Reconstitution of task force to facilitate appointment of DAR employees

 

QUEZON CITY – Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary John R. Castriciones announced on Friday the reconstitution of the Task Force on Selection and Promotion (TFSP) to facilitate the signing and issuance of appointment papers to deserving employees of the department.

 

Castriciones made the announcement in a dialogue he called with the Co-Terminus with the Incumbent (CTI) employees amidst the growing uncertainties expressed by said personnel on the status of their employment.

 

The secretary also assured the 102 CTI employees of spots in the second phase of placement that is being implemented by the agency.

 

“Stop being historical and hysterical,” the secretary told the staffs, as he made certain that a mechanism is already in place to process the status of their employment.

 

The reconstitution TFSP was materialized through the issuance of Special Oder No. 159, series of 2018 dated May 15, 2018, that appointed Undersecretary David D. Erro of the Policy, Planning and Research Office (PPRO) as chairperson.

 

“You will have a place in the second phase of placement here at DAR,” he emphasized.

 

CTI employees were those affected by the implementation of Executive Order No. 366 or the government’s rationalization scheme that was implemented at the DAR in 2013.

 

EO 366 phased out or abolished functions and scaled down programs and projects of government agencies as part of cost-cutting measures.

 

It also mandated government agencies, including DAR, to remove employees holding redundant positions.

 

Affected employees were given the option to either retire or continue to work with the department in a co-terminus status.

 

Castriciones emphasized that DAR, through the reconstituted TFSP will ensure that all documents submitted to the Office of the Secretary (OSEC) are compliant to the provision of the Omnibus Rules on Appointments and Other Human Resource Actions (ORA OHRA).

 

He added that TFSP will assist the OSEC on questions of law and CSC regulations relative to the issuance of appointments, recommend the proper course of action on issues or concerns and exercise such other functions as may be directed by the secretary on the appointment process. ###

ANG GURO

Former Department of Education Undersecretary Antonio ‘Butch’ A.S. Valdes after session of the Saturday Class at his residence, with him are AB Communication students from ICCT Colleges Foundation.

Isang matinding paninidigan at pagnanais na makapagbahagi ng kanyang kaalaman, Iyan ang ilan sa mga karakter na aking napansin nang makaharap ko si former Undersecretary Antonio “Butch” Valdes sa isang lecture sa kanyang tahanan nitong nakaraang Sabado (Aug. 1, 2015) .

Sa lecture na ito ay ipinaliwanag niya sa amin ang kahulugan ng mga ‘kaliwete’ o lefties kung tawagin sa lipunan sinabi niya na ang mga ito ay mayroong dalawang klase ng ideolohiya, ang Communism at Free Market.

Ang communism ay may kagustuhan na maging pantay-pantay ang bawat mamamayan,Sa madaling salita walang mahirap o mayaman, Layunin ng mga ito na kunin ang pagmamay-ari ng mga nakatataas sa lipunan at ibahagi sa mahihirap.

Paniniwala pa ng mga ito na natural lang sa ating mga tao ang lalong ilugmok sa hirap ang mga mahihina, katulad na lamang ng mga hayop nabubuhay tayo sa patakaran kung saan ang malalakas ay palaging nadadaig ang mahihina.

Samantalang ang free market naman na nanggaling kay Adam Smith ay patungkol sa ekonomiya kung saan ang malalakas na negosyo ay lalamunin ang maliliit at nagsisimula pa lang.

Ayon pa sa kanya na ang dalawang ideolohiya na ito ay parehong mali at nakasasama sa ating lipunan. Bagamat, magkaiba man ang tawag sa dalawang ito ay nagkakapareho ito sa napakaraming bagay.

“The stronger will always overpower the weak and the rich will always exploit the poor.” 

Iyan ang mga katagang sinabi ni Sir Butch na isa sa mga tumatak sa aking isipan at pati na marahil sa aking mga kasamahan. Sinabi pa niya na ang ganitong pundasyon ng pag-iisip ay mali sapagkat walang problemang maayos kung paiiralin natin ang ating pagnanais na makalamang sa iba.

Dagdag pa ni Sir Butch na imbes na ang dalawang ideolohiya na ito ang pairalin ay mas makabubuti kung gumamit tayo ng tamang pamamaraan, katulad na lamang ng pag intindi ng totoong kalikasan ng tao, madalas kasi ay hindi natin alam ang tunay na kapasidad ng ating kakayahan bilang isang indibidwal at mahalaga raw kung tayo ay hihingi ng tulong sa iba na siyang makapagpapakita sa atin ng tunay nating potensyal.

Isa pa ring makatutulong ng higit ay kung lahat tayo ay magkaroon ng pagnanais na makapagbigay tulong sa ating kapwa.

Sa pagpapatuloy ng usapan ay naikuwento rin niya ang pag-imbita sa kanya ng isang grupo kung saan nagkakaroon ang mga ito ng hindi pagkakasundo sa usapang China at Amerika, sinasabing ang isa raw ay Anti- China at ang isa ay Anti-America.

Pinakamainit na diskusyon  rito ay ang usapin ng Spratly Island na hanggang ngayon ay pinag- aagawan pa rin ng Pilipinas at Tsina,

Ang isa pa sa lumalabas na problema sa pagitan ng mga Anti-China at Anti- America ay ang usapin kung bakit ang  China na hindi pa nakakalapit ng husto sa bansa ang pilit binibgyan ng pansin at kinatatakutan samantalang ang Amerika raw ay matagal nang nasa ating teritoryo.

Sa nangyaring diskusyon ay naitanong kung bakit hindi pumapayag ang ating bansa sa mungkahi ng Tsina na magkaroon ng ‘bilateral talk’ sa pagitan nila at ng Pilipinas upang mapag-usapan ang problemang kinakaharap ng dalawang bansa ngunit tumanggi rito ang Pilipinas sapagkat mas nanaisin daw nila ang dalhin sa korte ang agawang nagaganap.

