INSIGHTS 3rd Quarter 2020

DILG R-III hiring 5,992 contact tracers

to boost contact tracing efforts in Central Luzon

As a part of the COVID-19 disease Pampanga
surveillance protocol of the Department of Bataan
the Interior and Local Government (DILG)
and the Department of Health (DOH), five
billion pesos is allocated for the employment
and training of qualified and competent
persons to serve as members of the Contact
Tracing Teams for a period of four (4) months
which shall be facilitated by the DILG
Regional Offices.

Given a projected population of 108
million in 2020, and following the
recommended ratio of one (1) contact
tracer for every 800 population, the
Department ought to urgently hire and train
at least 50, 000 tracers of the recommended
135,000 current number to increase the
existing workforce and achieve the
recommended ratio.

For Central Luzon, a quota of 5,992
contact tracers is targeted. As of September
28, 2020, 3,316 applicants in the Region
already submitted their applications. Priority
applicants, generally, are those whose
employments have been disrupted due to
the pandemic.

Contact Tracers will provide the first
point of contact cases of COVID-19 and
conduct case interviews, profiling, and

to page 7

Apprenticeship Program for 53rd Batch
LGOO Trainees conducted

From September 20 to October 1, 2020 DILG Region III Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac and Zambales.
successfully conducted the Apprenticeship Program for Local Component II of the Apprenticeship Program
Government Operations Officers (LGOOs) II and III (53rd Batch)
Component II: Foundation Course: Effective Interpersonal emphasized the relationship to one’s Creator, self-assessment,
Relations & Team Development at SACOP Ephatha Develop- discovery and development as a prelude to committing into
ment Center, Brgy. Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga. bigger responsibilities towards self, peers, team, organization
and country. This course also highlighted the positive
It was participated in by 28 LGOOs II and III from the attributes of the individual’s behavior, values and level of
Regional Office and Provincial Offices of Bataan, Bulacan, maturity that will demonstrate a deeper sense of

to page 7

INSIGHTS

Table of Contents Coaching and Mentoring on Quality 6
Assurance Assessment Report Tool

LGRRC-III recognized as one of the Best On-site monitoring for Locally Funded

LGRRCs nationwide 2 Projects under the new normal planned 7

DILG R-III: We Update as One 2 DILG Bataan holds 1st Barangay LGRC 8
online public forum
RIATF orients Central Luzon LGUs
on Zoning Containment Strategy 2 4 Former Rebel Surrenderees awarded 8
with E-CLIP Financial Assistance
RPOC III convened for its 3rd
Quarter Regular Meeting 3 DILG Tarlac promotes Mental and Physical

LGUs oriented on CDP Formulation 3 Health amid the Pandemic 9

Gearing toward positive change Virtual orientation on Zoning 10
in the New Normal 4 Containment Strategy for COVID-19

DILG R-III Adopts Virtual Recruitment, Botolan barangays set to launch plans 10
Selection and Promotion Activities 4 to address insurgency thru RCSP

RD Daquioag officiates virtual oath DILG Pampanga recollects a sense of
taking, appoints 21 personnel 4 meaning and purpose amid the pandemic 11

DILG R-3 Rolls Out Online Information Santa Maria, Bulacan benefits from

Systems on the Department's Programs 5 FY 2019 Performance Challenge Fund 11

2019 Manila BAYani Awardees 5 DILG Olongapo City trains BHERTs 12
Contact Tracing
Training on Infrastructure Project
Management System held 6 Angeles City holds graduation ceremony

DILG R-III conducts 3rd Quarter LFP for the 17 graduates of CBRP 13
Calibration 6 14-15

Legal Corner

INSIGHTS

Editorial Board

JULIE J. DAQUIOAG, Ph.D., CESO III
Regional Director

JAY E. TIMBREZA, CESO V
Assistant Regional Director

ANITA W. ADRIANO, CPA LERRIE S. HERNANDEZ, EnP. ENER P. CAMBRONERO, CESE

Chief, Finance and Administrative Division Chief, Monitoring and Evaluation Division Chief, Capability Development Division

PROVINCIAL AND CITY DIRECTORS

REGIONAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE DESIGNATED PROVINCIAL/ HUC INFORMATION
OFFICERS

INSIGHTS Vol. 23 No. 3 / JULY - SEPT. 2020

LGRRC-III recognized as one of RIATF orients
the Best LGRRCs nationwide Central Luzon LGUs

The Local Government Academy (LGA), the training arm of DILG, on Zoning
recognized the Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) of Containment Strategy
Region III as one of the Best LGRRCs nationwide. This was based on the
result of the rapid assessment conducted by the LGA last August 2020. Approximately 600 participants including the

The distinction qualifies DILG R-III to access the Information and Local Chief Executives and LGU functionaries in Central
Communication Technology (ICT) Package grant which will be used to
further strengthen DILG Central Luzon’s capabilities to deliver Luzon and DILG R-III personnel, attended the Online
uninterrupted and quality capacity Development Interventions under the
new normal. Orientation on the Zoning Containment Strategy on

The primary goal of the LGRRC is to promote a culture of learning August 7, 2020 via Zoom Cloud Platform.
and knowledge sharing in local governance. It is guided by three (3)
major principles which are Knowledge Management (KM), Multi- The orientation conducted by the Monitoring
stakeholdership and Convergence.
and Evaluation Division (MED) of DILG R-III headed by
DILG R-III: We Update as One
Lerrie S. Hernandez, in partnership with the

Department of Health (DOH), aimed to orient the LGUs

on the implementation of Zoning Containment Strategy

and the protocols to operate localized lockdowns in

LGUs in line with the Regional Inter-agency Taskforce

(RIATF) Guidelines.

RIATF Chairperson and DILG-III Regional Director

Julie J. Daquioag welcomed the participants during the

activity. “We hope that at the end of this initiative we

all achieve one understanding and harmonized

implementation of Localized Zoning Containment

Strategy,” she said.

