Philippines News

THE percentage of married women using modern family planning methods has increased from 29 percent in 1993 to 45 percent in 2022, said the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Thursday, July 13, 2023.

The PSA said that this is based on the results of the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) that it conducted in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAid).

The NDHS provides valuable insights into various aspects of family planning, violence against women, fertility rates, women's empowerment, and access to healthcare in Central Visayas.

Results of the study were presented to local media during an event at Golden Prince Hotel and Suites in Cebu City on Thursday.

Maria Lourdes A. Garillos, the Fertility and Family Planning Population Program officer, said there has been a significant rise in the use of modern family planning methods among married women in Central Visayas, and this is a positive trend toward the adoption of modern contraceptive methods in the region.

Modern methods include female sterilization, male sterilization, pill, IUD, injectable, condom, mucus/billings/ovulation methods, Standard Days Method and Lactational Amenorrhea Method.

The traditional methods include calendar method, rhythm or periodic abstinence, and withdrawal.

The survey also highlighted the need for continued efforts in promoting family planning education and services to unmarried sexually active women, as their contraceptive usage remains significantly lower compared to married women.

This underscores the importance of reaching out to this population and addressing the barriers they may face in accessing and using contraception, said Garillos.

She added that the unmet need for family planning in Central Visayas has decreased from 22 percent in 1993 to 13 percent in 2022, indicating improved access to contraception.

These findings underscore the ongoing importance of enhancing family planning services and information, she said.

Central Visayas has a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.0, indicating a declining population growth rate in the region.

Also, the survey revealed the desired family size among women aged 15-49, which is crucial for tailoring family planning programs to meet women's expectations and aspirations in the region.

Domestic violence

Leslie Marie Zuasula, the Women's Empowerment and Domestic Violence Senior Statistical specialist, said domestic violence also remained a concerning issue in the region.

Based on the survey, 19 percent of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence from their current or most recent husband or intimate partner. Additionally, 14 percent of women in the same age group have suffered from any form of violence within the past 12 months.

Women empowerment, access to healthcare services

The survey also examined different facets of women's empowerment such as earnings, decision-making, and negotiation of sexual relations.

The PSA said policymakers can use this information to create comprehensive programs that promote gender equality and safeguard women's rights.

The survey also revealed the difficulties women aged 15-49 face when accessing healthcare services.

PSA said understanding these challenges is crucial for developing strategies to improve healthcare access for women and ensure timely medical attention.

It added that the survey's findings will serve as a valuable foundation for policymakers, healthcare providers, and stakeholders to design programs that address women's specific needs and enhance their overall well-being in Central Visayas. (Ian Christopher Ostulano, NWSSU intern)

CENTRAL and Eastern Visayas may experience cloudy skies, light to moderate with at times heavy rains, and thunderstorms due to the enhanced southwest monsoon, an official said Friday, July 14, 2023.

Engr. Alfredo Quiblat, director of Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration in Central Visayas (Pagasa 7), said bad weather condition will prevail in the two regions until Saturday, July 15, 2023.

He said light to moderate and at times occasional heavy rainshowers are expected over Negros Oriental, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Leyte, and Samar with lightning and strong winds, and with a rainfall amount of between 5.5 to 7.5 millimeters within one to two hours.

Quiblat said the seas will also be rough waves due to moderate to strong winds from the enhanced southwest monsoon. This, he said, may be risky for small boats and beachgoers.

He said the impacts associated with these hazards include flash floods and landslides.

Pagasa 7 has been monitoring Tropical Depression Dodong, which made landfall at 3 a.m. Friday over Dinapigue in Isabela province in northern Luzon. As of 10 a.m. Friday, the center of Dodong was located in the vicinity of Alacapan, Cagayan.

Quiblat said Dodong is expected to move away from northern Luzon Friday afternoon or evening and head toward the West Philippine Sea, where it may strengthen into a tropical storm before exiting the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on Saturday evening or Sunday morning.

As of Friday morning, at least 12 areas in Luzon have been placed until Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal Number 1 due to Tropical Depression Dodong. (AML)

The National Privacy Commission received the Commission on Audit’s “highest audit” rating on the presentation of its financial statements for the second consecutive year, the commission announced on Thursday.

THE Tourism Promotions Board (TBP) announced the return of Philippine Travel Exchange (Phitex) to Cebu in September this year.

TBP officer-in-charge Arnold Gonzales made the announcement during the second day of the VisMin Tourism Congress and Travel Sale on Friday, July 14, 2023, at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotels & Casinos.

He said Cebu is hosting Phitex once again after 16 years. The last time it hosted the same event was in 2007.

Gonzales said the tentative schedule for the travel fair is September 19-26, 2023.

Phitex is known to be the largest public travel trade event in the country. It has become a major annual marketing event that aims to strengthen the Philippines' brand image and promote tourism packages.

