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Convergence (really) works!

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After almost four years of hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, members of the Eastern Visayas Technical Working Group—the “workhorses” behind the Regional Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Rural Development (RCI-SRD)—finally gathered again. They took part in the NCI-SRD National Secretariat Bill Advocacy Rollout held on September 2-4, 2025 at Hotel Alejandro in Tacloban City.

The timing could not have been more fitting, as controversies hound flood control projects in Congress. While lawmakers deliberate in both Houses, the NCI-SRD National Secretariat is busy pushing for the institutionalization of the National Convergence Strategy for Sustainable Rural Development (NCS-SRD).

This regional rollout follows similar advocacy activities in Mindanao and Luzon. Its purpose: to present the salient features of the proposed law and secure the support of local legislators for a strategy that has long proven its worth in bringing government agencies together to transform rural communities.

The NCS-SRD is a joint effort of four key agencies—the Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DA-DAR-DENR-DILG).

In her opening remarks, Dr. Jenny Lyn R. Almeria, RTD for Research and Regulations of DA-RFO 8, welcomed guests from the central offices and local participants from the region’s congressional districts. Representing Regional Executive Director Andrew Rodolfo T. Orais, she underscored the importance of learning more about convergence, recalling how the initiative first took root in Eastern Visayas through the highly successful LCAEC municipal model in Javier, Leyte.

Director Karen Kristine Roscom, head of the NCI-SRD National Secretariat, explained the long-standing push to institutionalize the program through various House and Senate bills—among them HB 0262, 3566, 5981, 7114, 7995, and SB 2918 filed by Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada. These measures aim to secure dedicated funding for convergence activities, ending the piecemeal practice of sourcing funds through attribution.

Roscom commended the strong participation of local government representatives, agency heads, and other stakeholders. Messages of support from mayors, congressmen, and even Senator Estrada’s office reinforced the momentum for institutionalization. A manifesto of support, signed by key participants, capped the event—symbolizing renewed commitment to convergence as a nationally recognized strategy for rural development and watershed management.

A notable highlight was Roscom’s assurance of expanding convergence efforts beyond Javier to the neighboring towns of Abuyog and MacArthur. The updating of CADPs for these areas is expected this year, with writeshops involving local stakeholders already being planned.

If successful, this expansion could replicate the remarkable transformation of Javier—from a sleepy town into a thriving rural community under then Mayor Sandy Javier, who championed the NCI-SRD model in 1999 and turned his municipality into an economic success story within nine years.

As one of the original members of the Regional Technical Working Group, and now alternate focal for RCI-SRD under RED Orais, I feel proud to witness this renewed vigor.
Our battle cry remains: Convergence Works! And today, we add: USWAG OTSO, PADAYUN!

Achieving exponential growth: A comprehensive guide

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Exponential growth, the kind that doubles or triples in short periods, isn’t just about luck; it’s a strategic pursuit. While not guaranteed, understanding and implementing the key principles can significantly increase your chances of achieving it. This article outlines a practical framework for driving exponential growth in any field, from business ventures to personal development.

1. Identify Your Core Strengths and Leverage Them

Exponential growth rarely stems from diversification. Instead, it’s about focusing intensely on what you do best and scaling that. Discover your unique strength: the value that makes you stand out. This could be a specific skill, a novel product, or a unique approach to a problem. Once identified, relentlessly refine and optimize this core strength. Don’t waste time on peripheral activities that don’t directly contribute to your core offering.
Example: A software company might identify its core strength as developing user-friendly interfaces. Instead of branching into hardware or marketing unrelated software, they should focus on perfecting their UI/UX design and scaling its application across their product line.

Application Tip: Regularly assess your performance. Use data analytics to pinpoint areas where you excel and those needing improvement. Focus your resources and energy on strengthening your core competency.

2. Embrace Innovation and Continuous Improvement

Stagnation is the antithesis of exponential growth. A commitment to constant innovation and improvement is crucial. This involves actively seeking new ideas, experimenting with different approaches, and iteratively refining your processes based on feedback and data. Embrace failure; it’s a stepping stone to success.

Example: A startup might initially launch a product with limited features. Based on user feedback and market analysis, they continuously add features, improve performance, and refine the user experience, leading to increased adoption and growth.

Application Tip: Establish a culture of experimentation and learning within your organization. Encourage employees to propose new ideas, test them rigorously, and share their findings open

3. Build a Strong Network and Leverage Collaboration

Exponential growth rarely happens in isolation. Building a strong network of collaborators, mentors, and partners can significantly accelerate your progress. Seek out individuals and organizations that complement your strengths and can provide valuable support, resources, or access to new markets.

Example: A small business might collaborate with a larger company to leverage their distribution network or marketing expertise. This collaboration can significantly expand their reach and accelerate their growth.

Application Tip: Actively network with individuals in your field. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and seek out mentorship opportunities.

