DILG IV-A Annual Report FY 2020

Message of the Regional Director The DILG IV-A CALABARZON has always been a symbol of strength and hope for the entire Region IV-A. Now more than ever, our stability was put to the test as we faced adversities from various fronts – ranging from natural disasters to threats to the peace and order condition of local communities. To prove that public service does not take a back seat when faced with difficulties, we innovated and adapted with virtual technology in the implementation of our regular programs and projects for the constituents of CALABARZON and successfully capacitated the local government units (LGUs) in all aspects of governance, as we cope with the “new normal” situation brought about by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Truly, the DILG IV-A exemplified the grit and dedication of a “Lingkod Bayan sa Gitna ng Pandemya” with our accomplishments being in line with the directives of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and the commitments of the Secretary for the Interior and Local Government Eduardo M. Año, all in response to the needs of every Filipino in these trying times. In this Annual Report for 2020, we present the major accomplishments of the DILG IV-A in the areas of good local governance, peace and order, promotion of business-friendly and competitive LGUs, social protection, disaster-preparedness and resilience for LGUs, and strengthened internal governance, and our most significant accomplishments on disaster response and ending local communist armed conflict. All these were achieved through the zealous efforts of the men and women of the Regional Office and the Provincial and Highly Urbanized City (HUC) offices – DILG Cavite, DILG Laguna, DILG Batangas, DILG Rizal, DILG Quezon, and DILG Lucena. Moving forward, the DILG IV-A will continue with its hardwork and pave the way for a more productive, peaceful and safer year ahead not only for the Region IV-A but for the entire nation. Mabuhay tayong lahat! Ariel O. Igesia Regional Director 2 DILG IV-A

Message of the Assistant Regional Director The DILG IV-A CALABARZON Annual Report for 2020 outlines the most significant accomplishments of the office with special focus on our response to disasters and calamities such as the Taal Volcano eruption, emergence of COVID-19, and the devastations brought about by typhoons in the past few months. The efficient implementation of our regular programs and projects for the people despite these calamities are also highlighted in this report. All these accomplishments would not have been possible without the efforts of the dedicated men and women of the DILG IV-A Regional, Provincial, and HUC Offices, especially our field officers in Laguna, Batangas, Cavite, Rizal, and Quezon. Our entire nation has gone through a lot this past year, and we are bound to face even more adversities in the near future. But with such a dedicated team, we are confident to say that more than an adherence to the DILG motto of “matino, mahusay, at maaasahan”, our accomplishments this year also serve as a promise to the public that the DILG IV-A will continue to deliver excellent government services amidst any challenge. We wish for a safe and happy new year to all! Noel R. Bartolabac, CESO V Assistant Regional Director DILG IV-A 3

INTRODUCTION Introduction The year 2020 has been a trying time for the entire nation. In CALABARZON, the eruption of the Taal Volcano, the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the persistence of local communist armed conflict and other threats to local peace and security have kept the whole community on its toes – embattled but eager to survive existing struggles and new ones to arise. In the middle of what could be the most challenging year for every Filipino in recent times, the DILG IV-A CALABARZON, as a true public servant, stood beside its communities, and delivered excellent government services owed to each and every one. For the early part of 2020, the reins of the Regional Office were held by former OIC-Regional Director Elias F. Fernandez Jr., and Assistant Regional Director Noel R. Bartolabac until the mid-part of the year when Regional Director Ariel O. Iglesia officially assumed the position as head of the DILG IV-A CALABARZON. RD Ariel Iglesia took the helm at a very crucial point wherein, pursuant to the directives of the President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and the priorities of the whole of DILG – under the leadership of the Secretary for the Interior and Local Government Eduardo M. Ano, we refocused our priorities to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and secure the communities from local communist armed conflict and other threats to local peace and order, on top of implementing our regular programs and projects. As such, we continued to promote transparency and people’s participation, and exact accountability in local governance; enabled local government units (LGUs) to further streamline business permit processing and facilitate ease-of-doing-business; strengthened efforts in fighting criminality and illegal drugs to keep the peace in the communities, capacitated LGUs on disaster resilience, provided basic social services to the people; and strengthened our internal governance. This Annual Report for CY 2020 shows how the DILG IV-A CALABARZON and every man and woman comprising it, has embodied the DILG core values of “matino, mahusay at maasahan” in these difficult times as a true public servant in the middle of crises heightened by a pandemic – isang tunay na “Lingkod Bayan sa Gitna ng Pandemya.” 4 DILG IV-A

VISION MISSION A strongly determined and highly trusted Department The Department shall promote peace and order, committed to capacitate and nurture local government ensure public safety, and strengthen capability of local units, public order and safety institutions to sustain peaceful, government units through active people participation and a progressive, and resilient communities where people live professionalized corps of civil servants. happily. DILG IV-A Quality Policy The DILG IV-A CALABARZON is committed to capacitate and Adhering to core values of R4A, Respectability with a sense nurture local governments to sustain peaceful, progressive, of Accountability, Altruism, Adeptness, and Adaptability, we resilient, and happy communities. Together, we shall take the commit to continually improve our QMS and comply with the lead in ensuring good local governance through performance legal requirements to foster organizational excellence and oversight, capacity development, and an institutionalized productivity. incentives and rewards system. TABLE OF CONTENTS MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS SOCIALLY PROTECTIVE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS Response to Disasters and Calamities 7 Gender and Development 32 SALINTUBIG 33 Linawin Natin 8 Assistance to Municipalities 33 9 CMGP 34 Operations for Taal Eruption, Typhoons and Other Performance Challenge Fund 34 Disasters Feature Story: Then, t’was all bamboo 36 Resettlement Governance 38 Operation L!sto 10 ELCAC Initiatives and Activities 12 Feature Story: RCSP and Ugnayan sa Barangay in 14 Rizal Feature Story: RCSP and Ugnayan sa Barangay in 15 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTIVE, CLIMATE CHANGE Quezon ADAPTIVE AND DISASTER RESILIENT LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS ACCOUNTABLE, TRANSPARENT, PARTICIPATIVE, AND EFFECTIVE LOCAL GOVERNANCE Full Disclosure Policy 17 Enhancing Capacity on DRRCCA 38 Constitutional Reform 17 41 Dagyaw sa Rehiyon ng CALABARZON 18 Manila Bay Clean-Up, Rehabilitation, and Feature Story: E-Kapihan in Biñan 19 Preservation Program 42 Feature Story: Barangay Day 2020 20 Feature Story: DILG Laguna Joins the International Coastal Clean Up Day 2020 STRENGTHENING INTERNAL GOVERNANCE BUSINESS-FRIENDLY AND COMPETITIVE LOCAL ISO Activities 44 GOVERNMENT UNITS Records Management Activities 44 Provision of Medical Supplies and PPEs 45 Streamlining of BPLS 22 Improvement of Regional facilities and equipment 45 Feature Story: The Green Room 46 PEACEFUL, ORDERLY, AND SAFE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS 25 KEY OFFICIALS 47 26 Strengthening Peace and Order Councils 28 Anti-Drug Abuse Councils 28 30 Feature Story: Former Drug Offenders Act as Frontliners During Pandemic DILG IV-A 5 Feature Story: Cavite’s Mendez-Nuñez “Ahon Mendezeño” Program Feature Story: Batangas Province Ensures Public Safety and Peace and Order Through Regular Meetings

MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS 6 DILG IV-A

RESPONSE TO DISASTERS AND CALAMITIES COVID-19 Response Since the outbreak of the coronavirus Office such as with the strict monitoring of LGU disease (COVID-19) was declared a public health compliance to community quarantine protocols emergency of international concern, and the first and risk classifications, management of locally- case in the Philippines was detected on January stranded individuals (LSIs), and contact tracing. 30, 2020 and in CALABARZON on February 25, 2020, the DILG IV-A has been at the forefront of Nearing the 4th Quarter of 2020, the government response and public service in the President set out the directive for the DILG, region. the Department of Health (DOH), and other concerned agencies to adopt a COVID-19 disease The DILG IV-A proved its solidarity with surveillance protocol that shall define minimum the national government’s efforts to address health standards for workplaces and business COVID-19 concerns with the continuous activities which shall include COVID-19 testing operationalization of the regional Emergency and the establishment of an effective contact Operations Center (EOC). The regional EOC tracing system. The DILG IV-A was tasked to provided linkage to the DILG Central Office facilitate hiring of 4,287 contact tracers for the EOC and various arms of the government in six (6) provinces/HUC in CALABARZON, and as of CALABARZON which provide health and public December 2, 2020, we have officially hired 100% safety services to the people affected by the of this target no. of contact tracers. The Regional pandemic. Likewise, the regional office actively Office also produced four (4) training modules managed and facilitated interagency meetings on contact tracing in coordination with the Local as Chair of the Regional Interagency Task Force Government Academy (LGA), Philippine Public (RIATF) for Management of Emerging Infectious Safety College (PPSC) and Department of Health Diseases, and member of other special bodies (DOH) to aid the capacity building activities created to address pressing COVID-19 concerns for the hired contact tracers. With the support in the region. of the DILG IV-A Provincial and HUC Offices, these contact tracers are now deployed to the We actively complied with the monitoring LGUs to facilitate contact tracing activities in the and reportorial requirements of the DILG Central communities. 4,287 Total no. of Contact Tracers Hired 1,181 1,446 Laguna Cavite 800 326 Rizal Batangas 111 423 Lucena City Quezon DILG IV-A 7

