Volume VII * No. 2
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HE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released the shares of local government units (LGUs) from the 2013 collection of excise taxes on locally manufactured Virginia-type cigarettes, as well as on Burley and native tobacco, pursuant to Republic Act (RA) 7171 and RA 8240, as amended by RA 10351.
Based on Local Budget Memorandum (LBM) 72 issued last March 8 by DBM, allotments for a total of P10.69 billion were released to tobacco-producing LGUs nationwide. Under RA 7171, LGUs producing locally manufactured Virginia-type cigarettes are entitled to 15 percent of national tax collections. Thirty percent will be divided among the beneficiary provinces; 40% to the component cities and municipalities of said provinces (provided that 50% be divided equally among all the municipalities and cities of the beneficiary province and 50% to be divided according to the volume of tobacco production of tobaccoproducing cities and municipalities); and 30% to the component cities and municipalities computed based on their volume of production, based on the NTA certifications endorsed by the Department of Agriculture pursuant to Section 6 (c), Rule VI of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA No. 10351. NTA Administrator Edgardo D. Zaragoza, confirmed said release on his message for the “Oras ti Mannalon ti Tabako” radio program at DZVV in Vigan City last April 9. He said that, per DBM guidelines, the amounts are earmarked for cooperative, livelihood, agro-industrial and infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the productivity and advancing the welfare of tobacco farmers. The amount shall help improve the capacity of the LGUs to deliver basic services for their constituents, he added. Candon City received the highest share from said excise tax at P356.9 million, which is significant noting that as a fourth-class city, its annual income ranges from P160 million to P240 million. Cabugao, Ilocos Sur is set to receive
www.nta.da.gov.ph
March - April 2016
LGUs get revenue share from tobacco excise tax
Tobacco farmers like Jerry Ganotisi of San Roque, Sarrat, Ilocos Norte are expected to be the primary beneficiaries of the agro-industrial and infrastructure projects that the local government units will implement using their shares from the 2013 collection of excise tax on locally manufactured cigarettes and on tobacco. Jessie D. Calano / NTA Ilocos Norte
P331.28 million followed by Balaoan, La Union with P320.42 million; Narvacan, Ilocos Sur with P276.89 million; Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur with P264.49 million; San Juan, Ilocos Sur with P239.65 million; Santiago, Ilocos Sur with P232.38 million; Sinait, Ilocos Sur with P196.23 million; Magsingal Ilocos Sur with P183.07 million; and Batac, Ilocos Norte with P178.02 million. Three out of the top ten LGUs—San Juan, Sinait, and Magsingal—are thirdclass municipalities with an average annual income between P35 million and P45 million. Meanwhile, under RA 8240, LGUs producing Burley and native tobacco also received a share of 15 percent of incremental revenue. Of this share, 10 percent will go to beneficiary provinces and 90 percent to the component cities and municipalities based on the volume of tobacco production. The recipient of the highest share is Roxas, Isabela with P30.8 million, followed by San Jose, Occidental Mindoro with P30.76 million; Quirino, Isabela with P29.65 million; Aurora, Isabela with P24.98 million; Narvacan, Ilocos Sur with P18.58 million; Ilagan
City, Isabela with P16.9 million; Tumauini, Isabela with P16.45 million; San Fabian, Pangasinan with P15.14 million; Mallig, Isabela with P14.96 million; and Amulung, Cagayan with P14.8 million. Four out of the top ten LGUs—Roxas, San Jose, Tumauini, San Fabian—are first-class municipalities with an average minimum income of P55 million per year. Two LGUs—Quirino and Mallig— are fourth-class municipalities with an average annual income between P25 million and P35 million. For the release of their shares, recipient cities and municipalities must submit to the concerned DBM Regional Office the list of programs and projects they intend to implement using funds from the excise tax collection, in accordance with the menu under their respective Acts, and included in their approved Annual Investment Program. Proposals must be supported by an ordinance or a resolution approved by the local legislative body, mechanism and period of implementation as well as projected and estimated number of beneficiaries. Pls turn to page 9
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EDITORIAL
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Empowering the tobacco farmers and their families
HERE is no other time in the history of the Philippine tobacco industry when it felt so much threat than it has today. The global campaigns against tobacco and smoking led by the World Health Organization – Framework Convention of Tobacco Control continue to heat up. It caught up the halls of Congress, which enacted the Tobacco Regulation Act and Sin Tax Reform Law in line with tobacco control measures, drastically increasing and unifying the tax rates for cigarettes to make them less affordable. Import liberalization and global competition continue, with exports affected by currency devaluation. On top of it all, the weather condition has in the recent years become uncooperative, with the continuing extreme dry conditions due to El Niño phenomenon that swept the tobacco growing regions. The challenge has been very formidable for the government, NTA in particular, to cushion the adverse effects of above conditions, especially on matters of preparing our small tobacco farmers for any eventuality that may arise in the implementation of enacted laws. Undaunted, the NTA has continued to develop and implement various programs and projects under such circumstances. The Integrated Farming and Other Income Generating Activities Project (IFOIGAP) – Tobacco Contract Growing System, where the tobacco farmers are technically assisted by the NTA Extension Workers and provided production assistance, enables them to produce tobacco with the quality needed by both local and foreign markets. The AgriPinoy Projects provides tobacco farmers with alternative sources of income by producing the livestock and poultry raw materials of the Food Processing Plant, to be processed into high value products such as bagnet, Vigan longganiza, zesty bacon, tapa, tocino and barbecue, among others. The AgriPinoy Processing Plant includes a Feed Mill to purchase the feed crops raw materials from the farmers. To address ecological threats of climate change, projects to prepare the farming environment to be more conducive for the production of crops which are very sensitive to droughty conditions in contrast to the tolerance of tobacco have been promoted. The NTA has been supporting the National Greening Program through its Renewable Fuelwood Energy Farm Project and Restoration of Ecological Integrity. This project ensures the tobacco farmers of an adequate supply of fuelwood and at the same time conserves soil moisture, and promotes the establishment of water sheds. The project has also provided some tobacco farmers an extra source of income by producing tree seedlings which have been used in the annual Synchronized Tree Planting spearheaded by NTA starting in 2013 in all tobacco producing provinces/municipalities. To provide raw materials for the construction of curing barns/sheds, some farmers have been engaged by NTA in the production of bamboo seedlings and establishment and maintenance of bamboo farm plantations through its Kahuyang Pangkabuhayan at Pangkalikasan (KPP), which include tree and bamboo plantation modules. NTA is implementing the Irrigation Support Project for Small Tobacco Farmers (ISPSTF), which includes the construction of new irrigation systems, where the situation warrants, and the rehabilitation of existing Communal Irrigation Systems, in collaboration with LGUs, to ensure adequate water supply for crop production in general. This is in addition to extending facility assistance directly to individual tobacco farmers to provide themselves with irrigation pumps and other irrigation facilities. To enable the tobacco farmers’ families to gain opportunities for earning a means of livelihood aside from tobacco farming, deserving sons/daughters have been provided a scholarship program by which some have already graduated, not to mention that a few have graduated with honors. In addition, livelihood trainings have been conducted especially for members of the tobacco farmers’ family members in the Food Processing Plant and Trading Center. To maximize the facilities of the latter, the NTA established the AgriPinoy Training School which has been accredited by TESDA to conduct Slaughtering NC II, providing the graduates job opportunities not only locally, but abroad. It is interesting to note that the tobacco farmers prefer to stick with their tobacco farming for as long as there is a market for their produce. As such, NTA has to adhere to its mandate but at the same time prepare for any eventuality of the tobacco industry. is published bi-monthly by the Department of Agriculture,
National Tobacco Administration
Scout Reyes cor. Panay Ave., Quezon City, Tel. Nos. 3743987. Fax: 3732095. Website: www.nta.da.gov.ph.
