Crystal Flow 2020 September - December

Editor’s Note

Creative Connectivity in the time of COVID-19

A

t the start of the year, the 20/20 vision for 2020 steered us into a productive first quarter as we focused on our goals. In the second quarter, the COVID-19 pandemic transformed our work processes as we adapted to the New Normal to comply with safety regulations to ensure continuous public service. As we close this challenging year, DCWD is proud to claim that we have survived and continue to thrive.

Social distancing may now be the norm, but the importance of keeping connected to one another is all the more emphasized. Thus, shifting to the digital space and finding creative ways to sustain human connection are the natural responses to ensure continuity of our main activities.

With that, these are the highlights for the last quarter of 2020: DCWD launched initiatives for the safety of our customers with the Get rid Of line, Try Online (GO TO) services that promote online payment channels and 24/7 online and on-the-line call center. These services provided customers with options to transact with DCWD at the comforts of their homes.

Community-based activities continued, but practices were modified to make services relevant to caring for our stakeholders during a pandemic. These include digital literacy for the beneficiaries and partners of the Corporate Social Responsibility Program, donation of medical and hygiene kits to communities during the Dagayday sa Barangay, and donation of construction materials and

handwashing facilities to public schools to prepare for the eventual healthy and safe return of the students and teachers.

All the while, the advocacy on environment protection and water conservation lives on by utilizing online platforms to conduct the first-ever Virtual Water Convention during the Water Consciousness Month celebration, and the announcement and awarding of winners of the 4th #YouthActTayo Envi Initiative that recognized the best school-based programs for environmental preservation and water conservation.

We are also happy to congratulate the great number of promoted personnel this year and express our appreciation to those who contributed their generous and exemplary service.

As we look back on our accomplishments for the last leg of the year, connectivity is the key. We remain connected despite the hardships and challenges. We optimize connectivity as this is the operating vehicle in digital time. We remain proactive and certain in our public service even in the uncertain times.

RUTH G. JABINES

Editor-in-Chief Manager, Community Relations and External Affairs Department publicinfo@davao-water.gov.ph

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

3

From the GM’s Desk

I

Connecting Through

t is undeniable that we are still under the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. The limitations and restrictions are still on, however, we are connecting through. We make sure that we treat this threat as an avenue to further improve our operations and, in fact, this boosted the strength of our company to fulfill our mandate.

A testament to this strength is our compliance to internationally acclaimed management standards as we passed the back-to-back surveillance audits for the ISO 9001:2015 certification and ISO 17025:2017 accreditation despite the limitations and challenges of the pandemic. We have always taken into consideration that the service we deliver is imbued with public interest and as such, we always take care of the trust and confidence reposed to us by our customers.

Just recently, we were able to bag the 2020 Freedom of Information Hall of Fame Award – a manifestation of our continued commitment for transparency and accountability. In addition, an employee’s snapshot of DCWD’s safety protocols bagged the top prize of a nationwide photography contest, a nod to DCWD’s talented employees and swift response to the changing times.

All these accomplishments are concrete results as we aim to be the best in what we do – a testament that we do not settle for status quo but continue to break barriers for continued and inclusive development.

As a matter of inclusive development, DCWD continues to explore possibilities to expand its services especially to the rural areas in the city whose water supply needs could no longer be satisfied with their existing Level 2 or 1 water supply systems. We have already made consultation on possible expansion in the 3rd Congressional District of Davao City, particularly, in barangays Carmen, Cadalian, Tawan-Tawan, Baguio Proper, Wines, Tamugan, and Tambobong.

DCWD envisions to bring about change and positive development through water supply services not only to the urban population but also to the peripheries of the city.

DCWD believes that everyone deserves to have safe water, a crucial and essential element in human security and community sustainability.

Yes, amidst the uncertainties in this time of the pandemic, DCWD is connecting through. We continue to give our best efforts to fulfill our mandate for the betterment of every Davaoeño and for the development of Davao City. We continue to support the efforts of our national government in building a better and safer life to all the people of Davao.

ENGR. EDWIN V. REGALADO General Manager ogm@davao-water.gov.ph davaowater@yahoo.com.ph

4

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

Water News

DCWD is 2020 FOI Champion, bags Hall of Fame Award Katrina Belen M. Roble

Chairperson Bangayan receives the 2020 FOI Champion and Hall of Fame Award from the PCOO during the 2020 FOI Awards Virtual Awarding Ceremony.

T

continue to steadfastly champion the Freedom of Information. This award will serve as our inspiration to continue serving our public with honor and dignity,” he said.

PCOO recognized DCWD for its exceptional and significant contributions to the FOI Program’s progress and development in providing Filipinos their right to access information on matters of public concern.

In 2020, DCWD stepped up its FOI implementation resulting to fast turn-around rate in processing despite the pandemic. DCWD also implemented a feedback mechanism among requesting parties to serve as basis for further improvements, initiated the DCWD FOI Awards to recognize the contribution of DCWD’s offices in the FOI implementation, and incorporated an FOI request button in the ongoing development of the DCWD mobile application for customers.

