ENVIRONMENT PROTECTIVE, CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTIVE, AND DISASTER-RESILIENT LGUs The rise of the status of the Mayon Volcano to Level 3 dated June 8, 2023 alerted the Regional Disaster Reduction and Management Council’s Health Cluster to take proactive measures to prepare for a potential escalation in volcanic activity and its impact on the community. During the visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., he directly addressed the evacuees and assured them that the government is committed to providing all necessary assistance towards recovery in aftermath of the calamity. He acknowledged the resilience demonstrated by the affected communities in the face of adversity and stressed that safety and wellbeing are their priority. He urged national government agencies (NGAs) to strengthen their efforts and collaborate in assisting the affected municipalities and cities. He recognized that the Quick Response Fund available to each municipality or city is limited and might not fully address the residents’ needs. Regional Director Atty. Arnaldo E. Escober Jr., CESO V, emphasized the need for the NGAs to identify programs to be implemented and offered to avoid duplication in providing services to the evacuees. The activity was attended by representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Education (DepEd), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). The volcanic activities from Mount Mayon have forced thousands of people to evacuate their homes. The government has promptly assisted evacuees with food, water, and shelter. The face masks and water purifiers will help to protect the evacuees from the spread of respiratory diseases and ensure safe water supply. DILG shall guarantee that the affected communities in Albay receive the necessary assistance. PBBM, DILG ENSURES SUFFICIENT ASSISTANCE TO BICOLANOS AFFECTED BY MAYON’S UNREST pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 51
SHELTER AND EARLY RECOVERY CLUSTER MEETING In response to the escalating unrest of Mayon Volcano due to increased rockfall and ashfall since June 2023, the Bicol Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Council, through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), convened a meeting of the Shelter and Early Recovery Cluster. The primary purpose was to discuss updates and plans for sheltering and aiding affected residents. The body was informed of the conduct of coordination meetings on the provision of Alternative Livelihood for Communities in Albay regarding Mayon Volcano’s unrest held July 21, 2023, and coordinated with DOLE on the schedule of the forum with Local Chief Executives . RDRRMC RESPONSE COMMITTEE MEETING As part of the joint goal of ensuring individuals’ protection and welfare in disasters and emergencies, the Office of the Civil Defense Region 5 convened the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Council (RDRRMC) Response Committee (RC) Meeting. The DILG R5 representatives and other RC members from various government agencies and non-governmental, civil, and private sector organizations attended the meeting on November 3, 2023, at the Handyong Hall, OCD 5. The agenda included discussions on land travel suspension, accreditation of Community Disaster Volunteers (ACDV) Guidelines, and Dashboard, Mayon Updates by PHIVOLCS, Mayon Response Update, Inventory of Response Assets, and Situational Report Submission - all pertinent issues facing the region. Throughout the meeting, RDRRMC members deliberated on each agenda item, proposing additional precautionary measures and actions to effectively provide deliverables and service to our affected fellow Bicolanos. COLLABORATION WITH THE DIFFERENT REGIONAL AGENCIES 52 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
CRISIS MANAGEMENT Over one hundred participants representing local government units (LGUs) across the Bicol region and regional offices of national government agencies (NGAs), completed the 3-Day Training Workshop on PlanSmart Ready to Rebuild, held last November 21-23, 2023, at the Marison Hotel in Legazpi City. This face-to-face workshop marked the final roll-out since its launch in September 2022 which was organized with support from the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery, the Government of Japan, and the World Bank. The training was well-timed for our region, considering the challenges posed by the eruptions of Mayon Volcano, as it aimed to enhance the capacity of local governments to create a thorough Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan more efficiently, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions and prepare for both pre-and post-disaster situations, utilizing the PlanSmart automated OPERATION LISTO MANUAL As part of mainstreaming natural and humaninduced disaster risk reduction through the incorporation of climate change adaptability in local plans into disaster-resilient Local Government Units, DILG R5 forged ahead the back-to-back Regional Training Rollout on Operation Listo: Disaster Preparedness Manuals, commenced at Summit Hotel, Naga City, on November 28-30, 2023, and December 14-15, 2023. Phase One introduced five disaster preparedness manuals to 120 participants in 20 LGUs in Region 5, addressing five hazards they are considered as exposed to. The objective was to bolster the institutional capacity of local disaster risk reduction and management councils, aligning with broader programs such as the 2020-2030 National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Plan and the 2023-2028 Philippine Development Plan. The manual contains guidelines, protocols, and best practices for various scenarios, aiming to enhance the capacity and readiness of LGUs and stakeholders to deal with emergencies effectively. Phase Two aimed to evaluate the implementation of the Regional Rollout of Operation Listo: Disaster Preparedness Manuals, provide feedback for enhancement, and strategize future capacity development activities for LGUs. planning tool. The workshop utilized a mixedmethod approach, incorporating adult learning principles and an experiential cycle. It comprised three modules divided into sixteen sessions. After every couple of sessions, hands-on workshops were conducted to wit it enables participants to formulate their plans for predisaster rehabilitation and recovery through the web app, emphasizing the significance of precise baseline data for evidence-based plans, which later evolved into presentations used during reporting. It also encouraged engagement and detailed discussions among participants, serving as a platform for implementing strategies to support the region’s zero casualty disaster risk management (DRM) approach. pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 53
