The District Bulletin - Volume VII, Issue No. 1, January to March 2020

Proposed flyovers along Emilio Vergara Bypass Road’s critical intersections Page 4 Getting ready for the ISO 9001:2015 surveillance audit Page 11 The COVID-19 Crisis:

Our Response, Our Commitment.

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Nueva Ecija to benefit on government’s infra push Pictured: Digmala River, Brgy. Calaanan, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija Photo Credit: Engr. Eulogio C. Pesa

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Image courtesy of David McBee/Pexels.com

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Nueva Ecija to benefit on government’s infra push

ontinuous development of reliable infrastructure facilities is the foremost catalyst for economic development. In the article “Relationship Between Infrastructure and Economic Growth”, writer Punja Mondal said that, infrastructure is basically the base in which economic growth is built upon.

The Philippines, though hyped as one with the most dynamic economies in the East Asia Pacific Region still lags in terms of infrastructure expansion to achieve inclusive growth.

This apparent inadequate working infrastructure system disconnects rural Philippines from the urban centers and from other economies in the region.

Thus, in a bid to boost economic activities in different parts of the province, the Department of Public Works and Highways through the Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineering Office has started to implement various infrastructure projects predicted to raise the economic growth and the well-being of Novo Ecijanos. In the latest statistics for physical infrastructure released by the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific for Asia-Pacific Countries with Special Needs Development Report 2017, the Philippines scored 0.336 in the Access for Physical Infrastructure Index (APII) for 2015 and ranked 24th out of the 41 countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

Amid the government’s push for more infrastructure development under the “Build, Build, Build” Program wherein the infra-spending of the Duterte Administration was boosted to reverse the backlog left by previous administrations, there still remains a question if the present administration can catch up to bridge the infrastructure gap and steer the country into an infrastructure revolution that will guarantee comprehensive development.

Nueva Ecija, a first-class province with more than 2.15 million people and considered the biggest producer of rice in Central Luzon is composed of 27 municipalities and 5 component cities, is in dire need of infrastructure push to improve its economic capability in becoming a center for commercial activity outside National Capital Region.

The DPWH, being the engineering and construction arm of the government already extended its scope of work from the design, maintenance and construction of national roads and bridges, and major flood controls up to the design and construction of outside infrastructure projects under the convergence programs with the Department of Education (DepED), Department of Agriculture (DA), Local Government Units (LGU), Department of Tourism (DOT), and the Department of National Defense (DND). With these projects, Novo Ecijanos are expected to benefit from the fruits of the expanded public works under the agency-supported convergence programs such as the construction of farm-to-market roads, schools, multipurpose buildings and other local infrastructure projects.

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Regular infrastructure projects

In an attempt to continue uplifting the lives of Novo Ecijanos and strengthening not only the province’s economy but also the country’s, the Nueva Ecija 2nd DEO actively partakes in the infrastructure initiatives of the “Build, Build, Build” program of President Duterte.

For the Calendar Year (CY) 2020, a total of P2.61 Billion was allotted under the General Appropriations Act of 2020 for the implementation of 118 infrastructure projects.

Thirteen (13) road projects, 4 permanent bridges, and 19 flood control structures are now in various stages of implementation.

Further, the construction of 74 local infrastructure projects broken down into 44 multi-purpose buildings, 4 flood control structures, 6 drainages, 17 roads, 1 bridge, and 2 water supply systems are now underway.

While the implementation of 6 projects under the Convergence Special Support Program with the DND that were programmed in support of national security, and 2 access roads leading to declared tourism destinations have also begun. The construction of access roads leading to tourism destinations are under the DOT Tourism Road Infrastructure Projects (TRIP), while the implementation of various infrastructure projects vital to the administrative and military operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines is under the TIKAS or the “Tatag ng Imprastruktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad” in collaboration with the DND. Outside infrastructure projects

All outside infrastructure programs lined up by the NE 2nd DEO for CY 2020 were programmed in response to the need to construct facilities that will address the specific needs of stakeholders such as the construction of DA-funded farmto-market roads, school building projects of the Department of Education, and repair of calamity damaged structures funded by the NDRRMC. “The implementation of various infrastructure programs is a privilege for us and is our significant contribution in nation building. With the construction of efficient and reliable road networks and of various infrastructure projects vital in addressing the needs of stakeholders, we accept that we are taking a great part in making an impact to the development and security of the country. Everyone can expect that our office will remain active in implementing quality infrastructure projects in our area of jurisdiction until the goals of the Department and of the national development objectives are fulfilled.” District Engineer Ricardo M. Puno explained.#jtm

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Image courtesy of AhmadArdity/Pixabay.com

Proposed flyovers along Emilio Vergara Bypass Road’s critical intersections

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raffic congestion is a by-product of highly urbanized centers. Similarly, the Pan-Philippine Highway or the Maharlika Highway that dissects Cabanatuan City north to south is currently in its over-capacity density and condition.

To solve Cabanatuan’s traffic problems, the City Government constructed in the early 2000’s the 2-lane Emilio Vergara Bypass Road in an attempt to decongest the worsening traffic condition along the Cabanatuan Section of the Maharlika Highway. In 2018, the Department of Public Works and Highways – Nueva Ecija 2nd DEO began the widening of the said bypass road into a 6-lane highway in an effort to provide a reliable road network for motorists.

Cabanatuan City is Nueva Ecija’s commercial capital and educational hub. Residents of nearby towns flock to the city for education, recreation and entertainment. They avail of services that are not readily available or accessible in their respective areas. Since alternate roads such as the Cesar Angeles - Emilio Vergara Bypass Road is now open to motorists, traffic along Maharlika Highway was significantly reduced but the chokepoints created by the traffic shift into the new road was evident in various intersections such as at the corner of Emilio Vergara Bypass and Nueva Ecija Aurora Road in Brgy. San Isidro, and at the Emilio Vergara Bypass – Lakewood Avenue Intersection, Lakewood Avenue.

The Emilio Vergara Bypass – Nueva Ecija - Aurora Road intersection in Brgy. San Isidro is being swamped by the high volume of vehicles coming from the Emilio Vergara Bypass Road going to the City of Palayan, Municipalities of Bongabon, Gabaldon, Laur, Rizal, Pantabangan, and the Province of Aurora.

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The Emilio Vergara Bypass – Lakewood Avenue Intersection however, is a different case. Lakewood Avenue is a private road owned by the developers of Lakewood City in Cabanatuan. The road construction at this area was discontinued because the Emilio Vergara Bypass will cross the said private road that will result to the slow movement of vehicles passing through the damaged portion of Lakewood Avenue.

In response to the traffic congestion along the said intersections, the NE 2nd DEO proposed for two (2) flyover projects, viz.:

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Construction of Flyover along Nueva Ecija – Aurora Road – Emilio Vergara Bypass Intersection, Cabanatuan City amounting to P52.268 Million with a total length of 278.00 lineal meters, including approaches.

