Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Reporter 2 2020 (Aug07)
Reporter 2 2020 (Aug07)
C O U A
REPORTER M I D
N
AC T I
V
O
I D - 1 9
Gawing Lingkod Bayani Ang Bawat Kawani
O
C URAGE A D
Volume 61 No.2 2nd Quarter 2020 Issue
N D
CSC sets alternative
work arrangements
COURAGE AND
ACTION AMID
COVID-19
CO M I
The Man Behind the
A
The Virtual Civil Servant: Pinoy-made
N
O 9
Building Your Professional
1
COVID-19 Testing Kit
I
T
-
Online Brand
AC D
Dr. Raul V. Destura
I
Director of the National Training
Public Service
V
Center for Biosafety and Biosecurity,
National Institutes of Health;
Delivery and
O
Deputy Executive Director of
the Philippine Genome Center,
Innovations
C URAGE A D
University of the Philippines -
Manila
N D
CO M I
If COVID-19 is
A
Contagious,
N
9
so is Courage
O
T I
- 1
Spotlight on
AC
ID
COVID-19
Frontliners
COVID-19 and
our mental
health
1
?
05
Public Domain
ADVISORY TO CLIENTS:
07
From the Chairperson’s
Desk
What's inside
08
Please refer to the list of services below and the corresponding Contributors
contact information for online transactions.
Office Services/
Concerned Transactions
9 10 10 11
NEWS
Integrated Requests for the following may be sent to [email protected]: CSC sets alternative work Agencies now required to Civil service exams CSC holds webinar
Records arrangements have OSH Program cancelled, SALN on alternative work
Management 1. Certification and Authentication of Civil Service eligibility deadline extended due to arrangements
Office (IRMO) • Career Service (Professional and Subprofessional) Examinations COVID-19
• Civil Service Examinations (CSE) conducted in collaboration with other agencies (e.g.
Foreign Officer Examination, Fire Officer Examination, Penology Officer Examination, Basic COVID-19
WORK FROM
Competency on Local Treasury Examination) HOME
• Civil Service Eligibility granted under Special Laws and CSC Issuances
4. Employee Records (Appointment Paper and Leave Records for those who were assigned in
12 13 16
REGIONAL
NEWS
agencies under the jurisdiction of the National Capital Region and Regional Office No. IV from
Civil service anniversary CSC Regional Office V Strengthening Health
CY1980 to CY1989
highlights technology, champions innovation Protocols for a Safe &
malasakit amid COVID-19 Healthy CSC RO XII
5. Service Card in various agencies from CY1930 to CY1989
Those who have earlier made appointments through the CSC’s Online Registration, Appointment,
and Scheduling System (ORAS) will be advised of the new appointment schedule via email in due
time. For questions and clarifications, please email at [email protected].
During this period of closure, NO documents or printed communications, including mail deliveries
from couriers and postal services, shall be received at the CSC IRMO. However, clients with urgent
concerns/ requests for different Offices in the Central Office may email [email protected].
17 20
CITIZEN’S
GUIDE
Office for Legal 1. Request for Certificate of No Pending Administrative Case/ CSC Clearance, email to Public service delivery Guide to Online Filing
Affairs (OLA) [email protected] innovations in the time of and Submission of SALN
COVID-19
en ’s e
2. Request for Certified True Copy of Records/ Documents, email to [email protected]
3. Request for Legal Opinion and Legal Assistance on CSC Laws, Rules and Regulations through
the Online Forum platform found at the CSC website, www.csc.gov.ph
C i t i z G u i d
Forms may be downloaded from the CSC website, www.csc.gov.ph. Clients will be advised of the
date of pick up and corresponding legal fees.
STORY
COVER
3. The following may be viewed online and downloaded (as online resources): The man behind the
a. List of accredited Learning and Development Institutions (ALDI) Pinoy-made COVID-19
b. Policy Guidelines for ALDI testing kits
c. L & D Plan
2 3
Maraming salamat,
What's inside 28
? COVID-19 frontliners!
EXECUTIVE
LETTER
Government Workers in
the New Normal
! !
32 38 40
SPOTLIGHT
HR
!
Courage Professional Online
Brand
42 44
LINGKOD
BAYANI
Shifting HR practices in Pamanang Lingkod
the time of COVID-19 Bayani:
What does the HR Spotlight on Covid-19
landscape look like now Frontliners
and in a post-pandemic
world? (Part 1 of 2)
47 48 50
HEALTH and
WELLNESS at
WORK
CSI
Name:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Agency:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Where do you usually get a copy of the CS Reporter? Government employee? : If a government employee:
Mail subscription Yes Years of service in government:
Online (csc.gov.ph) No 1-5 years
Others: _________________________________ 6-10 years
10-15
How do you dispose old copies of CS Reporter?
16-20
Throw in a bin
21-25
Add to the piles of old magazines & newspapers
and sell to recycling centers/junk shops 26-30
Give old copies to friends 31-40
41 years and above
T
Recycle or reuse
Donate Sector: Level: his year’s second quarter has and Support Mechanisms for Workers in “the future belongs to the most agile individuals
Others: _________________________________ National Government First level been very difficult for all of us. the Government During the Period of State and organizations who are willing to accelerate
One day we were working and of National Emergency Due to COVID-19 and embrace new possibilities presented by
Local Government Unit Sec ond level
Publications and Media Relations Division
Reader’s Profile:
Public Assistance and Information Office
chatting with our colleagues within Pandemic, and CSC-DOH-DOLE Joint technology and paradigm shifts. This will signal
1/F, Civil Service Commission Building
Age: Gender: State College or University Third level our office’s premises; the next day, Memorandum Circular No. 1, s. 2020 or the emergence of public sector leaders who
18-24 Female Government Owned and Controlled Corporation we were instructed to stay at home due to the the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) do not shy away from the challenges brought
danger posed by COVID-19 transmission. Standards for the Public Sector (see page 50). by Fourth Industrial Revolution but gravitate
25-35 Male Government Financial Institution
Organizations were forced to implement toward it; who do not see digital advancement
36-45 Others: __________________________________________ alternative work arrangements. While our We gathered stories of COVID-19 frontliners, as threatening but welcome it as something
frontliners—medical and social workers, and placing in the limelight the man behind the creative, exciting, inspiring, and enriching.”
IBP Road, Batasan Hills
46 to 55
CS Reporter should feature more articles on: law enforcers—risk their lives to faithfully Filipino-made COVID-19 detection kit—Dr. If you wish to see the full transcript of this
56 to 65 perform their duties outside their homes, Raul V. Destura (story on page 22). In the keynote message, see the Executive Letter on
1126 Quezon City
CSC sets
Ethel T. Montemayor
Editor
Citizen’s Guide | Lingkod Bayani
alternative
COVID-19
Erika Jean C. Cabanawan WORK FROM
Editor HOME
work
HR Spotlight | Executive Letter
arrangements
Editor
News | Regional News
T
Lorraine Luna P. Danipog
Editor
Cover Story | HR Spotlight (co-editor) he Civil Service Commission
(CSC) has made available
multiple alternative work
Jaymee M. Mata
arrangements (AWA) that
Editor government agencies can adopt For areas placed under GCQ, employees Agencies may use a combination of two
Health and Wellness at Work while the entire country is placed under a aged below 21 and those who are 60 or more aforementioned AWA, including
State of Public Health Emergency due to years old and above, as well as those with any other type of work arrangement it has
Zendy Mae Garcia-Budhi, CSC Office for Legal Affairs the coronavirus disease-2019 or COVID-19 immunodeficiency, co-morbidities or other adopted. They shall formulate their internal
Rona Jane B. Nunez, CSC RO V pandemic. health risk, pregnant women, including rules and regulations to effectively implement
Rizza A. Necesito, CSC RO XII those who reside with the aforementioned, the AWA they adopted. These guidelines must
Contributing Writers These are work-from-home arrangement, shall be under WFH arrangement, except include the appropriate AWA for employees
skeleton workforce, four-day or compressed when their services are indispensable who travel to and from areas placed under
workweek, and staggered working hours. An under the circumstances or when office different quarantine levels, e.g., from ECQ
Melendriz Jane P. Teves
work is permitted. area to GCQ area and vice-versa or from
Layout agency may also adopt work arrangements
quarantine-free area to ECQ or GCQ area.
Issuances consisting of a combination of these, or
Skeleton (Skeletal) Workforce pertains
other work arrangements appropriate and
applicable to the agency considering the to a work arrangement where a minimum To ensure that public service delivery is not
Mark Christopher Z. Perolino number of employees is required to prejudiced during the implementation of AWA,
prevailing community quarantine in the area
Art Director | Layout provide service at the office when full a monitoring mechanism, such as submission
where it is located and the nature of work
performed by its employees. staffing is not possible. Agencies in GCQ of daily or weekly accomplishment reports,
Jessie N. Panlilio areas shall adopt skeleton workforce as must be implemented.
Photography “These may be difficult times, but it is one of its AWA. During ECQ, on the other
Gawing Lingkod Bayani ang Bawat Kawani
The Civil Service
during these times that our citizens need hand, skeleton workforce may be allowed To protect government workers’ health
REPORTER
Marlon L. Nunag our government to be effective and remain unless a different operational capacity and safety, the CSC requires agencies to
Circulation responsive to their needs. These interim is provided in agencies providing health implement precautionary measures prior to
guidelines would ensure that government and emergency frontline services, border resumption of normal operations, such as
agencies continue to fulfill their mandate control, and other critical services as disinfection and decontamination activities,
amid the pandemic, while protecting the identified in the IATF Omnibus Guidelines conduct of health status check among
health and safety of their workers,” CSC on Community Quarantine. employees, and modification of workplace
Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala said. layout to ensure observance of physical
Employees designated as skeletal workforce distancing requirements.
CSC Resolution No. 2000540 (Revised shall be entitled to Hazard Pay during ECQ
Interim Guidelines for Alternative Work and MECQ on top of the Compensatory Agencies are also mandated to enforce health
Arrangements and Support Mechanisms Time Off or Overtime Pay granted for standard protocol at all times such as wearing
for Workers in the Government During the authorized services rendered outside of the of face masks, taking of body temperature,
Period of State of National Emergency employee’s regular work hours. and setting up of sanitation stations.
Due to COVID-19 Pandemic), promulgated
on 7 May 2020 and circularized via CSC In a Four-day (Compressed) Workweek Moreover, support mechanisms, such as
Memorandum Circular No. 10, s. 2020, arrangement, the employees’ workweek health/psychosocial interventions, provision
contains the complete set of guidelines for is compressed to four days each week. of personal protective equipment (PPE) to
implementing the said AWA. This may be adopted by agencies in areas employees, and reasonable transportation
placed under GCQ. facilities and housing quarters, should be
Work-from-home (WFH) refers to an output- made available to government workers.
The CS Reporter is produced by the Publications and Media Relations Division oriented work arrangement that authorizes Agencies may also adopt Staggered
- Public Assistance and Information Office of the Civil Service Commission.
the worker to produce outputs or results Working Hours, which is applicable to These revised interim guidelines shall take
and accomplishments outside of the office. offices or agencies that observe work effect retroactively on 16 March 2020 and
Comments and suggestions on the magazine as well as articles and other shifting or flexible working time. For this shall remain in force until the State of National
manuscripts for consideration in future publications are welcome. This shall be adopted in areas placed under
Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) by purpose, staggered working hours refers Emergency has been lifted by the President
the President. For agencies in areas placed to the existing 24/7 shifting schedule and of the Philippines.
Contributions must be submitted to the CS Reporter, Civil Service
under General Community Quarantine the flexible working time schedule. This
Commission, Constitution Hills, Diliman, Quezon City, with telephone
number (02) 8931-4180, and email address [email protected]. (GCQ), where public transportation is may be implemented as a means to limit The complete text of CSC Memorandum
limited and physical/social distancing in the the number of employees present at the Circular No. 10, s. 2020 may be accessed
www.csc.gov.ph workplace is required, WFH is an option. workplace at any given time. from the CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph.
www.facebook.com/civilservicegovph
www.youtube.com/cscphmedia
8 9
NEWS
The Guidelines on OSH Standards requires partner with the nearest government CSC clients urged to book • Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net 2. Log-in to your account and click the link
government agencies to establish their own health facility that can respond to appointment Worth (SALN) (for CY 2010 to CY 2018) provided for the instructions on how to use
OSH Program, create a Safety and Health accidents and injuries in case of the system; and
Committee and/or a Special Investigation emergencies. The Civil Service Commission Central • Employee Record (e.g. Appointment
Agencies
Committee, and appoint or designate Office (CSC CO) based in Batasan Hills, Paper for those who were assigned in 3. Select and confirm your appointment date
a Safety Health Officer, to ensure their Support facilities such as recreation areas, Quezon City has launched a web-based agencies under the jurisdiction of the and time.
compliance with OSH Standards and the training rooms, and daycare facility, as application that allows its clients to schedule National Capital Region and Regional
promotion and effective implementation of well as lactation stations for lactating an appointment for its records management Office No. IV (Southern Tagalog) from CY The CSC said the launch of ORAS is in
now required
OSH in their workplaces. mothers, must be provided. Moreover, the services. 1980 to CY 1989, Statement of Service line with measures to prevent the spread
special needs of pregnant women, older Record of former Civil Service Commission of coronavirus disease-2019 or COVID-19,
The guidelines provide a long list employees, the differently-abled, and Effective 6 July 2020, CSC CO clients can employees, Service Card in various specifically by managing the flow of clients
to have OSH
of reasonable working conditions. those with limited working abilities must book an appointment through the Online agencies from CY 1930 to CY 1989). and reducing their waiting time.