BUSINESS-FRIENDLY AND COMPETITIVE LGUs The DILG Region 5, through the Local Government Capacity Division (LGCDD), organized a Roll-out Training for LGUs on the Reengineering of Systems and Procedures, Repeal of Regulatory Policies, and Regulatory Reform for LGU Information Systems (RR4LGUiS) on July 18-19, 2023, at The Pepperland Hotel. The participants included members of CART/RRT, such as the Administrator, SB/SP Chair on Good Governance, Treasurer, Business Permits and Licensing Officer (BPLO), Provincial or Municipal Legal Officer, and Provincial or Municipal Engineer from municipalities like Oas, Guinobatan, Libon, Talisay, Baao, Libmanan, San Andres, Cawayan, Irosin, Castilla, and the six Provincial Governments in the Region. TRAINING OF LGUs ON RE-ENGINEERING OF SYSTEMS AND PROCEDURES, REPEAL OF REGULATORY POLICIES, AND REGULATORY REFORM FOR LGU’s INFORMATION SYSTEM In her opening message, LGCDD Division Chief Ma. Ruthel P. Gigantoca emphasized the training’s significance in helping LGUs streamline essential processes and re-engineer systems to foster a business-friendly environment, aligning with current laws and issuances. Resource Speakers, LGOO IV Jaime S. Vergara, Jr. and PO I Yiazzumi S. Sia of Bureau of Local Government Development (BLGD) encouraged LGUs to initiate the reengineering of operations and procedures and assists them in complying with JMC No. 2021-01, “Guidelines on Streamlining of LGU Systems and Procedures on Business and Non-Business-related Services for Cities and Municipalities.” pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 55
ORIENTATION ON REVISED BPLS STANDARDS FOR LGUS AND PROMOTION OF IBPLS In compliance with RA 11032, also known as the Ease of Doing Business Law, and to equip local government units (LGUs) with the necessary knowledge of the revised BPLS standards, as well as to develop their technical skills in automating and computerizing their BPLS using software developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), DILG 5, through its training arm, the Local Government Capability Development Division (LGCDD), along with the DICT, conducted a virtual training titled “Orientation on Revised BPLS Standards for LGUs and Promotion of iBPLS” on May 17-18, 2023, via the Zoom platform. The two-day activity was attended by the Business Permit and Licensing Officers (BPLOs), Treasurers, IT Officers, and representatives from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) of various LGUs including Camalig and Bacacay in Albay; Bula and Canaman in Camarines Sur; Talisay and Capalonga in Camarines Norte; Cawayan, Aroroy, and Cataingan in Masbate; and Bulan, Irosin, and Gubat in Sorsogon. The Local Economic and Development Section (LEDS) of the LGCDD and the DILG Provincial Focal Persons for the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Programs facilitated this capacity development intervention. During the training, Information System Analysts (ISA) Gerald Andrew Gojar and John Paul Cordez from DICT 5 provided insights into various topics, including the background of the Integrated Business Permit and Licensing System (iBPLS) Automation Project, relevant Joint Memorandum Circulars (JMCs) and Legal Issuances, and the roles and responsibilities of LGUs and DICT in adopting the system. The BPLS aims to streamline the processes of issuing and renewing permits and licenses, making it faster, easier, and more convenient for both LGUs and businesses. This streamlining process encompasses process reengineering, automation or computerization, customer relations, and system institutionalization. 56 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
DILG Region 5, through its Local Government Capacity Development Division (LGCDD), conducted a two-day training on the Preparation of a Workforce Development Plan and Formulation of a Local Investment and Incentive Code (LIIC) on July 20-21, 2023, at The Pepperland Hotel, Washington Drive, Legazpi City. The training equipped participants with the skills necessary for implementing and operationalizing the Guidelines on Strengthening Initiatives for Balanced Growth and Opportunities (SIBOL) and the steps involved in formulating the LGU Local Investment and Incentive Code (LIIC). DILG 5 Regional Director (RD) Atty. Arnaldo E. Escober Jr., CESO V, underscored the crucial role of LGUs in providing employment and livelihood opportunities to Filipinos severely affected by the pandemic, thereby reducing poverty prevalence in TRAINING ON THE PREPARATION OF A WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND FORMULATION OF LOCAL INVESTMENT AND INCENTIVE CODE the country. Participants, comprising Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officers (LEDIPOs), Public Employment Service Officers (PESOs), Sangguniang Members, Agriculture Officers, Community Training and Employment Coordinators (CTECs), Tourism Officers, and DILG Officers from the six Provincial Governments in the region, engaged in a series of discussions and workshops. Additionally, resource speakers from the Bureau of Local Government Development (BLGD) - DILG Central Office provided technical assistance during the training. Representatives from DOF-BLGF V, DILG R5, DOLE, TESDA, and DTI were also invited. The submission of the LIIC Action Plan and Workforce Development Plan by the six regional provincial governments marked the conclusion of the training. pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 57