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Construction of Flyover along Emilio Vergara Bypass – Lakewood Avenue Intersection, Cabanatuan City with a budget of P68.064 M with a length of 330.00 lineal meters.

The proposals for the said projects were already submitted to the Office of the Secretary for the possible inclusion in the district’s proposed program for Fiscal Year 2021. Once the construction of both flyover projects is completed, it is projected to alleviate traffic bottlenecks in the identified intersections. By then, DPWH Nueva Ecija 2nd DEO may be able to provide motorists with a reliable road infrastructure that will guarantee a continuous and uninterrupted flow of vehicles.#jtm

SMAV leads ceremonial ground breaking of new 7ID headquarters building

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epartment of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark A. Villar, together with 7th Infantry Division Commander Major General Lenard Agustin led the ceremonial groundbreaking of the new 7th Infantry Division Headquarters Building with Tactical Operation Center (TOC) on February 28, 2020 in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.

The 2-storey project implemented under the Department of National Defense (DND) – DPWH Convergence Program dubbed as “Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad” (TIKAS) is intended to enhance the capability of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in providing efficient and effective military services through quality infrastructure.

Secretary Villar was joined at Fort Ramon Magsaysay by other DPWH officials headed by Region 3 Director Roseller A. Tolentino; Ret. General John Dominic Pulido from the Office of the Secretary; Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineer Ricardo M. Puno; and Assistant District Engineer Eduardo V. De Guzman.

According to Villar, the new headquarters building is expected to reinforce the operations of Army as the facility will have its own tactical operations center.

“We are aware that the Philippine Army is our protector and is a key player in national security. The Army Core Purpose asserts, “Serving the People. Securing the Land.” Today, the DPWH is a partner of the army in fulfilling their purpose as we unveil infrastructure projects under the TIKAS program – a convergence program between the DND and the DPWH which aims to strengthen and expand military readiness for national security and development.” Sec. Villar said.

The construction of the new 7ID Headquarters Building with (TOC) is under the supervision of the Cabanatuan based local DPWH office.

“We see the generous intention of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Secretary Villar helping the Army to realize its mission and to “win the peace” in order to help our country in creating an environment conducive to sustainable development and lasting peace. For our part, we will do our best to ensure that the implementation of the TIKAS projects will adhere to the approved plans and programs.” DE Puno enthused.

Other projects at Fort Magsaysay under the TIKAS program are the construction of a 2-storey Administration Building and a 4-storey transient facility at the Light Reaction Regiment; construction/upgrading of unpaved road surface to concrete along LRR/SF to Molave; construction of a hangar which is necessary for the maintenance, repair, manufacture, assembly and storage of aircraft at the Aviation Regiment (PA); and the construction of 2 units, 1-Storey and a 2-Storey Building Enlisted Personnel Barracks that will be used by the members of the Special Forces Regiment (Airborne).#jtm

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DE Puno recognized for his calamity response efforts

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PWH Bureau of Equipment Director Toribio Noel L. Ilao awarded Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineer Ricardo M. Puno a Certificate of Appreciation for his unwavering support in the clearing, evacuation and relief operations in the aftermath of Taal Volcano Eruption in Batangas on January 12, 2020.

DE Puno is part of the DPWH Quick Response Team (QRT) that provided immediate assistance to residents affected by the said eruptions #jtm

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Field engineers trained on Data Base System

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ield Engineers from the Maintenance Section of the Nueva Ecija 2nd DEO headed by Maintenance Engineer Celso G. Castillo attended the seminar entitled “On-theJob Training (OJT)/Echo Training on Data Base System” held on February 11 – 14, 2020 at the DPWH Region III Office in Pampanga.

The use of the Database System for Road Slope and Bridge Repair which was developed under the JICA-TCP III, titled” Maintenance Information on Road Slope and Bridge Repair (MIRB)” was introduced through Department Order No. 23, Series of 2019, “with the primary objective of providing readily available technical information on road and bridge maintenance works for easy reference in the preparation of midterm maintenance plan and annual budget plan as well as any appropriate future maintenance/repair works that has to be undertaken for the safety of the travelling public.”

An on-the-job training where participants were asked to conduct actual field work on bridge inspection at the Bamban Bridge in Bamban, Tarlac; and field work on road slope protection works at Subic in Olongapo City.

Participants to the 4-day activities also include Engr.

Ramil C. Ramos, Engr. Renz Joseph V. Cruz, Engr. Jeffrey T. Mendiola, Engr. Emerlito D. Corpuz and Engr. Niña May P. Vilar.#jtm/avm Photo Credits: Engr. Niña May P. Vilar

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DPWH Region 3 – EMD at the forefront of disaster and crisis response

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Our people and our equipment actively participate in road clearing operations and relief efforts initiated by the Office of the Secretary.

DPWH Region 3-EMD transports tents to QC hospitals

Indeed, the DPWH Region 3 – EMD has also taken an active role during the catastrophic Taal Volcano eruption early this year.

he year has just started and we already faced two lifethreatening events – Taal Volcano eruption and the COVID-19 pandemic. True enough, the Department of Public Works and Highways – Equipment Management Division and its Area Equipment Sections in Region III stood to continuously perform their mandate.

Several dump trucks of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ Equipment Management Division (EMD) in Region 3 delivered a total of eight (8) units of tents packed in wooden crates to the Lung Center of the Philippines and East Avenue Medical Center in two occasions in Quezon City that were used as temporary treatment tents for COVID-19 patients.

Donated by World Vision Philippines, the tents were picked up by a team from the DPWH Region 3 – EMD headed by NE Area Engineer Edwin L. Lopez at the PhilExcel Business Park in Clark Field, Pampanga. These were loaded on heavy equipment provided by Pampanga 1st and 2nd DEO’s and delivered at the Lung Center of the Philippines on March 23, 2020, and at the East Avenue Medical Center on March 26, 2020. A boom truck and additional manpower of the Bureau of Equipment (BOE) facilitated the safe unloading of the tents on both occasions.

“It has been our duty and commitment to serve the public, our frontlines included, at times we are needed most.”

Engr. Lopez said in a statement.

The BOE headed by Dir. Noel Toribio L. Ilao has always been in the forefront of disaster and crisis response.

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Taal Volcano eruption

On January 14, 2020, disaster response vehicles and equipment from four (4) District Engineering Offices in Region 3 were deployed to Tanauan City and the Municipality of Lemery in Batangas and assisted in the road clearing operations and evacuation efforts of the National Government.

The DPWH Region 3 – EMD took the lead in steering a fleet of manpower and equipment that included heavy equipment operators, field engineers, two (2) units of road grader, two (2) units of payloader, two (2) units 10-tonner dump trucks, one (1) unit 5-tonner dump truck, one (1)-unit L-300 FB, and one (1)-unit flood mitigation equipment that were positioned in the calamity-stricken areas of Batangas.

