Crystal Flow 2012 January - April

Vol. XX No. 1

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF DAVAO CITY WATER DISTRICT

JANUARY - APRIL 2012

what’s

INSIDE?

Editor’s note

4

From the GM’s desk

5

DCWD bares plans and programs for 2012 Employees get annual updates on plans and programs

7

DCWD lab rates excellent in national proficiency test

8

“Yes” to Mayor Sara’s request to spread water rate increase in 3 years

9

DCWD joins World Water Day celebration

10

Personnel

12

3rd Grand Awards Night

14

EDUARDO A. BANGAYAN Chairman

15

3

6

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

More caretakers in water systems this year

Mainline replacement project completed / Two more DMAs

16

DCWD empowers upland community partners

17

Pay water bills thru BDO over-the-counter internet banking and ATM

18

Local clubs help rehab Mt. TalomoLipadas

19

DCWD and WMYC hold 12th eco camp for youth

20

S.A.L.N.

ATTY. ELISEO R. BRAGANZA, JR. Vice-Chairman MA. LUISA L. JACINTO Secretary ATTY. CHARLEMAGNE B. ALDEVERA Member ATTY. ABDUL M. DATAYA Member

TOP MANAGEMENT ENGR. EDWIN V. REGALADO Acting General Manager ENGR. EXEQUIEL B. HOMEZ OIC - AGM for Operation MILDRED G. AVILES OIC - AGM for Administration

DEPARTMENT MANAGERS

21

Motherhood

22

Literary

23

Fun and games

24

Did you know that

JEANNETTE CARLOTA M. DELINO Electronic Data Processing PAQUITO C. EBERO Commercial IMELDA T. MAGSUCI Community Relations & External Affairs/ Official Spokesperson ENGR. NOEL C. MONTAÑA Production ARIEL L. NOBLE Corporate Planning

about the

COVER Dabawenyos take pride in the pristine water that comes from the Davao City watersheds. It is for this reason that DCWD aims to deliver the best quality water to the people of Davao while upholding its sincerest commitment to protect the watersheds.

Cover concept by: Jonas A. Capute

Vision

To be the best and most efficient water utility in Asia, providing quality water at reasonable cost and excellent service, satisfying its customers, employees and the community, and ensuring water resource sustainability.

Mission

We commit to supply potable and affordable water 24 hours a day, deliver reliable service, operate efficiently and take a proactive stance in environmental concerns.

Corporate Philosophy Service with Dignity and Honor

CRYSTAL FLOW

The official publication of Davao City Water District Your contributions are welcome at the CREA - Public Information / Relations Division Office.

No part or whole of this newsletter will be printed without prior approval.

This issue’s contributors: Jonofer G. Jovita and Jason J. Demonteverde

ERRATUM

Amidst all considerable efforts to assure the accuracy of all data included in the July - December 2011 issue of Crystal Flow, some errors have slipped our meticulous eyes. This erratum serves to correct these mistakes.

We offer our sincerest apologies to Engr. Exequiel B. Homez whose designation should have appeared as OIC - assistant general manager for operation instead of OIC - acting general manager for operation and to Mrs. Mildred G. Aviles whose designation should have been OIC - assistant general manager for administration instead of OIC - acting general manager for administration.

2

January - April 2012

ROBERTO S. DELOS REYES General Services ATTY. RICHARD D. TUMANDA Legal ENGR. ROSANNA VICENTA T. CABANAG OIC, Operation & Maintenance / Non-Revenue Water Management Office BERNADETTE A. DACANAY OIC, Finance & Property ENGR. OSCAR C. DELA CRUZ OIC, Engineering & Construction HILTON P. HUSAIN OIC, Accounting & Budget RUTH G. JABINES OIC, Human Resource ENGR. ARNOLD P. SARABIA OIC, Systems & Internal Audit

Crystalflow

Vol. XX No.1

January - April 2012

EDITORIAL BOARD editor-in-chief MARIA EDITHA C. MONJE associate editor MADONNA C. LLAGUNO news editor JOVANA CRESTA T. DUHAYLUNGSOD copy editor SYLVIA MAY L. VOSOTROS features editor RUTH G. JABINES religion editor FIDELA M. DAJAO circulation chief JERELL J. LEONIDA artist CHARISSA V. MANALANG adviser IMELDA T. MAGSUCI

editor’s note

Withstanding the Trials of Time

O

ver the years we feel that the burdens we carry become heavier. We are faced with different challenges from the burgeoning economic crises to the degradation of our environment. We all feel these in our everyday lives, from our homes to our workplace. No one is spared, even the water utility.

That is why we, at DCWD, work double time and extra hard because we cannot let the Davaoeños down especially during these difficult times. Amidst all the trials we encounter, we still strive to deliver impeccable service to the people of Davao City because it is only through this that we can help make their lives better. That is precisely why we’ve stretched the coffers viz a viz the requirements for operation and expansion set aside increasing water rates for a long time despite the pressing need.

In this issue you will read the different efforts we made to achieve the NICER agenda of Non-revenue water reduction, Infrastructure development, Customer satisfaction, Environmental protection and Resource management.

Thus, included here are the recently implemented water rate increase in 2012 and the corresponding plans and programs that the utility will accomplish for 2012. This issue also updates on the developments on non-revenue water reduction efforts through the Caretaker System and District Metered Areas as well as the completed Comprehensive Mainline Replacement Program.

Likewise highlighted are the new nationwide water bill payment method thru the partnership with Banco de Oro, the loyalty and service excellence awardees for 2011, the excellent rating in the proficiency testing scheme for water microbiological test, the satisfactory performance in fire drill, different efforts made for environmental protection including the partnerships made with different clubs in Davao City through the Adopt-a-Site project, empowering of upland communities and the 12th Eco Camp for the youth.

Nothing too big hinders us from doing what we do best and that is striving to give excellent service to the people of Davao City. As long as we are guided by the NICER agenda and we fulfill our duties and responsibilities in the light of our TIES core values, we will always be able to withstand every obstacle that comes with time. 

MARIA EDITHA C. MONJE publicinfo_dcwd@yahoo.com

January - April 2012

3

from the gm’s desk

When One, We Stand

P

agtambayayong ug paghiniusa. Pakikipagtulungan at pakikiisa. Collaborate and unite.

It is in these words that the key to success lies and not in power, talent or skills alone. It is in our capacity to work as one. These words define success, and it is in these words where we should get our strength as a water utility.

As time passes and as Davao City Water District becomes bigger, the challenges that we encounter also becomes harder. Indeed, we have gone a long way from the simple water utility that we once were in 1973. We have developed exponentially in terms of service coverage, infrastructure and methodology. However, concurrent to our growth are the problems that we inevitably encounter. Yet, these problems only tell us one important thing and that is that we are maybe getting closer to our aim of becoming the best water utility in Asia.

Thus, we should never shy away from every obstacle we meet along the way. Rather, we should face each problem with pride and motivation and we should do so as a family. Let us always be reminded by the teachings of an old yet proverbial anecdote about the walis tingting. Each stick is useless and breaks easily. However, in multitude, it becomes useful and strong.

As a water utility, we should always operate systematically and interdependently as one entity while bearing in mind that each department’s accomplishment is a contribution for the greater good of the water utility. We should always see things in a bigger picture. Every customer that we attend to, every service connection we make, every leak that we repair, every problem that we solve – all of these help make the water utility become the best in its field.

Indeed, the call for unity has never been more profound given the challenges of times. That is why we must continue to work as a team with integrity, work excellently and be upright stewards of DCWD for the benefit of our customers because after all, they are the reason for our existence. 

ENGR. EDWIN V. REGALADO Acting General Manager

4

January - April 2012

water news

DCWD bares plans and programs for 2012

D

avao City Water District bared plans and programs for 2012 in line with the attainment of its NICER agenda which are: Non-Revenue Water Reduction, Infrastructure Development, Customer Satisfaction, Environmental Protection and Resource Management.

Under the non-revenue water reduction agendum, DCWD will be implementing the change meter program targeting 4,950 water meters with diameter size ranging from 13mm to 100mm to ensure the accuracy of water meter reading. To prevent leakage and water contamination, some old pipes along SIR Phases 1 and 2 in Matina, Sto. Rosario St. in Buhangin and Pioneer St. at Doña Vicenta Village in Bajada will be replaced through the mainline replacement project.

