A SIMPLER CELEBRATION THIS 2020

A SIMPLER CELEBRATION THIS 2020

It is true. The corona virus pandemic has changed ways of celebrating family, friendships, love and achievements–from beer with friends to virtual toast, from cupcake to share to blowing candles on screen, from physical hugs to window kisses. Not that fun. Not that cheerful.

 

For General Santos City Water District, 2020 will be empty without honoring its special day.

 

With the theme “Rising Beyond”, GSCWD decided to meet digitally to celebrate its 33rd anniversary on August 19, commemorating its incredible journey of public service.

 

General Manager Arn B. Gellangarin on his opening remarks shared that it’s best to bring the celebration on a digital platform instead of the usual face to face gathering.

 

“Although the social distancing separates us today, we have so many reasons to gather and appreciate all the challenges and blessings we had over the past months. Never did I thought that we would have a celebration like this. With face mask and PPE on. Much as we want to see all the employees here in the office, we would always choose to save lives by following the health protocol”.

 

GM Arn also commended the brave maintenance workers who tirelessly respond to water line complaints despite the health risks.

 

“In time like this, our concessionaires need clean and continuous water supply as it is essential for handwashing and hygiene as basic defense against Corona virus. So let us work hand in hand to ensure delivery of uninterrupted water service to the public despite this adversity”, he added.

 

While the rest of the employees enjoy the live streaming on Facebook, loyalty awardees together with the GSCWD management were invited in the office.

 

GM Arn and Chairperson Manuel Fortunato D. Yaphockun led the awarding of plaque of recognition and appreciation to 12 awardees. Also, each received a personalized charcoal framed portrait.

 

Engr. Yaphockun congratulated the awardees saying, “We might be in the middle of uncertainty and fear but we won’t forget to recognize employees who have been part of the District over the years”.

 

“We honor you for the part you play in maintaining excellent performance of General Santos City Water District. Know that the management value you for your utmost commitment and loyalty. May you still continue to be our great asset by putting the office core values at heart”, he stated.

 

Meanwhile, Commercial Services Department facilitated the Pay and Win Raffle Promo Year 6. It was opened to all paying concessionaires and each was entitled to earn raffle entry and a chance to win kitchen wares and household items.

 

This year, 600,000 peso worth of prizes were given to promo winners which include 500 packs of grocery items, 100 pieces bed pillow, 740 boxes of face mask, 150 boxes of vitamin C tablets and among others.

 

BLESSING IN THE MIDST OF PANDEMIC

 

As highlight to this year’s celebration, GSCWD warehouse was inaugurated on August 20 at Purok Udagre, Brgy Conel. The project started on December 15, 2019 and completed on July 27, 2020.

 

Its floor area of 840,000 is set to house GSCWD equipment, tools and materials.

 

According to Department Manager Ferdinand S. Ferrer of General Services, Procurement and Materials Management, the current warehouse has inadequate storage and it could no longer store more supplies.

 

“As we continue to grow and evolve, we are seeking ways to improve our warehouse operations. And this project is the first step. Through this expansion, we are positive to have a better and fast warehousing processes in the future. Our goal is to run a well-organized and efficient space”, DM Ferrer said.

 

To deal with large and bulky loads, the new warehouse was surrounded with vast space for parking.

 

Moreover, GM Arn urged supervisors to enforce strict safety protocol once fully operational.

 

“We know that warehousing activities has safety risks on it so we must always look back to our Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) Training. To our department managers, let’s ensure that we follow the standard requirements and safe procedures in our workplaces. We never want a staff getting injured because of lifting some compact loads”, he further stated.

 

To recall, GSCWD recently developed and maintained its Occupational Safety and Health policies and programs.

 

“This pandemic is a tough challenge. But I know, when this crisis finally ends, we will be stronger and fiercer”, GM Arn noted.

 

GSCWD vows to uphold to its mandate and to carry out projects despite the ongoing worldwide battle against Covid-19.

 

By Lipsy Grace C. Lucas

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