“The Bureau of Equipment, the Equipment Management Division, and all the Area Equipment Sections in Central Luzon have displayed goodwill and service, no matter how small, like transporting of a tent – or big, like mobilizing a fleet to assist during emergencies, makes a positive impact to the lives of our stakeholders. And personally, I am thankful that in our own little way, we have contributed something that might have eased the worries of other people. Like what Dave Pelzer said, something good comes out of every crisis.” Engr.

Lopez enthused.#avm

Image courtesy of Pixabay/Pexels.com

Crisis Management: The Overlooked Leadership Skill Here are five ways to rise up to the challenge of leading the troops while things are falling apart. by: Gary Burnison, CEO, Korn Ferry Gary Burnison is the CEO of management consulting and recruiting firm Korn Ferry.

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https://www.cfo.com/leadership/2020/03/crisis-management-the-overlooked-leadership-skill/

o one thinks much about a certain leadership quality — until the you-know-what hits the fan.

The quality I’m referring to is crisis management.

Thankfully, true crises are relatively rare occurrences.

They are the black swans of leadership.

We’ve done nearly 70 million assessments of executives, so we know what makes a great leader — the bestin-class who are among the top 20%. Our research shows that three of the four qualities of a great business leader are largely intuitive: (1) sets vision and strategy; (2) drives growth; and (3) displays financial acumen.

The fourth is managing crises. It’s underappreciated, overlooked, and often not even one of the top requirements — until a crisis hits.

This is one of those times. A month ago, when the stock market was making all-time highs, only the rare few could have predicted universities would close, companies would tell employees to work from home en masse, and the NBA season would abruptly be suspended, followed by museums, cathedrals, and broadway.

While it’s natural in uncertain times for people to turn to the leader for definitive answers, sometimes the authentic answer is “I don’t know right now” — quickly followed by, “And here’s what we are going to do.” In a crisis such as today, leaders need a Plan B — and a Plan C and Plan D as well.

Leaders always deal with ambiguity. It’s timeless and comes with the job. During crises, ambiguity becomes exponential. As fear becomes contagious across organizations, leaders must manage their own responses to ambiguity.

How do they do that? By following our six steps of leadership:

Anticipate – predicting what lies ahead Navigate – course correcting in real time Communicate – continually Listen – to what you don’t want to hear Learn – learning from experience to apply in the future Lead – improve yourself to elevate others

Let me provide some color commentaries on what leaders can do to put crisis management in action.

Start at the Bottom of Maslow’s Hierarchy: In a crisis, you first need to meet people where they are. Their most basic needs must be met and they need to feel safe. Naturally, no one is interested in talking about the company’s strategic plan when they’re out buying hand sanitizer and toilet paper.

Once their essential needs are addressed, then the focus can shift to alignment, common purpose, elevating others, and even opportunities for growth.

By running the “unknown” of the current crisis against the “known” of previous ones, leaders gain perspective, identify patterns, connect the dots, and determine appropriate and timely responses.

Earthquakes and Aftershocks: In Los Angeles, where our firm is based, we’re accustomed to earthquakes and know that when one occurs, aftershocks are coming. Other crises also demand that you have to anticipate the consequences of the initial shock. Too often, people don’t consider all the possibilities.

Anticipation becomes a Monte Carlo simulation in action.

For example: what if travel bans expand, commerce slows, or a liquidity crisis develops, etc.? What is the impact on all aspects of my business? What are the implications for employees, customers, and investors? Strategy is making a bet, and the skill of anticipating improves one’s odds.

Urgent vs. Important: Day to day, leaders face a multitude of issues, both urgent and important. I’ve found that many leaders have difficulty distinguishing between the two. When a crisis hits, though, everything blurs as events and their implications constantly change. What’s important often becomes urgent, and what’s urgent becomes critical. Leaders must delegate the urgent by empowering others to lead around a common purpose.

Leave No One Behind: In a crisis, leaders must connect with, motivate, and inspire others, and show genuine compassion. In the military, for example, leaders put the safety and well-being of others before themselves. I’ve met a number of military leaders who led during periods of conflict and voluntarily told me, “I’ve never lost a soldier.” This reveals a deep mindset of humility and accountability, rather than hubris and bravado.

Know What to Do When You Don’t Know What to Do: There’s nothing like a crisis or a complex problem to accelerate learning. This is learning agility to the “Nth” degree — applying past lessons to new and unfamiliar situations. It really is knowing what to do when you don’t know what to do.

(Continued on page 10)

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(Crisis management... continued from page 9)

Amid uncertainty, leaders need to be hyper-focused on past experiences and synthesize and apply them to real-time, fluid conditions. Clarity comes from finding a close comparison.

Is it like the Great Recession? The 1987 stock market crash? The outbreaks of SARS or MERS?

By running the “unknown” of the current crisis against the “known” of previous ones, leaders gain perspective, identify patterns, connect the dots, and determine appropriate and timely

National Women’s Month Celebration: Free skills training, symposium held

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n celebration of National Women’s Month, the Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineering Office - Gender and Development Focal Point System prepared various activities for its women employees that were simultaneously held on March 12, 2020.

The first activity was the #SerbisyoParaKayJuana wherein employees were taught with the basics of therapeutic massage. Representatives of Top Link Global College, Inc. headed by Romeo G. Javier delivered a lecture entitled “Women of Beauty and Impact” to the participants.

After the basic knowledge on therapeutic massage was explained by the lecturer and other facilitators from Top Link Global College, Inc., a free massage session was provided to selected employees.

A symposium on “The Role of Women in Protecting Children from Online Sexual Exploitation” followed and was facilitated by Mr. Christian Faith P. Antonio, National Vice Chairperson of the Philippines Against Child Trafficking.

The symposium tackled critical issues on how to end the online sexual exploitation of children and educated the employees on women’s and children’s rights and encouraged them to fight for gender parity and prevent any kind of abuse that would violate their rights.

“We recognize the significant roles of women in our operations and in the delivery of our services. And with that, we are joining this advocacy in protecting their rights and ensure that we will not allow to prosper in their workplace.”

District Engineer Ricardo M. Puno said.#jtm

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responses. The eventual recovery may be a V or a U or some other alphabet letter, but there will be a new normal — thanks, ultimately, to the scientists, innovators, and dreamers.

The natural inclination in a crisis may be to go into command-and-control mode. That’s not leadership. Leadership is creating a “bottom-up” culture of world-class observers to accurately perceive today in order to predict tomorrow.

Getting ready for the ISO 9001:2015 surveillance audit

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n compliance with the mandatory requirements of ISO 9001:2015, the Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineering Office (NE 2nd DEO) has been continuously improving its processes relative to the management of its stakeholders and in meeting the specific requirements for Quality Management System (QMS).