4. Master the Art of Effective Marketing and Sales

Even the best product or service will fail to achieve exponential growth without effective marketing and sales strategies. Develop a clear understanding of your target audience and tailor your messaging to resonate with their needs and aspirations. Explore various marketing channels, from social media to content marketing to paid advertising, and continuously optimize your campaigns based on performance data.

Example: A fitness company might use social media marketing to reach a younger demographic, while also employing content marketing (blog posts, videos) to establish thought leadership and attract a wider audience.

Application Tip: Invest in data analytics to track the effectiveness of your marketing and sales efforts. Use this data to refine your strategies and maximize your return on investment.

5. Scale Your Operations Efficiently

As your business grows, you need to scale your operations efficiently to avoid bottlenecks and maintain momentum. This involves streamlining your processes, automating repetitive tasks, and investing in technology that can help you manage your growth effectively. Delegate non-essential tasks to focus on your strengths.

Example: A rapidly growing e-commerce business might invest in automated order fulfillment and customer service systems to handle increased demand without compromising efficiency.

Application Tip: Regularly review your operational processes to identify areas for improvement. Invest in technology and automation to enhance efficiency and scalability.

6. Embrace Data-Driven Decision Making

In the pursuit of exponential growth, data is your most valuable asset. Track key metrics, analyze trends, and use this information to inform your decisions. Avoid making decisions based on intuition alone; rely on data to guide your strategies and ensure you’re heading in the right direction.

Example: A marketing team might use A/B testing to determine which ad copy performs better, or track website analytics to identify which marketing channels are most effective.
Application Tip: Implement a robust data analytics system to track key metrics related to your business goals. Data-driven decisions fuel continuous strategy optimization.

Conclusion

Achieving exponential growth is a challenging but achievable goal. By focusing on your core strengths, embracing innovation, building strong networks, mastering marketing and sales, scaling efficiently, and making data-driven decisions, you can significantly increase your chances of achieving this ambitious objective. Remember that it’s a continuous journey requiring adaptation, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
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If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!

2 former NPA members surrender in Samar through PRO-8 efforts

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TACLOBAN CITY – The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) has facilitated the voluntary surrender of two former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in separate operations in Samar on September 1, 2025.

In Sta. Rita, elements of the Municipal Police Station and the Regional Intelligence Unit-8 assisted the surrender of alias “Jerry,” 35, a former member of SRGU Bugsok, SRC Sesame, and EVRPC, active from 2013 to 2022. With the help of a relative, he chose to leave the armed movement to pursue a peaceful life. He turned over a .357 caliber revolver with six live rounds, now under police custody for proper disposal.

On the same day in Calbiga, alias “Itong,” 53, a farmer and former member of the Apoy Platoon, SRC Sesame, EVRPC, yielded to the 2nd Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (SPMFC) after a series of negotiations. He is now under the protective custody of the 2nd SPMFC and has received initial cash assistance and grocery items.

Police Regional Director B/Gen. Jason Capoy lauded the police units involved, saying the peaceful surrender of former rebels reflects communities’ trust in government initiatives to maintain security and promote reintegration. Both returnees are being assessed for enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

PRO-8 reaffirmed its commitment to support the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and encouraged other active members of the communist group to surrender and embrace a peaceful and productive life.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

Higatangan Island submarine cable installation set to begin

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POWER SUPPLY. After years of suffering of inadequate power supply the island of Higatangan, Naval in Biliran will soon have a 24 hours and reliable power supply with the installation of a submarine cable to start this Saturday, Sept. 6. (PHOTO COURTESY)

Reliable power in sight

POWER SUPPLY. After years of suffering of inadequate power supply the island of Higatangan, Naval in Biliran will soon have a 24 hours and reliable power supply with the installation of a submarine cable to start this Saturday, Sept. 6. (PHOTO COURTESY)

TACLOBAN CITY – A long-awaited upgrade in power reliability for Higatangan Island, Naval in Biliran is underway as the installation of a 4-kilometer submarine cable begins on Saturday, September 6, 2025.

Officials from the Biliran Electric Cooperative (Bileco), led by general manager Engr. Gerardo Oledan and the bids and awards committee (BAC), inspected the submarine cable on Tuesday, September 2, at the port of Naval to ensure compliance with project specifications.

“The purpose of today’s inspection is to check the cable’s physical appearance against the technical proposal. We double-checked the diameter, conductor size, and length to ensure everything matches the specifications,” said BAC chairman and technical manager Engr. Edrich Sacare.

The project, handled by Sub’Seatech Contracting Corporation in partnership with Fabmik Construction and Equipment Co., Inc., will link Jubay village in Calubian, Leyte to Mabini village in Higatangan Island. Though politically part of Naval town, Higatangan is geographically closer to Leyte’s mainland.

