123rd CS Month Celebration calls to foster dynamic servant-heroes in DdO

 

The commencement of the month-long Civil Service Month celebration in Davao de Oro took place today, September 4, at the Provincial Capitol Lobby, calling to foster dynamic public servants. The event began with a thanksgiving Mass led by Reverend Fr. Fernand Bagnaan from Queen of Apostles College Seminary.

Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga, in her message, highlighted that with this celebration, it is crucial for employees to understand and remember the notable distinction between work and service.

She stated, "When we say work, it means you perform a task that is principally because you are being paid for it, but when we speak of service you don't even need any remuneration para ihatag ang serbisyo kay dili kana purely trabaho, kay ang pagpanerbisyo gikan kana sa gugma".

Under the 10-year theme "Transforming Public Service in the Next Decade: Honing Agile and Future-Ready Servant-Heroes," the celebration's central theme was "Dynamism." This highlighted the significance of digital transformation, innovation, excellence, and the persistent commitment to public service, as conveyed in a virtual message by CSC Chairperson Atty. Karlo Nograles.

“I call upon my fellow public servants to live up to and embody dynamism, especially in the delivery of public services. To support our vision for 2040, the Civil Service must be prepared to meet the evolving demands of the digital age, fully embracing the shift from a transactional to a strategic mindset." Nograles said.

Guest Speaker CSC-FO Acting Director Leilani C. Parel also reminded fellow public servants that the primary objective for which they have been entrusted with their current roles is "to provide excellent public service and to bring about customer value" as they navigate their daily routines and responsibilities.

Moreover, the ComVal Capitol Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CCMPC) and the Provincial Employees Union of Compostela Valley (PEUCV) have received Php 30k each in recognition of their consistent support during the annual celebration.

Governor Gonzaga closed the ceremony with her assurance to always pray for the employees' continued enthusiasm and commitment to pledging good public service to Dabawenyos.

"After all, we know our role, our task, that this is for the love of public service. And when we render true public service, ang tanan katawhan will truly appreciate that our government works" she genuinely voiced.

 (Jaynus Fernandez, Photos by Albert Dayao)

From feeding programs to tree planting, Sara says confidential funds used across the board

Cristina Chi - Philstar.com

September 4, 2023 | 1:01pm

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte bared on Monday that nearly all major social welfare and public assistance programs under her office use confidential funds.

During the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) budget briefing in the Senate, a more forthcoming Duterte reiterated that the confidential funds received by the OVP are used mainly for the “safe, secure and successful implementation of the projects, programs and activities” of her office, which she also enumerated.

Duterte was responding to a question by Sen. Risa Hontiveros who asked whether all the OVP projects and programs Duterte enumerated during the briefing — as well as her functions as vice president and two other roles in government — were funded by confidential expenditures. 

The vice president answered in the affirmative.

Duterte’s programs 

Duterte enumerated the following programs of the OVP which she confirmed were covered or supported by confidential expenses. Some of these, such as the Libreng Sakay and tree-planting programs, are the OVP’s flagship public assistance projects that were launched early into Duterte’s term in 2022.

“In addition to that I discharge the functions and duties of the Secretary of (the Department of Education). And in addition to that, I was tasked by the president to co-chair (the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict),” Duterte said.

“And in addition to that I also took on the role of the (president) of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization,” the vice president added.

“And all of these activities use confidential funds,” Duterte said.

Duterte’s response to Hontiveros is the first time the vice president has revealed — at least in broad terms — how the OVP has used its confidential funds since it first acquired the controversial lump sum in 2022. 

Hontiverous, however, pointed out that Duterte's other roles in DepEd and the NTF-ELCAC already have their own allocation of confidential expenses. 

Hontiveros also said that under the guidelines for confidential expenses, these can only be used for a "limited range of purposes," specifically those that are related to surveillance activities.

A 2015 joint circular covering the use of confidential and intelligence funds limits the use of confidential expenses to activities related to surveillance and information-gathering.