On February 4, 2020, the NE 2nd DEO Quality Management System Core Team was reconstituted to ensure that other qualified employees are trained and capable in sustaining the key elements of the Office’s QMS necessary to provide the public quality service.

According to NE 2nd District Engineer Ricardo M. Puno, the reconstitution of the Office QMS Core Team is in response to the need for an enhanced implementation of the QMS involving the innovative knowledge and ideas of newly selected core team members.

“I offer my great optimism that the new set of members of the QMS Core Team headed by Engr. Belen A. Adrineda would be responsible in carrying out their duties and responsibilities in efficiently maintaining the implementation of the QMS.” DE Puno enthused.

Reorientation on QMS processes

On February 24, 2020, Engr. Marlon G. Hernandez, former Office QMS Core Team Leader, facilitated the reorientation training on ISO 9001:2015 attended by the members of the reconstituted core team held at the NE 2nd BAC Conference Room.

The refresher training was conducted in response to the requests made by the new members of the Office QMS Core Team for familiarization of the audit procedures and guidelines, and the QMS requirements. Team Leader Engr. Adrineda said that the reorientation training was held in preparation to the third-party surveillance audit of SOCOTEC Certification Philippines, Inc. (formerly AJA Registrars Inc.), and to ensure continuing enhancement of office services in conformity with the QMS standards.

Furthermore, DE Puno and Assistant District Engineer Eduardo V. De Guzman thanked Engr. Marlon G. Hernandez, the designated QMS Core Team Leader since the office started its ISO 9001:2015 journey in 2017, for his excellent leadership that resulted to the Office’s achievement of ISO QMS certification.

“I am satisfied that my journey being the Office’s QMS Core Team Leader ended with flying colors. The recognition should not only be given to me. It should also be enjoyed by the core team members and NE 2nd employees who worked hard in maintaining the QMS in our office. Their efforts helped us in achieving the ISO 9001:2015 accreditation.” Engr. Hernandez said.

Internal audit finds minor procedural gaps

Results of the 5-day audit conducted by the DPWH Internal Audit Service (IAS) from March 2-6, 2020 revealed several procedural gaps in the Procurement of Civil Works and (Continued on page 12)

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(Getting ready... continued from page 11)

Financial Management. “These are very minor lapses that may have been overlooked but still, these must be corrected, and I am grateful that all employees subjected to audit were cooperative and all of them received the audit findings as opportunities for improvement.” Internal Auditor Nora M. Malabanan explained.

During the exit conference, Ms. Malabanan clarified that the audit findings were based on the lapses committed against the 2016 Revised IRR of RA 9184 for procurement processes, and of the Government Accounting Manual for National Government Agencies for all financial transactions. The Audit Team initially identified eleven (11) deviations but were later on reduced to four (4) audit findings after documentary evidences confirming the office’s conformity to the perceived lapses were presented by the management.

Meanwhile, District Engineer Ricardo M. Puno commended the efforts of all employees for being responsive in providing pertinent documents requested by the IAS Audit Team.

“The observations made by the IAS, although considered as minor, are still findings that we must resolve. We are now aware that these are minor procedural gaps, but must be corrected at once. I am thankful that the IAS conducted this regular audit, and definitely, this is of great help as we prepare for the Third-Party Audit for ISO 9001:2015.” DE Puno said.

The office immediately acted on the IAS Findings and submitted on time the responsive management actions on the audit findings#jtm

ISO 9001:2015

Image from https://www.qualitygurus.com/seven-quality-management-principles/

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it on our own and that we are better among the rest of people.

A People Called by His name

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Disclaimer: This article is unedited.

y now, most of us have been staying at home for more than a month, unless you are one of the essential workers who need to go to work everyday, or one of our modern heroes we call as frontliners. If not, then you are like me, working from home for the past months - helping to fight this pandemic by staying at home and staying safe. Some people say that it is the best way we can help to stop the spread of the virus.

Today, I want to share to you what I believe on how we can help as ordinary men and women.

Our current situation showed us that we are wrong, we need one another, we are dependent on each other specially to those who are working in the frontlines of this pandemic.

This is the time to admit that we need God. We have been neglecting Him for a long time, thinking that we can live our lives without Him. This is the time to humble ourselves and admit that we need His help.

2. Repent of our sins.

Repentance is one of the first topics that my youth leader explained to me when I was a student. “To repent means to express sorrow or regret for something that we’ve done. To repent is a change of direction, to turn away from sin and turn to God.”

11. Thus, Solomon finished the house of the LORD and the king’s house. All that Solomon had planned to do in the house of the LORD and in his own house he successfully accomplished.

Just like the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), who asked for his inheritance from his father and pursued what the Bible describes as “wild living” and who repented, felt sorrowful, turned around (change his direction) and returned to his Father willingly asked to be a servant of their household.

12. Then the LORD appeared to Solomon in the night and said to him: “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a house of sacrifice”.

We are being called by God to repent and express our regrets for the sins we’ve committed, and to turn away from the sin and follow Him and His ways.

13. When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command the locust to devour the land, or send pestilence among my people,

3. Pray

2 Chronicles 7:11-16 (ESV)

14. If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

15. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place.

16. For now I have chosen and consecrated this house that my name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will be there for all time.

Ancient Jewish tradition believes that Ezra is the author of the book of Chronicles whose purpose is for the restoration of communities (exiles from Babylon) and to know Israel’s History from the time of Samuel, the prophet, the time of kings and the downfall of Israel. The question during that time as they rebuilt the ruins of Jerusalem is if God is still with them?

The text that we’ve read happened in 957 BC when King Solomon, known as the wisest king in the Bible, finished and dedicated the First temple of God in Jerusalem along with King Solomon’s house. On verse fourteen we can read God’s condition and promise in the Bible to His people during the time of King Solomon.

The three conditions of God’s promise to His people are: 1. Humble Yourselves Humbling ourselves means to submit ourselves to God, follow his way and acknowledge our needs to Him. For the past years, we have arrogantly lived our lives trying to prove the world and the people around us that we can make

I believe we can do more than finishing our one week supply of food in one day and spending our time watching Netflix, YouTube and TikTok. We can still be productive while staying at home. Talk to your family, learn a new skills, play music instruments, exercise, read, and I would like to suggest, “pray”.

In this uncertain time, I want to invite you to join the world in praying. Prayer works. The Bible says in 1 John 5:14 (ESV) “And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will He hears us.”

God hears our prayers and I believe it is His will to bring healing and peace to the world so let us continue praying. Pray for our families, cities, frontliners, government leaders, and the rest of the world.

2 Chronicles 7:14 provides that “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

After saying his conditions, God fulfill His promises. He will hear us. He will forgive our sins and heal our land. I hope we are all willing to answer God’s call to humble ourselves, repent our sins and pray.

Pastor Julius Raphael Co and his wife Ana from Every Nation Ministries are missionaries based in Cambodia. Together with their children, Antonio Raphael and Juliana Isabelle, they have been actively reaching the cities of Phnom Penh and Battambang, Cambodia.