Further, District Metered Areas will be established at Deca Homes Subd. and Emily Homes Subdivision in Cabantian to monitor the water volume and pressure in the area which aids in detecting possible leaks and water losses. To have a proactive maintenance, DCWD will create 18 additional caretaker teams for Cabantian, Dumoy and Tugbok water supply systems and its service areas. The caretaker team will take charge of particular areas by doing leak detection and repair, transfer and elevate water meters. Likewise, DCWD will establish pressure monitoring stations to prevent bursting of pipes and to ensure that all areas will have adequate water supply.

For mainline extension and improvements, projects will be implemented at Dumoy, Tugbok, Panacan, Cabantian-Indangan, Lubogan and Calinan-Riverside water supply systems.

These projects intend to increase the percentage of customers enjoying 24-hour water supply and to accommodate additional service connections. For this year, the utility targets to install additional 7,200 new service connections. Also in the list is the preparation for Binugao-Sirawan water supply system which is a new one.

To gauge the performance of the utility and further improve its services, a survey on customer service satisfaction will be conducted this year. Moreover, the utility will intensify its Customer Service Program (CSP) through strengthening and monitoring the implementation of standards and procedures of the five frontline services namely: application for new service connection, payment of water bills, customer assistance, reconnection of water service and transfer of water meter.

In line with the DCWD’s mission of ensuring water resource sustainability, the utility will continue its rehabilitation activities at Mt. Talomo-Lipadas, Malagos and Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan watersheds and it will also conduct water quality monitoring at the river sampling stations, implement community development projects through riverbank tree planting, pakiglambigit sa kumonidad program, assistance and nutrition program to day care centers and “Malinis na Tubig Alay sa Barangay”.

Last but not the least, the utility will continue the implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects under the resource management agendum. The CSR includes programs on youth education and skills training, water and environment, gender and development and community development.

Acting GM Edwin V. Regalado said the NICER agenda will set direction for the utility in accomplishing its vision and mission along with the TIES corporate values which stands for Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence and Stewardship. (Sylvia May L. Vosotros) 

January - April 2012

5

water news

M

anagement updated all 954 personnel on the Davao City Water District 2011 and 2012 operations during the annual employees’ forum held in 10 batches from February 21 to March 14, 2012.

Highlighted were DCWD’s 2011 performance report and the plans and programs for 2012 as guided by its NICER agenda which stands for Non-revenue water reduction, Infrastructure development, Customer satisfaction, Environmental protection and Resource management.

In his message, acting GM Edwin V. Regalado expected everyone to deliver exemplary performance in their respective fields to help the water utility attain its goals for 2012. He also reminded them that “Each one is important because it takes all the members of an organization to achieve a common good. Lahi-lahi man ang atong trabaho, makighiusa ta sa pagkab-ot sa atong tumong busa magpadayon ta sa atong matinud-anon na serbisyo (We may have different tasks but we need to be united in order for us to achieve our goals, thus we need to continue giving sincere service.),” he said.

A workshop on “Effective communication strategies in the workplace” was given by renowned resource speaker Rene Gerardo A. Lizada who gave insights on how employees can improve communication with their superiors and workmates to better improve their professional relationships among one another.

There was also another workshop on how to integrate the water utility’s TIES (Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence and Stewardship) core values in the workplace to guide employees in accomplishing their everyday tasks.

The forum was an ideal venue to get feedback from employees regarding DCWD’s operations in 2011. It has also been a proven means for management and labor to exchange ideas, clarify concerns, and agree to pursue goals of public water service and environmental care.

(Jovana T. Duhaylungsod) 

Employees get annual updates on plans and programs

6

January - April 2012

water news

DCWD lab rates

EXCELLENT

in national proficiency test

E

xcellent. This is the rating that the Davao City Water District laboratory received in the 2010-2011 proficiency scheme for water microbiological testing administered by the National Reference Laboratory (NRL) for Environmental and Occupational Health, Toxicology and Micronutrient Assay pursuant to the “Implementing Rules and Regulations Governing the Accreditation for Drinking Water Laboratories” in the Philippines as mandated by the Department of Health (DOH) in coordination with the Bureau of Health Facilities and Services.

This is the second consecutive time that the DCWD laboratory has been rated “excellent”, the first was in 20092010 for the same proficiency test. Said test is specifically designed and required for the DOH accreditation renewal of water testing laboratories in the country to ensure the accuracy and quality of laboratory results.

DCWD med techs in action. Laboratory staff examine water samples taken from strategically chosen locations to test water quality in Davao City.

Test performance was rated according to the number of incorrect responses in the result submitted to NRL. Perfect accuracy or zero error is given an “excellent” evaluation.

One incorrect data registers a “highly satisfactory” grade while two is “acceptable”. All of these ratings belong to the passing mark. A “failed” rating is given to results with three to six errors.

Quality control manager, Hydie R. Maspiñas, explained the great importance of an excellent rating. “More than just mere compliance, the rating reflects exceptional laboratory performance certifying perfect accuracy in the conduct of tests in our laboratory especially in monitoring the quality of water distributed to the people of Davao City,” she said.

For the actual testing performed by a DCWD registered medical technologist, the NRL provided three unknown water samples in glass vials containing viable microorganisms in one gelatin tablet along with a desiccant pouch and sterile 100-ml phosphate buffered dilution banks.

These samples, verified by NRL, were Certified Reference Material of known organisms which are traceable to known reference culture organisms that meet the requirements specified in the proficiency test. Thus, expected values were traceable to standard materials. These samples were treated as regular samples and analyzed using normal laboratory conditions.

Excellent rating for two years straight. Proud laboratory staff show off certificates attesting two straight years of excellent rating in the water microbiological testing laboratory proficiency testing scheme for 2009-2010 and 2010-2011.

Acting GM Edwin V. Regalado congratulated the laboratory staff of the Production Department. “Having passed the water microbiological testing laboratory proficiency test for the renewal of its DOH accreditation and receiving an excellent rating at that is definitely an achievement worthy to be highly recognized,” he said before all employees during the February monthly convocation of the water utility. (Jovana T. Duhaylungsod)  January - April 2012

7

water news

“We understand that the increase in water rates is necessary in order to carry out your mandate of making available to the Dabawenyos quality water supply necessary for their everyday needs.”

- Mayor Inday Sara Z. Duterte

“Yes” to Mayor Sara’s request to spread water rate increase in 3 years

W

ater rates have been increased by 10% this year and will again increase by 10% in 2013 and 2014, respectively, acting GM Edwin V. Regalado announced.

The increases which total to 30% actually form part of the water rate increase sought by DCWD in mid 2005 in which half or 30% was implemented in September that year. It can be recalled that in 2005, DCWD proposed a 60% water rate increase to be implemented in three stages: 30% in 2005, 20% in 2006 and 10% in 2007. However, it heeded Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte’s request to implement only 30% and to hold the remaining half in abeyance.

On December 15, 2011, the Board of Trustees of the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) issued Resolution No. 177 approving the implementation of water rates for DCWD of 20% in 2012 and 10% in 2013. This was the remaining 30% increase deferred for implementation.

Last January 9, 2012, City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte wrote Chairman Eduardo A. Bangayan and requested that said 30% water rate increase be implemented in three years time “to lessen the impact of the increase towards the people of Davao, especially those who belong to the marginalized sectors.”

Thus, in deference to the request of Duterte, the DCWD Board of Directors passed and approved Resolution No. 12-016 last January 13, 2012 implementing the remaining 30% water

8

January - April 2012

rate increase in three tranches to wit: February 2012 – 10%, January 2013 – 10%, and 10% in January 2014.

The Mayor also lauded DCWD for continuously trying its best in improving the services that it offers the people of Davao City. “We understand that the increase in water rates is necessary in order to carry out your mandate of making available to the Dabawenyos quality water supply necessary for their everyday needs,” she added.

This year’s 10% water rate increase took effect beginning February’s consumption and was reflected in the March billing. For a typical household water connection of ½”, the flat rate for a minimum consumption of 10 cubic meters or less will be P114.40 in 2012, P124.80 in 2013 and P137.30 in 2014.

