Zamboanga City is now on its road to recovery after the devastating conflict between the Philippine Military and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). National leaders, local stakeholders, and residents are helping each other to build back a better city and make it the gateway for trade and commerce in the region.

According to reports and on the same month last 2014, Zamboanga City Mayor Isabelle “Beng” Climaco affixed her signature on the National Housing Authority’s (NHA) housing plans and designs for the implementation of the Zamboanga Roadmap to Recovery and Reconstruction or the Z3R. This program which was implemented last year has provided rehabilitation and construction of shelters to the affected families who lost their homes during the 20-day siege in 2013.

Ar. Alma Valenciano, Regional Manager for Region IX Engr. Alfonso Borlagdan, and ARMM District Manager Engr. Al-Khwarizmi Indanan are expediting the construction of all the projects for the affected villages and have been addressing the concerns and challenges of the project beneficiaries. “We are working together with the LGU and the contractors to complete all the projects within the schedule”, Ar. Valenciano stressed.

Zambo City Rehab in Full Gear–NHA

Moving Forward. One of the fishermen beneficiaries of Taluksangay House on stilts continues his fishing job as the government expedites rehab efforts to bring back a better Zamboanga City. (Photo by Gavin P. Corpuz)

The National Housing Authority welcomed 42 families to their new homes in Fr. Paul D. Foulon ANCOP Homes, located at Admin East Site, Tala, Caloocan City. The project beneficiaries are Persons Afflicted with Leprosy (PAL) and other indigent families in Tala.

Republic Act (R.A.) 7999 and Presidential Proclamation 366 state that the 149 hectares of Tala lands, part of NCR Projects must be converted into housing sites under the administration of the NHA. Forged on December 18, 2013

under the Memorandum of Agreement between the Authority and its partners, 42 of the projected 60 units of row houses constructed on the site were completed and turned over to family beneficiaries.

Mr. Homer T. Agustin, 49, one of the many beneficiaries and has been distressed by Hansen’s disease or Leprosy exclaimed, “Tuwang-tuwa po ako para sa aking bagong tahanan. Nagpapasalamat po ako at isa ako sa napiling beneficiary ng programang pabahay ng gobyerno”.

The National Housing Authority, one of the Key Shelter Agencies under the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) worked with the Local Government of Caloocan City, Holy Rosary Parish (HRP), Dr. Jose N. Rodriquez Memorial Hospital (DJNRMH) – Department of Health (DOH), Couples for Christ – CFC Global Foundation with Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation (PCCF), and Tala Homeowners Association Inc. (THAI) for the completion of this project.

Tala Turns Over New Homes

Meanwhile, NHA General Manager Atty. Sinforoso R. Pagunsan said that the Z3R projects in Region 9 are now very much in progress and he is very optimistic that the entire Project Team can complete the construction of thousands of housing units within the year.

And to further strengthen and uplift the quality of life of its project beneficiaries in its water redevelopment and sanitation services, specifically in the Z3R Rehabilitation Project in Mariki, the NHA Main Office’s Community Relations and Information Operations Department (CRIOD) under Ms. Ivanswenda Marquez, the Smokey Mountain Community Association Incorporation (SMCAI), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD), and the Region 9 Office, co-partnered in the conduct of a Seminar-Workshop on Water Tendering and Purification for the officers of Mariki Homeowners’ Association in the City.

The training was held last March 16-17, 2016 and was attended by some 25 select leaders. It aimed at forging engagement between and among its members, ZCWD, and NGOs in equipping them on the knowledge, skills, and best practices in organizing a community-based structure that can manage water tendering and purification services in Mariki. When implemented successfully, this will be replicated in other sites in the region.

“We are very positive that the greater redevelopments and recovery efforts will transform better the quality of life of our project beneficiaries”, GM Pagunsan emphasized. “Our Filipino – Muslim brothers and sisters in Zamboanga City who were devastated by the siege are now ensured to benefit from the government’s rehabilitation efforts, particularly to our legitimate IDPs”, he added.

The remaining 18 housing units for construction will be sponsored by Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation (PCCF), through Couples for Christ ANCOP – Canada.

Children of family-beneficiaries of the Fr. Paul D. Foulon ANCOP Homes enjoy the safety and comfort of their new community.

VOL. 16 NO.1 OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE NATIONAL HOUSING AUTHORITY, OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT JANUARY - MARCH 2016

2 KANLUNGAN JANUARY- MARCH 2016 3

Welcoming the New Year, NHA Region 10 held a groundbreaking ceremony for their new two-storey extension office building at the NHA Region 10 Compound, Macabalan, Cagayan de Oro City on January 28, 2016.

Engr. Judy A. Fernandez, Regional Manager of NHA Region 10, Engr. Fe P. Ancheta, District 1 Manager, and Engr. Generoso G. Abellanosa, District 2 Manager, graced the ceremony and led the laying of the ceremonial capsules. The extension office will have a total floor area of 793 sqm., with the groundfloor, second floor, and roofdeck having 255 sqm., 275 sqm., and 263 sqm. respectively. The building will cost Php 15,395,834.42 and shall be completed within 240 calendar days.

The extension office shall house the growing staff of the Regional Office.

New Year, New Building

The Local Government of Cagayan de Oro City turned over to the National Housing Authority (NHA) Region 10 and to Macapaya Village Homeowners’ Association (MAVHOAI) the newly constructed ultra-modern development center on March 10, 2016. The building costs Php 758,613.12 and is equipped with a spacious classroom which could accommodate 60 children, a modern kitchen, mini library, and comfort room for boys and girls.

To complete the facilities, the NHA Region 10 staff accessed the assistance of private entities. A TV and DVD player, toys, and books were donated by Dra. Cora and Engr. Bing Medina, and other friends from California, USA while the fire extinguisher and medicine cabinet were from Noemi L. Mandac Memorial

NHA Accepts Development Center

Good News in the Regions

Engr. Fernanadez lays the ceremonnial capsule for the new NHA Region X office building. (Photo courtesy of NHA Region X)

Court #45, Order of the Amaranth, a private organization. The City government, aside from financing the construction of the building, will also provide the teachers for the Day Care Development Center while the City Social Welfare office will monitor the teacher’s performance.

This early childhood care and child development center was built on a 109 sq. meter lot owned by the NHA. The MAVHOAI, under the leadership of Mr. Augustus Abcede will secure the safety of the schoolchildren as well as the upkeep of the Center and its environs.

There are only two development centers of this kind in the entire city, and Macapaya is one of the lucky recipients of this facility.

Some of the beneficiaries of the DOLE-sponsored 29 units sewing machines in Southville 10, Tanay, Rizal.

Aimed to improve the quality of providing housing shelters for the beneficiaries, select 35 officers and employees of the National Housing Authority attended the two-half-day “HANDS-ON TRAINING for Eco-Key System”. The Housing Technology Development Office (HTDO), under the supervision of Ar. Ma. Benita O. Regala and in partnership with the Paligid Development Corporation, spearheaded the event on December 16, 2015 and January 8, 2016 respectively at the HTREX

Audio Visual Room, Ground Fl. HTREX Building.