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DBM, COA assure: COS, JOs to get wages during Luzon-wide quarantine by: Cathrine Gonzales - Reporter / @cgonzalesINQ / INQUIRER.net / https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1245535/dbm-assures-cos-jos-to-get-wages-during-luzon-wide-quarantine

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ANILA, Philippines — Contractual workers in government agencies, such as those categorized as either job order (JO) or contract of service (COS), will still continue to receive their wages during the duration of the enhanced community quarantine that is now being enforced in Luzon.

“COS and JO workers who will be required to report to work from home shall be paid their corresponding salaries or wages during community quarantine period,” read a joint circular from the Commission on Audit (COA) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

Likewise, COS and JO workers who will not be required to work due to work suspension and those who are not part of the agency skeleton staff shall be paid their corresponding salaries during the quarantine period “as an exception to the ‘no work, no pay’ principle for this occasion only,” the joint circular added.

A copy of the document was shared with reporters on Friday by Senator Joel Villanueva, chairman of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resources.

According to the circular, COS and JO workers, whose services are engaged by government agencies located in Luzon may be considered for work from home, and well as skeleton staff for the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, emergency frontline services, border control, and other critical services in the government.

Meanwhile, COS and JO workers, whose services are engaged by agencies located in the Visayas and in Mindanao under the general community quarantine, may be considered

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for the following work arrangements: skeleton staff, work from home, compressed workweek, and staggered working hours.

The circular also noted that contractual workers who will be part of the agency skeleton staff and will be able to physically report for work during the quarantine period may be granted appropriate additional benefit, as may be authorized by the Office of the President.

All guidelines of the joint circular will cover all COS and JO workers whose services are directly engaged by departments, bureaus, offices, and agencies of the national government, including constitutional offices, state universities and colleges, government-owned and controlled corporations, and local water districts, for the duration of the state of calamity and community quarantine.

LGUs are encouraged to adopt this joint circular.

But it also stated that “institutional COS workers assigned in government agencies to provide services such as janitorial, security, consultancy, and other support services are excluded from the coverage of the circular.”

The implementation of the provisions of the circular shall be retroactive to March 15 or the date of the beginning of the duration of the community quarantine period. The joint circular shall also take effect immediately.

The national government has placed the entire Luzon under enhanced community quarantine, which includes the suspension of public transport operations, to help curb the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019. The quarantine period started on March 17 and will end at midnight on April 13.

Gov’t workers to get hazard pay during Luzon lockdown Government workers in the executive branch are entitled to P500 at most for each day they physically report to work by: Sofia Tomacruz

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Published 3:39 PM, March 23, 2020, Updated 3:39 PM, March 23, 2020 https://www.rappler.com/nation/255566-government-workers-get-hazard-pay-luzon-lockdown

ANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte issued an administrative order allowing hazard pay for government workers who physically report to work for the duration of the Luzon-wide lockdown until April 12.

Duterte ordered this through Administrative Order No. 26 signed on Monday, March 23, where he laid out guidelines on how to grant workers in the executive branch daily hazardous pay of not more than P500.

Those eligible to receive the hazard pay were workers in national government agencies, state universities and colleges (SUCs), and government owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs).

Government employees who are already entitled to hazard pay, such as public health workers, social workers, science and technology personnel, uniformed personnel were also eligible for hazard pay under the order, or whichever amount is higher.

What are the conditions? Heads of agencies can give pay to workers who meet the following conditions:

•Employee occupies regular, contractual or casual positions; were employed through job order or contract of service

•Employee is authorized to physically report to work during the Luzon lockdown

Each worker is entitled to receive P500 at most for each day they physically report to work.

Where will funds come from? Agencies and SUCs can source the amount from their personnel services for regular employees, while the amount needed for employees on job orders was to be charged against available maintenance and other operating expenses.

If there are not enough funds to give workers P500 each, heads of agencies can grant a lower but uniform pay to all qualified employees.

What about other government workers? Duterte urged the legislative and judicial branches to grant hazard pay to workers part of their offices’ skeleton forces during the lockcdown, observing the same scheme for compensation.

Hazard pay for local government workers will be determine by their respective Sanggunians, depending on available funds, and not exceeding P500. Local government units were advised to follow limitation on budgets as prescribed by the Local Government Code.

Rates for employees in local water districts will be determined by their respective boards of directors, though these should not exceed P500.

As for employees and agencies exempted from the Salary Standardization Law, agency heads and governing boards may determine the amount of hazard pay to be distributed, though these should again not exceed P500.

Private hospitals and businesses establishments were strongly urged to grant similar hazard pay.

Granting of hazard pay will also be applied retroactively, from when the lockdown started on March 17.

As the number of novel coronavirus cases continued to rise in the Philippines, Duterte suspended work in the executive branch’s offices in Luzon to prevent the further spread of the virulent disease.

The Philippines counted 396 confirmed coronavirus cases as of Monday, March 23. The confirmed cases included 33 deaths and 18 recoveries. – Rappler.com

VOL. VII ISSUE NO. 1

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Image courtesy of Burst/Pexels.com

Gov’t eyes infrastructure work as another exemption to Luzon lockdown by: Ian Nicolas Cigaral

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https://ppp.gov.ph/in_the_news/govt-eyes-infrastructure-work-as-another-exemption-to-luzon-lockdown/

ANILA, Philippines — Amid many exemptions to the month-long Luzon lockdown, the government would like to add one more: infrastructure projects.

The Transportation and Public Works departments are preparing a list of infrastructure projects it want to proceed during the community quarantine, a mitigating effort meant to somehow alleviate the impact of the coronavirus in the local economy.“There are construction and rehabilitation works that we will ask to be exempted (from the lockdown) from IATF,” Transport Assistant Secretary Goddes Hope Libiran said in a text message to Philstar.com.

IATF stands for the interagency task force against emerging infectious diseases, which groups various agencies including the departments of Transportation, Tourism, and Justice.

Libiran declined to go into specifics, saying only to “wait for specific guidelines” to be issued by the Department of Interior and Local Government, which is spearheading the implementation of the quarantine together with local government units.

Sought for comment, Ibarra Paulino, executive director of Philippine Constructors Association, an industry group, also said the Public Works department “is working on a similar list of projects,” but said he would personally advice against it.

“If the exemption will be granted, then that’s good since our workers need work. But at the same time, you put their safety at risk. My position is to just wait for this one-month period, see if there will be improvement, and then let’s discuss measures,” Paulino said in a phone interview.

Infrastructure on break

The plan to proceed with select infrastructure appears as a bid of the government to continue with its “Build, Build, Build” program, its centerpiece economic policy which in recent years suffered delays due to dragging aid talks with foreign creditors such as China, and last year’s four-month delay in the passage of the 2019 budget.

