BALAI Vol. 5 No. 3

GM’S CORNER

Our Moral Obligations...Our Gift

UPBEATS Redevelopment of NHA Compound is Now Underway

FEATURES

Bike to Work: Pedaling Through the Pandemic

PROFILES AGM Balba: Creating Opportunities for Himself and Others

2

BALAI Marcelino P. Escalada, Jr. Publisher Atty. John-Christopher T. Mahamud Atty. Ma. Magdalena T. De Leon - Siacon Editorial Board

TA B LE OF CONT ENT S 2020 E- Balai 3rd Quarter

Editorial Section

Information Chief A Maricris G. Maninit

CORNER 03 GM’S Our Moral Obligations...Our Gift 04 UPBEATS

Researchers/Writers Aser F. Gallon Genes John V. Gepila Josephine B. Lampas Eunico Marco B. Renomeron Graphics and Production

05

Acting Information Chief A Pides Aura J. Orata

06

Art, Design and Layout Justin Jalo C. Ambrosio Klarissa Bianca P. Flores Ma. Lorna C. Icban Benedicto B. Miran IV

07 08-09 10

Creative Production Gavin P. Corpuz Art Lynmuel T. Rovelo Carlo Miguel P. Talavera Patrick Miguel Nicolas L. Bagtas

11

1,345 Urban Poor Families receive CELA Davao Fire-Victim Families receive NHA EHAP NHA – EMPC Recipient of CDA GAWAD PARANGAL 2020 NHA, TESDA facilitate Food Processing Training for Former Rebels Earthquake Survivors receive NHA Housing Units NHA turns to Green Architecture NHA turns over 100 houses to IPs in Cotabato

EMDevelopment: System, Program Innovation and Policy Development

FEATURES

11-13

Bike to Work: Pedaling Through the Pandemic

Photographers Albert N. Babierra Roy Allan Ver B. Pendon

14-15

Life Goes On -- With Plants

16-17

SV3 Leads Bayanihan sa Munti; Sews PPEs for Frontliners

Circulation Octavio T. Cabiling II Harold Brian P. Dabu Ferdinand R. Gecomo Ramel R. Gloria Rodolfo A. Sumayang, Jr.

18

PROFILES

AGM Balba: Creating Opportunities for Himself and Others

BALAI is a quarterly corporate publication of the National Housing Authority produced by the Information Division, Corporate Planning Department with Editorial Office at the 2nd floor, Diliman, Quezon City, with telefax no. 8-7900800 local 240 and e-mail address infodivnha@yahoo. com. The Editorial Staff reserves the right to edit articles submitted for publication.

ABOUT THE COVER: A pleasant view from Pleasant View: A beneficiary from Pleasant View Residences holds his child as they wait for further instructions during a relocation activity.

Image by: Roy Allan Ver B. Pendon

3

GM’ S CO RN E R OUR MORAL OBLIGATIONS... OUR GIFT

A

s I have mentioned previously, this pandemic is an opportunity that would bring out solidarity among us. But as we traverse this COVID-19 landscape let us not forget our housing beneficiaries and other stakeholders. Having them in mind and considerate of their plight, the National Housing Authority is morally obliged to implement necessary moratoriums on housing amortizations.

The 3-month moratorium (implemented from March-June) on the payment of housing amortization in all of our housing projects is our way of aiding our beneficiaries to maximize the value of their money and tide them over during this public health crisis. This moratorium is also our share and commitment to the Bayanihan Heal as One Act of the Duterte Administration in its fight against the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and in alleviating the present condition of our countrymen. And thru this effort, we hope that realigning the budget that is supposed for housing amortization can better be used for other important and immediate needs of families in our communities.

Housing has always been a life and death matter. Having shelter against all kinds of weather, and having a roof above your head is essential. It is also our first line of defense against our situation right now - the COVID-19 pandemic where we are all required to stay at home and quarantine ourselves if need be.

Having that said, this is such a fitting “Gift” of the Authority to its housing beneficiaries to support them during the coming Christmas season while the country is in the middle of this pandemic.

To all our beneficiaries and stakeholders, we join you in this pandemic and our quest for fair but quality housing for everyone.

Let us soldier on and stay at home.

MARCELINO P. ESCALADA, JR. General Manager, NHA

4

1,345 URBAN POOR FAMILIES RECEIVE CELA By: Aser F. Gallon

T

he National Housing Authority (NHA) handed over a total of 1,345 Certificates of Eligibility of Lot Award (CELAs) to qualified beneficiary-members of urban poor group Kadamay on September 14, 2020 held at the Pandi Sports Complex in Bulacan.

This, after NHA General Manager Marcelino P. Escalada Jr. instructed Region III Manager Roderick T. Ibañez to fast-track and finish the awarding of housing units identified under Joint Resolution No. 2 before the end of October.

