Grantee Report: Development of Public-sector Productivity Specialists virtual course, 5–9 December 2022

Image source: http://www.apo-tokyo.org

The Development of Public-sector Productivity Specialists Training Program was jointly hosted and organized by both the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) and the Asia Productivity Organization (APO) and was conducted virtually last 05 – 09 December 2022. The training program implemented as APO recognizes the importance of public-sector performance in serving the people, most especially now that we are in the “new normal” after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program aims for the participants to get familiarized with concepts, approaches, tools and techniques needed by public-sector specialists in order to address public-sector productivity in the new normal.

During the five-day program, the participants were graced by selected public-sector specialists like Dr. Brian Marson from the Public Service Excellence Institute, Dr. Shin Kim from the Korea Institute of Public Administration, and Mr. Arnel Abanto from DAP. A session was also allotted for Local Case Presentations to provide an overview on some of the on-going programs being implemented for public-sector productivity.

The objective(s) of attending the project and relevance of the project to the participant’s work

In my application, I noted that as someone who is part of a National Government Agency (NGA), we give emphasis on the importance of diligently serving the public and having positive public recall in terms of public service. More often than not, in my almost 10 years of working with DOST, I have encountered numerous times the dilemma that the public is not very much abreast of the Department’s programs, as well as its services. The recall the general public has with the Department is that its
association with disaster risk reduction and management agencies like PAGASA or PHIVOLCS. While several efforts were made in trying to publicize the Department’s other programs and services, making DOST a household name is still far from reality.

Hence, participation in this project on the Development of Public-Sector Productivity Specialists is a very much welcome opportunity on a personal level, considering that this opportunity will provide us with knowledge and best-practices on how to effectively serve the public-sector.

By attending this project, I expect to:

• Identify the importance of productivity growth in the public sector;
• Discuss relevant skills and competencies on public-sector productivity that can be echoed with my colleagues in terms of enhancing our performance and productivity as a Unit;
• Apply different approaches and tools used in enhancing public-sector productivity that can be translated to an improved public-sector performance of the Unit.

I believe that starting from within our Unit will greatly contribute to the overall achievement of the Department’s goal – hence satisfying our clients and serving the public sector much better than before.

Evaluation of the project

Overall, the Development of Public-sector Productivity Specialists Training Program is a good opportunity to provide public-sector productivity specialists with a holistic overview of the Public Sector, its trends, tools and models that can be applied to enhance public-sector productivity. Due to limited time and restrictions of face-to-face training, the program was hosted by DAP and APO via an online platform and was limited to a five-day training program.

Despite the limited time and interactions amongst speakers and participants, during the course of the training program, I was able to identify that:

• Performance measurement in the public sector is a combination of measuring the input, process, output, and outcome. Public sector performance can be measured two-ways:
  • ➢ Input and Process-oriented Management
  • ➢ Output and Outcome-oriented Management
• It is important to know the basics of a citizen-centered service, its concepts, and applications to the new normal.
• It is also a delight to know that the Philippines has been implementing citizen-centered service by providing One-Stop Business Registry to the public, as well as its Passport services, and the 8888 Call to Complain hotline. I believe these initiatives have indeed provided Filipino citizens with efficient public-service delivery that is of great improvement to its previous processes.
• In developing productivity improvement plans, one key aspect is to engage your employees. Engaged employees in delivering excellent public service will engaging employees, it is important to consider the following factors:
  • ➢ Provide employees with career development opportunities
  • ➢ Work-Life Balance
  • ➢ Pleasant Working Environment
  • ➢ Clear Goals
  • ➢ Good Leadership

Main benefits derived from the project and how it can be applied or shared for wider dissemination

During the training program, one of the key take-aways I was able to get was that customer feedback and satisfaction is a significant factor in measuring public-sector productivity. Hence, customer feedback forms should be readily available and accessible to all our clients in order for us to gauge if the services we are providing are satisfactory to the needs of our clients. This also provides avenues for improvement of service gaps, as well as recognition of best practices among public services and public productivity specialists.

In the core of all of this, it is noteworthy to take by heart that all of these initiatives should provide a citizen-centered service – since it is our fellow citizens who are our major clientele, and that we should always strive for excellent client satisfaction in all that we do. However, lest not forget that in order to provide excellent services to our clientele, we should also invest and engage our employees to keep them motivated and for them to be able to provide excellent public service.

Moving forward, and taking into consideration the local setting in our organization, I believe that we still have a lot to improve on in terms of public-service productivity. But we are definitely not starting from scratch. The Department continuously practicing 5S, as well as its yearly compliance and certification to ISO 9001:2015 is a manifestation of its commitment to provide efficient public-sector productivity and services to the Filipino people. It would be better for the trained public-sector productivity specialists to be able to proactively promote and practice best practices in improving public-sector productivity. Likewise, it would be great for public-sector productivity specialists in the Department to be able to conceptualize a program/initiative to enhance, if not support, existing initiatives of how to be able to serve its clientele more efficiently and effectively.

Suggestions for improvement

Overall, the training program was able to impart to its attendees the basic concepts and tools for public-sector productivity. I understand that in the past, the program was being held physically and for a longer duration period. Perhaps the organizers/hosts can consider allotting a longer training period for the program, and include some workshops in-between so that participants can internalize, conceptualize and be able to digest their learnings and situate it in their local scene.

