Early settlers  recounted  that  Dumagat  tribes  inhabited  the  territory  now  known  as Dingalan. The names of most landmarks and places in this municipality were said to have  been  given  by the  aborigines.    It  is  believed  that  the  name  ―Dingalan‖  is  a Dumagat word which means by the River of Galan‖ because the territory straddles fifteen (15) rivers and streams which show the abundance of water. In the early 1900s, settlers from Quezon, Nueva Ecija, and Ilocos started to migrate to Dingalan. They were generally lowland cultivators in search of arable land. In-migration heightened in the 1930s when Don Felipe Buencamino started his logging and sawmill operations. Soon after, inter-marriages among Tagalogs, Ilocanos, Pampangos and Bicolanos enriched the cultural stock of settlers. During World War II, Dingalan was occupied by the Japanese imperial forces.   The Japanese took over the operation of sawmills and cut timber to construct their barracks and garrisons. The Dingalan-Gabaldon highway was originally built (1942-1945) as a logging road. On the verge of defeat in 1945, the Japanese used Dingalan Bay as an exit point‖ when they retreated.

The strategic location of Dingalan Bay for military purposes was rediscovered after the RP-US Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951, when the municipality became the Training Ground in 1957 for the South East Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO) as well as the United States Seventh Fleet.   Dingalan also became a site of the RP-US Balikatan Military Exercises for three (3) consecutive years from 1982-1984. Dingalan was recognized as a municipal district on June 13, 1956 under Republic Act 1536 with an initial population of 2,000 residents.  Prior to that, Dingalan was merely a sitio  of  Barrio  San  Luis,  Municipality  of  Baler,  Tayabas  (now  Quezon)  Province. Dingalan became a regular municipality on June 16, 1962 by virtue of Republic Act No. 3490.

From the 1930s to 1990s, logging was the main driver of Dingalan‘s economy and the principal magnet to migrants. In the 1970s, three logging companies operated in Dingalan namely; Dingalan Wood Industries Corporation (DWICO), South Eastern Timber Corporation (SETIC) of Mr. Roberto Gopuansoy, and Inter-Pacific Forest Resources Company. They obtained a combined allowable cut of 169,416 cubic meters of lumber per annum, roughly equivalent to 4,500 fully loaded ten-wheeler trucks each year. Because of relentless logging between 1930 and 1995, Dingalan today has only 2% of its original old growth dipterocarp forest. More than 10% of the area is denuded or devoid of trees.  Its rate of deforestation is faster than the country‘s average of 1.4% per year. The brownish color of Dingalan‘s river channels reveals the extent of soil erosion and siltation resulting from the loss of adequate tree cover upstream.

1.1 Geographical Location and Boundaries

The Municipality of Dingalan, Aurora is a typical tropical community richly endowed with lush forest growth, crystal clear seas and rivers as essential water sources, attractive areas for marine development, agricultural development potentials, accommodating people and energetic leadership. Dingalan is at the southernmost part of the province of Aurora. Its geographic center lies at approximately 121°23.548¨E longitude and 15° 23.313¨N latitude. The municipality is situated approximately 183 kilometres north-east of Manila. It is bounded on the north by San Luis, west by Gabaldon and General Tinio (Nueva Ecija) and Doña Remedios Trinidad (Bulacan), south by General Nakar (Quezon), and east by the Philippine Sea. Figure 1 presents the location map of the municipality. Dingalan  is  a  third  income  class  municipality  of  the  province  of Aurora.     The municipality‘s total land area is approximately 39,994.90 hectares accounting for about 23.64% of the province‘s total land area. The municipality has a total of 11 barangays, three (3) of which are classified as urban and eight (8) are rural. The total land area of urban barangays is 1079.03 ha representing 2.70% while the rural barangays have a total area of 38,915.87 ha or 97.30% of the total land area. The National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) Resolution No. 9, Series of 2003 was used to classify the barangays of Dingalan. The  largest  barangay is  Barangay  Umiray  with  an  area  of  20,529.66  ha  which  is equivalent to about 51.33% of the total land area of Dingalan.  The smallest, in turn, is Barangay Poblacion with only 41.11 ha or only 0.10% of the municipality‘s total land area.  The table below shows the land areas, percent to total, and PSA classification of each barangay.

1.2 Topography

The terrain of Dingalan‘is is characterized as generally mountainous and rugged due to the vast Sierra Madre Mountain range ranges that traverse the entire municipality. The undulating and rolling terrain is dissected by volcanic, metamorphic and diuretic hills. Narrow valleys are formed by Dingalan‘s meandering rivers and water channels, 19 in all.

1.2.1 Elevation

Elevation ranges from zero to 1,600 meters above sea level (masl) with Barangays Davil-Davilan, Tanawan and Umiray as the highest part. Seventy-five percent (72%) of municipal territory has an elevation of 0-500 masl.   One-fourth of total area has an elevation of 500 to 1,000 masl and approximately 3% has an elevation of more than 1,000 masl. Table 1-2 show the elevation per barangay while figure 1-2 presents the elevation map of the municipality.

1.2.2 Slope

Due to its geographical location where it is situated at the foot of Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges, there is a variation of slope in Dingalan but it is mostly hilly to mountainous (steep) and mountainous (very steep). The slope ranges from 30-50 % and above 50% and covers land areas of 9,076.29 ha and 23,635.57 ha, respectively. Almost half of the total land area of Dingalan has a slope of 50% and above. The areas with slope 18% and above are barangays Dikapanikian, Davildavilan, Caragsacan, Butas na Bato, Matawe, Tanawan, and Umiray. These areas are suitable for forest use., upland agriculture and fruit tree and tree plantation, grazing, wildlife and recreation and forest development.

The lower slopes can be found in barangays Paltic and Poblacion with slopes that are level to nearly level, flat to gently undulating, and undulating to rolling. Nearly flat or level slope is very fit for agricultural production but it is prone to flooding. Figure 1-3 and Table 1-3 present the slope characteristics of the municipality.

1.2.3 Land Cover

Based on the land cover map generated by DENR-NAMRIA in 2015, closed and open forest of the municipality cover 30.93% and 45.51% of its total land area. This is the reason why almost half of the municipality has a slope of more than 50% (very steep). These are followed by brush/shrubs, perennial crop and grassland which constitute 19.76% of the total. Areas with slopes below 18% and presently occupied by brush land and grassland should be evaluated for their suitability to support the expansion of agriculture and urban development in the municipality. Table 1-4 shows the area per land cover category and figure 1-3 shows the land cover map.

1.2.6 Soil (Pedology)

There are three (3) types of soil that can be found in Dingalan, namely: Annam Clay Loam, Umingan Loam, and Mountain Soil (unclassified). The soil series of the municipality are light brownish gray, dark gray to nearly black, granular surface soil when dry. They are hard and compact and could break into big clods.

Characterized as well drained, with clayey textures, moderately deep to very deep, with erosion levels ranging from slight-to-moderately-eroded, mountain soil can be found in barangays Davil-davilan, Dikapanikian, Ibona, Tanawan, and Umiray covering 46.20% of  the  total  municipal  land  area.  Tropical  mountain  soils  generally deteriorate  with increasing elevation. They become thinner, rockier, more acidic, unstable, infertile and immature with increasing elevation. Entisols develop from unconsolidated rocky material such as moraines, talus, or mudflows rather than from bedrock. They are thin, poorly developed soils found on bare surfaces such as slopes and exposed ridges. Histosols are strongly acidic bog or peat soils which form wherever drainage is poor, typically in depressions and in areas where water from springs seeps or accumulates.

Lowland soils are relatively young and are formed from fluvio-marine sediments and alluvial materials.  These soils are found in active tidal flats, beach ridges and swales, alluvial plains, and collu-alluvial fans. The soils in active tidal flats are poorly-drained, characterized by coarse loamy texture, moderately deep, with periodically severe flooding, but with no apparent erosion.   The soils in alluvial plains are poor to well- drained, characterized by fine loamy to clayey texture, moderately deep to very deep, with no apparent erosion, with moderate to severe flood risk levels.

Annam clay loam soil has a fine texture and isohyperthermic temperature regime 22 0C can be found in barangays Aplaya, Butas Na Bato, Caragsacan, Davil-davilan, Dikapanikian, Ibona, Matawe, Paltic, Poblacion, Tanawan, and Umiray have Annam Clay Loam which constitute 49.43% of the total. It is an Oxisol ox which is an intensely weathered soil predominated by oxides from iron and aluminum due to repeated high precipitation and high temperature. Annam clay loam has high water retention capacity, flow of water is good with moderate permeability and workability. This type of soil is suitable for for agriculture (rice, corn and vegetables). Lastly, Umingan Loam is a loamy textured soil with many gravels and pebbles skeletal occurring along the banks or rivers which can be seen in barangays Ibona and Umiray. Hence  it is subject to flooding fluventic receiving  yearly depositions of  alluvial soil materials from rivers. It is in the incipient development stage towards a mature soil but has not yet fully developed its diagnostic horizons. It is found in areas with pronounced wet and dry seasons. Its physical soil quality can be described as moderate water retention, good flow of water, rapid permeability and easy workability.

1.3 Hydrogeological Features

1.3.1 Geology

The  rock  types  underlying  Dingalan  is   characterized  by   Miocene  to  Pliocene sedimentary bedding (formed 7.0 to 25.0 million years BP) which includes shale, sandstone, siltstone and limestone. Remnants of coral and other marine organisms are present in the bedding. The Sierra Madre mountains have Cretaceous bedding (formed in the Age of the Dinosaurs,  circa  135  million years BP),  made of  very extensive volcanic rocks composed mainly of coarse-grained igneous rock.

The upper portion of the municipality is underlain by Oligocene-miocene and basement complex (pre-jurassic) while the lower part of Dingalan is characterized by Paleocene- eocene.

1.3.2 Surface Water

The major natural drainage of Dingalan are Ibuna River, Sikbing River, Tuntunin River, Kailugan River, Malakawayan River, Langawan River, Davil-Davilan River, Sapang Dingalan  River,  Buli-buli  River,  Umiray  River,  Dikapanikian  River,  and  Paltic-Agria River.  During  wet  season,  these  waterways  make  flatlands  suitable  for  cultivation. Rivers are sustained by nine watersheds namely Dingalan, Dikapanikian, Agria-Paltic, Amutan, Ibuna, Malamig-Biga-Iyapit, Malacauayan, Umiray, and Calmon-Sumacbao- Santor watersheds. Of the nine, only the Dingalan River Watershed Forest Reserve comprising 1,788 hectares has been formally declared as such under Proclamation No. 23 of President Fidel V. Ramos signed on August 24, 1992.

In addition to the river network of the municipality, springs are present in various places and serve as sources of water for the populace. As part of Umiray-Angat Transbasin Tunnel Project, Umiray River supplies water to Angat Dam in Bulacan which in turn supplies water to the National Capital Region. Ibuna River and Sinagnuan River are among the six biggest channels in the entire Aurora.

The __________ river/s have been classified by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as having Class _____waters.

1.3.3 Groundwater
There are about _ deep and shallow wells in the municipality which are registered with the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) as of year _. Majority of these wells are owned by private industries and are located in barangays _________. Table 1-8 presents the registered wells under NWRB.

1.4 Geologic and Climatological Hazards

The municipality of Dingalan is vulnerable to different geologic hazards, as indicated in Mines and Geoscience Bureau (MGB) of DENR survey maps. This is attributed to presence of fault lines along the branches and land characteristics of the municipality. The  municipality  is  susceptible  to  ground  shaking,  rupture,  liquefaction,  rain  and erosion-induced landslide, flooding, storm surge and tsunami.