STRENGHTEN INTERNAL ORGANIZATIONAL CAPACITY SSS, DILG 5 FORGE PARTNERSHIP FOR THE SELF-EMPLOYED PROGRAM DILG 5 forged partnership with the Social Security System (SSS) through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing held last December 1, 2023 at the DILG Regional Office 5. This engagement aimed to provide social security coverage for the Department’s Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) personnel through the SSS Self-Employed Program. The MOA was signed by DILG 5’s Regional Director (RD) Atty. Arnaldo E. Escober Jr., CESO V, and Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Rico E. Gaurino, and SSS Legazpi’s Ms. Elenita S. Samblero, Vice President of Branch Operations and Ms. Julieta B. Compuesto, Acting Assistant Branch Head. This partnership between the DILG 5 and SSS is a significant milestone in bridging the gap between governmental responsibilities and the welfare of non-regular employees. It also symbolizes both agencies’ commitment to ensuring equitable treatment and social security protection for all workers, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all workers in the country. DILG REGION 5 IS GAD CERTIFIED DILG 5 was conferred with the GAD Seal Certification during the awarding ceremony held at Royce Hotel, Clark Pampanga, on December 6, 2023. DILG Region 5 underwent its first GAD Seal Assessment On-Site Validation for FY 2022 with the presence and expertise of the National Assessment Committee (NAC), headed by Assistant Secretary for Administration, Finance and Comptrollership, ASec Ester Aldana, accompanied by Region XII Regional Director Josephine Leysa, Program Manager Glenn Q. Miranda of the SLGP, Ms. Ara Mae Samia of the Planning Service, and Ms. Heidi Pilapil of the BLGD last September 26, 2023. This milestone memorializes the Department’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowerment, as well as its dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for its employees. pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 59
55th BATCH: ASLAG Thirteen (13) Local Government Operations Officers (LGOOs) from Region 5 have successfully completed the Apprenticeship Program for LGOOs II & III – Batch 55. After nearly 9 months of rigorous online and faceto-face modules, field immersion, and a series of extensive assessments and evaluations, 13 LGOOs attended the Grand Graduation of the Apprenticeship Program on December 5, 2023 held at the Manila Prince Hotel, Ermita, Manila. This also served as an inauguration ceremony for the full-fledged LGOOs. The training apprenticeship program is designed to prepare new technical personnel to handle greater roles and responsibilities in carrying out the DILG’s mandates. The apprentices were trained to be well-rounded officers covering their knowledge, skills, and attitudes; and thereafter immersed into LGUs to gain first-hand experience on the functions performed by the field officers as DILG’s frontliners. These new full-fledged LGOO graduates will be a great addition to the roster of strong, committed, and dedicated corps of DILG Regional Office 5, working to achieve the Department’s shared goal of excellence in local governance. LGOO II Gil Harvey Agripa LGOO II Charene Joy Briones LGOO II Kathryn Ann Camba LGOO II Joselle Valerie Dreo LGOO II Ma. Christina Francisco LGOO II Aldrin Jovi Gallanosa LGOO II Jaymel Imperial LGOO II Enrique Jose Jr. LGOO II Shiela Mae Magayanes LGOO II Mary Ann Pabico LGOO II Regine Pedro LGOO II Renzo Marcben Sallan LGOO II Ammabelle Cristine De Guzman-Solano 60 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
ONLINE PROCUREMENT PROCESS MONITOR BICOL ONE LINK With the aim of enhancing procurement management in the Regional Office, the Multimedia Knowledge and Information Facility of Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) 5 developed an online procurement monitoring process to keep an account of the progress of all procurement activities. One of the main objectives of this procurement process monitoring is to ensure that all goods and services are acquired and the project has been processed efficiently and carried on until completion. Moreover, the procurement process monitoring requires the end user to encode and submit the details of the Procurement Request (PR) using the Procurement Process Monitoring Form (PPMF). Once submitted, the end user can monitor the status by accessing the Procurement Process Monitoring As part of the movement to effectively execute the department’s mandate at the regional level, the DILG Regional Office 5, through its Regional Information and Communication Technology Unit (RICTU), has enhanced its internal systems and processes. This initiative aims to bolster our human resource capabilities and amplify the department’s strategies in implementing PPAs, all while embracing new insights and setting up-todate objectives. The Regional Office developed a web-based internal system known as Bicol1Link. This system Database (PPMDB) using the official email of their division, section or unit.The procurement process involves the tracking of receiving and releasing of documents from the six (6) processing units, i e. Bids and Awards Committee, General Services Section (GSS), Budget Section, Accounting Section, Office of the Regional Director (ORD) and Cash Unit. The end-users can monitor the status of their request, whether it is pending, ongoing, or completed. As reflected in the dashboard, the system also generates an overall status of all encoded procurement activities, including status per processing unit and per end-user. The implementation of this scheme will not only enhance the knowledge-sharing culture in the office, but also to create an avenue for real-time collaboration that will enable every division, section, and unit to access the information they need and take an action