“Ang marching order po ng aming General Manager ay tapusin ang pag-a-award sa lahat ng mga sites on or before the end of October,” RM Ibañez said during the event, alongside

the signing of Individual Loan Agreement for Villa Lois and Pandi Heights qualified beneficiaries, appealing for everyone’s cooperation to make the turnover processes easier and successful.

Bulacan District Manager Ramon S. Paragas, on the other hand said, “Ang okasyong ito ay nagpapatunay na kayo ay mga

legal awardees at may karapatan na kayo sa mga bahay na inyong tinitirhan. Inaasahan po namin na kayo ay tutugon sa mga patakaran ng NHA at ganun din sa patakaran ng Pandi LGU.”

Vice Mayor Luisa Sebastian, who led LGU officials in witnessing the activity, was very thankful to President Rodrigo R. Duterte for the Joint Resolution as well as to NHA, stressing, “Nagpapasalamat tayo sa ating Pangulong Duterte dahil siya mismo ang nagbigay ng mandato para ipatupad ng NHA ang pamamahagi sa inyo ng mga kabahayan. Sa mga Kadamay, pro-government Kadamay, hinihikayat po namin kayo na gawing matiwasay ang Pandi. Dapat tayong tumulong sa kaayusan ng ating lipunan at magpasalamat sa biyayang dumarating sa atin.”

It may be recalled that in September 2019, over 500 former Kadamay members comprised the first batch of housing beneficiaries who qualified after undergoing validation processes and being compliant with the standards and laws of NHA.

Urban poor group member-beneficiaries fill up their respective ILAs as they receive the Certificates of Lot Award.

DAVAO FIRE-VICTIM FAMILIES RECEIVE NHA EHAP

N

ineteen fire victim families from Tagum City, Davao del Norte, Laak, Maco, Mawab, New Bataan, Davao de Oro, and Mati City, Davao Oriental were the recipients of financial assistance of the National Housing Authority Region XI. Under the Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP), the NHA extends financial aid to low-income families whose houses were either partially damaged or totally destroyed by natural or man-made calamities such as typhoons, floods, earthquakes, volcanic, eruptions, fire terrorism, or other forms of disasters.

Each family except for one in Tagum City, received P30,000.00 cash assitance for the reconstruction of their houses.

5

The cost of financial assistance ranges from a minimum of P5,000.00 to P30,000.00 per family depending on the degree of damage to their houses.

The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the government for the services and support they have received, especially to NHA Region XI. The EHAP released by the NHA was a joint effort of the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU), Local Government Unit (LGU), in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) and the Office of the Special Assistant to the President (OSAP). Jonna M. Curacha, Region XI

Fire victim beneficiaries receive financial aid from NHA Region XI officials.

NHA – EMPC RECIPIENT OF CDA GAWAD PARANGAL 2020

By: Josephine B. Lampas

A

Certificate of Recognition was conferred to the National Housing Authority Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative last October 20, 2020 for its outstanding contribution in support of the government’s efforts in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic.

The recognition was awarded by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) during its Gawad Parangal 2020 celebration via Zoom. The activity coincides with the celebration of the Cooperatives Month with the theme “Cooperative: Amidst the Pandemic, Stand for Resiliency, Strive for Sustainability”.

NHA EMPC Chairperson Fernando S. Mojica accepted the said recognition as participated in by some 300 Cooperative officer-members across the country led

FERNANDO S. MOJICA

Chairperson, NHA EMPC and Division Manager of CRSD, CSSD.

by CDA Regional Director Pedro Defensor and CDA Executive Director Rey Elibaso.

According to Mr. Mojica, the NHAEMPC was recognized for the support and assistance programs it provided its members in times of the pandemic, such as: 1) provision of two (2) months Loan Payment moratorium, 2) grant of cash advance loan and emergency loan to all its coop members, 3) waiving of penalty charges for late payments, and 4) procurement of 1,000 pieces of custommade face masks and alcohol.

The NHA EMPC is one among the member cooperatives that contributed to the P5.4 Billion assistance funding support in the government’s fight against COVID-19 and is a member-organization of the CDA Easter Field District - Quezon City.

6

NHA XI Regional Manager Engr. Zenaida M. Cabiles together with TESDA Secretary Dr. Isidro S. Lapeña and Gov. Edwin I. Jubahib.

NHA, TESDA FACILITATE FOOD PROCESSING TRAINING FOR FORMER REBELS

T

hirty-four (34) beneficiaries of Freedom Residences completed the food processing training program courtesy of the National Housing Authority (NHA) Region XI represented by Regional Manager Zenaida M. Cabiles, with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), thru its Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) last July 22, 2020.