Given all the Further, RIATF Co-chairperson DOH Regional
circumstances the entire region has
been facing for the past months, Director Dr. Cesar Cassion emphasized the significance
Locally-Funded Projects (LFPs) in
Central Luzon are up for updating of having a single understanding of the LGUs and the
in the SubayBAYAN Portal.
RIATF regarding localized lockdowns to effectively
In order to cope up with the backlogs, the Project Development
Management Section (PDMS) spearheaded an online simultaneous updating implement the strategy and lessen the spread of the
of LFPs. Series of online activities were conducted via Zoom Cloud Meetings
application. virus.

Said activities were participated in by Cluster Team Leaders, City/ The RIATF Screening and Validation Committee
Municipal Local Government Operations Officers (C/MLGOOs), LGU
SubayBAYAN Focal Persons, Regional and Provincial Locally Funded Project chaired by the DILG and composed of the Department
Teams, and personnel from the Office Project Development Services (OPDS).
of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine
As a result of this innovation initiated by the PDMS, Region III has
been recognized as one of the best performers in the updating of said portal National Police (PNP), National Economic and Develop-
and got the second spot nationwide. In addition, out of 81 provinces
nationwide, the 7 provinces in Central Luzon got the following ranks: ment Authority (NEDA), Department of Agriculture

(DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Depart-

ment of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the DOH

as members convened to hear the appeals of LGUs to

implement localized lockdowns in their areas to ensure

a multi-sectoral approach in the concurrence of the

appeals. Recommendations of the RIATF for an

Ranking Rate Provinces effective and efficient implementation of the zoning

containment were discussed in the meetings with the

1st 97% Bulacan, Pampanga functionaries of the requesting LGUs.

4th 94% Aurora, Bataan, Tarlac The objective of Zoning Containment Strategy is

8th 90% Zambales to control and eliminate the number of cases in a

9th 88% Nueva Ecija particular area by identifying the critical zones and

controlling the mobilization of the residents while the

Indeed, despite the pandemic confronting our movements, DILG LGUs at the same time, maximize their efforts to boost
Region III remains committed in upholding and realizing the vision and goals of
the Department. the economic development of their respective

localities. — PDO I Jaynie P. Pajarillaga

2

INSIGHTS

RPOC III convened for its 3rd Quarter Regular Meeting

The Regional Peace and Order Council III (RPOC–III)

chaired by Zambales Governor Hermogenes E. Ebdane, Jr.

convened for its 3rd Quarter Regular Meeting on Sep-

tember 28, 2020 via Zoom Cloud Platform to discuss the

Council's accomplishments and other concerns amid the

COVID-19 pandemic.

Twenty-seven out of 34 members were present

during the meeting which constitutes a quorum. Concerns

on insurgency, criminality, and illegal drugs were tackled

and per the overall assessment, the peace and order

concerns in the region remains manageable.

An audio-visual presentation (AVP) on the 2019

accomplishments of the Council was also presented by DILG

RO-III as the Secretariat. The AVP was up for review and

comments by the Council to be presented on the National

Peace and Order Council (NPOC) meeting.

The Council meeting was adjourned around 3:30 in

the afternoon in observance of the National Family Day. It is

ought to meet for its 4th Quarter Regular Meeting which

will be scheduled on the Council's convenient time amid

their continuous efforts in response to the COVID-19

situation in the region.

LGUs oriented on CDP (above photo) Regional Director Julie Daquioag (below photo) Zambales
Formulation Governor Hermogenes E. Ebdane, Jr. share their messages and insights
during the RPOC Meeting.

The Department of the Interior and Local Lee Allen B. Pineda highlighted the general objective of this
Government (DILG) Region III is set to conduct series of initiative, which is to provide assistance to LGUs in facilitating
rollout activities in line with Comprehensive Development the formulation of their CDPs. To be specific, it will involve the
Plan (CDP) Formulation. participation of target LGUs to series of virtual workshops and
online sessions.
In preparation for said undertaking, an orientation
on the upcoming activities for the provision of technical Among the topics discussed are the timeline of
assistance on the formulation of CDPs was conducted on upcoming CDP activities, Climate and Disaster Risk Assessment,
September 30, 2020 via Zoom Meetings Application. It was and the New CDP Review and Assessment Tool.
participated in by selected LGUs particularly those that have
no or outdated CDPs along with the respective Regional and Although movements may be limited for the time
Provincial CDP Focal Persons. being, DILG Region 3 is committed to meet all its goals and
objectives while taking safety precautions at the same time.
In his opening message, LG-CDD Assistant Chief

3

INSIGHTS Vol. 23 No. 3 / JULY - SEPT. 2020

Gearing toward
positive change in
the New Normal

DILG R-III started its Mental

Wellness Series on September 28, 2020,

through the activity entitled: "Understanding

Mental Health (Batch 1)" held via Zoom

Video Conferencing Platform.

The Region's Mental Health

Program commits to integrate mental health

initiatives in all human resource and Services, Mr. Von Guintu and Ms. Sofia Grace Lina, who are at the forefront of
organizational development policies and to promoting mental health and psychological well-being, this activity is very
ensure that every employee is consciously timely not only to help achieve and value the holistic health of our employees
aware and sensitive to mental health issues that is the primary objective of the Program, but also to become champions for
and support programs. positive change.

Facilitated by resource persons from AO V Crystal Joy C. Pineda
the Ateneo Bulatao Center for Psychological

DILG R-III Adopts Virtual RD Daquioag officiates
virtual oath taking,
Recruitment, Selection
and Promotion Activities appoints 21 personnel

Following the issuance of the Civil Service Adopting the ‘new normal’ in recruitment, selection and
Commission on the “Interim Guidelines on Appointments and promotion, DILG R-III Regional Director Julie J. Daquioag officiated
Other Human Resource Actions for the Period of State of online oath taking ceremonies for 21 reappointed promoted and
Calamity Due to COVID-19 Pandemic” through MC No. 14, S. newly-hired personnel in the third quarter of 2020.
2020, DILG Region III now administers Recruitment, Selection
and Promotion (RSP) Activities through online video Aforementioned oath taking activities were held on
conferencing platforms. August 10 and September 4, 2020 via Zoom video conferencing
platform. They were attended by Provincial and HUC Directors,
The DILG R-III Human Resource Merit Selection and Finance and Administrative Division personnel, along with the ap-
Promotion Board (HRMSPB) convened online on July 23, 2020 pointees.
to deliberate 10 applicants and on September 17, 2020 to
assess 4 applicants to vacant positions in the Region. The oath taking of personnel conducted virtually is only one
among the numerous activities of DILG R-III that have been carried
The Board, through its secretariat, has devised online out through online means in abidance to national and local policies
assessment tools to gauge the competencies of applicants. and regulations brought about by the pandemic.

