay Operations Office; act as accountable official in various barangay-related initiative of the DILG; oversee the establishment of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) desks in barangays; and file appropriate charges against barangay chairpersons for various violations. Given the Duterte administration’s highly controversial “war on drugs,” among the priorities of Diño was to strengthen the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC), with focus on continuously increasing the number of drug-free barangays. “Noong umupo kami nina Presidente [Duterte] at Secretary Eduardo Año, naging functional ang BADAC at continuous ang fight against illegal drugs, lahat ng barangay, kumikilos against illegal drugs (When President [Duterte] and Secretary Eduardo Año, and I assumed office, BADAC became functional and all barangays continuously mobilized against illegal drugs),” he explains. STRENGTHENING BARANGAYS, STRENGTHENING LOCAL AUTONOMY Apart from complying with Duterte’s antiillegal drugs campaign, Diño also put emphasis on strengthening local autonomy by empowering and strengthening the barangay system. “Ang barangay itself ay isang uri ng [kompletong] pamahalaan na may iba’t ibang sangay—may barangay council [as legislative branch], lupong tagapamayapa [as judicial branch], at punong barangay [as chief executive]. Mayroon ding daycare centers, barangay health workers, at mga barangay tanod para sa peace and order (The barangay itself is a form of [complete] government with various branches—it has a barangay council [as legislative branch], lupong tagapamayapa [as judicial branch], and barangay chairperson [as chief executive]. Barangays also have daycare centers, barangay health workers, and barangay tanods for peace and order),” Diño elaborates. Diño likewise reiterates that as undersecretary, he endeavors to further enhance the capabilities of barangay officials to respond to various emergencies, as well as ensure that they are consistently doing their jobs. “Naging super active ang ating mga barangay, natuto sila ngayon na sumunod sa mga memorandum circular. Dati wala lang (Barangays became active and learned to follow memorandum circulars that we issue. Before, they would just brush them aside),” Diño adds. He cites the COVID-19 pandemic as an example, in which barangay officials are at the forefront of delivering services to the people, from implementing lockdown directives issued by the national government, issuing quarantine passes, providing food and medicine, and distributing cash aid. In particular, barangay health workers were tapped to administer contact tracing and isolation of infected residents, as well as in vaccination drives when the vaccines became available. Moreover, he mentions that barangay officials became active in road clearing operations, clean-up drives, and providing assistance to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in implementing the Social Amelioration Program (SAP). Diño stresses the need to constantly train barangay officials to make them efficient and effective in the performance of their duties. “Right after ng barangay elections, mayroon tayong isinasagawang barangay Newly Elected Officials (NEO) training… pero kulang kasi dalawang araw lang. Kaya nagkaroon tayo ng special course na ang gumagawa ng mga module ay ang Local Government Academy (Right after the barangay elections, officials undergo a barangay Newly Elected Officials (NEO) training, although it is quite limited because it’s held for only two days. As such, we offer a special course through the Local Government Academy),” he explains. The DILG and Department of Justice (DOJ) also train barangay kagawads, tanods, secretaries, treasurers, and health workers through seminars, workshops, and modules. PROMOTING ACCOUNTABILITY AND GOOD GOVERNANCE With the increased focus on the barangay as an instrument of nation-building, Diño warns that barangay officials should consistently follow the directives of the national government and to always be available to their constituents, particularly in times of emergencies and disasters. He warns: “‘Pag nawala ka diyan, may show cause order ka. You will explain bakit di ka kailangan kasuhan dahil in times of emergency wala ka sa barangay mo (If you are not present in times of emergencies you’ll be served a show cause order. You’ll have to explain why a case should not be filed against you for being absent from your barangay).” To underscore the department’s resolve to clean up the ranks of barangay officials, he shares that cases have been filed against numerous officials before the Ombudsman for various violations, including those related to corruption, abuse of authority, and dereliction of responsibilities. Nevertheless, Diño endeavors to incentivize exemplary performance by barangay officials in their respective jurisdictions by introducing the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) for Barangays. He explains that before cities and municipalities receive seals of good governance, barangays should be in order and functioning properly. “Bakit mo bibigyan ng seal of good governance ang mga municipality at city kung ang