1.4.1 Ground Rupture

A number of geologic faults or landmass fractures cross the Municipality of Dingalan. The 1,200 km long Philippine fault that extends from Mindanao to Luzon is related to an oblique convergence between the Philippine Trench and the Manila Trench, making its presence felt in an area about 35 km southwest of Baler. This fault passes through Dingalan with three (3) minor faults branching out. The Dingalan-Laur-Lingayen tectonic fault (cf R W. R. Rytland, MGB, 1967) runs along southern and middle sections of barangays Tanawan, Caragsacan, and Butas na Bato. Movements on these faults have caused visible cracks in Dingalan‘s mountains. On July 16, 1990, a catastrophic earthquake (Ms = 7.8) with epicenter in Rizal, Nueva Ecija, levelled sections of Baguio City, Cabanatuan City, and Dagupan City and produced a 125 km-long ground rupture that stretches from Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya to Dingalan, linking itself directly with the Dingalan-Laur-Lingayen tectonic fault.  An earthquake monitoring equipment has since been installed in the provincial capital.

Based from figure 1-7, the barangays where the fault line passes through are Tanawan, Poblacion and Aplaya. The fault line is approximately 9,873 meters in length.

Ground Shaking

Ground shaking can be plainly described as trembling or shaking of the ground.  Intense ground shaking can cause tremendous damage to houses and buildings, foundation of roads and bridges, water pipes, dams and other utility installations.  Worse, it can also claim a lot of human casualties. Based from the figure 1-7, the whole municipality is susceptible to ground shaking classified as PEIS Intensity VIII and above.

1.4.2 Liquefaction

Liquefaction is a phenomenon in which the strength and stiffness of a soil is reduced by earthquake shaking or rapid loading of heavily materials on the ground.   Liquefaction occurs in saturated soils, that is, soils which are ―soaked in water‖. The presence of too much water particles in the soil causes the ground to be soft and weak.   Prior to an earthquake, the water pressure is relatively low.   However, earthquake shaking can cause the water pressure to rise up, making the soil unstable.  In these cases, the soil will be no strength and will behave more like a liquid than a solid.   Liquefaction as a result worsens the amount of damage of future earthquake.

The susceptibility to liquefaction in Dinagalan varies from the northern area where it is low and moderate to the central and southern barangays where it is high and moderate. Barangays Matawe, Ibona and Umiray have high susceptibility. On the other hand, barangays Aplaya, Butas na Bato and small portion of Paltic are classified as moderate susceptibility. Barangays with low susceptibility are Dikapanikian, Poblacion, Paltic and Umiray.   These areas, which can be described as saturated soils, are adjacent to Dingalan Bay.

1.4.3. Rain-Induced Landslide

In terms of landslide susceptibility, the barangay center of the barangays located in the highlands has a low to moderate landslide susceptibility. Areas identified to be with high susceptibility to landslides are the mountainous portions. Geohazard threats may increase due to the general nature of the material, and natural and anthropogenic causes which may increase the vulnerability and general condition of the underlying materials. The major factors that trigger landslides are heavy rains, earthquake and fault movements related.

A total of 1,424.31 ha of land located in barangays Matawe, Dikapanikian, and Ibona where the barangay center has low landslide susceptibility. There are six (6) barangays where the barangay center has moderate susceptibility to landslides (Dikapanikian, Tanawan, Caragsacan, Butas na Bato, Matawe, and Ibona) covering an area of 602.05 ha.

Artificial damming is possible upstream of Davildavilan, Paltic, Subsob , Langawan and Pisok Rivers, the downstream portion of the river is a possible landslide debris accumulation zone. Other natural channels that contribute to flooding are Umiray, Malakawayan and Dingalan rivers and numerous creeks such as Imulat and Kailugan.

During flood events, the barangays on the path of the waters coming from the highlands are usually vulnerable. The floodwaters are usually turbid with accompanying rocks, boulders and uprooted trees. Rock debris and uprooted trees may accumulate along the river bed forming temporary dams.

1.4.4. Earthquake-Induced Landslide

The northern portion of the municipality is classified as high susceptibility to earthquake- induced landslide as shown in the figure below. The barangays that are at risk are Tanawan, Davil-davilan, Dikapanikan, and Paltic. This represents 2,889.27 area of land. The areas with moderate and low susceptibility to earthquake-induced landslide are located at the central and southern part of the municipality.

1.4.5 Flood

There are four (4) barangays covering an area of 1,424.31 ha have high susceptibility to flooding (Poblacion, Aplaya, Ibona, and Umiray). The floodwaters are coming from the highlands,  overflow  from  the  rivers.  Flashfloods  along  the  rivers  traversing  the barangays are common.

In terms of moderate susceptibility to flooding, there are four (4) barangays affected. The barangays are located in a naturally low-lying area and portions located near active creeks and river channel and the coast (Dikapanikian, Matawe, Ibona, and Umiray) with an area of 602.05 ha.

The portion of the municipality that is prone to flooding is only 5.07% of the total land area.

1.4.6 Storm Surge

A storm surge is a strong or heavy pouring of rainwater over a land area, usually as a result of low pressure weather and high winds moving towards the sea surface.  Since the town of Dingalan is located near the Pacific Ocean, it is frequently threatened by storms (also called typhoon and tropical cyclone).  This phenomenon is unfavourable to Dingalan because it causes other hazards such as flood and landslide, not to mention the disruption and damage that it causes to property and persons.

The affected barangays of  Dinagalan due to storm surge  are Dikapanikian,  Paltic, Aplaya,  Butas  na  Bato,  Matawe,  Ibona,  and  Umiray.  These  constitute  an  area  of 1,354.90 ha or 3.51%.

1.4.7 Tsunami

Tsunami, also called seismic sea waves or tidal waves, is a series of travelling ocean waves of extremely long length generated by disturbances associated primarily with earthquakes occurring below or near the ocean floor.   Underwater volcanic eruptions can also generate tsunamis.

Tsunami is a threat to life and property to anyone living near the ocean.   In extreme cases, water level can rise to more than 50 feet for tsunamis of distant origin and over 100 feet for tsunami waves generated near the earthquake‘s epicentre.   The flooding can extend inland by 1000 feet or more, covering large expanses of land.

All oceanic regions of the world can experience tsunamis, but in the Pacific Ocean there is a much more frequent occurrence of large, destructive tsunamis because of the many large earthquakes associated with the series of mountain chains, deep ocean trenches and island arcs (sometimes called the ―ring of fire‖) surrounding the ocean.

Just like the barangays affected by storm surge, these areas are also affected by tsunami since they are located near the coastline of the municipality.

1.5 Climate

The climate in the municipality of Dingalan is tropical monsoonal and it falls under Type IV of the modified Coronas Classification of Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomic Services Administration (PAGASA). Generally fair weather all year round and rainfall is evenly distributed. Hence, there is no clear distinction between the rainy season and the dry season, as rainfall remains abundant even during supposedly dry months.  Dingalan‘s  precipitation  averages  3,286.8  mm  annually,  and  273.9  mm monthly. The wettest months are October to February while the driest months are July and August, ironically the wettest months for most parts of the country.

The main atmospheric systems controlling rainfall in the area are the southwest monsoon from June to September and northeast monsoon from December to February.

The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and Local Thermal Convection also contribute significantly to the total annual rainfall especially during summer.

The seasonal distribution of the rainfall in Dingalan is largely controlled by the regime of winds and by the mountain ranges of Sierra Madre. The Sierra Madre mountains ranges are effective barriers against the northeast monsoon and the North Pacific Trade Winds, blowing form November to April.

Climatological normal data for the period 1995-2015 measured at the station located in Baler, Aurora were used to describe the meteorological conditions in the municipality since the said station is the nearest.  Table 1-9 presents the climatological data of the municipality.

1.5.1 Rainfall

Heavy rainfall is usually experienced during the last quarter of the year. From 1995-2015, the months of October, November and December has an average rainfall depths of 386 mm, 368.7 mm, and 405.9 mm, respectively. The town directly faces the Pacific Ocean and has virtually no shield from weather disturbances coming from the east. Tropical cyclones are a seasonal occurrence. Typhoons usually develop in the Pacific Ocean and pass along or across the eastern coast of Luzon in a north or northwest direction. An average of 3.4 cyclones directly affects the province of Aurora each year, or 17% of the average 20-21 typhoons that enter the Philippine area of responsibility.

1.5.2 Temperature

Based from the records from the PAGASA station in Baler, Aurora from 1995 to 2015 showed an annual mean temperature of 26.6°C for the province of Aurora. The highest temperature occurred in June and was recorded at 31.4°C while the lowest temperature was experienced during the month of January at 21.3 °C.

1.5.3 Relative Humidity

Relative humidity, on the other hand, varies from 83% to 86% with an average of 85% percent.  Humidity is low from July to September due to the southwest monsoon and and high from December to June due to the northeast monsoon.

1.6 Climate Change Projection

In 2011, PAGASA released the “Climate Change in the Philippines” report, which primarily discussed the future climate scenarios for the period 2006-2035 labeled as

2020 and 2036-2065 labeled as 2050. The analysis of future climate trends is based on the observed data from 1951 to 2009. There were four seasons used in the study,

namely summer (MAM), southwest monsoon (JJA), transition (SON), and northeast monsoon (DJF). The abbreviations represent the first letter of the month for that particular season. Thus, MAM stands for March, April and May, which comprise the summer season.

The  projected  climate  scenarios  under  medium-range  emission  for  the  province  of Aurora are shown in the succeeding tables. These tables show the projected seasonal temperature increase (Table 10), seasonal rainfall change (Table 11) and frequency of extreme events (Table 12) in 2020 and 2050.

1.6.1 Seasonal Temperature

Based on the long-term record from 1971 to 2000, the temperature varies from 24.5°C to 27.9°C representing the northeast monsoon and southwest monsoon, respectively. The projected increase in temperature for both seasons is 0.9°C and 1.9°C in 2020 and 1.9°C and 2.0°C in 2050.  Thus, the expected  mean temperatures are  25.4°C and 28.9°C for northeast monsoon and southwest monsoon, respectively in 2020 (Table 10). In  2050,  the  projected  mean  temperatures  are  26.4°C  and  29.9°C  for  northeast monsoon and southwest monsoon, respectively.

1.6.2 Seasonal Rainfall

Based on long-term record, the highest values for rainfall in the province of Aurora occurred during the transition season and southwest monsoon, with mean values of 1,151.1 mm and 768.7 mm, respectively (Table 11). Lower values of mean rainfall were recorded during the summer seasons and northeast monsoon, with mean values of 546.4 mm and 615.7 mm, respectively. In the 2020 projection, there is a negative change  in  the  percentage  of  rainfall  ranging  from  -0.3%  to  -17.1%  for  northeast monsoon and summer seasons respectively. This means that the rainfall amount will decrease. Thus, the summer season would become drier. The southwest monsoon season has a positive change of 6.7%, which means more rain will occur, totaling to 820.20 mm. In 2050, the rainfall is expected to increase by 7.4% for the southwest monsoon season, reaching up to 825.58 mm. The other seasons will still experience negative change ranging from -29.2% to -5.7% for the summer and transition seasons, respectively. The summer season would still be drier, with rainfall decreasing to only 386.85 mm.

1.6.3 Extreme Events

In terms of changes in extreme events, the data shows a progressive increase in the number of days with maximum temperature above 35°C and number of dry days. The number of days with rainfall above 200 mm stays the same at 43 for both 2020 and 2050.

The climate projections for Aurora province show significant impact in agriculture, industry, health, forestry,  livelihood  and human settlement.  The increasing trend  in temperature and increasing frequency of extreme events could lead to long periods of drought that would affect the amount of water in the watersheds, thereby limiting agricultural production. Forest fires could also increase and highly sensitive species could be severely affected. Communities dependent on the forest for livelihood would be forced to practice more extensive agricultural production, resulting to further degradation of the environment.  Frequent  extreme temperatures above 35°C could increase the occurrence of illnesses such as heat stroke, asthma, etc. On the other hand, increase in rainfall amount during the southwest monsoon and transition seasons could lead to outbreak and spread of water-borne and vector-borne diseases. Malnutrition would also increase in areas where the agricultural production is severely impacted. The occurrence of floods and landslides would also increase with increasing amount of rainfall particularly in highly susceptible areas. These could severely affect infrastructures such as houses, roads, bridges, schools and hospitals.

2.1 Forest Resources

Out of 37,675.94 ha total land area of Dingalan, 24,706.97 ha or 65.58% is forest land and 12,968.97 ha is Alienable & Disposable lands. Majority of the forest resources of the municipality are classified as primary and secondary forests located in barangays Umiray, Ibuna, Davildavilan, Paltic, and Matawe.

