SIGNUP. Parents enroll their children for Academic Year 2021-2022 in Antique on Monday (Aug. 16, 2021). Classes using the blended learning system will begin on Sept. 13, 2021. (Photo courtesy of DepEd Antique)

MANILA—The Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday reported that 4,777,942 learners are enrolled in public schools nationwide for Academic Year 2021-2022 two days after enrollment began.The DepEd’s Learner Information System Quick Counts logged 220,615 learners enrolled since Monday and 4,557,327 during the early registration as of June 2.
In a Viber message to reporters, Deped Undersecretary Nepomuceno Malaluan said those who registered early are considered enrolled for the coming school year.
“Unlike last year, the early registration happened before Covid so we had to reconfirm in June. This year, the early registration was already under Covid situation so no need for those who registered early to enroll,” Malaluan said.
For the safety of learners, parents, and personnel, DepEd utilizes communication platforms like Facebook chats, text messaging, and drop boxes in schools or villages.
So far, Calabarzon has logged the highest number of enrollees at 533,722 -- 53,013 learners enrolled and 480,709 early registrants.
Last year, 26,826,387 students enrolled in Kindergarten, Grades 1 to 6, Junior High School, Senior High School, and Alternative Learning System.
Registration will run until Sept. 13, the first day of the school year that will use blended learning as physical classes remain suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic. (PNA)Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

The Pili Research and Development (R&D) Center under the Niche Centers in the Regions for R&D (NICER) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) continues to yield concrete results through science and technology interventions. This resulted in the improved production of Bicol’s “Tree of Hope.” 
The Pili Research and Development (R&D) Center under the Niche Centers in the Regions for R&D (NICER) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) continues to yield concrete results through science and technology interventions. This resulted in the improved production of Bicol’s “Tree of Hope.” 
Recently, the program launched the Pili Information System and Marketplace developed by Partido State University (ParSU). The two websites, which serve as an e-commerce site for pili products and knowledge bank for all updates on the local pili industry, are now available for public access.
The Pili Information System can be accessed at http://pili-nicer.parsu.edu.ph/, while the Pili marketplace can be accessed at http://pilimarketplace.parsu.edu.ph/home. 
Other notable output of the Pili R&D Center is the training of 80 plant propagators on pili asexual propagation. The farmers from Albay, Camarines Norte, Catanduanes, Sorsogon, and Masbate were trained by experts from Bicol University College of Agriculture and Forestry (BUCAF).
Five newly-improved designs of pili sorter, depulper, cracker, testa remover, and oil extractor were also developed by BUCAF to aid the farmers in pili processing. 
Meanwhile, the upgraded BUCAF’s Plant Pathology Laboratory facility equipped the research team to conduct quality standard procedures for pili nuts diagnosed with Tayangawon disease.
Currently, BUCAF is in the process of identifying pili varieties/accessions with promising characteristics. They have initially characterized 140 trees in the province of Albay and processed collected samples of pili nuts and kernels. 
Bio-fertilizer protocol for early growth stages of fruit-bearing pili nut trees is underway.Meanwhile, the team from Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) almost completed the map of pili farms in the region. More than 4,000 pili farms across the Bicol region were surveyed.The  Pili R&D Program is being led by the Bicol Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (BCAARRD) Consortium Director Marissa N. Estrella and monitored by DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD). 
In preparation for its third year of implementation, the accomplishments of the Pili R&D Center were evaluated during a virtual meeting organized by the Crops Research Division (CRD) of DOST-PCAARRD. Dr. Domingo E. Angeles of the College of Agriculture and Food Science, University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) served as technical evaluator of the projects.(Danica Louise C. Sembrano, DOST-PCAARRD S&T Media Services)Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

With one of the world’s longest quarantines, Filipinos are already experiencing “protocol fatigue,” which makes them more lenient about hygiene habits and puts them at risk of infection. Procter & Gamble’s Safeguard is stepping in to remind and reinforce the importance of proper handwashing through the SAFEWash movement. With the current increase in cases in the country, the brand is even more committed to becoming a force for good for all Filipinos who are put at risk every day.
SAFEWash Program Extends Help Nationwide

To help protect Filipinos from the threats of germs and illnesses, P&G and Safeguard ramp up its SAFEWash movement by donating a total of over Php 100 million worth of support. Launched last year, the SAFEWash movement enables organizations and individuals to work together to promote proper handwashing. On top of this, Safeguard is helping to rebuild handwashing facilities and provide hygiene kits for the Philippine General Hospital, currently housing the highest number of COVID-19 patients nationwide. Last May 2021, the hospital’s facilities were damaged by a fire that led to the swift evacuation of patients, including those being treated for COVID-19. Through its partnership with the Manila Water Foundation, Safeguard is adding three multi-faucet handwashing facilities for the hospital in key high-traffic areas to decrease the level of hospital contamination of germs and illnesses.

One Step Ahead in Safeguarding the Nation

With the acceleration of efforts in the past month, P&G and Safeguard have supported more than 20+ organizations, hospitals, and LGUs with the construction of public handwashing facilities, and distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE), face masks, ventilators, and hygiene care packs to vaccine hubs and frontliners, through the SAFEWash movement.

As the trusted antibacterial soap brand for more than 55 years, Safeguard commits its support to the Department of Health in helping prepare the country for a hopeful reopening. Through the DOH and P&G partnership, 70,000 BIDA Solusyon health and hygiene kits were distributed to families in 36 provinces nationwide. The kits helped local government units manage COVID-19 community outbreaks, strengthened proper hand hygiene education, and influenced positive action on health and hygiene of families.

“Safeguard believes in helping protect every Filipino family through quality products that fight the spread of germs and illnesses. If everyone plays their part by practicing minimum health protocols, frequent handwashing being one of them, we can help protect those around us as well. At Safeguard, we are one with our partners in helping the country reopen to a SAFER normal,” shares Jan Ang, Senior Brand Director for Safeguard Philippines

Safeguard is working as a Force For Good in ensuring Filipinos get access to quality health and hygiene via the SAFEWash Movement. You can also view Safeguard’s range of germ-fighting products from bars, liquid soaps, to body wash, in Lazada, Shopee, or Facebook, to protect your loved ones of up to 99.9% germ protection today. Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

