CL EXPRESS VOL. 5 ISSUE 4 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: DTI Zambales Honors LGUs to the 9th Regional Competitiveness Summit - 2 DTI 3 Opens New OTOP Showroom - 5 PGS Accomplishment Report - 6 OORC Accomplishment Report - 7 DTI Pandemic Initiatives - 8 DTI 3 CARP Performance - 11 DTI 3 Crafts Sustainability Plan - 15 Bili NE! - 21 OTOP Philippines Hub Opens in Tarlac - 22 DTI Bulacan Opens 4 New NCs - 28 Touchpoint 2.0 - 31 DTI 3 Complies with ISO 9001:2015 Standard - 34 My Post COVID 19 Journey - 35 LEX CHAT: Debt Shaming -36 CENTRAL LUZON LGUS AMONG MOST COMPETITIVE IN THE COUNTRY By Warren T. Serrano THE OFFICIAL ONLINE NEWLETTER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY REGION 3 4TH QUARTER 2021 (continued on p7) Central Luzon local government units were recognized as among the most competitive LGUs in the Philippines. During the 9th Regional Competitiveness Summit held virtually on December 14-15, 2021, the National Competitiveness Council bestowed the awards based on the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) rankings. Baliwag, Bulacan garnered the most number of awards as it was recognized as Rank 2 in Overall Competitiveness for 1st to 2nd class municipalities in the whole country. It also ranked first in terms of Infrastructure, rank 2 in the Resiliency pillar, rank 3 in the Government Efficiency and rank 5 in Economic Dynamism category. Baler in Aurora also ranked among the top 3 LGUs in the 3rd to 4th class municipalities category. It ranked 3rd in Overall Competitiveness, ranked 3 in the Economic Dynamism pillar and Rank 4 in terms of Infrastructure. Other Central Luzon LGUs who were ranked in the top 10 of the CMCI rankings include: City of San Fernando – Rank 6 in Overall Competitiveness for Component Cities Category, Rank 5 in the Infrastructure pillar
LGU 2020 Ranking 2019 Ranking IMPROVE - MENT SUBIC 114 422 308 PALAUIG 391 502 111 CABANGAN 347 446 99 SAN MARCELINO 250 343 93 MASINLOC 63 87 24 OLONGAPO 29 30 1 Page 2 issue 4/CL Express The DTI-Zambales Provincial Office held the Cities & Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) Year-end Assessment on December 20, 2021 at the Subic Travelers Hotel, Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The activity aims to honor and pay tribute to the participation of the LGUs of Zambales in the 9th Regional Competitiveness Summit. Rankings of Cities and Municipalities are based on the sum of their scores on 4 Pillars: Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Infrastructure, and Resiliency. Provincial rankings are based on population and income weighted average of the overall scores of cities and municipalities under a province. For the province of Zambales, the basis of the award is the LGU with the most improved rankings. This is to give premium to the dramatic rise in the ranking of the LGUs of Zambales from their previous status. The efforts of everyone to improve the services provided by each city/municipality can be seen in the previous results of the CMCI. Despite the pandemic, good communication was still maintained due to the respective group chats that were established. Another factor that contributed to the improvement in ranking is the good partnership formed between the DTI, Provincial Government Office and the LGUs in Zambales. DTI Zambales Honors LGU Participants to the 9th Regional Competitiveness Summit TOP 6 MOST IMPROVED LGUs in ZAMBALES Reappointment - AO Ronald Allan D. Pacleb, Tarlac (November 2) Promotion - DC Maria Cristina V. Valenzuela, BDD-Bulacan (December 28) Promotion - DC Warren Patrick T. Serrano, SDD-RO (December 28) By: Ernalyn C. Ecura
The Department of Trade and Industry – Bulacan Provincial Office, as part of its aspiration to develop inclusive innovations startups in the province of Bulacan, pursues an aggressive advocacy promotion campaign in the promotion of the Regional Inclusive Innovation Center (RIIC) with Technological Hive of Regional Innovation for a Vibrant Ecosystem (THRIVE -Central Luzon) as its official brand. The RIIC is a virtual or physical platform for collaboration programs purposely to generate product, process, or service innovations that are deemed important to the goal of inclusive growth and development for micro and small enterprise (MSME) development. It aims to recognize all key actors and relevant stakeholders to engage in meaningful incubation and startups innovation efforts so as to develop a seamless move of a common provincial innovation objectives DTI PURSUES STRATEGIC PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES FOR INCLUSIVE INNOVATION TO SUPPORT THE DEVELOPMENT OF MSMES IN BULACAN Provincial SMED Council, has undertaken promotion and development activities in 2021 to generate awareness and appreciation of the RIIC as a concept and development framework for local economic building. With the THRIVE Central Luzon, DTI Bulacan has implemented relevant activities in the area of promotion and engagement of support to MSMEs. DTI Bulacan has extended support to BulSu, beingthe academe partner responsible for the implementation of the THRIVE CL, by engaging their faculties in the conduct of MSME training to share knowledge and expertise related to innovation, including the conduct of skills training utilizing local resources for introduction of new prototypes and products. The identification of existing research studies developed and producedby BulSu and other Bulacan State University (BulSU) President, Dr. Cecilia N. Gascon and DTI Bulacan Provincial Director Edna D. Dizon during the MOA Signing on June 24, 2021 for partnership in Bulacan MSME Development Page 3 issue 4/CL Express DTI – BulSU Kapehan with Media Partners to promote RIIC3- THRIVE CL on October 28, 2021 through the sharing of information, knowledge, expertise, and resources. DTI Bulacan, in collaboration and partnerships with key stakeholders – academic institutions like the Bulacan State University (BulSu) local government units (LGUs) and the Bulacan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), and the (continued on p4) By: PD Edna D. Dizon
Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the province will impact on DTI-Bulacan’s move to create a mechanism to develop its Startup program and offer incubation opportunities for those wanting to share their ideas and knowledge. The Startup Development program is envisioned to identify opportunities for MSME creation and develop more new innovative products that are ideated from a problem to the identification of solutions to problems. DTI-Bulacan’s move on startup development program will provide appropriate venues to identify business and innovative ideas for incubation and prototyping, thereby supporting greatly the province’s goal on MSMEs development. With the THRIVE CL, DTI Bulacan hopes to realize its MSME start-up development program that can support and further the growth and expansion of its priority industry clusters. DTI Bulacan likewise hopes to effectively carry its MSMEs development agenda focus on policy support, investments in key provincial priorities, identification of challenges and needs for knowledge-based development, building provincial strengths, and addressing weaknesses in the process. The RIIC shall be the province’s framework and stimulus for listing and mapping of the province’s competitive and potential advantages necessary for local economic building. DTI-Bulacan has taken the lead in terms of undertaking initiatives to inform partners about tomorrow’s opportunities especially when the agenda of inclusive innovation comes in. DTI will try to reiterate and underscore the importance of economic and innovative potentials, societal challenges and scientific potentials to be offered out of the RIIC THRIVE CL. It will also seek to create an effective support mechanism in terms of advising, mentoring, and informing enterprises on how to utilize value-adding in terms of product, service, and system innovations. Page 4 issue 4/CL Express The province shall collaborate with the various provincial actors in the identification and discovery of relevant opportunities out of existing researches and technology developed which shall serve as vital inputs for DTI to support, its goal on MSME creation and development, utilizing existing incubated ideas and startups. Despite the Covid 19 pandemic, DTI Bulacan continue to aggressively pursue strategic development initiatives for more impactful economic gains in the province. DTI Pursues Strategic... from p3 Engagement of Bulacan State University – College of Hospitality and Tourism Management in mentoring, sharing of information, knowledge, expertise and resources to promote innovation through the Youth Entrepreneurship Program and Bamboo Industry Cluster Development Program Virtual Training on Food Processing and Bread and Pastry Making for the DTI-BulSU YEP on October 2, 2021
