City Express - SOCA 2020

AGRICULTURE GRASSROOT ECONOMY

The City Government strives to build a People’s City that is self-sustainable and productive. And so we give sufficient attention to our farming and fishing communities as some of the main contributors to our thriving economy. We continue to develop programs that aim to feed our citizens and provide a rising standard of living for our farmers and fisherfolk.

AG R I C U LT U R E

ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS CITY AGRICULTURE OFFICE EXPANDS SKILLS OF 150 BENEFICIARIES IN MUSHROOM PRODUCTION The City Agriculture Office organized a Mushroom Production Training to expand the skills as well as create an alternative livelihood opportunity for our farmers, farmer organizations, fisherfolk and youth last January 14-17, 2020 at the San Fernando Food Terminal in Barangay Biday.

The 2-day learning session prepared by City Agriculturist Josefina Nuval educated the participants of the whole Mushroom Production Procedure that includes fruiting bag production, spawn making, mushroom planting and harvesting.

150 trainees composed of 4H Youth Club members, selected fisherfolk from coastal barangays, City Organic Practitioners Association and City Agricultural Farmers Council completed the training.

After the training, City Councilor Rizalde Laudencia and City Agriculture employees awarded the trainees with certificates as well as mushroom spawns to kickstart their mushroom production.

The City Government believes that equipping our agriculture community with alternative livelihood trainings like mushroom cultivation provides an opportunity for additional income.

DISTRIBUTION OF FARM SUPPLIES 84 Farmers benefitted from fertilizers support program 81 Farmers benefitted from the corn seeds

Construction of Small Farm Reservoir. (Narra Este and Pao Sur) Establishment of Solar-powered Irrigation Pump Project. (Pacpaco) 6

PUHUNAN PARA SA MGA KABABAIHAN The establishment of this program benefitted 8 Rural Improvement Club (RIC).

CITY AGRICULTURE INFRASTRACTURE PROJECTS Spring Water Development Project (Tanqui)

AG R I C U LT U R E

ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS FARMING NEEDS TO INCREASE RICE PRODUCTION AWARDED TO PEOPLE’S CITY FARMERS 13 brand new rice reapers were awarded to different farmer associations and cooperatives in the City of San Fernando. These machines were provided to help farmers in the mechanization of rice harvesting which will increase their production.

Organic farmers also received irrigation hoses, knapsack sprayers, and drying nets for the establishment of chemfree demonstration farms of the city.

The following associations received the farm increments: Baraoas Farmers Association, Bunggoy Dagiti Mannalon Credit Cooperative, Puspus Farmers Association, Narra Oeste Farmers Association, Dallangayan Oeste Agriculture Cooperative, Santiago Sur Agriculture

Cooperative, Maris Ti Daya MPC, Pacpaco MPC, Biday Farmers Association, Dallangayen Este Farmers Association, Mameltac Farmers Association, Sagayad Farmers Association, and Saoay Farmers Association.

The materials awarded were funded by the City Government’s General Fund along with RA 7171 and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 1.

The awarding was held at the San Fernando Food terminal last January 15 and 23, 2020.

Also present were DOLE Regional Director Nathaniel Lacambra and City Councilor Quintin Balcita.

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AG R I C U LT U R E

ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS KASO NG ASF SA LUNGSOD TINUTUTUKAN, TASK FORCE ASF PATULOY NA PINAPAIGTING. Matapos ang ilang buwang pagsubaybay at operasyon ng Task Force African Swine Fever ng lokal na pamahalaan ng San Fernando, La Union ay handa ng magsumite ang Office of the City Veterinarian sa paghingi ng clearance sa Department of Agriculture na ligtas na sa African Swine Fever (ASF) ang buong lungsod partikular ang Barangay Cadaclan - ang barangay na nakitaan ng ASF sa lungsod.

Sa pagsusuring isinagawa ng City Vet Office lumitaw na negatibo na sa virus ang nasabing barangay sa nakalipas na tatlong buwan matapos nilang isagawa ang 90 days eradication ng mga apektadong baboy sa ASF. Higit pa riyan ay nagsagawa rin ang Task Force-ASF ng iba’tibang hakbang ayon sa protocols ng DA upang malimitahan ang pagkalat ng virus kasama na dito

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ang agarang disinfection sa 1km. radius area at surveillance sa 7km radius area mula sa Ground Zero o pinagmulan ng ASF.

ay ang istriktong implimentasyon ng sanitation o pagpapanatili ng kalinisan sa mga kulungan ng baboy.

Bilang tulong sa mga naapektuhan na hog-raisers ay nagbahagi ang City Government of San Fernando at Provincial Government of La Union ng financial assistance noong Marso, 2020. Bukod sa nasabing assistance ay naaprubahan na rin ang indemnification fund mula sa Department of Agriculture Main Office sa halagang Php5,000.00 sa bawat baboy at inaasahang maibigay sa mga susunod na araw.

Patuloy namang nagsasagawa ang lokal na pamahalaan ng mga hakbang upang hindi na muli manumbalik ang kaso ng virus sa ating siyudad. Ayon kay Dr. Flosie Decena, City Veterinarian, ay inaasahang maaalis na ang ‘red code’ status ng ASF sa ating lungsod matapos ang pagsu-sumite ng ASF initial report sa Department of Agriculture. Bagamat hindi pa natatapos ang pangambang dulot ng ASF sa ating bayan ay hinihikayat ng City Veterinary Office ang mga hog raisers na makipagugnayan o mag-report sa kanilang tanggapan kung may kakaibang karamdaman ang mga baboy o nagpapakita ng sintomas ng ASF.

Samantala, patuloy namang binabantayan ng City Vet isang lugar sa Barangay Cabaroan matapos makatanggap ng report mula sa ilang concerned hog raisers sa pagkakasakit ng mga alaga nilang baboy.

Nagbigay rin ng rekomendasyon ang Task Force – ASF sa isinagawang pagpupulong noong ika-19 ng Mayo, 2020 sa pagimplement ng guidelines para sa mga backyard hog raisers. Isa sa mga napag-usapang patnubay

Mas paiigtingin pa ang pagbabantay ng lokal ng pamahalaan ng San Fernando laban sa banta ng ASF. Hindi titigil ang lokal na pamahalaan sa pagkilos at pagsasagawa ng mga hakbang upang matiyak ang kaligtasan ng mga mamamayan.

AG R I C U LT U R E

ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS CITY AGRI INTENSIFIES COMMUNITY GARDENING PROJECT AMID COVID-19

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union through the City Agriculture Office has distributed vegetable seeds and organic fertilizer to all barangays who signified their interest to participate in the community gardening project.

This project applies to all coastal and/or agricultural barangays having an available area for community gardening.

This project is designed for puroks to plant and produce their own food specifically cash crop vegetables like pechay and kangkong.

Each Purok/Zone who are willing to participate in this project will avail 7 packs of pechay and 7 packs of kangkong with two bags of vermicast as fertilizer.

To date, the City Agriculture Office already distributed a total number of 2940 packs of seeds and 420 vermicast fertilizer to 48 barangays of the City.

The COVID-19 pandemic not only endangers the health, but also the survival of the community. And so the City Government of San Fernando, La Union aims to unify all of us; that together, we shall overcome this crisis.