On top of its support to the national aired a total of eleven (11) Linawin Natin episodes government’s efforts for COVID-19 response, focusing on topics regarding contact tracing, the DILG IV-A also takes pride in its initiatives community quarantine guidelines, opening of to address the concerns of the public in this establishments and commercial spaces, and safety pandemic. For the better part of the year, the in the workplace, among others. Regional Office has been airing online segments designed to facilitate knowledge and information- Sagisag ng Pag-asa, a documentation of sharing about COVID-19. LGU best practices against COVID-19, is another online initiative of the DILG IV-A. This online Linawin Natin is an online question and segment broadcasts replicable best practices answer segment aired through the Facebook Live of LGUs in the region, and encourages all LGUs feature of the DILG IV-A official Facebook page to always put their best foot forward to ensure that is intended to address circulating questions safety and protection of their constituents amidst of social media users regarding the various the current health crisis. Not only does it promote issuances and protocols being implemented a spirit of unity by giving other LGUs ideas on how by the government during this pandemic. to implement effective programs in their areas of Instrumental to fighting misinformation and jurisdiction, it also serves as a morale booster to keeping the Department in touch with the needs the featured LGUs that their actions are being seen of the communities, the segment tackles COVID- and appreciated and that they should continue 19-related concerns of the public and gathers working for the welfare of their constituents. In questions which are discussed and addressed by general, it hopes to send a message of positivity key informants from various government agencies amidst the already challenging situation of the such as the DILG, Department of Health (DOH), country due to the pandemic. As of date, the DILG Department of Tourism (DOT), and Department IV-A has aired 22 Sagisag ng Pag-asa episodes of Trade and Industry (DTI) during the live through its official social media pages. discussions. For this year, the Regional Office has 8 DILG IV-A

OPERATIONS FOR TAAL ERUPTION AND TYPHOONS The eruption of Taal Volcano in Batangas on the DILG IV-A played a crucial role in local disaster January 12, 2020 caused volcanic ashes to spread preparedness and management as it ensured through CALABARZON, Metro Manila, and even strict implementation of total lockdown in areas some parts of Central Luzon and Ilocos Region, affected by the Taal Volcano eruption. In the resulting in the disruption of daily activities with same light, the DILG IV-A activated its regional the suspension of school classes, work schedules, Emergency Operations Center to facilitate and flights in said areas. During said period, the monitoring of Taal-related concerns. Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) issued Alert Level 4, indicating Moreover, a post-disaster needs assessment that a hazardous explosive eruption is possible (PDNA) field validation was also conducted on within hours to days. The Taal Volcano continued February 12 to 22, 2020 in the affected cities and to show unrest prompting strict monitoring of municipalities. It was a collaboration of knowledge, PHIVOLCS in the next few weeks. It was not until technical skills and team effort of the PDNA team March 19, 2020 that PHIVOLCS downgraded the composed of many hardworking individuals and Taal Volcano alert to Alert Level 1, but with the stakeholders from various government agencies precaution that the volcano was still in abnormal and non-government organizations. The DILG IV- condition and that it should not be interpreted A, being the lead in the governance cluster, was that unrest has ceased or that the threat of an tasked to conduct PDNA on government facilities. eruption has disappeared. Aerial reconnaissance was conducted on January 21, 2020 with then OIC-RD Elias F. Fernandez The Taal Volcano eruption and unrest affected assisted by regional DRR focal persons. Three a total of 490,333 persons in 12 municipalities and (3) DILG personnel were trained on PDNA and three (3) cities from the provinces of Batangas were deployed to conduct further assessment and Cavite, namely: Agoncillo, Alitagtag, Balete, in LGUs. Data gathered during this assessment Cuenca, Laurel, Lemery, Lipa City, Malvar, Mataas serves as reference for disaster-preparedness and na Kahoy, San Nicolas, Santa Teresita, Taal, Talisay, development planning of concerned government Tanauan City and Tagaytay City. Amidst all this, agencies in CALABARZON. DILG IV-A 9

OPERATION L!STO Operation Listo is a program that guides the for National Listo, four (4) DILG Regions (III, IV-A, V, & LGUs and other stakeholders on actions they need to VI), PHIVOLCS, and LGA have joined the TWG. For this take before, during and after a disaster. This program year, the DILG IV-A has already coordinated three (3) strengthens the capacity and level of preparedness meetings for National Listo and five (5) for Taal Listo via of LGUs through the LISTO teams in national and online videconference. local governments. The recent Taal Volcano eruption prompted our national and local governments to create Relative to disaster-preparedness programs, the a standard protocol for such geological disaster. Thus, Department is also the lead agency for Management of the DILG IV-A, in coordination with the LGA and in the Dead and Missing (MDM) Persons Cluster under partnership with the Batangas State University, is set the National Disaster Response Plan which is primarily to develop an Operation Listo Manual for Volcanic responsible for the planning, monitoring and evaluation Eruptions to serve as a disaster-preparedness guide to of the MDM and coordination with the LGUs and other LGUs and other stakeholders during volcanic eruptions. agencies concerned with disaster victim identification, A memorandum of agreement (MOA) has already been disposition of the dead, management of missing persons signed between the DILG IV-A and Batangas State and management of the bereaved families. University last September 2020 for the development and release of a manual exclusive for Taal Listo and Consistent with Operation Listo protocols, the also for the consolidation of the outputs from other DILG IV-A implemented the following preparedness regions to create a National Listo for Volcanic Eruption. actions in the face of typhoons which affected A technical working group (TWG) has been created CALABARZON this year: 1) disseminated memoranda/ both for Taal Listo and the National Listo where each advisories to DILG Provincial Offices down to Cluster has been attended by regional and local line agencies. Heads and C/MLGOOs for the information of LGUs For Taal Listo, a total of 21 government agencies and for the preparation against typhoon and to establish 17 provincial and local disaster risk reduction and critical preparedness measures based on Operation management offices (DRRMOs) joined the TWG. As Listo Protocols and DILG MC 2020-125 “LISTO sa Tag- Ulan at COVID-19: Preparedness Measures of LGUs for the Rainy Season CY 2020”, as well as prioritized the prepositioning of personnel, supplies and equipment 10 DILG IV-A

for response, 2) activated the regional Operations harmonization, and finalization of regional data on Center in order to monitor actions taken by the casualties and missing persons for submission to the LGUs on disaster preparedness through the Disaster National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Reporting and Monitoring System Council (NDRRMC). (DORMS), 3) monitored the weather situation through PAGASA, 4) coordinated with DILG Provincial Offices, The DILG IV-A monitored seven (7) storms for OCD and RDRRMC members, and 5) conducted eight CY 2020 ranging from Tropical Cyclone Warning (8) cluster meetings of the Regional Management of Signal (TCWS) 1 to 4. Ultimately, we have recorded the Dead and Missing (MDM) Cluster for validation, a total of 39 deaths and three (3) cases of missing persons in CALABARZON. Disasters Monitored in CALABARZON STORM TCWS DATE CASUALTIES TS AMBO Deaths Missing TD OFEL TY PEPITO 2-3 May 12-17, 2020 Quezon: 2 0 TY QUINTA 1 October 12-16, 2020 Laguna: 1 Quezon: 1 TY ROLLY 1 October 20-22, 2020 No Casualty Reported TD TONYO Total: 4 TY ULYSSES 2 October 24-27, 2020 Quezon: 2 0 Rizal: 1 Laguna: 1 Total: 5 3 October 30 - Quezon: 1 Batangas: 1 November 9, 2020 Batangas: 3 Rizal: 1 1 October 8-9, 2020 No Casualty Reported Total: 27 Batangas: 1 Quezon: 3 Rizal: 1 4 November 10-13, 2020 Rizal: 16 Laguna: 4 Cavite: 3 DILG IV-A 11