This year's event will feature a two-day face-to-face for the Travel Exchange (Travex), Phitex Educational Program (PEP), and Pre and Post-Event Tours for Buyers, targeting around 100 buyers and seller companies.

The event will also feature business-to-business meetings among buyers and investors from all around the world to promote the Philippine's tourism sector.

Invited international buyers will be from travel businesses that are looking to extend their reach in the Philippines for their travel programs.

The event also targets local buyers, or those from travel agencies or operators and travel trade associations.

Key prospects attending the event are required to register on the official website of TBP in order to participate in the Philippine Travel Exchange 2023. (Chrys Chelsea Bernales, UP Cebu Intern)

(Brussels) - Governments from the Americas and Europe should prioritize the human rights situation in Nicaragua during the upcoming European Union - Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (EU-CELAC) summit, 160 Nicaraguan victims said today in a letter co-signed

Lawmakers want a probe to determine if there were irregularities in the procurement process for PAGCOR's new logo, including how the contract went to a "new and small entity."

A number of domestic flights were grounded on Friday due to the unfavorable weather condition brought by Tropical Depression Dodong.

A PREGNANT woman who was about to deliver illegal substances to her live-in partner inside the Mandaue City Jail was taken into custody on Thursday, July 13, 2023.

The suspect was identified as Angelina Contapay Empleo, 21, a resident of Barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City.

Empleo, who is five months pregnant with her second child, was found carrying a substance believed to be shabu during inspection.

The five grams of “shabu” worth around P40,000 were discovered by Jail Officer 1 Ira Luz Balbin, who broke out the stitched edge of the face towel that she brought.

Balbin said Empleo admitted that she was instructed by her live-in partner to deliver the drugs to him.

But when asked who gave her the face towel, Empleo did not answer and kept crying. (BBT/TPT)

CEBU Business Months (CBM) is back to showcase why Cebu is a global player and a prime destination for tourism, new industries, and investments. With the launch of its 2023 theme "Cebu 'ta bai - Moving Forward. Shaping the Future," CBM 2023 aims to focus on Cebu’s Tourism, Entrepreneurship, Technology, and Creative Entertainment industries.

Meet the team behind CBM 2023: Charles Kenneth Co

Spearheaded by Charles Kenneth Co, President of Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Cebu Business Months is a year-long initiative organized by Cebu Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCCI) “to inspire, promote, and grow Cebu businesses”. Before becoming the president, Co served as Vice President for Membership Development & Chamber Growth in 2020. In 2018, he was the Vice President for the External Affairs and Relations Division, and in 2017, he became the overall Chairman of the Cebu Business Months. JP Chongbian

Alongside Co, JP Chongbian serves as the overall chairman for CBM 2023. Chongbian—also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sugbo Mercado Food Bazaar Inc.—served the Cebuanos as well during the pandemic through his Let’s Eat Bai food delivery app. Now, Chongbian is planning to change the Cebuano food industry landscape through Cur8, a modern Asian restaurant that elevates flavor profiles from Southeast Asia. Chongbian envisions to promote Cebu through their various dining experiences coupled with platforms for up-and-coming chefs. Georgia Felice “Jaja” Chiongbian-Rama

Georgia Felice “Jaja” Chiongbian-Rama is CBM 2023’s Publicity and Promotion chairperson. As the president of Bigseed PR and Events, a full-service integrated marketing company, creator, artist and talent management agency, Jaja has the marketing experience to onboard CBM 2023’s theme. Having been appointed in CCCI’s Cebu Business Mobilization Publicity and Promotions Committee in 2022 and 2023, Jaja Chongbian-Rama’s experience in publicity and promotion is without a doubt outstanding. Daniellane “Danna” Bacolod

Joining Jaja Chongbian-Rama in Publicity and Promotion is Daniellane “Danna” Bacolod. Danna is CBM 2023’s Publicity and Promotion Co-chair. Since her graduation at the University of San Carlos in and earning the outstanding leader award in 2015, Danna has already worked with several media outlets, celebrities, influencers, and key personalities. She also manages various events and collaborated with different. As the co-chair of publicity and promotion, Danna will be working together with Jaja to ensure that CBM 2023 reaches its target audiences. Kate Dychangco-Anzani

Kate Dychangco-Anzani is the President of La Cosa Nostra and Anzani International Hospitality Holding and the Vice President for Dychangco Group of Companies. In this year’s CBM 2023, she serves as the tourism chairperson. Holding three different degrees and one masters at Harvard Innovation Lab, Kate did not fail to use her expertise into practice as she became the resource speaker for TedX on the topic “How Sustainability, Flexibility, Adaptability & Creative Change is Needed Moving Forward” in April 2022. She is very active in championing food systems and food chain management sustainability as well as adamant in changing complexities of food, hospitality, and ecosystems in the future. Allen Andre Suarez