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AG R I C U LT U R E

SUPPORT SERVICES KADIWA ON WHEELS BRINGS FRESH FARM AND FISHERY PRODUCTS CLOSER TO THE PEOPLE The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 1, in partnership with the City Agriculture Office, brings agricultural and fishery products closer to the people. The pilot was made available to City employees last May 7, 2020, at the City Plaza Auditorium through the KADIWA (KAtuwang sa DIwa at GaWA ) Market On Wheels.

Bringing the market closer to them saves time from falling in line at the City Market. It was also an opportunity to buy products at a lower price.

The KADIWA On Wheels Pilot was initiated to provide an alternative market source for employees who work from 8 AM-5 PM.

The City Government will always be committed to provide high quality products for the community.

After the success of the pilot project, KADIWA on Wheels is now accessible to the public every Thursday.

PLANTS VS. COVID-19 INITIATIVE TO SPUR HOUSEHOLD VEGETABLE GROWTH 200 seed packs were distributed to 42 interested Barangays in the People’s City as part of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG) Plants VS. COVID-19 Program in partnership with the City Agriculture Office (CAO.) The program is aimed at encouraging every household recipient to practice backyard gardening which can provide additional food sources during this pandemic.

Aside from the health benefits we can get from vegetables, growing your own food can also be a way to spend time with your family during the Community Quarantine period.

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AG R I C U LT U R E

SUPPORT SERVICES COMMUNITY GARDENING PROJECT FOR HOMEGROWN PRODUCE AMID COVID-19 The project was designed for them to plant and produce their own food, specifically cash crop vegetables like pechay and kangkong.

2940 packs of seed

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packs of pechay

2940

vermicast fertilizer

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packs of kangkong

ASSISTANCE FROM CITY GOVERNMENT OF SAN FERNANDO AND PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF LA UNION

SOCIAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AMELIORATION PROGRAM The City Government of San Fernando and Provincial Government of La Union provided a total amount of PHP 195,000 from each institution to affected hog raisers affected by the African Swine Fever (ASF).

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Hog raisers from Barangay Cadaclan

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hog raisers from Baranagay Pias

ASSISTANCE FROM DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

SOCIAL AMELIORATION PROGRAM

2,043

recipients received Social Amelioration Program (SAP) from the Department of Agriculture.

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ENVIRONMENT CARE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

The preservation and maintenance of our environment is the key to building a healthy, peaceful, and clean City. The City’s environmental initiatives endeavors to make the City of San Fernando a home with a balanced and healthful ecology where people can live in harmony with nature.

ENVIRONMENT

SUSTAINABILITY

CITY GOVT UPHOLDS ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES, PARTNERS WITH AGENCIES TO PROMOTE AN ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLY PEOPLE’S CITY The City Government of San Fernando, La Union through the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) entered into two different MOAs which are: Environmental Programs and Pawikan Conservation between City, SifCare and DENR and Adopt a Waterbody (Barangay Ilocanos Sur and San Agustin) on September 10, 2019.

City Mayor Alf Ortega first signed an agreement with Science of Identity Foundation Community Assistance for Responsible Existence (SIFCare) San Juan, La Union representative Milagros Celeste and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) - PENRO officer Maximo Soriano Jr. for the protection of pawikans that visit our city and lay their eggs in our beaches.

Another agreement which the city entered into is the Adopt a Waterbody where City Mayor Alf together with PENRO Officer Maximo Soriano Jr., DENR- EMB Regional Director Engr. Maria Dorica Hipe and Punong Barangays Edwin Yumul (Ilocanos Sur) and Nicanor Ramos (San Agustin) signed the MOA with the objective of clearing the waterways (estero) of these barangays. The said MOA also stimulates maintaining and ensuring the cleanliness of the identified water canals.

Aside from these agencies, the Philippine Navy, Philippine Air Force, Philippine Coastguard and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology also pledged to help in these commitments.

The signing was done at the Mayor’s Conference Room.

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ENVIRONMENT

CHENES SUSTAINABILITY CHENES NEW DECENTRALIZED WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY, ANOTHER ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY MOVE FOR THE CITY The City Government of San Fernando, La Union through the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) puts in place one of its best environment practices during the soft launching of the Waste Water Treatment Facility at the Lions Park October 28, 2019.

The Waste Water Treatment Facility treats dirty waters coming from the City Hall Main Building, BFP Building, La Union Trade Center, and Marcos Building which may then be recycled.

The treatment facility’s primary purpose is to prevent the contamination or the pollution of bodies of water like rivers and lakes under the Republic Act No. 9275 or “The Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004,” which is underlined through the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals No. 6 “Clean Water and Sanitation.”

According to CENRO Project Development Officer Engr. Lea E. Ohelen, “instead na tinatapon na natin yung mga wastewater natin sa mga bodies of water at nakaka-pollute nito, gumawa po tayo ng decentralized water treatment facility para muling gamitin ito.”

The Waste Water Treatment Facility at the Lions Park is intended for the wastewater placement disposal. According to CENRO, the wastewater treatment facility reuses 25 – 35 cubic meters per day which was initially wasted and has a maximum treatment capacity of 120 cubic meters per day.

“In the meantime, the treated wastewater will be reused for domestic purposes such as watering of plants and cleaning park surroundings. In the future, additional treatment will be incorporated to further treat the waste” Ohelen added.

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ENVIRONMENT

SUSTAINABILITY ON MINIMIZING ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION The city continuously implement the Green Ribbon Award Project. This Award recognizes the Best Barangay Implementers of environmental programs in Urban Coastal and Rural Lowland/Upland Category. For the Green Ribbon Award 2019, the best Environmental Barangay were awarded January 31, 2020.

INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEAN UP An overflowing support and love for our coasts filled the People’s City during the International Coastal Clean-up Day last September 21, 2019.

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Even after continuous rains, different sectors in the community gathered together and gave back to our environment.

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT For the month of March there was an observed decrease of 34,780 kg from the average collection of the past two (2) months and less 12 garbage truck trips while for the month of April the decrease in the average amount of waste collected was 94,600 kg and less 34 trips.

LIQUID WASTE MANAGEMENT Due to the possibility of the COVID-19 virus spreading through human waste, desludging services have been put on hold by recommendation of the IATF until proper management and operations procedures for desludging and wastewater treatment can be defined.

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ENVIRONMENT

CHENES SUSTAINABILITY CHENES GREEN SPACE PROJECT

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MILLION BUDGET ALLOCATION • 4 corners of the San Fernando Shopping Mall are almost completed • City Plaza ang City Hall Complex are set to materialize.

ASSISTANCE TO CITY FRONTLINERS

3,000 fruit seedlings were distributed to City Frontliners

AIR QUALITY POLLUTION IN THE CITY

As a result of the Luzon Wide-Enhance Community Quarantine (ECQ) air pollution emissions were reduced significantly due to the lessened use of machineries from stationary and mobile sources. In San Fernando City, the concentration levels of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter 2.5 ( PM2.5) have been substantially reduced in comparison before and during the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine.

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GOVERNANCE TRUSTWORTHY LEADERSHIP

The People’s City of San Fernando is a City for the people, by the people, and with the people. The City continues to strengthen and widen its reach in rendering pro-active, responsive, and inclusive service to the people.