if necessary. serves as a centralized platform, granting officials and employees of DILG R5 seamless access to vital information and resources. Bicol1Link offers a comprehensive range of links and information sources, streamlining access for DILG R5 stakeholders. Among its features is the Central Reporting System (CRS), a web portal facilitating online report submissions for city, municipal, and provincial regional offices. Furthermore, it provides access to a compendium of Legal Opinions, a collection of PPAs, and various resource materials organized into six outcome areas for efficient search. Additionally, users can access knowledge products such as IEC materials and a coffee table book, visit DILG 5 and LGRRC websites, watch videos on the YouTube channel, and browse the Facebook page. The system also includes a DILG R5 e-calendar, updating users on important dates and relevant events. Going forward, we plan to introduce and integrate additional applications to enhance the system’s functionality further. pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 61
LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT Onboarding: General Orientation for Newly-Hired Permanent (LGOOs II) and Contract of Service Employees and On-the-Job Trainees (February 16-18, 2023) Training on Procurement for Members, Secretariat, and End Users (February 21, 2023) Orientation on Inventory Management and Disposal Management (March 21, 2023) Seminar/Workshop on the Preparation of Project Procurement Management Plan (July 25, 2023) Mid-Year Program Assessment of LGSF Project Implementation and 2nd Sem Target Setting for Cascading to Different Operating Units (August 9 - 11, 2023) Seminar on Basic Statistics for Effective Implementation and Monitoring of Locally Funded Projects (September 7-8, 2023) PAGTALUBO Series: Knowledge Forum (June 2, 2023 - October 6, 2023) 1. PhilHealth Konsulta Program 2. Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation 3. Claims and Benefits on Government Service Insurance 4. Land Transportation and Traffic Code 5. Basic Network Management and Computer Troubleshooting 6. Specific Guidelines on Payment of Travel Claims 7. Employees Compensation Commission 8. Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections 9. Social Security System Benefits PAGTALUBO SERIES: KNOWLEDGE FORUM A collaboration with national government agencies (NGAs) and offices initiated by the Department of the Interior and Local Government Regional Office 5 (DILG 5) Financial and Administrative Division (FAD) Personnel Section, Pagtalubo Series envisions an avenue for knowledge and skillssharing, particularly on the government programs and services catered to its personnels’ welfare and capacity development. This series comprises episodes aiming to raise awareness on health care, finance, and various programs of NGAs and offices to strengthen the internal organizational capacity and address the issues and concerns commonly raised by personnel. This initiative has held a total of nine episodes via Zoom Teleconferencing since its inception in June 2023 until November 2023. Some of the offices invited as resource persons were from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), Land Transportation Office (LTO), DILG 5 Officers, DILG Central Office, Employees Compensation Commission (ECC), Commission on Elections (COMELEC), and Social Security System (SSS). EPISODES 9AIRED ACTIVITIES 16IMPLEMENTED 62 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
ISO 9001:2015 The Department of the Interior and Local Government Region 5 has steadfastly committed to delivering excellent service, focusing on the National Quality Management System (NQMS) in pursuing the ISO 9001:2015 certification seal to enhance efficiency. For 2023, DILG 5 focused on enhancing NQMS implementation to standardize processes, ensure consistency, and maximize client satisfaction. Through workshops, such as the QMS Planning FY 2023 and Provincial Interfacing Activity, the region sets objectives, pursues its targets, addresses concerns, and fosters innovation. The QMS Assessment FY 2023 highlighted achievements, with only one (1) non-conformity and seven (7) opportunities for improvement were identified. Monitoring performance is key, with the Regional QMS Secretariat utilizing tools like the Regional Quality Monitoring and Evaluation (RQME). The region surpassed its quality objectives, achieving a 100% CSS rating for NQMS processes. Despite the challenges, the DILG 5 maintained high-quality performance, exceeding targets and ensuring customer satisfaction. Activities such as orientations, monthly evaluations, and quarterly meetings with process owners contribute to their ongoing improvement efforts. The Regional Management Review, a vital platform for discussion and decision-making, ensured alignment with strategic goals and continuous enhancement of the NQMS. HRMSPB In 2023, the Human Resource Merit, Selection, and Promotion Board (HRMSPB) under the leadership of Assistant Regional Director Jhoaden G. Lucero continued to advance in the Recruitment, Selection, and Promotion System (RSP) process, a key aspect of HR functions. This comprehensive process encompasses tasks such as identifying vacant positions, sourcing applicants, conducting tests and interviews, evaluating candidates, selecting new hires, overseeing onboarding activities, and preparing necessary reports submitted to the Civil Service Commission. The HRMSPB maintained its commitment to excellence by incorporating a blend of online and face-to-face selection methods. This approach ensures the delivery of high-quality and accessible processes while upholding the principles of merit, competence, fitness, accountability, transparency, and equal opportunity. Emphasizing adaptability to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, the management took strategic initiatives to elevate the HR maturity level, aiming for the prestigious PRIME HRM Level 3. It reflects the organization’s dedication to continuous improvement and alignment with contemporary HR practices. NEWLY HIRED 21 PROMOTED 315 LGOO II / 6 LGOO III 2 LGOO IV / 4 LGOO V 7 LGOO VI / 2 LGOO VII 1 ADA VI / 1 ADAS II 1 AO III / 1 SAO / 1 CAO 12 LGOO II / 1 ATTY III 1 ADAS/ 7 ADA IV pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 63
