Governor's Page State of the Province Address 2009
| State of the Province Address 2009 |
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1. Introductory Message Once again, allow me to express my warm and sincere thanks to Vice-Governor Rhodora “Dodod” J. Cadiao. Members of this August Body, Department Heads, mga pinalangga ko nga kasimanwa sa Probinsya kang Antique, guests, ladies and gentlemen, Mayad gid nga aga sa inyo tanan! Since I got elected as your Governor in 2001 I started a tradition which I hope will be followed by my successor. Every year I made it my duty to deliver the State of the Province Address or popularly known as SOPA. Today is my 8th and last year of delivering this Report to you my dear Antiqueños, a manifestation of my accountability to our people who had elected me as the 22nd Governor of this Province. This is my way of saying Thank You to our people for the trust and confidence they have given me. After barely 6 months I shall complete my 3rd term as your Governor but it is my hope that my dear “Kasimanwas” will give me a chance to continue serving this beloved province of mine. Padayonon ta ang pagbag-o kag pag-ugwad kang Antique! I am very happy to report to you that Antique is now one of the fast growing provinces in Region VI with various investors who have ventured their luck not only in the capital town of San Jose but also in the northern part of our province. As what I have always said, before I step down as Governor of this province, I want to see Antique: a Haven of free, peaceful and environment-friendly communities with sustainable enterprises. With humility I am proud to say that I have sustainably succeeded in the delivery of my administration’s major agenda: Food Security; Health and Nutrition; Education; Tourism, Culture, History and Arts; and Environmental Management. These accomplishments have been possible through the unwavering and invaluable support and cooperation of the majority of the members of our Provincial Board and for this allow me to say THANK YOU! Now ladies and gentlemen for my report: 2. Highlights of Accomplishments During my first term as governor, Antique was classified as 3rd class having a poverty incidence of 43.4% and belonged to the top 20 depressed provinces in the country. It was a big challenge to my administration. I worked very hard, lobbied and got connected with external fund donors to augment our Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) and local resources, and market our province to other regions. All these efforts were successful, hence our province in 2006 was classified as 2nd class having an average annual income of State of Performance of the Provincial Government of Antique Based on CY 2008 Local Government Performance Management System of the DILG, our province over-all state of governance showed a HIGH level performance rating of 4.43 based on 1-5 scale which we have maintained for 4 years now. This is a clear indicator of our joint efforts in ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of services to our constituents. As one of the regional finalists in the Search for Excellence on Local Governance, the DILG Regional Evaluation Team conducted an evaluation last November 6, 2009 with basis on the five performance areas of governance: legislative governance; administrative governance; economic development; social services; and environmental management. I hope and pray that our province will make it to the top. 3. Noteworthy Accomplishments To make operational the approved 2009 Annual Investment Program, our province has focused on priority programs, projects and activities consistent with the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1, Series of 2005 of DILG and DBM classifying these into three sectors: Economic Development, Social Development and Environmental Management. Total allocated budget for 20% Development Fund for CY 2009 is · Social Development - · Economic Development - · Environmental Management - Socio and Economic Infrastructure projects requested by municipalities, barangays and other sectors are integrated in these sectoral groupings including the debt servicing and assistance to POs &NGOs. To augment our internal sources, we received funding assistance from Department of Health, Department of Agriculture, Commission on Population, Philippine Charity Sweepstake and PhilHealth amounting to
A. ECONOMIC SERVICES 1. Food Security and Hunger Mitigation a) Palay Production This year the sufficiency level of palay was reduced to 137% from 156% in 2008, due to unfavorable weather condition, occurrence of pests and diseases. However, Antique remained as a rice surplus province in the region having a 132 days buffer stock equivalent to 92,474.9 metric tons clean rice. This is attributed to the strong collaboration of OPA with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Unit VI and Office of the Municipal Agriculturist. A total of 7,484 bags of inbred certified seeds and good seeds were distributed to farmers in irrigated and rainfed areas. We have adopted clustering approach to ensure rice sufficiency. Twenty nine (29) rice cluster areas have been organized in 12 municipalities except, Aniniy, Libertad, Caluya and Belison. A Palay Check Field Schools (season long training) were conducted tapping Farmer leaders and their demo farms for best practices and new technologies. The Provincial Palay Seed Processing Center and Rice Seed Net Farm continue to serve farmers and seed growers. The Community-Based Composting Facilities (1 unit 6HP shredder machine, 15 kgs night crawler, 2 units’ brewer tea jug and composting bed) from DA are ready for release to 34 Farmer’s Organizations of the 18 municipalities. To support food security and mitigate hunger, other programs, projects and activities have been implemented as follows: a) High Value Crops Production through promotion and monitoring of improved crop production technologies on mango, banana, coffee, and vegetables, among others. b) Programang Gulayan Para sa Masa (PGMA)-covering 23,385 household gardens, 680 communal gardens, and 477 school gardens. There are 10,846 household gardens targeted for coverage this year. To make available fresh and safe sources of vegetables, assorted vegetable seeds (PAKBET) type PGMA are available for distribution. c) Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Development- In partnership with BFAR Region VI Field Office we have on-going GMA-Fishery Program in 11 municipalities. This includes seaweeds culture, modified extensive and saline tilapia culture, abalone cage culture, ornamental fish culture, artificial reef project, coral assessment and solar salt making benefiting 55 individuals/ cooperatives with total investment of Php905,500. The Provincial Tilapia