4 TH QUARTER ISSUE October - December 2018 FILIPINO TIES THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF CFO www.cfo.gov.ph

PHILIPPINES CELEBRATES THE MONTH OF OVERSEAS AND THE INTERNATIONAL MIGRANTS DAY Next page -->

IN THIS ISSUE National Capital Region’s Regional Development celebrates the Monthof and Plan 2017-2022 launched, p.22 the International Migrants Day, p.1 Batangas celebrates Annual Migration Day; Localized Government Quality Body lauds CFO for Balinkbayan Website Launched, p.23 ISO 9001:2015 mark, p.16 tackles Migration and Development CFO lauds US Government for returning from a gender lens, p.25 , p.18 The Municipality of Rosales, launches Sub-committee on International Migration and localized Balinkbayan website, p.26 Development (SCIMD) National-Regional meet CFO conducts capacity building trainings on the for the first time, p.20 Balinkbayan Project for Cebu City officials, p.27

December is the most joyous month of the FilTies Editorial Team year. In the Philippines, it is celebrated as the “Month of Overseas Filipinos” in honor of the significant contributions of the more than Editors: Rodrigo V. Garcia, Marita D. Apattad 10 million overseas Filipinos to Philippine Michelle Dawn Bande development and nation-building. In the global scene, the United Nations General Assembly Contributors: Andrea Luisa C. Anolin, Erwin Paul S. Cristobal, proclaimed December 18 as International Warner A. Dawal, Princess Mayumi Kaye Peralta, Migrants Day in 2000. Patricia Marie M. Salvador, Frencel Louie T. Tingga

Layout: The Inter-Agency Committee on the Troy Agcanas Celebration of the Month of Overseas Filipinos (IAC-MOF), chaired by the Philippine Migrants Rights Watch (PMRW) and co- chaired by the Commission on Filipinos NATIONAL FORUM ON MIGRATION Overseas (CFO) led the celebration of the MOF Hotel Jen, Pasay City and the International Migrants Day through December 18, 2018 conduct of a series of fora for the migrants and their families in the national, regional and The National Forum on Migration which was international level, migrants’ health fair and held at Hotel Jen in Pasay City on December cineforum on migration. This year’s theme is 18, 2018 – the International Migrants Day, “Kaalaman sa Pera, Maginhawang Buhay ang served as the culminating activity in the series Dala: Towards Financial Literacy for Overseas of fora for this year. It was attended by 250 Filipinos and their Families.” This is in line participants that include overseas Filipinos, with the policy pronouncement of providing OFW families, academe, representatives from assistance to overseas Filipinos and bringing the government and other stakeholders in government services closer to migrants, the migration process. It was supported by including financial literacy and investment the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking opportunities for overseas Filipinos and their (IACAT) chaired by the Department of Justice. families.

The guests and participants of the National Forum on Migration

Page 2 returning OFs and OFWs; Ms. Olive O. Rivera of DTI who discussed entrepreneurship and investment opportunities for overseas Filipinos; and Usec. Astravel Pimentel-Naik who discussed PESO Sense: Financial Literacy Campaign for Overseas Filipinos and Their Families, and friendly financial tips for OFs and OFW Families.

Dir. Andrelyn R. Gregorio of OWWA, Mr. Aurelio B. Miguel of Pag-IBIG Fund, Mr. Antonio Danao of PhilHealth, Mr. Romell V. CFO Secretary Nick Acosta, Ms. Mel Nuqui with the resource speakers Regino of SSS, and Ms. Caroline J. Mutia of Following this year’s theme, Ms. Carmelita DSWD discussed updates on their respective Nuqui gave the welcome remarks and shared government programs and services for OFs the several activities organized by the IAC- and OFWs. MOF since October 2018. POEA Administrator Bernard Olalia delivered the keynote message The Forum served as a god platform to of DOLE Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III. He discuss about the different issues of and recent stated the importance of collaborative work initiatives concerning Filipino migrants such among the migration stakeholders to empower as the Global Compact on Migration, the migrants for financial stability. CFO Secretary Justice Francisco “Nick” Acosta also graced the event.

Resource speakers include Assistant City Prosecutor Rey P. Inciong of IACAT-DOJ who discussed the status of human trafficking in the Philippines and interventions provided to overseas Filipino victims and survivors; Mr. Karl Christian Vega, a former OFW from Dubai and a MOFYA awardee who shared his success story as a migrant returnee. He currently CFO Undersecretary Astra P. Naik while presenting the PESO Sense owns and manages various businesses that include KCVega Construction and Supply and endemic problem on poverty that often leads KCVega Properties, involved in construction, to migration, trafficking involving family real properties, dormitories, resort and hotel members as perpetrators, and the importance accommodations; Ms. Lenlen Mesina of of engaging in business and investment for Enrich Hong Kong who discussed the impact OFs and their families who usually have the of financial empowerment education programs financial capital. for migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong; Mr. Melvin D. Caseda of NRCO who discussed The participants were also treated to a raffle the reintegration programs and services for and cultural presentation and soulful song

Page 3 of Health Region 1; and was attended by more than 300 participants composed of migrants, migrant returnees and their families, OFW organizations, government employees and civil society groups, mainly from different cities and municipalities of Pangasinan.