Submitted by

Andrea M. Velasquez-Agapito
International Science Relations Officer III
International Technology Cooperation Unit
Department of Science and Technology
Email: amvelasquez @ dost.gov.ph

Grantee Report: Applications of Alternative Energy Sources for Decarbonization virtual study mission, 13–14 December 2022

The virtual session aimed to provide the participants with the technological advancements in the field of renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power. With the impacts of climate change affecting socioeconomic development at the grassroots level, calls for urgent action to address carbon emission and pollution directed at the power industry. Thereby the need to explore alternative to decarbonize energy generation process.

Day 1 of the session featured alternative energy sources meeting the demand for electrical and thermal requirement of an industry. As with Taiwan’s Net Zero plan, renewable energy such as solar, wind, hydro and biomass is a key to sustainable business growth and profitability while offsetting refractory emission via carbon sinks.

Korea Institute of Energy Research discussed their energy trend via the 3D (Decarbon, Decentral and Digital) with Clean Renewable Energy (RE). This is done by utilizing recent carbon-neutral technologies including modeling tool, RETSCreen. This tool allows end-users to determine renewable thermal energy generating technologies to be modeled, develop cases, concepts and efficient operation, validation, and system consideration. It also provides possible system costing and savings and LCA. Identified RE thermal generation are Solar Air Heating (SAH), Solar Water Heaters (SWH), solar-geothermal and Ground source heat pumps, which are technologies applicable to the country as well.

Day 1 ends with a virtual tour on the LDS Energy Co.’s facility and product lines. This includes energy generation and storage for use in isolated base station and aquaculture, wind energy generation and rainwater harvesting facility. The company has a complete line of products ranging from panels, inverters, converters, monitoring/management and battery system. To highlight their capability, they featured a range of demonstration site including Microgrid system for isolated island, micro grid system for farming, Off grid system for home and building applications and lastly, energy generation and storage for EV charging.

Day 2 sessions opens with discussion on the applications of renewable energy systems for businesses, examples of relating applications of solar PV technology being integrated in the industry. Solar Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) was the main technology and systems highlighted. The Renewable Energy Integrated System or REIS are being used in the PVT concept, it provides system integration and system optimization planning. One key features of PVT is its applicability as a building skin, design to provide cosmetics to the architecture all the while generating energy for the facility. The key concept for RE applications to buildings are: energy generating; energy generating+building components; and energy saving+energy generating+building components to achieve a multifunctional and active solar building envelope.

The second session discusses the existing and related policy frameworks to accelerate adoption of clean energy in Taiwan ROC. It highlighted the four (4) strategies for transitions which are: Energy, Industrial, Lifestyle and Social Transition. To achieve a relative Net Zero goal by 2050, legislations are being put up or amended in relation to the following:

• Climate – Amending greenhouse gas reduction and management
• Energy – Energy administration act, RE development act
• Hydrogen – Proposing hydrogen management regulations
• Building – Promoting energy efficient and mandatory solar pv installation
• Transportation – Promotion of electric vehicle
• Green Finance – Financial sectors capitalization on green technologies

These policies and key measures could be replicated or adopted by APO members in relation to each country’s individual carbon neutrality and net zero goal.

The last session was on how the Indian Power Sector streamline its adoption of clean energy sources for its energy needs. With its transition from mostly coal+lignite energy generation to renewable energy and nuclear, they have relied from the financing of the private sector in funding energy generation developments. Thus, in its effort to improve renewable energy, they started improving the grid with a one nation, one grid and one frequency policy, to allow RE developers to work on certain requirement and allow a greater penetration of market available RE equipment. Development for clean energy started from installation of large scale solar PV and wind farms and further development of the large hydro sources. Adoption started with policy amendment, including solar and wind projects through competitive bidding and renewable purchase obligation (PRO) under tariff policy, Transmission network through a green energy corridor, rooftop solar pv as part of housing plan (building code), buy and sell of RE certificates and green energy open access rule (consumers supplying <100kW can participate). With these, massive changes have taken over the course of a decade, including increase of RE in the energy mix (>1000% increase), massive funding of RE sourced projects (US $11.21 billion), inception of foreign investor in the RE sector, reduction in price of RE equipment and improvement in tariff for both solar and wind.

The objective(s) of attending the project or visiting the NPO(s) and relevance of the project to the participant’s work or to the work of his/her NPO or organization

The attendance to the project provided the participant an overview of current technologies and policies being undertaken by other member organization in terms of carbon neutrality, zero emission and green technologies. The information obtained from the sessions are important in line with the participants work on possible R&D activities, road map development, preparation of strategic programs and projects which can locally be implemented to support the thrust on reducing dependence on fossil fuel and carbon emission.

The information obtained can be used in the promotion of low carbon technologies in the industry to support net zero emissions.

Evaluation of the project

The project has provided relevant information in relation to its objectives. It has provided insights into emerging technology advances on energy from renewable or alternative sources. An overview of various renewable energy sources and their applicability were provided, including own-use case in Taiwan and Korea. It showed that non-conventional or renewable energy sources can meet electrical and thermal demand with enhanced reliability and security. Additionally, showcasing of technology through the virtual tour showed its flexibility and applicability either through grid or off-grid connections.

Policy frameworks and pathways existing in Member Organizations were clearly discussed and eventual recommendations were made to further enhance the policy or regulation and possible application in participants’ country. From understanding of sector-specific technologies, their benefits from carbon emission reduction to monetary savings, were provided first-hand by the implementers themselves. Pointers on the implications of policy measures along with the challenges and opportunities in transitioning to a carbon neutral community where also discussed.

Additionally, benefits of harnessing renewable energy were provided by elaborating the clean energy adoption at the Asia Pacific level.