Forests are important natural resources. A forest has many alternative and competing uses that include forest production (for wood and other forest products), human settlements, watershed, eco-tourism/recreation, mineral production, energy production, biodiversity conservation, industrial site or any combination of these.

It  is  also  a  fragile  ecosystem.  For  instance,  reforestation  and  forest  degradation resulting misuse and mismanagement of the forest areas have reduced forest cover. As a consequence, there has been accelerated soil erosion, siltation of water reservoirs, rivers and water ways, more frequent flash floods, shortages of wood, any other forest products, and the extinction of unquantifiable number of plant and animal species. In many areas, farm productivity dropped drastically further contributing to and aggravating poverty in the rural areas.

Insert forest resources map of Dingalan

2.2 Coastal and Marine Areas 


The  municipal  waters  along  Dingalan  are  surrounded  by  beaches,  mangroves, estuaries, seagrasses and coral reefs. The municipality has 35 kilometers of coastline, almost 10% of the province’s continuous coastline of 332 kilometers from Barangay Umiray in Dingalan to Barangay Dibulo in Dilasag town.

Coral reefs areas of Dingalan are estimated at ___ha, and are mainly located at Cabog and Agria Point which are potential ecotourist destinations. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has pushed for the establishment of marine sanctuaries especially in Barangay Cabog to preserve nature‘s richness and beauty.

White Beach in Agria peninsula, only 10-minute banca ride from the town proper, is a natural enclave and isolated hideaway, which has wide white sand beach. In addition, Barangay Matawe‘s inter-tidal area is an interesting tideland attractive to trekkers and adventurers. During low tide, a vast tidal flat of about 10 hectares is exposed making it possible to walk over 400 meters towards a promontory that encloses a large tidal pool, 20 feet deep. The tidal pool is completely sealed from the surrounding sea waters making its water perfectly still even as the waves roar just a few meters behind the promontory.

Fish species that abound in Dingalan Bay include the blue marlin (malasugi), yellow fin tuna  (bangkulis),  round  scad  sardines  (galunggong)  (sardines),  rainbow  runner (salmon), dolphin fish (dorado), Spanish mackerel (tangigue), barracuda (panghaluan), grouper (lapu-lapu), slipmouth (sapsap), big-eye scad (buraw), shark, bariles, gulyasan, sibubog, spada, matang pusa, and others.

There has been rampant habitat destruction in the municipality particularly in the last ten years. Deforestation, illegal fishing methods and overfishing, and habitat conversion cause habitat destruction.

Law enforcement is another serious problem resulting to proliferation of illegal fishing activities in Dingalan which can be attributed to limited capacities to apprehend encroachers and violators.

2.3 Mineral Resources

Mineral resources in Dingalan have not been thoroughly studied. But the portion of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range on the northwestern side of the municipality is believed to be rich in minerals.

Manganese is said to be present in Barangay Umiray. Non-metallic minerals such as limestone and cement materials (cf. D. B. Abiog, MGB 1969) can be found in Barangay Cabog.   “Guano”   or   fertile   deposits   from   bats   can   be   extracted   in   Barangay Dikapanikian. There are reports of marble in southern Dingalan (cf. P.H. Lingat and A.J.

Cruz, MGB 1971), copper in Ibuna-Agusis area (O. A. Crispin and M. Pacis, MGB, 1959), probably gold deposits as well as silica in unspecified areas.

For this reason, several mining companies have applied for exploration permits not only in Dingalan but throughout the whole province. Because of overlapping coverage on contiguous municipalities, the pending applications to mine in Dingalan cover an area far greater than the actual land area of the municipality itself. But these applications remain pending due to stiff opposition from majority of the residents. Because Dingalan is considered a ―critical ecological zone,‖ the possibility of mobilizing a huge number of bulldozers and heavy equipment in mountainous areas raises alarm signals about the downstream effects of mining which will affect the livelihood of lowland farmers and fishermen, who constitute about 80% of local population.

2.4 Biodiversity Areas

The Philippines, with its more than 20,000 endemic species of plants and animals, is one of the world‘s 17 ―megadiversity‖ countries, which collectively claim two-thirds of the earth‘s biological diversity within their boundaries. However, the Philippines is also one of 34 global biodiversity hotspots, meaning that the nation‘s high biodiversity and endemism is under a high level of threat. Less than 6% of original forest remains, and 491 species are listed as globally threatened on the 2004 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The primary threats to Philippine biodiversity are habitat alteration and loss caused by destructive resource use, development activities and human population pressure. Specific threats include mining, logging and land conversion for industrial, agricultural and urban development.

2.4.1 Flora – no data
2.4.2 Fauna – no data
2.4.3 Delineated Protected Areas  and Key Biodiversity Areas – no data

3.1 Historical Population Growth and Trend

The population of Dingalan prior to 1956 used to be counted as part of San Luis. Today, Dingalan’s population constitutes about twelve percent (12%) of the province of Aurora. The average growth rates display some spikes and falls which are attributed to the various disasters and calamities in the past and the suspension of logging operations in 1978-79, in 1995, and again in 2004.

The growth of logging business between 1960 and 1970 has almost doubled the population despite the town’s relative inaccessibility, remoteness and isolation. Table 1 shows that there was an increase of almost of 7,699 people or 88% to rural/logging areas of Dingalan between 1980 and 1990, but only a small increase was reflected between 1990 and 2000 with only 3,692 increase or 22%. The Philippine Statistics Authority, then National Statistics Office (NSO), averaged the annual growth rate as 5.56% between 1990-1995, 0.91% between 1995-2000, and 2.24% between 1990-2000.

In 2007, the population posted at 21,236 at 1.07% growth rate while in 2010 it increases to 23,554 with 2.53%.

Dingalan‘s  2010  Population  accounts  for  11.70%  of  the  total  population  of  the Province of Aurora. With a population count of 25,482 in 2015, Dingalan ranks as the fifth most populated municipality within the province, next to municipalities of Maria Aurora, Baler, Dipaculao and San Luis. In terms of growth rate, Dingalan ranks third next to Baler and San Luis. This reflects the accessibility and attractiveness of the three (3) municipalities for in-migration and settlement.

3.1.1 Present Population and Trend of Growth

Based on the 2015 PSA census, the population of Dingalan posted a total population    of    25,482    with    1.51%    and    a    population    density    of 84/km2 (220/sq mi). In 2016 Elections, the Commission on Elections has total registered voters of 14,728.

The  overall  annual  growth  rate  (AGR)  of  Dingalan  reflected  a  series  of sudden decline intermittent increase since 1970. Between 1970 and 1980, the AGR of 9.6% has dropped to 2.9% in 1975 and 2.8 in 1980. The decline was anchored on the suspension of the operations of logging companies in the rural areas located at the foot of Cordillera mountains. However, the 1990 AGR reflected an increase rate of 8.9% manifesting an increase in the economic activity of the municipality, in-migration of people and population growth. Furthermore, from 1995- 2000, AGR posted a decline of 4.65% and from 2000-2007, a slight increase of .3% was noted. From 4,743 households in the 1990 Census, there were only 4,115 households in 2000 and 4,343 households in 2005. The logging ban in 1995 and the catastrophic landslide of 2004 have certainly slowed down Dingalan‘s population, as high birth rates were offset by significant emigration or out-migration.

Table 2-3 shows that out of the eleven (11) barangays, six (6) (Aplaya, Butas na Bato, Cabog, Caragsacan, Ibona and Tanawan) have consistently increased in population from 1990-2015 while the five (5) remaining barangays have reflected fluctuations between 1995-2007. However, in terms of AGR, Table 2-4 reflected that most barangays have experienced substantial decline in their annual growth rates between  the  periods  1990-2000  and  2000-2005.  In  fact,  four  barangays  with negative AGRs – Poblacion, Paltic, Dikapanikian, and Davil-davilan — showed obvious signs of depopulation. In contrast, Brgy Caragsacan and Brgy Tanawan have the two highest growth rates (2000-2005) partly because they are sites of new shelter projects / relocation areas for victims of natural disaster. (Note: Updates for the latest Barangay Survey)

In 2015, Brgy Paltic ranks the highest in terms of population with 5,075 residents with Barangay Umiray as second and Brgy Ibona as third with 4,380 and 3,624 residents, respectively. Barangay Ibona which serves as the town‘s breadbasket was the biggest population center in 1980 while Paltic was the  most  populous barangay since 1990 but decreased when it was directly hit by the catastrophic landslide of 2004.

A significant segment of population in 2000 (2,959 persons or 15%) did not belong to households, indicating the number of temporary/transient residents and possibly homeless population.

Generally, there was a cumulative loss of household units despite the addition of an average of 100 new marriages each year. This loss is not due to deaths but to net out-migration, due to the waning of logging operations after the government‘s log ban took effect in 1995, as well as to the catastrophic landslide of 2004.   Local households tend to have around 5 members.

3.1.2 Population Distribution

The Municipality now has population of 25,482 with 1.51% growth rate. Table 6 shows the 2016 Community-Based Monitoring System based on male and female population  with  males  accounted  to  11.731  or  50.9%  while  females  comprised11,297 or 49.1 % of the total household population.

3.1.3 Natural Increase

3.1.4 Population Distribution by Urban and Rural Barangays

3.1.5 Young –Age and Old-Age Dependency Ratios

Update

3.1.6 Distribution of Labor Force According to Productive Activity

3.1.7 Population Growth and Projection

3.1.8 Educational Attainment

3.1.9 Distribution of Population According to Ethnicity

3.1.10 Distribution of Population According to Dialects Spoken

3.1.11 Distribution of Population According to Religion

Municipality of Dingalan has a total population of 25,482 as of 2015 (PSA, 2015Census) with population density of 84/km2 (220/sq mi). In 2016 Elections, the Commission on Elections has total registered voters of 14,728.

4.1 Education

The Municipality‘s priority program includes social services and basic service delivery. Various programs and projects were planned and implemented to cater to every Dingaleños. Providing facilities for senior high school, enhancement of laboratory facilities for day care, rehabilitation of classrooms, improvement of school infrastructures, capacity building support to SPED and ALS are some of the priority projects of the administration.

The continued construction, repair, rehabilitation of school buildings, improvement of its facilities and provision for supplementary local cost of meeting the needs of the learning institutions within the municipality made education available and accessible to all Dingaleños.

Dingalan has fifteen (15) public and private elementary schools, three (3) public junior and senior high schools, and one (1) private sectarian school providing education to its young population, all under the supervision of the Department of Education (DepEd).

Table  4-2  shows  that  in  SY  2017-2018,  there  are  a  total  of students  enrolled  in  all  levels  of  education  in  various  institutions  in  the
municipality. Private enrollment totaled to_____, of which _were males and
were females.  On the other hand, public enrollment, totaled to___ students, with males and females. In Kindergarten to Grade 6 level, private enrollment totaled to____, with____  males  and females.   Public enrollment totaled   to ____students,____ males and ____females.

(Note: DepEd Standard: Student-Teacher ratio is 1:35 while Student- Classroom ratio is 1:35)

4.2 Health

One of the priority programs of the Municipality is to enhance the delivery of health care services. Barangay Health Stations in every barangay are equipped with the basic facilities required to provide the residents with first aid treatment and health emergencies.

4.2.1 General Health Situations

For the past five years, ………

4.2.2 Health Facilities

The delivery of primary health care services is being undertaken by the Municipal Health Office which provides medical and dental services to 11 Barangays.

4.3 Cemeteries and Memorial Parks

The succeeding table shows the list of existing cemeteries and memorial parks in the Municipality. Currently, there are three (3) cemeteries in the municipality– one in Brgy. Cabog/Matawe, one in Brgy. Umiray and one in Brgy. Aplaya.

4.4 Social Welfare Services

Provision of Social welfare services was provided to the Dingaleños through the Municipal Social Welfare & Development Office (MSWDO). Services offered …….