Things were looking rosier this year with the budget enacted on time, until China was hit by the spread of the coronavirus, resulting into a near economic shutdown that saw factories processing raw materials halt production, and bilateral talks delayed. Over the past two weeks, the global pandemic has begun to be slowly felt in the Philippines.

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Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado said late Monday evening the infrastructure program will go on “unhampered” despite the government being preoccupied with containing the virus that has so far infected 142 people, 12 of whom died as of Tuesday evening.

A continuity on capital outlays in Luzon will be crucial. While an initial lockdown in Metro Manila only put 5.7% of infrastructure projects under threat, budget data showed widening the quarantine to the entire Luzon risks stopping 17.8% of infrastructure projects, amounting to P174.5 billion.

The amount only counted projects handled by regional offices of infrastructure agencies like DPWH, and do not include those undertaken by their head offices in the areas, which are also likely to be affected.

In terms of specific projects, in Metro Manila alone, the stoppage is already affecting the rehabilitation of Metro Rail Transit-3, as well as construction of Skyway extension and subway connecting Taguig to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

“There will be problems of disruptions definitely. It will be difficult to move around and it would mean hampered delivery of workers and critical inputs for construction,” said Ruben Carlo Asuncion, chief economist at UnionBank of the Philippines.

Growth impact

Michael Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., had the same assessment. “There could be slowdown on some infrastructure-related activities as some businesses, government offices, and other institutions have been operating at reduced/skeletal workforces at the very least while some are shut down or working from home,” he said.

In turn, economic growth, which has consistently slowed for the past three years under the Duterte administration, would also take a hit. Last year, gross domestic product slowed to an eight-year low of 5.9%.

“I can initially say that the impact will be significant particularly for Q1 (first quarter) and Q2 (second quarter) economic growth,” Asuncion said.

But for Paulino, the construction industry is ready to take the brunt of “collateral damage” from a work halt in Luzon.

“This is beyond force majeure…For now, we are trying to support our members,” he said.

Image courtesy of Pixabay/Pexels.com

Build, Build, Build to hit targets despite COVID-19 by: Gillian M. Cortez / bworldonline.com

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https://www.bworldonline.com/build-build-build-to-hit-targets-despite-covid-19/

HE government’s aggressive infrastructure program will still meet its target completions for the year despite the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic temporarily stopping the projects.

Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark A. Villar said in a Friday briefing that while work on the building projects under the administration’s flagship program “Build, Build, Build” might have stopped at the moment, he still sees that they will be able to meet their 2020 target of completion.

“Sa tingin ko naman kaya namin habulin ang target implementation namin (I think we can catch up with our target implementations),” he said.

“Ngayon siguro magkakaroon ng konting delays pero pipilitin natin yung mga targetted disbursements at accomplishment ng department (Right now maybe there will be slight delays but we will force the department’s target disbursements and accomplishmentst).”

Last December, the DPWH Secretary said 2020 would be the “banner year” of the government’s massive infrastructure program.

Mr. Villar said that they were able to begin new projects and continue ongoing ones under the program for this year. He added that the situation last year was much worse yet they were able to reach their goal in terms of completion of stages in many

of their projects.

“Last year, nagsimula kami ng second half of the year dahil sa mga delays sa late release ng budget at dahil sa eleksyon, late kami nakipagsimula. At least this year nakapagsimula na kami (Last year we started in the second half of the year because of delays caused by the late release of the budget and because of the elections, we started late. At least this year we were able to start (our projects),” he said.

The “Build, Build, Build” program is worth over P2 trillion and is composed of thousands of infrastructure development projects scheduled throughout the term of President Rodrigo R. Duterte, who made it his goal to make his administration the “golden age for infrastructure.”

The 2020 budget for the program is under the appropriations of the DPWH and the Department of Transportation (DoTr), worth P581.7 billion and P100.6 billion respectively. This year”s national spending plan is at a record P4.1 trillion.

Some major flagship projects seen to finish this year are some road projects under its EDSA decongestion program which is aimed at decreasing traffic along the road by 20% to 30% this year. Other flagship programs expected to start this year are the rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and the construction of the Bulacan Airport project.

VOL. VII ISSUE NO. 1

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It’s business as usual amid fear of COVID-19 Coronavirus Lockdown

A lockdown was defined by Economic Times as “an emergency protocol that prevents people from leaving a given area. A full lockdown will mean you must stay where you are and not exit or enter a building or the given area.”

With the unprecedented rise in numbers of COVID-19 infected persons in the country, the Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineering Office never stopped its operations as it continues to serve the public while closely monitoring the status and effect of the pandemic to the lives of Novo Ecijanos.

The initial action

In response to the intensified effort of the government to combat the spread of Novel Corona Virus (COVID-19), the NE 2nd DEO implemented precautionary measures to protect and promote the safety of its employees.

On March 16, 2020, Cora C. Sunido, Human Resource and Administrative Section Chief, led the thermal scanning of the district employees who are entering the office’s premises.

The Office implemented the four-day workweek and suspended the conduct of the weekly Flag Raising Ceremony. The office compound was also disinfected to ensure the health and safety of employees.

Our utmost priority is the health and well-being of our employees in compliance with the Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 07 dated March 11, 2020. We introduced a more flexible working schedule while observing the normal workflow in our operations.

The management reiterated its support in the determination of the national government to combat the pandemic and we assured the public that the Office’s regular services will not be delayed nor hampered.

Meanwhile, all employees and clients were informed that thermal scanning was mandatory at the gate. Those who would manifest signs of coughs, colds and fever will not be denied entry.

All clients were also advised to transact first at the Public Assistance and Complaints Desk located at the HRAS.

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A day after

But after a day, things changed dramatically. Several issuances were made by the Civil Service Commission and of the Office of the Secretary, disregarding the previously agreed work arrangements.

The entire Luzon was placed under Enhanced Community Quarantine. However, the DPWH maintained that work arrangements be made to ensure that services will be unimpeded. There was instant mixed reactions from the workforce that ensued, but after a while, the call and duty for public service prevailed.

Skeletal workforces were created and work from home plans were drafted. People are now worrying about their finances specially those who were employed under Job Order Status. But still, life must go on.

The final blow

Another Memorandum was issued, this time, there were only two options: either employees will be working from home, or will be joining the frontline skeletal workforce.

Increasing number of COVID-19 confirmed cases in the country aggravated the situation. Project implementations were suspended, and yet, reports have to be made, emails should be answered, and calls must be taken.

The management decided to reduce the number of people in the workplace, but DE Puno’s concern for the plight of the job order employees was evident. There were no other options left but to review the manpower set-up that was previously laid down.

Some good news

The report on contractor’s compliance on CAMP, or the COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program — a program of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to provide financial relief to workers affected by project suspensions was submitted to the Regional Office. On the same day, the Commission on Audit and the Department of Budget and Management issued Joint Circular No. 1, Series of 2020 otherwise known as “Interim Guidelines Governing Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) Workers in the Government for the Duration of the State of Calamity and Community Quarantine Due to the Corona Virus Diseases (COVID-19).”