mga barangay mo ay hindi maayos ang record? Kaya para makakuha ka ng seal of good governance, ayusin mo ‘yung barangay (Why would you award seals of good governance to municipalities and cities if your barangays do not have good records? So, if they want to receive seals of good governance, they have to put their barangays in order first),” Diño reiterates. BARANGAYS AT THE FOREFRONT Diño proudly shares that in the past few years, the barangay has been at the forefront of the national government’s thrust to serve the people down to the grassroots level. He reiterates that “Gumalaw, nag-respond ang barangay, nakilala ang kahalagahan ng barangay. ‘Yung success ng Duterte administration, may kinalaman ang barangay— fight against illegal drugs, insurgency, violent extremism, terrorism, environmental issues, [and the] COVID-19 pandemic (Barangays responded and their value was recognized. Barangays also contributed to the success of the Duterte administration, including in the fight against illegal drugs, insurgency, violent extremism, terrorism, environmental issues, [and the] COVID-19 pandemic).” Even though Diño vacated his post on June 30 2022, he still proudly upholds his advocacy as a champion of the barangay system and its critical role in nation-building. His contributions as DILG undersecretary will serve as important building blocks for better governance at the grassroots level.

< Back What We Can Learn From APEC’s Most Liveable City A Filipino living abroad shares six lessons that the Philippines can learn from Singapore BY RAPHAEL FRANCISCO GERVASIO After residing in Singapore for 12 years, it comes as no surprise to me that it has replaced Hong Kong as the most liveable city in Asia in the Global Liveability report by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). A technological hub that is the heart of a dynamic region in Southeast Asia, Singapore continues to excel across various sectors, a quality that entices immigrants to uproot to this multiracial city-state. The EIU’s in-house analysts rank cities by allocating each a score for over 30 qualitative and quantitative factors across five main categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. The scores are then collated and totaled up to give a score out of 100. So how did Singapore become the most liveable city in Asia? Here are six reasons how the small island achieved this. 𝟏. 𝐄𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 Education has always been a crucial investment for Singaporeans. The main factors for Singapore’s rise to the title were impressive and consistent improvements in its world-renowned education system, attaining a perfect score for the first time from the EIU. From the onset of their education, children are subjected to a strong culture of academic competitiveness that pushes students to excel in their studies. This is evident in how most parents invest hundreds of Singaporean dollars for extra tuition classes after school hours so that their children can improve in weak subjects or be well-prepared, especially when nearing national examinations. Singapore’s comprehensive curriculum framework complements this competitive culture. The EIU ranked the country as the best in effectively equipping their students with the necessary skills for future labor markets. Hence, it is an educational system that not only nurtures bright students and prepares them for exams, but also lays the groundwork for the younger generation to make a difference in the future workforce. The Philippines needs to realize the importance of this investment and fund its educational sector to upgrade public schools and revamp its curriculum to meet the needs of the younger generation. 𝟐. 𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐁𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐘 Singapore is ranked as the second safest city in the whole world after Tokyo, according to EIU’s Safe Cities Index. Known to be a very disciplined and secured society, Singapore’s safety is one of its finest characteristics due to the lack of crime, military conflict, and civil unrest— undesirable events that take place in many countries. The lack of crime can be summed up in one observation: You can walk out on the streets at three in the morning without fear of getting kidnapped or mugged. Unlike other cities, Singapore’s ban on drugs, guns, and public alcoholic consumption restrictions after 10:30p.m. creates a safe city that easily attracts foreign investments. In the sphere of international relations, Singapore finds itself in a volatile geopolitical situation where terrorism is rife in nearby countries. Hence, it has built a military force to be reckoned with despite its small population. All able-bodied men who reach the age of 18 are required to go through two harsh years of National Service in order to train them for any deployment or mission even after they have finished their service. This essentially means that Singapore has a combat-ready citizen army that is ready for armed conflict. (Above) The Singapore Armed Forces deployed for an overseas exercise. (Left) Singaporean children begin to undergo rigorous academic training from a very young age, Singapore’s educational system not only nurtures bright students and prepares them for exams, but also lays the groundwork for the younger generation to make a difference in the future workforce. In the Philippines, security is lax compared to Singapore. Stricter laws with firm actions are needed to ensure discipline in our society. It is also the fierce poverty cycle that leads many to a life of crime. There is a lack of job opportunities in the country and more must be done to allow the poorest to change their lives for the better. 