GOVERNANCE

PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS CITY GOV SHARES GENUINE SOLUTIONS AND INITIATIVES IN RESPONSE TO TRANSITIONED GCQ ACROSS THE PEOPLE’S CITY The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, through Mayor Alfred Ortega, attended a session with Synergeia facilitated by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian to present the City’s challenges, experiences, and recommendations as it transitioned from ECQ to GCQ. Mayor Alf shared the City’s initiatives as it continues to fight against COVID-19. One of which is the San Fernando On the Go online platform - a shop and delivery service anticipated to be operational on the second week of May. The San Fernando On The Go initiative was lauded by Sen. Gatchalian and other representatives from cities and municipalities in the country present during the session.

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, stands in solidarity with the rest of the nation as the country strives to overcome this pandemic.

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GOVERNANCE

PROJECT AND PROGRAMS KALINGA PARA SA KUMAKALINGA Kasalukuyang pinapatakbo muli ang Kusina ng Kalinga (KnK) upang mag-abot ng tulong sa ating magigiting na doctor, nars at frontliners na walang humpay sa kanilang dedikasyon at serbisyo na protektahan ang ating komunidad.

Ang lokal na Pamahalaan ng ng San Fernando ay patuloy na nagbibigay ng suporta at serbisyo sa ating mga frontliner.

Saludo kami sa mga bayani na nagpakita ng kagitingan para sa bansa.

Muling binuksan ang KnK Central Kitchen sa Canaoay Elementary School simula noong March 19, 2020 kung saan naghahahanda ng 1,250 meals (breakfast, lunch at dinner) sa bawat araw ang grupo ng KnK na binubuo ng tatlong empleyado at limang volunteer.

Nagsisimula ang kitchen operations ng 4:30 AM at natatapos ng 7:00 PM. Sa pamamagitan ng sariling paraan ng pagtulong natin sa ating mga bayani’y ay ang pag-asa at inspirasyon na nagbibigay lakas upang malabanan ang pagsubok na kinakaharap hindi lamang ng ating siyudad kung hindi ng buong mundo,

BRINGING THE MARKET TO THE BARANGAYS One of the biggest challenges since the start of the ECQ was controlling the number of individuals at the City Public Market. To make sure precautionary measures are in place and social distancing is practiced, the City Government brings the market to the Barangays which is aimed at limiting the movement of residents and decongesting the Auxiliary Wet Market.

Installing Barangay Satellite Markets or talipapas has given our residents access to fresh produce closer to their homes.

Satellite Market Operations | Monday to Saturday | 7 AM – 12 NN Number of Barangays with Talipapas | 37 out of 59 Barangays

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GOVERNANCE

E-GOVERNANCE INITIATIVES CITY GOV DEVELOPS ‘’SAN FERNANDO ON THE GO’’ – A DIGITAL SOLUTION BRINGING GOODS TO YOUR DOORSTEPS #COVID19 has already brought drastic changes around the world. It has been changing the way we live every single day. People are having a hard time buying goods, supplies, and other basic necessities due to imposed enhanced community quarantine and other strict measures to avoid the spread of the virus.

To minimize the number of people going out in public places and to ensure social stability, the City Government of San Fernando through the KMCC – ICT Section developed the San Fernando On The Go, a web-based information system that serves as an online delivery application in aid of procuring the needed basic necessities of residents from selected barangays in the city.

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The same program is in support to the latest advisory of DILG dated April 18, 2020 encouraging LGUs to use online marketing and delivery of goods through the use of various online platforms.

For its pilot operation, the City Government has recruited a total of fifty (50) tricycle drivers as third party providers. Last April 22, 2020, the KMCC-ICT together with the Local Economic and Business Development Office (LEBDO) trained the registered drivers on how to use and handle the digital platform. Drivers will be divided into 5 batches, with 10 drivers to be deployed daily during operating hours.

This application would not just help the residents but would also

provide opportunities to our idle tricycle drivers to earn income while public transportation is suspended during the enhanced community quarantine.

Moreover, selected members of the City Incident Management Team (IMT) were also trained as they will be manning the overall management of order requests and assigning of drivers using the platform.

Your City Government is taking strides and finding innovative solutions to the economic, social, and technological challenges of the pandemic. The People’s City continues to adapt and embrace digital transformations to connect with people.

GOVERNANCE

E-GOVERNANCE INITIATIVES SAN FERNANDO, ONE OF THE 25 DIGITAL CITIES IN THE PH Innovation is one of the priority pillars of the City Government. To bring local governance closer to the residents, San Fernando City goes digital.

To continuously provide excellent and efficient public service to the community, the City Government of San Fernando is leveraging on technology to upgrade our service delivery for faster and easier transactions.

The City Government is currently using digitized systems like the Document Tracking System (DTS) and the Treasury Operations Management System (TOMS).

DTS is a program created to precisely track incoming and outgoing documents received circulating in all offices. TOMS, on the other hand, is a collection system of the Treasury Office that aims to simplify transactions availed by the public.

Under TOMS, residents can file

Online Community Tax Certificate and Professional Tax Receipt Application.

Other Local Government Units like Bacnotan, La Union and Zamboanga have adapted these successful systems through MOAs. To enhance citizen participation and engage participative governance, the Electronic Participation System (EPS) was also recently launched for citizens to directly address complaints as well as raise ideas for the development of the City.

These projects allow better online communication between constituents and the local government making services faster and more convenient for the residents of the City.

In terms of local economy and business development, the City has welcomed 34 Business Processing and Outsourcing (BPO’s), one of

which is TaskUs that has employed 1,022 local employees.

With these innovations, San Fernando City was named as one of the 25 digital cities by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

According to DICT, “Significant changes such as an overall boost in economic growth, increase in employment and commercial activity, and improvement in the quality of lives among communities have been observed in these localities since their recognition as digital cities.”

With the combined efforts of the City Government and the San Fernando ICT Council, the city’s active partner in promoting and making San Fernando a potential ICT hub, our commitment to bring our services closer to the people is possible.

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GOVERNANCE

E-GOVERNANCE INITIATIVES PEOPLE’S CITY PUSHES FOR CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PROGRAM The City Government of San Fernando, La Union continues to push for innovation and efficiency through participative governance.

The City Employees from all officess underwent training for the E-Participation System to render speedy and efficient services to the people.

With the e-Participation System or EPS, the citizens are assured that their government is their partner in creating the People’s City that we all want.

CITY ENTERS INTO MOA FOR DOCUMENT TRACKING SYSTEM (DTS) - TOOL FOR MONITORING EFFICIENT GOVERNMENT PUBLIC SERVICE DELIVERY

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union headed

by City Mayor Alf Ortega along with Vice Mayor Chary Nisce entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Office 1 headed by Regional Director Grace Falgui- Baluyan and Assistant Regional Director Daria Mingaracal for the replication of the City’s Document Tracking System (DTS.) DTI-RO1 is the first national government agency that has entered into a MOA with the City Government for the DTS. DTS was developed by the City Information Communications Technology Section aimed at enhancing the delivery of public service of the 24

government. This tool will make the government a better, more efficient and effective server to the public.

The latest version of the DTS, which is replicated by DTIRO1 is compliant with the Ease of Doing Business Act of 2018 or Republic Act 11032.