On behalf of DCWD, Chairperson Eduardo A. Bangayan expressed his sincerest thanks to the PCOO for recognizing DCWD’s contributions to the FOI Program and committed to improve its FOI implementation thru initiating best practices. “We will remain humbled by this recognition while we

Currently, DCWD is embarking on a digitization program for easier monitoring and reporting of all requests and continually helping promote the FOI program among other water districts by catering to benchmarking requests, supporting all FOI related activities, and complying to all FOI requirements.

he Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) awarded Davao City Water District the 2020 Freedom of Information Champion under the Local Water Districts Category during the 2020 FOI Awards Virtual Awarding Ceremony on November 25, 2020. In the same event, DCWD also received the Hall of Fame award having been awarded as FOI Champion for three consecutive years since 2018.

DCWD FOI Team headed by FOI Receiving Officer Jovana Cresta T. Duhaylungsod (4th from L) and FOI Decision Maker Ariel L. Noble (Mid)

5

Water News

Back-to-back ISO surveillance audits passed Jamae Concepcion G. Dela Cruz

New Service Connection Application Water Meter Calibration

I

n spite of the COVID-19 pandemic, Davao City Water District underwent and passed the surveillance audits for its ISO 9001:2015 Certification and PNS ISO /IEC 17025:2017 accreditation. The remote audits were conducted on October 8 and 9, 2020 and November 16 and 17, 2020, respectively.

The ISO 9001:2015 Certification for the Provision of New Water Service Connection in the Matina Office was issued by TUV SUD PSB Philippines Inc. The certification registered under TUV100 05 4809 was first issued on December 10, 2018 and remains valid until December 9, 2021 with DCWD’s successful completion of the surveillance audits in 2019 and 2020.

The surveillance audit for DCWD’s Calibration Laboratory marks the successful transition from the 2005 to the 2017 ISO /IEC 17025 standards.

The ISO /IEC 17025:2017 accreditation, granted by the Department of Trade and Industry Philippine Accreditation Bureau, is valid until October 25, 2022.

6

It also granted approved signatory status to five DCWD personnel for the scope of flow measuring devices (liquid meter) namely, Engr. Dennis A. Maningo, Engr. Froilan P. Estrellado, Engr. Edgardo L. Villaver, Engr.

Cyril S. Billones, and Gerald C. Gayda.

Relatedly, DCWD’s Calibration Laboratory passed the Proficiency Testing conducted by the National Metrology Laboratory of the Philippines in December 2020. This validates the accuracy and reliability of the laboratory’s testing and testing process and personnel competency.

General Manager Edwin V. Regalado said that these accomplishments prove DCWD’s commitment to ensure quality customer service and adaptability to the changing times. He also congratulated the Office of the Quality Management Representative with Roberto S. de los Reyes at the helm of the back-to-back feat.

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

Water News

PAMD’s Panoy wins national and regional photo contest for gov’t employees Camille Margarette U. Solon

KEEP DISTANCE. No matter how much we wanted to be together, we just can’t.

Because today, it is always safer to be far away from each other.

M

ara Katrina T. Panoy of the Pipelines and Appurtenances Maintenance Department won first place in the Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA) National Online Photography Contest. The said contest themed Journey to the New Normal aimed to employ positive imagery to help motivate others while coping with the pandemic.

Panoy’s winning piece showcased a bird’s-eye view of two individuals seated two seats from each other following the social distancing rule. As the winner in the national level, Panoy received P15,000 cash prize. Her entry was also uploaded on the

official Facebook page of the Civil Service Commission Region XI (CSC XI).

Panoy’s entry also won the top prize in the regional level and received P5,000 cash prize on September 15, 2020 at DCWD Matina office. A simple awarding ceremony was conducted with Panoy, CSC XI officials headed by Director Adams D. Torres and DCWD officers headed by General Manager Edwin V. Regalado.

The online photography contest was among the activities for the month-long celebration of the 120th PCSA in September 2020 themed Philippine Civil Service @ 120: Public Sector in the Age of Digital Transformation.

Panoy (4th from R) receives her certificate and cash prize with DCWD and CSC XI officers.

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

7

Water News

tion.

All smiles from the participants after the virtual conven

B

annering the theme Water for Health and Safety, the Davao Citywide Water Consciousness Month celebration went online with the first ever Virtual Water Convention and the BIDA Best Video Making Contest.

GM Regalado’s opening remarks highlights how the convention will provide new insights on maximizing the above normal rainfall due to La Niña as an alternative water source through rainwater harvesting to the participants.

DCWD resource speaker Engr. Hidalgo explains how to set-up a do-it-yourself rainwater harvesting system to catch and store rain to be used as an alternative source of water supply.

PAGASA resource speaker Engr. Vinalay explains how the La Niña phenomenon affects Davao City in the succeeding months including the above normal rainfall conditions.

8

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

The Virtual Water Convention was held on November 25, 2020 via Zoom and broadcast live in DCWD’s Facebook Page with around 200 junior and senior high school students, college students, and teachers in attendance.

Discussions were on “Climate Outlook for November 2020 to April 2021 and La Niña” and “Setting Up a Do-It-Yourself Rainwater Catchment System at Home” with speakers Engr. Lolita L. Vinalay of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) and Engr. Cherry Gay J. Hidalgo of DCWD, respectively.

In his message, General Manager Edwin V. Regalado emphasized the importance of the topics in the present-day challenges of the Davaoeños with the COVID-19 pandemic and the above normal rainfall conditions brought by the La Niña phenomenon. He explained, “Since water is very important to stop the spread of the virus,

Water Consciousness Month celeb goes online Christine Grace P. Casimiro and Camille Margarette U. Solon

our forum focuses on providing new insights on how to maximize the above normal rainfall due to the La Niña phenomenon as an alternative water source through rainwater harvesting.”

