Kidlat Tahimik, FDCP Spotlight Lesser-Known Heroes in Unsung Sariling Bayani Short Film Competition

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

There are spectacular hero stories in Philippine history, and there are also simple accounts of heroism that are just as inspiring. Such unheard stories of heroism also deserve the spotlight, and these will be showcased at Kidlat Tahimik's Unsung Sariling Bayani (USB) Short Film Competition.

Through the inaugural USB, National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Kidlat Tahimik, hopes that this cinematic movement for the youth will balance the influence of foreign comic book superheroes on the Filipino youth’s mindset with compelling engagements with the glorious stories of our very own heroes.

“Balik tayo sa simple storytelling. I think we are all, even at a high school age, we are intelligent enough to see a positive value in somebody older or chosen as a hero who can really bring out the best in us,” he said.

The USB Online Film Festival was launched on April 27 by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) in partnership with the National Quincentennial Committee (NQC). The Bureau of Learner Support Services - Youth Formation Division of the Department of Education is in support of this FDCP project.

April 27, 2021 is a significant moment in Philippine history as it marks the 500th anniversary of the Victory at Mactan as well as the 500th anniversary of the Philippine part in the first circumnavigation of the world.

Kidlat Tahimik, 78, remarked, “I think it is very timely, itong 500 years after to let this be a catalyzer. Para sa akin, magandang catalyzer itong pang-udyok para maka-focus tayo on heroism but maybe also on redefining ‘Ano ba talaga ang heroism?’”

The competition for Filipinos accepts shorts of any genre as long as they feature a story depicting the life, times, and achievements of documented and verifiable unsung local heroes. The entries must be 5 to 8 minutes long, including the credits.

The USB has three categories: Youth Category - Senior High Student (Public School), Youth Category - Senior High Student (Private School), and Adult Category (Aged 18 and above). The deadline for the submission of entries is on October 11, 2021.

The FDCP Channel will host the USB Online Film Festival from November 11 to 17 and will stream the Awards Ceremony on November 14. Aside from the festival proper, USB will hold the FDCP Film School Basic Workshops on Filmmaking as well as the “Storming with Kidlat: Usapang Bayani Forum” wherein participants can consult with the National Artist himself.

FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño and National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Kidlat Tahimik ‘take a selfie’ with the acclaimed filmmaker’s bamboo camera.

A total of 30 finalists will be selected for the USB, with equal representation from the National Capital Region (NCR), Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Finalists will receive cash prizes and free access to all educational events to aid in their filmmaking process. After the competition, USB winners and finalists will get the chance to attend more free training sessions and workshops to be conducted by the FDCP.

“Through the guidance of National Artist and Father of Philippine Independent Cinema Kidlat Tahimik together with other esteemed Filipino filmmakers, I am confident that the USB finalists will take inspiration and motivation from Tatay Kidlat’s ‘bamboo camera filmmaking’ to promote the appreciation for lesser-known local heroes through short films,” said FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño.

The bamboo camera has been a symbol of Kidlat Tahimik’s remarkable local storytelling through the years. “Let the bamboo cameras guide our filmmaking,” said the National Artist born Eric de Guia who has received accolades from Cinemalaya, Gawad Urian, Prince Claus Fund, Amiens International Film Festival, and Berlin International Film Festival, among others.

“Sa dami ng mga bagong kuwento, I think yayaman ang kasaysayan ng Pilipinas and we, the small filmmakers, can contribute to the archives of our relevant local history,” noted Kidlat Tahimik.

For more information and to download the application form, visit www.fdcp.ph/sariling-bayani and for inquiries, contact Mr. Mark John Pamintuan at sarilingbayani.fdcp@gmail.com with the subject heading “Query: USB 2021.” 

Below are the UNSUNG SARILING BAYANI Mechanics and Guidelines: 

MECHANICS 

1. SHORT FILM FORMAT

• Time limit: Minimum of five (5) minutes to a maximum of eight (8) minutes, including credits

• Genre: Any, in live-action, documentary, or animation

• Language: Preferably Filipino. English or any native language is allowed, provided that there are subtitles in Filipino. 

• File format: Complete final cut and trailer must be submitted in 1080p, mp4 format, mixed in 5.1 audio format. 

2. SUBJECT AND COVERAGE

Stories that depict the life, times, and achievements of Filipino heroes (documented and verifiable - local heroes).