ENDING LOCAL COMMUNIST ARMED CONFLICT INITIATIVES AND ACTIVITIES The DILG IV-A in support of the whole- of-nation and whole-of-government approach to end local communist armed conflict in the country has made decisive steps and initiatives to localize the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 all throughout CALABARZON. Having created the 1st Regional Task Force on ELCAC in the country last year, and with no less than the Secretary for the Interior and Local Government Eduardo M. Año as its Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS), the RTF-ELCAC CALABARZON ensured that LGUs keep a stronghold against the influence of communist-terrorists with the establishment of provincial, city, municipal, and barangay task forces on ELCAC. So far this year, all five (5) provinces, 141 cities and municipalities, and 3,877 barangays in CALABARZON have established their local task forces on ELCAC. The remaining few are in the process of local task force activation for the entire region to establish one, united front against the communist-terrorists. RTF ELCAC OPCEN 2020 also paved the way for the establishment of the CALABARZON RTF-ELCAC Operations Center in Camp BGen Vicente Lim in Laguna by virtue of RTF-ELCAC Resolution No. 2020-02. A MOA has already been signed by the DILG IV-A and PNP PRO IV-A to ensure proper maintenance and operationalization of the center. 12 DILG IV-A

Through the Department’s Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) specifically the Serbisyo Caravans and Ugnayan sa Barangay, the DILG IV-A provided basic services to a total of 48 barangays in Quezon, Rizal and Batangas. These services rendered to mostly far-flung communities in said provinces include the distribution of food packs and meals, dental and medical services, haircut and general grooming services, government transactions made more accessible such as business accreditation, voter’s registration, PhilHealth, Social Security System (SSS), PAG-IBIG fund registration, TESDA scholarships, among others. The DILG IV-A also facilitated the orientation on Capacitating Urban Communities for Peace and Development (CUCPD) in the provinces of CALABARZON. For this year, four (4) LGUs namely: 1) Calamba, Laguna, 2) Batangas City, Batangas, 3) Lucena City, Quezon, and 4) Cavite City, Cavite have been oriented on CUCPD, specifically on fostering development by creating peaceful communities through enhanced access to basic services, local peace dialogues and promotion of the welfare of sectoral groups. The RTF-ELCAC likewise proved instrumental for the LGUs’ declaration of CPP-NPA-NDF as persona non grata in their localities, thereby weakening the communist-terrorist groups’ presence and influence in the region. For CY 2020, all five (5) provinces, 133 cities and municipalities, and 3,343 barangays have issued persona non grata declarations against the CPP-NPA-NDF. Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) for Former Rebels Committed to providing assistance to former rebels (FRs) who have returned to the fold and hopes to start anew with their lives as productive members of the society, the DILG IV-A ensured that FRs surrendering through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) were provided benefits such as financial and livelihood assistance, and firearms remuneration. No. OF FRs WHO RECEIVED FIREARMS REMUNERATED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE 26 45 7 207 13 22 61 TOTAL LAGUNA Laguna Rizal BATANGAS QUEZON TOTAL 130 25 Quezon Batangas For CY 2020, we have provided assistance to a total of 207 FRs and compensated for 61 surrendered firearms. Among the benefits received by FRs under the E-CLIP program are housing units, housing rehabilitation, and livelihood packages. DILG IV-A 13

FEATURE STORY: RCSP AND UGNAYAN SA BARANGAY IN RIZAL PROVINCE The Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) brought great postive impact in the target barangays in Rizal Province. It served as an eye opener for the community that the government cares with its provision of various basic services. Barangay Macabud and Puray in the Municipality of Rodriguez and Barangay Sta. Inez in the Municipality of Tanay were the active partners of RCSP Team in the implementation of the program. From the pre-planning phase which is the initial stage of the program implementation up to the conduct of two (2) major activities which are the Serbisyo Caravan and Ugnayan sa Barangay and BDP Workshop, the target barangays are now currently in sustainability phase or Phase 4 of the program. DILG Rizal, in partnership with the RCSP Team of the Municipality of Rodriguez and Tanay led the conduct of Serbisyo Caravan and Ugnayan sa Barangay. The activity was participated by the respective RCSP Team members of the aforementioned municipalities and non-government organizations along with the barangay functionaries and residents of the target barangays. During the activity, issues, concerns and development gaps in the target barangays were identified and discussed. The highlight of the said activities was the provision of the following many services to the actual residents of the target barangays: livelihood training, medical services, laboratory services, civil registration, dental check-up, eye check-up and eye glass distribution, first aid training, and others. The success of the RCSP implementation will not be possible without the support of the local RCSP Teams, other line agencies and non-government organizations. The Poverty Reduction and Livelihood Empowerment Cluster (PRLEC) of the PTF-ELCAC headed by Rizal TESDA was in full support of all the RCSP activities in the barangays. TESDA Rizal provided livelihood training during the conduct of Serbisyo Caravan and Ugnayan sa Barangay, wherein they trained the barangay residents and functionaries in making hand soap and hand sanitizers. The Municipality of Tanay was very fortunate to have Tanay Mountaineers and Advocate Response Team as partner NGOs during the Serbisyo Caravan and Ugnayan sa Barangay in Brgy, Sta. Ines. The Tanay Mountaineers provided free eye-check up and free reading glasses while the Advocate Response Team distributed cloth face masks and shirts for the residents. The RCSP Team of the target LGUs spearheaded the provision of basic services to the target barangays and it was very evident that the community was delighted and satisfied for the assistance they received. Lastly, the activities will not be possible without the never-ending support of our partners in the PLEDS cluster particularly the PNP and AFP. After the conduct of the serbisyo caravan and ugnayan sa barangay, the next phase of the RCSP implementation is the finalization of the barangay development plans, integrating what transpired during the major activities. The barangay development plan will serve as a basis for the barangay development packages to be provided by the national government. The RSCP activities proved that together we can do and achieve more. Nothing is impossible if we have a common goal, and that is to support and empower the community by providing them just and lasting peace that leads to sustainable development. 14 DILG IV-A

FEATURE STORY: RCSP AND UGNAYAN SA BARANGAY IN QUEZON PROVINCE In consonance with the implementation of Executive Order No. 70, Quezon Province has made successive steps and initiatives to localize the implementation of EO70 through the Retooled Community Support Program. The RCSP is a convergence mechanism for LGUs particularly in the barangay for the identification of issues which needed government interventions. For FY 2020, the national government targeted 40 barangays in Quezon Province as recipients of programs, projects and activities of the government under RCSP. One of the major RCSP activities conducted is the Serbisyo Caravan and Ugnayan sa Barangay which aims to deliver basic services to far-flung communities and identify issues which need government interventions. Serbisyo Caravans and Ugnayan sa barangay was successfully conducted in all target 40 barangays in Quezon Province. Prior to the conduct of Serbisyo Caravans and Ugnayan IBIG registration, PSA registration, TESDA scholarships, Job sa Caravan, coordination meetings via Zoom were conducted Fair partnership with private companies, pet vaccination, to finalize activity preparations, ensure participation of the film showing of CTG activities and recruitment, distribution government line agencies and secure their commitments of IEC materials on implementation of EO70, distribution of and pledges of support. The DILG IV-A, as the RTF4A head facemasks, free antigen test, demonstrations on basic first aid secretariat hosted the coordination meeting in partnership and fire prevention techniques, and provision of tips on how with the PTF-Secretariat, Local Task Forces ELCAC and other to combat COVID-19. stakeholders. The participation of the different line agencies during During the actual RCSP Activities, safety health RCSP activities give hope to the citizens that prevalent issues and emergency protocols against COVID-19 were strictly in the community will be given appropriate interventions. It observed such as wearing of face masks, hand washing and also ratifies the spirit of the “whole-of-nation approach” of EO physical distancing. Several LGUs even provided free antigen 70. Among the agencies who participated in RCSP activities tests on COVID-19 before the actual activities. are: DILG, AFP, PNP, DSWD, OPAST, NEDA, DAR, DEPED, TESDA, DOH, DA, DENR, DTI, DOLE, NIA, DICT, BFAR, CDA, During the Serbisyo Caravan, different line agencies PCA, NCIP, PSA, and DOST. and other stakeholders provided services. Among these are: free transportation services, distribution of food Aside from provision of basic services, dialogues packs, free meals, medical and dental consultations and between the community and different agencies were held. services, distribution of medicines, COMELEC Registration, This provides avenues to determine the prevalent issues taekwondo lessons, , orientations on government programs, and provide appropriate interventions. Said dialogues were livelihood training, distribution of seedlings. business facilitated by the DILG Field Officers of the target LGUs. accreditation, haircut and massage, Philhealth, SSS and PAG- DILG IV-A 15