pandemic. She noted, “we are here to support you all the way as we face this challenge together.” She also thanked those who made the launching of the OTOP Showroom possible. During his message, Dr. Belarmino shared that “for the past two years upon the onslaught of the COVID 19 pandemic, we have seen how the Philippine government has actively pursued efforts to uplift the livelihood and businesses of our local MSMEs.” He added that despite the pandemic, there are “successes which are emergingright now. One of the physical proofs are the products which shall be showcased in the first Regional OTOP Showroom.” Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut said that the OTOP showroom carries the pride of Central Luzon – “its quality products made by the ingenuity, creativity, resourcefulness, persistence and passion of the micro, small and medium entrepreneurs of Region 3.” She also mentioned that the OTOP program is a priority stimulus program of DTI for MSMEs. It is aimed to helpin achieving inclusive local economic growth. OTOP enables communities to develop and promote products or services that are based on local resources, local culture, local creativity and competitive advantage. The OTOP program has enabled DTI-3 to promote the ‘pride-of-place.’ With this, homegrown ‘OTOPreneurs’ are capacitated to innovate and produce market-ready products and services, and level them up to add value and enable them to be marketable here and abroad. Page 5 issue 4/CL Express Highlighting the creativity and ingenuity of the MSMEs in Central Luzon, DTI officially opened the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Showroom in Region 3 to showcase the top-ofthe-line products of the OTOPreneurs assisted by DTI-3 from the provinces of Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales. The launching of the showroom was held on October 8, 2021 at the DTI Regional Office III at the regional government center in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. The showcase serves as a medium to inform and educate walk-in clients, guests and visitors of DTI-3 on the products developed under the OTOP Program. The showcase also aims to provide guests a gainful visual experience on the pride of Likha ng Central Luzon products. Among those who graced the opening of the showroom virtually are DTI Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona, DTI Assistant Secretary Demphan Du- Naga, Regional Director Leonila Baluyut, Dr. Alvin Belarmino of the Regional MSME Development Council and Crisanto Venzon, President of the Philippine Export Federation Region 3. During the launching, Usec. Lantayona thanked the DTI’s industry partners, especially the RSMEDC and the NGAs for supporting the agency’s initiatives. She also emphasized her admiration of the OTOPreneurs who exhibited the “Laban Lang” attitude this DTI-3 opens new OTOP ShowroomBy: Warren Patrick T. Serrano
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Page 7 issue 4/CL Express and rank 8th in terms of Government Efficiency. Sta. Maria, Bulacan was ranked 7th in terms of Economic Dynamism while Marilao was ranked 8th in the same pillar for the 1st to 2nd class municipalities category. Talavera in Nueva Ecija was ranked 10th in terms of Infrastructure among 1st to 2nd class municipalities. Meanwhile, Samal, Bataan was ranked 8th in terms of Government Efficiency among 3rd to 4th class municipalities in the country. San Antonio, Nueva Ecija also garnered the 9th rank as the Most Improved LGU among 3rd to 4th class municipalities. Angeles City was also recognized as Rank 5 Most Improved LGU among the Highly Urbanized Cities in the country. Among the provinces recognized, Pampanga ranked 7th Most Competitive Province nationwide while Bulacan ranked 10th Most Competitive Province. The Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index is an annual ranking of Philippine cities and (Central Luzon LGUs... from p1) municipalities developed by the National Competitiveness Council through the Regional Competitiveness Committees (RCCs) with the assistance of the United States Agency for International Development. Rankings of Cities and Municipalities are based on the sum of their scores on 4 Pillars: Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Infrastructure, and Resiliency. Provincial rankings are based on population and income weighted average of the Overall scores of cities and municipalities under a province.
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CARP beneficiaries of CL showcase products in Pampanga CARP RREEGGIIOONNAALLTTRRAADDEEFFAAIIRR Beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) in the region showcased their products from November 18 to 21, 2021 at the activity center of the Walter Mart in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. The physical trade fair was held as restrictions are now being eased to help businesses recover. The DTI-3 noted that while the fair was held physically, the practice of mandatory health protocols were monitored for all sellers and buyers in the fair. Fifty (50) micro and small enterprises from agrarian reform communities of the seven provinces in Central Luzon sold different kinds of products during the fifth year run of the Regional CARP Trade Fair organized by the Department of Trade and Industry Regional Office III (DTI-3). The products of agrarian reform beneficiaries displayed and sold in the fair include coconut and sabutan based products from Aurora, cashew, coffee and bamboo products from Bataan, processed meat, fish and dairy products as well as bread products from Bulacan and soya, waterlily and bags and accessories from Nueva Ecija. Pampanga CARP trade fair participants exhibited delicacies, organic fertilizer, essential oils, wearable and homestyle products and vegetables while Tarlac entrepreneurs sold native products like potato wine, ylang-ylang perfume, peanut butter and calamansi products. Zambales participants displayed mango products, cashew, mushroom, banana chips and bamboo based handicrafts. The DTI supports the livelihood component of the agrarian reform program by providing livelihood skills training, provision of Shared Service Facilities, product development assistance, marketing support through exposure of CARP beneficiaries’ products in trade fairs and market matching. After the 4-day fair, the 50 exhibitors generated a total of Php 3.04 Million, combined cash, booked and undernego sales. Pampanga CARP sellers sold the most with a total of Php 1.66 Million while Bataan participants sold a total of Php 334,587 and Zambales sellers sold a total of Php 269,415. MSMEs from Aurora generated total sales of Php 263,375 while Bulacan MSMEs had a total of Php 259,658 and Tarlac had P157,895. CARP sellers from Nueva Ecija generated a total sales of Php 98,143. Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut said that the total sales for the four-day regional trade fair is already comparable to the prepandemic CARP trade fair in 2019. Page 12 issue 4/CL Express (continued on p13) The CARP regional trade fair is made possible with the cooperation and partnership of the DTI, Department of Agrarian Reform, and Walter Mart.