𝟑. 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐄 Singapore’s health care system ticks all the boxes for an effective and efficient structure. All workers until the age of 55 need to put 20% of their earnings into a Central Provident Fund (CPF) account, with a further 17% added by their employers. This account is further divided into three other accounts: one for housing, investment, and education; one for retirement; and the last one is for health care insurance. Affordable healthcare is accessible to everyone in Singapore. The government’s unique health care system is heavily reliant on the last account—Medisave. This helps to promote individual responsibility for one’s own health to avoid an over dependency on state welfare and third-party medical insurance. Due to this cost-sharing policy, basic healthcare becomes more affordable. The presence of private healthcare also challenges public services, creating a free market that fosters competition, which indefinitely brings greater quality of services for Singapore’s citizens. The same cannot be said of the Philippines, where good quality healthcare is only affordable to middle and upper class Filipinos who can pay for private health services. The public sector is often underfunded and its clinics lack resources and doctors to tend to poor families. As a result, the country has a high mortality rate and a number of issues that have yet to be solved to achieve a proper and stable healthcare system. 𝟒. 𝐄𝐍𝐕𝐈𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 The Philippines has a lot to learn from Singapore when it comes to improving and cleaning our environment. Announced as the “Greenest City in Asia” by EIU’s Green City Index in 2016, it only takes a few days in Singapore’s streets to understand why. The public maintenance of the environment is admirable; you almost won’t find any trash lying on the streets or dirty streams full of garbage and muck. One reason for this is the law that bans any form of littering on public space. Should you be caught littering, you can be fined up to S$1,000 (P38,300) and forced to do community service as a deterrent for others who might wish to do the same. This rigid enforcement may seem illogical for some, but maintaining the cleanliness of the city thwarts any incident of diseases reaching epidemic levels in a small country like Singapore. Furthermore, most Singaporeans have a “clean as you go” attitude, which is an admirable trait so public cleaners do not have to go the extra mile just to keep amenities clean. Our country can adopt stricter environmental laws and improved maintenance of irrigation systems so as to improve the quality of living. It also needs to solve the mammoth task of relocating illegal settlements or “squatters.” 𝟓. 𝐏𝐔𝐁𝐋𝐈𝐂 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓 Just last year, Singapore was ranked No. 8 in the world at the Sustainable Cities Mobility Index by Arcadis, a global design and consultancy group. It considers indicators such as safety, ridership, congestion, delays, affordability, and more to grade the best transport systems. Singapore’s public transport system includes the Mass Railway Transport (MRT), LRT (Light Railway Transport), buses, and taxis. It’s hard to imagine that 25 years ago there was only a single MRT line operating in Singapore. Currently, there are five lines with over 119 stations and LRTs, trains that cover the small and crowded regions of Singapore. The beautiful thing about Singapore’s public transport is that it is so convenient. You can travel from one end of the country to another within an hour, with no complaints about the cleanliness of the trains and buses. In Manila, widespread traffic congestion is a common sight and its public transportation needs to be improved so Filipinos will use their cars less frequently. Bus services should also be nationalized and not run by numerous private companies. To build an effective transport system—its roads, highways, and public transportation—urban planning of congested cities needs to be top-notch. 𝟔. 