The Eco-Key System, an accredited technology of Accreditation of Innovative Technologies for Housing (AITECH), is an Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam board compacted between two fiber cement boards. The Authority, acting as the Secretariat and technical evaluator to the AITECH, evaluated the said technology in relation to the AITECH Accreditation application of the proponent.

Ms. Lenie Heaven Peñaflorida, Paligid Manager, said in an interview that, “For me, it’s faster to build compared to CHB [Concrete Hollow Blocks]”. She also noted that it will only take six days (with six workers) to finish a unit, emphasizing that using the said technology is more environmental.

On the first day of the training, the attendees witnessed the high durability of the Eco-Key System during the on-site demonstration of technology installation,

ECO-Key System Training for NHA Held

NHA engineers and architects train for AITECH accredited technologies. Bottom. Fr. Froi Rivera bless the Paligid demo housing unit; GM Pagunsan and HUDCC Chair Atty. Cruz look on.

Strengthening GAD in NHA“Countries with more gender equality

have better economic growth. Companies with more women leaders perform better. Peace agreements that include women are more durable. Parliaments with more women enact more legislation on key social issues such as health, education, anti-discrimination, and child support. The evidence is clear: equality for women means progress for all.”- UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon

A total of 59 participants from different regions including the NHA Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point Chairperson, Ms. Ivanswenda V. Marquez attended the Orientation on Gender Mainstreaming last March 10, 2016 at the Operations Center, to increase the appreciation of Regional and Project Managers on GAD.

Ar. Francisco Alican gave a Backgrounder covering the reasons of GAD’s existence in NHA. Under the Magna Carta of Women (MCW) Section 24- right to housing, the Key Shelter Agencies (KSAs) including NHA, were mandated to develop housing programs for women that are localized, simple, accessible, with potable water and electricity, secure with viable employment opportunities and affordable amortization. And while the State emphasized that women must be consulted and involved

in community planning and development, this GAD endeavor is a clear manifestation of empowering the women in matters pertaining to relocation. In this regard, the State shall consult women and involve them in community planning and development, especially in matters pertaining to relocation.

According to Ms. Katherine Viñegas, consultant from Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and the Resource Person cited that “at this day and age, gender issues and inequalities still persist in our society” that is why we plan for gender equality. Ms. Viñegas stressed that GAD Plans and Budgets are crucial to achieve gender equality through Gender Mainstreaming, which is a strategy for making women’s as well as men’s concerns and experiences an integral dimension of the design, planning, monitoring and evaluation of policies and programs in all political, economic and societal spheres so that women and men benefit equally.

“By 2019, NHA policies and programs are gender-responsive, ensuring that men and women from the low-income and marginalized sectors are provided with safe, decent, affordable housing with adequate community facilities, utilities and access to socio-economic opportunities.”- NHA GAD Result Statement.

-Dianne Luzell Masangkay

with its model house that occupied a 26 sq. m. lot in the NHA compound.

Engr. Jovita G Panopio, Division Manager A of Housing Technology Development Office – Construction and Design Unit (HTDO – CDU) and also one of the participants added that the “Eco-Key will be a very good material for our housing project, kasi may cooling effect, mamiminimize ‘yung gamit ng electric fan, thereby it can contribute to easing the problem on climate change…”

In a related development, the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) Chairman Atty. Chito M. Cruz, NHA General Manager Atty. Sinforoso R. Pagunsan, NHA Assistant General Manager Mr. Froilan R. Kampitan and Mr. Kelvin Che of Paligid Development Corp. led the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Paligid model house on the last day of the training.

Two of the Family- beneficiaries of the fallen SAF 44 receive assistance from NHA’s National Capital Region Manager Engr. Victor Balba (left) and Region II Project Manager Gloria Pagulayan.

Sometime in 1978, an art mural was commissioned by then National Housing Authority General Manager Gaudencio V. Tobias for the NHA lobby with artist Mr. Eduardo Castrillo, entitled “The Home Builders”. It was a 34-feet long sculpture made of copper, brass, and bronze depicting the culture and the housing mandate of the Authority. For many years, the mural stood and was preserved in its original tableau at the lobby. But during the 1990 earthquake that hit Central Luzon and shook some parts of the National Capital Region, the mural suffered some movement on the granite wall where it was installed, which caused its eventual removal. It was then kept by the General Services Department (GSD) in one of its storage areas, which partially exposed the art work to natural elements, thereby causing damage.

Reliving the Castrillo MuralJust recently, Ar. Maria Benita O. Regala,

then chairperson of the NHA Anniversary Committee took the initiative of looking for the mural in preparation for the conduct of various activities for the 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Authority. Mr. Eduardo Castrillo, known as National Artist was consulted if he could restore the sculptural mural tableau in its original location in the NHA main lobby.

Consultations with the National Museum indicated that if the artist is still alive, it is but proper that the same artist be given the commission. In order to restore the sculptural mural without destroying its artistic merits, Mr. Castrillo offered to undertake the works for the NHA. He also offered additional details, composition, color toning to add emphasis, and installation of the restored

art work, using handcrafted materials that will match the original.

Each panel of the artwork was meticulously restored in detail since it has been closely examined compared to the original photos. The artist also found out that some parts were missing. Then, the mural underwent a tedious restoration process which included fabrication of the missing parts, careful and tough dredging, long oxidation process, and application of multi-layer clear coat to get the aesthetic look the artist desired and to bring the artwork’s glorified and original form.

The original cost of the artwork in the 70s was P3,400,000.00, while the restoration at present took P1,000,000.00, and was done in 75 calendar days.

NEWS

Capping the ten (10) months duration of the National Housing and Urban Development Summit, heads of national government agencies, non-government organizations, civil society groups, people’s organizations and other stakeholders signed the Unity Statement on upholding the right to adequate, decent and affordable housing, April 4, 2016 at the Filoil Flying-V Arena, San Juan City.

The central message of the culminating activity was capsulated in the signing of the Unity Statement which celebrates the learning sessions and joint meetings conducted that has resulted in recognizing the housing rights of indigent Filipinos and their participation in the People’s planning process in implementing the in-city housing in the Metro. The Housing Summit also paved the way for the signing and approval of Memorandum Circular 87 or the creation of the Inter-Agency Task Force to map the location of informal settler families (ISFs) and the inventory of idle lands possible for socialized housing.

The National Housing Authority (NHA) through its effective housing production and delivery program system led the pre-relocation, relocation and post-relocation activities for former ISFs who are now low-rise buildings or condominium unit homeowners. To date, the NHA has produced 86 in-city buildings with 4,980 condominium units as of end of February 2016.

Housing Summit 2016 Capped

Gone are the days when the beneficiaries are just mere recipients of housing units. In today’s housing delivery practices of NHA, the beneficiaries themselves plan, educate members, draft policies, conduct land research, organize and join in the implementation of the housing program with the Authority, the Non-Government Organizations and the Local Government Units. Known as the People’s Plan, this plan is developed with the recipients in mind, with the considerations of available resources from program implementers.