These virtual RSP activities were conducted in order to AO IV Ivan Phillip B. Lagman
ensure uninterrupted hiring and movement of personnel, to
fill-up the Region’s complement, in spite of the health crisis 4
and work from home arrangement.

INSIGHTS

DILG R-3 Rolls Out Online Information Systems on
the Department's Programs

(left photo and right photo) Regional Director Julie J. Daquioag and Asst. Regional Director Jay E. Timbreza deliver welcome and closing
messages, respectively during the activity.

DILG R-III had its Regional Roll-Out/Training on Barangay discussion of the guidelines of the programs, overview of the online
Profile System (BPS), Business Permit & Licensing System (BPLS), information systems, system demonstration, hands-on activities and
Building Permit & Certificate of Occupancy (BPCO) Online Monitoring open forum.
System, and Regulatory Reforms for LGUs (RR4LGUS) Information
System. It was held on September 22-23, 2020 for Aurora, Nueva Ecija The regional and field operating units are expected to
and Tarlac (Batch 1) and September 23, 2020 for Bataan, Bulacan, implement the three (3) newly developed platforms to achieve more
Pampanga, Zambales, Angeles City and Olongapo City (Batch 2) via efficient reporting and monitoring systems and management tools in
Zoom Cloud Platform. Cluster Team Leaders (CTLs), Program Managers the Department.
(PMs), City/Municipal Local Government Operations Officers
(C/MLGOOs) and BPS, BPLS-BPCO and RR4LGUs Provincial/HUC Focal ITO Melerie G. Pineda
Persons regionwide participated in the activity.
2019 Manila BAYani
Its main objectives were to train and capacitate the partici- Awardees
pants with the needed knowledge, skills on system process, procedure
and proper use of the application systems and provide them with the Congratulations to the following Local Government
necessary knowledge on existing policies and guidelines related to the Units (LGUs) for making it in the Regional 2019 Manila BAYani
information systems for them to efficiently implement in respective Award for City and Municipal Categories.
LGU assignments.
Manila BAYani is based on the compliance of the LGUs
RD Julie J. Daquioag, in her welcome message, encouraged to the LGU Compliance Assessment, a tool used by the
everyone to be steadfast in coping up with the challenges in the Department to assess the LGUs' compliance in various
performance of respective tasks amidst the COVID 19 pandemic. She environmental laws.
expressed appreciation on the relentless efforts provided by the Field
Officers in the implementation of the different programs of the Depart- City Category Municipal Category
ment. She further urged everyone’s cooperation and be united to Top Performer Top Performer
move and heal as one and continue to inculcate the values of being Balanga City, Bataan
“Matino, Mahusay at Maaasahang Kagawaran” of the Department. Baliwag, Bulacan

On the other hand, ARD Jay E. Timbreza stated in his closing First Placer First Placer
message that these systems are intended to make everyone’s work Mabalacat City, Pampanga Dinalupihan, Bataan
easier. He said that the regional management has high confidence and
full trust to every concerned personnel in the region towards the Second Placer Second Placer
successful implementation and compliance requirements on these City of San Jose Del Monte, Hermosa, Bataan
systems.
Bulacan
Regional Program Focal Persons from the Local Government
Monitoring and Evaluation Division (LGMED) and Local Government
Capability Development Division (LGCDD) together with the Regional
Information and Communication Technology Unit (RICTU) personnel
served as resource persons and facilitators.

Highlights of the training included the presentation and

5

INSIGHTS Vol. 23 No. 3 / JULY - SEPT. 2020

Training on Infrastructure DILG R-III conducts 3rd
Project Management Quarter LFP Calibration
System held
Given the bulk of Locally-Funded Projects (LFPs)
DILG Region III conducted the Virtual Training on the being implemented by the Project Development and
Infrastructure Project Management System (IPMS) via zoom Management Section (PDMS), it is deemed necessary for the
meeting application on September 01-04, 2020. Regional and Provincial LFP Teams to meet, discuss, and
ensure the continuous implementation and monitoring of
The Department through the OPDS CMGP-PMO, in said projects.
partnership with UNDP-ROADS2SDGs and the PointWest
Technologies Inc., has developed the said system. The IPMS is In observance of necessary health protocols for the
envisioned to help the Provincial Governments effectively and management of the COVID-19 pandemic, the LG - Capability
efficiently manage their infrastructure projects as it enables Development Division spearheaded the conduct of the DILG
computerized progress monitoring, document management, LFPs Online Assessment and Calibration of Status Reports for
and electronic workflow processing. the Third Quarter of F.Y. 2020 on September 28, 2020 via
Zoom Cloud Meetings application.
UNDP Regional Engineer Aniano P. Calderon III and
CMGP RC Jevon Reely D. Culala fronted the hands-on trainings The activity was participated in by the DILG Regional
and discussion. They discussed how the IPMS will help in and Provincial Focal Persons, Cluster Team Leaders, and DILG
monitoring infra projects and introduced the components of Provincial Engineers to present the status of LFPs and to
the IPMS, its functions, and the roles of the users in the discuss the issues encountered during the implementation
system. proper.

The online conference was participated in by LGCDD In his opening message, LG-CDD Chief
Chief Ener P. Cambronero, Assistant Division Chief Lee Allen Ener P. Cambronero extended his appreciation for the con-
Pineda, PDMU Chief Paolo Israel S. Franco, CMGP Team from tinuous efforts of all LFP Focal Teams despite the current
Central and Regional Offices, Provincial Focal Persons, CMGP situation in the country. On behalf of Dir. Julie J. Daquioag,
Engineers and representatives from the Provincial Engineering he also congratulated all Provincial Offices for being
and Accounting Offices. recognized as top performers in the updating of the
SubayBAYAN portal.