In the last CARP Regional Trade Fair in 2019, 82 participant exhibitors generated total sales of Php 3.45 Million. She added that this means buyers are already gaining more confidence to buy local products as the economy is recovering to normal levels. Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona of the DTI Regional Operations Group said during the opening program, “To help our small entrepreneurs in the countryside, there is no better way but to buy from them, and these trade fairs which we are organizing are the best ways to help them earn. By buying from them, we are also reassuring them that our assistance to them did not go to nothing.” Assistant Regional Director Odgie Cayabyab of the Department of Agrarian Reform Region 3, Waltermart Vice President Jerico Buñing, and DA officer Sherwin Manlapaz joined DTI-3 RD Leonila T. Baluyut during the ribbon cutting ceremonies. ARD Cayabyab pledged the agency’s continued support to the programs of DTI, especially those that will enhance the livelihood of CARP beneficiaries. For his part, Buñing expressed his confidence in the products of the exhibitors, especially with the help of DTI. CARP Beneficiaries ... from p12) Page 13 issue 4/CL Express DAR Assistant Regional Director Atty. Odgie Cayabyab (leftmost) joins DTI-3 RD Leonila T. Baluyut (center), Waltermart VP Jerico Buñing and DA officer Sherwin Manlapaz during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the 4th CARP Regional Trade Fair on Nov 18-21, 2021
CSFs 2021 TOTAL CSFS COLLECTED 147,330 110,620 20,684 44 5,764 3,724 6,494 Page 14 issue 4/CL Express
Corporate Governance Economic Environmental Social Lead: PD Nelin Cabahug DTI Bataan Lead: ARD Bi Pili OARD Lead: PD Edna Dizon DTI Bulacan Lead: OIC-PD Ricky Simangan DTI Nueva Ecija Members: DC Bobby Faronilo DTI Nueva Ecija SupTIDS Rowie Miranda ORD SupTIDS Mari Garcia SDD PO Liza Cunanan ORD MAA Wil Carbonell ORD Members: PD Len Ordonio DTI Pampanga OIC-PD Ike Tacbad DTI Zambales DC Kay Malig IDD OIC-DC Jojo Toledo SDD Members: OIC-PD Aldrin Veneracion DTI Aurora DC Jerry Maglalang CPD STIDS Sei Dayrit CARP-ORD Members: PD Aggie Ramirez DTI Tarlac OIC-DC Cristy Valenzuela DTI Bulacan HRMO Ton Lodrigito FAD Page 15 issue 4/CL Express On December 3, 7, and 10, 2021, the DTI Region 3 mancom group attended attended a 3-day Sustainability Training facilitated by Dr. Juan M. Reyes, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of of Eco-Life Foundation, Inc. The executive executive training training course, course, which is another another brainchild brainchild of RD Leonila Leonila T. Baluyut, Baluyut, aims at equipping equipping the mancom members members so they can craft and execute execute sustainability strategies with the ultimate goal of achieving sustainable development in the region. At the end of the 3-day course, course, the mancom would come up with a Sustainabil Sustainability Development Development Plan anchored anchored on the three key components components of environmental environmental protection, economic growth and social development. development. In order for the plan to be successfully implemented, Dr. Reyes added corporate governance to the mix. Some of the topics discussed discussed during the three-day three-day course include: include: Global Sustainabil Sustainability Issues and Trends, Dimensions of Sustainability Strategy, The Circular Economy, Sustainability Management Systems and Sustainability Performance and Reporting. Reporting. The mancom members members were grouped grouped into 4 to craft the Implementation Implementation Plan for DTI Region 3 in terms of Governance, Governance, Economic, Economic, Environmental Environmental and Social activities. activities. They were asked to identify identify the issues, issues, opportunities opportunities and threats threats in each of their identified identified area of concern concern and come up with the appropriate appropriate strategies. strategies. The mancom members were grouped as follows: continued on p. 16 By: Rowena S. Miranda
Page 16 issue 4/CL Express Dr. Juan M. Reyes, Jr. is the Chief Executive of Eco-Life Foundation, Inc., a consultancy firm that specializes in crafting and implementing Sustainability Strategy, Programs and Reporting (SSPR) based on international and local standards. He is also the Program Head of the Executive Diploma for Sustainability Management at the De La Salle College of St. Benilde -School of Professional and Continuing Education. Aside from spending his time in establishing the first “Sustainability Camp in Bulacan”, Dr. Reyes has served since 2019 at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Scholars Foundation Inc. (PLMSFI) as a Trustee in charge of designing and promoting Sustainable and Transformative Entrepreneurship Program (STEP). One of the concepts introduced is the Circular Economy in contrast to the Linear Economy DTI 3 Crafts.... from p15 In her message, RD Baluyut mentioned that the training was conceptualized for the mancom members because she wanted everyone to be on the same page in as far as sustainability is concerned. She said that there have been programs in DTI such as the GED, but she learned that sustainability is not only about taking care of the environment, it goes beyond that. She group was tasked to finalize the implementation plans they have crafted. RD Baluyut designated Corporate Governance Lead, PD Nelin O. Cabahug of DTI Bataan as DTI Region 3’s Focal Person on Sustainability, OIC-PD Aldrin M. Veneraction as her alternate and QMR/SupTIDS Ma. Rita Fe O. Garcia as secretariat. RD Baluyut instructed the group to come up with the Implementation Plan for DTI Region 3 and submit the same to her for her approval. With this, she said that Region 3 is all geared up to implement its Sustainability Plan by 2022! envisions region 3 to become a sustainable region and what better way to start this than by implementing it within the DTI Region 3. She said that “we cannot give what we do not have.” That is why this sustainability plan would have to start first within the organization before the associates can go out and preach the same to its clientele. After each discussions the mancom went to their breakout rooms to discuss among their groupmates. Their outputs where presented the following day with Dr. Reyes and RD Baluyut providing comments, inputs, and recommendations after each presentation. At the end of the third day, moving forward, each
230 Microenterprises Receive Livelihood Assistance from DTI Bulacan BY: MARY GRACE S. STA. ANA The Department of Trade and Industry Bulacan Provincial Office successfully launched another Livelihood Seeding Program - Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (LSPNSB) for 2021. The said program of additional livelihood assistance kits to 110 beneficiaries in Obando, Bulacan. Assistant Secretary Dominic R. Tolentino of DTI Regional Operations Group and the National Coordinator for LSP-NSB together with Provincial Director Edna D. Dizon of DTI Bulacan graced the said event. “Kami po sa DTI Bulacan ay nasisiyahan at nakikita namin ang mga taong dapat tulungan at mga nagpupursigi na maitaguyod ang kanilang mga negosyo. Alam po namin na kakaunti lang yung halaga maibibigay namin pero ito po ay mag sisilbing panimula upang maibangon muli ang ating kabuhayan na naapektuhan ng pandemic” PD Edna D. Dizon said. Asec. Tolentino inspired the MSMEs to continue their businesses despite the challenges. He also shared that LSP-NSB may be a small help to the beneficiaries but plays a big role in mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic economic crisis effects on MSMEs. Page 17 issue 4/CL Express DTI allows a wider reach of business development assistance by bringing government services closer to the people through partnerships between relevant local government units and barangay development councils. DTI Bulacan was able to reach 28 barangays and awarded 230 livelihood kits amounting to P6,000 to 8,000, totaling to P1,714,139.75. Livelihood kits were composed of sari-sari store package, eatery package, frozen food package, bigasan package, bakery package, and food processing package. The program is an initiative of DTI to provide livelihood kits that could aid qualified, affected MSMEs to restore and improve their businesses. Through the Negosyo Centers, LSP-NSB beneficiaries underwent Entrepreneurship Development Seminar and Negosyo Cliniquing Activities. Last December 14, 2021, DTI Bulacan successfully launched and awarded (continued on p37)