Workplace standards that agencies be considered in determining reasonable Registration, Appointment, and Scheduling
must comply with include installation work assignments and a good working System (ORAS) to request for certification It emphasized that transactions for the A number of CSC Regional Offices are also
of adequate fire, emergency, or atmosphere. and/or authentication, or certified true copy, of abovementioned services must go through using online scheduling applications as part of
Program
danger signs, facilities for persons the following records on file at the CSC CO: ORAS; thus, no walk-in clients shall be public health standards against the COVID-19
with disabilities, and health clinic or The guidelines further mandate agency entertained. pandemic. In an earlier announcement, the CSC
treatment room; regular practice of heads to ensure adequate working • Career Service (Professional and has advised its clients to coordinate first with the
G
good housekeeping such as eradication breaks to minimize or prevent employees’ Subprofessional) Eligibility To use ORAS, a client must follow these CSC Regional/Field/Central Office offering the
of stagnant water and proper waste exposure to illness due to prolonged sitting, steps: service they wish to avail, to know the possible
overnment workers can be disposal; OSH Standard-compliant as well as to allow and adopt flexible work • Civil Service Eligibility Granted under modes of transaction as well as the health
assured of their health and building construction and maintenance, arrangements. The agency’s internal Special Laws and CSC Issuance 1. Register or sign up at https://services.csc. protocols being implemented in the office.
safety in their workplaces after space requirement, walkway surface, rules on working hours, break, and leave gov.ph using any web-connected device
the Civil Service Commission floor and wall openings, among others; privileges must still observe appropriate • CSC Issuance (e.g. Memorandum Circular, such as a computer, laptop, smartphone, The directory of CSC offices nationwide is
(CSC), Department of Health provision of OSH Standard-compliant civil service rules and regulations. Resolution, Decision) or tablet. available at www.csc.gov.ph/cscrod.
(DOH), and Department of Labor and personal protective equipment (PPE)
Employment (DOLE) jointly issued guidelines and devices; proper handling, use, and Workplace policies and programs on
T
on occupational safety and health standards. storage of hazardous materials; and smoking, prohibited drugs, tuberculosis,
implementation of an indoor air quality HIV and AIDS, Hepatitis B, and medical Afterwards, CSC Public Assistance and
housands of government workers
CSC-DOH-DOLE Joint Memorandum management program. assistance and benefits must also be Information Office Director IV Maria Luisa
tuned in to the free webinar on
Circular No. 1, s. 2020 aims to implemented. Salonga Agamata featured leadership
Alternative Work Arrangements
institutionalize occupational safety and Government agencies must also perspectives and best practices related to
and Support Mechanisms for
health (OSH) in government workplaces establish a Risk Reduction Management CSC-DOH-DOLE Joint Memorandum implementing AWA. She talked about the
CSC holds
Government Workers conducted
to protect government workers from the System and a Crisis Management Plan Circular No. 1, s. 2020 was published 7 May need for empathy in the workplace, common
by the Civil Service Commission’s Civil Service
dangers of injury, sickness, or death and and Contingency Program, as well as 2020 in a newspaper of general circulation management challenges with implementing
Institute (CSI) on 30 June 2020 at 10 a.m.
to prevent loss or damage of properties ensure adequate emergency supplies and took effect on 22 May 2020. The AWA, the role of learning and development
webinar on
through the adoption of safe and healthy such as fire extinguishers, medical first complete text of the policy can be accessed and innovation during times of crisis, among
CSC Human Resource Policies Director IV
working conditions. aid kits, among others. They must also on the CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph. others.
Rodolfo B. Encajonado discussed the salient
provisions of CSC Memorandum Circular No.
alternative
The webinar was followed at 1:30 p.m. by
T
10, s. 2020 or the Revised Interim Guidelines
for Alternative Work Arrangements and a LunChat with CSC episode featuring a
he Civil Service Commission shall be reset in 2021. A separate issuance Support Mechanisms for Workers in the Question-and-Answer (Q&A) session.
work
(CSC) will not be conducting any pertaining to the said rescheduled exam will Government During the Period of State
written civil service examinations be released by the CSC. of National Emergency Due to COVID-19 Viewers who tuned in live via the CSC
for the rest of the year. Pandemic. He expounded on work-from- Facebook Page reached more than 2,500,
home arrangement, skeleton workforce, and and the video continues to rake in views
arrangements
SALN deadline extended anew
Civil service
The CSC said that the implementation other AWAs that agencies may implement in as it is still available online. To watch
of public health standards during the All public officials and employees are given order to balance effective public service with the webinar, go to www.facebook.com/
pandemic, such as physical distancing, until 31 August 2020 to file their Statement government workers’ health and safety. civilservicegovph.
exams
reduced capacity of public transportation, of Assets, Liabilities, and Networth (SALN)
and restriction on mass gatherings, has with their respective departments, offices, or
led it to cancel the following civil service agencies.
cancelled,
examinations via the pen-and-paper test
(PPT) mode: CSC has extended the deadline of filing of
the SALN through Resolution No. 2000603
• Fire Officer Examination, Penology Officer dated 22 June 2020 in response to the state
SALN
Examination, Basic Competency on Local of public health emergency.
Treasury Examination scheduled on 21
June 2020; In the same resolution, the CSC has allowed
deadline
the online oath taking and use of electronic
• Career Service Examination (CSE) or digital signature on the SALN, as well as
PPT (Professional and Subprofessional the online filing or transmission of a duly
extended due
Levels) scheduled on 9 August 2020; executed SALN.
to COVID-19
Test, Promotional Test, Ethics-Oriented submit their respective employees’ SALN to
Personality Test scheduled on 11 October the appropriate repository agency.
2020.
Turn to page 20 for the complete guide on
Moreover, the conduct of the 15 March 2020 filing and submission of the SALN Form for
Professional and Subprofessional CSE-PPT the year 2020.
10 11
NEWS REGIONAL NEWS
T
here’s no doubt that COVID-19 Resource Specialist II, Michael Karlo Perlora,
has disrupted lives. People developed the program using the free
experience it at home, in online scheduling software and a booking
workplaces, and social spaces. management system called Picktime.
CSC Regional
But disruption need not be Consequently, clients with impending
Civil service
destructive. In fact, if taken with optimism, transactions like Issuance of Certification of
disruption can stimulate the mind to be Eligibility (COE), Authentication of COE, and
creative and innovative for one to function Application for Special Eligibilities (SPELS)
anniversary Office V
in new ways. Today, everyone is trying to should book an appointment using the link
shape the new normal with tech innovations, tinyurl.com/onsched before going to the CSC
as well as new HR practices. RO V.
highlights champions
This news story features how CSC Regional The CSC RO V observes a first-book, first-
Office V champions innovation in public served basis. Through the OnSched, clients
technology,
service and in learning and development are given the freedom to select their preferred
despite COVID-19 disruptions.
innovation
schedule of appointment. When the date
and time can no longer be accessed, it only
Online appointment system means that the date is fully-booked. On the
malasakit
page, all the documentary requirements for
amid
a p A lounge full of clients waiting in a queue, each transaction are already available. Even
Sn some even hail from the island provinces of
Bicol Region like Catanduanes and Masbate;
the prescribed forms can be downloaded
from the platform. Certain reminders are also
others tend to arrive at the Office even included to ensure fast and easy transaction
Government gears up for the
COVID-19
Snap before its opening just to make sure to be when appointment day of the customer
Fourth Industrial Revolution. accommodated first. This setup is susceptible comes. This scheme provides no reason for
to customer dissatisfaction and complaints. clients to not be able to secure and prepare
F
Thus, as an office that continuously strives pertinent documents for their transaction.
for excellence, the CSC RO V explores
or the 120th Philippine Civil Service
Anniversary in September, the Civil
Disruption (noun) - a situation in ways on how to deliver quality and efficient To book an appointment, clients may use
services. This paved the way for the creation a computer, laptop, cellphone, tablet or
Service Commission (CSC) will which it is difficult for something of an Online Appointment System called other devices capable of connecting to the
highlight the role of technology in
to continue in the normal way; the Online Scheduler or OnSched. internet. It must have an up-to-date web
the evolution of public service in
ap browser installed like Mozilla Firefox or
the country, especially as the nation copes
with the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.
Sn act of stopping something from The CSC RO V Examination Services Google Chrome. A stable internet connection
Division (ESD), the unit that handles is also needed. The actual appointment
continuing in the normal way some of the most sought-after services, page does not require account creation
Thus, the theme of the anniversary celebration
is Philippine Civil Service @120: Public Sector
(Oxford Learner’s Dictionary) conceptualized the OnSched. ESD’s Human and log-in. However, clients are required to
in the Age of Digital Transformation. (continued on page 14)
12 13
REGIONAL NEWS
To get it running the server software was Though challenging, the CSC RO
installed on a dedicated machine. TrueConf V’s Human Resource Division (HRD)
can be downloaded from www.trueconf. continuously explores ways on how to
com. Afterwards, configure server details, reach out to the learners in the public
setup user accounts, then login and start sector, creatively and viably. Its focus has
a conference. At the CSC RO V, the ITG now shifted into putting a premium on the
set up the said software in every division immense benefits that technology and the
which take turns in acting as Officer-of-the- internet can offer to enhance the learning
Day (OD). If the client’s query or concern community’s competencies. Indeed, the
is out of the OD’s expertise, then the client current landscape has opened possibilities
can be easily referred to the appropriate for digital innovation. New training
division. The TrueConf has a chat feature designs came to fruition, converting some
that allows its participants to communicate previously offered programs to online
with one another without necessarily versions or what is now popularly known
involving video. as webinars. Webinars may have been
introduced in the world several decades
In the time of COVID-19, dealing with people ago at the advent of the internet, but it has
has become very challenging. Everyone undeniably risen to fame when people were
should observe minimum health standard confined to their homes due to lockdown
protocols at all times and contribute in measures. A webinar is an efficient avenue
whatever way they can to avoid the spread for interaction and active engagement
of the virus. Consequently, the VPACD is among the speaker, facilitators, and
one of the CSC RO V’s ways to adapt to the participants. It makes learning feasible
new normal. This innovation has garnered despite unprecedented circumstances.
provide personal information for the ESD to with the clients, sans the traditional face-to- positive feedback both from internal and Public Service Delivery)”, with presenter safety in terms of health and data of each
determine the identity of the eligible such face encounter. This has become feasible external clients. It makes transactions The CSC RO V HRD was quick to respond Mr. Eric Albert M. Arroyo, Focal Person of participant is guaranteed.
as full name, title of eligibility/examination, with the technology which uses local area smoother and safer—something that is to the needs of the learning community the CSC RO V IT Group. Arroyo shared the
date and place of examination, as well as network (LAN); appropriate devices like worthy of emulation. and adapted relevant innovation which significant innovations being implemented According to the CSC RO V HRD,
the name of the authorized representative if computer, microphone, webcam, and resulted in its first ever webinar on 28 at the CSC RO V to continuously deliver combining learning and technology
there is any. speaker; along with the suited software for Digital Learning and Development May 2020. With the assistance of the efficient services even during pandemic. to deliver innovative digital learning
the activity. CSC RO V’s ITG, the said webinar was These include AnyDesk software that allows solutions amidst the pandemic is one of
With the implementation of the OnSched, Among the major office activities that have launched using the video conferencing an employee to have a remote access on the strategies that they adopt to achieve
the ESD can provide a one-day transaction In the webinar titled “Going Tech Savvy been disrupted by COVID-19 is the Learning application Google Meet. The Subject his or her computer in the office; the free their commitment. The webinar conducted
to applicants for the Special Eligibilities in the New Normal (Applying Information and Development (L&D). The physical Matter Specialist, CSC RO V’s Assistant online scheduling software and a booking is part of the Training Online Program
(SPELS). Previously, SPELS applicants Technology for Safe Public Service distancing measures restrict mass gathering, Regional Director, Atty. Daisy P. management system called Picktime; (TOP) that puts learners on top of priorities
who personally appeared to the Office to Delivery),” Eric Albert M. Arroyo, CSC RO V’s including face-to-face classroom set up, Bragais, discussed the Alternative Work and the video conferencing app named in coming up with instructional designs
submit the requirements had to check the ITG Focal Person, shared their experience which has been the usual mode of L&D Arrangements as indicated in CSC TrueConf that is being used for CSC RO V’s which are aimed to be highly appealing
status of their application through the link toward making VPACD into a reality. The delivery in the public sector. Resolution No. 2000540, promulgated Virtual PACD. and motivating. Upcoming webinars will
tinyurl.com/spelstat. In the said information group scouted for applicable softwares and on May 7, 2020 and circularized via CSC be posted on the link http://cscro5trd.
system, clients can determine whether their tried its functionality until such time that they Hence, the CSC RO V resorted to cancelling Memorandum Circular No. 10, s. 2020. Venturing in a digital training is not a walk rf.gd/, as well as on the CSC RO V HRD
application had been approved, declined, or were able to choose which software will work all scheduled L & D interventions or trainings in the park, as online learning can be (Events) FB Page (https://www.facebook.
still pending. Once the application had been best for the VPACD. After series of trials, for the rest of the year. Nonetheless, CSC Meanwhile, on 4 June 2020, the CSC RO associated with security risks inherent to com/cscro5hrd) and CSC RO V Official FB
approved, the client must return to the Office they decided to use the video conferencing RO V believes that learning and sharing V ran another free webinar, discussing how the use of the internet. Hence, to address Page (https://www.facebook.com/cscrov).
to request for a copy of COE. But with the tool called TrueConf. According to Arroyo, of knowledge in this rapidly changing technology and available software could this concern, the CSC RO V HRD and
OnSched, SPELS applicants can submit the TrueConf is easy to configure, it has simple environment, especially in this period of aid in adapting to the new normal. It was ITG incorporated a Risk Management Indeed, change is constant and inevitable.
requirements and request for the COE within interface but has many features, its customer uncertainty and distress, are much needed titled “Going Tech Savvy in the New Normal Plan which identifies risks and determines Yet learning, under any circumstance,
the same day. support is top-notch, and above all, it is free. and must not be put into a halt. (Applying Information Technology for Safe potential solutions. Accordingly, the must always continue.