Allen Andre Suarez is CBM 2023’s Tourism Co-chairperson. As a third-generation entrepreneur, Andre has the background and experience in the business field. He is the owner of Brick Lane Doughnuts and has over 10 years of experience in real-estate. Andre has a diploma in culinary arts and a master’s degree in entrepreneurship. This dashing young entrepreneur is set to make Cebu’s tourism flourish as he spearheads Cebu Business Months together with Kate Dychangco-Anzani. Joselito “Boboi” Costas

Another distinguished individual co-chairing the tourism working team of CBM 2023 is Joselito “Boboi” Costas. Named as one of the inspiring Filipinos in 2016 by Philippine Airlines, Boboi does more than just inspiring Filipinos. He organized and led the transformation of the fishing village of Bojo, Aloguinsan, which gained several awards, one of which is being hailed as Best Tourism Village of the world by the United Nations World Tourism Organization in 2021. Boboi champions sustainable tourism focusing on rural tourism as a tool for resource conservation and poverty alleviation. Boboi, together with Kate and Andre, make up the tourism heads for CBM 2023. Ryan Tan Tu

Joining the CBM 2023 working team is Ryan Tan Tu. Ryan is CBM 2023’s ICT-BPM chairperson. With an extensive background in the field of technology and innovation, Ryan has been contributing to both the private and public sector with products and services relevant to societal needs. With his certifications in Viral, Social Media, Digital Marketing Planning, and Experiential Marketing, Ryan nurtures businesses to compete in the global marketplace of technology. Ryan Raymund Yu

Together with Tu, Ryan Raymund Yu is the founder, president and CEO of Fine Upgrades Computer and Gadgets Distribution and will be co-chairing the CBM 2023’s ICT-BPM working team. He is also the Chief Automation Designer of TechIsland Corp, a subsidiary company of Fine Upgrades Corp Umbrella focused on consulting and designing smart spaces. Raymund was also the past president of Association of Computer resellers, past vice president of and current communications officer of BNI Capital Cebu, board member of Cebu Road Heroes, member of rotary club of Cebu, and past vice president and member of Sacred Heart School - Hijas de Jesus Parents’ Association. April V. Ong Vaño

Completing the chairpersons for ICT-BPM working team is April V. Ong Vaño. April will be co-chairing the committee together with Ryan and Raymund. At her young age, April founded Collabox and My Soul Briefcase. She is an active key player in the local startup ecosystem and has worked with various key stakeholders in the region. One of her advocacies is building an ecosystem among innovators through collaborative projects. She is also a strong advocate for sustainability and economic empowerment. Together with Ryan and Raymund, April and the team will spearhead CBM 2023’s ICT-BPM committee, dedicated to growing organizations and creating value for local Cebuano businesses. Gretchen Choa

Gretchen Choa is this year’s CBM Chairperson for Entrepreneurship. With her experience as the Vice President of the Camden Trading Group, Gretchen has more than the entrepreneurial skills to spearhead the entrepreneurship working team. She has an extensive background in retail distribution, sales, and operations. During the pandemic, Gretchen and her friends formed Courage Cebu, a platform aiming to provide PPEs and food supply to medical frontliners and daily wage earners. Courage Cebu received a support amounting to P2.7 million pesos during the pandemic and P3.8 million pesos after the onslaught of typhoon Odette. Gretchen’s ability to sprout productivity is what CBM 2023 needs to inspire and equip future Cebuano entrepreneurs. Niko Basubas

Niko Basubas is CBM 2023’s Entrepreneurship Co-Chairman. He is the CEO and founder of Canbas Custom Furniture & Home Accessories, where they have a wide manufacturing capability along with a broad selection of materials including indigenous ones. With their highly skilled workforce and flexible approach, they aim to be a market leader in the home and office furnishings industry. Niko’s results-oriented approach has allowed him to be the best at creating sales and operational systems, processes, and policies. Lawrence Panganiban Another part of CBM 2023’s working team is Lawrence Panganiban, CBM 2023’s Creative Entertainment Industry Chairman. Having been involved in the development of the entertainment industry since 2014 through his animation service work and original content, he continues his creative endeavors as he founded the creative studio “Enigma Kai” and is the Chairman of the company as of 2022. He is also the founder of “Sugbo Entertainment Expo Cebu” (SEE CEBU) and Cebu Creative Entertainment Week. With his expertise and experience in the creative industry, he was appointed as the Committee Chairman for Creative Entertainment Industries in CBM 2022 and continues to do so for this year. Bryan O. Yap

Completing the CBM 2023 working team is Bryan O. Yap. Bryan is CBM 2023’s Creative Entertainment Industry Co-Chairperson. Bryan is the CEO and founder of the Republiq Group of Companies (RGC), VisMin’s largest Digital Transformation Agency focused on transforming business to become future-proof. A part of RGC is Ark Digital, its web development wing, Entertainment Republiq, its production wing, and Creative Republiq, its Branding, Design, and Social Media Wing. With Bryan’s experience in producing quality entertainment content, the creative entertainment industry wing of CBM 2023 is in good hands.