ACCOUNTABLE, TRANSPARENT, PARTICIPATIVE, AND EFFECTIVE LOCAL GOVERNANCE 16 DILG IV-A

FULL DISCLOSURE POLICY The Full Disclosure Policy (FDP) is in place to create platforms for local government units (LGUs) to improve their transparency, accountability and responsiveness to citizens. With this, LGUs are required to fully disclose financial documents that will keep their local constituents informed on how the LGU budget is being utilized. Full disclosure is conducted by means of posting documents to the online FDP Portal and in conspicuous areas in their locality. 99% 92% 146 3,684 of 147 PCMs are compliant with the of 4,018 barangays fully complied Full Disclosure Policy with the policy For its part, the DILG IV-A continuously monitored and validated compliance of LGUs with FDP standards. For CY 2020, 146 (99%) of 147 PCMs, and 3,684 (92%) of 4,018 barangays fully complied with the policy. The remainder diligently works on the improvement of their partial compliance into full compliance in the next posting periods. The Constitutional Reform (CORE) campaign of the Department is pursuant to the Presidential declaration that even without a shift to a federal system of government, the amendment of key provisions of the Constitution that will enshrine necessary economic and political reforms is still in order. This year, the Department launched a signature campaign in support of constitutional reform. Closing in on its original target no. of support signatures, the DILG IV-A successfully garnered 25,005 signatures of individuals expressing support for the CORE campaign. More and more are expected to show their support to this campaign in the following years. Recognizing the role of mass media in information and dissemination to the public, the CORE program utilized multimedia platforms in giving the public appropriate information especially in advocating for Constitutional Reform and its surgical amendments. “Kapihan-like” sessions with national and local media was determined to be a good avenue for this advocacy. In partnership with DWBC 87.9FM Radyo Biñan station, we conducted an e-Kapihan session on August 5, 2020 via video conference which provided accessible information and consultation on CORE for the general public. Coordinating and establishing formal linkages with civil society organizations (CSOs) is another strategy for the CORE campaign. Hence, we conducted a virtual forum/webinar called CORE Movement Regional Civil Society Organization Webinar to properly educate CSO partners on the concept of constitutional reform, as well as to provide them with an updated information on the reform tract of the administration. The said forum was divided into two (2) batches conducted last August 11, 2020 and August 20, 2020 via online videoconference. DILG IV-A 17

Since 2018, the Department, in partnership with the or fishing inputs (36%). This was followed by cash grant (29%), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the linking of farmers and fishers to the market or buyers (28%), Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), has and loan program (7%). been conducting a series of Regional Townhall Meetings to provide a safe and open space for citizens to engage with the The episode was ended by a closing message from DILG government and discuss pressing governance and operational IV-A Regional Director Ariel O. Iglesia wherein he noted the issues as well as learn more about the initiatives of the significant increase in the number of displaced workers, administration. including those in the Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry, and Fishing (AHFF) sector due to the pandemic. With this, Dir. For this year, the Dagyaw Regional Technical Working Iglesia emphasized the importance of the communities’ Group (RTWG) IV-A, composed of DILG IV-A, DBM IV- commitment and participation to open government activities A, Philippine Information Agency CALABARZON, and such as Dagyaw, because when there is informed citizenry, Partnership of Philippine Support Service Agencies Inc. community ownership and responsibility of the programs and (PHILSSA), conducted two (2) episodes of virtual townhall initiatives will follow. He encouraged the citizens to voice out meetings through Zoom and Facebook Live in observance their opinions and insights because these will be relevant in of existing health protocols due to the COVID-19 pandemic. the development of more effective and appropriate programs Senior government officials and representatives from the and activities for the people. academe and non-government organizations were invited as resource persons. The second episode, entitled “Usapang Pamamahala sa Panahon ng Pandemya sa CALABARZON”, was conducted The first episode, entitled “Usapang Kabuhayan sa on November 18, 2020. This episode provided updates CALABARZON”, was conducted on November 11, 2020. This on the current and future strategies and programs of the episode focused on the current status, outlook, opportunities, government in addressing the COVID-19 situation in the and programs of the government and development partners region and to discuss key issues and concerns to identify that address the socio-economic impact of the pandemic in possible actions forward. The participants consisted mostly livelihood and employment in the region. The participants of representatives from LGUs, NGAs, CSOs, academe, Private consisted mostly of representatives from LGUs, NGAs, Sector, and people’s organizations. academe, private sector, and media. These Dagyaw episodes conducted by the DILG IV-A During the activity, a poll question was launched which have become instrumental to ensuring people’s participation was “Ano sa tingin ninyo ang inisyatibo o programa na mas in governance, and an effective avenue to hear the pulse makakatulong para makabangon ang kabuhayan ng mga of the public in terms of the services needed from various mangingisda at magsasaka sa ating rehiyon?” Results showed government agencies in this current health environment. that most of the participants answered distribution of farming

FEATURE STORY: E-KAPIHAN IN BIÑAN The City Government of Biñan, in partnership dito sa Region IV-A ay sumusuporta sa Constitutional with DILG Region IV-A (CALABARZON) and Center Reform Movement at sa lahat ng layunin nito”, he said. for Federalism and Constitutional Reform (CFCR), successfully hosted the first-ever Constitutional The online discussion centered on the CORE Reform (CORE) Movement e-Kapihan in the region Movement, its objectives and three (3) pillars which on August 5, 2020. Biñan City Vice Mayor Angelo include Empowering the Regions, Political and Electoral “Gel” B. Alonte, CLGOO Fatima Noña Alon of DILG- Reforms, and Economic Reforms. Panel of experts who Biñan, and Atty. Edward Arriba Jr. of the City Legal served as resource speakers in the e-Kapihan were Atty. Office served as hosts in the in-depth discussion on the Vince Homer T. Revil, National Chairman for the CORE proposed “surgical amendments” in the 1987 Philippine Movement, Sec. Gary B. Olivar, Professors Alfredo A. Constitution. Sureta, Jr., and Eric Daniel de Torres. The e-Kapihan session was simultaneously Recognizing the vital role of media in the aired on DWBC 87.9 Radyo Biñan and via Facebook information dissemination to the public, several livestreaming to capture a wider audience. DILG Region reporters from different media agencies such Philippine IV-A Assistant Regional Director Noel R. Bartolabac, Daily Inquirer, GMA Southern Tagalog, The Manila CESO V in his keynote message expressed his full Times, The Philippine Star, DZJV Radyo CALABARZON, support to the campaign. “Makakaasa po kayo na kami Manila Standard and DZMM Teleradyo were also invited onboard the activity. DILG IV-A 19

FBEAATURREASTNORYG: AY DAY 2020: Performing Barangays In Bacoor, Recognized Heeding the call of the DILG for good government department heads, and led by CLGOO local governance and with the assistance of the Norma V. Corpuz of DILG Bacoor, assessed 25 DILG Cavite, the city government of Bacoor documentary compliances out of the 73 barangays held its 8th Annual Barangay Day Awarding which met the deadline. In consideration of the Ceremony on December 5, 2020 at the Strike various situations where some barangays were extra- Gymnasium, Bacoor Government Center. challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic and the fire Mayor Lani Mercado-Revilla, the Sangguniang incidences that occurred recently, it was decided Panglungsod Members, and other important that part of the prize money be equally shared to all local functionaries graced the occasion. seventy-three (73) barangays in acknowledgment of the challenges brought by the pandemic. The twenty- The Search for Outstanding Barangay five (25) compliant barangays were given additional and Barangay Officials is a customary year- cash incentives and certificates of recognition for their end practice for the city government to commitment and dedication. give value to the exemplary public service of its component barangays. It mimics the This recognition of the exemplary performance performance indicators of the Barangay Seal of of barangays in Bacoor is a sound reminder that Good Local Governance (BSGLG) and motivates the indomitable spirit of public service shall not be barangays to put primacy on good governance. Search dampened by the worst of challenges. categories were given as : (1) Search for the Cleanest and Greenest Barangay (Landlocked and Coastal); (2) Search for Outstanding Lupong Tagapamayapa; (3) Search for Outstanding Barangay Peace and Order Committee (BPOC); (4) Search for the Most Child Friendly Barangay; (5) Search for the Best Barangay in Health Practices; (6) Search for Best Barangay in IT Innovations; (7) Best Sangguniang Kabataan; (8) Award for Top Ten Outstanding Barangays; (9) Special Award for Top 10 Best Barangay Health Worker; and (10) Special Award for Top 20 Best Barangay Secretary. The Search Committee used a cohesive assessment tool, validated documents through table assessment and virtual interviews pursuant to the “new normal” way of stakeholder verification engagement. The Search Committee composed of select city 20 DILG IV-A