Virtual PACD
14 15
REGIONAL NEWS
Strengthening Citizen’s
Guide
Health In this section, the CS Reporter gives readers
Protocols for a
information and updates on public service
delivery aligned with the Ease of Doing Business
and Efficient Government Service Delivery.
Readers can also get tips and advice on availing
delivery
those least able to cope”.
innovations
protect all our workers from hazards, sickness
or death.
come up with pioneering initiatives
Rehiyon Dose has adopted a safe and healthy for a digital-ready economy so we can
working conditions to assure the protection
finally move in sync with how the rest
in the time
of human life. Safety measures for both
employees and clients were standardized to
contain the spread of the virus. of the world use new technologies for
cross border trade and faster electronic
of COVID-19
Sad to note that such an outbreak is
affecting every person. Therefore, the top
management has led its staff to adopt simple
health practices during this virus outbreak. transactions.”
T
Rehiyon Dose has adopted AWA (Alternative
Work Arrangement) like the skeleton his was the message of
workforce, 2-day Work From Home divided Civil Service Commission
into two (2) teams for every division/field
(CSC) Chairperson Alicia
office. This is to make sure that delivery of
public service continues amidst COVID-19 dela Rosa-Bala to newly-
pandemic. appointed employees
of the Anti-Red Tape
The practice of physical distancing is also Authority (ARTA) after
one of the many things people can do she administered their
to protect themselves against the novel oath of office last June.
Coronavirus. People avoid contact with the Chair Bala could have sounded the same call
sick or “suspect”, and try to stay away from to government agencies nationwide who have
somebody who’s coughing and might be sick. begun to explore electronic transactions not
only due to the pandemic but also in compliance
With these precautionary measures and with a law that promises changes in government
faithful observance of health protocoals, processes and transactions.
COVID-19 can be defeated.
Two years into the implementation of Republic
Rehiyon Dose can.
Act No. 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business and
Efficient Government Service Delivery (EODB-
EGSD) Act of 2018, the government is earnestly
Let us protect each other. CSC Regional
pursuing digital transformation to realize the vision
Office XII adopts health and safety protocols
to change the analogue, paper-based, legacy
to prevent COVID-19 transmission in the
systems to interact with citizens and make public
office.
services open, accessible, simple and citizen-
centric.
16 17
Public service delivery innovations in the time of COVID-19
R.A. No. 11032 now serves as the bandwidth allocation for high speed internet Meanwhile, the City Government of Makati to look for alternative ways to render (Southern Tagalog) from CY 1980 to CY The revamped tracker features additional
anchor for digital technology and service connection, which is being addressed by introduced the Makatizen Card, a valid public services and digitize operations. 1989, statement of service record of former information on the epidemiology of
delivery reforms. One such reform is the the National Broadband Program (NBP). government-issued ID. The Makatizen Card There too is a specific provision of R. A. Civil Service Commission employees, COVID-19 in the country, COVID-19
E-Government Master Plan 2.0 (2016- comes with a Near-Field Communication No. 11032, Section 7 or the Zero Contact service card in various agencies from CY testing, health facilities, and availability
2022) of the Department of Information and The government’s push toward digitization (NFC) feature that allows city offices Policy which requires limited interaction 1930 to CY 1989), can also be done with of personal protective equipment (PPEs)
Communications Technology, which aims holds much promise. Even before the onset equipped with iBayad machine readers to with an applicant or requesting party the ORAS. as well as data on the laboratory testing
to enable government agencies to provide of COVID-19, a number of government verify the identity of residents and Makati except during preliminary assessment capacities of the DOH accredited
efficient and cost-effective services to agencies are already offering ICT solutions City employees in a single tap. It stores and evaluation. For its part, the Department of Agrarian laboratories including the total number
citizens and businesses. that the transacting public may use to information to easily identify the card holder Reform uses the Visitor’s Access of tests and unique individuals tested.
access public services and avoid long availing of various city government services The CSC has developed a web-based Portal System (VAPS), a system where Likewise, the public can view a snapshot of
The EGMP is a blueprint for the lines. thus citizens need not present additional Online Registration, Appointment, and representatives from the DAR Public the health system’s capacity in responding
harmonization and integration of information documents. Scheduling System (ORAS) to support the Assistance and Information Center (PAIC) to the pandemic based on data collected
and communications technology (ICT) Another digital solution is the Cauayan physical distancing rule. Clients need not interact with clients about agrarian reform- from the DOH DataCollect application.
efforts of the government. The general Smart City app recognized by the DICT and For its part, the Bureau of Immigration proceed outright to the CSC main office in related cases through voice or video call.
objective of e-government is to improve the Department of the Interior and Local now issues the ACR I-card, a microchip Batasan Hills, Diliman. They should book The Access Portal System (APS), on the On the part of the judiciary, the Supreme
public service by building the infrastructure Government (DILG) during the 2019 Digital based, credit card-sized, identification to all appointments through ORAS, to avail of other hand, supplements landline phones Court partnered with Microsoft to improve
and shared services, automating processes, Governance Awards as among the Best in registered aliens who stay in the Philippines. such services as requests for certification/ at any DAR central office (CO), including the efficiency and productivity of the
and providing online services to citizens eGov-Digital Finance Empowerment. Cited The ACR I-card has an embedded computer authentication of civil service records DARRO 4-A and 4-B, where certain offices country’s legal proceedings through
and businesses. for promoting e-commerce and e-payment chip with biometric security features capable such as career service (professional and may communicate with other offices using video-conferencing hearings. The conduct
facilities and systems, the Smart City app of data management and can be updated subprofessional) eligibility, civil service the Office 365 Teams applications in the of hearings via video-conference ensure
One of the initiatives under the EGMP is the paved the way for convenient electronic electronically. The ACR I-card has replaced eligibility granted under special laws DARCO compound to maintain social continued hearing of cases even during
establishment of a National Government transactions of citizens with the local the paper documentation previously and CSC issuance (e.g. memorandum distancing in the workplace. the pandemic and compliance with the
Portal that will allow interoperability between government. Aside from being fast and required to register foreigners and has circular, resolution, decision), statement government’s social distancing and
and among government agencies; data and efficient, the app allows residents to go automated the registration process. of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) As the lead agency in the fight against remote work guidelines.
information will be stored in a common cashless when transacting with the city hall, for CY2010 to CY 2018. COVID-19, the Department of Health has
repository, ready to be accessed, shared including paying taxes or getting licenses Better normal in public service launched the COVID KAYA app which All these initiatives indicate that many
and used by participating government and permits. The system also provides delivery The system can track employee’s records automates the data collection system used government agencies have transitioned
agencies. small enterprise owners with better financial such as appointment paper for those by frontliners in submitting COVID-19 to the digital realm. Nonetheless, CSC
and bookkeeping methods. It is currently The implementation of social distancing who were assigned in agencies under case data reports. It helps collect data reiterates its call to go digital as it is the
Once the National Government Portal is available in Play Store, and will soon be and other health protocols across the the jurisdiction of the National Capital and addresses information gaps relating fastest and most efficient way of serving
completed, the next step is to target the launched in App Store. country has spurred government agencies Region (NCR) and Regional Office No. 4 to the pandemic. citizens, with or without a pandemic.
18 19
Citizen’s
Guide Guide to GUIDE TO PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES
Online FILLING OUT THE SALN FORM ONLINE OATH TAKING ONLINE FILING OR TRANSMISSION
Filing and
1. Download a blank SALN Form from the CSC 1. Arrange a virtual meeting with your agency’s 1. At this point, the SALN should already have your
website at www.csc.gov.ph. Make sure it is the Administering Officer via a communication signature and that of the AO. Make sure that
version labeled “Revised as of January 2015”. technology such as Zoom or Skype. The the SALN to be submitted online is in Portable
Administering Officer (AO) should make sure Document Format (PDF).
2. Fill out the electronic form using an electronic that the Declarant (you) on the SALN is the same
device such as a computer, or print the blank form person appearing in the video. You may present 2.
Submit the duly executed SALN to the
Submission
and fill it out manually. evidence of your identity, such as an ID bearing concerned department, office, or agency (e.g.,
your name and photo. Human Resource Department/Office) via online
3. Leave the portion below “Relatives in Government transmission such as email. A duly executed
Service” blank. 2. Execute the SALN by affixing your electronic/ SALN refers to a SALN that is personally signed
digital signature to the electronic SALN, or wet ink under oath before an AO or notary public, or that is
4. Make sure all disclosed entries are true and signature to the physical SALN. By affixing your executed through online oath taking.
of SALN
correct. signature, you affirm that doing so is your free act
and deed, and that the contents of your SALN are 3. The electronic SALN, which refers to the one
true and correct. Remember that the placing of the submitted online, shall be considered the
signature on the SALN must be seen by the AO. ORIGINAL for purposes of SALN compliance for
the year 2020. A printout of the Original shall be
3. On the same day, transmit a copy of the SALN to the considered a DUPLICATE ORIGINAL.
AO via fax or other electronic means. Upon receipt,
I
the AO may use electronic or wet ink signature in
acknowledging the SALN. After signing, the AO
f you are a government official or transmits the SALN back to you.
employee, submitting the Statement
of Assets, Liabilities, and Networth Note: As an alternative, the Declarant may opt
to personally sign the SALN under oath before a
or SALN is and should be part of
notary public.
your annual routine. One of the
basic requirements for public officials and
employees is the submission of the SALN.
It is filed within 30 days after assumption
of office, on or before April 30 of every
year thereafter, and within 30 days after
separation from the service, all of which are
mandated under Republic Act No. 6713 or
the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards
for Public Officials and Employees.
Moreover, the conditions set in the said After the department, office, or agency collates b. For electronic submission – Submit/transmit For the CSC, the submission of electronic
Circular is subject to change in case of the submitted SALNs of their respective officials the electronic SALNs to the proper repository SALNs may be made by transmitting the flash
and employees, the following guidelines must be agency either using a USB flash drive or disc drive or CD with the CSC Regional or Field
any further issuances by the appropriate
observed: storage together with the required summary Office having jurisdiction over them.
authorities during the period of National as provided under the rules. This option
State of Public Health Emergency due to 1. The department, office, or agency must submit/ includes SALNs electronically submitted as 3. Submission of electronic SALNs shall be
COVID-19. transmit the SALNs with the appropriate well as scanned copies of paper SALNs filed. deemed substantial compliance for the year
repository agency either physically or 2020.
For those who cannot perform the traditional electronically. Choose only either physical In either instance, the department, office, or
way of filing the SALN and are interested submission or electronic submission. agency is required to submit a list of SALNs both
electronically and physically filed.
to take the online route, the Civil Service
Reporter features this handy guide on
online filing and submission of the SALN Remember, the last day of filing of the SALN with your respective departments, offices, or agencies is on 31 August 2020.
Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash Form based on the provisions of CSC
Memorandum Circular No. 13, s. 2020.
20 21
‘
in putting together a diagnostic kit that can “It started off with our initial designs following
help the country increase its capacity to do the ones that were posted as pre-validated
mass testing,” Dr. Destura said. primers. Primers are like probes that identify
“
viruses from the World Health Organization
MISSION POSSIBLE: GENAMPLIFY™ website. Based on that, we redesigned it to
CORONA VIRUS DISEASE-2019 make it quicker from the original design,” Dr.
(COVID-19) RRT-PCR TEST KIT Destura explained.
Pressed for time, Dr. Destura and a team Other testing kits would take about six (6)
of scientists from the University of the hours as the test has to be done thrice.
Philippines-Manila started designing a Add to that is the long wait for the release
diagnostic kit for the country. The P53.2M- of results as targets’ swab samples would
project was done in collaboration with have to be sent abroad. Dr. Destura’s
the Philippine Genome Center and the invention—the GenAmplify™ Corona Virus
PINOY-MADE
STORY and Technology - Philippine Council for
Health Research and Development (DOST-
technology (shortened version) which can
simultaneously detect several targets in one
PCHRD). run. Each kit can run 25 tests at once and
can provide results within two (2) hours.