Hatchery in Pangpang, Sibalom is on-going. c) Muscovado Development Program sustains assistance to muscovado sugar producers through procurement of organic fertilizer and planting materials from the Sugar Regulatory Authority in Negros for the expansion areas in southern Antique. d) Antique Fruit Basket Program involves the planting of improved or high yielding varieties of fruit trees in selected municipalities as an initial step to develop the Province as a fruit basket in the region. e) Agricultural Development Assistance for Marginalized Farmers and Fisherfolks includes the provision of three units of hand tractor with trailer and motor engine to Bugasong, Laua-an and Pangpang Rice Seednet Farm; distribution of Farm inputs to farmers and in support of GMA program. Thirty eight (38) members of the 4-H Club engaged in Goat Production have availed of livelihood support assistance of f) Sustainable Rural Development Program - A joint endeavor of Barbaza, Laua-an, Valderrama, Bugasong, Patnongon, the Provincial and Regional Technical Working Groups, proposals on Central Antique ARC Cluster Agribusiness Plan and Farm Mechanization Support to Muscovado Production in Central Antique will be presented to various investors during the Agribusiness Summit in Manila this November, although a copy was sent by the DA-Central Office to China for possible funding. Livelihood support through planting materials (peanut seeds, tilapia fingerlings, pineapple suckers, abaca suckers) to farmers in the Agrarian Reform Communities (ARC) in the Central municipalities was also facilitated. Besides, construction of Barangay Bagsakan and Bagsakan Center in Barbaza, irrigation system, farm to market road, and dispersal of native chicken were provided to these convergence site thru the DA. g) Weather and Climate Monitoring Project is now being established in Pangpang, Sibalom as a localized weather and climate information network to enable communities to take precautionary measures. An initial budget of 2. Poultry and Livestock Production Program The Antique Swine Production and Artificial Insemination Center has produced superior breeder stocks, generating Antique remains an animal disease free province due to the efficient implementation of disease prevention and control programs. The promotion of veterinary quarantine policies generated additional revenues of 3. Agrarian Reform Program The Provincial Government of Antique strongly supports the programs and project of the Department of Agrarian Reform, with the following interventions to our agrarian reform communities: a) Social Infrastructure and Local Capability Building that resulted to the formation and strengthening of farmer’s association and provision of livelihood assistance. b) Sustainable Agri-based Enterprise Development involves new agri business and products development, credit access and microfinance, generating 362 jobs; trading of ARC products in various fairs generated a total income of c) Access Facilitation Access Enhancement covers rehabilitation (concreting) of 5.5 km. Buluangan I-Buluangan II, Sitio Dugman farm to market road amounting to 4. Environmental Resources Programs a) Forest Management includes establishment and maintenance of provincial nurseries in San Jose, Hamtic, Valderrama and Tibiao, having forest and fruit trees and seedlings for tree planting activities. Massive Information and Education Campaign on global warming and climate change were also conducted by the ENRO to municipalities and barangays, thereby motivating them to establish tree parks and greenbelt or roadside tree planting. b) Environment Management –The Office of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan has conducted a public hearing of the Provincial Environment Code last November 13, 2009 led by our Vice-Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao. The Provincial Solid Waste Management Board is functional with ENRO as the secretariat. We have provided 3 units of Melting Machine to Hamtic, Pandan and Bugasong worth c) Sand and Gravel and Small Scale Mining – With the strict enforcement of the Revised Provincial Revenue Code, we have generated d) Typhoon Frank Rehabilitation Project - The amount of e) EBJ-Upland Development Program Having an annual allocation of The amount of f) Upland Development Program is the banner program of DENR in response to the Economic Resiliency Plan and Accelerated Hunger Mitigation Program. The headwaters of major river systems and natural parks are target areas covering 493 hectares. Total project cost is g) Handog Titulo Program- Through DENR, a total of 633 free patents with an aggregate area were issued to qualified beneficiaries under the CARP Funds in partnership with Registry of Deeds and LGUs. 4. Tourism, History, Culture and Arts are one of my program thrusts and will still remain even if I were no longer your governor. I will always be your partner to promote and market Antique’s tourism, history, culture and the arts. Tourism A total of During the World Tourism month we availed Binirayan and Karay-a Festivals The Binirayan Foundation, Inc. is working towards Arts and Culture for Sustainable Development by empowering communities through the art and culture sector’s programs in eco-cultural tourism, poverty alleviation and attainment of the Millenium Development Goals. The thrusts of the Foundation complement my own: culture and arts in governance. Modesty aside, your Governor was given recognition by the International Theatre Institute and National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) in coordination with UN Resident Coordinator, UNESCO/National Commission of the Philippines, as One of the Outstanding Culture-Friendly Local Government Official. The Museo Antiqueno is now open to the public, and has recorded 3,000 visitors from various student field trips. The theme for Binirayan Festival 2009 was “Antiqueno, tion run para sa Globalisasyon, ” which projected Antique’s position in the global village as source for world-class products and services with impact on the promotion of tourism and local commodities. Our province is very fortunate to have Sec. Gilbert Teodoro of the Department of National Defense and Governor Gwendolyn Garcia of Cebu as guests of honor. I would like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to Gov. Gwen for extending a) Pasundayag Expo 2009- a showcase of One-Town-One Product (OTOP) by 22 exhibitors which generated total sales of b) Regional Agri-aqua Trade Fair was organized by the DA Region VI and hosted by our Province. Agricultural and aquaculture products of Aklan, Capiz, Negros Occidental, Iloilo, Guimaras and Antique were featured, with the University of the Philippines and Estancia Stall Owners Association as participating NGOs. c) Bird Kite