BUSINESS-FRIENDLY AND COMPETITIVE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS DILG IV-A 21

Streamlining of Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS) DILG IV-A, as the Chair of the Business Permits and the six (6) provinces/HUC in the region were monitored, Licensing System Regional Coordination Committee namely: Taytay and Antipolo in Rizal, Alfonzo, Mendez (BPLS RCCom) initiated the yearly Business One Stop and Carmona in Cavite, Taal in Batangas, Liliw, Sta. Shop (BOSS) Monitoring and Validation in selected Maria, Biñan, Sta. Rosa, and Calamba in Laguna, Tiaong, LGUs last January 2020. Other member agencies of Quezon and Lucena City. the BPLS RCCom are the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) IV-A, Department of Information and Another notable initiative of the DILG IV-A is Communications Technology (DICT) Cluster 2, Bureau the presentation of the results of the Study on the of Fire Protection (BFP) IV-A, Batangas State University Enhancement of Service Delivery for City/Municipality (BATSU), and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Business Permitting and Licensing Processes in the City Industry (PCCI) IV-A. of Sto. Tomas, Batangas City and Balayan, Batangas, Alfonso and Carmona Cavite, and the DTI last February The BOSS Monitoring and Validation is one of our 17, 2020 in Tagaytay City. This activity is in partnership strategies to assist the LGUs in streamlining the process with AI4GOV, a non-stock, non-profit, technology of issuance of business permits. The selection for the research organization that aims to improve public target LGUs were based on the following: a) LGUs that services and promote citizen participation by combining are target for the enhancement of service delivery service design, community organizing, and data science on Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS), b) with inclusive technologies. Said initiative jumpstarts Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) and Cities the implementation of the BPLS Chatbot technology and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) which shall facilitate the ease of doing business with Awardees, and c) self-assessed non-compliance on DILG LGUs and other national government agencies. IV-A BPLS Quarterly Report. A total of 13 LGUs from Roll-out trainings for LGUs on the streamlining of BPLS were also conducted: 22 DILG IV-A

To discuss issuances and policies relative to help support micro, small, medium enterprises to RA 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business and who experienced hardships during the community Efficient Government Service Delivery Act, the quarantine. The last day of the forum, August 20, DILG IV-A also initiated a three (3)-day Online 2020, was dedicated for the presentation of the EODB Forum with partner agencies. We invited Department of Information and Communications the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) to discuss Technology programs, projects, and systems for the salient provisions of the law and other ARTA LGUs. Said forum was participated by a minimum policies relative to delivery of services on August of 500 participants a day. It was streamed via 18, 2020. On August 19, 2020, the Department Facebook where everyone – public and private of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Trade employees, business establishment owners, and Industry (DTI) discussed their existing investors – watched. An open forum was then guidelines for business establishments in this facilitated through the comment section of the time of pandemic. They also discussed programs social media platform. As the Department believes that a strengthened internal organizational capacity is essential in laying down a foundation for inclusive growth, a high-trust and resilient society, and a globally competitive knowledge economy, the regional EODB team attended related capacity development activities, such as: 1 Regional and Provincial Focal Persons’ Training of Trainers for the Roll out of Barangay Profile System (BPS) and Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS) and Building Permit and Certificate of Occupancy (BPCO) Monitoring System on July 29-30, 2020 facilitated by the Bureau of Local Government and Development and Information Systems and Technology Management System of the DILG Central Office 2 Online Focus Group Discussion on the Re-engineering of Workshop on the Ease of Doing Business for EODB Regional Focal Persons and the Municipality of Pagsanjan held on August 27-28, 2020 and conducted by the BLGD 3 Online Rollout of EODB Systems for DILG IV-A Provincial EODB Focal Persons and Field Officers on November 23 and 25, 2020. DILG IV-A 23

PEACEFUL, ORDERLY, AND SAFE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS 24 DILG IV-A

CALABARZON Strengthening Peace and Order Councils (POCs) RPOC REGIONAL PEACE AND ORDER COUNCIL LOCAL PEACE AND ORDER COUNCILS (POC) ESTABLISHED Local peace and order councils (POCs) are in peace and order and maintaining public safety at the place for the development and implementation of provincial, city, municipal and barangay level. strategic actions and activities that will improve the The regional POC conducted four (4) meetings peace and order condition in the communities by this year which allowed the council members to stay preventingandaddressingcriminalityandinsurgency. abreast of the prevailing peace and order condition In CALABARZON, 100% of LGUs (five provinces, 144 in CALABARZON, thresh out issues and concerns cities and municipalities, and 4,018 barangays) have affecting peace and order of the areas, and come up established their respective POCs to contribute to with collective decisions on peace and order for the the efforts of the national government in ensuring good of the region DILG IV-A 25

ADAC Anti-Drug Abuse Councils Executive Order No. 15, signed by President Duterte the advocacy, the ADAC Team invited the members of the on March 6, 2017, created the Inter-Agency Committee on ICAD Advocacy Cluster in order to assess and hear the Anti-Illegal Drugs, which would oversee and synchronize practices being implemented by line agencies. This serves government efforts to combat the proliferation of as a venue to provide information and updates regarding illegal drugs in the country. The order designates the the program. Said activity aims to amplify the awareness Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) as chair of in terms of drug campaigns and advocacies in order to the committee, which includes 20 government entities eradicate drug problems throughout the region. On including the military. The committee is composed of November 20, 2020 the Joint ROCDD and ICAD Advocacy clusters, such as the enforcement cluster, which will Cluster 4th Quarter Meeting was conducted. During said conduct the anti-illegal drug operations; justice cluster, meeting, the members discussed the DILG Memorandum responsible for the expeditious prosecution of drug cases; dated November 05, 2020 regarding the 2020 ADAC advocacy cluster, which will lead a nationwide campaign Special Awards. for the government’s anti-illegal drug policy; and rehab and reintegration cluster, which will implement drug rehab In view of the postponement of ADAC functionality and reintegration programs. audit for the year due to the pandemic, the Department, in partnership with PDEA, decided to give special awards The advocacy cluster headed by the DILG is tasked to to cities and municipalities that have sustained the drug- initiate and facilitate the conduct of nationwide advocacy cleared status of their drug-affected barangays as well campaigns for the government’s anti-illegal drug policies as those that have sustained the drug-free status of their and programs through quarterly meetings, and creation unaffected barangays. Following are the recipients of of anti-illegal drugs advocacy campaign activities in ADAC special awards in CALABARZON. Relatedly, the partnership with other national agencies. Community-based Drug Rehabilitation Program (CBDRP) characterized by the conduct of drug rehabilitation Last September 15, 2020, the Anti-Drug Abuse sessions within the community and near the affected Council (ADAC) Team of DILG IV-A CALABARZON persons’ respective families, is implemented by many conducted the Inter-Agency Committee on Illegal Drugs- of these LGUs to keep the communities free from the Advocacy Cluster 3rd Quarter Meeting at DILG IV-A afflictions of illegal drugs. Regional Office via online videoconference. To support PARAMETERS IN GIVING SPECIAL AWARDS FOR CITIES / MUNICIPALITIES THAT HAVE SUSTAINED DRUG-CLEARED STATUS OF DRUG-AFFECTED BARANGAYS 50% of the drug-affected barangays have been City/ Municipality/ Barangay issued ordinances / declared as drug-cleared barangays from CY 2017 executive Orders regarding the implementation of to 2019 in accordance to DDB Reg. 3 S. 2017. Anti-Drug programs. City/Municipality/Barangay is implementing Monitoring Various Anti-Drug Advocacy Campaign programs Mechanisms on existing Anti-Drug Program. implemented Anti-drug Campaign of Law Enforcement Agencies Intervention for identified drug pushers are are supported provided 26 DILG IV-A Barangays have submitted their BADAC watchlist of drug personalities to PDEA

