COURAGE AND ACTION AMID COVID-19The Civil Service COURAGEREPORTER AND Gawing Lingkod Bayani Ang Bawat Kawani ACTIONVolume 61 No.2 AMID2nd Quarter 2020 Issue COURAGE AND CSC sets alternative ACTION AMID work arrangements COVID-19 The Man Behind the COVID-19The Virtual Civil Servant: Pinoy-made Building Your Professional COVID-19 Testing Kit Online Brand Dr. Raul V. Destura Director of the National Training COURAGE ANDCenter for Biosafety and Biosecurity, Public Service National Institutes of Health; Deputy Executive Director of Delivery and the Philippine Genome Center, Innovations University of the Philippines - ACTION AMIDManila
If COVID-19 is COVID-19Contagious, so is Courage COURAGESpotlight on AND COVID-19 Frontliners ACTIONCOVID-19 and AMID our mental 1 COVID-19health COURAGE AND ACTION AMID COVID-19 8 points!!!
05 Public Domain 07 From the Chairperson’s Desk ADVISORY TO CLIENTS: 08 Please refer to the list of services below and the corresponding Contributors contact information for online transactions.
Office Services/ Concerned Transactions What's9 10 10inside11 Integrated Requests for the following may be sent to [email protected]: CSC sets alternative work Agencies now required to Civil service exams CSC holds webinar Records arrangements have OSH Program cancelled, SALN on alternative? work Management 1. Certification and Authentication of Civil Service eligibility deadline extended due to arrangements Office (IRMO) • Career Service (Professional and Subprofessional) Examinations COVID-19 • Civil Service Examinations (CSE) conducted in collaboration with other agencies (e.g. NEWS Foreign Officer Examination, Fire Officer Examination, Penology Officer Examination, Basic COVID-19 WORK FROM Competency on Local Treasury Examination) HOME • Civil Service Eligibility granted under Special Laws and CSC Issuances
2. CSC Issuances (Memo Circular, Resolutions, Decision)
3. Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Networth (SALN) for CY 2009 to CY2018)
4. Employee Records (Appointment Paper and Leave Records for those who were assigned in agencies under the jurisdiction of the National Capital Region and Regional Office No. IV from 12 13 16 Civil service anniversary CSC Regional Office V Strengthening Health CY1980 to CY1989 highlights technology, champions innovation Protocols for a Safe & malasakit amid COVID-19 Healthy CSC RO XII 5. Service Card in various agencies from CY1930 to CY1989 NEWS 6. Statement of Service Record of former CSC employees
Those who have earlier made appointments through the CSC’s Online Registration, Appointment,
and Scheduling System (ORAS) will be advised of the new appointment schedule via email in due REGIONAL time. For questions and clarifications, please email at [email protected].
During this period of closure, NO documents or printed communications, including mail deliveries from couriers and postal services, shall be received at the CSC IRMO. However, clients with urgent
concerns/ requests for different Offices in the Central Office may email [email protected]. 17 20 Office for Legal 1. Request for Certificate of No Pending Administrative Case/ CSC Clearance, email to Public service delivery Guide to Online Filing Affairs (OLA) [email protected] innovations in the time of and Submission of SALN COVID-19 2. Request for Certified True Copy of Records/ Documents, email to [email protected] GUIDE 3. Request for Legal Opinion and Legal Assistance on CSC Laws, Rules and Regulations through the Online Forum platform found at the CSC website, www.csc.gov.ph CITIZEN’S Citizen’s Guide Forms may be downloaded from the CSC website, www.csc.gov.ph. Clients will be advised of the date of pick up and corresponding legal fees.
Civil Service 1. Training calendar Institute (CSI) 2. Online Registration of CSI and L & D Programs/ Courses 22 3. The following may be viewed online and downloaded (as online resources): The man behind the a. List of accredited Learning and Development Institutions (ALDI) Pinoy-made COVID-19 b. Policy Guidelines for ALDI testing kits c. L & D Plan STORY COVER Human Resource 1. Petition for Accreditation of Employees’ Organization Relations Office 2. Application for Registration of Collective Negotiation Agreement (HRRO) The request may be sent to [email protected].
2 3 Maraming salamat, COVID-19 frontliners!
What's inside28 Government Workers in the New Normal? LETTER
EXECUTIVE ! !
32 38 40 If COVID-19 is The Virtual Civil How to Hold a Productive HR contagious, so is Servant: Building Your Virtual Meeting Courage Professional Online Brand ! SPOTLIGHT
42 44 Shifting HR practices in Pamanang Lingkod the time of COVID-19 Bayani: What does the HR Spotlight on Covid-19 landscape look like now Frontliners and in a post-pandemic
world? (Part 1 of 2) BAYANI LINGKOD
at 47 48 50 COVID-19 and our Zoom fatigue may prove Amendment to Section 38 and mental health that we’re not doing CSI of Omnibus Rules on Leave remote work right: How to (Amended by CSC MC No. not fall into this trap 41, s. 1998) WORK HEALTH HEALTH WELLNESS
Photos are taken from these sites/links: 4 www.covid19.gov.ph:5 Gallery Department of Tourism: #WeSmileAsOne A Tribute to our Modern-Day Heroes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RczklyAeiG0) ABS-CBN: Tribute to COVID-19 Frontliners (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjP2CtT25ls) Tell us what you think about the Civil Service FROM THE CHAIRPERSON'S DESK Reporter and get a chance to win a treat from the Civil Service Commission Your comments and suggestions are valuable to us. We hope you could take time to answer this short questionnaire to help us improve our upcoming issues. If you wish to continue receiving the CS Reporter, please update our mailing list as well. After answering the questionnaire, snap a photo of the accomplished survey and email to [email protected].
Name: ______
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Address where you wish the CS Reporter to be mailed to: ______
Where do you usually get a copy of the CS Reporter? Government employee? : If a government employee: Mail subscription Yes Years of service in government: Online (csc.gov.ph) No 1-5 years Others: ______6-10 years 10-15 How do you dispose old copies of CS Reporter? 16-20 Throw in a bin 21-25 Add to the piles of old magazines & newspapers and sell to recycling centers/junk shops 26-30 Give old copies to friends 31-40 Recycle or reuse 41 years and above Donate Sector: Level: his year’s second quarter has and Support Mechanisms for Workers in “the future belongs to the most agile individuals Others: ______National Government First level been very difficult for all of us. the Government During the Period of State and organizations who are willing to accelerate One day we were working and of National Emergency Due to COVID-19 and embrace new possibilities presented by Local Government Unit Sec ond level Reader’s Profile: chatting with our colleagues within Pandemic, and CSC-DOH-DOLE Joint technology and paradigm shifts. This will signal Age: Gender: State College or University Third level our office’s premises; the next day, Memorandum Circular No. 1, s. 2020 or the emergence of public sector leaders who 18-24 Female Government Owned and Controlled Corporation Twe were instructed to stay at home due to the the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) do not shy away from the challenges brought danger posed by COVID-19 transmission. Standards for the Public Sector (see page 50). by Fourth Industrial Revolution but gravitate Government Financial Institution 25-35 Male Organizations were forced to implement toward it; who do not see digital advancement 36-45 Others: ______alternative work arrangements. While our We gathered stories of COVID-19 frontliners, as threatening but welcome it as something frontliners—medical and social workers, and placing in the limelight the man behind the creative, exciting, inspiring, and enriching.” 46 to 55 CS Reporter should feature more articles on: law enforcers—risk their lives to faithfully Filipino-made COVID-19 detection kit—Dr. If you wish to see the full transcript of this 56 to 65 Civil Service Examinations perform their duties outside their homes, Raul V. Destura (story on page 22). In the keynote message, see the Executive Letter on the rest of us navigate through unfamiliar Citizen’s Guide and HR Spotlight sections, we page 28. I have been receiving the CS Reporter for Special eligibilities circumstances to shape our new normal in recognize organizations that introduced digital Less than a year Legal opinions and outside our workplaces, prioritizing as well innovations in public service delivery (see We dedicate this issue to all our valued our personal and family members’ health and page 17) and HR best practices in the new stakeholders in the hope that through the stories 1-2 years Public sector unionism safety. normal (see page 32). that we feature, we can inspire hope, courage,
Publications and Media Relations Division Assistance and Information Office Public Civil Service Commission Building 1/F, Road, Batasan Hills IBP Quezon City 1126 3-4 years Training programs and action despite this seemingly paralyzing 5 years or more Honor Awards Program All of these were not easy things to deal with. Spotlight is also on people’s mental health pandemic. While we feature individuals and People encountered varying levels of stress these days as many of us try to cope with organizations who are courageously braving HR issuances and policies Articles which I find most useful: and anxiety. It is with this understanding and feeling of isolation, the blurring of work and the odds, this issue also invites everyone to
awani Others: ______empathy that the Civil Service Commission family time, and the stress and anxiety for our introspect, look from within, and listen to that K
New CSC issuances (CSC) offers you its 2nd Quarter Issue of own safety. See our Health and Wellness at voice inside each of us that says ‘You can do Civil Service Examinations Will you recommend CS Reporter to your colleagues/friends? the CS Reporter magazine. As the central Work section to regain some clarity on how to it. You can still make a difference despite these awat human resource institution of the Philippine look after one’s wellbeing in these trying times circumstances. This too shall pass. Be brave.’ B Special eligibilities Yes
government, we believe that now is a most (see page 47). g an Legal opinions No opportune time to highlight public service Mabuhay ka, lingkod bayani! Public sector unionism Why/Why not? heroism and human resource (HR) innovations. You are not alone. The CSC is here to help ayani Training programs in any way it can as an institution—whether it B ______We highlight in the News section the CSC’s is through crafting policies, holding webinars,
Human interest ______response to the COVID-19 workplace or any other platforms where we can inspire
g kod in Exemplary public servants ______challenges through issuances that we government workers, especially leaders, to L HR issuances and policies released. These include CSC Memorandum step up in this crisis. In my keynote message
Circular No. 10, s. 2020 or the Revised Interim delivered during the Chief Information Officer ALICIA dela ROSA-BALA g awin Others: ______Guidelines for Alternative Work Arrangements Forum last 25 June 2020, I emphasized that
REPORTER Other comments: Chairperson The Civil Service Civil The G You may take a photo of the accomplished survey ______form and email to [email protected]. Don’t ______forget to send your survey responses by the end of ______December 2020 to get a chance to win a treat from 6 7 us. Thank you! ______NEWS Editorial Advisers Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala Commissioner Aileen Lourdes A. Lizada Director IV Maria Luisa Salonga-Agamata Director III Ma. Theresa C. Fernandez
Ethel T. Montemayor Editor Citizen’s Guide | Lingkod Bayani CSC sets COVID-19 Erika Jean C. Cabanawan WORK FROM Editor HOME HR Spotlight | Executive Letter alternative
Anne Giselle G. Torres Editor work News | Regional News
Lorraine Luna P. Danipog arrangements Editor he Civil Service Commission Cover Story | HR Spotlight (co-editor) (CSC) has made available multiple alternative work Jaymee M. Mata arrangements (AWA) that Editor government agencies can adopt For areas placed under GCQ, employees Agencies may use a combination of two Health and Wellness at Work while the entire country is placed under a aged below 21 and those who are 60 or more aforementioned AWA, including T years old and above, as well as those with any other type of work arrangement it has State of Public Health Emergency due to Zendy Mae Garcia-Budhi, CSC Office for Legal Affairs the coronavirus disease-2019 or COVID-19 immunodeficiency, co-morbidities or other adopted. They shall formulate their internal Rona Jane B. Nunez, CSC RO V pandemic. health risk, pregnant women, including rules and regulations to effectively implement Rizza A. Necesito, CSC RO XII those who reside with the aforementioned, the AWA they adopted. These guidelines must shall be under WFH arrangement, except include the appropriate AWA for employees Contributing Writers These are work-from-home arrangement, skeleton workforce, four-day or compressed when their services are indispensable who travel to and from areas placed under under the circumstances or when office different quarantine levels, e.g., from ECQ Melendriz Jane P. Teves workweek, and staggered working hours. An agency may also adopt work arrangements work is permitted. area to GCQ area and vice-versa or from Layout quarantine-free area to ECQ or GCQ area. Issuances consisting of a combination of these, or other work arrangements appropriate and Skeleton (Skeletal) Workforce pertains applicable to the agency considering the to a work arrangement where a minimum To ensure that public service delivery is not Mark Christopher Z. Perolino prevailing community quarantine in the area number of employees is required to prejudiced during the implementation of AWA, Art Director | Layout where it is located and the nature of work provide service at the office when full a monitoring mechanism, such as submission performed by its employees. staffing is not possible. Agencies in GCQ of daily or weekly accomplishment reports, Jessie N. Panlilio areas shall adopt skeleton workforce as must be implemented. Photography “These may be difficult times, but it is one of its AWA. During ECQ, on the other during these times that our citizens need hand, skeleton workforce may be allowed To protect government workers’ health Marlon L. Nunag our government to be effective and remain unless a different operational capacity and safety, the CSC requires agencies to Circulation responsive to their needs. These interim is provided in agencies providing health implement precautionary measures prior to awani guidelines would ensure that government and emergency frontline services, border resumption of normal operations, such as
K agencies continue to fulfill their mandate control, and other critical services as disinfection and decontamination activities, amid the pandemic, while protecting the identified in the IATF Omnibus Guidelines conduct of health status check among health and safety of their workers,” CSC on Community Quarantine. employees, and modification of workplace Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala said. layout to ensure observance of physical Employees designated as skeletal workforce distancing requirements. awat CSC Resolution No. 2000540 (Revised shall be entitled to Hazard Pay during ECQ and MECQ on top of the Compensatory Agencies are also mandated to enforce health
B Interim Guidelines for Alternative Work Arrangements and Support Mechanisms Time Off or Overtime Pay granted for standard protocol at all times such as wearing for Workers in the Government During the authorized services rendered outside of the of face masks, taking of body temperature,
employee’s regular work hours. and setting up of sanitation stations. g an Period of State of National Emergency Due to COVID-19 Pandemic), promulgated on 7 May 2020 and circularized via CSC In a Four-day (Compressed) Workweek Moreover, support mechanisms, such as Memorandum Circular No. 10, s. 2020, arrangement, the employees’ workweek health/psychosocial interventions, provision contains the complete set of guidelines for is compressed to four days each week. of personal protective equipment (PPE) to ayani implementing the said AWA. This may be adopted by agencies in areas employees, and reasonable transportation
placed under GCQ. facilities and housing quarters, should be B Work-from-home (WFH) refers to an output- made available to government workers. The CS Reporter is produced by the Publications and Media Relations Division oriented work arrangement that authorizes Agencies may also adopt Staggered - Public Assistance and Information Office of the Civil Service Commission. the worker to produce outputs or results Working Hours, which is applicable to These revised interim guidelines shall take offices or agencies that observe work effect retroactively on 16 March 2020 and Comments and suggestions on the magazine as well as articles and other and accomplishments outside of the office.
This shall be adopted in areas placed under shifting or flexible working time. For this shall remain in force until the State of National
g kod
in manuscripts for consideration in future publications are welcome.
Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) by purpose, staggered working hours refers Emergency has been lifted by the President L to the existing 24/7 shifting schedule and of the Philippines. Contributions must be submitted to the CS Reporter, Civil Service the President. For agencies in areas placed Commission, Constitution Hills, Diliman, Quezon City, with telephone under General Community Quarantine the flexible working time schedule. This number (02) 8931-4180, and email address [email protected]. (GCQ), where public transportation is may be implemented as a means to limit The complete text of CSC Memorandum limited and physical/social distancing in the the number of employees present at the Circular No. 10, s. 2020 may be accessed
www.csc.gov.ph workplace is required, WFH is an option. workplace at any given time. from the CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph. g awin www.facebook.com/civilservicegovph REPORTER
The Civil Service Civil The G www.youtube.com/cscphmedia 8 9 NEWS
The Guidelines on OSH Standards requires partner with the nearest government CSC clients urged to book • Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net 2. Log-in to your account and click the link government agencies to establish their own health facility that can respond to appointment Worth (SALN) (for CY 2010 to CY 2018) provided for the instructions on how to use OSH Program, create a Safety and Health accidents and injuries in case of the system; and Committee and/or a Special Investigation emergencies. The Civil Service Commission Central • Employee Record (e.g. Appointment Committee, and appoint or designate Office (CSC CO) based in Batasan Hills, Paper for those who were assigned in 3. Select and confirm your appointment date a Safety Health Officer, to ensure their Support facilities such as recreation areas, Quezon City has launched a web-based agencies under the jurisdiction of the and time. compliance with OSH Standards and the training rooms, and daycare facility, as application that allows its clients to schedule National Capital Region and Regional promotion and effective implementation of well as lactation stations for lactating an appointment for its records management Office No. IV (Southern Tagalog) from CY The CSC said the launch of ORAS is in Agencies OSH in their workplaces. mothers, must be provided. Moreover, the services. 1980 to CY 1989, Statement of Service line with measures to prevent the spread special needs of pregnant women, older Record of former Civil Service Commission of coronavirus disease-2019 or COVID-19, The guidelines provide a long list employees, the differently-abled, and Effective 6 July 2020, CSC CO clients can employees, Service Card in various specifically by managing the flow of clients now required of reasonable working conditions. those with limited working abilities must book an appointment through the Online agencies from CY 1930 to CY 1989). and reducing their waiting time. Workplace standards that agencies be considered in determining reasonable Registration, Appointment, and Scheduling must comply with include installation work assignments and a good working System (ORAS) to request for certification It emphasized that transactions for the A number of CSC Regional Offices are also of adequate fire, emergency, or atmosphere. and/or authentication, or certified true copy, of abovementioned services must go through using online scheduling applications as part of to have OSH danger signs, facilities for persons the following records on file at the CSC CO: ORAS; thus, no walk-in clients shall be public health standards against the COVID-19 with disabilities, and health clinic or The guidelines further mandate agency entertained. pandemic. In an earlier announcement, the CSC treatment room; regular practice of heads to ensure adequate working • Career Service (Professional and has advised its clients to coordinate first with the Program good housekeeping such as eradication breaks to minimize or prevent employees’ Subprofessional) Eligibility To use ORAS, a client must follow these CSC Regional/Field/Central Office offering the of stagnant water and proper waste exposure to illness due to prolonged sitting, steps: service they wish to avail, to know the possible overnment workers can be disposal; OSH Standard-compliant as well as to allow and adopt flexible work • Civil Service Eligibility Granted under modes of transaction as well as the health assured of their health and building construction and maintenance, arrangements. The agency’s internal Special Laws and CSC Issuance 1. Register or sign up at https://services.csc. protocols being implemented in the office. safety in their workplaces after space requirement, walkway surface, rules on working hours, break, and leave gov.ph using any web-connected device the Civil Service Commission floor and wall openings, among others; privileges must still observe appropriate • CSC Issuance (e.g. Memorandum Circular, such as a computer, laptop, smartphone, The directory of CSC offices nationwide is (CSC), Department of Health provision of OSH Standard-compliant civil service rules and regulations. Resolution, Decision) or tablet. available at www.csc.gov.ph/cscrod. G(DOH), and Department of Labor and personal protective equipment (PPE) Employment (DOLE) jointly issued guidelines and devices; proper handling, use, and Workplace policies and programs on on occupational safety and health standards. storage of hazardous materials; and smoking, prohibited drugs, tuberculosis, implementation of an indoor air quality HIV and AIDS, Hepatitis B, and medical housands of government workers Afterwards, CSC Public Assistance and management program. assistance and benefits must also be CSC-DOH-DOLE Joint Memorandum tuned in to the free webinar on Information Office Director IV Maria Luisa implemented. Circular No. 1, s. 2020 aims to Alternative Work Arrangements Salonga Agamata featured leadership Government agencies must also institutionalize occupational safety and and Support Mechanisms for perspectives and best practices related to establish a Risk Reduction Management CSC-DOH-DOLE Joint Memorandum health (OSH) in government workplaces Government Workers conducted implementing AWA. She talked about the System and a Crisis Management Plan Circular No. 1, s. 2020 was published 7 May to protect government workers from the by the Civil Service Commission’s Civil Service need for empathy in the workplace, common dangers of injury, sickness, or death and and Contingency Program, as well as 2020 in a newspaper of general circulation T Institute (CSI) on 30 June 2020 at 10 a.m. management challenges with implementing to prevent loss or damage of properties ensure adequate emergency supplies and took effect on 22 May 2020. The AWA, the role of learning and development such as fire extinguishers, medical first complete text of the policy can be accessed CSC holds through the adoption of safe and healthy CSC Human Resource Policies Director IV and innovation during times of crisis, among aid kits, among others. They must also on the CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph. working conditions. Rodolfo B. Encajonado discussed the salient others. provisions of CSC Memorandum Circular No. webinar on 10, s. 2020 or the Revised Interim Guidelines The webinar was followed at 1:30 p.m. by for Alternative Work Arrangements and a LunChat with CSC episode featuring a he Civil Service Commission shall be reset in 2021. A separate issuance Support Mechanisms for Workers in the Question-and-Answer (Q&A) session. (CSC) will not be conducting any pertaining to the said rescheduled exam will alternative Government During the Period of State written civil service examinations be released by the CSC. of National Emergency Due to COVID-19 Viewers who tuned in live via the CSC for the rest of the year. Pandemic. He expounded on work-from- Facebook Page reached more than 2,500, SALN deadline extended anew work home arrangement, skeleton workforce, and and the video continues to rake in views The CSC said that the implementation other AWAs that agencies may implement in as it is still available online. To watch T the webinar, go to www.facebook.com/ of public health standards during the All public officials and employees are given order to balance effective public service with pandemic, such as physical distancing, until 31 August 2020 to file their Statement government workers’ health and safety. civilservicegovph. Civil service reduced capacity of public transportation, of Assets, Liabilities, and Networth (SALN) arrangements and restriction on mass gatherings, has with their respective departments, offices, or led it to cancel the following civil service agencies. exams examinations via the pen-and-paper test (PPT) mode: CSC has extended the deadline of filing of the SALN through Resolution No. 2000603 cancelled, • Fire Officer Examination, Penology Officer dated 22 June 2020 in response to the state Examination, Basic Competency on Local of public health emergency. Treasury Examination scheduled on 21 June 2020; In the same resolution, the CSC has allowed SALN the online oath taking and use of electronic • Career Service Examination (CSE) or digital signature on the SALN, as well as PPT (Professional and Subprofessional the online filing or transmission of a duly deadline Levels) scheduled on 9 August 2020; executed SALN. • Intermediate Competency on Local Meanwhile, departments, agencies, and due Treasury Examination, Pre-Employment offices are given until 31 October 2020 to extended Test, Promotional Test, Ethics-Oriented submit their respective employees’ SALN to Personality Test scheduled on 11 October the appropriate repository agency. 2020. to COVID-19 Turn to page 20 for the complete guide on Moreover, the conduct of the 15 March 2020 filing and submission of the SALN Form for Professional and Subprofessional CSE-PPT the year 2020.
10 11 f NEWS REGIONAL NEWS
here’s no doubt that COVID-19 Resource Specialist II, Michael Karlo Perlora, has disrupted lives. People developed the program using the free experience it at home, in online scheduling software and a booking workplaces, and social spaces. management system called Picktime. But disruption need not be Consequently, clients with impending Tdestructive. In fact, if taken with optimism, transactions like Issuance of Certification of disruption can stimulate the mind to be Eligibility (COE), Authentication of COE, and creative and innovative for one to function Application for Special Eligibilities (SPELS) Civil service CSC Regional in new ways. Today, everyone is trying to should book an appointment using the link shape the new normal with tech innovations, tinyurl.com/onsched before going to the CSC anniversary as well as new HR practices. RO V. Office V This news story features how CSC Regional The CSC RO V observes a first-book, first- Office V champions innovation in public served basis. Through the OnSched, clients highlights service and in learning and development are given the freedom to select their preferred champions despite COVID-19 disruptions. schedule of appointment. When the date and time can no longer be accessed, it only Online appointment system means that the date is fully-booked. On the technology, page, all the documentary requirements for innovation A lounge full of clients waiting in a queue, each transaction are already available. Even Snap some even hail from the island provinces of the prescribed forms can be downloaded malasakit Bicol Region like Catanduanes and Masbate; from the platform. Certain reminders are also Government gears up for the others tend to arrive at the Office even included to ensure fast and easy transaction Snap amid before its opening just to make sure to be when appointment day of the customer Fourth Industrial Revolution. accommodated first. This setup is susceptible comes. This scheme provides no reason for to customer dissatisfaction and complaints. clients to not be able to secure and prepare Thus, as an office that continuously strives pertinent documents for their transaction. COVID-19 for excellence, the CSC RO V explores or the 120th Philippine Civil Service Disruption (noun) - a situation in ways on how to deliver quality and efficient To book an appointment, clients may use Anniversary in September, the Civil services. This paved the way for the creation a computer, laptop, cellphone, tablet or Service Commission (CSC) will which it is difficult for something of an Online Appointment System called other devices capable of connecting to the highlight the role of technology in to continue in the normal way; the Online Scheduler or OnSched. internet. It must have an up-to-date web the evolution of public service in browser installed like Mozilla Firefox or Fthe country, especially as the nation copes Snap act of stopping something from The CSC RO V Examination Services Google Chrome. A stable internet connection with the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. Division (ESD), the unit that handles is also needed. The actual appointment continuing in the normal way some of the most sought-after services, page does not require account creation Thus, the theme of the anniversary celebration conceptualized the OnSched. ESD’s Human and log-in. However, clients are required to is Philippine Civil Service @120: Public Sector (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary) in the Age of Digital Transformation. (continued on page 14)
CSC Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala said that, in the age of technology, public The CSC RO V holds the Tech Innovation Webinar to help other government frontliners cope with the changing demands in public service. service has to remain competitive and responsive enough to meet the evolving needs of its clientele. “Human resource (HR) management and development are may participate in the 2020 Government controlled corporations, are invited to also evolving as technology introduces new Online Career Fair on 14-18 September. participate in the 2020 Government ways of interaction and alternative work Photography enthusiasts may show off Online Career Fair (GOCF) slated on 14- arrangements. This was further highlighted their best work by joining the 120th PCSA 18 September 2020. during the COVID-19 pandemic situation, Photography Contest. which brought about changes to work, Participating agencies must have a government-client transactions, and other Government workers may also participate in maximum of 10 urgent and/or critical or processes,” she said. eLearning courses and health and wellness hard-to-fill positions requiring immediate webinars. For the whole month of September, hiring, an internet connection, and hotline The CSC also encourages government special treats will be provided to government number for immediate response. agencies to learn from the lessons of employees as a gesture of appreciation for the COVID-19 pandemic. “This includes their hard work and dedication. They may register from 1 July to 14 reassessing the ways government has been August 2020. The complete registration doing business, setting goals and targets, For more information on the PCSA theme procedure may be accessed at http:// managing people, and evaluating work and activities, refer to CSC Memorandum www.csc.gov.ph/slider/1972-2020gocf. performance. CSC recognizes that innovation Circular No. 12, s. 2020 posted on the CSC html has now become a crucial ingredient not only website, www.csc.gov.ph. Updates and to meet organizational objectives but also to additional information may also be accessed On the other hand, information on how keep employees safe, healthy, productive, via the PCSA webpage at www.csc.gov.ph/ jobseekers can apply for a job through the and motivated,” stressed Chairperson Bala. pcsa2020 and the CSC’s official Facebook GOCF will be made available closer to the Page, www.facebook.com/civilservicegovph. date of the event. The anniversary activities set for September 2020 will be mostly online, in accordance Gov’t agencies invited to Jointly organized by the CSC and with the national government’s directives virtual job fair JobStreet.com, the GOCF seeks to on minimum health standards such as promote easy access to employment social distancing. To mark the start of the All government agencies, including local opportunities in the public sector by anniversary month, a virtual press conference government units, state universities and bringing jobseekers and hiring government will be held on 1 September. Jobseekers colleges, and government-owned and agencies together in a “virtual job fair”.
12 13 REGIONAL NEWS
To get it running the server software was Though challenging, the CSC RO installed on a dedicated machine. TrueConf V’s Human Resource Division (HRD) can be downloaded from www.trueconf. continuously explores ways on how to com. Afterwards, configure server details, reach out to the learners in the public setup user accounts, then login and start sector, creatively and viably. Its focus has a conference. At the CSC RO V, the ITG now shifted into putting a premium on the set up the said software in every division immense benefits that technology and the which take turns in acting as Officer-of-the- internet can offer to enhance the learning Day (OD). If the client’s query or concern community’s competencies. Indeed, the is out of the OD’s expertise, then the client current landscape has opened possibilities can be easily referred to the appropriate for digital innovation. New training division. The TrueConf has a chat feature designs came to fruition, converting some that allows its participants to communicate previously offered programs to online with one another without necessarily versions or what is now popularly known involving video. as webinars. Webinars may have been introduced in the world several decades In the time of COVID-19, dealing with people ago at the advent of the internet, but it has has become very challenging. Everyone undeniably risen to fame when people were should observe minimum health standard confined to their homes due to lockdown protocols at all times and contribute in measures. A webinar is an efficient avenue whatever way they can to avoid the spread for interaction and active engagement of the virus. Consequently, the VPACD is among the speaker, facilitators, and one of the CSC RO V’s ways to adapt to the participants. It makes learning feasible new normal. This innovation has garnered despite unprecedented circumstances. provide personal information for the ESD to with the clients, sans the traditional face-to- positive feedback both from internal and Public Service Delivery)”, with presenter safety in terms of health and data of each determine the identity of the eligible such face encounter. This has become feasible external clients. It makes transactions The CSC RO V HRD was quick to respond Mr. Eric Albert M. Arroyo, Focal Person of participant is guaranteed. as full name, title of eligibility/examination, with the technology which uses local area smoother and safer—something that is to the needs of the learning community the CSC RO V IT Group. Arroyo shared the date and place of examination, as well as network (LAN); appropriate devices like worthy of emulation. and adapted relevant innovation which significant innovations being implemented According to the CSC RO V HRD, the name of the authorized representative if computer, microphone, webcam, and resulted in its first ever webinar on 28 at the CSC RO V to continuously deliver combining learning and technology there is any. speaker; along with the suited software for Digital Learning and Development May 2020. With the assistance of the efficient services even during pandemic. to deliver innovative digital learning the activity. CSC RO V’s ITG, the said webinar was These include AnyDesk software that allows solutions amidst the pandemic is one of With the implementation of the OnSched, Among the major office activities that have launched using the video conferencing an employee to have a remote access on the strategies that they adopt to achieve the ESD can provide a one-day transaction In the webinar titled “Going Tech Savvy been disrupted by COVID-19 is the Learning application Google Meet. The Subject his or her computer in the office; the free their commitment. The webinar conducted to applicants for the Special Eligibilities in the New Normal (Applying Information and Development (L&D). The physical Matter Specialist, CSC RO V’s Assistant online scheduling software and a booking is part of the Training Online Program (SPELS). Previously, SPELS applicants Technology for Safe Public Service distancing measures restrict mass gathering, Regional Director, Atty. Daisy P. management system called Picktime; (TOP) that puts learners on top of priorities who personally appeared to the Office to Delivery),” Eric Albert M. Arroyo, CSC RO V’s including face-to-face classroom set up, Bragais, discussed the Alternative Work and the video conferencing app named in coming up with instructional designs submit the requirements had to check the ITG Focal Person, shared their experience which has been the usual mode of L&D Arrangements as indicated in CSC TrueConf that is being used for CSC RO V’s which are aimed to be highly appealing status of their application through the link toward making VPACD into a reality. The delivery in the public sector. Resolution No. 2000540, promulgated Virtual PACD. and motivating. Upcoming webinars will tinyurl.com/spelstat. In the said information group scouted for applicable softwares and on May 7, 2020 and circularized via CSC be posted on the link http://cscro5trd. system, clients can determine whether their tried its functionality until such time that they Hence, the CSC RO V resorted to cancelling Memorandum Circular No. 10, s. 2020. Venturing in a digital training is not a walk rf.gd/, as well as on the CSC RO V HRD application had been approved, declined, or were able to choose which software will work all scheduled L & D interventions or trainings in the park, as online learning can be (Events) FB Page (https://www.facebook. still pending. Once the application had been best for the VPACD. After series of trials, for the rest of the year. Nonetheless, CSC Meanwhile, on 4 June 2020, the CSC RO associated with security risks inherent to com/cscro5hrd) and CSC RO V Official FB approved, the client must return to the Office they decided to use the video conferencing RO V believes that learning and sharing V ran another free webinar, discussing how the use of the internet. Hence, to address Page (https://www.facebook.com/cscrov). to request for a copy of COE. But with the tool called TrueConf. According to Arroyo, of knowledge in this rapidly changing technology and available software could this concern, the CSC RO V HRD and OnSched, SPELS applicants can submit the TrueConf is easy to configure, it has simple environment, especially in this period of aid in adapting to the new normal. It was ITG incorporated a Risk Management Indeed, change is constant and inevitable. requirements and request for the COE within interface but has many features, its customer uncertainty and distress, are much needed titled “Going Tech Savvy in the New Normal Plan which identifies risks and determines Yet learning, under any circumstance, the same day. support is top-notch, and above all, it is free. and must not be put into a halt. (Applying Information Technology for Safe potential solutions. Accordingly, the must always continue.