The exciting and revolutionary Cebu Business Months 2023 will highlight Cebu's advantages and potential in a variety of industries. By embracing the digital age, highlighting local talent, and encouraging collaboration, CBM aspires to inspire, promote, and grow Cebu's businesses through its engaging events. CBM is a symbol of the region's resiliency, adaptability, and steadfast spirit as Cebu advances and shapes its future. (SPONSORED CONTENT)

According to an advisory by the state weather bureau, Dodong made landfall in Dinapique, Isabela early Friday morning, packing maximum sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour and gustiness of 75 kph.

The impact of Tropical Depression Dodong continues to be felt across parts of the Philippines as it brings heavy rain and strong winds, prompting several local government units to suspend classes on Friday, July 14.

TECHNOLOGY business leaders based in Cebu and the Visayas & Mindanao regions are invited to attend or stream via Zoom the upcoming KPMG Innovation Summit 2023, at Fairmont, Makati on July 20, 2023.

Tagged “MAKING IT HAPPEN: From Innovative Ideas to Execution,” KPMG Philippines, one of the country’s leading professional services firms, looks forward to invigorating the business sector’s spirit of enterprise with game-changing discussions that zero in on innovation and technology. Global technology innovator For the first time, KPMG PH will also be granting a tech start-up the opportunity to represent the country at the KPMG Global Technology Innovator finals to be held in Lisbon, Portugal in November. Apart from potentially winning the competition on the global stage, the summit sets the stage for start-up companies to showcase their products and services and build meaningful connections with investors, industry experts, and fellow disruptors. KPMG Digital Government Center During the summit, participants both live and online will likewise witness the launch of Digital Government Center, a remarkable initiative aimed at driving digital transformation in government agencies and local government units.

The Digital Government Center is the firm’s one-stop shop for national government agencies and local government units to help them with their digital transformation journeys from crafting a strategy plan and road map to automatic services and processes to harnessing emerging technology to provide citizen-centric solutions to upskill civil servants through trainings and certifications. Smart cities panel Four hyper-specialized plenary sessions are underway at the KPMG Innovation Summit 2023: Smart Cities, ESG Technology, The Next Wave of Automation, and Industry Disruptors.

As the world continues to witness rapid urbanization and technological advancements, the concept of smart cities has emerged as a powerful solution to address the complex challenges faced by modern societies. These intelligent ecosystems leverage cutting-edge technologies to create sustainable, efficient, and livable environments.

Technology enterprises and tech start-ups will greatly benefit from the panel discussions led by Department of Information and Technology (DICT) Undersecretary David Almirol, KPMG Singapore Associate Director Abishek Dubey, Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines, Undersecretary and Executive Director Ma. Cynthia Hernandez, Microsoft Philippines National Technology and Security Officer Dale Jose, Asian Development Bank Digital Innovation and Architecture Division Director Ozzeir Khan and Aboitiz Data Innovation General Manager for Smart Cities Alvin Ng who are set to tackle Cities of the Future: Redefining Smart Cities.

The summit provides an avenue to listen and interact with these prime movers of Smart Cities as it places people at the core of sustainable development and ecological design, to improve quality of life and create a value network. Many industries are presently evolving into such cities opening themselves to both its challenges and opportunities.

Being one of the most fascinating subjects that have drawn interest within the business industry, panelists are expected to expound on how cities of the future apply information and communication technology to improve its infrastructure, public services and mobility.



KPMG Philippines Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Head of Advisory and Smart Cities panel discussion moderator Noel Bonoan says: “Though it may seem unattainable, the evolution to smart cities, many believe, has already begun. Smart cities are not just a distant vision. They are real and accessible, ready to solve urban challenges; from traffic decongestion to digital payment solutions, and collaborating with the Local Government Units, National Government Agencies and GOCCs. Partnership with the private sector, multilaterals, and other funding institutions are also key to realizing Smart City projects in the Philippines aimed at improving lives, attracting investments and enhancing economic competitiveness. Industry Disruptors panel Aside from prime movers of Smart Cities, another league of game- changers in technology worth listening to is the panel on Industry Disruptors: Game Changers in Tech.



KPMG Philippines Head of Deal Advisory and Industry Disruptors Panel Moderator Michael Arcatomy Guarin says: “Disruptors play a crucial role in driving innovation and growth across a variety of sectors such as financial, industrial, retail and healthcare. By embracing disruption, we can unlock new avenues for success, transform business models and stay ahead of rapidly changing market dynamics.”

Changing the rules that have been long established and institutionalized are always met with resistance, so it takes a disruptive stance to move things forward and make businesses more efficient. Whether it's adopting ESG models of technology to make businesses more efficient or introducing disruptive technology into the fold of tradition, disruptors are worth learning from to help solve problems may it be common or complicated.