DTI ZAMBALES CELEBRATES CONSUMER WELFARE MONTH 2021 The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Zambales Provincial Office-Consumer Protection Division conducted various activities in line with the celebration of the Consumer Welfare Month last October 2021. The theme, “Digital Consumers: The New Normal” highlights the government’s continued consumer protection programs in today’s heightened utilization of electronic commerce. The month-long celebration consisted of the E-Guhit Poster Making Competition, E-Photo Contest, and Spoken Poetry Contest. These activities are designed to increase awareness of today’s Filipino youth as the new normal consumers in the digital world as well as promote consumerism in the country. The competitions were participated in by Senior High School students from Olongapo City and Zambales. Consumer Welfare Month Celebration with officers and tenants of SM City Olongapo Central. Announcement of Winners of the E-Guhit Poster Making Competition, E-Photo Contest, & Spoken Poetry Contest. One of the key zoom activities was the Consumer Forum, wherein DTI Assistant Secretary Ronnel O. Abrenica was the Keynote Speaker. Engr. Ravenal De Jesus, Provincial Cluster Head of DICT Luzon Regional Cluster 2, and Pat. Marius Vener Aporo, Digital Forensic Examiner, Regional AntiCybercrime Unit 3 are the Resource Speakers. They discussed the Digital Trends: Challenges and Opportunities and Consumer Cybercrime Awareness, respectively. The forum was attended by 120 participants from the academe, the government, and the private sector. DTI Zambales in coordination with Zambales Consumer Affairs Council, Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 3, & DICT Luzon Regional Cluster conducted the 2021 Consumer Welfare Month Consumer Page 18 issue 4/CL Express (continued on p19) by: May Ann A. Bermas
Page 19 issue 4/CL Express Other CWM related-activities included the monitoring of Steel Bars and the distribution of the Advisory on Refraining to Sell 9mm Steel Bars to hardware establishments, the launching of the Consumer Corner in Ayala Malls Harbor Point and SM City Olongapo Central, the conduct of the Diskwento Caravan in Gordon Heights, Olongapo City and the simultaneous price monitoring of Basic Necessities and Prime Commodities in groceries and supermarkets nationwide. This year’s celebration aims to rise against existing digital divide that has been more eminent in the new normal. DTI Zambales in particular will continue in protecting today’s digital consumers. OIC PD Enrique D. Tacbad & STIDS Angel Marzan conducts monitoring of Steel Bars. Likha ng Central Luzon Trade Fair Continues On its 23rd year, the much awaited Likha ng Central Luzon Trade Fair opened in seven physical venues while a virtual launching ceremony was also held on October 13, 2021. The virtual launch was led by DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez, Undersecretary for Regional Operations Group Blesila Lantayona, Tarlac Governor and President of CLGCFI Susan Yap, Philexport-3 President Crisanto Venzon, PCCI Governor Dr. Alvin Belarmino, DTI-3 Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut and other key officials from local government units and national government agencies. The Hybrid Trade Fair was participated in by more than 150 exhibitors in both physical stores and in the official online selling platform. Among the products on display were food products, furniture, metalcraft, delicacies, handicrafts, painting and other art crafts, condiments, bamboo products, coconut and cacao-based products and jewelries. By: Warren Patrick T. Serrano (DTI Zambales Celebrates ... from p18) (continued on p20) DTI-3 Leonila T. Baluyut (center) joins the ribbon cutting ceremony in one of the seven physical venues for the Likha ng Central Luzon Trade Fair 2021. Joining her are: DTI Pampanga Provincial Director Elenita R. Ordonio (right) and SM Telebastagan Mall Manager Lana Erroba
The Likha ng Central Luzon is the major regional promotion activity held annually since 1999. It serves as the culminating activity of a package of industry and trade related programs given to MSMEs in the region such as training programs/seminars, business consulting, design and labeling, product development and cliniquing. These activities aim to develop the technical capabilities of the micro and small Page 20 issue 4/CL Express The Likha ng Central Luzon Hybrid Trade Fair held from October 13-17, 2021 generated a total of Php 10.9 Milion in sales of local products from the seven provinces of Central Luzon. From this figure, a total of Php 5.33 Million was sold in physical stores while Php 5.6 Million was generated through the online selling platform of Likha ng Central Luzon. Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut of DTI-3 said that the 23rd year of the Likha Trade Fair continued this year through a hybrid trade fair style to enable the participant micro small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) to exhibit their quality products in both online and physical platforms. She noted that based on initial sales report from October 13 to 17, 2021, the Likha Trade Fair generated sales through their physical stores, as follows: Aurora – Php 626,342, Bataan – Php 922,301, Bulacan – 368,863, Nueva Ecija – Php 251,280, Pampanga – 2,188,665, Tarlac – 106,187 and Zambales – 866,330. In terms of online sales, Bulacan trade fair participants generated a total of Php 5.47 Million through the online platformof Likha ng Central Luzon Trade Fair while Zambales participants generated a total of Php 136,400 enterprises and eventually, helping them gain more market exposure and enabling them earn more. The Likha ng Central Luzon Hybrid Trade Fair 2021 is organized by the DTI3 in partnership with the support of the Philexport-3, the Regional Development Council-3, the Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation, Inc. (CLGCFI) and the Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprises Development (BSMED). (Likha Ng Central Luzon ... from p19) in sales for the 5-day period. Due to the positive sales figures, the DTI-3 organizers went on up to October 31, 2021 through its online selling portal accessible through Facebook and the Likha ng Central Luzon website.
Nueva Ecija Survival Shop Website and Mobile App Soft Launching By: TIDS Debbyriza T. Hidalgo Page 21 issue 4/CL Express Nueva Ecija products are now just a click away! The DTI virtually launched the first-ever online shopping website and mobile app for MSMEs on December 21, 2021 featuring homegrown products of Novo Ecijanos. As the pandemic sped the growth of ECommerce, the DTI Nueva Ecija provided these online platforms and ensured that their MSME clients are ready as they transition to serve their target market online. According to OICProvincial Director Richard V. Simangan, they have identified all marketing platforms including this website and mobile app before the COVID-19 pandemic, to promote the local products of the province not only through the usual Caravans, Trade Fairs, and market matching. DTI-3 Regional Director Leny Baluyut also added that this project is in line with the DTI’s goal of bringing more MSMEs into digital marketing especially given how hard the COVID19 has impacted on them. The BILI NE! Survival Shop is operated by Bagong Likha at Inspirasyon ng Nueva Ecija or BILI NE!, an association of micro, small, and medium enterprises and also a partner of DTI on business development in the province. This online marketplace has two platforms developed on both iOS and Android for mobile, and on a website with domain bili-ne.com. Its development was made possible through Big Thing IT Solutions, Inc. and the assistance of Ateneo De Manila IT Entrepreneurship Program. Currently, 30 MSMEs were onboarded and joined as participating merchants offering local products such as native kakanins, longganisa, tsinelas, dairy products, home decors, handicrafts, among others, that are proudly Novo Ecijanos. DTI and BILI NE have partnered with delivery services such as TRB Padala and KB Delivery to ensure prompt and secured movement of the products. Likewise, the integration of GCash payment is currently being done to provide more payment acceptance channels aside from cash on delivery. BILI NE President Sheila Maniego invites other MSMEs to join by submitting the accomplished vendor application form to DTI or BILI NE and start selling with them online. DTI ROG Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona in her message expressed full support in this project that enhances access to market in the new normal and envisions that this makes a difference in the entrepreneurial journey of the NE MSMEs. Present also during the launch is the former Provincial Director of DTI NE and currently the DTI-3 Assistant Regional Director Brigida T. Pili who expressed excitement towards the success of this project. NE MSME Development Council Chairman Dr. Reynato Arimbuyutan congratulated DTI and BILI NE! for the successful development of this internet-based marketing channel which will showcase the Nueva Ecija products not only in the province but also in the digital world.