DCWD also conducted the BIDA Best Video Making Contest in support to the Department of Health’s BIDA Solusyon sa COVID-19 campaign. Qualifying in said contest were 20 videos of children showcasing creative interpretation of the importance of water in ensuring health and safety during the pandemic. These videos were then uploaded to DCWD’s official Facebook page from December 1 to 15, 2020 to vie for the highest number of Facebook engagements.

e M. Jamora Lianne Elis st 1 placer

Cedrick Deon T. Gil 2nd placer

Winners were Lianne Elise M. Jamora in first place, Cedrick Deon T. Gil in second place, and Alijah Korvin D. Ballesteros in third place. Ballesteros also won the DCWD’s Choice award for the best interpretation of the importance of water in the BIDA Solusyon sa COVID-19.

The Water Consciousness Month is a DCWD-led Davao Citywide celebration every November per Proclamation No. 12 issued on September 27, 2001.

Korvin D. Ballesterose jah Ali rd ’s Choic

3 placer and DCWD SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

9

Water News

More convenient customer options in the new normal Jamae Concepcion G. Dela Cruz

D

avao City Water District provided additional convenient options for customers as the Davaoeños continue to brave the new normal.

Additional payment options In line with Bayanihan 2 and per DCWD Board Resolution No. 20-282, DCWD waived the penalties for the November and December 2020 billing and offered an optional staggered payment scheme for November and December 2020 billing and outstanding balance supposedly due in October 2020. As an effect to all these offers, all due dates for the December 2020 billing were also extended for 30 days.

Additional online water bills payment channel As part of its efforts to ensure customer safety, DCWD added another online payment channel with the Land Bank Link.Biz Portal.

Launched in September 2020, the Link.Biz Portal offers multiple options for paying water bills thru online banking and cash agents with minimal convenience fee.

10

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

Water News

Brgy.Brgy.

Carmen officials headed Carmen officials headed by

by Hon. Hon.Alfredo AlfredoB.B.Austral AustralSr. Sr.

Consultation for water service expansion continues in CARCATABAWI-TAMTAM

Jovana Cresta T. Duhaylungsod

Brgy. Cadalian officials representing Hon. Aristides P. Cajes

Brgy. Tawan-Tawan officials headed by Hon. Ricardo A. Gierran

T

he second round of consultations for Davao City Water District’s service expansion in CARCATABAWI-TAMTAM barangays continued in September and October 2020 after the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. These barangays which include Carmen, Cadalian, Tawan-Tawan, Baguio, Wines, Tamugan, and Tambobong are the host communities of the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project of DCWD. General Manager Edwin V. Regalado emphasized the importance of developing separate and independent water systems in these barangays as they are located in high elevation and could not be served by the bulk water supply project whose operation relies on gravity.

In said consultations, DCWD presented the proposed level 3 water system development and investment plan which includes the drilling of ground water sources, construction of production wells and storage facilities, and laying of transmission and distribution pipelines.

Brgy. Baguio Proper officials headed

by Hon. Joselito A. Cajes

Brgy. Wines officials headed by Hon. Margie B. Binobo

Brgy. Tambobong officials headed by Hon. Exequil M. Salandao

All seven barangays welcomed DCWD’s proposed developments considering the challenges they experience in water service.

These barangays have existing water systems which is a hybrid of levels 2 and 3 water service and most of which are run by associations. However, due to the increase in population, most of these barangays experience long water service interruptions except for Brgy. Carmen which is closest to an abundant spring water source. Common concerns among all the barangays are the difficulties in the maintenance and management of their wells, reservoirs, and pipelines.

DCWD also offered to provide technical assessment and recommendations to help improve their existing water systems.

This can provide interim solutions while waiting for the completion of the level 3 water infrastructures which would take around four years. As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility Program, DCWD assists barangays outside its service coverage area in improving their water systems, capacitating communities to efficiently manage their water systems, and providing jetmatic pumps and water tanks.

In 2019, DCWD already started technical evaluation and scouting of possible properties where the would-be water infrastructures will be constructed. At the start of 2020, DCWD conducted the first round of consultations among the barangay officials. This would have been followed by a presentation of DCWD’s infrastructure development and investment plan to the constituents of the seven barangays during the scheduled barangay assemblies in March this year. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these were postponed.

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020 Brgy. Tamugan officials headed by Hon. Diomedes E. Dela Cruz

11

2019 DCWD Model

Employees Arvin S. Medina

T

hrough the Model Employee of the Year (MEY) award, Davao City Water District recognizes the accomplishments and efforts of its employees who consistently display competence, productivity, exemplary behavior, and adherence to the office rules and regulations.

The winners receive plaques of recognition and travel incentive anywhere outside Davao City for a period of seven days with a budget of PhP50,000. Their portraits are also posted at the DCWD lobby for a period of one year. Runners up also receive plaques of recognition and PhP5,000.

For 2019, the search was for the Supervisory and Non-Supervisory levels - office and field categories. To determine the winners, the nominees were evaluated based on Performance Efficiency (competence at work, quality service, and professionalism), Personality (sound condition and interrelationship with their co-employees), and Achievement (significant contribution to the overall success of DCWD operations).

The selection process was facilitated by the MEY committee composed of Atty.