DILG ALBAY PROVINCIAL OFFICE’S INTERFACING ACTIVITIES: A KNOWLEDGE-SHARING STRATEGY Consistent with the Department’s vision as a partner in nurturing Local Government Units, the DILG Albay Provincial Office under the strategic leadership of Provincial Director Ray B. Caceres, together with the Cluster Heads and staff, Program Manager, Sections Chiefs as well as the technical engineers, teamed up as the Provincial Team for the conduct of Interfacing activities with the local officials and functionaries of all the local government units (LGUs) of the Province of Albay. The Interfacing activity is rooted in the oversight function of the Department, thus conceptualized as an avenue for knowledge sharing, feedback on current status, and how each LGU is faring up with others to level the playing field. It is aimed to determine performance gaps while identifying key issues hindering their compliance and reinforcing areas in project implementation within the framework of the five facilities of the DILG Albay Sub-Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC). Said activity featured two components: the first (conducted in the first quarter) is a dialogue with the LGU officials and functionaries. In contrast, the second phase (conducted in the third quarter) highlighted a face-to-face interview with the City and Municipal Operations Officers (C/MLGOOs). During the interfacing, the sections presented the status of compliance of each LGU where during the feedbacking, strategies were drawn out to ensure attainment of targets. Ultimately, the office ISTÓRIA SA KABESÉRA is steadfast in its drive to deliver relevant and responsive technical assistance to LGUs as the latter pledge to continuously improve their service delivery with the coveted Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) award on the backdrop. The inception of said activity was on January 9, 2023, with the Provincial Government of Albay as the first stop, to apprise them of their current status and compliance with the thrusts and priority programs of the Department. Governor Edcel Greco B. Lagman expressed his appreciation for the initiative of the office and committed to complying with the directives to deliver a quality service to the Albayanos. On March 28, 2023, the Provincial Team concluded the first phase of the activity with LGU Rapu-Rapu. Corollary, to ensure continuity of the activity, a follow-through discussion with the C/MLGOOs was conducted beginning July 31, 2023, to August 9, 2023. Each C/MLGOO presented the Status and Plan of Action for the issues identified during the Interfacing with LGU officials and functionaries. As a means of bringing the Department closer to LGUs, the DILG Albay Team’s concerted efforts, coupled with the capability and expertise of a Matino, Mahusay at Maaasahang LGOO, it is hoped that more LGUs will qualify for the SGLG award in the years to come and that more Albayos enjoy a comfortable and secured life. 64 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
CAMARINES NORTE: ULAT GOGO SIGNIFICANT GAINS ISTÓRIA SA KABESÉRA United Local Action Toward Good Governance also dubbed as ULAT GoGo is the new provincialbased program of the DILG Camarines Norte at the beginning of the year 2023 when DILG 5 Provincial Director Melody E. Relucio, CESO V serves as its new provincial head. The program’s four components were successfully conducted, namely Convergence Meeting-Confluence – Presentation of 2022 Performance Audits, Consultation, and Action Planning; Provision of Technical Assistance and Monitoring of Action Plans; Pre and Actual Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) and other Performance Audits; and Award and Recognition of Best Performing Local Government Units (LGUs), in the whole year of its implementation. The program began with Convergence Meetings from January to March 2023, involving all 12 municipalities and the Provincial Government of Camarines Norte. These meetings facilitated discussions on performance audits and identified areas requiring technical assistance for improvement. This was followed by Components 2 and 3 where technical assistance and monitoring of action plans were provided by the ULAT GoGo Team and the 12 Municipal Local Government Operations Officers (MLGOOs). These components served as avenues for strategic talks on how to further improve the performance of LGUs in complying with the requirements for various assessment programs. These efforts yielded positive results in which three LGUs were conferred as SGLG passers namely; Province of Camarines Norte, Municipalities of Basud and Paracale. Moreover, the Province of Camarines Norte was the only province in the Bicol Region to receive an 85% or high functionality rating in the 2023 Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) Audit, while San Vicente attained a perfect score in the same audit and even got awarded at the national level. San Vicente also happens to be the lone Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance Awardee in the province. Meanwhile, Jose Panganiban, San Vicente, and Talisay aced the Peace and Order (POC) audit and all attained a perfect score. The LGUs did fairly well in the Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (LCAT-VAWC) Audit as seven LGUs, namely Basud, Daet, Jose Panganiban, Labo, Mercedes, Paracale, and Talisay, received ideal functionality rating. However, the Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC) Audit seemed to be more difficult as only Labo received an ideal functionality rating. For the Component 4, provincial awarding ceremonies were organized to give recognition, in the form of certificates, plaques, and monetary rewards, to LGUs that performed remarkably in different assessment programs such as Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentive Awards (LTIA) and Local Legislative Awards (LLA). A year-ender activity entitled Araw ng Pagkilala at Pasasalamat was also conducted to give honor to the LGUs who achieved exceptional ratings in other performance audits such as SGLG, ADAC, LCPC, and LCAT-VAWC. The monetary rewards were made possible by the Provincial Government thru the partner leagues under the Bantayog-LGRC facility. Looking ahead, ULAT GoGo plans to enhance its monitoring capabilities in its upcoming iterations using tools like the SGLG Tracker and Integrated Governance Online Application Learning System (i-GOALS). pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 65