For an average monthly household consumption of 30 cubic meters, the increase per day is only P 1.18 in 2012, P 1.18 in 2013 and P 1.40 in 2014. The new rates were published in local daily newspapers and were also posted in all barangays and administrative district halls, city hall and Sangguniang Panlungsod.

Acting GM Regalado said that proceeds from the water rates will be used by DCWD for infrastructure development or expansion projects and for meeting escalating operational costs.

Therefore, the customers are assured that these water rate hikes are all geared toward improving DCWD’s services. (Maria Editha C. Monje) 

water news

DCWD joins World Water Day celebration

A

s consistently in the past, the Davao City Water District joined the World Water Day celebrated last March 22 this year. Held were different activities that centered on the theme “Food and Water Security” which highlighted public awareness and participation on the importance of water conservation and water resources protection.

Exhibits showcasing local and international information on food and water supply were on display at the lobbies of the DCWD offices in Bajada and Matina and inside the DCWD collection center at Victoria Plaza for the whole month of March.

To remind the public to use water wisely and to care for the environment, a sticker brigade crew composed of DCWD employees posted stickers on public utility vehicles routing along the Matina and Bajada DCWD offices. The mobility of these vehicles has been regarded as a very effective means for spreading the appertaining messages to the people of Davao City.

Concurrent to the posting of stickers was the ”Tiangge sa DCWD”. Home-grown vegetables, fruits and root crops from the home backyards of Women and Environment in the Barangay (WEB) members and partner peoples organizations in Daliaon in Toril were displayed and sold outside the DCWD offices in Matina and Bajada.

Official mascots Tobi and Sedi helped encourage passersby, customers, drivers and riding public to take part in the happy celebration.

A group of DCWD employees comprising a water quality monitoring team took and tested samples from the Davao River at strategic locations in the upstream in Tamugan, midstream in Callawa and downstream in Magallanes. The activity was joined by representatives from Barangay 1-A and children in Callawa.

The team conducted on-the-spot testing of the river’s physical properties and they also took more samples for microbiological properties testing to be conducted in the DCWD laboratory.

The 2012 celebration with concept “The world is thirsty because we are hungry” informed the world that problems on water supply scarcity will become more pronounced as the population increases because, aside from drinking, much water is also needed to produce food. In order to cope with population growth and to ensure access to nutritious food, everyone has been advised to follow a healthier, sustainable diet; consume less waterintensive products; reduce the scandalous food wastage which also translates to water wastage; and, produce more food of better quality with less water. Most importantly, water sources should also be well protected and rehabilitated.

World Water Day was first celebrated in 1993 in accordance to the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development contained in Fresh Water Resources agendum. DCWD has always been active in participating in the annual World Water Day celebration especially that among its paramount concern is to ensure water resource sustainability. (Jovana T. Duhaylungsod) 

Selling organic produce. CREA staff, Jasmin C. Egot and Melano B. Rivera, Jr. (1st and 3rd from L) help sell vegetables and miracle juice to the public .

Testing water quality. CREA staff and Barangay 1-A rep take and test samples from Campaign in the highway. DCWD official mascots Tobi and Sedi join in putting vehicle stickers to public utility vehicles which pass by Bajada office.

Davao River downstream near Magallanes street environs.

January - April 2012

9

personnel

CONGRATU to our Newly Hired Regular Personnel

JIMMY V. AYUBAN Utility Worker A OMD

ROY M. ANGELES Utility Worker A OMD

ALEJANDRITO M. ALO Carpenter A GSD

NARISA R. ANINO Clerk-Processor B LD

EMMIE B. DIMALANTA Utility Worker A OMD

JONATHAN M. BARANGGAN

RENANTE A. PUNZALAN

ERLINDA A. TECSON Clerk-Processor C ECD

ANN FRETCHIE R. SARAMUSING Clerk-Processor C HRD

ROXANNE C. SAYAGO Industrial Nurse HRD

JOHN J. TRINIDAD Customer Service Asst. A CD

EDWIN R. ROBLES Engineering Aide B ECD

JUAN E. AGAD

RHODA T. CASTILLONES

ABUNDIO M. DALUGDOG Water Maintenance Man A ECD

ANDRE ANTON A. ALTEA

Utility Worker A GSD

Utility Worker B GSD

Clerk-Processor C FPD

Driver-Mechanic B GSD

Engineering Asst. B OMD

to our Medical Technologist Board Examination Passer

MARIA ANITA A. TORREJOS Water Resources Facilities Technician PD

Your DCWD fam 10

January - April 2012

personnel

ULATIONS! to our Newly Promoted Regular Employees

JONALEI E. BERMUDEZ Principal Engineer C ECD

ALDRICH APOLO M. CANCIO Principal Engineer C ECD

ROMEO P. CERILO Sr. Water Maintenance Man B OMD

PEDRITO V. DIZON Sr. Water Maintenance Man B OMD

ROGER T. IGNACIO Sr. Water Maintenance Man B OMD

EDMUNDO D. SECUYA Sr. Water Maintenance Man B OMD

CANDICE V. TUDIO Industrial Rel. Mgt. Officer B HRD

JESSON P. RAVINA Driver-Mechanic B GSD

RAMON I. DEL CORRO Water Maintenance Man A OMD

FELIXBERTO Q. OBENZA Sr. Water Maintenance Man B GSD

JEAN L. DUNLAO Sr. Water Maintenance Man B ECD

NONIE R. CO Industrial Relations Dev’t.

Officer A HRD

JAMES T. GONIDA

Principal Engineer C ECD

SAUDI A. BANGCAS Data Encoder-Controller GSD

KAREN JOY D. PATAYON

Industrial Relations Dev’t.

Officer B HRD

to our colleagues who have successfully completed their post graduate studies

JANETTE J. AYAG Master in Public Administration University of Visayas

GEOFFREY C. BUTANAS Master in Business Administration Ateneo de Davao University

EDJEAN FRANCES P. MANZANO Bachelor of Laws University of Mindanao

FAIRY FAITH B. RABAGO Bachelor of Laws University of Mindanao

mily is very proud of you.

CHARMAINE P. VALENTIN

Bachelor of Laws Ateneo de Davao University

January - April 2012

BRENDA P. VERANO Bachelor of Laws University of Mindanao

11

Deserving employees recognized f February 24, 2012

Loyalty Awardees

A

very festive yet fitting Pinoy inspired ceremony honored the in-service loyalty and model employee awardees of 2011 during the 3rd Grand Awards Night last February 24, 2012 at the Grand Regal Hotel.

Themed “Pinoy Ako!”, 44 in-service loyalty, two model and 15 nominee model employees experienced high-pedestal recognition as they received plaques and tokens for their exemplary service to the Davao City Water District. The 44 honorees were cited for their 15, 20, 25 and 30 continuous years of service with DCWD. The model employees and the runners-up also received cash prizes.

National Recogniti

15 years

Winner of the 2011 Model Employee of the Year (MEY) office category was data analyst controller Anne Michelle T. Sumaya of the Electronics and Data Processing Department (EDP). Runners-up were corporate planning analyst Aris V. Cabamungan of the Corporate Planning Department and data analyst controller Simon F. Ayeng also of EDP. For the field category, winner was senior water maintenance man Arnold D. Balatero of the Operation and Maintenance Department (OMD) while runners up were plant mechanic Alan Z. Fernandez and utility worker Exequiel C. Majadas both of the Production Department (PD).

Special appreciation was also given to the DCWD laboratory and the Community Relations and External Affairs Department (CREA) for their respective national recognitions received on behalf of the water utility. The DCWD laboratory earned an excellent rating in the 20102011 proficiency testing scheme for water microbiological testing which was administered by the National Reference Laboratory (NRL) while the utility’s entry in the Integrated Watershed Management Plan competition sponsored by the Philippine Association of Water Districts prepared by the CREA Department placed second.

3rd Grand A

20 years

Honors for Excellent Rating for the 2010-2011 Water Microbiol Laboratory Proficiency Testing Scheme by the National Referen received by DvM Hydie R. Maspiñas and staff.

25 years

Guest speaker was Civil Service Commission Region XI chief personnel specialist Maria Nilda A. Rigodon. Also present in the affair were Directors Ma. Luisa R. Jacinto, Abdul M. Dataya and Charlemagne B. Aldevera, top management, and department and division managers.

Each in-service loyalty awardee was accompanied by a family member.