Flying Competition 2009 was the 3rd competition facilitated by DENR and the Provincial Tourism Office in line with adopting flagship species for conservation. Under the Municipal Category- 1st prize was won by Bugasong depicting Dulungan as provincial bird; 2nd place by Patnongon; 3rd place by Tibiao and 4th place won by Laua-an. For the open category, Patnongon won the first place, followed by Bugasong, and 3rd by Saint Anthony’s College. d) Lin-ay Kang Antique is a competitive search for all Antiqueñas who will serve as Ambassadress of Goodwill of the province. Our 2009 Lin-ay Kang Antique was won by Miss Bugasong-Karen Jane Aquino Mejia and first runner-up was Miss San Jose-Denzel Jodi Dagumampan and with Miss Hamtic-Ma. Chris Ganzon as the 2nd runner-up. What was unique in this year’s pageant was the participation of two candidates from the Indigenous People community, particularly Tina and Igbanos. e) Parada ng Lahi was participated by different schools and sectors province-wide. Best Float and Best in Parade winners such as Belison, Patnongon, Hamtic and Laua-an received cash awards. Vice Gov Cadiao and I committed to give financial assistance in the form of projects to top 3 LGU performers during the Festival : Laua-an, Patnongon, and Tibiao. f) Bugal Kang Antique Award – There are nine Bugal Awardees for this year’s search. Mr. Edsel Moscoso, recipient of the Datu Lubay for Culture and Arts (Posthumous), was instrumental in uplifting the morale of the Antiqueños through his art works. Other Awardees were Atty. Pelagio Apostol and Mr. Eduardo Habin for Government Service; Dr. Melvin de la Serna for Community Service; Dr. Erlinda C. Pefianco for Datu Puti for Education; Mr. Benny Castillon for Culture and the Arts-Music; Judge Alfonso Combong-special citation for distinguished performance in judiciary; Tabang Antique for Datu Sumakwel for Community Services; and Antique Diocesan Socio-Health Association, Inc. (ADSHAI) for community service. The Third Karay-a Festival featured mostly student theatre and community cultural groups to project Antique as the center of karay-a Arts and culture in the region. Total budget was One Visayas Arts Fair We also participated in One Visayas Arts Fair held in Cebu City last March. Antique’s presentation of the Komedya and OKM concert opened opportunities for cultural awareness and tourism exposure. One Cebu 2009 As one of the sister provinces of Cebu, we participated in the booth display of local products, earning Php30,000 in sales. This helped in the promotion of Antiqueño products and increased revenues of local SMEs. Historical and Cultural Council To promote and strengthen the historical identity and develop appreciation of Antique’s rich cultural heritage, the Council spearheaded the commemoration of the Birth and Death Anniversaries of national and Antique’s heroes. NCCA has chosen our province to host the culmination of the Filipino Heritage Festival last May, 2009 with the theme: “Manggad nga Antiqueno, Paranubli-un kang Filipino”. A grand cultural show of music and dances by our home grown talents highlighted the event. We were also fortunate to watch a free Philippine Ballet Theater Show of Darangen ni Bantugen sponsored by National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and National Historical Institute (NHI). The Provincial Historical Council also facilitated the establishment of the School for Living Tradition (SLT) in Barangay Busog, Valderrama, Tobias Fornier and Tina, Hamtic, a non-formal school for the Indigenous People (IP) to encourage the young IPs to appreciate and nurture their dying culture and unique traditions. The beneficiaries are Iraynun of Valderrama, the Ati of Tina and Tobias Fornier. The project funding is a grant from NCCA. SP Calixto Zaldivar III also extended Php50,000 financial assistance for the construction of the “Balay Turun-an” in Valderrama. For the first time, the Provincial Historical Council together with Binirayan Foundation represented our Province in the 2nd National Indigenous People’s Festival held in Roxas City, Capiz last October 2-6, 2009. The publication of the Antique Coffee Table Book entitled “Antique, Manggad, kag Paranubli-un” is expected to be released by 2010. This will promote our beautiful province and showcase its impressive wealth and heritage. Paranubli-un-Antique Paranubli-un Antique, Inc., a cultural NGO partner of the Provincial Government in the promotion of culture and arts in the province, conducted the arts education and creative writing workshops under the Utbong Center for Young Artists and the Karay-a Festival, among others. 5. One Town One Product (OTOP) Towards the efficient marketing of our SME products, we have constructed the OTOP Center or “Balay Lokal” beside the New Capitol. This is being managed by Binirayan Foundation, Inc. 6. Trade and Industry The Department of Trade and Industry has strongly supported the Comprehensive Livelihood Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP) to cushion the impact of the global economic crisis on our marginalized sectors. There were 1,729 participants in the entrepreneurship seminar and tips sa pangnegosyo; simple bookkeeping; skills training and linkage to agencies/institutions with “Pangkabuhayan” financial package. 7. Upgrading of the Muscovado Industry The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in partnership with PSCA now assists our muscovado millers upgrade their products in compliance with Food Safety requirements. Sixteen (16) millers/clients from Laua-an, Patnongon and Sibalom accessed assistance for upgrading of muscovado mills, packaging facilities and technical assistance. With total funding in the amount of Php2.67Million from DOST Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading, DOST Grants in Aid and NEDA-KR2, the Project will be completed by 2012. B. SOCIAL SERVICES 1. Health and Nutrition Services The overall health and nutrition status of Antique has improved for the past decade but not at the rate expected in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Hence, the provincial government through the DOH launched the FOURmula One for health (F1), based on the four pillars of health which are Service Delivery, Financing, Regulations and Governance. The Provincial Investment Plan for Health (PIPH) is the mechanism in which this FOURmula for Health (F1) is carried out. This 5-year plan (2009-2013) was presented to the Joint Appraisal Committee on September 10, 2009 and was unanimously approved with the rating of A. In consonance with the approved plan, the following have been initially realized: · DOH has released Php8.0 Million for the expansion of the ASMGH; Php10.0 Million for civil works, while Php7.0Million for hospital equipment will be released after the