WIth this latest innovation of the CSC ROV, smooth transaction is guaranteed thereby fostering two-way satisfaction for clients and for frontliners.
Virtual PACD
To comply with physical and social distancing measures, government frontline offices must protect their frontliners and clients at the Public Assistance and Complaints Desk (PACD) by providing them with face masks and face shields. CSC RO V went over and beyond that. Committed to provide excellent public service, the CSC RO V, through its Information Technology Group (ITG) introduced digital solutions to emerging concerns affecting delivery of services amidst the pandemic.
One of these is the setting up a Virtual PACD or VPACD. Through this innovation, the Officer-of-the-Day (OD) and other CSC RO V personnel are able to communicate
14 15 REGIONAL NEWS
Strengthening Citizen’s In this section, the CS Reporter gives readers Health information and updates on public service delivery aligned with the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery. for a Readers can also get tips and advice on availing Protocols various government services in accordance with each government agency’s Citizen’s Charter. Guide Safe & Healthy CSC RO XII he outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic Public is a global crisis on health. It is said that this pandemic moves “like a wave–one that may yet crash on Tthose least able to cope”. service It is for this reason that health standards and protocols are established in each office “We have to bridge the digital divide, like CSC Regional Office XII with the aim to protect all our workers from hazards, sickness delivery or death. come up with pioneering initiatives
Rehiyon Dose has adopted a safe and healthy for a digital-ready economy so we can working conditions to assure the protection of human life. Safety measures for both innovations finally move in sync with how the rest employees and clients were standardized to contain the spread of the virus. of the world use new technologies for Sad to note that such an outbreak is in the time affecting every person. Therefore, the top cross border trade and faster electronic management has led its staff to adopt simple health practices during this virus outbreak. transactions.” Rehiyon Dose has adopted AWA (Alternative of COVID-19 Work Arrangement) like the skeleton his was the message of workforce, 2-day Work From Home divided Civil Service Commission into two (2) teams for every division/field (CSC) Chairperson Alicia office. This is to make sure that delivery of public service continues amidst COVID-19 dela Rosa-Bala to newly- pandemic. appointed employees of the Anti-Red Tape The practice of physical distancing is also Authority (ARTA) after one of the many things people can do she administered their to protect themselves against the novel oath of office last June. Coronavirus. People avoid contact with the ChairT Bala could have sounded the same call sick or “suspect”, and try to stay away from to government agencies nationwide who have somebody who’s coughing and might be sick. begun to explore electronic transactions not only due to the pandemic but also in compliance With these precautionary measures and with a law that promises changes in government faithful observance of health protocoals, processes and transactions. COVID-19 can be defeated. Two years into the implementation of Republic Rehiyon Dose can. Act No. 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery (EODB- EGSD) Act of 2018, the government is earnestly Let us protect each other. CSC Regional pursuing digital transformation to realize the vision Office XII adopts health and safety protocols to change the analogue, paper-based, legacy to prevent COVID-19 transmission in the systems to interact with citizens and make public office. services open, accessible, simple and citizen- centric.
16 17 Public service delivery innovations in the time of COVID-19
R.A. No. 11032 now serves as the bandwidth allocation for high speed internet Meanwhile, the City Government of Makati to look for alternative ways to render (Southern Tagalog) from CY 1980 to CY The revamped tracker features additional anchor for digital technology and service connection, which is being addressed by introduced the Makatizen Card, a valid public services and digitize operations. 1989, statement of service record of former information on the epidemiology of delivery reforms. One such reform is the the National Broadband Program (NBP). government-issued ID. The Makatizen Card There too is a specific provision of R. A. Civil Service Commission employees, COVID-19 in the country, COVID-19 E-Government Master Plan 2.0 (2016- comes with a Near-Field Communication No. 11032, Section 7 or the Zero Contact service card in various agencies from CY testing, health facilities, and availability 2022) of the Department of Information and The government’s push toward digitization (NFC) feature that allows city offices Policy which requires limited interaction 1930 to CY 1989), can also be done with of personal protective equipment (PPEs) Communications Technology, which aims holds much promise. Even before the onset equipped with iBayad machine readers to with an applicant or requesting party the ORAS. as well as data on the laboratory testing to enable government agencies to provide of COVID-19, a number of government verify the identity of residents and Makati except during preliminary assessment capacities of the DOH accredited efficient and cost-effective services to agencies are already offering ICT solutions City employees in a single tap. It stores and evaluation. For its part, the Department of Agrarian laboratories including the total number citizens and businesses. that the transacting public may use to information to easily identify the card holder Reform uses the Visitor’s Access of tests and unique individuals tested. access public services and avoid long availing of various city government services The CSC has developed a web-based Portal System (VAPS), a system where Likewise, the public can view a snapshot of The EGMP is a blueprint for the lines. thus citizens need not present additional Online Registration, Appointment, and representatives from the DAR Public the health system’s capacity in responding harmonization and integration of information documents. Scheduling System (ORAS) to support the Assistance and Information Center (PAIC) to the pandemic based on data collected and communications technology (ICT) Another digital solution is the Cauayan physical distancing rule. Clients need not interact with clients about agrarian reform- from the DOH DataCollect application. efforts of the government. The general Smart City app recognized by the DICT and For its part, the Bureau of Immigration proceed outright to the CSC main office in related cases through voice or video call. objective of e-government is to improve the Department of the Interior and Local now issues the ACR I-card, a microchip Batasan Hills, Diliman. They should book The Access Portal System (APS), on the On the part of the judiciary, the Supreme public service by building the infrastructure Government (DILG) during the 2019 Digital based, credit card-sized, identification to all appointments through ORAS, to avail of other hand, supplements landline phones Court partnered with Microsoft to improve and shared services, automating processes, Governance Awards as among the Best in registered aliens who stay in the Philippines. such services as requests for certification/ at any DAR central office (CO), including the efficiency and productivity of the and providing online services to citizens eGov-Digital Finance Empowerment. Cited The ACR I-card has an embedded computer authentication of civil service records DARRO 4-A and 4-B, where certain offices country’s legal proceedings through and businesses. for promoting e-commerce and e-payment chip with biometric security features capable such as career service (professional and may communicate with other offices using video-conferencing hearings. The conduct facilities and systems, the Smart City app of data management and can be updated subprofessional) eligibility, civil service the Office 365 Teams applications in the of hearings via video-conference ensure One of the initiatives under the EGMP is the paved the way for convenient electronic electronically. The ACR I-card has replaced eligibility granted under special laws DARCO compound to maintain social continued hearing of cases even during establishment of a National Government transactions of citizens with the local the paper documentation previously and CSC issuance (e.g. memorandum distancing in the workplace. the pandemic and compliance with the Portal that will allow interoperability between government. Aside from being fast and required to register foreigners and has circular, resolution, decision), statement government’s social distancing and and among government agencies; data and efficient, the app allows residents to go automated the registration process. of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) As the lead agency in the fight against remote work guidelines. information will be stored in a common cashless when transacting with the city hall, for CY2010 to CY 2018. COVID-19, the Department of Health has repository, ready to be accessed, shared including paying taxes or getting licenses Better normal in public service launched the COVID KAYA app which All these initiatives indicate that many and used by participating government and permits. The system also provides delivery The system can track employee’s records automates the data collection system used government agencies have transitioned agencies. small enterprise owners with better financial such as appointment paper for those by frontliners in submitting COVID-19 to the digital realm. Nonetheless, CSC and bookkeeping methods. It is currently The implementation of social distancing who were assigned in agencies under case data reports. It helps collect data reiterates its call to go digital as it is the Once the National Government Portal is available in Play Store, and will soon be and other health protocols across the the jurisdiction of the National Capital and addresses information gaps relating fastest and most efficient way of serving completed, the next step is to target the launched in App Store. country has spurred government agencies Region (NCR) and Regional Office No. 4 to the pandemic. citizens, with or without a pandemic.
18 19 Citizen’s Guide Guide to GUIDE TO PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES
FILLING OUT THE SALN FORM ONLINE OATH TAKING ONLINE FILING OR TRANSMISSION
1. Download a blank SALN Form from the CSC 1. Arrange a virtual meeting with your agency’s 1. At this point, the SALN should already have your Online website at www.csc.gov.ph. Make sure it is the Administering Officer via a communication signature and that of the AO. Make sure that version labeled “Revised as of January 2015”. technology such as Zoom or Skype. The the SALN to be submitted online is in Portable Administering Officer (AO) should make sure Document Format (PDF). 2. Fill out the electronic form using an electronic that the Declarant (you) on the SALN is the same device such as a computer, or print the blank form person appearing in the video. You may present 2. Submit the duly executed SALN to the and fill it out manually. evidence of your identity, such as an ID bearing concerned department, office, or agency (e.g., Filing and your name and photo. Human Resource Department/Office) via online 3. Leave the portion below “Relatives in Government transmission such as email. A duly executed Service” blank. 2. Execute the SALN by affixing your electronic/ SALN refers to a SALN that is personally signed digital signature to the electronic SALN, or wet ink under oath before an AO or notary public, or that is 4. Make sure all disclosed entries are true and signature to the physical SALN. By affixing your executed through online oath taking. correct. signature, you affirm that doing so is your free act Submission and deed, and that the contents of your SALN are 3. The electronic SALN, which refers to the one true and correct. Remember that the placing of the submitted online, shall be considered the signature on the SALN must be seen by the AO. ORIGINAL for purposes of SALN compliance for the year 2020. A printout of the Original shall be 3. On the same day, transmit a copy of the SALN to the considered a DUPLICATE ORIGINAL. AO via fax or other electronic means. Upon receipt, of SALN the AO may use electronic or wet ink signature in acknowledging the SALN. After signing, the AO f you are a government official or transmits the SALN back to you. employee, submitting the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Networth Note: As an alternative, the Declarant may opt or SALN is and should be part of to personally sign the SALN under oath before a notary public. your annual routine. One of the Ibasic requirements for public officials and employees is the submission of the SALN. It is filed within 30 days after assumption of office, on or before April 30 of every year thereafter, and within 30 days after separation from the service, all of which are mandated under Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
The risks brought by the COVID-19 pandemic has moved a lot of the things we do online. This is why, for 2020, the Civil Service Commission Remember, the last day of submission of SALN Forms to the appropriate repository agencies is on 31 October 2020. (CSC) , through Memorandum Circular No. 13, s. 2020, has allowed the electronic filing of the SALN as an option, apart from the traditional way of filing of the physical or paper SALN. This will only apply to the 2020 filing of the 2019 SALN. As a condition, though, the department, GUIDE FOR DEPARTMENTS, OFFICES, AND AGENCIES office, or agency should put in place processes and mechanisms to enable or allow online oath All heads of departments, offices, or agencies a. For physical submission – Comply with 2. A repository agency may establish its own rules must establish their own Review and Compliance the existing guidelines on the filing and in allowing the receipt of electronic copies of the taking and electronic filing of the SALN, and Procedure for reviewing SALNs to determine submission of SALN. Physical submission SALNs, provided it adheres to either physical to ensure that the SALN electronically filed are whether these have been submitted on time, are includes paper SALNs filed and printed submission or electronic submission but not a verifiable and authentic. complete, and are in proper form. copies of electronic SALNs. combination of the two.
Moreover, the conditions set in the said After the department, office, or agency collates b. For electronic submission – Submit/transmit For the CSC, the submission of electronic Circular is subject to change in case of the submitted SALNs of their respective officials the electronic SALNs to the proper repository SALNs may be made by transmitting the flash any further issuances by the appropriate and employees, the following guidelines must be agency either using a USB flash drive or disc drive or CD with the CSC Regional or Field observed: storage together with the required summary Office having jurisdiction over them. authorities during the period of National as provided under the rules. This option State of Public Health Emergency due to 1. The department, office, or agency must submit/ includes SALNs electronically submitted as 3. Submission of electronic SALNs shall be COVID-19. transmit the SALNs with the appropriate well as scanned copies of paper SALNs filed. deemed substantial compliance for the year repository agency either physically or 2020. For those who cannot perform the traditional electronically. Choose only either physical In either instance, the department, office, or way of filing the SALN and are interested submission or electronic submission. agency is required to submit a list of SALNs both to take the online route, the Civil Service electronically and physically filed. Reporter features this handy guide on online filing and submission of the SALN Remember, the last day of filing of the SALN with your respective departments, offices, or agencies is on 31 August 2020. Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash Form based on the provisions of CSC Memorandum Circular No. 13, s. 2020. 20 21 in putting together a diagnostic kit that can “It started off with our initial designs following help the country increase its capacity to do the ones that were posted as pre-validated mass testing,” Dr. Destura said. primers. Primers are like probes that identify viruses from the World Health Organization MISSION POSSIBLE: GENAMPLIFY™ website. Based on that, we redesigned it to CORONA VIRUS DISEASE-2019 make it quicker from the original design,” Dr. (COVID-19) RRT-PCR TEST KIT Destura explained.
Pressed for time, Dr. Destura and a team Other testing kits would take about six (6) of scientists from the University of the hours as the test has to be done thrice. Philippines-Manila started designing a Add to that is the long wait for the release diagnostic kit for the country. The P53.2M- of results as targets’ swab samples would project was done in collaboration with have to be sent abroad. Dr. Destura’s the Philippine Genome Center and the invention—the GenAmplify™ Corona Virus UP-National Institutes of Health, with Disease-2019 (COVID-19) rRT-PCR test COVER support from the Department of Science kit—employs a multiplex real-time PCR and Technology - Philippine Council for technology (shortened version) which can STORY Health Research and Development (DOST- simultaneously detect several targets in one PCHRD). run. Each kit can run 25 tests at once and THE MAN BEHIND THE can provide results within two (2) hours. We took it upon ourselves to respond Dr. Destura explained, “Before, there were no commercialized kits that is why we were using the longer version [of the testing]. All to the country’s need, to play our role as biotechnology developers around the world considered that as significant challenge scientists in putting together a diagnostic because of the turnaround time. Therefore, many biotechnologists like me tried to design PINOY-MADE kit that can help the country increase its a multiplex or a shortened version. This type of platform was made possible and widely COVID-19 TESTING KIT capacity to do mass testing. available because of biotechnology.” hen one sees dark days THE CALL OF DUTY ahead, the seemingly only choice is to cave As a practicing infectious disease doctor, Dr. in and think of one’s Raul V. Destura understood the magnitude survival. But with this or impact of identifying COVID-19 cases Wcircumstance also comes a great opportunity through a diagnostic kit. “ to step up, think beyond oneself, and help others survive. “Even before COVID-19 came into the country, I knew that one of the major ‘Since the announcement of COVID-19 challenges we had to prepare for was the local transmission in the Philippines, identification of cases which requires a Filipinos have been in a state of anxiety, diagnostic kit. This will enable us to be panic and terror, fearful for their very own precise with quarantine measures and and their family members’ lives. There are prevent the transmission of the virus to other certain individuals however who do not people,” said Dr. Destura. have the time nor energy to take these all in because they prioritize the call of duty, As people may recall, the Philippines especially if its fulfillment is critical to the struggled with limited stock of COVID-19 country’s survival in the midst of pandemic. testing kits during the first few weeks or One of those people is the man behind the month since the local transmission was Pinoy-made low-cost COVID-19 testing announced. On 9 March 2020 Senate kit—Dr. Raul V. Destura, Director of the hearing, the Department of Health admitted National Training Center for Biosafety and that the number of testing kits was down to Biosecurity, National Institutes of Health, 2,000, from the original stock of 4,500. This and the Deputy Executive Director of the has raised a major public concern as the Philippine Genome Center, University of the cases of COVID-19 continued to rise. Philippines - Manila. “Our organization, the National Institutes Through a virtual interview, CS Reporter of Health, is one of those groups that are was able to capture his story of optimism, really focused on developing diagnostic kits. selflessness, and faithfulness to his call of We took it upon ourselves to respond to the duty amid the COVID-19 pandemic. country’s need, to play our role as scientists
Lab hours. Dr. Raul Destura works on the GenAmplify COVID-19 testing kit.