This people’s planning process was also practiced in the development of the Property Administration Manual for LRB Projects. A result of the four day Capacity Development Estate Management for Low-Rise Buildings held last January 2016, the LRB Project Administration Manual aims to develop law-abiding residents complying to policies, rules and regulations, procedures and programs; to formulate capability-building programs that will equip/empower residents of the LRB community; and lastly to create a safe, peaceful, drug-free, and green environment. Launched at the NHA Operations Center last February 16, 2016, it will guide the management and maintenance of NHA-constructed LRBs in the metro, leading to a more sustainable housing practices up for replication of process across NCR sector and Regional offices.

Furthermore, a participatory approach was utilized in crafting this policy while a gender lens was observed throughout the workshop and output production.

The session also strengthened the partnership between the National Housing Authority, Alliance of Peoples Organization Along Manggahan Floodway APOAMF (Peoples Organization), Co-Multiversity (Non-Government Organization) and Environs Systems Group, Inc (NHA Consultants).

Pilot testing: Learning by doing with the PO and community partner.

Exhibiting the learnings from the Capacity Development Workshop Estate Management for Low-Rise Buildings

session, the APOAMF leaders namely Sec. General Jennilyn C. David, Pres. Bernard D. Belmonte, Floor Leaders Ms. Valerie E. Matalubos, Mr. Aris M. Aquino and Ms. Madelyn Suarez during the launching discussed their roles and functions in the conduct of the pilot testing and implementation of the LRB Administrative Manual - from administration, amortization collection, technical services/repair and maintenance, community support services, to addressing community complaints, implementing community activities, among others.

APOAMF to Pilot LRB Property Administration Manual

pamamahala o estate management ng LRB. Kalahok ang mga kagaya namin sa pamayanan, umasa po kayo na lalo naming pagyayamanin ang mabuting pamamahala at ito’y ibabahagi sa iba pang katulad naming urban poor.”

The past that guided us.Learning from past LRB management

experiences, the NHA this time will strive for a more sustainable administration of 50B funded LRBs for Metro Manila ISFs.

For a six-month pilot implementation, the Manggahan Residences in Bgy. Sta. Lucia, Pasig City with 120 families will observe (dry run/test) the administration manual, with APOAMF leaders heading the enforcement of the rules, audit, monitoring and evaluation of the policies. Initial learnings from this pilot observation will then be shared in a separate session for the review and improvement of the guidelines.

The Manggahan Residences will have a total of 15 buildings with 900 units is

implemented under the leadership of Sector Manager for East Sector 2, NCR-AMO Engr. Ma. Theresa L. Siat.

NHA-Manggahan Pilot Team will be composed of Ms. Nelia Vicente, Yoli Villena, Jimmy Cortes and Mary Alarte and Elna Campos. Engr. Siat is the Pilot Team Head.

Shared APOAMF’s commitment.APOAMF President Belmonte articulated,

“Makasaysayan sa ating lahat ang araw na ito, sapagkat sa unang pagkakataon, ang NHA at APOAMF ay umupo upang gumawa ng polisiya at sistema ng pampamayanang

NHA GM Atty. Sinforoso R. Pagunsan in his closing remarks thanked all actors in the creation of the LRB Property Administration Manual, “Nakita naman natin na nasa state of disrepair na ang ating mga lumang LRBs at iba pang proyekto, at malaking budget na ang kinakailangan para ayusin ang mga ito. Ngayon napakarami ng bagong buildings na itatayo at naitayo na, kailangan na pangalagaan ang building, kasama na rin dito ang mga naninirahan doon.”

APOAMF President Bernard Belmonte presents the Project Administration Manual for LRBs to GM Atty. Sinforoso Pagunsan with AGM Froilan Kampitan during the manual’s launching.

continued on page 6

4 KANLUNGAN JANUARY- MARCH 2016 5

How can we better protect our homes and loved ones from invasion groups which operate rampantly nowadays, causing fear, chaos, and insecurities among us?

Gangs like Akyat-Bahay and Dugo-Dugo, condominium and compound criminals and the car thieves are some of the horrible syndicates which attack our home-dwellers and infiltrate our communities even in the presence of security guards, CCTV cameras, and gated villages.

Here are some home scam scenarios and how we can shield and protect our own families from them:

Protecting Our Family from Home Scams

1. Dugo-dugo GangModus Operandi:

The gang will call your home when you are not there and will tell the maid or the person whoever answers the call that you had an accident and are in the hospital.

The caller will rattle the person, use a loud

and authoritative voice, telling them to bring money or jewelry to a specific meeting area to pay for your hospital fees. To add, they will instruct the maid to break the locked cabinet and get all the kept valuables and subject her/himself to go to the meeting place. And there goes the Dugo-Dugo gang, taking all your hard-earned money and jewelries away!

To avoid any encounter of this kind:• Instruct the maid/ caretaker, or whoever gets left in your home to never entertain

the stranger’s call.• Do not keep your valuables or large amounts of money at home. Keep them in a

secret safety deposit box, in a bank, and use credit cards for expenses instead.• Do not rely on a locked-drawn cabinet or safe for your valuables as these can be

easily broken. If this cannot be avoided, keep the safe or cabinet away from places where it can be easily seen by the maids/caretakers.

• Keep a directory of emergency numbers (security guards in the village, homeowners’ association office, the barangay outpost and the police) near the telephone so they can be called for any strike like this.

2. Akyat-bahay Gang/ condominium and compound burglars Modus Operandi:

Usually, thieves look for unlocked homes or break into condo units. Once inside, they grab valuables, vandalize the place, and empty all your cabinets and even beds. Sadly, they will even attack the homeowner or any member of the family left inside the house.

To avoid this horrible incident to happen:• Instructtheguardtocallyoualwaysifvisitorscomeforverification.• Lock all your doors when you are at home.• Add a double lock, wide-angle glass peephole or CCTV cameras in your house.• If people outside seem suspicious, call up the security guard in a low voice and ask

the guard to pretend he chanced on them so that the stranger won’t be hard on you.• Keep all important emergency phone numbers such as medical response people,

securitypolice,firefighters,andthelike.• If you have children, orient and teach them all the possible exits and precautions

they must take to be safe, secured, and away from these burglars.

3. Car thieves Modus Operandi:

These thieves focus on wealthy and posh subdivisions and gated homes, more so if the family/ies are fond of luxury cars. If someone applies for a job as a driver, he will supply fake documents, NBI Clearance, and so on. Once hired, he will seem harmless until the opportunity comes, provides an excuse, picks up a member of the family and there you go – the vehicle disappears!

To prevent this:• Hire only drivers that you know personally or those who are recommended by

your trusted friends or neighbors.• Visit the nearest police station and check if the driver is among the possible

suspects of any car theft.

Today is a tough time to live in. While we work our hardest to provide for our families, there will always be people who choose to do bad things against others. So let us remember to always be vigilant and aware of the things around us and our homes. But if ever things

like this happen to you, or your family, never fight back. Just give them what they want, because after all, material things and money can be replaced, but the lives and the safety of our families are the most important thing.