Memorandum of Agreement and Service Level Agreement (SLA) signing. · Likewise, a Php7.0Million budget was initially released by DOH for the start of the civil works for Bugasong Medicare Community Hospital which is provided for in the approved PIPH to be converted as Level II -25 bed Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC) facility and will be constructed in a new site. · The Department of Health also approved the amount of Antiqueños can now avail of low cost Quality Drugs/Commodities through the establishment of 203 Botika ng Barangays distributed province-wide and the adoption of the We have also established the Provincial Epidemiological and Surveillance Unit (PESU) to improve the reporting and surveillance especially of new emerging diseases such as A H1N1 Influenza and Avian Flu. On nutrition, although Protein-Energy Malnutrition has reached the target benchmark of below 24 percent, Antique has consistently a high prevalence of malnutrition. Operation Timbang record shows that malnutrition rate among pre-schoolers slightly decreased from 16.73 % in 2007 to 14.50% in 2008. Hence, the Provincial Nutrition Council (PNC) jointly with the National Nutrition Council continues to promote Good Nutrition; Infant and Young Child Feeding especially Breastfeeding; and educate mothers on proper nutrition and food preparation. We have reactivated the Municipal Nutrition Councils from UNICEF funding to cater to women and children’s needs; provided Weighing Scales for Operation Timbang & Multivitamins. We also provided honorarium Other health services are as follows: a) Klinika ni Gloria has conducted 20 Medical and Dental CIVAC activities serving 6,100 clients with a total amount of b) Tabang Antique Medical Mission through the efforts of Dr. Egidio Elio was conducted in Culasi last April 13, 2009, serving 254 patients. We are also very grateful to PCSO for all the assistance. In the spirit of true charity partnership, we supported PCSO’s 75th Diamond Anniversary Charity Caravan held last August 2009 aside from its nationwide Medical Mission. We were also honored by the visit Hon. Sergio O. Valencia, PCSO Chairman together with our very own Board of Director Rey Roquero and Regional Director Jeanette Oberio. c) The Provincial TB Control Program or Public-Private Mix Directly Observed Treatment (PPMD-DOTS) is a partnership of public and private care providers against tuberculosis focusing on Direct Observed Treatment for short course chemotherapy. This project is one of the awardees in the Regional Development Council 6 (RDC) Search for Best Provincial Public Sector Project. d) Implementation of Health and Nutrition component of the Sixth County Program with funding from UNICEF worth 2) Phil Health Indigency Program The passage of Provincial Ordinance No.2009-44 fortified my vision and advocacy for an affordable, accessible and quality Social Health Insurance for all Antiqueños especially the less fortunate. We will sustain the coverage of PhilHealth Sponsored (Indigent) Program. With an approved budget of 2. Hospital Services Inter-Local Health Zones have been organized to reach out to LGUs towards building strong alliances for the delivery of basic health services. Three (3) out of 4 alliances are very active and functional. The Southern Antique Health Alliances (SAHA) still remains a challenge. I hope our new Head of the Provincial Health Office, Dr. Bernie Tubianosa, will address this concern before my term ends. Improvement and Support to Hospitals a) Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital remains as a Third Level Health Care Provider. Hospital Licensing and Accreditation requirements have been complied with. This year, ASMGH registered 25,445 patients; 7,795 in-patients and 17,650 Out-patients. From January to August 31, 2009, total revenues amounted to a) Infrastructure Expansion/Renovation & Upgrading- b) Medical & other Equipment - T O T A L - Effective this year PCSO has increased the Endowment Fund of ASMGH from b) The President Diosdado Macapagal District Hospital in Tobias Fornier- Utilizing a total budget of c) For Culasi District Hospital we invested d)Bugasong Community Hospital will soon be relocated in Brgy. Camangahan, Bugasong. Project cost for the new construction is e)Pedro L. Gindap Municipal Hospital improvement is on-going with P1.75Million allocation. f)For Valderrama Municipal Hospital, PCSO extended g) Ramon Maza Memorial District Hospital was one of the most badly hit by typhoon “Frank”. For its rehabilitation, we released h) Justice Calixto Zaldivar Memorial District Hospital- The Zaldivar Family has officially donated last August, 2009 a 5,000 sq.m. lot where the hospital is located. One private room, sponsored by Pagtatap Foundation (Pandananon Outside The Philippines), is undergoing renovation with 3. Education and Manpower Development For SY 2008-2009, Antique ranks 5th in the National Achievement Test region-wide for elementary level and 2nd for secondary level. With support of the Provincial School Board, a special program for Muslim education or “Madrasah” with three Muslim teachers called “Asatidz” is on-going in Governor Santos Capadocia Memorial School that caters to grades 1 to 3 Muslim pupils. The Provincial Government supports the Alternative Learning School (ALS) System intended for Out-of- School- Youths (OSY) and Adult Illiterates. An amount of Php300,000 is allocated for ALS classes on both basic literacy and Accreditation and Equivalency (A &E). This covers Catungan 3rd and 4th, Sibalom; Mandarag, Bugasong; and Canipayan, Pandanan, San Agustin, Valderrama involving 300 OSY and illiterates. Of this number, 20 took the examination and result will be out in March 2010. I am also very proud to report that we have 4 inmates of the Provincial Jail who passed the A & E exams conducted by DepEd-Bureau of Alternative Learning System. In 2008, per report by Dr. Ernesto Servillon, Jr. Education Supervisor I –ALS, 138 A & E passers are now elementary and high school graduates; some already enrolled in College like Mr. Julbert Paloma, a graduating education student of University of Antique (PSCA). We also distributed computers, karaoke with TV in 4 elementary schools. With support from DepEd-UNICEF, GMA Kapuso Foundation, Linis Lusog Kids Project was implemented in selected schools. On Manpower Development, TESDA has 3 scholarship programs: Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Scholarship (PGS), Private Education Fund Student Assistance (PESFA) and Ladderized Education Program (LEP) benefiting 3,048 scholars. At this juncture, I would like to commend TESDA for these efforts in helping the young people of Antique. 