Also present are Councilor Rodolfo M. Abat, DTI Provincial Director Merly Membrere, DTI Information Officer Joyce Segui-Sabado, City Administrator Officer Atty. Aileen Lubiano, City Legal Officer Atty. Marivic R. Estrada-Rimando, LEBDO Officer Sally Medrano, and KMCC Officer in charge Engr. Germie Deang.

The signing was held at the Mayor’s Conference Room.

GOVERNANCE

AWARDS, CITATIONS & PARTNERSHIPS PEOPLE’S CITY OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SERVICE RECOGNIZED WITH SEAL OF GOOD LOCAL GOVERNANCE AWARD 2019 The City Government of San Fernando, La Union is one of the component local government units in La Union to receive the Seal of Good Local Governance Award.

SGLG serves as a tool to challenge local governments to continue good governance practices while providing better public services.

The City Government will pledge to continue to render excellent, transparent and efficient public service for the whole San Fernando.

CITY GOV - NATIONAL FINALIST FOR MOST BUSINESS-FRIENDLY LGU The City of San Fernando is a National Finalist for the search for the Most Business-Friendly LGU in the Philippines.

City Mayor Alf Ortega and Vice Mayor Chary Nisce along with City Government Department heads present the efforts of the City Government in terms of sustaining a vibrant local economy towards pushing for a Digital Economy ready city today at PCCI, Taguig City.

The City Government will always be committed to creating opportunities for the community to thrive.

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GOVERNANCE

AWARDS, CITATIONS & PARTNERSHIPS PEOPLE’S CITY RECEIVES SEAL OF CHILD - FRIENDLY LOCAL GOVERNANCE Pormal na iginawad ang Seal of Child-Friendly Local Goverance noong nakaraang December 10, 2019 sa Diego Silang Hall, Provincial Capitol, City of San Fernando, La Union.

Ito ay isa lamang patunay na binibigyan ng importansya ng siyudad ang kapakanan ng kabataan ng San Fernando. Lagi’t lagi silang kasama sa ating mga gawain at desisyon. Ang kanilang kabutihan at kinabukasan ay isa sa mga prayoridad ng mahal na Pamahalaan ng San Fernando.

#CREATEYOURSANFERNANDO RECOGNIZED IN ATOP-DOT PEARL AWARDS Among the different provinces, cities and municipalities in the Philippines, the City of San Fernando, La Union brings home two awards tonight at the 2019 ATOP-DOT Pearl Awards.

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union won 2nd Runner-Up in the Best in Tourism Promotion (Video) and 2nd Runner-Up in the Best Tourism Promotion (Collateral) categories.

Aside from the ATOP-DOT Pearl Awards, representatives from the People’s City also participated in Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) 20th National Convention, a gathering of tourism officers and tourism stakeholders from all over the country held October 2 to 5, 2019 at Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.

The convention aims to build more networks between various provinces for more sustainable tourism programs and initiatives.

ATOP-DOT Pearl Awards recognizes the best practices of local government units in the tourism sector.

The People’s City of San Fernando through the City Information Dissemination Section and City Tourism Unit continues to develop innovative, inclusive, and impactful tourism practices for a more engaged and empowered community.

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GOVERNANCE

AWARDS, CITATIONS & PARTNERSHIPS CITY RAISES STANDARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE, RANKS TOP 15 IN 2019 CMCI The People’s City of San Fernando, La Union continues to raise our standard of public service as we rank Top 15 nationwide for Economic Dynamism in the 2019 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index from rank 26 last 2018.

The growth of local economy, capacity to generate employment, cost of living, cost of doing business, financial deepening, productivity and presence of business and professional organizations are the qualifying indicators of the economic dynamism ranking.

The City Government of San Fernando’s competitiveness level in terms of the 4 Pillars of the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI): Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Infrastructure, and Resiliency was lauded during the 2019 Regional Competitiveness Summit – Ilocos Region last December 11, 2019 at the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas, City of San Fernando, La Union. The awards are given by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

The City Government will continue to innovate in the delivery of efficient public service and to provide ease of doing business to our constituents. This is for the fullfilment of our vision of having a vibrant local economy in the People’s City of San Fernando, La Union.

3rd P lace Ilocos Region Resiliency

2nd P lace Ilocos Region Overall Competitiveness

1st P lace

Ilocos Region Economic Dynamism

3rd P lace

Ilocos Region Government Efficiency

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HEALTH

ACCESS TO HEALTH & WELLNESS SERVICES

Taking good care of our citizens’ health and wellbeing is one of the fundamental aspects of the City of San Fernando’s vision and mission. The City Government ensures that healthcare facilities are dependable and accessible for all people, including those coming from upland barangays. Through our inclusive health programs available to all citizens, we can genuinely show #SanFernandoAyAyatenKa.

H E A LT H

RESPONSE TO COVID-19

CITY GOV COVID-19 TASK FORCE CONVENE, LAYOUT HEIGHTENED CARE AND SAFETY MEASURES AMIDST PANDEMIC The City Government Agsangkamaysa A Gunglo Nga Aywanan Ti Sak-Sakit Nga Makaalis (AGASM) Task Force convened this morning, April 6, 2020, to discuss the current COVID-19 situation in San Fernando, as well as layout programs relative to the pandemic.

Housing Facilities

Hospital Capacity

Additional Manpower

AGASM has identified areas for frontliners and PUIs. The City Government has partnered with Go Inn in Pagdalagan to house the PUIs undergoing quarantine. Meanwhile, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) has launched the Home for Frontliners Program for health workers rendering work for the COVID-19 pandemic in partnership with four (4) hotels in the city.

The four hospitals in the City, namely Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC), Lorma Medical Center, La Union Medical Diagnostic Center and Bethany Hospital, also presented status reports and current initiatives against COVID-19. They are coming up with innovative solutions to address the needs and demands of COVID-19 patients as well as collaboration efforts such as the use of the dedicated CT Scan for COVID patients at Lorma and the Dialysis Facility at ITRMC.

To ensure the functionality and preparedness of each hospital in terms of manpower, the City Government of San Fernando, La Union and PGLU has agreed to help in augmenting the needed manpower requirement of the hospitals as well as Rural Health Units and provision of additional PPEs to ensure the safety of our health workers. Burial Guidelines of COVID-19 Cases were also discussed during the meeting.

Aside from this, PGLU is also giving free alcohol and PPEs to hospitals and other institutions. There are also planned strategies such as establishment of additional dedicated COVID Centers to cope with an increased influx of patients.

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ITRMC Medical Center Chief, Dr. Eduardo M. Badua III said that the institution is on its final level of becoming a COVID Testing Center and targets to be operational this April 2020.

Present in the meeting were City Government Officials headed by Mayor Alf Ortega, Vice Mayor Chary Nisce, Committee Chair on Health and Wellness Councilor Jessie Miranda, Representatives from the Medical Institutions and Hospitals, PGLU – Provincial Health Office, Key City Departments and DILG.

H E A LT H

RESPONSE TO COVID-19 DISINFECTION OPERATIONS GOES TO BARANGAYS

was donated by City Mayor Alf Ortega last March 31, 2020.