DILG CAMARINES SUR GEARS UP FOR ISAROG LAUNCH IN 2024 DILG Camarines Sur is the largest Provincial Operations Office in the Region with two operating Clusters composed of 36 Local Government Units, with 1 City and 35 Municipalities ensuring the provision of technical assistance and performing oversight functions over LGUs with the end in view that LGUs will be recognized and be given rewards and incentives. The current and existing mechanisms; however, hamper the timely collection of data as well as reports for submission. With this, DILG Camarines Sur, under the leadership of Provincial Director Julius Rodel L. Cal-Ortiz, CESO V, conceptualized Intensified Synergy, Adaptability, Resourcefulness and Outstanding Governance or ISAROG, a central reporting data scheme that can efficiently assist the Field Officers in ensuring the that their reports are timely, updated and submitted. Over time, ISAROG has taken a lot of upgrades to cater clientele’s needs and preferences. Interfaces were upgraded to store Knowledge and Learning ISTÓRIA SA KABESÉRA Products, Calendar of Activities and it has even accommodated a separate channel for DILG Camarines Facebook Page. The new ISAROG is the cultivation of innovations from its previous predecessors. It is a web browser designed to operate even at low bandwidths that allows the end-users to collect, encode, and view data in places with unstable internet connectivity. It is an open-source website offering a single repository of links that further features longitudinal data entry, data synchronization, and on-device data management for accessibility. ISAROG also provides access to various LGRC Knowledge Products, updates on Operation L!sto, and LGU performances to assessments such as the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), Local Legislative Awards (LLA), and Child-Friendly Local Governance (CFLGA) among others that will help guide the DILG Camarines Sur Field Officers and their LGUs on their data-driven decision making and action planning. 66 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
CHRONICLE OF SUCCESS: DILG CATANDUANES IN 2023 In 2023, the Department of the Interior and Local Government Provincial Office of Catanduanes (DILG PO Catanduanes) demonstrated significant achievements aligned with their guiding principles of accountable, transparent, participative, and effective local governance. Noteworthy successes included achieving Full Disclosure Policy compliance from all Local Government Units (LGUs), recognition in the 2023 Local Legislative Awards, and commendable performance in the Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards. Efforts to promote peaceful, orderly, and safe LGUs resulted in exemplary functionality assessments for Peace and Order Councils (POCs) and Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (ADACs). Additionally, DILG Catanduanes personnel augmented in the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) implementation in Masbate. The province exhibited commitment to socially protective initiatives, as seen in the positive results of assessments for Local Councils for the Protection of Children and Local Councils Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children. In advocating for environment-protective, climate change adaptive, and disaster-resilient LGUs, Catanduanes provided guidance in crafting mandated plans and documented the successful completion of significant projects funded locally. Amidst these accomplishments, DILG Catanduanes introduced innovative practices to enhance service delivery and engagement, such as BASA, comprising Balangibog sa Isla, Aramon Ta, Silyab, and DILG ARAMs. Particularly notable is the impact of Balangibog sa Isla, which has already aired twenty-four episodes since its inception in July 2023, elevating information dissemination across the province. Moreover, this year, the provincial office also introduced the SGLG Tracking system which substantially contributed in the timely monitoring of the compliance of LGUs to the indicators of the SGLG Assessment aimed at increasing the number of passers in the years to come. These achievements underscore the dedication of DILG Catanduanes officers and employees to further progress, foster community resilience, and serve the people of the Province of Catanduanes with integrity in the years ahead. ISTÓRIA SA KABESÉRA pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 67