AWARDEES FOR 2020 ANTI-DRUG ABUSE COUNCIL (ADAC) SPECIAL AWARDS Special Awards for Local Government Units that have Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Awardees for Region sustained the drug-cleared status of their Drug Free IV-A (CALABARZON)* affected Barangay PROVINCE OF CAVITE PROVINCE OF QUEZON The Christ, The Living God Mt. Zion Gospel Church Inc. Amadeo Gumaca Fellowship Foundation, Inc. Cavite City, Cavite Sariaya Maragondon Mendez, Nuñez, Cavite Lemery Bethel Baptist Mendez PROVINCE OF RIZAL Church Naic Angono A House of Prayer Noveleta Antipolo Balayan, Batangas Lemery, Batangas Rosario Baras Ternate Morong PARDSS International Calaca Movement Carmona Pililla Taytay, Rizal Chapter Fellowship Tanay Magallanes CAISA CA Calaca, Batangas Angono, Rizal PROVINCE OF LAGUNA Servants of God Miniterial City of Biñan Soldier or Jesus Christ Fellowship, Inc. Community Christian City of Imus City of Sta. Rosa City of San Pedro Ministries Biñan Pastors Movement Calamba City, Laguna City of Biñan, Laguna Nagcarlan Special Awards for Local Government Units that have Community Anti-Drug sustained the drug-free status of their Drug unaffected Coalition Tanay, Rizal Barangay *The abovecited CSOs were recognized for their valuable PROVINCE OF QUEZON contributions to the anti-illegal drug programs of the government Perez amidst the pandemic. Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week DILG IV-A also conducted several activities in celebration of the Drug Abuse Prevention and Control (DAPC) Week 2020 with the theme, “Better Knowledge for Better Care”. DAPC Week is observed annually pursuant to its formalization in 2001 as an annual activity, following the agreements during the 9th Meeting of the ASEAN Senior Officials on Drug Matters held in Kuala Lumpur in September 1985. Among the activities we conducted for the DAPC Week 2020 are poem writing contest, digital posting making contest, and webinar for LGUs. The following winners for DAPC Week 2020 Poem Writing Contest and Digital Poster Making Contest were given monetary award and certificates: Poem Writing Contest Digital Poster Making Contest Digital Poster Making Contest (High School Category) (College Category) 1st Place 1st Place 1st Place Aliza Nicole H. Bonsol Nichole J. Vistal Jerome M. Hidalgo Lipa City, Batangas GMA, Cavite San Juan, Batangas 2nd Place 2nd Place 2nd Place Yveth S. Manalo Kirk Bertrand E. Canonizado Abegiel O. Quesea San Jose, Batangas San Pedro, Laguna Lucban, Quezon 3rd Place 3rd Place 3rd Place Shaira Nathalia D. Sobrado Erin Joy B. De Ocampo Reyland U. Macalam Nasugbu, Batangas Los Banos, Laguna San Pablo City, Laguna DILG IV-A 27

FEATURE STORY: In Lucena City: Former Drug Offenders Act as Frontliners During Pandemic DILG Lucena has continuously encouraged the city government to upscale its programs for its constituents and work hand-in-hand with the national government in its implementation of various peace and development programs. The city has been responsive to this call especially with its recent innovative programs such as the so-called “Revitalized Volunteers for Emergencies (REVIVE)” highlighted by the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (CADAC) as follows: “Mga dating lulong, ngayon ay handang tumulong.’’ This is the motto of “REVIVE”, a group of volunteers composed of reformed drug users/offenders who underwent Community Based Drug Rehabilitation Program (CBDRP). The CBDRP is a program of the DILG at the local level which facilitates faster rehabilitation and healing of drug users as rehabilitation sessions are conducted within the community, close to the care of their families. Lucena Mayor Roderick A. Alcala said that REVIVE has been an important member of the Incident Management Team in Lucena. They have been part of the quarantine community posts that check body temperatures and implement quarantine protocols. They have even assisted in transporting patients to hospitals. REVIVE members have shown dedication and concern to their fellowmen. “Ngayong COVID-19, natatakot po kami na baka dapuan kami nito pero kailangan po nating maging matatag kaya’t sa simpleng pamamaraan na pwede naming gawin ay tumutulong kami. Pagkakataon na rin po naming para maipakita na malaki nang pinagbago namin at hindi na kami ang dating problema ng bayan naming”, says Jomari, a member of REVIVE. Like the city government, the Office of the Civil Defense has also recognized the efforts of these former drug users/offenders in this pandemic. FEATURE STORY: Cavite’s Mendez-Nuñez “Ahon Mendezeño” Program DILG Mendez-Nuñez MLGOO Anne Kimberly P. Babaan The AHON Mendezeño program shifted the approach spearheads the implementation of the LGU’s Community of CBDRP to its core – case management. Case Management Based Drug Rehabilitation and Community-Support and ensures a holistic approach to the treatment and care of drug Reintegration (CBRP-CSAR) Program dubbed as Aksyon sa users as the intensity of essential care varies according to the Hamon ng Obligasyon para sa Nagbabalilk-loob (AHON) na nature and complexity of the problems experienced by the Mendezeño. individual. As a psychology major herself and with exposure in clinical psychology from drug rehabilitation, MLGOO Babaan The formulation of the concept and policy paper of the implored the continuum of care from outreach, basic support program started in 2019 as response of LGU Mendez-Nuñez and reducing the harm from drug use to social reintegration, to sustain its drug cleared Municipality status under the with no “wrong door” for entry into the CBDRP system. drumbeat of its proactive Mayor, Atty. Fredderick A. Vida. 28 DILG IV-A

The idea of its operational mechanism was further strengthened through the training and consultation with the team of Dr. Bernadino Vicente, a renowned Psychiatric Consultant of the Philippines Mental health Association, who boast over twenty years of experience in the treatment and rehabilitation of drug dependents. A big leap of accomplishment is the institutionalization of this program as supported by the Municipal Mayor and the whole ADAC. The treatment of Persons Who Used Drugs (PWUDs) is now shifted from the regular counseling method of the Simula ng Pag-asa program to a public health and needs-based approach. Several auxiliary services like health services, family shepherding, education and skills management and economic development are integrated in the program making it multi-faceted that aims to address the source of the problem of the PWUDs. The program is being funded by the Peace and Order and Public Safety Fund and with the approval of the proposal, MLGOO Babaan formed a technical working group for its operationalization. The AHON-TWG is composed of the PNP, MHO, MSWDO, Municipal Agriculture and the Pastor case managers. Tasks were assigned and proper coordination and communication protocols were settled. The AHON Mendezeño program also employs twelve (12) pastors who were trained in community-based therapy (CBT) as case managers. MLGOO Babaan with the lead case manager Ms. Emma G. Perey led the refresher course of the case managers for the operational implementation of the program. As of now, amidst the limitations brought by the COVID-19 Pandemic, the AHON Mendezeño program was able to take its first batch of clients for the 2020. There are 23 PWUDs who are now enrolled in the program. 18 of the 23 PWUDs are also enrolled in the AHON Livelihood auxiliary program, Pagyamanin ang Lupang Mendez (PaLuMe) with the Municipal Agriculture’s Office. This sustainable livelihood and food sustainability program is also a timely opportunity for the PWUDs who also struggle with scarce resources and unemployment. The MLGOO regularly conducts case management conferences with the pastors and the TWG to ensure the smooth implementation of the AHON program as well as to sort out operational concerns such as coordination with the punong barangays, harmonization of records and progress reporting for the Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council, the PNP and PDEA. She also ensures that administrative requirements are compiled and that each PWUD’s has individual records for progress monitoring. The AHON Mendezeño is presently maintaining a database of the PWUDs which makes the program more systematic. DILG IV-A 29

Batangas Province Ensures Public Safety And Peace And Order Through Regular PPOC Meetings As part of the heightened action against of all three councils along with Chairperson, Gov. insurgents in the Province as well as incorporation Hermilando I. Mandanas of peace and safety measures in this time of Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the pandemic, the Province of Batangas Provincial consecutive council meetings were both Peace and Order Council (BPPOC) conducted conducted virtually. The 2nd Quarter Joint Full three (3) council meetings for the year 2020. Council Meeting took place on June 26, 2020 Steadfast. Provincial ABC President Hon. where the Provincial Peace and Order Council Wilfredo Maliksi being given the privilege to soeak expressed its full support to the Anti-Terrorism by Chairperson Hon. Mandanas during the 1st Bill of 2020 through Resolution No. 001 Series Quarter PPOC Meeting 2020: A Resolution Expressing Full Support of The 1st Quarter Joint Full Council Meeting of the Batangas Provincial Peace and Order Council PDC-PPOC-PADAC was conducted on March 10, (PPOC) to the Proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill Of 2020 at the Provincial Auditorium, Capitol Site, 2020. Finally, the 3rd Quarter Council meeting Batangas City. Present was the full membership also took place on October 7, 2020. 30 DILG IV-A

SOCIALLY PROTECTIVE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS DILG IV-A 31