We took it upon ourselves to respond Dr. Destura explained, “Before, there were
W
hen one sees dark days THE CALL OF DUTY
ahead, the seemingly
only choice is to cave As a practicing infectious disease doctor, Dr.
in and think of one’s Raul V. Destura understood the magnitude
survival. But with this or impact of identifying COVID-19 cases
circumstance also comes a great opportunity through a diagnostic kit.
to step up, think beyond oneself, and help
others survive. “Even before COVID-19 came into the
country, I knew that one of the major
Since the announcement of COVID-19 challenges we had to prepare for was the
local transmission in the Philippines, identification of cases which requires a
Filipinos have been in a state of anxiety, diagnostic kit. This will enable us to be
panic and terror, fearful for their very own precise with quarantine measures and
and their family members’ lives. There are prevent the transmission of the virus to other
certain individuals however who do not people,” said Dr. Destura.
have the time nor energy to take these all
in because they prioritize the call of duty, As people may recall, the Philippines
especially if its fulfillment is critical to the struggled with limited stock of COVID-19
country’s survival in the midst of pandemic. testing kits during the first few weeks or
One of those people is the man behind the month since the local transmission was
Pinoy-made low-cost COVID-19 testing announced. On 9 March 2020 Senate
kit—Dr. Raul V. Destura, Director of the hearing, the Department of Health admitted
National Training Center for Biosafety and that the number of testing kits was down to
Biosecurity, National Institutes of Health, 2,000, from the original stock of 4,500. This
and the Deputy Executive Director of the has raised a major public concern as the
Philippine Genome Center, University of the cases of COVID-19 continued to rise.
Philippines - Manila.
“Our organization, the National Institutes
Through a virtual interview, CS Reporter of Health, is one of those groups that are
was able to capture his story of optimism, really focused on developing diagnostic kits.
selflessness, and faithfulness to his call of We took it upon ourselves to respond to the
duty amid the COVID-19 pandemic. country’s need, to play our role as scientists
22 23
“ I really hope to inculcate into young scientists’ hearts and minds that the
work of a scientist is not just about discovering fundamental findings that
enhances scientific knowledge, but also translating them into something
that can help the country, the economy, and most especially, the most
vulnerable populations and the marginalized sectors.
THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES
SLEEPLESS NIGHTS
“
He emphasized the role of scientists in
providing the marginalized sector access
to technologies that the global community
has been enjoying for years but are made
limited due to the cost of purchasing these
technologies from outside the country.
Photo credits:
http://www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph/index.php/news/6537-up-nih-spinoff-
begins-mass-distribution-of-dost-pinoy-made-covid-19-test-kits
GenAmplify testing kit: https://www.facebook.com/mteklabs/
24 25
“
dID yOU kNOW?
Dr. Destura’s proven track record in research and innovation
If we use health as our universal compass,
we can perhaps stir toward a direction that
would make our countries safer from future
pandemics.
“I know there is still a lot of work that needs caves and jungles where we’re not exposed affiliations, institutional walls, or regions,
to be done. But if we hold steadfast to our to. If these viruses have never touched everybody prefers to be healthy. If we
vision and dreams for the country, and humans before, then we don’t have the use health as our universal compass,
with the support of our government and immunity for it, which makes the entire we can perhaps stir toward a direction
the private sector, we just might be able world vulnerable to a pandemic. How do that would make our countries safer from
to help move our country forward through we protect ourselves from viruses? The future pandemics. We must think and take
technology. I’m sure there are other only way we develop our immunity is if we seriously the impact of the Coronavirus
scientists who are big-hearted as well and expose ourselves to the virus and develop to us as a county, as an institution, as a
who love this country and will step up so immunity memory for that. Unfortunately, government, as a family, as individuals.
that there will be more of us helping build we do not have the immunity memory yet for Common to everybody is the value of our
the biotechnology ecosystem here in the these novel ones like the COVID-19, hence health. If we value our health, the effect
Philippines.” everybody is vulnerable. So biological will trickle down even to our country’s
preparedness is really something that I feel economy,” Dr. Destura explained. Proven track record. Dr. Destura receives 2019 Presidential Lingkod Bayani Award from President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during the 2019
LESSONS LEARNED: BIO- is very important for all of us.” Awards Rites for Outstanding Government Workers in Malacañang.
PREPAREDNESS AND HEALTH LOVE OF COUNTRY FUELS
Dr. Destura also shared his reflections SERVICE AND SELFLESSNESS
Dr. Raul V. Destura was conferred the 2019 safe working environment for health (XDR) TB to deepen understanding of the
CS Reporter asked Dr. Destura about on how we can work more collaboratively
Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award for his researchers. He believes that scientific disease and improve medical approaches
his personal thoughts, feelings, and as a nation to fight pandemic such as To end the interview, CS Reporter asked
innovation and breakthroughs in the field of advances in the country should not be at to the disease.
reflections about the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19. Dr. Destura for his message of inspiration
biotechnology. Most notable of which is the the expense of its researchers’ health and
His statements reflect that of informed for his fellow government workers and
Biotek-MTM Dengue Aquakit, an affordable well-being. In 2018, he established the Dr. Destura’s groundbreaking decade of
observations as a scientist, as a concerned “On the national level, one of my reflections for the Filipinos. And like many other
tool that can diagnose dengue infection in National Training Center for Biosafety and research significantly contributed to the
Filipino, and as a responsible global citizen. is that for pandemics such as COVID-19, public servants, Dr. Destura zoomed
40 minutes. With his discovery, the country Biosecurity at the UP Manila’s National field of science in many ways. Through the
no single agency can actually handle it in on “love of country” as his drive for
received a PHP64M grant from the United Institutes of Health. years he was able to secure highly coveted
“On a global perspective, this crisis gives us effectively. It needs the collective effort exemplary public service. Now a very
Kingdom for the conduct of further research international research grants with his
the impression that the global community is of both government agencies and private influential scientist, he also wishes to
and was awarded a gold medal in the 46th He also dedicated his research on outstanding proposals, gain partnerships with
still not prepared for epidemics like this. The sector, and our fellow Filipinos—all of us. inspire others to love the country and do
International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva diseases such as dengue and tuberculosis. prestigious institutions, and churn out studies
issue here is what we call bio-preparedness— We need to have a comprehensive multi- the best that each person can to help the
in Switzerland. This led to the creation of the University that contributed to public health and safety.
the ability to prepare for epidemics and agency network that allows us to rapidly society survive this crisis.
of the Philippines’ first spin-off company,
pandemics. We thought we are ready, but access everything that we need from
With his combined roles as physician, inventor, the Manila HealthTek Inc., which aims to His colleagues and superiors also attest to his
based on what we are seeing now, even in Day Zero. All of us must be able to work He said, “The most important thing is for
and institution-builder, his career is colored produce molecular diagnostic platforms achievements. “Dr. Destura deserves to be
the case of the advanced countries, we are together and provide solutions rather than us to set aside our personal agendas.
by collaboration, mentorship, and leadership that are readily available to Filipinos. It recognized and emulated for his commitment
not. Bio-preparedness is something that the fight each other. These are the ones that Rather, let us put the country’s needs at
excellence. He dabbled in different research has since pioneered the production of as a civil servant, for being relentless in
global community must aspire for.” I feel are very crucial for our survival as a the center of everything that we do. Who
fields but likewise excelled in all, having the Biotek-MTM Dengue aqua kit, an providing solutions and innovations that are
community.” knows, by doing so, we might just be able
contributed to global knowledge in biosafety, affordable and locally developed rapid within reach of the Filipino people,” said UP
To further prove his point on bio-preparedness, to mitigate the further potential harms
epidemiology, pathobiology, biotechnology, test kit for accurate detection of dengue President Danilo L. Concepcion. Meanwhile,
Dr. Destura explained his foresight that the Dr. Destura also highlighted the importance related to COVID-19. It is an appeal to
and diagnostics. He also transformed the infection within an hour at a fraction of the UP Manila Professor and Chancellor
pandemic will not end with the Coronavirus. of prioritizing health and making it a everybody to look into their hearts and
University of the Philippines Manila’s Institute cost of foreign commercial counterparts. Carmencita D. Padilla said, “Excellence and
He considers it a part of the cycle of emerging universal compass for global growth and see how they can best serve our country
of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from Its pilot implementation in Regions I, VI, compassionate service to the Filipino people
infections globally because of the way that we development. and fellow Filipino. At the end of the day,
a human resource and finance-deprived and IX has proven that research outputs are just two of the superior qualities of Dr.
humans rapidly utilize our world. we only have one Philippines, thus let us
office into a word class research institute and can be translated into innovations that Destura that makes him worthy of his award.”
“We have to work together, to find a preserve it for our children, and for the
laboratory. benefit communities. For tuberculosis
“Human encroachments and industrialization common goal. For me, the universal next generations to come. I know it’s not
(TB), Dr. Destura pushed for advancing Truly, Dr. Destura has modeled research
make us more vulnerable to these viruses compass is health. No one wants to be easy to love a country, but it is certainly
An infectious diseases physician, his work molecular epidemiology of multi-drug excellence and paved the way for scientific
that are usually hidden in the deeper areas of sick. Regardless of borders, of political worth it.”
is driven by his advocacy on maintaining resistant (MDR) extensively drug-resistant advancement in the Philippines.
26 27
EXECUTIVE
LETTER
GOVERNMENT
*keynote message of CSC Chairperson Alicia dela
Rosa-Bala for the Chief Information Officer Forum,
WORKERS IN THE
Inc.’s 1st Online General Membership Meeting and
Conference, 25 June 2020
I ! ! !
“
am honored to join this timely and relevant
NEW NORMAL*
gathering of government information
officers advocating the strategic use
of information and communications
technology or ICT in good governance.
! !
rapidly moved past containment and caused
economic, social, political, and religious
disruption worldwide. We witnessed the
cancellation of major world events, shutdown
of public, commercial, and educational
establishments, and stoppage of industries as
part of aggressive measures to manage the
28 29
“
“
EXECUTIVE
LETTER
As we ensure that the Philippine government’s Now more than ever, employees yearn for
efficiency and responsiveness remain inviolable sincere concern from their managers. If we
in dealing with the pandemic, the need to fail to empathize and show sincere concern
provide quality services must also be balanced for their health and wellbeing, we lose their
with the need to protect the safety and health trust, their commitment, their loyalty, and their
of the public sector workforce. productivity.
• provision of appropriate personal protective • Majority of respondents perceived safety and wellbeing will come at a high webinars. To prevent employees from quo. These disruptions have altered the workers, the FIRe has deepened the
equipment (PPE) to frontline service themselves to be still productive while on cost for organizations. I know that we drowning in a sea of content, we can give way we live, socialize, work and interact, digital divide with the acceleration of
providers and employees; alternative work arrangements; have learned over time that people are the them the freedom to curate their own rearranging value pools and leading to the technology adoption. According to data
source of new or better solutions. People learning, encouraging them to look after introduction of entirely new products and released by Rappler, it took decades
• reduced working hours, as authorized by • While majority are reportedly productive, also determine the success or failure of their own growth not to wait for formal services. for telephones to reach 50% of Filipino
the President; better internet connectivity remains a any innovation project. As Steve Jobs said, L&D interventions. Content curation is households, but less than a decade for
leading concern to effectively perform “Innovation has nothing to do with how many a trending buzzword in human resource Speaking of products and services, I 89% of Filipinos to own mobile phones,
• reasonable transportation facilities and given tasks; and dollars you have… It’s about the people you management. know that while in quarantine, most 53% to own smartphones, 14% to have
housing quarters shall be provided have, how you’re led, and how much you get of us depended on Grab, Lalamove, tablets, 39% to use desktops, and 37% to
to employees assigned as skeleton • Organizational culture, particularly from it.” According to the High-Impact Learning Foodpanda, Lazada and Shopee—today’s have access to laptops.
workforce, whenever practicable, and high levels of trust and support, good Organization study by top talent popular online delivery and shopping
subject to accounting and auditing rules communication system, and collaboration Let us not treat our employees as mere management adviser Josh Bersin, content platforms. These apps are collectively The CSC recognizes that government
and regulations; within the organization play a pivotal role in commodities, but as strategic partners in curation is both an art and a science. It brought to us by the Internet of Things workers with weak foundational digital
ensuring employee productivity. overcoming this crisis. Let us put them first. deals with identifying the most relevant (IoR). Through IoR, which is simply literacy skills could be vulnerable in
• reasonable expenses incurred during the information for a specific group of target defined as the interconnection via the the acceleration of technology. At this
work-from-home may be defrayed by the In your case, as experts in the field of ICT, As you know, CSC is the premier provider of audience, and contextualizing and Internet of computing devices embedded juncture of transitioning to automation,
agency subject to accounting and auditing have you thought of ways to effectively learning and development interventions to the organizing it before presenting it to them. in everyday objects, we have experienced use of data analytics, and higher intensity
rules and regulations; and shepherd government workers to a “better public sector workforce. One essential role of breakthroughs in the way we live to cope of non-routine, developmental, and
normal”? leaders and managers is to make sure that The same study revealed that employees with the “better normal”. cognitive tasks, we intend to come up with
• other monetary and forms of incentives employees are continuously provided with find it most difficult to learn not because competence development or retraining of
as may be allowed by the Office of the Government Workers toward a learning and development opportunities, even there isn’t enough content, but because Now is the time to take full advantage government workers to enable them to
President or other authorized agencies or Better Normal or most especially in the midst of crisis. there is too much. The struggle is in sifting of the possibilities brought by FIRe and face the hurdles of going not necessarily
upon approval of the heads of agencies what is valuable. other frontier technologies. These hold high-tech, but appropriate tech.