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 Lastly, it is Singapore’s leadership that has transformed the country from a backward sea port to a thriving hub with a booming economy within half a decade. The first Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, was an intelligent and visionary leader who knew the high stakes of driving Singapore’s independence, with the country’s future in the balance. He performed an economic miracle by galvanizing a nation with multi-racial and religious groups and developed a highly technocratic government that resolutely pushed for competitive, meritocratic, and results-based policies across all sectors. In one of his famous speeches, he said: “Whoever governs Singapore must have that iron in him. Or give it up. This is not a game of cards.” Governance is not an easy task. There is so much to lose when a government does not serve the needs of its people. A bad example would be the corruption that is rife in Philippine politics. Until our leaders become exceptional in their duty to lead, our country will not be exceptional in how it is run. In conclusion, the most liveable country in Asia has proven itself by succeeding in almost every sector of the Global Liveability report. Its achievements in education, security, healthcare, infrastructure, and the environment were all possible due to outstanding leadership that allowed Singapore’s progress to be strong and steady. We, Filipinos, can learn so much from Singapore’s success story. There is so much hope in our country, especially since it’s filled with talented people who can change the world. But for now, we must take a combination of baby steps and giant leaps to improve our homeland, not for the sake of global indexes and for our reputation, but for the sake of our people. Click here to read full article for free

< Back A Pillar of Dignified Public Service BY GODFREY T. DANCEL I will give the best service that I can give to the people that I serve.” This is the guiding principle that has shaped the kind of service Quezon City 6th District Congresswoman Ma. Victoria “Marivic” Co-Pilar has given her constituents through her almost three decades of public service. Through those years, she has lived up to the tagline Marangal na Paglilingkod (Dignified Public Service), being a dignified leader doing her best to give back to her constituents. “Yung marangal na pinuno, pinagpipitaganan hindi lamang dahil sa kaniyang posisyon kung hindi dahil sa kaniyang mga nagawa at kontribusyon sa lipunan. Pinili ko yung Marangal na Paglilingkod dahil 'yun ang gusto kong ibigay na serbisyo sa tao, hindi lang basta-bastang serbisyo lang. Gusto kong ibigay yung pinakamarangal o pinakamabuting paglilingkod na maibibigay ko sa aking mga kadistrito. (A leader is looked up to not just because of their position but their projects and contributions to society. I chose Dignified Public Service because that is the kind of service I want to give the people that I serve. I want to give them the best service that I can give.)” STARTING YOUNG Co-Pilar became the top kagawad (councilwoman) of Barangay Pasong Tamo, Quezon City, in 1994. By then the 19-year-old neophyte community leader was still studying Legal Management at De La Salle University. Joining politics was not really in Co-Pilar’s plans. “I did not expect to be a public servant since all my family members were in business,” she reveals. “Up to now, I am the only one in the [Co] family who is in public service.” The well-loved leader points to an event that lit the flame of wanting to carry on in the field of public service in her. She recalls a demolition operation in Pasong Tamo where affected residents fiercely fought for their right to keep their houses. Despite the residents’ efforts to stop the demolition team and their police escorts, they lost their houses. “There was this child tugging at his mother’s skirt,” CoPilar recalls, “asking her whether he will be able to go to school the next day, where they will spend the night, what they will do as they had lost their house. The child’s father, crying in desperation, was hitting a tree with his bolo knife. At that moment, I knew that I needed to do something to help them and people like them,” she relates. The young leader went on to become Pasong Tamo’s youngest barangay chairperson, holding the position for three terms spanning 13 years. With her reputation as a grounded leader who delivers on her promises, Co-Pilar made it to the city council as one of the district’s councilors. Simultaneous with her early years as public servant, she continued to pursue her education. After finishing her degree in Legal Management, she took up Public Administration at the University of the Philippines Diliman and Law at the San Sebastian College Institute of Law. Mixing theory with actual practice, Co-Pilar became even more adept at local administration and legislation. SIMULTANEOUS WITH HER EARLY YEARS AS PUBLIC SERVANT, CO-PILAR CONTINUED TO PURSUE HER EDUCATION. MIXING THEORY WITH ACTUAL PRACTICE, SHE BECAME EVEN MORE ADEPT AT LOCAL ADMINISTRATION AND LEGISLATION. FROM LOCAL TO NATIONAL With her second term as councilor about to end in 2022, an opportunity to serve her district in another capacity came about. The congressional seat was to be vacated by the termlimited Congressman Jose Christopher “Kit” Belmonte. The same desire to bring about relevant change—this time not just to her district constituents but even to similarly situated communities in other parts of the country—led CoPilar to join the congressional race in Quezon City’s thirdmost populous district. Although pitted against two former members of Congress, both with deep political roots, Co-Pilar