PROTECTING AGAINST HORNET INFESTATION

PROTECTING AGAINST HORNET INFESTATION I believe in solving problems at the bud, before they would even grow into bigger problems. Such is the case of the Asian hornet, which is beginning to manifest itself as a problem in the Philippines now, although it is not yet as widespread as to cause an alarm. Although largely unnoticed, hornets are a threat to our honey industry because they are predators of honeybees. The honey industry in the Philippines is growing steadily. In 2025, market revenue is projected to reach approximately $498.64 million, with an annual growth rate of 6.34% expected from 2025 to 2030. Local, organic honey is gaining popularity as consumers become more health conscious. Simply put, a large-scale hornet infestation could mean the end of the honey industry, shutting down many cottage businesses. We should declare a war against hornets as early as now. Who should lead us in this war? Obviously, it should be the Department of Agriculture (DA). But this is not a war that should be left to the DA alone. It would be best to form a Technical Working Group (TWG) with the DA as the lead agency. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), along with other state universities and colleges (SUCs) offering agriculture courses, should also be members. While chemicals may offer quick relief, we must exercise caution. The indiscriminate use of chemicals against hornets could harm beneficial insects, wildlife, and even farm animals. Exploring non-chemical methods, such as pheromone traps and biological control, could provide more sustainable solutions. Could there be good uses for these hornets? Some studies suggest that insects could become a sustainable source of protein or nutrients for animal feeds. Perhaps this is worth investigating further. Additionally, pest control companies like Rentokil and MAPECON could partner with the government in developing environmentally responsible eradication strategies. These companies have the expertise to contribute to the containment of hornet infestations. Hornets are also known to damage fruit crops, including apples, pears, and grapes. The government should conduct studies to identify other vulnerable fruits and develop protection plans. Furthermore, it is crucial to protect our mangrove trees from hornets. Mangroves play a vital role in our coastal ecosystems, acting as nurseries for marine life and protecting against coastal erosion. In the Philippines, honey production is sustained by a network of small-scale farms, cottage industries, and indigenous communities. For example, Palawan Wild Honey is harvested by indigenous groups in Palawan, offering a unique flavor shaped by the region's diverse flora. Herrencia's Pure Wild Honey, a family-owned business in Las Piñas, and San Pedro Bee Farm in Laguna are other examples of small-scale honey producers. Supporting these enterprises through effective hornet management programs is essential for the survival of our honey industry. Early intervention is the key to controlling hornet infestations. With the collaboration of government agencies, private sector partners, and agricultural institutions, we can protect our honeybees and ensure the continued growth of our honey industry. By taking decisive action now, we will prevent this looming threat from turning into a full-blown crisis. The time to act is now — let’s declare a war against hornets before they take over our fields and threaten our livelihoods. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 05-11-2025