4.4.2 Senior Citizen

Senior Citizen Center is also present in the municipality for the senior citizens‘  activities.  Presented  in  Table  _____are  the programs and services provided to the senior citizens. The objective of the center is to give full support to the elderly for the improvement of their total well-being and their full participation in society.

4.5 Protective Services

One of the priority sectors for program and project implementation is to establish Dingalan as a safer and livable community. The Municipal Government thru the leadership of Hon. Shierwin Taay, maintain a harmonious relationship with the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology and the Philippine Army to assure safety and security in the municipality.

In addition to safety and security, each barangay has their respective local ___police ___ the Brangay Tanods. There are a total of Barangay Tanod in the municipality which is shown in Table 4-17. Brgy. ____has the highest number of Barangay Tanod with while Brgy. ____has the least number with. All barangay tanods provide services in traffic, peace and order, disaster and auxiliary services.

4.5.1  Crime Incidence

Table 4-18 reflects the peace and order situation in the municipality……

4.5.2  Fire Incidence

Table 4-19 presents the Fire Incidence in the municipality…..

4.6 Recreational Facilities

The  municipality  assures  to  contribute  to  the  quality  of  life  of  every resident. Facilities for sports and recreational activities were established to address the broad individual needs of all age groups, as well as building supportive community environments.

Covered Courts and multi-purpose halls were also constructed in various barangays and schools especially at the Poblacion area to hold major programs, town festivities and sporting events.

4.7 Housing

Table 4-22: Dwelling Units According to Types of Materials Used, Dingalan, Aurora *

The Municipality of Dingalan is one of the 3rd class municipalities in the Province of Aurora. It generated a total income of 98.63 million pesos in 2016, which comprises the revenues from taxes (i.e. community tax, real property tax, business permits). This section will give a glimpse of the economic sector of the town for the past seven years.

The economic profile shall discuss the following sub-sectors: Agriculture and Fisheries, Commerce and Industry, and Services. This section will only focus on the sub-sectors which have noticeable performance over the past years.

5.1 Agriculture and Fisheries

5.1.1 Palay Production

The  municipal  agriculture  office  reports  about  1,170  hectares  of  land  being utilized for palay production. From 2011 to 2016, an annual average of 3,899.25 MT of palay was harvested by the town‘s farmers. The table below shows a consistent upward trend on palay production, except in year 2014 when the town experienced a prolonged season of drought. The yield per hectare also improved significantly through the years, starting from 2.83 MT per hectare in 2011 to 3.66 MT per hectare in 2016. The national average for palay production in 2015 is 3.90 MT per hectare (4.31 for irrigated and 2.96 for rainfed).  A major factor for this development is the continuous research and development conducted by Philrice in partnership with the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology – Gabaldon Campus as well as the support of the national government in farm mechanization and modernization programs.

5.1.3 Cassava production

Cassava  production  continues  to  rise  due  to  the  increasing  demand  in  the market. In addition, members of the Integrated Farmers Association receive continuous trainings and exposure such as the Lakbay Aral in Pampanga and Tarlac cassava plantations, where they learn about new methods such as the use of high yielding varieties. The table below shows an increase in total production from 2011 to 2016 as well as better average yield per hectare in 2015 and 2016.

Table 5-3 Cassava, Area Harvested, Total/Average Production, Farmers served, 2011 to 2016, Dingalan, Aurora

5.1.4 Vegetable Production

A Farmers Field School for vegetable production technology was established at Barangay Caragsacan thru the assistance of the Agricultural Training Institute in year 2016, and another in Barangay Ibona in 2017. This shows the continuous commitment of the government in improving vegetable production in Dingalan.

Planting of root crops and root vegetables such as potatoes, squash, pumpkin, bottle gourd (upo) and tomatoes is a significant part of the town‘s agricultural program. However, total production went down drastically after year 2013, from 250 MT down to 12 MT and from 10 MT/ha aas well as average yield per hectare which went down from 10MT per hectare to 0.4MT per hectare.

Banana is considered as one of the best agricultural products of Dingalan. The Department  of  Agriculture  continues  to  assist  the  town  in  strengthening  its banana industry through the Saba Production Expansion Project. Almost 1300 hectares are being utilized for banana plantation, with an average yield of 6.26 from 2011 to 2015.

Another project that has already been started in 2016 is the 262-hectare Cacao plantation  in  Barangay  Umiray.  This  was  initiated  by  the Department  of Agriculture Region 3 in collaboration with Philmech. A cacao processing facility shall also be constructed which will be managed by the Mabunga Cacao Planters Association.

5.1.5 Livestock and Poultry

The Aurora Provincial Veterinary Office helps the LGU in its livestock and poultry program such as animal dispersal, artificial insemination, and animal health control. Daily meat inspection in 2015 and 2016 revealed an average of 1,027 heads of swine and 58 heads of cattle slaughtered every day.

5.1.6 Fisheries

As defined in the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, fishery refers to all activities relating to the act or business of fishing, culturing, preserving, processing, marketing, developing, conserving and managing aquatic resources and the fishery areas, including the privilege to fish or take aquatic resources. There are two classifications of this sector that are being monitored—1) Commercial fisheries; and 2) Inland Municipal fisheries.

Fisheries Production

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 3 through the Municipal Agriculture Office implements various programs and projects to enhance the fishing industry of Dingalan. In addition, the Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Council formulates local policies and provides support to this program.

From a yearly fish catch of 342 MT in 2011 and 2012, production almost doubled from 2013 to 2015 with an annual average of 575 MT. A slight dip in commercial fishing occurred in 2016 with 436 MT. Tuna is among Dingalan‘s popular local fish products.

Among the recent projects that would strengthen the fishing industry of the town is the construction of a fish processing center (tinapa) and establishment of a fish sanctuary in year 2015, the provision of smoke house and solar dryers, and the operation of the Municipal Community Fish Landing Center in Brgy. Paltic on Oct 11, 2016.

Inland Fisheries: Tilapia Production

The municipal agriculture office and BFAR also support fishpond operators located  in  some  barangays  such  as  Barangay Umiray  and  Paltic.  The  total fishpond area is relatively small and has decreased in size since 2015. From 2011 to 2015, average tilapia production was measured at 5.2MT per year.

Some  of  the  notable  projects  for  inland  fishery  is  the  fish  cage  project  in Barangay Paltic in 2012 and the 3 demo farms (10 x 10 square meters each) for mud crab production in Barangay Umiray in 2015.

A Ten Meter Municipal Ice Plant started operation in 2013. In its first three years of operation, it generated an average annual income of 2.56 million pesos, with an average daily production of 108 ice blocks.

5.1.7 Farm Mechanization and Post-harvest facilities

5.2. Manufacturing and Industry

This sector refers to industries and activities that manufactures finished goods and products from the output of the primary sector (raw materials). It is often categorized into light, medium, and heavy industry. These establishments are popularly known as factories, manufacturing and processing plants.

1.       Manufacturing

a. Industrial Establishments

There are____industrial establishments in Dingalan, located in Barangays. They occupy a total area of ___hectares.

5.3.    The Tertiary Sector

This segment of the economy is otherwise known as the service sector, which includes a wide range of businesses under two main categories: the profit (i.e. financial institutions, supermarkets, restaurants) and non-profit (i.e. public schools, public health services).

5.3.1  Wholesale and Retail Trade, Repair of Motor Vehicles, Motorcycles, Personal and Household Goods

5.3.2  Hotels and Restaurants

Dingalan has ___ registered Hotels and ___ refreshment businesses in 2018. Under the refreshment business, ___are classified as Bar and Restaurant, restaurants.

5.3.3  Transport, Storage and Communication

5.3.4  Financial Intermediation

5.3.5  Real Estate, Renting and Business Activities

Table 5-26 Business Permits, Real Estate, Renting, Business Activities, Dingalan, Aurora, 2011-2018

5.3.6  Education

There  are ___ registered educational institutions in 2018. There are elementary/high     school/colleges,     and     ___ tutorial/learning center/preschools.

5.3.7  Health and Social Work

As of 2018, there are ___clinics in Dingalan

The Business Permits and Licensing Office issued an average of  ___permits  for  all  kinds  of  businesses  from  2011  to  2018.  Registered businesses  increased  by ___percent  in  2018.  There  are  ___  new permits issued in the recent year.

5.4. Employment, Income, and Livelihood

The results of the Community Based Monitoring System (CBMS) conducted in 2016 show that more than half (67.6 percent) of the households in Dinglalan are below the poverty threshold and 51.9 percent are below the food threshold. This is despite of the low unemployment rate of only 11.4 percent. This can be explained by the nature of livelihood that majority of the residents are engaged in.

Table 5-30 shows that  Barangays in the Poblacion and its immediate vicinity are mostly employed, while the rest of the barangays are into agriculture or other types of jobs that do not give a steady or sufficient source of income to meet their basic daily requirements.

6.1 Tourist Attractions

The Municipality of Dingalan boasts of several tourism assets that can be classified under coastal tourism and ecotourism.

Ecotourism refers to forms of tourism which have the following characteristics:
(1) nature-based, in which the main motivation of tourists is the observation and appreciation of nature as well as the traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas,
(2) contains educational features,
(3) minimizes negative impacts on the natural and socio-cultural environment, and
(4) supports the maintenance of natural areas. (WTO, 2002)

On the other hand, Coastal tourism brings up popular images of resorts at the seaside with white sandy beaches lined with coconut palms and crystal-clear waters (Huttche et.al, 2002)

Table 6-1 shows how the Municipality of Dingalan is blessed with various natural features such as mountains, caves, and beaches, making it ideal for coastal and ecotourism.

a.  *Beach Resort (Brgy. Matawe)
b.  White Beach (Brgy. Paltic)

c.  Matawe and Agria Point Coral Reefs (Brgy. Matawe)A natural enclave and isolated hideaway, which has wide white sand beach, which is only a 10-minute banca ride from the town proper.

d.  Matawe Intertidal Zone (Brgy. Matawe)

A tideland that is a favorite among trekkers and adventurers. During low tide, A 10-hectare tidal flat gets exposed, making it possible to walk over 400 meters towards a promontory that encloses a large tidal pool that is 20-feet deep. The tidal pool is completely sealed from the surrounding sea  waters making its water perfectly still even as the waves roar just a few meters behind the promontory.

e.  Lamao Caves (Brgy. Paltic)

f.   *Iyapit Falls

g.  Tabi Falls (Brgy. Umiray)

A two-hour trek from the town proper that tourists looking for a quick but worth it getaway would enjoy.

h.  *Makibato Falls (Brgy. Umiray)

i.   Abungan Falls (Brgy. Ibona) Abungan Falls is a 98-feet high waterfalls which nature lovers enjoy because of its natural landscape and fresh waters.

j.   Lipit Picnic Ground (Brgy. Ibona)Lipit picnic area in the upstream portion of Ibona River which is an ideal place for family gatherings and picnics during weekends.

k.  Dingalan Bay View Park (Brgy. Tanawan)Offers tourists a panoramic view of the natural harbor of Dingalan Bay as it merges with the Pacific Ocean.

l.   Umiray River (Brgy. Umiray)

m. *Lighthouse (Brgy. Paltic)

n.  Laktas Falls (Brgy. Ibona)

Laktas falls is an ideal place for picnics and gatherings because of its wide swimming area. It is the perfect getaway for families and groups of friends longing for some peace and serenity.

o.  Fish Sanctuary (Brgy. Paltic)The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has pushed for the establishment of marine sanctuaries especially in Barangay Paltic to preserve its natural beauty. It is also an ideal site for diving and snorkelling.

p.  Sea Ranch (Brgy. Matawe)Sea Ranch was once a favorite tourist attraction in the Municipality, but it was closed during the 1980s and was turned over to Matawe Cooperative after falling under the coverage of CARP. As it regains its beauty, more tourists from all over the country visit it especially during summer.

q.  Tanawan Falls (Brgy. Tanawan)

6.2 Accessibility

6.3 Inventory of Tourism Establishments

In 2011, the Dingalan‘s tourism office was able to record seven (7) tourism establishments—all privately owned, to cater to its existing market.

In terms of market catered, the tourism office recorded domestic tourists coming from different parts of the country in 2011.