The said event is the cluster’s plan to empower disadvantaged communities through the provision of various program deliverables such as skills training and livelihood projects that are geared towards poverty reduction.

Joining NHA and TESDA during the launch were the Local Government of Tagum and the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte. Other government agencies present were the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) XI, Armed Forces

of the Philippines (AFP), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR), and Department of Labor & Employment (DOLE), respectively.

Freedom Residences, located in Brgy.

Cuambugan Tagum City, Davao del Norte is a Resettlement Project of the NHA allocated for the rebel returnees in the country. Under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program E-(CLIP), the Government helps former insurgents reintegrate into society by providing them with housing and livelihood trainings, among the many.

Ending local communist conflict and insurgencies has been a long battle that the Philippine Government has endured.

According to TESDA Secretary Dr. Isidro S. Lapeña, the program is a way of supporting the end of local insurgencies by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Meanwhile, Gemma Salazar Burgos-Quiroga,

An Army and a former rebel beneficiary working together in cooking Mushroom Chili Sauce.

one of the program recipients, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, “Nag

pasalamat jud mi ug dako sa TESDA ug sa tanang ahensya sa gobyerno nga padayun ang pag-tabang sa amo, kaning gi hatag ninyo nga training ug kits kay amo jud ning gamiton aron makatabang nga mulambo ang among pagpamuyo.”

(We are very thankful to TESDA and to all the government agencies that support us continuously, surely, we will make use of these provisions to improve our living conditions”.

At the end of the one-day training, the participants were equipped to process and produce chili mushroom sauce, pickled mushroom, mushroom chicharon, dumplings, patty, and tempura. Sixteen (16) participants were taught mushroom processing while the other eighteen (18) were trained to do meat and fruits and vegetable processing. Abner C. Mantua, NHA Region XI

Finished products made by NHA’s Freedom Residences beneficiaries: Rice Wash Vinegar, Papaya Pickles atsara and Tocino.

EARTHQUAKE SURVIVORS RECEIVE NHA HOUSING UNITS

C

ommitted to providing shelter to calamity-stricken families, the National Housing Authority (NHA) Region XI has turned over housing units to earthquake-affected families in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, in simple ceremonies conducted in March and September 2020, respectively.

Magsaysay was one of the hardly-hit towns by a series of quakes that struck the province on October 16 and 31, 2019, and December 15, 2019, leaving in total damage 2,002 residential structures.

NHA XI Regional Manager Engr. Zenaida M. Cabiles, along with Mayor Arthur D. Davin and other LGU officials, led the turnover of 70 units of the Malawanit Resettlement Project to its beneficiaries on March 13, 2020, as well as the completed housing units in the Balnate Permanent Housing Project (118), whose recipients include the Indigenous People (IP), and Kapayapaan Village (235) in Brgy. Upper Bala on September 4, 2020.

“All we ask from you is to take good care of the houses that you will receive just like how you take care of yourselves, because our house is sacred and it is where life starts and blossoms,” RM Engr.

Cabiles said in a brief message.

Mayor Davin, for his part, was very thankful for all the support NHA has been extending to Magsaysay, emphasizing the need for everyone to treasure their new homes. “Ang akong hangyo lang pud nga ayaw ninyo ibaligya ang balay, puy-i ninyo. Ang akong commitment kaning mga housing units atong pabutangan ug solar panels ug water connections. (I am asking you to occupy these houses. Do not sell it. My commitment is the provision of solar panels and water connections).”

Luzine D. Plaza, one of the recipients of the Balnate Permanent Housing Project, could not hide her satisfaction and gratitude for what she received from NHA: “Dako ng among pasalamat kay natagaan mi ug balay.

Gwapo ang balay nga gihatag sa NHA, dili na guba ang among balay, naa nami tarong nga balay. (We are very thankful that we received this house. NHA’s housing units are beautiful. We now have a better home).”

Likewise, a 78-year-old widow, Gabina L. Ramirez, expressed her happiness for being awarded a housing unit in Kapayaan Village: “Dako akong pasalamat sa Ginoo nga kami natabangan sa Gobyerno, ug naka batun ug tarung nga balay ug nakapuyo nga libre. (I am very thankful to God that we were provided by the government with free and decent housing to live on).” Abner C. Mantua, NHA Region XI

Vice Mayor Donnabel Joy F. Mejia leads the ribbon cutting ceremony together with Major General Reuben Basiao, Commander 10ID, PA, Mayor Arthur D. Davin, Engr. Zenaida M. Cabiles NHA Region XI Manager and Engr. Oscar A. Sayman.