Benefits derived from the project and how it can be applied or shared for wider dissemination

The main benefits include determining applicable technology in the country depending on short-, medium- and long-term goal and suitable mechanism under the RE context of the country. Getting firsthand account of the emerging technologies can aid in the development of strategic projects and R&D activities to be undertaken to realize its applicability locally.

Suggestions for improvement

With the easing restrictions and traveling access, it may be of benefit that projects/seminars could be conducted face to face to allow access to more information, opportunity to connect personally to other nation’s experts and networking with other organization and promote collaborative engagements.

Submitted by

Agerico Bautista
Senior Science Research Specialist
Department of Science and Technology-
Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technologies
Research and Development
Email: eric.bautista @ pcieerrd.dost.gov.ph

Grantee Report: Digitization of SMEs in the Manufacturing Sector virtual workshop, 8–11 November 2022

The project titled “Digitalization of SMEs in the Manufacturing Sector” created a deeper understanding on the significance of digitalizing the way SMEs manufacture their products that can potentially increase their productivity. The program run for 3 days that started on November 8-11, 2022 from 2:00 to 5:00pm (Japan time). The sessions were done virtually via Zoom since we are still in the midst of coping up from the effects of the pandemic, thus travelling for the participants is not yet considered. There were 4 resource persons who discussed 6 topics within 4 days – Mr. Hiroaki Baba, Mr. Satoshi Komatsu, Mr. Ryoto Tanaka and Dr. Koh Niak Wu.

On the first day of the training, Mr. Hiroaki Baba talked about the outlook of SME in Asia particularly in digital transformation, as well as the different scenario to digital transformation. With the current trends, it is very important to have a smooth transition from the traditional to digital. Innovation will be the key to as it may drive increase in gross domestic product or GDP. Also during the first day of the session, Dr. Koh Niak Wu deliver relevant discussion on Industry 4.0 Readiness Index that provides important details on how different companies can assess and evaluate their readiness for digital transformation. Dr. Wu introduced the Smart Industry Readiness Index or SIRI that is made up of frameworks and tools that aim to help manufacturers to their transition to digitalization.

Still on Day 1, Mr. Satoshi Komatsu talked about data acquisition using the IoT or Internet of Things focusing on the trends and its overview. He discussed the advantage of of internet and digital transformation to address the gaps and demands of the fast-pacing society and industry in terms of competitiveness.

During the 2nd day of the training, Mr. Komatsu continued his discussion, this time pivoting on the techniques and tools related to IoT Data Acquisition. A workshop was done using a scenario that allows us, the participants, to critically think on how to improve the production in the factory by assessing the conditions and situation inside it.

The 3rd and 4th day of the training focuses on the workshops and the remaining topics. Each participating country presented group work on how each country addresses and incorporated digital transformation. The issues and challenges in those transformation was also presented. Topics on Digitalization and Kaizen as well as Upgrading SME Capabilities through digitalization were discussed by Mr. Tanaka and Dr. Wu.

This training’s objective is basically fit to our objective in equipping our training participants/clients, who are mostly from various industries such as manufacturing, with the right mindset on the importance of digital transformation. Many Filipinos are still adamant to technology changes due to several factors like cost and adaptability. But this training enlightens us that digitalization is the way forward. It is now the trend that if someone is left behind, the future will not be as successful as it should be.

We would agree that the project’s objective has been met accordingly. As one of PTTC’s learning delivery specialist, the information gathered during the workshop are all aligned to what we are delivering to our MSMEs. With the current trends in technology, as I have mentioned, there is no other way but to keep up with the rapidly-changing technology. Our MSMEs, coming from different regions, may experience difficulty in shifting their businesses from traditional to digital but upon attending this training session, we will be able to let them understand its importance.

This training workshop is made possible for us through the intervention of our organization; thus I believe that in order to give back, we can also let them know the basic knowledge we got from this training. MSMEs are our main customers being participants of our trainings. After gathering the needed knowledge from this training, we can also impart it to our customers for their benefit in developing their businesses aligned to the demands of today’s industry.

The training on Digitalization of SMEs in the Manufacturing Sector is indeed a success as this awakened us on digitalization is the future. The delivery of the resource speakers is very much appreciated as they really involved the participants to their discussion as well as provided us necessary workshops that will allow us to better understand the topics. As educators say, experience is the best teacher. We just hope that for 2023, the possibility of a face-to-face training would be realized. Overall, Asian Productivity Organization, through the aid of Development Academy of the Philippines, never fails to deliver relevant and quality training.

Submitted by

Bonn Jovi Estrella
Trade-Industry Development Specialist
Philippine Trade Training Center
Department of Trade and Industry
Email: bonnjoviestrella @ pttc.gov.ph

Grantee Report: Service Quality and Productivity Gainsharing workshop, 28–30 November 2022, Virtual Session

The workshop explained the gainsharing concept and frameworks to enhance service quality for customers and provide rewards to employees for improved productivity. It examined case studies of productivity gainsharing applications in organizations to enhance the quality of their service.

The Workshop was held for three (3) days via Zoom. The sessions comprised of presentation by the resource persons, group discussions, and other learning methods. The topics discussed during the three (3) days of the Workshop are as follows:

➢ Day 1 (28 November 2022)

1. Enhancing Productivity: Do Rewards Beyond Salary Matter?
2. How Does Productivity Gainsharing Differ from Profit Sharing?
3. Productivity Gainsharing: A Success Story
4. The Role and Benefits of Gainsharing in Enhancing Organizational Productivity
5. What Are the Benefits of Productivity Gainsharing to Your Organization?