OTOP Philippines Hub Opens in Tarlac The Department of Trade and Industry Tarlac Provincial Office in partnership with CityMall and Tarlac Henyo Entrepreneurs Marketing Cooperative officially launched the OTOP Hub at CityMall SCTEX, Concepcion Tarlac on December 23, 2021. The activity was attended by partners and stakeholders from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce Tarlac, Provincial Government of Tarlac, Tarlac MSME Development Council, Citymall, Tarlac Henyo Entrepreneurs Marketing Cooperative, and MSMEs. “One of the directives of DTI Region 3 is harmonization of the OTOP Hubs and we really need to have an impact in all the things that we do,” Regional Director Leonila Baluyut said. OTOP Hub is a retail one-stop shop that showcases OTOP products in the different regions of the Philippines. It gives opportunity for the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises to sell and promote their products in the different regions. In region 3, Tarlac is the 4th province where an OTOP Hub is established. Provincial Director Agnes Ramirez congratulated and thanked all the partners and the MSMEs for the success of the event. She hoped that the OTOP Hub Tarlac will be a good venue to promote local products. One Town One Product (OTOP) Philippines is a program which started in 2002 promulgated through Executive Order 176. (from left) Formally opening the OTOP Hub are PD Agnes Ramirez, Mr. Chito Ho, (PCCI-Tarlac), RD Leonila T. Baluyut, Vangie P. Oasan (Citimall), Merafe Lee Pineda (Potter's Hand Processed Foods) RD Leonila T. Baluyut with PD Agnes B. Ramirez awards the certificate of recognition to Pindangan 2nd Primary Multipurpose Cooperative of Camiling. Page 22 issue 4/CL Express
Page 23 issue 4/CL Express SHARED SERVICE FACILITY FOR FOOD TESTING LAUNCHED IN TARLAC The Department of Trade and Industry Tarlac Provincial Office has launched a Shared Service Facility for Food Testing at Tarlac State University Lucinda Campus on December 23, 2021. Shared Service Facility (SSF) Project aims to improve the competitiveness of MSMEs by providing them with machineries, equipment, tools, systems, skills and knowledge under a shared system. It is being implemented nationwide with project partners termed as cooperators. The 4.5 million-worth Food Testing Facility shall be managed by Tarlac State University Food Technology and Research Center. The facility includes protein analyzer complete set up digestion system, water distiller, Brix refractometer, Honey Brix Refractometer, Saline Refractometer, Consistometer, Portable Waterproof pH Meter, Digital Wired Probe Thermometer, Digital ThermoGun, ATP Testing Meter with Consumables, Water Purification System, Meat Fat Meter, Fish Freshness Meter, and Density Meter. Beneficiaries of the SSF Projects are the actual and potential users of the facilities, may they be individual entrepreneurs or groups. These facilities are also utilized as venues for skills trainings. The cooperators may charge maintenance fees at a very minimal cost. As of date, there are 27 SSFs in the Province of Tarlac. Entrepreneurs who are interested in utilizing the facilities may coordinate with DTI Tarlac, Negosyo Centers, or the SSF Cooperators. RD Leonila T. Baluyut is given a tour of the facility's newly acquired equipment by TSU's Dr. Armee N. Rosel (left) and Geraldine Gamoso (right)
Shared Service Facility Summit, A venue for shared success. One of the programs implemented by the Department of Trade and Industry is the Shared Service Facility (SSF). For DTI Nueva Ecija, the year ended with big virtual events such as the holding of the provincial SSF Summit. The Covid 19 pandemic did not stop the opportunity to see how far each SSF cooperators has made in terms of levels of success. The SSF Summit featured sharings in terms of learning for the cooperators and a time for DTI to identify and assess data on what and where they need to focus their attention more directly to really help Cooperators and attaine the objectives of the program. The SSF Summit was held on November 26, 2021 via zoom platform. OIC-PD Richard V. Simangan in his opening remarks said that the summit will be highlighted by the ceremonial turn-over and awarding of certificates of donation/SSF transfer of ownership to 11 qualified cooperators; recognition of the Best SSF project, SSF Updates, and the webinar on Greening SSFs towards Competitiveness. This webinar will increase awareness on the impacts of climate change on the SSFs operations and introduce greening strategies and practices. He also said that GED is part of the DTI’s By: STIDS MARILOU A. SANTOS milestone. The webinar aims to promote green economic development to increasingly implement inclusive, environment-friendly, and climate-smart strategies and measures. Dr. Simangan advised the Cooperators to review their Manual of Operations, fully utilize the use of their SSFs and integrate Green Economic Development to their operations and most importantly prepare and implement Contingency Operation and Marketing Plan. Issues and updates gathered during SSF monitoring and reporting conducted per account managed of the SSF account persons will also be discussed and validated. A Green and Economic Development expert was tapped to facilitate the greening webinar. Ms. Rita Pilarca, a managing consultant and owner of Empower Biz Consultancy Services discussed development rationale of Green Economic Development and topics on why we should go green. She also presented what is climate Page 24 issue 4/CL Express (continued on p25)
change and the sources of global greenhouse gas emissions that causes climate change. According to her, Goal 8 under United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (2015-2030) is to improve progressively, through 2030, global resource efficiency in consumption and production and endeavor to decouple economic growth from the environmental degradation. That NCCAP plans translating the national climate change framework strategy and prioritizing food security, water sufficiency, ecological and environmental stability, human security, climate-smart industries, sustainable energy and knowledge as strategic directions for 2011 to 2028. According to her, MSMEs are also contributing to climate change, through greenhouse gas emission, fossil fuel use in the manufacturing, transportation, deforestation and waste disposal. She also presented ways to promote green economic development by mitigation greenhouse gas emissions, adaption to weather conditions, improve competitiveness through sustainable business strategies and utilize growth opportunities, market potentials and new products and services, while maintaining and improving nature’s capital. She also explained that Greening means the use of processes, business practices and technologies to: 1. Improve the efficiency in the use of In addition, business enterprises should go green to reduce negative impacts of climate change, ensure sustainability and survival, enhanced competitiveness by reducing production cost, promote access to new markets, facilitate innovation and makes MSMEs resilient to climate change impacts. She also shared greening strategies in building designs, green roofs and walls, energy saving tips, saving water in your workplace, solid waste management and materials efficiency. The last part of the discussion was devoted to Greening the SSFs: Objectives and Strategies workshop for each SSF Cooperators considering environmental hotpots, greening objectives and strategies. Page 25 issue 4/CL Express (continued on p26) SSF Summit.... from p24 power, water and resources and raw materials; 2. Reduce adverse impacts on the environment; 3. Improve solid and waste water management; 4. Reduce water and air pollution; 5. Reduce climate related risks; and 6. Produce green products and services.