Panelists for Industry Disruptors include Alliance of Tech Innovators for the Nation Lead Convenor and DICT former Undersecretary Mon Ibrahim, Fuse Lending President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tony Isidro, KPMG India Partner and Lead for Digital Advisory Sushant Rabra, and Mayani Co-founder and CEO JT Solis are all set to discuss how traditional industries are most affected by the pro-active gumption of disruptors who are changing the game through revolutionary technologies and innovation. ESG Technology and The Next Wave of Automation panels KPMG Philippines Advisory Partner and ESG Lead Kristine Aguirre leads the panel discussion on the industry’s important role in enabling ESG adoption to make it easier for businesses to embed ESG models into their operations. Joined by ESG Tech panelists Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary for Integrated Environmental Science Carlos Primo David, International Container Terminal Services, Inc. Head of Sustainability and Development Roy Luntayao, and KPMG India Director for Digital Strategy and ESG Technology Unaise Urfi will delve into how technologies offer solutions to address current ESG issues.

KPMG Philippines Head of Technology Consulting Jallain Marcel Manrique will facilitate the dialogue of Analytics Association of the Philippines President Michelle Alarcon, Department of Labor and Employment Asec. Paul Vincent Añover, Aboitiz Data Innovation CEO Dr. David Hardoon, Globe Telecom CIO Raul Macatangay, Concepcion Business Services President and COO Eric Sarmiento, and Robotic Process Automation Philippines Founder and President Allan Tan to shed light on the opportunities and risks that accompany this emerging wave of automation.

Witness the convergence of industry experts and technology leaders as they delve into groundbreaking innovations that are revolutionizing numerous business sectors. Be part of the conversation, where you can contribute your invaluable insights on how advanced technology is undeniably shaping the future.

Register and join the virtual KPMG Innovation Summit 2023 for FREE via this link: https://bit.ly/KPMGInnovationSummit2023_Registration.

Deadline of registration is on July 18, 2023, at 2 p.m. (SPONSORED CONTENT)

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised on June 8 the status of Mayon Volcano in Albay to Alert Level 3 after it showed an “increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption.”

Follow this page for updates on "Dodong," the fourth tropical cyclone to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

(New York) - The International Basketball Federation's (FIBA) sanctions on top women's basketball officials in Mali confirm the responsibility to remedy systemic abuse of young athletes, Human Rights Watch said today. But the appointment of another official suspected of abuse as head of the Mali Basketball Federation (FMBB) raises concerns that continuing monitoring by

THE revenues of Oslob town in southern Cebu are rebounding due to the return of tourists and visitors to the area following the easing of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic restrictions, although these have yet to return to the pre-pandemic 2019’s P303.8 million.

According to the 2022 Annual Audit Report of the Commission on Audit (COA), the local government unit (LGU) registered a 68 percent jump in total revenue to P229.9 million in 2022 from P136.8 million in 2021, with tourism revenue accounting for P35.3 million, or 15 percent, of the fourth-class municipality’s 2022 revenues.

However, the bad news is that state auditors have flagged several projects and transactions initiated by the Municipal Government, including those relating to cash advances, the hiring of a job order worker, and the delayed release of real property tax shares to the barangays.

Tourism

In terms of tourism revenue last year, Oslob’s P35.3 million was 10 times more than the P3.4 million it generated in 2021, when travel restrictions prevented most people from visiting the area.

The well-known whale shark viewing in Barangay Tan-awan accounted for the bulk of the tourism revenues at P31.03 million, an increase from P2.79 million in 2021.

Sumilon Island came in second with P3.08 million (up from P415,774 the year prior); followed by Luka/Tumalog Falls, P1.17 million (up from P156,309); and Monkey Viewing, P67,089 (from zero).

Even though the municipality’s tourism sector has begun to rebound, its income is still less than a fifth of what it was prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

In 2019, tourism revenue was P190.2 million, with whale shark watching activities bringing in P182.7 million to the local government.

Total revenue

As for the town’s P229.9 million in total revenue last year, this was driven in large part by the 36 percent leap in its share of national taxes (National Tax Allotment, formerly Internal Revenue Allotment) to P165.6 million from P121.4 million; the 34 percent jump in its tax revenue to P9.8 million from P7.3 million; and the skyrocketing of shares, grants and donations to P12.2 million from a mere P84,280.26 the year prior.

Less P138.4 million in operating expenses, plus adjustments, this resulted in the town’s surplus hitting P78.97 million in 2022, which is 11 times more than its surplus of P7.17 million in 2021.

COA’s observation

State auditors, however, flagged several transactions initiated by the Municipal Government.

One of these is its failure to release the barangay share from its real property tax (RPT) collections totaling P1.009 million for 2021 on a quarterly basis, contrary to Section 271 of Republic Act 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, which provides for the barangay’s share to be released within five days after the end of each quarter.