ILLUSTRATION BY GAVIN P. CORPUZ

FEATURE

Most of us look forward to the New Year as a new and fresh beginning. It is a time where we want to throw away the bad vibes and memories that we had in the previous year. Most people also tend to look into the New Year to finally motivate themselves to go on a diet, to choose a healthier way of living, and to be physically fit. And while we look forward to new beginnings, we should also remember that the New Year is the time to unclutter our homes! Aside from completing a task we all want done the previous year but failed to do so, cleaning our homes and maintaining good housekeeping can also be a form of therapy. Getting rid of all the stuff we no longer need and the things that remind us of all the negative feelings we had last year is a sure way to let go of the bad sentiments and renew our senses.

This 2016, why not try to adopt a practice called the 5S of Good Housekeeping? The 5S is derived from the Japanese words “Seiri”, “Seiton”, “Seiso”, “Seiketsu”, and “Shitsuke”. Together, these 5 words form a simple yet systematic approach to organizing our homes and work

The 5S principle believes that productivity comes from the elimination of wastes, and so, it is not only beneficial to cleaning our homes, but it helps us develop good habits in the workplace. The following are the steps to the 5S of Good Housekeeping:

1. Seiri: SortThe main idea of Seiri or Sorting

is taking out unnecessary items and disposing them. To do this, look for items in your home or office that you think have no more value and dispose them. This may include junks and wastes that were unintentionally kept like receipts, old newspapers, notes, cards, boxes, and wrappers. If you think they are of no use, discard them. Other items which you wish to throw away, but you think can still be used, can be sold to other people. You can put up a garage sale where you can sell outgrown clothes of your children, cookware, and other appliances that were not used for many years but are still functioning. Pre-loved books, shoes, and other stuff can also be sold in garage stores or in buy and sell groups and/or pages in facebook. While doing the Seiri, keep in mind three things: (1) how often things are used, (2) what is the life of the material, and (3) cost of the material. By sorting things out, you get to free up more space in the home or office, and you also get to spare yourself from taking up too much time looking for something.

2. Seiton: Self-Arrangement/ Systematize/

Setting In OrderNow that you have sorted things that

can still be used from your home or office, it is time to set them in order. The main rule in systematizing things is “a place for every thing and everything in its place.” This is simply identifying places to arrange the things and placing them in order for prompt usage. While doing the Seiton, keep these in mind: (1) frequency of usage, (2) labeling of the area and the equipment is very important and (3) keep proper gaps between two things to avoid confusion. Items that you use very often should be placed near you or in places that can easily be seen. Lastly, remember that arranging things in proper order keeps items from getting lost or mixed up.

3. Seiso: Sweep/ Spic And Span

Sorting things and putting them in place may result to dust and dirt spilling onto your floor or work space, so sweeping and cleaning are a must. Sweep your home or work place

thoroughly so that there are no dust, dirt, and scrap anywhere. When cleaning, repeat the sweep-wipe-polish-check-fix process, and organize a big cleaning day once or twice a year. Keeping your area spic and span does not only make it presentable, but also keep you from contacting diseases which result from dirty places. Always remember that your home and work place reflect your personality, so keeping them neat give the people a natural welcome.

4. Seiketsu:Standardization

Seiketsu is the proof that the 3S (Seiri, Seiton, Seiso) are being religiously carried out, so maintaining a high standard of housekeeping is very important. When standardizing, always aim at maintaining orderliness, cleanliness, hygiene, and visual control. In cleaning the home and work place, always use the best cleaning tools and materials. While doing the Seiketsu, keep three things in mind: (1) the standards should be arrived at unanimously, (2) always keep the standards flexible to changes and improvements, and (3) standards should be known to all and displayed.

5. Shitsuke: Self-DisciplineSelf-discipline translates to doing

things without being told. If you are disciplined, rules will always be followed, laid down targets will be achieved, improvements will be promoted, number of defects will be removed, and the cost will not increase. Discipline also keep things in working order. With self-discipline, you learn to avoid putting things in random places at home or office, which completely defeat the idea of the 3S (Sort, Systematize, Sweep) that were done to unclutter the area.

Following the 5S of Good Housekeeping not only keeps our homes and work places clean, but also improves our efficiency and productivity. It may be a simple 5-step procedure, but the results are visible to everyone and people become more disciplined. Also, a company that implements a successful 5S in the office is always high in productivity, consistent in quality, cost-effective, safe for people to work, and high in morale. So what are you waiting for? Ready for some spring cleaning action?

-Florian F. De Leon - Donna Mae B. Huarde

We were chanting. We were waving. We were very excited in witnessing His Holiness in flesh. Many of us waited for days in the streets to see him in distant or catch just even a glimpse of the genuineness of his smile; some cried when they finally saw Pope carried by his Popemobile.

Courtesy Call in MalacañangPope Francis arrived in the Philippines on January 15, 2015

and stayed at the Apostolic Nunciature – his official residence. On the 2nd day of Pope’s official visit, he paid a Courtesy Call in Malacañan with President Benigno S. Aquino III. Here he emphasized and pointed out the significance of fighting corruption in our country.

When the evening came, chosen families were greeted and blessed by the Pope in “Meeting with the Families” held at the MOA Arena. In this happening, the Pontiff commanded that we, Catholics, must serve as guards against colonization by new ideologies – laws and practices that abolish life.

To Walk With YouThe Supreme Pontiff visited the Yolanda-devastated and

scarred City of Tacloban on January 17 to witness the massive destruction there and conduct a papal mass. His euphoria quickly faded after he had seen thousands of million survivors from the strongest storm ever-recorded to hit the land.

“So many of you have lost everything. I don’t know what to say to you. But the Lord does know what to say to you. Some of you have lost part of your families. All I can do is keep silent and walk with you all with my silent heart”.

Expressed in TearsJanuary 18 – his 4th day of visit, the Youth Encounter

was attended by the Pope at the Sports Field of University of Santo Tomas. One of the most unforgettable speeches was from Glyzelle Palomar, a 12-year old representative of the many children who were involved in sex and drug trades. She recounted, “There are many children neglected by their own parents. There are also many who became victims and many terrible things happened to them like drugs or prostitution.”

“Why is God allowing such things to happen, even if it is not the fault of the children? And why are there only very few people helping us?” asked by Glyzelle. She had broken down before finishing her prepared dialogue. “Glyzelle is the only one who has put a question to which there is no answer,” said by the Pope. He also noted that what the girl failed to express in words, was expressed in tears.

Feelings of Hope and JoyThe concluding mass was held at the Quirino Grandstand on

the afternoon of the same day. It unintentionally set a world record for a papal gathering because of its approximate six million attendees. The mass was one of the highlights of Papal Asian Journey.

Productivity and Quality in NHA

2015 was a busy year at NHA. Aside from the usual grind of meeting production targets to serve the housing requirements of those who urgently need them, especially calamity victims, there were a lot of buzz about the ISO certification and Rationalization Plan.

The Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) has issued a final recommended organizational structure for NHA. This is much-awaited by everyone as this is hoped to strengthen the workforce that is the driver of all accomplishments of the agency. It is expected that when implemented, efficiency and productivity in the delivery of NHA’s services will be achieved.

The GCG has also urged management to improve on its various processes so that the quality of service will be elevated. Countless meetings were conducted and a review was made on the documentation procedures with the view to protect the integrity of all NHA official documents, among others. While indeed this can be tedious, it is a welcome development as safekeeping of records is primordial in any organization.