➢ Day 2 (29 November 2022)

1. Productivity Gainsharing Schemes for Service Quality Improvement
2. What are Critical Success Factors of a Productivity Gainsharing Scheme?
3. Design and Implementation of Gainsharing Plans
4. What are the Core Elements to Design and Implement a Productivity Gainsharing Plan?

➢ Day 3 (30 November 2022)

1. Productivity Gainsharing: A Case Study
2. Productivity Gainsharing Implementation: A Case Study
3. Productivity Gainsharing in Public-Sector Organizations: A Case Study

The objective(s) of attending the project and relevance of the project to the participant’s work or to the work of his/her NPO or organization

I am part of the Productivity Enhancement Division (PED) of the DBM-SPIB. The division is primarily in charge of the formulation of policies, standards, guidelines, and other measures to enhance efficiency and productivity in government, as well as conduct productivity enhancement-related studies and survey of significant productivity improvement measures in government.

My attendance to the workshop is aligned with my functions as PED staff, since we also have to be aware of productivity enhancement innovations being used in other sectors for possible benchmarking in the government. Gainsharing is one of such innovations implemented in other sectors, such as manufacturing. Attending this workshop would enable me to understand productivity gainsharing in depth and see the feasibility of its adaption in the Philippine government.

Evaluation of the project, including comments on whether the objective(s) were met

All in all, the workshop was handled and organized well. I also commend the APO Secretariat for choosing resource people who are credible and very knowledgeable on the subject. Dr. Joshi and Dr. Sawang are both professors who extensively study gainsharing, while Mr. Ezaki was able to deepen the discussion during the workshop as well, through his insights as a practitioner of such productivity enhancement measures.

However, one of my key takeaways from this workshop is that gainsharing is not as easy to implement in government agencies as with private organizations, which is something also admitted by one of the speakers. At the onset, productivity in itself is computed through the monetary valuation of the inputs used and outputs (i.e., goods and services) provided by a certain organization. Relatedly, the provision of productivity gainsharing incentives generally depends on savings in operational costs due to increased productivity.

Main benefits derived from the project and how it can be applied or shared for wider dissemination in your organization/ country

While I deem that the implementation of productivity gainsharing in the public sector is not as easily implementable, I think that aspects of it such as having stringent criteria in granting incentives that are aimed at enhancing productivity, could be applied in the government.

Suggestions for improvement to the deputing/receiving organizations and countries

I think that overall, the workshop was organized and handled well and the flow of discussion went smoothly.

Submitted by:

Jessica Regina Olaivar
Budget and Management Specialist II
Department of Budget and Management
Email: jolaivar @ dbm.gov.ph

Grantee report: Business Models for the Recovery Phase in the Service Industry virtual workshop, 27–29 September 2022

The APO workshop on business models for the recovery phase in the service industry, held last 27-29 September 2022, is a 9 hours (3 hours per day) workshop and sharing of best practices from APO member countries on how the service industry can recover from the pandemic. The speakers from Singapore, Thailand and Japan also share new normal activities by industry, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors.

In the three-day activity, there are at least nine sessions:

Session 1: Overview of the Service-sector Postpandemic: This session was led by Mr. Benjamin Cassim of Temasek Polytechnic Singapore and provided an overview of the service sector post-pandemic. Since most countries in Asia have reopened their borders, he also shares new normal activities by industry, particularly in Singapore’s the retail and hospitality sectors.

Session 2: Recovering from the Pandemic: In this session, Ms. Kanjana Hannon of Thailand Productivity Instituted discussed how the Thailand service sector reacted to the pandemic and continued its activities. She also shared how the tourism sector got back to business and the initiatives taken by the government will be given.

Session 3: Digitalization in the Service Industry: Mr. Atshuhiko Takayanagi of Mitsui Consultants Co., Ltd, Japan, presented the changing landscape of the service industry due to the pandemic. He discussed that digitalization is the key to business transformation and continuity.

Session 4: Formulating Strategies for Recovery: Mr. Takayanagi discussed business recovery plans and initiatives adopted by the service sector companies, particularly in the hospitality industry.

Session 5: Innovation in the Service Sector: Ms. Hannon, shared the importance of introducing new ways of attracting consumers. She discussed that with advances in technology, it is imperative for industry be innovative and creative in offering services to customers.

Session 6: Best Practices from APO Members: Philippine delegates was able to share some initiatives on the recovery plans for the industry. Ms. Victoria H. Villegas-Bacay of the University of the Philippines-Asian Institute of Tourism and I presented the country report for the Philippines.

Session 7: Talent Development Strategies: Ms. Sim Siling of the Singapore Productivity Council discussed how service industry could rethink talent development due to changes after the pandemic through sharing the Singapore experience.

Session 8: Future of the Postpandemic Service Industry: Mr. Cassim explained the service industry’s future, focusing on retail and hospitality.

Session 9: Challenges and Opportunities for the Service Industry: In this session, we were divided into groups. I was assigned to group 2. We discussed and shared the challenges and opportunities for the service sector post-pandemic for each country represented in the group. We also discussed some recommendations for the sector. Mr. Cassim facilitated our group.

Each day’s session is limited to three hours, comprising presentations from experts and presentations from APO member countries. The limited time given to us to prepare the presentation and meet with fellow participants from the Philippines to share best practices with other member countries has some disadvantages. Our group was not able to discuss thoroughly who would present, what we would show, and the full participation of other fellow participants from the Philippines. However, we (with UP-School of Tourism) were able to prepare and present the country.