Iminungkahi rin ni Sir Butch ang Treaty of Westphalia na nakatulong upang magkaroon ng katapusan ang tatlumpung taong digmaang nagaganap noon sa mga bansang France, Germany, Netherlands, Spain at Sweden, kung saan nagpulong ang mga ito upang magkaroon ng solusyon ang nagaganap na digmaan at di kalaunan ay maging dahilan upang magsimula ang scientific at conjugal economic development ng buong Europa.

Nagpahayag rin ng matinding opinyon si Sir Butch nang tinanong niya kung bakit kailangan pang magkaroon ng labanan gayung mayroon tayong pagkakataon upang maresolba ang issue at magkaroon ng parehong kapayapaan para sa dalawang bansa.

Isang mahabang diskusyon na punong-puno ng aral at impormasyon ang ibinahagi sa amin ni Sir Butch Valdes noong Sabado sa kanyang tahanan na talaga namang nagbukas sa aming isipan patungkol sa mga bagay na pawang kaylan lang ay isang palaisipan para sa amin.

At sa pagtatapos nga ng usapang iyon ay isang payo ang binitiwan sa amin ng dating Undersecretary ng Department of Education patungkol sa aming tinatahak na landas sa malawak na mundo ng jornalismo, ito ay ang pagiging dedikado sa aming trabaho at ang pagiging tapat hindi lang sa sarili kungdi pati na rin sa aming sinumpaang tungkulin na ilabas ang katotohanan sa kabila ng mga temptasyon at balakid, para sa ikabubuti ng ating sambayanan. 

#

By:  Edrillan Pasion

Anim Na Kilong Marijuana Nakumpiska sa Sultan Kudarat

Anim na kilong dahon ng marijuana ang nakumpiska kamakailan lamang mula sa dalawang pinaghihinalaang pusher sa kasagsagan ng isinagawang buy-bust operation ng Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

Ang ilegal na droga na tinatayang nagkakahalaga ng P150,000 ay natagpuan sa anim na bundle ng dyaryo at plastic bag.

Ayon kay PDEA Director General Undersecretary Arturo G. Cacdac, Jr.nakumpiska ang marijuana sa dalawang residente ng Purok Venus, Barangay Tuka, Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat, na sina Joey Gose alyas Choy, dalawamput siyam na taong gulang, isang welder at Ian Ardente tatlumput apat na taong gulang sa isang buy-bust operation ng PDEA Regional Office 12 (PDEA RO12) na naganap noonng alas dos ng hapon sa ilalim ni Director Aileen Lovitos na humantong sa pagkaka-aresto ng dalawa matapos nilang ipagbili ang anim na kilo ng dahon ng marijuana sa isang asset ng PDEA kapalit ng marked money.

Sa ngayon ay kinakaharap ni Gose at Ardiente ang violation of sector 5 o pagbebenta ng ipinagbabawal na gamot, kakabit ng Section 26 (Conspiracy to Sell), Article II of Republic Act 9165, or The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.  (Edrillan Pasion)             

DONASYON O BENTAHAN NG KIDNEY, PINOY ANG DAPAT UNAHIN BATAS NG “ORGAN DONATION” PAG ARALAN MULI-PMA

KAHIRAPAN pa rin ang dahilan kung bakit patuloy na namamatay ang maraming Pilipino na nasa huling bahagdan ng sakit sa kidney dahil tinatayang 32 pasyente ang namatay sa pag-asang darating isang araw ang hinihintay nilang donasyong kidney upang madugtungan ang kanilang buhay.

Sa isang ‘forum’ na regular na isinasagawa tuwing Huwebes ng umaga ng pamunuan ng Liga ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas sa Hotel Rembrant ay nanawagan si Dr. Arthur T. Catli, Executive Director ng Philippine Medical Association (PMA) sa pamahalaan na dapat nang pag-aralang muli ang polisiya hinggil sa isyu ng pagbibigay ng bahagi ng lamang loob ng tao o ‘organ donation’.

Ayon kay Dr. Catli, sa National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) pa lamang umano ay marami nang namamatay na pasyente na may mga malulubhang sakit sa kidney mula pa noong taong 2007 at tinatayang sa kasalukuyan ay nasa 570 ang natalagang pasyente na nasa ‘End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) ang napakatagal nang naghihintay na maisagawa ang ‘kidney transplant’. 20 na ESRD ang nasa listahan na pawang nanatili sa mga kilalang ospital sa Kamaynilaan maliban pa sa dagdag na 15 nakatala sa pribadong organisasyon bumibili ng organ.

Binanggit din ni Dok Art na katunayan umano ng hindi maapulang pagtaas ng bilang ng mga nangangailangan ng kidney kabilang ang rehiyon ng Visayas at Mindanao maliban pa sa malayo ang Maynila at hindi uubrang magbiyahe ng napakatagal kung kaya pinayagang magkaroon ng pagtataga sa lalawigan ng Cebu.

Sa pinakahuling istatistika ay nasa 300 daang katao sa inaasahang kabuuang 500 Pilipino ang kinakailangan ang ‘kidney transplant’ sa bawat taon. Maliban sa NKTI ay may iba pa ring pribadong hospital ang nagsasagawa nito kung kaya’t ang problema ng kakulangan ng mga donasyong organ ay hindi madaling malutas. Hiwalay pa aniya ditto ang 12,000 ‘dialysis patients’ at kalahati nito ang posibilidad sa ‘kidney transplant’. Kung susumahin ani Catli na ang 6,000 pasyente na dapat mapalitan ng kidney sa bansa at kulang sa 500 kidney lamang ang nakukuha sa isang taon ay lumalabas na 8 posiyento lamang ang nabibiyayaan.

Sa kasamaang palad, ilang mga pribadong hospital na nagsasagawa ng ‘kidney transplant’ ay mas kinakatigan ang pagbibigay sa mga dayuhan dahil higit na malaking kabayaran at insentibo ang napapakinabangan hindi lamang ng hospital kundi maging nang nagkaloob ng kidney.