Editor-in-Chief: Perlita L. Baula, Ph.D.
Managing Editor: Neyo E. Valdez
Writers: Ilocos Norte: Divina D. Pagdilao, Elaine A. Tinio; Ilocos Sur Vigan: Gilbert I. Yadao, Tomasito G. Taloza; Ilocos Sur Candon: Orlando O. Galdones, Analiza R. Gabuat; Abra: Ped Ruben B. Barbero, Ethelwolda C. Bosque; La Union: Emma Beth B. Fantastico, Candido I. Liangao; Pangasinan: Elizabeth Q. Biala, Alma G. Toralba; Cagayan: Bernadeth C. Tamayao, Gilbert A. Taguiam; Isabela: Joefrey T. Bautista, Manuel M. Beltran; FTSD-Batac: Felisa R. Aurellano; IRD Batac: Nelly U. Castro; AgriPinoy: Noralyn I. Idica; Central Office: Raquel F. Señga, Perla C. Manzon, Leonora N. Clarin, Eleanor A. Rapanut, Fortuna C. Benosa Consultants: Branch Managers
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Technical Editors: Rex Antonio P. Teoxon, Roberto R. Bonoan, Ph.D. Editorial Adviser: Administrator Edgardo D. Zaragoza
(Left Photo) Cherise Katriel Deslippe, 1st Runner-Up (Miss PTI), Precious Camille Bucad (Miss Virginia Tobacco 2016), and Ma. Khrissa Jessica Parado, 2nd Runner Up (Miss NTA), wave at their supporters during the pageant night. (Right Photo) NTA Candon Branch joins other agencies, department offices and civic group in the parade for Women’s Month Celebration. Neyo E. Valdez / Candon City File
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TA Candon Branch was actively involved in major activities during the Tobacco Festival 2016 on March 17 to 18. The annual celebration, which is one of the highlights of the celebration of Candon City’s 118th Anniversary of the historic “Cry of Candon” and the 15th Anniversary of its cityhood, promotes the country’s enduring tobacco industry. Activities include open trade fair, street dancing competition, marching band competition, beauty pageants, mountain bike competition, concerts, senior citizens and balikbayan night, and free acrobat show. Like in previous celebrations, the NTA Candon Branch conducted the Tobacco Quiz Bee and the search for longest tobacco leaf, and co-hosted the search for Miss Virginia Tobacco 2016 with the city government.
NTA hosts events at
Tobacco Festival 2016
NTA Scholar tops Tobacco Quiz Bee Anna Marie B. Abad, a graduating NTA-TFEP scholar taking up Bachelor of Technical Teacher Education at the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College copped first place of the Tobacco Quiz Bee held at the City Hall Lobby last March 18. Abad, 20 years old and a resident of San Nicolas, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur, received cash prize from Candon City Mayor Ericson G. Singson during the quiz finals and awarding ceremony. Second and third placers were Jan Ortiz of Poblacion Sur, Sta. Cruz Ilocos Sur, and Estrella Hafalla of Supang, Sta. Lucia, Ilocos Sur, respectively, both students of North Luzon Philippines State College, Candon City. The tobacco quiz bee was chaired by Dr. Roberto R. Bonoan, manager of NTA Industrial Research Department. Some 49 college students from the city and other municipalities in the second district of Ilocos Sur competed in the annual event. Orpilla wins Longest Tobacco Leaf anew During the month-long celebration, tobacco farmers took a break from harvesting leaves to participate in the Longest Tobacco Leaf contest on March 18 at the City Hall lobby.
CorPlan Manager Rex Antonio P. Teoxon (left) heads the board of Neyo E. Valdez judges in choosing the longest tobacco leaf.
For the second straight year, Felix Orpilla, 39, of Langlangka I, Candon City won first place in the Longest Flue Cured Virginia Tobacco Leaf, Topped category. Other winners in the Topped category were Loreto Calibuso of Allangigan I, second prize; and Elvie Alcantara also of Allangigan I, third prize. For the Neutral category, the winners were Benjamin Gacay of Allangigan I, first prize; Josefino Galima of Oaig Daya, second prize; and William Valdez also of Oaig Daya, third prize. Miss NTA Ilocos Norte is Miss Virginia Tobacco 2016 Miss NTA Ilocos Norte Precious Camille Bucad won the title Miss Virginia Tobacco 2016 during the pageant night held at the Candon Civic Center in Candon City. Bucad, 20, of Calayab, Laoag City, and BS Accountancy graduate of Northwestern University, is a former Miss Laoag 2015. Another NTA Ilocos Norte bet Ma. Khrissa Jessica Parado was crowned 2nd Runner Up (Miss National Tobacco Administration). In last year’s competition, Parado placed Top 6 and won major awards including Best in Talent. Miss NTA La Union Cherise Katriel Deslippe was 1st Runner-Up (Miss Philippine Tobacco Institute). Deslippe, one of the youngest contestants at 16, topped the Best in Swimwear, Best in Costume, Best in Talent, and Best in Evening Gown competitions. Twelve candidates competed in the event, which was participated in by the different NTA Branch Offices from Virginia tobacco-growing provinces. Other minor awards winners were Miss NTA Candon Jewel Alexandria Palacat, as Miss Photogenic, and Miss NTA La Union Charlene Villena, as Miss Friendship. Palacat and Miss NTA Vigan Mariz Apanatao joined the three major awardees in the Top 5. This is the fourth time a candidate from NTA Ilocos Norte won the top awards in the history of the beauty pageant. Previous winners were Kate Lao (2006), Arleine Villanueva (2008), and Princess Raihanie Salleh (2013). Guest of Honor was Ilocos Sur 2nd Dist. Rep. Eric D. Singson. Richard James, Corporate Affairs director of PMFTCI, chaired the Board of Judges with Oscar Barrientos, vice president of Mighty Corporation; Angela De Vera, Senior Brand Manager of Japan Tobacco International, Maybelen B. Dictaan, NTA Regulation Department Manager, and Rex Antonio P. Teoxon, NTA CorPlan Manager, as members.