As part of immediate measures to protect everyone against COVID-19, the City Government of San Fernando continues to disinfect different barangays and establishments across the People’s City.

The City Government of San Fernando continues to work tirelessly with local and volunteer partners to promote cleanliness, safeguard public health and safety of everyone in our community amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

The City Government of San Fernando has already conducted misting operations in the following barangay halls: Bungro, Pagdalagan Day Care, Tanquigan, Narra Oeste, Narra Este, Birunget, Sibuan Otong, Bacsil, Bangbangolan, Baraoas,Pao Norte, Pao Sur, Pacpaco, Sacyud, Masicong, including banks and government offices such as Landbank San Fernando, Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, and the City Public Market last March 26-31, 2020.

Meanwhile, the Auxiliary Wet Market is closed every Sunwday for disinfection and sanitation purposes.

The misting machines distributed to the 59 barangays

CHO HOLDS COMMUNITY-BASED BLOOD DONATION DRIVE TO SUPPLY CITY’S BLOOD BANK The City Government of San Fernando, through the City Health Office in coordination with the Department of Health and Provincial Health Office, launched the Community-Based Blood Donation drive last May 10, 2020, and May 30, 2020. The pilot barangays were composed of Barangay Bato, Barangay Catbangen, Barangay Cadaclan, and Barangay Mameltac.

The said program aims to achieve a substantial supply of blood that will benefit patients who are in need in these uncertain times and prepare for the re-emerging Dengue cases during rainy seasons.

The City Health Office already collected a total number of 109 units of blood from the three barangays.

The Liga of the Barangay, under the leadership of Hon. Geraldine Ortega, Liga President, also supported and adopted the program as one of their noble programs.

All the Barangay Captains were encouraged to conduct blood donor recruitment to help expand the program.

Moreover, the CHO targets to finish at least eight more barangays across the People’s City.

The City Government of San Fernando upholds the value of health & wellness across the People’s City.

The City will always prioritize the public health of its constituents. All the love and service that we do is for #SanFernandoAyayatenKa. 31

H E A LT H

RESPONSE TO COVID-19

INTENSIFIED CONTACT TRACING TO CURB RAPID SPREAD OF CITY’S COVID-19 CASES The Contact Tracing Team of the City Government of San Fernando, La Union spearheaded by PLTCOL Percival R. Pineda, PNP Chief of Police, convene to discuss strategies that will further intensify contact tracing efforts and capacities relative to the new confirmed cases and interventions to highrisk Barangays with PUI cases in the City.

Your City Government continues to provide genuine solutions to contain the spread of COVID-19 virus across the People’s City.

CITY GOV, ITRMC PARTNERS FOR EXPANDED COVID-19 TESTING The City Government of San Fernando, La Union holds a meeting with Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC) May 22, 2020. In the meerting, the City Government established a partnership with ITRMC for the implementation of an expanded COVID-19 Testing in the City.

Through City Resolution No. 20-371, the City Government of San Fernando will be in partnership with ITRMC to conduct an Expanded COVID-19 Testing that complies with the guidelines prescribed by the Department of Health. Our residents with PhilHealth membership will be tested for free, while those without PhilHealth membership will be covered by the City Government with prioritization.

HYGIENE KITS FOR FRONTLINE HEROES City Mayor Alf Ortega distributes hygiene kits to our frontliners, including the vendors of the City Public Market. These hygiene kits will be of great help to our dedicated heroes in protecting themselves from this pandemic.

Each package contains 2 bars of soap, vitamins, alcohol, facial cleansing wipes, tissue, and face mask.

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, will never get tired of helping our community amid COVID-19. Above all, the City is utilizing all its available resources to address the needs of the people, especially to our frontliners and health workers who are fighting every day to protect us and end this time of adversity.

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H E A LT H

RESPONSE TO COVID-19 CSFLU STEP UP EFFORTS TO COMBAT COVID-19 To fight the spread of the new coronavirus Covid-19, the Bureau of Fire Protection in partnership with the city government doused disinfectants around the Central Business District area.

Meanwhile, the City Government of San Fernando, through the City Engineering Office, misted ambulance vehicles, several barangay halls and facilities as part of the continuous sanitation to minimize possible transmission of the dreaded virus.

Moreover, daily misting and disinfection of frontliners are being done to help decrease the possibility of transmission across the City.

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, will never cease to make sure that all necessary procedures against COVID-19 shall be done. With your continued support and cooperation, we can defeat this pandemic.

3-BUWANG GULANG NA SANGGOL TINALO ANG COVID-19, WALA NANG ACTIVE CASES NG COVID-19 SA SIYUDAD Gumaling na ang COVID Patient 4 na isang 3-month old baby mula sa Barangay Biday. Ngayong araw, ika20 ng Mayo 2020 ay nakalabas na ang sanggol mula sa City Isolation Facility ng City of San Fernando, La Union.

Si Patient 4 ay na admit noong ika-27 ng Abril, 2020 sa Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center at siyang nag negatibo sa COVID-19 noong ika-13 ng Mayo, 2020, sa swab na kinuha noong ika-3 ng Mayo, 2020.

Ang kanyang swab na kinuha noong May 15, 2020 ay nag-negatibo rin noong May 19, 2020.

naging kanilang sandata sa kabila ng pakikipaglaban ng 3-month old baby mula sa COVID-19.

Patuloy na magtatrabaho ang City Government of San Fernando upang masiguro ang kaligtasan ng bawat isa. Panatilihin natin ang ating disiplina at kooperasyon upang hindi na kumalat pa ang pandemic sa ating lungsod.

Lubos na nagagalak ang pamilya ng sanggol dahil nalampasan nila ang pagsubok na dumaan sa kanilang buhay. Hindi magiging possible ang mga pagkakataong ito kundi dahil sa pagsisikap ng ng ating mga frontliners at sa pagtutulungan ng bawat isa.

Ang pananampalataya sa Poong Maykapal ang siyang 33

SOCIAL WELFARE RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT SOCIAL SERVICES

The City of San Fernando is more than just a place but the people themselves. Projects and initiatives addressing the public’s needs are always innovative and intensified, especially for the most vulnerable groups, the City of San Fernando remains to be the People’s City.

S O C I A L W E L FA R E

RESPONSE TO COVID-19 23,862 FAMILIES RECIEVES SAP FROM DSWD A total of 23, 862 families out of 26,200 target beneficiaries from the City received financial assistance under the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) of the national government with a total amount of PHP 131,241,000.00.

The target beneficiaries of the said program are families that belong to either the poor or informal sector which are at risk of not earning a living during the ECQ

such as but not limited to Senior Citizens, Person with Disabilities, Pregnant or Lactating Women and OFW in distress.

Each family received a total amount of PHP5,500 to cover emergency, health and rice subsidy to families affected by the community quarantine.

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union will never fail to make sure that all of us shall conquer this pandemic.

SOCIAL AMELIORATION PROGRAM

91%

ACCOMPLISHED 36

23,862

FAMILY BENEFICIARIES SERVED

138

INDIVIDUALS TURNED OVER THE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

S O C I A L W E L FA R E

RESPONSE TO COVID-19 3,700 CAVANS OF RICE TO AUGMENT RELIEF GOODS FOR THE PEOPLE’S CITY To help families cope with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City Government of San Fernando, La Union was able to acquire 3,700 sacks of rice to be distributed to the constituents, especially to the most vulnerable families.