Kaya’t ang PMA ay nagsusulong na gumawa ng mga hakbang, proseso o batas upang hindi maabuso ang pagkakaloob ng organ na puwedeng ikonsidera tulad ng mahigpit na pagmamatyag at pagpapatupad ng batas ng Department of Health (DOH) sa pakikipagtulungan ng probadong sector, ang pagpapatanggal ng mga ‘organ brokers’, isang ‘government regulated system’ para sa mga ‘donor recruitement’ at pantay na pagkakaloob sa mga pribado at relihiyong sector, pagsasama-sama ng pamahalaan, pribado at relihiyong sector sa pagpapatakbo ng ‘post-donation follow-up’ ng mga nag-‘donate’ at panghuli ay aktibong pangangampanya para sa pagpapabuti ng ‘emergency medical services’ (EMS) sa bansa kaugnay sa mga kamamatay o namatay na pasyente ngunit maaari pang pakinabangan ang organ, ‘brain dead, o sadyang naghandog ng kanyang laman loob.

Mahigpit na tinututulan ng PMA ang pag-abuso sa ipinagkaloob ng pamahalaan nang laya sa batas ng pagkakaloob ng organ gayong ilan sa mga ‘donors’ na ito ay nagpapanggap na sila ay biktima. Sa iniwang pananalita ni PMA Executive Director Arthur Catli kung sino nga ba ang tunay na biktima, ang naghihintay ng bagong kidney mula sa ibang tao na tiyak ang kamatayang naghihintay kapag hindi napalitan o ang mga taong nagbibigay ng kidney kusang-loob man o binayaran? -30- (Cathy Cruz)

Xinyx Unlocked: Ensuring the Future of Engineering

Xinyx Design Holds 1^st Nationwide Sandbox Competition for Microelectronics Students

In an exciting effort to convene the brilliant young minds of the 21st century and emphasize the pivotal role of IC design in the Philippines, Xinyx Design sponsored “Xinyx Unlocked 2023”, a nationwide sandbox competition for engineering students studying microelectronics.

“Xinyx Unlocked is our way to promote IC Design as a promising, innovative and fast-growing career path that our next generation of graduates need to be aware of. Filipino engineers are world-class and always in demand. We need to elevate the field of engineering and develop design thinking in our students so that we can compete in the regional and global market.,” says Charade Avondo, Xinyx Design President and General Manager.

The following teams and their respective entries are the big winners of the Xynix Unlocked 2023 nationwide contest:

Grand Prize – First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities [FAITH] Contest Entry: “GESTULEARN: HAND TRACKING AND GESTURE RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY FOR ASSISTIVE TEACHING IN SPECIAL EDUCATION”

• Engr. Adonis S. Santos, Mentor
• Ivan Renz T. Eser, Lead
• Vianca Dhenise D. Vergara, Member 1
• Jafeth C. Estocado, Member 2

1st Runner Up – Mindanao State University – General Santos [MSU-GENSAN] Contest Entry: “FPGA-BASED NEAR-INFRARED GLUCOMETER WITH APP INTEGRATION”

• Cristina P. Dadula, Mentor
• Dr. Ryan Banal, Mentor
• Laurenz Clyde A. Garcia, Lead
• Kenneth Arnyl F. Diaz, Member 1
• Kimbian S. Lim, Member 2

2nd Runner Up – Caraga State University [CSU]

Contest Entry – “DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A MONITORING SYSTEM FOR FLOATING SOLAR PLATFORM”

• Engr. Jeffrey T. Dellosa, Mentor
• Ricky Pie Resonable, Lead
• Harvey L. Ablagador, Member 1
• Jesryniel Plaza, Member 2
• Jocelyn Llorente, Member 3

Winners were awarded: Grand Prize – P 70,000; 1st Runner-Up – P 20,000; 2nd Runner-Up – P 10,000. The winning team receives a monthly stipend of P10,000 for two academic years.

Launched with the theme “From Problems to Possibilities: Building Tomorrow’s Cities Today” this inaugural competition underscores the necessity for inventive solutions in urban development anchored on Microelectronics. Through this, Xinyx also aims to spark the interest of the younger generation in this crucial industry and encourage them to maximize their talents for economic and social development.

Revenue in the Integrated Circuits market is projected to reach US$5.35bn in 2023. Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2023-2027) of 11.50%, resulting in a market volume of US$8.27bn by 2027. In global comparison, most revenue will be generated in China (US$141.80bn in 2023).

According to Statista, revenue in the Integrated Circuits market is projected to reach US$5.35bn in 2023 with a projected annual growth rate (CAGR 2023-2027) of 11.50%, resulting in a market volume of US$8.27bn by 2027[1].

• 

• 

• 

However, the Semiconductor Industry Association in Washington released a study revealing that the United States faces a significant shortfall of 70,000 technicians, computer scientists, and engineers in the semiconductor industry by 2030[2].

A total of 58 entries were received from state colleges and universities nationwide.

Luzon:

First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities (Finalist)

• Cavite State University – CCAT Campus (Finalist)
• University of Batangas
• Batangas State University – The National Engineering University Alangilan Campus (Finalist)
• Colegio de Muntinlupa (Finalist)

Visayas:

• Technological University of the Philippines – Visayas

Mindanao:

• Caraga State University (Finalist)
• Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (Finalist)
• Mindanao State University – Main (Marawi) (Finalist)
• Mindanao State University – General Santos (Finalist)
• Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan
• University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines

Xinyx Design is a 100% Filipino owned company and operated since 2009, started as a team 9 professionals working as engineering experts in the integrated circuit industry.

The company operates in the Philippines and Netherlands and has earned the reputation for reliability and excellence with a portfolio that includes more than 20 top global customers and over 650 project releases.