Objectives for participation

As part of our organization’s policy and research team, one of our mandates is to promote improvement and incentive schemes among MSMEs. During previous years, the world of work drastically changed in the business environment, especially in the service sector, wherein more than 50% of the GDP in most APO member countries contributes, this is due to Covid-19. I am required to be fully up to date with the relevant topics in the world of work that will promote and enhance worker and employer’s productivity in the new normal.

This year, most of the countries re-opened its borders, I wanted to learn information and strategies from other APO member countries on how the businesses in the service sector were able to thrive and bounce back.

Evaluation of the project

Though most of the presentations focused on the business recovery models and techniques on how Thailand and Singapore could bounce back business in the service sector, specifically in hotels, aviation, retail, tourism, and food and beverages. Government institutions whose mandate focuses on assisting micro, small, and medium enterprises in recovering business and re-training or re-tooling workers is vital in helping them bounce back in the industry. As a trainee, I learned that these changes might persist in the long term, requiring employers and policymakers in the sector to re-think business models and policy plans to adjust to the new normal.

Benefits derived and planned application

We can learn ideas from Singapore on how to engage workers in developing strategies in the new normal. The new working styles, how were they able to digitalize and implement the customer’s expectations in requiring employees to be retrained and reskilled.

Suggestions for improvement

One of the suggestions for improvements in deputing organizations and countries is to increase the number of time of learning, workshop, and training. Virtual webinars may be less costly. However, the learning experience is limited, and focus or attention was divided between actual work in the organization and APO training.

Submitted by

MARIA CORAZON CARITATIVO
Chief Labor and Employment Officer
National Wages and Productivity Commission
Department of Labor and Employment
Email: mc.caritativo @ produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com

Grantee report: Performance Management Systems and Productivity of the Public Sector virtual workshop, 24–26 August 2022

Photo source: http://www.apo-tokyo.org

The Workshop on Performance Management Systems and Productivity of the Public Sector was conducted virtually on Zoom by the National Productivity Secretariat of Sri Lanka and the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) from August 24 to 26, 2022, 1:00 to 4:30 pm Philippine time. There were 47 participants from Bangladesh, Republic of China, Fiji, Indonesia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Turkey, and the Philippines. Participants were advised to click the video link and be in the waiting room 15 to 30 minutes prior to the start of the session.

The workshop was conducted fully digital using a virtual style classroom which connected participants and resource persons in real time, inclusive of presentations (by resource speakers), breakout sessions, group exercises, and a 10-minute break was also observed from 3:20 to 3:30 pm Philippine time.

The workshop was opened with welcome remarks from Mrs. Champika D. Dharmasena, Director of the National Productivity Secretariat of Sri Lanka while Dr. Jose Elvinia, Project Officer of APO Secretariat, introduced the resource persons and participants, and he also served as host and moderator during the Q&A and breakout sessions.

A total of seven sessions were conducted for a period of three days, as follows:

Session 1: Performance management systems and productivity in the public sector managing and improving performance are at the core of contemporary public management reforms and key elements of the managerial role.

Session 2: Organizational and individual-level evaluation performance management as an important tool that helps managers monitor and evaluate employees’ work.

Session 3: Performance management system implementation in the public sector.

Session 4: The changing normative bases of public-sector performance.

Session 5: Merit-based recruitment and selection processes and competency assessment: Recruitment and selection of qualified, competent employees which are critical for public agencies because mission-driven and result-oriented agencies are dependent on their staff who deliver the programs and services.

Session 6: Challenges in performance management systems during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Session 7: Reforms in public-sector performance management.

Also, focus group discussions were conducted during the sessions and the participants were generally grouped according to country of origin, since each country have six or more participants among them. Countries with one to two participants were grouped together as one. A breakout room was created for group work with allotted time of 30 minutes to finish the assigned task. The resource speaker also visited the breakout room for more interactive discussion. Then, the participant goes back to the main room/venue to share and exchange related Q&A and experiences.

During the closing session, a vote of thanks was shared by selected participants and the closing remarks was conducted by the NPS Director. Administrative Announcements was also reiterated by the APO Secretariat as reminder to the participants.

Objective and relevance

The workshop Performance Management Systems and Productivity of the Public Sector aims to examine existing performance management systems and public-sector productivity, explore recent advances in frameworks and tools for performance management systems in the post pandemic era, and formulate strategic plans for promoting advanced performance management systems in the public sector.

In terms of its relevance to my current role and undertakings as a member of the Performance Management Team in our Agency, this will certainly enhance my skills, knowledge on performance management system, and provide an opportunity for reassessing the current internal structure and strategies, and determine which mechanism and tools need further improvement, to ensure organizational effectiveness in the attainment of planned goals and objectives.

Evaluation of the workshop

The strongest aspect of the workshop was the presentation of each topic, which was engaging and clearly delivered by the resource speakers. Providing a general overview of the performance management system and productivity, including strategies with recent innovations and trends. Specifically, the four phases of performance management cycle such as planning, monitoring, reviewing, and rewarding which serves as strategic mechanisms to help the organization achieved its goal.

Another important aspect of performance management is the performance appraisals system where a clear set of quantifiable goals objectives and key performance indicators were introduced to measure organization and individual’s performance and served as a basis for modifying and/or changing behavior towards a more effective working environment.

There was also a discussion on the current global trends in performance management system and on how it contributed to the productivity and quality of public services of some countries like Australia, Korea and Malaysia. In the case of recruitment and selection, a new tool was also introduced known as the background blind-interview which block out the applicant’s personal information to avoid biases in hiring decisions.

The group work activities among participants were also engaging as it provided in depth analysis and interactive discussions of assigned tasks. The resource speakers were also accommodating during the Q&A sessions as they provided clarification on certain points for clarity and better understanding of the participants. Overall, the workshop was very enriching and afforded me with relevant ideas and knowledge for future undertakings.

