DBM Releases P3.744 Billion for Tulong Dunong Program

In a bid to continuously provide Filipino students the opportunity to complete their college education, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Mina F. Pangandaman has approved the release of a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) amounting to a total of P3.744 billion to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

The funds will be used to implement CHED’s Tulong Dunong Program, which provides financial assistance to qualified and deserving students who are pursuing their college degrees. “This scholarship program is a huge help for our dear students, especially those who are having financial difficulty or simply cannot afford to go to college. Providing necessary funds for programs like this gives them a fighting chance to complete their degrees and ultimately give them a better future. As what President Bongbong Marcos said, no Filipino should be left behind,” said Secretary Pangandaman.

The Budget Secretary approved the release of the SARO for this purpose on April 15, 2024. The released amount will benefit around 247,135 student-grantees enrolled in CHED-recognized public and private higher education institutions, to assist them with the costs of tertiary education, for the second semester of Academic Year (AY) 2023-2024 and the first semester of AY 2024-2025.

The Tulong Dunong Program is part of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education - Tertiary Education Subsidy (UAQTE-TES).

Celebrating National Heritage Month 2024: Championing Heritage

The Department of Education (DepEd) has recently issued DepEd Memorandum No. 022, S. 2024 announcing the celebration of the 2024 National Heritage Month (NHM). This annual celebration, declared by Presidential Proclamation No. 439, s. 2003, is observed every May and is spearheaded by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

Theme for 2024: Championing Heritage: Capacity Building to Transform Communities

This year’s theme emphasizes the need to support cultural workers and advocates within local communities and indigenous peoples (IP). The focus is on boosting their knowledge and skills in heritage management. This can be achieved by organizing proper training and capacity-building activities and tools such as basic conservation, historical research, and cultural mapping methodologies, heritage impact assessments, the effective management of museums, galleries, libraries, and archives, and the maintenance of local registries for submission to the Philippine Registry of Heritage (TALAPAMANA).

How Schools Can Participate

Schools, schools division offices (SDOs), and regional offices (ROS) are encouraged to support the 2024 NHM by undertaking related activities. These include:

• Active use, posting, and sharing of the 2024 NHM advocacy materials: This includes the Official 2024 NHM Poster, Facebook Banners, and 2024 NHM Calendar of Activities in all schools divisions and schools’ website and social media accounts.
• Participation in the online campaign thread about the 2024 NHM celebration: Schools can share heritage-related content, including photos, videos, news features, and other collaterals released by the NCCA and NHM Facebook Pages using the hashtags #NHM2024 and #NHMChampioningHeritage.
• Use of various online audiovisual programs and content related to heritage: These can be used as part of instructional materials for students, accessible through the NCCA Learning Hub and/or NHM Facebook Page.
• Organizing own NHM activities and participating in heritage-related events: These can include seminars, webinars, workshops, lectures, and exhibits.
• Preparation of activity implementation reports with high-quality photos: These can be submitted for inclusion in the NHM 2024 Souvenir Program.

Submission of Proposals and Reports

Schools, SDOs, and ROS organizing their own NHM 2024 are requested to fill out the 2024 NHM Activity Proposal Form and send the final information to the NHM secretariat for the inclusion in the Calendar of Activities on or before April 30, 2024. The NHM 2024 reference materials can be accessed through the provided link.

Activity implementation reports with high-quality photos should be submitted on or before June 14, 2024 (Friday). Participation in this activity is voluntary only.

Compliance with DepEd Orders

Participation of learners and teachers from public and private schools shall be purely voluntary and shall not hamper instructional time in compliance with the provisions of DepEd Order (DO) No. 003, s. 2024 titled Amendment to DepEd Order No. 022, s. 2023 (Implementing Guidelines on the School Calendar and Activities for the School Year 2023—2024) and DO 9, s. 2005 titled Instituting Measures to Increase Engaged Time-on-Task and Ensuring Compliance Therewith.

Let’s all come together to celebrate our rich cultural heritage and champion the cause of our cultural workers and advocates. Happy National Heritage Month 2024!

PBBM to Extend Aid to El Niño-Affected Workers

May 01, 2024 - In a recent announcement, President Marcos has pledged financial assistance to laborers in the agriculture and other sectors whose livelihoods have been impacted by the El Niño phenomenon. This aid is part of the government’s ongoing program to alleviate the effects of the persistent drought caused by El Niño.

