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A B O U T T H E

C O V E R

PVAO Public Affairs OfficeOffice of the Administrator

Landline: 02-9124526 / 02-9124728

Website: http://www.pvao.mil.ph

Email: pvao.publicaffairs@gmail.com &

support@pvao.mil.ph

Facebook:Philippine Veterans Affairs Office

Tune in to “VETERANS HOUR” radio program, 1-2 PM every Tuesday and Thursday at

DWDD, 1134 kHz-AM or watch the real-time livestreaming at http://www.afpcrs.com

Contributors:

Arla E. Fontamillas

Angela Kaye F. Crescini

Beatriz Isabela G. Grimaldo

Lanier Joshua C. Eval

AJ R. Francisco

Jillian Jocelyn S. Somera

Veterans Affairs Management Division

Veterans Memorial and Historical Division

Planning and Management Division

Produced by the PVAO Public Affairs Office

SERBISYO SA BETERANOSERBISYO SA BAYAN

JULIAN FELIPE must had known that KAGITINGAN – that spirit of bravery, grit, and determination to defend the country against anyone who oppresses its cherished democracy – should be part of our National Anthem. This is so that it will be sung over and over again, in the hope that it will be truly etched in every Filipino’s heart and mind.

However, seventy-five years after the Second World War, it seemed that the essence of our National Anthem also fades into obscurity, with the words of the song sung in passivity and just an obligatory performance of one’s duty. Instead, love for country are just for a few who can “afford it.” The economic, political, and social complexities of our country have left most of our national shrines in a decrepit status, with our people having little or no interest in our history and commemorative events.

Given these realities, PVAO recognizes that it plays a vital role in rekindling the ideals of KAGITINGAN by transforming itself “from an organization fixated on the administration of pension benefits to one that is capacitated to serve as the catalyst in the building of KAGITINGAN.”1

In this issue, we present to you the courageous and huge leaps of PVAO as it decided to adopt the Performance Governance System (PGS), a local adaptation of the Balance Scorecard system of strategic planning and management that is widely used in business, industry, public, and non-profit organizations worldwide. It allowed us to pursue the plan for a world-class Libingan ng mga Bayani, which will not be merely the final resting place of our heroes but a reminder of their heroic deeds and thus, will inspire KAGITINGAN among our people.

An accompanying goal is to strengthen the living Filipino veterans into a united community. Hopefully, in bringing them together, we can launch strategic changes that will result in empowered veterans, whose collective wisdom is a valuable resource in influencing national issues. We believe that there are no better demonstration of love for country when they risked their limbs and lives in protecting our country.

While PVAO takes the lead, we also acknowledge that the road to KAGITINGAN is actually a journey of every Filipino. Our veterans have done their part. It is now our turn to face our own challenges and opportunities towards a better Philippines.

PVAO Public Affairs Team

Lupang Hinirang, duyan ka ng magiting

Sa manlulupig, ‘di ka pasisiil”

“President Duterte Hands-Over P150 M to VMMC

[ ANGELA KAYE F. CRESCINI ]rue to his commitment to fully support our country’s defenders, President Rodrigo R. Duterte handed P150

As instructed by the President, P100 million will be allotted for the purchase of medical

Tmillion to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) on 20 December 2017 for the further improvement of the said hospital’s facilities, services, and equipment. President Duterte intends to provide the “best hospital for the veterans” in sincere recognition of the contribution of our veterans in nation-building. Uplifting their welfare and well-being was among the first of his actions one month after he took oath as President.

1 PVAO Kagitingan Roadmap 2022 (http://server.pvao.mil.ph/PDF/roadmap22/kagitinganroadmaphandout2022.pdf)

equipment and the P50 million will be for medicines. The President also instructed VMMC officials to purchase only the best and high-end medical equipment to address the needs of the patients. He assured that the amount will be augmented by funds from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) before the end of the year.

President Duterte visited the newly improved facilities in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU), the Medical Intermediate Treatment Unit (MITU), Ward 21, and Dialysis Center. He handed out grocery packs to nineteen hemodialysis patients. He was accompanied by Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana; Civil, Veterans and Retiree Affairs Undersecretary Reynaldo B. Mapagu; Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III; and PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina.

VMMC envisions of rendering premium medical services to the veterans and their dependents through a comprehensive health care system characterized by excellence, dedication, and commitment; and fulfill its four-fold mission of patient care, education and training, research, and action and outreach program.

Among its ongoing projects include: the relocation of a first-class Emergency Ward, which is expected to be completed on March 2018; the renovation of Ward 8 and Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU), and; the establishment of Stone and Prostate Center. Moreover, VMMC is acquiring 40 dialysis machines, 30 mechanical ventilators, and a new 128-slice CT Scan for this year.

For veterans who are outside Metro Manila, PVAO and VMMC have partnered with over 200 public and private hospitals under the Veterans Hospitalization and Medical Care Program (VHMCP), which provides payment or reimbursement of the hospitalization expenses, including medical procedures, selected drugs and medicines. This may be availed by all World War II veterans and their dependents, Post World War II veterans and soldiers killed-in-action (KIA) and their dependents. The guiding aspiration of this program is that “No veteran shall pay for his or her own medicine.” As of now, WWII veterans, Korean, and Vietnam war veterans are reimbursed 100% of their hospitalization and medical expenses.

For more information on VHMCP, the qualified beneficiaries can reach VMMC at (632) 927-1250.PHOTO COURTESY OF PRESIDENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS DIVISION

However, some boxes from the Philippine Archives Collection, all of which are equally important to other record groups, are yet to be scanned. These boxes are currently on hold for maintenance and are subject for conservation treatments due to their deteriorating condition. Another batch will be sent next year to continue the digitization of the said documents before they completely deteriorate due to old age and the low quality of paper used. These documents contain the history of the Filipinos and rightly belong to the Filipinos.

The Digitization Project is led by PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina in partnership with the Filipino War Veterans Foundation, Inc. (FILVETS) headed by its Chairman Renato S. de Villa, and Philippine Veterans Investment Development Corporation-Industrial Authority (PHIVIDEC-IA) Administrator Atty. Franklin M Quijano.

The digitized collection can be viewed by interested researchers and individuals at the BGen. Francisco H. Licuanan Jr. World War II Collection Browsing Room at the AFP Museum in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. It can also be accessed at www.collections.pvao.mil.ph.

the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Both discussed the pending cases of World War II veterans who were earlier denied from receiving compensation stipulated in the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Act (FVEC). They also explored other possible options of payment aside from check, such as cash or bank transfer, for the veterans or their spouses to simplify and expedite the entitlement process.