4. Scholarship Program- Now on its 8th year, the scholarship program benefited 367 poor but deserving students; of which 130 already graduated, 40 are expected to graduate this SY2010. In 2008, three (3) scholars graduated with honors: Ramil Galido; Laarni Saligumba and Jane Pigua. There are 104 new scholars for SY 2009-2010. 5. Child Friendly Programs and Initiatives Sixth Country Program for Children UNICEF has been helping our province thru the Country Program for Children from CPC-5 to CPC-6. On its 9th year, projects assistance focus in 10 disparity barangays in San Jose, Hamtic, Sabalom, Culasi and San Remigio. For 2009, UNICEF released P1.9Million direct cash transfer for health and nutrition, education & ECCD and children in need of special protection program components. Apart from the financial support, health/nutrition supplies and medicines, UNICEF delivered 45 Packages of Home Based and Center Based ECCD materials for distribution to our pre-schools; books, bags, teaching kits and other school supplies to disparity areas and typhoon stricken schools. We also shared an annual counterpart fund of P1.5Million for administrative operations supplementing UNICEF for the implementation of its program components. Last October 2009, we also observed the 17th year of Children’s Month Celebration. The presentation of the Provincial State of the Children’s Report by Vice-Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao highlighted the affair. In cooperation with DepEd, 37 schools participated in the 4th Children’s Folk Festival. I can say that my dream of child participation through culture and arts has been realized. Two Medical Missions for children were also conducted in Camancijan, Culasi and Lapaz Tubog, Hamtic serving about 500 children. To promote child participation through effective local legislation and administrative governance, our province observes the “Boy-Girl Week” sponsored by the Office of the Governor and Sangguniang Panlalawigan, and lately, by the Rotary Club of Antique headed by Mr. Sammy Pormillos. About 38 students were involved. Our Boy Governor was Mr. Chuckie Lee de la Cruz of Antique National School while the Vice-Governor was Ms. Liezel Margie Bastian of Pandan Bay Institute. I am also proud to report to this August Body that our province had been evaluated by UNICEF for two consecutive years as LOW RISK –meaning we have efficiently and effectively managed UNICEF funds in accordance to United Nation’s Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfer (HACT). Early Childhood Care and Development In support to Republic Act No. 8980 otherwise known as the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Act of 2002, our province has a very functional Child Minding Center managed by PSWDO. This caters not only to the children of government employees but also to those working in other sectors for For 2009 UNICEF released Youth, Employment and Migration Program Our province is one of the 4 recipients of the Joint Programme on Youth, Employment and Migration: Alternatives to Migration: Decent Jobs for Filipino Youth. This programme is supported by the Millennium Development Goal Achievement Fund (MDGIF) and implemented by International Labor Organization, (ILO), International Organization for Migration (IOM), United Nation’s Population Fund (UNFPA) and UNICEF in collaboration with government agencies: DOLE, DepEd, TESDA, DTI, National Commission on the Role of Women (NCRFW), National Youth Commission (NYC) and provincial government units. Youth Welfare Program The Pag-asa Youth Association of the Philippines (PYAP) Antique Chapter is now organized in all municipalities. This year the Provincial Government has allocated 6. Social Welfare and Development Services Aid to Individuals/disadvantaged groups in crisis situation A total of Senior Citizens Welfare In support to Senior Citizens’ activities, we allocated Financial assistance of Persons with Disability Our province has allocated 7. Other Special Programs and Projects on Social Welfare Services include · Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program ( 4 Ps) This provides medical, educational, and financial package to the municipalities of Barbaza, Bugasong, Valderrama, San Remigio and Laua-an. A total of · Food for School –last SY 2008-2009, 19,100 pupils availed food for school program amounting to · Tindahan Natin – There are 112 Tindahan Natin stores all over the province. About 48 stores actively sell NFA rice at a lower cost. 8. Day Care Program For SY2009-2010, more than 23,000 Day Care Pupils are enrolled in Day Care Centers served by 538 daycare workers. There are 551 Day Care Centers provincewide. With UNICEF assistance, we continue to provide ECCD packages to pre-schoolers, improve day care centers, train Day Care workers and conduct parents effectiveness service. 9. Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation Program Core Shelter Project The Embassy of Japan through their GGP Program released US $78,434 or DSWD also provided 331 units core shelters in San Remigio and Valderrama; 170 units are still on process for Belison, Anini-y and Caluya. In support to Typhoon “Ondoy” victims in Luzon, we donated 10. Gender and Development This year, for the first time, Women’s Month was hosted by the Municipality of Valderrama through Mayor Mary Joyce Roquero. Medical and dental missions led by the late Dr. Norman Tanchuan, benefited 350 patients including indigenous people of Valderrama and Tobias Fornier. Party List Representative Hon. Ma. Theresia Hontiveros Baraquiel graced the culmination. A livelihood program for women in difficult circumstances is on-going with 83 beneficiaries. Our temporary shelter for victims of Violence against Women and Children (VAW-C) conducts counselling and extends financial aid. The Crisis Center for Women and Children is 80% completed, having an investment of 11. Peace and Order With DILG and PNP on the lead, Antique has a strong and functional Peace and Order Council and is generally peaceful. We remain as Jueteng Free Province. Of the 12. Population and Development