Page 26 issue 4/CL Express SSF validation on the status and updates was discussed, including the status of the SSF funds and implementation was presented to support SSF operations and sustainability. Yearly, DTI provided funds to support the SSF projects. SSF support during the past years have shown that provision of SSF supplies, small value tools/repairs, regular monitoring and assessment, conduct of trainings, capacity building to enhanced skills and knowledge, crafting of strategic plans, policies, and strategies, and promotion initiatives such as trade fairs help the cooperators improve their competitiveness, marketing and operation. From 2019, DTI Nueva Ecija started awarding and transferring ownership of the SSFs projects to eligible cooperators. For this year, DTI Nueva Ecija awarded certificate of donation to 11 SSF Cooperators as follows: Binbin Women Gardeners Association, Cabanatuan City Supermarket Vendors MPC, Eastern MPC, Langka Indigeneous Farmers Livelihood Association, LGU Cabanatuan City, NEUST, LGU Peñaranda, Casile Producers Cooperative, Samahan ng Kababaihan ng Conversion, Palayan City Calamansi Growers Association, and NEFEDCCO,. This was followed by the awarding of the Certificate of Commendation to Mabunga Agriculture Cooperative and Cabanatuan City Supermarket Vendors Multi-Purpose Cooperative. Lastly, the awarding and recognition of the Best Shared Service Facility Project was given to Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) SSFs on Packaging and Printing in recognition of its great contributions to productivity and competitiveness, in fully utilizing the Shared Service Facility to address the gaps and bottlenecks in the value chain of priority industries and in the attainment of the project’s objectives of sales and employment generation and MSME assistance. SSF Summit.... from p25 "We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men." – Herman Melville
Page 27 issue 4/CL Express DTI NUEVA ECIJA ESTABLISHES 12 NEGOSYO CENTERS Another tireless effort revved up the growth of our progress in our economy and business sector through the establishment of DTI Negosyo Centers. The DTI-Negosyo Center Cabanatuan City concluded the 34th Negosyo Center (NC) and 100% of all the 32 LGUs in Nueva Ecija on December 28, 2021. This last quarter, unveiled the NCs ins Sta. Rosa and Licab on October 11 and November 29, respectively. The other Negosyo Center established this 2021 were Peñaranda (May), Talugtug, Gabaldon (June), Laur, Rizal, San Isidro, Carranglan (July), Jaen (August) and Pantabangan (September). The Negosyo Center were able to serve almost 24,000 clienteles availing DTI Programs and Services in terms of marketing, market matching, trade fairs, training and seminars, financial linkages, consultancy. Of which, 584 BMBE Certificate of Authority were released and facilitated. For almost six years, DTI never ceases to reach out to our business sectors by facilitating the request to all the Local Chief Executives for the centers. The 1st four LGU-based and one DTI NE Office-based NCs were followed by six LGU-based and 1 Mall-based then eight, two and 12 for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2021, respectively.
DDTTII BBuullaaccaann LLaauunncchheess 44 NNeeww NNeeggoossyyoo CCeenntteerrss The Department of Trade and Industry – Bulacan Provincial Office in partnership with the Local Government Units of Balagtas, Bulakan, Paombong, and Hagonoy opened its Negosyo Centers on December 21 and 27, 2021. These Negosyo Centers complete DTI Bulacan’s target to establish Negosyo Centers in all the 24 LGUs in the province. To date, a total of 26 Negosyo Centers are currently operating in the province. In photos: DTI Provincial Director Edna D. Dizon, Division Chief Maria Cristina V. Valenzuela, and Mayor, Eladio P. Gonzales (Balagtas) and LCE’s representatives of Bulakan, Paombong, and Hagonoy. DTI Provincial Director Edna D. Dizon, together with the Local Chief Executives and its representatives led the formal opening of the Negosyo Centers. All the concerned LCEs pledged to support the program. They also said that the establishment of the Negosyo Center will further boost the government’s assistance to the MSMEs, thereby intensifying the Page 28 issue 4/CL Express (continued on p30)
Page 29 issue 4/CL Express “Revitalize Through Innovation”. Dencio’s Sweets and Delicacies, Moving Forward through RIIC3- THRIVE Central Luzon sector. The launching of THRIVE Central Luzon was held on March 12, 2021, with the Bulacan State University (BulSU) taking the lead in the implementation of the program, with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) STRIDE who facilitated the “Mapping-Linking-Aligning” (MLA) process. After the mapping of the innovation actors and capabilities, the BulSU launched the THRIVE CL Website on June 29, 2021, with a tag line “Revitalize Through Innovation”. The website presents the Regional Innovation Database that can be accessed by the stakeholders, particularly the MSMEs, to address their needs for information on innovation resources, to make them globally competitive. In September 2021, THRIVE CL with USAID STRIDE, started the Linking Process through the facilitation of the Workshops on Innovation for Business Recovery (IBR) for the two pilot MSMEs from the province RIIC3- THRIVE CL Rapid Needs Assessment of Mr. Benjie R. Reyes of Dencio’s Sweets and Delicacies on October 6, 2021, 2pm RIIC3– THRIVE CL Suggested Next Steps Session on October 20, 2021 (continued on p30) The Regional Inclusive Innovation Center of Region 3 dubbed as the “Technological Hive of Regional Innovation for Vibrant Ecosystem” or THRIVE Central Luzon (THRIVE CL) is a network of innovation agents including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Office 3, DTI Bulacan Provincial Office, Department of Science and Technology Region 3, Commission on Higher Education Region 3, Angeles University Foundation (AUF), Bulacan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), MSMEs from the food sector, investors, startups, and other agents in the ecosystem. These agents collaborate to commercialize marketoriented researches towards improving the competitiveness of MSMEs through innovation that aims to generate income and employment opportunities and sustainable economic progress in the region focusing on the processed food
of Bulacan, namely Ms. Leonora C. Magaling of TLM Yema Buko Pie and Pasalubong Center with business address at Tikay, City of Malolos, Bulacan, and Mr. Benjie R. Reyes of Dencio’s Sweets and Delicacies from San Miguel, Bulacan. Sessions were done per MSME, on a weekly basis, to gather information on the challenges and constraints encountered by these two MSMEs during the pandemic. Dencio’s Sweets and Delicacies’ main products are piaya and pastillas. Mr. Reyes said that their sales were badly affected by the closure of establishments resulting in loss of regular buyers, stiff competition with other MSMEs with similar products, increasing cost of raw Page 30 issue 4/CL Express continued promotion of entrepreneurship in their municipalities which are all part of their agenda. The Negosyo Center Program is responsible for promoting ease of doing business and facilitating access to services for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The establishment of Negosyo Center is one of the salient features of the Republic Act No. 10644 otherwise known as the “Go Negosyo Act”, the act that seeks to strengthen MSMEs to create more job opportunities in the country Services offered in the Negosyo Center include business name registration assistance, business advisory services, business information and advocacy, livelihood assistance through the Livelihood Seeding Program- Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (LSP- NSB), and monitoring and evaluation of business- process improvement. DTI Bulacan.... from p28 materials, and insufficient funds for product development. Through “Direct-to-MSME” consultation and ideation, the THRIVE CL Team is guiding Mr. Reyes to re-think and make guided decisions that will help him improve on the different aspects of business operation, re-strategize, and innovate. A roadmap that includes financial management, product development, branding, market promotion, linkage to raw materials suppliers, as well as financial assistance will help him move forward to a business recovery in the new normal. ~END~ Dencio's.... from p29