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These pronouncements from the government were hailed by affected workers earning on a daily basis. Even DE Puno lauded the decision of the government to provide daily wage earners income while under quarantine.

“It has been a welcome relief for our job order employees worried for financial support during the quarantine period.” DE Puno stated

Nueva Ecija goes into Lockdown

Then the lockdown was declared.

On March 21, 2020 the Provincial Government confirmed two (2) COVID-19 cases – one in Cabanatuan City and another from San Isidro town. Both were confined at the Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center in Cabanatuan. On March 23, a third case from Gen. Natividad, Nueva Ecija was confirmed.

All LGU’s swiftly moved to close their borders and enhanced the presence of uniformed personnel to man the checkpoints. But amid the fear of the COVID-19, it has been business as usual in the office.

Skeleton workers, our front liners continuously report to work to attend to any emergencies that will require assistance from the agency. One service vehicle was requested by Dr. PJGMRMC to transport their workers based in the 4th Legislative District.

Life under lockdown is hard. And as some of the employees relate, here are some thoughts on living in the times of COVID-19: “Habang ako ay nasa bahay bilang pagtalima sa STAY HOME advisory ng ating Pangulo, napagnilayan ko ang kahalagahan ng pag iingat sa kalusugan at buhay. Ang pagkakaroon ng QUALITY TIME with my family and loved ones na dati rati ay tuwing gabi ko na lang nakikita pag uwi ko mula sa trabaho... ang kahalagahan ng pagkakataong magnilay, to do soul-searching and reflect on what really matters in life, and to commune with God. Patuloy tayong manalangin na matapos na ay tuluyan nang mawala ang COVID-19. We believe that our Lord Jesus C - hrist can O - vercome the V - irus and I - nfectious D - isease.

Amen.

”

- Ms. Jeannette T. Pascual

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“Natutunan ko na mas pahalagahan, mahalin at ingatan ang buhay at pamilya na kaloob sa atin ng Panginoong Dios kasi isang iglap maari tayong mamatay.

Kaya habang binibigyan tayo ng buhay at kalakasan matutunan natin itong ipaglingkod sa Kanya at sa ating Kapwa. ” -Engr. Eulogio C. Pesa

“COVID-19 pandemic! It is like a nightmare but it is real. Because of covid, we face a serious crisis. We don’t even know when it will end. All I can say is just “stay at home, stay safe, pray and believe in miracle. If there’s a will, there’s a way! Tiwala lang!”

-Ms. Marissa B. Ramos “Mahirap na walang swelduhin. Pero mas mahirap isakripisyo yung health mo. Yung pera naman kasi kikitain din yan pero yung life mo at life ng mga taong nakapaligid sayo hindi na maiibalik yon. Saka ang hirap labanan ng COVID-19 kasi may mga case na wala namang symptoms na nararamdaman. Ang worst pa dito hindi mo alam kung yung mga nakakasalamuha mo outside is carrier na ng virus.

Kawawa ka at siyempre, worst pa na to, mahahawahan mo yung family, friends, workmates mo ng wala kang kaalam alam. Saka isa pa sa learning ko is wala namang mawawala kung susunod ka sa government about mga precautions at ibang pagbabawal nila lumabas. Kasi at the end of the day ikaw lang naman din magsasuffer pag nagkavirus ka eh.

Kung nagstay ka nalang sa bahay kagaya ng paalala ng gobyerno at least kahit papano nalessen yung possibilities na mahawa at makahawa ka pa. Hangga’t may mga pasaway na tao na di sumusunod dahil feeling nila COVID free sila mas tatagal itong virus na to rito sa Pilipinas. Tayo lang din makakatulong sa sarili natin. Stay away from crowded places. Stay at home .”

-Anonymous

“Since all of us are in a lockdown process staying at home with our family praying for everyone, safety is the safest isolation we have made... We always wash our hands, use disinfectants and we always drink home-made lemon juice with ginger, taking vitamins to boost our immune system and be healthy we also avoid handshakes or contact with strangers because as we all know pandemic COVID-19 is so dangerous and we don’t even know who are infected already... We don’t have to panic, instead be cautious and let us all pray that the world will overcome this pandemic… In Jesus name all will be healed Amen .”

-Engr. Eulalia M. Contreras

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“It is important that we be one at this time when our world is experiencing such pandemic - putting aside our social and political differences. It is important that we practice our social responsibility of making sure we do our part so as not to further increase the number of infected individuals. Precautionary measures, regardless of how small it is as wearing a mask or big it is as staying at home, collectively, would do a great part in further mitigating the spread of the virus.”

-Engr. Edwin R. Contreras “Natutuhan nating maging mas malapit sa Dios na lumikha sa atin sapagkat sa mga ganitong kasakunaan wala tayong ibang malalapitan at maaasahan kundi ang awa at habag ng ating Panginoon. Natutunan nating maging malinis sa ating sarili at sa kapaligiran. Nagkaroon tayo ng oras sa ating pamilya bagaman ang iba sa atin ay hindi maiwasang pumasok sa trabaho dahil sa tawag ng tungkulin.”

-Engr. Rowena E. Galut

“COVID-19 PANDEMIC! Let us surrender our worries and tired souls to our Creator and through this we can survive in fighting COVID-19 PANDEMIC. Discipline ourselves to prevent, stop the virus. Follow the instruction of our leaders because if we are united as one in one direction, for sure, COVID-19 will end soon because GOD is watching us and always there to protect us! Have strong faith in Him!!!! ” -Engr. Ramil C. Ramos “Nakakatakot ang COVID-19 lalo na hindi talaga natin nakikita yung kalaban natin. Especially samin na may baby na inaalagaan. Nung una ok lang kasi wala pa rito sa Nueva Ecija and then lahat nagbago nung nagkaroon ng positive tapos ang lapit pa rito sa amin nung isang nagpositive. Mas naging intense ung pagiingat lalo na sa pagiging metikuloso sa mga pupuntahan at mga mahahawakang bagay.”

-Engr. Kevin V. Garcia

“During the Pandemic COVID-19, I have experienced for the first time how the surroundings could be when a pandemic happens. I’ve learned that a lot of people become selfish and harsh to others who are in need and some people are not. And also, I have learned how to cooperate with the government just by staying home while letting the virus subside.”

-Ms. Shyra Lee Concepcion

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“Kailangan tulungan natin ang bansa natin .

Sumunod sa pinag uutos na huwag muna tayo lumabas ng bahay. Malaking tulong na yan sa bansa at nakaiwas ka pa sa virus na dala ng COVID-19.”

-Engr. Olivia C. Olivay

“We are currently experiencing lockdowns all over Luzon. And as parents, home quarantine both have advantage and disadvantage. It is the best way we can prevent the spread of COVID-19. On the other hand, it is difficult as we, parents, need to support and meet the needs of our families.

