Panagtapok is derived from the Visayan term for gathering. November’s highlight was DBM RO XIII’s 25^th Anniversary held last November 9, 2023. The celebration served as a testament to the organization's journey, showcasing not just a milestone but an expression of gratitude to officials and employees who played pivotal roles in RO operation. It was an occasion to foster unity and camaraderie among employees, both past and present as well as the active partners who have contributed to the achievement of DBM RO XIII for twenty-five (25) years, bringing together current and former officials, employees, and esteemed guests. The "Panagtapok!" celebration not only celebrated the achievements of the past 25 years but also set the stage for a future filled with active partnerships, innovation, and dedication to public service.

CSO Exposition for Strengthening Citizens' Participation in Governance

DBM RO 13 played a crucial role in the event organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), aptly named "Sustaining Gains in Strengthening Citizens' Participation in Governance: Caraga Experience."

The exposition showcased and celebrated the robust and meaningful collaboration between Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Local Resource Institutes, Non-Governmental Agencies (NGAs), and the government, particularly the DILG. The goal was to emphasize the importance of genuine participatory governance in fostering a dynamic and responsive relationship between the government and the citizens.

As a key partner in the event, DBM RO 13, represented by Mr. Elvin D. Chatto, actively participated in various activities, such as the Regional and Provincial Dagyaw, that underscored the significance of citizen and CSO participation in governance. The DBM's involvement demonstrated its commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the decision-making processes at the regional level.

The DBM's presence at the exposition reinforced the understanding that citizen and CSO engagement play a vital role in the effective implementation of government programs and projects. By actively participating in the event, DBM RO 13 contributed to the exchange of ideas and experiences that will further enhance the region's governance mechanisms.

National Nutrition Council (NNC) Regional Cluster Meeting and Implementation Review of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2017-2022 and Regional Plan of Action for Nutrition (RPAN) 2017-2022

Members of the Regional Nutrition Cluster convened to discuss the National Policy on Nutrition in Emergencies, Accomplishment Report post Odette and Updating of the regional capacity map. Supervising BMS Ms. Katrina Emmanuelle L. Yap, focal person for NNC, represented DBM as one of the member agencies of the council.

Members of the Regional Nutrition Technical Working Group including the representatives of LGUs participated in the two-day Program Implementation Review (PIR) of the Regional Plan of Action for Nutrition (RPAN). The PIR aims to assess and evaluate targets planned and identify the gaps and challenges encountered in the implementation.

Outputs shared during the workshop will be helpful in the polishing of the RPAN 2023-2028. Moreover, identified gaps and its actions shall be used to strengthen the implementation of the plan. The workshop fleshed out analysis on the actual targets and accomplishments, facilitating and deterring factors, identified strategies and programs that will contribute to PPAN and draw commitments from partner agencies and LGUs.

Shaping Regional Infrastructure Development

DBM RO 13 actively participated in the 4th Quarter 2023 meeting of the Regional Development Council-Infrastructure Development Committee (RDC-IDC) through Ms. Edna P. Jamolin, Chief Budget and Management Specialist.

The meeting covered various agenda items aimed at advancing infrastructure development in the Caraga Region. Key topics discussed during the session included:

1. Updates on the Agreements Reached and Resolutions Passed During the Previous RDC-IDC Meeting (18 September 2023)
2. Construction of Airport and Bus Terminal in Bislig City
3. Request for the Municipal Government of Nasipit, Agusan Del Norte to Pass an Ordinance Penalizing Ticket Scalping Activities in Nasipit Port
4. Suspension of Pass-Through Fees Along National Roads and Other Roads Not Constructed by the Local Government Units
5. FY 2025 Annual Investment Program (AIP) and FY 2025-2027 Three-Year Rolling Infrastructure Program (TRIP) of the Infrastructure Sector.

Ms. Jamolin's active involvement ensured that financial considerations were thoroughly addressed, contributing to well-informed and strategic decisions for the region's progress.

Technical Working Group (TWG) Meeting for Family, Women, and Children’s Welfare of the City Government of Butuan

Ms. Rhona Mae U. Gabia, Budget and Management Specialist II, participated in the City’s Technical Working Group (TWG) Meeting of the Committee on Family, Women and Children’s Welfare. The primary focus of the meeting was to address pressing issues affecting the well-being of families, women, and children, specifically, in the allocation of funds and other financial concerns of the proposed ordinance.

The TWG is composed of stakeholders from the City Legal Office, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine National Police (PNP), and numerous local entities.

16th Caraga RDC: Strengthening Regional Coordination for Socioeconomic Growth

The Department of Budget and Management Regional Office XIII (DBM RO XIII) represented by Mr. Paul A. Abarca, Chief Budget and Management Specialist, attended the 116th (Fourth Quarter 2023) Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) Meeting.

The 4^th Quarter meeting passed several resolutions to bolster the coordinated efforts and synergy leading to improved outcomes for the Region. It endorsed the Department of Agrarian Reform’s (DAR) Support for the Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) Project three-year extension. This project aims to improve land tenure and security and strengthen the property rights of agrarian reform beneficiaries. Its extension and subsequent completion supports the Region’s aim to attain food security, promote social protection, strengthen rural-based organizations, and expand access to markets and enterprises as enshrined in the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2023-2028.