In 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act was signed, approving the release of a one-time, lumpsum payment to qualified World War II Filipino veterans. However, thousands of claims have been rejected. Thus, a review of the established procedures in determining the eligible veterans is constantly being lobbied in the U.S. Senate and Congress.

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U.S. Honors Filipino WWII Veterans withCongressional Gold Medal

Phase 2 of WWII Records Digitization Project A Success

ith the approval of Public Law 114-265, the 114th Congress of the United States of America awarded the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal, collectively, to the Filipino veterans of World War II in recognition of their dedicated service during the said war in a formal turn-over and awarding ceremony held on 25 October 2017 at the Emancipation Hall, Capitol Hill, Washington D.C., U.S.A.W

[ ARLA E. FONTAMILLAS ]

The second phase of the Digitization Project of Philippine World War II Records at the U.S. National Archives and Records

The 10-woman team left for Maryland, U.S.A. on June 1 with the mission to preserve and bring back to the Philippines the “digitized” records of the Philippine Collection and other related World War II manuscripts. After working for five months, the Phase II Digitization Team was able to digitize a total of 1,032 boxes containing more than one million images, including 524 cartographic maps and charts, and 152 WWII Philippine Setting photo albums with approximately 25,000 photos including captions. In addition, 120 microfilm rolls were converted to DVDs.

PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina, together with the Office of the Veterans Affairs (OVA) Representative to the United States Elson K. Aguilar, visits the Digitization Team at the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration in Maryland, U.S.A. on 26 October 2017.

The Philippine Archives Collection is a group of records at the NARA. This constitutes invaluable source of information on the Pacific War, particularly on the treatment of prisoners-of-war (POWs), military operations in the Philippines (1941-42), guerrilla warfare in the Philippines, and conditions in the Philippines under Japanese occupation.

The U.S. Congressional Gold Medal is the nation’s highest civilian honor. For the Filipino veterans, many in their 80s and 90s, along with family members of surviving and deceased veterans who were in attendance, this is a recognition that comes seven decades after they were denied benefits promised for their service.

“This is a day that is long, long overdue,” U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan said in his remarks. “Let this ceremony serve to ensure that those who fought for freedom are never forgotten and always remembered.”

Celestino Almeda, a 100-year old World War II veteran, received the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal on behalf of the 260,000 Filipino veterans. Almeda was a teacher at Arellano high school before he joined the Philippine Commonwealth Army in 1941 and fought alongside U.S. soldiers. However, just like other 6,000 World War II veterans who are still alive today, Almeda is still waiting for U.S. recognition of his military service and make him eligible for veterans’ benefits. The Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetRep), headed by U.S. Army MGen. Antonio Taguba, spearheaded the awarding ceremonies. PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina, as the official representative of DND Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, and Representative Leopoldo N. Bataoil participated in the event. Also in attendance were other members of the U.S. Congress and Senate, including Senator Colleen Hanabusa of Hawaii, who sponsored the bill. Later in the afternoon, PVAO Administrator Carolina was one of the presenters of their next-of-kin during another awarding ceremony held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. A day earlier, PVAO Administrator Carolina also made a courtesy call to Mr. Thomas G. Bowman, Deputy Secretary of

[ ARLA E. FONTAMILLAS ]

Administration (US NARA) was successfully completed on 30 November 2017.

Representative Leopoldo N.

Bataoil receives the Congressional

Gold Medal on behalf of

his namesake and uncle, 3Lt

Leopoldo Bataoil Sr., of PMA Class 1943. He fought in Bataan during the war and died in battle and was

missing in action.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SPEAKER PAUL RYAN’S WEBSITE

PHOTO COURTESY OF LES TALUSAN/FILVETREP

PHOTO COURTESY OF USA TODAY

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PVAO Administrator Keynotes 2017 U.S. Veterans Day

World-Class ‘Libingan ng mga Bayani’ Development: Full Speed Ahead

Gov’t invests P466 M for Phase 1 of the project

[ LANIER JOSHUA C. EVAL ]

Filipino and American veterans salute as the military band plays their national anthems. Ceremonial wreaths under the muffled drum

Although it is an American holiday, Filipinos also took part in the Veterans Day commemoration held at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on 11 November 2017.

Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina served as the keynote speaker and delivered a strong message in honoring all our veterans who have been selflessly working in defending our cherished democracy. He also highlighted the strong bond of friendship between the U.S. and the Philippines and cited significant battles where Filipino and American soldiers fought side by side and sacrificed for the freedom of all.

“Our two great nations have faced together both triumph and adversity. This hallowed ground - the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial is a testament to the sacrifices equally and mutually made by the American and Filipino soldiers,” PVAO Administrator Carolina said. “This cemetery

rolls, firing salute, and taps followed as both nations honor all those who served.

has the largest number of graves of any cemetery for U.S. personnel killed during the Second World War. It is [thus] not a coincidence that the Libingan ng mga Bayani (LNMB) is not only located in the same mother lot as the American Cemetery and Memorial, but is also largely patterned after it. Desktop surveys of maps and satellite photos reveal that the main axis from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the LNMB points to the end of the axis at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, a mere two kilometers away. It also revealed that the same end point of the main axis at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial lies along the extended axis of Mendiola Avenue in Manila, the main avenue leading to Malacañang Palace.”

PVAO Administrator also mentioned his attendance at the special ceremony in Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. on 25 October 2017 for the recognition of the Filipino World War II veterans as a recipient of U.S. Congressional Gold Medal. He also cited the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Act of 2015, passed in 2016, which finally identified the Filipinos “as an integral part of the U.S. Armed Forces.”

Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Y. Kim emphasized, in his remarks, the immense debt of gratitude to both nation’s service members for their sacrifices made in defense of freedom. Veterans Day traces its roots as the day when the hostilities of World War I ended with the signing of the Armistice at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. Since then, it has become a day to honor all the veterans who served the United States.

Also present during the ceremony were U.S. Charge d’Affaires Michael Klecheski; USDVA Director Mary Souza; Veterans Affairs (VA) Manila Regional Office Dean Jason T. Arcamo and members of the diplomatic corps.

[ ARLA E. FONTAMILLAS & JILLIAN JOCELYN S. SOMERA ]

TThe Libingan ng mga Bayani (LNMB) is the Philippines’ national military cemetery established by then President Ramon Magsaysay on 27 October 1954 through Proclamation No. 86 or “Changing the ‘Republic Memorial Cemetery’ at Fort Wm McKinley, Rizal Province to ‘Libingan Ng Mga Bayani’ to honor the lives of the fallen Filipino soldiers who fought in World War II.