*Facilities:

af  – Accommodation facilities (hotels, resorts, picnic huts, cottages, comfort rooms, dressing/

change rooms, swimming pool, vehicular parking ff   – financial facilities (banks & money changers)

cf   – communication facilities (telecommunications)

mf – medical facilities (hospitals, clinics)

ef  – eating facilities (restaurants & other food and beverage facilities)

s/f  – shopping facilities (shopping centers/malls, handicraft stores/souvenir shops

others   – travel agencies, & tour operators, airline offices, passenger ferry/shipping services, tourist transport operators/rent-a-car, churches and other religious facilities, town

plaza/parks/zoos, recreational facilities, other entertainment facilities.

* – no available data

6.4 Support Facilities and Services In 2011, the Municipality of Dingalan had a total of 35 accommodation facilities such as hotels, resorts, and lodging houses. It had two (2) restaurants, and two (2) means of transportation (van and tricycle rental).

6.5 Local Revenue and Employment Generated

* – no available data

6.6 Inventory of Tourists by Country of Origin

6.7 Festivals

6.8 Potential Attractions

7.1 Transportation

The  Global  Competitiveness  Report  2017-2018  by  the  World  Economic Forum assesses 137 countries around the world by means of the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI), which makes use of its twelve pillars of competitiveness in order to assess the overall productivity and potential for long-term  growth  of  the  said  countries.  Infrastructure  is  the  focus  of  the second pillar, and the GCI has ranked the Philippines as 97th overall.

The Philippine government has been taking steps so as to improve the quality of roads in the country, by means of the following plans:

    The Duterte administration has goals to achieve ―the  golden age of infrastructure,‖ which shall serve as the foundation of the infrastructure sector towards the attainment of AmBisyon Natin 2040, the collective long-term vision and aspirations of the Filipino people;

        The Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022 has designated the manufacturing  and  connectivity  sectors  as  two  of  its  nine  priority sectors;

    The  Luzon  Spatial  Development  Framework  (LSDF)  in  the  Central Luzon Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2017-2022 has adopted strategies emphasizing connectivity, so as to ―enhance the linkages of communication, transportation, and economic infrastructure to… increase access and to improve the efficiency of markets.‖

    The  National  Logistics   Master   Plan  2017-2022  emphasizes   the importance of the infrastructure sector since it has set goals to achieve enhanced trade and investment, enhanced connectivity, enhanced regional development, and enhanced logistics resiliency.

Due to its strategic location facing the Pacific Ocean, Dingalan has the potential to be an international transshipment hub on the eastern seaboard, thus complementing the Subic Bay Freeport which is similarly positioned on the west coast, facing the Subic Bay and opening to the West Philippine Sea.

This opportunity for development was identified by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during her 2005 State of the Nation Address – she pointed out that Dingalan could serve as ―the egress of products‖ or the Pacific Ocean outlet of the Subic-Clark Alliance for Development (SCAD).   In response to this, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) introduced improvements   to   the   Palayan-Laur-Gabaldon-Dingalan   National   Road, thereby reducing travel time from the Balintawak tollgate in Metro Manila to the Municipality of Dingalan from five hours to four hours.

7.1.1  Roads

7.1.2  Bridges

The tables below present data on the bridges located in Dingalan.

7.1.3  Ancillary Road Facilities

The table below lists down the ancillary road facilities present in Dingalan.

7.1.5  Public Land Transportation Vehicles

The table below lists down the said types of public utility vehicles, the routes they ply, and their respective numbers.

7.1.6  Other Modes of Transport and Facilities

The table below presents data on the two seaports in Dingalan.

7.2 Power

One of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the 2030Agenda  set  by  the  United  Nations  Development  Programme  (UNDP)  is―Affordable   and   Clean   Energy   –   Ensure   access   to   affordable,   reliable, sustainable,  and  modern  energy  for  all.‖  The  Philippines  is  one  of  the  193

Member States of the United Nations; however, the PDP 2017-2022 has reported that there are still ―gaps in access especially in the rural and off-grid areas,‖ and that in July 2016, the entire country‘s household electrification level is only at 89.61 percent, or 20.36 million out of 22.72 million households. In comparison to this, the Central Luzon RDP 2017-2022 has reported a higher household electrification level at 96%, or 1,315,880 out of 1,366,300 households in the region.

Nevertheless, the Department of Energy (DOE) hopes to attain 100 percent electrification level for targeted and identified households accessible to the grid by the year 2022, and then for all households by the year 2040. Additionally, the National Energy Plan 2012-2030 has reported that although the total energy consumption in the residential sector is dropping due to the decrease in the consumption of biomass, electricity, and kerosene, the demand for power in the Philippines shall increase at an annual average rate of 4.3 percent over the years, resulting in the need for approximately 13,166.7 MW of new capacities so as to meet domestic power requirement.

The Aurora Electric Cooperative Inc. (AURELCO) provides the power supply of ten out of the eleven barangays in Dingalan – namely Aplaya, Butas na Bato, Cargsacan,  Davildavilan,  Ibuna,  Matawe,  Paltic,  Poblacion,  Tanawan,  and Umiray. The electric power for the municipality was previously sourced from National Power Corporation‘s (NPC) Luzon grid and was serviced by the Nueva Ecija III Electric Cooperative.

7.3 Water

7.4 Information and Communication Technology

8.0 An Overview of Dingalan, Aurora based on Competitiveness Ranking

The competitiveness index is a good measure of the local institutional capacity because it indicates the attractiveness of a city or municipality in terms of new business opportunities and investments. In 2017, the National Competitive Council of the Philippines ranked Dingalan as the 281st most competitive municipality out of the 853 3rd to  6th   class  participating  municipalities,  while  it  ranked  519th   out  of  the  1,342 participating municipalities in the country. The table below shows the rank and score of Dingalan under overall (all municipalities) and category (3rd  to 6th  class municipalities) per component and sub-indicator.

Note: The Competitiveness Index Ranking has a total index value of 100 for a fully competitive local unit. Each of the four core components (economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure, and resiliency) represents 25% of  index  value.  There  are  10  indicators  per  core  component  making  each indicator represent 2.5%. Even if the number of indicators per component are lower or higher than 10, the core component will still retain 25% weight. What will change are the weights within the core component. In this version of the index, many indicators were computed from the composite values of two or more sub- indicators.

Dingalan   exhibits   excellence   in   Resiliency   being   the   number   one   among   all municipalities in terms of land use plan, disaster risk reduction plan, annual disaster drill, early warning system, and local risks assessments. The municipality also ranked first in availability of basic utilities under Infrastrucure sub-indicator. On the other hand, the municipality requires sigficant improvement in Economy and overall Infrastructure.

However, aside from competitiveness and productivity indices, analysis should also be based on the general municipal administration, personnel and fiscal administrations, development legislations, and linkages with private sector and civil society.

8.1 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATION

8.1.1 Seat of Government

The  municipal  seat  of  government  is  located  in  Baler  Street,  Poblacion,  Dingalan, Aurora. The municipal hall, where all operational and management offices are housed is structurally stable,  adequately furnished,  and  sufficient  to  accommodate  manpower resource of the municipal government.

8.1.2 Executive Body

The executive power is vested in the Municipal Mayor or the Local Chief Executive (LCE), and the Vice Mayor. The LCE exercises general supervision and control over all programs, projects, services, and activities of the municipal government (Sec. 4441). Among others and specifically, the LCE is responsible for human resources and development in the municipality and takes all personnel actions in accordance with the Constitutional  provisions  on  civil  service,  pertinent  laws,  and  rules  and  regulations thereon, including such policies, guidelines and standards as the Civil Service Commission may establish (Sec. 77). Further, the LCE is in charged with the management and control of local fiscal resources.

The leadership of the LCE led to various enhancements in the executive management systems. In order to keep abreast with the local government‘s general administration and support services, and status of implementation of programs, projects and activities including nationally-managed programs, the LCE regularly holds executive meetings, which are attended by heads of departments and line agencies. Most notably, the LCE is found active in engaging barangay local government units, taxpayers, and the constituents. Indeed, under his administration, Dingalan is experiencing progress in economic dynamism and infrastructure, and remarkable improvement in resiliency.

In terms of budget distribution, all offices are required to submit proposals following the budget ceiling provided by the municipal finance committee. This is to ensure equitable allocation of municipal resources among sectors based on development priorities. The submitted proposals are subjected to deliberation and assessment prior to approval.

Proceeding from the principles of transparency and accountability, and in compliance with the Public Disclosure Policy, the executive branch maintains public transparency boards in conspicuous places such as the municipal hall, and barangay offices. Besides the mandated information that needs to be disclosed, the municipality also posts pertinent reports and information from each department and line agency.

8.1.3 Legislative Body

The Sangguniang Bayan (SB), the legislative body in the municipality, is composed of the Vice-Mayor as the Presiding Officer, the 8 elected council members, and the ABC president. They exercise legislative power, which determines the compensation of local officials and personnel through a resolution. It is vested with taxing authority and enactment of annual budget, policies and internal revenue regulations guided by the

1 RA 7160, the Local Government Code of the Philippines
following committees:

1.  Rules and Ordinances;
2.  Finance and Appropriations;
3.  Public Works and Highways;
4.  Health and Social Services;
5.  Education, Culture and Sports;
6.  Commerce, Trade and Industry;
7.  Peace and Order; and
8.  Ways and Means

The SB has always been a significant partner of the executive body in the delivery of basic social services to the citizenry. As such, it has conducted regular and special sessions in order to deliberate, pass, and adopt ordinances, and resolutions.

In order to promote the development objectives of the LGU, and to achieve an effective local legislation, the SB interacts with the executive branch including the civil society organizations.  This  is  demonstrated  with  the  crafting  of  the  Executive-Legislative Agenda (ELA), an integrated plan that contains the major development thrusts and priorities of both the executive and legislative branches towards realization of the municipal vision. The figure below demonstrates the framework for effective local legislation.

The office of the SB Secretary supports the legislative branch. The responsibilities of this Office are to, among others, a) attend meetings of the Sanggunian and keep a journal of its proceedings, b) maintain complete copies of duly approved ordinances, resolutions, and other official acts of the Sanggunian, and ensure these are recorded in a book kept for the purpose with the dates of passage and publication thereof.

8.1.4 Organizational Structure

8.1.5 Special Bodies and Committees

8.1.6 Development Planning Structure and Capability

In terms of planning and following the evolution of the Local Government Unit planning structure  from  primarily  technical  to  political,  the  municipal  planning  structure  in Dingalan now consists of two components as shown in the figure below.

This mandated the municipality to reinstitute the Municipal Development Council (MDC) through issuance of an executive order. The Council, which is composed of executive committee and sectoral and functional committees, formulate development plans and policies and public investment programs. They also evaluate and prioritize development programs and projects, and coordinate, monitor, and evaluate its implementation.

The executive committee, which is composed of the Mayor as Chairperson, the Chairperson of the committee on appropriations of the Sangguniang Bayan, the President of the Association of Barangay Captains (ABC), and a representative from the non-governmental organizations represents the MDC and acts on its behalf when it is not in session. In addition, it ensures that the decisions of the council are faithfully carried out and implemented, act on matters requiring immediate attention or action by the council, formulates policies, plans, and programs based on the general principles laid down by the council, and acts on other matters that are authorized by the council.

On the other hand, the sectoral or functional committees assist the MDC in the performance of its functions. Particularly, they are responsible for the following:

provide the MDC with data and information essential to the formulation of plans, programs and activities; define  sectoral  or  functional  objectives,  set  targets  and  identify  programs, projects and activities; collate and analyze data and conduct studies; monitor and evaluate programs and projects; and    perform functions assigned by the MDC Headed by a Civil Engineer and a Licensed Environmental Planner,   the Municipal

Planning and Development Office (MPDO), which is composed of _ permanent personnel is available to provide technical assistance to the political authorities and the communities.

Particularly, the MPDO provides support to the municipal development council during budget deliberation, which usually happens every quarter of the year,  and renders technical assistance to heads of line departments as to eligibility of their proposals against the development funds. The MPDO has also established partnership with NGOs and Barangay LGU officials.