The event started in the morning with the Migrants’ Health Fair. It was graced by Pangasinan Vice Governor Jose Ferdinand Calimlim, Jr. and DOH Regional Director Dr. Valeriano Jesus V. Lopez, who also led the ribbon cutting for the formal opening of the event. With the theme, “Migranteng Pilipino: Kalusugan Iyong Pahalagahan, Maginhawang Buhay Makakamtan”, the health fair provided free basic health, promotional and wellness Ms. Michelle Dawn Bande of CFO while serenading the guests and participants. services to participants. These include hataw group exercise, basic medical and dental check- numbers performed by Tenor Conrado Calnea Ong III (supported by the NCCA) and Ms. Michelle Dawn Bande of CFO. A short film “Ang Pagbabalikbayan ang Bagong Bayanihan” made through the collaborative effort of OWWA, NRCO and IOM was also shown.

The event was hosted by Director Ivy Miravalles of the CFO.

REGIONAL FORA ON MIGRATION OFW families and associations from different municipalites in Lingayen, Pangasinan Pangasinan participated in the Regional Forum. October 16, 2018 up, healthy lifestyle promotion, nutritional OFW families and associations from different assessment, mental health program, blindness municipalites in Pangasinan participated in prevention, distribution of free medicines and the Regional Forum. vitamins, family planning, hands-on CPR demo, and massage. Government services were The first leg of the Regional Forum on also provided by other IAC-MOF members Migration and the Migrants Health Fair and partners such as PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, kicked off at Sison Auditorium in Lingayen, Social Security System, National Reintegration Pangasinan on October 16, 2018. This was Center for OFWs, Overseas Workers Welfare organized in partnership with the Provincial Administration, Department of Trade Government of Pangasinan and Department

Page 4 and Industry, Commission on Filipinos Photos during the Migrants Health Fair and provision of Overseas, and International Organization for various services by the IAC-MOF members Migration through their respective members’ verification and contribution updating and information booths. The participants were also entertained by Danggoan Pangasinan, a cultural dance group.

Page 5 The Regional Forum then followed in the Soriano is a former OFW from Saudi Arabia afternoon. Lance Velasco of Philippine and now serves as the Chairman and President Migrants Rights Watch delivered the opening of LBS Recruitment Solutions Corp. and LBS message of Ms. Carmelita Nuqui, Preident of Solutions, a recruitment agency and software IAC-MOF. solution company, respectively. He is also the President of two biggest associations of licensed Several government agencies presented their recruitment agencies in the Philippines – the respective programs and services: Usec. Philippine Association of Service Exporters Astravel Pimentel-Naik, co-Chair of IAC- Inc. (PASEI) and the Philippine Association MOF, presented CFO’s flagship program - of Manpower Agencies Accredited to Taiwan PESO Sense: Financial Literacy Campaign (PAMAAT). Mr. Vega is a former OFW from for Overseas Filipinos and their Families, Dubai and currently owns and manages various the CFO-LGU of Pangasinan partnership on businesses that include KCVega Construction migration and development, and inspirational and Supply and KCVega Properties, involved stories of OFW returnees who succeeded in construction, real properties, dormitories, in business; Ms. Natalia Dalaten of DTI- resort and hotel accommodations. Mr. Alex Pangasinan Office discussed entrepreneurship Ferrer, PESO Manager and Chair of Pangasinan and investment opportunities that migrant M&D Council, gave the closing remarks. families in Pangasinan should take advantage of such as cold storage, farm tourism, health and The event was hosted by OWWA Deputy wellness, and bangus industry, among others; Administrator Arnell Ignacio and Ms. Hazel Ms. Iries S. Mazon presented the reintegration Sison. programs of NRCO and secured investments for overseas Filipinos. Mr. Ringo Danao of Photos during the Regional Forum on Migration Philheath, Ms. Alma Madalura of Pag-IBIG, Mr. Romell Regino of SSS, Ms. Leiani Bolivar of DSWD, and Ms. Pinky Santi of Pag-IBIG presented updates on their programs and services for overseas Filipinos. Mr. William Perez and Ms. Jenny Mariano discussed IOM’s MigApp, an institutional tool that leverages current technology and the widespread use of mobile telecommunications to bring a secure and user-friendly downloadable app which serves as a one-stop-shop platform where migrants can access current, reliable and practical information and IOM services.

Mr. Lito Soriano and Karl Christian Vega, Model OFW Family of the Year (MOFYA) awardees shared their success stories as former migrants who were able to establish their successful businesses in the Philippines. Mr.

Page 6 Photos during the Regional Forum on Migration

NEGROS ORIENTAL November 9, 2018

Participants to the Regional Forum are migrant organizations and families from various municipalites of Negros Oriental and Occidental.

The second leg of the Regional Forum was held at Negros Participants to the Regional Forum are migrant organizations and families from various Oriental Convention Center in municipalites of Negros Oriental and Occidental. Dumaguete, Negros Oriental on government employees, OFW organizations November 9, 2018. The event was organized in from different cities and municipalities of partnership with the Provincial Government Negros Oriental and Occidental. It was graced of Negros Oriental under the leadership of by IAC Chairperson Carmelita Nuqui, Assistant Governor Roel Ragay Degamo; and was attended Provincial Administrator Atty. Froilan Joseph by more than 200 participants composed of Pinili and PESO Manager Ramon Benedicto of migrants, migrant returnees and their families, the Provincial Government.

