Kadiwa Outlets in NIA Sell Rice for P20/Kilo

May 07, 2024 - In a gesture of gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., irrigators have begun selling rice for as low as P20 per kilo at Kadiwa outlets of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA). This initiative is a direct result of the numerous aids the Marcos administration has provided to farmers to boost their production.

The move was made possible by the irrigators’ association, which has benefited from government support and now sells the staple as an act of gratitude, said NIA Administrator Eduardo Guillen on Tuesday. “This is an initiative of our irrigators association. They told me when I was talking to them, as a thank you for the many aids they receive from our government. They also offer P20 rice,” Guillen explained during a press briefing in Malacañang.

When asked about the profitability of this initiative, Guillen shared, “I asked, ‘Won’t you lose on that?’ ‘No,’ they said because, again, the input cost is simple math - the cost of inbred, if you plant inbred is P30,000; their yield is P5,000.”

Using the National Food Authority’s 63-percent formula, there will be around P10 peso production cost for every kilo of rice, allowing farmers to earn a 100-percent profit, even doubling the cost, the NIA chief pointed out.

Guillen also mentioned NIA’s large contract farming project, which could offer lower rice prices to the public. “In fact, our estimate there, we can sell for about P29 by August. And we have around 100 million kilos of rice projected to be produced by August,” he told reporters.

“That is the target of the Department of Agriculture (DA), that is our target. The DA said they have a supply in July but for NIA, we will have by August, the P29 rice,” he added.

Kadiwa is one of the programs of the Marcos administration addressing the rising food prices. It also provides farmers, fisherfolks, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with rent-free venues to sell their produce and increase their income. It is a market linkage facilitation program that removed the unnecessary layers in the trading cycle, thereby offering products at much lower prices.

Philippines Records Slight Increase in Inflation for April 2024

Inflation in the Philippines saw a marginal uptick in April 2024, with the headline inflation climbing to 3.8 percent from 3.7 percent in March 2024. Despite this increase, the national average inflation from January to April 2024 settled at 3.4 percent, showing a slight decrease from the same period in 2023 when inflation stood higher at 6.6 percent.

The rise in overall inflation was primarily influenced by a higher year-on-year increase in food and non-alcoholic beverages, which saw a growth rate of 6.0 percent in April 2024 compared to 5.6 percent in the previous month. Additionally, the transport index contributed to the uptrend, recording a 2.6 percent annual growth rate in April 2024.

However, several commodity groups experienced lower inflation rates during the same period, including alcoholic beverages and tobacco, housing, health, recreation, restaurants and accommodation services, and personal care, among others.

Food inflation also experienced an uptick, rising to 6.3 percent in April 2024 from 5.7 percent in March 2024. This increase was mainly driven by the rise in the vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas, and pulses index, along with other food products not elsewhere classified.

Core inflation, excluding selected food and energy items, slowed down to 3.2 percent in April 2024 from 3.4 percent in the previous month, but remained significantly lower than the 7.9 percent recorded in April 2023.

In the National Capital Region (NCR), inflation decelerated to 2.8 percent in April 2024 from 3.3 percent in March 2024. Similarly, Areas Outside NCR (AONCR) witnessed an uptrend in inflation, rising to 4.1 percent in April 2024 from 3.8 percent in March 2024.

Despite the overall increase in inflation, regional disparities persisted, with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao recording the highest inflation rate at 6.3 percent, while Region I (Ilocos Region) registered the lowest at 2.4 percent.

The data, released by the Philippine Statistics Authority, indicates a nuanced picture of inflationary pressures within the country, reflecting both regional variations and specific sectoral dynamics.

Celebrating Health Workers’ Day: A Tribute to Our Everyday Heroes

Health Workers’ Day is a special occasion dedicated to recognizing and honoring the tireless efforts of health workers around the world. These individuals, often working under challenging conditions, are the backbone of our healthcare systems, providing essential services that protect and improve our health. In the Philippines, this day is observed every May 7 by virtue of Republic Act No. 10069.

The Republic Act No. 10069

Signed on April 6, 2010, by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Republic Act No. 10069, also known as the “Health Workers’ Day Act”, declares May 7 of every year as a special working holiday to give due recognition to the important role and contributions of the health workers. This Act applies to all persons who are engaged in health and health-related work regardless of their employment status, including medical, allied health professional, administrative and support services personnel and those employed in hospitals, sanitaria, health infirmaries, health centers, rural health units, barangay health stations, and clinics.

The Role of Health Workers

Health workers encompass a wide range of roles, from doctors and nurses to paramedics, pharmacists, midwives, community health workers, and more. They are the first line of defense against diseases, the caring hands that nurse us back to health, and the knowledgeable minds that guide us through our health journeys.