Bernardo D. Delima Jr., Nancy Joyce M. Solanoy, Ariel L. Noble, Romulo V. Won, Atty. Jennife Dumalag-Borong, James Aquilino M. Coloma, and Chairperson Atty. Richard D. Tumanda.

With their endorsement and as confirmed by the management, the 2019 DCWD Model Employees were announced and awarded during the Rewards and Recognition Ceremony at DCWD Multi-Purpose Hall on December 17, 2020.

12

Non-Supervisory Level (Office Category)

Heide G. Acero

Senior Laboratory Technician Production Department Water Quality Division - Microbiology Laboratory Among the highlights of Heide’s accomplishments include the recommendation to reduce signatories of internal and external test reports to contribute in the Ease of Doing Business and photo documentation of sampling point’s meter every collection to ensure that samples analyzed were collected from approved or designated sampling points. All these initiatives were approved and materialized and have brought positive effects in the operations of the Water Quality Division.

She also actively participated and contributed to the success of the Action Learning Projects “Barcoding of Laboratory Samples” and “Development of Competency Dictionary of Water Testing Laboratory”.

With her reputable ISO background and training, she was tasked as an internal auditor for ISO 17025:2017 Calibration Laboratory and 17025:2017 Testing Laboratory.

As a specialist and expert in her field, Heide continuously shares her knowledge to her colleagues in Microbiology Laboratory to improve their quality of work and interns for them to appreciate and value their training experience.

Supervisory Level (Office Category)

Chave P. Chanco Principal Engineer C

Pipelines and Appurtenances Maintenance Department Non-Revenue Water Management Division Chave has remarkable contribution in the District Metered Area establishment, leak detection, and installation of pressure monitoring stations.

Being the Supervisor of the Establishment and Management Unit, he has satisfactorily managed in-house projects while monitoring the day-to-day operation of existing DMAs and pressure management areas.

He is also actively involved as committee member in the Bids and Awards Committee Technical Working Group, Water Safety Plan, United Supervisors of DCWD, and Tap and Drill Competition of the Philippine Association of Water Districts, Mindanao Association of Water Districts, and Southern and Central Mindanao Water Information Council.

As a leader, Chave delegates to the team members and colleagues the tasks and responsibilities that would help them build their own strengths and capabilities.

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

Non-Supervisory Level (Field Category)

Gamaliel F. Abiday

Senior Water Maintenance Man B Pipelines and Appurtenances Maintenance Department Utility Maintenance Division - Change Meter Unit With over 25 years of experience in the field, Gamaliel has already displayed expertise in plumbing techniques and proper installation of water meters. He is not only confined to doing his daily functions, but also performs tasks beyond his scope of duties such as performing leak repairs.

He has participated and led in special projects like “Change of Large Water Meter” and installation of faucets in different cemeteries in Davao City during the Patubig sa Katawhan sa Undas.

Gamaliel is also highly commended by his superiors and colleagues for exhibiting sense of urgency, enthusiasm, and initiative in performing his tasks.

Supervisory Level (Field Category)

Elmer P. Dimalanta OIC-Supervisor (Water/Sewerage Maintenance General Foreman) Pipelines and Appurtenances Maintenance Department Mainline Operation Division

Currently the Officer-in-Charge of the Special Projects Unit, Elmer has made significant accomplishments in the water distribution schemes and alternatives to improve DCWD’s operation.

He was also among the main players in the repair of the mainline at La Vista Monte in Bangkal and realignment of mainline in Ulas.

With his technical expertise in water systems operations, facilities operations and management, plumbing and pipe fittings combined with his effective leadership, he has successfully managed his team and his unit as a whole.

As a leader, Elmer sees to it that safety in the workplace is strictly implemented and that responsibilities are properly delegated through conduct of regular meetings, issuance of memo on duties and responsibilities, and submission of accomplishment reports.

Non-Supervisory Level (Office Category) Runners-up

Renea Eve J. Lucena

Industrial Relations Management Officer C Human Resource Department Renea has been instrumental in the effective implementation of the Recruitment, Selection, and Placement (RSP), Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA), and other human resource mechanisms.

Agnes L. Acuña

Internal Control Assistant A Internal Audit Department Agnes participated in the development of systems towards effective implementation of internal audit functions.

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

13

Rewards and Recognition Ceremonies Katrina Belen M. Roble

D

espite the restrictions brought by the pandemic, Davao City Water District pushed through with its annual tradition to honor its loyalty in-service awardees for their milestone years of dedicated service, outstanding contribution, and active involvement in the development of the water utility.

Out of 149 milestone awardees, 146 employees actually attended the series of Recognition of Loyalty In-Service Awardees Ceremonies held on September 21 to 25, 2020 at the DCWD Multi-purpose Hall. Strict health protocols were observed during the ceremonies.

The loyalty in-service award is part of DCWD’s Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management (PRIME-HRM).

In photos are the awardees present during the recognition ceremonies.

14

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

15

16

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

17

18

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

19

20

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

21

22

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

Hail to the Chief!

Jerell J. Leonida LEO RHEY M. GERALDO (August 19, 1977 -October 17, 2020)

As DCWD’s master showman, Leo Rhey M. Geraldo always knew how to set the right mood. However, more than just an all-around entertainer and event host, Leo will always be remembered as an extra miler whose work commitment and leadership quality earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

As the Chief of the Transport Operations Unit, he was known to be a motivator and provider not just to his family but also to his workmates. He never settled for compliance when accomplishing his tasks. Yet, despite this go-getter attitude, he always made sure that whenever he had a team that worked with him, everybody was well taken care of.