“So in broad terms, which activities enumerated in the joint circular are used (by the OVP) with confidential expenses?” Hontiveros asked in a mix of English and Filipino.

Duterte replied: “It varies. Not all activities are the same for each day and each month. The liquidation report of the confidential funds includes the enumeration of the use of the OVP.”

Duterte added that the OVP submits a liquidation of the confidential funds and “a list of activities” it was used for to the offices of the Senate President, the House Speaker and other concerned offices.

The senate finance panel on Monday approved the P2.385-billion proposed budget of the OVP after only Hontiveros and Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel questioned Duterte about the controversial funds. 

Sen. Bong Revilla ended the budget deliberations early out of "respect and courtesy" to Duterte. 

Makabayan bloc lawmakers last week criticized Duterte for refusing to field questions about the OVP’s confidential expenses after the House ended the agency’s budget briefing in just 15 minutes out of “parliamentary courtesy.” 

Before this, Duterte had blasted Rep. France Castro (ACT Teachers) for accusing her of illegally acquiring confidential funds through budget adjustments in 2022.

Scammer caught using confidential funds 

Duterte also said that the surveillance activities funded by the OVP's confidential expenses had led to the arrest of a scammer posing as an OVP representative to “sell” livelihood projects in Bulacan.

“As an example, we did a surveillance of complaints from constituents in Bulacan with regard to the selling of OVP assistance and selling of TUPAD projects in Bulacan. There was a surveillance operation that was run by the (Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group) for about a month,” Duterte said.

Duterte said they were able to apprehend the scammer and “successfully prosecute the case.”

“And that person went to jail for six months. That's an example of the surveillance activities conducted by the VPSPG for the projects and activities of the OVP,” Duterte said.

Hontiveros asked Duterte whether the OVP coordinated with the government’s main intelligence agency, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, and the Philippine National Police to gather intelligence.

Duterte said: “No. Intelligence starts with the communities and stakeholders. If there are complaints, then it is built up from intelligence and surveillance.”

The vice president also said there is no “reduplication” of efforts to gather intelligence as different agencies have different mandates.

Duterte also maintained that the confidential funds her office has requested each year since 2022 is something that her office “can live without.”

“The OVP can only propose the use of confidential funds based on joint circular 2015-01. But we leave it to the discretion (of Congress) who has the power of the purse to decide whether to grant confidential funds to our office. We can only propose. But we are not insisting,” Duterte said.

“We can live without confidential funds. But of course, our work will be much easier if we have the flexibility of confidential funds to monitor the safe, secure and successful implementation of the programs, projects and activities of the OVP,” she added.

In total, Duterte stands to get P650 million in confidential and intelligence funds in the proposed 2024 budget. At least P500 million will go to the OVP and P150 million will go to DepEd (P150 million), according to the 2024 National Expenditure Program.

Class cancellations: Balancing safety and learning

By: Eleanor Pinugu - @inquirerdotnet

Philippine Daily Inquirer / 04:25 AM September 04, 2023

Growing up in the pre-social media era, rainy mornings meant tuning in to A.M. radio to check if classes were canceled. The announcer typically mentioned affected cities in alphabetical order, and as soon as I heard “Parañaque,” I would immediately crawl back under the covers. On days when no such declaration was made, I would slip into autopilot mode and prepare for school while half-asleep.

However, there were times when the verdict on class cancellation came much later, and my classmates and I would already be in school. The joy of an unexpected day off was always tempered by the logistical nightmare of getting home. Our school bus service would eventually show up, but since its limited fleet was designed to pick up students at different dismissal times, not all of us could be immediately accommodated. Whenever I missed the first batch, my stranded busmates and I would sit down on the pavement, with little to do except eat microwavable pizza from the sole open food stand and wait for the second shift. Before we knew it, we had spent almost the entire day in school just waiting to go home.

Lost time was one thing, but the inconvenience I endured pales in comparison to the experience of students and teachers who rely on public transportation. Aside from braving heavy rain, they stand in long queues for a bus or jeepney and sit through hours of traffic to get to school, only for classes to eventually be canceled. They need to brace themselves for an even more challenging journey back home, with the possibility of getting stranded in flooded or vehicle-scarce areas.