Indeed, despite the pandemic confronting our
movements, all DILG Region III LFP Focal Teams remain
committed to the vision and goals of the Department.

Coaching and Mentoring on
Quality Assurance

Assessment Report Tool

DILG Region III conducted the Virtual Coaching and the discussion and demonstration of how to accomplish the
Mentoring on the Quality Assurance Assessment Report QAAR tool. The activity served its purpose to provide guidance
(QAAR) Tool via Zoom Meetings App on September 11, 2020. and information on the operation of the tool with precision and
to improve the capacity of the LFP Engineers in the Provincial
The OPDS CMGP-PMO in partnership with Office on its usage.
United Nations Development Program developed the said
tool through the conduct of numerous QA inspection of the The online conference was participated in by the
FY 2017 to FY 2019 CMGP Projects. The tool was also a LGCDD Chief Ener P. Cambronero, Assistant Division Chief Lee
product of the UNDP’s Road Project Quality Assurance Allen B. Pineda, PDMU Chief Paolo Israel S. Franco, LFP Teams
Guidebook. from Regional Office and Provincial Offices in Region III.

UNDP Regional Engineer Aniano P. Calderon III led 6

INSIGHTS

from page 1

Apprenticeship Program

accountability and transparency as LGOOs.

The Module I consisted of five (5) Sessions which

are Me and My God, Me and Myself, Me and My Group/

Team, Me and My Organization and Me and My Country.

During the opening ceremony of the

Apprenticeship Program, Regional Director RD Julie Daquioag delivers her message to the trainees while ARD and Training
Manager Jay Timbreza processes the trainees’ outputs on Evolution of Man
Julie J. Daquiaog reminded the trainees to always act and

live with the core values of DILG and uphold the attitude

of being Matino, Mahusay and Maasahang LGOOs. She

also advised the apprentices to be like a lily in the pond

that despite the seemingly chaotic environment, has

adapted and has bloomed into becoming a pure and

beautiful flower. She encouraged all trainees to emerge

from all challenges, manifesting pureness and humility on

oneself.
The 53rd Batch trainees were capacitated to

establish positive attitude and behavior on work duties

and relationships with peers, supervisors and clientele, to

apply appropriate strategies in coping with various

situations especially in the workplace, to practice effective

communication and to commit oneself to ethical service

and good governance.

The facilitators of the Apprenticeship Program On-site monitoring for Locally
Funded Projects under the new
were the seasoned and trusted DILG officers from
normal planned
different Provincial Offices, namely: LGOO VII
The Virtual Orientation on the Conduct of On-site Monitoring for
Lydia Baltazar CTL of Pampanga; LGOO VI Ma. Jasmine OPDS-Administered Locally Funded Projects under the New Normal was
conducted by DILG Region III on July 27, 2020. Regional Director
Bartolo, MLGOO of Samal, Bataan; LGOO VI Ailyn Bondoc, Julie J. Daquioag encouraged the whole team to sustain the efforts in their
performance while realizing the Department’s targets amidst the unusual
MLGOO of Guiguinto, Bulacan and LGOO V Kimberly Ruiz, standard. This is also to ensure the safety of the field officers and engineers
in compliance to the minimum health protocols.
DILG Provincial Office of Nueva Ecija.
The activity aims to orient all concerned, especially the Regional
The Apprenticeship Program was also participated and Provincial Engineers on their Roles and Responsibilities provided in the
DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2020-098.
in by retired Technical Services Division (now Capability
The online conference was participated in by staff from the Office
Development Division) Chief Ramon Ronquillo and DILG of Project Development Services, Cluster Team Leaders, Program Managers,
Division and Assistant Division Chief, PDMU Chief, LFP Focal Persons, and
Bulacan Provincial Director Darwin D. David who shared members of the Locally Funded Projects Team.

their experiences and valuable knowledge to further

inspire the trainees in their journey as LGOOs II and III.

In the closing ceremony of the Apprenticeship

Program, trainees burned their liabilities and weaknesses

then preserved their commitments in a box embodying

their vows to serve the public as LGOOs.

Meanwhile, Training Manager ARD Jay E. Timbreza

proudly congratulated the trainees for successfully

finishing the Module I amidst all the challenges including

the pandemic. He shared that it has been always a dream from page 1

for DILG to train the fieldsmen to be the best personnel in Contact Tracers...

work stations to provide the utmost public service.

On the other hand, Module Coordinator and perform an initial public health risk assessment of COVID-19 cases and

LG-CDD Chief Ener P. Cambronero, concluded the activity their identified close contacts. Deployment of Contact Tracers shall be

with a quotation from Martin Luther King Jr. stating that based on the LGUs’ need, depending on the case to close contact

“You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to ration. However, they can be redeployed in other provinces or LGUs to

serve. You only need a heart full of grace and soul augment, as deemed necessary.

generated by love.” He reminded the trainees to continue The purpose of mass hiring of Contact Tracers is to ensure

their passion to serve and lead the people with accurate and timely conduct of contact tracing activities and reporting

enthusiasm and dedication. —IO Rugianne M. Villamar

of COVID-19 surveillance data. — PDO I Jaynie P. Pajarillaga

7

INSIGHTS Vol. 23 No. 23/ JULY - SEPT. 2020

Provincial/ HUC News

DILG Bataan holds 1st Barangay
LGRC online public forum

It's a wrap for the first barangay LGRC-initiated activity in Central

Luzon!

Brgy. San Carlos of Mariveles, Bataan successfully aired its first of

the three online public forums it has been preparing together with DILG

Region III and Bataan Provincial Office, UST PolSci Department, DICT and

the Provincial Government of Bataan on September 1, 2020 via Zoom

Cloud Meeting and Facebook Live.