Director Dataya congratulated the awardees and said that the recognition they reaped is a reward to DCWD as a whole. He also encouraged all employees to continue striving for service excellence. Acting GM Edwin V. Regalado encouraged everyone to be united in improving DCWD services by giving their best in their respective fields because it is in their individual efforts that the water utility can achieve its mission and vision as a water utility in Davao City. (Jovana T. Duhaylungsod) 

Recognition for second place for the Integrated Watershed Plan competition by the Philippine Association of Water Dis

by DvM Maria Editha C. Monje in behalf of CREA DM Ime and DvM Anthony D. Miranda.

30 years

2011 Model (L-R): NOMINEE FOR SUPERVISORY LEVEL: Dennis A. Maningo, Division Manager C, General Services Dept.; NOMINEES FOR RANK AND FILE FIELD CATEGORY: Narciso T. Bumanglag, Jr., Customer Service Asst. B, Commercial Dept.; Basilio D. Cuasito, Water Maintenance Man C, Operation & Maintenance Dept.; Nelo P. Evanoso, Water Maintenance Man B, Commercial Dept.; Julius G. Lalic, Heavy Equipment Operator, General Services Dept.; RUNNERS-UP FOR FIELD CATEGORY Exequiel C. Majada, Plant Mechanic, Production Dept.; Alan Z. Fernandez, Plant Mechanic, Production Dept.

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January - April 2012

MODEL EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR Field Category ARNOLD D. BALATERO Sr. Water Maintenance Man Operation and Maintenance Dept.

MODE

AN

Electro

for service loyalty and excellence

Awards Night Grand Regal Hotel

ions

ataya

bdul M. D

Director A

logical Testing nce Laboratory

Maria Nilda A. Rigodon CSC XI Best Dressed Stella A. Posadas and Welmer E. Crasco

Dirs. Charlemagne B. Aldevera and Ma. Luisa L. Jacinto

Management stricts received elda T. Magsuci

Acting GM Ed

win V. Regalado

OIC-AGM for Administration Mildred G. Aviles

er Personnel Manag y Nancy M. Solano

Human Reso urce Ruth G. Jabi OIC nes

Jocel C. Emcees Fersan

Sawit and Heide

G. Acero

Anne M Soloist arie P. Paca

tang

Employees

EL EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR Office Category NNE MICHELLE T. SUMAYA Data Analyst Controller onics and Data Processing Dept.

(L-R): RUNNERS-UP FOR OFFICE CATEGORY: Aris V. Cabamungan, Corporate Planning Analyst, Corporate Planning Dept.; Simon F. Ayeng, Data Analyst Controller, Electronics and Data Processing Dept.; NOMINEES FOR SUPERVISORY LEVEL: Maximo T. Viola, Mgt. Information System Dev’t. Chief B, Electronics and Data Processing Dept. and Fernando G. Roxas, Sup. Industrial Relations Mgt. Officer A, Human Resource Dept.; NOMINEES FOR OFFICE CATEGORY RANK AND FILE: Belinda C. Naranjo, Engineer B, Engineering & Construction Dept.; Bernardine G. Redulla, Sr. Quality Assurance Inspector, Production Dept.; Glenda Sarabosing, Customer Service Asst. B, Commercial Dept. and Anecito D. Pingoy, Sr. Auto Mechanic, General Services Dept.

January - April 2012

13

water news

More caretakers in water systems this year

D

avao City Water District targets to add 18 additional caretaker teams for its Tugbok, Dumoy and Cabantian water systems as part of its intensified campaign to bring down its non-revenue water (NRW). In the first quarter, three caretaker teams have already been created.

A caretaker team is composed of operations and maintenance personnel who directly monitor specific service coverage areas for any possible water service related concerns.

They manage the operation and maintenance of the distribution system and service lines to ensure smooth operation while maintaining customer service at defined levels. To do so, each caretaker needs to carry out and supervise all activities related to NRW reduction and make sure that NRW remains low. Also, they attend to the monitoring and checking of the quality of installation in the network and new connections; identification and reporting of non-functioning water meters, illegal water connections, DCWD facilities inside private properties and low or excessive pressured areas; requests for water meter transfer, elevation and arrangement; and, customer complaints and requests.

The pilot caretaker team was deployed on March 14, 2011 covering the area of Catalunan Grande with 5,164 service connections and impressive results were observed. The threeman team composed of one team leader, a plumber and a driver was able to detect possible water loss problems and prevented the loss of 12,630 cubic meters which could have ballooned to 41,049 cubic meters if left undetected or unreported for the whole year.

Because of the success of the first caretakers, six more caretaker teams were created to manage some areas in the Dumoy water supply system on August 15, 2011. The areas include Bangkal with 5,480 service connections; Matina Crossing and Aplaya with 7,253; GSIS and Langub with 5,700; Ma-a with 7,600; SIR in Matina with 6,548; and, Ecoland and Juna with 4, 385.

Since the start of their operation in their respective areas until the end of 2011, out of 283 repaired mainline leaks, 48% were identified by the caretakers and out of the 1,480 repaired service line leaks, 57% were identified by the teams. Other leaks were reported by concerned citizens either by phone call or text or personally. The caretakers were also able to elevate 720 water meters, arrange 1,393 and transferred 35 for better and strategic meter placements.

“These numbers inspired the addition of more caretakers and hopefully, in the long run, more caretakers will manage more areas in our eight water systems,” said OMD OIC Engr.

Rosanna Vicenta T. Cabanag who also monitors the nonrevenue water reduction efforts of DCWD. “We cannot just depend on our customers to help us identify water leaks in the city because there are a lot of leaks out there that are left unreported as reflected in the accomplishments of our existing seven caretaker teams,” she added.

Acting GM Edwin V. Regalado explained the great importance of having caretakers directly managing water service related concerns in specific areas. “Among the great challenges that DCWD is facing especially with its growing number of service connections is the sense of responsibility that consumers have in reporting leaks and problems regarding water connections. Most people do not take immediate actions to report leaks especially if its does not concern them directly. With the help of the caretaker system, we intensify our campaign on leak detection and also attend to customer concerns immediately,” he said.

The caretaker system was one of the learnings of DCWD from the Water Operators Partnership that it had with VitensEvides International of the Netherlands, a water company whose expertise in water technology, water purification and water pipe networks installation is globally acclaimed. (Jovana T. Duhaylungsod) 

Taking care of areas. (L) Caretakers with team leader Danilo R. Soriano attend to a leak complaint in Ma-a with Leo Gizel from Vitens-Evides International of the Netherlands while (R) the team headed by Eriberto L. Ricablanca repairs a line in SIR Matina.

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January - April 2012

water news

Mainline replacement project completed

D

avao City Water District’s 126 million peso project called Comprehensive Mainline Replacement Program (CMRP) that was started in October 2010 had been finally completed last December 31, 2011 or after 451 calendar days. Replaced were approximately 9.4 kilometers of aging pipelines all belonging to the Dumoy water supply system, the largest among the eight water systems of DCWD. CMRP works included excavation, sandbedding, pipelaying, back filling and compaction; cutting and breaking of pavement; hydrostatic and leak testing; disinfection for every completed pipeline; tapping from newly repiped lines to transmission / existing lines; restoration of damaged pavement and application of thermoplastic.

Project areas included the streets of C.M. Recto, Elpidio Quirino, R. Castillo, Lapu-lapu, R. Magsaysay, Sasa kms. 11 to 13 and Sasa Wharf main road. Since these areas are among the major transportation routes in the city, DCWD maintained a close working relationship with outsourced company Vinhar Construction and Marketing to make sure that the mainline replacement program did not cause much inconvenience to the public.

With the completion of CMRP and through other projects employed by DCWD, it is expected that non-revenue water (NRW) will be reduced. NRW is the water produced but “lost” before reaching the customers through leaks, theft, or legal usage for which no payment is made. With the reduction of NRW, it is also anticipated that water distribution and pressure in service connections in the Dumoy water system will also improve.

Aside from CMRP, water utility has more projects to accomplish in line with its NICER agenda: Non-revenue water reduction, Infrastructure development, Customer satisfaction, Environmental protection, and Resource management. Said projects will help DCWD fulfill its mission to supply quality and affordable water 24-hours a day to all the people of Davao City.