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Tobacco Grower of the Year National Awardees CY 2014-2015
Antonio V. Salmasan
Virginia Improved Flavor Category by Divina D. Pagdilao, NTA Ilocos Norte
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OR Antonio V. Salmasan, winning the TGY National Award (Virginia Improved Flavor Category), is the product of vision and sacrifice. Every tobacco season, he grows Virginia tobacco in his 0.56 ha farm lot in Brgy. Camanga, Badoc, Ilocos Norte. The 62-year-old farmer has been a Virginia grower for more than a decade now, and we can say that with the span of Salmasan time that he tills this tobacco type, he is already an expert. Mang Tony, as he is fondly called, can easily manage a model The cost of production incurred by Mang Tony was farm of tobacco. He knows that he can’t go wrong using the P118,456 while his gross income was P268,041, giving him a recommended variety, NC 2326, and managing his farm with net income of P149,586 and production efficiency of P61.57 the recommended production technology from the NTA. per kilogram. His compliance with the technology and good agricultural In the summary of scores, Mang Tony won over the other practices, coupled with his inherent dedication to farming contestants in On-Farm Evaluation (Technology adoption, worked well in attaining his success. He is a contract grower overall physical condition of the plants, harvesting and of Universal Leaf Philippines, Inc. curing, farm recordings, and innovativeness) with 35.20 When I asked him his secret, he replied with a smile, points; Production, 54.08 points; and Production Efficiency, “Sacrifice.” According to him, a good harvest starts with a 10.02 points; or a 99.30 overall points. good seed, a good crop management, and at the end of the For Mang Tony, the support of his wife Emilia in all growing season, careful harvesting and postharvest handling his undertakings is a big factor in his victory. He is also of the leaves. He employs proper management every time very thankful to his assisting extension worker, Rhonnel P. he starts curing the leaves. He said that one of the most challenging parts in the curing is staying awake during curing Sulicipan, Tobacco Production and Regulation Officer I, who guided him throughout the contest period, and to the Ilocos nights, especially at crucial stages in the curing process. Norte Branch Officials headed by Branch Manager Mario However, he needs to remind himself that this sacrifice is E. Corpuz and Chief Agriculturist Candelario P. Corpuz, for imperative to get the best quality of his leaves after six days. their regular field visitation. And his sleepless nights for the past two cropping seasons Mang Tony is a perennial farmer-cooperator of NTA rewarded him great honor and recognition, as he outscored developmental projects. Prior to his recent recognition, he other contenders from the different tobacco growing was also awarded as Provincial Winner for Ilocos Norte in the provinces in Region I for the TGY National Award, the TGY for crop year 2012-2013, Outstanding Tobacco Farmer highest award given by the agency to the tobacco farmers. in the Implementation of TCGS under TMI Projects (given His average yield was 3,083 kilograms per hectare, with by TransManila, Inc. And NTA) in 2011, and Outstanding a very high quality of cured leaves, which is 91.67% (only 6.31% of medium grades, 2.02% of low grades with no reject Grower, Virginia Full Flavor Tobacco Category, Provincial Winner CY 2001-2002 (given by NTA and the Associated tobacco). The adjusted average price, based on current floor Anglo American Tobacco Corporation). price, is P73.40/kg.
Winnie M. Vite,
Virginia Neutral Category
by Immanouel Aguilar Rafanan, NTA Vigan
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Vite
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INNIE Marcelo Vite, winner of Tobacco Grower of the Year (Virginia Neutral Category) for crop years 2014-2015, was born and raised to the life of farming. Though educated as computer technician, Winnie chose to till their farm in Barangay Caronoan in San Juan, Ilocos Sur. Being born and raised by tobacco-producing parents, he got into tobacco farming early in life. “I continued what my parents and my siblings have started,” he said. He believes that there is progress in farming, after all “it is one of the noblest professions in the world as it is the farmer’s sweat, blood and tears, that are the very foundation of the country’s development,” he added. Vite had reasons to take pride in growing tobacco, which, he said, is the major source of income for his family. With tobacco farming, he was able to build a modest house for his family and was able to purchase farm implements and tools and additional farm lot for tobacco production. When the 36-year-old farmer was nominated as a contestant, he and his wife Jovelyn did everything they could to win. From the earliest stage of seedbedding all the way to the marketing of cured leaves, they strictly adhered to the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and made sure that no Non-Tobacco Related Materials (NTRMs) contaminated their produce. He said that he got ample support for tobacco production from the agency, especially Branch Manager OIC Faustino O. Taal and Cleofe V. Argel, Tobacco Production and Regulation Pls turn to page 9
March - April 2016
Tracing the NTA Livelihood Trainees by Felisa R. Aurellano
The participants during the two-day training on Meat Processing, held at the AgriPinoy Tobacco Farmers Food Processing and Trading Center in Nanguneg, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur; (Bottom) a promotional poster for the livelihood training courses in 2014.
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IVELIHOOD trainings are a vehicle for social progress and eco-
nomic development. Employment, whether self-made or paid, is the zenith of livelihood trainings. Once employed, the socioeconomic condition of a person is leveled up. National Tobacco Administration collaborated with the industry’s major partners such as the academe and other training providers to come up with comprehensive livelihood training courses. The trainees of the NTA livelihood training courses in food business, agribusiness, arts and crafts, and health and wellness in 2014 were traced after a year. A tracer study* was conducted to assess the employability and socioeconomic status of the trainees, who are dependents of the tobacco-growing families. Their profile, perceptions, and aspirations were likewise drawn. Of the 1,234 trainees (from Regions 1 and 2 and Abra) who attended, 289 respondents were identified based on a strategic sampling formula. Majority of them, those who belonged to early to middle adulthood (20-39 years old) were married females. The pretext that the males are more involved in farming activities was the reason why the livelihood trainings were intended for the women and children of tobacco-growing families. Moreover, women today have more
access to education, options for higher income jobs, and right to social norms for equality. The trainees classified as employed are the government workers and private employees; self-employed are the farmers, businessmen, and others; and the unemployed are the students, jobless, pensioners, and housewives/househusbands. There was a significant change in the employment status of the participants after the trainings. Sixteen participants became employed and 12 participants became entrepreneurs or self-employed by applying their trainings. They saw good business opportunities in their environment and were confident to start business.