This year 2016, we will pursue what has been started. Let us all be united in our goal to serve in the best possible way.

A Retrospect: Papal VisitHis Life-Changing Mercy and Compassion

Pope Francis left his official residence on January 19 at 9:04 AM after his meeting with top government officials involved in preparations for his almost-a-week stay in our country.

“This isn’t just the Pope Francis Fever, this is the feeling of hope and joy. Pope Francis did not only represent these, but also Jesus Christ. He was the closest thing we have of proof that God exists.”-Aaron J.P. Almadro, a 31-year old Yolanda Survivor

“Christ in You, Our Hope of Glory”A year after the 2015 Papal Visit in the Philippines, The Seat

of Christianity in Asia successfully hosted the week-long 51st International Eucharistic Congress (IEC) which was recently held from 24 to 31 of January, 2016, in Cebu.

The IEC was ended with the “Statio Orbis” or the “Station of the World” closing mass where almost a million mass-goers attended. Charles Cardinal Bo – the papal legate, had his homily that focused on the family, the nucleus of the Church. The faithful Catholics were urged by the legate to keep unity within loved ones, mainly because the death of the family or the ‘smallest institution of the society’ will also be the death of humanity.

“Filipinos give the world example of fidelity, deep devotion to the Lord”. It was emphasized by Pope Francis in his video recorded message showed in the closing part of the ecclesial gathering.

“Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy”Our Pope declared this year the “Holy Year of Mercy”. It

was declared by Pope Francis on December 8, 2015 in the Vatican to be run until November 20, 2016.

Jubilee is celebrated every 25 years; in 2000, the Church had its Great Jubilee, under the Papacy of Saint Pope John Paul II. In the present time, our atrocious world has submerged us under great floods and devastations, wars and other natural calamities. These are enough reasons for Pope Francis to feel the need of mercy for humanity. Because of this, he declared this period as Jubilee Year of Mercy, an ‘extraordinary’ one.

In the beginning of this celebration, the Pope will open the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica. This symbolizes that the Church, through its Jubilee Door, welcomes sinners including those who committed gravest sins such as abortion and killing. Additionally, through repentance and confession, plenary indulgence will be achieved by any of us.

Main Churches and Cathedrals were declared by Pope Francis as Jubilee Churches in our country. Manila Cathedral, Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, National Shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and Archdiocesan Shrine of the Divine Mercy are just some of the Jubilee Churches in the Metro.

- Joebert C. Chicano

GM’s DESK

ATTY. SINFOROSO R. PAGUNSANGeneral Manager

Embracing the responsibility of caring for the “Sister Earth”, Pope Francis wrote the encyclical on the environment, "Laudato Si', on Care for Our Common Home". In this encyclical, he discussed the role of families, the society and the church in addressing the inflicted abuse and irresponsible use of man to God’s gift- the earth.

According to him, today “we are faced not with two separate crises, one environmental and the other social, but rather with one complex crisis which is both social and environmental” as man’s throwaway culture leads to this global inequality of the environmental crisis. Furthermore, Pope Francis insisting on “an integrated approach to combating poverty, restoring dignity to the excluded, and at the same time protecting nature” demanding that “it is essential to seek comprehensive solutions which consider the interactions within natural systems themselves and with social systems.”

Lastly, Pope Francis speaks about the interrelationship between living space and human behaviour that “it is not enough to seek the beauty of design” but another “kind of beauty: people’s quality of life” referring to those who design buildings, neighborhoods, public spaces and cities, considering those who will reside in these areas. Hopefully that it will promote strong sense of belongingness, rootedness and of “feeling at home”.

With the release of HUDCC Resolution No. 4 Series of 2015, approved on 08 June 2015, the HUDCC headed by Atty. Chito M. Cruz, affirms its continuous commitment to support the Magna Carta of Women with the creation of the Inter-KSA GAD Focal Point System Coordinating Body.

The Coordinating Body will be led by HUDCC and will meet regularly for the harmonization of policies, programs, monitoring and implementation of KSA-GAD Programs, specifically those found under Right to Housing.

Moreover, the Housing Sector, which includes the National Housing Authority and other Key Shelter Agencies support the MCW goals thru the Right to Housing by assuring marginalized women to avail localized, simple, accessible, with potable water and electricity, secure, with viable employment opportunities and affordable amortization (Section 21, MCW, IRR).

Republic Act No. 9710, or the “Magna Carta of Women” (MCW) seeks to eradicate unfairness against women by recognizing, protecting, fulfilling and promoting the rights of Filipino women, especially the marginalized sectors.

HUDCC Affirms Commitment to Magna Carta of Women

“Women can enter(...) negotiations with the knowledge that showing concern for the common good,

even as they negotiate for themselves, will strengthen their position.”

6 KANLUNGAN JANUARY- MARCH 2016 7

GM Pagunsan thanked all active stakeholders and partners namely, APOAMF, Environs, Co Multiversity, City Government of Pasig, PHINMA Properties, Foundation for the Development of the Urban Poor (FDUP) and NHA staff in this sustainable estate management undertaking.

Here is a recap of the LRB recommendations and suggestions from Engr. Victor C. Balba, NCR Group Manager:

1. Adoption of APOAMF’s Mission and Vision in all NHA-administered LRBs.

2. Management’s initial approval on the implementation of the Property Administration Manual version zero. Final version will be released once the policy has been piloted and reviewed.

3. Organizational structure for manpower complement to focus on LRB management and maintenance.

Notes from the Housing Veterans.Ar. Francisco V. Alican Department

Manager, North West Sectors-NCR-AMO in his opening remarks, expressed his concern over the absence of a standard practice in managing the LRB site since the number of LRB communities and its occupants is steadily growing. “Dumadami po ang ating LRBs at mga pamilyang ating nabigyan ng ligtas na pabahay. Todate, a total 4,638 units from 94 LRBs in the National Capital Region have been constructed and occupied by families. By 2017, the Authority will complete the targeted 171 buildings in housing projects for 15,898 families”. “We are confident that with the APOAMF’s support in developing a community-centered system in estate management, the LRBs will be a successful program,” he shared.

In the shared insights of Ar. Ma. Teresa P. Oblipias, Department Manager for South East Sectors NCR AMO, “Given that the LRB is one of the new programs of NHA, the launching of the Property Administration Manual hopes to provide the systems and standards to effectively manage our LRBs. Further, vertical housing (LRB) is now a priority approach in providing socialized housing in the urban centers. This demands a better understanding and appreciation of community management from the beneficiaries’ end.”

Five Year Road Map for the Property Administration Manual

In her discussion of the five-year roadmap towards the transfer of LRB administration possibly from the NHA pilot team to the community partners with the condo corporation, Ar. Oblipias highlighted the Capacity Building for APOAMF leaders (1st year); regular audit and evaluation of their compliance with the LRB manual (2nd year); sustain capacity building for APOAMF (3rd year); replicate NHA-APOAMF’s LRB Administration in all NCR sectors and Regional projects (4th year); and lastly, standardized the practice of community-led LRB administration towards possibly the creation of estate management training institute.