With more than a decade of experience in the field of custom analog and custom digital design, Xinyx has transformed into a world-class service provider by giving its clients scalability and access to highly qualified Filipino engineers. #

JOB ORDER NA KAWANI NG PNR MAY PAG-ASANG MAPERMANENTE – PNR CHAIRMAN MIICHAEL MACAPAGAL

Sa pagpapalawig ng serbisyo ng Philippine National Railways (PNR) ay inaasahan din ang pangangailangan ng mga teknikal na kawani tulad ng mga Enhinyero at iba pang kaugnay na trabaho sa pagsasagawa, pagmamantini at pagpapatakbo ng mga Pambansang Daambakal.

Sa ekslusibong panayam ng Tuklasin Natin, binanggit ni PNR Chairman Michael Ted Macapagal na sa kasalukuyan, tinatayang 1,500 ang kawani ng PNR, 300 lamang dito ang permanente habang ang 1,200 kawani ay puro Job Order.

Dagdag pa nya, marami sa mga Job Order na kawani ay ilang dekada na ring nagtatrabaho sa ahensya, kaya isinusulong nito na maging regular ang mga kawaning matagal at matapat na naglilingkod sa PNR. Paglilinaw nito, kailangan lamang na dumaan sa Philippine Railways Institute (PRI) upang magsanay at makapasa upang maging kwalipikado sa bakanteng plantilla position.

Ang pagtatatag ng PRI ay alinsunod kay Sec. 10 (a) ng Department of Transportation Order No. 2020-005 re: Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) ng Executive Order No. 96, s. 2019, sa ilalim ng Fundamental Training Course, ay isang kurso sa pagsasanay na binubuo ng siyam (9) mga espesyalisasyon tulad ng: 1) Tracks & Guideways; 2) Mga Gusali at Pasilidad; 3) Power Supply & Distribution; 4) Pagsenyas at Komunikasyon; 5) Rolling Stock; 6) Pamamahala ng pasahero; 7) Pamamahala ng Pamasahe at Ticketing; 8) Pagmamaneho ng Komersyal na Tren; at 9) Non-Commercial Train Driving.

Layunin ng PRI sanayin ang mga tao na mapaandar ang mga tren nang responsable, mapagkakatiwalaan, at ligtas.

Dagdag pa ni Mike Macapagal, bunsod nang nakatakdang modernization program mula sa locomotive diesel engine train patungo sa electric train at ang pagdaragdag na mga bagong itatayong railway system sa bansa ay tiyak na mangangailangan ng mas maraming tauhan ang PNR.

Sa kabilang banda, mananatili ang basic fare rate kahit patuloy na tumataas ang halaga ng gasolina sa mercado, isang dahilan ng pagsisigasig na maisakatuparan ang Modernization Program ng Philippine National Railways.# (Cathy Cruz)

PhilSA launches children’s book on space treaties for the next generation of Filipino satellite engineers, space scientists, and researchers

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) officially launched its children’s book titled “Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan!” at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City on 06 December 2023 from 01:30 PM to 04:00 PM.

The first-ever children’s activity book focuses on the treaties of the United Nations (UN) on outer space for elementary school children which aims to spread awareness on space policy, law, and diplomacy for space science and technology applications (SSTA).

PhilSA Director General Dr. Joel Joseph S. Marciano, Jr. shared that Filipino children have innate curiosity about space. It starts with learning about the planets and the stars in their formative years. With this, a part of PhilSA’s mission is to connect with Filipino kids and show them the possibilities outer space can bring with its yamang kalawakan or the space resources that can be used for the country’s development.

Science and Technology Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., in a recorded message, highlighted the importance of this book in his message of support, “And now, as we witness the unfolding of

Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan! we recognize that PhilSA is continuing the legacy that the DOST started in the field of space science education. This illustrated story book […] is a gateway to the cosmos for young minds and young minds at heart. By introducing the UN treaties on outer space at the primary education level, PhilSA is sowing the seeds of awareness and responsibility among our youth.”

As the central government agency focused on national issues and activities related to SSTA, PhilSA actively participates in the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space or the UN COPUOS. PhilSA’s initiatives include strengthening ties with the international community, Philippine ratification of the international space treaties, and PhilSA’s Space For All: Engaging the Youth on International Space Law and Policy Project, Space Policy and International Cooperation Bureau (SPICB) Director Atty. Noelle Riza Castillo presented.

A live reading of “Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan!” was also conducted by elementary school children Kyrie Sanchez and Juan Magiting de la Cruz accompanied by Mr. Joseph Gutierrez of PhilSA.

In her closing remarks and on behalf of DFA-United Nations and Other International Organizations (UNIO) Assistant Secretary Maria Teresa Almojuela, Office of UNIO Division 2 Director Nadine

Rosario Morales congratulated and commended PhilSA for the timely publication of its children’s book. In line with the learner-based and inquiry-based science curriculum, Director Morales also noted that this book will certainly inspire the country’s next generation of leaders to pursue interests in the field of outer space.

“The Department has likewise advocated for the Philippine Space Agenda through space science diplomacy– ensuring its integration in and consistency with relevant treaties and international agreements. With this, the Department assures that it will continue providing PhilSA strategic and policy guidelines to promote and protect Philippine interests before the international community, facilitate accession to ratification of space and space-related instruments, as well as forge and strengthen partnerships in the pursuit of our aim for the Philippines to become an even more active and responsible space actor,” Director Morales added.

A pledge of support from the participants was also signed during the program.

The book launch was joined by Mr. Giovanni Serritella of the EU Delegation to the Philippines, Mr. Lorenzo New of the Embassy of the United States of America, Ms. Pooja Vernekar of the Embassy of India, Mr. Nikolai Ovsiannikov of the Embassy of Russia, and Mr. Chichiro Kanino of the Embassy of Japan in Manila.

Officials and representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Science and Technology, Local Government Units (LGUs) of Pasay City, Taguig City, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Embassy of Poland, University of Sto. Tomas, New Era University also joined the book launch.