On behalf of DCWD, acting GM Edwin V. Regalado expressed his sincerest gratitude to all Davaoeños who have been very supportive of the undertakings of the water utility towards improving its services in the city. Moreover, he also wishes that the Davaoeños will show the same kind of support to DCWD’s future plans and projects considering that the District has nothing but the people’s interest to uphold.

(Jovana T. Duhaylungsod) 

Completing the projects. Tapping of pipes at C.M. Recto Street is being done.

Two more DMAs

D

istrict Metered Areas (DMA) in DECA Homes and Emily Homes in Cabantian will be established to better monitor leaks and reduce non-revenue water (NRW) in said places that belong to the Cabantian Water Supply System. These additions took after the observed 12% decrease in NRW in the 14 areas with DMA’s established in 2009, 2010 and 2011.

The most significant decrease has been recorded in Green Meadows, Mintal where the first DMA was established in January of 2009.

In three years time, water loss was reduced by 32% from 41% in 2009 and further down to 9% in 2011. More remarkable decreases in NRW for 2010 and 2011 were observed in SPDA Subdivision and Wellspring Village 2 & 3 by 19% and in IWHA Road going to Greenland Subd. by 14%. These areas are connected to Tugbok Water Supply System (Tugbok WSS), Davao City Water District’s second largest water system.

Other areas with existing DMA’s include: Sitio Felomina in Catalunan Grande, Mintal Relocation, and Libby Road going to Carmelo Porras and Catotal subdivisions (Tugbok WSS); Rosalina Village 3 in Dumoy and Lubogan going to Dacoville Subd. (Lubogan WSS); Dacudao and Riverside in Calinan (Calinan WSS); Malagos in Calinan (Malagos WSS); and Royal Valley and Central Park subdivisions in Bangkal (Dumoy WSS). All these areas also showed decrease in NRW after establishment of DMA.

The DMA flow meter chamber. This is in use at Royal Valley Subdivision in Bangkal.

DMA is an active means of managing water loss in a particular water system by dividing one water supply system into a series of smaller subsystems for which NRW is calculated individually. NRW is the water produced but is lost due to leaks, theft, or authorized usage for

which no payment is made such as firefighting, flushing of mainline pipes and communal faucets.

“As DCWD’s service connections grow annually, preventing water loss is also becoming more of a challenge. However, by sectioning our big water supply systems into more manageable parts, and given the results of the already established DMA’s in the city, there is a big chance to bring down the NRW to 20% which is the standard set by the Local Water Utilities Administration for all water districts in the country,” explained acting GM Edwin V. Regalado.

He also said that aside from targeting NRW reduction activities, the establishment of DMA could also isolate water quality problems, improve and safeguard water quality, and better manage overall system pressure to allow 24/7 water supply throughout the network.

“DMA is among the many strategies to manage NRW imparted by Ranhill Utilities Berhad of Malaysia with whom we had a twinning agreement. Hopefully, with these new systems, we will be able to bring down the 27% NRW in 2011 to 20% in 2012,” Engr. Regalado added. (Jovana T. Duhaylungsod) 

January - April 2012

15

water news

DCWD empowers upland community partners

D

avao City Water District’s partner barangays in the uplands benefited from various community development projects implemented in 2011 geared at empowering residents to become more equipped in helping DCWD preserve and restore protected watershed areas in the city, namely Malagos, Mt. Talomo-Lipadas and Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan. These projects sought to improve education, nutrition and livelihood conditions in the local communities.

Acting GM Edwin V. Regalado explained the importance of including upland barangays in DCWD’s projects. “They are the immediate settlers in the watersheds and they play a very important role in making our projects a success. Instead of letting them engage in environmentally hazardous livelihoods, we should help them become more responsible and capable of protecting and restoring the very areas where they live in,” he said.

Since education is very important, DCWD granted scholarships to deserving students in the communities. In fact, three DCWD tribal scholars, Gibson Macamay, Ana Marie Geculi and Julius Lambac, already finished their degrees at the University of Southeastern Philippines Mintal campus while Maljun Lambac and Veronica Binulang were chosen to become new tribal scholars and are currently enrolled as freshman students in the same school. Julius is currently employed at DCWD. Since 1993, thirty-three scholars have finished college with a few now working at the utility.

Free trainings and classes were also given to out-of-school youth (OSY) to make them self-sufficient and literate. With the “May Bukas Ka Bata!” program, 25 OSY’s from Barangays Tawan-Tawan, Tambobong, Carmen, Tamugan and Marilog were given an eight-hour, 10-day plumbing training while basic reading, writing and arithmetic classes have been made available to interested OSY’s

in Barangay Tamugan for the “Karunungan ng Kabataan sa Komunidad” project.

School materials of notebooks, ball pens, bags, crayons, educational posters, protractors and rulers as well as a medicine kit, t-shirts, slippers and raincoats were distributed to day-care students in Barangay Marilog. One unit of drinking fountain was also donated to Bago Oshiro Elementary School under the “Patubig sa Escuela” project which started in 2006. In behalf of principal Alejandro B. Gallo, school teacher Julie B. Villaruz thanked the DCWD management for the donation.

“Students can now drink clean and cold water to quench their thirst,” she said. Other schools already given drinking fountain units were Doña Carmen Deñia National High School and Porras, Leon Garcia, Piedad and Artemio Loyola elementary schools.

Also donated was PhP20,000 worth of materials for the construction of perimeter fence and 25 pieces fruit seedlings to Tacunan Barangay Council for the establishment of a tree park inside Tacunan Elementary School as an initiative for environmental conservation and protection. The tree park project is implemented in partnership with Watershed Management Coordinating Council (WMCC), Barangay Council of Tacunan, Nagkahiusang Kababaihan sa Barangay Tacunan (NAGKABATA) and Tacunan Elementary School. DCWD shall also assist in the tree planting, maintenance, monitoring and evaluation of the tree park project for the period of one year. For 2012, DCWD is looking into the participation of the youth on environmental protection through the Green Brigade Watershed Summit which aims to involve the Sangguniang Kabataan members in the establishment of barangay forest park in their areas which is also one of the programs in the Davao City Comprehensive Plan.

DCWD also instigated wellness and nutrition programs to help alleviate living

Karunungan ng Kabataan sa Komunidad project. Community relation officer Elanena J. Gabuya (3rd from L) with students and teachers of the basic reading, writing and arithmetic classes for out of school youth in barangay Tamugan.

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next page please...

Tree park materials turn-over. (from R) CREA Department Manager Imelda T. Magsuci turns over the materials for the tree park perimeter fence to Tacunan barangay captain Algen A. Dela Peña and Tacunan Elementary School principal Mildred N. Torillas.

Tree park establishment. DCWD and partners in the establishment of a tree park inside Tacunan Elementary School pose for posterity after turn-over ceremony.

Wellness Program in barangay Marilog. Donated slippers to the students of Tamugan Day Care Centers.

Plumbing training for out-of-school youth. The 25 scholars of the plumbing training during the opening ceremony of the scholarship program.

Adopt-a-Community project. Children of Marilog District Women Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MDWMPC) receive their bags.

water news

Pay water bills thru BDO over-the-counter, internet banking and ATM

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cting GM Edwin V. Regalado is pleased to announce that aside from designated DCWD payment centers, all 726 Banco de Oro branches nationwide have already been accepting over-the counter water bill payments since February 14, 2012 while payment via BDO’s internet banking and ATM electronic channels have already become available beginning April 3, 2012 after the system used for the BDO overthe-counter water bill payment was tested and improved.

“With these new payment methods, DCWD management foresees a lot of improvements in terms of services to customers considering that they are given more options for their convenience. These new payment methods will also greatly help decongest long queues in DCWD offices and designated collecting centers especially during due dates,” acting GM Regalado said.

Over-the-counter payment in BDO banks can be availed by DCWD customers, with or without any existing BDO accounts. All they need to do is fill out the BDO payment slip by writing Davao City Water District, DCWD or Davao Water District in the institution / company name, date, subscriber’s account number and name, and the amount to be paid.

Customers can also pay with or without water bill, however, those who do not have water bills are advised to furnish the account number with the corresponding amount to be paid on the BDO payment slip. Payment of bills with notice of disconnection is also allowed but penalties and surcharges shall apply. The second copy of the validated bills payment slip serves as proof of payment in lieu of the DCWD receipt.

