The prospect of Cebu's real estate industry this year is brighter, according to Cebu Board of Realtors (Cereb) vice president Raffy Toledo.
The optimistic Toledo said property development projects have mushroomed in the province and this is due to the confidence of several developers in the local economy.
"An indicator that the industry is growing is a spur in development of projects, such as residential condominiums, memorial parks, high-end to low-cost housing. And Cebu 's hosting of the Asean Summit in December is also a
"contributing factor" in the success of the industry," Toledo said.
He reported that several developers are looking at feasible sites in the northern part of Cebu as "progressive areas" for residential housing.
The average price for socialize housing is between P400,000 to P500,000 while high-end housing is priced at P3 million and up, said Toledo.
Overseas Filipino workers and Filipinos married to foreigners remain to be the industry's top market because of "their willingness to invest in quality housing," he added.
Toledo bared that Cebu still has many available lots for development. Even memorial park lots are considered 'good investments.'
He said healthy competition between memorial park developers in Cebu is a manifestation of the province's acceptance of the market.
Meanwhile, Cereb secretary Emily Cabillada said there is an increase in demand for residential condominiums in the metropolis, as well as in Mactan, due to limited space in these areas.
She also revealed that the real estate industry wants to have more "quality" professional property development managers to ensure continuous growth of the industry.
"These managers will make sure the building is in proper condition, and its staff is working efficiently," she said.
Cereb is set to conduct a seminar program on property management on Sept.30 and Oct.01 and is encouraging all building owners, property developers and real estate brokers to attend. The program will teach participants basic skills, knowledge and discipline needed to execute specific duties and responsibilities of building and property management professionals. (PIA)
Cabilla said the group is targeting 50 to 60 participants. (PIA)
Friday, September 29, 2006
Regional Development Council OKs six more bridges
Bridges in national highways being washed away or destroyed will be a thing of the past with the endorsement of the Regional Development Council of six more bridges in Western Visayas.
According to the RDC resolution, the proposed project aims to provide structurally sound permanent bridges along all national roads to improve basic social, industrial and agricultural activities in the affected areas and will provide safer transport facilities that would effectively make full use of the existing road system.
The project is under the Department of public works and Highways (DPWH) Bridge Construction/Replacement Project to be funded by the Spanish government Financing facility.
Under this project, it would involve the generation of a total of 295 linear meters of ready/reusable bridges in Region 6, utilizing the appropriate mix of loan and imported modular steel bridging materials from Spain.
With this, the durability and strength of the proposed bridges is further assured and people can rest easy that even during flooding, the structures will not easily give way.
Antique has three proposed bridges - the 25 linear meter Igtoog I Bridge in San Remigio, the 20 linear Bagtason Bridge in Bugasong and the 85 linear meter Hamtic Bridge. Capiz will have a 90 linear bridge for the Agbalo Bridge in Pontevedra, while Guimaras will have the 20 linear Guimawod bridge in Sibunag. One bridge has been slated for Negros Occidental, the Sum-ag 1 bridge in Bacolod City consisting of 55 linear meters.
The six bridges are estimated to cost P236 million. (PIA)
According to the RDC resolution, the proposed project aims to provide structurally sound permanent bridges along all national roads to improve basic social, industrial and agricultural activities in the affected areas and will provide safer transport facilities that would effectively make full use of the existing road system.
The project is under the Department of public works and Highways (DPWH) Bridge Construction/Replacement Project to be funded by the Spanish government Financing facility.
Under this project, it would involve the generation of a total of 295 linear meters of ready/reusable bridges in Region 6, utilizing the appropriate mix of loan and imported modular steel bridging materials from Spain.
With this, the durability and strength of the proposed bridges is further assured and people can rest easy that even during flooding, the structures will not easily give way.
Antique has three proposed bridges - the 25 linear meter Igtoog I Bridge in San Remigio, the 20 linear Bagtason Bridge in Bugasong and the 85 linear meter Hamtic Bridge. Capiz will have a 90 linear bridge for the Agbalo Bridge in Pontevedra, while Guimaras will have the 20 linear Guimawod bridge in Sibunag. One bridge has been slated for Negros Occidental, the Sum-ag 1 bridge in Bacolod City consisting of 55 linear meters.
The six bridges are estimated to cost P236 million. (PIA)
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Virgin coco oil processing center to boost farmer's income in Siquijor
New hope sprouts for Siquijor folks as the provincial government ventures on a project that gives way to income generation and job creation in the province.
Approved by the Department of Energy (DOE), a P2.5 million-Integrated Virgin Coconut Oil Processing Center will soon rise in Lilo-an, Maria, Siquijor that aims to generate employment and increase farmers' profitability, says Medel V. Panzo, Officer-in-charge of the Philippine Coconut Authority here.
The project is funded out of the Development and Livelihood Fund (DLF), provincial and the regional share accrued from the commercial operations of Palinpinon Geothermal Power Plant 1 & 2 and Cebu Thermal Power Plant 2. DLF Siquijor share is P708,702.70 while Interprovincial/Regional share is P1,791,297.30, according to the report.