To enhance the efficiency of class cancellation announcements, the Department of Education released updated guidelines in September 2022. According to Department Order No. 37, in-person and online classes from kindergarten to Grade 12 and work are automatically suspended if the school is in an area under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal Nos. 1 to 5. The same is followed in cases where there is a flood warning, as well as when there are orange (intense) and red (torrential) rainfall warnings.

Nonetheless, delays in announcing class suspensions still occur when there are no official storm warnings from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) but there are strong winds, torrential rains, or flooding in specific areas. In these cases, suspension of classes is left to the local government unit’s discretion. Since public school classes start as early as 6 a.m., announcements made after 4:30 a.m. mean that many students are already en route, with some having already reached school. This not only compromises their safety, but also wastes their time, money, and resources.

Some disagree with early class cancellations, with concerns about unnecessary disruptions to the learning process, especially given the significant pandemic-related learning loss. I would argue, however, that announcing class cancellations a day in advance whenever possible could afford teachers ample time to plan and assign asynchronous activities, ensuring the momentum of learning continues at home. This would be a far more beneficial use of the students’ time, than the frustration and physical exhaustion they endure when stuck in the commute to school.

Department Order No. 37 acknowledges the need for adjustments in learning delivery in the event of class cancellations and encourages schools to implement modular distance learning, performance tasks, and make-up classes to ensure that learning competencies are still met. As climate change continues to make weather disturbances more common, schools should be more proactive in planning for quality remote learning activities that could be implemented during typhoon season. These measures could be as straightforward as preparing worksheets to reinforce mastery of previously tackled concepts or projects that students could undertake at home to introduce them to new topics scheduled for classroom discussion. The lockdown has provided us educators enough practice to guide our students in learning beyond the confines of the classroom. Perhaps it is time to apply that same creative resourcefulness to this context.

As always, flexibility and empathy must be paramount. Given that many students still grapple with challenges such as inconsistent internet access, unreliable devices, and a lack of quiet study spaces, the objective should not be to replicate everything they would have accomplished in a typical classroom day. Saturday makeup classes can serve that purpose. Instead, the focus should be activities that spark a child’s curiosity, deepen understanding, and build self-sufficiency. By nurturing independent learners and encouraging proactive educators, we are also cultivating a more resilient education system that could evolve with changes and overcome disruptions brought about by an uncertain future.

Read more: https://opinion.inquirer.net/166046/class-cancellations-balancing-safety-and-learning#ixzz8CIr0xsx1

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TOP 10 PHILIPPINES (TRAVELERS PARADISE)

Lost LeBlanc

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These are the top 10 places to see in the Philippines. The Philippines is a must visit if you are traveling around Southeast Asia. If you're coming to the Philippines, I have made a complete video guide for you! https://lostleblanc.myshopify.com/col... How to Travel the Philippines    • HOW TO TRAVEL THE PHILIPPINES   Top 10 of Thailand -    • TOP 10 THAILAND (THE BEST OF THAILAND)   Philippines VLOG Playlist    • Philippines Travel Vlog Series   Instagram LostLeBlanc SnapChat LostLeBlanc Twitter LostLeBlanc Facebook LostLeBlanc Laura's Insta: LauraReidd Laura's vlog:    / laurareidd   Laura's snap: LauraReidYT

No more guidance, counseling program for Filipinos traveling abroad to see foreign partners -- BI

BY JEFFREY DAMICOG

Sep 3, 2023 09:09 AM

  

Filipinos who are going abroad to see their foreign partners are no longer required starting today, Sept. 3, to undergo the guidance and counseling program (GCP) of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO), the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said.

In a statement, Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the scrapping of the GCP requirement was issued by the CFO, a member of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), to lessen the requirements for departing Filipinos.

All immigration officers have been informed of the new CFO rule, Tansingco said.