According to Sub’Seatech Technical Staff Dennis Plaza, cable laying could be finished within a day if weather conditions cooperate, while cable burial is expected to take 15 to 30 days.
Currently, Higatangan’s electricity is rationed to only eight hours daily, from 3 pm to 11 pm.

Once the submarine cable is fully operational, residents and local officials anticipate stable, round-the-clock power service—an improvement expected to boost both quality of life and economic opportunities in the island, which is steadily growing as a tourist destination.

The Higatangan Island Submarine Cable Project is part of ongoing efforts to expand power access in remote island communities and support sustainable development in Biliran province.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

DSWD, Globe empower 4Ps beneficiaries with digital literacy, Pugay Tagumpay in Tacloban City

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TACLOBAN CITY-The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the region, in partnership with Globe Telecom, conducted a digital financial literacy program and a Pugay Tagumpay ceremony for Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries on September 3 at the People’s Center and Library in Tacloban City.

As part of the “e-Panalo ang Kinabukasan” initiative, 100 household-beneficiaries received new mobile phones from Globe Telecom to help them develop digital skills, manage their finances, and participate in the country’s digital financial system.

Meanwhile, 300 exiting household-beneficiaries were honored during the Pugay Tagumpay ceremony, receiving their “Sertipiko ng Pagkilala” in recognition of their improved well-being and successful completion of the 4Ps program.

The activity was attended by DSWD Assistant Secretary Elaine Fallarcuna of the Conditional Cash Transfer Group, 4Ps National Program Manager Director Gemma Gabuya, DSWD Eastern Visayas Regional Director Grace Subong, and local chief executives.

Director Subong underscored the importance of financial literacy in sustaining the gains of the program and ensuring long-term empowerment.

The event highlighted DSWD’s continuing commitment to strengthening the capacity of 4Ps beneficiaries while promoting financial inclusion across Eastern Visayas.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

Group flags P192 million ‘ghost’ flood control project

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GHOST PROJECT? A flood control project in Hernani, Eastern Samar, is being questioned by residents and tagged as a possible “ghost project,” as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) maintains that it has not paid the contractor of the project (PHOTO: NEIL CHRISTOPHER TAN)

In Eastern Samar

GHOST PROJECT? A flood control project in Hernani, Eastern Samar, is being questioned by residents and tagged as a possible “ghost project,” as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) maintains that it has not paid the contractor of the project (PHOTO: NEIL CHRISTOPHER TAN)

TACLOBAN CITY – A P192.3-million flood control project in Hernani, Eastern Samar has come under fire from concerned citizens who alleged that the infrastructure exists largely “on paper,” despite reports of an 84.72 percent completion rate.

In a social media post on August 30 addressed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the group claimed that the project—formally titled “Construction of Flood Control Structure, Barangay Batang–Barangay Garawon, Hernani, Eastern Samar” (Contract ID: 24I00046)—was only recently mobilized.

The contract was awarded to Amethyst Horizon Builders and General Contractor and Development Corp., a firm reportedly linked to the Discaya family, which has been cited in reports for securing billions worth of public works contracts.

The complainants alleged that manpower and equipment originally intended for Hernani were instead diverted to a separate flood control project in Barangay Soong, Llorente, which has also faced public scrutiny.

“This practice is a blatant violation of government rules. Each project has its own budget, manpower, and equipment. To divert resources between projects is not only illegal, it is a betrayal of public trust,” the citizens’ letter read.

According to government records, the Hernani project has a contract cost of P192,393,616.92, with an effectivity date of April 1, 2024, and an expiry date of January 25, 2025. It is being implemented by the regional office of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

In an official statement issued on Sunday, August 31, DPWH Region VIII denied reports that 80 percent of the project funds had already been released.

“Our records confirm that no such payments have been made,” the agency said.

It admitted delays in implementation but attributed these to temporary work suspensions to comply with environmental requirements and to address concerns raised by relevant authorities and stakeholders.

“These measures are vital to ensure that the projects are executed responsibly, sustainably, and with due regard for both the community and the environment,” DPWH added.

The complainants, however, rejected DPWH’s explanation, arguing that environmental safeguards should have been integrated long before implementation began.

“The rules leave no room for ambiguity: technical specifications, environmental safeguards, and the necessary permits should have been in place before a single peso from the General Appropriations Act was released. Yet here we are, confronted with a project bulldozing through a mangrove forest that should never have been ignored,” the group said, referring to the area where the project is located to have mangroves.

The citizens called on DPWH to release key project documents, including feasibility studies, preliminary and detailed engineering designs, and the project’s books of accounts, to prove transparency.

DPWH, for its part, maintained that both the Hernani and Llorente flood control projects will be completed as planned, stressing their importance in shielding Eastern Samar communities from recurring floods and natural disasters.

JOEY A. GABIETA, LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA

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