The socioeconomic status before and after the training was measured by the type of house structure, presence of household and farming amenities, water source for domestic use, and type of latrine, while still early in its implementation, barely a year after the training. Some remarkable improvements have already been shown on the aspects of house structure, water source, and latrine. There was also an increase in all the household and farming amenities. While 59.52% of the trainees applied their acquired skills, the rest (40.48%) were not able to do so, due to lack of capital, equipment, and manpower, being still deeply involved in the tobacco farming activities. Tobacco production on a hectare basis of any tobacco type entails an average of 240 man-days from seedling production to marketing. As a follow-up to the training program, the agency earmarked P10-M in November 2014 as livelihood seed capital assistance to the farmers or their dependents who graduated from the training courses who would set up their own businesses. The trainees rated NTA 96.89% on their trust level. Most of them are satisfied with NTA’s projects, services, technologists, and respect for people. The result gives justice to the existence of NTA as the sole agency to improve the economic and living conditions and raise the quality of life of the tobacco farmers including those who depend upon the industry for their livelihood. Notably, the trainees still consider farming as a lucrative profession, and it is where their expertise lies. (Industry experts said that farming is going to be one of the great professions in the next 10 to 20 years.) For the 59.52% trainees who applied their acquired skills and knowledge either for personal/family consumption or for employment, the livelihood training courses became a gateway to employability and thus resulted in a cascading effect on the family income of the tobacco farming families. Moreover, the tobacco farming families cannot forgo their tobacco production in favor of any venture and will continue to do so for as long as there is a demand for the tobacco leaf and its products. * Employability and Socioeconomic Analysis of the Participants of the NTA Livelihood Training Courses by Felisa R. Aurellano, Imelda N. Riùen, Alexis B. Jamias, Gilbert I. Yadao, Feliza R. Directo, Nora A. Corre, Elvira N. Sambrana, Jovita G. Briones, Gilbert A. Taguiam, Manuel M. Beltran
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SCHOLARSHIP
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5 NTA scholars graduate as cum laude
TOTAL of 69 NTA scholars under the agency’s Scholarship Program for tobacco farmers’ dependents graduated from their respec tive courses this school year, five of them topped their class and graduated as cum laude. Candon Branch had the most number of graduates, with 24 of its 173 current scholars completing their tertiary courses in various colleges and universities in Ilocos Sur. Three are graduating cum laude from Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College. They are Anna Marie Abad and Angelo Edeleon, both finished Bachelor in Technical Teacher Education (BTTE), and Krystal Mae Combis, who finished Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd). Ginalyn Obillo, BS Agriculture cum laude, led six other scholars who finished their courses in DMMMSU-NLUC in Bacnotan, La Union. Obillo, 21 from Apatut, Balaoan, La Union, now works as casual employee at the Municipal Office of Agriculture in her hometown. The other top graduate is Karla Mae Cardona, BS Agriculture from Isabela State University. NTA Administrator Edgardo D. Zaragoza said the scholars topping their respective classes would only show that given the opportunity, students can excel and eventually realize their dreams. The NTA started offering scholarship grants to deserving college students, who are dependents of tobacco farmers, in school year 2011-2012. The program is an incentive for local farmers who engage in tobacco production. It is in line with the Tobacco Free Education Program embodied in Republic Act No. 9211 or Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003. The agency gives preferences to those who will enroll in an agriculture-related field of study. NTA TFEP scholars get monthly allowance from the agency to ensure that they have a source for transportation and miscellaneous expenses. Breakdown of graduates from the
Cagayan Branch officials, headed by Branch Manager Dr. Corazon R. Riazonda, pose with the scholars and their parents during the special program prepared by the Branch Office for the graduates. NTA Cagayan
other branches are as follows: Isabela, 11; Vigan, 10; La Union, 7; Abra, 7; Cagayan, 6; and Ilocos Norte 4. A total of 450 college students from different tertiary institutions in tobacco-growing provinces were given scholarship grants at the start of school year 2015-2016. Almost 40% of them are enrolled in BS agriculture or agriculturerelated degree programs. Since its initial implementation in SY 2011-2012, a total of 739 children of tobacco farmers have been supported under the TFEP grants, of which 147 have finished their degree courses as of April 2016. Administrator Zaragoza said 284 new slots were made available for incoming college freshmen at the start of school year 2015-2016, a number which was nearly twice the previous year’s 138 grants. The slots are distributed among the provincial branch offices, with Can don (Ilocos Sur 2nd District) having the biggest allocation at 70 slots. Other branch offices have the following allocations: Ilocos Norte, 36; Vigan (Ilocos Sur, 1st District), 28; Abra, 22; La Union, 24; Pangasinan, 22; Isabela, 46; Cagayan, 16; and Occidental Mindoro, 20. “It was timely that we double the
slots in the just-concluded school year, because this coming school year (20162017), we have to suspend giving new grants for the next two years with the implementation of the K to 12 program,” he said. According to Zaragoza, as soon as the students finish their Senior High School or Grade 12, scholarship grants await deserving children of tobacco farmers who enter college.
3 top grads visit Candon Branch The top graduates, all students of Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College, paid a courtesy call on Banch Manager Estrella G. De Peralta and other senior staff, in separate occasions this year. First to visit was Anna Marie B. Abad, BTTE cum laude graduate. Abad, of San Nicolas, San Esteban, Ilocos Sur, topped the Tobacco Quiz Bee during the Candon Tobacco Festival last March 18. Angelo Edeleon, also BTTE cum laude graduate, in his visit to the branch office, brought with him a letter of gratitude to NTA Administrator Edgardo D. Zaragoza. Edeleon of Mambug, Santiago, Ilocos Sur, said that the scholarship lessened the financial burden of his family during his four-year education. He said he is the
(Left Photo) Four of the scholars, including cum laude graduate Ginalyn Obillo (shaking hands with La Union Branch Manager Dr. Giovanni B. Palabay) visit the Branch Office after graduation. (Right Photo) Anna Marie Abad, cum laude graduate, presents her diploma to Candon Branch Manager Estrella G. De Peralta and other Branch officials during a courtesy call in the Candon Branch Office last April. . NTA La Union; NTA Candon
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first one to graduate in their family. Like Abad and Edeleon, Krystal Mae Combis, a BEEd cum laude graduate from Camarao, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, also visited the branch office to express her gratitude to the agency. (Neyo E. Valdez)
Cagayan Branch fetes scholars Six of this school year’s batch of 40 scholars of the NTA Scholarship Program completed various degree programmes in Cagayan State University, for the second semester of SY 2015-2016. The graduates were feted by the Cagayan Branch in a special program attended by the parents of the graduates and other NTA scholars, at the branch office in Tuguegarao City last April 8. The graduates are Marie Pearl Cabbab, Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED), CSU Caritan Campus; Antonette Dumayag, BS in Agriculture, CSU Lallo; Gladys Echavari, BS in Hospitality Industry Management (BSHIM), CSU Caritan; Aprile Ferrer, BSED, CSU Carig; Reylyn Marcos, BSED, CSU Carig; and Michelle Uadan, BSHIM, CSU Caritan. The graduates were admitted to the scholarship program in 2012. (Bernadeth C. Tamayao)
L.U. scholars had OJT in Israel Prior to their graduation, three NTA scholars from La Union Branch underwent on-the-job training (OJT) in Israel. They were Judith Morales, BS Agriculture, major in Crop Science (Horticulture); Bonifacio Caranto, BS Agricultural Technology, and Ryan Leoncion, BS Agricultural Technology all from DMMMSU-NLUC. The training, from September 2014 to October 2015, covered Agro Studies centered on Agriculture Capacity Building which include main farm activities such as basic irrigation management, harvesting, pruning, spraying, thinning, packing, and post harvest technology. The scholars’ OJT in Israel was in line with the cooperation of the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, Center for International Agricultural Development Cooperation, Israel’s Agency for Traditional Development Cooperation under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Population and Immigration Authority. Other graduating scholars from the Branch include Ginalyn M. Obillo; Kristine D. Tangalan, BS Agriculture; Edison N. Olbinado, BS Agriculture, major in Crop Science (Horticulture); and Jenelyn P. Banayat, BS Food Technology. (Candido I. Liangao)
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AN EXTENSION WORKER by Kristin Mae S. Castañeda
work is not easy” “someone EXTENSION is an understatement. For whose previous job did not involve convincing people to adapt to change and whose venue of work was in air-conditioned rooms, extension work isn’t easy.