“The inter-agency council is committed to continuously review departure requirements for departing Filipinos to adapt to current trends,” Tansingco said.

“The BI, as an implementing agency, is ready to implement changes in departure guidelines, as deemed fit by members of the inter-agency,” he added.

He said he received a letter last Aug. 31 from CFO Chairperson Romulo Arugay who informed the BI of the latest rule.

“The GCP was initially a requirement for Filipinos with foreign partners departing to meet or marry abroad,” he also said.

He pointed out that the new rule is part of the 2023 Revised Guidelines on Departure Formalities for Internationally-Bound Filipino Travelers.

Earlier, IACAT had announced the suspension of the implementation of the revised guidelines which were supposed to be implemented today, Sept. 3.

Several quarters have raised their objections to the revised guidelines claiming the new rules violate a person’s right to travel.

The Senate had requested IACAT to defer the implementation of the new guidelines.  Its request was granted.

BI warns OFWs vs ‘third country recruitment’

BY JEFFREY DAMICOG

Sep 3, 2023 09:49 AM

  

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) warned Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) against accepting “third country recruitment” or the contract to work in another country other than the place where they were originally and legitimately hired.

With the practice of “third country recruitment,” the Philippine government would not have records of the OFWs being transported to a different country, BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said on Sunday, Sept. 3.

Tansingco said that OFWs, who usually accept “third country recruitment” after their visas expire, would be immediately transferred to the third country and would not get an opportunity to return to the Philippines.

“While ‘third party recruitment’ is beyond the scope of the BI, we deem it necessary to share to the public stories we encounter at the airport, as we are the first to hear about this back in the Philippines,” he said.

He stressed that “OFWs should protect themselves from exploitation by ensuring proper documentation when they work abroad.”

Tansingco issued the warning after five Filipinos arrived in the Philippines last Sept. 1 after their deportation from Moscow, Russia.

He said that four of the victims, all females with valid overseas employment certificates, shared the difficulties they encountered in Russia.

“Three of the female victims were OFWs in Hong Kong and were recruited to transfer to Russia upon expiry of their contracts,” he said.

“The other female victim worked as a nanny but remained in Russia despite the expiry of her contract,” he noted.

The male deportee, on the other hand, left the Philippines as a tourist to visit his OFW wife but overstayed due to Covid-19 pandemic, he said.

 

Filipina among contestants for HYBE's 'The Debut: Dream Academy' for next girl group

The 20 contestants of "The Debut: Dream Academy" including the Philippines' Sophia Laforteza

Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — Filipina Sophia Laforteza is one of twenty contestants vying to be part of HYBE and Geffen Records' next global girl group through the talent show "The Debut: Dream Academy."

The 20-year-old Laforteza and 19 other young ladies originating from South Korea, Japan, United States, Australia, Brazil, Argentina, Belarus, Sweden and Slovakia were selected from over 120,000 candidates from a process dating back to November 2021.

"The Debut: Dream Academy" released posters and short videos introducing each of the 20 candidates, who all underwent the K-pop training and development system.

Beginning September 1, "The Debut: Dream Academy" will air on Youtube and Japanese streaming platform Abema, concluding with a finale on November 18 with the final members and name of the new girl group.

Fans can also participate by voting on TikTok and Weverse which members they want to be considered to make the cut. The group's concept and how many will ultimately be chosen will be announced at a future date.

The eventual group's development process will be filmed for a Netflix documentary series coming out next year directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Nadia Hallgren.

"Each candidate is incredibly talented, dedicated, and driven, making this an exciting moment for music fans around the world,"  said Geffen Records’ chairman John Jannick in a statement.

HYBE is the Korean agency behind BTS, Seventeen, NewJeans, Enhypen, Tomorrow X Together and Le Sserafim.

Meanwhile, Universal Music Group's Geffen Records founded by veteran producer David Geffen currently manages Ann Marie, Kali Uchis, Neon Trees, Big Time Rush, Marshemello, American distribution for Seventeen, NewJeans, and Le Sserafim, reissues of Nirvana, and Filipino-American Olivia Rodrigo.