22 23 I really hope to inculcate into young scientists’ hearts and minds that the work of a scientist is not just about discovering fundamental findings that enhances scientific knowledge, but also translating them into something that can help the country, the economy, and most especially, the most vulnerable populations and the marginalized sectors.
The quicker turnaround time is not the only The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) companies had to bring [the raw materials] advantage of GenAmplify™ COVID-19 test approved the GenAmplify COVID-19 test kit to the Philippines, and then you fall in line kit over other testing kits. It is also almost for commercial use last 3 April 2020 through in Customs, take it all out...all of these four times cheaper than the kits from the FDA Advisory No. 2020-513, three days things took so much time. That’s why when abroad. Per DOST, the complete package after the completed validation study which samples would arrive, we were left with very of this test kit, including VAT costs, is only covered 26,000 tests. short time to work on them,” explained Dr.
“PHP1,828.40; other kits in the international Destura. market is priced at around PHP8,000 or THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES 24 hours in a day to complete the whole of the country. That’s on the financial side are Master’s and PhD students who helped even higher. SLEEPLESS NIGHTS The entire process was described as a “very process. We had to work with several people of things. We are pretty much trained on put together the technology that we designed, tedious and exhausting” task. In an interview because of the tight timeline. People had to the science side, so it’s the business and validated and tested.” “The reason why it is cheaper is because One can only imagine the pressure on Dr. with another media outfit, Dr. Destura said work in shifts. People can take over half of operations side that we really needed it is developed locally. If we are advocating Destura and his team while working on that one simple test clearly was not enough; the work while the other half goes to sleep. help with. Good thing that we have other According to Dr. Destura, the most important low-cost technology, it will provide some the diagnostic kit. While they might have they had to keep repeating it every step of the But despite all those very exhausting and colleagues who are experts in this area,” thing that he can share with them is the form of incentive to our country. We can ask been able to work on it fast as if it was a way, 40 to 60 times, to prove the technology’s challenging and emotionally heightening said Dr. Destura. experience of serving the country by doing the foreign countries to also lower the cost of no-brainer task, unknown to many were sensitivity and specificity. He also said that activities, serving the country is worth it,” thing that they do best—scientific research.
their technologies from a price competitive the challenges these scientists had to face they had to redesign a version 2.0 of the kit said Dr. Destura. Per DOST, the Manila HealthTek Inc has advantage standpoint. In the end, it will be along the way. which needed to undergo another analytical targeted to produce 16,000 kits per day “If I succeed in making that experience the country that will benefit. Our team is here performance testing, laboratory performance Another challenge the team encountered from its original capacity of 8000 per day very meaningful to these young scientists, I to contribute so we can lessen the burden of “We went through a lot of challenges. To testing, and clinical performance testing was finances, particularly on the in April. really hope to inculcate into their hearts and access to the diagnostic testing technology. start off, we had a problem with the original before they got the second FDA approval. business operation and production of the minds that the work of a scientist is not just Hopefully, it creates some impact on how design because of the raw materials coming GenAmplify™ COVID-19 test kits through HOPE FOR YOUNG SCIENTISTS about discovering fundamental findings that we control the Coronavirus problem here in in from other countries. It takes time. The “It was very exhausting. There was no time the Manila HealthTek Inc. enhances scientific knowledge, but also the Philippines,” said Dr. Destura. most challenging part was when shipping to waste. We had to make use of the entire Dr. Destura acknowledged that the low-cost translating them into something that can “We (Manila HealthTek Inc.) are just a COVID-19 testing kit was made possible help the country, the economy, and most small start-up, a spin-off company from not only by his own experience and especially, the most vulnerable populations “ Dr. Raul Destura helps in packing a GenAmplify COVID-19 rRT-PCR Detection Kit for distribution. the University of the Philippines through expertise in biotechnology and diagnostics, and the marginalized sectors,” said Dr. the Tech Transfer Act of 2009. The but also by a team of dedicated scientists Destura. waiting time and all the other problems and students from UP-Manila. we encountered had us bleeding dry in He emphasized the role of scientists in terms of resources as we had to spend for He said, “I am very honored to be working providing the marginalized sector access operations and personnel. We sought help with young scientists who are eager to to technologies that the global community from colleagues and friends, from banks, learn and master the ability to develop the has been enjoying for years but are made and other institutions just to be able to technologies for diagnosis. I am working limited due to the cost of purchasing these make sure that we can provide the needs with fifteen (15) people—young ones—who technologies from outside the country.
Human encroachments and industrialization make us more vulnerable to these viruses that are usually hidden in the deeper areas of caves and jungles where we’re not exposed to. If these viruses have never touched humans before, then we don’t have the immunity for it, which makes the entire world vulnerable to a pandemic.
Photo credits: http://www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph/index.php/news/6537-up-nih-spinoff- begins-mass-distribution-of-dost-pinoy-made-covid-19-test-kits GenAmplify testing kit: https://www.facebook.com/mteklabs/ 24 25 dID yOU kNOW? Dr. Destura’s proven track record in research and innovation If we use health as our universal compass, we can perhaps stir toward a direction that would make our countries safer from future pandemics.
“I know there is still a lot of work that needs caves and jungles where we’re not exposed affiliations, institutional walls, or regions, to be done. But if we hold steadfast to our to. If these viruses have never touched everybody prefers to be healthy. If we vision and dreams for the country, and humans before, then we don’t have the use health as our universal compass, “with the support of our government and immunity for it, which makes the entire we can perhaps stir toward a direction the private sector, we just might be able world vulnerable to a pandemic. How do that would make our countries safer from to help move our country forward through we protect ourselves from viruses? The future pandemics. We must think and take technology. I’m sure there are other only way we develop our immunity is if we seriously the impact of the Coronavirus scientists who are big-hearted as well and expose ourselves to the virus and develop to us as a county, as an institution, as a who love this country and will step up so immunity memory for that. Unfortunately, government, as a family, as individuals. that there will be more of us helping build we do not have the immunity memory yet for Common to everybody is the value of our the biotechnology ecosystem here in the these novel ones like the COVID-19, hence health. If we value our health, the effect Philippines.” everybody is vulnerable. So biological will trickle down even to our country’s preparedness is really something that I feel economy,” Dr. Destura explained. Proven track record. Dr. Destura receives 2019 Presidential Lingkod Bayani Award from President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during the 2019 LESSONS LEARNED: BIO- is very important for all of us.” Awards Rites for Outstanding Government Workers in Malacañang. PREPAREDNESS AND HEALTH LOVE OF COUNTRY FUELS Dr. Destura also shared his reflections SERVICE AND SELFLESSNESS Dr. Raul V. Destura was conferred the 2019 safe working environment for health (XDR) TB to deepen understanding of the CS Reporter asked Dr. Destura about on how we can work more collaboratively Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award for his researchers. He believes that scientific disease and improve medical approaches his personal thoughts, feelings, and as a nation to fight pandemic such as To end the interview, CS Reporter asked innovation and breakthroughs in the field of advances in the country should not be at to the disease. reflections about the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19. Dr. Destura for his message of inspiration biotechnology. Most notable of which is the the expense of its researchers’ health and His statements reflect that of informed for his fellow government workers and Biotek-MTM Dengue Aquakit, an affordable well-being. In 2018, he established the Dr. Destura’s groundbreaking decade of observations as a scientist, as a concerned “On the national level, one of my reflections for the Filipinos. And like many other tool that can diagnose dengue infection in National Training Center for Biosafety and research significantly contributed to the Filipino, and as a responsible global citizen. is that for pandemics such as COVID-19, public servants, Dr. Destura zoomed 40 minutes. With his discovery, the country Biosecurity at the UP Manila’s National field of science in many ways. Through the no single agency can actually handle it in on “love of country” as his drive for received a PHP64M grant from the United Institutes of Health. years he was able to secure highly coveted “On a global perspective, this crisis gives us effectively. It needs the collective effort exemplary public service. Now a very Kingdom for the conduct of further research international research grants with his the impression that the global community is of both government agencies and private influential scientist, he also wishes to and was awarded a gold medal in the 46th He also dedicated his research on outstanding proposals, gain partnerships with still not prepared for epidemics like this. The sector, and our fellow Filipinos—all of us. inspire others to love the country and do International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva diseases such as dengue and tuberculosis. prestigious institutions, and churn out studies issue here is what we call bio-preparedness— We need to have a comprehensive multi- the best that each person can to help the in Switzerland. This led to the creation of the University that contributed to public health and safety. the ability to prepare for epidemics and agency network that allows us to rapidly society survive this crisis. of the Philippines’ first spin-off company, pandemics. We thought we are ready, but access everything that we need from With his combined roles as physician, inventor, the Manila HealthTek Inc., which aims to His colleagues and superiors also attest to his based on what we are seeing now, even in Day Zero. All of us must be able to work He said, “The most important thing is for and institution-builder, his career is colored produce molecular diagnostic platforms achievements. “Dr. Destura deserves to be the case of the advanced countries, we are together and provide solutions rather than us to set aside our personal agendas. by collaboration, mentorship, and leadership that are readily available to Filipinos. It recognized and emulated for his commitment not. Bio-preparedness is something that the fight each other. These are the ones that Rather, let us put the country’s needs at excellence. He dabbled in different research has since pioneered the production of as a civil servant, for being relentless in global community must aspire for.” I feel are very crucial for our survival as a the center of everything that we do. Who fields but likewise excelled in all, having the Biotek-MTM Dengue aqua kit, an providing solutions and innovations that are community.” knows, by doing so, we might just be able contributed to global knowledge in biosafety, affordable and locally developed rapid within reach of the Filipino people,” said UP To further prove his point on bio-preparedness, to mitigate the further potential harms epidemiology, pathobiology, biotechnology, test kit for accurate detection of dengue President Danilo L. Concepcion. Meanwhile, Dr. Destura explained his foresight that the Dr. Destura also highlighted the importance related to COVID-19. It is an appeal to and diagnostics. He also transformed the infection within an hour at a fraction of the UP Manila Professor and Chancellor pandemic will not end with the Coronavirus. of prioritizing health and making it a everybody to look into their hearts and University of the Philippines Manila’s Institute cost of foreign commercial counterparts. Carmencita D. Padilla said, “Excellence and He considers it a part of the cycle of emerging universal compass for global growth and see how they can best serve our country of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from Its pilot implementation in Regions I, VI, compassionate service to the Filipino people infections globally because of the way that we development. and fellow Filipino. At the end of the day, a human resource and finance-deprived and IX has proven that research outputs are just two of the superior qualities of Dr. humans rapidly utilize our world. we only have one Philippines, thus let us office into a word class research institute and can be translated into innovations that Destura that makes him worthy of his award.” “We have to work together, to find a preserve it for our children, and for the laboratory. benefit communities. For tuberculosis “Human encroachments and industrialization common goal. For me, the universal next generations to come. I know it’s not (TB), Dr. Destura pushed for advancing Truly, Dr. Destura has modeled research make us more vulnerable to these viruses compass is health. No one wants to be easy to love a country, but it is certainly An infectious diseases physician, his work molecular epidemiology of multi-drug excellence and paved the way for scientific that are usually hidden in the deeper areas of sick. Regardless of borders, of political worth it.” is driven by his advocacy on maintaining resistant (MDR) extensively drug-resistant advancement in the Philippines.
26 27 EXECUTIVE LETTER
*keynote message of CSC Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala for the Chief Information Officer Forum, Inc.’s 1st Online General Membership Meeting and Conference, 25 June 2020 GOVERNMENT am honored to join this timely and relevant gathering of government information ! ! ! officers advocating the strategic use of information and communications WORKERS IN THE Itechnology or ICT in good governance. How have you been doing since we were all put on community quarantine roughly NEW NORMAL* 100 days ago? The coronavirus (COVID-19) rapidly moved past containment and caused economic, social, political, and religious disruption worldwide. We witnessed the ! ! cancellation of major world events, shutdown of public, commercial, and educational establishments, and stoppage of industries as part of aggressive measures to manage the spread of the infection. We departed from the usual way of doing things. COVID-19 spelled the adoption of a new norm. How are you personally managing, coping, and adjusting CSC needed to urgently to this situation, given that you have to adapt to alternative working conditions? address the concerns of ! ! ! On the part of the Civil Service Commission (CSC), we needed to urgently address the concerns of the 1.7 million government the 1.7 million government workers as events unfolded and continued to unravel. We, your CSC, must think and act quickly since the Philippine government’s workers as events unfolded efficiency and responsiveness must remain inviolable in dealing with the pandemic. However, the need to provide quality services and continued to unravel. must also be balanced with the need to “M.C. No. 8 prescribed a 14-day self- or results and accomplishments outside the area where it is located and the nature of protect the safety and health of the public immunodeficiency, comorbidities or other In a four-day (compressed) workweek sector workforce. quarantine for government officials and of the office. This shall be adopted in health risk, pregnant women, including arrangement, the employees’ workweek is work performed by its employees. employees with history of travel to COVID-19 areas placed under Enhanced Community those who reside with the aforementioned, compressed to four days each week. This A number of critical policies were restricted countries as well as for frontline Quarantine (ECQ) by the President. For shall be under WFH arrangement, except may be adopted by agencies in areas placed To ensure that public service delivery is not promulgated to address the safety and health service providers such as public health agencies in areas placed under General when their services are indispensable under under GCQ. prejudiced during the implementation of AWA, of government workers. The CSC reiterated workers, immigration officers, and consular Community Quarantine (GCQ), where the circumstances or when office work is a monitoring mechanism, such as submission its call for government agencies and their officers. The 14 days will not be deducted public transportation is limited and permitted. Agencies may also adopt staggered of daily or weekly accomplishment reports, employees to take necessary precautionary from the earned leave credits. physical/social distancing in the workplace working hours, which is applicable to offices must be implemented. measures to prevent the spread of the virus is required, WFH is an option. Skeleton (skeletal) workforce pertains to or agencies that observe work shifting or in the workplace. This was done through the Guidelines on AWA a work arrangement where a minimum flexible working time. For this purpose, As we ensure that the Philippine government’s issuance of interim guidelines on the use To facilitate the implementation of the work- number of employees is required to man staggered working hours refers to the efficiency and responsiveness remain of leave credits for absences due to self- Meanwhile, CSC M.C. No. 10 or the from-home arrangement, the agency head the office to render service when full existing 24/7 shifting schedule and the inviolable in dealing with the pandemic, the quarantine and/or treatment was issued. Revised Interim Guidelines on Alternative shall ensure that employees are given tasks staffing is not possible. Agencies in GCQ flexible working time schedule. This may be need to provide quality services must also be Work Arrangements or RIGAWA prescribed to be performed to the full extent possible areas shall adopt skeleton workforce as implemented as a means to limit the number balanced with the need to protect the safety Guidelines on Covid-19 Leave work-from-home arrangements, skeleton in terms of man-days per work week. In one of its AWA. During ECQ, on the other of employees present at the workplace at and health of the public sector workforce, workforce, four-day or compressed this arrangement, employees shall make hand, skeleton workforce may be allowed any given time. thus support mechanisms are also specified CSC Memorandum Circular No. 8, series of workweek, and staggered working hours as themselves available during the work hours unless a different operational capacity in M.C. No. 10. The agency head shall ensure 2020, provided guidelines for the availment of alternatives. that they are working from home. is provided in agencies providing health An agency may also adopt work arrangements that all workers are afforded with the following leave for public sector employees as well as and emergency frontline services, border consisting of a combination of these, or adequate support mechanisms: ensured adoption of precautionary measures Work-from-home (WFH) refers to an For areas placed under GCQ, employees control, and other critical services as other work arrangements appropriate and in government offices to avoid the spread of output-oriented work arrangement that aged below 21 and those who are 60 identified in the IATF Omnibus Guidelines applicable to the agency, taking into account • health/psychosocial interventions like the disease and infection. authorizes the worker to produce outputs years old and above, as well as those with on Community Quarantine. prevailing community quarantine conditions in stress debriefing;
28 29 EXECUTIVE“ LETTER
As we ensure that the Philippine government’s Now more than ever, employees yearn for efficiency and responsiveness remain inviolable sincere concern from their managers. If we in dealing with the pandemic, the need to fail to empathize and show sincere concern provide quality services must also be balanced for their health and wellbeing, we lose their with the need to protect the safety and health trust, their commitment, their loyalty, and their of the public sector workforce. productivity.