7

8

NHA TURNS TO GREEN ARCHITECTURE By: Genes John V. Gepila

B

ringing NHA to a higher level and making things turn around for the best of the Authority were among the priorities of General Manager Marcelino P. Escalada, Jr.

GM Escalada approved the Redevelopment Plan of the NHA Main Office Compound in July 2019, as part of his program thrust Building A Culture of Quality. The project edifice will be eco-friendly with sustainable structures designed to meet the appeal of public service.

The NHA Management has pushed for NHA’s compound redevelopment to afford its employees and workers a better working atmosphere and enhance the ease of doing business with its clientele and partners.

Based on the record, NHA Compound was built more than six (6) decades ago and was only renovated in 1977. The redevelopment plan was impelled in recognition of the need for progress and towards sustainable development.

The intent to redevelop the complex has been given thumbs up by the NHA Board of Directors. One main outline of the project is to build an office prospected to house all the Key Shelter Agencies (KSAs) under the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD). As

a “one-stop-shop”, the NHA Compound will make seamless coordination possible and transactions easier among KSAs. Furthermore, the project aims to provide affordable and accessible office and commercial spaces for both government and private sectors. And in terms of long-term revenue, it is targeted that it will ensure the sustainability of the Authority’s social housing development fund as the income derived from the rental scheme will be used primarily for resettlement projects and activities of the Authority pursuant to its mandate.

The complex will follow new environmental standards of the Philippine Green Building Code. This will instill green and sustainable approach in the building structure through the installation of facilities such as rainwater collection and holding tanks, water treatment facilities, solar roofing, and green wall systems to improve energy efficiency.

Aside from its carbon-water-energy reducing technology, the NHA complex prides itself with a design that maximizes connectivity from every zone and promote interactions through upgraded open areas and recreational facilities. As a public institution, the project design will strictly adhere with accessibility standards.

One of the early proposed designs for Phase 1 of the Master Development Plan

9

Exterior Perspective (Aerial View) of the proposed master development plan of the NHA Main Compound

Four (4) Phases of the Master Development Plan of the NHA Main Compound Based on the Master Redevelopment Plan, the construction shall undergo four (4) phases: 1) office tower adjacent to DHSUD, 2) Mixed-Used office buildings behind the Main building, 3) office building next to the Wellness Center, and 4) office building built at the site of the existing Main Building.

“We had several engagements as far as the management of our

resources: lands, buildings, properties and for everything we owned and have. If we can maximize the potential of our resources, then NHA will no longer be asking for funds from the Congress 10 years down the road,” GM Escalada shared.

NHA TURNS OVER 100 HOUSES TO IPs IN COTABATO

10

T

he National Housing Authority (NHA) has turned over a total of 100 housing units to Indigenous People (IP) families in Brgy. Bacong, Tulunan, Cotabato, on July 28, 2020.

Peoples under the Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) framework.

The Authority, in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and LGUs, remains firm in its commitment to provide assistance to IP communities to improve their living conditions and ensure their right to basic services such as housing is guaranteed pursuant to RA 8371 or the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997.

NHA XII Regional Manager Engr. Erasme G. Madlos and NHA XII-SKTacKidCotC District Officer-in-Charge Engr. Joel R. Reintar spearheaded the turn-over ceremony, together with Cotabato Governor Nancy A. Catamco, Tulunan Mayor Reuel P. Limbungan, Vice Mayor Maureene Ann L. Villamor, and other Meanwhile, in Sultan Kudarat, NHA XII local officials. extended financial aid to 33 families whose houses where hit by the tornado The B’laan and Tboli tribes formed in President Quirino last June 2020. The part of the beneficiaries of the Bacung assistance amounting to P20,000 to Kanyeh Tribal Village Project, which was P30,000 were released by NHA under its implemented through the NHA’s Housing Emergency Housing Assistance Program Assistance Program for the Indigenous (EHAP). Region XII Writers

NHA XII RM Engr. Madlos, together with provincial and local officials, leads the turnover of the symbolic key to the beneficiaries.

EMDevelopment: SYSTEM, PROGRAM INNOVATION AND POLICY DEVELOPMENT

“P

olicy innovations are not limited to postulating new and fascinating ideas but rather implementing new practices implying a significant change of commonly accepted protocols” - Cejudo, Daussage, and Michel

The Estate Management Department (EMD), as one of the integral parts of NHA’s Housing Support Services Group (HSSG), was given the responsibility of ensuring the smooth delivery of estate management programs and services. One of its functions focuses on policy and program development relative to sales and disposition of residential properties and tenurial services. It challenges the department to create innovative moves alongside the implementation of Republic Act 11032, otherwise known as the “Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018” enacted on May 28, 2018.

