NIA IV-A undergoes BAICS

Tuesday, May 9, 2023 - 08:45

May 9, 2023 - The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Region IV-A commenced the conduct of an Operations Level - Internal Control Checklist (ICC) for the Baseline Assessment of Internal Control System (BAICS) at the newly established Training Center in Pila Laguna. This crucial undertaking aims to shed light on the Agency's Internal Control System (ICS), with a particular focus on identifying areas that require strengthening and improvement.

The assessment, aligned with the Internal Audit Order No. 2 series of 2023, aims to examine the NIA's internal control mechanisms and identify potential audit areas that are more relevant to the organization's operational processes. By conducting this assessment, NIA aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of its internal controls, ensuring accountability, transparency, and compliance across its operations.

The activity in NIA IV-A was organized into two separate batches. The initial batch, held on May 8, involved participants from the Regional Office and Laguna-Rizal IMO. The second batch will consist of key officials and personnel from the Cavite-Batangas IMO and Quezon IMO.

The BAICS activity involves a thorough examination of the agency's internal control policies, procedures, and practices. It seeks to identify any existing gaps or weaknesses in the system, which may leave room for errors, fraud, or inefficiencies. By evaluating the adequacy and effectiveness of the internal controls, NIA aims to fortify its processes and minimize potential risks that could impact the organization's performance and overall mission.

The assessment process entails close collaboration among various units and departments within the organization, including Regional Managers, Department Managers, Division Managers, and other relevant personnel. By conducting the BAICS, the agency is demonstrating its dedication to continually improve its internal control system, aligning it with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.

The event was spearheaded and facilitated by the NIA Central Office Internal Audit Service (IAS) composed of Ms. Ma. Kathleen Barbosa, Control Officer for the Financial Audit Section of the Financial and Operations Audit Division, Ms. Janice Luyun, Team Leader for Activity Engagement & Operations Aspect Facilitator, Mr. Melvincent Cablayan, Sr. Internal Control Officer A, and Ms. Alyssa Linco, Sr. Internal Control Officer B.

#NIA #bayaNIAn #TuloyAngDaloyNIA

NIA IV-A Collaborates with Local Police Forces to Conduct Drug-Free Workforce and Workplace Orientation

Monday, May 8, 2023 - 08:45

In a joint effort to promote a safe and drug-free environment, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Region IV-A, in partnership with the Laguna Police Provincial Office and Pila Municipal Police Station, is currently conducting an orientation on maintaining a drug-free workforce and workplace. The initiative, led by Engr. Wilson Lopez and PMAJ Abelardo Jarabejo III, aims to educate employees and create awareness regarding the detrimental effects of drug use.

Expressing his appreciation, NIA IV-A Regional Manager Wilson Lopez extends his gratitude to the Philippine National Police (PNP) for their unwavering support in the agency's endeavor to establish a secure and drug-free government institution.

The activity is in accordance with Republic Act (RA) 9165 otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2022.

NIA Laguna Rizal IMO Holds Ceremonial Turnover of Leadership

Friday, May 5, 2023 - 08:45

PILA, Laguna - The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Laguna Rizal Irrigation Management Office (IMO) recently conducted a leadership turnover ceremony on May 5, 2023, at the NIA IV-A New Training Center in Pila, Laguna. The event marked the formal turnover of leadership between Engr. Armando Flores and Engr. Fidel Martinez. It was presided over by Engr. C'zar M. Sulaik, NIA Deputy Administrator for Engineering and Operations Sector.

During the occasion, outgoing Division Manager (DM) Engr. Armando L. Flores reflected on the achievements of the Laguna Rizal IMO since he assumed the position of Acting DM. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the team and attributed the accomplishments to their unwavering support. Expressing his gratitude, he extended his heartfelt appreciation to all NIA IV-A employees whom he had worked with for nearly 37 years.

"Sa mga taong naging tulay at instrumento kung bakit ako nasa harapan ninyo ngayon, mga kaibigan at kasamahan ko sa NIA 4A lalo't higit sa Laguna Rizal IMO, salamat sa walang Hanggang tulong at suporta. Palagi kayo sa puso ko," he said.

Engr. C'zar M. Sulaik, the NIA Deputy Administrator, together with Regional Manager Engr. Wilson M. Lopez, and the top management of NIA IV-A, led the presentation of the Plaque of Appreciation to outgoing DM Engr. Flores, recognizing his valuable contributions.

In his speech, RM Lopez congratulates the two (2) officials for accepting the new challenges on their leadership careers. He mentioned the importance of decisiveness as one of the qualities of a good leader.

“Hindi pwedeng mahina ang loob natin sa mga desisyon sa kakaharapin natin sapagkat marami ang apektado hindi lamang ang ating Ahensiya kundi maging ang ating mga magsasaka”, he emphasized.

The outgoing Laguna Rizal IMO Manager, Engr. Armando L. Flores, officially passed on the leadership baton to the incoming Division Manager, Engr. Fidel P. Martinez, during the ceremony.

DM Engr. Martinez expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the support and perseverance in providing excellent service to Filipino farmers. He also considered himself fortunate to lead the Palawan IMO, even for a short period of time.