Such failure deprived the barangays of the immediate use of the funds for their priority projects, COA said, noting that the RPT shares of the barangays were released more than a year after its receipt by the municipality.

Mayor Ronald Guaren agreed to the recommendation of COA to require the municipal accountant and treasurer to release the RPT share to barangays on a quarterly basis.

Double compensation

The state auditors also flagged the hiring and payment of salaries amounting to P60,000 to the LGU’s public information officer (PIO) through job order (JO), since the said PIO is an incumbent Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) chairperson of Barangay Lagunde, who is also receiving compensation in the barangay, resulting in double compensation, which COA said is illegal.

COA discovered that the PIO is receiving compensation of P500 per day from the municipal government, while also receiving a monthly honorarium of P6,831 from the barangay.

COA said this is a violation of Sections 94 and 95 of RA 7160.

Section 94 states that no elective or appointive local official shall be eligible for appointment or designation in any capacity to any public office or position during his tenure.

“Unless otherwise allowed by law or by the primary functions of his position, no elective or appointive local official shall hold any other office or employment in the government or any subdivision, agency or instrumentality thereof, including government-owned or -controlled corporations or their subsidiaries,” a portion of the provision reads.

Section 95 of the same law provides that no elective or appointive local official or employee shall receive additional, double or indirect compensation, unless specifically authorized by law, nor accept without the consent of Congress, any present, emoluments, office, or title of any kind from any foreign government.

But the mayor, in his response, said there is no prohibition on the hiring as job order worker of an elective local official because while the Local Government Code expressly prohibits the hiring of an elective local official in any capacity to any public office or position, a job order worker is not considered a public office or position.

He explained that the Civil Service Law states that job orders do not create an employer-employee relationship and are not considered government service.

The mayor said he hired JO personnel to augment the existing municipal employees to serve the general welfare of the people and that they let hired JO workers choose whether to continue receiving their honorarium or refrain from receiving the same as they are now being hired as job order workers in the Municipality.

But COA stood firm, saying RA 7160 bars elective local officials from holding any other employment in government and receiving additional compensation.

“Thus, the elective local official must choose whether to continue as barangay official or job order of the Municipality,” COA said.

Cash advance

The state auditors also flagged the grant of P1.013 million cash advance to the municipal mayor for purposes other than official travel, who at the same was not bonded at the time of the grant, contravening the policies and guidelines on the grant of cash advances.

With a check dated July 28, 2022, the particulars of the cash advance for operational expenses for the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo comprised P520,000 for meals, P302,000 for talent fee, P134,200 for performer’s allowance, P37,000 for make-up (labor and materials) and P20,000 for audio van.

COA said the mayor was allowed to make a cash advance for the expenditures instead of a permanent appointed official since the check was issued to the former.

COA also later learned that the municipal mayor was not bonded yet until the confirmation date for bonding on Sept. 6, 2022, contrary to the policies and guidelines in granting cash advances.

As of Dec. 31, 2022, a total of P3.902 million was noted by COA for audit suspensions, disallowances and charges of the LGU. (TPT)

THE total fertility rate (FTR) of women in Central Visayas has decreased to 2.0 on average, continuing a decline that has been noted since 1998, and which trend, if not arrested, could result in shortages of workers and consumers needed to propel the economy forward.

The Commission on Population and Development in Central Visayas (Popcom 7), however, welcomed the lower birth rates.

State statisticians said the FTR of 2.0 suggests that women of reproductive age, meaning 15 to 49, in the region would have an average of two children in their lifetime if fertility remained at current levels.

Citing its 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), the Philippine Statistics Authority in Central Visayas (PSA 7) said this rate has steadily decreased since the study’s inception in 1993, when the region had received a 4.4 FTR rating, which means a woman would bear four children or more in her lifetime.

The NDHS results in Central Visayas revealed that the FTR was 3.7 in 1998, 3.6 in 2003, 3.3 in 2008, 3.2 in 2013 and 2.7 in 2017.

The PSA released the 2022 NDHS or the results of demographic surveys that center on women and children’s health in the region on Wednesday, July 13, 2023.

The NDHS is released every five years. For the 2022 NDHS, the data were collected from May 2 to June 22 last year.

Detrimental

According to International Strategic Analysis (ISA), a Luxembourg-based international research and consulting firm that provides country intelligence, economic forecasting and international market analysis, the continuous fall of birth rates has detrimental effects on the economy.

It said that it is impossible to emphasize how much of an impact these declining birth rates and shifting population centers are having on the world economy.

It added that one of the biggest issues the world’s economy is facing is the demographic shifts taking place around the world. Among the challenges it poses is the problem of less workers.

According to ISA, working-age populations inevitably decline as birth rates decline. This lessens a country’s economic competitiveness and delays growth in many important industries.