According to Mr. Justin Ducusin, Logistic Sector Chief of the City Command Center, about 1,000 cavans of rice are now partially delivered to the Relief Operations Center, and were unloaded through the assistance of uniformed personnel from the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Navy, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Philippine Coast Guard including volunteers from Samahang Kalasag.

The City of San Fernando is still under enhanced community quarantine due to COVID-19, which limits residents from access to basic needs such as food and essential health services. Thus, The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, continues to do its best to prioritize the general welfare of its constituents despite the pandemic that the country is facing at present.

Indeed, even in the middle of a worldwide crisis, the City Government shall never neglect us.

These sacks of rice will be distributed to the 59 barangays along with other relief packs containing 21 canned goods, 1 bath soap, 10 kilos of rice, and other necessities to complete the distribution of goods to the 44,096 families in the city as submitted by CSWD. Moreover, the City Government of San Fernando also acquired 3,000 sacks of rice from the National Food Authority (NFA), which was given to the priority sectors during the 1st batch of distribution with a total of 13,096 families.

RELIEF GOOD OPERATION 47,901

Relief Packs were distributed to 59 Barangays of the City

45,297 Regular Families 2,604 For Boarders 37

S O C I A L W E L FA R E

RESPONSE TO COVID-19 CITY RELIEF PACKS PROVIDED TO 47,901 HOUSEHOLDS The City Government distributes three waves of relief packs to the 59 barangays in the city.

With our continuous battle against COVID-19, your City Government is continuously looking for ways and bringing genuine solutions to ensure that its people have food on their tables.

Through the leadership of City Mayor Alf Ortega, we are hard at work to ensure that residents in the community, including tenants receive food supply that would last a week.

Repacking and distribution of these goods will never be easy, but the City Government is doing its best to make sure that residents receive their relief packs at the soonest possible time. The immediate distribution is made possible with the help of untiring uniformed personnel, City Employees, Barangay Officials, and other volunteers.

We remind everyone to be cooperative; let’s help each other and help our government by staying #SafeAtHome. By doing so, we can show our love to our community and live by #SanFernandoAyAyatenKa!

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS RECEIVE HYGIENE KITS AS ADDITIONAL PROTECTION AGAINST VIRUS The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, provided hygiene kits to ninety-one (91) construction workers of Robinson’s Mall.

The kits were brought to their quarters at Barangay Madayegdeg, April 22, 2020.

The kits contain essentials that will help protect the individual from #COVID19. Contrary to the rumors circulating online, the builders are taken cared-of by their employer as they regularly receive relief packs.

Your City Government is always ready to help anyone in need and will ensure that the community is well, especially in this time of crisis.

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S O C I A L W E L FA R E

SOCIAL SERVICES CHILDREN AND YOUTH

SOLO PARENTS

EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE

SOLO PARENTS

20 college & 41

285 solo parents ID have been

high school students including CICL and CA victims

25 out-of-school youth

underwent technical vocational skills training and have acquired NC II in Automotive.

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS FOR PWDS 425

More than were PWD IDs, discount card and purchase booklet for medicines and groceries .

TAWAG PROGRAM 39 chidlren with disabilities have been provided with educational assistance in the Tuloy Aral Walang Sagabal Program.

issued

FAMILY

FAMILIES 3,969

indigents have been provided with Family Health Cards

SENIOR CITIZENS

SOCIAL PENSION PROGRAM 1,686 indigent senior

citizens were benifitted in the Social Program of the CSWD in partnership with DSWD.

6 centeranians were awarded for 2019.

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LOCAL ECONOMY DECENT JOBS AND ENTERPRISES

To nurture our flourishing local economy, the City encourages and supports the growth of new and existing, small, and medium enterprises by partnering and collaborating with them. The City Government is dedicated to helping its citizens actualize their dreams and ideas, produce market-ready products, multiply their businesses, and extend their reach beyond this City.

LO C A L E C O N O M Y

LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ON THE GO TRICYCLE DRIVERS - OUR PARTNER IN DELIVERING BASIC NEEDS FOR THE COMMUNITY

provided for the tricycle drivers are the tablets, sim card and load for accessing data, driver’s vest, and tarp for the tricycle cab.

Fifty-nine (59) tricycle drivers took part in the #SanFernandoOnTheGo web portal to deliver essential commodities amidst the General Community Quarantine in the City due to the spread of COVID-19.

This MOA took effect on May 15, 2020. It will remain in full force and effect until the Community Quarantine order is lifted or the COVID-19 situation in the City of San Fernando improves, or unless sooner revoked or terminated upon agreement of both parties.

During the MOA Signing last May 15, 2020, City Mayor Alf Ortega encouraged the drivers and told them that they were our partners in providing delivery service to our community. He said “Tulong natin ito sa mga taga-San Fernando dahil nga tayo ay naka-GCQ, nililimitahan natin ang movement, at restricted ng paglabas ng mga tao, ito’y tulong narin sa inyo (drivers) dahil dalawang beses sa isang linggo lamang kayo makapag biyahe, yung mga araw na hindi kayo maka biyahe ay dito po kayo pwedeng kumita bilang On The Go Driver.

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, continues to provide the best of services to its citizens.

With your continued support and cooperation, we shall rise above this crisis.

San Fernando On the Go is available from 8 AM to 4 PM. You can start ordering here: onthego.sanfernandocity.gov.ph

The City Government will provide the initial capital of Php3,000.00 per tricycle driver. The said amount will serve as the revolving fund to be utilized for purchasing items. An additional transportation fee and service fee of Php 50.00 – Php 90.00 will be charged depending on the client’s location and the same shall be the net profit of the drivers per transaction. Instruments

MERKADO ITI UMILI HIGHLIGHTS MSMEs The City Government of San Fernando, La Union through the City Local Economic and Business and Development Office (LEBDO) officially opened Merkado iti Umili last December 7, 2019 at Poro Point Baywalk, City of San Fernando, La Union.

Merkado iti Umili showcases a variety of items promoting locally-produced products and delicacies.

The People’s City of San Fernando is dedicated in supporting and promoting our MSMEs. Merkado iti Umili is just one of the City’s projects that pay tribute to local individuals who have worked so hard for our economic sustainability.

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Along with the opening of the Merkado Iti Umili is the Opening Ceremonies of the Sanggunian Kabataan Federation’s Culture and Arts Fest where the Sayaw ng Kalye was held. More activities await the youth in the month-long fest.

LO C A L E C O N O M Y

LOCAL ECONOMIC CHENES DEVELOPMENT CHENES PEOPLE’S CITY SHOWCASES LOCAL TALENT POOL IN LA UNION’S FAIREST TOURISM EXPO 2019 The People’s City of San Fernando showcased its excellent local talent pool and products in La Union’s Fairest 2019 event which was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry- La Union.

City Mayor Alf Ortega also gave a presentation on the City’s readiness to house IT-BPO companies during the 1st La Union INVESTment and Business Forum in Crowne Plaza Galleria. He focuses on four key indicators as required by Digital Cities PH outstanding talent a v a i l a b i l i t y, competitive infrastructure

assets, business friendly environment, and existing digital parameters. Robinsons Land Corporation and Task Us Lighthouse also told their positive investment experiences with the City of San Fernando. Provincial Government of La Union delivered talks about the province’s Agri-Tourism Initiatives.