The meeting likewise highlighted the Council’s approval of the Region’s PHP281.73 billion FY2025 Annual Investment Program (AIP) and PHP540.73 billion FY2025-2027 Three-Year Infrastructure Program (TRIP), and the awarding of the 2023 Search for Outstanding Volunteers (SOV) and Search for Outstanding Local Project Monitoring Committees (LPMC) winners.

4th Quarter 2023 RDC-Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) Meeting

Ms. Jamolin participated in the 4th Quarter 2023 RDC-RPMC Meeting which brought together key stakeholders, government officials, and project managers to discuss and analyze ongoing infrastructure projects. By addressing challenges, ensuring financial transparency, and prioritizing community impact in Caraga region, the outcomes of this meeting set the tone for the upcoming year, shaping the trajectory of regional projects and fostering a collaborative and effective approach to development.

DOH CHD-Caraga Year-End Assessment of Local Health System Maturity Level

Ms. Jamolin represented the DBM RO XIII at the Department of Health-CHD Caraga’s Year-End assessment of the Local Health System Maturity Level. The assessment discussed future directions and potential areas of improvement. Recommendations were submitted to  policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to further strengthen local health systems under the Universal Health Care Act.

DBM RO 13 Employees Excel at PRIME Conference, Elevating Performance Management Strategies

In a demonstration of commitment to continuous improvement and excellence, Ms. Desiree Ruben, Budget and Management Specialist II, and Ms. Judi Acdal, Supervising Administrative Officer, actively participated in the Planning, Review, Integration, Monitoring, and Evaluation (PRIME) Conference held from November 15 to 17 at the SMX Clark, Pampanga.

The 31st National Children's Month Celebration

The DBM RO XIII dedicated a month to commemorate the 31st National Children's Month (NCM) in line with the theme "Healthy, Nourished, Sheltered: Ensuring the Right to Life for All." This annual celebration in the Philippines, also known as "Buwan ng mga Bata” marks the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) on November 20, 1989, pursuant to R. A. No. 10661.

DBM RO XIII demonstrated its commitment by actively participating in various NCM-related activities throughout November. These included reciting the Panatang Makabata in our vernacular during Monday Convocations and joining the 31st NCM Motorcade and Kick-Off Activity. It also contributed to Project BAHANDI—an outreach program to Residential Facilities and Indigenous People Communities and attended the Araw ng Parangal - RCWC Culmination Program.

The NCM celebration emphasized evidence-based and inclusive healthcare and nutrition services for children. DBM RO XIII actively supported these goals, aiming to equip children, parents, and caregivers with accurate information to combat health misinformation. The RO's involvement reflects its ongoing collaboration as an active member of the Regional Committee for the Welfare of Children in Caraga, emphasizing the continuous commitment to promoting and protecting children's rights in the region.

DBM RO XIII Joins Nationwide Effort to End Violence Against Women

Ms. Acdal represented DBM RO XIII at the kick-off celebration marking the commencement of the annual 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW). Aligned with Presidential Proclamation No. 1172, s. 2006, and Republic Act No. 10398, s. 2012, the campaign emphasizes the collective impact of individual efforts in achieving a VAW-free Philippines. Beyond the kick-off event, DBM seamlessly integrated campaign materials into its Monday Convocations and activities, reinforcing the commitment to raising awareness and fostering safe spaces through the display of the Official Banner and recitation of the Safe Spaces Pledge.

Unlock the Power of Data through the Art of Infographics

In a dynamic session on data visualization using infographics, Clark Jessan A. Lubrio, Administrative Officer III, attended a training/workshop on visual graphics to transform complex statistics into compelling narratives. The workshop aimed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills needed to harness the potential of infographics for quick, clear, and effective communication of data.

The significance of data visualization was emphasized from the outset. In an era inundated with information, the ability to convey statistics in a visually engaging manner is not just a skill but a necessity. Trainers from the Philippine Statistical Research and Training Institute (PSRTI), through the Philippine Statistics Authority - RSSO XIII (PSA-RSSO XIII), guided the participants through the art of storytelling with data, demonstrating how infographics could be powerful tools for making information memorable and impactful.

An interactive segment allowed participants to experiment with creating their own infographics. The participants were provided hands-on guidance, ensuring that everyone gained practical experience in translating data into visually compelling stories. This practical approach fostered a deeper understanding of the principles shared during the session.

The workshop also explored various online tools and software available for designing infographics, enabling participants to explore and choose platforms that align with their preferences and needs. The workshop emphasized the importance of staying updated on the latest tools to adapt to the evolving landscape of data visualization.

As the session concluded, participants left with a newfound appreciation for the art of infographics and the ability to transform raw data into captivating stories. PSRTI’s commitment to sharing knowledge and skills in data visualization marked the event as a stepping stone for participants on their journey toward becoming adept visual communicators in the data-driven world.

Strengthening Resilient and Inclusive PFM Systems in LGUs and Roll-out of the Budget Operations Manual for LGUs, 2023 Edition

Last November 13-17, 2023, DBM RO XIII conducted a capacity building training for the Provinces, Cities and Municipalities of Caraga Region. The training emphasized the enhanced guidelines on budget preparation and authorization phased including updated frequently asked questions. The DBM RO XIII Senior Officials served as resource persons, with invited guest speakers from the Bureau of Local Government and Finance (BLGF) and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center.