From now on, Mt. Mayon will be known not only for its perfect cone shape and eruptive past but for its soils that host bacteria that has potential antibiotic and anticancer properties.
Researchers from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) have identified a specific bacterial species from the soils of Mt. Mayon that has shown potential antibiotic and anti-colorectal cancer activities.
This specific bacterial isolate identified as Streptomyces sp. A1-08 has shown antibiotic activity against numerous potentially pathogenic microorganisms and anti-colorectal cancer potential. It is one of the 30 bacteria that were isolated from soil samples of Mt. Mayon in Malilipot, Albay.
“We have high hopes of getting new and novel species because this is a less explored environment, a volcano”, said Kristel Mae P. Oliveros, the project leader and an assistant professor in UPLB Microbiology Division. “We were totally surprised and excited,” she added while describing how they felt upon finding out the results of their experiments.
Once the researchers have confirmed that Streptomyces sp. A1-08 is a new species, they will name it “Streptomyces mayonensis A1-08” in honor of our country. This was explained by Asst. Prof. Oliveros’ coworker Albert Remus R. Rosana who is currently a PhD student at the University of Alberta, Canada.
The researchers have initially isolated 30 bacterial species from Mt. Mayon’s volcanic soils. Thirteen of them have shown varying antibiotic activities in different test organisms that were known as pathogenic to humans or plants. The test organisms are Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and its methicillin-resistant variant, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and an unspecified Fusarium species. 
“One of the objectives of the study is to screen actinomycete isolates for antimicrobial activity. Therefore, we ensured that our selected test organisms would represent some of the major groups of microorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts, and molds to capture a broader antimicrobial spectrum result,” Asst. Prof. Oliveros mentioned.
“The choice of test organisms was also associated with World Health Organization’s (WHO) list of human pathogens that post eminent danger to human health by 2050, mainly due to antibiotic resistance,” Rosana added.
The research team assumed that since those 30 isolates thrive in a unique environment such as Mt. Mayon’s volcanic soils, they most likely produce unique chemical compounds that may have medical, pharmaceutical, and even cosmeceutical uses. Moreover, Streptomyces species in general are known to produce medically and pharmaceutically important products.
But Streptomyces sp. A1-08 stood out because it has shown antagonistic effects on all test microorganisms and the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or simply MRSA. Abundant in hospitals, MRSA is strongly resistant against antibiotics which makes treatment of infections more difficult. In fact, the WHO has declared antimicrobial resistance as one of the top 10 global threats to public health.
Anticancer, genomic tests
Because Streptomyces sp. A1-08 seems to fight off MRSA, this prompted Asst. Prof. Oliveros and team to study Streptomyces sp. A1-08 further using the anti-colorectal cancer test and genomic analysis.
Their anti-colorectal cancer test indicates that crude extracts from Streptomyces sp. A1-08 suggested low potency when compared to a doxorubicin, a chemotherapy drug. 
“It is good to remember that the positive control doxorubicin is a pure, proven and tested commercially available chemotherapy drug. In contrast, the ethyl acetate extract of [Streptomyces sp.] A1-08 which we have used in the study, [is] a crude extract, and therefore still a complex mixture and may contain multitude of raw compounds at different concentrations,” Asst. Prof. Oliveros explained.
Those raw compounds can be purified further to develop an exact anticancer drug.
To identify the specific genes of Streptomyces sp. A1-08 responsible for producing antibiotic and anticancer compounds, the researchers conducted genomics analysis – or the study of the organism’s complete set of DNAs. It also helped them zero in on the specific identity of Streptomyces sp. A1-08.
Rosana likened genomics to a blueprint of a house or different Lego pieces that a person can assemble to build their favorite character. “In our genomics work, we use computer software to build the correct sequence of the Lego pieces and predict target outcomes, which in our research are the different antibiotics and potential anti-cancer molecules,” he added.
Discovery is not the end
Asst. Prof. Oliveros defined their findings as a “jackpot” but pointed out that their discovery must lead to more research.
“Way forward, further studies should be made for us to establish that this novel species can likewise produce novel bioactive compounds,” she mentioned.
“Future rigorous research in drug chemistry combined with metabolomics are vital to claim that the secondary metabolites produced by our isolate is totally new and hopefully effective as a chemotherapy drug,” said Asst. Prof. Oliveros.
Metabolomics is the study of metabolites involved in chemical processes happening in an organism.
“This is also our dream, to put this project forward in the large-scale cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical pipeline!” the UPLB researcher added.
She finds it honorable to pioneer extending their discovery to industrial applications, and “to showcase the known and great potential of the Philippines as a promising land that harbor natural products for drug discovery”.
This paper was recently accepted in the Philippine Journal of Science (PJS), a peer-reviewed publication of the Department of Science and Technology. Although the paper is lined up on the PJS’ December 2021 issue, its full copy will be uploaded immediately on the journal's website (philjournalsci.dost.gov.ph) as soon as its ready for public reading. 
Joining Rosana and Oliveros in their groundbreaking work are Andrew D. Montecillo, Dr. Rina B. Opulencia, Arian J. Jacildo, Dr. Asuncion K. Raymundo, and the late Dr. Teofila O. Zulaybar, who are all from UPLB.
This study was funded by the UPLB Basic Research Grant and scholarship grants given to Albert Rosana. (By David Matthew C. Gopilan, DOST-STII) Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

LEGAZPI CITY—Provincial governments in Bicol have agreed to set up tighter border control measures for fear that the highly transmissible and more virulent Delta variant of the coronavirus disease might slip through.
This was confirmed by Bicol Pandemic Task Force on Tuesday, through Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Director Anthony Nuyda, who also chairs the Bicol Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (BIATF).
Nuyda said all provincial boundaries, airports, and seaports especially in the region's border with Quezon province would be implementing said stricter measures, after the executive orders by the provincial governors are issued.
The measures would prevent the entry of local residents from the National Capital Region (NCR) who would like to return home in anticipation of the start of the enhanced community quarantine in the metropolis on August 6 until August 20.
Checkpoint personnel would only allow the entry of essential travelers such as those going home due to emergency situations and authorized persons outside residence (APOR) with health and travel documents including a negative antigen or reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test result.
Nuyda said “the anticipatory measure would ensure that these returning local residents are not infected by the virus especially the Delta variant that is highly transmissible and dangerous.”
He said in Camarines Sur, the local IATF has decided to give all inbound travelers free antigen test, and those who would be found infected would be brought to the designated quarantine facility.
Likewise, only accredited Point-to-Point (P2P) passenger buses would be allowed provided that they follow the required passenger capacity. Passengers will have to submit during inspection their negative antigen or RT-PCR test results.
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (HPG) will field personnel at the border control areas to check and apprehend "colorum" or illegal vans and cars carrying passengers with fake travel passes.
Meanwhile, upon the recommendation of health authorities, the BIATF has issued a directive to all local chief executives to step up the disease surveillance, contact tracing, and putting up of separate facilities for people infected with the Delta variant, in provinces, cities, and towns.
It also urged local executives to direct their barangay officials to set up a system of monitoring and recording individuals that visit residents in their respective communities.
At the BIATF meeting on Monday, the Department of Health (DOH) in the region reported that while it has achieved a 100 percent vaccination for target health workers, it, however, failed to meet the 80-percent goal for senior citizens and persons with comorbidities under the A2 and A3 group, respectively, because of hesitancy.
“We have to launch an aggressive campaign to convince these senior citizens and those persons with comorbidities to be vaccinated because studies indicate that there’s a very high mortality rate, under this group,” Nuyda said. (With report from PNA)
Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

LEGAZPI CITY -- The Department of Health (DOH) in Bicol has called on local government units (LGU) in the region to implement tighter border control measures to prevent the entry and spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19), especially the more transmissible Delta variant.
In an interview on Sunday, Dr. Ferchito Avelino, DOH assistant regional director, said “the best and (most) effective way to prevent the spread of the Delta variant is to have stricter health control measures in all borders from the provinces, towns, cities down to the villages”.

He said the DOH has recommended the renewal of the Bicol Pandemic Task Force's resolution reminding local executives to tighten their checkpoints against the possible entry of people who tested positive for Covid-19.

Avelino also urged local executives to direct their barangay officials to closely monitor the entry of non-residents and step up their contact tracing system in their respective communities.

Likewise, he asked politicians who have been extending assistance to villagers not to hold big gatherings as these can become “super spreader” events.