EMD continuously seeks to find ways to strengthen its monitoring and review function. The department has leveled up its action to transform one of EMD’s vision into reality -- a vision of creating a fast link between the department and the operating units. Initially, the department introduced the Prequalification Monitoring System to keep the regions abreast of the PQ status. The system-based monitoring of lot movement was also developed to track the disposition status per year. Soon to be uploaded is the

EMD Meets: The Department being led by Manager Ana V. Baul is always coming up with innovations that would ease policy development in their field of Estate Management.

EM Memorandum Circular (MC) Depot which can be accessed through the Google Drive. This innovation is relevant and timely in this new normal situation. As we spend more hours working at home, this online portal will serve as an easy and on-hand access to those needing copies of MCs and advisories as reference.

EMD has also resorted to online meetings and webinars through the use of its NHAEM Lifeline and the Zoom application in addressing EM concerns and complying with Management directives. Officers and the concerned staff were oriented on social etiquette and protocols in online meetings to ensure better results. Teresita P. Malabad, EMD

FEATURES

11

NHA “BTW” employees and NHA Cycling Community members: (From left to right) Lord Kristan Logmao-Region IV, Lea Mae Salmingo-POSSD, Jepoy De Vicente-OGM PPMD, Efmar Tumala-Region IV and Danezel Christian Cruz-POSSD.

BIKE TO WORK: PEDALING THROUGH THE PANDEMIC By: Genes John V. Gepila

A

fter months of being under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ), Metro Manila was placed under the General Community Quarantine. Most companies are now easing back to new normal activities, but most are having a hard time commuting to their workplaces with such small public transit choices.

measures, which started with three-month ECQ last March, non-essential businesses and public transport were completely halted.

A decent demographic portion has decided to get to their workplace on a bike and ride their way. Some of these riders only ride their bikes around the comforts of their village or the streets of a suburban neighborhood and some are into recreational cycling.

Since 2011, Danezel Christian Cruz, Senior Engineer A at POSSD was already used to cycling as a form of exercise, passion, and necessity. He chose to ride his bike and pedal his way to places to save time and effort specially during the quarantine period.

In the National Capital Region, you might have noted that there has been a surge in cycling in recent months. You can just look out the window at any time of the day, and you’ll see bikers zip through the lanes, in between traffic. It’s a dreadful sight, considering that most of our cities don’t even have bike lanes. When Metro Manila began on its long series of lock-down

Like him, Jepoy De Vicente of OGM-PPMD chose to cycle for convenience. The decision to bike to work “BTW” during the quarantine skeletal workforce schedule also led him to initiate a biking group, the NHA Cycling Community, (NHACC) which essentially is for both recreational bikers and bike to work employees of NHA.

Here at the National Housing Authority, for some employees, there was really no other choice but to go to work… on a bike.

12

office by bike, I was definitely exhausted with my 10KM (one way) ride to work. However, since cycling became my main transit this 2020, my cardio definitely improved as well as the strength of my leg,” he noted.

This activity also helped Jepoy in finding means to get fit, becoming more aware of his health. “I am happy,” he explained, “because it

is a good exercise and gives me a positive mental condition.

It could be a slow progress, but surely the result will be worth it.” And more than the instant cardio biking to work gives,

he loves that it helped him cut back a bit on expenses, saving PHP5,000 a month since he started biking, thus economizing on daily transportation.

On the other hand, for those really just starting out, Danezel and Jepoy suggested “make sure that you are fit enough to handle the strain of cycling,” as it can be physically exhausting for long distances, specially when the traffic in your route is dreadful. And before setting out, they emphasized, “know your route and distance well if it is secure and achievable.” Danezel uses Google Maps to plan his route and to avoid highways.

Peter John De Vicente Why do I ride a bike?

Since we are now in a pandemic, a lot of people are losing jobs and saving money is a must. Biking to work allowed me to save money.

Also, since riding in public transport makes people more prone to getting infected due to the vast number of commuters, I am able to stay away from too many people as I ride on my own.

Peter John De Vicente (OGM-PPMD) “In line with the New Normal, we are calling out to every employee, regardless of position, size , and gender to let us explore out of your comfort zones and discover and develop camaraderie, not just at work but outside too! Let’s ride our bicycles and create a positive outlook in the midst of this pandemic!”, Jepoy posted, which also echoes the mission of the

NHACC.

Members of the NHACC, aside from the lack of options, have been cycling for safety and practicality. Instead of walking, public commuting, or carpooling with a colleague, they decided to venture into biking to work despite the danger of riding amongst cars in metro traffic.

Cycling in this pandemic has proved to have some advantages.

Danezel noticed an improvement in his fitness level, considering that he stopped biking for a year. “When I started going to

How long is your commute route?

It usually takes me 1.5 - 2 hours of travel time. And I need to get up early to prepare.