Lesser-known Heroes from History

1. Local heroes recognized by the local government or by the provincial government units.

2. Local heroes that have significant acts or noble contributions to the country or their own communities, such as, but not limited to:

• An initiative that has contributed to achieving the nation’s freedom

• An initiative that has helped an individual or community achieve a life of freedom, peace, and prosperity

• An act that helped save the life of an individual, especially one that involves risk to physical comfort, social stature, or quality of life

• A notable form of service that helped an individual or community in times of adversity

3. A significant figure that has made relevant contributions or has introduced a positive change in his/her field. 

These people must have appeared at least once in literature, such as reference books, newspapers, journals, etc. 

NOTE: Nationally recognized heroes who are not covered in the Festival are Jose Rizal; Andres Bonifacio; Emilio Aguinaldo; Apolinario Mabini; Marcelo H. del Pilar; Sultan Dipatuan Kudarat; Juan Luna; Melchora Aquino; Gabriela Silang; Lapu-Lapu; Antonio Luna; Gregorio del Pilar, etc.

3. CATEGORIES AND PARTICIPANTS

The competition is open to all Filipinos and will have the following categories: 

1. Youth Category - Senior High Student (Public School)

Open to all public senior high school students who are currently enrolled in the academic year 2020-2021(2nd semester) or academic year 2021-2022.

2. Youth Category - Senior High Student (Private School)

Open to all private senior high school students who are currently enrolled in the academic year 2020-2021 (2nd semester) or academic year 2021-2022. 

3. Adult Category

Open to all filmmakers from ages 18 and above.

4. AWARDS AND PRIZES 

For the Youth Categories (Public and Private):

• Best Short Film - P30,000 + certificate each

• Best Director - P20,000 + certificate each

• Audience Choice Award - P10,000 + certificate each

For the Adult Category:

• Best Short Film - P50,000 + certificate

• Best Director - P30,000 + certificate

• Audience Choice Award - P15,000 + certificate

The 21 non-winning finalists will be given consolation prizes of P5,000 each + certificates.

The winners and finalists will also get the chance to attend free training and workshops to be conducted by the FDCP after the competition.

5. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

The following must be submitted online in an organized Google Drive folder with shared viewing setting:

For the Youth Categories (Public and Private Senior High Schools):

• Duly accomplished Application Form which can be downloaded from the website (www.fdcp.ph/sariling-bayani).

• A secured direct link (either in Vimeo or Google Drive) to a high-resolution copy of the short film, available for download

• Movie trailer, maximum of 90 seconds. (This may be included in the Vimeo or Google Drive link.)       

• Poster design in JPEG format (27”x41”, 300dpi)

• School ID, enrollment form, or any proof that the student is enrolled in the current academic year (2nd Semester of AY 2020-2021 or 1st Semester of AY 2021-2022)

For the Adult Category

• Duly accomplished Application Form which can be downloaded from the website (www.fdcp.ph/sariling-bayani).

• A secured direct link (either in Vimeo or Google Drive) to a high-resolution copy of the short film, available for download.              

• Movie trailer, maximum of 90 seconds. (This may be included in the Vimeo or Google Drive link.)       

• Poster design in JPEG format (27”x41”, 300dpi)

• Resume with two (2) 2x2 photos

• Copy of a government-issued ID

All requirements must be emailed to sarilingbayani.fdcp@gmail.com. With the subject “FDCP_USB_(TITLE OF THE FILM)”.

6. RULES AND GUIDELINES

By entering the competition, the participants agree to abide by the competition guidelines and rules as follows:

1. The  submitted films must meet the short film format as stated in the mechanics.

2. The submitted films must not have been released on any platform, festival, or event before submission.

3. Participants must submit complete and correct application requirements on or before the deadline of submissions. Films with incomplete requirements will not be accepted to apply. 

4. The use of original literary sources, music materials, artwork, photography, etc., in the films, must have proper clearance from their respective copyright owners. The competition organizers shall not be liable for any costs related to claims of performing rights organizations.

5. Any modification will not be allowed for final entries except the addition of necessary subtitles.

6. Revised or re-submitted films, whether using the same or a different title, are not eligible to apply.

7. The organizers shall not be required to return any submitted material.

8. In case of any violation of the guidelines and rules or if any participant is found to have committed plagiarism or has undertaken fraudulent practice and/or activities harmful to the competition event or the submission process, the organizers reserve the right to disqualify the participant and their film, remove them from the program, or forfeit any prize from a participant at any point in the competition.

9. The USB Selection Committee will determine ten (10) finalists from each of the three categories, totaling 30 finalists. 

10. The USB Jury will determine the winning films from the thirty (30) finalists. All entries will be judged based on the official criteria given. 

11. The thirty (30) finalists will be viewed by the USB Jury that will judge the films based on the same official criteria and will decide the winners of the competition.