knew she stood a real chance of making it to Batasan. After all, her exemplary record of public service was her main campaign material. In the end, the grateful electorate of the district chose CoPilar to represent them in the 19th Congress. Hers is a clear mandate, having garnered 60 percent of the votes cast. The neophyte congresswoman points to two factors that somewhat affected her transition from being a local lawmaker to national legislator. First, there is a big difference in the size of the QC Council and Congress. With over 300 members, the latter is almost nine times bigger than the QC Council. “It takes time to familiarize myself with the other members, get to know them [and their style of working],” Co-Pilar shares. Second, the lawmaking process at the national level is much more complicated and takes a longer time compared to local legislation. For instance, deliberations take much longer, approved bills have to be elevated to the Senate, and bicameral meetings have to be done in case of differences in the two chambers’ approved versions. LIVING UP TO EXPECTATIONS Despite the above, however, Co-Pilar has lived up to expectations. In her first year as congresswoman, she became involved in 139 legislative measures, with 129 as principal author. These cover 103 bills of national importance, 24 bills of local importance, and 12 resolutions. House Bill (HB) 6608, of which she was a principal author, has been enacted into law as Republic Act (RA) No. 11954 or the Maharlika Investment Fund Act. More of her co-authored bills are expected to be signed into law soon. Among the bills she has filed and considers closest to her heart are those relating to disaster resilience, cancer treatment and research; care for the elderly; and provision of affordable housing. HB 2803, or the proposed Department of Disaster Resilience Act, aims to establish a department that will take the lead in mobilization and intervention during times of disaster. The bill puts forward a comprehensive framework for disaster management, which includes the use of modern technology to forecast disasters and help the people to prepare for such. Said framework involves holistic and properly coordinated intervention by the national government, local government units, local communities, and the private sector. “Dapat, upgraded na 'yung ating mga kagamitan sa pag-monitor at pagtugon sa mga disaster tulad ng bagyo at pagbaha. At naniniwala ako na kaya na natin ngayon (We need upgraded facilities for monitoring and responding to disasters like typhoons and flooding. And I believe that we are capable of such right now),” she declares. HB 2802 or the National Cancer Research Institute of the Philippines Bill seeks to create the National Cancer Research and Treatment Institute of the Philippines, which shall construct, maintain, and operate specialized institutions meant for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer as well as the care and rehabilitation of cancer patients. Said institution shall also promote medical and scientific research with regard to the prevention and treatment of cancer, as well as assist higher education institutions, hospitals, and research institutions in their studies related to cancer. “This bill is close to my heart because my father died of cancer, and I am a cancer survivor,” Co-Pilar reveals. She points to the growing number of cancer cases and the inability of ordinary citizens to afford treatment. “Many cancer patients aren’t able to get the treatment they deserve. They do not seek treatment because of lack of finances. Hospitals even turn them away. Meanwhile, if we have hospitals that could accommodate them, they will be taken care of and given a new lease on life.” Meanwhile, HB 7448 or the proposed Senior Citizen Care Act aims to provide proper care for another vulnerable sector of society. Co-Pilar points to an inevitable fact: All of us are going to get old and we will need the assistance of and proper care, not only from our family members but also from the community and all levels of government. The bill, in general, seeks to promote the physical, mental, emotional, and social wellbeing of senior citizens and to ensure their protection and safety. It provides for, among others, programs to reconnect abandoned, neglected, frail, abused, or exploited senior citizens with their nearest relatives; establishment of a nursing home for abandoned and homeless senior citizens in every municipality or city; and the establishment of community care facilities manned by volunteers. The nursing homes and community care centers shall provide those under their care with basic needs, like comfortable living quarters, adequate and nutritious food, health care, as well as recreation activities, counselling, literacy education, and cultural activities. A staunch advocate of providing Filipinos affordable yet decent housing, Co-Pilar has filed a number of pertinent bills. Among these are HB 1238 and HB 05. HB 1238 or the Rental Housing Subsidy Program Bill aims to provide informal settler families (ISF) social protection and support in accessing the formal housing market. This option shall be made available