She then appealed that continuous capability and capacity building workshops and interventions with the community is needed to support this endeavor, “so this participatory concept will not go down the drain, and strengthening property management with the community will sustain its future.”

Engr. Balba in his statement, “Dito sa LRBs natin, gusto nating bigyan talaga ng diin ang magandang pagtingin para sa maintenance aspect. Sa maintenance, gagalaw lang tayo kapag malaki na ang sira.. nakikita natin na mababawasan ang gastos na ginagawa natin sa tulong ng estate management if we address problems or repairs early on…”Note: The production of the maiden edition of the LRB

Administration Manual will not be possible without the NHA’s GAD Focal Point Chairperson, Ms. Ivanswenda V. Marquez’s endorsement to the Management and GAD’s funding support.

from page 3... APOAMF to Pilot LRB Property

February is very well known as the Heart Month. Lovers and couples of all ages and gender celebrate this month as the season of romance and cute little pink hearts. Who wouldn’t love Valentine’s after all? But with today’s fast-paced and fast food-loving life, most people tend to set aside and forget the importance of the only literal thing that represents the season of love – OUR HEARTS. Ironically, caring for our hearts becomes a lesser priority for most of us during these times of highly stressful conditions.

But thanks to more education about healthy eating and advancements in treatment, fewer people die of heart disease now than in the past. That said, clogged heart arteries are still the number one cause of death in the United States and most countries. Although heart attack symptoms can be a scary first sign of trouble (and keep in mind women have different symptoms than men), sometimes the body offers up more subtle clues that something is amiss with your ticker. The following is a list of symptoms that might be worth a chat with your doctor. But they may also be caused by a bunch of other things, so don’t freak out. Only your real doctor – not Dr. Google – can really tell you if these symptoms mean anything at all.

You are extremely tiredThis isn’t just lack-of-sleep tired but

extreme fatigue. Think of how you feel when you get the flu, except that this doesn’t go away. “A lot of women kind of blow this off assuming it’s nothing and that they will feel better, but in reality it could be a sign of your heart”, says Suzanne Steinbaum, DO, Director of Women’s Heart Health at the Heart and Vascular Institute at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. The reason why you feel that way comes down to a lack of oxygen. “The heart is struggling and straining to deliver the oxygen to your body.” That said, plenty of people feel tired for lots of reasons. If this is your only symptom, you can talk to your doctor, but don’t conclude you have

heart trouble based on this alone.Your feet swell

Feet swelling can occur for a bunch of garden-variety reasons, such as pregnancy, varicose veins, or when you travel and have limited ability to move around. It can also be a sign of heart failure, a chronic condition in which the heart pumps blood inefficiently. “Swelling can also occur when the heart valve doesn’t close normally,” says Michael Miller, MD, professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. “Some medications for blood pressure and diabetes could also cause swelling,” says Dr. Miller. “Heart-related foot swelling is usually accompanied by other symptoms that include shortness of breath and/or fatigue,” he says. If you recently developed foot swelling, see your doctor to determine the cause and how best to treat it.

You have extreme pain when you walkIf your hip and leg muscles cramp when

you climb, walk, or move, then feel better when you rest, don’t shrug it off as due to old age or a lack of exercise (though those things certainly could be the culprits). It could be a sign of Peripheral Arterial Disease, also known as PAD. PAD is a buildup of fatty plaque in leg arteries that is linked to a higher risk of heart disease. “If you have PAD, there’s a chance you also have a blockage in one of the heart arteries”, says Dr. Miller.

You get dizzy or light-headed regularlyAgain, this is one of those symptoms that

can have many non-heart related causes. If you have ever been to a gym, you may have seen warning signs to stop walking, running, cycling, or elliptical stepping if you feel dizzy or light-headed. This symptom could be caused by dehydration or because you “got up too quick,” but if it occurs on a regular basis then talk to your doctor to see if medication side effects, inner ear problems, anemia, or, less commonly, heart issues are to blame.

“This spinning state could be caused by blockages in arteries that lessen blood pressure or by faulty valves that cannot maintain blood pressure,” says Dr. Miller.

You get short of breath, even though you’re fit

Despite your thrice-weekly cycling classes, you get winded walking up a flight of stair or you’re coughing a lot. What gives? It could be asthma, anemia, an infection, or rarely, a problem with the heart’s valves or its ability to pump blood. “Fluid buildup affecting the left side of the heart can produce wheezing that simulates bronchial asthma, “Dr. Miller says. “Once the valve is fixed, fluid no longer builds up in the lungs and the patient breathes easier.” Since exercise can strengthen the heart, get this symptom checked out so it doesn’t interfere with your ability to get a good workout.

You’re depressedDepression is one of the most common

problems in the world, and it affects 19 million Americans and even other nationals like Filipinos each year. Depression is probably not a sign that you have heart trouble. But mental well-being is linked to physical well-being, and many studies suggest that people who are depressed are at greater risk of heart trouble. “People who have multiple risk factors for heart disease or who do have heart disease have a tendency to be depressed,” says Dr. Steinbaum. Either way you look at it, it’s another reason to seek help if you are depressed.

You get migraines all the timeSometimes a headache is just a

headache. But in some cases, regular migraines suggest that something is amiss with your ticker. Migraines occur in 12% of the general population, but that stat rises to around 40% in patients with cardiovascular disease. And while there isn’t a clear-cut connection, the occurrence of migraines has been related to some heart abnormalities, so it is possible that these attacks might have a connection to dysfunction of the heart. One theory is that they could both be the result of automatic nervous system imbalances.

You can hear your heart beat at night“Some patients with a loud faulty valve

can ever hear the sound of their valve at night when they are trying to fall asleep,” Dr. Miller says. And while some patients adjust to the sound and often just change their sleeping position so as not to hear it, doesn’t mean you should ignore it. If you’re being lulled to sleep by the thump-thump of your heart, tell your doctor so he or she can find out why. A pounding heartbeat can also be a sign of low blood pressure, low blood sugar, anemia, medication, dehydration, and other causes.

LIFESTYLE

Is Your Heart A-Okay?

Source: health.comPublished by Healthy Options Lifestyle News Digest (January- February 2016 )

There is this secret story on the lived innovation on NHA program delivery. Histories of innovation rose from the experiences and reflections of managers who, for years spent working with the indigent families, relocating them from unsafe zones to resilient communities – integrating practical and technical knowledge alongside observing the current swift or tide of housing practices.

On this issue of the Kanlungan, we will feature the select best practices of Ms. Elizabeth M. Matipo, Division Manager for Kasiglahan, Rodriguez, Rizal. For her, “To relocate them is not enough, but to support them along the way through the provision and management of community facilities and by assisting them for employment and skills development”.

Last year during the inauguration of the two school buildings in Southville 8B in Rodriguez, Rizal, Ms. Abet was surprised when Bro. Armin Luistro, Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary personally thanked her for her active support in educating the Filipino youth.

And again in December 2015, the District Office of DepEd gave a Certificate of Appreciation to Ms. Abet for the school buildings that NHA committed both for the elementary and secondary level. Unknowingly, she was an instrument to the achievement of DepEd’s Yes2K12 program implementation in Rodriguez, specifically for her efforts in constructing and allotting 3 Senior High School Buildings (15 classrooms per building, 3 storey) in preparation for the K-12 implementation.