AN DOS MIL BENTE TRES SA DILG MASBATE: A DYNAMIC AND IMMERSIVE TWENTY TWENTY-THREE DILG Masbate has proved to be one of the competent provincial offices in the Bicol Region with the successful conduct of the Retooled Community Support Program Immersion with 252 target barangays done in 4 months. The Provincial team also conducted various capacity development programs which aims to capacitate Civil Service Organizations and their vital role for local governance as well as re-orient committee members of the Comprehensive Development Plan- Technical Assessment Committee (CDPTAC). DILG Masbate was able to conduct its first Provincial Awarding on CY 2023 Local Legislative Agenda (LLA) and Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) to recognize the exemplary performance of Local Sanggunian and the Local Government Units along the ten SGLG governance areas. The year commenced with the convening of the Comprehensive Development Plan - Technical Assessment Committee (CDP-TAC) Meeting on April 13, 2023, at the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Building in the City of Masbate. The primary objective of this meeting was to review and reorient committee members regarding the policy framework for implementing Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) assessments. Additionally, strategies were discussed to assist the city and municipalities in Masbate in adhering to planning mandates outlined in the Local Government Code of 1991 and other pertinent policies. DILG Masbate rolls out the Enhancing Effectiveness of Civil Society Organizations (CSO) in Local Development, a series of Capacity Development Programs for CSOs in the Local Health Boards (LHBs) and Local School Boards (LHBs). These one-day province-wide capacity development trainings are in partnership with the Provincial Government of Masbate. The CSO CapDev for Local School Boards (LScBs) was conducted last 14 July 2023. In this training, the participants were expected to understand the functions and compositions of LScB, empower individuals through education, and develop values and skills for CSO members to work well within the board. Subsequently, the CSOs in LHBs were also ISTÓRIA SA KABESÉRA capacitated last 21 July 2023 at PADS Place, Ibanez St., City of Masbate. The participants acquired basic knowledge about their responsibilities and roles as members of the Local Health Board and community representatives taking part in local governance. Additionally, DILG Masbate Provincial Operations Office conducted the Provincial Awarding on CY 2023 Local Legislative Award (LLA) and Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) last November 28, 2023 at DH Sports Complex, Masbate City. The ceremonies are in recognition of the exemplary performance of the Local Sanggunian and the performance of the Local Government Units in Masbate along the ten SGLG governance areas. The municipalities from Cluster 1 and 2 of Masbate were all given recognition, whereas the City of Masbate was bestowed the highest citation for passing all ten SGLG governance areas. The Municipalities of Uson, San Pascual, Pio V Corpus, and the City of Masbate were accorded distinction for being the 4th, 3rd, 2nd, and 1st placers, respectively, on provincial LLA assessment. The year concluded with the successful implementation of the RCSP Baranggayan Immersion program, conducted in collaboration with DILG Regional Office 5. Over four months, a total of 252 barangays in Masbate participated in this initiative, which served as a platform for LGUs to identify community issues and required government interventions. The Baranggayan Immersion facilitated various activities, including the formulation of Barangay Empowerment Development Plans (EBDPs), the strengthening of BarangayBased Institutions (BBIs), and engaging dialogues with National Government Agencies (NGAs) and higher-level LGUs. Ultimately, the program aimed to empower barangays, promote democratic participation, and foster positive change within local communities. Overall, these initiatives reflect DILG Masbate’s commitment to fostering effective governance, empowering civil society, and facilitating community development throughout the province. 68 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
DILG SORSOGON DRIVES LGU SUCCESS THROUGH COLLABORATION ISTÓRIA SA KABESÉRA The Department of the Interior and Local Government Provincial Office of Sorsogon (DILG PO Sorsogon) has pursued a transformative approach to improving Local Government Units (LGUs) performance. With a focus on the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), Sorsogon Province stood out with seven awardees in 2023, demonstrating a significant achievement and highlighting DILG Sorsogon’s commitment to elevating LGU standards. This success represents 41.18% of the total national awardees in the region. To sustain this success and align with the Provincial Government’s priorities, DILG Sorsogon, led by Provincial Director Arnel Renato L. Madrideo, organized a Mayor’s forum titled “Pagbugkos: Strengthening Partnership with Stakeholders — Interfacing Local Chief Executives with DILG Sorsogon and Presentation of Capacity Development Analytics.” This forum aimed to enhance collaboration and capacity among stakeholders by sharing LGU status on DILG programs and national mandates compliance with Local Chief Executives (LCEs) and Local Planning and Development Coordinators (LPDCs). DILG Sorsogon continued its proactive technical assistance through the “DILG Sorsogon-LGU Interfacing Activities,” engaging with city and municipal officials to analyze LGU performance, identify improvement areas, and plan follow-up interventions to enhance collaboration and alignment efforts. These efforts culminated in the “Civil Society Organization Capacity Development (CSO CapDev) Summing Up cum Interfacing of DILG and Local Chief Executives in the Province of Sorsogon,” providing LCEs with insights from CSO capacity development activities and LGU status updates on DILG programs. At the end of the year 2023, the Province of Sorsogon stood proudly at the forefront of the 2023 Seal of Good Local Governance. A remarkable 43.75% of its component LGUs, totaling 7 local government units (LGUs), have emerged as national awardees to the prestigious program. This achievement represents an impressive 41.18% of the seventeen (17) national awardees across the entire region. Among these exemplary LGUs are Barcelona, Bulusan, Juban, Irosin, Pilar, Castilla, and Sorsogon City. The collaborative approach between DILG Sorsogon, LGUs, and stakeholders has been pivotal in driving success. Initiatives like the Mayor’s Forum and Interfacing Activities have equipped local leaders with strategies to improve governance effectiveness and service delivery. As we celebrate these achievements, it’s clear that LGUs’ dedicated efforts continue to inspire progress and excellence in local governance. DILG remains committed to empowering LGUs and elevating performance standards. pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 69