• provision of appropriate personal protective • Majority of respondents perceived safety and wellbeing will come at a high webinars. To prevent employees from quo. These disruptions have altered the workers, the FIRe has deepened the equipment (PPE) to frontline service themselves to be still productive while on cost for organizations. I know that we drowning in a sea of content, we can give way we live, socialize, work and interact, digital divide with the acceleration of providers and employees; alternative work arrangements; have learned over time that people are the them the freedom to curate their own rearranging value pools and leading to the technology adoption. According to data source of new or better solutions. People learning, encouraging them to look after introduction of entirely new products and released by Rappler, it took decades • reduced working hours, as authorized by • While majority are reportedly productive, also determine the success or failure of their own growth not to wait for formal services. for telephones to reach 50% of Filipino the President; better internet connectivity remains a any innovation project. As Steve Jobs said, L&D interventions. Content curation is households, but less than a decade for leading concern to effectively perform “Innovation has nothing to do with how many a trending buzzword in human resource Speaking of products and services, I 89% of Filipinos to own mobile phones, • reasonable transportation facilities and given tasks; and dollars you have… It’s about the people you management. know that while in quarantine, most 53% to own smartphones, 14% to have housing quarters shall be provided have, how you’re led, and how much you get of us depended on Grab, Lalamove, tablets, 39% to use desktops, and 37% to “to employees assigned as skeleton • Organizational culture, particularly from it.” According to the High-Impact Learning Foodpanda, Lazada and Shopee—today’s have access to laptops. workforce, whenever practicable, and high levels of trust and support, good Organization study by top talent popular online delivery and shopping subject to accounting and auditing rules communication system, and collaboration Let us not treat our employees as mere management adviser Josh Bersin, content platforms. These apps are collectively The CSC recognizes that government and regulations; within the organization play a pivotal role in commodities, but as strategic partners in curation is both an art and a science. It brought to us by the Internet of Things workers with weak foundational digital ensuring employee productivity. overcoming this crisis. Let us put them first. deals with identifying the most relevant (IoR). Through IoR, which is simply literacy skills could be vulnerable in • reasonable expenses incurred during the information for a specific group of target defined as the interconnection via the the acceleration of technology. At this work-from-home may be defrayed by the In your case, as experts in the field of ICT, As you know, CSC is the premier provider of audience, and contextualizing and Internet of computing devices embedded juncture of transitioning to automation, agency subject to accounting and auditing have you thought of ways to effectively learning and development interventions to the organizing it before presenting it to them. in everyday objects, we have experienced use of data analytics, and higher intensity rules and regulations; and shepherd government workers to a “better public sector workforce. One essential role of breakthroughs in the way we live to cope of non-routine, developmental, and normal”? leaders and managers is to make sure that The same study revealed that employees with the “better normal”. cognitive tasks, we intend to come up with • other monetary and forms of incentives employees are continuously provided with find it most difficult to learn not because competence development or retraining of as may be allowed by the Office of the Government Workers toward a learning and development opportunities, even there isn’t enough content, but because Now is the time to take full advantage government workers to enable them to President or other authorized agencies or Better Normal or most especially in the midst of crisis. there is too much. The struggle is in sifting of the possibilities brought by FIRe and face the hurdles of going not necessarily upon approval of the heads of agencies what is valuable. other frontier technologies. These hold high-tech, but appropriate tech. subject to accounting and auditing rules There are a few points that my team and Let us look into how you as Chief Information numerous prospects for improving the and regulations. I have put together and wish to share Officers can effectively perform your task As what we have gleaned, content curation way we deliver services to the public. For The future belongs to the most agile with you. These are insights gained from of providing learning and development delivers our learners from the hassle, pain, instance, there is the shift to made-for- organizations which are willing to Furthermore, the CSC encouraged heads research studies and some webinars on opportunities during times of crisis, and why and frustration of trying to wade through a me service delivery in compliance with accelerate and embrace new possibilities of agencies to implement other health management, workforce engagement, and inspiring innovation is critical. First, how sea of content to find what they need and Republic Act No. 11032 or the Ease of presented by technology and paradigm and wellness initiatives to ensure zero learning and development attended during many free online sessions have you attended what is relevant to improve competence. Doing Business and Efficient Government shifts. These will eventually force the public COVID-19 infection in the workplaces such quarantine. I want to highlight important since March? One positive outcome of the With customized content, the learning Service Delivery Act of 2018. Under this sector to strive for improved productivity. as disinfection and decontamination activities, points on putting people first, relevance of prohibition on mass gatherings is the surge of journey becomes smooth, and learners law, government agencies are required It will also signal the emergence of public conduct of health status check among learning and development curation, and free webinars and online courses that anyone are more motivated to absorb learning like to simplify, streamline, re-engineer, sector leaders who do not shy away employees, and modification of workplace display of agility in time of disruption. can participate in and take advantage of. sponges, leading to improved competence. automate, and revolutionize services from the challenges brought by FIRe but layout to ensure observance of physical delivered both in business and non- gravitate toward it, who do not see digital distancing requirements. Now more than ever, employees yearn for Leaders have to provide the enabling The CIOC’s First Online General business transactions. It requires drastic advancement as threatening; but welcome sincere concern from their managers. It is environment for employee engagement, for Membership Meeting and Conference transformation in the delivery of public it as something creative, exciting, inspiring, DAP AWA Survey safe to assume that all of us experienced meeting learners where they currently are, theme, “Accelerating Digital services. How drastic? Until people and enriching. something we never imagined possible. and for allowing them to continue to grow Transformation in the New Normal” is an can do business with government via With these measures under CSC M.C. No. People’s physical and mental health were and develop. This is quite a challenge for apt reminder that the disruption brought smartphones and register online anytime, On behalf of the CSC, allow me to 10, allow me to share with you the result of at great risk and those are among our basic all, particularly for L&D leaders, trainers, by Industry 4.0 or the Fourth Industrial anywhere. We have to go full speed in extend our appreciation and heartfelt a survey conducted by the Development needs as humans. If we fail to empathize and facilitators. One of the panelists in the Revolution (FIRe) must be embraced, going mobile and delivering in-person gratitude to all our government workers Academy of the Philippines determining the and show sincere concern for their webinar, Milalin Javellana of Australia Awards especially in coping with COVID-19. FIRe services to constituents. for your invaluable contributions to the effects of AWA on public sector performance health and wellbeing, we lose their trust, Philippines, emphasized that public sector is defined by technological breakthroughs bureaucracy and for your service to the and productivity during the period of their commitment, their loyalty, and their should lead the way. But how do we do it? that are mostly unpredictable in their To the CIOF, we encourage you to be Filipino people. Also, congratulations to community quarantine from 16 March to 31 productivity. This leads me to the next point. development and effects. Some of these the CSC’s partners in encouraging the officials and members of the CIOC May 2020. advances include artificial intelligence, government agencies and the public sector for successfully organizing its first online I am certain that you have realized by now We can either be the L&D providers augmented reality, robotics, and big workforce to embrace the technological General Membership Meeting. Maraming Some of the key findings of the survey are as that without the employees, organizations ourselves, or we can promote to our data, which have all, in the last five breakthroughs brought by FIRe. I salamat. Mabuhay kayo at mabuhay ang follows: are paralyzed. Not prioritizing our people’s employees a list of other available years, collectively disrupted our status understand that for some government serbisyo sibil!
30 31 If COVID-19 is contagious, so is HRSPOTLIGHT
This section will be your new favorite spot in the CS Reporter Courage if you are a person interested in all things HR, organization development, and leadership and How PSTD proved management. Aside from CSC- native content, we invite guest contributors who are experts in the field of HR and OD to give that courage is key to you fresh insights on the latest trend, or provide an in-depth look into a certain HR and OD fighting the COVID-19 concept.
John Reily Baluyot impact on the Filipino President Philippine Society for Talent Development L & D community
“I was so scared. I was Overwhelmed with excitement and A timely crisis to shine paralyzed for two weeks... determination, John met with his fellow I didn’t know what to do.” volunteer officers and the Board of Trustees Just like how almost everyone has a friend to at once to strategize for PSTD’s future. run to for advice, John decided to talk to her friend and co-founder of Positive Workplaces, hese were words from the He said, “We had so many plans. We wanted to Maria Veronica “Nikki” Vergara. John said man who currently leads the double our membership by 2020. We aimed to that talking with Nikki was one of the most Philippine Society for Talent offer free learning programs, and prepare for the important decisions he made during the Development (PSTD), a not- National Convention for October 2020 as early quarantine. for-profit organization that is as February. For my full-time work, my friend Tnow blazing the trail in e-Learning and Nikki and I even put up a startup consultancy “I remember Nikki telling me ‘We can do Development amid COVID-19. How did he firm, Positive Workplaces, and we were on something if you want. Crisis is when great and the PSTD jump from point A to point B? momentum to kickstart our joint venture, deal leaders are formed.’ Those words poured Here is its story. with our first few clients...Then COVID19 and out on me like ice-cold water, and I came to ECQ happened!” my senses. Suddenly it was clear to me that An untimely crisis for dreamers we’re definitely going to do something,” said On March 16, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte John. John Reily Baluyot, PSTD President, just placed the entire Luzon under an Enhanced arrived from his studies in Melbourne, Community Quarantine (ECQ) which restricted Edgar Schein, John’s favorite Organizational Australia last December 2019. He finished among others, mass gatherings including Culture and Leadership author, once said, Master of Leadership in Organizational seminars and other face-to-face learning “Culture is a pattern of shared learnings by Learning at Monash University under the sessions. This situation gravely affected PSTD a group as it solves its problems of external Australia Awards Scholarships. Ambitious and those in the learning and development field adaptation and internal integration”. This and competitive as he is, he was full of hope of practice. John, who thought he had crystal adage has now become John’s anchor. and dreams upon returning to his homeland clear plans ready for implementation, was He said, “We have in front of us one of the and was excited to take on new roles and not spared from the shock of the nationwide biggest problems that humanity has ever challenges to help the Philippine learning announcement. faced. If there is a good time to re-introduce community—a tribe that he values very well. more positive cultures by leaders, this is it”. The perfect opportunity came. “I was so scared. I was away from my family. I was paralyzed for two weeks because I literally Nikki was right. Many good leaders have “We had an election at the PSTD last did not know what to do. I was just playing video been exposed at the onset of the COVID-19 February 2020, and I got elected as the games. I wanted to wallow in despair. Lahat pandemic. Locally, citizens lauded leaders President. I was happy because I really ng pinag-planuhan namin, paano na?” John like Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto for his aimed for it,” said John. quivered as he faced the early days of ECQ. innovative thinking, strategic planning
32 33 Membership – Committee Chair: Rowell “No profit. No money. This is all volunteer Kanika Singh and Angie Santa Maria of Mariano, former Talent Development and work. While we didn’t have any trouble Gallup, Vanessa Trower of the Australian Marketing Head of Mitsukoshi Motors calling for volunteers—which surprised us Institute of Training and Development, Ash Philippines Inc. | Australia Awards Scholar all—it was a challenge to convince them to Mandhyan of Facebook Philippines, Diana who studied Master of Human Resource stay engaged. These people have their full- Khaitova of Center for Creative Leadership, Management at the University of Newcastle, time jobs or other more important matters to Singapore. New South Wales attend to. It was a challenge because PSTD has no legitimate power over volunteers “The exciting part in this webinar series “These people make a perfect combination because we’re not their employers; we had is that it has become a shared learning for the task force. I needed the most agile, very little reward power because we’re a experience for all of us—for PSTD, for the divergent thinkers because the crisis is quite not-for-profit organization; and no coercive speakers, and the learners. I remember unprecedented. The immediate solutions power since these are not their official jobs,” Vanessa telling me that it was her first time won’t be found from tradition, but from the John explained. to speak to 500 people in a [virtual] room. diamonds harvested from failing fast and She was also shocked,” said John. failing smart,” said John. If PSTD did not have enough source of power to mobilize volunteers for Oplan Because of the initial success of the The idea behind the taskforce was backed H.O.P.E., what did? One might suppose first couple of webinars, other local and up by the wisdom of the PSTD’s Board that it was human’s natural tendency to help international speakers agreed to volunteer of Trustees led by its Chairperson Jesse in times of crisis. As Bill Taylor said in his for the next sessions. Rebustillo, the operating spirit of PSTD, Harvard Business Review article, “worst and its professional team led by Executive situations tend to bring out the best in people “Jun Roy, the head of Programs Committee, Director Maricel Benitez. and the organizations to which they belong.” connected us to Ms. Luz Mercurio who PSTD’s Oplan H.O.P.E. has created such used to be the Regional L&D Manager for When asked if he had difficulty pitching a compelling mission and opportunity for ASEAN of General Electric. Things just Oplan H.O.P.E.’s mission to them, there was volunteers to take a stand and help out. snowballed from there. Luz knows a big no hint of hesitation in John’s voice saying, “I While there emerged plenty of ways to network of experts and resource speakers never had to convince everyone to say ‘yes’. help during the COVID-19 crisis—volunteer and six of them were top tier Learning Our leaders knew it was time to move. They frontline service, donations in cash or in Leaders and Managers of G.E. from four were all ‘Yes’.” kind, benefit gigs, etc.—Oplan H.O.P.E. was different continents. Luz told me, ‘When effective in offering volunteers a unique way I was with G.E., our global learning team John also knew the challenge of getting to be brave and become COVID-19 heroes called Crotonville provided free seminars more people on the boat for Oplan H.O.P.E. by helping the Filipino learning community and webinars to our customers and All set up. John Reily Baluyot sets his home workspace and equipment for a Learn -from-Home series webinar by PSTD. Surely, six (6) people cannot do all the in this meaningful transition. government institutions in various parts tasks entailed in the mission. What was of the world. When I volunteered to help more challenging is that PSTD is a not- Ripples of courage PSTD as an advocacy, it was easy to invite for-profit organization—meaning, it cannot my former colleagues to share their talent acumen, and fast actions to prevent H.O.P.E. conquers fear He called people in the PSTD, including simply offer incentives to people for them to A couple of days after establishing Oplan and knowledge to people in need. Their COVID-19 transmission in Pasig while some from its Board of Trustees to head join the efforts. The committee heads also H.O.P.E.’s task force, the Programs hearts were ready for this.’ Simple acts of ensuring that citizens are provided with PSTD treated the disruption as both a each committee forming the Oplan understood right at the start that they would Committee came up with the Learn-from- compassion led more volunteer speakers necessary aid. In science, Deputy Executive challenge and opportunity to innovate and H.O.P.E. task force. The committees are be working on this for free. The best option Home webinar series. Among the first from all over the world to speak for us,” Director of the Philippine Genome Center better serve the learning community. Hence, as follows: was to gather volunteers for each committee. speakers and organizations to jump in were John said. Dr. Raul Destura also caught the attention the birth of PSTD’s Oplan H.O.P.E. (Hang on of Filipinos when he and his team invented People Enablers). Oplan H.O.P.E. is PSTD’s Research and publications – Committee GENAMPLIFY, the Pinoy-made COVID-19 task force built with the objective to provide Chair: Jose Decolongon, Adjunct Faculty testing kit. This feat was a shared success of support to the learning community amid with the Asian Institute of Management Globe Telecom’s Employee Experience Manager Mark Dimaisip joins the PSTD Learn-from-Home series’ roster of speakers to talk about a team of scientists from the University of the COVID-19 crisis. More specifically, it aims to | Australia Awards Scholar who studied “Employee Experience in the Time of COVID-19”. Philippines National Institutes of Health, the create e-Learning materials that can help the Master of Supply Chain Innovation at Philippine Genome Center, and The Manila learning community cope such as: (1) Well- Swinburne University, Melbourne, Victoria HealthTek Inc. being During Times of Crisis, (2) How to best facilitate Online Meetings and Learning Programs – Committee Chair: Jun Roy, As for John, he wanted PSTD to also rise Sessions, (3) Capacity and Capability former Asst. Vice President at PetNet, above the challenges posed by COVID-19 building for the New Normal, (4) Enhancing Inc. an Aboitiz Company, now the HR and be seen as a beacon of hope among the Digital Competence, etc. Consulting Head of Nomura Research Filipino learning community. Institute The concept of ‘task force’ was apparently He said, “True to PSTD’s mission, ‘We inspired by the creation of the government’s Marketing – Committee Chair: Rex Learn. We Grow. We Transform.’, we want Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management Tuozo, “The Six Sigma Guy”, President of to transform learners into global game- of Emergency Infectious Diseases. SixSigmaPH changers. These include not only L&D facilitators but also educators, trainers, “I remember watching IATF’s spokesperson E-Learning Technology – Committee Chair: mentors, coaches, and other people Karlo Nograles on TV. I was inspired. I Marby Tabungar, People and Culture - developers. This COVID-19 crisis has knew that a task force was what we also Learning and Organizational Development exposed a big capability gap in all people needed in PSTD to plan, decide, and Manager at Amaysim Philippines | Australia and organizations. With that gap comes our move quickly given this situation. This was Awards Scholar who studied Master of opportunity to integrate our competence in perhaps one of the major shifts we had to Human Resource Management at the facilitating learning”. do that time,” John said. University of Newcastle, New South Wales
34 35 Simon Hammond, Founder and CEO of 50 Crates, talks about “Personal Branding Beyond the Pandemic: Using Your Truth to Win in a World of Lies”.