for ISFs displaced by natural or man-made disasters. Eligible ISFs will receive a rental subsidy, the rate of which shall be determined by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the National and Economic Development Authority (NEDA) after considering the prevailing minimum wage and rental rates. Meanwhile, HB 05 seeks to amend RA 7279 or the Urban Development and Housing Act, providing for a clear local government unit-led resettlement program for ISFs. Under said bill, off-city resettlement shall be resorted to only when on-site, in-city, or near-city relocation is not feasible. Proper consultation prior to relocation and provision of livelihood opportunities as well as other social services shall also be made mandatory. The vice chairperson of the House Committee on Housing and Urban Development is confident that the two measures, once enacted into law, will help solve the country’s housing problem. In all, the above-mentioned bills and Co-Pilar’s other legislative measures seek to provide Filipinos with opportunities to enjoy a life of safety and dignity. TRANSFORMATION Complementing Co-Pilar’s legislative efforts are her various projects in her district. In her first year as congresswoman, she was able to allocate almost Php1.5 billion in infrastructure projects. This amount covers the rehabilitation of more than 100 kilometers of roads, erection of 17 multi-purpose buildings to house disaster operation centers, construction of five major flood control structures, and a housing project in Barangay Baesa. Opening this year is the district’s first madrasah or school for Muslim learners. The learning center will offer specialized curricula from memorizing the Qur’an through reading, reciting, and writing; up to higher studies in Islamic theology. Soon to rise in Barangay Sauyo is the 6th District’s first Kabahagi Center for Children with Disability. The center will provide free healthcare, empowerment and livelihood services for children with disability. Their family members will also benefit through hands-on therapy training, community engagement activities as well as livelihood and skills training. The project is part of Co-Pilar’s efforts to help provide persons with disability equal access to opportunities, rights, and privileges as other Filipinos, in line with the vision of Quezon City being a place where inclusivity, sustainability, empowerment, and people participation are a way of life. The congresswoman’s biggest infrastructure project so far is the Tandang Sora Hospital and Medical Center, which is envisioned to be a premier hospital providing state of the art medical care not only to residents of the 6th District but for all QCitizens. Beyond the obvious physical transformation of the district, however, is the continued flow of assistance in various forms. In cooperation with the Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the congresswoman’s office has facilitated medical assistance and vaccination services to almost 15,000 patients. Still in coordination with the DSWD, 20,000 individuals in crisis situations have been given assistance. Almost a thousand beneficiaries were given assistance in availing of scholarship benefits under the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Tulong Dunong Program, while more than 800 students were given educational assistance by the lady legislator’s office. Meanwhile, more than 5,000 residents were given assistance in availing of the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Program. Thousands of tricycle drivers and hundreds of solo parents were also given financial assistance to help them make ends meet. RECOGNITION & AFFIRMATION Co-Pilar’s performance as a member of Congress has not gone unnoticed. In its June 25 to July 5, 2023 nationwide Boses ng Bayan survey, RPMission and Development (RPMD) Foundation found the neophyte solon at second spot, with a performance rating of 93.22 percent. This put her in a statistical tie with seven other district representatives from all over the country. The survey asked constituents to rate their district representatives based on ability to act and speak on their behalf; performance in pushing for pieces of legislation; and ability to provide different services to constituents. She also emerged as a top performing legislator for the National Capital Region (NCR) in the RPMD survey conducted from September 20 to 30, 2023, garnering a job performance rating of 94.8 percent. Prior to this, she landed in a statistical tie for third place in the firm’s survey for the country’s best performing neophyte lawmakers held in the first quarter of the year. “I feel blessed,” Co-Pilar says in reaction to the affirmation of her work. “I feel grateful that even if I’m a neophyte, my work is noticed. My sincerity to serve the people is recognized. I feel so blessed by God because He gave me the chance and privilege to serve the people of my district as a congresswoman. With this, I will not waste any time and opportunity that I could be able to help and make a difference [not only for my district but for the whole country].” The recent survey results come as no surprise, as Co-Pilar had