Payments can be made partially, in full or in advance and can be made before, on or after the due date. Aside from over-the-counter payment, other modes of payment allowed include cash in peso; debit from account; BDO On-Us check; and local, regional and cashiers / managers checks. Servicing for BDO account holders are up to the bank’s closing time while non-account holders are only up to 5:00 PM. Payments made on weekends and holidays are subject to verification and will be considered transactions on the next banking day.

DCWD customers with existing BDO accounts can enroll in http://www.mybdo. com.ph and start using BDO’s internet banking service. Enrollment and use of this service does not require a minimum balance, but maintaining balance for specific BDO accounts still apply. For questions regarding BDO’s internet banking, customers can use MYBDO site’s “frequently asked questions” (http://www.mybdo.com. ph/fo/faq) which answers all possible queries ranging from account creation to the actual payment as well as availing of special services.

DCWD reminds customers that the BDO internet banking payment option only covers payments for regular bills (blue) and notice of disconnection (red bill). Customers with shut-off order (yellow bill) and those who want to pay fees for DCWD services such as reconnection, new service connection, among others are advised to pay directly to DCWD offices in Matina and Bajada. Furthermore, the online payment method is only applicable to personal / individual accounts. Corporate bills, especially those computations with withholding tax component, should be paid to any DCWD

office for proper documentation and validation.

Customers should ensure that there is enough balance in their bank accounts otherwise, payment will be rejected.

Cut-off time for online payment is 8:30 PM and 11:30 PM for ATM. Any payments made after these times and during weekends and holidays will still be subject for verification and will be considered the next banking day.

Cancellation of post-dated or recurring payments made through online payment may be done on or before 7:00 PM on the scheduled date.

BDO assures customers that all information withheld is private and confidential.

However, all electronic banking services are subject to BDO’s terms and conditions.

Acting GM Regalado explained that availability of these payment methods is aimed primarily at providing comfort and convenience and improving operational efficiency, in keeping with one of the utility’s thrusts which is customer satisfaction. He also clarified that even in the advent of technology, over-the-counter transactions in DCWD collection offices and the monthly remote collection operations in Mintal and Calinan shall continue.

The agreement for the partnership with BDO was signed last November 10, 2011 by acting GM, OIC - Assistant General Manager for Administration Mildred G. Aviles and treasurer and Finance and Property Department manager Bernadette A. Dacanay, and Banco de Oro Unibank Inc.’s Vice President Edgardo R. Marcelo Jr. and Sr. Vice President Jaime M. Nasol.

(Jovana T. Duhaylungsod) 

DCWD empowers... conditions in the communities which included the donation of chairs and one unit of sewing machine to a women’s cooperative in Barangay Marilog. Rice subsidy was also given to day care centers in Barangays Marilog and Tamugan for the Lugaw Araw-Araw project while medical and dental missions were done in Barangays Tamugan, Tawan-Tawan, Cadalian and Carmen benefiting 854 medical and 107 dental patients.

According to Community Relations and External Affairs Department manager Imelda T. Magsuci, these projects do not only help DCWD

in its campaign for environmental protection.

They also fulfill DCWD’s corporate social responsibility by contributing what it could to improve lives.

For years, DCWD has always maintained a close working relationship with the watershed communities. This strategy has been proven to be very effective in securing the success of watershed rehabilitation efforts. This 2012, the District has more projects in store for the upland areas showing its sincerity to not just protect the watersheds but to also improve the living conditions of the very residents who

reside in these areas.

In fact, in the opening of 2012, basic skills training on public speaking was conducted for the 15 members of the Women and Environment in the Barangay (WEB), a partner of DCWD in its advocacy on environmental protection. This DCWD sponsored training is in line with the capability building for WEB members who will serve as speakers in fora or seminars on the watershed code in their respective barangays.

(Jovana T. Duhaylungsod and Sylvia May L. Vosotros) 

January - April 2012

17

water news

Local clubs help rehab Mt. Talomo-Lipadas

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hree local clubs in Davao City namely, Ayala Business Club of Davao and Davao City Mt. Talomo and Maharlika Lions Clubs joined Davao City Water District’s campaign in rehabilitating the watersheds of Davao City. These clubs became official adopters of DCWD’s Adopt-a-Site project on separate occasions and pledged to donate P6,000 every year for five years to subsidize operation costs needed to rehabilitate Mt. Talomo-Lipadas watershed. Each club adopted one hectare of land inside the watershed.

Davao City Maharlika Lions Club supports DCWD’s Adopt-a-site project.

DC Maharlika and DCWD sign the memorandum of agreement making the former the 74th adopter of DCWD’s adopt-a-site project.

Aside from pledging monetary donation, the adopters also conducted tree planting activities inside their adopted sites at Sitio Baracayo, Barangay Daliaon Plantation in Toril. Ayala Business Club planted 200 Lawaan seedlings last February 11, 2012 while the Maharlika Lions Club planted 300 Lawaan seedlings last April 14, 2012.

Ayala Business Club became an adopter late last year on October 21 while the Mt. Talomo Lions Club was last February 29 and the Maharlika Lions Club on April 3, both this year.

Todate, there are already 74 adopters covering 114.5 hectares of the 470 hectares allotted for adoption inside Mt. Talomo Lipadas watershed.

According to DC Mt. Talomo Lions Club president Alan E. Rufila, theirs is still a new club and among its concerns is environmental protection. “For a long time, we have been wondering what program to conduct to effectively help save and protect the environment. Among the many options that were presented, we found the Adopt-a-Site project to be the most ideal,” he said.

Davao City Mt. Talomo Lions Club becomes 73rd adopter of DCWD’s Adopt-a-Site project. Club officers turn over the initial P6,000 donation for watershed protection and pledge to donate same amount every year for five years to DCWD to help save and rehabilitate one hectare of land inside Mt. Talomo-Lipadas watershed.

Ayala Business Club Plant Trees. Fifty-four participants pose after the tree planting activity last February 11, 2012.

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January - April 2012

Maharlika Lions Club president Chona D. Ongkingko also expressed the great desire of their club to help as they see the great importance of protecting the environment. She said that donating six thousand pesos every year is just a small amount to pay if it means to help save the environment.

Official spokesperson and Community Relations and External Affairs Department manager Imelda T. Magsuci explained that DCWD’s Adopt-a-Site project which started in 2001 encourages active participation from individuals, organizations, companies and groups to help save the major watershed areas in Davao City. Aside from the project, the water utility also employs community organizing; information, education, communication and advocacy campaigns; and linkaging and coordination.

Acting GM Edwin V. Regalado lauded the initiative of the clubs and thanked them for supporting DCWD’s Adopt-a-Site project. He explained that said project uses the united efforts of concerned groups and individuals to help protect the major water supply sources of Davao City as watershed protection is everybody’s concern. “It is through this way that we can ensure water resource sustainability for the future generations.” Further, he expressed hope that many more will join the noble cause for the sake of the future generations. (Jovana T. Duhaylungsod) 

water news

T

he Watershed Management Youth Council (WMYC)’s 12th Eco Camp themed as “Listen! ACT NOW (Act and Care Together, Nurture Our Watershed)” was held in Malagos Park from March 30 until April 1. Lined activities in this threeday event were all geared to heighten awareness and involvement of the 165 high school and college students in Davao City in protecting the watersheds. Highlights of the camp were insights on environmental protection and different activities promoting watershed preservation.

The opening ceremonies welcomed the participants with an inspirational message from Imelda T. Magsuci, DCWD official spokesperson and CREA Department manager. Invited speakers were Giovanni Saludar of the National Youth Commission who talked about the importance of the youth’s role in making positive changes in the world today and Chinky Peleño of Interface Development Interventions who discussed the Watershed Code of Davao City. City councilor Marissa Salvador-Abella was also present to induct the new set of 2012 WMYC officers. In her message, she said that the youth’s active involvement in activities promoting watershed and environment protection is a vital part in the success of these campaigns. Capping the first day was an amazing race contest which tested the participants’ endurance and teamwork.