13. Sports Development Through the Provincial Sports Office we ensure that the Sports for All Program of the national government is mainstreamed in our provincial thrusts. The Improvement and beautification of the Binirayan Sports Complex is on-going. The amount of Total revenues generated by our Binirayan Sports Complex from January to October, 2009 is Thru Vice Governor Cadiao and in coordination with Buenavista Cable, a live telecast of the Pacquiao-Cotto boxing match was facilitated and more than 4,000 persons viewed for free. During the West Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet held in Roxas City last March. Antique athletes, recognized as the Most Disciplined, garnered 26 golds, 37 silvers, and 42 bronzes, and ranked 5th in the general over-all point system. We also supported the Regional Private Schools Athletic Association. Antiqueño athletes also participated in the Palarong Pambansa in Tacloban, Leyte and the National Long Course Swimming Championships in Los Baños, Laguna. 14. Uligmat Aniqueno (Disaster Preparedness Management and Mitigation) Our Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) made it to the top, with Seven Kalasag Awards, being adjudged as one of the Best Provincial Coordinating Councils in the country. Mr. Broderick Train, Deputized Civil Defense Coordinator of the PDCC Antique, was awarded the Excellence for Humanitarian Assistance in Individual Category and P50,000 cash prize. Vice-Governor Dodod Cadiao received the awards last August in Malacanang. San Jose de Buenavista garnered the Best in Municipal Disaster Coordinating Council-1st to 3rd class municipality, while Brgy. Pias-anan, Sibalom as Best in Rural Barangay Category. The Social Action Center of the Diocese of Antique won the Non-Government Organizations on Humanitarian Assistance, and the 505th Search and Rescue Squadron got the award for Private/Volunteer Organization, Government Emergency Managers, Schools, Hospitals. Rodney Berdin , the “Boy Hero” of Rombang, Belison won the Individual Category (Surviving) for his heroic deed during the Emergency Response and Rescue Operation. The Uligmat Antiqueno-Disaster Preparedness Program was also one of the Finalists during the 3rd RDC VI Search for Best Public Sector Projects Awards. The PDCC conducts trainings, hazard assessment and installation of early warning systems in disaster prone municipalities. Labor and Employment Our Public Employment Service Office (PESO) has endorsed applicants for job placement in Gaisano Mall. In partnership with DOLE 90 students were hired last summer under the Special Program for Employment of Students with The DOLE Field Office has implemented several programs related to Job Search Assistance Services like job fairs; job placements particularly for Nurses, Skills Registry Program; and Capacity Building Services for Livelihood/Self-Employment, Trainings and Advisory visits for fisherfolks, SMEs, and disadvantaged workers in selected municipalities, among others. The Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) served 751 students provincewide last summer. C. GENERAL PUBLIC SERVICES 1 . Human Resource Management Program The HRMO in coordination with CSC implemented the Anti-Red Tape Act or R.A. 9485 and set-up the Citizen’s Charter in all offices of the Provincial Government and engaged in Anti-fixer Campaign. A Performance Management System-Office Performance Evaluation System (PMS-OPES) orientation was conducted to all provincial government offices. This is a new evaluation tool developed by the Civil Service Commission that shall take effect this 2010. Two (2) team buildings were also conducted as part of the regular program of the HRMO. We have successfully maintained the Accreditation Status granted by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) and received commendation from CSC for preserving the integrity of all records under its custody. 2. Cooperative Development and Housing The Provincial Cooperatives Development Office (PCDO) provides Livelihood Support Fund for Skilled Antiquenos and Assistance to Cooperatives consistent with the livelihood security agenda of the local and national government thereby generating 1,674 jobs. Its revolving fund caters to the needs of various cooperatives for job generation. With the release of As partner, the Antique Provincial Government Employees’ Multi-purpose Cooperative has extended providential and productive loans to its members amounting to almost On housing, the Provincial Government will acquire soon a 3-hectare lot in order to provide employees with affordable, decent and accessible dwelling units. The subdivision and site development plan are already completed including the issuance of Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC). Antique Federation of Credit Cooperatives AFCCUI, one of the active members of the Provincial Development Council, provides and equips member cooperatives with effective organizational, financial management and enterprise development. The Provincial Government committed to extend financial assistance of Php200,000 for the rehabilitation of their Entrepreneurship Development Center that will serve as a conducive venue for trainings and seminars. AFCCUI also serves as the local market consolidator for muscovado sugar. As such, it has availed a Php2.5Millon from Philippine Development Assistance Program (PDAP) for this purpose. 3. Financial Management and Revenue Generation The Provincial Budget Office, Treasurer’s Office and Accountant’s Office play an important role in the implementation of the fiscal programs and policies of the provincial government. The Provincial Budget Office, aside from preparation and review of executive and supplemental budget, conducted trainings for municipal and barangay officials re: updates on new government and budgeting and planning, and procurement. Thru the Provincial Treasurer’s Office, there is an increase in real property tax collection with the passage of Provincial Tax Ordinance No. 2009-42 by the Provincial Board, granting tax relief to delinquent real property taxpayers. As of the 3rd quarter, a consolidated report of the municipal treasurers, we were able to collect 63% or Php46.891Million of our annual target for real property. This is the gross collection inclusive of discounts granted to taxpayers. 82.5% or P24.247Million for business taxes; P21.515Million or 73.71% for fees and other charges; and P47.856Million or 69.18% for receipts from economic enterprise. The Office of the Provincial Treasurer is a consistent awardee as one of the Most Outstanding Provincial Treasury Office from CY 2004 – 2008 conducted by the Department of Finance. Likewise, as the Electronic New Government Accounting System (e-NGAS) is now effectively operational at the Provincial Accountant’s Office, to augment the efficiency of its service, a new data tracking system was installed in the office for quick monitoring and retrieval of data specifically at the level of the higher management. Effective last August, the Commission on Audit is now undertaking pre-audit of selected transactions in the province. 4. General Revision Assessments and Property Classification The Provincial Assessor’s Office in coordination with the Municipal Assessor’s Office province-wide, has completed the General Revision of Assessment and Property Classification having a total budget of P4.0Million. This will effect an increase the real property tax collectible by no less than 50%. The revised assessment will take effect this January 2010 and is expected to contribute additional revenues to barangays, municipalities and the province which share the real property tax by 25%, 40% and 35%, respectively. Correspondingly, real property tax collection accruing to the Special Education Fund (SEF) will increase that will surely benefit the different schools in the division of Antique. 