Page 7 The event started with free consultation with migration-related agencies for migrants and their families. Officers and representatives from the CFO, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Labor and Employment, National Reintegration Center for OFWs, Overseas Workers Welfare and Administration, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Statistics Authority, and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, provided assistance and information materials, and entertained inquiries (on ATN cases, scholarship program for dependents of OFWs, passporting, human trafficking, setting up of business, etc.) from the participants. The PhilHealth, Social Security System and Pag-IBIG offered first time membership application and registration services, and updates on contributions for their respective members.

During the free consultation with migration-related agencies for migrants and their families

Page 8 After the consultation, the forum commenced Ambassador highlighting the different financial literacy Olivia Palala of programs and investment opportunities for DFA, Mr. Reynaldo overseas Filipinos and their families. Several Jacalan of OWWA, government agencies presented their respective Ms. Ligaya G. programs and services. Ms. Michelle Dawn Dael of DSWD, Bande (who represented CFO Secretary Nick Ms. Paulina Acosta and Usec. Astravel Pimentel-Naik) B. Taguinod presented CFO’s flagship program - PESO Sense: of Philheath, Financial Literacy Campaign for Overseas Mr. Fernando Filipinos and their Families, easy saving tips De Castro of Assistant Provincial Administrator and productive use of remittances. Ms. Nimfa Atty. Froilan Joseph Pinili delivering Pag-IBIG, and the welcome message in behalf of M. Virtucio of DTI-Negros Oriental discussed Governor Degamo Atty. Sylvette tips on how to become successful entrepreneurs Sybico of SSS, and the factors needed to consider when setting presented updates on their programs and up a business. Ms. Valerie Anne Jill I. Valero of services (covering ATN, repatriation, welfare, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas discussed financial reintegration, labor assistance, health, housing, inclusion initiative of the BSP, microfinance and pension) for overseas Filipinos. financial products available for OFs and their families, consumer assistance, tips on The participants were treated with good food avoiding frauds and scams, debt and credit and entertained with jazz song numbers by card management. the Negros Oriental Jazz Band with the special Mr. Dexter F. Paro participation of Ms. Bande, and a delightful of the NRCO Filipino cultural dance by Kahayag Dance presented the Company Philippines. reintegration programs of DOLE and secured Photos taken during the Regional Forum on Migration investments for overseas Filipinos.

Ms. Jenilyn

Ms. Carmelita Nuqui, Chair of IAC-MOF Encierto shared delivering the opening message her success story as a migrant returnee. She and her husband used to work in Dubai, UAE in the food and hospitality service. They decided to return to their hometown to personally take care of their growing son, and invested their hard earned money from working abroad, by opening Flower’s Coffee, a quaint coffee shop in Dauin, Negros Oriental. They are also engaged in food catering business.

Page 9 Photos taken during the Regional Forum on Migration

CAGAYAN DE ORO, MISAMIS ORIENTAL Office 10. As one of the pre-MOF activities November 13, 2018 of the IAC-MOF, it was attended by more than 400 participants composed of migrants, The IAC-MOF concluded its series of Migrants’ migrant returnees and their families, OFW Health Fair and Regional Forum on Migration organizations, government employees and civil at the University of Science and Technology society groups, mainly from different cities and of Southern in Cagayan de Oro municipalities of Misamis Oriental. City, Misamis Oriental on November 13, 2018. The activity was organized in partnership The event started in the morning with the with the Provincial Government of Misamis Migrants’ Health Fair where DOH Region 10 Oriental and Department of Health Regional Regional Director Nimfa Torrizo welcomed

The participants to the Regional Forum on Migration and Migrants Health Fair

Page 10 Department of Trade and Industry, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Department of Trade and Industry, and Commission on Filipinos Overseas Filipinos.

Ms. Brillalyn Sibonga of DSWD, Mr. Rhona Fahigal of OWWA, Ms. Mary Grace Eugenio of Pag-IBIG, Ms. Elryn Salcedo of PhilHealth,

Governor Emano leading the ribbon cutting and Ms. Elena Clemente of SSS presented updates on their programs and services for the guests, speakers, and participants of the overseas Filipinos. forum. It was later graced by Misamis Oriental Provincial Governor Yevgeny Vincente Several government agencies presented their Emano, who also led the ribbon cutting for respective programs and services: Mr. Michael the formal opening of the event. With the Apattad presented CFO’s flagship program theme, “Migranteng Pilipino: Kalusugan - PESO Sense: Financial Literacy Campaign Iyong Pahalagahan, Maginhawang Buhay for Overseas Filipinos and their Families; Mr. Makakamtan”, the health fair provided free Angelito Acupan of the Bangko Sentral ng basic health, promotional and wellness services Pilipinas discussed microfinance and financial to participants. These include hataw group inclusion initiatives for overseas Filipinos; exercise, basic medical and dental check- Ms. Jesusa Abear of DTI Misamis Oriental up, healthy lifestyle promotion, nutritional discussed entrepreneurship and investment assessment, distribution of free medicines and opportunities that migrant families in the vitamins, and free eyeglasses to senior citizens. province should take advantage of; Ms. Marry Government services were also provided by Gill Damasing of the NRCO discussed guides other IAC-MOF members and partners such as for overseas Filipinos to secured investments. PhilHealth, Pag- Personal stories were also shared during the IBIG, Social forum by Ms. Zusette Alaba, Ms. Rosalina Security System, Sabuga-a, Mr. Ronald Prosia, and Dr. Marilu Dizon.

One of the participants also commented: “Mahalaga ang mga ganitong forum at pagdala at paglapit sa mga tao ng mga serbisyo ng ibat-ibang ahensa ng gobyerno. Ang kapatid ko kliyente ng CFO at nasa ibang bansa na rin. Maraming matututunan ang ating mga kababayan na nais mangibang bansa.”