12. FDCP shall have non-exclusive non-commercial rights to screen the films in schools and educational institutions, various public events, and platforms for educational and cultural purposes for free, for three (3) years after the last day of the competition.

13. FDCP reserves the right to create, revoke, and modify at any time, in any way its entry requirements, rules, and regulations at its absolute discretion without prior notice. Finalists and submitted entries shall be bound by any amendments or addition to the entry requirements, rules and regulations herewith.

14. The decision of the USB Jury is final and irrevocable. The organizers and the judging committee are not obliged to explain the results.

7. DEADLINE OF SUBMISSION

Entries must be submitted on or before 11:59 pm on October 11, 2021 (Indigenous Peoples’ Day).

8. CRITERIA FOR JUDGING

CREATIVITY AND STYLE	Impactful composition of visuals and sound that effectively communicate the film’s story and objectives.	35%
RELEVANCE TO THE THEME	Promotes deeper familiarity and love for our own heroes, their lives, and achievements for our country.	45%
PRODUCTION QUALITY	Good, practical filmmaking with technical efficiency and cohesiveness.	20%
	TOTAL	100%

9. USB ONLINE FILM FESTIVAL

The 30 finalist films will be screened during the USB Online Film Festival via FDCP Channel on November 11-17, 2021.

10. ANNOUNCEMENT OF WINNERS DURING AWARDS NIGHT

An Awards Ceremony will be held on November 14, 2021 (Sunday).

11. INQUIRIES

All queries can be sent to sarilingbayani.fdcp@gmail.com with the subject heading “Query: USB 2021.” 

Ateneo fresh grads deserve higher starting salaries

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

"I just made a job offer to an Ateneo fresh grad, and I was shocked that she declined a 37k starting salary. The role is for an entry level Marketing Associate. I asked for her reason and she said that she expects at least 60k because of her educational background. I’M SPEECHLESS."

By the way, the tweet is not intended to bash Ateneo grads. It’s actually a thought-provoking situation — what kind of mindset do kids have these days? Are they simply out of touch with reality, or were they brought up to think they deserve such huge salaries right off the bat?

Pag natataasan sa asking ng applicant kailangan magpapansin agad sa socmed? At kailangan pangalanan yung school?

Napaka unprofessional yata...or intended to malign the applicant or school?

Can I also just say how it’s so unethical and weird to publicly criticize an interviewee for respectfully declining your salary offer? bakit kailangan i-shame? bawal humindi??

Many people misinterpreted the tweet. The whole point was her reason for rejecting the offer. She said IT’S BECAUSE OF MY EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND. She was a graduate of a 4-year course like all the other candidates. She basically said she deserves 60k because she’s from Ateneo. 

Let’s say she did deserve more. Her reply could’ve been better. I dunno. It sounded entitled and arrogant to me. Parang may attitude. There’s a difference bet knowing one’s worth and arrogance. Maybe she was inarticulate kaya?

She should have answered “I deserve 60k because I have exceptional communication skills, I can make you more than 60k in a month. I may have no experience but with my internship at …etc” Kesa nagsabi niya because of my “educ background”

Ateneans are not out of touch with reality; some companies do pay 60k right off the bat. Not because employers can’t afford a talent doesn’t mean the talent is entitled. Maybe she has other options, as you also have yours? So it’s a win-win for you both.

Such companies don't pay that kind of salary for fresh graduates because they're from a particular school. They should  pay because they think that your potential is high enough to warrant that investment.

Not because you were not offered it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. The multinational companies of the world give them to fresh grads easily. I’m sorry they did not hire you to give an actual sound experience.

The applicant in question is applying for an entry level position & frankly that amount is generous by Philippine standard. Since the applicant is a fresh grad & the alma mater is his/her only bargaining chip it’s safe to say that she lacks substantial experience for premium pay.

But try applying at organizations belonging to the United Nations, and for sure you'll get close to that amount or even higher.

So turning down a job is entitlement? That's the bar, just anybody who turns down any job is entitled?

She probably doesn't HAVE to work, so she's willing to wait for the big bucks. But unless she's an excellent coder, software engineer etc., She will have a hard time getting that salary on her own merits. Through Palakasan at nepotism, especially within the government where the unqualified gets a position, pwede pa. You already have an edge if you're from Davao.

Just a thought.

A Japanese fresh from Uni makes about ¥ 2.4M annual base salary. That's about PhP 1.07M/year or 89K/mo.

On average, bonuses paid twice a year range from 3 to 6 months salary. This translates to gross annual income of between PhP 1.34M-1.605M or 112K-134K/mo.