On 18 May 1967, then President Ferdinand Marcos issued Proclamation No. 208, reserving 1,428 square kilometers of land expropriated from Fort McKinley (later renamed Fort Andres Bonifacio) and annexing the same to LNMB for national shrine purposes. However, from its establishment up to the 1970s, the development of the cemetery was relatively slow due to budgetary limitations.

Compared to other countries’ national military cemeteries, the 103-hectare LNMB has unfortunately been neglected over time. The underdevelopment of the cemetery does not bespeak of the gratitude and high respect due the over 49,000 Filipino soldiers, statesmen, heroes, and martyrs who are buried there. Worse, illegal settlers occupy a significant part of the cemetery; making it less of a source of national pride as it was originally intended to be.

Thus PVAO, through the able leadership of its Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina, embarked on a significant project of redeveloping LNMB as a world-class national shrine that is fit to serve as the resting place of the country’s fallen martyrs and heroes. Moreover, it aims to transform LNMB as a proud memorial and historical park that will serve as a reminder of our people’s valor.

PVAO has created the LNMB Master Development Plan Technical Working Group with representatives from the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) and the UP PLANADES, a non-stock, non-profit organization engaged in research, consultancy, and extension services, academic development and training in environmental, urban and regional planning and related disciplines.

UP PLANADES presented two options for the “Libingan ng mga Bayani Comprehensive Master Development Plan” to PVAO, LNMB Council, and LNMB Master Development Plan Technical Working Group. The plans aim to limit the clutter and unnecessary details in the shrines, strengthen visual axes, provide quiet and exclusive spaces, follow strict themes, and buffer areas for better accessibility and visibility.

The proposed design seeks to improve traffic movement around LNMB and reduce congestion at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier so visitors and

passersby within the shrine area can easily locate and identify the said central monument in LNMB. This is done by relocating the main entrance and creating a more organized and categorized burial grounds. For one, high elevation areas will be maximized as premier burial grounds (e.g. for former presidents). The ceremonial areas will also be separated from the burial grounds. More importantly, landmarks will be concentrated along major axes in the LNMB.

In a research conducted by the UP PLANADES, it was found that meaningful external linkages exist in the original design of the LNMB. To strengthen external linkages with other relevant monuments and Philippine institutions, existing axes are reinforced and new axes are established. Many of the established lines connect to other significant points in the city.

The main axis from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is extended to pass through the proposed new Bayani Rotunda and the existing Philippine-Korean Friendship Center. It also points to the end of the axis at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, extending to Mendiola Avenue in Manila, the main avenue leading to Malacañang Palace. The proposed East Memorial Building was oriented to face an axis that points to the center of the Bayani Rotunda and further on towards the iconic Bonifacio Monument in Caloocan City. The West Memorial Building, on the other hand, will have an axis also pointing to the center of Bayani Rotunda and will extend to the new Supreme Court site in Bonifacio Global City.

These linkages only highlight the importance of the deep significance of the LNMB – most especially the ideals it emulates – in our foundation and progress as a nation. In recognition of this, the Congress has included in its FY2017 budget, P356 million for the implementation of the Phase I of the “Libingan ng mga Bayani Comprehensive Master Development Plan.” For 2018, another P100 million is also allotted by the Congress for the project.

On 08 November 2017, PVAO Administrator Carolina met with BCDA President, Mr. Vivencio B. Dizon, on the status of the transfer of fund for the improvement of LNMB, the conduct of bidding process and the legislative support for the next phases of the project. This includes provision of public transport terminals that will allow easier access for the public to visit LNMB.

View from the East/Main Gate as proposed in the Master Development Plan of the Libingan ng mga Bayani. The original Main Gate along northeast Bayani Road will be transferred to the eastern section of LNMB opening to Bayani Road. This development will highlight the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by providing an unobstructed view of the said shrine’s centerpiece.

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[ AJ R. FRANCISCO ]

Sec. Lorenzana Leads 154th Bonifacio Day VMMC at 62: Renews Commitment of Service to the Veterans

The Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana led the flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies on 30 November 2017 at the Bonifacio National Monument in Caloocan City

In his message, Secretary Lorenzana called on all Filipinos to defend the freedom that Bonifacio courageously fought for – only this time, the war is against the proliferation of illegal drugs, corruption, and terrorism. According to him, in facing challenges, we can draw inspiration from Bonifacio and others whose heroism have been the foundation of our nation’s democracy. He ended with Bonifacio’s famous lines: “Aling pag-ibig pa ang hihigit kaya sa pagkadalisay at pagkadakila gaya ng pag-ibig sa sariling lupa? Aling pag-ibig pa? Wala na nga, wala.”

The Bonifacio Decalogues, which is a reminder of the nation’s inherent solidarity and of our people’s strength, was read by various representatives from the youth, labor, professional, and women sector. Pangkat PVAO, led by Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina and Deputy Administrator Raul Z. Caballes, joined other public servants and leaders such as Caloocan City Mayor Oscar G. Malapitan and NHCP Chairman Rene R. Escalante in the said commemoration.

PVAO’s participation during veteran-related commemorative events is also part of the breakthrough goals of PVAO’s KAGITINGAN Roadmap 2022, which is to increase the number of Kagitingan Builders through forging strong partnerships with LGUs, national agencies, academe, and private sector.

to commemorate the 154th birth anniversary of Andres Bonifacio.

PEFTOK Veterans “Turn Towards Busan”

[ AJ R. FRANCISCO ]

During the commemoration, PEFTOK Vice President Col. Sixto P. Belen shared his experiences when he first visited the Korean Academy in Busan, South Korea. He also thanked the Korean Government for its continuing efforts in recognizing the struggles of the Filipino soldiers who fought in the war, such as their constant presence in commemorative events.

Lt. Colonel Young-jin Lee ROKMC, Defense and Armed Forces Attaché of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines; Mr. Lee Jong-Sub, President of the Philippine Department of the Korean Veterans Association; Mr. Kim Young Ki, Chairman of the National Unification Advisory Committee (NUAC); and Mr. Kang Chang-Ik, President of the United Korean Community Association, led the Korean delegation.

“Turn Towards Busan” encourages people around the world to participate in a one-minute moment of silence in the direction of South Korea’s second largest city, where the U.N. Memorial Cemetery, the world’s only U.N. cemetery, is located.