The DOH Covid tracker indicated that from May to July, an uptick in cases has been recorded in Bicol due to transmission of the Alpha and Beta variants. A total of 33 individuals were infected with these variants in the region.

Recently, two of the 11 Covid-positive crew members of the MV Clyde and Claudia (barge) that is currently anchored off the waters of Sto. Domingo, Albay, tested positive for the Delta variant.

Avelino said the DOH has recommended placing the crew under a longer quarantine.

The vessel carrying over 8,000 metric tons of coal came from Butuan but had previously gone to Indonesia, where cases of the Delta variant had been reported.

Avelino said after the 14-day standard quarantine, the crew members will have to undergo another six days of isolation, after which they would be subjected to another round of swab tests.

He assured the public that there is no Delta case yet in Bicol and the community would remain safe from the highly contagious variant for “as long as they (crew members) are kept inside the vessel and don’t go offshore or jump ship.”

As of July 31, there are 2,923 active Covid-19 cases in Bicol. The total number of cases since March last year is 21,190.

There have been 17,387 recoveries and 799 recorded deaths in the region. (by Mar Serrano, PNA) Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

MANILA—The Bicol International Airport (BIA) is closer to reality than ever, with its overall accomplishment rate is at 89%, as of 28 July 2021.
A news release from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) states that Secretary Art Tugade is poised to deliver on his pledge to land on the gateway’s runway as his symbolic act of his relentless pursuit to fast-track the completion of this long-delayed aviation project.
Said airport will be operational before the year ends, and is expected to accommodate an estimated volume of 2 million passengers annually, according to the same news release. Dubbed as the country's most scenic gateway, the BIA is eyed to boost the socio-economic activities in the area, especially foreign and domestic tourism, as well as generate employment opportunities for the locals.Under its construction phase alone, 755 workers were employed even during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic period.
“As part of the mammoth BUILD, BUILD, BUILD” infrastructure program, the BIA will be an important, long-term asset, not just for Bicolanos, but for the entire nation and its citizenry, with its promise of enhanced connectivity and mobility. This promise will fulfill the mandate of giving the Filipino people a most comfortable life,” the DOTR said.
Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

LEGAZPI CITY—Eleven cases of the Alpha (B.1.1.7) COVID variant and 22 cases of the Beta (B.1.351) variant have been recorded in the Bicol region. Said cases were locally-transmitted, the Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) announced this week.

According to its advisory, Albay has eight (8) cases of the Beta Variants; Camarines Norte has one (1) case of the Beta Variant; Camarines Sur, including Naga City, has nine cases of the (9) Alpha and 12 cases of the Beta Variants; Masbate has one case of the (1) Alpha Variant and Sorsogon has one case of the (1) Alpha and one (1) case of the Beta Variant. Catanduanes has no result for any variant from the submitted samples. 
The SARS COV-2 samples were from 260 samples sent to the Philippine Genomic Center (PGC) last April, the advisory explained. Said measure was instituted by the DOH Bicol CHD as part of the laboratory surveillance to determine the circulating strains in the region.
“With this finding, the increase in the number of COVID19 CONFIRMED cases in Bicol this year may be attributed to these variants. As a response, the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of the Bicol Center for Health Development is coordinating with Local Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (LESU) of LGUs where cases were identified,” the advisory reads.
“Cases were already considered recovered as of the writing of the report. However, the potential of infecting others during the period of their infectivity is more likely to have occurred. As such, the DOH Bicol CHD reminds the public that this number is just the “tip of the iceberg. Hence, a thorough case investigation needs to be conducted as part of the back tracing measures and correlation of each case including the clusters therein.”
It continues: “Evidence shows that the emergence of COVID19 variants, especially the variants of concern (VOC) such as the Alpha (B.1.1.7); Beta (B.1.351, B.1.351.2, B.1.351.3); Gamma (P.1, P.1.1, P.1.2) and, Delta (B.1.617.2, AY.1, AY.2, AY.3), respectively are believed to have increased transmissibility and severity. As such, the effectiveness of public health and social measures available or in place may be challenged.
The DOH Bicol CHD with the Bicol Interagency Task Force (BIATF) urges all of the government (both national and local) and the community to bring the transmission of the infection to halt. The following measures are hereby recommended for strict implementation to break the chain of transmission of any COVID19 variants that circulate in the localities of Bicol:
Strong and aggressive CONTACT TRACING by the local government units; Strict implementation of QUARANTINE of CONTACTS and or ISOLATION of SYMPTOMATICS following the Prevention, Detection, Isolation, Treatment, and Reintegration (PDITR) Strategies for COVID19. Putting an emphasis on the collection of specimens for RT-PCR testing shall be done on the 5th to 7th day after the last day of exposure. DOH Bicol also emphasized the importance of discouraging all forms of social gatherings that may predispose people to infection; and, the imposition of a robust border control. Comprehensive and far-reaching COVID19 VACCINATION roll-outs based on the PRIORITIZATION set by the National Vaccine Operation Center (NVOC), was also duly stressed by the Regional Vaccine Operation Center (RVOC).”Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

LEGAZPI CITY – The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) in Bicol on Thursday said the reported coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) Delta variant case from the region is not in any of the Region 5 provinces but in Metro Manila.

In an official statement, the agency said the DOH central office reported 12 new Delta cases in the country, one of whom is from Bicol.

“DOH Bicol clarifies that the said case who is Bicolano is currently working in the National Capital Region (NCR),” it read.

It noted that the patient is a 27-year-old female from Sorsogon who has neither traveled to Bicol for the last three years nor visited by someone from the region before getting sick.

The patient is not a local case of the Delta variant, the DOH-CHD said, adding that the woman's specimen was taken for testing at the Lung Center of the Philippines in Quezon City last June 25.

DOH-Bicol reiterated that amid the threat of the Delta variant, the minimum public health standards remain as the best preventive measures against all mutations of the Covid-19 virus.

“Properly wear face mask and face shield, sanitize your hands, maintain social distancing, and avoid crowded and enclosed spaces,” it added. (by Connie Calipay, PNA)

Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

Art by Melissa Basmayor

By Marina Aquino – ClederaHead Teacher III Juan F. Triviño Memorial High School
The COVID-19 Pandemic is causing educational leaders around the country to make tough choices. The big questions to answer are: How can our school heads manage their schools? How can they look after the welfare of their staff and students? 
Now more than ever is the best time for leadership, it’s important for principals to demonstrate leadership capabilities. They need to be flexible and adaptive to this new learning environment. The challenge to address unplanned circumstance and change needs to be addressed. There is no professional development workshop that could thoroughly prepare school heads for leading a global pandemic, but is given that leading students and staff in the midst of a global pandemic has to be learned “on the job’ and in real time with the guidance of experts. 
For many teachers, teaching on “new normal” set-up and designing instructions in the different Learning Delivery Modalities (LDM) is a very big challenge and in addition to this, many of them are balancing more familial responsibilities, including taking care of children and other members of the family or relatives.  Given this, school leaders and administrators must be aware of the said teachers’ responsibility. Understanding what teachers are going through is a must. School heads also needs to make certain allowances to support the staff. 
As teachers are trying to figure out how to maximize new learning set-up while keeping their students engaged, school leaders must maintain contact with the staff beyond their supervisory role. It is also important to strengthen the relationships with the staff and let them know as a school head they’re there for them. Compliment, encouragement, praises, and support to staff (via e-mail, department or grade-level online meetings, and so on) as often as possible must be provided to them. 
Also as an instructional leader, school heads must also act as an academic resource. Although distance learning resources can be obtained online, still school leaders/heads must be abreast of his thinking and actions. As an instructional leader, he must be an academic resource. He must provide resources and offer suggestions that will best serve the staff and students. He must let them know that he’s there for them and that they can continue to reach out to him via email, google or zoom meetings. As well, he can advise and assist the staff in engaging parents in meetings via Zoom/Google Meet. Communicate with the parents of the students (and, if possible, communicate with the parent and student together [via Zoom]) to ensure that proper communication is sustained and established. 
Dealing with situations like this pandemic COVID – 19 is a challenge in which looking to the past how to deal with challenges is necessary and taking initiatives is commendable but it must be consulted with the experts and people in the Department of Education (DepEd). 
Part also of leadership means looking out for the physical and mental well-being of students and their parents. School heads can build connections within the community and coordinate with other stakeholders of the school to create a network that parents and students can turn to for help. School heads must let students and parents know that they are always there for them. Encouraged parents to communicate with the school to ensure, establish and sustain constant communication with them. The important thing is to offer frequent communication. Let people know what is going on, be honest and transparent. 
Leading during a global pandemic is a tough and stressful job and a great challenge to take. However, despite the pressures and demands of the position as a school head, it is critical to maintain a sense of balance. The physical and emotional health of the school head is crucial. Self-care must be a priority. School leaders both work hard to make education work for the students and staff and balance the work life with the personal life. In a pandemic, school heads family needs a great deal of attention. They have to attend to the needs of their family and attend also to their personal needs. It is important therefore to communicate with as many other school heads within the division to be properly guided in decision-making with consideration to family and personal concerns. 
While school heads are consistently checking with teachers to see how they’re doing while giving them some updates, it is deeming necessary to communicate with the people higher than their position whether it is the public school district supervisor, the assistant schools’ division superintendent or the schools’ division superintendent. They must look at current policies to be used to address the current situation while still keeping the safety of the students. 
It takes a unique kind of school leadership to push against the natural human tendency to downplay and delay. Communicating bad news is a thankless task. School leaders who get out ahead risk demoralizing employees or subordinates. It takes wisdom and some courage to understand that communicating with transparency is a vital antidote to this risk.  Communicating with transparency means providing honest and accurate descriptions of reality — being as clear as humanly possible about what you know, what you anticipate, and what it means for school personnel as well as the school community. It is crucial to convey your message in a way that people or subordinates can understand. Communication must be a hopeful vision of the future toward which people or school personnel & subordinates can direct their energy, because without hope, resolve is impossible. 
Leadership in an uncertain, fast-moving crisis means making oneself available to feel what it is like to be in another’s shoes — to lead with empathy. In crisis situations, leaders must make a deliberate choice to practice a calm state of mind. Then they can step back from high-stakes situation and choose how to respond, rather than reacting instinctively. It will be incumbent on leaders to put themselves in another’s suffering, to feel with empathy and think with intelligence, and then to use their position of authority to make a path forward for us all. 
Lastly, leadership in education while going through with pandemic is working hard to make education work for the students and staff. A school leader goes through an unexpected occurrence, must learned how to deal with the immediate impact and provide for the students and the staff. On top of this, school leaders must learn to step back, reflect and say, this to, shall pass. 
ACADEMIC SOURCES:
1. Kafele, Baruti K. (2020) -  ASCD Book: The Assistant Principal 50: Critical Questions for Meaningful Leadership & Professional Growth.
2. Fernandez, A, F., & Shaw, G.P (2020). Academic Leadership in a Time of Crisis: The Coronavirus and Covid-19 
3. JOURNAL: SCHOOL LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT Formerly School Organization, Volume 40, 2020 – Issue 4
Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

The Department of Social Welfare and Development Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan –Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS) increased its current coverage of Additional Financing (AF) from 37 municipalities to 76 municipalities in Bicol Region.
The Department allocated PHP 720,673,800.00 community grant for the 39 additional municipalities aimed at addressing the effects of the pandemic.

For the 39 towns, the project will be implemented in eight (8) municipalities of Albay, three (3) municipalities of Camarines Norte, 11 municipalities of Camarines Sur, three (3) municipalities of Catanduanes, nine (9) municipalities of Masbate, and five (5) municipalities of Sorsogon.

According to Regional Director Leo Quintilla, CESE, the AF project will be using the Disaster Response Operations Modality (DROM), a simplified procedure of the program to accelerate the implementation of the community-identified projects.

“The community projects that will be identified by the communities will be in relation to COVID-19 recovery efforts like Cash-for-Work scheme, rehabilitation of facilities or public buildings, provision of PPEs, hygiene kits, cleaning supplies, and other projects,” he explained.

AF Launching

The AF is a three-year implementation funded by the Government of the Philippines and the World Bank. To officially launch the project, the Department will spearhead its unveiling in three (3) clusters: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

For Luzon cluster, Bicol Region will host the event on July 22, 2021 in Legazpi City, Albay. The event will be streamed live through the official Facebook page of DSWD Region V.

Aside from the ceremonial launch, the Department will also promote how the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach plays a role in disaster response and post-disaster response as well as gain support on the institutionalization of CDD as a national strategy for poverty reduction and disaster response.

KALAHI-CIDSS is a poverty alleviation program of DSWD that uses CDD approach to help communities in poor municipalities to identify challenges, make informed decisions, and control resources to address poverty. Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

Despite the pandemic, Pag-IBIG Fund achieved another record by releasing over P44 billion in home loans in the first half of 2021, top officials announced earlier this month.
From January to June, the agency released home loans worth P44.34 billion - the highest amount ever released during the first half of the year - and more than double the P20.80 billion it released during the same period in 2020.
Compared with the P37.07 billion released during the pre-pandemic period of January to June 2019, when strict community quarantines in Metro Manila and parts of Luzon had yet to be implemented, disbursement in the first half of 2021 is higher by nearly 20%.

“This is an indication that the number of Filipino workers who are able to become homeowners via the Pag-IBIG home loan programs continues to grow. In these tough times, we remain steadfast in our commitment to answer President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for government agencies to provide social benefits to more Filipinos,” said Secretary Eduardo D. del Rosario, who heads the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees.

Meanwhile, Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Acmad Rizaldy P. Moti said that the P44.34 billion released in the first half of 2021 enabled 43,573 members to acquire their own homes. Out of the total amount, P4.66 billion was released to finance the acquisition of socialized housing. Of the total number of members who benefited from the agency’s home loan programs in the first half of the year, 10,640 or 24% belong to the minimum-wage and low-income sectors.

He added that with its home loan disbursement reaching a record high over the past six months, he expects to exceed by yearend the P86.74 billion home loans released in 2019, which is the highest amount ever released by the agency in a single year.