What does the commute route look like?

Unfortunately, there are a lot of unusable bike lanes due to motorists who are parked incorrectly or simply just don’t follow regular traffic rules and signs.

“I realized that the road is not to be taken very lightly, there is a difference between having to drive by yourself and having someone drive for you. There are many serious dangers that a driver or rider has to always keep an eye on. But now that I bike to work, this somehow gave me a new motivation because this is one of the safest transportations one could have. I know how important my health is and those of my loved ones.”

Danezel Christian (Girasol) Cruz Why do I ride a bike?

13

Since 2011, I do ride a bike when going to places. I pedal my way to school, to the places I want to go, to review classes, and now to work. I think cycling has become my passion for I am one less pollutant to the world and I get to places for free. Imagine going to provinces and back without transportation cost. Worth it. And the thought that you pedaled your way for example 100KM+ rides is worth the experience. The bonus is that you get physical training and exercise. So, cycling for me is a complete package of passion, hobby, exercise, and necessity.

How long is your commute route, and do you have to get up earlier to account for your commute?

My way from Tondo to NHA is around 10KM. So, I bike to work and back around 20KM. Yes, I have to get up early considering the weather is still cold and there are fewer vehicles around 6 AM and the feeling is still refreshing.

Have you had any near misses since you started commuting by bike?

I got hit by an elf truck on Quirino Highway… I rolled on the ground and my bike was damaged. My advise to all bikers...Wear proper gears and stay safe and ride cautiously.

On the provisions of NHA Management in support to “BTW” employee I am very thankful to the Management for the consideration and help it extends to BTW employees. Knowing that they support and encourage employees to ride bikes to work is truly heartwarming.

It gives us the motivation to cycle to work aware that the Management embraces the growing cycling community. I truly wish that the Management will continue to support us in our efforts.

Danezel Christian (Girasol) Cruz (POSSD - Senior Engineer A)

“Cycling enabled me to take control of my time more freely, manage my energy, be more sociable, improve my anticipation of the circumstances along the road, and be more proactive in my daily life especially when I pedal my way to work. Cycling gave me courage, strength, and freedom to transportation against the constricted options brought by the pandemic. After all, one biker is one less pollutant to the world.”

“Who knew that as we negotiate the uncertainties of the “new normal”, the bikes we stocked as a remnant of our childhood and those who bought to comply with the current setup will become our unexpected companions. Our roads may not be the best right now, but in order to be safer and more livable, the surge in biking during the pandemic may just be what we need to overhaul our cities.”

NHA MANAGEMENT SUPPORTS BIKE TO WORK Bike-friendly workplaces are venues where people enjoy biking to and from, and where they usually feel encouraged to achieve their fitness, wellness, and “green commuting” goals. Organizations and businesses thrive when their people feel assured enough to bike up, lock up, and walk-in. For employers who support bike commuting as a viable alternative for their employees, this is particularly true. The NHA has implemented bike-friendly provisions for the Bike-To-Work personnel of the Authority.

General Manager Marcelino P. Escalada, Jr., gave the go signal for the setting up of Bicycle parking racks within the NHA premise situated near building entrances and within the sight of security personnel and provision for on-site showers. “Those who opted to report to the office with their bicycles, may now use the shower rooms at the canteen and wellness center, so you can freshen up before reporting to your respective offices,” Chief-of-Staff John Christopher T. Mahamud announced.

14

LIFE GOES ON -WITH PLANTS

By: Eunico Marco B. Renomeron

D

ays in self-isolation during this age of corona make us yearn for companionship. Some people are fortunate to live with their families while others who have moved out of their parent’s lair cannot simply go home and spend time with them due to numerous regulations related to the implementation of quarantine protocols. Although they are just a message or a call away, there is still this missing void of physical connection that the human condition needs. As they say, humans are social animals.

Others adopt or foster a pet. Meanwhile, for those who feel like taking care of cats and dogs a hassle, they resort to the Plantae kingdom to fill the void of connection. Most of these owners are millennials in their twenties and thirties. Typical of these (my) age group’s rituals, is parading, in a pleasant and orderly way their newly acquired succulents throughout social media. While others may see this as another fad but to these plant parents or in plantito/plantita, (a portmanteau of plant and Tito/Tita) it is a lifestyle. So what do plants bring to people like them? To understand it, we interviewed four plant parents, namely Mr. Gavin Corpuz, Information Officer of the Information Division, and Ar. Louise Chito Ranay (Louwee), Principal Architect of NCR East Sector, Ms. Herminia V. Salvador Sr. Accounting Proc. of the Accounting Department, and Ms. Ana V. Baul, Department Manager of the Estate Management Department.

Ana Baul (EMD Department Manager) 1. How did you start being a plant parent, who or what influenced you?