Dubbed as Stories of Resilience: The Province and the Role of

Barangays on COVID-19 Pandemic Response, the online forum featured

Governor Albert Garcia and the province's best practices on covid-19

response.

Reactors Dr. Froilan Calilung of UST and Mr. Aldwin Reyes from DILG

R3 expressed positive comments on the activity and recommendations on

the initiatives took by the provincial government to address the needs in

this time of pandemic. by audiences from the official pages of DILG Central
Also present were Provincial Director Myra Moral-Soriano of DILG Luzon, DILG Bataan and Brgy. San Carlos.

Bataan and Dr. Dennis Coronacion, UST PolSci Department Head who both Two more events in this series await
gave their welcoming messages for all the participants and viewers of the featuring city and municipal mayors from other
activity. provinces to also share their best practices to the
local governments in Central Luzon.
Attendees of the online public forum include mostly barangay
officials, LGU functionaries and DILG local government officers from

various provinces in Region III. A facebook live of the forum was also seen

4 Former Rebel Surrenderees awarded with
Enhanced CLIP Financial Assistance

(left photo) One of the Former Rebel Returnees as he receives the check amounting Php 65,000.00 from the ECLIP Committee.
(right photo) Atty. Ofelio A. Tactac, Jr. as he extends his gratitude to the Provincial Government of Aurora for the continued partnership
towards attaining the peace and order in the province

A total of four former rebels who surrendered in the On September 17, 2020, Aurora Govenor Gerardo A.
Province of Aurora were given financial assistance totaling Noveras, Atty. Ofelio A. Tactac, Jr., DILG Aurora Provincial Direc-
P210,000,00 under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local tor, LTC Reandrew P. Rubio, Commanding Officer, 91IB, 71D, PA,
Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the DILG. E-CLIP is a flagship PCOL Raul Siriban, PNP Aurora PD; and Ms. Abigaiel Paulino, OIC
program of President Rodrigo Duterte’s peace and order -PSWDO along with General (ret) Abraham Claro Casis from the
agenda.
to page 12

8

INSIGHTS

DILG Tarlac promotes Mental and Physical Health
amid the Pandemic

MIND OVER MATTER. Cluster Leader Fortunato Abraham III facilitates the discussion with Cabanatuan City Court Psychologist Guila
Celine Mananquil on how to cope with anxiety and improve mental health during the COVID-19 crisis the world is facing.

DILG Tarlac Provincial Office sought court psychological difficulty in communicating, difficulty to feel pleasure, and
assistance from Ms. Guila Celine Mananquil to help assess difficulty to give or accept help may show during these times.
their mental health status and provide inputs to help ease
stress and anxiety amid the COVID-19 pandemic on Physically, signs such as digestive problems, headaches
September 1, 2020 via teleconferencing and through and pains, loss of appetite or overeating, sweating or having
TarlaKAYAN in DILG Tarlac’s Facebook Page. chills, muscle twitching or tremors, and being easily startled
can also be seen among people who experience the signs
During the conference with the field officers, DILG mentioned earlier.
Tarlac Provincial Director Belina Herman stressed the
importance of keeping our minds and body equally healthy Ms. Mananquil mentioned some tips on how to ease
because we are gearing for a longer battle against the virus our mental and physical pains. These are: limiting the time we
unless a vaccine is made available. spend in reading and watching the news which greatly affect
how we feel; finding people and resources who could give us
Cluster Leader Renalyn Iglesias also thanked the accurate and verified health information; keeping ourselves
initiative of Cluster Leader Fortunato Abraham III in inviting a healthy; using practical things to relax; paying attention to our
psychologist to help DILG Officers cope with the overwhelming mind, body, and spirit.
anxiety and stress everyone might be experiencing. Initiating conversations about how we feel with our loved ones
is also considered a powerful coping tool. Job stress can also
During the 8th TarlaKAYAN episode, Ms. Manaquil said be lessened by identifying the things that cause stress and
being stressed during these times is as common as the “New anxiety in the workplace, open communication with
Normal” everyone is trying to adapt to is overwhelming. Being co-workers, understanding the things which we can and cannot
frightened and uncertain of the recent events affecting the control, reminding ourselves that we are in an unusual
globe is also normal but there are some ways to help people situation and that everyone is practically feeling the same way,
go through the situation. increasing our sense of control by setting routines that are
similar to the things we do before the pandemic.
She added that while most people say they are OK,
there may be times when they conceal their true feelings for Ultimately, the best way to survive the global health
what is happening around them and monitoring of the crisis is to adapt and help others adapt with the situation
physical and mental well-being of ourselves and our loved especially in the month of September when we promote
ones is key to understanding how to cope up with our feelings. awareness on suicide prevention.

Signs such as low energy and activity levels, irritability, By LGOO VI Bryan Rivera
outbursts of anger, sleeping problems, excessive worrying,

9

INSIGHTS Vol. 23 No. 3 / JULY - SEPT. 2020

DILG Nueva Ecija guides
its personnel on Zoning

Containment Strategy
for COVID-19

On July 20, 2020, the DILG Nueva Ecija implementation among zones identified by LGUs.
conducted a virtual orientation via zoom headed by The said orientation was participated in by Cluster Team Leaders
Provincial Director Renato G. Bernardino, regarding the
"Guidelines for Local Government Units (LGUs) on the of Cluster 1 and 2, LGOO VII Danilo C. Rillera and LGOO VII
application of the Zoning Containment Strategy for Ariel G. Espinosa, respectively, Program Manager LGOO VI
COVID-19". Alfa Krista C. Reyes, C/MLGOOs, and provincial staff.