8.2 PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION

Being a government entity, the municipality operates in accordance with existing laws and guidelines in managing and developing human resources as prescribed by the CSC, particularly the Omnibus Rules/Implementing Book V of Executive Order No. 292.

8.2.1 Manpower Complement

_ positions ( insert  period

The created Plantilla of Personnel in Year 2018 in Dingalan approved                         .

However,  based  on  the  Municipality‘s  Executive-Legistative  Agenda                        ), such manpower is augmented by _municipality. __job orders to carry out various mandates of the

Following is the breakdown of types and employment status of personnel:

Elective – There are 11 elective officials in the municipality: the Municipal Mayor, Vice Mayor, 8 regular members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and the ABC president. These officials are elected by the qualified voters during election period and whose term of office is three years but shall not serve for more than three consecutive terms in the same position. The vacant elective position is the president of the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation whose election is postponed per Republic Act No.   10923   entitled,   “An   Act   postponing   the   October   2016   Barangay   and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, Amending for the Purpose Republic Act No. 9164, as Amended by Republic Act No. 9340 and Republic Act No. 10656, Prescribing Additional Rules Governing the Conduct of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections and for Other Purposes”.

Permanent  –  A  total  of employees  in  the  municipality  have  permanent
employment status. This type of employment is issued to a person who meets all the minimum qualification standards of the position to which he/she is being appointed as  prescribed  by the  CSC.  Personnel  holding  this  nature  of  appointment  enjoy security of tenure and all benefits accruing to government employees.

Co-Terminus – There

co-terminus employees in the municipality. This type of employment is issued to a person whose entrance and continuity in the service is based on trust and confidence of the appointing authority. The term of this employee is co-terminus with the appointing power.

Job Order – There are hired by the municipality under this type of employment.

All of them are deployed in different offices under the executive and legislative branches. This type of employment is issued to a person to do a piece of work or intermittent job of short duration not exceeding six (6) months paid on a daily basis for local projects authorized by the Sanggunian. Job Order employment is not covered by the Civil Service laws but covered by Commission on Audit (COA) rules, and there is no employer-employee relationship between the individual and the local government. Also, the involved in the job order do not enjoy the benefits enjoyed by government employees, such as PERA, ACA and RATA. Job Order services rendered are not considered government services.

8.2.2 Personnel Distribution by Age

8.2.3 Educational Attainment

8.2.4 Civil Service Eligibility Qualification

8.2.5 Gender Profile

8.2.6 Functions of the Municipal Offices

1.  Functions of the Municipal Treasurer and the Office

The  Treasurer  shall  take  charge  of  the  treasury  office,  perform  the  duties provided under Book II of the Code, and shall:

1.1. Advise the mayor, as the case may be, the Sanggunian, and other local and national government officials concerned regarding the disposition of local government funds, and on such other matters relative to public finance;

1.2. Take custody of, and exercise proper management of the funds of the LGU concerned;

1.3. Take charge of the disbursement of all and such other funds the custody of which may be entrusted to him by law or other competent authority;

1.4. Inspect   private   commercial   and   industrial   establishments   within   the jurisdiction of the LGU concerned in relation to the implementation of tax ordinance, pursuant to the provisions under Book II of the Code;

1.5. Maintain and update the tax information system of the LGU;

1.6. Exercise shuch other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinances.

2.  Functions of the Municipal Assessor and the Office. The Assessor shall take charge  of  the assessor‘s office,  perform the duties provided under Book II of the Code, and shall:

2.1. Ensure that all laws and policies governing the appraisal and assessment of real properties for taxation purposes are properly executed;

2.2. Initiate, review, and recommend changes in policies and objectives, plans and programs, techniques, procedures, and practices in the valuation and assessment of real properties for taxation and purposes;

2.3. Establish a systematic method of real property assessment;

2.4. Install and maintain a real property identification and accounting system;

2.5. Prepare, install, and maintain a system of tax mapping, showing graphically all property subject to assessment and gather all data concerning the same;

2.6. Conduct frequent physical surveys to verify and determine as to whether or not all real properties within the municipality are properly listed in the assessment rolls;

2.7. Exercise the functions of appraisal and assessment primarily for taxation purposes of all real properties in the LGU concerned;

2.8. Prepare a schedule of fair market values for the different classes of real properties, in accordance with Title Two, Book II of the Code;

2.9. Issue, upon request of any interested party, certified copies of assessment

records of real property and all other records relative to its assessment, upon payment of a service charge or fee to the treasurer;

2.10. Submit every semester a report of all assessments, as well as cancellations and modifications of assessments, to the local chief executive and the sanggunian concerned;

2.11. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

3.  Functions of the Municipal Accountant and the Office

The  Accountant  shall  take  charge  of  both  the  accounting  and  internal  audit services of the LGU concerned and shall:

3.1. Install and maintain an internal audit system in the LGU concerned;

3.2. Prepare and submit financial statements to the mayor, as the case may be, and to the sanggunian concerned;

3.3. Appraise the sanggunian and other local government officials on the financial condition and operations of the LGU concerned;

3.4. Certify to the availability of budgetary allotment to which expenditures and obligations may be properly charged;

3.5. Review supporting documents before preparation of vouchers to determine completeness of requirements;

3.6. Prepare  statements  of  cash  advances,  liquidation,  salaries,  allowances, reimbursements and remittances pertaining to the LGU;

3.7. Prepare statements of jurnal vouchers and liquidation of the same and other adjustments related thereto;

3.8. Post individual disbursements to the subsidiary ledger and index cards;

3.9. Maintain individual ledgers for officials and employees of the LGU pertaining to payrolls and deductions;

3.10.   Record and post in index cards details of purchased furniture, fixtures, and equipment, including disposal thereof, if any;

3.11.   Account for all issued requests for obligations and maintain and keep all records and reports related thereto;

3.12.   Prepare journals and the analysis of obligations and maintain and keep all records and reports related thereto; and

3.13.   Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be provided by law or ordinance.

4.  Functions of the Municipal Budget Officer and the Office

The Budget Officer shall take charge of the budget office and shall:

4.1. Prepare forms, orders, and circulars embodying instructions on budgetary and appropriation matters for the signature of the mayor;

4.2. Review  and  consolidate  the  budget  proposals  of  different  offices  and departments of the LGU;

4.3. Assist  the  mayor,  in  the  preparation  of  the  budget  and  during  budget hearings;

4.4. Study  and  evaluate  budgetary  implications  of  proposed  legislation  and submit comments and recommendations thereon;

4.5. Submit periodic budgetary reports to DBM;

4.6. Coordinate with the treasurer, accountant, and planning and development coordinator for the purpose of budgeting;

4.7. Assist  the  sanggunian  concerned  in  reviewing  the  approved  budgets  of components LGUs;

4.8. Coordinate with the planning and development coordinator in the formulation of the development plan of the LGU; and

4.9. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

5.  Functions of the Municipal Planning And Development Coordinator and the Office

The Planning and Development Coordinator shall take charge of the planning and development office and shall:

5.1. Formulate  integrated  economic,  social,  physical  and  other  development plans and policies for consideration of the local government development council;

5.2. Conduct continuing studies, researches, and training programs necessary to evolve plans and programs for implementation;

5.3. Integrate and coordinate all sectoral plans and studies undertaken by the different functional groups or agencies;

5.4. Monitor  and  evaluate  the  implementation  of  the  different  development programs, projects, and activities in the LGU concerned in accordance with

the approved development plan;

5.5. Prepare comprehensive plans and other development planning documents for the consideration of the LDC;

5.6. Analyze   the   income   and   expenditure   patterns,   and   formulate   and recommend fiscal plans and policies for consideration of the finance committee of the LGU concerned as provided under Title Five, Book II of the Code;

5.7. Promote  people  participation  in  development  planning  within  the  LGU concerned;

5.8. Exercise supervision and control over the secretariat of the LDC; and

5.9. Exercise such other powers and perform such other functions and duties as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

6.  Functions of the Municipal Engineer and the Office

The Engineer shall take charge of the engineering office and shall:

6.1. Initiate, review and recommend changes in policies and objectives, plans and programs, techniques, procedures and practices in infrastructure development and public works in general of the LGU concerned;

6.2. Advise the mayor, on infrastructure,  public works, and other engineering matters;

6.3. Administer,    coordinate,    supervise,    and    control    the    construction, maintenance, improvement, and repair of roads, bridges, and other engineering and public works projects of the LGU;

6.4. Provide engineering services to the LGU concerned , including investigation and  survey,  engineering  designs,  feasibility  studies,  and  project management;

6.5. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

7.  Functions of the Municipal Health Officer and the Office

The Health Officer shall take charge of the office on health and shall:

7.1. Take  charge  of  the  office  on  health  services,  supervise  the  personnel supervise the personnel and staff of said office, formulate program implementation guidelines and rules and regulations for the operation of the said office for the approval of the mayor, as the case may be, in order to assist him in the efficient,  effective and economical implementation of  a health services program geared to implementation of health-related projects and activities;

7.2. Formulate measures for the consideration of the sanggunian and provide technical assistance and support  to  the mayor,  as the case  may be,  in carrying out activities to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate facilities relative to health services provided under Section 17 of this Code;

7.3. Develop plans and strategies and upon approval thereof by the mayor as the case may be, implement the same, particularly those which the mayor, is empowered  to  implement  and  which  the  sanggunian  is  empowered  to provide for under this Code;

7.4. Formulate and implement policies, plans, programs and projects to promote the health of the people in the Local Government Unit concerned;

7.5. Advise the mayor, as the case may be, and the sanggunian on matters pertaining to health;

7.6. Execute and enforce all laws, ordinances and regulations relating to public health;

7.7. Recommend to the sanggunian, through the local health board, the passage of such ordinances as he may deem necessary for the preservation of public health;

7.8. Recommend the prosecution of any violation of sanitary laws, ordinances or regulations;

7.9. Direct the sanitary inspection of  all  business establishments selling food items or providing accommodation such as hotels, motels, lodging houses, pension houses, and the like, in accordance with the Sanitation Code;

7.10. Conduct  health  information  campaigns  and  render  health  intelligence services;

7.11. Coordinate   with   other   government   agencies   and   non-governmental organizations involved in the promotion and delivery of health services; and

7.12. Be in the frontline of health services delivery, particularly during and in the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters and calamities; and

7.13. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

8.  Functions of the Municipal Civil Registrar and the Office

The Civil Registrar shall be responsible for the civil registration program in the local government unit concerned, pursuant to the Civil Registry Law, the Civil Code, and other pertinent laws, rules and regulations issued to implement them. It shall take charge of the office of civil registry and shall:

8.1. Develop plans and strategies and upon approval thereof by the governor or mayor, as the case may be, implement the same, particularly those which have to do with civil registry programs and projects which  the mayor is empowered  to  implement  and  which  the  sanggunian  is  empowered  to provide for under this Code;

8.2. Accept  all  registrable  documents  and  judicial  decrees  affecting  the  civil status of persons;

8.3. File keep and preserve in a secure place the books required by law;

8.4. Transcribe and enter immediately upon receipt all registrable documents and judicial decrees affecting the civil status of persons in the appropriate civil registry books;

8.5. Transmit to the Office of the Civil Registrar General, within the prescribed period, duplicate copies of registered documents required by law;

8.6. Issue certified transcripts or copies of any certificate or registered documents upon payment of the prescribed fees to the treasurer;

8.7. Receive  applications  for  the  issuance  of  a  marriage  license  and,  after determining that the requirements and supporting certificates and publication thereof for the prescribed period have been complied with, issue the license upon payment of the authorized fee to the treasurer;

8.8. Coordinate  with  the  National  Statistics  Office  in  conducting  educational campaigns for vital registration and assist in the preparation of demographic and other statistics for the local government unit concerned; and

8.9. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

9.  Functions of the Municipal Administrator and the Office

The Administrator shall take charge of the office of the administrator and shall:

9.1.  Develop plans and strategies on management and programs and projects and implement them upon approval thereof by the mayor;