"With the way things are going, I’m very optimistic that by the end of 2021, we will surpass the total home loan releases of 2019, which is our best year yet. The P44.34 billion disbursed is especially important because we achieved higher figures this year compared to the same period before the pandemic happened. On average, we released over P7 billion in home loans every month in the first half of the year. If this trend holds and succeeding monthly releases remain higher than usual, home loan releases by the end of the year will likely breach the P90 billion mark and may even reach P100 billion. This translates to another ‘best year ever’ for us and, more importantly, even more members having a home of their own where they can be safe as the health emergency continues,” Moti said Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

LEGAZPI CITY—The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development has reiterated that all COVID-19 vaccines are free, after having received reports of individuals at the Local Vaccination Centers who are charging/soliciting at least fifty pesos per person for said vaccination.
Regional Advisory No. 2021-0277 states that public health services and commodities including that of COVID-19 vaccines are free.
The National Government procures the vaccines, therefore, any form of payment, be it voluntary or donation, from individuals availing of the COVID-19 vaccines are not allowed.
The COVID-19 vaccines are to be administered for free to the Filipino people. 
Charging for COVID-19 vaccination is counterproductive to the vaccination program of the Government, the DOH said. It might increase vaccine hesitancy along with inconvenience, myths and misconceptions. All Local Chief Executives, health offices and vaccination sites are advised to monitor and prevent such incidents from occurring in their areas, according to DOH Bicol.Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

LEGAZPI CITY – Sorsogon Governor Francis Escudero on Sunday questioned health authorities in Bicol on the allocation of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccines, noting that some areas are given more than the others.In a statement posted on social media...

MANILA— In preparation for the upcoming 2022 national and local elections, the Department of Education (DepEd) is seeking to facilitate the bulk application of more than 900,000 of its employees to obtain their Philippine National Public Key Infrastructure (PNPKI) digital signatures.
“We are continuously cooperating with our lead agencies to have a secure and peaceful elections, and part of our commitment is to ensure that our teachers are protected and given the proper support,” Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones said in a news release on Monday.
The PNPKI digital signature is a new requirement of the Commission of Elections (Comelec) for all public school teachers who will serve as Electoral Board Members. It is a virtual ‘key’ that subscribers use to secure files sent over an otherwise unsecured ‘public’ network like the Internet.
In a letter from DepEd to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department requested to streamline the application process by waiving the requirement for individual application forms, including physically filling out the forms.
In previous discussions with the DICT, the requirements for individual interviews and supporting IDs have been waived. The DepEd, however, is further requesting the waiving of the requirement for individual application forms as this may be cumbersome to check individually for errors.
This rigorous process for teachers will entail the downloading of these forms, physically filling them out, and uploading the same wherein checking for accuracy is an altogether different tedious task.
“This proposal will guarantee that our teachers will not be burdened by rigorous steps and requirements anymore,” Undersecretary for Administration Alain Del B. Pascua pointed out in the letter.
DepEd also proposed the use of available secure and reliable technologies and the submission of documents for bulk processing in place of the PNPKI application forms.
Documents proposed to be submitted to DICT include a spreadsheet file containing DepEd employees’ verified data certified by Human Resources, and an institutional application from DepEd in place of individual applications.
In addition, the Department will facilitate the online registration of its employees through its DepEd Mobile App and DepEd Commons to expedite the application process. (PR)Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

LEGAZPI CITY—The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) has reiterated that the office follows the recommended guidelines and procedures for the COVID-19 vaccination rollout set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), National Vaccination Operations Center (NVOC) and the Department of Health (DOH).
DOH Bicol explained in a statement earlier this week that these guidelines and procedures are cascaded to the Local Government Units (LGUs) through the Provincial, Municipal and City Health Offices by the Regional Vaccination Operations Center (RVOC) for compliance.
The Bicol CHD stressed that the national government determines the number of vaccine doses that the Bicol Region receives.
“This pertains to the whole region as well as pre-determined allocations provided to specific LGUs,” the statement reads.
“By virtue of the Local Government Code of the Philippines (R.A. 7160 of 1991), health delivery services are devolved to the local government. With this as premise, the province then determines the vaccine allocations of each locality within its jurisdiction based on the assessment of their epidemic and their submitted master list. The Local Chief Executives (LCEs) at the level of the province, city and municipality implement the vaccination activities as informed by vaccination guidelines and procedures.”
In line with this, the Bicol CHD strongly urged the LGUs to follow the prioritization for COVID-19 vaccination. Priority groups A1, A2 and A3, or the medical frontliners, senior citizens and people with co-morbidities or conditions affecting their immune system are priority in the conduct of the said activity. Prioritization based on the level of risk to infection and severity of outcome of disease are the bases to consider in light of limited supply of vaccines.
The statement continues: “The Bicol CHD captures vaccination coverage of the different provinces through the end-of-day reports submitted by the vaccination sites to the COVID-19 Bakuna Center Registry (CBCR) Quick Counts and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Through this report, the number of vaccinated per priority group is determined.
Of equal importance, the Bicol CHD continuously reminds LGUs and all vaccination sites to adhere to the Minimum Public Health Standard (MPHS) during the conduct of vaccination activity. Transmission may also be prevented through proper crowd management and identifying the target number of vaccinees to be vaccinated in a day to avoid overcrowding. The public are also enjoined to properly wear facemasks and face shields and maintain social distancing and hand sanitation even after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.”Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

In keeping with its thrust for purposeful innovation and to arm Filipinos further against this pandemic, PascualLab’s flagship brand Poten-Cee is leveling up its immunity offerings via two new variants, Poten-Cee + ZN and  Poten-Cee + ZN Advance.  
  
Moving On with the New Normal  
Facing the COVID-19 fear head-on, Poten-Cee, the no. 1 Vitamin C Adult Brand1 offers consumers two immunity-advancement options to choose from:  
Poten-Cee + ZN which combines the immunity benefits of Vitamin C and Zinc, and  
Poten-Cee + ZN Advance which likewise puts together the immunity benefits of  
Vitamin C and Zinc, plus Vitamin D3.  
  
Advanced Protection from Immune Essentials   
Poten-Cee + ZN has Vitamin C 2 that helps enhance the body’s natural defenses, by supporting various functions of the immune system.  It also contains Zinc that assists in blocking germs, including viruses, from entering the body, and prevents them from multiplying. ³  
  
Similarly, Poten-Cee + ZN Advance combines the immunity-strengthening effects of   
Vitamin C and Zinc, but this time with the addition of Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 aids in activating the immune system, to better attack viruses.  Vitamin D3 also regulates the immune response to help prevent sudden or dangerous inflammations that can cause organ damage.⁴  
  
To get more of this advanced protection in the new normal, take  
Poten-Cee + ZN and  Poten-Cee + ZN Advance daily along with proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and adequate quality sleep.  
  
Poten-Cee ZN and Poten-Cee ZN + Advance are the newest additions to the ever-growing Poten-Cee family of Vitamin C variants which address different lifestyle needs:   
Poten-Cee Sugar-coated, Poten-Cee Sugar-Free, Poten-Cee Forte, Poten-Cee N.A.,   
Poten-Cee Chewable, and food supplement Poten-Cee + C.   
  