subject to accounting and auditing rules There are a few points that my team and Let us look into how you as Chief Information numerous prospects for improving the
and regulations. I have put together and wish to share Officers can effectively perform your task As what we have gleaned, content curation way we deliver services to the public. For The future belongs to the most agile
with you. These are insights gained from of providing learning and development delivers our learners from the hassle, pain, instance, there is the shift to made-for- organizations which are willing to
Furthermore, the CSC encouraged heads research studies and some webinars on opportunities during times of crisis, and why and frustration of trying to wade through a me service delivery in compliance with accelerate and embrace new possibilities
of agencies to implement other health management, workforce engagement, and inspiring innovation is critical. First, how sea of content to find what they need and Republic Act No. 11032 or the Ease of presented by technology and paradigm
and wellness initiatives to ensure zero learning and development attended during many free online sessions have you attended what is relevant to improve competence. Doing Business and Efficient Government shifts. These will eventually force the public
COVID-19 infection in the workplaces such quarantine. I want to highlight important since March? One positive outcome of the With customized content, the learning Service Delivery Act of 2018. Under this sector to strive for improved productivity.
as disinfection and decontamination activities, points on putting people first, relevance of prohibition on mass gatherings is the surge of journey becomes smooth, and learners law, government agencies are required It will also signal the emergence of public
conduct of health status check among learning and development curation, and free webinars and online courses that anyone are more motivated to absorb learning like to simplify, streamline, re-engineer, sector leaders who do not shy away
employees, and modification of workplace display of agility in time of disruption. can participate in and take advantage of. sponges, leading to improved competence. automate, and revolutionize services from the challenges brought by FIRe but
layout to ensure observance of physical delivered both in business and non- gravitate toward it, who do not see digital
distancing requirements. Now more than ever, employees yearn for Leaders have to provide the enabling The CIOC’s First Online General business transactions. It requires drastic advancement as threatening; but welcome
sincere concern from their managers. It is environment for employee engagement, for Membership Meeting and Conference transformation in the delivery of public it as something creative, exciting, inspiring,
DAP AWA Survey safe to assume that all of us experienced meeting learners where they currently are, theme, “Accelerating Digital services. How drastic? Until people and enriching.
something we never imagined possible. and for allowing them to continue to grow Transformation in the New Normal” is an can do business with government via
With these measures under CSC M.C. No. People’s physical and mental health were and develop. This is quite a challenge for apt reminder that the disruption brought smartphones and register online anytime, On behalf of the CSC, allow me to
10, allow me to share with you the result of at great risk and those are among our basic all, particularly for L&D leaders, trainers, by Industry 4.0 or the Fourth Industrial anywhere. We have to go full speed in extend our appreciation and heartfelt
a survey conducted by the Development needs as humans. If we fail to empathize and facilitators. One of the panelists in the Revolution (FIRe) must be embraced, going mobile and delivering in-person gratitude to all our government workers
Academy of the Philippines determining the and show sincere concern for their webinar, Milalin Javellana of Australia Awards especially in coping with COVID-19. FIRe services to constituents. for your invaluable contributions to the
effects of AWA on public sector performance health and wellbeing, we lose their trust, Philippines, emphasized that public sector is defined by technological breakthroughs bureaucracy and for your service to the
and productivity during the period of their commitment, their loyalty, and their should lead the way. But how do we do it? that are mostly unpredictable in their To the CIOF, we encourage you to be Filipino people. Also, congratulations to
community quarantine from 16 March to 31 productivity. This leads me to the next point. development and effects. Some of these the CSC’s partners in encouraging the officials and members of the CIOC
May 2020. advances include artificial intelligence, government agencies and the public sector for successfully organizing its first online
I am certain that you have realized by now We can either be the L&D providers augmented reality, robotics, and big workforce to embrace the technological General Membership Meeting. Maraming
Some of the key findings of the survey are as that without the employees, organizations ourselves, or we can promote to our data, which have all, in the last five breakthroughs brought by FIRe. I salamat. Mabuhay kayo at mabuhay ang
follows: are paralyzed. Not prioritizing our people’s employees a list of other available years, collectively disrupted our status understand that for some government serbisyo sibil!
30 31
If COVID-19 is
HR contagious, so is
Courage
SPOTLIGHT
L & D community
John Reily Baluyot
President
Philippine Society for Talent
Development
T
at once to strategize for PSTD’s future. run to for advice, John decided to talk to her
friend and co-founder of Positive Workplaces,
hese were words from the He said, “We had so many plans. We wanted to Maria Veronica “Nikki” Vergara. John said
man who currently leads the double our membership by 2020. We aimed to that talking with Nikki was one of the most
Philippine Society for Talent offer free learning programs, and prepare for the important decisions he made during the
Development (PSTD), a not- National Convention for October 2020 as early quarantine.
for-profit organization that is as February. For my full-time work, my friend
now blazing the trail in e-Learning and Nikki and I even put up a startup consultancy “I remember Nikki telling me ‘We can do
Development amid COVID-19. How did he firm, Positive Workplaces, and we were on something if you want. Crisis is when great
and the PSTD jump from point A to point B? momentum to kickstart our joint venture, deal leaders are formed.’ Those words poured
Here is its story. with our first few clients...Then COVID19 and out on me like ice-cold water, and I came to
ECQ happened!” my senses. Suddenly it was clear to me that
An untimely crisis for dreamers we’re definitely going to do something,” said
On March 16, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte John.
John Reily Baluyot, PSTD President, just placed the entire Luzon under an Enhanced
arrived from his studies in Melbourne, Community Quarantine (ECQ) which restricted Edgar Schein, John’s favorite Organizational
Australia last December 2019. He finished among others, mass gatherings including Culture and Leadership author, once said,
Master of Leadership in Organizational seminars and other face-to-face learning “Culture is a pattern of shared learnings by
Learning at Monash University under the sessions. This situation gravely affected PSTD a group as it solves its problems of external
Australia Awards Scholarships. Ambitious and those in the learning and development field adaptation and internal integration”. This
and competitive as he is, he was full of hope of practice. John, who thought he had crystal adage has now become John’s anchor.
and dreams upon returning to his homeland clear plans ready for implementation, was He said, “We have in front of us one of the
and was excited to take on new roles and not spared from the shock of the nationwide biggest problems that humanity has ever
challenges to help the Philippine learning announcement. faced. If there is a good time to re-introduce
community—a tribe that he values very well. more positive cultures by leaders, this is it”.
The perfect opportunity came. “I was so scared. I was away from my family. I
was paralyzed for two weeks because I literally Nikki was right. Many good leaders have
“We had an election at the PSTD last did not know what to do. I was just playing video been exposed at the onset of the COVID-19
February 2020, and I got elected as the games. I wanted to wallow in despair. Lahat pandemic. Locally, citizens lauded leaders
President. I was happy because I really ng pinag-planuhan namin, paano na?” John like Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto for his
aimed for it,” said John. quivered as he faced the early days of ECQ. innovative thinking, strategic planning
32 33
Membership – Committee Chair: Rowell “No profit. No money. This is all volunteer Kanika Singh and Angie Santa Maria of
Mariano, former Talent Development and work. While we didn’t have any trouble Gallup, Vanessa Trower of the Australian
Marketing Head of Mitsukoshi Motors calling for volunteers—which surprised us Institute of Training and Development, Ash
Philippines Inc. | Australia Awards Scholar all—it was a challenge to convince them to Mandhyan of Facebook Philippines, Diana
who studied Master of Human Resource stay engaged. These people have their full- Khaitova of Center for Creative Leadership,
Management at the University of Newcastle, time jobs or other more important matters to Singapore.
New South Wales attend to. It was a challenge because PSTD
has no legitimate power over volunteers “The exciting part in this webinar series
“These people make a perfect combination because we’re not their employers; we had is that it has become a shared learning
for the task force. I needed the most agile, very little reward power because we’re a experience for all of us—for PSTD, for the
divergent thinkers because the crisis is quite not-for-profit organization; and no coercive speakers, and the learners. I remember
unprecedented. The immediate solutions power since these are not their official jobs,” Vanessa telling me that it was her first time
won’t be found from tradition, but from the John explained. to speak to 500 people in a [virtual] room.
diamonds harvested from failing fast and She was also shocked,” said John.
failing smart,” said John. If PSTD did not have enough source of
power to mobilize volunteers for Oplan Because of the initial success of the
The idea behind the taskforce was backed H.O.P.E., what did? One might suppose first couple of webinars, other local and
up by the wisdom of the PSTD’s Board that it was human’s natural tendency to help international speakers agreed to volunteer
of Trustees led by its Chairperson Jesse in times of crisis. As Bill Taylor said in his for the next sessions.
Rebustillo, the operating spirit of PSTD, Harvard Business Review article, “worst
and its professional team led by Executive situations tend to bring out the best in people “Jun Roy, the head of Programs Committee,
Director Maricel Benitez. and the organizations to which they belong.” connected us to Ms. Luz Mercurio who
PSTD’s Oplan H.O.P.E. has created such used to be the Regional L&D Manager for
When asked if he had difficulty pitching a compelling mission and opportunity for ASEAN of General Electric. Things just
Oplan H.O.P.E.’s mission to them, there was volunteers to take a stand and help out. snowballed from there. Luz knows a big
no hint of hesitation in John’s voice saying, “I While there emerged plenty of ways to network of experts and resource speakers
never had to convince everyone to say ‘yes’. help during the COVID-19 crisis—volunteer and six of them were top tier Learning
Our leaders knew it was time to move. They frontline service, donations in cash or in Leaders and Managers of G.E. from four
were all ‘Yes’.” kind, benefit gigs, etc.—Oplan H.O.P.E. was different continents. Luz told me, ‘When
effective in offering volunteers a unique way I was with G.E., our global learning team
John also knew the challenge of getting to be brave and become COVID-19 heroes called Crotonville provided free seminars
more people on the boat for Oplan H.O.P.E. by helping the Filipino learning community and webinars to our customers and
All set up. John Reily Baluyot sets his home workspace and equipment for a Learn -from-Home series webinar by PSTD. Surely, six (6) people cannot do all the in this meaningful transition. government institutions in various parts
tasks entailed in the mission. What was of the world. When I volunteered to help
more challenging is that PSTD is a not- Ripples of courage PSTD as an advocacy, it was easy to invite
for-profit organization—meaning, it cannot my former colleagues to share their talent
acumen, and fast actions to prevent H.O.P.E. conquers fear He called people in the PSTD, including
simply offer incentives to people for them to A couple of days after establishing Oplan and knowledge to people in need. Their
COVID-19 transmission in Pasig while some from its Board of Trustees to head
join the efforts. The committee heads also H.O.P.E.’s task force, the Programs hearts were ready for this.’ Simple acts of
ensuring that citizens are provided with PSTD treated the disruption as both a each committee forming the Oplan
understood right at the start that they would Committee came up with the Learn-from- compassion led more volunteer speakers
necessary aid. In science, Deputy Executive challenge and opportunity to innovate and H.O.P.E. task force. The committees are
be working on this for free. The best option Home webinar series. Among the first from all over the world to speak for us,”
Director of the Philippine Genome Center better serve the learning community. Hence, as follows:
was to gather volunteers for each committee. speakers and organizations to jump in were John said.
Dr. Raul Destura also caught the attention the birth of PSTD’s Oplan H.O.P.E. (Hang on
of Filipinos when he and his team invented People Enablers). Oplan H.O.P.E. is PSTD’s Research and publications – Committee
GENAMPLIFY, the Pinoy-made COVID-19 task force built with the objective to provide Chair: Jose Decolongon, Adjunct Faculty
testing kit. This feat was a shared success of support to the learning community amid with the Asian Institute of Management Globe Telecom’s Employee Experience Manager Mark Dimaisip joins the PSTD Learn-from-Home series’ roster of speakers to talk about
a team of scientists from the University of the COVID-19 crisis. More specifically, it aims to | Australia Awards Scholar who studied “Employee Experience in the Time of COVID-19”.
Philippines National Institutes of Health, the create e-Learning materials that can help the Master of Supply Chain Innovation at
Philippine Genome Center, and The Manila learning community cope such as: (1) Well- Swinburne University, Melbourne, Victoria
HealthTek Inc. being During Times of Crisis, (2) How to
best facilitate Online Meetings and Learning Programs – Committee Chair: Jun Roy,
As for John, he wanted PSTD to also rise Sessions, (3) Capacity and Capability former Asst. Vice President at PetNet,
above the challenges posed by COVID-19 building for the New Normal, (4) Enhancing Inc. an Aboitiz Company, now the HR
and be seen as a beacon of hope among the Digital Competence, etc. Consulting Head of Nomura Research
Filipino learning community. Institute
The concept of ‘task force’ was apparently
He said, “True to PSTD’s mission, ‘We inspired by the creation of the government’s Marketing – Committee Chair: Rex
Learn. We Grow. We Transform.’, we want Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management Tuozo, “The Six Sigma Guy”, President of
to transform learners into global game- of Emergency Infectious Diseases. SixSigmaPH
changers. These include not only L&D
facilitators but also educators, trainers, “I remember watching IATF’s spokesperson E-Learning Technology – Committee Chair:
mentors, coaches, and other people Karlo Nograles on TV. I was inspired. I Marby Tabungar, People and Culture -
developers. This COVID-19 crisis has knew that a task force was what we also Learning and Organizational Development
exposed a big capability gap in all people needed in PSTD to plan, decide, and Manager at Amaysim Philippines | Australia
and organizations. With that gap comes our move quickly given this situation. This was Awards Scholar who studied Master of
opportunity to integrate our competence in perhaps one of the major shifts we had to Human Resource Management at the
facilitating learning”. do that time,” John said. University of Newcastle, New South Wales
34 35
Simon Hammond, Founder
and CEO of 50 Crates, talks
about “Personal Branding
Beyond the Pandemic: Using
Your Truth to Win in a World
of Lies”.