FDCP's homage to Dolphy and other pillars of PH comedy

 

The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) is gearing up to pay homage to some of the most revered Filipino comedians as part of the 3rd Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM) celebrations this September.

With the theme "Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Tawanan," this event will shine a spotlight on the profound impact of Philippine comedy by honoring Filipino personalities whose names have become synonymous with what Pinoy comedy is.

Rodolfo "Dolphy" Quizon, hailed as the undisputed King of Comedy, takes center stage in this year's PFIM as the industry pays homage to his indelible contributions.

Dolphy embodied the quintessential Filipino Everyman, effortlessly balancing both laughter and tears. His comedic genius transcended generations and mediums, from bodabil to television and film. The FDCP will posthumously honor the Comedy King with its Highest Honors, recognizing him as a beacon of Filipino humor.

Along with the King of Comedy, the following pillars of the genre will also be honored:

Michael V. Over the span of three decades, Beethoven Bunagan, popularly known as "Bitoy" or Michael V., has emerged as one of the nation's most prolific comedians.

As one of the brains behind "Bubble Gang," the Philippines' longest-running comedy show, Michael V. has masterfully crafted characters — "Yaya Angelina," "Bonggang Bonggang Bongbong," "Mr. Assimo," and "Doña Yna Moran" — and blended comedy, satire, and social commentary.

Eugene Domingo. Her journey began in theater, collaborating with luminaries like Tony Mabesa and Ishmael Bernal before establishing herself as a prominent film and TV actress. Domingo's portfolio includes lead roles in the "Kimmy Dora" franchise and Marlon Rivera's critically-acclaimed "Ang Babae sa Septic Tank," the Philippines' 2011 Academy Awards entry. Her seamless transition from theater to screen has elevated comedy into an art form of intelligence and depth.

AiAi delas Alas. She is dubbed as the country's Queen of Comedy. Her comedic prowess has translated into box office hits like the "Ang Tanging Ina" series directed by the late Wenn Deramas. Beyond comedy, delas Alas has excelled in dramatic roles, garnering accolades from prestigious local and international award-giving bodies. With a career spanning over three decades, she has adeptly navigated the spectrum from slapstick to poignant performances, solidifying her iconic status.

Vice Ganda. Jose Marie Viceral, fondly known as "Vice Ganda," has evolved from stand-up comedy at local bars to becoming a sought-after icon in the entertainment realm. Blockbuster films, high-rated TV shows, endorsements, and sold-out concerts attest to Vice Ganda's substantial influence. A proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Vice Ganda has redefined success, inspiring countless others.

Tito, Vic, and Joey. Enduring the test of time, the trio of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey — collectively known as TVJ — have remained fixtures in Filipino hearts for over five decades and has since become everyone's "dabarkads" through their longest-running television show. Representing authentic Filipino humor, TVJ's rapport with viewers has withstood the challenges of a competitive industry.

The 3rd Philippine Film Industry Month awarding ceremony takes place on September 29 at Acacia Hotel Manila, coinciding with the PFIM 2023 Closing Ceremony.

A grand tribute for the late King of Comedy will also happen as the tradition of humor and laughter continues and be carried by the younger generation of comedians.

Empowering Filipino Artists: Unveiling the Game-Changing Legislation for Mid-Career Art Careers

By Lucell Larawan

In the heart of the Philippines lies a treasure trove of artistic brilliance, where creativity flows like Loboc river, painting the nation's cultural canvas with vibrant hues of imagination and ingenuity. From the visual arts hottest stars like Ronald Venura and Andres Barroquinto to Rodel Tapaya, Filipino artists have continued to push the boundaries of artistic expression in the modern era. However, amidst rapid societal development, the plight of mid-career artists often remains overlooked, stifling the growth of our artistic community. It is time to shine a spotlight on these talented creators and unveil the game-changing legislation that will empower and nurture their artistry, enriching our cultural heritage and driving forward our society.