Suggestions for improvement

While the use of audio-visual conferencing has become a great tool for communication during this pandemic period, it cannot match the physical interaction and the benefits that a face-to-face interaction offers for participants. This limitation is very evident to the lecturers/resource speakers, as it is more challenging to fully engage the participants in an online video. Given this, a face-to-face workshop/ seminar session is deemed more appropriate and should be preferred whenever possible.

Submitted by:

MA. RHEA CARO
Chief Tax Specialist
National Tax Research Center
Department of Finance
Email: marhea.caro @ ntrc.gov.ph

Report: Foresight for SMEs virtual workshop, 20–22 April 2022

The project titled “Workshop on Foresight for SMEs” provided a wider scope of understanding on how to strategically formulate foresight techniques that will help address several issues that may hinder the success of a business. The program run for 3 days that started on April 20 to 22, from 1:00 to 4:00pm. Due to the pandemic situation that time, which made it hard to have it conducted in a face-to-face manner, the sessions were done virtually instead via Zoom. There were 4 resource persons who discussed 6 topics within 3 days – Mr. Nghia Tran, Dr. Rajnish Dass, Mr. Marcus Barber and Mr. Ho Dinh Bao.

On the first day of the training, Mr. Nghia talked about Sustaining Productivity while Dr. Dass discussed the overview of strategic foresight. Also, Mr. Barber led the discussion on various approaches to managing and responding to complex future scenarios that opened our perspectives in identifying and mitigating the future scenarios that may disrupt the continuous operation of any business or service.

During the 2nd day of the training, Dr. Dass provided several strategies in dealing with uncertainties. On the other hand, Mr. Barber showed us all the possible driving change in order for a business or service provider entity be future-ready. To conclude Day 2, Mr. Bao led us to a “virtual tour” on what the foreign direct investment scene in Vietnam looks like. He showed the policy roadmap in order to enhance the investment in Vietnam using strategic foresight.

The last day of the training workshop focused on coaching and the workshop itself. Mr. Marcus Barber initiated the workshop and gave brief coaching session to everyone on what to expect and do during the workshop. Finally, all groups presented their effort-exerted presentations (Group 3 presentation is included in the email sent). The training workshop session ended with flying colors and high hopes that all the learnings obtained during this 3-day training will emanate on each participant’s work in the future.

This training’s objective is basically fit to our objective in attending – to strategically come up with a plan to mitigate the effect of any disruptive scenario that may come along the way of every business. What best way to do it is to have a strategic foresight. Philippine Trade Training Center, as a training arm of Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), aims to help the MSMEs succeed in their businesses and as someone who is now equipped with the practical knowledge on strategic foresight, we will be able to have a good judgement on whether the actions of our MSMEs are aligned to what was planned based on foresight.

We would definitely agree that the project’s objective has been met accordingly. As PTTC’s learning delivery specialist, the information gathered during the workshop are all aligned to what we are delivering to our MSMEs. During this time wherein there are so much uncertainties, our vision is to ensure that our MSMEs will be able to continue their operation despite all the possible hindrances. This training just encompasses all our goals for our MSMEs.

Since our attendance to this training workshop is catapulted through the intervention of our organization, we believe that in exchange, we can also let them know the basic knowledge we got from this training. As mentioned, MSMEs are our main customers in our daily operations. With the learnings we got, we can ensure that everyone in our organization will have the same sight – to help the MSMEs be future-ready.

The training on Workshop on Foresight for SMEs held virtually and hosted by Vietnam is no doubt a success. We hope to have more trainings like this in the future. The current situation may have taken away our experience to attend in a face-to-face manner but we still have high hopes that sooner, we can learn and experience the training, together with our co-participants, in flesh.

Submitted by:

BONN JOVI ESTRELLA
Learning Delivery Specialist
Philippine Trade Training Center-Global SME Academy
Department of Trade and Industry
Email: bonnjoviestrella @ pttc.gov.ph

Report: Building Robust Public Policy Ecosystems through Behavioral Insights virtual workshop, 22–24 June 2022

Photo courtesy of http://www.apo-tokyo.org

The “Workshop on Building Robust Public Policy Ecosystems through Behavioral Insights” was organized by the Asian Productivity Organization on June 22-24, 2022 with participants from various countries such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan, China, Thailand, Turkey, and the Philippines. The workshop aimed to promote behavioral insight (BI) approach as a policymaking tool in the public sector to improve the design and delivery of more efficient policies.

Objectives for participation

As part of the Bureau of Local Employment, a government agency that is in charge of the local employment regulatory programs in the Philippines, identifying policy options is necessary as a research and policy priority. Looking at the issues and concerns in local employment regulation through a behavioral lens would help the Bureau understand how the stakeholders make decisions.

Specifically, the objectives of the participant in attending the workshop are to improve the following:

• Conduct a collaborative research that is focused on the behavioral insights of the clients and stakeholders for the improvement of policies.
• Development of a framework/guide in gathering, interpreting, and analyzing datasets extrapolating useful behavioral insights for policy.
• Network with the academe for future research collaboration highlighting the role of behavioral insights in improving the local employment facilitation programs.
• Implementation of data gathering method/feedback mechanism on the behavioral insights of the stakeholders during semester meetings.

Evaluation of the project

The workshop organized by the Asian Productivity Organization addressed the need for the participants to learn about the basics of behavioral insights, helping them understand how context, environment, and other influences can impact decision making of stakeholders and institutions.