The spike of demand for digital learning was not so “Great occasions do not make heroes or cowards; they
imminent before, ‘foreshadowing’ if we may call it. What simply unveil them to our eyes. Silently and imperceptibly,
COVID-19 did was to bring that imminent change to here as we wake or sleep, we grow strong or weak; and at last
and now—that fast. And you can’t afford to miss out, or some crisis shows what we have become.”
you’ll be left behind. - Brooke Foss Westcott
Among other themes and topics included not knowing if you framed yourself right As of June 2020, PSTD’s Learn-from-Home dauntless as before if not for PSTD and entitled “Participants Decorum During Live service that the Filipino community needs
were “How to Digitize Learning”, “Capacity in the camera, if you look good to your series has reached 41 learning episodes, everyone behind the screen. Now, I’m back Webinars” in preparation for their 2-week in this COVID-19 pandemic. It is now a
and Capability Building for the New audience, if you had your microphone and 11,600+ live Zoom learners with a total of eagerly and passionately working.” program. Said precursor was attended by “make or break” moment for all leaders and
Normal”, and the “Basics of Teacher Well- speaker sorted out correctly. It might be around 200k video views on Facebook. Its 160 participants! Prior to that, we have been lingkod bayani. The public servants’ zeal
being”, launched in July. just too much an adjustment for those who social media followers also rocketed from Daryl Cid Samonte, Sitel Philippines having meetings since the lockdown, for the for excellent service delivery, empathy, and
were used to face-to-face conversations 11,872 to 21,249 in just 2 months. “I am very grateful to both local and Judges’ Orientation Program which we are compassion to Filipinos are now put to test.
“I was also surprised with the turnout of and learning facilitation. Hence, it indeed international speakers who rose to the forced to do now in the new platform. We We have heard of inspiring stories in the
these e-Learning sessions. Not all of us in takes courage for one to embrace this “I think, more than these digits, what is more occasion and shared their expertise in their cannot delay it because the judges will not frontline service, but the PSTD story reminds
the PSTD were tech-savvy. At some point, sudden shift to e-learning. heartwarming for us to see are learners’ own individual and unique ways. My mindset be able to assume their judicial functions, if us that even if we are not in the frontline, we
we also had to experience the learning stories about how PSTD has helped them was sturdier than ever and I made a lot of not for those online meetings.” can as well inspire courage by taking actions
curve of going digital, like using Zoom for “I am really proud of what we have during the crisis: realization especially on what to prioritize on what we think needs to be done at this
learning facilitation and moderation,” said become. We took that leap of faith to make in life during a crisis. Moreover, I would On courage and COVID-19 very moment.
John. this happen. We convinced other PSTD Fleri De Leon, National Water Resources like to give my snappiest salute to PSTD
members to moderate some webinars. Board for their generosity and more importantly, In the midst of uncertainty and dark days, Theologian Brooke Foss Westcott once
The culture of digital transformation now To some, it was their first time to do it on “The succeeding webinars literally and guiding us leaders through digital learning sometimes all it takes is for one to be brave said, “Great occasions do not make heroes
sweeps through different organizations. Zoom platform, but they did really well,” figuratively brought me back to my feet and its effective and efficient impact to risk enough to jump into the void and learn or cowards; they simply unveil them to our
What was once being resisted by said John. giving me a sense of structure as it is always management.” quickly for everyone else. Oplan H.O.P.E. eyes. Silently and imperceptibly, as we wake
employees, leaders, and managers, has something to look forward to everyday. I gladly took that plunge. These stories are or sleep, we grow strong or weak; and at last
now become a necessity, and people are Asked what he thinks about the shift always resonate with what the speakers Romil De Leon, Supreme Court of the proof that learning is a great source of some crisis shows what we have become.”
left with no choice but to adapt. In John’s to e-learning, John said, “The spike of were discussing and it felt very personal Philippines inspiration and bravery, not just for PSTD or
words, “Adapt to digital culture or perish.” demand for digital learning was not so that the words struck right through me. “I gained my confidence incredibly from its leaders, but also the community that it has We hope that this feature story helps you
For some people however, especially imminent before, ‘foreshadowing’ if we They evoke that self-reassurance stemming attending the sessions with PSTD. Since vowed to serve. unveil the courage within yourself to make a
the digital immigrants (Gen X and Baby may call it. What COVID-19 did was to from the awareness and mindfulness we will now be transitioning to the digital difference.
Boomers), it must be daunting to download bring that imminent change to here and empowering us to do our part. How I was platform in the Philippine Judicial Academy- John also hopes for the Philippine
that Zoom app or other video conferencing now—that fast. And you can’t afford to initially paralyzed in the early weeks were Supreme Court, I was tasked to introduce government and public servants to be Be a PSTD member. Visit their website to
platforms and hit that “Join Meeting” button miss out, or you’ll be left behind.” all overturned by PSTD. I’ll never be this to the newly-appointed judges a webinar courageous in providing the hope and know more: pstd.org.
36 37
Here are a few reminders and good practices In this rapidly changing world, choose to be
on how to conduct ourselves online, build wise. We can’t do things the way we did it
our professional brand, and be ready for before. And we can’t stop change, either.
work as a public servant in the age of digital
transformation: That which cannot change becomes
Building Your
Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and learning all about it. Don’t be afraid to admit
Ethical Standards for Public Officials and what you don’t know—instead, list them
Employees is, or course, still in effect. It has down so you know where to start and what
Professional Online
not changed no matter how many times the to ask. Take time to learn something new
community quarantine level has changed. every day. Set your learning goals and be
Thus, we are still called to observe the eight deliberate about achieving them. Motivate
norms of conduct: commitment to public yourself to learn not only out of necessity
Brand
interest, professionalism, justness and but out of curiosity and interest. You will
sincerity, political neutrality, responsiveness have a smoother work experience in this
to the public, nationalism and patriotism, era if you let technology help you instead of
commitment to democracy, and simple struggling with it.
S
living.
So don’t get stuck being unsure of how to
o you find yourself in the middle of Everything seems different now. The way It might be easy to overlook these norms use technology. Instead of letting it control
a pandemic where the world has you work (or look for work), coordinate with when we are online and the workplace has or frustrate you, learn to wield it for your
seemingly gone fully virtual. Instead superiors and subordinates, and converse become more fluid. However, it is because own purpose. Perhaps you are just starting
of preparing to go out, you are with individuals and groups are all done over of the nature of the Internet that we should out in your career and looking to improve
clicking away on your smartphone WiFi. be even more careful—a little mistake and your adeptness in technology. Or perhaps
to order food and to shop. You depend on a quick screenshot can hurt our brand and you have already moved past many career
apps for productivity, entertainment, and But have the rules of professional even that of our organization’s. Use the eight milestones, but you suddenly find yourself
recreation. Whether at the office or at home, engagement changed? Even if everything norms of conduct as the standard for any at the beginning of something new yet
you are suddenly taking crash courses on is now done online, the same etiquette and online activity you conduct, anticipating the again. Whatever stage you are in your Photo by John Schnobrich on Unsplash
attending webinars, teleconferencing with values should govern our conversations and digital footprints you will leave behind. learning journey, don’t hesitate to jump on
colleagues, and collaborating on shared transactions. We as civil servants should be the change train and go for the ride.
files. conscious of how we are putting ourselves Decoding decorum Back in the day, we took time to look our Be on time.
out there. Are we being consistent with the “Account”-ability best so we could present ourselves in the
You’re now a virtual professional operating principles of public service excellence? Are Observing good taste and propriety is always best manner possible at a job interview, at It is still important to be on time, especially
your own virtual office. we observing basic considerations when a wise thing to do, both onsite and online. We Mixing business with pleasure is tricky then, the office, or at an important meeting. when working with technology-based
appearing, speaking, or transacting online? have office rules to maintain order and create and it’s still tricky now. Because we are applications. Give yourself enough prep
a pleasant environment. In the physical civil servants, we have a professional and There’s no reason why we should stop time. Get household chores and other
office, we strive not to disrupt workflow and organizational reputation to protect online. doing it now. And this is more than just tasks out of the way. Test your Internet
productivity through distractions and noise. As we are typing away our comments and subscribing to the “fake it ‘til you make connection beforehand so you have time
We also endeavor to become inclusive as we opinions for the whole Internet to see, it” mindset. This is about maintaining to troubleshoot in case something’s wrong,
think of ways on how initiatives and activities are we thinking of how this may affect our presentability and observing courtesy, or at least know what to do when you get
would benefit more people. brand? even while online. disconnected. Otherwise, you might let
your colleagues wait for you—and you’re
The same should be observed in our online As you increase your professional online Be presentable. not even stuck in traffic.
office counterparts such as chat groups, engagement, you might want to organize
online communities, and virtual meeting your online accounts and categorize their Attending a meeting or doing a virtual Be confident.
rooms. Are we contributing to productive use. Are they for official or personal purposes presentation? Do simple pre-production
online conversations, or are we igniting only? Or you might also want to create work. Take a quick survey of how your Lastly, build that confidence! This is closely
gossip or circulating fake news? Are we separate social media or teleconferencing virtual presence would look. Stage your tied to #4—learn to wield your technology
encouraging colleagues to participate and accounts specifically for work (or use the video area—ensure good lighting and so you can confidently use it. Nothing
contribute, or are we alienating individuals ones your organization has provided for its acoustics, position your camera for proper is more stressful than fumbling around
and groups? employees). Use your real name and official framing, curate your background, or use a the buttons and controls while a meeting
profile photo or logos that reflect your work virtual background altogether. You might is about to start. Or worse—sending a
These are just some ways on how we could or organizational affiliation. This is one way even want to invest on a good cloth or message to the wrong chat group. It can all
apply decorum in virtual spaces. of maintaining corporate branding while chroma key backdrop to help you create be overwhelming; that’s why it’s important
keeping your personal accounts personal. the perfect virtual environment. This would to know your tech so you can have the
Rise of the wise be especially helpful for those who will be confidence to manage your virtual space.
It’s all about projection. doing online meetings or classes most Then, you can be a confident civil servant
Nobody can claim to know everything. In of the time. You can also dress for the ready to face your colleagues and serve
fact, it is counted as wisdom to a person First impressions last, so they say. In a screen—pick the right colors for your outfit the public.
who thinks he or she still has a lot to learn. sense, we are making a series of first and skin tone, or experiment with your
This is the proper place from which to impressions now as we begin participating hairstyle to see which works best for you. For more tips on hosting or joining online
approach, accept, and adapt to change. in more and more virtual spaces. Are we Check your visuals and audio before the meetings and webinars, check out the CSC
Photo by Nick Morrison on Unsplash Once we think we already know everything, wondering what impression we are creating actual meeting or presentation to ensure eNewsletter June 2020 issue at www.csc.
the road to learning is shut off. for ourselves online? Are we lookin’ good? everything’s OK. gov.ph.
38 39
During Meeting
1 INTRODUCE AND HAVE A SMALL TALK
!