Suggested Retail Price (SPR) for Poten-Cee + ZN is at Php 7.50 per capsule and for  
Poten-Cee + ZN Advance, at 13.50 each. Both variants are available at all Mercury Drug, Southstar, The Generic Pharmacy, and Watsons outlets nationwide  
    
###    Sources:     1. IQVA Data of 2021  2. Carr A, Maggini S. Vitamin C and Immune Function. Nutrients. 2017; 9(11): 1211. doi: 10.3390/nu9111211.  3. Wessels I, Rolles B, Rink L. The Potential Impact of Zinc Supplementation on COVID-19 Pathogenesis. Front Immunol. 2020; 11: 1712. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01712  
4. Aranow C. Vitamin D and the Immune System. J Investig Med. 2011; 59(6): 881–886. doi:10.231/JIM.0b013e31821b8755.  Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

MANILA—The Bicol region posted an inflation rate of 6.3 percent in June 2021. It has the highest among the Areas Outside of NCR (AONCR), the Philippine Statistics Authority reported in its Summary Inflation Report Consumer Price Index (2012=100) released this week.
The report, signed by Dennis S. Mapa, Ph.D., Undersecretary and National Statistician and Civil Registrar General, also indicates that eleven regions in the Areas Outside of NCR (AONCR) had lower inflation during the month. The lowest inflation among the regions in AONCR in June 2021 remained in Region VII (Central Visayas) at 1.7 percent.
Inflation in AONCR decelerated to 4.4 percent in June 2021, after registering an inflation of 4.7 percent for three consecutive months. Inflation in AONCR in June 2020 was noted at 2.7 percent. The downtrend in the inflation in AONCR during the month was mainly due to the slower annual uptick in the transport index at 11.2 percent, from 17.4 percent in the previous month.
Also contributing to the downtrend was the slower annual increments recorded in the indices of alcoholic beverages and tobacco at 11.2 percent; clothing and footwear, 1.9 percent; health, 2.8 percent; and communication, 0.3 percent.
On the other hand, annual hikes were higher in the indices of food and non-alcoholic beverages at 4.5 percent; housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels, 2.8 percent; and restaurant and miscellaneous goods and services, at 4.4 percent.
The rest of the commodity groups retained their previous month’s annual growth rates. 
Meantime, the country’s headline inflation slowed down to 4.1 percent in June 2021, after recording an inflation of 4.5 percent for three consecutive months. This brings the Philippines’ average inflation for the first semester of 2021 at 4.4 percent. In June 2020, inflation was registered at 2.5 percent. 
The slower pace in the inflation in June 2021 was primarily due to the lower annual rate of increase in the transport index at 9.6 percent, from 16.5 percent in May 2021.
Inflation rates were higher in the indices of food and non-alcoholic beverages at 4.7 percent; housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels, 2.4 percent; and restaurant and miscellaneous goods and services, 3.9 percent.
As for NCR, inflation eased further to 3.2 percent in June 2021, from 3.6 percent in the previous month. In June 2020, inflation in the region was posted at 2.0 percent. Lower inflation in NCR was mainly brought about by the slower annual hike in transport index at 5.1 percent during the month, from double-digit annual growth rate of 13.8 percent in the previous month.Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

NAGA CITY -- A Camarines Sur-based manufacturer of bamboo products received support from the Department of Science and Technology in the former’s production of face shields with frames made from kauayan-tinik.

In a news release by DOST Bicol, the Bula Masarig Engineered Bamboo was identified as the recipient of technical assistance from the Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI), and the Provincial Science and Technology Center (DOST-V PSTC) – Camarines Sur under the GREAT Women Project implementation.

According to the DOST, the kauayan-tinik is a perennial, woody-stemmed grass known for its versatile uses.

“Manufactured using FPRDI’s Bamboo-Framed Face Shield Technology, the face shield, which has a linear length of eighteen inches, is lightweight and convenient to use. It has a replaceable PVC sheet, and a non-slip adjustable strap,” the news release indicates.

Besides this initiative, Bula Masarig also previously developed an environment-friendly foot-pressed alcohol dispenser prototype made of bamboo.

DOST-V and PSTC-Camarines Sur said they continue to support, patronize, and promote locally-made products and technology to reduce the risks brought by COVID-19 as well as to revitalize economic growth and development in the region. (With reports from PNFelizmenio/ JCBarrameda, PSTC-Camarines Sur)Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

Multi-talented actress Anne Curtis is tickled pink to share the good news about foodpanda’s great promos that will feed your appetite and fit your budget while you stay safe at home. She shares great deals and discounts in the foodpanda app, where you can find a wide variety of good food discoveries coupled with the convenience that foodpanda’s delivery service brings. Think: shops for groceries and pandamart for everyday essentials to keep you worry-free from sunrise to sundown.
It-girl Anne amps up the fun as she keeps you updated on everyday savings, with foodpanda promos such as Super Sundays that lets you feast with your family at 40% off and more on thousands of restaurants if you book between 12 noon to 6 pm; while Mega Mondays can be a great way to jumpstart your week with 30% off and more on your favorite restaurants and thousands of other choices for new cuisines to try if you book from 12 noon to 6 pm. Find Epic Deals every day on different brands with 50% off, and pandapro members can also enjoy up to 40% off on exclusive deals with only P50 a month!

Ever the go-getter, Anne enjoys the convenience of ordering through foodpanda, as it allows her to have more time to spend with her family. “With so many restaurant choices, it’s so easy to find what I am craving for on the foodpanda app and there are great deals to choose from every day! As a new mom, I also find it important that our food delivery is reliable and safe. With foodpanda, I am assured of quality service from our friendly riders that put safety as a priority. Kaya, tap mo na yan!”

“We are happy to have Anne on board to share the great deals and discounts we have for our foodpanda customers. We believe that she represents our savvy foodies who want to enjoy a wide variety of cuisines that can be delivered straight to your doorstep from our thousands of partner restaurants” shares foodpanda Philippines managing director Daniel Marogy.

It’s a comeback for sure, as the multi-hyphenate entertainer stages AnnePagbabalik with her popstar persona as she shares foodpanda’s promos, with video clips and more exciting appearances on the app. Catch Anne as she shares more of the great deals that are only a few taps away on the foodpanda app. For more details, visit the official foodpanda Facebook page or its official website www.foodpanda.phPosted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

LEGAZPI CITY -- Half a billion pesos’ worth of projects has been earmarked for 37 poor and disaster-stricken municipalities across Bicol to help indigents cope with the effects of the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, DSWD-Bicol director Leo Quintilla announced.
The PHP570-million undertaking, according to Quintilla, covers the construction of quarantine facilities, purchase of medical tools and supplies, and cash-for-work activities to be implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under its Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) program.

The recipient municipalities include Bombon, Cabusao, Camaligan, Canaman, Garchitorena, Magarao, Pasacao, Milaor, Minalabac, Ocampo, Presentacion, Sangay, and San Fernando in Camarines Sur; Manito in Albay; Paracale, San Lorenzo Ruiz, San Vicente, Santa Elena, Talisay and Vinzons in Camarines Norte; Barcelona, Casiguran, Irosin, Juban, Prieto Diaz and Sta. Magdalena in Sorsogon; Baras, Bato, Caramoran, Gigmoto, Pandan, and San Miguel in Catanduanes; and Batuan, Claveria, Dimasalang, Mobo and Monreal in Masbate.

These towns were identified based on poverty incidence, income class, and the number of barangays affected by disasters from 2014-2020.

Quintilla said these towns had undergone capacity assessment to ensure that the local government units (LGUs) are ready to participate in this year’s implementation of the program dubbed Additional Financing–Community-Based Response for Covid-19 (AF-CBRC).