Key takeaways from the workshop

1. There is a disconnect between what people think they want and what they actually choose to do. Behavioral insights try to bridge this gap. Applying behavioral insights approach in developing policies on local employment would mean understanding the local employment landscape, the psyche of stakeholders (employers, jobseekers, employment agencies, and other government agencies), and their decision-making process.
2. People’s mistakes in decision-making are systematic. It is important to understand the context that led to people’s decisions. Behavioral insights approach can inform policymakers on what to avoid and how to nudge people to make better decisions.
3. To be able to understand the issues and concerns of the private employment agencies and DOLE Regional Offices in the implementation of the policies on recruitment and placement of local workers, the BLE needs to conduct researches using behavioral approach with research results providing recommendations that will help program manager create better policies.
4. Policy instruments offer concrete opportunities for governments to stimulate behavior change. Prior to conducting policy reviews, the BLE may create a team composed of behavioral research experts and policy experts to address the policy issues with behavioral dimensions on a case-by-case basis.
5. Behavioral Insights draw on empirically-tested results to design better public policies. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) conduct activities to promote the use of behavioral insights approach in policymaking for governments worldwide. These activities include: a) fostering a global network of experts applying behavioral science to public policy; b) providing expert advice to apply behavioral science to domestic and global policy challenges; and c) offering tools and training to enable the use and the integration of behavioral science to public policy.
6. The DOLE may benefit from continued collaboration with APO and OECD in order to be apprised of the new developments and trends on using behavioral insights in developing policies related to local employment in the Philippines.
7. There are various skills needed in using behavioral insights approach to policy making. This includes a wide range of skills on data analysis, policy design, behavioral design, experimental design and analysis, project management, statistical analysis, and other new digital skills.
8. In order for the BLE to fully apply behavioral insights in the process of formulating policies, it has to utilize its research assets (data, reports, and systems) as well as the expertise of its research staff and statisticians.
9. Behavioral approach in policy making improves the effectiveness of policy outcomes. Understanding human behavior, biases, and barriers may contribute to the holistic approach to policy making.
10. The BLE may develop behavioral strategies to address the behavioral policy problems of the stakeholders involved in the local recruitment and placement of workers by PEAs.
11. Regulators have a variety of mechanisms in creating better policies. They often view their sole purpose as rules. However, there are many alternatives to traditional regulation such as co-regulation, information and education, self-regulation, market-based incentives, and free market governed only by competition. In these spectrum of tools, behavioral insights can be applied to make sure that policies more efficient and effective.
12. Among these tools, the BLE may explore developing better policies concentrating on providing information and education to PEAs about effective and efficient recruitment and placement of workers.
13. There are various ways to improve the design and implementation of regulations.
14. Applying behavioral insights is logical.
15. Without the buy-in of senior executives, behavioral insights will struggle to become integrated into business as usual. The BLE needs to be more creative in selling the role of behavioral insights in policymaking to their superiors and to those who will approve the policies. In addition, the BLE should continue providing more data-driven policy recommendations to DOLE senior officials.

Suggestions for improvement

In general, the workshop topics were very helpful and the exercises helped the participants easily understand the topic. The speakers’ level of knowledge as well as their styles and presentations made the workshop more relevant. The workshop could be improved by providing more time for the participants to get to know more about each other because it would help them become more interactive and more willing to share their country practices. It would also be good if there would be follow-up sessions as to how the participants implemented their action plans in their respective organizations.

Submitted by

JEROME LUCAS
Supervising Labor and Employment Officer
Bureau of Local Employment
Department of Labor and Employment
Email: jerome.lucas @ ble.dole.gov.ph

Report: Innovative Approaches in Aquaculture virtual training course, 2–5 August 2022

On August 2–5, 2022, the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) organized a Training Course on Innovative Approaches in Aquaculture. The said training is in collaboration with the Turkish Ministry of Industry and Technology’s Central Fisheries Research Institute. It was participated by 36 participants from 12 member countries.

Mr. Kenji Watanabe, Senior Program Officer of Asian Productivity Organization (APO), introduced the course objectives. The workshop’s objectives are: 1) Introduce innovative approaches and technologies in aquaculture; 2) Promote the smart transformation of aquaculture in APO members and 3) Enhance productivity in aquaculture to support the local economy. The Resource Speakers of the said virtual training were Dr. Daisuke Kitazawa (Professor, Institute of Industrial Science, the University of Tokyo, Japan); Dr. Junya Higano (Executive Technical Adviser, Marino-Foru 21, Japan), and Dr. Rafet Cagri Ozturk (Associate Professor, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Karadeniz Technical University, Turkiye).

Dr. Daisuke Kitazawa comprehensively presented the following topics: 1) The current status of the cage aquaculture system; 2) Numerical Simulations of the Environment around Farming Sites and 3) Carrying Capacity of Farming Sites and Sustainability.

Developing countries such as Norway, China, Japan, and the United States have been practicing offshore aquaculture technology. It’s no surprise that Japan has advanced technology, with various cages of high-value commodities like Atlantic salmon, tuna, and silver salmon. An automatic feeder was used during the culture period. However, in the presentation of Dr. Higano, issues were identified for the culture period using feeds, such as economic disadvantage, the environmental burden due to marine cage culture, risk of loss due to red tide (harmful algae), and disease outbreaks.