Begin and end at the exact time as planned – SEND MEETING DETAILS Chat for a bit before the start of meeting
Respect each other’s time by being in the video Send meeting URL and/ 8
Hi!
conference 5 to 10 minutes ahead of schedule. or access codes at least a to help people feel at ease
Also, end the meeting at the time indicated in the day before the meeting
invitation. 2
How to Hold a
help people feel connected.
meeting with 9
Check audio and video – Ask participants if clear roles for CHECK AUDIO,
they can hear and see you clearly. all participants, VIDEO, AND
Productive Virtual
an agenda is PRESENTATION
Share presentation – Ask participants if they
needed Ask participants
can see your presentation.
if they can hear
Meeting
Position yourself – Make sure that you are in and see you
the center view of the camera at all times. clearly as well as
3 the presentation
CHECK MEETING PLATFORM AND EQUIPMENT
Mute yourself – To avoid background noise,
Make sure your computer, camera, headset, and
mute your microphone when you are just listening.
meeting platform are working. Ask participants
Also remind people who are not speaking to
if they can hear and see you clearly
T
mute their mic too to avoid interference. 11 OBSERVE BODY LANGUAGE
he COVID-19 pandemic has Pre-meeting Observe body language – Seat properly and Sit properly and avoid
excessive movements
10
abruptly changed the way avoid excessive movements. Think that you are
public sector work. The concept
of work-from-home was a
Send meeting details – Make sure to send
the meeting details such as URL or link,
in the same room with the other participants. POSITION
farfetched idea before the access codes, ID, or passwords, at least a Avoid distractions – Stay attentive all
YOURSELF 12
pandemic. However, due to the community day before the actual meeting. throughout the meeting. Do not check your Make sure AVOID
quarantine implemented in different areas email, mobile phone, and other gadgets during that you are DISTRACTIONS
in the Philippines, government agencies Create a clear agenda – Just like in any the meeting.
in the center Do not check your
were required to shift from onsite to offsite meeting, be it face-to-face or virtual, an
email, mobile
work arrangement for their employees and agenda is vital to have a structured meeting. 4 DESIGNATE A WORKSPACE view of the
Take notes or record the meeting – Don’t phone, and other
other alternative work schemes. The facilitator should send the agenda to all
participants before the online meeting and
miss important discussion during the meeting by Choose a quiet space with a neutral or camera at all gadgets during the
To ensure continuous public service seek confirmation. It should also indicate
taking down notes or recording the meeting itself. clear background with proper lighting times meeting
You may designate a scribe to do this task.
delivery despite the pandemic, many the expected roles of the participants in the
leaders are employing different strategies to meeting for them to prepare ahead. With a Post-meeting
manage their teams outside of the normal clear agenda, the meeting will be focused
office setting. One strategy is the conduct and the participants will not go off track, thus 5 13
Conclude effectively – At the end of the
of virtual meetings or videoconferencing. no time will be wasted. meeting, reiterate important points, action 14
This strategy allows agencies to sustain steps, and deadlines. State next steps and
communication among their workforce in Check and test platform and equipment follow-ups. Get the acknowledgment of TAKE CONCLUDE
the comforts of their homes. Many online – Make sure that your computer/laptop, participants to ensure accountability. MAKE A SIMPLE PRESENTATION NOTES OR
EFFECTIVELY
Reiterate
Since there is limited interaction
platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Office microphone, camera, and headset, as
Teams, Google Meet, Slack, Skype, well as the meeting platform, are properly RECORD important
etc. easily connect people in a virtual working. It is better to use headphones with
Send follow-up email – The facilitator/
moderator should send the meeting notes to
with participants, your presentation MUTE THE points, action
environment. While each platform has its mic instead of the laptop’s built-in mic to all participants and obtain acknowledgment should be short and simple Mute mic when just MEETING
steps, and
advantages, it is important to choose the ensure clear audio. and confirm understanding. It should also listening to avoid deadlines
right platform that fits the purpose of the indicate action items with timelines and background noise 15
meeting as well as the needs of your team. Designate a workspace – Choose a quiet people responsible for those items.
space with a neutral or clear background and
As the demand for virtual meetings has proper lighting as much as possible. This By doing these steps, virtual meetings can be
increases due to economy and eliminates distractions for other participants. productive and collaborative. However, we
6 7 16
convenience, it should be noted that there
is a big difference between conducting Make a simple presentation – Since
should keep in mind that videoconferencing WEAR PROPER BEGIN AND END AT THE
and participating in a face-to-face meeting there is limited interaction with your virtual
may not be ideal for every situation. It may ATTIRE EXACT TIME
compared to videoconferencing. To better audience, your presentation should be short
be counter-productive when it is abused by Avoid stripes or Be in the video conference 5
having too many meetings, when in fact, some busy patterns as it
equip managers as well as employees and simple. minutes ahead of schedule;
topics can just be discussed via email. Always does not transmit
in holding productive virtual meetings, start and end the meeting SEND FOLLOW-UP EMAIL
remember that everyone is busy and they may well to the monitor/
here are some useful tips, basic rules and Wear proper attire – Avoid stripes or busy on time Send meeting notes and agreements and
find constant virtual meetings to be disruptive screen
etiquette to observe in the conduct of virtual patterns as it does not transmit well to the rather than effective. We hope this helps you obtain acknowledgment from participants
meetings: monitor/screen. and your team in your next video conference!
40 41
Shifting HR practices in
C
ommunity quarantines have Aside from ensuring physical safety, Certainly, the digital natives and early Learn-from-Home series boasting of local
pushed organizations to abruptly HR practitioners also set their eyes on adopters of technology will experience and international speakers and thousands
pandemic world?
Just when the world was only about to adapt COVID-19 happened, these expanded now also learning from several training
to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) where to include sessions on mental health, Championing e-Learning and and workshops to equip themselves on
conversations centered on artificial intelligence counselling, and other psychosocial Development online facilitation—how to design a module
and automation replacing humans, and the rapid support. Some sessions are very specific for online teaching and learning, how to
(Part 1 of 2)
acceleration of digital innovations disrupting our like building resilience in the time of Among the major HR activities that has engage virtual audience, measuring and
lives, the pandemic is a stark reminder to focus COVID-19, or mindfulness and healing been disrupted by COVID-19 is learning evaluating online L&D, etc. L & D experts
on what truly matter. More particularly in HR, it during crisis. The approach to workplace and development (L&D). With mass shared a common experience on pursuing
reminds HR practitioners to bring the ‘human’ wellbeing has become more purposive, gathering prohibited, including face-to- creativity and innovation these days – that
back in human resources while trying to survive making it more targeted to employees’ face classroom training and seminars, it takes courage to experiment, to fail fast,
the shock of COVID-19. needs. organizations’ L&D programs have been and to fail smart.
put to halt. Some companies were quick
This article is the first of a two-part series in this Entering the virtual workspace to migrate their L&D programs online, Most organizations are still on the reactive
magazine that captures various insights from while others, especially those observing mode of doing things in this volatile
local and international business articles, studies, By adopting remote work as the new hierarchical tradition, lagged behind in time. The main focus is still on survival.
and research that describe how HR practices normal, workers had to migrate online. adapting to changing demands. What are However, management consulting firm
are shifting and shaping the future workplace. Majority of work activities are now done some lessons that can be learned from McKinsey&Company suggests that
Part 1 will focus on workforce’s wellbeing digitally and online—meetings, sorting those who were able to quickly make L&D organizations must start reimagining
safety, virtual workspace, and e-learning and and sharing of files, work collaboration, relevant amid crisis? the office and work life after COVID-19.
development. town hall gatherings, among others. This Leadership and management experts
sudden shift from physical to virtual desks Agility is key. According to the Cambridge also urge executives to look beyond this
Prioritizing workforce’s wellbeing and has exposed the digital divide between Dictionary, agility refers to ways of planning pandemic to clarify directions, and adjust
safety those who have ready access to internet and doing work in which it is understood strategic goals if necessary. Now, more
and devices and those who do not; that making changes as they are needed than ever, the role of HR and organization
At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Work- between the highly digital literate and the is an important part of the job; it is the development practitioners prove to be vital
From-Home (WFH) has been an imperative digital novice. ability to move about quickly and easily; in ushering people into the new normal
parallel to the “Stay at Home” directive from the ability to think quickly and clearly. A and into the post-pandemic world.
the World Health Organization and national HR professionals see themselves standing case in point is the Philippine Society for
health authorities. Remote working, once in between these groups of people. They Talent Development (PSTD) (see full We hope that this feature story gives you
considered as a rare preference or an incentive must encourage digital innovation in the story on page 32) which saw the need to valuable HR insights and recommendations
for employees, has now become the new norm workplace while simultaneously doubling be relevant in the face of crisis. Hence, it that you can use in your organization. Part
for majority of workers. efforts to capacitate and provide needed created the Oplan H.O.P.E. taskforce to of 2 of this series will focus on employee
resources to those not adept in using quickly plan for programs that would help experience, recruitment and onboarding,
HR teams are prioritizing workforce’s health technology. Leaders and managers its target stakeholders—the Filipino L&D and performance management.
and safety by developing and improving also decide on which work can be done community. The idea of the taskforce was
WFH policies and other alternative work remotely and which ones cannot. In this to enable the team to decide and move We are eager to feature more success
arrangements. On the other hand, those who case, work restructuring is considered, quickly and not rely on the traditional top- stories in the next issues of CS Reporter.
still need to report to work physically, at least as well as reskilling and upskilling of the down flow of instructions. In less than two If you are keen to contribute, email us at
on some days, are provided with necessary workforce. weeks, PSTD was able to come up with its [email protected].
support like transportation and free personal
protective equipment. Others went as far as
offering financial assistance to workers in need.
In the office, employees have to observe proper SOURCES:
https://ceo.usc.edu/2020/03/23/coronavirus/
health and safety protocols. Communication
https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our-insights/reimagining-the-office-and-work-life-after-covid-19
materials about COVID-19 and safety tips are https://humanresources.umn.edu/home/hr-and-covid
posted on highly visible areas. Alcohol, hand https://mgmt.au.dk/research-related-to-covid-19/human-resource-management-practices-in-times-of-the-covid-19-pandemic/
sanitizers, and handwashing soap are provided https://harver.com/blog/covid-19-hr-resources/
as well. Leaders have also set up COVID-19 https://hbr.org/sponsored/2020/05/workforce-strategies-for-post-covid-19-recovery
response plans in case an employee tests https://hbr.org/2020/03/your-employee-tested-positive-for-covid-19-what-do-you-do
positive for the virus. These are just some of the https://hbr.org/2020/05/lead-your-team-into-a-post-pandemic-world
https://hbr.org/2020/05/how-ceos-can-support-employee-mental-health-in-a-crisis
measures being taken today as part of the new
https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our-insights/to-emerge-stronger-from-the-covid-19-crisis-companies-should-start-reskilling-their-
Photo by Dylan Gillison on Unsplash normal, and are predicted to be practiced even workforces-now
after this pandemic. https://www.fastcompany.com/90469161/how-hr-leaders-are-preparing-for-the-coronavirus
42 43
LINGKOD CS Reporter celebrates modern-day heroism by
featuring the stories and contributions of outstanding
public servants, and the beneficiaries of the Pondong
BAYANI
Pamanang Lingkod Bayani—a recognition program and
financial assistance granted by the CSC to the families
of public servants who died in their line of duty.
PAMANANG
LINGKOD BAYANI
Spotlight on Covid-19 Frontliners
T
he Civil Service Commission DR. ISRAEL BACTOL DR. MARCELO JAOCHICO Dr. SALVACION GATCHALIAN
and the rest of the Philippine Philippine Heart Center PGO-Pampanga UP-Manila, College of Medicine
bureaucracy continue to
remember the selflesness and Thirty-four year old cardiologist A recipient of the Dr. Jose P. Rizal Dr. Sally Gatchalian—Doc Sally to
bravery of our fallen health Israel Bactol of the Philippine Heart Memorial award, Dr. Jaochico many—died on 26 March after battling
workers who died in the line of duty. Center (PHC) died of COVID-19 after served as a ‘doctor to the barrios’ in the COVID-19 as assistant director
contracting it from a patient who did not Calanasan, Apayao for about 16 years. of the Research Institute for Tropical
Tributes continue to pour in for health workers disclose travel history. His colleagues He was obstetrician, pediatrician, and Medicine. She left both a void an a
who battled the COVID-19 pandemic. The described Israel as a selfless, caring, family physician for rural folks. He also legacy in the medical profession.
medical community continues to urge the and humble person who was willing worked at the Bureau of Local Health
public to stay at home and heed the call of to risk his life to fulfill his duty in the Systems and Development of the DOH Born into the Rodriguez clan of San
the authorities so that their sacrifices would medical profession. before becoming provincial health Marcelino, Zambales, her family knew
not be in vain. officer in 2013. Dr. Jaochico, the at an early age that Doc Sally would be
A consistent honor student since provincial health chief of Pampanga, an achiever. She went to the University
These are some civil servants who remained elementary school, he strived through died on 24 March, after losing his of the Philippines for medical studies.
on the frontline until they contracted the virus college and medical school as a scholar. battle with COVID-19. She graduated with class 1977 and
and died in the service of our fellow Filipinos. He served as chief resident during his became a leading light in her field. She
Because of the high transmission rate of the internal medicine residency training. His A former patient recalls how Dr. was a clinical associate professor and
virus, they had no relatives around to hold last achievement was being part of the Jaochico served as his doctor back attending physician at the University of
their hands as they breathed their last. Some select group of cardiology fellows-in- when he had malaria. The good the Philippines College of Medicine and
had to be buried right away; others were training of the PHC. doctor would personally deliver the Philippine General Hospital, where she
cremated with no ceremony to remember medicines and reassured that he earned her M.D., completed residency
their heroism. Bactol, whose parents are both public would be the one to visit. The late in pediatrics and a fellowship in pediatric
school teachers in Peñaranda town in doctor was a humble man who was infectious diseases.
Nueva Ecija, believes that the medical very dedicated to his job. Their
profession should be in the service of community was saddened when they After the country was hit by Typhoon
the people. heard the news of his passing. Haiyan in 2013, she was involved in
epidemiology and prevention efforts
After graduating from the Pamantasan He was also one of the first responders to help displaced children at risk of
ng Lungsod ng Maynila and passing when Typhoon Yolanda struck in tuberculosis. As a former member of the
the Physician Licensure Exam in 2012, Tacloban City in 2013. World Health Organization Tuberculosis
Bactol went to Occidental Mindoro as in Children and Adolescents Working
a doctor to the barrio for two years. At His latest rural health service was Group, she helped create the Philippine
Photos are taken from: Department of Tourism: that time, the province was classified as volunteering to attend to victims of the Coalition Against Tuberculosis and led
#WeSmileAsOne A Tribute to our Modern-Day Heroes
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RczklyAeiG0) second class in terms of income, with Taal Volcano eruption in Batangas in a children’s tuberculosis initiative.
a population of less than half a million. January 2020.