[ ANGELA KAYE F. CRESCINI ]

T he Veterans Memorial Medical Center marked its 62nd Anniversary with a simple ceremony on 20 November 2017 with the theme, “Sakripisyo ng mga Beterano: Gabay sa Makabagong Serbisyo.”

Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans and Retiree Affairs (USCVRA) Reynaldo B. Mapagu represented Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana as Guest of Honor and Speaker in the opening program of the weeklong celebration. The Defense Department lauded VMMC for its programs, particularly the Veterans Hospitalization and Medical Care Program, which “continue to deliver timely and first-rate care that has significantly improved the general welfare of our veterans and their dependents.” He also inspired the whole VMMC to strive harder “as there are services and systems reinforcements that still need to be done.”

VMMC Director Dr. Dominador M. Chiong, Jr. shared that the anniversary theme is their commitment to President Duterte’s remark of paying the debt of gratitude to our veterans: “We

PVAO and VMMC officials led by Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina and Dr. Dominador M. Chiong, Jr., respectively, met on 04 October 2017 to discuss the accomplishments and further improvements on the implementation of the Veterans Hospitalization and Medical Care Program (VHMCP). Priority projects on the physical improvement of the VMMC, the efficiency in processing of reimbursements, and the availability of medicines in the hospital pharmacy were deliberated.

will continuously find ways to improve our services. We will strive to give the highest standard of clinical care and treatment and work on modernizing the hospital and in upgrading our facilities.”

Among the programs held in celebration of VMMC’s 62nd anniversary include free ABI/FBS/CARADA/cholesterol/bone/hematocrit screening; Diabetasol wet sampling; poster exhibit presentations; bloodletting activity; scientific paper reading; and recognition and awarding of outstanding VMMC employees.

The Veterans Memorial Medical Center, formerly known as the Veterans Memorial Hospital, was established on 08 July 1948, pursuant to Public Law 865 by the 80th U.S. Congress. The $9.4 million-hospital facility, with the land to be donated by the Philippine government, aims to provide quality hospitalization, medical care and treatment to Filipino veterans as provided by U.S. public law.

Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK) veterans participated in “Turn Towards Busan” rites held on 24 November 2017 at the Korean War Memorial Pylon in Libingan ng mga Bayani, Taguig City. “Turn Towards

Busan” is a United Nations (U.N.)-initiated and worldwide commemoration of almost two million soldiers from 16 nations who fought during the Korean War.

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PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina participated in the quarterly Association of Generals and Flag Officers (AGFO) Fellowship on 05 October 2017 at the AGFO Center in Camp Aguinaldo. The meeting was presided by DND Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, who focused on the government’s strategy in ensuring the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the well-being of the Filipino people.

PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina and Rep. Leopoldo N. Bataoil attended the awarding ceremony of U.S. Congressional Gold Medal for Filipino World War II Veterans held at Capitol Hill, Washington D.C., 25 October 2017. One of the recognized Filipino World War II veterans is Mr. Regalado Baldonado, 90 years old.

VFP Charter Organizations held its regular monthly meetings on 08 November and 06 December 2017 at the PVAO Veterans Lounge. A Gender and Development (GAD) orientation was given on both meetings, along with a briefing on the status of charter organizations, and the Secretary of National Defense’s suspension of the proposal to conduct VFP Supreme Council Meeting for 2017. USec. Carolina congratulated the Charter Organizations for meeting regularly and stressed the salient amendments of the VFP Constitution and By-Laws.

PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina, representing DND Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana, emphasized at the House of Representatives that the Balangiga Bells are symbols of the hard and long struggle for our independence. A meeting, sponsored by the Committee on Foreign Affairs, was held on 03 October 2017 to deliberate House Resolution Numbers 412 and 1142 and to call for the U.S. to return the three bells of Balangiga and other artifacts taken from the province of Samar as war booty during the Philippine-American War.

PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina led the induction of the newly-elected officers and board members of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK) Veterans Association, Inc. (PVAI) on 20 October 2017 at the PVAO Veterans Lounge. PVAI remains active in promoting awareness about the Philippines’ participation during the Korean War. Some of the prominent PEFTOK veterans are former president Fidel Ramos, former ambassadors to South Korea Col. Nicanor Jimenez and Gen. Ernesto Gidaya.

Key personnel from PVAO Veterans Memorial and Historical Division (VMHD) participated in the Battlefront 2.0: Warriors Heart Revealed held at The Beanery in Orani, Bataan on 30 November 2017. The program featured the narrative of Gen. Vicente Lim and the 41st Infantry Division of the Philippine Army. It sought to ignite love for country and raise funds for the development of the 41st Division Shrine (museum/learning hub) in Tagaytay City, Nasugbu, Bataan, and Capas, Tarlac.

Engineer Ricky Lim, PVAO’s Acting Chief of the General Services and Support Management Division, recently finished the program, Master of National Security Administration (MNSA) on September 2017. He belongs to MNSA Regular Class 52, which include 41 officials from the government and military, 2 officials from the private sector, and 7 foreign students from Southeast Asia and Nigeria. Engineer Lim is now part of an elite circle of government practitioners and thinkers, who cover the broad spectrum of formulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies in national security administration.

PVAO Claims Division Chief Ms. Raquel Cajuguiran participated in the 113th Founding Anniversary of Bulacan State University (BSU). There are 29 BSU students who are under the Educational Benefit program of PVAO.

DND celebrated its 78th Founding Anniversary with the theme, “One Defense Team @ 78: Embracing the Change with a More Credible Defense” on 06 November 2017 at AFPCOC, Camp Aguinaldo. Two PVAO employees, Mr. George Aranas and Ms. Carlota Pascual, both Special Investigator III of the Legal Affairs Division, were recognized as Model Supervisor and Model Employee, respectively.

On 22 December 2017, PASWPO celebrated its decade of service and gave recognition to the assistance and dedication of PVAO to the widows of veterans through the years. PVAO VAMD Chief Alfredo S. Cayton, Jr. acknowledged the contribution made by PASWPO in providing medical, legal, educational, livelihood, and even calamity-related assistance to our veterans and their dependents.

“The Soldier Peacemaker,” an autobiographical book by former Defense Secretary Eduardo Ermita, was launched on 28 September 2017 at the AFP Museum. PVAO’s participation in the book launching is part of the agency’s endeavor to support publication that spur love for country.