The spike of demand for digital learning was not so “Great occasions do not make heroes or cowards; they imminent before, ‘foreshadowing’ if we may call it. What simply unveil them to our eyes. Silently and imperceptibly, COVID-19 did was to bring that imminent change to here as we wake or sleep, we grow strong or weak; and at last and now—that fast. And you can’t afford to miss out, or some crisis shows what we have become.” you’ll be left behind. - Brooke Foss Westcott
Among other themes and topics included not knowing if you framed yourself right As of June 2020, PSTD’s Learn-from-Home dauntless as before if not for PSTD and entitled “Participants Decorum During Live service that the Filipino community needs were “How to Digitize Learning”, “Capacity in the camera, if you look good to your series has reached 41 learning episodes, everyone behind the screen. Now, I’m back Webinars” in preparation for their 2-week in this COVID-19 pandemic. It is now a and Capability Building for the New audience, if you had your microphone and 11,600+ live Zoom learners with a total of eagerly and passionately working.” program. Said precursor was attended by “make or break” moment for all leaders and Normal”, and the “Basics of Teacher Well- speaker sorted out correctly. It might be around 200k video views on Facebook. Its 160 participants! Prior to that, we have been lingkod bayani. The public servants’ zeal being”, launched in July. just too much an adjustment for those who social media followers also rocketed from Daryl Cid Samonte, Sitel Philippines having meetings since the lockdown, for the for excellent service delivery, empathy, and were used to face-to-face conversations 11,872 to 21,249 in just 2 months. “I am very grateful to both local and Judges’ Orientation Program which we are compassion to Filipinos are now put to test. “I was also surprised with the turnout of and learning facilitation. Hence, it indeed international speakers who rose to the forced to do now in the new platform. We We have heard of inspiring stories in the these e-Learning sessions. Not all of us in takes courage for one to embrace this “I think, more than these digits, what is more occasion and shared their expertise in their cannot delay it because the judges will not frontline service, but the PSTD story reminds the PSTD were tech-savvy. At some point, sudden shift to e-learning. heartwarming for us to see are learners’ own individual and unique ways. My mindset be able to assume their judicial functions, if us that even if we are not in the frontline, we we also had to experience the learning stories about how PSTD has helped them was sturdier than ever and I made a lot of not for those online meetings.” can as well inspire courage by taking actions curve of going digital, like using Zoom for “I am really proud of what we have during the crisis: realization especially on what to prioritize on what we think needs to be done at this learning facilitation and moderation,” said become. We took that leap of faith to make in life during a crisis. Moreover, I would On courage and COVID-19 very moment. John. this happen. We convinced other PSTD Fleri De Leon, National Water Resources like to give my snappiest salute to PSTD members to moderate some webinars. Board for their generosity and more importantly, In the midst of uncertainty and dark days, Theologian Brooke Foss Westcott once The culture of digital transformation now To some, it was their first time to do it on “The succeeding webinars literally and guiding us leaders through digital learning sometimes all it takes is for one to be brave said, “Great occasions do not make heroes sweeps through different organizations. Zoom platform, but they did really well,” figuratively brought me back to my feet and its effective and efficient impact to risk enough to jump into the void and learn or cowards; they simply unveil them to our What was once being resisted by said John. giving me a sense of structure as it is always management.” quickly for everyone else. Oplan H.O.P.E. eyes. Silently and imperceptibly, as we wake employees, leaders, and managers, has something to look forward to everyday. I gladly took that plunge. These stories are or sleep, we grow strong or weak; and at last now become a necessity, and people are Asked what he thinks about the shift always resonate with what the speakers Romil De Leon, Supreme Court of the proof that learning is a great source of some crisis shows what we have become.” left with no choice but to adapt. In John’s to e-learning, John said, “The spike of were discussing and it felt very personal Philippines inspiration and bravery, not just for PSTD or words, “Adapt to digital culture or perish.” demand for digital learning was not so that the words struck right through me. “I gained my confidence incredibly from its leaders, but also the community that it has We hope that this feature story helps you For some people however, especially imminent before, ‘foreshadowing’ if we They evoke that self-reassurance stemming attending the sessions with PSTD. Since vowed to serve. unveil the courage within yourself to make a the digital immigrants (Gen X and Baby may call it. What COVID-19 did was to from the awareness and mindfulness we will now be transitioning to the digital difference. Boomers), it must be daunting to download bring that imminent change to here and empowering us to do our part. How I was platform in the Philippine Judicial Academy- John also hopes for the Philippine that Zoom app or other video conferencing now—that fast. And you can’t afford to initially paralyzed in the early weeks were Supreme Court, I was tasked to introduce government and public servants to be Be a PSTD member. Visit their website to platforms and hit that “Join Meeting” button miss out, or you’ll be left behind.” all overturned by PSTD. I’ll never be this to the newly-appointed judges a webinar courageous in providing the hope and know more: pstd.org.
36 37 Here are a few reminders and good practices In this rapidly changing world, choose to be on how to conduct ourselves online, build wise. We can’t do things the way we did it our professional brand, and be ready for before. And we can’t stop change, either. work as a public servant in the age of digital transformation: That which cannot change becomes obsolete—and we certainly don’t want that Code 6713 as our brand. Instead of waxing sentimental about typewriters and fax machines, The Virtual Civil Servant: Ah, yes. The bible of public servants. Republic overcome aversion to technology by Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and learning all about it. Don’t be afraid to admit Ethical Standards for Public Officials and what you don’t know—instead, list them Employees is, or course, still in effect. It has down so you know where to start and what Building Your not changed no matter how many times the to ask. Take time to learn something new community quarantine level has changed. every day. Set your learning goals and be Thus, we are still called to observe the eight deliberate about achieving them. Motivate norms of conduct: commitment to public yourself to learn not only out of necessity Professional Online interest, professionalism, justness and but out of curiosity and interest. You will sincerity, political neutrality, responsiveness have a smoother work experience in this to the public, nationalism and patriotism, era if you let technology help you instead of Brand commitment to democracy, and simple struggling with it. living. So don’t get stuck being unsure of how to o you find yourself in the middle of Everything seems different now. The way It might be easy to overlook these norms use technology. Instead of letting it control a pandemic where the world has you work (or look for work), coordinate with when we are online and the workplace has or frustrate you, learn to wield it for your seemingly gone fully virtual. Instead superiors and subordinates, and converse become more fluid. However, it is because own purpose. Perhaps you are just starting of preparing to go out, you are with individuals and groups are all done over of the nature of the Internet that we should out in your career and looking to improve clicking away on your smartphone WiFi. be even more careful—a little mistake and your adeptness in technology. Or perhaps Sto order food and to shop. You depend on a quick screenshot can hurt our brand and you have already moved past many career apps for productivity, entertainment, and But have the rules of professional even that of our organization’s. Use the eight milestones, but you suddenly find yourself recreation. Whether at the office or at home, engagement changed? Even if everything norms of conduct as the standard for any at the beginning of something new yet you are suddenly taking crash courses on is now done online, the same etiquette and online activity you conduct, anticipating the again. Whatever stage you are in your Photo by John Schnobrich on Unsplash attending webinars, teleconferencing with values should govern our conversations and digital footprints you will leave behind. learning journey, don’t hesitate to jump on colleagues, and collaborating on shared transactions. We as civil servants should be the change train and go for the ride. files. conscious of how we are putting ourselves Decoding decorum Back in the day, we took time to look our Be on time. out there. Are we being consistent with the “Account”-ability best so we could present ourselves in the You’re now a virtual professional operating principles of public service excellence? Are Observing good taste and propriety is always best manner possible at a job interview, at It is still important to be on time, especially your own virtual office. we observing basic considerations when a wise thing to do, both onsite and online. We Mixing business with pleasure is tricky then, the office, or at an important meeting. when working with technology-based appearing, speaking, or transacting online? have office rules to maintain order and create and it’s still tricky now. Because we are applications. Give yourself enough prep a pleasant environment. In the physical civil servants, we have a professional and There’s no reason why we should stop time. Get household chores and other office, we strive not to disrupt workflow and organizational reputation to protect online. doing it now. And this is more than just tasks out of the way. Test your Internet productivity through distractions and noise. As we are typing away our comments and subscribing to the “fake it ‘til you make connection beforehand so you have time We also endeavor to become inclusive as we opinions for the whole Internet to see, it” mindset. This is about maintaining to troubleshoot in case something’s wrong, think of ways on how initiatives and activities are we thinking of how this may affect our presentability and observing courtesy, or at least know what to do when you get would benefit more people. brand? even while online. disconnected. Otherwise, you might let your colleagues wait for you—and you’re The same should be observed in our online As you increase your professional online Be presentable. not even stuck in traffic. office counterparts such as chat groups, engagement, you might want to organize online communities, and virtual meeting your online accounts and categorize their Attending a meeting or doing a virtual Be confident. rooms. Are we contributing to productive use. Are they for official or personal purposes presentation? Do simple pre-production online conversations, or are we igniting only? Or you might also want to create work. Take a quick survey of how your Lastly, build that confidence! This is closely gossip or circulating fake news? Are we separate social media or teleconferencing virtual presence would look. Stage your tied to #4—learn to wield your technology encouraging colleagues to participate and accounts specifically for work (or use the video area—ensure good lighting and so you can confidently use it. Nothing contribute, or are we alienating individuals ones your organization has provided for its acoustics, position your camera for proper is more stressful than fumbling around and groups? employees). Use your real name and official framing, curate your background, or use a the buttons and controls while a meeting profile photo or logos that reflect your work virtual background altogether. You might is about to start. Or worse—sending a These are just some ways on how we could or organizational affiliation. This is one way even want to invest on a good cloth or message to the wrong chat group. It can all apply decorum in virtual spaces. of maintaining corporate branding while chroma key backdrop to help you create be overwhelming; that’s why it’s important keeping your personal accounts personal. the perfect virtual environment. This would to know your tech so you can have the Rise of the wise be especially helpful for those who will be confidence to manage your virtual space. It’s all about projection. doing online meetings or classes most Then, you can be a confident civil servant Nobody can claim to know everything. In of the time. You can also dress for the ready to face your colleagues and serve fact, it is counted as wisdom to a person First impressions last, so they say. In a screen—pick the right colors for your outfit the public. who thinks he or she still has a lot to learn. sense, we are making a series of first and skin tone, or experiment with your This is the proper place from which to impressions now as we begin participating hairstyle to see which works best for you. For more tips on hosting or joining online approach, accept, and adapt to change. in more and more virtual spaces. Are we Check your visuals and audio before the meetings and webinars, check out the CSC Photo by Nick Morrison on Unsplash Once we think we already know everything, wondering what impression we are creating actual meeting or presentation to ensure eNewsletter June 2020 issue at www.csc. the road to learning is shut off. for ourselves online? Are we lookin’ good? everything’s OK. gov.ph.
38 39 During Meeting 1 INTRODUCE AND HAVE A SMALL TALK – Begin and end at the exact time as planned SEND MEETING DETAILS Chat for a bit before the start of meeting Respect each other’s time by being in the video Send meeting URL and/ 8 conference 5 to 10 minutes ahead of schedule. or access codes at least a to help people feel at ease Also, end the meeting at the time indicated in the day before the meeting invitation. 2 ! CREATE A Hi! Introduce and have a small talk – Before officially starting the meeting, have everyone CLEAR AGENDA introduce themselves and chit-chat for a bit to To have a help people feel connected. structured meeting with 9 Check audio and video – Ask participants if clear roles for CHECK AUDIO, How to Hold a they can hear and see you clearly. all participants, VIDEO, AND an agenda is PRESENTATION Share presentation – Ask participants if they Ask participants can see your presentation. needed Productive Virtual if they can hear Position yourself – Make sure that you are in and see you the center view of the camera at all times. clearly as well as 3 the presentation CHECK MEETING PLATFORM AND EQUIPMENT Meeting Mute yourself – To avoid background noise, Make sure your computer, camera, headset, and mute your microphone when you are just listening. meeting platform are working. Ask participants Also remind people who are not speaking to if they can hear and see you clearly mute their mic too to avoid interference. 11 OBSERVE BODY LANGUAGE he COVID-19 pandemic has Pre-meeting Observe body language – Seat properly and Sit properly and avoid abruptly changed the way excessive movements avoid excessive movements. Think that you are 10 public sector work. The concept Send meeting details – Make sure to send in the same room with the other participants. of work-from-home was a the meeting details such as URL or link, POSITION farfetched idea before the access codes, ID, or passwords, at least a YOURSELF Avoid distractions – Stay attentive all 12 Tpandemic. However, due to the community day before the actual meeting. throughout the meeting. Do not check your Make sure AVOID quarantine implemented in different areas email, mobile phone, and other gadgets during that you are DISTRACTIONS in the Philippines, government agencies Create a clear agenda – Just like in any the meeting. Do not check your were required to shift from onsite to offsite meeting, be it face-to-face or virtual, an in the center email, mobile work arrangement for their employees and agenda is vital to have a structured meeting. Take notes or record the meeting – Don’t 4 DESIGNATE A WORKSPACE view of the other alternative work schemes. The facilitator should send the agenda to all phone, and other miss important discussion during the meeting by Choose a quiet space with a neutral or participants before the online meeting and camera at all gadgets during the taking down notes or recording the meeting itself. clear background with proper lighting times meeting To ensure continuous public service seek confirmation. It should also indicate You may designate a scribe to do this task. delivery despite the pandemic, many the expected roles of the participants in the leaders are employing different strategies to meeting for them to prepare ahead. With a Post-meeting manage their teams outside of the normal clear agenda, the meeting will be focused office setting. One strategy is the conduct and the participants will not go off track, thus 5 13 Conclude effectively – At the end of the of virtual meetings or videoconferencing. no time will be wasted. meeting, reiterate important points, action 14 This strategy allows agencies to sustain steps, and deadlines. State next steps and communication among their workforce in Check and test platform and equipment follow-ups. Get the acknowledgment of TAKE CONCLUDE the comforts of their homes. Many online – Make sure that your computer/laptop, participants to ensure accountability. MAKE A SIMPLE PRESENTATION EFFECTIVELY platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Office microphone, camera, and headset, as NOTES OR Reiterate Teams, Google Meet, Slack, Skype, well as the meeting platform, are properly Since there is limited interaction important Send follow-up email – The facilitator/ RECORD etc. easily connect people in a virtual working. It is better to use headphones with points, action moderator should send the meeting notes to with participants, your presentation MUTE THE environment. While each platform has its mic instead of the laptop’s built-in mic to steps, and all participants and obtain acknowledgment should be short and simple Mute mic when just MEETING advantages, it is important to choose the ensure clear audio. and confirm understanding. It should also listening to avoid deadlines right platform that fits the purpose of the indicate action items with timelines and background noise 15 meeting as well as the needs of your team. Designate a workspace – Choose a quiet people responsible for those items. space with a neutral or clear background and As the demand for virtual meetings has proper lighting as much as possible. This By doing these steps, virtual meetings can be increases due to economy and eliminates distractions for other participants. productive and collaborative. However, we 16 convenience, it should be noted that there should keep in mind that videoconferencing 6 7 is a big difference between conducting Make a simple presentation – Since WEAR PROPER BEGIN AND END AT THE may not be ideal for every situation. It may ATTIRE and participating in a face-to-face meeting there is limited interaction with your virtual be counter-productive when it is abused by EXACT TIME compared to videoconferencing. To better audience, your presentation should be short Avoid stripes or Be in the video conference 5 having too many meetings, when in fact, some busy patterns as it equip managers as well as employees and simple. minutes ahead of schedule; topics can just be discussed via email. Always does not transmit in holding productive virtual meetings, SEND FOLLOW-UP EMAIL remember that everyone is busy and they may well to the monitor/ start and end the meeting here are some useful tips, basic rules and Wear proper attire – Avoid stripes or busy Send meeting notes and agreements and find constant virtual meetings to be disruptive screen on time etiquette to observe in the conduct of virtual patterns as it does not transmit well to the rather than effective. We hope this helps you obtain acknowledgment from participants meetings: monitor/screen. and your team in your next video conference!