We shouldn’t go against the government, cooperation is badly needed! Discipline is the key to stop the virus . Stay home to stay safe!”

-Engr. Belen Adrineda

“Stay at home and pray for the world – these two weapons are the best to combat the contagious disease.

We must follow the orders of the government in order to contain the spread of COVID-19 and let us not give the virus a chance to enter our households. Let us protect ourselves and our families, take part in helping those who do not have enough resources to support themselves during the enhanced community quarantine. We have to be united in this kind of calamitous event because at the end of the day, we are all humans who must help each other especially during tough times.”

-Engr. Edwin L. Lopez

“The threat of the pandemic COVID-19 to the lives of Filipinos is real. Evidenced by the death of thousands infected individuals throughout the world, not to mention the increasing number of confirmed cases and of persons under monitoring and investigation here in the Philippines, maybe we all have come to this simple realization - life in this world is short and uncertain.

In this time of need, we should do our part to prevent the virus from spreading. It is also important that our frontliners who risked their lives in fighting the contagious disease feel that they are not alone in their fight. Let us support them physically if we can, emotionally and spiritually. And above all, let us pray to God to heal our land.”

-Engr. Marlon G. Hernandez

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“When the enhanced community quarantine took effect as a preventive measure to stop the spread of the COVID-19 pathogen, most of us might have asked, what are we going to do now? Well, maybe it’s about time that we spend most of our time with our families. Every day we go to work, and admittedly, we spend most of our time at work. Perhaps the lockdown and the ECQ is God’s way of saying, hey, reflect on what is happening and maybe it’s about time that we start rebuilding our faith. During the lockdown, we also saw images of people struggling, trying to earn a living amid the pandemic – the poor. If they don’t work, they don’t eat. I hope that in our own little ways, we have contributed something that will somehow alleviate their conditions. Let us show our sympathy. Let us offer what we can give to those people who barely support themselves in this catastrophic event. Let us show to everyone that humanity still exists. Let us all remain calm, healthy and safe, and believe that we will overcome this pandemic COVID-19.” -DE Ricardo M. Puno

The COVID-19 is a contagious disease that causes severe acute respiratory disease to an infected person and was declared by the World Health Organization a global pandemic.

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NE 2nd DEO response The Nueva Ecija 2nd DEO has started the implementation of precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 as early as March 16, 2020 with the mandatory thermal scanning of every individual entering the office premises and the adoption of approved work arrangements.

On March 26, 2020, a decontamination tent was installed at the entrance of the office to disinfect vehicles since it is essential during an emergency disease outbreak to stop the disease from spreading to other locations.

The office also helped in transporting medical frontliners, donated forty (40) sets of Personal Protective Equipment to different hospitals in Cabanatuan City, and distributed food packs to vulnerable households affected by the lockdown.

In this time of crisis, it is not enough that people are just giving moral support to our frontliners and empathy to those underprivileged individuals. We should be giving them the support that even a simple effort will give them the encouragement to continue fight the COVID-19.

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Installation of Decontamination Tent DPWH Nueva Ecija 2nd DEO

Free Ride Services for Healthcare Workers

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DISINFECTING OPERATIONS in Converged Areas Daang Maharlika, Cabanatuan City March 27, 2020

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March 31, 2020 Bongabon, Nueva Ecija

April 1, 2020 Brgy. Magtanggol, Brgy. Vega, Brgy. Curva, and Brgy. Lusok Bongabon, Nueva Ecija

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April 2, 2020 Purok 2, 3 and 4 Brgy. Kalikid Sur Cabanatuan City

April 3, 2020 Briones Subd., Purok Uno and DPWH Compound, Brgy. San Isidro De Guzman Subd. and San Nicolas Subd., Bantug Norte Lexber Homes, Brgy. Bangad Cabanatuan City

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April 6, 2020 Brgy. Mabini Homesite and Brgy. Magsaysay Sur Cabanatuan City

April 7, 2020 Brgy. Barrera and Brgy. Sanbermecristi Cabanatuan City

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Distribution of Personal Protective Equipment to Hospitals

April 6, 2020 Premiere Medical Center, Eduardo L. Joson Memorial Hospital, Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center and M. V. Gallego Cabanatuan City General Hospital

Preparation of Food Packs for Distribution

April 6, 2020 and April 16, 2020

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Distribution of Food Packs

April 8, 2020 Gawad Kalinga Village, Brgy. Bakod Bayan, Cabanatuan City

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April 20, 2020 Brgy. Kalikid Sur, Brgy. Cabu, Brgy. Obrero and Brgy. Bangad in Cabanatuan City; Brgy. San Pablo, Jaen; and Brgy. San Francisco, San Antonio, Nueva Ecija

Credits Infographic by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/graphics.html

News Clipping from The Philippine Star t

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/03/16/2001320/duterte-places-entireluzon-under-enhanced-community-quarantine

Breaker Image by Omni Matryx from Pixabay

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/corona-coronavirus-covid-covid-19-5023008/

Background Image 1 by PIRO4D from Pixabay

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/virus-pathogen-infection-biology-4937553/

Background Image 2 by Visuals3D from Pixabay

https://pixabay.com/photos/covid-19-coronavirus-virus-corona-4961257/

Emoji artwork is provided by Emojitwo, originally released as Emojione 2.2 by Ranks.com with contributions from the Emojitwo community and is licensed under CC-BY 4.0.

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ORATIO IMPERATA God our Father, We come to you in our need To ask your protection against the 2019 N-corona virus, That has claimed lives and has affected many.

We pray for your grace for the people tasked with studying the nature and cause Of this virus and its disease and of stemming the tide of its transimission.

Guide the hands and minds of medical experts that they may minister to the sick with competence and compassion and of those governments and private agencies that must find cure and solution to this epidemic.

We pray for those afflicted May they be restored to health soon.

Grant us the grace To work for the good of all And to help those in need.

Grant this through our Lord, Jesus Christ, your Son, Who lives and reigns with You, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.

Mary Help of all Christians, pray for us.

St. Raphael the Archangel, pray for us.

St. Rock, pray for us.

St. Lorenzo Ruiz, pray for us.

St. Pedro Calungsod, pray for us.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/cbcpnews/videos /223016922426313/?v=223016922426313 Image courtesy of pixel2013/Pixabay

District Public Affairs and Information Unit Editorial Team Allan V. Mantaring Editor

Pacifico M. Wycoco II Graphic/Layout Artist

Jervin T. Marasigan Staff Writer

Rowena E. Galut George J. Aruta Charlie L. Dela Torre Contributors

Jerome C. Cartagena Joshua Denise F. Ritual Lester Josh G. Suacoco Researchers

DE Ricardo M. Puno ADE Eduardo V. De Guzman Technical Consultants

Adora De Leon - Sunga Editorial Consultant