GAD Gender and Development As an advocate of gender and development (GAD), the DILG IV-A continues to capacitate the men and women of the office on gender mainstreaming to enable their development of gender-responsive policies, plans, programs and services for both internal and external stakeholders. With the assistance of the CALABARZON GAD Resource Pool, we have conducted the following capacity development activities on GAD for the DILG Regional and Provincial GAD focal persons: JUNE SEPTEMBER DECEMBER 25-26 28-29 3-4 2020 2020 2020 GAD Orientation Gender Analysis GAD Planning and (GST) Online Training Online Training Budgeting Distribution of Participants to the Safe and Secure Workplace Orientation Also, in recognition of the equal rights of men and women for protection against any form of gender-based harassment and violence inside the workplace, the DILG IV-A through its Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) conducted “Establishing and Maintaining A Safe and Secure Workplace in Accordance with RA 9262, RA 7877, and RA 11313: An Orientation” for all its employees. A total of 392 employees from the regional and provincial/HUC offices attended the activity and were oriented on laws on anti-violence against women and children (VAWC), laws against sexual harassment in the workplace, and other related policies and concepts. Pursuant to Sec. 17 of Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women, the State shall, at all times, provide for a comprehensive, culture-sensitive, and gender-responsive health services and programs covering all stages of a woman’s life cycle and which addresses the major causes of women’s mortality and morbidity. Whereas, explicitly stated at Sec. 17.2, promotion of breastfeeding shall be ensured. In this regard, and in recognition of the needs of breastfeeding/lactating mothers in the regional office as well as visitors and other external stakeholders, two (2) breastfeeding stations were established at the Regional Office. Several provincial offices/HUC offices have also established the same in their respective office spaces. 32 DILG IV-A

LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig sa Lahat (SALINTUBIG) is designed to provide community-based water supply systems to residents of waterless municipalities with low water service coverage, high incidence of water- borne diseases and high poverty incidence. For this year, 28 infrastructure projects under SALINTUBIG were completed in the five (5) provinces of CALABARZON. 28 INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS UNDER SALINTUBIG WERE COMPLETED Assistance to Municipalities (AM) Program (formerly known as Assistance to Disadvantaged Municipalities/Bottom-up Budgeting) addresses the gaps in the delivery of services of the municipalities to their constituents by providing them with financial subsidy under the local government support fund (LGSF). Projects under this program ranges from potable water supply and local access roads to disaster risk reduction (DRR) and other local infrastructures projects. 942 ADM/AM infrastructure projects were completed in the region this year. DILG IV-A 33

73 Local roads completed this year under KALSADA/CMGP. Support to CMGP Program (formerly known as the Konkreto at Ayos na Lansangan ang Daan Tungo sa Pangkalahatang Kaunlaran (KALSADA) addresses the poor state of provincial roads across the country by improving the capacity of provinces in local road management (LRM) through the provision of assistance to provinces on fund release for the repair, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads, and through monitoring of accomplishments under the Public Financial Management (PFM) targets of beneficiary provinces. performance challenge fund The Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) subsidy, granted to Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) LGU awardees, supports development programs and projects related to local economic development, disaster risk reduction and management, ecological solid waste management and the Millennium Development Goals/Sustainable Development Goals (MDGs/SDGs). 33 PCF projects in the region were completed this year 34 DILG IV-A

For CY 2020, 1,076 (86%) of 1,250 monitored infrastructure projects under SALINTUBIG, AM, CMGP, and PCF were completed in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon. Capability development activities for program focal persons and LGUs were also conducted to ensure implementation of the above said infrastructure projects, to wit: 1 2 3 Regional WatSan Hub Virtual Coaching and Simultaneous Encoding Coordination Meeting Simultaneous Encoding in and Updating of Data in SubayBAYAN System SubayBayan System 4 5 6 Roll-out of Capacity Assessment Coaching and Mentoring Infrastructure Project to PEOs on Local Road on Updating the Local Road Management System Contract Management and Network Development to PLGUs Construction Supervision Plan of PLGUs 7 8 9 Virtual Training on Sector Follow-Through Orientation of Preparation Assessment for untrained Activity on Sector of DED and POWs to PLGUs LGUs in CALABARZON Assessment under CMGP Program 10 11 DILG IV-A 35 Year-End Conditional SubayBAYAN-RSSA Matching Grant to System Demonstration Provinces Program and Proficiency Implementation Review Enhancement

FEATURE STORY: “Then, ‘twas all bamboo” Pulo-Gumian Bridge in Infanta, Quezon The construction of the Pulo-Gumian Bridge at Brgy. Pulo and Gumian, Infanta, Quezon was made possible through the Assistance to Municipalities (AM) program of the DILG, with the local government of Infanta also allocating funds to aid the completion of the project. The bridge, constructed over the Pakatan River, was completed last year and is now benefitting many individuals and communities in Quezon. The Pulo-Gumian Bridge has proven its positive economic impact for the surrounding communities such as Barangay Amolongin, Binonoan, and Alitas-Langgas since it is now being used to transport local products and commodities including palay, nipa wine, nipa shingles, vegetables and poultry. Recognizing the value of the new bridge for their daily socio-economic activities, residents in the nearby communities pledged to safeguard the bridge from vandalism and other possible destructions. Prior to the construction of the bridge, travel time between the barangays takes 30 to 45 minutes, and only a bamboo bridge, which had to be repaired annually using barangay funds, connects them. The bamboo bridge, though demonstrative of local ingenuity and helpful to the local populace, is not friendly for the children, elderly, and differently-abled given the precipitous climate of the locality. During the rainy season or amihanin, the bamboo becomes slippery and risky to traverse. With the concrete Pulo-Gumian bridge now in place, the travel time between barangays is cut short to 15 to 20 minutes. Farm produce and other products can now be transported faster and easier to marketplaces. 36 DILG IV-A

“Noong hindi pa nagagawa ang tulay na ito, taun-taon ay naglalaan kami ng pondo mula sa barangay para sa mintenansiya ng tulay na kawayan, na siyang nakatalad dito noon. Kung ilang sapatos at tsinelas ang napudpod sa kadadala ng mga kapasiyahan na humihingi ng tulong sa munisipyo, sa lalawigan, sa iba’t ibang mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan para sa tulay na ito. Maraming salamat at sa biyaya ng DILG, at ng munisipyo, ay nagkaroon ng katuparan ang kongkretong tulay na ito. Malaking tulong ito sa aming mga mamamayan, at sa kabuuang pag-unlad ng aming barangay.” -Raphael F. Rivera Punong Barangay Barangay Pulo DILG IV-A 37

DISTRIBUTION OF RGAF TO PARTNER LGUs Resettlement CAVITE Trece Martires City Governance ₱ 8,279,399.00 The Department, through Resettlement Governance (RG), aims to strengthen LGU capacity on resettlement governance by providing them Naic technical and financial assistance. One of the projects under this program ₱ 28,089,157.00 is the Resettlement Governance Assistance Fund (RGAF) which aims to RIZAL deliver financial assistance to the selected beneficiary LGUs. Baras ₱ 500,000.00 In the previous years, the provision of RGAF was an intervention to respond to challenges brought by Oplan Lumikas para Iwas Kalamidad at Morong Sakit (Oplan Likas) Program to informal settler-receiving LGUs. It intends ₱ 3,615,680.00 to provide augmentation and transitional fund support to these LGUs. For CY 2020, the provision of RGAF continues. In CALABARZON, it expanded Rodriguez from four (4) hosting LGUs with six (6) resettlement sites to (7) seven ₱ 500,000.00 hosting LGUs with (14) resettlement sites namely Trece Martires City and Naic in Province of Cavite, and Baras, Morong, Rodriguez, Tanay, and Teresa Tanay in Province of Rizal. Hence, several coordination and consultative meetings ₱ 500,000.00 were conducted to discuss the RG programs, such as 2020 RGAF eligibility requirements and related policies. Teresa ₱ 3,711,760.00 On December 10, 2020, the 2020 RGAF Virtual Ceremonial Awarding was conducted. Wherein RGAF allocation was awarded to the seven (7) ₱ 45,195,996 partner LGUs in CALABARZON. TOTAL RGAF 38 DILG IV-A

ENVIRONMENT PROTECTIVE, CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTIVE AND DISASTER RESILIENT LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS DILG IV-A 39

Enhancing Capacity on DRRCCA The Regional Comprehensive Development Planning (CDP) Meeting cum Regional Consultation on Community Based Monitoring System (CBMS) and Philippine Development Plan-Sustainable Development Goals (PDP-SDG) meeting was conducted online on June 29, 2020. The meeting attended by the local development planning (LDP) Regional and Alternate Focal Persons aimed to discuss concerns, issues, and changes LDP activities for 2020 due to the pandemic, specifically: status of Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP), Philippine Development Plan-Sustainable Development Goals (PDP-SDG) and Community Based Monitoring System in CALABARZON, LDP activities for the second semester, and action planning on the strategies and mechanisms to be adopted and implemented by the LDP Team in anticipation of the activities needing implementation and local government units’ (LGUs) requests for technical assistance. Moreover, the new LDP regional alternate focal persons were oriented on the processes of local development planning in the Regional level. 40 DILG IV-A