40 41 ommunity quarantines have Aside from ensuring physical safety, Certainly, the digital natives and early Learn-from-Home series boasting of local pushed organizations to abruptly HR practitioners also set their eyes on adopters of technology will experience and international speakers and thousands Shifting HR practices in shift to remote work and other ensuring people’s wellbeing. According minimal to no problem in shifting to the of attendees both on Zoom and Facebook alternative work arrangements to Oxford’s Dictionary of Occupational virtual workspace. However, the digital Live. to ensure the health and safety Science and Occupational Therapy, migrants, who are mostly the Baby the time of COVID-19 Cof their people. Without question, COVID-19 wellbeing is a holistic view of the health Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964), Creativity and innovation are also prime highlighted the importance of people in all of individuals and groups of people that might find it difficult to cope with this competencies in doing e-learning and aspects of business operations. Hence, the crisis goes beyond a biomedical perspective situation. Aside from the Baby Boomers, development. It is a common knowledge has also put a lot of pressure on the shoulders and includes multiple dimensions such as there are also others who might experience that L&D facilitators possess natural What does the HR of those primarily in charge of looking after the physical, emotional, social, intellectual, technophobia or the fear, dislike, or creativity especially when they are in a employees— the human resource team. spiritual, and environmental. This is avoidance of new technology and complex traditional classroom setup. But with the precisely why HR teams are looking for devices, especially computers. The idea changing demands in the L&D circle right, In a blink of an eye, COVID-19 has made HR’s initiatives that can address these mulpile is not to single out these people. Rather, facilitators needed to step up their game. landscape look like role in an organization highly indispensable. aspects of an employee’s life. Before, the challenge for HR managers is to create The face-to-face creativity and innovation Some publishing companies have even tagged wellness programs would usually include an inclusive environment for everyone to had to be translated into the online world. it as one of the most important jobs right now. only physical exercises and yoga. When thrive in this digital revolution. In this case, many L&D practitioners are now and in a post- Just when the world was only about to adapt COVID-19 happened, these expanded now also learning from several training to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) where to include sessions on mental health, Championing e-Learning and and workshops to equip themselves on conversations centered on artificial intelligence counselling, and other psychosocial Development online facilitation—how to design a module and automation replacing humans, and the rapid support. Some sessions are very specific for online teaching and learning, how to pandemic world? acceleration of digital innovations disrupting our like building resilience in the time of Among the major HR activities that has engage virtual audience, measuring and lives, the pandemic is a stark reminder to focus COVID-19, or mindfulness and healing been disrupted by COVID-19 is learning evaluating online L&D, etc. L & D experts (Part 1 of 2) on what truly matter. More particularly in HR, it during crisis. The approach to workplace and development (L&D). With mass shared a common experience on pursuing reminds HR practitioners to bring the ‘human’ wellbeing has become more purposive, gathering prohibited, including face-to- creativity and innovation these days – that back in human resources while trying to survive making it more targeted to employees’ face classroom training and seminars, it takes courage to experiment, to fail fast, the shock of COVID-19. needs. organizations’ L&D programs have been and to fail smart. put to halt. Some companies were quick This article is the first of a two-part series in this Entering the virtual workspace to migrate their L&D programs online, Most organizations are still on the reactive magazine that captures various insights from while others, especially those observing mode of doing things in this volatile local and international business articles, studies, By adopting remote work as the new hierarchical tradition, lagged behind in time. The main focus is still on survival. and research that describe how HR practices normal, workers had to migrate online. adapting to changing demands. What are However, management consulting firm are shifting and shaping the future workplace. Majority of work activities are now done some lessons that can be learned from McKinsey&Company suggests that Part 1 will focus on workforce’s wellbeing digitally and online—meetings, sorting those who were able to quickly make L&D organizations must start reimagining safety, virtual workspace, and e-learning and and sharing of files, work collaboration, relevant amid crisis? the office and work life after COVID-19. development. town hall gatherings, among others. This Leadership and management experts sudden shift from physical to virtual desks Agility is key. According to the Cambridge also urge executives to look beyond this Prioritizing workforce’s wellbeing and has exposed the digital divide between Dictionary, agility refers to ways of planning pandemic to clarify directions, and adjust safety those who have ready access to internet and doing work in which it is understood strategic goals if necessary. Now, more and devices and those who do not; that making changes as they are needed than ever, the role of HR and organization At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Work- between the highly digital literate and the is an important part of the job; it is the development practitioners prove to be vital From-Home (WFH) has been an imperative digital novice. ability to move about quickly and easily; in ushering people into the new normal parallel to the “Stay at Home” directive from the ability to think quickly and clearly. A and into the post-pandemic world. the World Health Organization and national HR professionals see themselves standing case in point is the Philippine Society for health authorities. Remote working, once in between these groups of people. They Talent Development (PSTD) (see full We hope that this feature story gives you considered as a rare preference or an incentive must encourage digital innovation in the story on page 32) which saw the need to valuable HR insights and recommendations for employees, has now become the new norm workplace while simultaneously doubling be relevant in the face of crisis. Hence, it that you can use in your organization. Part for majority of workers. efforts to capacitate and provide needed created the Oplan H.O.P.E. taskforce to of 2 of this series will focus on employee resources to those not adept in using quickly plan for programs that would help experience, recruitment and onboarding, HR teams are prioritizing workforce’s health technology. Leaders and managers its target stakeholders—the Filipino L&D and performance management. and safety by developing and improving also decide on which work can be done community. The idea of the taskforce was WFH policies and other alternative work remotely and which ones cannot. In this to enable the team to decide and move We are eager to feature more success arrangements. On the other hand, those who case, work restructuring is considered, quickly and not rely on the traditional top- stories in the next issues of CS Reporter. still need to report to work physically, at least as well as reskilling and upskilling of the down flow of instructions. In less than two If you are keen to contribute, email us at on some days, are provided with necessary workforce. weeks, PSTD was able to come up with its [email protected]. support like transportation and free personal protective equipment. Others went as far as offering financial assistance to workers in need. In the office, employees have to observe proper SOURCES: health and safety protocols. Communication https://ceo.usc.edu/2020/03/23/coronavirus/ https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our-insights/reimagining-the-office-and-work-life-after-covid-19 materials about COVID-19 and safety tips are https://humanresources.umn.edu/home/hr-and-covid posted on highly visible areas. Alcohol, hand https://mgmt.au.dk/research-related-to-covid-19/human-resource-management-practices-in-times-of-the-covid-19-pandemic/ sanitizers, and handwashing soap are provided https://harver.com/blog/covid-19-hr-resources/ as well. Leaders have also set up COVID-19 https://hbr.org/sponsored/2020/05/workforce-strategies-for-post-covid-19-recovery response plans in case an employee tests https://hbr.org/2020/03/your-employee-tested-positive-for-covid-19-what-do-you-do positive for the virus. These are just some of the https://hbr.org/2020/05/lead-your-team-into-a-post-pandemic-world measures being taken today as part of the new https://hbr.org/2020/05/how-ceos-can-support-employee-mental-health-in-a-crisis https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our-insights/to-emerge-stronger-from-the-covid-19-crisis-companies-should-start-reskilling-their- Photo by Dylan Gillison on Unsplash normal, and are predicted to be practiced even workforces-now after this pandemic. https://www.fastcompany.com/90469161/how-hr-leaders-are-preparing-for-the-coronavirus
42 43 CS Reporter celebrates modern-day heroism by featuring the stories and contributions of outstanding LINGKOD public servants, and the beneficiaries of the Pondong Pamanang Lingkod Bayani—a recognition program and financial assistance granted by the CSC to the families BAYANI of public servants who died in their line of duty.
PAMANANG LINGKOD BAYANI Spotlight on Covid-19 Frontliners
he Civil Service Commission DR. ISRAEL BACTOL DR. MARCELO JAOCHICO Dr. SALVACION GATCHALIAN and the rest of the Philippine Philippine Heart Center PGO-Pampanga UP-Manila, College of Medicine bureaucracy continue to remember the selflesness and Thirty-four year old cardiologist A recipient of the Dr. Jose P. Rizal Dr. Sally Gatchalian—Doc Sally to bravery of our fallen health Israel Bactol of the Philippine Heart Memorial award, Dr. Jaochico many—died on 26 March after battling Tworkers who died in the line of duty. Center (PHC) died of COVID-19 after served as a ‘doctor to the barrios’ in the COVID-19 as assistant director contracting it from a patient who did not Calanasan, Apayao for about 16 years. of the Research Institute for Tropical Tributes continue to pour in for health workers disclose travel history. His colleagues He was obstetrician, pediatrician, and Medicine. She left both a void an a who battled the COVID-19 pandemic. The described Israel as a selfless, caring, family physician for rural folks. He also legacy in the medical profession. medical community continues to urge the and humble person who was willing worked at the Bureau of Local Health public to stay at home and heed the call of to risk his life to fulfill his duty in the Systems and Development of the DOH Born into the Rodriguez clan of San the authorities so that their sacrifices would medical profession. before becoming provincial health Marcelino, Zambales, her family knew not be in vain. officer in 2013. Dr. Jaochico, the at an early age that Doc Sally would be A consistent honor student since provincial health chief of Pampanga, an achiever. She went to the University These are some civil servants who remained elementary school, he strived through died on 24 March, after losing his of the Philippines for medical studies. on the frontline until they contracted the virus college and medical school as a scholar. battle with COVID-19. She graduated with class 1977 and and died in the service of our fellow Filipinos. He served as chief resident during his became a leading light in her field. She Because of the high transmission rate of the internal medicine residency training. His A former patient recalls how Dr. was a clinical associate professor and virus, they had no relatives around to hold last achievement was being part of the Jaochico served as his doctor back attending physician at the University of their hands as they breathed their last. Some select group of cardiology fellows-in- when he had malaria. The good the Philippines College of Medicine and had to be buried right away; others were training of the PHC. doctor would personally deliver the Philippine General Hospital, where she cremated with no ceremony to remember medicines and reassured that he earned her M.D., completed residency their heroism. Bactol, whose parents are both public would be the one to visit. The late in pediatrics and a fellowship in pediatric school teachers in Peñaranda town in doctor was a humble man who was infectious diseases. Nueva Ecija, believes that the medical very dedicated to his job. Their profession should be in the service of community was saddened when they After the country was hit by Typhoon the people. heard the news of his passing. Haiyan in 2013, she was involved in epidemiology and prevention efforts After graduating from the Pamantasan He was also one of the first responders to help displaced children at risk of ng Lungsod ng Maynila and passing when Typhoon Yolanda struck in tuberculosis. As a former member of the the Physician Licensure Exam in 2012, Tacloban City in 2013. World Health Organization Tuberculosis Bactol went to Occidental Mindoro as in Children and Adolescents Working a doctor to the barrio for two years. At His latest rural health service was Group, she helped create the Philippine Photos are taken from: Department of Tourism: that time, the province was classified as volunteering to attend to victims of the Coalition Against Tuberculosis and led #WeSmileAsOne A Tribute to our Modern-Day Heroes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RczklyAeiG0) second class in terms of income, with Taal Volcano eruption in Batangas in a children’s tuberculosis initiative. a population of less than half a million. January 2020. At the time of her passing, she was His dedication was evident as Bactol, Dr. Jaochico’s daughter Cielo posted president of the Philippine Pediatrics sleepless from at least a 32-hour how proud she is of her father as he Society, and was assistant director of RITM. duty, would still visit patients at home would always thinks of other people’s Despite her stature and achievements, because they cannot afford to go to the health, going to remote places to check Doc Sally remained humble, very caring hospital. up on people. and supportive of younger colleagues.
44 45 Spotlight on COVID-19 frontliners (cont’d.) and Dr. HELEN TUDTUD DR. RONALDO MATEO HEALTH WELLNESS This section encourages readers to look after Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, Pagamutan ng Dasmarinas. themselves physically, mentally, spiritually, and Cebu City LGU-Dasmarinas Cavite yes, financially too. Get insightful tips and advice in prioritizing your health and wellness at work. Dr. Helen Tudtud was a medical Dr. Ronaldo Mateo passed away due specialist/pathologist of the Vicente to COVID-19 on 5 April 5 at the age Sotto Memorial Medical Center who of 47. He dedicated his life to the passed away in 28 March or 11 days practice of general surgery without after she was admitted to the hospital forgetting to promote the welfare of for COVID-19. his fellow Caviteños. COVID-19 and our In a tribute by her nephew Vincent His colleagues at the Philippine Thomas Evangelista through a College of Surgeons (PCS) fondly Facebook post, he said that “Mommy remembered “Dr. Onie” as someone Helen was one of the most generous who laid down his life for the mental health people I know. She would always practice of General Surgery. He t has been months since the start of from the said institutions. The Philippine think of other people. She would was always focused on the needs community quarantine in different Army launched a mental health and always be the first to help when any of his townmates in Silang and parts of the Philippines and until resilience program for its soldiers, while the of us was in need. To say that she Dasmariñas. The local government now the pandemic is far from over. Department of Education offered mental was caring was an understatement,” named its public hospital’s operating As health concerns brought about health and psychosocial support services he added. room, Dr. Ronaldo Mateo Operating Iby coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) to their teachers, students, and other The Path to Wellness is a breath of Room Complex in recognition of Dr. heightened, mental health woes followed personnel. These initiatives are in line with fresh air from all the big and little Four days after her passing, her Onie’s “heroism and service to the suit. The fear of contracting the virus, the Guidelines on Mental Health Program husband, Dr. Dennis Ramon Tudtud city.” the stress due to limited mobility due to provided by CSC Resolution No. 1901265 things that we do in everyday life. also died on 31 March. As a doctor, he quarantine, the added pressure of working in accordance with the Mental Health Act of It is like a guided self-reflection was known to pay for the chemotherapy remotely in a less conducive environment, 2018, wherein agencies are mandated to sessions of some of his patients just and the overall anxiety of being uncertain develop a mental health program for their and self assessment of one’s current so their families could spend more Dr. RAUL D. JARA of the pandemic’s end, contribute to the workforce. state of mind amidst the anxiety years with them. He was described as Philippine Heart Center increasing concern for the mental health of “generous beyond words”. Filipinos. There are also numerous webinars on and stress of our situation. Dr. Raul Jara was a recognized mental health that government workers can Despite the couple’s children’s pillar of cardiology in the During the first two months of enhanced take advantage of while normal training Atty. Janalyn Gainza-Tang community quarantine, the National Center setup is not yet allowed. One of these warning, Dr. Helen and Dr. Ramon Philippines, often described by the Anti-Red Tape Authority continued working even as they were Philippine Heart Association as for Mental Health (NCMH) recorded more is the webinar on The Path to Wellness, aware that elderly people were more a “father, teacher, mentor, poet, than 100% increase in calls from their crisis which aims to improve employee wellbeing vulnerable to the disease. author, singer, colleague, friend.” hotline. From a monthly average of 400 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “It is a two- His patients remembered him as a calls from May 2019 to February 2020, it hour synchronous workshop that will help soothing and calming healer who doubled to a monthly average of 953 calls members of your organization to take a used music to heal the heart. from March to May 2020. Anxiety-related closer look at their current life paths through JOMALYN BUHAYON and concerns was the main reason for the spike reflection and sharing. The session will “ MARGIE MARIBAO During his younger days as an in calls, according to NCMH Psychiatrist help them recognize current challenges LGU-Maramag, Bukidnon activist physician, he fought Bernard Argamosa. Callers revealed that and guide them to finding individual paths dictatorship and risked his life by they were experiencing increased levels toward recovery,” said Mr. Lito Lupena, Buhayon and Maribao were barangay treating patients in the underground of anxiety, while others asked for referrals the webinar creator with over 25 years of The Path to Wellness is a breather health workers who died on 20 March not movement, running rings around to a psychologist or psychiatrist, or needed experience in the field of human resource because of the virus but because of the the military by faking the names and someone to talk to, or inquired for someone and organization development, specializing amidst this pandemic. Never did negligence of the driver of the 10-wheeler records of the activists he treated. else’s mental health problems. in personal mastery, leadership and I imagine that a bunch of cards truck which rammed into the quarantine Later in life, he would remain strategy, as well as competency and talent checkpoint they were attending to in steadfast and true to his oath, Though the numbers are alarming, health development. Several agencies such as coupled with interaction from Maramag town in Bukidnon. Police report joining a group of doctors attending experts are not surprised. At the onset of the the Department of Social Welfare and colleagues in the public service revealed that the driver was under the to an aging martial law figure who pandemic, the World Health Organization Development, Anti-Red Tape Authority, influence of liquor and visibly drunk when had been on the opposite end of the already urged the public to look after their Commission on Population, and the CSC would help me embrace a new he was chased because he attempted to ideological spectrum. mental health. The Department of Health have already benefitted from this webinar. perspective in the current crisis. escape the scene of the crime. (DOH) also asked Filipinos to take care of Online trainings like this can help us take their mental health while doing their part in care of our wellbeing despite the worrisome In a statement, Dr. Ling Jara-Salva, Maria Andrea B. Banay The accident happened a few minutes one his five children, said she following health protocols. As a response, situation around the world. before the start of Bukidnon’s province- salutes her father for dedicating both public and private sectors offered Department of Social Welfare and wide indefinite lockdown to stop the his whole life to constant learning support mechanisms to help address the Ultimately, while the pandemic is out of our Development spread of the novel coronavirus. The and teaching and molding future public’s mental health concerns. control, we can still have a hand on things two health workers were tapped to doctors. Dr. Raul would ask tough we can personally control such as managing implement strict measures against the questions and push them to learn In the government, the Civil Service our exposure from depressing news; spread of coronavirus disease at the and persevere. He believed in his Commission (CSC) partnered with staying virtually connected with family, community quarantine checkpoint when students and would think of them DOH, NCMH, Career Executive Service friends, and colleagues; keeping ourselves Compassion Project, Natasha Goulbourn busy with helpful activities; and expressing “ the truck rammed into it. as his children and the hope of the future. She added that their Foundation, and World Association for our thoughts by talking to others or writing Buhayon and Maribao were pronounced family would rather have her father Psychosocial Rehabilitation to help public on journal. By actively doing these, we are dead on arrival (DOA) at the Bukidnon remembered not by how he died but servants cope with emotional crises, stress, nurturing our mental and physical wellness, Provincial Hospital in Maramag. by how he lived. and anxiety by availing free psychosocial which we badly need as we fight on through first aid, assessment, and intervention this pandemic.