During the health fair and hataw exercise

Page 11 Photos during the Regional Forum on Migration

The participants were entertained throughout population working in the largest and most the the day with the performances by the populous city of the country - Dubai. Gintong Amihan Dance Troupe, the Provincial Band of Misamis Oriental, and DOH Region It was graced by Consul General Paul 10 personnel. Raymund Cortes and Labor Attache Felicitas Bay. Resource speakers from the government, Dr. Jocelyn P. Torrecampo gave the closing private sector and the civil society who came remarks and thanked the participants who from the Philippines and UAE shared and represent all the cities and municipalities of discussed various programs and services on Misamis Oriental. The event was hosted by financial literacy, migration and reintegration, Mr. Eric Yee and Ms. Nur-Aian Caridad of tips on budgeting and saving, and business and DOH Region 10 and later in the afternoon investment opportunities. They include Ms. with Deputy Administrator Arnell Ignacio of Carmelita Nuqui of the Philippine Migrants OWWA. Rights Watch, Mr. Roel Martin of the National Reintegration Center for OFWs, Mr. Frencel Tingga of the Commission on Filipinos INTERNATIONAL FORUM ON MIGRATION Dubai, United Arab Emirates November 30, 2018

Free financial awareness seminar was given to more than 120 OFWs at the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on November 30, 2018. Home to more than 600,000 Filipinos, UAE is a major destination of OFWs with the majority of the Filipino Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes welcoming the OFW participants during the Forum

Page 12 Overseas, Welfare Officer Danilo Flores of Photos during the International Forum on Migration in Dubai Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Trade Attache Charmaine Mignon Yalong of the Department of Trade and Industry, Social Welfare Attaché Judith Bacwaden of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Ms. Lowella Recto of Pag- IBIG Fund, Mr. Mark Roue Oliva of the Social Security System, Mr. Allan Miranda of The Global Filipino Investors, and Ms. Jessie Quintilla of EntrePinoy Social Enterprise.

Some of the programs and services highlighted during the Forum are “Small Business Management Training and Financial Awareness Seminar”, “Sa Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am/Sir (SPIMS)”, PESO Sense: Philippine Financial Freedom Campaign”, “BaLinkBayan: Overseas Filipinos’ One Stop Online Portal”, “Overseas Filipinos Remittances for Development (OF- RED)”, “Special Training for Employment Program”, “Kapatid Mentor Me Program”, “Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-Asenso (P3)”, “Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program”, “OWWA OFW E-Card”, “Modified Pag-IBIG 2 Savings Program”, and “SSS Flexi- fund Program”. These may be availed or accessed by OFWs and/or their families.

Philippine representatives also got to “meet and greet” with the more than 300 distressed Filipinas (mostly run-away) housed at the Migrant Workers and Other Filipinos Resource Center of POLO.

Dubai is a global “open” city and business hub of the Middle East. Thousands of Filipinos are attracted to live and work in Dubai because of the competitive remunerative package offered by employers and the ease of getting visit visa and converting it afterwards to work visa.

Page 13 KUALA LUMPUR, November 24, 2018

The second leg of the international forum was held at One Hall KLCC Auditorium and Multipurpose Hall, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on November 24, 2018. Around 200 representatives from various Filipino organizations and representatives from local manpower agencies attended the forum. It was graced by Around 200 participants attended the International Forum on Migration in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Philippine Embassy’s Second Secretary, Ms. Rachel Oronce, reminding that a lot of Filipinos in Malaysia and Philippine Labor Attaché to Malaysia, Ms. were victimized by the Aman Futures Scam. Elizabeth Marie Estrada. Meanwhile, Dir. Hilario Villagonzalo of the Department of Health presented the medical Following this year’s theme, member agencies of repatriation service for overseas Filipinos. Ms. the IAC-MOF discussed their financial literacy Rosa Katrina Banzon, current Commercial programs and services, as well as other projects Attaché to Malaysia (DTI), also shared on savings and investments. Ms. Ivy Miravalles investment opportunities for overseas Filipinos of the CFO presented the PESO SENSE, and the back in the Philippines in her interactive Philippine government’s interventions against presentation and defined the importance of human trafficking. Mr. Floi Wycoco, President how remittances can be important instruments of The Global Filipino Investors, discussed the of the development of the Philippine economy, investment marketplace in the Philippines. He especially when channeled wisely into savings also provided advice regarding where OFWs and fruitful investments. should direct their hard-earned savings, Overseas Workers Welfare The members of the IAC-MOF and resource persons Administration, Pag-IBIG, and Social Security System also provided updates on the programs and services that can be accessed by OFWs and their families.

OFWs with inspiring stories were also part of the program. First was from Ms. Marlyn Balbuena, lady-in-waiting for the Sultanah of Pahang. Second was from Engr. Allan Secretario, who manages Hume Concrete’s factory. All of

Page 14 them shared their life story as an OFW, and also tips for the OFW participants to be better workers in Malaysia.

An open forum was also conducted before the end of the program, for participants to The IAC-MOF members and participants to the forum clarify and have better understanding of all the open forum, exhausting questions on OWWA’s programs and services presented to them in programs and services, in which Welfare the day. A critical discussion of disinformation Officer Ramos and LabAtt Estrada diligently and clarification mostly took the slot for the attended to.