Authored by Mr. Patrick Mansujeto, illustrated by Ms. Ara Villena, and edited by Xi Zuq, the book is a part of PhilSA’s “Space for all: Engaging the Youth on International Space Law and Policy Project” that aims to utilize research and communication initiatives to increase public awareness, influence the youth, and reinforce support for space policy, law, and diplomacy for SSTA activities.#

Odyssey Foundation, Inc. teams up with DOST, St. Bridget College to empower marginalized moms in Batangas City

Odyssey Foundation, Inc. in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Batangas and St. Bridget College – Batangas, capacitated 20 marginalized mothers on food safety in preparation for livelihood establishment among their individual communities in Batangas City, Nov. 22.
The capacity building was conducted at St. Bridget College, M. H. Del Pilar St., Batangas City, with DOST-CALABARZON Food Safety Team (FST) members, Mr. Mhark Ellgine A. Libao, Mr. John Maico M. Hernandez, Ms. Renalee M. Leyesa, and Mr. Romel C. Quinay, as resource speakers.

The capacity-building session covered topics such as Basic Food Hygiene (BFH) and Food Safety Hazards (FSH), aiming to instill best practices and ensure the compliance of the beneficiaries with food safety standards.

The BFH session covered a spectrum of topics, including sanitary permits, health certificates, quality and protection of food, primary production, establishment design, training and competence, maintenance, cleaning and disinfection, pest control, personal hygiene, operational control, product information, consumer awareness, and the special provisions of P.D. 856.

The FSH component delved into categories of food hazards—physical, biological, and chemical—and explored their implications for food processing. Beneficiaries gained insights into control mechanisms to mitigate food safety risks, emphasizing proper food handling and servicing operations mandated by law. The session also highlighted the crucial role of beneficiaries in preventing foodborne diseases through their adherence to established guidelines.

The activity was a component of Odyssey Foundation, Inc.’s “Bigtime Kasosyo sa Negosyo” project, a livelihood development strategy that aims to improve the socioeconomic well-being of the marginalized beneficiaries. Through the project, marginalized mothers will be given an individual food cart livelihood assistance that will help them establish their own small food businesses. The package will include tools, equipment, and products. DOST-Batangas, on the other hand, will provide the personal protective equipment for the beneficiaries.

Odyssey Foundation, Inc., DOST-Batangas, and St. Bridget College-Batangas aim to make a positive and lasting impact on marginalized women beneficiaries through the project. The collaboration not only supports these women in establishing businesses but also contributes to building a safer and healthier local food industry. The official turnover ceremony of the food cart livelihood assistance project is set to take place in December.#

Ang mga benepisyaryo ng OFI’s Food Cart Livelihood Assistance Project sa Balete, Batangas ay sumasailalim sa Food Safety Training

Sumailalim sa food safety training ng Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Batangas na ginanap sa Balete’s Municipal. Building, Balete, Batangas, nitong Nobyembre 21 ang dalawampung benepisyaryo ng Odyssey Foundation Inc. (OFI) sa ilalim ng Food Cart Livelihood Assistance Project na tinawag na “Bigtime Kasosyo sa Negosyo”.

Ang proyektong “Bigtime Kasosyo sa Negosyo” ng OFI ay isang diskarte sa pagpapaunlad ng kabuhayan na naglalayong pahusayin ang socioeconomic well-being ng mga natukoy na marginalized beneficiaries. Ito ay isang food cart livelihood assistance project na tumutulong sa mga benepisyaryo na magtatag ng kanilang sariling maliliit na negosyo sa pagkain. Ang pakete ay binubuo ng mga kasangkapan, kagamitan, at mga produkto. Sa kabilang banda, ang DOST-Batangas ang katuwang ng personal protective equipment para sa mga benepisyaryo. Para matiyak ang kanilang food safety compliance, binigyan din sila ng DOST-Batangas ng seminar tungkol sa Basic Food Hygiene (BFH) at Food Safety Hazards (FSH).

Ang seminar sa BFH ay sumasaklaw sa mga paksa sa sanitary permit, mga sertipiko ng kalusugan, kalidad at proteksyon ng pagkain, pangunahing produksyon, pagtatatag (disenyo ng mga pasilidad at kagamitan), pagsasanay at kakayahan, pagpapanatili ng establisyemento, paglilinis at pagdidisimpekta, pagkontrol sa peste, personal na kalinisan, kontrol ng ang operasyon, impormasyon ng produkto at kamalayan ng mamimili, at ang mga espesyal na probisyon ng P.D. 856.

Ang mga kategorya ng mga panganib sa pagkain (pisikal, biyolohikal, at kemikal), ang mga implikasyon nito sa pagproseso ng pagkain, at ang mga mekanismo ng kontrol para sa mga panganib sa kaligtasan ng pagkain ay sakop sa ilalim ng FSH. Ang wastong pangangasiwa ng pagkain at wastong pagpapatakbo ng paghahatid ng pagkain, gaya ng iniaatas ng batas, ay itinampok din sa talakayan. Pinaalalahanan din ang mga benepisyaryo ng mga tungkulin at gawi na dapat nilang laging panindigan upang maiwasan ang foodborne disease sa paghahatid ng pagkain.#

TVJ Kinilala ng IPOPHL na orihinal na lumikha ng Eat Bulaga

Kinansela ng Intellectual Property Office o IPO ang pagpaparehistro ng trademark ng Television and Production Exponents, Inc. o TAPE Inc. para sa mga pangalang “Eat Bulaga” at “EB.” dahil nabigo ang TAPE na patunayan kung paano nila nakuha ang markang EAT BULAGA.

Samantala, nagbigay ng testimonya at paliwanag ang mga petitioner na sina Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, at Joey de Leon kung paano nila naisip o ano ang pinanggalingan ang markang EAT BULAGA, na humantong sa desisyong pumapabor sa kanila.