More resource speakers shared insights to the camp participants on the second day. Community relations officer Ellanena J. Gabuya talked about the National Integrated and Protected Areas System or the NIPAS ACT of 1992 and Luz Antiampo of the National Commission on Indigenous People Davao City regional office discussed the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act or IPRA. The forum was followed by an ECO tour at the neighboring Philippine Eagle Center where the campers marvelled at the animals and enjoyed an informative video on the famous monkey eating eagles.

One of the highlights of the camp was the eliminations for the Recylaband competition where camper contestants made use of recyclable materials to perform popular songs. Lyrics were modified in order to carry the message of watershed protection and preservation. Out of the five bands that auditioned, only three qualified and these were the Bandaot, Band for all Seasons and Improntu Rock Band. Finals will be held in June this year.

The last day of the camp opened early with a fun run themed as “Ikaw at Ako, Takbo Tayo Para sa Tubig”. Participants started from the campsite at Malagos Park, made their way to Baguio District and then back to the campsite. Hon. Rachel P. Zozobrado who graced the event praised the young environmentalists for their active involvement in environmental protection and encouraged them to continue with their cause. In the afternoon, winners of the Essay Writing Contest were announced and awarded: Morriz dela Peña, Maljun Lambac and Keren Mnhz Chispa, the first, second and third placers, respectively.

Summing up everything that the campers learned in the three-day camp was the presentation of their respective action plans on the issues surrounding the proper implementation of the Watershed Code, IPRA law and NIPAS ACT to better address watershed protection and preservation.

DCWD has always regarded the youth as an integral part in its watershed rehabilitation campaign. This is the main reason why the District has been supporting WMYC’s Eco Camp conducted yearly for 12 years now. Co-sponsors of said camp included the offices of Councilors Abella and Zozobrado, University of Southeastern Philippines, International Association of Traffic and Safety Sciences (IATSS), Alternative Catering Services, IATSS Forum Philippine Alumni Association, Goldilocks Inc., Iluminada Farms, Nanay Bebeng’s Restaurant, Naty’s Lechon, RDL Pharmaceutical Laboratory Inc., Vitarich, Inc. and Taipan restaurant. (Jovana T. Duhaylungsod) 

DCWD and WMYC hold 12th Eco Camp for youth January - April 2012

19

legally speaking

S.A.L.N.

by Atty. Bernardo D. Delima

P

ublic office is a public trust. This is the principle behind the Supreme Court decision dated January 31, 2011 dismissing from government service Nieto A. Racho due to his failure to include in his Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Networth (SALN) alleged bank accounts, which were not commensurate to his income as a government official.

A government employee/official is required to submit a SALN on or before the fifteenth day of April every year in accordance to Article XI Section 17 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, Section 8 of Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees) and Republic Act 3019 (Anti Graft and Corruption Act).

Non-compliance of such mandate is punishable by law and the case of Racho exemplifies the legal consequence for the same.

Racho was the chief of the Special Investigation Division of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Cebu City. In a letter dated November 9, 2001, DYHP Balita Action Team reported to the Office of the Ombudsman that there was a concerned citizen’s complaint about the alleged unexplained wealth of Racho. To support the allegation, the complainant attached copies of bank certifications, all issued in June of 1999.

In total, Racho appeared to have an aggregate bank deposit of P5,798,801.39.

Acting on the letter, the Ombudsman launched a factfinding investigation and directed the BIR to submit Racho’s SALN from 1995 to 1999. BIR complied with the order. Soon, the Ombudsman found that Racho did not declare the bank deposits in his SALN, as mentioned in the DYHP’s letter. Accordingly, the Ombudsman filed a Complaint for Falsification of Public Document under Article 171 of the Revised Penal Code (OMB-V-C-02-0240-E) and Dishonesty (OMB-V-A-02-0214-E) against Racho.

Thereafter, Racho submitted his counter-affidavit attacking the procedural infirmities of the complaint against him. The Ombudsman, through Director Virginia Palanca, issued memorandum dated May 30, 2003 decreeing that Racho’s act of not declaring said bank deposits in his SALN, which were disproportionate to his and his wife’s salaries, constituted falsification and dishonesty. She found Racho guilty of the administrative charges against him and imposed the penalty of dismissal from service with forfeiture of all benefits and perpetual disqualification to hold public office.

Racho moved for reconsideration but his motion was denied in an Order dated July 15, 2003. He appealed the said order of dismissal to the Court of Appeals (CA). On January 26, 2004, the CA reversed the Ombudsman’s ruling and ordered the reinvestigation of the case. However, after the reinvestigation, same ruling was rendered by the Ombudsman. Racho again moved for reconsideration but his motion was denied in an Order dated April 1, 2005.

Racho filed then Petition for Review under Rule 43 of the

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January - April 2012

Rules of Court assailing the administrative aspect of the April 1, 2005 Order of the Ombudsman-Visayas. On February 21, 2008, the CA rendered a decision modifying the Ombudsman decision and adjudging Racho guilty of negligence and reduced the penalty from dismissal to suspension from office without pay for a period of six months. The Ombudsman moved for reconsideration, but the CA stood by its decision and denied said motion in its November 20, 2008 Resolution. The Ombudsman then elevated the case via Petition for Review under Rule 45 to the Supreme Court.

The pivotal issue in this case, is whether or not Racho’s non-disclosure of the bank deposits in his SALN constitutes dishonesty. The Supreme Court viewed it in the affirmative. It cited the case of Carabeo v. Court of Appeals, the Court restated the rationale for the SALN and the evils that it seeks to thwart, to wit: “Section 8 above, speaks of unlawful acquisition of wealth, the evil sought to be suppressed and avoided, and Section 7, which mandates full disclosure of wealth in the SALN, is a means of preventing said evil and is aimed particularly at curtailing and minimizing, the opportunities for official corruption and maintaining a standard of honesty in the public service. “Unexplained” matter normally results from “non-disclosure” or concealment of vital facts. SALN, which all public officials and employees are mandated to file, are the means to achieve the policy of accountability of all public officers and employees in the government. By the SALN, the public are able to monitor movement in the fortune of a public official; it is a valid check and balance mechanism to verify undisclosed properties and wealth.”

It was held that the CA erred in finding him guilty of simple neglect of duty only. As defined, simple neglect of duty is the failure to give proper attention to a task expected from an employee resulting from either carelessness or indifference. In this case, the discrepancies in the statement of Racho’s assets are not the results of mere carelessness. On the contrary, there is substantial evidence pointing to a conclusion that Racho is guilty of dishonesty because of his unmistakable intent to cover up the true source of his questioned bank deposits.

The Supreme Court granted the Petition of the Ombudsman; reversed the decision of the Court of Appeals; and, ordered the reinstatement of the Ombudsman decision finding Racho guilty of dishonesty. Consequently, Racho was ordered dismissed from the service with forfeiture of all benefits and perpetual disqualification of public office (Office of the Ombudsman vs. Nieto A. Racho, G.R. No. 185685).

The Decision for this case was promulgated on January 31, 2011, penned by Associate Justice Jose Mendoza and more importantly, signed and certified by Chief Justice Renato Corona.

And, few months after such promulgation, Chief Justice Corona himself was placed on same hot seat, faced similar controversy due to his non-declaration of some properties and/or dollar accounts in his SALN. The bottom line: No one is exempt. 

feature

Motherhood PART 2: Presence is in the Heart

by Mommy Gee-aye

S

eventeen years ago, I wrote on Crystal Flow an article about being a mother to my newly born daughter Jen. I said that her birth made me believe in miracles for indeed til this day, I couldn’t get over the experience that a human being actually came out of my body! And that not only happened once to me but twice. Truly, every child is a blessing and motherhood is equally a blessing too.

I have been savouring every moment of motherhood, both the joys and pains that it brings. Every step of the way that my Jen and Jaj are trotting is such a sweet surrender of love and gratitude to God. Like all other siblings elsewhere, my children have so much in common yet they are different from each other.

But both share my equal love, care and attention. Both are my favourites in good and not so good times.

Last school year, Jen began claiming her independence when she entered college at UP Diliman in Quezon City. Much as I wanted my kids to be near me at all times, Joel and I made a bold decision same as what our own parents did decades ago.

We sent her away for college, away from our clutches.

Proud and happy that she landed in the country’s premiere university, it also had its setbacks. I missed her very much, day in and day out. I was always worried for her safety, for the food and water that she took in, for the weather and typhoons, for the people that she was with, for the darkness, for mosquitoes, for anything that might hurt my P’langga Baby Girl.