"Ang palad ko at nabigyan ako ng pagkakataon na makapaglingkod sa Palawan sa loob ng pitong buwan. Salamat sa lahat ng suporta at tulong ninyo sa akin," he said.

As the presiding officer, NIA Deputy Administrator Engr. Sulaik challenged both Division Managers to continue leading their respective IMOs with dedication and commitment to foster a healthy working environment.

"Nagtitiwala ako na patuloy kayong aagapay sa ating NIA Top Management, para lalo pa mapaganda ang serbisyo natin sa sector ng agrikultura at pamumuhay ng ating mga mahal na magsasaka," he added.

Also present during the ceremony were employees from the NIA Palawan IMO, NIA MIMAROPA Acting Regional Manager Engr. Ronilio Cervantes, and other NIA IV-A officials and staff.

DM Flores is set to lead NIA Palwan IMO under MIMAROPA region while DM Martinez again leads the NIA Laguna-Rizal IMO under CALABARZON region.| G. Silvania

#NIA #bayaNIAn #TuloyAngDaloyNIA

DA Sulaik visits NIA CALABARZON

Friday, May 5, 2023 - 08:45

National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Deputy Administrator for Engineering and Operations Sector, Engr. C'zar Sulaik, recently conducted a visit and inspection of the nearing completion of the NIA Region IV-A Material Testing Laboratory. Accompanied by NIA officials, led by Engr. Wilson Lopez, the purpose of the visit was to assess the progress of the facility.

During the inspection, RM Lopez explained the functionality of the recently acquired machinery and equipment, which had been delivered to the laboratory. These additions are crucial components of the testing facility and will play a significant role in ensuring the quality of materials used in the construction of irrigation projects. The facility aims to enhance the overall standard of irrigation projects by guaranteeing the utilization of high-quality materials.

Meanwhile, DA Sulaik discussed the future plans and programs of the NIA in alignment with the vision of the current NIA Administration, headed by NIA Administrator Engr. Eddie G. Guillen. Among the initiatives mentioned were the convergence programs between NIA and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to construct access roads that connect agricultural lands to marketplaces. This collaboration seeks to facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce, benefiting farmers and enhancing market accessibility.

DA Sulaik also emphasized the importance of interagency coordination to expedite the National Government's plans to support Filipino farmers in improving their livelihoods and achieving food security for the nation. By promoting collaboration and strategic planning, the NIA aims to uplift the agricultural sector and ensure a sustainable future for farmers across the country.

Said inspection was conducted right after the NIA Laguna-Rizal IMO’s turnover of leadership between Engr. Armando Flores (Outgoing official) and Engr. Fidel Martinez (Incoming official).

#NIA #TuloyAngDaloyNIA #bayaNIAn

NIA, DA in CALABARZON prepare for possible effects of El Niño

Wednesday, April 26, 2023 - 15:45

Pila, Laguna - The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Region IV-A and the Department of Agriculture RFO 4-A are holding a collaborative meeting to discuss the potential impacts of El Niño on agricultural production in CALABARZON and to tackle the Farm and Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2).

The main objective of the meeting is to develop a collaborative plan of action to mitigate the effects of El Niño on local farmers and the region's commodity supply.

In his message, Engineering and Operations Division Manager Erwin Lucela highlights the importance of convergence meeting as it promotes harmonization of effort towards agricultural productivity.

“Magandang pagkakataon ito para ang ating mga Ahensiya ay mas maayos na matulungan ang ating mga magsasaka sa pamamagitan ng pagtutulungan sa mga programa sa agrikultura”, he said.

The meeting will also focus on identifying Irrigators Associations (IAs) that can be clustered and assessed for potential enterprise development. By working together, the two agencies hope to create a comprehensive action plans that will provide support and resources to affected farmers in the region.

DA 4A Division Chief of Field Operations Ms. Redeliza Gruezo shared that this convergence program forms a critical component of the Agency's Regional Action Plan for the Agriculture sector in CALABARZON. The initiative also aims to support the Masagana Rice Programa, a national government-led program that promotes rice production in the country.

“Isa pang kailangan natin paghandaan ay ang magiging epekto ng El Niño dito sa ating Rehiyon. Kaya naman asahan natin ang mga susunod pang mga coordination meeting para masuportahan ang ating magsasaka”, she added.

Regional Manager Wilson Lopez expresses his appreciation towards the DA for their ongoing collaboration with the NIA. RM Lopez acknowledged the positive impact of this partnership to achieve better outcomes on the agricultural sector.

“Hindi tayo pwede mabuhay ng solo dapat collaborative talaga yung maging approach natin sa mga problema natin sa agrikultura”, he emphasized.

With the threat of El Niño looming, it is crucial for these agencies to come together and find ways to protect the agricultural sector and the livelihoods of local farmers. This meeting marks a significant step towards developing a strategic plan that can help mitigate the impacts of El Niño and ensure the continued growth and success of the agricultural industry in CALABARZON.

Present during the meeting were key personnel and officials of NIA and DA.

#NIA #bayaNIAn #TuloyAngDaloyNIA

Pages