DND-PUBLIC AFFAIRS SERVICE

DND-PUBLIC AFFAIRS SERVICE

PHOTO COURTESY OF LES TALUSAN/FILVETREP

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[ ARLA E. FONTAMILLAS ]

PVAO Welcomes New USCVRA

VAO welcomes the new DND Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans and Retiree Affairs (USCVRA), LtGen. Reynaldo B. Mapagu AFP (Ret), on 09 October 2017 during its weekly flag-raising P

USec. Mapagu commended PVAO for its notable achievements, particularly its ISO 9001:2008 Certification, and other efforts to establish itself as a credible and reliable agency that serves the nation’s defenders. He later joined the PVAO Executive Committee meeting wherein he was given PVAO’s organizational briefing, including the overview of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) and the legislative agenda pursued by PVAO for the benefits of the veterans and their dependents.

Prior to his appointment as USCVRA, USec. Mapagu served as the Vice Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines from August 2010 to October 2012. Prior to that, he was also appointed as the Commanding General of the Philippine Army. He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1978 and is a native of Tuguegarao, Cagayan.

East Avenue Medical Center Benchmarks PVAO’s Human Resources Systems

[ ARLA E. FONTAMILLAS ]

ceremony. USec. Mapagu served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker on the said day.

ith PVAO’s recent awards for its efforts on the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management (PRIME-HRM) in 2017, the delegation from East Avenue Medical Center headed by Dr. Alfonso G. Nuñez III, Head of Professional Education and Training W

Research, visited and studied PVAO’s Human Resources Systems on 13 December 2017 at the PVAO Conference Room.

The ‘benchmarking’ covered the current status of the agency in the PRIME-HRM, as discussed by the following heads of the PVAO Human Resource Development Division (HRDD): Performance Planning and Commitment presented by Personnel

Action and Services Section Head, Ms. Sharon Guevara-Antonio; Rewarding and Development Planning presented by Morale and Welfare Section Head, Mr. Daniel Jayaon; Learning and Development presented by Human Resource Development Section Head, Ms. Aebvee Hipolito; and Performance Monitoring and Coaching and Performance Review and Evaluation as discussed by the HRDD Chief Ms. Mariciel Estacio, MNSA.

The KAGITINGAN Roadmap 2022, the agency’s eight-year strategic plan that was recently conferred with a Proficiency Stage on November 2017, was also presented by PVAO Planning and Management Division (PMD) Plans and Programs Chief Mr. Lawrence Buenafe.

PVAO is set to undergo another PRIME-HRM audit in the 2nd Quarter of 2018.

Working Towards a Strong Federation of Filipino Veterans[ ARLA E. FONTAMILLAS ]

vital part in the fulfillment of the mandate and mission of PVAO is to unify the veterans under an empowered and credible federation that will “represent and defend the interests of all Filipino veterans, promote mutual help among former comrades-in-arms, perpetuate their common experiences in war, undertake acts of charity and relief work, foster love of country, and A

inculcate civic consciousness,” as stated in Republic Act No. 2640.

To do this, PVAO works in partnership with the Department of National Defense (DND) to strengthen the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) by addressing improvements in organizational capacity building and management of its assets and financial resources. PVAO also intends to have more affiliate veterans’ organizations by 2022.

VFP Presents Its PPBER for 1st Semester 2017On 03 October 2017, VFP officials headed by Col. Bonifacio de Gracia, presented VFP’s 1st semester FY 2017 Program Performance and Budget Execution Review (PPBER), highlighting the Federation’s physical and financial accomplishments before Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans and Retiree Affairs (USCVRA) Reynaldo B. Mapagu and other DND officials. PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina presided the said meeting.

Also presented were highlights of veteran-related activities managed and participated by the VFP, status of its procurement projects and activities, implementation of VFP membership recruitment program, distribution of membership shares, and utilization of its FY 2017 Budget based on specific objects of expenditures.

The VFP also provided the accomplishments of its Executive Board, important legislative initiatives supported by the Federation for the veterans’ welfare, and updates on income generated against the annual collection targets. It also presented its plans for the second semester which are focused on improving revenue collections, strengthening VFP membership, granting more benefits to the veterans, and maintaining financial management transparency for good governance.

At the end of the presentation, PVAO Administrator Carolina commended VFP officials for coming up with a comprehensive report, which was a marked improvement from its previous presentations. He assured the VFP of DND’s continuous support and encouraged VFP officials to ensure that the effective implementation of VFP’s mandate to be the real umbrella organization of all veterans and veterans organizations.

PVB officials pay courtesy call on SNDMeanwhile, on 06 October 2017, PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina joined Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) officials Chairman Roberto F. de Ocampo, OBE and President/COO Nonilo C. Cruz in a courtesy visit to the Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana. The PVB officials presented its physical and financial performance for 2017.

PVB is a commercial bank owned by Filipino World War II veterans and their families and caters to both corporate and retail financial markets. The seed fund of the bank originally came from World War II reparations. Under its charter, the bank is required to give 20% of its annual net income to surviving war veterans and their families through the Board of Trustees for the Veterans of World War II (BTVWWII), a non-stock and non-profit organization that runs the BTVWWII Museum and Archives, and the BTVWWII Out-patient Center, a medical facility where war veterans may get free medicines, medical and dental check-up, laboratory tests, as well as canes, eyeglasses, etc.

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VECONAC 17th General Assembly: Resolution for preservation of military history passed

[ ARLA E. FONTAMILLAS ]

he Veterans Confederation of ASEAN Countries (VECONAC) held its 30th VECONAC Executive Board Meeting and 17th General Assembly in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam on 23-27 November 2017, in support of its mission to advance economic cooperation and promote the welfare of veterans belonging to ASEAN nations.T

One of the notable resolutions adopted during the 17th General Assembly urged all VECONAC member countries to propose to their respective government to record, document, and preserve the memories and events of military operations and conflicts. It also requests that these memories be properly archived so that it could be accessed and passed on to the next generation within the country and also shared by people from other countries.

It also noted the contribution of women veterans and spouses in promoting the exchange of ideas and experiences among them. Thus, it was resolved that the VECONAC Secretariat and the host country shall include activities for women veterans and spouses in the General Assembly program.

MGen. Alfredo S. Cayton, Jr. AFP (Ret), PVAO Veterans Affairs Management Division Chief, represented PVAO during the said convention. Also in attendance were: BGen. William B. Esplana AFP (Ret), Secretary of the Supreme Council and Head of Delegation of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP); Maj. Maximo

P. Young, Vice-President of PEFTOK Veterans Association, Inc. and; Veteran Pedro L. Eder, VFP Regional President (Region XIII).