9.2.  Assist in coordinating the work of all the officials of the LGU under the supervision, direction, and control of the mayor, and for this purpose, he may convene the chiefs of offices and other officials of the LGU;

9.3.  Be in the frontline of the delivery of the administrative support services, particularly those related to situations during and in the aftermath of man- made and natural disasters and calamities;

9.4.  Recommend to the sanggunian and advise the mayor on all other matters relative to the management and administration of LGU; and

9.5.  Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

10. Functions of the Municipal Agriculturist and the Office

The Agriculturist shall take charge of the office for agricultural services, and shall:

10.1. Formulate  measures  for  the  approval  of  the  sanggunian  and  provide technical assistance and support to the mayor, in carrying out said measures  to  ensure  the  delivery  of  basic  services  and  provision  of adequate facilities relative to agricultural services as provided in Rule V of these Rules;

10.2. Develop plans and strategies on agricultural programs and projects and implement them upon approval thereof by the mayor;

10.3. Ensure  that   maximum  assistance  and  access  to  resources  in  the production, processing and marketing of agricultural and aquacultural and marine products are extended to farmers, fishermen and local entrepreneurs;

10.4. Conduct or cause to be conducted location-specific agricultural researches and assist in making available the appropriate technology arising out of, and disseminate information on, basic research on crops, prevention and control of plant diseases and pests, and other agricultural matters which will maximize productivity;

10.5. Assist   the  mayor,   in  the  establishment   and  extension  services   of demonstration farms or aquaculture and marine products;

10.6. Enforce rules and regulations relating to agriculture and aquaculture;

10.7. Coordinate with NGA‘s and NGO‘s which promote agricultural productivity though appropriate technology compatible with environmental integrity;

10.8. Be in the frontline of delivery of basic agricultural services, particularly those needed for the survival of the inhabitants during and in the aftermath of man-made and natural disaster;

10.9. Recommend to the sanggunian and advise the mayor on all other matters related to agriculture and aquaculture which will improve the livelihood and living conditions of the inhabitants; and

10.10. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

11. Functions of the  Municipal Social  Welfare and Development  Officer and the Office

The Social Welfare and Development Officer shall take charge of the office on social welfare and development services and shall:

11.1. Formulate measures for the approval of the Sanggunian and provide technical assistance and support to the mayor, as the case may be, in carrying out measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate facilities relative to social welfare and development services as provided for under Section 17 of this code;

11.2.  Develop plans and strategies and upon approval thereof by the mayor, as the case may be, implement the same particularly those which have to do with social welfare programs and projects which the mayor is empowered to  implement  and  which  the  sanggunian  is  empowered  to  provide  for under this code;

11.3.  In addition to the foregoing duties, the social welfare and development officer shall:

11.4. Identify the basic needs of the needy, the disadvantaged and the impoverished and develop and implement   appropriate measures to alleviate their problems and improve their living conditions;

11.5.  Provide relief and appropriate crisis intervention for victims of abuse and exploitation and recommend appropriate measures to deter further abuse and exploitation;

11.6.  Assist the mayor, as the case may be, in implementing the barangay level program for the total development and protection of children up to six (6) years of age;

11.7.  Facilitate the implementation of welfare programs for the disabled, elderly, and victims of drug addiction, the rehabilitation of prisoners and parolees, the prevention  of juvenile delinquency and such other activities which would eliminate or minimize the ill-effects of poverty;

11.8.  Initiate and support youth welfare programs that will enhance the role of the youth in nation-building;

11.9. Coordinate   with   government   agencies   and   non-governmental organizations  which  have  for  their  purpose  the  promotion  and  the protection of all needy, disadvantaged, underprivileged or impoverished groups or individuals, particularly those identified to be vulnerable and high-risk to exploitation, abuse and neglect;

11.10. Be in the frontline of service delivery, particularly those which have to do with immediate relief during and assistance in the aftermath of man-made and natural disaster and natural calamities;

11.11. Recommend to the sanggunian and advise the mayor, as the case may be, on all other matters related to social welfare and development services which will improve the livelihood and living conditions of the inhabitants; and

11.12. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

12. Functions of the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer and the Office

The Environment and Natural Resources Management Officer shall take charge of the office on environment and natural resources and shall:

12.1. Formulate measures for the consideration of the Sanggunian and provide technical assistance and support to the governor or mayor, as the case maybe, in carrying out measures to ensure the delivery of basic services and provision of adequate facilities  relative to environment  and natural resources services as provided for under Section 17 of this Code;

12.2. Develop plans and strategies and upon approval thereof by the governor or mayor, as the case may be, implement the same, particularly those which have to do with environment and natural resources programs and projects which the governor or mayor is empowered to implement and which the Sanggunian is empowered to provide for under this Code;

12.3. In  addition  to  the  foregoing  duties  and  functions  the  environment  and natural resources officer shall:

12.4. Establish, maintain, protect and preserve communal forests, watersheds, tree   parks,   mangroves,   greenbelts   and   similar   forest   projects   and commercial forest, like industrical tree farms and agro-forestry projects;

12.5. Provide extension services to beneficiaries of forest development projects and technical, financial and infrastructure assistance;

12.6. Manage and maintain seed banks and produce seedlings for forests and tree parks;

12.7. Provide extension services to beneficiaries of forest development projects and render assistance for natural resources-related conservation and utilization activities consistent with ecological balance;

12.8. Promote  the  small-scale  mining  and  utilization  of  mineral  resources, particularly mining of gold;

12.9. Coordinate with government agencies and non-governmental organizations in the implementation of measures to prevent and control land, air and water pollution with the assistance of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources;

12.10. Be in the frontline of the delivery of services concerning the environment and natural resources, particularly in the renewal and rehabilitation of the environment  during    and  in  the  altermath  of  man-made  and  natural calamities and disasters;

12.11. Recommend to the Sanggunian and advise the governor or mayor, as the case may be, on all matters relative to the protection, conservation, maximum  utilization,  application  of  appropriate  technology  and  other matters related to the environment and natural resources; and

12.12. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

13. Functions of the Municipal General Services Officer and the Office

The General Services Officer shall take charge of the office on general services and shall:

13.1.  Formulate measures for the consideration of the Sanggunian and provide technical assistance and support to the governor or mayor, as the case may be, in carrying out measures to ensure the delivery of basic service s and provision of adequate facilities pursuant to Section 17 of this Code and which require general services expertise and technical support services;

13.2.  Develop plans and strategies and upon approval thereof by the governor or mayor, as the case may be, implement the same, particularly those which have to do with the general services supportive of the welfare of the inhabitants which the governor or mayor is empowered to implement and which the Sanggunian is empowered to provide for under this Code;

13.3.  In addition to the foregoing duties and functions, the general services officer shall:

13.4.  Take custody of and be accountable for all properties, real or personal, owned by the local government unit and those granted to it in the form of donation, reparation, assistance and counterpart of joining properties;

13.5.  With the approval of the governor or mayor, as the case may be, assign building or land space to local officials or other public officials, who by law, are entitled to such space;

13.6.  Recommend  to  the  governor  or  mayor,  as  the  case  may  be,  the reasonable   rental rates for local government properties whether real or personal, which will be leased to public or private entities by the local government;

13.7.  Recommend to the governor or mayor, as the case may be, reasonable rental rate of private properties which may be leased for the official use of the local government unit;

13.8.  Maintain and supervise janitorial, security, landscaping and other related services in all local government public buildings and other real property, whether owned or leased by the local government unit;

13.9.  Collate and disseminate information regarding prices, shipping and other costs of supplies and other items commonly used by the local government unit;

13.10. Perform  archival  and  record  management  with  respect  to  records  of offices and departments of the local government units; and

13.11. Perform all other functions pertaining to supply and property management heretofore performed by the local government treasurer; and enforce policies on records creation, maintenance, and disposal;

13.12. Be  in  the  frontline  of  general  services  related  activities,  such  as  the possible or imminent destruction or damage to records, supplies, properties, and structures and the orderly and sanitary clearing   up or waste materials or debris, particularly during and in the aftermath or man- made and natural calamities and disasters;

13.13. Recommend to the Sanggunian and advise the governor or mayor, as the case may be, on all other matters relative to general services; and

13.14. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance.

14. Functions of the Municipal Human Resource Management Officer and the Office

The Human Resource Management Officer shall take charge of the office on human resource management and shall:

14.1.  Assist  and  advice  the  Local  Chief  Executive  in  the  development, formulation and execution of policies and execution of policies, rules and regulations in all areas of personnel management in accordance with the Civil Service Law and Rules;

14.2. Implement  comprehensive  and  balanced  personnel  development programs  designed  to  raise  the  level  of  efficiency,  effectiveness  and morale of the personnel in the department, agency, province, city or municipality and the Commission of activities and development in these areas;

14.3.  Establish   a   sound   recruitment   and   selection   system   within   the organization;

14.4. Administer the position classification and compensation system (as prescribed by the Department  of  Budget  and Management) and other employee welfare programs such as medical and hospitalization benefits, health and safety standards, disability, retirement and other benefits;

14.5. Help create an atmosphere conducive to good supervisor-employee relations   and   improvement   of   employee   welfare   and   morale   and recognizes the employees‘ right to self organization;

14.6.  Assist the department and agency in the development and implementation of performance standards evaluation systems and employee recognition programs;

14.7.  Conduct exit interview of employees about to retire, resign, transfer or separate from the agency to obtain their suggestions and/or feedback on how to improve organization productivity and performance;

14.8.  Provide inputs in the development and implementation of human resource training and development programs;

14.9.  Establish   and   administer   a   continuing   employee   suggestions   and incentives and awards systems for the improvement of employee performance and productivity;

14.10. Maintain a complete and up-to-date personnel information system;

14.11. As the Bilis Aksyon Man in his agency, perfoms the following (CSC MC#3. S-1994);

14.12. Attend to grievance of discourtesy and other similar acts reported by a dissatisfied client transacting business in the office concerned.   If  the grievance cannot be resolved after exhaustion refer the same to the CSC Field Office or the CSC Regional Director;

14.13. Submit the corresponding report to the head of the agency, copy furnished the Civil Service Commission;

14.14. Monitor the implementation of ―Mamamayan  Muna, Hindi Mamaya Na‖

campaign in his agency;

14.15. As  a  member  of  the  Council  of  Personnel  Officers  (CPO),  actively participate in all programs and activities of the Council; and

14.16. Liaise with the Civil Service Commission on personnel related matters.

15. Functions of the Municipal Economic Enterprise and Public Utilities Officer and the Office

The Economic Enterprise and Public Utilities Officer shall take charge of the office and shall:

15.1. Assign and supervise the work of Port Cleaners to insure the cleanliness and orderliness of the Port;

15.2. Maintain the peace and order in the Port premises;

15.3. Oversee the stevedoring system;

15.4.  Supervise the operation and collection of fees for the Port Management Unit (Port of Ungos and Beach Landing), Water Distribution System, Slaughterhouse/Abattoir, Public Market, Rental of Municipal Water, Rental of Equipment, Registration of Water Vessels and other economic units that which may be soon included on said office;

15.5. Prepare   necessary   reports   and   submit   the   same   to   the   concern offices/agencies; and

15.6. Perform such other duties and functions that maybe assigned from time to time by the Local Chief Executive.

16. Functions of the Secretary to the Sanggunian

The secretary to the sanggunian shall take charge of the office of the secretary to the sanggunian and shall:

16.1. Attend meetings of the sanggunian and keep a journal of its proceedings;

16.2. Keep the seal of the LGU and affix the same with his signature to all ordinances, resolutions, and other official acts of the sanggunian and present the same to the presiding officer for his signature;

16.3. Forward  to  the  mayor,  as  the  case  may  be,  for  approval,  copies  of ordinances enacted by the sanggunian and duly certified by the presiding officer;

16.4. Transmit  to  the  sangguniang  Panglalawigan  concerned,  copies  of  duly approved ordinances;

16.5. Furnish, upon request of any interested party, certified copies of records of public character in his custody, upon payment to the Municipal Treasurer of such fees as may be prescribed by ordinance;

16.6. Record in a book  kept for the purpose,  all ordinances and resolutions enacted or adopted by the sanggunian, with the dates of passage and publication thereof;

16.7. Keep his office and all non-confidential records therein open to the public during the usual business hours;

16.8. Translate  into  the  dialect  used  by  a  majority  of  the  inhabitants  all ordinances and resolutions immediately after their approval, and cause the publication  thereof,  together  with  the  original  version  in  the  manner provided in Rule XVII of these Rules;

16.9. Take custody of the local archives and, where applicable, the local library and annually account for the same; and

16.10. Exercise such other powers and perform such other duties and functions as may be prescribed by law or ordinance relative to his position.