The event was participated by various MSME, tourism and business stakeholders from La Union and some external private corporations.

This just shows that the City Government of San Fernando has always been working tirelessly to keep up with the challenges of the digital age, coming up with new innovations and creative initiatives that will not just impact the lives of our people but of our visitors and partners as well. We continue to strive to become more sustainable, more competitive, and business friendly.

La Union’s Fairest Trade Fair will be open until October 24, 2019 at Robinsons Galleria. Variety of local La Union products will be on display.

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SAFETY & SECURITY PEACEFUL AND RESILIENT COMMUNITIES

The safety of the people of the City is as vital as their wellbeing and good health, especially in natural and manmade calamities. We will never fail to let the people feel that #SanFernandoAyAyatenKa. We commit to ensuring the safety and comfort of our people by strengthening our defense and resilience against typhoons and other crises.

We can be sure that whatever challenge comes our way, we shall overcome.

SAFE T Y AND SECURIT Y

DISASTER RESILIENCY CITY GOV ACTIVATES IMT; GEARS UP FOR #AMBOPH The City Incident Management Team (IMT), through the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO), is on 24hrs duty, monitoring the anticipated onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm #AmboPH. IMT ensures that security measures are in place, such as activating all forms of warning systems to protect the residents and ensure the safety of the residents.

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union has always been committed to uphold the safety and security of the citizens. However, the City urges the public to remain vigilant and stay #SafeAtHome.

In case of emergency, please contact CDRRMO on the following numbers: (072) 619-2437, 0917-676-7673 (Globe), or 0928-522-0622 (Smart).

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 is still raised in the province of La Union by PAG-ASA, and local fishermen are still prohibited from sailing across the sea.

CITY MAYOR CONVENE PEACE AND ORDER REPRESENTATIVES, ENHANCE EFFORTS TO PEACEFUL SAN FERNANDO To ensure peace and order within the City, the City Government of San Fernando, La Union headed by City Mayor Alf Ortega convened peace and order representatives yesterday, February 11, 2020, at the People’s Hall.

They gathered to discuss the series of events relating to peace and order as well as ensure the enforcement of strategic plans and measures to strengthen the City Government’s response to incidents and crimes.

Aside from strengthening the enforcement of the safety and security plan, the peace and order representatives with the leadership of Mayor Alf is looking at providing additional CCTV cameras around the City. They have also discussed expanding the Peace and Order Group to the barangays and volunteer groups, utilizing the SWAT Team, and intensifying inspections and patrol in the City to mitigate the number of crimes.

City Mayor Alf assures the community that he would prioritize the safety, security and protection of the residents against crimes. The City is mobilizing all available resources and workforce to promote peace and order and maintain a secure atmosphere for the People’s City.

City Officials headed by Mayor Alf, along with Hon. Ramon Ortega, Hon. Tony Jucar, Hon. John Orros and Hon. Ramon Guio Ortega, as well as peace and order representatives from the City of San Fernando - Philippine National Police, City Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Office Bureau of Fire Protection, City Heath Office, Knowledge Management and Corporate Communications Office, City Planning and Development Office, City Legal Office, City Budget Office and Office for Strategy Management were present at the meeting.

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S A F ELO T YCA AN L DE CSO EC NUORMT Y

DISASTER RESILIENCY CHENES CHENES

SECURITY MEASURES REINFORCED TO FIGHT COVID-19 #BantayCovid19: The Incident Management Team of the City Disaster Risk Reduction Council have been deployed to work on issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Incident Management Team has been consistent in conducting day-to-day checkpoint operations, enforcement of Home Quarantine Pass (HQP), and Special Home Quarantine Pass (SHQP), monitor movement of people in and out of the City following the community quarantine imposed as a measure against the spread of COVID-19, and troubleshoot complaints, issues, and concerns of the constituents for immediate action.

Meanwhile, the City Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) serves as the close contact of 59 barangays and external offices involved in the said operations.

The City Government ensures that the critical needs of all concerned agencies and residents will be addressed and provided.

With the collaborative efforts of the City Government of San Fernando, the People’s City of San Fernando has once again proven its resiliency amid the threat of COVID-19 pandemic.

CITY GOV VOWS FULL SUPPORT FOR PNP’S INTENSIFIED CAMPAIGN VS. ILLEGAL GAMBLING In compliance with the latest directive campaign of the Philippine National Police in its intensified drive against illegal gambling, PBGEN Joel Sabio Orduña of the Police Regional Office 1 ordered all four provincial police directors in the Ilocos Region to ban all forms of gambling on funeral wakes even in fiestas and villages.

Part of their collective effort is to conduct raid activities to areas and residents who continue to practice illegal gambling not authorized by the Games and Amusement Board (GAB). Station commanders, including the Chief of Police, were tasked to monitor their respective areas.

Moreover, the PNP also implements the ‘OneStrike Policy’ that states - those who ignore and fail to act on the illegal gambling operations will be relieved from their posts immediately and will face administrative charges. The public is urged to comply with the said campaign to prevent any penalties.

The City Government of San Fernando strongly supports the intensified gambling campaign.

The local government continues to exert efforts to adopt stringent measures and programs to eradicate the existence of illegal games across the People’s City.

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SAFE T Y AND SECURIT Y

DISASTER RESILIENCY INTER-AGENCY TASK FORCE DISCUSS GUIDELINES ON PROPER HANDLING OF COVID-19 FATALITIES The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) La Union in partnership with the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) convene forty three (43) owners and personnel of funeral parlors from the First District of La Union to discuss standard protocols and guidelines provided by the Department of Health and DILG and to capacitate the participant on the management and proper handling of human remains involving confirmed and suspected COVID-19 cases today, April 16, 2020.

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union continues to work with agencies and exert all efforts to bring genuine solutions to concerns that we face in these trying times.

Representatives from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory served as the resource speakers in the said activity.

PHECQ VIOLATORS APPREHENDED; ENFORCEMENT STRENGTHENED Due to the increasing number of quarantine violation reports, the City Government of San Fernando headed

by City Mayor Alf Ortega is working closely with Col. Virgilio Pascua Jr. and PLTCol Percival Pineda of the Office for Public Safety and City Philippine National Police, respectively, in initiating regular patrols to monitor barangays and residents who are violating rules and guidelines of Pre-Emptive Enhanced Community Quarantine.

According to the incident report, yesterday, April 20, 2020, around 35 violators from barangays Sevilla, Pagdalagan, Catbangen and Poro were already caught. Their violation includes loitering against the 24/7 curfew, not wearing facial masks and neglect to obey liquor ban around the City.

They were given disciplinary reminders, guidance, and warning by the City Mayor. PNP also asked the violators to do a series of exercises as part of their disciplinary action.

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Meanwhile, barangay officials were asked to fetch the violators after several hours of stay at the PNP Station.

The City Government of San Fernando urges the public to cooperate with the implementation of PHEQC across the City. The local government unit is always committed to prioritizing the safety of the residents against COVID-19. With unified effort among the community, we can beat the global pandemic.