The activity aims to orient the C/MLGOOs with The activity ended with a message from
the guidelines and documentary requirements as PD Renato G. Bernardino, he mentioned that safety is the top priority.
prescribed by the RIATF Screening and Validation To be healthy and safe in this time of pandemic in order to accomplish
Committee. The operational guidelines' purpose is to the tasks at hand.
provide the LGUs with the guidelines to contain the
spread of COVID-19 pandemic utilizing the Zoning
Containment Strategy; guide the local authorities in the
transitioning of community quarantine measures to less
or more stringent restrictions while continuously
monitoring COVID-19 risk indicators; and standardize
the principles of community quarantine

Botolan barangays set to launch plans to address
insurgency thru RCSP

Participants take part on the discussion regarding the peace and order scenario Infantry Battalion discussed the situationer on
in the target barangays insurgency of the target barangays; and municipal
planning and development coordinator Rodolfo
The Department of the Interior and Local Government - Zambales De Los Reyes shared the PPAs of the municipality for
Provincial Office in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of the concerned barangays to avoid possible duplica-
Botolan, Zambales and the 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion of the tion. The discussion emphasized that RCSP is a
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) facilitated a workshop on the primary program in line with the government’s effort
identification of priority Programs, Projects and Activities (PPAs) for CY at the grassroots level— aiming to provide PPAs
2021 Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP). The activity was addressing the prevalent socio-economic and
conducted on September 21, 2020 at the Botolan People’s Plaza. cultural problems in the communities.

LGOO VI Jonnel B. Edillor provided an overview of the Executive The undertaking served as a venue for the
Order No. 70 and the RCSP. 1Lt Marjoe Catulong of the 3rd Mechanized target barangays— Poonbato, Villar, Cabatuan,
Nacolcol, and Maguisguis to prioritize and present
the priority projects needed by the residents based
on their identified primary and secondary issues
subject to possible funding by the national
government.

The activity is in line with President Rodrigo
Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70— a whole-of-
nation approach to End Local Communist Armed
Conflict (ELCAC) which will address the root causes of
insurgency and attain sustainable peace and
development in the communities.

By: LGOO VI Shieralyn B. Esteban

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INSIGHTS

DILG Pampanga recollects a sense of meaning and

purpose amid the pandemic During the second session of OK K P BA? on

September 7, 2020 (Online Kapehan, Kwentong

Pandemya, at iBA pa), Field Officers of Cluster 1

hosted a virtual meeting to talk about the

importance of finding joy and beauty amid a

pandemic through learning a new skill, reviving an

old hobby, or start a workout routine at home.

Field Officers shared inspiring stories as well

as challenges in an effort to keep the team’s spirit

high in this pandemic so they can continuously

deliver their mandate and rise above all the

uncertainties brought about by the coronavirus.

Inspired by the book entitled The Little

Prince, PD Myrvi Fabia recalled a life lesson that said

“All grown-ups were once children… but only a few

of them remember it”. She reminded everyone to

reconnect with friends, reminisce good times, and

appreciate the essence of life.

OK K PA BA? is a virtual Kamustahan and

DILG Pampanga Provincial Director Myrvi Fabia with the DILG Pampanga Kapehan of DILG Pampanga which aims to establish
personnel during the conduct of OK K P BA? stronger connections despite physical absence
caused by the current situation.

Santa Maria, Bulacan benefits from FY 2019

Performance Challenge Fund

As passer of the Seal of Good Local Local Access Road at Brgy. Lalakhan, Sta. Maria, Bulacan
Governance (SGLG): Pagkilala sa Katapatan at
Kahusayan ng Pamahalaang Lokal for FY 2019, the
municipality of Santa Maria, Bulacan was entitled for
Performance Challenge Fund. PCF can be used for
municipalities to implement unfunded projects
beneficial to the public. The local functionaries of
Santa Maria proposed for the improvement/
rehabilitation of Local Access Road at Barangay
Lalakhan in the municipality. The project serves as an
alternate route going to the municipalities of Bocaue
and Pandi on eastern part of Santa Maria and also links
to Norzagaray, Angat and City of San Jose del Monte
going to McArthur Highway.

On September 22, 2020, DILG Bulacan headed
by Provincial Directory Darwin D. David, together with
Santa Maria’s MLGOO Elaine D. Pagdanganan and
Locally Funded Project (LFP) Team, visited and
validated the newly rehabilitated road. The team,
which was also accompanied by Project Inspectorate
Team of the municipality, walked on the 290 l.m. road
length.

Certificate of Turnover and Acceptance was
signed by PD David and Sta. Maria Mayor
Russel G. Pleyto, after the inspection.

11

INSIGHTS Vol. 23 No. 3 / JULY - SEPT. 2020

DILG Olongapo City trains
BHERTs Contact Tracing

The Department of the Interior and Local Government

Olongapo City provided reorientation on Contact Tracing for

the members of Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams

(BHERTs) as part of the Contact Tracing E-System Training

conducted by the OC Police Office on September 26, 2020 at

Camp Lt Gen Manuel F Cabal, Barretto.

DILG City Director Amada T. Dumagat, during her

message, commended the BHERTS and other members of the

City Contact Tracing Team for selflessly facing the risk of

contact tracing. “We know that even there is no added

compensation, you (contact tracers) are still willing to give

yourself and your time, to help Olongapo City in preventing the

spread of COVID-19.”

CD Dumagat also informed the participants that the

National Government is providing assistance to augment the

contact tracing capacity of Local Government Units. “We (the

DILG) are currently hiring contact tracers. Our office has
already screened 1st batch of applicants. We encourage you to

inform your acquaintances who want to apply as contact

tracers about the recruitment.” (above photo) Olongapo City Director Amada Dumagat and
LGOO III Vincent E. Catacutan gave a presentation on (below photo) LGOO III Vincent Catacutan lead the conduct of the training

Effective Interpersonal Communication Skills for Contact

Tracers. He emphasized that contact tracers should also be quarantine instructions.
knowledgeable and skillful in establishing harmonious interac- The DILG Olongapo City continuously delivers capacity
tion, especially with COVID-19 patients and contacts, in order
to successfully get information, effectively educate about building, learning interventions and other activities in order to
COVID-19 and persuasively ask people to follow isolation and ramp-up contact tracing in Olongapo City.

from page 8 Housing (PhP450,000.00); Medical Assistance; Legal
Assistance; and College Tuition and Stipend (tertiary level),
4 Former Rebels... among others.