“Pinatunayan ng mga Petitioner na ito ang kumatha at may-ari ng pinagtatalunang marka ng EAT BULAGA. Ang paliwanag o kuwento ng mga petitioner kung paanong ang ideya ng EAT BULAGA mark ay naganap noong una ay tila kapani-paniwala at makatotohanan,” ayon sa desisyon ng IPO.

Sa inilabas na pahayag ng IPO ngayong araw, Disyembre 6, 2023, binanggit ng Intellectual Property Office Philippines (IPOPHL) na bunsod sa mga kamakailang tanong tungkol sa pagkansela ng pagpaparehistro ng Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE) ng “EAT BULAGA” at “EB” trademark No. 4-2011-005951 at No. 4-2011-005960, kinumpirma ng IPOPHL na ang mga petisyon para sa pagkansela ay ipinagkaloob noong nakaraang Disyembre 4, 2023, at ang mga desisyon ay natanggap ng mga partido noong Disyembre 5, 2023.

Gaya ng itinatadhana sa ilalim ng mga pamamaraan ng Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA), ang mga kaso ay unang sumailalim sa ‘compulsory mediation’. Dahil ang mga partido ay nabigong magkasundo, ang mga petisyon ay isinangguni sa paghatol kung saan ang mga yugto ng pagdinig ay ginanap upang siyasatin at ihambing ang kani-kanilang ebidensya ng mga partido, na sinusundan ng pagsusumite ng mga papeles ng posisyon. Pagkatapos nito, ibinigay ng Adjudication Officer ang mga desisyon.

Ang mga desisyon ng Tanggapan ng Paghatol (Adjudication Officer) ay maaaring iapela sa Direktor ng Bureau of Legal Affairs sa loob ng 15 araw mula sa pagtanggap ng mga desisyon. At maaari rin na ang mga desisyon sa pag-apela ng Direktor ng BLA ay maaaring iapela sa Pangkalahatang Direktor ng IPOPHL sa loob ng 30 araw mula sa pagtanggap ng kopya ng mga desisyon ng Direktor ng BLA.

Ang mga pagpaparehistro ng EAT BULAGA at EB ay sakop ng TM Reg. 4-2011-005951 at No. 4-2011-005950 ay sa ilalim ng Nice Classes 16, 18, 21 at 25 o Merchandising Goods lamang. Ang Nice Class ay uri ng trademark na kinabibilangan ng EAT BULAGA at EB.

Class 16 Papel at karton; nakalimbag na bagay; materyal na nagbi-book; mga larawan; stationery at office requisites, maliban sa muwebles; adhesives para sa stationery o sambahayan layunin; mga materyales sa pagguhit at materyales para sa mga artista; mga paintbrush; mga materyales sa pagtuturo at pagtuturo; mga plastic sheet, pelikula at bag para sa pambalot at packaging; uri ng mga printer, mga bloke ng pag-print.

Class 18 Leather at imitasyon ng leather; balat at balat ng hayop; bagahe at dala-dalang mga bag; mga payong at parasol; mga tungkod; mga latigo, harness at saddlery; kwelyo, tali at damit para sa mga hayop.

Class 21 Mga kagamitan at lalagyan ng sambahayan o kusina; kagamitang pangluto at kagamitan sa pagkain, maliban sa mga tinidor, kutsilyo at kutsara; mga suklay at espongha; mga brush, maliban sa mga paintbrush; mga materyales sa paggawa ng brush; mga artikulo para sa mga layunin ng paglilinis; hindi gawa o semi-ginawa na salamin, maliban sa pagbuo ng salamin; babasagin, porselana at earthenware.

Class 25 Clothing, footwear, headwear.

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon tungkol sa Nice Classification, bisitahin ang: https://www.wipo.int/classifications/nice/nclpub/.# (Cathy Cruz)

Empowering Innovation and Collaboration in Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology: Isinasagawa ng STCIEERD ang Kauna-unahang Research Summit

Isinagawa ang 1st Southern Tagalog Consortium for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (STCIEERD) Research Summit na may temang “Harnessing the Power of Emerging Technologies for Economic Growth and Social Impact” sa Batangas State University, The National Engineering University – Pablo Borbon Campus noong Nobyembre 28-29.

Si Ms. Glenda Sacbibit, Supervising Science Research Specialist ng Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) ay nagsilbing Keynote Speaker ng kaganapan. Nakatuon siya sa kasalukuyang mga programa at inisyatiba ng kanilang ahensya at ang kahalagahan ng mga consortium sa pagbibigay at pagpopondo ng mga nauugnay na pananaliksik para sa ikabubuti ng bansa.

Sinabi ni Engr. Elmer Joaquin, Product Performance Lead sa Data Science ng International Workplace Group (IWG plc), G. Ferdinand B. Binondo, Chief ng Solar and Wind Energy Management Division – Department of Energy (DOE), Ms. Lovely Mores, Chief Economic Ang Development Specialist ng National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) IV-A, at si Ms. Russel Pili, Chief Science Research Specialist/Chief Tech Transfer Officer ng DOST-PCIEERD ay nagsilbing Plenary Speaker ng Summit.