S A F ELO T YCA AN L DE CSO EC NUORMT Y

DISASTER RESILIENCY CHENES CHENES CITY GOV’T BOLSTERS BARANGAY DRUG CLEARING PROGRAM INITIATIVES To make the People’s City a drug-free city, the local government of San Fernando, La Union conducted a 3-day seminar for Barangay Officials to further strengthen our Barangay Drug Clearing Program Initiatives. Different topics were discussed by resource speakers from different national agencies. DILG talked about the implementing guidelines on the functionality and effectiveness of local anti-drug abuse councils. The City PNP tackled on the different requirements prior to the conduct of drug clearing operations while the Lakas ng Pagbabago (LNP) coordinator discussed about the Community-based Drug Rehabilitation Program (CBRP) and other future plans for the City’s recovery champions.Our barangay officials, who are our

CITY IMT INTENSIFIED COVID-19 OPERATIONS #BantayCovid19: The Incident Management Team of the City Disaster Risk Reduction Council have been deployed to work on issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Incident Management Team has been consistent in conducting day-to-day checkpoint operations, enforcement of Home Quarantine Pass (HQP), and Special Home Quarantine Pass (SHQP), monitor movement of people in and out of the City following the community quarantine imposed as a measure against the spread of COVID-19, and troubleshoot complaints, issues, and concerns of the constituents for immediate action.

partners, recognize their role in helping these agencies achieve the objective and declare their communities’ drug-free. This seminar is proof that the government is serious in battling the proliferation of drugs here in the People’s City.

With the collaborative efforts of the City Government of San Fernando, the People’s City of San Fernando has once again proven its resiliency amid the threat of COVID-19 pandemic.

If you need assistance, please contact CDRRMO at (072) 6192437, +639155110764 (Globe), or +639285220622 (Smart).

Meanwhile, the City Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) serves as the close contact of 59 barangays and external offices involved in the said operations.

The City Government ensures that the critical needs of all concerned agencies and residents will be addressed and provided.

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COVID -19

COMMUNITY HEROES

A HELPING

HAND BY: LORRAINE SHEKINAH VALDEZ BHC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION INC.

Help, in trying times, comes in many forms: support for livelihood, relief goods, and information. As businesses and jobs are put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more citizens are struggling to go by each day.

For those who are just at home, small dozes of help, when given frequently, create a rippling effect. This is exactly what the Local Government Units (LGUs) of the City of San Fernando, and the Province of La Union provide to their people: a helping hand.

Food security is one of the first issues addressed by the LGUs. They did this by handing out grocery packs to every house, making sure that no family gets left behind.

Several kilos of rice, canned goods, fresh produce and even legumes were given. While some may consider this a small act, free food for all is an enormous thing.

This is important especially to those who do not have a pantry full of goods, and those who have just enough to last them the day.

Another commendable feat is the availability of information. In their official Facebook pages, both the City of San Fernando and the Province of La Union provide access to COVID-19 updates. The tally of confirmed cases as well as PUIs and negative cases are posted every night. In addition to that, social distancing reminders, guidelines, and policies are published frequently. Awareness is really one of the first lines of defense that every citizen must have in this war

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against the unseen. Our LGUs also post clarifications on fake news spreading during the first two weeks of the quarantine. Preventing chaos and fear among its people was dealt immediately because of their swift action to the problem on misinformation.

The most significant help, however, is the making of San Fernando On the Go, a program aimed to help tricycle drivers get back on their feet. As mass public transportation is still suspended, the city government’s Local Businesses and Development Office (LEBDO) and IT office converged to provide an alternative source of income for the tricycle drivers. The On the Go program is an online service, enabling citizens to order goods through a website and having them delivered to their houses. The program was made with people in mind that they no longer have to go out to get goods, and the tricycle drivers can have a means of living. This is definitely hitting two or more birds with a stone.

While the efforts of the LGUs are nowhere near perfect, they are commendable for helping everyone get through this difficult time. They provide hope and care for the welfare of the citizens, making sure that nobody gets left behind. Their acts of help are worthy of emulation, and other government units should follow suit.

This pandemic changed our way of life, and solutions aimed at alleviating the impacts are exactly what the people need, and the province of La Union continues to face these problems with clear guidelines. The enemy may be unseen, but it also revealed the real heroes prepared to save people in a sea of dangers.

LO C A L E C O N V IO DM - 1 9Y

COMMUNITY HEROES CHENES CHENES FULFILLING A CHILDHOOD PROMISE - SERVING THE COMMUNITY WITH AVAILABLE RESOURCES “Since bata pa ako tinuruan po kami ng magulang namin na huwag ipagdamot ang meron kami lalo na sa panahon na may nangangailangan ng tulong.”

To ensure precautionary measures are practiced, the 61 seater bus only caters 30 passengers, each passenger is advised to use alcohol before entering. After daily trips, the City Government conducts disinfection operations.

Mr. Aristotle Gamiao volunteers his bus to serve as Like him, there are a lot of people helping out, to fight a shuttle service for residents of the People’s City. with our frontliners in this pandemic.

He acknowledges his part in the battle against the pandemic. “Yun lang po kasi yung resources na meron He is one of the #COVIDHEROES. ako ngayon. I want to help in my own little way.”

The service starts at 6AM until 10AM and conveys residents from Dalumpinas to Pagdalagan and vice versa.

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COVID -19

COMMUNITY HEROES PROJECT #HELPCOVID19WARRIORS ACTING ON A SHARED RESPONSIBILTY OF EVERY FILIPINO “We all wanted to feel useful; we all wanted to be productive even within the confines of our homes.”

Project #HelpCovid19Warriors started as a simple fund-raising drive on March 21, 2020 to raise P250,000 and purchase 200 boxes of face masks that were available from a supplier referred by a friend. The initial beneficiary was the Philippine General Hospital, as they were already calling out for donations of PPEs at the time.

Ms. Cathy Hufana Ang together with Ms. Gigi Rapadas is just one of the people behind the Project #HelpCovid19Warriors fund-raising drive. They wanted to help our modern heroes in their war against COVID-19. “We knew how ill-prepared they were to fight the war against the pandemic. They needed our help, and it was our responsibility to do whatever we can to equip them with protective equipment as they risk their lives to save ours.”

They are also working closely with partners and suppliers. Two of their notable partners are Frederick Blancas, a retiree of the Ayala Group, who took care

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of locating volunteer sewing teams to manufacture the PPEs and Buboy Velasco, who is their main contact for their sewing teams from 20 for 20, Better Basics Philippines and Simone’s Closet.

Their group has already distributed surgical masks, KN95 masks, disinfectants, nitrile gloves, goggles, and fabric (silver-backed taffeta and poly microfiber) that have been sewn by volunteer sewing teams and designers into PPE coveralls and gown sets. “We do our best to serve their needs, hopefully in quantities that will make a difference.” They have been providing PPEs not just in the People’s City but in different hospitals across Luzon.

Like Project #HelpCovid19Warriors, people continue to find innovative solutions to address and support the needs of our heroes who are in the forefront of curbing the spread of the virus.

The indomitable spirit and resiliency of the Filipino people keep on shining amidst the threat of the global pandemic.

Our #CovidHeroes continue to rise together showing everyone that we are all #InThisTogether.

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