What now, Philippines?

On the other hand, PH GDP/capita (2019) is $ 3,485 while Japan's is $ 40,246 or 11.5 times that of PH's. By this benchmark, starting pay for fresh graduates in Philippines should be about PhP 9K-11K/mo on a 13 month calculation.

Point is, a young, single Japanese professional lliving on his own, renting an apartment in the Tokyo area, and mainly eats out at restaurants can live off the pay he receives.

A Filipino counterpart cannot possibly live off the same level of pay adjusted for difference in GDP.

This shows that the Philippines is an extremely expensive place to live. 

The economic managers should crack their heads and try to bring down the cost of living - food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, education, telecoms, transpo - the whole shebang, actually.

But, prices are "sticky downwards" in economics jargon. It means that prices (wages for that matter) are nearly impossible to bring down. This is why inflation is a very closely watched metric; a period of low inflation makes it easier for the economy and incomes to outpace prices. As incomes grow and prices stable, the quality of life improves affording the people better food, housing, etc.

After the Marcos recession, the economy has grown consistently year in and year out except for a minor hiccup for one year during Estrada's presidency.

Hence, for the most part, incomes were outpacing prices and the growth trajectory shifted upwards after the 2008-09 financial crisis. It appeared to be that an acceleration in income growth was imminent.

This momentum waned from 2017 and every year thereafter, growth was lower than the prior year. The denouement of 2020 saw the economy back to where it was in 2016.

What we see now are 2021 prices at 2016 incomes. Data for 2021 so far indicates a futher decline in income while prices are increasing at a faster rate. This means that Filipinos will be poorer - lower income that what they had in 2016 but cost of living much higher than 2020.

We should then be asking what the leaders, economic and political, are doing to help the Filipino to afford these prices at incomes of 6 or 7 years ago.

Kids these days, w access to internet, can easily make 50K/week online. Anyone who thinks 37k is okay because you’re a kid, is out of touch w reality. But, if the kid really believed she deserved more SOLELY because of her degree, then ya, she isn’t someone you’d want to hire.

The mindset that kids have these days is to not settle for less. If she thinks it's not enough then it's not enough. And to think na she's from Ateneo.. uhm. Baka barya lang sa kanya yung 37k, we don't know..

The mindset is called "I want to live comfortably inside this overpriced shithole city"

Maybe she’s just young and idealistic... and being just that. She should learn as she gets older.

That's what happens when everyone gets a gold star even when they fail. Let's wait and see how these 'no fail policy' wokes would turn out in the future.

I think that this points to a need for students about to head into the workforce to be transparently informed about what they should expect out of their industry's wages, perhaps as part of the curriculum.

If she really thinks she is that good and deserves a higher pay, then why not start her own business or company from scratch and be the boss right away? It is interesting to know where this gal would end up a year down the road. Good luck to her!

Two of my favorite quotes:  “Never sell yourself short” and “You always get what you paid for”

Jolo Revilla blames intern for social media post error

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Jolo Revilla issued an apology on Tuesday afternoon after he mistakenly identified Lapulapu as Ferdinand Magellan on social media.

"I apologize for the earlier confusing post on our celebration of Lapu-lapu's victory in Mactan 500 yrs ago. 

An intern in our social media team posted the caption to our meme without first clearing it. 

Again, my sincerest apologies to our Cebuano kababayans and to all Filipinos."

Kawawang intern nasisi pa, pwede namang mag-sorry ka na lang. Saan accountability? Alam na kanino mana.

It would have been better if the apology did not place the blame on the intern.

Politician to the highest level. No accountability at all. Free to blame anyone of his mistake. It's like: I'm sorry...kasalanan kasi niya, pero sorry pa rin. lol

Senator Bong Go also apologized for wrongly claiming Lapulapu was from Sulu. He says  it was his staff who included the wrong information in his address for the 500th anniversary of the Battle of Mactan.

Eh? Why not check whatever you're gonna read first? Should've just apologized without blaming anyone. Putek..si staff na naman ang naputukan..ano ka ba taga basa lang ng kahit anong ipabasa sa yo??

Sige basa.... kiss ass...play photographer..and personal assistant to the president. That's what you are good at.

If the city government could easily plan on declaring a rapper like EZ Mill persona non grata for his lyrics saying Magellan killed Lapu-Lapu, I invite the mayor to do so on Bong Go for saying Lapu-Lapu was a Tausug.

As for Jolo Revilla, he could have stopped blaming his intern. Come on. You are still responsible for the faux pas. Man up and say you are truly sorry....without putting the blame on somebody else.