CINEFORUM ON MIGRATION The Cinematheque Centre , Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) December 14, 2018

In line with the month-long celebration of 2018 MOF, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and IAC-MOF screened for free the film “Bagahe” at the Cinematique Centre Manila. The film starring Angeli Bayani and directed by Zig Dulay, explores the life of an OFW, named Mercy, who is suspected of abandoning a newborn child in a trash bin of an airplane toilet. The film shows what happens to her while being investigated. It also tackles social cost of migration and abuses faced by OFW domestic workers in the Middle East.

Page 15 GOVERNMENT QUALITY

CFO towards excellence (center) CFO’s Secretary, Justice Francisco P. Acosta BODY LAUDS CFO FOR (Ret.) and CFO Executive Director, Usec. Astravel Pimentel-Naik, proudly show the GQMC recognition of CFO’s ISO ISO 9001:2015 MARK 9001:2015 Certification. Also in attendance are the senior officers of the Commission.

The Government Quality Management Executive Offices (OEO) classification that was Committee (GQMC) has recognized the recognized in this year’s batch of 61 awardees Commission on Filipinos Overseas for by the GQMC. Director Maria Regina Angela attaining ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Galias and Mr. Rodrigo Garcia, Jr. received the Systems (QMS) Certification during the 6th certificate on behalf of the Commission. Recognition Ceremony held on October 25, 2018 at the Agoncillo Hall of the Philippine The awardees consist of 13 Departments International Convention Center. and Attached Agencies, 1 Other Executive Office (OEO), 5 Government –Owned and – The CFO was recognized by the GQMC Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), 24 Local headed by Budget Secretary Water Districts (LWDs), 10 State Colleges and for successfully establishing an agency-wide Universities (SUCs) and 8 Local Government Quality Management System certified to ISO Units (LGUs) which were certified within the 9001:2015 Standards. period of September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2018. The CFO is the sole agency under the Other

Page 16 Another feather on CFO’s cap. Dir. Regina Galias on behalf of the CFO, receives the GQMC Certificate of Recognition from (l-r) SVP Magdalena Mendoza of DAP; Asec. Roosque Calacat of DILG; Usec. Janet Abuel of DBM; and Usec. Ireneo Vizmonte of DTI.

Quality Management Systems in government is a directive from the Office of the President to all departments and agencies of the Executive Branch including To date, there are only 185 government agencies all government-owned and/ and instrumentalities who are certified to the or controlled corporations (GOCC) and latest ISO 9001:2015 standards. government financial institutions (GFIs), via Executive Order No. 605. All government The GQMC annually recognizes government entities are directed to adopt the ISO 9001:2000 agencies, government-owned and controlled Quality Management Systems as part of the corporations, state universities and colleges, implementation of a government-wide quality and local government units for their QMS management program. obtaining ISO 9001 Certification. The latest version of ISO CFO’s journey towards 9001:2015 incorporates establishing its ISO-certified risk management to enable Quality Management organizations to identify System (QMS) began in the and provide a systematic last quarter of 2015, with approach to risk for the Development Academy more efficient quality of the Philippines (DAP) management system. as its QMS consultant. The ISO 9001:2015 is by Throughout the long and far, the most recognized arduous process towards and implemented quality clearly defining its core management system processes of Migrant standard in the world. Welfare Services, Policy Development, Program With its quality Management, support policy statement aptly processes to Filipino summarized by its mantra The GQMC Certificate of Recognition of Emigrants and Migrants, CFO’s QMS efforts. of Kalidad na Serbisyo sa and Administrative and Mamayan, Abot sa Labas Finance Support Services, CFO’s QMS Core ng Bayan, CFO vows to maintain and sustain Team remained steadfast and committed in the the quality standards in its entire processes face of daunting challenges that came its way. and procedures as it contribution in enhancing public sector performance and making The institutionalization of the program on government organizations citizen-driven.

Page 17 CFO LAUDS US GOVERNMENT FOR RETURNING BALANGIGA BELLS

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) the US government to return the Bells, which lauds the US government’s efforts and for are part of the country’s national heritage fulfilling its promise to return the historic and reminders of the gallantry and heroism Balangiga Bells to the Philippines after more of our forebears who resisted the American than 117 years. colonizers and sacrificed their lives in the process. For Filipinos, the Bells are not only Led by Secretary and Chairperson Justice sacred, religious relics. They symbolize the Francisco “Nick” Acosta and Usec. Astravel country’s aspiration and struggle for freedom Pimentel-Naik, the CFO is one of the and national independence. government agencies that has been lobbying for the return of the Bells for the past years, and has A year after, following a series of consultations been supportive of the diplomatic endeavours and joint efforts both from the Philippines and of the Office of the President, Department of the US to ensure appropriate and legal steps Foreign Affairs and other related agencies and are taken, the three Bells have finally returned organizations. home on December 11, 2018. After the turn- over ceremony at the Villamore Airbase, the During his July 2017 State of the Nation Bells are scheduled to be brought to Balangiga, Address, President asked Eastern Samar on December 14, where

Three Balangiga Bells arrived at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City. Photo courtesy of Sen. Koko Pimentel