Bilang karagdagan sa mga tagapagsalita, maraming mga entry ang na-screen at hinusgahan para sa summit. Nais naming batiin ang mga sumusunod na nanalo:

BEST PAPER CATEGORY
●Mr. Joseph Louis Michael C. Ramos of Cavite State University with their research “IoT Stingless Bee Colony Monitoring System” (7k Cash)

BEST POSTER CATEGORY
●Ms. Sheryl Dinglasan Feno of Cavite State University with their research “Activated Carbon from Sugar Palm (Arenga pinnata) Waste Product” (5k Cash)
BEST PRESENTERS FOR EACH PARALLEL SESSIONS

●Mr. Geejay Bartolome of the Cavite State University with their research on “Assessment of the On-Road Performance of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) and Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Urban Road” (3k Cash)

●Mr. Erwin Rafael Cabral of the Batangas State University with their research on “Infrastructure-Soil Interaction and Land-Usage Assessment for New Developments (ISLAND)” (3k Cash)

●Mr. John Carlo Agarri of the Batangas State University with their research on “Building Earthquake – effect Assessment and Monitoring System” (3k Cash)

Ang 1st Junior Researchers’ R&D Competition ay ginawaran din. Ang mga sumusunod ay ang mga nagwagi para sa kani-kanilang kategorya:

NEW PROJECT LEADERS’ CATEGORY
●Janice F. Peralta of the Batangas State University with their research “GIS-based Emergency Displaced persons monitoring System (GEDS) for Batangas Province” (CHAMPION: 20k Cash + Plaque)
●Ms. Mae M. Garcillanosa of the MAPUA Malayan Colleges Laguna with their research “FPGA Based Powerline and Baseline Interference Removal in Electrocardiogram Using Modified EWT-DWT Filtering” (2nd Place: 10k Cash + Plaque)
●Ms. Michelle C. Gonzales of the Laguna State Polytechnic University with their study “Tabletop Surface Mount Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Assembly Machine (3rd Place: 5k Cash + Plaque)

RESEARCH ASSISTANTS’ CATEGORY
●Jayson F. Garcia from the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology – University of the Philippines Los Ba؜ños with their study “Advancing Tomorrow’s Palette: The Commercial Development of a Natural Red Pigment for Industrial Applications” (CHAMPION: 20k Cash + Plaque)
●John Paul Heje from the Batangas State University with their study “MR Tourguide: A Cultural Adaptive Mapping Platform Using Mixed Reality” (2nd Place: 10k Cash + Plaque)

Ang dalawang araw na summit ay naglalayong isulong ang interdisciplinary collaboration sa pagitan ng mga industriya, akademya, mga institusyong pananaliksik, at mga ahensya ng gobyerno sa pamamagitan ng pagsasama-sama ng mga ito at pagpapagana ng pagpapalitan ng mga ideya at kadalubhasaan. Ang summit ay nagbigay ng pagkakataon para sa mga institusyong miyembro na ipakita ang kanilang mga makabagong teknolohiya, produkto, at serbisyo.#

DOST-CALABARZON Kinilala ang mga Katangi-tanging Mamamahayag sa 2023 Gawad Tambuli Awards

Bilang bahagi ng pagdiriwang ng ika-60 Anibersaryo ng DOST 4, isinagawa ng DOST-CALABARZON ang triennial Gawad Tambuli Outstanding Media Awards noong ika-17 ng Nobyembre sa Lima Park Hotel Batangas.

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Ang Gawad Tambuli Outstanding Media Awards ay isang awarding at recognition ceremony na nagpaparangal sa mga karapat-dapat na media practitioner na nag-aambag sa pagbuo at pagpapalaganap ng DOST-related at Science and Technology (S&T)-related na mga balita sa rehiyon ng CALABARZON.

Para sa Gawad Tambuli ngayong taon, ang pamunuan ay nagbigay ng awtomatikong nominasyon sa nangungunang tatlong media practitioners sa mga kategorya ng print, radio, TV, at web, na patuloy na nagpapakalat ng mga balitang may kinalaman sa DOST sa rehiyon ng CALABARZON. Ang mga hinirang na media practitioner ay nagsumite ng kanilang mga gawa, na pagkatapos ay sumailalim sa proseso ng pagsusuri.

Narito ang mga sumusunod na tatanggap sa kani-kanilang kategorya:
PRINT RELEASE CATEGORY
●Tribune Post – 1st Place
●Ang Diyaryo Natin Publication – 2nd Place
●Cavite Times Journal – 3rd Place
RADIO INTERVIEW CATEGORY
●Belle Surara – 1st Place
●Daniel Castro – 2nd Place
●Ched Oliva – 3rd Place
TV COVERAGE CATEGORY
●GMA CALABARZON – 1st Place
●Net 25 – 2nd Place
●DZRJ 810 – Radyo Bandido – 3rd Place
WEB ARTICLE CATEGORY
●Manila Bulletin – 1st Place
●Philippine News Agency – 2nd Place

Ang seremonya ng paggawad na ito ay patunay sa dedikasyon at kahusayan ng mga media practitioner sa rehiyon ng CALABARZON. Sa pamamagitan ng kanilang hindi natitinag na pangako, ang mga award-winning na practitioner na ito ay gumanap ng isang mahalagang papel sa pagsusulong ng kamalayan ng publiko at pag-unawa sa agham at teknolohiya. Ang seremonya ay hindi lamang kinilala ang kanilang pambihirang pagsisikap ngunit binigyang-diin din ang mahalagang papel na ginagampanan ng media sa paghubog ng kaalaman at pagpapaunlad ng pagbabago sa loob ng mga komunidad.

Ang Gawad Tambuli Award ay pinasimulan noong taong 2000 at binuo ng dating Regional Director, Dr. Alexander R. Madrigal, na nagsilbi bilang Supervising Science Research Specialist noong panahong iyon. Ang prestihiyosong parangal na ito ay nakuha ang pangalan nito mula sa Tambuli, isang instrumentong pangmusika na ginawa mula sa sungay ng kalabaw, na kilala sa paggawa ng mga marangal na reverberations, lalo na kapag mahusay na tumugtog. Sa nakalipas na mga panahon, ang Tambuli ay gumanap ng isang mahalagang papel sa mga kaganapan sa pagdiriwang, mga tagumpay pagkatapos ng digmaan, at kapansin-pansin, sa pagpapalaganap ng nakapagpapasiglang balita.#

Science academy grants DOST-ITDIGP Award

National Scientist Lourdes J. Cruz, Chair of the Granted Patent and Utility Model Accreditation Board, through the National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (DOST-NAST PHL) cited the Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) as the only Granted Patent (GP) Awardee of the year and recipient of the 2023 DOST Intellectual Property Awards.