DTI-3 HOLDSSECOND RUN OFTOUCHPOINT CONFERENCE With the theme “Championing Innovation and Technology in the Post-Pandemic Recovery,” the Department of Trade and Industry Regional Office III held “Touchpoint 2.0: a Central Luzon Business Conference” on November 26, 2021 via Zoom platform and broadcast through the official Facebook page DTI Region 3 – Central Luzon. The second run of the business conference was held after the first successful run of Touchpoint in April 2021. More than 500 participants, including members of the academe, local government officials, exporters, officers of national line agencies, micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), business chambers, and consumer organizations participated as experts discussed about relevant topics on innovation and information technology as MSMEs move into the post-pandemic recovery period. DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez served as the keynote speaker for the conference. An innovation advocate, Secretary Lopez is emphasized the innovation efforts of the government to help different industries and MSME rebuild and growing their business as economic restrictions are eased. Director Christopher Lawrence Arnuco of the Export Management Bureau was invited to discuss Support to Export Industry in the Post-Pandemic Era, while DTI Undersecretary Rafaelita M. Aldaba of the Competitiveness and Innovation Group discussed the Philippine Innovation Act. Ms. Nora Terrado, Vice-Chairman of the IT Business Processing Association of the Philippines was also invited to discuss Customer Value Creation and Digital Technology. For her part, DTI-3 Regional Director Leonila T. Baluyut noted that the Touchpoint 2.0 conference is the agency’s contribution to further support regional innovation initiatives to help economic recovery. Page 31 issue 4/CL Express
Page 32 issue 4/CL Express For the first time since the pandemic started in Mach 2020, the DTI Region 3 Executive Committee (ExCom) met faceto-face. The Excom led by RD Leonila T. Baluyut was held on December 22, 2022 at Wooden Table Restaurant, CFZ. The event was made even more special and memorable as Regional Operations Group (ROG) Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona and her team joined the said meeting. During the said meeting, the DTI Region 3 wowed the ROG Team with their audiovisual presentations of the Provincial Directors’ Top 5 Milestone Accomplishments for 2021, the ARD’s updates on the major programs of the region, and the presentation of highlights of accomplishments for the year. The AVP of RD Baluyut on DTI Region 3’s initiatives and her Directions for CY 2022 titled: IMPACT ID was likewise the take off point for Usec. Lantayona’s directions and challenges for DT Region 3. In her message, Usec Lantayona congratulated and thanked the DTI Region 3 team for all their initiatives and efforts in delivering positive results to the public they serve. She challenged the ExCom group to look into the macro perspective when planning and coming up with projects and activities that would set apart region 3 from the rest of the regions in the country, on (continued on p33)
Page 33 issue 4/CL Express the impression of the public with regards the entire bureaucracy of DTI Region 3 as well as on how to maximize the region’s strategic advantages like the presence of all the infrastructure it already has. Usec. Lantayona gave instructions on what she termed as deliverables of the Directors that are non-negotiable, namely: 1) Active Provincial and Regional SMEDCs, 2) Active LPCCS, and 3) Active RO and PO Consumer Organizations. Other challenges she posed include the targeting of products and services to be certified under HALAL, enhancing the programs under the RIIC, coming up with specific projects for the YEP, increasing the number of LGUs in Central Luzon to level up their ranking under CMCI, etc. The ExCom members gladly accepted the challenge posed to them. Usec Bles Lantayona was joined by her ROG Team: Rossana B. Aligaya, Barnard Niño S. Tarun, Linlyn Marcader , and Ma. Isabel M. Caguioa. On the part of DTI Region 3, aside from the ExCom members, the group was also joined by Budget Officer Jocelyn S. Rivera, Planning Officer III Anna Liza M. Cunanan and ORD Head Rowena S. Miranda. DTI 3 Holds.... from p32 In her closing message, ARD Brigida T. Pili said that indeed Region 3’s 2022 outlook is more exciting with the vision and directions set by RD Baluyut. She said that the Mancom group had recently had their Sustainability Training for 3 days and also came up with the programs and activities for the IMPACT ID of RD Baluyut. And with the additional directions, challenges and support provided by Usec. Lantayona, it would be an exciting year for all.
Page 34 issue 4/CL Express DTI 3 Complies with Requirements of Documented Quality Management System (DQMS) vis the ISO 9001:2015 Standard The Department of Trade and Industry as a whole agency, underwent a Stage 2 Audit in November 2021 which was conducted by third party auditors from Certification International Philippines, Inc. (CIPI). DTI Region 3 confidently took its turn to be audited on November 18-19, 2021, opening itself to questions by CIP Team Leader Quality Management System (DQMS) vis the ISO 9001:2015 standard. On top of the challenges on the preparations done by responsible associates, both auditor and auditee had to adjust to the New Normal. The audit was conducted virtually via GotoMeeting application. Preparations therefore, included digitizing documents and records for the review of the auditors. In summary, DTI 3 successfully provided the auditors with the documents and records they needed to assess the performance of the Management System against requirements for Certification. The auditors were greatly satisfied with the way DTI 3 maintained its system. They mentioned that "if not for the fact that the certification sought was for the whole DTI as an agency, it would have been easy to have given their endorsement for DTI 3 for ISO Certification". Justo R. BATOON Jr. and Team Member Liza G. ROSAL. After a month long preparation done by the DTI 3 Associates, particularly the process owners who effectively made time for walk throughs and review of documents, the third party audit pushed through and covered the following services: Provision of consumer advocacy, trade and industry information, business counselling, conduct of trade fairs, conduct of training, business name registration, issuance of sales promo permit, accreditation of service repair enterprises, issuance of BMBE registration, monitoring and enforcement of FTL, price monitoring, consumer complaints resolution, and administrative support to the operation. DTI 3 once again proved itself worthy of ISO Certification and this time it complies with the requirements of the Documented
by: PD Edna D. Dizon MY POST COVID 19 JOURNEY : STRUGGLE TOWARDS TOTAL RECOVERY I just recalled the day when I first wrote my article here about my Covid19 experiences after my discharge from confinement from the Green City Medical Center in June 2021. This time I wish to share my journey towards my recovery. I would say that the journey towards my recovery was not that easy. It took me more than seven (7 ) months till now to recover. The first two (2) weeks at home after my confinement was the most crucial time. I could not use the stairs to go to my room. With only a few steps, I feel like grasping for breath. This took almost two (2) months that I need to sleep at the living room just to avoid using the stairs. My regular routine included having to take all the medicines (I think almost 10 medicines!) for my post Covid19 maintenance, therapy session (breathing exercise) requiring the use of a spirometry where the target was for me to reach the ideal 2000 cap level to show that my breathing is back to normal. But many times records manifested only a range from 1000 to 1500. All these hurdles needed to be strictly observed daily. With this requirement as well as the needed regular physical exercises, I have to admit that I missed some sessions. However, I observed that faithfully adhering to my daily routines, which I had to do for almost 7 months, improvement was noted. The struggles led me achieve full recovery. I was so happy seeing the improvement and I thank and praise God for watching over and with the full support of my family. The post Covid19 experience has taught me to be more cautious of my health. So now that I am taking care of it by PD Edna, back to Work at DTI Bulacan "My everyday buddies... Oxy meter, bp monitor,invertive spysometry, nebulizer, inhaler and of course my medicines. All these form part of my daily routine activities." seeing my doctors regularly for follow up check ups. Unlike before, I no longer mind going to the doctors for check ups. Covid 19 has triggered another problem. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism (the reason why I am gaining weight). Since June 2021, I have been treated for this condition and I have undergone and still undergoing regular laboratory and ultrasound tests. Hypothyroidism affects the heart and if not treated, will lead to affecting internal organs. This is why I became more conscious in having my regular tests. Even though I am back at my normal now, occasionally I still have difficulty breathing specially when I am walking a distance. Nevertheless, it has now become more manageable compared to before. But the trauma still affects me! Page 35 issue 4/CL Express (continued on p38)