Page 18 President Duterte will attend the homecoming capable of carrying arms were to be shot. This and reinstallation of the Bells ceremony. directive caused the deaths of ten of thousands Previous administrations have worked so of Filipino civilians and the total destruction hard in lobbying for the Bells’ return, but the of the town. After razing the town of Samar, culmination of several decades of pleas and the church Bells in Balangiga, which were petitions happened during the strong and able used to signal the surprise attack by Filipino leadership of President Duterte. guerillas were seized as war booties in 1901 by the US 11th Infantry Regiment, known The return of the Balangiga Bells signify closure as the “Wyoming volunteers.” The bells were of Filipino-American War (1899-1901), one of previously enshrined at the Trophy Park of the darkest chapters of Philippines’ history, a the F. E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, war that marred the long history of alliance Wyoming. The third bell was in the possession between the two countries. The capture of of a US Army unit in Tongduchon, South the Bells traces its roots to the war between Korea. American soldiers and Filipino guerrillas on September 28, 1901 in the coastal town of Since 1950s and after the country gained Balangiga in Eastern Samar. The bells were independence from the US, the Philippine taken as war trophies from the Church of government, religious organizations and Balangiga, following a surprise attack by several good-hearted groups and individuals hundreds of local Filipino residents on the US (both in the Philippines and US) have been war veterans of Company C, 9th US Infantry working assiduously to gain US support for the Regiment. The attackers, led by Katipunan return of the bells. It took more than a century General Vicente Lukban, were protesting the for the return of the Bells mainly because of starvation forced on them by the destruction the two contrasting versions (Filipino and and seizure of their food stocks, the rounding American) of the Balangiga Massacre. The of villagers for forced labor and detained in American group opposing it has analyzed it crowded cells with little food and water, and as a dastardly, cowardly act carried out against their having been humiliated by the foreign naïve and kindly Americans doing pacification intruders. They were disguised as women, work in the Philippines. For the US military, carrying coffins with bolo and machete-like the Bells are spoils of war, compensation for knives when they attacked the army base. The the loss of life on that terrible day, and badge bloody conflict became popularly known in of honor to the American soldiers who died history as the “Balangiga Massacre,” described in the hands of the Filipinos. The Filipinos, by the US military as its “worst single defeat” in on the other hand, view the Balangiga attack the Philippines and among the worst defeats in as a courageous uprising against a cruel, its entire history. foreign oppressor. For some Filipinos, the bells are symbol of the long, hard struggle for The Americans were initially driven off with independence. For Catholics and people of heavy losses. However, they counter-attacked Balangiga, they are religious relics that need to over the next few weeks. General Jacob Smith be returned to its proper home in the church. instructed that Samar be converted into a “howling wilderness.” All persons over 10 years On November 14, 2018, US Secretary of of age who have not surrendered and were Defense James Mattis announced the return of

Page 19 the Bells to the Philippines during a ceremony II and in many other international wars and at F. E. Warren Air Force Base, following the conflicts in South Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq, support and endorsement by the Members of even the current war against terrorism. It is a US Congress, Department of State and National laudable historic moment, and a milestone in Security Council, and the American Legion Philippine-US relations that will strengthen and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Philippine diplomatic ties and mark a promising future Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez between the two countries. attended the ceremony which marked the beginning of the process to return the Bells to Secretary Acosta and Usec. Pimentel-Naik the Balangiga Church. thank those who have worked bravely and tirelessly to make this day happen. Finally, The return of the Bells is not only an act of the Bells of Balangiga, an unexpected early goodwill from the US, but a symbol of mutual Christmas gift for the Philippines and the town respect and friendship from both countries of Balangiga, will be heard ringing once more who have become allies during World War to where it rightfully belong.

SUB-COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT (SCIMD) NATIONAL – REGIONAL MEET FOR THE FIRST TIME

The first ever SCIMD National – Regional NEDA provided updates on the organization consultative meeting was held last November of SCIMDs at the regional level in line with the 21, 2018 at the Orchid Garden Hotel in November 25, 2015 Memorandum from then Zamboanga City. The meeting, chaired by NEDA Assistant Director General Rosemarie the National Economic and Development G. Edillon on the creation of regional Authority (NEDA) National Policy and counterpart SCIMDs. The following regions Planning Staff Director Reynaldo Cancio as having organized their counterpart SCIMD: Chairperson and the Department of Foreign Ilocos Region, CALABARZON, Bicol Region, Affairs Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Western Visayas, and Davao Region. The Workers Affairs (DFA-OUMWA) Executive establishment of national and regional SCIMDs Director Rico Fos as Vice Chairperson, served is relevant in efforts to mainstream migration as a platform for the national and regional and development concerns in development SCIMDs to meet and discuss concerns on planning at the regional and local levels. migration and development at the national and The SCIMD also serves as the government’s regional levels. mechanism to a) coordinate the development

Page 20 international partners for the formulation of international migration and development related policies, among others

The meeting served as a platform for a much-needed conversation among representatives of the national and regional SCIMDS. DFA-OUMWA Executive Director Fos shared with the body updates on Philippine engagement on the Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM). The Commission on Filipinos Overseas presented and discussed efforts at mainstreaming migration and development at the regional and local levels, including the draft proposed Joint Memorandum Circular on Migration and Development Mainstreaming. Discussion revolved around the continuing need for capacity-building on migration and development both for regional line agencies and local governments.

An important agenda item is the discussion of regional issues

Representatives from the National – Regional Sub-Committee on International Migration and concerns on migration and and Development (SCIMD) meet in Zamboanga City. development with the Chair of a research program for the conduct of went through the various issues policy studies on international migration and raised by the regional representatives. In development, b) report the implementation response to some of the issues tackled, the CFO and consistency of multi-stakeholder and/ provided inputs on migration data and creation or multi-agency programs and policies on of migration and development structures by international migration and development, c) sharing the knowledge materials produced facilitate the setting up of information sharing under the Joint Migration and Development systems between and among stakeholders and Initiative Phase 2 (JMDI2) project.