For almost 19 years in DCWD, from Clerk Processor until he became the General Services Chief B, Leo valued human connections to motivate his team.

His leadership was one that shared the labor, and at times doing more for his team just to lighten the workload. That is why he will always be fondly remembered as the “Chief” whom his comrades could always rely on.

He hurdled several tasks but he always came out victorious. He was a known troubleshooter. Every time he was called to respond to challenges, he always had a trick in his sleeves may it be for equipping his unit with all the skills necessary so that they become more versatile in responding to operation needs, delivering water to and managing irate customers, or maneuvering his team to provide assistance to the Yolanda victims in Tacloban and earthquake-stricken areas in Mindanao.

For his superiors, Leo was an asset. He was humble when commended and was gracious to the guidance of his leaders who always had high confidence in Leo’s capabilities. Despite this, Leo always strived to keep on improving not just his skills but also the quality of work he delivered and the systems and processes of his unit.

Had fate granted the Chief more years, he would have been one of the great leaders of DCWD and there would have been more people he would have motivated and inspired. Unfortunately, his story had come to an end, but considering the fond memories that he had created with the people he worked with, he will never be forgotten.

Indeed, in his passing, there are very big shoes to fill, but we trust that the life he had lived, the connections he had forged, and the quality of leadership he showed, the Chief’s memory will be honored by us who continue to serve with dignity and honor.

Hail to the Chief! Salamat… paalam.

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

23

Feature

Words of Today Ruth G. Jabines

L

ooking back on how year 2020 started and ended, I can’t help but count and recount the many ways this strange year brought us to different kinds of experiences. Nobody had ever imagined that this pandemic will hit the entire humanity hard. Ironic that in this odd time, equality speaks. Fairness is felt, no exemptions and favors. Everybody must cooperate and obey.

I have my fair share of this experience. I’m one of those extroverted introverts who gracefully managed the changes and adapted to the new norms instead of whining about the requirements and protocols. In my time of isolation and home quarantine, scrabble is the handy board game. From there I played on some bywords that many of us can relate.

Face the Odds: Strange but true that literally the odds are on our faces as we have to wear face masks and face shields which bring us discomfort and inconvenience. With this requisite, I come to realize that I just need the basic – my face. No cosmetics, no enhancers, no concealers needed to go on a day. Let your eyes speak what your heart contains.

Test of Faith: At the onset of the pandemic, everyone’s faith was tested. We were dealing and combating an invisible enemy as they say, so we were advised to treat each one as “positive”.

Everyone then was subjected to rapid anti-body tests and consequent swab tests. In this time, anxiety shoot up, depression even came in. Negative! This is the most positive word we want to hear this time to keep our faith.

Mind Your Mind: As everyone battles to remain negative, a positive mind is the important element for survival. Mental health issues are normalized. To stay normal we have to acknowledge every abnormality in our physical, emotional, and mental state. This time we don’t mind what others say, we mind our mind as we do our daily grind.

Home Alone: Home is the safest haven at all times. All the more in time of pandemic, staying home alone is your way of helping. Isolation, in fact, is a consolation. Stay inside so you won’t add up to the probable casualty count of those outside.

in times like this. Moral support comes handy, prayer warriors fight with you and for you, and then outreach gets the farthest reach.

Digitalent: This talent is the new game changer. The virtual platform is the arena and it’s the only option to stay on the game.

Stay connected because online portals, webinars, and virtual meetings are the new normal. Normalize your presence in the virtual world because it doesn’t normally excuse your absence. You connect, otherwise you will be discounted.

WFH: The alternative work arrangement that could mean more than its original meaning.

Work from home which can also be work for home, and even workout from home. This has been the most productive scheme for multiple functions of our different roles. Multiple burden as it could be, but this scheme makes life somewhat easy. It’s a matter of time management, a judgment call to do it all.

Plantito/Plantita: The fad on greenery suddenly bloomed - genderless, ageless passion became the fashion. Amusingly interesting to see the wildlife in flora gets into the corners of living room, bedroom, and prominent spaces in everyone’s home. This is literally the picture of a “concrete jungle”, transforming the concrete to mini-forest, courtesy of the certified plantito and plantita.

Module: The parent-child bonding is strengthened because of this norm. Some parents even labeled themselves as late bloomers as their academic skills were unleashed this late. Hands-on assistance to the kid turned the parent to be competitive. Mother’s instinct or father’s pride is the drive.

QR Code: It’s an indispensable piece that affects your pace. We are coded to be inseparable with this code. Better have it along with you all the time to save time.

SD Card: Like the usual SD card that gives you space to backup files, this SD or Social Distancing/Self-Discipline is also a good card that backs you up in winning the game. No defeat, no draw, just a good deal to keep playing and keep going.

And the list of bywords goes on as we go on with our lives in this time of pandemic. Just like the way we smoothly transitioned from the usual normal to the new normal, these bywords will also smoothly become part of our culture, our way of life - that life which displays great love for LIFE. As we are not certain yet when this pandemic will end, we can only be certain that we remain steadfast to survive.

Quaranteam: COVID-19 is just like misery, it loves company. Even the most careful still gets it all. So the team goes on quarantine, making them the Quaranteam. Teamwork still works in the team

Yes, it’s good to remain good no matter how bad our yesterday was in 2020. We can only hope for a better tomorrow. But first, we have to live the best of our today!