The Link Between Artistic Development and Societal Progress

Art has long been regarded as a mirror reflecting society's hopes, dreams, and challenges. Its profound impact extends beyond aesthetics, encompassing the very essence of societal development. The value of art is not solely in its visual appeal but in its ability to ignite conversations, evoke emotions, and foster a sense of identity and unity.

A study conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts revealed that communities rich in artistic opportunities experience a wide array of benefits. These include increased civic engagement, reduced crime rates, enhanced educational outcomes, and a boost in local economies. Art, in all its forms, breathes life into the very essence of a community, making it more resilient and vibrant.

Filling the Gap: Democratizing Support for Artists

While the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) plays a pivotal role in promoting and preserving Filipino arts and culture, the support it can provide to mid-career artists is often limited by the constraints of budget and resources. The proposed game-changing legislation seeks to address this gap by democratizing the ability to support artists. It encourages not just government agencies but also private institutions, individuals, and communities to actively participate in nurturing and uplifting mid-career artists.

Game-Changing Legislation for Mid-Career Art Careers

1) Mid-Career Art Grants Program: Recognizing the challenges faced by mid-career Filipino artists, the government introduces the Mid-Career Art Grants Program. This dedicated fund will provide financial support to these artists, empowering them to undertake ambitious projects and advance their craft. For instance, artists like Elena Santos, a talented painter in her mid-career, could receive a grant to create a series of thought-provoking murals exploring the themes of environmental conservation and social justice. With access to resources for art materials, research, workshops, and exhibitions, mid-career artists can embrace innovation and reimagine artistic boundaries.

Rationale: Many mid-career artists face financial constraints that hinder their ability to explore new avenues and elevate their craft. By offering grants, the government can empower artists like Elena Santos to experiment, innovate, and contribute significantly to the country's art scene.

2) Tax Incentives for Art Patronage: To foster a culture of appreciation for the arts and encourage private sector involvement, the government proposes tax incentives for individuals and corporations supporting mid-career artists through art purchases, sponsorships, or donations to cultural institutions. For example, a corporation that sponsors a mid-career artist like Juan Del Cruz’s solo exhibition could receive tax deductions, encouraging more businesses to invest in the arts.

Rationale: Encouraging patronage through tax incentives not only supports artists financially but also fosters a culture of appreciation for the arts in the broader community. It can lead to a more vibrant and sustainable ecosystem for art development.

3) Art Education and Mentorship Program: Acknowledging the transformative power of mentorship and education, the government initiates an Art Education and Mentorship Program. This program aims to connect mid-career artists with experienced professionals and mentors, providing them with workshops, training sessions, and networking opportunities. Through this structured support, artists can hone their skills, preserve artistic traditions, and embrace new techniques, fostering a vibrant and innovative art scene. For instance, a mid-career sculptor like Juan Dela Cruz could participate in a mentorship program with a renowned sculptor, learning new techniques and expanding her artistic horizons.

Rationale: By promoting a structured mentorship and education system, we can help mid-career artists refine their techniques, expand their horizons, and gain valuable insights from established artists. This fosters a sense of community and helps sustain artistic traditions while fostering innovation.

4) Public Art Commissions: Encourage government agencies, local governments, and private organizations to allocate a portion of their budgets for public art commissions. These commissions should prioritize mid-career Filipino artists, offering them opportunities to create public installations, sculptures, murals, and other artistic expressions in various public spaces. For example, a city council could commission a mid-career artist like Juan Dela Cruz to create a stunning sculpture for a public park, enriching the community's artistic experience.

Rationale: Public art not only enhances the visual appeal of communities but also serves as a platform for artists to showcase their talents to a broader audience. By involving mid-career artists in public art projects, we can increase their visibility and recognition while making art more accessible to the public.

The Impact: A Specific Example

Once these game-changing legislative ideas become laws, the impact on the artistic community can be monumental. One specific example of this impact is seen through the rise of an annual "Mid-Career Artists Festival," a celebration of artistic innovation and creativity that showcases the works of mid-career artists from various disciplines. This festival provides artists with a platform to engage with a wider audience, attract potential patrons, and collaborate with other creative minds. For instance, a mid-career filmmaker like Juan dela Cruz could screen his latest film during the festival, gaining exposure and recognition.