LEX CHATDEBT SHAMING? BE ASHAMED. By: Atty. Coco Chanel G. Garcia, RN Dissecting these complaints would reveal that the following are the acts complained of, among others: (a) Accessing the debtors’ phone book/contacts’ list for purposes of sending them messages in the event of untimely and/or non-payment; (b) Posting the debtors’ personal and sensitive personal information online for purposes of shaming them; (c) Threatening debtors with death and physical injuries if they fail to settle their account balances; and (d) Using profane language through text message directly sent to the debtors and to the debtors’ references for purposes of shaming them. Are these acts legal? Can lenders do these? NO. The abovementioned acts are violations of the following laws, and rules and regulations: (a) Republic Act (R.A.) No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, particularly, the offenses of Illegal Access and Cyber Libel; (b) R.A. No. 10173, or the Data Privacy Act of 2012, punishing the Unauthorized Processing of Personal Information and Sensitive Personal Information, Processing of Personal (continued on p37) Page 36 issue 4/CL Express “WARNING! Please be reminded that your friend/relative [name of borrower] has failed to settle her loan obligation amounting to P5,000.00. We have contacted her several times but did not receive any response from her. We regret to inform you that [name of company] is FILING AN ESTAFA CASE AGAINST YOU and her because you are one of her comakers and she agreed to our company rules. A demand letter will be sent to your office and home address.” “Please relay to [name borrower]. She is refusing to pay her obligation to our company. In a small amount of P3,000.00, she made a lot of excuses that will make her liable. Please be aware of her.” The sister of a friend lost her job during the pandemic. To pay her bills on time, she took out a loan using a lending company’s app after seeing an ad on Facebook. Her payment had been overdue for a week when the lending company started contacting her family, friends, and colleagues. She did not give the company their contact details but the company tapped her contact list and sent them the messages above. She is not alone. The pandemic enticed a lot of people to resort to lending apps that promise quick and instant loan approval. In fact, the National Privacy Commission (NPC) has reported receiving a number of formal complaints about online lending companies who publicly shame borrowers to get them to pay up.
Page 37 issue 4/CL Express Information, Processing of Personal Information and Sensitive Personal Information for Unauthorized Purposes, You may institute the necessary action/s against them and proceed accordingly to the respective Offices of which your action may belong to, to wit: Debt Shaming ... from p36) (230 Microenterprises... from p17) na pangangailangan ng aming pamilya.” The Livelihood Seeding Program – Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (LSP-NSB) program is expected to provide more assistance nationwide to microenterprises affected by natural and human-induced calamities including health disasters arising from pandemics. (b) R.A. No. 10173, or the Data Privacy Act of 2012, punishing the Unauthorized Processing of Personal Information and Sensitive Personal Information, Processing of Personal Information and Sensitive Personal Information for Unauthorized Purposes, and Malicious Disclosure; (c) the Revised Penal Code provisions on grave or light threats, grave or light coercions, or unjust vexation, all in relation to Section 6 of R.A. No. 10175; and (d) Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Memorandum Circular No. 18, series of 2019, entitled, Prohibition on Unfair Debt Collection Practices of Financing Companies and Lending Companies. So what do you do if these are done to you? (2) before the Office of the Prosecutor, the National Bureau of Investigation– Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD), or the Philippine National Police—AntiCybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), for violations of R.A. No. 10175 and the Revised Penal Code; and (3) before the SEC, if the act/s is/are committed by a lending or financing company. So the next time you see an ad on Facebook which promises a quick and instant loan approval with just a few clicks, remember to be vigilant of these lending companies which business practice specifically targets the privacy of persons, practically making a profit out of people’s fear of losing face and dignity. (1) before the National Privacy Commission (NPC), for violations of R.A. No. 10173, or the Data Privacy Act of 2012; and Malicious Disclosure; The abovementioned acts are violations of the following laws, and rules and regulations: (a) Republic Act (R.A.) No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, particularly, the offenses of Illegal Access and Cyber Libel; The activity had a positive evaluation from the beneficiaries. Based on monitoring, the program received the following notable comments from the beneficiaries: “Laking pasalamat ko sa DTI dahil sa kanilang programa ay nakapag umpisa muli ako ng hanapbuhay. Salamat sa kanilang programa na tumutulong sa mga maliliit na negosyanteng kagaya ko.” “Maraming salamat po at malaking tulong itong livelihood assistance. Dahil ako ang nagpapaaral sa aking mga kapatid at ako rin ang gumagawa ng paraan para sa pang araw-araw
"Being a Covid19 survivor has taught me many things. In a way, it has made me become more conscious of health and lifestyle. Though, admittedly, I went through is scary and life threatening experience, it has given me important lessons to live by. " (My Post COVID... from p35) they are now part of my daily routine. Being a Covid 9 survivor has taught me many things. It has made me become more conscious of health and lifestyle. Though, admittedly, I went through a scary and life threatening experience, it has given me important lessons to live by. For people who do not observe the minimum health and continue not believing the threat of Covid19 despite the many shared experiences, my advice is to be mindful if you still care for your life and the people you love. It is still a long journey to before we see the end to this pandemic, thus it will continue to cause harm to people and the environment. My only prayer now is for the Covid19 to come to an end and for those afflicted with the virus, I ask God to grant them total healing and recovery, the same gift He has given me. Page 38 issue 4/CL Express With my Covid19 journey, I can truly say that God is good. The trauma and the journey I experienced with Covid19 made me more aware of the consequences I need to take when meeting people and going around places. The observance to minimum health protocol is one thing I do not miss. I even started exploring healthy routines, like drinking hot water, ginger, turmeric, changing food lifestyle and even having “suob”, as old folks say is the best way to counter colds and cough (which I did not believe before). All these have helped me to gain full recovery and
CL EXPRESS EDITORIAL BOARD RD LEONILA T. BALUYUT Editorial Adviser ROWENA S. MIRANDA Editor-in-Chief WILFRED TRISTAN L. CARBONELL Layout & Graphics Design CONTRIBUTORS PD Edna D. Dizon Rowena S. Miranda Anna Liza M. Cunanan Riza Lina V. Dayrit Atty. Coco Chanel Garcia Warren Patrick T. Serrano Debbyriza T. Hidalgo Lota M. Yasa May Ann Bermas Mary Grace Sta. Ana Ernalyn C. Ecura Wilfred Tristan L. Carbonell Marilou A. Santos Page 39 issue 4/CL Express
Department of Trade and Industry - Region 3 Malikhain St., Cor. Maagap St., Diosdado Macapagal Government Center Barangay Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga Tel: (+6345) 625-9290 Fax: (+6345) 625-9607 [email protected] DTI Region 3 - Central Luzon DTI Central Luzon