Manila Bay Clean-Up, Rehabilitation, and Preservation Program The Department, as mandated by the Supreme Court, continues to monitor the compliance of the 67 Local Government Units (LGUs) in the Provinces of Cavite, Laguna and Rizal to different environmental laws such as R.A. 9275 or “Clean Water Act”, R.A. 9003 “Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000” and R.A. 7279 or “Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992”. As determined by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Manila Bay Coordinating Office (DENR-MBCO) and Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), the program officially expanded its coverage to five (5) more LGUs in the Province of Batangas and four (4) LGUs in the Province of Quezon. This leads to a total of 76 LGUs within Region IV-A which will be provided with capacity development and other needed assistance from the Manila Bay Regional Task Group (MBRTG). This assistance focuses on the assurance of compliance to the program’s outcome areas, such as Liquid Waste Management, Solid Waste Management, Informal Settlers Families and Information Education Campaign. Due to the limitations brought about by the pandemic, the MBRTG opted for virtual orientations to officially welcome the newly added LGUs and to discuss the background and deliverables of the program. For this year, all above said nine (9) LGUs, five (5) from Batangas – Lipa City, Tanauan City, Sto. Tomas City, Talisay, and Malvar, and four (4) from Quezon – Tayabas City, Lucban, Real, and Sampaloc were oriented on the Manila Bay Clean-up Rehabilitation and Preservation Program. Solid Waste Management in the regional office was also initiated this year under the Manila Bay Program. Proper waste segregation was encouraged with the provision of waste bins with separate containers, and yellow trash bins for infectious waste in view of the pandemic. Accordingly, information, education and communication (IEC) posters on proper disposal of infectious waste such as face masks, face shields, gloves and other personal protective equipment were distributed to LGUs under the MBCRPP. DILG IV-A 41

FEATURE STORY: DILG Laguna Joins the International Coastal Clean Up Day 2020 Waterways trash is one of the most serious pollution problems affecting our planet. However, this type of problem is preventable if everyone will do their part in defending our oceans. The International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) is the world’s largest and most recognized volunteer effort to improve the ocean and waterway health in all parts of the world. For this year’s celebration of the ICC Day with the theme, “Safe Oceans Start At Home”, the DILG Laguna took part in the clean-up activity held at Puting Cruz, Sampiruhan, Calamba City on September 19, 2020. The activity was facilitated by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office – Laguna. Aiming for one ultimate goal — to save our seas, a total of 171 volunteers from different government agencies, local government units and other organizations gathered for the clean-up drive. With the threat of COVID-19, all participants wore proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintained a safe social distance throughout the activity. By performing the simple steps of collecting trash, segregation, and recording of data, create an enormous impact on our environment. Having such activity empowers people to take an active role and engages the public to change behaviors that cause pollution. 42 DILG IV-A

STRENGTHENING INTERNAL GOVERNANCE DILG IV-A 43

ISO Activities On October 12-16, 2020 the DILG IV-A conducted an online Regional Internal Quality Audit. The five (5)-day activity convened the Regional Internal Quality Audit (RIQA) team headed by the Regional Attorney for the review of the implementation and compliance of the management and ISO process owners to the Quality Management System (QMS) Process. The Online Management Review followed on October 28, 2020 two (2) weeks after the conduct of the online internal quality audit. The QMS Secretariat discussed the status of QMS implementation in the DILG IV-A and the result of the recently conducted online internal quality audit. At the end of the activity, the RIQA team awarded a virtual Certificate of Recognition to DILG Laguna for its excellent implementation of QMS. Three (3) weeks after the Management Review, on November 19, 2020, external auditors from Worldwide Quality Assurance (WQA) Philippines, Inc. conducted a surveillance audit on DILG IV-A via video conferencing to assess the regional and provincial/HUC offices’ compliance to QMS and gauged the competency of the process owners in handling their operating procedures. The surveillance audit lasted for more than twelve (12) hours, but concluded with a happy note with the DILG IV-A earning a recommendation for re-certification to ISO 9001:2015. Records Management Activities DILG IV-A continued to improve its records management procedures not only with the realignment of the Regional Records Management System to the Document Management System (DMS) of the Central Office, but also with the improvement of existing regional online systems and platforms such as the DILG IV-A Financial Administrative System (FAS) which enables easy access of employees to various office documents and forms, and therefore help streamline our office processes. Multi-media and information management features of the DILG FAS include the following: 1) online daily time recorder, 2) online health declaration form, 3) events management system/online calendar of events, 4) procurement management system, 5) inventory management system, 6) employee directory, and 7) databank of forms and issuances. 44 DILG IV-A

Provision of Medical Supplies and Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) The DILG IV-A, understanding the risks braved by all DILG IV-A personnel including the newly-hired contact tracers in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, provided sufficient medical and sanitation supplies and PPEs for their protection. Go bags with disinfectants, medicine, face masks and face shields were distributed, and acrylic barriers were installed in the work stations in the Regional Office as an added safety measure not just for the employees but also for visiting clients and other stakeholders. Improvement of Regional facilities and equipment We also improved our conference facilities to dubbed as “The Green Room” where many of the audio- facilitate the migration from face-to-face interaction visual materials for capacity development activities to use of virtual and online media for program of the DILG IV-A are recently developed. As a matter implementation in observance of social distancing and of fact, this improved facility birthed several audio- health protocols. Two (2) fully-equipped audio-video visual presentations for the contact tracing training conference meeting facilities were installed in the modules of the DILG IV-A. As key interviews, podcasts, Regional Office’s RCA Governance Hall and Regional and group discussions can also be shot and recorded in Conference Room which are now being utilized for this technologically customizable studio, it has become various internal and interagency meetings and activities home to many information sharing channels and online of the DILG IV-A. segments of the DILG IV-A such as “Linawin Natin” and “Sagisag ng Pag-asa”. Likewise, we transferred our LGRRC into a studio DILG IV-A 45

the green room FEATURE STORY The world has seen a shift in the way we communicate information under the “new normal” situation amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Before, face-to-face seminars and roundtable discussions are commonplace strategies for program implementation. Now, most especially in the government sector, the deliverables on capability development activities and information dissemination are being channeled through the use of online platforms. The Local Government Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) of the DILG IV-A, banking on its existent multimedia knowledge and information facility, has transformed itself into a studio dubbed as “The Green Room”. This is a place where audio-visual materials for capacity development training and other information, education and communication (IEC) activities of the Department can be created. Case in point, this improved facility birthed several audio-visual presentations for the contact tracing training modules of the DILG IV-A as well as other capacity development materials now made available to its target end users through cloud storage and/or the official social media pages of the DILG IV-A. Key informant interviews, podcasts, and group discussions can also be shot and recorded inside the studio as it can be converted into sets suitable for the kind of knowledge product that will be produced. The studio is now almost complete with equipment and is already functional for recording and airing of online segments of the DILG IV-A such as “Linawin Natin” – an online question and answer segment addressing the public’s questions about COVID-19 and existing government policies and protocols, and “Sagisag ng Pag-asa” – an online segment broadcasting local government units’ (LGUs) best practices in the time of COVID-19, both of which are innovative programs of the Regional Office for knowledge and information-sharing in this time of pandemic. In this age of the Internet, almost everyone is present online, which makes the presence of the LGRRC in a technologically updated and upgraded facility essential. The LGRRC in “The Green Room” of the Regional Office is successfully adapting with the changing times and continues to make itself relevant to its clients and stakeholders, symbolic of the DILG IV-A as a whole. 46 DILG IV-A

key officials ARIEL O. IGLESIA, CESO IV NOEL R. BARTOLABAC, CESO V Regional Director Assistant Regional Director ABIGAIL N. ANDRES, CESE LIONEL L. DALOPE, CESO V ENGR. JOHN M. CEREZO Provincial Director Provincial Director Provincial Director Batangas Province Cavite Province Laguna Province DARRELL I. DIZON, CESO V ALLAN V. BENITEZ ENGR. DANILO A. NOBLEZA HUC Director Provincial Director Provincial Director Lucena City Quezon Province Rizal Province DR. CARINA S. CRUZ JAY-AR T. BELTRAN GILBERTO L. TUMAMAC ATTY. JORDAN V. NADAL Chief OIC-Chief OIC-Chief Regional Legal Officer Finance and Administrative Local Government Capability Local Government Monitoring Division Development Division and Evaluation Division DILG IV-A 47

Lingkod Bayan sa Gitna ng Pandemya DILG IV-A 2020 ACCOMPLISHMENT REPORT