received accolades from various institutions during her time as councilor. Among the awards she received are the PAMANA (Pagkilala sa Mabuti at Natatanging Pilipino) Award as Huwarang Lingkod Publiko, Tandang Sora Leadership Excellence Award, and the DILG’s Excellence Award in Good Governance for NCR. Her survey performance and formal awards notwithstanding, Co-Pilar considers the continued support of the people of QC’s 6th District as the biggest and most heartwarming affirmation of her performance. She points to trust and credibility as the biggest factors for this. “Number one is credibility,” she declares. “When you talk about credibility, the people will judge and scrutinize you first. And all through the years since I was a kagawad, they know that when I say something, I will do it; that I’m sincere when I say I will help them and I will do something about their problem. That’s why every election, they vote for me because they trust me. They know they can depend on me.” PARTNERS IN GOOD GOVERNANCE It takes more than one government official to tackle a community’s concerns, and Co-Pilar is privileged to have familiar faces to help her out. Quezon City 6th District Councilor Emmanuel “Banjo” Pilar and Pasong Tamo Chairwoman Stephanie Tricia Co-Pilar serve as her co-pillars of good governance and genuine service. Konsi Banjo, who served as three-term chairperson of Barangay Pasong Tamo, has taken his Kidlat sa Serbisyo brand of leadership to the city council. He has proven his mettle in local legislation, aside from continuing to provide various services to his constituents. Kap Tricia, on the other hand, previously served as barangay kagawad and acting barangay chairperson before receiving an overwhelming mandate to lead the barangay. Her Tapat na Paglilingkod brand of leadership now benefits nnot just primarily the youth but all residents of Pasong Tamo. With Konsi Banjo and Kap Tricia also serving the district, CoPilar is confident that the 6th District is in good hands. “From the city council, Banjo can perform as a legislator and also provide the necessary projects for our district, and Trisha could take care of the barangay,” she says. “Barangay Pasong Tamo is my ‘baby.’ It is the biggest barangay in District 6. [Having Konsi Banjo and Kap Tricia is] important for me because I know I have somebody I love and I trust, who will also take care of the barangay that I love and cherish. With that, I am assured that there will be good governance and continued quality service not only in Barangay Pasong Tamo, but also in the 6th District through the coming years.” LOOKING FORWARD With a clear vision for the district, Co-Pilar sees the 6th District soon becoming the face of the northern part of the metropolis. “The district will be very progressive economically, with numerous business and job opportunities,” she says. “I see our district being fully developed in terms of infrastructure because of Congressional Avenue Extension, Mindanao Avenue Extension, and Visayas Avenue Extension, even C-5 Road. These major routes will bring in economic opportunities for us.” Co-Pilar sees not only business establishments but also homes rising in the district. “One of the main problems in the 6th District is housing. I intend to work with the local government and the national government to provide socialized housing for our constituents,” she shares. “Of course, I’m expecting that the first hospital for the 6th District will be completed before May 2025 as this is my main project for my first term,” she adds, again underscoring the need for affordable quality health care. “I hope to see Tandang Sora Hospital and Medical Center being operational before my first term ends.” Guided by the same principles that have guided her from her time as kagawad to her stint as city councilor, Co-Pilar is expected to continue bringing about principled service to her constituents. “Never believe in the impossible,” she says. “Even if a project seems hard, you have to try your best to achieve it. Second, [optimism must be accompanied by] hard work and determination as these will help you achieve what is good for your constituents. Third, be brave. I always speak my mind and I think people love me for being very authentic and not sugarcoating things. I say what I feel and I mean what I say. My constituents love me more because they know I will not play politics but tell them the truth so that I could go ahead and give them the principled service they deserve,” she ends.

< Back "BRIGADA ESKWELA 2025" BY TREISHA C. ROVERO The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially launched Brigada Eskwela 2025, a nationwide effort to prepare public schools for the new school year. Running from June 9 to 13, this year’s theme is “Sama-sama para sa Bayang Bumangon,” emphasizing community unity. Volunteers—including teachers, parents, students, and local groups— join hands to clean, repair, and beautify school facilities to create safe learning spaces. DepEd and partners encourage eco-friendly practices, urging the use of non-toxic cleaners and waste reduction. The EcoWaste Coalition supports these efforts to protect the environment.