TOWARDS A WHOLISTIC APPROACH TO RICE SECURITY

TOWARDS A WHOLISTIC APPROACH TO RICE SECURITY Rice security and rice sufficiency are two sides of the same coin. But I wonder, is anyone in the government thinking about a wholistic approach to our rice security? Let me tell you what I mean by that. Simply put, we will never achieve rice security unless we achieve rice sufficiency. By that, I mean sufficiency through production, not importation. Never believe anyone who claims that we have rice security just because we import rice. And certainly, do not believe anyone who claims that we have food security simply because we have enough rice supplies. Food security means more than just rice. What else is there to eat if we only have rice? I am neither an economist nor a statistician, but I can count, just like any grade school graduate. Rice Production and Demand The Philippines produced approximately 19.96 million metric tons of palay in 2021. The Department of Agriculture estimates our annual rice demand at 15.14 million metric tons. On paper, this suggests a surplus of 4.82 million metric tons. But reality tells a different story. Only about 70% of palay becomes milled rice. Using this figure, our estimated 19.96 million metric tons of palay yields only around 13.97 million metric tons of rice. Already, we are short by about 1.17 million metric tons. Adding to this problem are post-harvest losses. An estimated 10% of palay is lost due to drying on roads. That brings down our usable palay to 17.96 million metric tons. Further losses occur due to poor milling efficiency, reducing the yield to around 17.06 million metric tons of milled rice. Post-harvest losses from pests and moisture account for another 5%, leaving us with only about 16.2 million metric tons. To fill the gap, the Philippines imported approximately 2.9 million metric tons of rice in 2022. Even with imports, our buffer stock remains slim. The government claims that having a 15-day buffer stock is sufficient for food security. But I disagree. Fifteen days is too short. Perhaps it should be 15 months? Achieving Rice Sufficiency If we are serious about food security, we need to become a net exporter of rice. To do that, we should aim to produce at least 30 million metric tons per year. Is this achievable? Countries like Thailand produce about 34 million metric tons annually, and Myanmar follows with approximately 24 million metric tons. There is no reason why the Philippines cannot match or even surpass these figures. Rice farmers have consistently called for post-harvest facilities and farm-to-market roads. It is high time we meet these demands. Proper drying facilities, grains storage systems, and efficient transportation are essential. Beyond roads, we need a reliable network of farm-to-market vehicles. Modern rice mills must replace outdated ones to minimize losses and improve production yield. Innovative Solutions We must also look beyond traditional freshwater irrigation. Rain-fed upland rice farming and the cultivation of saline-tolerant rice varieties in coastal areas and swamplands offer viable alternatives. Additionally, cold storage facilities for rice could extend shelf life and reduce spoilage. Implementing shared post-harvest facilities like silos would further reduce storage losses. And why not consider a program to retire and replace inefficient rice mills? Promoting Responsible Consumption On the consumption side, we should revive the “half rice” and “clean plate” campaigns to minimize food waste. In the past, the government even offered rewards for those who eliminated rats. A modernized pest control initiative could help mitigate the substantial losses caused by rodents. Policy Support and Implementation Finally, we need Congress to act. If reversing the devolution agricultural programs is impractical, lawmakers could augment the Department of Agriculture’s budget to support rice production initiatives. Special funds can be allocated for the construction of post-harvest facilities, distribution of modern rice mills, and the promotion of efficient rice storage solutions. A Special Task Force or Technical Working Group should be established to explore making post-harvest infrastructure mandatory in all rice-producing provinces. A more integrated and proactive approach is essential to ensure genuine rice and food security. Rice security is not just about having enough rice. It is about producing enough rice, storing it effectively, and ensuring it reaches our tables efficiently. Only then can we confidently say that we are truly rice secure. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 05-10-2025

MANDATORY PEDIATRIC WARDS

MANDATORY PEDIATRIC WARDS In most countries worldwide, it is a standard practice to have pediatric wards in hospitals, often mandatory in many cases. Pediatric wards provide specialized care to children, ensuring their unique medical needs are met. Here in the Philippines, many private hospitals follow this practice, but the same cannot be said for government hospitals. While some government hospitals do have pediatric wards, it appears that most do not. Specifically, many provincial hospitals may have them, but not all. Given the critical importance of pediatric healthcare, it should be common sense that all public hospitals have dedicated pediatric wards. Disparities in Pediatric Care Provincial hospitals are theoretically more equipped and capable than district hospitals. However, if not all provincial hospitals have pediatric wards, it is reasonable to assume that district hospitals face even greater challenges in establishing these facilities. Despite the devolution of health services, the Department of Health (DOH) still provides partial financial support to local hospitals. However, this assistance is insufficient, leaving many provincial and district hospitals ill-equipped and understaffed. Without adequate funding, pediatric wards often remain low on the priority list. Legislative Action and Funding Reversing the devolution policy may be difficult, but Congress can still play a significant role in supporting pediatric healthcare. Lawmakers could consider augmenting the DOH’s budget to increase subsidies for local hospitals. Another practical solution is the creation of a special fund dedicated to establishing and maintaining pediatric wards. To further this cause, a Task Force or Technical Working Group (TWG) could be formed to study and recommend policies that would make pediatric wards mandatory in all public hospitals. Such a body could conduct assessments to identify gaps in pediatric care and propose actionable solutions. Comprehensive Pediatric Care Pediatric wards should not only provide treatment for illnesses and injuries but also offer prenatal and postnatal care for mothers and infants. Malnutrition, stunting, and wasting are prevalent issues among Filipino children, and well-functioning pediatric wards can play a pivotal role in addressing these concerns. Furthermore, the government could incentivize the development of multidisciplinary pediatric teams, ensuring that young patients receive holistic care. This includes access to pediatricians, nutritionists, social workers, and mental health professionals. Learning from Existing Models Several provincial hospitals, such as the Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center, Bulacan Medical Center, and Cebu Provincial Hospital, have established pediatric wards. Additionally, national hospitals like the Philippine Children's Medical Center (PCMC) and the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) provide exemplary pediatric services. These models can serve as a benchmark for expanding pediatric care across the country. Conclusion The absence of pediatric wards in many government hospitals is a glaring issue that demands immediate attention. It is not merely a matter of infrastructure but a fundamental commitment to ensuring the well-being of the nation’s children. By mandating the establishment of pediatric wards in all public hospitals, Congress can take a significant step towards equitable healthcare for all Filipino children. Let us recognize pediatric healthcare as a national priority. Every child deserves access to specialized care, and every hospital should be equipped to provide it. Establishing mandatory pediatric wards is not just a necessity—it is a moral obligation. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 05-09-2025

ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL GERIATRIC MEDICAL CENTER

ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL GERIATRIC MEDICAL CENTER The Philippines has established itself as a leader in providing specialized healthcare services through its national centers of excellence. Institutions such as the Philippine Heart Center, the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, the National Orthopedic Hospital, and the Philippine Children's Medical Center (PCMC) have long served as benchmarks in their respective fields. However, a glaring gap remains: the absence of a National Geriatric Medical Center (NGMC). While the country does have a National Center for Geriatric Health (NCGH), it is merely an outpatient clinic attached to the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center (JRRMMC). Without its own independent infrastructure and dedicated funding, the NCGH struggles to meet the growing demands of our aging population. Patients requiring inpatient care are left competing with other patients for hospital beds, exacerbating the burden on JRRMMC's resources. A Missed Opportunity Over the years, lawmakers have introduced several bills to establish a National Geriatric Medical Center, yet none have progressed beyond the committee level. This lack of legislative support reflects a troubling underappreciation of geriatric care needs, despite the rapidly increasing number of senior citizens. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), there will be an estimated 11.7 million senior citizens by 2025, rising to 16.8 million by 2035. The demand for specialized geriatric care will only intensify as the population ages. Establishing an NGMC would be a significant step toward ensuring the dignity and well-being of our elderly. Geriatric Age: Defining the Scope The World Health Organization (WHO) defines geriatric age as starting at 65 years. However, in the Philippines, the legal definition of a senior citizen begins at 60 years under the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 (Republic Act No. 9994). In the interest of clarity and inclusivity, it is reasonable to align our definition of geriatric age with our existing laws and recognize age 60 and above for geriatric care services. Why We Need a National Geriatric Medical Center 1. Independent Operations and Budget: The NGMC should operate as an independent institution with its own budgetary allocation from Congress. This autonomy will ensure focused management and effective service delivery. 2. Specialized Research and Training: Like other centers of excellence, the NGMC should establish a research division to advance studies in geriatric medicine. It should also serve as a teaching hospital to train healthcare professionals in the specialized care of elderly patients. 3. Referral and Outreach System: An electronic referral network should be established to allow public and private hospitals to refer geriatric patients to the NGMC, streamlining access to specialized care. 4. Robust Outpatient and Inpatient Services: The center should have a fully equipped outpatient department, as well as ample inpatient facilities to cater to both acute and long-term geriatric care needs. 5. Telemedicine Capabilities: To bridge the geographical divide, the NGMC should implement a telemedicine program that provides remote consultations and follow-ups, ensuring access to healthcare for senior citizens in underserved regions. A Call to Action Countries like Japan, Sweden, and Germany have established world-class geriatric care systems, recognizing the importance of addressing the complex health challenges faced by their aging populations. The Philippines must follow suit. Senate Bill No. 27, filed by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., envisions the creation of a National Center for Geriatric Health and Research Institute (NCGHRI), which would serve as the nation’s leading teaching and research hospital specializing in geriatric care. Additionally, various House bills have proposed the creation of regional geriatric centers. Such initiatives deserve our full support. We could pick up from where he left off. Our elderly have dedicated their lives to building this nation. It is now our responsibility to ensure that they receive the care and respect they deserve. Establishing the National Geriatric Medical Center is not only a healthcare imperative – it is a moral one. Let us urge our lawmakers to prioritize the health and well-being of our senior citizens. The time to act is now. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 05-08-2025