Office of the Presidential Advisor on Peace Process (OPAP), led As part of the program, one former rebel gave a
the awarding ceremony for the 4 former rebels during the
conduct of the E-CLIP Awarding at the Governor's Conference testimony on the reasons why they ended up joining the
Room, Provincial Capitol Compound, Baler, Aurora.
reds. They blamed poverty and lack of opportunities that
Four (4) former rebels were granted an immediate
assistance of Php 15,000.00 and a livelihood assistance of blinded them to believing the platforms of the Militia groups.
Php 50,000.00 among other benefits specified in the E-CLIP
implementing guidelines. “Hindi naman namin ginustong mapunta sa ganoong sitwasy-

E-CLIP being locally-driven, managed and implemented is a on, ngunit, dahil na rin sa kahirapan ng buhay, napaniwala
national program that veers away from the past practice of
pre-packaged interventions designed at the national level. It kami sa mga pangako nilang magiging maayos ang lahat.
responds to the circumstances, needs and concerns of former
rebels through provision of assistance and seeks to consider their Pero nagpapasalamat kami na muli ninyo kaming
basic rights and situations as men and women.
tinanggap.”, he added, as he echoed his gratitude to the
The E-CLIP provides a wide range of benefits which in-
cludes Reintegration Assistance (PHP21,000.00); Fire Arms government.
Remuneration (Double-the-cost valuation); Livelihood Materials
and Implements or Employment Assistance (PhP100,000.00); In his closing message, Atty. Tactac stated “Walang

mabuting maidudulot ang mabuhay sa karahasan, walang

umunlad at umasenso sa digmaan. Maaring mahusay sila sa

paggawa ng tula. Binabaluktot ang katotohanan, pero

hangang salita lamang ang maibibigay nila. Sa inyong

pagsuko nagkakaroon ng bagong panimula para sa mag

magandang kinabukasan.” He thanked the Governor for his

support, the PNP and the 91st IB for paving the way for the

surrenderees. 12

INSIGHTS

Angeles City holds graduation ceremony
for the 17 graduates of CBRP

The Angeles City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ACADAC) DILG Angeles City Martin Porres Moral shares his message with the graduates
thru the leadership of City Mayor Carmelo G. Lazatin, Jr. and
spearheaded by ACADAC Chief Ricky Alan E. Saul presented
the 17 graduates of the Community-Based Rehabilitation
Program (CBRP) from Barangays Sto. Cristo, Cuayan and
Margot during the graduation ceremony held on
July 27, 2020.

In his message, DILG Angeles City Director Martin
Porres B. Moral encouraged the graduates of CBRP to be
more thankful because the national and city government are
continuously finding ways to help former drug users have a
better life. Director Moral enjoined them to use the
opportunity wisely.

According to ACADAC Chief Saul, success rate of the
ACADAC is around 80% in terms of outpatients finishing the
duration of the program. After graduating, the city
government will also help the outpatients in their livelihood
and job opportunities. Further he reminded the graduates
that they will all be continuously monitored and be given
aftercare programs.

Gracing the activity were Philippine Drug Enforce-
ment Agency Provincial Officer Vidal Bacolod, Angeles City
Police Officer PMajor. Philip Pineda, City Health Officer
Dr. Verona Guevarra and City Agriculture Officer
Erickson Dagdag.

Social distancing, wearing of facemask and other
health protocols were properly observed during the
graduation ceremony.

Bida ang may D
I
S
I
P
L
I
N
A
13

INSIGHTS Vol. 23 No. 3 / JULY - SEPT. 2020

Legal Corner to law and against national policy. It further contended that the
Mayor’s Permit Fee levied by petitioners were unreasonable
(Recent Supreme Court Ruling) and confiscatory.

Atty. Chairmaine Jacqueline I. Paulino On the other hand, the petitioners contended that the City of
Batangas can legally impose taxes on the business of
Issue: manufacturing and distribution of petroleum products, including
Are LGUs empowered under the LGC to impose business taxes the Mayor’s Permit Fees upon respondent.
on persons or entities engaged in the business of
manufacturing and distribution of petroleum product? Ruling of the Regional Trial Court

Facts: The RTC of Batangas City sustained the imposition of business
Petitioner Batangas City is a local government unit (LGU) with taxes by the petitioners upon the manufacture and distribution
the capacity to sue and be sued under its Charter and Section of petroleum products by respondent. However, the RTC
22(a)(2) of the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991. withheld the imposition of Mayor’s Permit Fee in deference to
Petitioners Teodulfo A. Deguito and Benjamin E. Pargas are the the provisions of Section 147 of the LGC, in relation to Section
City Legal Officer and City Treasurer, respectively, of Batangas 143(h) of the same Code, which imposed a limit to the power of
City. petitioners to collect the said business taxes.

Respondent Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation operates an Ruling of the Court of Tax Appeals:
oil refinery and depot in Tabagao, Batangas City, which
manufactures and produces petroleum products that are The CTA modified the decision of the RTC by holding that
distributed nationwide. respondent is not subject to the business taxes on the
manufacture and distribution of petroleum products because of
In 2002, respondent was only paying the amount of the express limitation provided under Section 133(h) of the LGC
₱98,964.71 for fees and other charges which include the and that the Mayor’s permit is excessive.
amount of ₱1,180.34 as Mayor’s Permit. However, on
February 20, 2001, petitioner Batangas City, through its City Ruling of the Supreme Court
Legal Officer, sent a notice of assessment to respondent
demanding the payment of ₱92,373,720.50 and The Supreme Court affirmed the decision of the Court of Tax
₱312,656,253.04 as business taxes for its manufacture and Appeals and held that while the Municipality may impose tax on
distribution of petroleum products. In addition, respondent businesses, it admits of certain exceptions such as the
was also required and assessed to pay the amount of businesses engaged in the production, manufacture, refining,
₱4,299,851.00 as Mayor’s Permit Fee based on the gross sales distribution or sale of oil, gasoline, and other petroleum
of its Tabagao Refinery. The assessment was allegedly products.
pursuant of Section 134 of the LGC of 1991 and Section 23 of
its Batangas City Tax Code of 2002. Discussion:

In response, respondent filed a protest on April 17, 2002 In the a plethora of cases, the Court expounded that the LGUs’
contending among others that it is not liable for the payment power to tax is subject to the limitations set forth under Section
of the local business tax either as a manufacturer or 133 of the LGC. Thus: It is already well-settled that although the
distributor of petroleum products. It further argued that the power to tax is inherent in the State, the same is not true for the
Mayor’s Permit Fees are exorbitant, confiscatory, arbitrary, LGUs to whom the power must be delegated by Congress and
unreasonable and not commensurable with the cost of issuing must be exercised within the guidelines and limitations that
a license. Congress may provide.