5. Provincial Economic Enterprise Program The passage of Provincial Ordinance No.2007-036-Creating Provincial Economic Enterprise Development Office to spearhead the improvement of systems and procedures among existing local revenue centers in identified departments and develop new public enterprises. The enterprising activities are those of the 8 devolved hospitals; Binirayan Sports Complex and Facilities; technology and livelihood development services managed by PROVET and OPA; infrastructure support services; operation of training centers and nurseries; printing and publication; operation of recording studio and food court operation. On Hospital Operation, as of October 31, 2009, the hospital system has already met 97% of its target revenues generating For period 2007-2009, hospital revenues on the average have constituted already 2/3 of what we have collected from local sources. Another milestone of the hospital system is the implementation of the Universal Health Insurance Coverage under the indigent component of the PhilHealth. On other Economic Enterprise Units, this CY 2009, we are replicating the approach to PEO, Provincial Sports Office, PROVET, OPA, PIO and ENRO. We aim to generate revenues that would approximate their MOOE budget of 5. Support to Birth Registration Our province extended 6. Assistance to NGOs/People’s Organization Five (5) NGOs availed It is good to note also that our previous assistance to AFON’s Health Plus Project is now gaining. Health Plus Botika ng Barangay Outlets and a Health Plus Pharmacy are operational, serving 80,400 patients and has complemented the health service initiatives of the government. 7. Local Economic Development Program in partnership with TRIAS is implemented in 8 municipalities assisted by AFON, PROCESS, ADF, ASHI and Insol Development Foundation. In 2008 we extended Php300,000 financial assistance to support marketing by handicraft producers and food processors; rural organizing among farmers, fisherfolks, and women; micro-financing and business development services; and alliance building & learning exchange. This year, another P300,000 was committed by the provincial government to support the program. 10. Communication Program and Information Technology Thru the Provincial Information Office, Information Technology Division, the province has a website, www.antique.gov.ph. Since its launching last September, there have been more than 18,000 registered guests. Numerous calls and e-mails were received from all over the Philippines and other countries, meaning, our presence in the World Wide Web will boost the tourism and business sectors. Hardware and software servicing is now done in less time by skilled IT people. The Office is also enjoying an improved Local Area Network with a Wi-Fi capability. We have published important events and projects of the Provincial Government thru press releases and radio programs; documented major activities and projects and archived in a databank. In coordination with the Philippine Information Agency, information works were synergized covering current issues and events. 11. Local Legislation The Sangguniang Panlalawigan has passed and approved 346 Resolution and 5 Ordinances. Very significant of these are Ordinance 2009-42, granting tax relief to delinquent Real Property Taxpayers of the Province of Antique with respect to the penalty, surcharge and interest until December 31, 2009 and Ordinance No. 2009-44- adopting and giving continued support to the National Health Insurance Program and its governing rules. The Legislative Tracking System is on-going and survey results in connection with an ordinance or resolution are consolidated as basis for future enactment of ordinances and resolutions. 12. Support to Rehabilitation Center Towards the efficient and effective management of the rehabilitation center, a relocation of all inmates at the Rehabilitation Center was done. We provided health care services and introduced the Hataw as part of their daily exercise. The transfer of 49 convicted prisoners to National Bilibid has decongested the Provincial Jail. 13. Harmonized Rehabilitation Program of Parole and Probation A financial assistance of Php150,000 was released to Antique Parole and Probation Office for the rehabilitation program for parolees, probationers, and conditional pardonees in their process of behavioral modification, through emotional, spiritual and vocational services. 14. LGPMS and Local Development Planning For 5 years now, we have adopted the Local Government Performance Management System (LGPMS) as an effective evaluation tool and its output is the State of the Local Governance Report that your Governor submits to DILG annually. The preparation of the Provincial Development and Physical Framework (PDPFP) spearheaded by the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) with assistance from NEDA is on-going. About 85% of the plan is already completed. Moreover, the Annual Investment Program for CY 2010 was already approved by the Provincial Board. 15. Sangguniang Kabataan Provincial Federation We granted D. INFRASTRUCTURE Our Provincial Engineers Office under Engr. Inocencio Dajao, our newly appointed Provincial Engineer has been efficient in accomplishing the following socio-economic infrastructure projects: 1. Road Network Development Program a) Concreting of Roads amounting Fifteen (15) municipalities availed financial assistance for the concreting, improvement or rehabilitation of either municipal or barangay roads funded by 20% IRA. b) Rehabilitation of Farm to Market Roads The Department of Agriculture has allocated Aside from the DA funded projects, PEO also implemented 9 projects amounting to 2. Construction/Improvement/repair of Government Structures both socio and economic The PEO supervised the construction, improvement of different government structures both provincial, municipal, national and school-based assisted projects with a total cost of Renovation, repair and improvement of provincial owned hospitals were also undertaken by the Provincial Engineers Office, especially in 6 hospitals amounting to almost 3. Irrigation Water System Services The National Irrigation Administration (NIA), enhanced irrigation water supply in palay production areas, especially areas affected by typhoon “Frank”. Four (4) Communal Irrigation System (CIS) were completed in San Remigio, Patnongon, Pandan and Culasi, with funding of The Provincial Development Council Executive Committee has also passed Resolution No.02 S. 2009-endorsing to RDC VI the ADB-Assisted Irrigation System Operation Efficiency Improvement Project (ISOEIP) Proposed Core sub-project for Rural Development. Hence we expect an improved irrigation system in Antique. 