Your team reflects you, sir. This is very basic Philippine history information. This is a big NO, NO. Parang covid 14 error lang yan. Sana bago ilabas, ipost o basahin nirereview nyo muna.

It's your account. Regardless if you have an admin or not to manage it, take ownership. That's what a true leader does. Not finding someone to pin the blame on. Regardless if it was true. Our social media posts should be our responsibility. Granted we can use social media managers to ease our tasks, we still are responsible to check the content for accuracy and completeness.

When a message bears your name, own it up! It shows the type of leader you are Jolo Revilla! Cavite doesn’t deserve you! They deserve someone better with command responsibility.

I feel sorrry for the supposed “intern” who had to take the fall, if there’s really one. And most importantly, never ruin an apology with an excuse. Just apologize and sit down.

Mapa-Jolo, mapa-Bong Epal, bintang sa staff ang sariling katangahan. Puro blame game ang alam nitong mga ito.

Never ruin an apology with an excuse.

True and real leadership is all about taking accountability and ownership. Own it and have accountability period. No shame blaming.

I told myself I'll let go of that Jolo Revilla fiasco. Then, Jam Magno happened.

Ayaw ko na sa Earth!!!

And I just love to see someone to eat their own words.Please be enlightened that is a fake account. The official account is @thejammagno. 

Resurrecting this Jolo Revilla classic, for more fun:

“Tama ‘yang ginagawa ninyo! Bola muna bago droga...” –Vice Gov. Jolo Revilla

From the same mouth that uttered the words, "basketball muna bago droga" 

Never change, Jolo. Never change.

The NHCP issues a statement on the origin of #Lapulapu and other details of his life. 

Vice Gov. Jologs, Jamaligno & Bongago left the chatroom! Went directly to Belo's operating room for their TINY BRAIN enlargement using taxpayers'money for their operations.

Not surprising since they do have stupidity in their history. Kanino pa ba magmamana?

When we vote people that is not rooted and responsive in the community, we got the likes of Bong Go or Jolo Revilla. 

Gising Pilipinas, separate your obsession with popular clowns when votingfor politicians to run our government. This is not a joke. Think of our country's future. We put the country in chaos when we put these clowns in our government.

Apologizing with blaming on the sides is humility.... pinpointing to blame others? That is definitely unbecoming of a public servant!!! He didn't own the mistake, instead he point on his intern... worst trying to make a "meme" for an extra ordinary fact on Philippine history?? 'Cmon??!!! It wasn't a meme , it was a gaffe.

And if it was a meme.. that’s also uncalled for in a public official to make fun of our national heroes. Shame on you, Jolo Revilla!

And when you thought it's only Jolo Revilla and Bong Go, here comes another clown from Malacañang:

"Katulad ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte si Lapulapu, ang Datu na namuno sa mga mandirigma ng Mactan laban sa mga pwersa ni Ferdinand Magellan", ayon kay Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque. 

Worst than Manny Pacquiao's Bible interpretations.

Pinoy Culture 101:

We are so used to hearing our heroes die that this mistake is not really that surprising.

We consider death to be the "only" way to be a "bayani", that it is forever immortalized in the last line of our national anthem.

Do we really need to die for our country? When our fellow Filipinos continue to vote for these clowns? When our fellow Filipinos continue to serve with vested interests? Noone should accept a government position when they are too stupid to run their tasks.

Well, in the first place, in was said that Lapulapu wasn't really defending the "Philippines".The concept of a united archipelago as one nation did not yet exist (ironically Spain invented that concept)Lapulapu simply fought for his tribe against a rival chieftain (Humabon) w/ whom Magellan teamed up.

My hero of the day for saving everybody's day with a simple history telling that even bong go and jolo revilla can learn! 

YOYOY VILLAME - Singer/Historian (Pwede di ba!)

Enjoy pa tayo!

National ID registration website reported technical glitches

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Many are concerned that the National ID system might have security or privacy issues.

People apprehensive of national ID systems because of privacy issues... then post their personal info on FB, Tw, Ig, Tiktok, uploads pictures of their family, their house, their purchases. Y'all worried about privacy? Google and Facebook have all our data already.

I'm a bit skeptical about getting a national ID since the government's information systems aren't secured enough to handle personal database. [sighs] if only our country is open to technology advancement...

What's worst is today was supposed to be the first day of the national ID registration website to be active but then....

The official page of PSA Philippine Identification System announced Friday, the first day of online registration for the national ID, that its system is having technical difficulties. 

"Our technical team is currently figuring out the source of the problem," it wrote. 