Formed in 1980, VECONAC is an organization dedicated to the protection and promotion of the general welfare of all veterans of each member-nation. To achieve these ideals, VECONAC promotes goodwill, understanding and harmony among its members, regardless of differences in religion, language, culture, customs and traditions, and provides viable solutions to problems and situations affecting the veterans in the ASEAN region. VECONAC also empowers veterans to become self-reliant and productive citizens of their respective countries and be capable of mutually helping themselves and of supporting the cause of peace, stability and harmony, not only in Southeast Asia, but elsewhere in the world. Toward these ends, VECONAC calls and urges individual veterans and veteran organizations duly organized and accredited in the respective countries in the ASEAN region to join, support, and rally behind the confederation.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VETERANS CONFEDERATION OF ASEAN COUNTRIES

[ ARLA E. FONTAMILLAS ]

2,000 Veterans Assembled at PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority’s

4th “Veterans’ Event”

PVL holds 71st Anniversary and General Assembly

PVL, led by its National Commander Capt. Marlon Z. Dantes PAF (Ret), awarded USec. Carolina with a token of appreciation for all the assistance it provided to the Legion. PVAO provided wheelchairs and canes to deserving members of the Legion. Through PVAO and VFP, PVL aims to reach out to all World War II veterans and AFP retirees, including their descendants across the country.

Also during the event, in recognition of the heroic deeds of the Filipino World War II veterans and their families, BGen. Pedro F. Zafra AFP (Ret) and Madame Consuelo Zafra Dantes, a widow of a Defender of Bataan and Corregidor (DBC) and a survivor of the infamous Death March, donated a piece of their land in La Trinidad Valley, Benguet for the use of the veterans’ community.

hilippine Veterans Legion (PVL), one of the pioneer veterans’ organization founded by World War II hero Macario Peralta in 1946, recently held its 71st General Assembly on 15 December 2017 at AFPCOC, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City. PVAO, led by Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina, Deputy Administrator Raul Z. Caballes, and VAMD Chief Alfredo S. Cayton, Jr. joined the P

event. USCVRA Reynaldo B. Mapagu served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker.

ith the theme, “Mga Beterano: Kabalikat sa Kapayapaan,” some 2,000 veterans assembled at the Limketkai Atrium in Cagayan de Oro City on 11 November 2017 for the 4th “Veterans’ Event” organized by the PHIVIDEC W

Industrial Authority (PHIVIDEC-IA) to honor the Northern Mindanao War Veterans.

Hon. Jesus S. Guevarra II, Chairman of PHIVIDEC-IA Board of Directors, said that they “do this event every year for the veterans’ Christmas cheers.” However, he also emphasized that they want to do more, which is why they are exploring the possibility of putting up a health facility that will cater to war veterans residing in Mindanao. With only one veterans’ hospital, the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) located in Quezon City in Metro Manila, war veterans from Mindanao can only reimburse their medical expenses through the Veterans Hospitalization and Medical Care Program (VHMCP).

Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana graced the big gathering as the Guest of Honor and Speaker. He assured his full support to projects that will ensure the welfare and well-being of veterans in Mindanao. Together with Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans, and Retirees Affairs (USCVRA) Reynaldo B. Mapagu, PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina, Hon. Jesus Guevarra II, and PHIVIDEC-IA CEO/Administrator Atty. Franklin M. Quijano, Secretary Lorenzana led the awarding of the six oldest veterans in Northern Mindanao: Sergio Colinares Sudaria, 101; Marciano Soriano Avila, 100; Ignacio Arbuis, 99; Moises Tan Quirol, 98; Sulpicio Nacua Cabasan, 95; and Aligondo Aba Dagondon, 95. They received P5,000 cash incentive, wheelchairs, first aid kits, and Christmas presents.

Other veteran-participants were given medical attention and medicines from the doctors, nurses, physical therapists, dentists, ophthalmologists, and pharmacists of the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center (AFPMC). Meanwhile, PVAO assisted the veterans on their needs and concerns regarding their pension and benefits.

PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority (PHIVIDEC-IA) was created on August 13, 1974 through Presidential Decree No. 538, as amended, to carry out the policy of the government to encourage, promote and sustain the economic and social growth of the country. It is based in Misamis Oriental, covering 13 barangays in the Municipalities of Tagoloan and Villanueva.

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HISTORIC LANDING AT LEYTE GULF REMEMBERED:Spirit of Peace and International Cooperation promoted

Gen. Ricarte’s 151st Birth Anniversary Remembered[ LANIER JOSHUA C. EVAL ]

Gen. Ricarte, who was also known for his pen name Vibora (‘Viper’ in Spanish), was a key stalwart during the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War. He was the “Father of the Philippine Army” and an “iron-willed man who defied the Americans down to his last breath.” Ricarte was known to be among the few Filipino leaders who never took an oath of allegiance to the United States government.

In his message, Batac City Mayor Albert D. Chua said, “As we commemorate the birth anniversary of our fearless soldier, Gen. Ricarte, let us all remember and salute our soldiers who have dedicated their lives to the service of our country. We, civilian citizens, may not die for this country like Gen. Ricarte and our soldiers but we must find a way to inspire among our people the kind of nobility that citizens show in time of struggle.”

Meanwhile, BGen. Restituto L. Aguilar, AFP (Ret), Chief of PVAO’s Veterans Memorial and Historical Division (VMHD), Guest of Honor and Speaker, led the recognition of 14 World War II veterans whose patriotic legacy, like Vibora, lives on and continue to be an inspiration not only to the Ilocanos but also to all Filipinos.

The awardees were: Pvt Fred S Ancheta, Pvt Porferio M Martinez, Pvt Modesto D Mateo and Pvt Loreto L Nanca who volunteered as fighters in the United States Army Forces in the Philippines- Northern Luzon (USAFIP-NL); Pvt Salud N Blanco and Pvt Antonia A Paz who were assigned into the Women’s Auxiliary Service (WAS) and served as medical aid of guerrillas in the barrios of Ilocos Sur; Pvt Miguel A Acierto, Pvt Salvador C Anunciacion, Pvt Ciriaco B Ganal and Pvt Cayetano C Mismis who participated in a series of offensive operations against the Japanese Imperial Army; Pvt Susana Marquez-Pante who had been instrumental in saving the lives of hundreds of her countrymen while training the younger members of WAS in first aid; Cpl Severo U Abad, Sgt Norberto Q Dulig and Pvt Justino D Mendoza who were enlisted in the Philippine Army and later inducted into the United States Army Forces in the Far East (USAFFE).