“This leads to labor shortages in countries where the working-age populations are in decline, something that is already evident in major economies such as Japan and Germany,” ISA said in an economic forecast published in September 2019.

ISA also pointed out that it could also lead to fewer consumers. As a result, there are less prospects for internal market expansion, making low-birth-rate nations more vulnerable to external shocks. Over the previous 10 years, this has already been a major factor in the economic challenges in Europe and several regions of Latin America.

Other economic struggles that may be encountered include the aging or older populations, wealthy markets in decline, and also the push for automation in different industries.

Fourth lowest

Engineer Felixberto M. Sato Jr., supervising statistical specialist of PSA 7, discussed in his presentation that the national FTR, or the combined average FTR of the 17 administrative regions in the country, registered at 1.9 on average in 2022.

He said with the 2.0 FTR for 2022, Central Visayas and Eastern Visayas tied for fourth place on the list of regions with the lowest FTR.

The region with the lowest FTR is the National Capital Region at 1.2; followed by Calabarzon and Davao Region with 1.8 FTR; and Central Luzon and Ilocos Region with 1.9.

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has the highest FTR at 3.1.

Birth interval

Sato also revealed that the region has also registered an impressive median birth interval rating, passing the suggested rate by international health experts.

The birth interval, which is measured in months, is the time between the child’s birth and that of the child before it.

The statistician said the median birth interval of women in Central Visayas is 46.4 months, or around three years and eight months, up from the 37.6 months rating in 2017.

The country’s median birth interval rate is 46.5 months.

“The World Health Organization or WHO recommends at least a 33-month interval between two consecutive live births,” he said.

According to the statistics, women in Central Visayas conceive their first child when they are 23 years old on average, compared to 21 years old on average for the national rate.

According to other findings, the average age of women in the region having their first sexual experience is 21, while the average age of women getting married is 23.

Good signs

According to Maria Lourdes Garillos, population program officer for the Commission on Population and Development in Central Visayas (Popcom 7), the continuous decline in the fertility rate in the region is “remarkable,” reflecting the success of the population management-focused programs the commission is bolstering.

This is near the replacement fertility level, which should be at 2.1 or the recommended FTR that is generally acknowledged in most countries.

The replacement fertility level represents the average number of children a woman would need to have for the population to be able to replace itself “from one generation to the next without migration,” Garillos said.

She credited the lower birth rates in the region to the intensive information dissemination to educate more women about family planning.

According to the results, from 37 percent in 2017, around 45 percent of women in Central Visayas used any modern contraceptive methods, which include taking birth control pills, using intrauterine device (IUD), receiving injectables and female sterilization, in 2022.

In the same year, 16 percent of women resorted to using the traditional contraceptive methods including withdrawal, and calendar or rhythm method, up from 15 percent of women using traditional methods in 2017.

According to Garillos, of the over eight million people in Central Visayas, around 2,062,682 women belong to the reproductive age group.

A 4.9 MILLION multipurpose building and a public market in the mountain barangay of Paril, Cebu City have received a notice of illegal construction and work stoppage order from the Office of the Building Official (OBO) on Monday, July 10, 2023, due to lack of permits.

But Paril resident Nike Pelaez told SunStar Cebu on Thursday, July 13, that the construction of both projects was still ongoing despite OBO’s order.

OBO said in its reply to Pelaez on the same day that it had referred the case to the Cebu City Legal Office for proper legal action since the notice was ignored by the parties involved.

The notice and stoppage order came after Pelaez reported in a letter dated June 29, to OBO that Paril Barangay Captain Nerissa Villa Doncillo Calalang had started the construction of two building projects without permits.

Pelaez said the projects were the construction of a public market and a multipurpose building that the barangay planned to convert into a mini hospital. He said someone who had knowledge about the projects informed him about the violations.

Barangay Paril announced on June 22, through its official Facebook page that the ongoing construction of the multipurpose building, convertible to a mini hospital, was nearing completion. The page also states that the project would be finished within four months, adding that the project received funding from the office of Cebu City North District Rep. Rachel Marguerite “Cutie” del Mar.

Pelaez also claimed that Calalang had her own house built, including its fence, without the necessary permits.

After receiving the initial complaint, OBO inspected the site on July 7, and discovered that M.C Buyser Construction and Supply—contractor of the multipurpose building—had operated without the required building permit.

Councilor Jerry Guardo, head of the committee on infrastructure, informed SunStar Cebu in a phone interview on July 13 that the barangay also failed to secure the necessary permits from the city’s infrastructure committee for drainage tapping and building construction, including the Transfer Certificate of Title.

OBO chief Florante Catalan said in a separate phone interivew that the barangay failed to present any building plan to his office before the construction began.

“That’s why we issued a notice of illegal construction because they also don’t have building plans,” Catalan said in a mix of Cebuano and English.

Catalan said OBO’s inspection focuses on the planning aspect, which the barangay did not submit.

