CATARMAN, Northern Samar– As part of the provincial government of Benguet’s ongoing benchmarking efforts, officials recently participated in an orientation hosted by the provincial government of Northern Samar.

The event, held at the Ibabao Hall of the provincial capitol focused on the Northern Samar Green Lane and showcased the province’s best practices in investment promotion and facilitation aimed at fostering economic development.

This event provided Benguet officials with a valuable opportunity to learn from Northern Samar’s successful strategies and initiatives, highlighting the province’s growing reputation as a model for effective investment efforts.

Board Member Albert Lucero opened the dialogue with a brief overview of Northern Samar’s offerings, setting the stage for the visiting officials to explore the province’s economic potential.

Board Member Don Abalon then led a detailed discussion on the Northern Samar Green Lane, a streamlined process designed to attract and facilitate investments.

Additionally, Jhon Allen Berbon, head of the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), presented the province’s best practices in driving economic growth.

The presentations were met with enthusiasm from the Benguet delegation, who praised the speakers for their comprehensive and engaging discussions.

The delegates expressed their appreciation for the insights shared, noting that the information could help enhance their own economic development strategies in Benguet.

The event was further supported by esteemed members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Northern Samar, along with Vice Governor Atty. Clarence E. Dato, who attended to share their perspectives and insights with the visiting officials.

This benchmarking activity not only highlights Northern Samar’s successful investment strategies but also strengthens its reputation as a model for growth.

By sharing its best practices with Benguet officials, Northern Samar opens the door to future collaborations and partnerships that can further enhance both provinces’ economic landscapes.
(INVEST NORTHERN SAMAR/PR)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is preparing for the release of P1.66 billion for the social pension of indigent elderlies in Eastern Visayas for the second semester of this year.

Officials from the DSWD regional office here have been meeting with provincial and local social welfare and development officers, city and municipal accountants, and treasurers to discuss the guidelines on the release of the financial benefits.

“For the second semester of the year, there is a change of the frequency of distribution from semestral to quarterly basis. Our senior citizens can expect payout by September for the third quarter and December for the fourth quarter,” DSWD regional information officer for social pension Ivan Malquez said in an interview Wednesday.

In the first semester of 2024, the DSWD transferred PHP1.66 billion to local government units for distribution to eligible seniors.

With the effectivity of Republic Act 11916, or the Act Increasing the Social Pension of Indigent Senior Citizens, the monthly social pension stipend for each beneficiary has increased from PHP500 to P1,000 to support their daily subsistence and medical needs.

The program granted cash to 277,802 seniors from the six provinces of the Eastern Visayas region in the first semester of this year.

Eligible recipients must be 60 years old and older, frail and sickly, and without pensions from other government sources such as the Government Service Insurance System, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, Social Security System, and private insurance companies.

Recipients also should not have a regular source of income or support from family or relatives to cover their basic needs.
(SARWELL Q. MENIANO/PNA)

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The commanding general Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido urged the Army Civilian Human Resource (CivHR) to contribute to the development of the organization during the 10th Army-Wide Civilian Leaders Summit at the Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on August 27, 2024.

During the summit, subject matter experts initiated discussions with the civilian supervisors from Army offices and units regarding the digitalization and modernization of human resource management.

Army Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Potenciano C. Camba also graced the summit and acknowledged the CivHRs’ role to the military service.

At the closing ceremony, Lt. Gen. Galido encouraged the civilian personnel to invest in their health and move forward towards development.

The commanding general also expressed his support and optimism to the CivHRs and their innovations for a better Army. (PR)

TACLOBAN CITY – The first-ever Metro Retail Store on Samar Island officially opened in Catbalogan City on Friday, August 30.

The opening ceremony was attended by officials from Metro Retail Stores Group Inc. (MRSGI), led by President and Chief Operating Officer Manuel Alberto and Food Retail General Manager Chit Lazaro.

Provincial board member Fe Tan Arcales represented Governor Sharee Ann Tan, and Catbalogan City officials headed by Vice Mayor Coefredo Uy, were also present. Several local chief executives from municipalities across Samar province joined the event.

The Metro Retail Store in Catbalogan is the result of a joint venture agreement between the provincial government and MRSGI.

The project involves converting a 22-hectare property in Catbalogan City into a mixed-use complex.

“This joint venture is a testament to what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work hand in hand, and we are excited to be part of this dynamic community,” Alberto said during his speech.

“The opening of this Metro Supermarket is not just about expansion; it’s about bringing a higher standard of service and a wide range of quality products to the people of Catbalogan,” he added.

The first phase of the Metro Retail investment in Catbalogan will be completed this September with the opening of the Metro Department Store and Metro Home.

“We consider this Catbalogan store launch a key factor in our expansion into the Visayas region. With this store, we are determined to contribute to the local economy, create job opportunities, and support the communities we serve,” Alberto emphasized.

MRSGI also announced that, under Phase 2, an annex building will be constructed to house a mall complex featuring top national brand stores and restaurants. This mixed-use commercial development will also include a government service building, a convention center, and a hotel.

As part of the Metro Catbalogan opening, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the province, assisted by the Department of Trade and Industry, were given the opportunity to display their products in the supermarket for over a month.

This initiative is part of the “Bayanihang Metro Caravan,” a regular feature of Metro Retail during fiestas and store openings.

MSMEs with fast-selling products during the caravan are encouraged to continue selling them in Metro Supermarket.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)