4. Energy Development Program Funded from the National Wealth, we purchased 7 power generators worth The amount of Php1.53Million was released to 53 barangays for installation of streetlights/rural electrification funded by CY 2009 20% Development Fund. 5. Potable Water and Sanitation Projects Our province is a recipient Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) projects of UNICEF of which 5 were completed in Hamtic, San Remigio, Bugasong and Tobias Fornier; 5 are on-going in Culasi, Anini-y, San Remigio, Sibalom and Barbaza. All are school based with a total budget of Construction/repair and improvement of potable rural water supply including sanitation program provincewide total to The Regional Winner for Best Sanitation Practices is Brgy. Idio, Sebaste and entry for the National Prize of P150,000 cash plus trophy. G. Assistance to Municipalities/ Barangays and Province wide Development Fund amount to H. Other Noteworthy Accomplishments a) Hazard Pay for Health Workers –cognizant of the plea of health workers provincewide, I ordered the full implementation of their Hazard Pay as stipulated in the Magna Charta for Health Workers. Among the provinces in the Region, only the Health Workers in Antique enjoy this fringe benefit which is equivalent to 25 % of their basic pay. b) Support Insurance to Liga ng Barangays and Kagawads Our provincial government have sustained its commitment, for the 2nd year, to provide insurance to all Punong Barangays worth c) Villasiga Mini-Hydro Project The Sunwest Water and Electric Company is now implementing the 8-Mega Watt Mini Hydro Power Project. A Bunkhouse with complete communication facilities and equipment has been established while the construction of access road with a total length of 25.54 kms. is on-going at 65% accomplishment. d) The Grand Opening of Gaisano Mall last May bolstered economic activity in the province and providing access to Antiquenos’ shopping needs and leisure because of the existence of an Event Center. e) Regional Development Council As the 2nd termer RDC VI Chairperson, we, at RDC had facilitated: · three (3) Regular Quarter meetings, the last quarter meeting will be on December 4, 2009 in Capiz; and 4 RDC ExCom Meetings. A total of 61 resolutions were passed addressing primary concerns: economic, social, development administration and infrastructure. Likewise, 10 resolutions were also approved during the regular and special RDC ExCom Meetings. · the awarding ceremony of the 3rd Search for Best Public Sector Project Awards with no less than President GMA was our guest. Three of our projects were finalists: Uligmat Antiqueno, PPM-DOTS and Community Based Tourism Project of Pandan. Under the Municipal Category – the Sebaste Integrated Health Care Program: An Entrepreneurial Approach, won first place. f) International Business Travels Your Governor is also fortunate to be part of the delegates to travel in Incheon Metropolitan City, South Korea to attend the Asia Pacific Cities Summit from September 15-17, 2009. The summit aimed to seek out innovative approaches to develop business, cultural and trade opportunities among cities in Asia Pacific Region. In attendance were 100 representatives from 150 cities from the Asia Pacific Region, United States, Italy and Russia. Also, last November 12 to 14, 2009, I attended the First Asia Pacific Business Partnership Conference in Guam sponsored by Philippine International Sisterhood and Twinning Association (PHISTA) in partnership with the Association of Pacific Island Local Government (APILG). Aside from promotion of goodwill and friendship among participating local authorities, I went to Guam to lobby for job opportunities for Antiqueños when the U.S. bases in Okinawa, Japan will be transferred to Guam. This is a 5-6 year big time project of America which will need thousands of workers preferably from the Philippines. My recent trip afforded me the opportunity to meet the right connections when the project starts in 2010. J. CHALLENGES Six months more to go, I will be relinquishing my position as your Governor however I will ensure that you will receive the benefits due you, my fellow workers. Therefore, I am instructing our Local Finance Committee to implement the Salary Standardization Law Part III that upon issuance of the Executive Order by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, declaring the increase as “waived item”, the provincial officials and employees can already enjoy these benefits by January 2010. K. CONCLUSION In conclusion I would like to thank all of you once more for your patience in listening to my long report. But perhaps I should not apologize because a long report also means long in accomplishments. At this point I would like to acknowledge the valuable contribution of Vice Governor and Presiding Officer of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Dodod Cadiao and majority members of this august body who made these many achievements possible. Thank you for making possible pro-people projects like universal PhilHealth coverage, increase in indigency program, insurance coverage of barangay captains and kagawads, increased allowances of BNS and BSPOs, full hazard pay for our health workers, tax amnesty and many more. Indeed, when your Governor and Vice Governor and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan work together our people can taste the sweet fruit of unity and cooperation. That’s why, my dear Antiqueños, today I dare say that this partnership between Vice Gov. Dodod and myself must and should continue. On November 28, we shall go to COMELEC together to file our respective certificates of candidacy, Dodod for Governor and Inday Sally for Congress, two women daring to fight all odds so that they can bring peace and progress to the province that they both love. Two daughters of two past Governors who have inherited the spirit of selfless service from their fathers. Finally, my dear Antiqueños, please allow me to share with you my great dream for Antique - that our province will be divided into two districts, north and south. We are not only ready for it we deserve to be given more resources so that we will develop faster. I am therefore accepting the challenge to run for Congress with this noble intention in mind. I am not saying goodbye to the Antiqueños because with God’s grace, I shall continue to serve you with courage, with dedication and always with honor! Duro gid nga salamat. Kruuhay Antique.
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