As a new extension worker of the National Tobacco Administration, I am expected to know the latest tobacco technology and share my expertise to farmers. Quite frankly, I wasn’t an expert when I entered this job, and I don’t expect to be, so soon. Given that I lack experience in tobacco farming, and much of what I know about is only based on literature, I put upon my self the initiative to learn. During the first few weeks, I read techno manuals and attended seminars, and asked questions from expert extension workers (EWs). They say nothing breaks a farmer’s trust more than seeing an inexperienced EW so I avoided looking and acting too ignorantly come field work. Extension work does not only require knowledge. It also requires punctuality. Since my area of work is two hours away from home, I have to wake up and travel early to be there on time. Had I been a good motorcycle driver, commuting and routing San Fernando City’s mountainous barangays wouldn’t be a problem. But I commute and at tricycle’s road end (drivers decline to go up the elevated roads), I am on my own, enduring fatigue from walking. But I learned to get by such inconvenience. It was only a matter of getting used to and learning to love the job. Extension work also requires patience. At times, going to and fro is inevitable because the farmer isn’t
home to sign documents (e.g., CIVs, farm plans) the first time. That would be doubling my effort, sweat, and fare, but I understand that it’s a part of the job that I can’t avoid. I also encounter farmers who ask countless times about their monetary release, and would try to borrow my personal money when it is delayed. Extension work also requires hard work and convincing ability. With Sin Tax Law and the government’s strengthened campaign against cigarette smoking, farmers who used to grow tobacco believe that the industry is gradually dying and in effect, they become too skeptic in planting. But with honest explanation and a little persuasion, I have recruited some farmers to try again. But extension work is not always about negativity and hardship. It also provides a lot of chances of learning, and somehow, with continued exposure to the field, not only to share my knowledge about tobacco technology to farmers but also to learn a thing or two from them without them knowing. And it is just so satisfying to be a medium of help from the government thru the agency reaching out to farmers who are very much in need of financial assistance and technological guidance. Doing extension work is indeed not easy, and with tobacco trading coming up, more challenges will be faced for sure. But I only have to think about the people relying on my assistance and look forward to doing my job with optimism, and extension work now comes easier. Kristine Mae Castañeda got her permanent appointment as Tobacco Production and Regulation Officer (TPRO) I for the La Union Branch in June 2015.
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NTA CAGAYAN
Project Implementation UPDATES by Dr. Corazon R. Riazonda
(DSR) 2015-2016, per request by the tobacco farmers. Some 86 farmers with a total area of 31 hectares participated this cropping season. The farmers were so happy with this project because the NTA management is supporting them in the rice commodity, which is another income-generating activity project of the farmers. According to them, the project is a great help in improving the quality of life of the tobacco farmers. They requested the NTA Management to increase the production assistance for rice so they can also increase their area. Cagayan Branch Manager Corazon R. Riazonda during an orientation with the scholars.
IFOIGAP- Tobacco Contract Growing Systems For the province of Cagayan, 1,086 tobacco farmers with an area of 694.46 hectares for both Cigar Filler and Burley tobacco were registered under this program for Crop Year 2015-2016. Fifteen tobacco-producing municipalities with a total of 98 barangays participated in the program including the Province of Kalinga of the Cordillera Autonomous Region. All the farmers are contract growers of Universal Leaf Philippines Inc (ULPI), the sole contracting buyer firm of Region 2. Marketing of tobacco started last April 26, 2016 and is still going on.
Tobacco Grower of the Year Contest (TGY) Twenty tobacco farmer contestants participated in the contest for Crop Year 2015-2016. Of the total contestants, 14 farmers are for Burley category and six are Cigar-filler. The TGY Provincial Branch Technical Committee conducted monitoring and evaluation from transplanting, early vegetative, post-harvest activity and marketing of tobacco. All other data were monitored and evaluated based on the implementing guidelines. Some of the farmer contestants rated high on their marketing activity and the rest are on the curing, conditioning, fermentation, and baling of their tobacco.
IFOIGAP- Rice The Branch Office implemented the Dry Seeded Rice
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For Crop Year 2016, 73 bamboo seedling growers registered for CY 2016, but because of the effect of El Niño in the province, only 27 of them started raising the seedlings. There was a high mortality rate for potted seedlings. With the foregoing scenario, it is expected that the target of 25,000 seedling production cannot be attained.
Synchronized Tree Planting (Branch-Managed Nursery Project) The seedling nursery for the Synchronized Tree Planting (STP) is managed by the Branch Office, as this is more economical for monitoring purposes. The activities for the project are sowing, planting and maintenance of the seedlings. The seedlings target of 110,000 is expected to be produced and to be distributed for the STP, under the National Greening Program, on July 30. Potted seedlings include mahogany, gmelina, kawkawate, ipil-ipil, butterfly tree, palm tree, and ilang-ilang.
NTA Scholarship Program For School Year 2015-2016, six scholars graduated with different courses. The parents of the above scholars are so thankful to the NTA Management, headed by Administrator Edgardo D. Zaragoza, for the scholarship grants given to their children. They said that the program will help them improve their quality of life through their children who will someday became professionals.