Page 21 NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION’S REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2017 – 2022

LAUNCHED MMDA officials led by Chairperson Danilo D. Lim present the Regional Development Plan of the National Capital Region

The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) spearheaded the launch of the National For the chapter on Expanding Economic Capital Region’s Regional Development Plan Opportunities in Industry and Services (RDP-NCR) on November 19, 2018 at the through Trabaho at Negosyo, a particular Legenda Villas, Pasig City. The RDP-NCR 2017 strategy identified is to give assistance to OFs – 2022 is “a long term development framework through the following: “pursue skills retooling/ of the region designed to transform Metro upgrading programs for Filipino workers Manila into a highly competitive East Asian and their families; explore the possibility of metropolis”. The RDP-NCR 2017 – 2022 is the aggregating and gathering data to monitor articulation of Metro Manila’s development the number of deployed and returning blueprint, in line with President Rodrigo Roa Filipino migrant workers for policy review Duterte’s 0-10 Point Socioeconomic Agenda, and program development; study how many the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017 returning Filipino migrant workers availed – 2022, AmBisyon 2040, and the Agenda for the reintegration programs and services of Sustainable Development (SDG) 2030. the Philippine government; enhance the local employment facilitation of former OFWs; Similar to the PDP 2017 – 2022 that gives create the enabling that will maximize the deliberate attention to the special circumstances potential for the remittances of OFs; harness the of overseas Filipinos and their families, the savings and skills capabilities of OFWs towards RDP-NCR 2017 – 2022 also integrates specific enabling the local economy to benefit from provisions on OFs and their families across them; and intensify anti-illegal recruitment/ the various chapters. Filipinos living and/or anti-human trafficking to protect job seekers.” working overseas is identified in the chapter on Promoting Awareness and Valuing Cultural For the chapter on Reducing Vulnerability Diversity. One of the strategies for this chapter is of Individuals and Families, as part of the the strengthening the awareness and sensitivity strategy to mitigate risks in the economic/labor campaign programs on the rights of migrants, sector are the following: “establish twinning along with that of persons with disabilities arrangements with host local authorities (PWDs), indigenous peoples, women, youth of Filipino migrants covering protection of and children. workers’ rights, insurance coverage, social

Page 22 security, and pension portability; LGUs to notable contribution to the development of conduct a thorough Pre-Migration Orientation the RDP-NCR. The Commission on Filipinos Seminar (PMOS) to prepare OFWs and their Overseas (CFO) worked with the Metropolitan families left behind; establish OFW helpdesks Development Planning (MDPS) in integrating in all LGUs; and, encourage the organization of migration and development provisions in the OFW Family Circles in all LGUs.” RDP – NCR 2017 – 2022.

MMDA also awarded Certificates of Appreciation to agency partners for their

BATANGAS CELEBRATES ANNUAL MIGRATION DAY; LOCALIZED BALINKBAYAN WEBSITE LAUNCHED

CFO Usec. Astra Naik, Dir. Marie Apattad, Batangas Governor Dodo Mandanas with the attendees of the 6th Migration Day of the Batangas Province

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas, speaker, and delivered the keynote address represented by its Executive Director, to the hundreds of Batanguenos gracing the Undersecretary Astravel Naik, Director Marita event. Representatives of the province’s cities D. Apattad, Princess Mayumi Kaye Peralta, and municipalities were present to enjoy the Aldrin John R. Nagera and Jenny Rose A. festivities. Gomez participated in the 6th Migration Day of Batangas. Usec. Naik was the guest In her speech, Usec Naik emphasized the

Page 23 Photos from the 6th Migration Day of Batangas and launching of the BaLinkBayan-Batangas Province importance of being financially literate, the localized BalinkBayan website of Batangas especially the families of migrants. She added was also launched. The website will be of that the remittance coming from the migrants use to overseas Batanguenos and the families plays an important role in country’s economic that have left behind by providing proper success, but the families must be more aware information on the programs and services of of their spending habits, and start thinking the province for these sectors. The CFO also and planning for future investments. She also donated a computer set for the implementation introduced the PESO Sense, shared how it has of the project. successfully used social media in reaching out more than 3 million followers worldwide, and The event also paid tribute to the best more. One of the more popular campaigns municipalities or cities, that provide the best that was launched by Peso Sense is the “Ipon services relative to migration and development. Challenge”, which inspired families to save The best municipality award was bagged by money. Cuenca, Batangas, while the best focal person for M&D was awarded to Ms. Armidalyn As part of the event, and following an earlier Minel, also of Cuenca. agreement between the CFO and the province,

Page 24 ILOCOS REGION TACKLES MIGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT FROM A GENDER

DOLE Region 1 Director Nathaniel Lacambra welcomes LENS participants to the convention.