On May 13, 2002, petitioners denied respondent’s protest and The rule governing the taxing power of provinces, cities,
declared that under Section 14 of the Batangas City Tax Code municipalities and barangays is summarized in Icard v. City
of 2002, they are empowered to withhold the issuance of the Council of Baguio:
Mayor’s Permit for failure of respondent to pay the business
taxes on its manufacture and distribution of petroleum It is settled that a municipal corporation unlike a sovereign state
products. is clothed with no inherent power of taxation. The charter or
statute must plainly show an intent to confer that power or the
On June 17, 2002, respondent filed a Petition for Review municipality, cannot assume it. And the power when granted is
pursuant to Section 195 of the LGC of 1991 before the to be construed in strictissimi juris. Any doubt or ambiguity
Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Batangas City. arising out of the term used in granting that power must be
resolved against the municipality. Inferences, implication,
The respondent maintained that petitioners have no authority deductions – all these- have no place in the interpretation of the
to impose the said taxes and fees, and argued that the levy of taxing power of a municipal corporation.
local business taxes on the business of manufacturing and
distributing gasoline and other petroleum products is contrary Among the common limitations on the taxing powers of LGUs

to page 15

14

INSIGHTS

from page 14 power of LGUs to tax businesses within its jurisdiction. Thus, the
omnibus grant of power to LGUs under Section 143(h)of the LGC
Legal Corner cannot overcome the specific exception or exemption in Section
133(h) of the same Code. This is in accord with the rule on
under Section 133 of the LGC is paragraph (h) which states: statutory construction that specific provisions must prevail over
general ones. A special and specific provision prevails over a
SECTION 133. Common Limitations on the Taxing Powers general provision irrespective of their relative positions in the
of Local Government Units. – Unless otherwise provided statute.
herein, the exercise of taxing powers of provinces, cities,
municipalities, and barangays shall not extend to the levy In addition, Article 232(h) of the Implementing Rules and
of the following: Regulations (IRR) of the LGC of 1991 states:

xxxx

(h) Excise taxes on articles enumerated under ARTICLE 232. Tax on Business.– The Municipality may
the National Internal Revenue Code, as impose taxes on the following businesses:
amended, and taxes, fees or charges on
petroleum products.; xxxx

From the foregoing, Section 133(h) clearly specifies the two (h) On any business not otherwise specified in the
kinds of taxes which cannot be imposed by LGUs: (1) excise preceding paragraphs which the sanggunian
taxes on articles enumerated under the NIRC, as amended; and concerned may deem proper to tax provided that
(2) taxes, fees or charges on petroleum products. that on any business subject to the excise tax, VAT or
percentage tax under the NIRC, as amended, the
Indisputably, the power of LGUs to impose business taxes rate of tax shall not exceed two percent (2%) of
derives from Section 143 of the LGC. However, the same is gross sales or receipts of the preceding calendar
subject to the explicit statutory impediment provided for under year and provided further, that in line with existing
Section 133(h) of the same Code which prohibits LGUs from national policy, any business engaged in the produc-
imposing "taxes, fees or charges on petroleum products." It tion, manufacture, refining, distribution or sale of
can, therefore, be deduced that although petroleum products oil, gasoline, and other petroleum products shall not
are subject to excise tax, the same is specifically excluded from be subject to any local tax imposed in this Article.
the broad power granted to LGUs under Section 143(h) of the
LGC to impose business taxes. Article 232 defines with more particularity the capacity of a
municipality to impose taxes on businesses. However, it admits
Additionally, Section 133(h) of the LGC makes plain that the of certain exceptions, specifically, that businesses engaged in
prohibition with respect to petroleum products extends not the production, manufacture, refining, distribution or sale of oil,
only to excise taxes thereon, but all "taxes, fees or charges." gasoline, and other petroleum products, shall not be subject to
While LGUs are authorized to burden all such other class of any local tax imposed by Article 232.
goods with "taxes, fees and charges," excepting excise taxes, a
specific prohibition is imposed barring the levying of any other Conclusion:
type of taxes with respect to petroleum products.
The power to tax "is an attribute of sovereignty," and as such,
It is likewise irrefutable that the specific exemption provided inherent in the State. Such, however, is not true for provinces,
under Section 133 of the LGC prevails over Section 143 of the cities, municipalities and barangays as they are not the
same Code. sovereign; rather, there are mere "territorial and political
subdivisions of the Republic of the Philippines.
First, Section 133 of the LGC is a specific provision that
explicitly withhold from LGUs the power to impose taxes, fees In view of this, the LGUs power to tax is limited to the extent of
and charges on petroleum products. the power delegated to it either by the constitution or by
statute.
Strictly speaking, as long as the subject matter of the taxing
powers of the LGUs is the petroleum products per se or even (The case of BATANGAS CITY, MARIA TERESA GERON, In her
the activity or privilege related to the petroleum products, such capacity as City Treasurer of Batangas City and TEODULFO A.
as manufacturing and distribution of said products, it is DEGUITO, In his capacity as City Legal Officer of Batangas City,
covered by the said limitation and thus, no levy can be Petitioners, vs. PILIPINAS SHELL PETROLEUM CORPORATION,
imposed. Respondent., G.R. No. 187631 July 8, 2015)

On the contrary, Section 143 of the LGC defines the general

15

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT
REGION III

Diosdado Macapagal Government Center
Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

tel. no. (045) 455-2405
email address: [email protected]

website: region3.dilg.gov.ph