Cabagan, Isabela gives aid to farmers
HE local government of Cabagan, Isabela, headed by Mayor Rodolfo B. Albano gave hand tractor units with 8 Hp Kubota diesel engine and complete farm implements (disk plow, harrow, spike, and trailer) to 100 tobacco farmers in the municipality last March 9. The farmers, who were registered tobacco growers for Crop Year 2015-2016, were grouped into 11 clusters with seven to 12 farmers per cluster. Each cluster was given a unit of the hand tractor. Every cluster selected a leader who will be the safekeeper of the hand tractor. The farm equipment will be used for their tobacco, rice, and corn farming activities. The use of the facilities is governed by the guidelines that include the responsibilities of the cluster leader, record/fund keeper and members; the upkeep or maintenance of the machine; and minimal service fees to be collected. The funds raised by every cluster in the use of the hand tractor will be for the wage of the operator and maintenance of the unit. Engr. Oliver U. Masigan represented Mayor Albano during the distribution of the farm tools and implements, assisted by NTA Isabela Branch officials. (Manuel M. Beltran)
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Renewable Energy Farm—Kahuyang Pangkabuhayan at Pangkalikasan
March - April 2016
PROMOTIONS CHARITO M. Salazar (left photo) and Alberto C. Casison (right) take their oath of office in separate occasions in March for their promotion to higher positions. Administrative Department Manager Dr. Cristina C. Lopez administers the oath of office to Salazar, who was promoted from Budget Officer II to Budget Officer IV of the Finance Department at the Central Office in Quezon City. Casison, who was promoted from Tobacco Production and Regulation Officer (TPRO) I to Agriculturist II of the La Union Branch, takes his oath before La Union Branch Manager Dr. Giovanni B. Palabay at the branch office in Bauang, La Union. NTA also promoted two others, with Civil Service Commission’s approval, last month. They were Myrna D. Salut, promoted from Agriculturist II to Senior TPRO of the Ilocos Norte Branch Office, and Leah M. Ramones, from Secretary I to Computer Operator II of the Isabela Branch Office. N.E. Valdez / Sinfrosa Valmonte
TGY 2015-2016 Provincial Contest Evaluation ILOCOS NORTE
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HE Branch Technical Committee (BTC) of NTA Ilocos Norte conducted two rounds of evaluation of the Tobacco Grower of the Year (TGY) contestants for crop year 2015-2016. The first visit conducted on February was the evaluation of the 14 farmer contestants on the area, variety and crop stand of the covered farms and the initial record-keeping. The second visit, conducted on March, was the evaluation on harvesting and curing activities of the farmer contestants, specifically on the quality of the third priming/curing. Also evaluated were the farm and curing barn facilities, proper handling and storage of the Crop Protection Agents (CPA) and accessories through the availability of CPA storage cabinet, and the innovations employed to achieve farming goals. The updated farm record was also scrutinized by the BTC evaluators. The third and final evaluation will be done based on the sales and marketing record. It is mandated by the guidelines of the project that all of the produce of the registered area or 100% cured leaves must be delivered to the contracted buyer firm. “Otherwise, pole vaulting will be a ground for disqualification of the contestant,” according to Branch Manager and BTC Chair Mario E. Corpuz (in PHOTO, seated). Assisting technicians of the contestants (nine for Virginia neutral flavor category and five for Virginia improved flavor) are now in the process of consolidating the farmer contestants’ records and assisting in post-harvest handling/marketing, and assessing the grading of the buyer firms in accordance with the NTA grading system. Other members of the BTC are Chief Agriculturist Candelario P. Corpuz, vice chair, with Myrna D. Salut, Senior Tobacco Production and Regulation Officer (TPRO), Engr. Jesusa D. Calano, and Saturnino A. Agatep, both TPRO III, as members. Divina D. Pagdilao
GCG inspects Ilocos Norte Branch
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HE Governance Commission for the GOCCs (GCG) visited the NTA Ilocos Norte Branch Office to evaluate the performance of the branch and agency as a whole on March 21. GCG is the central advisory, monitoring, and oversight body with authority to formulate, implement and coordinate policies governing government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs). The GCG assessed the composite NTA departments in Batac City: the Ilocos Norte Branch Office headed by Mario E. Corpuz, Department Manager III; the Farm Technology and Services Department headed by Officer-in-Charge Imelda N. Riñen; and the Industrial Research Department with Engr. Cecilio A. Cabigan, Chief Science Research Specialist. The GCG evaluation team, composed of Clariza Mae Columna, Yaneeza Macapado, and Samuel Concerman II, evaluated the social impact of tobacco production as measured by the yield and income obtained by the services rendered to the tobacco farmers. Also evaluated were the services and projects of the agency such as tobacco production assistance, Kahuyang Pangkabuhayan at Pangkalikasan, and livelihood trainings for tobacco growers and their dependents. The research and development projects in the agricultural and industrial aspects of tobacco were also assessed. Tobacco production technology, other industrial uses of tobacco, and social researches that were evaluated and approved by external R&D linkages were included in their concerns. (Felisa R. Aurellano)
Winnie M. Vite.. from page 4 Officer 1, who guided him throughout the contest period. According to Manager Taal, among the more than 5,000 tobacco farmers in the second district of Ilocos Sur, Winnie is best in his industry and a winner in strict adherence to the good practices and technology in tobacco growing as recommended by the NTA. Winnie entered the contest with his 1.65-hectare farm planted to Virginia-Neutral type, earning a gross income of P144,372/ha. His yield average was 2,085 kg/ha, with a very high quality of cured leaves at 72.49%. The adjusted average price, based on NTA floor price, was P69.24/kg. He said that he will use his victory to serve as a model for his fellow farmers, to encourage them to strive and work hard so that they, too, will be recognized for their efforts. “I will also encourage them to support all the programs and projects of the agency, such as the tobacco contract growing system, rice production, renewable fuelwood production, tree planting, scholarships, and livelihood seminars,” he added. Winnie took the podium during the awards night in December 18 last year to speak in behalf of the awardees, expressing his gratitude to the agency and to all those who stand and fight for the tobacco industry, and to all those who recognize the contribution of tobacco farmers in the country’s development. “This victory is dedicated to our fellow tobacco farmers, to NTA, to all who depend on the industry for their livelihood, and above all, to God’s glory. Mabuhay po ang mga magsasaka ng tabako. Panalo tayong lahat at mabuhay po tayong lahat!” he said.