8.3 National Government Agencies in Dingalan

The following are National Government Agencies that are presently based in Dingalan:

1.  Philippine National Police

2.  Bureau of Fire Protection

3.  Commission on Election

4.  Department of Environment and Natural Resources

5.  Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources

6.  Municipal Trial Court

7.  Philippine Postal Corporation

8.  Department of Interior and Local Government

9.  Department of Education

8.3.1  Capacity Building Activities

8.4 Personnel Performance Review

In compliance with Section 33, Chapter 5, Book V of Executive Order No. 292, where it provides that ―there shall be established a performance evaluation system, which shall be administered in accordance with rules, regulations and standards promulgated by the Commission for all officers and employees in the career service‖ and Section 5 of Administrative Order No. 241, where it requires that ―agencies shall institute a Performance   Evaluation   System   based   on   objectively   measured   output   and performance of personnel and units, such as the Performance Management System developed by the CSC‖, the Human Resource Management Office of the municipality administer a semi-annual Individual Performance Contract Review (IPCR).

8.5 FISCAL ADMINISTRATION

This refers to the conduct and management of financial affairs, transactions, and operations of the municipal government. It deals with revenue generation, allocation, utilization and management and control of all financial resources.

The key players in local fiscal  administration  are the LCE who provides executive direction and control, the Sangguniang Bayan,  which is the taxing  authority in the municipality and endowed with the power to enact annual budget and policies. Another key player is the local finance committee composed of the Accountant, Budget Officer, Treasurer and the MPDO  that  is in-charged with income projections,  and provides

recommendations on tax and other revenue measures, and on the annual expenditures and the ceilings for spending.

8.5.1 Municipal Revenues

Sources of government revenue can be classified as regular income and non- regular income. Regular income covers traditional sources as taxation, internal revenue allotment, fees and charges and other receipts. Non-regular income, on the other hand, is sourced thru other means available to the LGU, which include among others as credit financing, bonds, privatization, etc.

The municipal government total revenues increased annually with an average of __% from 2013 up to 2017. [INSERT ADDITIONAL WRITEUP BASED ON COMPLETED DATA]

8.5.2 Municipal Expenditures

8.5.3  Financial Performance Monitoring

According to the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF), the collection rate for Real Property Taxes (RPT) in Dingalan has significantly increased from 16% in 2013 to 52% in 2014. However, the same dived down to 26% in 2015. This could partly explain why revenue growth decreased in 2015 to 13% from 15% in 2014.

Meanwhile, it is worth noting that Dingalan is debt free. However, the table below also shows that its social services expenditure ratio has been decreasing from 23.1% in 2013 to 16% in 2014 and then further dipped to 14% in 2015.  Likewise, the economic services expenditure ratio decreased from 7.10% in 2013 to 3% in 2015.

The uncommitted cash balance to local LGU expenditures ratio is decreasing from 2013 (4.8%) to 2015 (2%). For the same period, BLGF consistently rated Dingalan with poor revenue and expenditure performances. Hence, it is also consistently considered a Type 4 in terms of Financial Performance.

8.6 DEVELOPMENT LEGISLATION

The  legislative  branch  of  Dingalan  has  adopted  ordinances,  which  pertain  to  the creation of various committees, councils, and offices whose main functions are to implement protective services and promote programs in compliance with national laws and regulations, franchising, and granting of incentives and financial assistance to government  employees  and volunteers.  On  the  other  hand,  most  resolutions  are approval of annual and supplemental budgets. The following tables show the sectoral ordinances and resolutions passed, respectively, for the past 5 years.

8.7 BARANGAY LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT

The barangay local government units thru its development councils contribute to the development of the municipality by functioning as intended. As provided in the LGC, their  primary  planning  functions  include  mobilizing  people‘s  participation  in  local development   functions,   preparation   of   development   plans,   and   monitoring   and evaluation of implementation of national or local programs and projects.

8.7.1 Barangay IRA

The annual IRA of the barangays in the municipality steadily increased starting from 2014 up to 2018 as shown in the table below. However, the percent of increase in 2018 is less than the prior years as shown in the succeeding table.

8.7.2 Barangay Development Administration

To promote transparency in governance and public participation, all of the Barangays conducted and discussed their respective Financial Statements (FS) during barangay assembly. Said FS is likewise posted in the Barangay Hall for public information and scrutiny.

8.8 PEOPLE PARTICIPATION

Participation means that people are closely involved in the economic, social and cultural and political processes that affect their lives. Hence, people participation is deemed essential in local governance. As individuals in a democracy, they participate as voters or political activitists or in the market as entrepreneurs or works. Often thay participate more and more effectively through group action as members of a community organization or a trade union or a political party (Sociology Guide.Com, 2018).

8.8.1 Voter Participation

8.8.2 Private and Civil Society Participation

MUNICIPAL DIRECTORY
Municipality of Dingalan, Aurora

Mayor:

HON. SHIERWIN H. TAAY

Vice Mayor:

HON. EDGARDO GALVEZ

Sangguniang Bayan:

HON. SHIELDON H. TAAY
HON. LUIS A. BORREO
HON. MYLENE FIGURACION
HON. ABIGAIL G. TAN
HON. CONRADO DEGUZMAN JR.
HON. IAN EVAMGELISTA
HON. RAFFY PADILLA
HON. MONALIZA BELGAR
HON. ANICETA AUMENTADO/NCIP
HON. CEEJAY B. BORREO/SK FED.PRE.

Secretary to the SB:

MARINITA B. DELA CRUZ

Department Heads/Chiefs of Offices:

RUTH A. BAGO-ACCTG OFFICE
ENGR. REYMOND B. DOMINGO,EnP.-MPDC
ENGR. KEN ANTHONY B. BORREO-MEO
CHRISTIAN JUNE N. DAGASDAS-MDRRMO
MARILENE W. TOLENTINO-MBO
JESEBEL M. AGLUBO-MTO
WYNONA T. ANGELES-ASSESSOR
MA. EDWINA L. MIRANDA-MSWDO
MINA S. DICEN-OIC-MAO
DR. LANI VERONICA M. CEBEDO-MHO
MARY DIVINA L. FRANCISCO-TOURISM
JOSEPHINE I. BALIWAG-MCR

Barangay Officials:

Barangay APLAYA

LEO A. AGUSTIN
Barangay Chairman

COUNCILORS:

Dionisio O. Geronimo
Froilan R. Tena
Ricardo I. Roxas
Ma. Cristina C. Dumaya
Amado R. Conchada
Luzviminda R. Tena
Arnold A. Balace

Anjo M. Sulita (SK Chairman)
Frederick B. Avellano (Brgy. Secretary)
Rachelle Ann G. Tena ( Brgy. Treasurer)
Magdalena N. Lazaro (Admin Clerk)

Barangay Butas na Bato

ROY S. FRANCISCO
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:

Rodrigo D. Sabado
Pepito Leo L. Callanta
Felomina L. Antalan
William H. Catubay
Ryan R. Salvador
Angelo A. Cruz
Luzabelle  J. Decena

Crystal P. Damdamun (SK Chairman)
Marietta V. Tibor (Brgy. Secretary)
Charito P. Herminigildo (Brgy. Treasurer)

Barangay CARAGSACAN

VICTOR E. MANEJA
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:

Genaro T. Gamatan
Margie F. Hermogenes
Jarwin R. Fabros
Wilfredo B. Dumaya
Rodolfo P. Canlapan
Jeremias J. Ordonez
Ricardo M. Sambajon

Eduardo Peran (IPMR)

Sherleen Mira S. Marinas (SK Chairman)
Angelita B. Ordonez (Brgy. Secretariat)
Myla B. Pajarillo (Brgy. Treasurer)
Lorna L. Mariano (Admin Clerk)

Barangay DAVILDAVILAN

ABNER D. NARCISO
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:
Artemio P. Delos Pobres
Catalino M. Walican
Dulce Amor N. Yu
Teodora A. Benemerito
Marcelina Q. Permanes
Ricardo M. Llana
Reynaldo E. Gatchalian

Harold M. Madrid (SK Chairman)
Victoria B. Hiteroza (Brgy. Secretary)
Victoria B. Hiteroza (Brgy. Secretary)
Loida M. Pajarillo (Brgy. Treasurer)

Barangay DIKAPANIKIAN

RICHARD F. BELARDO
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:
Allan B. Ritual
Marjuna R. Francia
Naneth DC. Jovellano
Meneriza R. Belardo
Jennifer B. Sindac
Shirly T. Luna
Bernardino DG. Dela Cruz

Anjeline Q. Penilla (SK Chairman)

Teresa C. Romantico (Brgy. Secretary)
Larry B. Jimenez (Brgy. Treasurer)

Barangay IBONA

RICARDO B. BALALA JR.
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:
Rowell C. Cabiao
Nicanor B. Andrada
Joel D. Organa
Manuel G. Corpuz
Dante R. Roque
Rosendo L. Rebudal
Marcelo A. Villanueva

Joseph M. Rasco (SK Chairman)
Leandro M. Padilla (Brgy. Secretary)
Arthur A. Balbin (Brgy. Treasurer)
Therry Jordan Omayama (Admin Clerk)

Barangay MATAWE

DANILO V. BUENAFLOR
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:
Erwin V. Hidalgo
Pedro F. Pineda
Manuel P. Zamora Sr.
Francisco L. Ruiz Jr.
Judith D. Dionisio
Sabina DC. Tuscano
Amado P. Santos
Jornie D. Mendoza ( Mandatory Representative)

Cee Jay B. Borreo (SK Chairman)
Angelito J. Verceles (Brgy. Treasurer)
Bernadetted V. Alcantara (Brgy. Secretary)

Barangay PALTIC

CARLOS S. CAJUCOM
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:
Garry B. Esquivel
Arvin O. Almirez
Jerry A. Lopez
Jerome S. Romantico
Warlito A. Pujeda
Jospeh B. Tabilas
Lilia D. De Guzman

Gerald N. Alemania (SK Chairman)
Lerma C. Bautista (Brgy. Secretary)
Helen S. Ladrido (Brgy. Treasurer)
Domingo Z. Israel (Admin. Clerk)

Barangay POBLACION

GODOFREDO L. TADEJA JR.
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:
Higenio A. De Guia
Ismael G. Gupit Jr.
Marsha D. Novilla
Augine R. Pangilinan
Freddie Boy Pineda
Arnel G. Pangilinan
Rodel Agulay

Jovene Mike B. Alpuerto (SK Chairman)
Joemelle R. Revellame (Brgy. Secretary)
Tolentino R. Domingo (Brgy. Treasurer)
Lenette R. Barros (Administrative Clerk)

Barangay TANAWAN

Tirso B. Castillo
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:
Danilo V. Lomboy
Joey M. Royales
Roy G. Borromeo
Ronald C. Pilapil
Eduardo D. Navalta
Ely P. Dumaya
Modesto V. Malaca

Kenneth Dela Cruz (SK Chairman)
Estelita T. Aldave (Brgy. Treasurer)
Raymart T. Pajaganas (Brgy. Secretary)
Raymart T. Pajaganas (Brgy. Secretary)

Barangay UMIRAY

Juanito R. Borreo
Brgy. Chairman

COUNCILORS:
Daniel R. Ortillano
Arnel C. Padua
Gary V. Bartolome
Oliver V. Vivero
Emmanuel V. Cabate
Walter G. Marquez

Tonery G. Corpuz
(SK Chairman)

Liza M. Dandan (Brgy. Secretary)
Elmer Jintalan (Brgy. Treasurer)
Francisco C. Rivera (Administrative Clerk)