Gavin: I started collecting in 2018 with three pieces of cactus. I loved how it looked and so I bought more. Since then, I collected more plants from the common to the rare varieties. I also started collecting leafy ornamental plants.

Ar. Louwee: When I started collecting plants, I joined a lot of plant lover and interest groups and pages on social media. I also subscribed to plant vloggers so I could learn how to take care of my plants.

Ma’am Herminia: Ever since I was young, I always loved growing plants. As years passed, I asked myself why not collect more plants of different kinds? And sometime in 1997, I started collecting different varieties of bromeliads.

Ma’am Ana: Even in my younger days, I considered myself a “plantita”. Although at that time the term did not exist yet. I grew up in the province so it was easy for me to get and grow plants. Gardening was not difficult as well. Space was also not an issue because of the vast area in our place. As for my influencer, that’s my mother. She’s very nurturing to her plants.

Louise Chito B. Ranay (Principal Architect B)

3. Why do you think becoming a plant-parent became popular during this quarantine period?

Gavin: Aside from the social media influence, especially on Instagram, I think it’s because of the ample time the quarantine period allowed people to work on their gardens, collect more plants and appreciate the benefits of this “plantita” hobby. Hopefully, this will lead us all to be considerate of our environment.

Ar. Louwee: Greens relax our minds and give us a quick touch of nature. Having plants is already a quick escape from all the uncertainty that we are experiencing today. It is just a simple way of coping up and it gives us hope to move forward which is a very important mindset during the pandemic.

Ma’am Herminia: I think the reason planting became widespread during the quarantine period is that people experience it as a good way to de-stress from the negative thoughts and uncertainty of the pandemic.

Gavin Corpuz (Information Officer B)

2. What benefits or satisfaction do you get from being a plant parent?

Gavin: There are many benefits of taking care of plants. Aside from improving the air quality in my home, they also help in my well-being.

They make me creative. I feel less stressed and tired whenever I see my plants bloom. I become less anxious and depressed that I can focus more on the good things instead of the negativity.

Ma’am Ana: For a long time because of work, I lost focus on my little garden here in the mountains of San Mateo. Then COVID-19 came into our lives. While this pandemic is not welcome, it afforded me the time to go back to one of my first loves.

According to an article by the Manila Times published in June 2020, there was a massive increase in indoor plant sales, around 40%. To call this only a millennial hobby is disregarding other plant collectors who are in the post-millennial age. As evidenced by this survey, plants helped us cope up with one of the worst years in our lifetime. It is our unspoken connection with plants that would make us say: carry on, life goes on.

My plants also helped me financially during this pandemic because I started selling them online. I also gained friends from different regions of the country. We even swap plants and exchange knowledge on endemic and exotic plants sometimes.

Ar. Chito: It gives me a sense of responsibility and excitement every time I see my plants grow and have newly unfurled leaves every morning.

Ma’am Herminia: I love to see my plants blooming and healthy.

They are really pleasant to look at especially if they hang on driftwoods.

I also collect different kinds of aglaonemas, cactus, succulents, and amaryllis with blooms.

Ma’am Ana: I am very happy when I feel the soil on my hands. I’m thankful to the Lord for blessing me with hands that can easily nurture plants. Also, it’s a real blessing to have good friends who have gifted me with the beauties that send joy to my heart.

Herminia V. Salvador (Sr. Accounting Proc. A)

15

16

SV3 BAYANIHAN SA MUNTI; SEWS PPEs FOR FRONTLINERS

The PSALM Group, composed of Southville 3 homeowners proudly pose with their produced PPEs.

N

HA Southville 3 (SV3) Housing Project does not only focus on housing but also creates livelihood opportunities for its beneficiaries. From provisions of skills training, job opportunities, and organizing of livelihood groups, the NHA has been part of the enhancement and economic growth of families in the community.

In 2014, the Protective and Supportive Alliance of Leader and Member (PSALM) was established by the NHA SV3 Community Support Services Unit (CSSU) as an accredited and recognized group of sewers. They have been continuously monitored by NHA in terms of their production report and were also assisted in various livelihood projects. Ms. Mila Tolentino, the PSALM Team Leader, continued the operations of their group and worked on the various sub-contracting jobs to help NHA-SV3 beneficiaries earn a living.

They have been supported by the Muntinlupa City Technical Institute (MCTI) by providing them a venue and sewing machines for their production.

On March 15, 2020, Metro Manila was placed under the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) to prevent the spread of the novel corona virus. Work and public transport were suspended, commercial establishments were closed, and the people were directed to stay at home.