As a registered Social Worker and an advocate of youth education, she always considers the fallback of highschool graduates who cannot afford a college diploma. And all because she knows the numbers of enrolment and drop -out rates and those who actually graduated in highschools within Kasiglahan, she knows how to plan her game. Thinking out loud, “Bakit ko inisip yun, kasi sa totoo lang, tiningnan ko lang naman kung ano ang need ng students na anak ng mga relocatees, swerte na iyong meron akong 20% na makakatuloy ng kolehiyo kasi in terms of financial capability hindi naman nila kayang magpaaral ng anak sa kolehiyo. So I was thinking, vocational courses should be offered within the site to expand opportunities for them. This became possible, of course, with the help of God.”

Here are some of the innovative practices implemented in Southville 8 Sites:

1. IRA from sending LGU to receiving LGU. (2012- when applicable)

This concept allowed the receiving Local Government Unit of Rodriguez, Rizal to benefit from the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) budget of Quezon City to its indigent ISFs relocated to Rizal. The Quezon City IRA budget transferred to the LGU of Rodriguez, Rizal was utilized to finance community projects and support relocation site maintenance, such as post lighting, garbage collection, peace and order.

The NHA team, sending and receiving LGU identified the number of families relocated and appropriated a certain amount per head sourced from the total IRA budget of the sending LGU. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) worth Php 30M was agreed and signed by the parties involved. Thanks to Engr. Rommuel Alimboyao of NCL as he initially drafted the MOA to be used by the City of San Jose del Monte and the Municipality of Rodriguez, Rizal. For one reason or another this concept was only

realized in Rodriguez, Rizal.

Lessons Learned: Define in the MOA the appropriation and utilization of the

transferred IRA budget. A proper audit should be placed.

for NHA beneficiaries. This project was under the Global Partnership for Output Based Aide (GPOBA).

In the World Bank post audit report, the project received a positive mark and their program will be replicated all over the Philippines.

5. From Training to Employment. (2012-present). “Through our linkaging with our different partners who have extended trainings and seminars to our housing beneficiaries, the NHA was able to help family-household heads to have gainful employment here and abroad,” Ms. Abet proudly shared.

More than providing the masonry training for NHA beneficiaries (out-of-school youths and the unemployed), the EEI also assisted them for local employment, funding pre-employment requirements like Police Clearance, Barangay

Lived Innovation, Changing Lives in Southville Site

FEATURE

Note: “Diba, kasi iyong IRA will take 3 years bago ma-increase, every after census. Kunwari inilipat mo yung mga pamilya ngayon, yung IRA niyan naiiwanan sa sending LGU, pero iyong problema on maintenance and other community needs ay nailipat mo na sa receiving LGU,” Ms. Abet further explained. Automatic transfer of IRA is prohibited by law, the receiving LGU will have to wait for another three years to have an increased IRA for additional locals/indigents/citizens/constituents.

2. Values re-orientation for Housing Beneficiaries.(2015-present)

The Kasiglahan NHA Livelihood Team created a module on Values Re-orientation for the Authority’s housing beneficiaries. According to Ms. Abet, said module is composed of four parts:

a. Belief in God. Everything comes from God, blessings and provision.

b. Value of Work. We should work to be able to earn a living.

c. Value of Money. We should be good stewards of money. d. Value of Housing. Set aside money for amortization and

the benefit of owning a home for the future generation of the family.

Currently, the module is being run in NHA Southville 8 Sites.

3. Partnership with Rotary Club of Metro West Triangle and the University of East –Ramon Magsaysay (UERM). (2015 – present)

Since Southville 8B only have one (1) health center, the Rotary Club of Metro West Triangle through the initiative of the then General Manager, Atty. Chito M. Cruz, requested to allocate eight (8) housing units that will be utilized as Bahay Pagamutan with dormitory for UERM nursing, physical therapist, and medicine students.

In this undertaking, the Authority provided the housing units as health centers; the Rotary Club for equipment and medicines, and UERM for the health professionals.

Through this sustained partnership, the medical and health needs of the housing beneficiaries were addressed. To date, the NHA, UERM and the Rotary Club are working on their three year workplan for more community projects.

According to Ms. Abet, “Ang unang reklamo ng resettled families ay nagproprovide tayo ng health center pero wala namang doctor. Structure lang talaga, at sa totoo lang ang ating mga LGUs ay kulang ang kakayahan na gampanan ang expectation ng ating mga relocatees in terms of basic necessities. Remember ang pinag-alisan mo sa kanila ay highly urbanized cities na accessible ang hospitals and health centers.”

Note: The community service of UERM students can also serve as their outreach activity or practicum/residency hours. Schools within or nearby NHA resettlement sites can be tapped for partnerships like this.

4. World Bank subsidized water installation fee of Manila WaterCompany,IncorporatedinSouthville8.(2012)

Instead of paying in full the Php 1,600.00 water installation fee of Manila Water Company Inc. (MWCI), the Southville 8 housing beneficiaries only paid Php 600.00

The Php 1,000.00 for the 8,000 families was subsidized by the World Bank. The cash subsidy was directly paid to MWCI

“If you are assigned in a project, your only limitation is your creativity.

You can initiate and innovate a lot of things and with

Management’s support and God’s grace it shall be realized. There are still more ideas,

concepts and projects/programs for replication

for our housing beneficiaries.”Clearance, Medical Certificate, which would be deducted from the trainees’ salary once employed.

“This strategy addresses the lack of money for pre-employment needs of trainees. And this was not agreed upon the start but was just reconsidered after a class/group experienced difficulties in producing their documentation needs,” Ms. Abet elaborated.

Graduates of masonry, carpentry and welding trainings are now employed by DCMI, EEI, Hanjin Shippings and other construction firms. Other individuals are engaged in work on their own. If some still needs training improvement, the EEI hones them more at their training center in Bulacan. TESDA on the other hand issues National Certification 1 and 2 for training graduates for free.

On this, Ms. Abet explained, “Iyong EEI, as our tie-up ay siya rin iyong kukuha (hire) ng lahat ng graduates so yung livelihood project mo ay hindi lang purely skills training, kundi dapat mag-end up siya sa employment (livelihood cum employment). We have experienced in the past that our client beneficiaries/trainees would mention, ‘Nahihiya po kami mag-apply, wala pong kumukuha sa amin, kulang po kami sa dokumento”.

6. Tapping Partners for Livelihood Centers’ Sustainability and Maintenance. (2016)

As experienced, once turned over to LGUs, the well-constructed and functional community facilities like livelihood cum production/training centers in NHA resettlement sites were not maintained, were vandalized and dilapidated. To remedy this, Ms. Abet thought of inviting partners who will provide basic social services who can also commit for the repair, restoration, repainting, and maintenance of the livelihood centers. Southville’s partners include Givens Fund Inc. funded by KOICA, Good Neighbors International funded by Hyundai Co.of South Korea and Scandinavian Mission Inc.. They also extend trainings and seminars to NHA’s housing beneficiaries as part of their community development program.