ITDI will receive the GP Award for the Continuous Screw-Type Salt Washer designed by Project Team Leader and ITDI Director Dr. Annabelle V. Briones together with Engr. Carlos J. De Vera, Engr. Oliver C. Evangelista, Engr. Jayson B. Nuval, Melquiades B. Canceran, and Alexander G. Cruz.

As technology generators of the GP Award, the team will receive a certificate of recognition and a cash prize of Php80,000 in rites on November 29, 2023 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

In addition, ITDI will receive a certificate of recognition and a cash prize of Php50,000 as the only institute that was granted patent registration for the year.

Further, eight utility models of ITDI were accepted as recipients of the Utility Model Registration Award (UM). These include:

1. High-maltose Sugar Syrup from Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Bran by Garry A. Diopol;

Process for Producing High-maltose Sugar Syrup from Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Bran by Garry A. Diopol;

2. Household Tumbling Composter by Myra L. Tansengco, David L. Herrera, Mario Josefino V. Capule, Maria Theresa C. Artuz, and Joven R. Barcelo;
3. Composting Apparatus by David L. Herrera, Myra L. Tansengco, Judith C. Tejano, and Efren Q. De Chavez;
4. A Thermoset Composite Panel Made of Natural Fiber Layers and Synthetic
   Fiber Layers by Marissa A. Paglicawan, Blessie A. Basilia, Carlo S. Emolaga, Johanna Marie B. Sudayon, and Julius Caesar V. Sicat;

Preparation of a Thermoset Composite Panel Made of Natural Fiber Layers
and Synthetic Fiber Layers by Marissa A. Paglicawan, Blessie A. Basilia, Carlo S. Emolaga, Johanna Marie B. Sudayon, and Julius Caesar.V. Sicat;

5. Natural Fiber Reinforced Composite Structures by Marissa A. Paglicawan, Carlo S. Emolaga, and Blessie A. Basilia;
6. Method of Manufacturing Composite Material Comprising Pulverized Abaca
   Fibers by Marissa A. Paglicawan, Blessie A. Basilia, Carlo S. Emolaga, and Mark Anthony R. Agbayani;
7. Packaging System to Extend the Freshness and Shelf Life of Pork Lechon by Cynthia M. Bihis, Daisy E. Tañafranca, Fernan S. Victoria; Ermin S. Orendain, and Allan B. Quirante; and
8. Mold for Fabrication of A 3D Printed Mold for Production of Bioscaffolds by Sharyjel R. Cayabyab, Josefina R. Celorico, and Salvador T. Gelilang;

A Process For Fabrication Of A 3d Printed Mold For Production Of Bioscaffolds by Sharyjel R. Cayabyab, Josefina R. Celorico, and Salvador T. Gelilang.

Each team will receive a certificate of recognition and a cash prize of Php15,000 from NAST PHL.

NAST PHL gives out the annual DOST Granted Patent and Utility Model Registration Awards in recognition of the efforts of DOST technology generators whose technologies have been granted patent or utility model registration in the last three years preceding the award.

As one of two advisory councils of the science agency, NAST PHL advises the President on matters related to science and technology. It engages in projects and programs designed to promote scientific productivity and serves to recognize associated outstanding achievements. (AMGuevarra\ ITDI S&T Media Service)

DOST celebrates historical 2023 NSTW

Health Cluster booth wins People’s Choice Award

The 2023 National Science,  Technology,  and Innovation Week (NSTW) is carving out a historical first.

It broke the mold of annually celebrating the science week in the National Capital Region with DOST Region VI playing host to the year’s event. From here on, other DOST regional offices will take turns in hosting the NSTW in the coming years.

Themed as “Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” NSTW was held in Iloilo City from November 22-26, 2023 where research advances on creating and protecting our blue resources took center stage.

The Health Cluster Exhibit which was put together by ITDI, PCHRD, FNRI, and PNRI won over the visiting public and was cited as one of the Top 3 Best S&T Exhibit Booths and further winning the People’s Choice Award.

The booth showcased an archipelagic Philippines emphasizing environmental and marine protection researches, and how these innovations can address the health challenges being faced by  the country today.

ITDI featured seven innovative technologies that are mindful of their environmental footprint.  These include:

1.Patient-specific 3D-printed bone implants that enable complete restoration;
2.Compact wastewater treatment system of dimensions suitable for use by quick service restaurants and MSMEs with limited space;
3.SafeWatrs which is an upgraded water disinfection system; and
4.Halal cosmetics and personal care products that use raw materials that conform to the MS 2200-1 (2008): Islamic Consumer Goods – Part 1: Cosmetic and Personal Care – General Guidelines, such as shampoos (bar, clay, and liquid forms), bar soap for dry skin, lip balm, and moisturizing lipstick.

With the awards, ITDI Director Dr.  Annabelle V. Briones expressed her ” … appreciation of the Institute’s efforts to keep abreast of the priority needs of the country, aligning our products and services to foster inclusive development that provides livelihood opportunities while promoting protection of our blue economy.”

With the announcement of Science Chief Dr. Renato U.  Solidum Jr.  that the science week will continue to be held in the regions every year, the public can expect to see more homegrown researches from various local state universities and colleges (SUCs).

In an interview by a daily paper, Solidum said that “… DOST aims to make NSTW a platform for industry players, scientists, researchers, and policymakers to exchange ideas and work together in achieving inclusive development in their respective communities.”

Meanwhile, the regional S&T celebrations in different provinces were  held from August to November and culminated in the 2023 NSTW in Iloilo City.

Under Proclamation 169, NSTW was celebrated every third week of July since 1993 until 2019.  In August 2019, former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed Proclamation 780 which moved the celebration of the science week to the fourth week of November. The date change aimed to ensure maximum participation from schools, students, stakeholders, the business sector, and the public in line with the academic calendar. (AMGuevarra\  ITDI S&T Media Service)