Faced with such situation, Mr. Francis Santella, Director of the MCTI thought of how he can help the people in SV3 in finding sources of income. He submitted a work program to Muntinlupa City Mayor, Jaime Fresnedi for the training of thirty (30) Southville 3 beneficiaries in the production of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

With Mayor Fresnedi’s go signal for the implementation of the livelihood project dubbed “Bayanihan sa Munti”, the program generated Php 381,000 php funding from both the Local Government (LGU) and private sectors.

This was also made in partnership with the Lingkod Muntinlupa Foundation (LMF).

With said funding, the MCTI was able to procure 4,500 yards or 56 rolls of micro-fiber material and other accessories necessary for the production of the PPE. From April 13 to May 22, 2020, the beneficiaries were employed thru the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD), an emergency program for displaced workers of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). They also received a daily salary minimum wage provided by the Public Employment and Service Office (PESO) of Muntinlupa.

Each participant was given a quota of five PPEs per day to meet their target of 1,700 pieces on time. Ms. Annabelle Lucis, MCTI instructor managed the production of the PPEs and assured that the PPEs are of good quality and within the standards set by the Department of Health (DOH) and the City Health Office of Muntinlupa.

The protective equipment is made with microfiber materials that cannot be infiltrated by bacteria or viruses. They are also washable to reduce costs and waste. Surplus materials were sewed into face masks so that nothing goes to waste. Their production eventually made its way as a donation to the City Government of Muntinlupa complete with goggles, head and shoe covers.

This endeavor not only benefitted the beneficiaries of NHA SV3 with some livelihood and income but also provided our Medical and Health Workers with the tools needed as they risk their lives being frontliners in the fight against COVID-19. Suddenly, Bayanihan sa Munti does not sound regional but exceptional as their contribution help the whole country. Ma. Fyrenze L. Gadaigan, NCR South Sector

17

18

ENGR. VICTOR C. BALBA ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER

CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR HIMSELF AND OTHERS By: Eunico Marco B. Renomeron

“Opportunities don’t happen. You create them.”

-Chris Grosser

F

or almost 37 years, Engr. Victor C. Balba has been seizing and creating opportunities for himself and other people. Ever since getting hired in the Authority in 1984, he has risen to the ranks from Principal Engineer B to Division Manager, Department Manager, Head for Operations, and then Assistant General Manager (AGM) just recently in February 2020.

Being AGM is a big responsibility. As the second-highest position in the Authority, AGM Balba wants to lead by example. He hopes to affect every employee thru his work ethic and a sense of urgency to adhere to timelines and deadlines for compliance. This kind of mindset avoids several things, namely: (1) work won’t pile up and eventually be forgotten, and (2) matters that need resolving will be dealt with immediately.

When asked what programs he wants to introduce as the AGM he says, “I want to achieve faster completion of our projects with complete and

detailed documentation of the whole process.” According to him, there are oftentimes issues in NHA’s previous projects wherein documentation is incomplete or non-existent, which poses many problems: “If our documentation is complete from the start, it will not be hard to retrieve necessary files for reference. It will also serve as a record of the steps that NHA has undertaken, of what went right or wrong, so that future employees of the Authority have something to learn from and avoid making the same mistakes.”

Working for the public sector can cause burnout especially if it’s the same agency for almost four decades. AGM had his fair share of stressful moments and criticisms but what keeps him inspired is the fulfilling reward that comes with the job. Housing is an essential need and knowing that he helps the less fortunate by providing them with dignified housing is enough inspiration for him to wake up every morning. He also finds inspiration from the support and encouragement of his colleagues.

19

PERIOD COVERED

DESIGNATED POSITION

May 1984 - June 1989

Principal Engineer B (District 3, Metro Manila Projects Department)

July 1989 - December 1991

Principal Engineer C (District 3, Metro Manila Projects Department)

December 1991 - May 1994

Division Manager B (General Services Department

May 1994 - May 2003

Department Manager A (General Services Department)

May 2003- December 2009

Department Manager A (Housing Technology Development Office/ Project Operations Support Services Office)

January 2010 - June 2017

Group Manager (National Capital Region-Area Management Office)

July 2017- February 5, 2020

Head for Operations Regional Manager (East Sector Office)

February 6, 2020 - Present

Assistant General Manager

The aforementioned quote is AGM’s favorite. Explaining how the quote affected him in his professional and personal life he says: “You can’t wait for opportunities to be handed over to you. You have to seize them yourself otherwise they will pass you by and be taken by someone else who is willing to work on them.”

Just like the quote, AGM Balba does not wait for opportunities. He has proven time and time again based on his track record that he rose from the ranks by hard work, perseverance, and a sense of urgency.

Through hard work and dedication, AGM Balba has risen from the ranks and has consistently proven his ability to be a part of making critical decisions for the Authority.