Ms. Abet would like to end this sharing with, “If you are assigned in a project, your only limitation is your creativity. You can initiate and innovate a lot of things and with Management’s support and God’s grace it shall be realized. There are still more ideas, concepts and projects/programs for replication for our housing beneficiaries.”

- Pides Aura J. Orata

PERSONNEL

The oath taking ceremony of the NHA Consolidated Union of Employees (CUE) for the year 2016-2018 was held at the NHA Multi-purpose Hall last January 7, 2016.

Members and officers from the main office and project offices attended the said occasion along with NHA General Manager Atty. Sinforoso R. Pagunsan, AGM Froilan R. Kampitan and HRMD Manager Elvira A. Sabado. National President of COURAGE, Ferdinand Gaite also graced the affair where certificates were given to distinguished officers who have contributed for the success of the union. Atty. Pagunsan led the oath-taking of the newly elected executive officers

CUE celebrates 30th Anniversary cum Oath-taking of Officers

Incumbents of the NHA Smash Haus Badminton Club (NHA-SHBC) have officially turned over the leadership to its new set of officers. The oath-taking was conducted on February 15, 2016 at the Office of the General Manager.

Ms. Lolita “Lolit” Mediavillo, the new NHA SHBC’s President and Supervising

New Leaders, New Direction for Smash Haus

In a related development, new officers of the NHA Tennis Club for CY 2016 – 2017 had their oath-taking last February 15, 2016 at the Office of the General Manager with Atty. Sinforoso R. Pagunsan, General Manager administering the event. The new executive officers of the club

are: Rogelio Ragot, President; John Montojo, Vice President; Carol Buen, Secretary; Romeo Mediavillo Jr., Auditor; Evangeline Balayan, Treasurer; and Ronaldo Nacion, Emil Aldeguer, Atty. Rony Lagmay, Albert Babiera, Eduardo Doria and Oliver Mayo, Board of Directors.

NHA Tennis Club

Select players of the National Housing Authority (NHA) Basketball Club who joined the NHA Builders created a new milestone by bagging the 4th spot in the recent UNTV Basketball Cup Season 4. The conference started on August 24, 2015 until March 7, 2016.

Such was a herculean-task for NHA to get on top because the team ranked last in the preceding conference. But the mighty Builders successfully added remarkable stats for their basketball career in public servants-based league.

According to Mr. Adolfo Jose Adolfo, President of the NHA Basketball Club, “The team has grown in defense and rebound because of its new tall players”. He added that these improvements were not enough because other competing teams also improved theirs. Thereby, they have to strive harder in the next conference to surpass the other top teams.

The awarding ceremony was held last March 7, 2016 at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum. The NHA Builders got its plaque of certification, trophy and P500,000.00 in check. The National Housing Authority – Provident Fund Association Inc. (NHA PFAI) Welfare Fund was the chosen beneficiary.

Some of the Builders were specially awarded such as Antonio Lustestica Jr., Season’s Most Valuable Player (MVP),

Home Builders Claim 4th SpotMythical Player and Best Shooting Forward; Marvin Mercado as Best Blocker; and, Waldemar Tibay as Best in Assist.

The official line-up of the Builders is composed of Adolfo Jose Adolfo, Antonio Palad, Ricky Feliciano, Eric Biascan, Mark Rovin Valdez, Ruben Sarmiento Jr., Marvin Ladia, Waldemar Tibay, Ralph Cornelius Tibay, Antonio Lustestica Jr., Michael Taguiam, Marvin Mercado, Michael Clemente, Muhammad Al-hay Sani, and Samuel Verba. Its key coaching staff included Silverio Antonio “Bennett” Palad, Head Coach and former player of Ginebra in Philippine Basketball Association; Rowell Ragot, Allan De Vera, Billy Tibay, Assistant Coaches, and others are Anthony Constantino, Staff; Raul Ben, Maricris Bautista and Jennifer Balanza, Action Center Representatives; Joel Macalincag, Team Coordinator; and, Engr. Renato V. Iballa, Team Manager.

Along with the Builders, DOJ Justice Boosters, GSIS Furies, Malacanang Patriots, PNP Responders, Senate Defenders, AFP Cavaliers, BFP Firefighters, HOR Solons, Judiciary Magis, MMDA Blackwolves and the new team Ombudsman Graft Busters vied to become champion and got P4-M cash prize for their chosen beneficiaries. In the end, AFP Cavaliers bagged the Cup.

CUE officers commit to lead the Union for 2016-2018 with GM Atty. Sinforoso Pagunsan leading the oath taking ceremony.

which includes: President Rosalinda R. Nartates, 1st Vice President Evangeline A. Javier and 2nd Vice President Paulina Evelia D. Joson; Secretary: Salvacion A. Sarmiento; Treasurer: Deogenis M. Balansag; Auditor: Rodolfo G. Yadao; PRO: Nenita F. Angeles.

The newly elected Board of Directors include Lolita L. Mediavillo, Ma. Minda A. Mercado, Araceli B. Natino, Evelyn T. Turingan, Josephine B. Lampas, Romela D. Gerolaga, Carmen D. Tutanes, Raul F. Ben, Melchor V. Rubante, Remedios T. Santos, and Joselito R. Villanueva. Evangeline A. Javier and Lolita S. Osit served as hosts.

Landing on the 4th spot, the NHA Builders win P500,000.00 benefitting the NHA Provident Fund Inc. (PFAI)

Livelihood Officer of the Livelihood Development Department, unselfishly shared her upcoming plans and platforms for the Badminton Club. One of her flagship plans is to lessen the tournament fee of the President’s Cup. She claimed in an interview that, “Hindi pa kasi nagkaron ng chance na makapagbigay ng free tournament fee sa mga members pag President’s Cup. Pero yung chance na ma-lessen yung tournament fee, dun ako after para mas marami pa ang mag-join”.

Also, Ms. Lolit plans to involve Smash Haus into social work by proposing programs on community services and outreach for the needy. Aside from this, as a reward for the loyal members of 10 years and above, she is proposing for the implementation of the “Wellness Mo, Sagot Ko”. They will have free top-to-toe services such as free hair-cut, nail arts, spa, massage, bone scanning, eye check-up, reading glass and others.

Moreover, she aims to strengthen and increase the number of official members through the provision of the Free Basic Badminton Clinic to all NHA badminton enthusiasts and beginners by persuading the aspirant smashers.

The newly-elected officers are as follows: Jesusa Castallas, VP for Operations; Susan Nava, VP for Planning; Shiela Dimapilis, Secretary; Catrina Guilalas, Asst. Secretary; Carolina Buen, Treasurer; Emmanuel Espinosa, Asst. Treasurer; Lorna Diolola, Auditor; Jeannette Baccay, Engr. Adevelinia Cabantac, Christia Anne Marie Galingan, Engr. Roman Macatangay and Engr. Jesus Nera, Board of Directors; and, Engr. Eduardo Doria, Ex-Officio Director.

The election was held on December 19, 2015 at the NHA Canteen. More than 50 registered attendees voted their ideal 15 official members to be elected.

GM Pagunsan with new officers of NHA Smash Haus Badminton club.