At the time of her passing, she was
His dedication was evident as Bactol, Dr. Jaochico’s daughter Cielo posted president of the Philippine Pediatrics
sleepless from at least a 32-hour how proud she is of her father as he Society, and was assistant director of RITM.
duty, would still visit patients at home would always thinks of other people’s Despite her stature and achievements,
because they cannot afford to go to the health, going to remote places to check Doc Sally remained humble, very caring
hospital. up on people. and supportive of younger colleagues.
44 45
Dr. HELEN TUDTUD
Spotlight on COVID-19 frontliners (cont’d.)
“
COVID-19 and our
passed away in 28 March or 11 days practice of general surgery without
after she was admitted to the hospital forgetting to promote the welfare of
for COVID-19. his fellow Caviteños.
“
Dr. Raul Jara was a recognized
Despite the couple’s children’s pillar of cardiology in the During the first two months of enhanced take advantage of while normal training Atty. Janalyn Gainza-Tang
warning, Dr. Helen and Dr. Ramon community quarantine, the National Center setup is not yet allowed. One of these
continued working even as they were
Philippines, often described by the
for Mental Health (NCMH) recorded more is the webinar on The Path to Wellness, Anti-Red Tape Authority
Philippine Heart Association as
aware that elderly people were more a “father, teacher, mentor, poet, than 100% increase in calls from their crisis which aims to improve employee wellbeing
vulnerable to the disease. author, singer, colleague, friend.” hotline. From a monthly average of 400 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “It is a two-
His patients remembered him as a calls from May 2019 to February 2020, it hour synchronous workshop that will help
soothing and calming healer who doubled to a monthly average of 953 calls members of your organization to take a
used music to heal the heart. from March to May 2020. Anxiety-related closer look at their current life paths through
JOMALYN BUHAYON and concerns was the main reason for the spike reflection and sharing. The session will
MARGIE MARIBAO During his younger days as an in calls, according to NCMH Psychiatrist help them recognize current challenges
LGU-Maramag, Bukidnon activist physician, he fought Bernard Argamosa. Callers revealed that and guide them to finding individual paths
dictatorship and risked his life by they were experiencing increased levels toward recovery,” said Mr. Lito Lupena,
of anxiety, while others asked for referrals the webinar creator with over 25 years of
Buhayon and Maribao were barangay treating patients in the underground
to a psychologist or psychiatrist, or needed experience in the field of human resource The Path to Wellness is a breather
health workers who died on 20 March not movement, running rings around
because of the virus but because of the the military by faking the names and someone to talk to, or inquired for someone and organization development, specializing amidst this pandemic. Never did
else’s mental health problems. in personal mastery, leadership and
negligence of the driver of the 10-wheeler records of the activists he treated.
strategy, as well as competency and talent I imagine that a bunch of cards
truck which rammed into the quarantine Later in life, he would remain
checkpoint they were attending to in steadfast and true to his oath, Though the numbers are alarming, health development. Several agencies such as coupled with interaction from
experts are not surprised. At the onset of the the Department of Social Welfare and
Maramag town in Bukidnon. Police report joining a group of doctors attending
pandemic, the World Health Organization Development, Anti-Red Tape Authority,
colleagues in the public service
revealed that the driver was under the to an aging martial law figure who
influence of liquor and visibly drunk when had been on the opposite end of the already urged the public to look after their Commission on Population, and the CSC would help me embrace a new
mental health. The Department of Health have already benefitted from this webinar.
he was chased because he attempted to ideological spectrum.
(DOH) also asked Filipinos to take care of Online trainings like this can help us take
perspective in the current crisis.
escape the scene of the crime.
their mental health while doing their part in care of our wellbeing despite the worrisome
In a statement, Dr. Ling Jara-Salva,
following health protocols. As a response, situation around the world. Maria Andrea B. Banay
The accident happened a few minutes one his five children, said she
before the start of Bukidnon’s province- salutes her father for dedicating both public and private sectors offered Department of Social Welfare and
support mechanisms to help address the Ultimately, while the pandemic is out of our
wide indefinite lockdown to stop the his whole life to constant learning
public’s mental health concerns. control, we can still have a hand on things Development
spread of the novel coronavirus. The and teaching and molding future
two health workers were tapped to doctors. Dr. Raul would ask tough we can personally control such as managing
implement strict measures against the questions and push them to learn In the government, the Civil Service our exposure from depressing news;
spread of coronavirus disease at the and persevere. He believed in his Commission (CSC) partnered with staying virtually connected with family,
community quarantine checkpoint when students and would think of them DOH, NCMH, Career Executive Service friends, and colleagues; keeping ourselves
the truck rammed into it. as his children and the hope of Compassion Project, Natasha Goulbourn busy with helpful activities; and expressing
the future. She added that their Foundation, and World Association for our thoughts by talking to others or writing
Buhayon and Maribao were pronounced family would rather have her father Psychosocial Rehabilitation to help public on journal. By actively doing these, we are
dead on arrival (DOA) at the Bukidnon remembered not by how he died but servants cope with emotional crises, stress, nurturing our mental and physical wellness,
Provincial Hospital in Maramag. by how he lived. and anxiety by availing free psychosocial which we badly need as we fight on through
first aid, assessment, and intervention this pandemic.
46 47
HEALTH and WELLNESS
is an alternative or easier way to get that kind of person, remember that you always AFTER
meeting out of your way--perhaps a phone have that option to switch off that video and
call or email will do? engage with audio only. 7. Take a break to take it all in. Common mistake
that people make is to engage in another
DURING 5. Keep it short if possible; if not, take breaks Zoom call right away after the previous one.
in between. If you have a clear agenda, This is definitely exhausting. Give yourself
3.
Avoid distractions. If you committed keeping the meeting short should be easy. some time to review your notes and check
“I can’t believe I’m doing more work and virtual meetings these days... and it’s draining me,” yourself to a virtual meeting, try to eliminate But if it is a major one like strategic planning what needs your action/attention. Pause and
distractions during the meeting if possible. or setting targets, make sure you let people breathe. Take your eyes off the screen. Drink
my colleague said while we’re on a phone call. It’s easy to get distracted in a virtual take breaks in between. water or take your meal!
W
meeting and do other tasks while on it such
as cooking, answering an email, switching 6. Make it fun and light. If you’re the one If you would notice, all these tips echo the same
hen COVID-19 suddenly However, as weeks and months went by, the impact on workers with assumptions like
through different social media channels, hosting it, you may insert a quick catch up tricks we should be doing in physical meetings.
pushed millions of influx of online meetings was so noticeable virtual meetings are bosses’ new way to
and worse, engaging in another Zoom at the beginning to break the ice, humor Moving to a virtual space does not make you any
workers to work from that “Zoom fatigue” has now become a check attendance, monitor performance,
call simultaneously. This would drain your them, or close the meeting with some less human. Hence, some major rules in a face-to-
home, people had their common struggle among workers. and see their engagement. So even if
energy more than you think it would. inspirational note. Just because we’re face meeting still apply in Zoom meetings. Let us
own ways of adjusting to employees think that they may have
behind our screen doesn’t mean that we’re make working from home work to our advantage
the unfamiliar circumstance—majority of There are many factors causing Zoom had too many meetings in a day or in a
4. You can switch your video off. Some people less human in meetings. Employees mostly by eliminating stressful practices. Don’t let yourself
efforts had gone digital or virtual. Leaders fatigue including more intentional listening, week, the fear of being penalized for not
are just camera shy and not comfortable miss human connections nowadays in the get trapped in Zoom fatigue again.
and managers would meet with their teams showing up on video even if it makes you attending one makes it impossible for them
showing their faces virtually for a long time. virtual world that they usually experience
online through videoconferencing apps uncomfortable, long meeting hours, and to beg off.
This could increase their level of stress when they are in the office with their First published by Moon Danipog on LinkedIn
such as Zoom. Some people find remote background noise, among others. But more
while on an online meeting. If you are this colleagues. (linkedin.com/moondanipog)
work convenient because of such flexibility. than these, it also has a psychological Here are some tips to avoid Zoom fatigue
before, during, and after virtual meetings:
BEFORE
48 49
C.S.I.
Civil Service Issuances
-X I :e
Number
tPromulgated
ah MC No.15, s. 2020
1701159* lci
: Jun 31,t
2017 s
tr
e
WHEREAS,
A ,SAEREHW
POE and CSE-FSO; two (2) hours and 40 minutes for the CSE
SubProfessional level;
AD
with disabilities (PWDs) such as the blind or visually impaired,
t gnidthe r occa
deaf or hard of hearing, those with other physical defects, the
pregnant and senior citizens;
ylno edam eb
a , e l bWHEREAS, a TO : the conduct c it
of examination c
for the visually arp sa raf sa
impaired is either through the Braille system or the Dictation
ira m
ALL HEADS irp
OF CONSTITUTIONAL , g
BODIES,DEPARTMENTS,
system, both requiring procedures that varyn
for standard examination/regular examinees;
in
from those employed imreted-ycilop
BUREAUS
AND AGENCIES OF THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT; GOVERNMENT-
;s nORCONTROLLED
RESOLUTION
OWNED oita WHEREAS, n
CORPORATIONS i
the deaf or hard m
of hearing axe evititepmoc
has limited vocabulary
WITH ORIGINAL
in comparison with their full hearing counterparts which affects
WHEREAS, Article IX-B, Section 2 (2) of the 1987 Philippine
CHARTERS; LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS;
their comprehension AND
and literacy
Constitution provides that appointments in the civil service shall STATE
skills. Such UNIVERSITIES
limited vocabulary
adds to the difficulty in reading and understanding passages,
noitceS ,SAEREHW
be made only according to merit and fitness to be determined,
and
includingCOLLEGES
technical, difficult, or peculiar words. Further, they do not
as far as practicable, and, except to positions which are understand questions in Filipino and do not have an equivalent
policy-determining, primarily confidential or highly technical, by
drO ev itucexE fo V kooB
sign language for numerical formula/equations;
competitive examinations;
SUBJECT
WHEREAS, there: is a need for appropriate measures to
1
Book V of Executive f
Order No.o 292, otherwise ase
Section
known d
38
the and senior of Omnibus
citizens;
oC
WHEREAS, Section 12 (2), Chapter 3, Subtitle A, Title I, address the physical conditions of PWDs, pregnant examinees
Amendment to Rules on Leave evitartsinimdA
Administrative Code of 1987, provides that the Civil Service
l(CSC)
Commission lshalla prescribe, h
(Amended
s
amend, and enforce rules
by CSC
)C MC No. 41,
Ss. 1998)
C ( noissimmoC
TI
WHEREFORE, the Commission hereby RESOLVES to
and regulations for carrying into effect the provisions of the Civil prescribe the following general guidelines on categorizing
niyrrac
Service Law and other pertinent laws;
ro
examinees of and administering f
civil service s
examinations to
persons with disabilities (PWDs) and certain regular examinees
noitaluger dna
tBook
r e p r e h to d 18, n 2019, a waL ecivreS
WHEREAS, Section 12 (7), Chapter 3, Subtitle A, Title I, owing to their conditions:
V of Pursuant
Executive OrdertoNo.CSC Resolution
292, otherwise known No.
as the1901392 promulgated on November
Administrative Code of 1987, provides further that the CSC shall
the Commission resolved to amend
A. Section
Categories of38 of the Omnibus Rules on Leave, as
examinees
have the power to control, supervise, and coordinate civil service
amended by CSC MC No. 41, s. 1998,1.toPWD
examinations; read as follows:
Examinees – shall refer to examinees falling under
noitce
WHEREAS, the CSC, through the Examination, Recruitment
and Placement Office (ERPO), the CSC Regional Offices (CSC
S
any of the following sub-categories:
,SAEREHW
“Section 38. Period within which to claima.terminal The visuallyleave
impairedpay. – Request for payment of
d rO e
ROs), and the CSC Field Offices (CSC FOs), administers civil
v a.1 i Usingt u
the Dictation system c – shall cover e
both xE fo V kooB
M
terminal leave benefits may be brought
service examinations via pen and paper test (CSE-PPT) mode any time after
partially andthe
totallyofficial/employee
blind examinees who opt to severed his/
89 1 withf o employer.”e
such as, but not limited to, Career Service Examination (CSE) for
her connection his/her
Professional and SubProfessional levels, Fire Officer Examination d o C
take the examination through dictation
a.2 Using the Braille system – shall cover both evitartsinimdA
(FOE), Penology Officer Examination (POE), and Career Service
,CSC lo r No.t n tookoeffect onc o t rdays
e from wop eht evah
partially and totally blind examinees who opt
Examination for Foreign Service Officer (CSE-FSO); to take the examination through Braille
Resolution 1901392 March
a.3 8, 2020
Low vision – shallorcover
after fifteen
partially (15)
blind
WHEREAS, the standard duration of examination is three
its publication in The Philippine Star on February
(3) hours and 10 minutes for the CSE Professional level, FOE,
21, 2020.
examinees who opt to take the examination on
their own the conventional way
;snoitanimaxe
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50 51
52