70 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
ATTY. ARNALDO E. ESCOBER JR., CESO V REGIONAL DIRECTOR JHOADEN G. LUCERO, CESO V, EnP, MM ASSISTANT REGIONAL DIRECTOR RAY B. CACERES, CESO V PROVINCIAL DIRECTOR DILG Albay MELODY E. RELUCIO, CESO V PROVINCIAL DIRECTOR DILG Camarines Norte JULIUS RODEL L. CAL-ORTIZ, CESO V PROVINCIAL DIRECTOR DILG Camarines Sur ULDARICO S. RAZAL JR., CESO V PROVINCIAL DIRECTOR DILG Catanduanes BEN PAUL M. NAZ, CESO V PROVINCIAL DIRECTOR DILG Masbate ARNEL RENATO L. MADRIDEO PROVINCIAL DIRECTOR DILG Sorsogon 2023 REGIONAL MANAGEMENT TEAM RICO E. GAURINO CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER Finance Administrative Division LGOO VII MA. RUTHEL P. GIGANTOCA DIVISION CHIEF Local Government Capability Development LGOO VII DARLYN D. AYENDE DIVISION CHIEF Local Government Monitoring and Evaluation pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 71
OFFICE OF THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR ATTY. MAGDALENA A. BORBE-MALLARI LEGAL OFFICER MA. GRACE JOY U. TANGO PLANNING OFFICER III LGOO V JAMES EDWARD M. PECSON PDMU CHIEF EDEN S. LANUZA INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OFFICER I CLUSTER HEADS LGOO VII ANGELA M. GALVO ALBAY, CLUSTER 1 LGOO VII REBECCA O. BRITANICO ALBAY, CLUSTER 2 LGOO VII JERWIN A. NOVIO CAMARINES NORTE LGOO VII ANGELA LOURDES V. ASTOR CAMARINES SUR, CLUSTER 1 LGOO VII SHIELAME B. VILLA CAMARINES SUR, CLUSTER 2 LGOO VII WILLIAM T. ALDEA CATANDUANES LGOO VII JOEL O. LOGENIO MASBATE, CLUSTER 1 LGOO VII SUMMER HOPE C. BULALAQUE MASBATE, CLUSTER 2 LGOO VII LEANDRO S. GIGANTOCA SORSOGON JAMIE ROSE A. ROPEREZ RECORDS OFFICER 72 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
FINANCE ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION MA. PIA M. SALAMEÑO SUPERVISING ADMINSTRATIVE OFFICER COREE MODESSA F. BADONG REGIONAL ACCOUNTANT MARILI M. PECSON BUDGET OFFICER III MAUREEN E. MALAZARTE GENERAL SERVICE SECTION CHIEF LOCAL GOVERNMENT CAPABILITY DEVELOPMENT DIVISION LGOO VI MAE G. CLEMENTE ASSISTANT DIVISION CHIEF LGOO V SHEENA MAE P. DE LA CRUZ SECTION CHIEF, CBDMS LGOO V GRACE S. MAGO SECTION CHIEF, LEDS LGOO V IVY S. RAMIREZ SECTION CHIEF, LDPAS LOCAL GOVERNMENT MONITORING AND EVALUATION DIVISION LGOO VI AMALINE R. COLINA ASSISTANT DIVISION CHIEF LGOO V ROMA SANTA C. MIRANDA SECTION CHIEF, ARS LGOO V JUTE M. BALBEDINA SECTION CHIEF, POARCS LGOO V MA. VICTORIA G. RAÑESES SECTION CHIEF, LGPBAS BELINDA A. EBUENGA CASHIER II pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 73
BUDGET UTILIZATION RATE REGULAR FUNDS CURRENT YEAR APPROPRIATIONS CONTINUING YEAR APPROPRIATIONS CENTRALLY MANAGED FUNDS CURRENT YEAR APPROPRIATIONS CONTINUING YEAR APPROPRIATIONS GRAND TOTAL CURRENT YEAR APPROPRIATIONS CONTINUING YEAR APPROPRIATIONS 98.52% 99.91% 99.89% 100% 96.03% 99.91% 98.59% BUR 74 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon
WAYS FORWARD For 2025, our main goal is to increase the number of SGLG passers by at least 22% as well as the number of governance areas passed by LGUs, highly focusing on the low-hanging LGUs and providing interventions to non-passer LGUs in various thematic areas such as business-friendliness and competitiveness, safety peace and order, disaster preparedness and social protection and sensitivity. Aside from SGLG, our goal is to Increase the number of LGU passers in other local government audit such as: ADAC, POC, CFLGA, and Gawad Kalasag. We shall endeavour to implement the Strategic Plan of the Department in relation to the various PPAs set in the Operations Plan and Budget. For the barangays, we shall continue to promote resolving cases amicably through the Lupong Tagapamayapa and incentivize outstanding Lupons through the LTIA Awards. With the assumption of newly elected barangay officials, there is a need to capacitate the barangays through the BNEO basic orientation and demand driven courses to further work on increasing the number of SGLG passers. We also continue to promote good governance in the barangays through the SGLG-B and ensure increased passing rate to 30% of the barangays. In the implementation of the various locally funded projects, we shall continue to ensure the good governance aspect in project implementation by the LGUs and that projects are completed on prescribed timelines and in accordance with government standards. We shall continue to capacitate CSOs to be effective partners of the Department in planning, implementation, and monitoring of DILG PPAs under the culture of good governance. The men and women of DILG 5 serve as the backbone of the Department thus their services need to be recognized as well through the sustained implementation of PRAISE BICOL BIDA reward and recognition system to further inspire the most important resource of the Department. We also continue enhancing the capacities of our own personnel by conducting various trainings under the Learning and Development Plan of the DILG 5. Relatively, we are now in the process of preparing for the PRIME HRM Level 3 from the present Level 2. To attain it, we are in the process of finalizing the formulation of the DILG 5 HR Manual. For LGRRC, we shall further sustain the gains of LGRC implementation and strengthen its performance, focusing on the application of the whole cycle of knowledge management. Our plan is to establish more sub-regional LGRRCs at least one (1) per cluster to promote knowledge-sharing in the LGUs in partnership with the members of the Multi-stakeholders Advisory Council (MSAC). We are also into improving/upgrading of DILG 5 facilities such as the DILG 5 Hostel, the completion of the DILG Camarines Sur office building and other facilities. We commit to further enhance the processes of DILG 5 in compliance with QMS standards to ensure provision of efficient DILG services to our clients. pagsalingoy: danay na oragon · 75
76 · pagsalingoy: danay na oragon