After the event, members of Pangkat PVAO distributed ambulatory devices to selected and deserving veteran-beneficiaries.

ith the theme “Keeping Alive the Valor of the Heroes of World War II,” the local government of Leyte, together with the diplomatic representatives from Australia, Japan, and the United States, and representatives from the W

[ ANGELA KAYE F. CRESCINI ]

LtGen. Oscar T. Lactao, Commander of the Central Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines, represented Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana as Guest of Honor and Speaker. In a prepared speech, Secretary Lorenzana shared his message of solidarity and gratitude: “In celebrating this historic event, we give importance to the spirit of peace, friendship and international cooperation. We have long left the war behind us. We are now brothers and sisters in the name of democracy. And so, we also offer our gratitude to other nations of the world for their cooperation and goodwill toward the Philippines—we thank them for unequivocally affirming peace and mutual cooperation to build a formidable alliance in today’s war against terrorism, violence, and most especially poverty.”

One of the highlights of the commemoration was the lighting of the torch as a tribute to the veterans. Diplomatic corps and other officials from the Philippines, Australia, Japan, and the United States jointly offered wreaths to signify amity and cooperation.

Seventy-three years ago, the Allied forces successfully landed on Leyte with the help of 3,500 Filipino guerillas on the ground. This was preceded by the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the greatest naval battle in world history: spanning 100,000 square miles of the sea fought from 23-25 October 1944. The ensuing battles in Leyte proved to be among the bloodiest of the wars in the Pacific, which marked the re-establishment of the Commonwealth Government in the Philippines and the beginning of the Philippine Liberation during World War II.

Leyte Gulf Landing Heroes Honored[ ANGELA KAYE F. CRESCINI ]

T he local government of Tacloban and the Veterans Federation of the Philippines Sons and Daughters Association, Inc. honored the veterans in two separate events as part of the commemoration of the 73rd Anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landings.

Philippines Veterans Affairs Office observed the 73rd Anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landings held at the McArthur Memorial National Park on 20 October 2017.

years old; Epistemia Rama, 90 years old; Maxima Satorre, 96 years old; Rufino Sumayod, 94 years old; Remegia Tomol, 95 years old; Paciencia Tripoli,100 years old; and Felicidad Varona, 100 years old. They each received financial assistance and grocery goods from the Tacloban local government. October 19 of every year in Tacloban City is known as the World War II Veterans Day to honor the bravery of war veterans, as mandated by City Ordinance No. 2007-9-65. It also provides that families of deceased World War II veterans are entitled to a burial assistance of P10,000.

Meanwhile, on the rainy night of 20 October 2017, the Veterans Federation of the Philippines Sons and Daughters Association, Inc. culminated the weeklong observance of the 73rd Anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landings with the Sunset Ceremony at the McArthur Memorial National Park. The program highlights the reflection of family members on how their lives were touched by the veterans, and the lighting of candles for the departed heroes of the World War II. Veterans Affairs Management Division Chief Alfredo S. Cayton, Jr. commended the efforts of the Filipino people to honor the veterans’ heroic deeds and encouraged the youth to emulate the veterans’ legacy.

On 19 October 2017, the City Government of Tacloban conferred awards to 19 World War II veterans during the Veterans Day celebration at the Prince Mansion, Tacloban City. The awardees were: Xerxes Abadiano, 97 years old; Jose Acedillo, 97 years old; Pilar Alvero, 95 years old; Paulita Asis, 91 years old; Eduardo Bermudo, 93 years old; Pablito Candela, 88 years old; Aquilia Closa, 89 years old; Marcelo Gatela, 91 years old; Felicidad Lagarde, 94 years old; Teresa Malpas, 89 years old; Segundo Matias, 94 years old; Ramon Modina, 89 years old; Margarito Olguera, 92

P[ LANIER JOSHUA C. EVAL & AJ R. FRANCISCO ]

Duterte to Filipinos: ‘Strive to Continue Rizal’s Heroic Deeds’ resident Rodrigo R. Duterte led the flag-raising and wreath-laying rites during the 121st anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s martyrdom at the Rizal Monument, Rizal Park, Manila on 30 December 2017.

With the theme, “Rizal 2017: Mabuting Kaisipan, Susi sa Kaunlaran,” President Duterte urged Filipinos to not just commemorate the national hero’s patriotism, but to ‘strive to continue’ what he did a century ago. In his Rizal Day message, the President said: “May we take this occasion as an opportunity to recognize Dr. Rizal’s ultimate sacrifice for the sake of our country. Let us reflect on his patriotism as we strive to continue his work of building a more united, peaceful and prosperous Philippines.”

“As an author and as a scholar, he denounced the corruption, greed, and other social ills that up to this day continue to plague our society. Even in death, he imparted upon us his aspirations for a nation that is free from the scourge of injustice, tyranny, and suffering,” he stated.

After the early morning ceremonies, President Duterte met with some Rizal’s descendants.

Also present at the event were Vice President Leni G. Robredo, former President and Manila Mayor Joseph E. Estrada, some Cabinet officials, veterans, teachers, students, and representatives of non-government organizations. Our World War II heroes, together with Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) officials led by Undersecretary Ernesto G. Carolina, had the chance to meet Vice President Robredo.

On 30 December 1896, Rizal was shot dead by a firing squad for allegedly inciting rebellion and sedition through his novels, “Noli Me Tangere” and El Filibusterismo,” which are both indictments of Spanish church and government abuse. His death sparked a revolution against Spain. With the order issued by the first Philippine President Emilio Aguinaldo in 1898, December 30 was designated as Rizal Day and became a regular holiday in the country.

PVAO personnel, in cooperation with the Batac City government along with several leaders and members of socio-civic organizations, veterans, and students gathered on 20 October 2017 at the Ricarte National Shrine, Batac City, Ilocos Norte to

remember the 151st birth anniversary of General Artemio Ricarte.

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GABRIELA solon campaigns for the eradication of VAW

[ ANGELA KAYE F. CRESCINI ]

GABRIELA Women’s Party Representative Emmi de Jesus served as PVAO’s Guest of Honor and Speaker for the GAD-vocacy Talk Series on 11 December 2017 at the PVAO Covered Court. This is in connection to the observance of the 18-Day

Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW).

In her message, Rep. de Jesus voiced out that the State, as the lead institution of the society, takes it upon itself to make sure that gender biases are eradicated. She also encouraged that institutions must unite and collectively address the issues of gender violence, specifically against women. She also shared that the women’s party fully supports and advocates bills in Congress to strengthen the implementation of existing laws and amendments to further protect women and children against any forms of violence.

