20th Emergency 911 Commission Conference
ULAP, represented by Executive Director Aileen Leycano joined the 20th Emergency 911 Commission Conference on 8 March 2024. The conference saw discussions on pertinent topics including updates on the integration of existing local command centers into the Emergency 911 National Program. Furthermore, deliberations revolved around updates on local government units seeking establishment of their own Emergency 911 Local Call Centers. Additionally, the conference garnered attention towards the approval of the budget proposal for the fiscal year 2025, emphasizing the financial aspect crucial for the effective functioning of emergency response systems.
ULAP Consultation with PSA re PIIP Template
On 5 March 2024, ULAP Executive Director Aileen Leycano and Finance and Admin Director Maricor Cauton met with representatives of the PSA to discuss the PhilSys Integration Implementation Plan (PIIP). Discussion ensued on incentivizing local government units (LGUs) to comply with MC 95, s. 2022, with ULAP expressing concerns about internet access hindrances in remote LGUs and the continuity of plans across succeeding administrations. Strategies were proposed, including prioritizing provincial submissions, leveraging provincial influence over component LGUs, and rolling out revised PIP submissions in phases. Challenges regarding LGU capacity, personnel responsibility, and program identification were addressed, leading to recommendations for standardized instructions and preferred program lists. ULAP's recommendations for enhancing the PIP template were discussed, along with strategies for cascading information and conducting pretests. The meeting concluded with agreements to promote MC 95 compliance through awards, press releases, and potential revisions to the circular for enhanced clarity and accountability.
Philippine Councilors League (PCL) Participates in the 11th Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development at the UN headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand
In his address, Atty. Corro underscored the pivotal role of local and regional governments in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with over 65% of the SDG targets requiring local action. He emphasized the need for an enabling environment that empowers these governments, asserting that their active involvement can substantially expedite the progress of the Asia-Pacific region toward the SDGs.
This advocacy aligns with a global recognition that local governments play a crucial part in achieving sustainable development. Atty. Corro's message echoes a call for collaboration, emphasizing that local and regional authorities are not just beneficiaries but active contributors to the sustainable development agenda.
DTI, ULAP to Launch Communication Campaign Increasing Awareness on Harmful Effects of Vape on Minors
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has engaged with ULAP in raising awareness on the harmful effects of vape on minors, including the illegal sale of the product. The engagement covers the launch of a communication campaign on the barangay level, with the cooperation of local government officials and the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL).
Aiming to effectively reach minor audiences, ULAP is set to facilitate the dissemination of information and advocacy materials through digital platforms, including social media and website, and also through the conduct of onsite and virtual meetings. Meanwhile, the Department has intensified its monitoring and enforcement operations against violators of Republic Act No. 11900 or the “Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR).
ULAP Joins Dialogue Forum On Safeguarding the Well-being of Children Against Sexual Abuse and Exploitation
On 15 February, ULAP participated in the dialogue forum organized by the Council for the Welfare of Children titled “Creating a Community of HOPE (Help and Opportunity to Protect and Emancipate) OSAEC and CSAEM.” This forum aimed to address the pressing issues of child sexual abuse and exploitation, with a particular focus on online sexual exploitation. Among the participants, ULAP Policy Director Ralfhee Blake Barrios discussed the important role of local governments in safeguarding children against sexual abuse, both online and offline.
ULAP and GeneLab Join Forces to Launch Cancer Warrior Campaign in the Philippines
The fight against cancer gained a powerful boost today with the launch of the Cancer Warriors PH campaign, a collaborative effort between the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) and Genetic Solutions Laboratory and Medical Services Philippines Corporation (GeneLabPH).
Atty. Raul Corro, Chairman for Advocacy and Policy of ULAP, emphasized that "Early cancer detection is a critical component in our pursuit of a healthier and more resilient society. With the Cancer Warrior Campaign, we aim not only to improve survival rates but also to alleviate the individual, social, and economic burdens associated with late-stage cancer."
The campaign prioritizes early cancer detection, aiming to significantly improve survival rates and alleviate the individual, social, and economic burdens associated with late-stage diagnosis. This aligns with ULAP's commitment to the well-being of Filipinos and their advocacy for comprehensive health services at the grassroots level.