As a result, the festival becomes a cultural highlight, drawing both locals and international visitors to experience the richness and diversity of Filipino contemporary art. The success of the festival, fueled by the legislation's support, propels the mid-career artists' careers forward, creating a sustainable and vibrant artistic community.

Conclusion

The time has come to place mid-career Filipino artists on a pedestal, providing them with the support and resources they deserve to thrive and innovate. The proposed game-changing legislation aims to empower artists, enrich our cultural heritage, and drive societal progress. As we embrace these visionary reforms, we take a giant leap forward in shaping a brighter, more vibrant future for both the arts and the nation as a whole. Together, let us celebrate the power of art and ignite a new era of artistic excellence in the Philippines.

HEAVEN, NAIA MESS, EASY WAY OUT

ReniMV Valenzuela

renimvalenzuela@gmail.com

Who wants the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to remain one of the worst airports in the world? Nobody.  But who sells or disowns his child just because the child is problematic? Nobody either - except the loveless and crazy.  

The Marcos Jr. administration has just formally kicked off the sale of NAIA to private sector. But for unknown, real/deeper sense and repercussion, what does this mean?

Letting one's knee touch the canvas during a boxing match up means surrender. Alas, this is exactly what the government tries to do in pushing its knee hard to the floor. Or in doggedly pushing to privatize the "helplessly" beleaguered NAIA. It is the way to "solve" the mess at the country's premiere airport, so they thought. 

But what is the use of government if government can't compete with the private sector in efficiency or governance, and modernization? What can private people do that public officials can't, with all the yearly budget (in trillions of pesos) at their disposal?  Cryptic. 

Hindi ba gobyerno pa nga ang dapat magpakita ng pinakamagaling, pinakamoderno at pinakamagandang halimbawa para sa lahat sa bansa?  If a government can't set a right example for everyone, then how can its people expect something good to come out from such a government? 

There is more than meets the eye to all of these NAIA brouhahas/shenanigans. The issue is more a challenge for our officials to be capable, effective and wise than it is a matter of solving any of the persisting problems at NAIA?  That's the puzzle pieces, assembled and complete. 

For what sane reason does the Department of Transportation and Communication (or Malacanang) want to privatize NAIA?  Are they admitting that the private sector or business people are better off than them in the area of managing and administering? But if that's the case, then Filipinos would do well to have these private people take over every single office in the government. Or, could there be something behind the "privatization" move that only those behind it know so well?

Given the ever escalating prices of rice and other agricultural/local products, the needless importations, the unabated smuggling, and the hoarding that causes artificial shortages of rice, sugar, salt, onion, meat products, etc., in the market, would it be bad to suggest that we privatize the Department of Agriculture, following the government's touted line of thinking in wanting to privatize NAIA? Easy way out. 

Time to break the cycle, this vicious cycle of "privatization," lest Filipinos would someday find the entire country privatized, "wisely." 

I just had a wonderful experience of government efficiency yesterday (August 30, 2023) when I went to the central office of Philippine Statistics Authority on East Avenue to get an authenticated birth certificate.  I thought I wouldn't be able to do my purpose anymore because I came very late due to rains and heavy traffic.  

But I got the surprise of my life, having found the PSA staffs (including the guards) very accommodating and friendly, quick to respond. The processing of papers was highly systematic, cogent, instantaneous and ingenious. The counters and machines, and the whole big, wide people area were well arranged and ventilated. Admirable.  I arrived at 4:30 pm and I left at 4:50 pm, with my authenticated birth certificate.  Wonderful. No delays, hassles and inconvenience. And no exaggeration. 

For the first in my life, I felt like I was in heaven - inside a government office, unbelievably. 

P.S.

True to its motto, the PSA is "Solid. Responsive. World-class." You can do it at NAIA and elsewhere, dear government. But do away with it (privatization).