The best aspect of the training was the breakout sessions in which participants were divided into small groups to discuss the best practices of innovative approaches in aquaculture in each country. I was pleased to learn that Taiwan was more concerned with diseases. Thailand also utilized Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) as an aquaculture innovation. The Philippines focused on its priority aquaculture commodities: shrimps, tilapia, shellfish, milkfish, and seaweeds. For shrimps, biosecurity is the primary concern that could affect the system for disease prevention for sustainable shrimp production. For tilapia, there were innovations such as using strains for aquaculture for the hatchery operation using green water technology and sex reverse technology. The In-Pond Raceway System (IPRS) introduced by the US Soybean Export Council is also a part of the Philippines’ aquaculture innovation.

A breakout room was also created to discuss each participating country’s challenges and opportunities for innovative aquaculture approaches. In the case of the Philippines, the White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) for shrimps is one of the challenges, so there is a need to strengthen the biosecurity measures. In September 2018, USSEC proposed using Offshore Cage Farming. However, there is a need to undertand the zoning, feeds, and best management practices.

Dr. Junya Higano presented the Fed & Unfed Culture in Japan and the topics on a comprehensive strategy to turn aquaculture into a growth industry in Japan. The presentation mentioned challenges in aquaculture, such as diseases, feed resources, and escapees, were noted. Dr. Higano’s presentation asked if there was an alternative raw material for fishmeal, soybean, and corn since the mentioned feed raw materials prices were higher in terms of cost. Dr. Higano replied that studying those raw materials and insects is necessary as alternative protein sources can be a potential substitute.

Dr. Rafet Cagri Ozturk delivered lectures on Genetic Conservation of Fish Population, where he discussed genetic and phylogenetic diversity as a conservation effort. The use of genetics in conservation, such as captive population management and reintroduction, and the restoration of biological communities, were also discussed. There was also a virtual field visit through a video presentation of the Population Genetic Laboratory Practice and Genetic Selection in Aquaculture.

Objectives for participation and relevance

My objective for attending this training is to enhance my knowledge and keep updated on the aquaculture innovations of other countries. Another goal is to share with my co-participants the status of the country’s aquaculture innovation during the training.

Evaluation of the project

The project was well-organized, and the resource speakers and facilitators comprehensively explained the topics. The objectives of sharing ideas about innovative aquaculture technologies was met as there were breakout sessions for the participating countries and the participants were knowledgeable. Another exciting part of the training is the virtual field visit video presentation of population genetic laboratory practice demonstrating the advanced laboratory protocol, laboratory applications for population studies, and genetic observation.

Main benefits derived and how it can be applied or shared for wider dissemination

Compared with other countries’ best innovative aquaculture practices, challenges, and best innovative aquaculture practices, for example, Japan is interestingly advanced in innovative aquaculture technologies that it could be adopted in the Philippines through collaboration efforts. The training can be an initial phase to review all the innovative technologies in the Philippines and be part of the plans and programs being implemented to achieve the country’s food security. What we learned in training will try to be included in the BFAR’s projects and programs, policies, and provision of technical assistance to stakeholders as the mandate of the Bureau.

Submitted by:

DIVINA BORBON
Aquaculturist I
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
Department of Agriculture
Email: dborbon @ bfar.da.gov.ph

Report: Development of Public-sector Productivity Specialists virtual course, 16–20 May 2022

Image from http://www.apo-tokyo.org

The 5-day activity was intended to equip the participants with knowledge on productivity concepts, framework, tools and techniques, issues and challenges, among others, to improve public sector productivity and performance. Practices on productivity of other countries were also presented for reference purposes especially in designing or developing programs on productivity. But most importantly, the project was intended to develop a public-sector productivity specialist given the series of lectures and interaction among the participants on productivity practices in their respective countries.

The activity was held virtually or online with more than 50 persons attending that include the resource speakers, participants from 11 countries, and officers and staff from the Development Academy of the Philippines.

A workshop on citizen-centric services was held where the participants were divided into four groups and were given cases to discuss and come up with proposed solutions. Likewise, a plenary workshop was held on measuring public-sector productivity.

Objectives for participation

I am a productivity practitioner and advocate since 1995. I was the head of the Business Development Division of the agency for quite some time and had initiated and conducted several activities on productivity for the MSMEs. As the head now of the agency representing management, I am in a better position to advocate and implement more productivity measures to improve our organizational performance in particular and the DTI-3 in general and ensure the public of quality services that meet their expectations or requirements. The learning and insights gained in this 5-day productivity course will help enhance the productivity programs of the agency by providing a sustained citizen-centric services.

Evaluation of the course

The 5-day online course is very relevant especially for the DTI as a national agency whose objectives are to enable businesses and empower consumers. The learning gained will be used to help improve the productivity and performance of the agency. Given the limited period in the conduct of the course, generally, I can say that the objective to train the participants on the concepts, framework, tools, and techniques to enhance productivity and performance of the public sector was achieved but needs more time to really put the learning into practice and become a productivity specialist.

Benefits derived and plans for wider dissemination

• Identified productivity issues and challenges that hinder the public-sector performance and how to address them.
• Learned the productivity practices or models of other countries and its impact to public-sector performance.
• Learned various tools and techniques in measuring public-sector productivity to improve performance.

The learning gained will be used in assessing current productivity initiatives and programs of the agency and do enhancements based on concepts, frameworks, models and practices presented to ensure a citizen-centered services.

Suggestions for improvement

The whole program was very good. It was comprehensive. More time could be allotted during the group workshop or exercise for the members to really understand the cases at hand and will have time to think, discuss and interact. The speakers could be more interactive to solicit the active participation of the participants. There could be energizers to break the monotony.

Submitted by:

Richard V. Simangan, PhD
Provincial Director
Department of Trade and Industry-Nueva Ecija
Email: richardsimangan @ dti.gov.ph