“The modality will be implemented in two groups of municipalities in which 37 municipalities belonging in the first group will implement (it) this July until December while the second group will start in August 2021 until 2022,” he said.

Quintilla said the second group of municipalities is still in the program’s enrollment phase.

The AF-CBRC will be using the Disaster Response Operations Procedure (DROP), a simplified version of the Community Empowerment Activity Cycle (CEAC) to hasten the process of approval of community-identified projects and implementation while still following the basic principles of the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach.

KALAHI-CIDSS is a poverty alleviation program of DSWD that uses the CDD method to help communities in poor municipalities identify challenges, make informed decisions, and control resources to address poverty.

In 2020, the program completed 573 community projects amounting to PHP129 million in 15 municipalities of the Bicol Region. (with reports from PNA/DSWD Bicol)
Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

LEGAZPI CITY -- COVID-19 cases in the Bicol region have been increasing since March this year, the Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) reported in its 2021-0027 news release.
According to DOH Bicol CHD, there is now an average of 200 new cases being recorded daily. The positivity rate of laboratory tests rose to 23% as of June 13, 2021 from the previously reported 9% recorded on April 4, 2021.

Despite this, Bicol remains at moderate risk level equivalent to General Community Quarantine (GCQ).

While the risk level of the region remains unchanged, the DOH has classified certain areas in the region as high-risk, including the cities of Naga and Legazpi. The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) has already placed Naga City under Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ). Meanwhile, the Local Government Units (LGUs) in Bicol region have likewise determined their quarantine classification based on the risk assessment of DOH and in accordance with the IATF-EID’s guidelines. In Albay, Governor Al Francis Bichara has extended the GCQ status of the province, covering all cities and municipalities with the exception of Jovellar and Rapu-Rapu. Also, in Camarines Sur, Governor Miguel Villafuerte has placed Iriga City and 31 municipalities in the province under General Community Quarantine (GCQ). The Bicol Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF) has concurred with these LGU declarations for the period ending June 30, 2021.

To determine the risk level of an area, DOH Bicol explained that a two-week risk assessment is being done covering the Average Daily Attack Rate (ADAR), the Two-Week Growth Rate (TWGR), and the Health Care Utilization Rate (HCUR). The risk assessment will serve as the basis for the Bicol CHD in recommending to the Local Chief Executive (LCE) the quarantine classification status of their area.
 The same report indicated that the rise in COVID-19 cases is attributed to a number of factors. These include lapses in the implementation of the minimum public health standards for prevention and “COVID intervention fatigue,” and lapses in contact tracing and in the enforcement of quarantine and isolation protocols. In addition, the delays in the collection of specimen, delays in the submission of the specimen to the laboratories due to incomplete information, and the delay in informing and releasing of individual test results by the local government units (LGUs) are other factors that compound the current situation in the region.

DOH Bicol reminded everyone that the fight against COVID-19 is a whole-of-government, whole-of-system, whole-of-society approach. The Local Government Units (LGUs) are directed to level up the implementation of the BIDA Solusyon Plus, provide safe and livable quarantine and isolation facilities, step up contact tracing, submit samples immediately, release individual results as soon as daily COVID-19 updates are posted, and facilitate the reintegration of individuals who have recovered to the community. Likewise, they are directed to roll out the COVID-19 vaccination in their respective localities.

It further said the LGUs have been vital in the country’s COVID-19 response, and their relentless efforts are greatly appreciated. However, as the health crisis persists, there is an emerging need to further intensify government efforts at the local level.

Individuals are urged to follow the minimum public health standards or the BIDA Solusyon Plus, report for signs and symptoms, follow quarantine/isolation protocols if they are close contacts, refrain from sharing information that cannot be verified, and support COVID-19 patients and frontliners and protect them from discrimination. This way, you can protect yourself and your family while playing a role in our unified fight against COVID-19.

DOH Bicol also called on other partners to support the COVID-19 and Resbakuna Campaign in any way they can according to their mandate, resources, capacity, and expertise. Areas that can be supported are the information campaign on COVID-19 and Resbakuna, combating fake news, and refraining from sharing anecdotal posts and posts with unknown sources. Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

Microsoft today introduced Windows 11, a new experience designed to bring users closer to the things and people they love.
From intuitive design features that make multitasking a breeze to an all-new Microsoft Store that provides users with easy access to apps, games, and movies, the new Windows 11 is optimized for working, learning, and playing and delivering great experiences for all.

"The past 18 months brought an incredible shift in how we used our PCs, from something practical and functional to something personal and emotional. This is what inspired us as we were building the next generation of Windows, a platform that over a billion people rely on. With Windows 11, we wanted to build a familiar place where everyone can create, learn, play, and most importantly connect in improved ways," said Panos Panay, Chief Product Officer, Microsoft.
Windows 11 will be available on new PCs and through a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 PCs beginning this holiday.

Faster, more secure OS and simplified design to boost productivity

Windows 11 features a fresh, clean interface and intuitive features to empower users to get things done and inspire their creativity. Users can easily find what they need by clicking the Start button which is located at the center of the screen. Start utilizes the power of the cloud and Microsoft 365 to show users recent files that were previously viewed across different platforms or devices, so users can pick up where they left off – even documents they were working on their Android or iOS devices.

Multi-tasking has never been easier with new Windows 11 features like Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, and Desktops that help users organize their windows and optimize their screen real estate. Users can now enjoy the flexibility of multiple windows and work on multiple apps simultaneously by snapping the apps side by side on their screens. With Desktops, users can customize spaces for each aspect of their lives, such as work, gaming, or school, and easily switch between them.

Users also get faster access to information they care about with Widgets, which provides a curated news feed powered by AI and best-in-class browser performance from Microsoft Edge. For creators and publishers, Widgets opens new real estate within Windows to deliver personalized content.

Windows 11 is designed to be a secure operating system perfect for hybrid work and learning. Secure by design, it has new built-in security technologies and provides a Zero Trust-ready operating system to protect data and access across devices.
Improved user experiences for gaming, entertainment and staying connected

Windows 11 comes with an all-new Microsoft store that has been rebuilt for speed, variety and convenience. It features a wider catalog of first and third-party apps that have been tested for security and family safety, bringing incredible experiences to entertain, inspire and connect users. For the first time, Android apps will be available in the Microsoft Store, and users can easily download these apps through the Amazon App store, a seamless process that was made possible through Microsoft's partnership with Amazon.

Just as with Windows 10, Microsoft is committed to app compatibility on Windows 11 with App Assure, a service that helps customers with 150 or more users fix any app issues they might run into at no additional cost.

Windows 11 also unlocks the full potential of a system's hardware, putting some of the latest gaming technology to work and providing users the ultimate, immersive gaming experience with:
DirectX 12 Ultimate, where users can enjoy breathtaking immersive graphics at high frame rates.
DirectStorage allowing for faster load times and more detailed game worlds.
Auto HDR providing a wider, more vivid range of colors for a truly captivating visual experience.
Access to over 100 high-quality PC games and new games, which are added all the time and made available to Xbox Game Pass for PC or Ultimate customers.

Windows 11 offers users a faster way to stay in touch with loved ones with the integration of Microsoft Teams into the taskbar, which allows users to instantly connect through text, chat, voice or video with loved ones anywhere in the world across Windows, Android or iOS. For friends and family without the Teams apps, users can still connect with them via two-way SMS. Integration with productivity features of Teams is also improved, allowing users to start presenting or muting themselves directly from the Taskbar.