The Sub-Committee on Internationalstrengthening the SCIMD Ilocos, assistance Migration and Development (SCIMD) to OFW associations, and benchmarking/ Ilocos Region organized the Convention on experiential visits. Other speakers for the first International Migration in the Eyes of Gender day of the convention. and Development (GAD) on November 26 – 27, 2018 at the Azalea Hotel and Residences in Rosales PESO Manager Roel Sabado and City. President of the Migrants Desk Office Region 1 discussed the role of the MDOs in migration and In his welcome remarks, Department of Labor development. As one of the LGUs partnering and Employment (DOLE) Region 1 Director with CFO on the localization of BaLinkBayan, Nathaniel Lacambra, Chair of SCIMD Ilocos, Mr. Sabado also shared the BaLinkBayan highlighted the public – private partnership in Rosales as one of their M&D initiatives in migrant workers protection. He also recognized the municipality. ATIKHA Assistant Director the tenacity of SCIMD Ilocos in recognizing Aileen C. Penas discussed the emerging migration and development (M&D) as migration and development issues such as the an urgent issue of the day and the need to feminization of migration. She also shared the mainstream gender in the M&D programs and experience of Atikha in mainstreaming M&D policies across all levels of government. in CALABARZON.

National Economic and Development Ma. Isabel Habon Tabuso of the Capariaan Authority (NEDA) Ilocos Region Assistant OFW Association in Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur Regional Director Donald Gawe provided an shared their experience in mobilizing migrant overview of the migration and development workers in support of local level development nexus in Region 1 within the context of the initiatives. Her group’s initiatives showed how SDGs and PDP. He also discussed practical active OFW organizations can create spaces for action steps for the region such as the need engagement with migration and development to increase appreciation on the M&D link, stakeholders at all levels. capacitating the Migrant Desk Officers, capacitating regional and local authorities CFO shared its initiatives on migration and on mainstreaming M&D in their operations, development such as diaspora philanthropy

Page 25 and entrepreneurship through the Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) program, the Overseas Filipinos Remittance for Development (OF-RED) project, PESO Sense, BaLinkBayan in Ilocos Norte, Pangasinan, Rosales, Urdaneta City, and City.

CFO’s active participation and support to the conference and SCIMD Ilocos is recognized by OWWA RO1 OIC Gerry Rimorin, DOLE RO1 Assistant Regional Director Honorina Dian – Baga, and NEDA RO1 Rey Ferreria

THE MUNICIPALITY OF ROSALES, PANGASINAN LAUNCHES LOCALIZED

Ms. Kristine Gacer and Ms. Mayumi Peralta BALINKBAYAN WEBSITE of the Project Management Division with employees of the Rosales Municipal Hall and attendees of the website launching

On 7 December 2018, Ms. Kristine Domagas- government and houses historically significant Gacer, Ms. Princess Mayumi Kaye Peralta, memorabilia. and Ms. Jenina Danielle L. Melchor of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) Mr. Roel Sabado, the Public Employment joined the staff of the Rosales Municipality Service Office (PESO) Manager, introduced during the launching of their localized the CFO team to the employees present at the BaLinkBayan website held at the Presidencia launching. In attendance were representatives Building – a heritage structure built in from PESO, Office of the Mayor, Office of the 1924 that serves as the seat of the municipal Vice Mayor, and OFW Families Association.

Page 26 During the launching of the Rosales- BaLinkBayan localized website

the LGU to constantly utilize, update, and promote the website here and abroad.

On behalf of Vice Mayor Harry Bernabe, Mr. John Alimorong delivered the closing remarks and congratulated Rosales and CFO for jointly developing a website for the municipality. The launching ended with refreshments and photo documentation. Although Mayor Susan Casareno was not present during the event, she was officially Prior to BaLinkBayan, the Municipality of represented by her consultant, Ms. Ma. Theresa Rosales did not have a website of its own. Yusaoen.

The event commenced with a prayer at 2 o’clock in the afternoon. It was followed by the singing of the Philippine national anthem and the Rosales hymn. CFO CONDUCTS After the opening ceremonies, Mr. Jeffrey Imperial provided a brief overview of the CAPACITY BUILDING website. He is also from PESO – the focal agency in Rosales responsible for the implementation TRAININGS ON of the project. Thru Ms. Yusaoen, Mayor Casareno expressed gratitude to the CFO for THE BALINKBAYAN guiding Rosales in localizing the website’s information and services. Pastor Esmeraldo PROJECT FOR CEBU Agustin, Jr., President of the Rosales OFW Families Association, spoke of the importance CITY OFFICIALS of tapping the Filipino diaspora for the country’s economic development and nation- building. In line with the implementation of the BaLinkBayan project, on October 19. 2018, the CFO – BaLinkBayan Team conducted an orientation, Subsequently, Ms. Peralta discussed the main capacity building and website management training features of the localized website and noted the to the relevant offices of Cebu City regarding their addition of Employment & Welfare, which localized BaLinkBayan website. seeks to promote entrepreneurship and capacity building among returning migrants and local Dir. Marita Apattad of CFO presented the constituents of Rosales. Ms. Gacer informed BaLinkBayan Project, its scope, goals and the attendants about migration and of CFO’s objective and the importance of it in connection mandate and services. She also encouraged with mainstreaming migration and development

Page 27 The CFO staff with the participants to the capacity building activity

hand, Ms. Alyssa Jeanne Gozo facilitated the website management training on WordPress to capacitate the IT personnel in the updating and maintaining the city’s localized BaLinkBayan website.

The City Government of Cebu signed the Memorandum of Understanding on the BaLinkBayan Project with the CFO on 18 October 2018. A to local government units. Ms. Princess Mayumi computer set has also been turned over to assist the Kaye Peralta then facilitated the data gathering city in implementing the project last 19 December workshop which will help determine the data 2018. and information that will be uploaded in the localized BaLinkBayan website. On the other

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