24.8 Billion pesos budget ng National ID system tapos open source application lang ginamit. nakurakot na naman yata.

First day of online registration for National ID and your site is down and full of errors. How convenient... and prepared. Lol!

Why am I not surprised about how bad the preparations were for something as important as a national ID system?

PSA site crashed in the first minute of opening for National ID registration. How can we even trust the government in the security of our data?

On Day 1, technical glitch mars National ID online registration

Ang mga clown nga naman, palpak at katawa tawa. Saan ba pinagpupulot ang nagpapaktabo sa mga department na yan. Sayang oras at bayad sa inyo. Puro bulok at basura. Simpleng online registration portal Hindi mapaganda. Paano pa masisigurong safe from hackers getting our confidential information?

Post Office released commemorative stamps to mark 500 years of Lapu-Lapu and Battle of Mactan

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

To commemorate the 500 years Anniversary of the victory of Lapu-Lapu in the Battle of Mactan, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) launched the commemorative postage stamp to honor the transcending spirit of heroism, gallantry, and bravery of the Filipinos.

Postmaster General Norman “Mr. Postman” Fulgencio and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea led the presentation and commemorative launching of the “Battle of Mactan” Postage Stamps which was held at the at Liberty Shrine, Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City.

The Battle of Mactan was a fierce clash fought on April 27, 1521. The warriors of Lapu-Lapu, one of the Datus of Mactan, overpowered and defeated a Spanish force under the command of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who was killed in the battle.

“Through this postage stamp, our future generations will learn not just the day when our forebears were victorious in battle, but also the day when Filipinos acknowledged its place worldwide as a significant contributor to the development and progress of humanity”, Postmaster General Fulgencio said.

Commemorative Stamp and official first day covers of the “Battle of Mactan”, for the Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines - Victory and Humanity, 1521-2021 are now available at the Philatelic Counter, Manila Central Post Office or can be ordered through “Stamps on Wheels”.

Stamps are also available in Mega Manila Post Offices, Postal Area 1,Tuguegarao, Postal Area 2, San Fernando, La Union, Postal Area 4, San Pablo, Area 5, Mandaue, Postal Area 6, Iloilo, Postal Area 7, Davao, Postal Area 8, Cagayan de Oro, and Postal Area 9, Zamboanga.

For inquiries, please call 8527-01-08 or 8527-01-32 or follow/like the facebook page https://www.facebook.com/PilipinasPhilately/ for updates.

 

Simultaneous declaration of the Integrity Pledge and signing of the Manifesto on the Pledge of Cooperation and Oath of Honesty

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade and Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) Chairman Greco Belgica led the simultaneous declaration of the Integrity Pledge and signing of the Manifesto on the Pledge of Cooperation and Oath of Honesty as a manifestation of reaffirming the commitment of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and its attached agencies to fight corruption in the government.

More than a thousand officials and employees of the DOTr and its four sectors - Aviation, Railways, Road Transport, and Maritime – took part in the nationwide simultaneous virtual oath-taking and signing ceremony before the PACC today, 28 April 2021.

In his message, Secretary Tugade recalled that it was on December 14, 2016, when the entire DOTr first signed the commitment and took an oath to uphold ethical practice and good governance through the Integrity Pledge.

The Transportation Chief stressed that the Integrity Pledge and the signing the Manifesto will remind the entire DOTr workforce of the essence of public service and on the performance of duty with utmost diligence, honesty, and excellence.

“Hangarin ko na magbigay ng paalala. Paalala na 'wag tayong makalimot sa ating panunumpa na hindi tayo magiging corrupt. Ngayon, sasabihin muli natin sa pagtatapos ng ating katungkulan sa gobyerno, tayo ay hindi magiging corrupt. Tayo ay mananatiling mandirigma laban sa korapsyon. Tayo ay mananatiling isang 'gladiator' laban sa korapsyon,” Tugade stressed.

Secretary Tugade added that efforts and initiatives of the DOTr, including its fight against corruption, were intensified despite the pandemic.

“Sa ating pakikibaka laban sa pandemiya, dapat walang kurakot, dapat walang magsasamantala, dapat walang kupit, dapat ang atin lang iniisip ay kapakanan ng bayan at ang kapakanan ng tao. Pandemiya man o hindi, kailangan yung kapakanan ng tao ay mananatiling isang commitment—isang covenant sa sambayanan,” Tugade remarked.

Meanwhile, Tugade affirmed to PACC Chairman Greco Belgica that the DOTr will remain uncompromising when it comes to corruption.