24

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

Placing premium on employees’ mental health

Camille Margarette U. Solon

D

espite the challenges brought by COVID-19, Davao City Water District remained standing and continued its operations. Health protocols were set in place, financial aid was provided to employees, and alternative work arrangements were implemented.

However, with the constant threat of being infected, the difficulty of the situation, and the demand to adjust to the new normal in such a short time, DCWD employees were faced with a much bigger hurdle – keeping a healthy state of mind.

Thus, DCWD’s Regional Training Center (RTC) initiated the conduct of webinars to help strengthen employees’ mental health management in the midst of the pandemic.

Dr. Limbadan (L) and AGM-A Delima (R) discuss DCWD’s Mental Health Program.

The first webinar entitled Keeping up with Mental Health: Strengthening Leaders’ Resilience During and After Pandemic was held on October 21, 2020. This webinar was done in support to RA 11036 or the Mental Health Act which aims to prioritize mental health for Filipinos by requiring employers to develop appropriate policies and programs for mental health in the workplace.

Through the expertise of Clinical Psychologist Dr. Nelly Z. Limbadan and DCWD Asst. General Manager for Administration Bernardo D. Delima Jr., more than 200 attendees were guided through the existing Internal Guidelines in the Implementation of the DCWD Mental Health Program. Aside from DCWD officers, employees from other local water districts also attended so that they would be able to craft and implement their own guidelines.

In a separate undertaking, the second webinar entitled Usap Tayo Pamilya ko, Mahal ko. Labanan ang COVID na ‘to! #WeHealAsOne was held on December 4, 2020. It aimed to share information and guidance on what to do if one or one’s family is infected with the virus.

DCWD employees actively participate in the webinar.

(From L) Triage Officers Llave, Sayago, and Bagaslao discuss their respective topics on COVID-19 health protocols.

More than 200 DCWD employees attended the webinar where triage officers Marchessa Corazon S. Llave, Roxanne C. Sayago, and Sheril C. Bagaslao discussed the COVID-19 symptoms and the basic health measures and protocols to be followed. Employees who experienced the effects of the virus firsthand shared their testimonies with CSD’s Wilfredo C. Villaluz Jr. on managing family members to prevent the spread of the virus and PD’s Julius P. Angeles and HRD’s Madonna C. Llaguno on managing one’s self once infected by the virus.

The conduct of these webinars proved that DCWD places utmost value in its employees’ well-being and mental health which is vital in the overall success of the water utility’s operation.

(From L) Villaluz, Angeles, and Llaguno give their respective testimonies on COVID-19.

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

25

Water News

E L E M E N T A R Y

W 1st placer - Lacson Integrated School

inners of Davao City Water District’s annual search for the best school-based initiatives were bared during the culmination of 4th #YouthActTayo Campaign – The New Normal Edition on November 20, 2020 via Zoom. In said contest, contestants were challenged to implement initiatives on forest-based practices, organic agriculture, energy and water conservation, marine resource management, pollution control, and education and advocacy.

Emerging as winners in the elementary category were Lacson Integrated School in first place, Gumalang Elementary School in second place, and Malalan ES in third place.

C A T E G O R Y

2nd placer - Gumalang ES

For the high school category, in first place was Francisco Bangoy National High School, second place was Bernardo D. Carpio NHS, and third place was Maria Cristina P. Belcar Agricultural HS. The #YouthActTayo Campaign was an offshoot to DCWD’s ECOngress conducted in July 16 to 17 in 2020. All entries applied the ECOngress concepts on various environment projects that also helped curb the negative effects of COVID-19 with special application of water conservation concepts.

3rd placer - Malalan ES

26

With the restrictions of the new normal, all initiatives were implemented at home or utilized the social-media platform. For the judging, all participants submitted their

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

Best school envi initiatives bared Alexan Lynette L. Cabeguin

entries through a short video presentation to DCWD’s 4th #YouthActTayo Campaign Facebook Page.

H I G H

1st placer - Francisco Bangoy NHS

The projects were evaluated based on environmental benefits, sustainability, replicability, and innovation. To complete the scores, the entries were also evaluated based on their final video presentation and social media engagement.

S C H O O L

Entries with the highest social media engagement were given the Trending Award. Winners were Gumalang ES with 46,665 engagements and Bernardo D. Carpio NHS with 31,605 engagements.

DCWD thanked the positive reception that the campaign generated despite the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and thanked the Department of Education and all participating schools for their support.

C A T E G O R Y

2nd placer - Bernardo D. Carpio NHS

For elementary category, these were Malagos ES SPED Center, Rosalia Aglay Ayag ES, Wines ES, Baracayo Integrated School ES, Tamugan ES, Cadalian ES, and Baguio Central ES. For the high school category, these were Baguio National School of Arts and Trades, Cabantian NHS, F. Bustamante NHS, Lower Tamugan NHS, Tambobong NHS, Tungkalan NHs, Baracayo Integrated School HS, and Crossing Bayabas NHS. All winners and participants received cash prizes and certificates.