For a time, I thought I’d go bonkers from too much worrying.

Add to that were instances when I couldn’t eat and sleep well because in my mind, dormitory food was less savory and her small bedroom which she shared with a pretty young lady from Tanza, Cavite was void of aircon and other amenities.

The holidays that brought us together were all too short and surely weren’t enough to expunge my longing for my dear daughter.

Nothing was just enough, not even the frequent-in-a-day phone calls and textings.

or heels thudding the floor. She has become responsive to family decision makings and throws in better thought-of opinions. She is keen about her personal belongings and organizes everything according to need and priority. She is more considerate and abiding. She expresses her feelings and articulates her ideas with maturity.

She shares her experiences about many situations and analyzes and weighs her options. She no longer is peeved about petty matters and has learned to laugh at her mistakes. She’s more thrifty and wiser now in spending my and Joel’s hard earned money. She even went alone to the Land Transportation Office for her driver’s license. Above all, she has brought with her my teachings and practises them consistently without reservation. With these and more that Jen has been showing, I can say that about half of the rigors of motherhood has paid off. I hope then that she keeps on the right track, finishes her studies and makes her own mark in life so I can legitimately claim a full half success as a mother. As for the other half, I hope that I am also imprinting goodness in Jaj and reap equal or better success in the future.

Let me say it again: Motherhood is such a sweet surrender of love and gratitude to God, something that I can pay forward in honor of my own mother.

In early June, Jen will be back at UP Diliman and vacations are again what we have to look forward to. I hope that I will feel better and engulf myself in what I always tell her that “we are most present in each other’s heart”. With that, Mommy and Jen are never and will never be apart. And the same goes with Mommy and Jaj. 

At last, Summer came and Jen came home and would be staying longer. What a treat for me! I have reclaimed my baby back, at least for 66 days.

With Jen home for summer break, I have new realizations about motherhood. For one thing, indeed it continues to surprise me in my daughter’s little ways.

Independence has done Jen good. I’ve noticed that she makes her bed when she wakes up. She flattens the toothpaste from the bottom in an effort to squirt out all the gel I’ve paid for. She breezes through errands with gusto. She seems pleased to do favors around the house without a tinge of complaint

January - April 2012

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literary

Untitled

A FATHER’S LOVE wrong arrow (dedicated to Jana & Jacob)

Your presence Stirs my heart like the rain that sends ripples to the stillest lake.

I’ve seen God’s miracle Right before my eyes When you came into the world So beautiful to my delight.

Your voice laces my ears with the sweetest lines that livens the coldest night.

Big responsibilities lie in my hands To form you according to God’s plan Wish I could give you my all For you to be the best that you can be.

And your touch, So soft and gentle, caresses old wounds into forgetfulness.

Never mind the sacrifices that I take Even sleepless nights I’m willing to accept Just to give you the best that you deserve And all the love only a father can give.

The days of absence and the distance that separate us seem not to matter As unspoken words of love and faith resonate every time our fingers entwine and our eyes meet.

-calamay

DEEPER LOVE

You are the fulfillment of my dreams The reason for my existence Life becomes more meaningful with you To feel the love only a father can do.

blushing cheeks raging hear tbeats swirling sleepless nights... that’s how you casted spell on me. charmed by the innocence of your sweet little armor awed by how you made me an abiding warrior shielded...protected...beloved the human I adored but your charm little cupid vanished...unanchored.

A father’s love is so unconditional So deep beyond physical Protecting you is my integrity My love for you flows till eternity.

Melancholy tor tured by the harsh emotions that it triggered elation subsided brought by the annoying rays it muttered oh, cupid...why could this be?

I could have gotten your arrow of loving hatred...

-jason

-annodam

Hiatus

LOVE is the basis of everything we do.

We define love in different ways, Using our own meanings, our experiences, the symbols that we can hold on to, the people who love us, and the people we love.

We can be the gift of love by offering genuine service to everyone, doing external good out of love Because our daily actions towards others cannot be separated from our relationship with God. The more we love God, the more we love our brothers and sisters; And the more we love our brothers and sisters the more we deepen our love for God. -jono 22

there you go again cupid reminding me again of how love exists in this cruel world reminiscing on how I became stupid when your little innocent arrow struck my hear t like a sword.

The hope slims down, but I still feel strong for you.

Yet, we reason with our mind and I try to leave my heart somewhere I could not find to give you time.

- 4oy

January - April 2012

PRELUDE For every day that you and I still remember that night when we first held hands and that memory still puts a smile on our lips, I will write you lines hoping they could heal every single wound I caused your heart to bleed.

-dew

fun and games 1. A MAZE CRAZE

4. COMMONLY YOURS

2. RIDDLE

5. DISTORTED CIRCLE

6. STANDING IN A CIRCLE

Can you uncover what each group of three has in common?

1. doughnut, notebook, golf course ______________________________________ 2. turtle, peanut, oyster ______________________________________ 3. brown, polar, Kodiak ______________________________________ 4. cough, tear, rain ______________________________________ 5. soap, granola, candy ______________________________________

opis dey!

Answers: 2. Ambulances do not put out fires.

3. shoes - it’s the only “pair “ that actually has 2 separate sheets.

4. 1. They all have holes, 2. They all have shells, 3. They are all kinds of bears, 4. They are all kinds of drops, 5. They are all kinds of bars.

6. 22; in half of the circle there are 11 children because 18-7=11.

Multiplly 11x22=22.

January - April 2012

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Did you know that... compiled by Madonna C. Llaguno

roses have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries? China has used roses for traditional medicine and stomach problems. They are now being studied as a natural remedy to stop cancer growth. Rose water is a popular skin softener and rose hips can be found in many skin products and some cosmetics.

the ice cream cone’s invention is linked to the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis? An ice cream vendor reportedly didn’t have enough dishes to keep up with the demand, so he teamed up with a waffle vendor who rolled his waffles into cones!

when learning facts about fire, it’s important to understand the fire triangle? The triangle represents the three components that fires need to exist: heat, oxygen and fuel. If one of these components is missing, a fire can’t ignite. Heat can be generated by a cigarette, an electrical current or a home heater.

Water is used to cool a fire and take away the heat source. Oxygen can be removed by smothering a fire with dirt, sand or a blanket.

Marvel’s The Avengers is based on the Marvel comic created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby? The first Avengers comic was published in September 1963 and the lineup consisted of Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, AntMan and Wasp.

chocolate was the reason why microwave was ever invented as some scientists were initially experimenting with micro waves in an attempt to create a better radar detector? It was during the WWII when scientists continued to test devices called magnetron. In one of such laboratory, a scientist called Percy Spencer was walking pass by with a chocolate bar in his pocket. He realized that it had melted because of this, he thought of using magnetron for cooking food. So he tried it first with some popping corn and succeeded. Then he tried it with some real food, an egg which cooked so quickly that it blew on his face.

to play expert archer Hawkeye, Jeremy Renner received training from Olympic archers on how to use a bow properly? He learned the basics of archery as well as the proper positions, but one of the most difficult tasks Renner had to master was the consistency he had to empoly in drawing back the bow, which is difficult to do when drawing back fast.

during the Desert Storm in 1991, Tony Orlando and Dawn’s 1970s pop hit Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree had a resurgence in popularity as the anthem for American families with loved ones overseas? As a result of the tremendous demand for yellow ribbon, one ribbon-maker shipped 30 million yards of yellow ribbon in a month.

the gloves of a boxing professional in the fly-to welterweight categories weigh 6 ounces; light-middleweight and above, 8 ounces?

in sunstroke, the body does not only lose fluids, but salts as well? Replenish the same by drinking sports drink especially formulated with electrolytes or eating something salty.

another word for the human thumb is “pollex”?

milk from camels is a good staple food because it does not curdle like cow’s milk? It contains high levels of insulin and antibodies that are good for regulating diabetes and other diseases. Unlike cow’s milk, camel’s milk is easily digestible for the lactose intolerant population. It also contains more vitamin C than cow’s milk. sources: www.listmyfive.com, www.tiptoptens.com, www.firerescue1.com, www.icecream.com, lifestyle.iloveindia. com, www.2020site.org, geektyrant.com, www.coolquiz.com