Catarman N. Samar– The Department of Public Works and Highways Northern Samar First District Engineering Office has recently completed the construction of a multipurpose facility along with the installation of a dual-purpose structure serving as both a port and shore protection in Brgy. Barobaybay, Lavezares, Northern Samar.

The project, amounting to P9.89 million, involves the construction of an 18m x 5m Multipurpose Facility strategically designed to serve the needs of the community, offering a versatile space for residents to gather and wait, particularly for passengers traveling to and from the neighboring barangays and island towns.

Additionally, a 40m x 10m area of reclamation serves as both a vital port and a protective barrier against coastal hazards. Functioning as a designated area for vessels to dock and unload cargo, this port enhances maritime operations and supports local commerce. Simultaneously, it acts as a frontline defense mechanism, safeguarding the shore against storm surges and rising sea levels.

Andres B. Martires, a resident of Barangay Barobaybay, expressed profound gratitude for the project’s impact, stating, “The completion of the multipurpose facility and the installation of the port and shore protection structure have been a game-changer for us. It has provided much-needed shelter from the elements, offering a comfortable space for residents and travelers alike.”

Commencing on November 27, 2023, and concluding on March 7, 2024, more than one month ahead of schedule, this project signifies a significant milestone in the development of Barobaybay, Lavezares, Northern Samar.
(ANALIZA A. PABIA, PIO Alternate/PR)

Catarman N. Samar– The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) continues to fortify its commitment to the professional development of its workforce with the successful completion of a two-day Remote Computer Proficiency Examination (CPE) held on March 25-26, 2024.

This initiative, organized by the DPWH Information Management Service (IMS), has profoundly benefited 72 employees of the Northern Samar 1st District Engineering Office (DEO).

Under the vigilant guidance of the IMS and with unwavering support from District Information and Technology Support Officer Franchette L. Dones, the examination rigorously evaluated the computer skills of clerical and technical staff within the Northern Samar 1st District Engineering Office.

District Engineer Alvin A. Ignacio underscored the significance of nurturing essential digital competencies among employees. He emphasized, “In today’s swiftly evolving technological landscape, proficiency in computer skills is not merely advantageous but essential. This examination exemplifies our commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and advancement within our department.”

The examination, designed to assess a broad spectrum of computer competencies, aimed to equip employees with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of modern-day digital tools and technologies effectively.

This initiative underscores DPWH’s ongoing efforts to empower its workforce and ensure they remain equipped to meet the challenges of today’s digital landscape. The department remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and excellence among its dedicated employees.
(ANALIZA A. PABIA, PIO Alternate/PR)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Visayas received several recognitions during the agency’s National Summative Assessment held in Angeles City, Pampanga for the 2023 performance.

DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director Robert Anthony Yu proudly announced that from March 5 to 8, Region 8 collected 19 certificates and plaques of recognition for various indicators that contributed to the national accomplishment of the said government agency.

He exclaimed, “Our efforts paid off!” addressing all DAR employees throughout the region.

Topping the list of awards received was for the resolution of agrarian-related cases where the collective efforts of Regional Agrarian Reform Adjudicator (RARAD) Virgilio Rosacay (concurrent PARAD of Leyte and Biliran), Provincial Agrarian Reform Adjudicators (PARADs) Florenz Hipe (Southern Leyte), Nellie Canillas (Western Samar), Bryan Lassiter (Eastern Samar), and Editha San Jose-Cerillo (Northern Samar) placed DAR Eastern Visayas at rank number one among regions with heavy caseloads.

The above-mentioned adjudicators were able to resolve last year a total of 4,157 agrarian-related cases.

This region was also cited, among others, for the following: First in Agrarian Legal Service for regions with low case load; second in E-title Registration for Leyte under high category and in Field Validation for Leyte under high category; second in E-title Registration for Region 8 under high category; second in Provincial Performance on all ARBDSP Indicators for 2023 for Samar; second in Regional Performance on all ARBDSP Indicators for Region 8; second in Regional Over-All ARBDSP Performance for 2023; environmental and social safeguards outstanding data compliance award; and outstanding financial performance as one of the highest Budget Utilization Rate for 2023 for Southern Leyte.

(JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA/PR)

TACLOBAN CITY – District Engineer Leo Edward Oppura of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)- Leyte 2nd District Engineering Office (L2DEO) has announced the completion of the P26.46 million Katubigan (Kalsada Tungo sa Patubigan) project in Binahaan north river irrigation system—main canal service road in Pastrana town.

According to Oppura, the road concreting project was funded under the 2023 DPWH Sustainable Infrastructure Projects Alleviating Gaps (SIPAG) initiative, covering 2,186 linear meters with a 5-meter width of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP).

Additionally, concrete stone masonry was implemented to protect the irrigation canal, mitigating soil scouring and erosion caused by water flow.

Farmers along the road network are now reaping the benefits of the newly concreted road, as it helps them reduce hauling and transportation costs, thereby increasing their income.

Moreover, the local community utilizes the paved road for their day-to-day travel needs, including commuting to school, work, accessing social services, and other related activities.

The upgraded road significantly improves travel conditions, especially during the rainy seasons, eliminating the inconvenience of bumpy and muddy roads.

The DPWH-SIPAG initiative aims to stimulate economic activity by creating more livelihood opportunities and facilitating quicker access to social and educational services.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)