LGUs get revenue share from... from page 1 LGUs must also prepare and publish quarterly reports on fund utilization and the status of project/program implementation, pursuant to Rule VIII of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 10351. Zaragoza said that DBM issued said new guidelines, repealing the old system where DBM automatically releases the excise tax shares to the LGUs. “The new system will ensure transparency and accountability in the use of the shares,” he said. Meanwhile, DBM also issued on March 8 LBM No. 73 that prescribes the guidelines on the release of the remaining shares of the local government units which were not released on the basis of Supreme Court’s decision on post-enactment interference to lump sum appropriations. The Memorandum’s attachments indicate that unreleased shares for Virginia tobacco LGUs for the years 2008, 2009, and 2011, amounted to P239.1 million, with Cabugao, Ilocos Sur and Balaoan, La Union receiving the two highest shares at P32.9 million and P30.4 million, respectively. For the Burley and native tobacco LGUs, unreleased shares amounted to P508.1 million for the years 2008, 2009, and 2011 with Amulung, Cagayan and Aurora, Isabela receiving the two highest shares at P71.2 million and P67.1 million, respectively. (Neyo E. Valdez)
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March - April 2016
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TOBACCO TRADING 2016
TRAININGS, SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS, CONVENTIONS
ATTENDED BY NTA OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES March - April 2016 Minerva P. Mizal Milagros Rufina C. Doria
Cesario G. Sambrana
Dinah E. Pichay
TRADING for Virginia tobacco in Ilocos Sur formally commenced with the opening last March 2 of the PMFTC trading center in Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur, one of the three trading centers for Virginia in the second district of the province. Branch Manager Estrella G. De Peralta and some senior staff of the Candon Branch office inspected the grading and weighing of tobacco during the opening day. The Candon Office covers the whole of second district of Ilocos Sur, with about 40% of the total hectarage of Virginia tobacco farms in the country in the current cropping season. Photo Credit: NTA Candon
Paulino B. Abenojar Jr. Virgilio A. Garcia Potenciano H. Apilado Felisa R. Aurellano Jesusa D. Calano Divina L. Pagdilao Randy I. Abella Avelina O. Guzman, Warlito V. Oribello Amelia V. Lacaden Central Office Staff Arnold B. Melosantos
Anneli Tahra A. Alzate
VIOLETA Gayona (in pink shirt), of the NTA field office in Occidental Mindoro, inspected the grading and weighing of tobacco during the first day of trading at the PMFTC buying station in Labangan, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro last April 18. For crop year 2015-16, about 700 hectares of farmland in the province are planted to tobacco, with 1,030 registered tobacco farmers from six tobacco-growing municipalities. Photo Credit: V.E. Gayona
QAD gathers leaf samples for evaluation
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HE NTA Quality Assurance Division (QAD) gathered leaf samples of Virginia and Burley in tobacco growing provinces in Region 1 and Abra from April 25 to 29. Alfonso E. Sabado and Dina B. dela Reyna, QAD’s Supervising Science Research Specialist and Chemist III, respectively, visited the provincial branches to collect leaf samples pre-identified by the branch technicians. QAD collects leaf samples every year for physical and chemical evaluation and for materials in lecture and training for leaf grading. And for this year, QAD will also get the cost-andreturn analysis of the proposed Philippine harmonized grade standard for tobacco leaves. According to Sabado, the physical evaluation will include the elements of quality, namely, percentage of maturity, body, color, width, and leaf structure. Chemical evaluation will include the nicotine, reducing sugar and chloride of the leaf. The leaf samples were gathered from pre-selected farmers and graded by the branch technicians. Before the start of the trading season, the branch technicians, who serve as focal persons in leaf gathering, attended a briefing-orientation conducted by Lina Cera, QAD Chief Science Research Specialist, and Sabado.
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March - April 2016
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10th DTI series of Regional Conferences on “Industry Roadmaps and the AEC Game Plan: Roadmap Localization for Competitiveness,” Hotel Ariana and Restaurant, Paringao, Bauang, La Union, March 4 CESB Seminar entitled, “The Eight Essentials to a Winning Persona,” Bayleaf Hotel, Muralla 2 & 3 Hall, Intramuros, Manila, March 18 First Forum of Heads of Internal Audit Service/Office, CY 2016 with the theme, “An Assessment of Internal Auditing in the Public Sector,” RM Hall, 2/F, SSS Bldg., East Ave., Quezon City, April 13 13th Int’l Engineering Conference & Exhibition, 66th PSAE National Convention & 27th Phil. Agricultural Engineering Week, Teatro Ilocandia, MMSU, Batac City, Ilocos Norte, April 2430 Symposium for Renewal of Accreditation for Researchers, TREES Training Rm., College of Forestry, UP Los Baños, College, Laguna, April 14 Orientation/Awareness Program on ISOV9001:2008, Office, April 20 4th Batch of the Business Process Review Training/Workshop, DA Central Office, Arturo R. Tanco, Jr. Hall, Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City, April 25-29 38th Annual National Convention of the GACPA, Ibalong Centrum for Recreation, Legazpi City, April 27-30
La Union Branch manager graces Sudipen’s RBO Day
A Union Branch manager Dr. Giovanni B. Palabay was the guest of honor and speaker during the celebration of the Rural-Based Organizations’ Day in the Municipality of Sudipen, La Union last April 25. The affair was attended by the members and officers of the town’s rural-based organizations, namely Rural Improvement Club (RIC), 4H Club, and Pambansang Magnanalon, Magbabaul, Mag-uuma, Magsasaka sa Pilipinas (P4MPs). The ruralbased organizations (RBOs) spearheaded the activity that showcased agricultural and handicraft products of the municipality. The Municipal Agricultural Office (MAO) employees and local government officials headed by Mayor Wendy Boquing also joined the event. In his speech, Palabay gave the members of the organizations pointers in the attainment of their success. According to him, there should be cooperation among members and officers; obligations to the association must not be neglected by the members; and active and progressive organizations must do good service to their members. He said that the three RBOs in Sudipen have similar intentions and objectives which is to help in the alleviation of the life of the farmers including their families. Palabay also presented the various programs and project of the National Tobacco Administration and offered the farmers some of the projects, such as the Kahuyang Pangkabuhayan at Pangkalikasan (ipil-ipil production) and the IFOIGAP Rice Production, that might be of help to the RBO members. Palabay commended MAO Sudipen headed by Catalina Pang-ot for its unwavering support to the three rural-based organizations in the municipality. (Candido I. Liangao)
NTA AgriPinoy News by Noralyn I. Idica
The second batch of graduates with (seated, from left) Administrative Officer and School Registrar Noralyn I. Idica, Program Trainer Arthur Castillanes, Training School Director and NTA AgriPinoy Operations Manager Minerva P. Mizal, Fred Baroña, Administrative Officer V of TESDA Abra, and Arnel Q. Gallardo, Supervising TESD Specialist of TESDA Ilocos Sur. NTA AgriPinoy
AgriPinoy Training School
graduates second batch of trainees
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NOTHER batch of 20 trainees completed Slaughtering Operations NC II, a short butchery/slaughtering course accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) at the NTA AgriPinoy Training School. In a simple closing rites at the NTA AgriPinoy Food Processing Facility in Nanguneg, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur last March 28, the trainees were awarded their completion certificates which they can use for employment both domestic and abroad. Fifteen of the trainees are sponsored by the Provincial Government of Abra. They are Ranz Jehiel Amate, Zyryz Bañaga, Eric Barbero, Sahid-Khan Crisanto Bersamin, Benzon Kasther Buenafe, Darius Cabading, Jupiter Cabading, Michael Cabading, Robin Jansen Day-em, Edward Jann Guzman, Christian Paul Quibilan, Rodelio Rodel Sawadan, Jan Kevin Tordil, John Mari Angielo Viernes, and Edwin Villamor Jr. NTA sponsored five of its workers
assigned at the Slaughtering section. They are Ruel Cabaya, Bernard Andrew Cabrales, Erwin Estefanio, Fin Jefferson Famorca, and Ernesto Funtanilla. Sawadan, speaking in behalf of the trainees, thanked NTA and the training school for giving them opportunity to earn a training certificate that could help them find better jobs. The training school, which was formally launched October last year, is headed by AgriPinoy Operations Manager Minerva P. Mizal as school director, and Arturo D. Castillanes, head of the Slaughtering Section and a holder of National Technical Vocational Education and Training Cer tificate (NTTC), as Trainer. Meanwhile, 20 trainees, comprising the third batch, started their training also on March 28. Of the number, 15 are sponsored by TESDA Regional Office 1 and five from NTA-APP. The training induction program of the third batch of trainees was conducted by Larry Dizon, Administrative Officer V of TESDA Ilocos Sur.