DOTr Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Paul Reinier Yebra reported that based on the proceedings of the agency’s Investigation Security and Law Enforcement Staff (ISLES), from March 2019 to 27 February 2021, corruption-related cases led to the dismissal of 149 DOTr personnel and the suspension of 20 others. He added that one case was even referred to the PACC.

Additionally, DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan said the agency follows a strict budget utilization and processing of big-ticket infrastructure projects, in coordination with development partners.

As for the DOTr attached agencies, LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III emphasized that the granting of a franchise is free. He also appealed to stakeholders to report any incident concerning the illegal acquisition of vehicle franchises.

For the LTO, Assistant Secretary Edgar Galvante said they have eased the processes of getting a driver’s license and vehicle registration. He likewise urged the public not to deal with “fixers.”

Meanwhile, Secretary Tugade challenged officials and employees of the DOTr and its attached agencies to fulfill the public's high expectations from the government.

“To my fellow servants in government, remember that you are privileged to work for the people, with the people, and because of the people. Because of this, the expectations of people in you, on the discharge of our responsibilities are high. We have to reach out to this commitment. We have to reach out to the expectations of the people na tayo ay gaganap ng ating katungkulan, walang katarantaduhan, walang pagnanakaw, walang pagsasamantala,” Tugade said.

For his part, PACC Chairman Greco Belgica commended Secretary Tugade for the initiative as this serves as an example for other agencies to follow.

“Nais ko pong bigyan ng special na pagbati si Secretary Tugade, at itong Department, dahil kayo po ang unang nagpresenta ng inyong sarili para sumaloob sa gawain pong ito. Sana tularan kayo ng iba pang mga opisina ng gobyerno,” Chairman Belgica said

“This signing of the Manifesto of Cooperation and Oath of Honesty is a solid testimony of your commitment to get rid of corrupt practices and unscrupulous government workers in the Transportation Department,” Belgica added.

MIAA remits whopping P13.9B dividends to national government from 2016-2019

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) performed an impressive feat after remitting P13.9 billion in dividends to the National Government (NG) from 2016 to 2019, outshining its total remittances in the last 20 years prior to the Duterte Administration.

Below are the exact comparative figures of MIAA’s remitted dividends:

*1996 - 2015 : P11,149,527,394.99*

*2016 - 2019 : P13,900,904,299.33*

It was in 2018 that MIAA made its record-breaking fiscal performance when it remitted P3.42 billion in dividends to the NG.

The MIAA’s 2018 dividend payment to the national coffers was the highest in MIAA history, exceeding by more than 50% its 2017 remittance of P2.2 billion which was then the highest recorded dividend payment made by the agency in the last two decades.

The MIAA is mandated to remit at least 50% of its annual net income to the NG after it was granted fiscal autonomy two decades ago.

Since the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte took office in 2016, the MIAA dividend payments have significantly increased.

With its continuing strong fiscal performance, the MIAA solidifies its position in the “Billionaire’s Club,” an elite circle of government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) that contributing billions of pesos in dividends to the NG.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade commended the MIAA for its stellar fiscal performance.

“MIAA’s performance in four years show consistent good fiscal management. My congratulations to the men and women of the MIAA, with the leadership of GM Ed Monreal, for your sterling numbers. The Filipino people stand to benefit from your good work,” Secretary Tugade said.

For his part, MIAA General Manager Ed Monreal urged the men and women serving the country’s premier gateway to continue striving to further improve fiscal management and allocation of resources to ensure effective and efficient delivery of airport services at the NAIA.

“The MIAA remains committed in bettering its fiscal management, as we also work on improving the infrastructure and operations of the NAIA. Ultimately, our fiscal performance should resonate in our efforts in making each airport passenger satisfied beyond expectations,” GM Monreal said.

The airport chief also thanked Secretary Tugade for instilling in all attached agencies the central directive of President Rodrigo Duterte to the DOTr to make the Filipino life comfortable through better operational management, transformational initiatives, and infrastructure spending.

“Through the guidance of our strong-willed Secretary Tugade, we push ourselves to achieve higher standards of public service. Sec. Art would hammer it on us that as public servants, it is our duty to serve our countrymen with excellence and efficiency. Our people deserve better fiscal management of government operations, so services become better, too, for the comfort of the Filipino,” GM Monreal added.

DOST-SEI holds online Exit Conference for Graduating Scholars

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) hosted its graduating scholars in a half-day online exit conference last March 26 to remind them of the true essence of being national science scholars.

The event was done online for the first time, and was attended by scholars from all over the country. A total of 703 participants composed of graduating undergraduate scholars; guest speakers; university representatives; and DOST officials convened for the activity.