During his speech at the 122nd Labor Day commemoration at the Malacañan Palace, President Marcos stated, "Sa susunod na araw ay magpapaabot tayo ng tulong pinansyal sa mga lubhang naapektuhan ng El Niño sa buong bansa – yaong mga nasiraan ng pananim at kabuhayan dahil sa tagtuyo’t". This translates to “In the coming days, we will extend financial assistance to those severely affected by El Niño across the country – those whose crops and livelihoods have been damaged due to the drought.”

The President also led the 50th anniversary of the promulgation of the Labor Code of the Philippines, a landmark legislation issued on May 1, 1974, by his father, former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. To commemorate this milestone, President Marcos received the commemorative stamps for the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Labor Code of the Philippines.

The financial aid for workers affected by the El Niño phenomenon is an addition to the ongoing programs of the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The government will prioritize helping those affected in Mindanao.

El Niño, a climate pattern characterized by warming sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, has severe impacts on weather and climate, including prolonged dry spells and extreme heat. These conditions have led to significant crop failures and water shortages, particularly affecting the agricultural sector.

As the country grapples with the effects of El Niño, the government’s financial aid program aims to provide much-needed relief to the hardest-hit workers and sectors.

Niña Ruiz-Abad - The Child Who Might Be the Next Filipino Saint

The Catholic Church has a long history of venerating saints, individuals who have led lives of exemplary holiness and virtue. Now, a new name is being added to this illustrious list - a young girl named Niña Ruiz-Abad.

A Life Cut Short, But Full of Faith

Niña Ruiz-Abad was a Filipino teenager who tragically lost her life to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, an incurable heart disease, at the tender age of 13. Despite her young age and the challenges she faced, Niña’s life was marked by a profound faith and devotion that deeply impacted those around her.

An Unusual Devotion

Niña was known for her strong devotion to the Eucharist and her love for prayer. She was often seen wearing white dresses and a rosary around her neck. While her peers were busy with typical teenage activities, Niña devoted her time to distributing rosaries, Bibles, prayer books, holy images, and other religious items. Her actions were unusual for someone her age, demonstrating a level of piety and reverence that was truly remarkable.

The Road to Sainthood

The process of canonization in the Catholic Church is a lengthy one, involving rigorous investigation and the verification of miracles. The cause for Niña’s sainthood was presented by Laoag Bishop Renato Mayugba before all the Catholic bishops of the Philippines during their biannual plenary. If canonized, Niña could become one of the youngest saints in history and the third Filipino saint, joining the ranks of St. Lorenzo Ruiz and St. Pedro Calungsod.

A Modern-Day Saint

Niña’s story is particularly relevant in our modern world. In a time when faith is often challenged, the story of a young girl’s unwavering devotion serves as a powerful testament to the enduring power of faith. Niña’s potential canonization also highlights the universal call to holiness, reminding us that sainthood is not just for the ancient figures of the past, but for every individual, regardless of their age or circumstances.

In conclusion, the story of Niña Ruiz-Abad is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of faith. As we await the outcome of her cause for sainthood, we are reminded of the profound impact that one young girl’s faith had on those around her. Whether or not she is officially recognized as a saint, Niña’s life serves as a powerful example of holiness and devotion for all of us.

PAGASA Predicts 1 to 2 Storms in May Amid Record-Breaking Heat

May 01, 2024 - The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced on Wednesday that one to two storms could form within or enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this May.

This prediction comes as the Philippines continues to experience record-breaking high temperatures, which are expected to decrease in mid-May as the country transitions from the dry season to the rainy season.

The rainy season in the Philippines typically begins in June and lasts until November. During this period, the country is hit by an average of 20 storms, causing widespread floods and damaging crops and houses.

PAGASA weather specialist Rhea Torres outlined two possible scenarios for the storms this May. The first scenario is that a storm could hit areas in the eastern part of the country before it recurves away from the landmass. In the second scenario, if the storm forms over the east of Mindanao, the weather disturbance could head towards Eastern Visayas, Bicol Region, Mimaropa, including parts of Calabarzon, before it reaches the West Philippine Sea.

As of now, PAGASA has not monitored any low-pressure area inside or outside the Philippine area, and the nation could remain storm-free until next week.