PROTECTING COTTAGE INDUSTRIES WITH EXCLUSIVITY RIGHTS

PROTECTING COTTAGE INDUSTRIES WITH EXCLUSIVITY RIGHTS What happened to the National Cottage Industries Development Authority (NACIDA)? I know it was abolished, but was it replaced? Some online sources suggest that the Cottage Industry Technology Center (CITC) was established to take its place under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). However, a visit to the DTI website yields no evidence of CITC being one of its attached agencies. Even more puzzling is the fact that the CITC has no official website, and a private company seems to have taken over its previous online domain. The story doesn’t end there. The same unfortunate fate seems to have befallen the Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC). Like NACIDA, it was abolished without any clear successor. The absence of these agencies is a double whammy for the growth of cottage industries in the Philippines. Their abolition left a significant gap in the support system those small-scale entrepreneurs once relied on. Could it be that the Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development (BSMED) is now serving as the de facto replacement for NACIDA and TLRC? BSMED's functions do overlap somewhat with those of the abolished agencies. But perhaps the real issue lies in definitions. Are cottage industries synonymous with MSMEs? Or are they strictly limited to micro and small businesses? India offers an interesting model to consider. Certain cottage industries there are exclusively reserved for micro and small enterprises, protecting them from competition with medium and large-scale corporations. This legal protection ensures that small producers can maintain their market niche and survive against larger competitors. Does the Philippines have a similar system? While some laws do support micro and small businesses, it remains unclear whether specific industries are reserved exclusively for them. Previous attempts to pass stronger laws to protect cottage industries were halted in Congress, possibly due to resistance from big business interests. This begs the question: Should we revive those legislative efforts to create clear protections for cottage industries? Furthermore, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and BSMED could work more closely to provide targeted support to cottage industries. After all, many cottage industries operate as cooperatives. Yet, it remains uncertain whether BSMED even considers cooperatives as part of its mandate. There also appears to be a gap in BSMED’s focus. Its name implies a priority on small and medium enterprises, with no explicit mention of micro enterprises. Could it be that micro enterprises are being left behind? This alone might justify the revival of NACIDA and TLRC to specifically cater to the needs of micro enterprises and cottage industries. Additionally, a comprehensive new law could be crafted to declare certain products as exclusive to cottage industries. Such legislation could also modernize the definition of cottage industries to include home-based services, particularly in the digital economy. After all, why shouldn’t work-at-home (WAH) professionals providing online services be considered part of a modern cottage industry? We must ask ourselves: Are we doing enough to protect and grow our cottage industries? Rebuilding support systems and ensuring exclusivity rights for small producers could be the first steps in revitalizing this vital sector. It's time to prioritize our local entrepreneurs, ensure fair competition, and give cottage industries the robust support they deserve. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 05-07-2025

COTTAGE INDUSTRIES CAN MAKE LOW-COST HOUSING MATERIALS

COTTAGE INDUSTRIES CAN MAKE LOW-COST HOUSING MATERIALS I have an idea, but it is not a new idea. It is an old idea, and it’s one that has stood the test of time. The idea is simple: local people building their own homes using mostly locally available materials. We have all seen those old pictures of Filipino villagers moving a nipa hut, bayanihan-style. But the bayanihan does not begin with the moving part. That nipa hut was likely built by the community, with neighbors working together to construct each other’s homes for free. Even after the hut is relocated, the work continues, as the community helps rebuild and reinforce it in its new location. For practical reasons, the community might need to purchase materials such as cement, and that is perfectly fine. In fact, buying other materials to produce finished products such as fiber boards and resin boards made with recycled plastic is a step in the right direction. Ideally, the community should be organized into a cooperative, enabling them to embark on joint projects such as producing housing materials and constructing low-cost homes. The technology for manufacturing plywood and fiberboard has advanced to a point where even small businesses can produce these materials in home-based cottage industries. Additionally, several NGOs and social enterprises have successfully demonstrated that housing materials can be made from recycled plastic and other sustainable resources. Organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and Gawad Kalinga have already pioneered community-based housing projects, proving that this is no longer a radical idea. What might be new, however, is localizing this approach even further—using local labor, local materials, and deep community participation. Another innovation could be the integration of community solar, community internet, and community water systems into the housing design. These cooperatives could also produce their own hollow blocks, but they should not stop there. There are many other useful building materials that can be created from sand and cement beyond just hollow blocks. Cottage industries have the potential to revolutionize low-cost housing in several ways: 1. Utilizing Local Resources – Using bamboo, clay, recycled materials, and other locally available resources can significantly lower construction costs and promote sustainability. 2. Eco-Friendly Practices – Cottage industries often use recycled materials, reducing waste and environmental impact. 3. Innovative Building Materials – Affordable options such as compressed earth blocks (CEBs), interlocking bricks, and hempcrete offer sustainable and durable alternatives to conventional construction materials. 4. Customization and Flexibility – Locally produced materials can be tailored to specific housing needs, ensuring adaptability to different environments. 5. Job Creation and Economic Growth – Supporting local industries generates employment and stimulates economic activity in communities. Examples of Housing Materials from Cottage Industries: Bamboo Products: Strong, durable, and renewable, bamboo can be used for walls, flooring, and roofing. Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs): Made from a mix of soil, sand, and a small amount of cement, CEBs are cost-effective and provide excellent insulation. Recycled Materials: Plastic bottles, reclaimed wood, and agricultural waste can be repurposed into insulation, roofing tiles, and wall panels. Hempcrete: A mixture of hemp fibers, lime, and water, hempcrete is durable, fire-resistant, and provides good insulation. Particle Boards and Gypsum Boards: These can be produced in home industries for use in walls and ceilings, reducing costs while maintaining quality. Challenges and Considerations: Quality Control: Ensuring consistent quality among small-scale producers can be a challenge. Scalability: Expanding production to meet large-scale housing needs requires investment and coordination. Access to Financing and Technology: Local industries need support to acquire the tools and training necessary for efficient production. Standardization and Certification: Materials must meet safety and building code standards. By addressing these challenges and providing the necessary support, governments, NGOs, and social enterprises can empower cottage industries to be a vital part of affordable housing solutions. Cottage industries are not just about producing low-cost housing materials—they are about building communities, creating jobs, and fostering self-reliance. With the right approach, this old idea can lead to a new future of sustainable, community-driven housing development. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 05-06-2025