3rd placer - Maria Cristina P. Belcar Agricultural HS

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

27

CSR Corner

CSR Program

continues amidst COVID

A

Katrina Belen M. Roble and Alexan Lynette L. Cabeguin

t the first semester of the year, the implementation of Davao City Water District’s gender-responsive Corporate Social Responsibility Program was limited due to the prevailing health protocols implemented in the city. When restrictions were eased, DCWD immediately carried out projects to support and improve the way of life of DCWD’s community partners and to other areas in Davao City that are in need of various assistance.

Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WaSH) DCWD provides WaSH assistance to schools and communities that are not yet within its service coverage and those that need DCWD’s help in establishing WaSH facilities.

Patubig sa Eskwela DCWD and project partners Davao City Santa Ana Lions Club and Rotary Club of Waling-Waling Davao (RCWWD) turned over the donation of handwashing facilities to Mintal Elementary School on November 18, 2020, Sto. Domingo Day Care Center on November 10, and Tibungco Day Care Center on December 1.

Under this partnership, the clubs identified the beneficiary schools and DCWD provided the handwashing facilities and will organize WaSH orientations. Both the utility and clubs will conduct monitoring and evaluation to ensure the success of the program.

For their part, the schools will ensure the implementation of WaSH practices at school and conduct maintenance on the donated facilities.

28

The partnership was inked on September 24 represented

by General Manager Edwin V. Regalado, Santa Ana Lions Club President Veronica T. Magaway, and RCWWD President Armi Geralyn G. Espiritu. Witnessing the undertaking were DCWD Vice-Chairperson Maria Luisa L. Jacinto, Dir. Rogelio G. Largo, and Community Relations Division Manager Lorna M. Maxino, and the officers of the two clubs.

Dr. Magaway and Dr. Espiritu emphasized that the partnership is a good way to create significant change in communities while GM Regalado thanked the partner organizations for their shared desire to help create sustainable communities.

Water Tanks and Jetmatic Pumps donation Thru DCWD’s Patubig sa Barangay and Eskwela Project, DCWD donated one jetmatic pump each to barangays Buhangin, Bunawan, Calinan, and Tibungco, two jetmatic pumps to Brgy. Callawa, and one water tank each to Ladian, Mapula, and Lourdes elementary schools.

Education Despite the migration to other learning modalities to adapt to the new normal, DCWD continued to provide educational support and incentives among its student beneficiaries.

Tulong Aral ng DCWD Incentives were provided to the top 5 performing male and top 5 performing female students in grades five and six to 16 schools and junior and senior high schools to 17 schools in DCWD’s watershed rehabilitation project sites. Through this incentive program, DCWD helps encourage students in the upland to strive hard to achieve education and become stewards of the environment.

Educational supplies donations Around 2,500 educational supplies composed of ballpens, bags, coloring materials, pad paper, and pencils were given to Tulong Aral ng DCWD beneficiaries, partner People’s Organizations, and other schools.

College Scholarship DCWD conferred medals to four Indigenous People’s (IP) scholar-graduates under the College Scholarship Program in recognition of their persistence and diligence in their studies. DCWD also continued the scholarship support to the remaining 11 college IP scholars. This scholarship coverage includes transportation, meal, boarding house, and uniform/textbook allowances. In their graduating year, scholars are also provided thesis allowance.

Information, Education and Communication (IEC) The conduct of IEC is crucial to ensure the sustainability of DCWD’s interventions in partner communities. For the last quarter of 2020, these activities centered on the importance of WaSH practices in ensuring water safety. After these orientations, DCWD has lined up monitoring and evaluation for impact assessment of proper WaSH practices.

KALMAWASA Katipunan-Ladian-Marahan Water System Association (KALMAWASA) was formed to manage the operation of DCWD’s rehabilitated rural water supply system in Marilog. As part of the continued support to ensure the sustainability of the donated water supply system, DCWD conducted awareness raising on WaSH for 26 KALMAWASA members on September 19.

Highlights of the discussion included the importance of WaSH and possible risks and hazards if WaSH practices are not observed. This is part of DCWD’s objectives to minimize the occurrence of water-borne diseases among community partners. Also discussed were the role of DCWD in the rehabilitation of their rural water system and complementary programs.

Further, through the gathering, DCWD encouraged members’ participation and cooperation in their organization’s policies and activities.

Mio Creek Communities DCWD also conducted WaSH orientations to communities near Mio Creek, specifically, in puroks Imbornal, Hambabago, Mio, Mountain View, and Mahayahay in September.

DCWD highlighted the need

for proper WaSH practices to help protect the water quality of Mio Creek as it is one of the tributaries of Tamugan River which is the main source of the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project.

DAPLIWATA Among the objectives of DCWD’s community partnership is to encourage these partners to advocate for environment protection and watershed rehabilitation. Thus, one of DCWD’s POs, the Daliaon Plantation Watershed Assn.

(DAPLIWATA), organized its community-led WaSH Orientation in Brgy. Daliaon Plantation on September 26.

In said orientation, presented were the Solid Waste Management Plan of Davao City, the importance of proper solid waste management in the barangay, and WaSH practices.

Community Care Acknowledging the important role that its community partners play in the success of its watershed protection and rehabilitation efforts, DCWD provides various assistance to improve their way of life.

Medical assistance to partner barangays DCWD turned over medicines, hygiene kits, face masks, and alcohol to barangays Marilog, Tambobong, and Daliaon Plantation in September and October as part of the annual Dagayday sa Barangay, a project that provides free medical, dental, and social services. DCWD had to modify the implementation of the Dagayday sa Barangay in accordance to the mass gathering restrictions per COVID-19 health protocols.