The conference, headlined by the theme “Renewing S&T Scholars Commitment to the Filipino People in the New Normal,” featured talks from government agencies and notable scholar-graduates to prepare attendees on life after graduation.

In her Welcome Remarks, SEI Director Josette T. Biyo expressed hope that the talks will ignite among scholars the desire to serve the country and that the service obligation turn to something they are “willing to do rather than supposed to do.” She likewise congratulated them for their perseverance, consistency and dedication to reach the milestone and gave assurance that SEI shall continue to root for them.

DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña, meanwhile, spoke proudly of producing not only experts but also patriotic scholars, noting those who started volunteer initiatives in the COVID-19 relief in their respective regions.

“We’re confident that as DOST Scholars, you are sure to leave imprints in your work wherever you may go,” said the DOST chief.

Succeeding talks from DOST-SEI reminded the scholars of their scholarship obligations as well as introduced local and international Graduate Scholarship opportunities available for those wanting advanced degrees. Department of Education’s (DepEd) Ruby Chanda Crisostomo also briefed attendees on DepEd’s Hiring Arrangements for RA 10612/RA 7687 Scholars, while Department of Labor of Employment–National Capital Region’s Ryan Roberto Delos Reyes described the current labor market and presented insights on job application in the new normal.

Concluding the conference was Dr. Jose Ernie Lope, Batch 1991 DOST-SEI Merit scholar and now Professor at the Institute of Mathematics of the University of the Philippines – Diliman, who shared his inspiring journey from being a DOST scholar to now being one of the country’s pillars in mathematics education

Eva Macapagal Super Terminal Quarantine Facility in Manila South Harbor converted into an isolation facility amid the surge of COVID-19 cases

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Eva Macapagal Super Terminal Quarantine Facility in Manila South Harbor, which was converted into an isolation facility amid the surge of COVID-19 cases in the country, formally opened yesterday, 26 April 2021.

The conversion of the quarantine facility, which is being managed and operated by the DOTr Maritime sector since 2020, was made possible through the initiatives of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

To recall, the PPA and PCG initiated the retrofitting of the Eva Macapagal Super Terminal due to the continuous rise of COVID-19 cases in the country, particularly in the National Capital Region (NCR). Initially, the facility was set up to merely accommodate repatriated seafarers and OFWs who are required to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine. With the conversion and retrofitting, asymptomatic patients and patients with mild symptoms can now be accommodated and treated in the facility.

According to Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago, patients who are asymptomatic and with mild symptoms will be attended to in an isolated quadrant identified as Section A. This section has a 55-bed capacity. Section A can also serve as a step-down care facility for recovering patients. GM Santiago also has assured that the agency is ready to expand bed capacity should the need arises.

"Makakaasa po kayo na kung kakailanganing magdagdag ng pasilidad po para ma-expand 'yung 55-bed capacity na 'to, handa po ang Philippine Ports Authority at ang Philippine Coast Guard, sa ilalim po ng Department of Transportation, na tayo po ay makipag-kapit-bisig sa Department of Health at iba pa pong ahensya para matugunan po ang pangangailangang ito."

At present, the Eva Macapagal Super Terminal Quarantine Facility has a 211-bed capacity divided into four (4) sections for patients, health staffers, and other essential workers. Aside from Section A, Section B will house the health staff and other essential workers, while Sections C and D will continuously cater to personnel of the PCG and PPA who contracted the virus but are asymptomatic or showing mild symptoms.

"Kung matatandaaan po natin, noong Agosto po ng 2020 o last year, sa direktiba po ni Secretary Arthur Tugade at sa tulong pong pampinansyal ng Lopez Group of Companies, kinonvert po natin ang Eva Macapagal Super Terminal para maging quarantine facility po ng ating mga seafarers, 'yung mga dumadating pong tripulante po na mga Pilipino na pauwi po sa kanilang tour of service from the cruise ships at iba pang cargo vessels," GM Santiago said.

Meanwhile, DOTr Undersecretary for Administrative Affairs Artemio Tuazon Jr., who represented DOTr Secretary Arthur P. Tugade in the walk-through event, stressed the DOTr’s commitment in helping the national government, particularly the health sector, in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Itong conversion po at paggamit ng Eva Macapagal Super Terminal bilang isolation facility ay nagpapakita po ng pagtutulungan ng ating buong gobyerno. Ang DOTr, sa pamumuno po ni Secretary Tugade, ay sumusuporta po at patuloy na susuporta sa lahat 'ho ng inisiyatibo ng IATF at ng DOH, upang mapuksa itong COVID-19," Usec. Tuazon asserted