Challenges Faced by Health Workers

Despite their crucial role, health workers often face numerous challenges. Long hours, high stress levels, and exposure to diseases are just a few of the hardships they endure. In many parts of the world, health workers also grapple with inadequate resources, understaffing, and lack of access to training and development opportunities.

The Importance of Recognition

Recognizing the work of health workers is not just about expressing gratitude; it’s also about raising awareness of the challenges they face and advocating for better conditions and support for them. Health Workers’ Day is an opportunity for us to stand in solidarity with these everyday heroes and to push for policies that ensure their well-being and effectiveness.

Conclusion

As we celebrate Health Workers’ Day, let’s remember to not only express our gratitude but also to listen, learn, and lend our support. After all, a society is only as healthy as those who care for it.

DOWNLOAD School Form 8 (SF8): Learner’s Basic Health and Nutrition Report

The School Form 8 (SF8), also known as the Learner’s Basic Health and Nutrition Report, serves as a critical document in assessing the health and nutritional status of students in Philippine schools. Let’s break down its key elements:

Purpose and Responsibility

• Person Responsible: The class adviser, MAPEH (Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health) teacher, school nurse, or other qualified personnel are responsible for completing the SF8.
• Schedule: The SF8 is prepared within the 1st Quarter of the School Year or as needed.

Data Elements in SF8

1. School Information:

   • School Name: The official name of the school as registered in the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Learner Information System (LIS) or Enhanced Basic Education Information System (EBEIS).
   • School ID: The six-digit official School ID registered with DepEd.
   • District: Name of the Public Schools District where the school is located.
   • Division: Name of the Schools Division Office supervising the school.
   • Region: Name of the Regional Office overseeing the operation of the Schools Division Office.

2. Learner Details:

   • Grade Level: The stage in the basic education cycle associated with the learner’s progression.
   • Section: The class name to which the form belongs.
   • School Year: The prescribed period during which schools offer daily instruction.
   • LRN (Learner Reference Number): A unique twelve-digit identification number assigned to each learner.
   • Name of Learner: The learner’s name as reflected in the birth certificate or equivalent document.
     • Format: Last Name, First Name, Extension Name (if any), Middle Name.
   • Birthdate: The learner’s date of birth.
   • Age: The learner’s age (in whole numbers) during a given cut-off period.

3. Health and Nutritional Assessment:

   • Weight: Learner’s weight expressed in kilograms (kg).
   • Height: Learner’s standing height expressed in meters.
   • Height² (m²): Squared value of the learner’s standing height.
   • Nutritional Status: Determined through the learner’s weight-to-height ratio or Body Mass Index (BMI). Categories include:
     • Underweight
     • Normal Weight
     • Overweight
     • Obese

Significance

The SF8 provides valuable insights into learners’ overall health and nutritional well-being. By monitoring nutritional status, schools can take proactive measures to address any health-related concerns. It also contributes to the development of targeted health programs and interventions.

In summary, the SF8 plays a crucial role in promoting the holistic development of students, ensuring their well-being beyond academics. 🌿📊

DOWNLOAD SF8 HERE.

The Top 10 Contributing Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) in the Philippines

May 06, 2024 - The Philippines, a Southeast Asian country, is home to numerous Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs). These corporations play a significant role in the country’s economy, contributing billions of pesos to the national treasury. Here, we take a closer look at the top 10 contributing GOCCs.

1. Land Bank of the Philippines – PHP32.12 billion

The Land Bank of the Philippines tops the list with a whopping contribution of PHP32.12 billion. As a universal bank, it provides financial services to both the corporate and retail markets, and maintains a special focus on serving the needs of farmers and fishermen.

2. Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation – PHP10.68 billion

The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation, with a contribution of PHP10.68 billion, plays a crucial role in maintaining stability in the Philippine financial system. It does this by providing deposit insurance coverage to depositors and helping manage the impact of bank failures.

3. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas – PHP9.2 billion

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas contributes PHP9.2 billion. As the country’s central bank, it is responsible for ensuring price stability and providing proactive leadership in bringing about a strong financial system.

4. Philippine Ports Authority – PHP5.06 billion

The Philippine Ports Authority has contributed PHP5.06 billion. This government agency is responsible for ensuring efficient and effective port services in support of the country’s trade and economic development.

5. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation – PHP4.60 billion

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation has made a contribution of PHP4.60 billion. This corporation is responsible for regulating and operating all games of chance in the country, particularly casino gaming.

6. Manila International Airport Authority – PHP3.45 billion

The Manila International Airport Authority contributes PHP3.45 billion. This agency is responsible for ensuring that the Ninoy Aquino International Airport provides excellent services to travelers and contributes to the country’s development.

7. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority – PHP3.07 billion

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority has contributed PHP3.07 billion. This agency administers the Subic Special Economic and Freeport Zone, attracting foreign investments and generating employment opportunities.

8. Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office – PHP2.7 billion

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office contributes PHP2.7 billion. This corporation raises funds for health programs, medical assistance, and services, and charities of national character.

9. Philippine National Oil Company – PHP2.64 billion

The Philippine National Oil Company has contributed PHP2.64 billion. This state-owned company is involved in the exploration, development, and production of petroleum resources.

10. National Transmission Corporation – PHP2.16 billion

Lastly, the National Transmission Corporation contributes PHP2.16 billion. This corporation is responsible for operating the country’s power grid.

These top 10 contributing GOCCs play a vital role in the Philippine economy. Their contributions not only support the national budget but also drive growth and development in various sectors. They are a testament to the significant role that public corporations can play in a nation’s economic landscape.

President Marcos Jr. Assures GOCCs Dividends Will Improve Filipino Lives

May 06, 2024 - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured Government-Owned or -Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) on Monday that the dividends they remit to the national government will be used to improve the lives of Filipinos.

As of May 3, GOCCs have remitted PHP88.56 billion in dividends to the state coffers. The President expressed confidence that the remittance of more than PHP100 billion in 2023 will be surpassed this year.

“Since those dividends also come from the people, let me assure you, that they will be carefully spent like the precious taxes that come from the sweat of their brow. It will be plowed back to them through projects and programs that will improve their lives today, and also create a better tomorrow for our children,” Marcos said in his speech during the GOCCs’ Day at Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

He added, “It will be invested back to growth-inducing activities that create jobs and harness opportunities.”

Under Republic Act 7656, all GOCCs are required to remit at least 50 percent of their annual net earnings as cash, stock or property dividends to the national government.

Marcos said the remitted dividends “will yield more dividends, unleashing a virtual cycle that lifts up those we serve to a higher standard of living.”

He also honored GOCCs for their invaluable contributions not only to the nation’s coffers, but also to the continued progress of the Philippines as envisioned under the administration’s “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) campaign.

The top 10 contributing GOCCs are as follows:

1. Land Bank of the Philippines – PHP32.12 billion
2. Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation – PHP10.68 billion
3. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas – PHP9.2 billion
4. Philippine Ports Authority – PHP5.06 billion
5. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation – PHP4.60 billion
6. Manila International Airport Authority – PHP3.45 billion
7. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority – PHP3.07 billion
8. Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office – PHP2.7 billion
9. Philippine National Oil Company – PHP2.64 billion
10. National Transmission Corporation – PHP2.16 billion.

These corporations have played a significant role in the economic development of the country, and their contributions are expected to continue under the current administration.

Marcos Aims for Return to Traditional School Calendar by Next Year

May 06, 2024 - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed his hopes on Monday to revert to the traditional June-March school calendar by next year.

During an impromptu interview in Pasay City, Marcos discussed the Department of Education’s (DepEd) proposal to return to the old school calendar. The President, citing class cancellations due to extreme heat from El Niño, affirmed the necessity of this shift.

“I asked DepEd for that and I asked Vice President and Education Secretary Inday Sara Duterte to give me a concerted plan because it looks like we don’t have to wait anymore and it seems necessary. I don’t see any objections really from anyone especially with the El Niño,” Marcos told reporters.

He added, “So, it’s really necessary. So yes, that’s part of the plan that we’re trying to do, to bring it back already to the old schedule. I think it would be better for the kids.”

When asked about the timeline for this shift, the President responded, “Hopefully by next year, yes, this will end.”

In response to public demands for an immediate return to the old school calendar due to extreme heat, DepEd has suggested to Marcos to conclude the upcoming school year 2024-2025 in March 2025 and commence the succeeding school year in June.

DepEd Undersecretary and Spokesperson Michael Poa, in a Zoom interview, stated that the agency is committed to following President Marcos’s order. “The Department of Education will implement and will abide by the decision of the President about the reversion to June to March or our original school calendar,” he said.

DepEd presented Marcos with several options, including an earlier end to the school year 2024-2025 on March 31, 2025, which would result in fewer days for in-person classes, equivalent to 165 days.

Poa clarified that these options were not solely influenced by the country’s climate. “The reason behind our proposal is one, this is preferred by the majority of our people. Secondly, of course, economic considerations to our local tourist destinations,” he explained.

Moving forward, Poa mentioned that learning disruptions may be prevented despite the looming La Niña through the implementation of alternative delivery modes (ADM). Under the ADM approach, learners may continue their tasks via online classes, modules, or blended learning.

As of Monday, 7,372 out of 47,678 public schools nationwide have implemented ADM.