The Philippines, being an archipelagic country, is regularly exposed to tropical cyclones and is among the countries most affected by extreme weather events. The impact of these storms is significant, often resulting in loss of life, displacement of people, and extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture.

As the climate crisis worsens due to greenhouse gas emissions from human activities, the Philippines, despite contributing less than 0.4% to global emissions, faces some of its worst effects in the form of increasingly destructive storms.

Citizens are urged to stay informed about weather updates and to prepare for the potential storms. The government and disaster response agencies are also called upon to ensure readiness to mitigate the impacts of these weather disturbances.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for SSS Funeral Benefit Online

Losing a loved one is a difficult experience, and the last thing you want to worry about during this time is paperwork. Fortunately, the Social Security System (SSS) in the Philippines has made it easier for members to apply for the Funeral Benefit online. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Documents

Before you start the application process, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready. These may include the death certificate of the deceased, funeral receipt, and your SSS ID or any two valid IDs.

Step 2: Log in to your My.SSS account

Go to the SSS website and log in to your My.SSS account. If you don’t have an account yet, you’ll need to register first.

Step 3: Navigate to the E-Services Tab

Once you’re logged in, navigate to the E-Services tab. Click on “Submit Funeral Claim Application.”

Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form

You’ll be directed to an online application form. Fill out all the necessary information accurately. Make sure to double-check all the details before submitting.

Step 5: Upload the Required Documents

Upload scanned copies or clear photos of the required documents. Make sure that all the details are visible and readable.

Step 6: Submit the Application

After filling out the form and uploading the documents, you can now submit your application. You’ll receive a confirmation message once your application has been successfully submitted.

Step 7: Wait for the Confirmation

Wait for the SSS to process your application. You’ll receive an email confirmation once your application has been approved.

Remember, the SSS Funeral Benefit is a cash benefit given to whoever paid for the funeral expenses of the deceased SSS member. It’s one of the ways the SSS provides assistance to its members during their time of need.

For more detailed instructions, you can check out the video tutorial on this link: https://fb.watch/rNDu9ZfFkV/.

Applying for the SSS Funeral Benefit online is a straightforward process. With this guide, we hope to make the process a little less daunting for you during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you.

Top 10 Economies with Largest Share to National Gross Value Added Services

The year 2022 was a remarkable one for the economic performance of the provinces and highly urbanized cities in the Philippines. The services sector, in particular, saw significant growth, contributing to the national gross value added as of November 2023. Here are the top 10 provinces and cities that led the way:

1. Cavite - With an economic growth value added of services at 3.0%, Cavite tops the list. The province’s robust services sector has been a key driver of its economic growth.
2. Laguna - Close behind is Laguna, with a growth value added of 2.9%. The province’s diverse services sector has been instrumental in its economic performance.
3. Bulacan - At 2.8%, Bulacan takes the third spot. The province’s strong services sector has significantly contributed to its economic growth.
4. City of Davao - With a growth value added of 2.7%, the City of Davao ranks fourth. The city’s vibrant services sector has been a major factor in its economic performance.
5. City of Cebu - At 2.1%, the City of Cebu takes the fifth spot. The city’s dynamic services sector has played a crucial role in its economic growth.
6. Cebu - With a growth value added of 1.9%, Cebu ranks sixth. The province’s diverse services sector has significantly contributed to its economic performance.
7. Rizal - Also at 1.9%, Rizal takes the seventh spot. The province’s robust services sector has been a key driver of its economic growth.
8. Pampanga - With a growth value added of 1.9%, Pampanga ranks eighth. The province’s vibrant services sector has been a major factor in its economic performance.
9. Batangas - At 1.8%, Batangas takes the ninth spot. The province’s dynamic services sector has played a crucial role in its economic growth.
10. City of Cagayan - With a growth value added of 1.6%, the City of Cagayan rounds out the top 10. The city’s diverse services sector has significantly contributed to its economic performance.

These figures reflect the economic growth value added of services in each location, encompassing various industries such as wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, transportation and storage, accommodation and food service activities, information and communication, financial and insurance activities, real estate activities, professional scientific & technical activities, administrative & support service activities, public administration & defense compulsory social security education human health & social work activities arts entertainment & recreation other service activities.

The economic performance of these provinces and cities underscores the importance of the services sector in driving economic growth and development. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve and which locations will lead the way in the coming years. Stay tuned for more updates on the economic performance of the provinces and highly urbanized cities in the Philippines.