Prior to the speech of Rep. de Jesus, PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina launched the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security (NAPWPS) on behalf of Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana. In his message, he signified that women should be respected and taken care of, not abused. He also lauded women in their contributions in nation-building. NAPWPS calls for the safeguarding of women’s rights in conflict situations, prevention of gender-based violence in those situations, and empowerment and participation of women in peace process.

Rep. de Jesus is the Chairperson and founding member of GABRIELA, which is dedicated to promote the rights and welfare of marginalized and underrepresented Filipino women. She has authored Republic Act No. 10398 or the “National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children” being observed every 25th of November, and filed bills such as Rape Law amendment, Sexual Harassment Act amendment, Protection for Victims of Prostitution, and the Anti-VAWC Law amendment, among others.

PVAO Observes 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women

[ ANGELA KAYE F. CRESCINI ]

The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office strongly supported the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) with various programs and activities that sought to educate and empower both its men and women personnel about VAW.

On 27 November 2017, PVAO officially launched the 18-Day Campaign to End VAW during the flag ceremony. PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina encouraged male employees of PVAO to be involved in the protection of women and children and continue to uplift their welfare in all aspects of the society. The Administrator also led the signature campaign called MOVE or Men Opposed to Violence Everywhere, which aims to raise awareness on the relevance men can make in the elimination of VAW.

Among the activities launched on that day were: the GAD Exhibit; GAD Orientation for clients; a two-day Gender Sensitivity Training, which aimed to help understand and identify issues on VAW; a lecture on Female Reproductive Health, which promoted the reproductive well-being of women and raised awareness on the preventive measures for certain diseases; and a film showing depicting gender sensitivity.

Apart from these activities, Pangkat PVAO also participated in the programs of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), the primary policy-making and coordinating body on

women and gender equality concerns. On 09 November 2017, PVAO personnel participated in the Gender and Development (GAD) Budget Fora 2017 held at the Commission on Audit Main Office, Quezon City. This aimed to orient government agencies in mainstreaming GAD in their Annual Budget and Accomplishment Report.

Pangkat PVAO also witnessed the VAW Experiential Museum on 25 November 2017 at the Philippine Educational Theater Association, Quezon City. The experiential museum, led by student-actors, illustrated through theatre arts the different abuses on women which they experience at home, school, workplace, streets, and even online. PCW hopes that through the experiential museum, viewers will recognize the different forms of VAW and earn their commitment to fight these.

The 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) is being observed annually from November 25 to December 12, as mandated by Proclamation No. 1172, s. 2006. Such observance aims to protect the human rights of women and ensures the Government’s commitment to address all forms of VAW.

New PVAO Employees Association Officers and Board of Directors Inducted

[ ARLA E. FONTAMILLAS ]

PVAO Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina led the induction of the newly-elected Officers and Board of Directors of the PVAO Employees Association (PVAO-EA) during the weekly flag-raising ceremony held at the PVAO Covered

Administrator Carolina congratulated and reminded the officers that true leadership starts with one’s self. He assured his support to this year’s officers and encouraged every member of Pangkat PVAO to do their share in improving the morale and welfare of all.

This year’s PVAO-EA Officers are: Ferjamin J. Tagaro (President), Aebvee S. Hipolito (Vice President), Ma. Delfina A. Magtangob (Secretary); Marilou P. Celis (Treasurer); Cinderella S. Wayyas (Auditor); and Marigrace G. Manahan (P.R.O.).

The PVAO-EA Board of Directors are: Katherine T. Arrojo (Chairperson), Carlos V. Baltazar (Vice-Chairperson), Charmine Jane F. Lapitan (Board Secretary), Manuel B. Cabral (Member), Roberto O. Cruz (Member), Roberto D. Losabe (Member), and Maria Corazon T. Morgate (Member).

The PVAO-EA election was held on 03 October 2017 at the PVAO Covered Court. The PVAO-EA is mandated to promote and establish sound leadership and camaraderie among its members and maintain harmonious relationship and cooperation with PVAO Management. It also extends services to uplift the moral, social, and economic status of its members.

Court on 06 November 2017.

22 November 2017, Pasig City PVAO was conferred the Proficiency Stage and a Gold Trailblazer Award under the Performance Governance System (PGS) after successfully demonstrating to a distinguished panel its efforts in institutionalizing its systems and processes in ensuring the well-being of our war veterans and perpetuating the memory of their heroic deeds.

The PGS is the local adoption of the internationally- recognized Balanced Scorecard system of strategic planning for the public sector, which is currently being facilitated by the Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA). The PGS is a four-stage pathway to good governance, which promotes transparency and accountability by making governance a shared responsibility. Its stages include initiation, compliance, proficiency, and institutionalization. The Gold Trailblazer Award is given to agencies which major accomplishments have greatly created an impact to their respective stakeholders.

Through the KAGITINGAN Roadmap 2022, the agency’s eight-year strategic plan, PVAO endeavors to empower the veterans and motivate the country’s

www.pvao.mil.ph support@pvao.mil.phpvao.publicaffairs@gmail.com

Philippine Veterans Affairs Office

912-4526 / 912-4728

The Multi-Sector Governance Council (MSGC) is one of the governance elements under the Performance Governance System (PGS). It advises PVAO in the formulation, updating, execution, and monitoring of the PVAO KAGITINGAN Roadmap 2022.

PVAO GETS GOLD TRAILBLAZER AWARDCited for High Standard in Governance

future defenders. It aims to reduce the number of indigent veterans from 16,000 to 0 by 2022 and increase the number of “Kagitingan builders” through shrine development, local government unit (LGU)-led commemorations, and production of books, films, and materials about the valor and selfless sacrifices of the veterans.

Aside from the successful public revalida, PVAO underwent a third party audit on 04-15 September 2017 and a pre-audit assessment on 04 August 2017. Among the significant breakthroughs of PVAO are the payment of Total Administrative Disability (TAD) pension to living World War II veterans, and the increase in the number of military shrines.

Project Management Teams for Strategic Reorganization 2.0 and Learning and Development consulted former National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) President Fermin R. De Leon, Jr. and Philippine Veterans Bank Vice Chairperson Guillermo L. Parayno on 25 October and 08 November 2017, respectively. Valuable insights on organizational development were discussed.

Meanwhile, in a separate meeting on 25 October 2017, the Project Management Team Partner Tayo sa Bayani conferred with University of the Philippines – College of Social Sciences and Philosophy Dean Ma. Bernadette L. Abrera. Dean Abrera has agreed to publish a book regarding Filipino women heroes from the Revolutionary Period to World War II.