Creating a more open ecosystem for developers and creators

Microsoft is taking a step further to unlock new opportunities for creators and developers by creating a more open ecosystem with Windows 11 that will benefit developers and bring more apps, games, movies, shows, and web content to users where: 
Developers and independent software vendors apps (ISVs) can bring in their apps to the Microsoft Store regardless of the app framework they are built on, such as Win32 or Progressive Web App (PWA).
A progressive change to Microsoft's revenue share policies means that developers can keep 100% of their commerce revenue. App developers can still use Microsoft's commerce ecosystem with a competitive revenue share of 85/15. Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) is supporting a project to conduct nutritional analysis of indigenous vegetables, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said.
In a taped report aired on Friday, he said 12 vegetables commonly used by Filipinos will be involved: wild ampalaya (bitter gourd), labong (bush sorrel), erwad (black-jack), lupo (sessile joyweed), camansi (breadnut), kulitis/uray (spiny amaranth), papait (jima), amti (glossy nightshade), dadyos (pigeon pea), pannalayapen (chemperai), sapsapon (fireweed), and langka (jackfruit).

"The nutritional information on these selected indigenous vegetables will help popularize them and boost their consumption," he said.

De la Peña added that the results of this study can serve as a guide to the research and development (R&D) efforts.

The project will run for one year, and will be led by Dr. Lorna Sister of the Institute of Crop Science, College of Agriculture and Food Science (ICropS-CAFS), and will be implemented by the University of the Philippines - Los Baños (UPLB).

Samples will be collected from different locations nationwide, according to de la Peña.

As of posting, de la Peña is yet to respond as to what kind of support would be provided by PCAARRD, and when does it target to commence the project.

Meanwhile, de la Peña also reported that a team from UPLB recently partnered with the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) in conducting the “Oh My Gulay! (OMG) Sa FNRI: A Step Towards Biodiversity” online training.

The training is expected to promote homestead food production among Filipino households and was attended by over 50 participants.

"It focused on the principles and practices of edible landscaping, as well as its potential contribution to achieving food and nutrition security among Filipino households, especially in this time of pandemic," he said.

The two-day training is part of the “Edible Landscaping Technology Promotion and Information Dissemination Campaign Project”, funded by the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Agricultural Research, de la Peña added. (PNA) Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

Following the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s (PAGASA’s) announcement of the start of the rainy season, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reminds local government units (LGUs) to undertake necessary preparedness measures and their response protocols to ensure the safety of the people during heavy rains, typhoons, flash floods and landslides amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año said that the pandemic presents unique challenges going into the rainy season, hence, “LGUs should be more alert and prepared this rainy season and must ensure that all vital aspects of local disaster risk reduction and management (LDRRM) are in place.”

He emphasized that local chief executives (LCEs) are expected to be present, especially during typhoon season. “Patuloy ang ating paalala sa mga LCE, huwag maging missing-in-action (MIA) sa panahon ng kalamidad,” he said.

In November 2020, the DILG issued show-cause orders to 10 LCEs who were MIA or were outside or their respective LGUs during the onslaught of Super Typhoon Rolly.

“Masidhi rin ang ating pagpapaalala sa mga LGU, lalo na sa mga disaster-prone areas na maghanda sa paparating na mga bagyo at iba pang kalamidad para maiwasan ang malubhang epekto ng darating na sama ng panahon,” Año said.

Through a DILG Advisory, Año enjoined the LGUs to implement DILG’s Operation L!sto Protocol for Hydrometeorological Hazards and be guided by DILG Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2020-125 that provides preparedness measures, and other relevant issuances. Operation Listo is an advocacy program of the DILG which aims to strengthen the disaster preparedness of LGUs using the whole-of-government approach.

In the same advisory, Año directed the LCEs to convene Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (LDRRM) Councils and conduct a pre-disaster risk assessment (PDRA) for floods, flash floods, rain-induced landslides, debris flow, storm surge, strong winds, and other hydrometeorological hazards.

He said these PDRAs are vital in the protection of the people who can get victimized by natural calamities during the rainy season. “Prevention is better than cure, sabi nga. Isa itong [PDRA] mahalagang hakbang tungo sa pagtitiyak ng kaligtasan ng mga mamamayan sa panahon at pagdating ng bagyo.”

He likewise said that structural integrity and capacity of vital facilities, especially those used as evacuation centers’ vaccination centers and multi-purpose buildings, LIGTAS COVID centers; health centers; and, hospitals for COVID-19 patients must be assessed.

The DILG Chief emphasized the conduct of monthly assessment and ensure top shape functionality, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Offices, of all established Early-Warning Systems (EWS).

LCEs are also reminded to update the Local Contingency Plans for hydrometeorological hazards; coordinate closely with relevant agencies such as PAGASA; ensure unhampered logistics flow and supply chain management; and, enjoin family and household preparedness through the Gabay at Mapa para sa Listong Pamilyang Pilipino.Posted by http://www.bicolstandard.com

Cordillera - A total of 225 cadets comprising the Hinirang Class of 2021 have graduated from the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) on Wednesday (April 21, 2021) via virtual ceremony. Among the successful graduates were nine (9) cadets who traces their roots to Kalinga province.  P/CDT John Kevin Mangwag - Pinukpuk, Kalinga  P/CDT Sydmar Baawa Ableg Augas - Pasil, Kalinga 
P/CDT Jeremy Baligod Bongabong -Lubuagan, Kalinga P/CDT Koullin Asiaben Canabang -Pangol, Tanudan, Kalinga 
P/CDT Patrick Reyes Dasayon - Pinukpuk, Kalinga 
P/CDT June Canao Gayawet - Pasil, Kalinga 
P/CDT King Bagtang Giwed - Tinglayan, Kalinga 
P/CDT Brent Guilao Guimba -Tinglayan, Kalinga 
P/CDT John Jr. Agnaya Tacloy -Tabuk City, Kalinga Interior Secretary Eduardo Año officially announced the appointment of the members of the graduating class as new police lieutenants, jail inspectors, or fire inspectors in their chosen services.source || PNPA FB page

Photo Courtesy || Dennis D. Sadlay Cordillera - An Igorot marine officer has graduated number 1 in the recently concluded Basic Civil Military Operation Course (CMO) by the Philippine Navy.  Captain Dennis D. Sadlay who hails from Mt.Province and Baguio City received the certificate of distinction for being the number 1 in the class of 27 students who joined the course. The CMO Basic Course is under the curriculum of the Civil Military Operations Group-Philippine Navy.  The course provides students with information and skills necessary to work in partnership with relevant agencies to pursue objectives in the operational and strategic level.  A Certificate of Distinction is given to a student who has achieved exemplary performance during the course.  Cpt. Sadlay is the Commanding officer of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-3 of the 23rd Marine Company. Throughout his term as the Commanding Officer, his company received the BEST RIFLE COMPANY award for three consecutive years in 2018, 2019 and 2020. While his Company has been maintaining the Best Rifle Company award for several years, his company also grabbed the GRANDSLAM BEST COMPANY award. In addition, his company was given the BACK TO BACK BEST IN ATHLETIC award for 2019 and 2020. His great leadership being a Marine officer as well as a commanding officer didn't go unnoticed when he was honored as the BEST OFFICER in 2019.