2 senior staff pass assessment on Food Processing NC II
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WO senior staff of the NTA AgriPinoy Food Processing and Trading Center passed the competency assessment on Food Processing NC II conducted on March 5 by Helen S. Aqui of the Pangasinan Technical Institute Assessment Center in Binmaley, Pangasinan. They were Leonarda Federico, Production Supervisor, and Clemencia Franco, Quality Control Officer, both of the Operations Division’s Meat Processing Section. Food Processing NC II is a short TESDA course that trains students in the commercial preparation of processed food. Through this program, they learn about common food processing procedures, the basic steps involved in food handling, and operating common food processing equipment. The course is a prerequisite in taking up the Trainers Methodology Certificate, which is one of the requirements in putting up a Training School for Food Processing.
NTA-APP joins National Women’s Month celebration THE NTA-APP female staff headed by Project Manager Minerva P. Mizal joined the National Women’s Month Celebration spearheaded by the Local Government of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur on March 8. The local celebration, with the theme “Kapakanan ni Juana, Isama sa Agenda,” was initiated by Narvacan Vice Mayor Fayinna Pilar S. Zaragoza. Highlights of the celebration were a
grand parade around the town, a short program which ushered in the opening of the month-long Free Medical and Dental Services for women in the municipality, and the Search for “Tanging Ina of Narvacan.” Mizal served as Chairman of the Board of Judges in the Search participated in by the different barangays in the Municipality of Narvacan.
Clemencia Franco (left) and Leonarda Federico of NTA AgriPinoy NTA AgriPinoy
March - April 2016
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Administrator Zaragoza with the department and branch officials during the signing of the NTA Quality Policy. N.E. Valdez
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ENTRAL Office managers and staff and all provincial branch managers attended the orientation/awareness program facilitated by the Administrative Department and representatives of Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) held at the NTA Central Office in Quezon City last April 20. The one-day seminar is in connection with the development of a Quality Management System (QMS) certifiable to ISO 9001:2008 for the NTA, which is part of the paper presented by Dr. Cristina C. Lopez, Administrative Department Manager, to the participants. According to Lopez, the project aims to assess and enhance NTA’s current management systems based on applicable standards/framework, i.e., the Government Quality Management Systems Standards (GQMSS) and ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System standards suitable to NTA’s operations covering Technology Assistance, Extension and Production Support Services, Research and Development, and Regulatory Services. Lopez said that the agency expects sincere commitment from the employees in working together with the QMS Core Team towards continual improvement of the management systems. Rex Antonio P. Teoxon, Corporate Planning Manager, talked on the objectives, legal basis, principles, and benefits of ISO 9001:2008 QMS. “The agency, as in other departments and agencies of the government, needs to be competitive with other nations, achieve the Philippine Development Plan, enhance the citizens’ trust and confidence, and have the drive for excellence in Public Service,” he said. Teoxon heads NTA QMS Core Team. The members, who are also Task Group Chairpersons, are Lopez (Deputy QMR), FTSD OIC Imelda N. Riñen, IAS Manager Dinah E. Pichay, IRD Manager Dr. Roberto R. Bonoan, Regulation Department Manager Maybelen B. Dictaan, La Union Branch Manager Dr. Giovanni B. Palabay, Finance Department Manager Ma. Teresa B. Laudencia, Priscilla S. Esguerra, and Raquel Leilani F. Senga.
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March - April 2016
NTA holds orientation seminar, training course on quality audit for ISO 9001:2008 According to Teoxon, a good government administration cannot be of lower quality than its clients, largely the private sector. He said it is the ageny’s mission to improve the quality of life of the tobacco farmers and other stakeholders through increased productivity and other income-generating activities. Executive Order 605, signed by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in February 2007, directs the adoption of ISO 9001:2008 QMS among all departments of the Executive branch, including all GOCCs and GFIs. Parts of the goal of ISO 9001 Certification is to demonstrate that the organization has a management system conforming to the requirements of ISO 9001, show that the system is effective in achieving the desired outputs, and show that it has consistent conforming products or services and enhanced customer satisfaction. One of the highlights of the program was the signing of the NTA Quality Policy by Administrator Edgardo D.
Zaragoza. This was witnessed by Deputy Administrator Everin F. Molina and the department and branch managers. Also present were DAP representatives, Dr. Christian S. Eparwa, Project Manager, and Michelle Ann Abaya, Training Facilitator. In line with the development and implementation of the NTA QMS, the agency organized its Internal Quality Audit (IQA) Team headed by Pichay and Dictaan, Team Leader and Vice Team Leader, respectively, and 23 assigned auditors from the different departments and branch offices. The team attended the training course of IQA, facilitated by the DAP, at the NTA Training Room in Quezon City, last April 26-29. The team is tasked to conduct internal quality audits based on the approved Audit Program/Plan/Itineraries for purposes of management review, to confirm the effectiveness of the QMS, or to obtain information for its improvement.
NTA QUALITY POLICY The National Tobacco Administration, as the steward of the tobacco industry, commits to provide customers with distinct quality—Research and Development, Technology Assistance, Extension and Production Support, and Regulatory Services. Further, we affirm this commitment through: n Application of continually improving, cost-effective, incomeincreasing and environment-friendly approach of Quality Management System, for the stakeholders of the Tobacco Industry; n Compliance with the applicable Policies, Rules and Regulations of the Philippine Government concerning NTA operations and the Tobacco Industry; and n Ensuring the quality of programs and services to the full satisfaction of the customers through the provision of adequate and timely support, number and quality of expertise and active consultation in their development, implementation and review for continuing enchancement. This Quality Policy shall be made known to all employees and stakeholders, and shall be reviewed periodically for its continuing suitability.