Capacity Building DCWD provides capacity building activities that would encourage community partners to choose environment-friendly livelihood practices.

Livelihood for Women Project Sitios Marahan and Ladian are beneficiaries of the Livelihood Project for Women which aims to help improve the quality of life of the beneficiaries and lessen the impact of identified gender issues. Through the project, the women set-up their lettuce farm in Sitio Marahan and strawberry farm in Sitio Ladian. To help ensure that these livelihood projects are sustainable, DCWD conducted monitoring activities on September 19.

Stakeholder Engagement DvM Maxino presented DCWD’s programs for IP communities during the 64th and 65th Inter-Agency Visitation in Indigenous Peoples Community: Bagobo-Klata and Bagobo-Tagabawa on September 2 at the Brgy.

Daliaon Plantation covered court.

The activity was sponsored by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples which gathered various government and non-government stakeholders and the Bagobo-Klata and Bagobo-Tagabawa tribes to help end local communist armed conflict and other development-related matters in IP communities.

Water News

Simple celebrations

despite the new normal Alexan Lynette L. Cabeguin

SOS members together with Vice President Lovella D. Bitacura (3rd from R) distribute the Christmas giveaways for DCWD employees.

T

he Davao City Water District family loves festivities filled with fun and frills as these are special opportunities for fellowships. However, peculiar to the year 2020 was the “new normal” due to the efforts to curb or eliminate the spread of COVID-19.

Yet, there is no stopping DCWD to celebrate two big events at the end of 2020! With just a few tweaks here and there, COVID-19 was unsuccessful in taking away DCWD’s flare in celebrations.

Geovanni P. Mabiscay of the Engineering Department

In the lead were the DCWD Division Managers Society for the 47th founding anniversary themed Triple B sa Quarenta’y Syete: Bibo, Baskog, ug Bulahan! and the Society of Secretaries for the Christmas celebration themed A Whisper of Christmas Love in DCWD’s Heart.

There were no usual congregation, competitions, and presentations as all health protocols had to be strictly observed. Despite these, the DCWD family virtually attended the holy mass thru Facebook livestreaming to give thanks to the blessings that everyone received even during the pandemic. And, despite the Alternative Working Arrangement, everyone was still able to enjoy the socially distanced lunch salu-salo.

Rose Marie C. Comon of the Financial Management Department

All employees then received five kilos of rice during the anniversary and giveaways during the Christmas celebration. Gadgets and accessories to aid employees in their Work from Home set-up were raffled off in the anniversary and cash prizes in Christmas.

Indeed, there is no small or big way to commemorate milestones and celebrations, and pandemic or not, DCWD will continue to be happy, content, and grateful.

Richard G. Vergara (R) of the Sanitation Division

30

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

GAD Moves

Harnessing the

COVID-19 experience Novie Grace S. Mag-aso

N

ations all over the world face a tremendous challenge brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. It has changed the way we do things considering the mass gathering restrictions to limit transmission. Despite these, Davao City Water District did not see the pandemic as a deterrent but an opportunity to reach out and extend help to employees and vulnerable groups in the community.

At the onset of the COVID-19 restrictions in the city, DCWD immediately provided support to employees while ensuring gender equality. Most appreciated was the Alternative Work Arrangements (AWA) which curbed the possibility of in-office transmission and provided employees a more convenient work set-up while adapting to the new normal. Shuttles were also provided per department and allowed employees to travel safely.

The AWA has been most beneficial to working women who struggled to create a work-life balance in the midst of the pandemic, ensuring that office tasks are completed while taking care of the needs of their families.

Since most people are working at home, DCWD also directly addressed one of the pandemic’s devastating consequences — the increased gender-based violence and aggressive behavior at home. This was worsened by the current health crisis and lockdown measures as numerous victims are constrained at home with their abusers with limited and/or little access to help.

As an agency that promotes women’s rights as human rights, DCWD is one with Philippine Commission on Women in the nationwide campaign on Anti-Violence against Women (VAW). To commemorate this celebration, DCWD employees showed their support by wearing orange shirts every Friday from November 25 to December 12, 2020.

DCWD also strengthened its Anti-VAW mechanism and continued its IEC programs to promote a VAW-free community. Relative to the celebration, an online forum was held to discuss the results of the GAD-related surveys on Gender Sensitivity Training and Intensifying the GAD Mechanism, Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI). These surveys conducted in September 2020 aimed to evaluate the awareness of the employees on GAD and the DCWD CODI system.

Last December 10, DCWD also commemorated the International Human Rights Day by donating customized kits with toiletries and other items for personal hygiene to the women inmates referred to as bakasyonistas at the Ray of Hope Village in the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Region XI (BJMP RXI). They were also given GAD IEC on the list of gender-responsive programs and services which women can avail and other information pertaining to human rights. These efforts were done to let the women inmates feel a sense of belongingness in the society despite their current situation.

Turnover of hygiene kits to the BJMP RXI for women inmates

Truly, the past few months have taught us that the global impact of the pandemic should be used as a silver lining for potential shifts on gender-related issues in social, political, economical, and social norms with the hopes of achieving our common goal of ensuring that women are not left behind.

And, as we recover from the pandemic, it is DCWD’s aim to safeguard women’s rights as human rights and ensure that the hard-won progress we have made towards gender equality over the past decades will not go in vain.

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2020

31