IMPLEMENTING AN INTEGRATED COMMUNITY SERVICE SYSTEM

IMPLEMENTING AN INTEGRATED COMMUNITY SERVICE SYSTEM The title of this column is "implementing" rather than "advocating," emphasizing that the legal foundation for an integrated community service system already exists. The focus is not on pushing for new legislation but on effectively executing an alternative sentencing approach that is both available and viable. This system provides an alternative to incarceration, allowing judges or even mayors to sentence minor offenders to community service work instead of jail time. While not a new concept, its implementation has been inconsistent. A properly executed integrated community service system could significantly alleviate jail congestion. Although exact figures are unavailable, a well-organized community service program would likely reduce overcrowding in detention centers. There is a direct correlation between excessive incarceration and the congestion crisis in jails, a concern recognized globally. Some countries have even ruled that overcrowded jails violate constitutional and human rights laws. In the Philippines, the Supreme Court has issued guidelines to address jail congestion by enforcing the right to bail and speedy trials. One serious consequence of jail congestion is that prisons, instead of rehabilitating offenders, have become breeding grounds for crime and gang activity. Many minor offenders who could have been reintegrated into society become hardened criminals after exposure to the harsh realities of overcrowded prisons. Are jails not subject to fire codes and public safety regulations? If so, why are they allowed to operate beyond their maximum capacity? The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has jurisdiction over prison conditions, yet blatant human rights violations persist within detention facilities. Should the CHR not act against agencies such as the Bureau of Corrections (BUCOR) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) for failing to uphold humane living conditions? A properly implemented community service system offers two major benefits: reducing the number of people entering jails and providing minor offenders with a chance for genuine rehabilitation. This is not about granting pardons but about offering parole options supported by modern technology. For instance, paroled individuals could be monitored through GPS-enabled ankle bracelets to ensure compliance with their service obligations. One key gap in implementation is the lack of a centralized database informing judges or mayors of available work assignments. A database matching each offender with community service opportunities—like job-matching platforms—could be an effective tool. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) engaged in environmental conservation, social work, or public service projects could provide job lists that offenders could fulfill as part of their sentences. Tree planting, waste collection, and beach clean-ups are just a few possibilities. The goal is to establish a system where supply and demand meet efficiently. Beyond the social benefits, the financial advantages of this system cannot be ignored. Although exact figures are unavailable, implementing community service as an alternative to incarceration would likely save the government significant sums in salaries, wages, and prison maintenance costs. Moreover, minor offenders would gain valuable lessons that discourage them from reoffending. Collaboration among the justice system, local government units, and civil society organizations is crucial in creating a structured and efficient community service system. Judges need access to an updated list of available community service programs, and the accused should have the right to request community service as an alternative to jail time. While community service participants are not salaried employees, provisions for meal or transportation allowances could be introduced to ensure compliance. Environmental conservation is an area where community service can be particularly impactful. Assigning offenders to tree planting, beach clean-ups, and urban beautification projects benefits both the environment and society. If properly supervised, these initiatives can help reshape lives and foster a sense of civic responsibility among offenders. For those interested in collaborating with the community service system in the Philippines, government agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) are excellent points of contact. Additionally, NGOs like the Philippine Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity often welcome partnerships involving community service. The problem of overcrowded jails is not insurmountable. The laws and mechanisms for implementing an integrated community service system are already in place. What is needed now is action. The time for debate is over—it is time to execute real solutions for justice reform. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 05-05-2025