46 47 HEALTH and WELLNESS
Zoom fatigue may prove that we’re not doing remote work right: How to not fall into this trap Photo by Thomas Martinsen on Unsplash is an alternative or easier way to get that kind of person, remember that you always AFTER meeting out of your way--perhaps a phone have that option to switch off that video and call or email will do? engage with audio only. 7. Take a break to take it all in. Common mistake that people make is to engage in another DURING 5. Keep it short if possible; if not, take breaks Zoom call right away after the previous one. in between. If you have a clear agenda, This is definitely exhausting. Give yourself 3. Avoid distractions. If you committed keeping the meeting short should be easy. some time to review your notes and check “I can’t believe I’m doing more work and virtual meetings these days... and it’s draining me,” yourself to a virtual meeting, try to eliminate But if it is a major one like strategic planning what needs your action/attention. Pause and distractions during the meeting if possible. or setting targets, make sure you let people breathe. Take your eyes off the screen. Drink my colleague said while we’re on a phone call. It’s easy to get distracted in a virtual take breaks in between. water or take your meal! meeting and do other tasks while on it such as cooking, answering an email, switching 6. Make it fun and light. If you’re the one If you would notice, all these tips echo the same hen COVID-19 suddenly However, as weeks and months went by, the impact on workers with assumptions like through different social media channels, hosting it, you may insert a quick catch up tricks we should be doing in physical meetings. pushed millions of influx of online meetings was so noticeable virtual meetings are bosses’ new way to and worse, engaging in another Zoom at the beginning to break the ice, humor Moving to a virtual space does not make you any workers to work from that “Zoom fatigue” has now become a check attendance, monitor performance, call simultaneously. This would drain your them, or close the meeting with some less human. Hence, some major rules in a face-to- home, people had their common struggle among workers. and see their engagement. So even if energy more than you think it would. inspirational note. Just because we’re face meeting still apply in Zoom meetings. Let us own ways of adjusting to employees think that they may have behind our screen doesn’t mean that we’re make working from home work to our advantage the unfamiliar circumstance—majority of There are many factors causing Zoom had too many meetings in a day or in a W 4. You can switch your video off. Some people less human in meetings. Employees mostly by eliminating stressful practices. Don’t let yourself efforts had gone digital or virtual. Leaders fatigue including more intentional listening, week, the fear of being penalized for not are just camera shy and not comfortable miss human connections nowadays in the get trapped in Zoom fatigue again. and managers would meet with their teams showing up on video even if it makes you attending one makes it impossible for them showing their faces virtually for a long time. virtual world that they usually experience online through videoconferencing apps uncomfortable, long meeting hours, and to beg off. This could increase their level of stress when they are in the office with their First published by Moon Danipog on LinkedIn such as Zoom. Some people find remote background noise, among others. But more while on an online meeting. If you are this colleagues. (linkedin.com/moondanipog) work convenient because of such flexibility. than these, it also has a psychological Here are some tips to avoid Zoom fatigue before, during, and after virtual meetings:
BEFORE
1. The rule of the meeting agenda still stands. Don’t simply say YES to a meeting without an agenda. Often times, we hear notice of meeting like “We need to meet ASAP. Got some important announcement to make. Please be there.” It’s okay to ask for a specific rundown of agenda so you can prepare yourself beforehand, or also assess if you really need to be there in the first place. The least that you want is time wasted in a meeting that has nothing to do with you.
2. Check your schedule and priorities. It is easy to get lost in our calendar with multiple calls for meetings, webinars, and regular and intervening tasks. Before you say yes to a meeting especially to a one that Photo by Chris Montgomery on Unsplash conflicts with another, see if it is something that would really need your presence. Photo by Gabriel Benois on Unsplash Prioritize. Beg off if necessary. See if there
48 49 C.S.I. Civil Service Issuances Service Civil
CATEGORIES OF EXAMINEES AND AND EXAMINEES OF CATEGORIES ADMINISTRATION OF CIVIL SERVICE EXAMINATIONS EXAMINATIONS SERVICE CIVIL OF ADMINISTRATION ON PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (PWDs) AND OTHERS AND (PWDs) DISABILITIES WITH PERSONS ON
POE and CSE-FSO; two (2) hours and 40 minutes for the CSE CSE the for minutes 40 and hours (2) two CSE-FSO; and POE SubProfessional level; level; SubProfessional 1701159* : Number
, the CSC administers examinations to persons persons to examinations administers CSC the , WHEREAS 2017 31, Jun : Promulgated with disabilities (PWDs) such as the blind or visually impaired, impaired, visually or blind the as such (PWDs) disabilities with the deaf or hard of hearing, those with other physical defects, the the defects, physical other with those hearing, of hard or deaf the pregnant and senior citizens; senior and pregnant
, the conduct of examination for the visually visually the for examination of conduct the , WHEREAS impaired is either through the Braille system or the Dictation Dictation the or system Braille the through either is impaired C.S.I. Civil Service Issuances system, both requiring procedures that vary from those employed employed those from vary that procedures requiring both system, for standard examination/regular examinees; examinees; examination/regular standard for CATEGORIES OF EXAMINEES AND ADMINISTRATION OF CIVIL SERVICE EXAMINATIONS , the deaf or hard of hearing has limited vocabulary vocabulary limited has hearing of hard or deaf the , WHEREAS ON PERSONSRESOLUTION WITH DISABILITIES (PWDs) AND OTHERS in comparison with their full hearing counterparts which affects affects which counterparts hearing full their with comparison in POE and CSE-FSO; two (2) hours and 40 minutes for the CSE their comprehension and literacy skills. Such limited vocabulary vocabulary limited Such skills. literacy and comprehension their Philippine 1987 the of (2) 2 Section Number IX-B, : 1701159* SubProfessional level; Article , WHEREAS Constitution provides that appointments in the civil service shall shall service civil the in appointments PromulgatedMC : Jun 31, 2017No.15,that WHEREAS, the CSCs. administers examinations2020 to persons provides Constitution adds to the difficulty in reading and understanding passages, passages, understanding and reading in difficulty the to adds with disabilities (PWDs) such as the blind or visually impaired, be made only according to merit and fitness to be determined, determined, be to fitness and merit to the deaf or hard of hearing, those with other physical defects, the according only made be including technical, difficult, or peculiar words. Further, they do not not do they Further, words. peculiar or difficult, technical, including pregnant and senior citizens; AD TIME! as far as practicable, and, except to positions which are are which positions to except and, WHEREASTO ,: the conduct of examination for the visually practicable, as far as understand questions in Filipino and do not have an equivalent equivalent an have not do and Filipino in questions understand impaired is either through the Braille system or the Dictation policy-determining, primarily confidential or highly technical, by technical, highly or confidential ALL HEADS OF CONSTITUTIONALsystem, both primarily requiring BODIES,DEPARTMENTS, procedures that vary from those employed BUREAUS policy-determining, sign language for numerical formula/equations; formula/equations; numerical for language sign AND AGENCIES OF THE NATIONALfor standard examination/regular GOVERNMENT; examinees; GOVERNMENT- competitive examinations; RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the deaf or hard of hearing has limited vocabulary examinations; competitive OWNED ORCONTROLLEDin comparison CORPORATIONS with their full hearing counterparts WITH which ORIGINAL affects WHEREASCHARTERS;, Article IX-B, Section LOCAL2 (2) of the 1987 GOVERNMENT Philippine their comprehension UNITS; and literacy AND skills. SuchSTATE limited vocabularyUNIVERSITIES , there is a need for appropriate measures to to measures appropriate for need a is there , WHEREAS Constitution provides that appointments in the civil service shall adds to the difficulty in reading and understanding passages, be made only according to merit and fitness to be determined, andincluding COLLEGES technical, difficult, or peculiar words. Further, they do not , Section 12 (2), Chapter 3, Subtitle A, Title I, I, Title A, Subtitle 3, Chapter (2), 12 as far as practicable, and, except to positions which are understand questions in FilipinoSection and do not have , an equivalent WHEREAS address the physical conditions of PWDs, pregnant examinees examinees pregnant PWDs, of conditions physical the address policy-determining, primarily confidential or highly technical, by sign language for numerical formula/equations; competitive examinations; Book V of Executive Order No. 292, otherwise known as the the as known otherwise 292, No. Order SUBJECT : Executive of V Book and senior citizens; senior and WHEREAS, there is a need for appropriate measures to WHEREAS, SectionAmendment 12 (2), Chapter 3, Subtitleto SectionA, Title I, address 38 the physicalof Omnibus conditions of PWDs, Rules pregnant examinees on Leave Administrative Code of 1987, provides that the Civil Service Service Civil the that provides Book V of Executive1987, Order No. 292, otherwiseof known as the and senior citizens; Code Administrative Administrative Code of 1987, provides that(Amended the Civil Service by CSC MC No. 41, s. 1998) Commission (CSC) shall prescribe, amend, and enforce rules rules enforce and amend, prescribe, Commission (CSC) shall prescribe, amend, and enforce rules shall WHEREFORE , the Commission hereby RESOLVES to (CSC) Commission to to RESOLVES hereby Commission the , WHEREFORE and regulations for carrying into effect the provisions of the Civil prescribe the following general guidelines on categorizing Service Law and other pertinent laws; examinees of and administering civil service examinations to and regulations for carrying into effect the provisions of the Civil Civil the of provisions the effect into persons withcarrying disabilities (PWDs) and certain regularfor examinees regulations and prescribe the following general guidelines on categorizing categorizing on guidelines general following the prescribe WHEREAS, Section 12 (7), Chapter 3, Subtitle A, Title I, owing to their conditions: Service Law and other pertinent laws; laws; Book V of PursuantExecutive Order to No. CSC 292, pertinent otherwiseResolution known No.as the 1901392 promulgated on Novemberother 18, 2019, and Law Service examinees of and administering civil service examinations to to examinations service civil administering and of examinees Administrative Code of 1987, provides further that the CSC shall A. Categories of examinees have the powerthe to Commission control, supervise, and resolved coordinate civil to service amend Section 38 of the Omnibus Rules on Leave, as persons with disabilities (PWDs) and certain regular examinees examinees regular certain and (PWDs) disabilities with persons examinations;amended by CSC MC No. 41, s. 1998,1. to PWD read Examinees as follows: – shall refer to examinees falling under any of the following sub-categories: , Section 12 (7), Chapter 3, Subtitle A, Title I, I, Title A, Subtitle 3, Chapter (7), 12 WHEREAS , the CSC, through the Examination, Recruitment Section , WHEREAS owing to their conditions: conditions: their to owing and Placement“Section Office (ERPO),38. Period the CSC withinRegional whichOffices to(CSC claima. terminal The visually leave impaired pay. – Request for payment of Book V of Executive Order No. 292, otherwise known as the the as known otherwise 292, No. ROs), and the CSC Field Offices (CSC Order FOs), administers civil a.1 Using the Dictation system – shall cover both Executive of V Book service examinationsterminal via leave pen and benefitspaper test (CSE-PPT) may bemode brought any timepartially after and totallythe blindofficial/employee examinees who opt to severed his/ such as, buther not limited connection to, Career Service with Examination his/her (CSE)employer.” for take the examination through dictation Administrative Code of 1987, provides further that the CSC shall shall CSC the that further provides Professional and SubProfessional levels,1987, Fire Officer Examinationof a.2 Using the Braille system – shall cover both Code Administrative examinees of Categories A. (FOE), Penology Officer Examination (POE), and Career Service partially and totally blind examinees who opt have the power to control, supervise, and coordinate civil service service civil coordinate and supervise, Examination for Foreign Service Officer (CSE-FSO); to takecontrol, the examination through Brailleto power the have CSC Resolution No. 1901392 took effect on a.3March Low vision8, 2020 – shall or coverafter partially fifteen blind (15) days from WHEREAS, the standard duration of examination is three examinees who opt to take the examination on (3) hours andits 10 publication minutes for the inCSE The Professional Philippine level, FOE, Star on February 21, 2020. examinations; – shall refer to examinees falling under under falling examinees to refer shall – Examinees PWD 1. their own the conventional way any of the following sub-categories: sub-categories: following the of any , the CSC, through the Examination, Recruitment Recruitment Examination, the through CSC, the , WHEREAS The visually impaired visually The a. (CSC Offices Regional CSC the (ERPO), Office Placement and ROs), and the CSC Field Offices (CSC FOs), administers civil civil administers FOs), (CSC Offices Field CSC the and ROs), Using the Dictation system – shall cover both both cover shall – system Dictation the Using a.1 ALICIA dela ROSA-BALA partially and totally blind examinees who opt to to opt who examinees blind totally and partially mode (CSE-PPT) test paper and pen via Chairperson examinations service take the examination through dictation dictation through examination the take for (CSE) Examination Service Career to, limited not but as, such Using the Braille system – shall cover both both cover shall – system Braille the Using a.2 Examination Officer Fire levels, SubProfessional and Professional partially and totally blind examinees who opt opt who examinees blind totally and partially Service Career and (POE), Examination Officer Penology (FOE), to take the examination through Braille through examination the take to (CSE-FSO); Officer Service Foreign for Examination 50 51 Low vision – shall cover partially blind blind partially cover shall – vision Low a.3 examinees who opt to take the examination on on examination the take to opt who examinees three is examination of duration standard the , WHEREAS their own the conventional way way conventional the own their FOE, level, Professional CSE the for minutes 10 and hours (3) AD TIME!
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