“Our inspection mainly relies on the building plans that were submitted. We have architects and engineers who inspect the site. We base our inspection on the plans they submitted,” he said.

He added that the barangay has not commented on the matter thus far.

SunStar Cebu reached out to Calalang on July 13 for comment; however, the official had not replied to the messages as of press time.

No politics involved

Pelaez claimed that his actions were motivated by the common good and not by political interests.

He denied having any political ambitions in the October 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, despite allegations by some people that his actions were politically motivated.

AN OFFICIAL from the Department of Employment in Central Visayas (Dole 7) has reminded employers to adhere to the policy that they should reserve at least one percent of all positions in their companies for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Dole 7 Director Lilia Estillore said on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, that this should be implemented in all private corporations with at least 100 employees.

Estillore’s statement came after Dole Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma released Labor Advisory No. 15, Series of 2023, on Monday, which aims to streamline the reinforcement of PWD rights in the workplace.

Estillore urged all employers to avoid discrimination against PWDs.

The Dole 7 official said Laguesma’s advisory applies to “job application, hiring, job training, promotion, compensation or discharge of employees, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.”

Estillore said there is a need for employers to provide a barrier-free environment, ensuring access to public and private buildings in compliance with Batas Pambansa Bilang 344, also known as “An Act to Enhance the Mobility of Disabled Persons by Requiring Certain Buildings, Institutions, Establishments, and Public Utilities to Install Facilities and Other Devices.”

“We are also reminding employers that they are duty-bound to facilitate persons with disabilities’ access to express lanes in all commercial and government establishments,” she said.

In an interview with Director Maria Elena Arbon of the Department of Trade and Industry last May 16 regarding PWDs in the workforce, she said employing PWDs is beneficial, but certain factors need to be considered.

She emphasized the importance of job matching to ensure that PWDs are employed in roles that are suitable for their capabilities, taking into consideration their disabilities.

A 23-year-old PWD who works as an Engagement Specialist expressed gratitude that Dole has reinforced the rights of people like him.

Clarck Neil Alcontin from Barangay Guadalupe, Carcar City said that everyone should be given equal opportunities in life, especially when applying for a job, adding that nobody should face discrimination.

“Having a disability does not mean that you are unproductive. Like me, I am visually impaired. I have a high eye grade, and I cannot see clearly. I am grateful that my employer treats everyone equally,” he said.

Alcontin has a visual acuity of 900 in the left eye and 1,100 in the right eye.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, approximately 2.5 percent or 1.9 million out of the 76 million working-age Filipinos in 2022 are PWDs.

The working-age group refers to the population aged 15 to 64 years old. This indicator measures the share of the working-age population in the total population.

TWO private universities in Cebu City will serve as local testing centers (LTC) in the upcoming 2023 Bar Examinations, the Supreme Court (SC) announced on Wednesday, July 12, 2023.

In its Bar Bulletin No. 4, the SC confirmed that the University of San Jose-Recoletos and the University of San Carlos will serve as LTCs for Bar takers in the Visayas.

The examinations will be held on Sunday, Sept. 17; Wednesday, Sept. 20; and Sunday, Sept. 24. This is different from the usual four-day examinations.

The Dr. V. Orestes Romualdez Educational Foundation in Tacloban City, Leyte, will also serve as an LTC for Bar takers, making it the third in the Visayas.

Meanwhile, six other LTCs are in Metro Manila, three in Luzon, and two in Mindanao.

There are a total of 14 LTCs nationwide.

The LTCs announced by the SC are as follows:

LUZON

• San Beda University-Manila

• University of Santo Tomas

• San Beda College-Alabang

• University of the Philippines Diliman

• Manila Adventist College

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION

• University of the Philippines-Bonifacio Global City

• Saint Louis University

• Cagayan State University

• University of Nueva Caceres

VISAYAS

• University of San Jose-Recoletos

• University of San Carlos

• Dr. V. Orestes Romualdez Educational Foundation

MINDANAO

• Ateneo de Davao University

• Xavier University

The SC also declared that San Beda College-Alabang will serve as the national headquarters for the 2023 Bar exams, with the SC supervising and directing the simultaneous operations of other local testing facilities.

According to the SC, qualifying applicants may select their preferred site from July 24 to July 25, subject to slot availability.

“Thus, they shall not be barred from selecting the law school where they graduated as their LTC, or an LTC that is located farthest from their present address,” it said.

Each applicant will be assigned a random queuing number, which will define the time slot during which they will be able to choose their chosen testing center.

Applicants may select their LTC of choice through the Bar Registration Information System and Tech Assistance at barista.judiciary.gov.ph.

Supreme Court Associate Justice Ramon Paul Hernando, chairperson of the 2023 Bar Examinations, said the examinations will cover six core subjects, which will be distributed in three days. Two subjects will be administered per day. (KJF WITH CNU INTERN DENISE MAE CODIS)