Panzo said, the project is seen to boost farmers' income through maximum utilization of coconut products and its by-products and eventually generates job in the province.
This stems from the fact that coconut is one of the prime commodities that the province produced. Records from PCA revealed that the area planted to coconut in the province is 6,808 hectares or 680,800 trees; 510,000 of which are bearing trees with a production of 18.4 nut per tree per year or 9,395,400 nuts. Production of this crop has become an important source of income to farmers.
The project is in line with the priority thrust of the provincial government to create employment and uplift the lives of the ordinary folks. Earlier, President Arroyo called the people to sustain the momentum of enterprise and productivity towards poverty alleviation, peace building, and law and order.
"The project is going in the right direction because of its potential to contribute in the government's effort to harness coconut as also a source of alternative fuel, " Panzo also said.
He said producing crude coconut oil, that is the raw material used in producing coco bio-diesel is also possible. "It is one of the alternative fuels being tapped by the government to lessen the country's dependence on imported fossil fuel," he said.
The DOE also said that the use of coco bio-diesel will be a sustainable and strategic approach in cleaning the air and energizing the economy.
Meanwhile, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Romulo L. Neri said growth in any sector is welcome, as it fuels growth in others as well. "For example, building public highways leads to private real estate investment, which in turn feeds construction, the cement industry, iron and steel, utilities. Jobs created in one sector are multiplied into others,' explained Neri, who is also director-general of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
Neri added government must sustain the momentum of fiscal reform. He noted, "Now that we are well on our way to resolving our fiscal deficit, of putting our fiscal house in order, the next step would be now to bring in more investments, among which are core projects in infrastructure."
Neri said government needs funds to build highways, farm-to-market roads, water supply networks, irrigation facilities, classrooms, and health centers. "It is vital to ensure the resources for such infrastructure as they directly lift families out of poverty," he asserted. The socioeconomic planning secretary also noted that growth must promote employment.
Neri said the government should continue its interventions in agriculture and pursue adequate infrastructure spending to boost economic growth and employment. Other policy agenda that should be pushed, he said, include support to micro entrepreneurship and an improved industry regulatory framework. (PIA)
Approved by the Department of Energy (DOE), a P2.5 million-Integrated Virgin Coconut Oil Processing Center will soon rise in Lilo-an, Maria, Siquijor that aims to generate employment and increase farmers' profitability, says Medel V. Panzo, Officer-in-charge of the Philippine Coconut Authority here.
The project is funded out of the Development and Livelihood Fund (DLF), provincial and the regional share accrued from the commercial operations of Palinpinon Geothermal Power Plant 1 & 2 and Cebu Thermal Power Plant 2. DLF Siquijor share is P708,702.70 while Interprovincial/Regional share is P1,791,297.30, according to the report.
Panzo said, the project is seen to boost farmers' income through maximum utilization of coconut products and its by-products and eventually generates job in the province.
This stems from the fact that coconut is one of the prime commodities that the province produced. Records from PCA revealed that the area planted to coconut in the province is 6,808 hectares or 680,800 trees; 510,000 of which are bearing trees with a production of 18.4 nut per tree per year or 9,395,400 nuts. Production of this crop has become an important source of income to farmers.
The project is in line with the priority thrust of the provincial government to create employment and uplift the lives of the ordinary folks. Earlier, President Arroyo called the people to sustain the momentum of enterprise and productivity towards poverty alleviation, peace building, and law and order.
"The project is going in the right direction because of its potential to contribute in the government's effort to harness coconut as also a source of alternative fuel, " Panzo also said.
He said producing crude coconut oil, that is the raw material used in producing coco bio-diesel is also possible. "It is one of the alternative fuels being tapped by the government to lessen the country's dependence on imported fossil fuel," he said.
The DOE also said that the use of coco bio-diesel will be a sustainable and strategic approach in cleaning the air and energizing the economy.
Meanwhile, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Romulo L. Neri said growth in any sector is welcome, as it fuels growth in others as well. "For example, building public highways leads to private real estate investment, which in turn feeds construction, the cement industry, iron and steel, utilities. Jobs created in one sector are multiplied into others,' explained Neri, who is also director-general of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
Neri added government must sustain the momentum of fiscal reform. He noted, "Now that we are well on our way to resolving our fiscal deficit, of putting our fiscal house in order, the next step would be now to bring in more investments, among which are core projects in infrastructure."
Neri said government needs funds to build highways, farm-to-market roads, water supply networks, irrigation facilities, classrooms, and health centers. "It is vital to ensure the resources for such infrastructure as they directly lift families out of poverty," he asserted. The socioeconomic planning secretary also noted that growth must promote employment.
Neri said the government should continue its interventions in agriculture and pursue adequate infrastructure spending to boost economic growth and employment. Other policy agenda that should be pushed, he said, include support to micro entrepreneurship and an improved industry regulatory framework. (PIA)
More entrepreneurs in Borongan get gov't assistance
In line with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's vision to provide better job and livelihood opportunities for the poor, Quedancor of Borongan has, since August of 2004, released a total of P83M in credit facilities to small time agri-business operators.
This was reported by Quedancor Borongan Manager, Eddie Quillopa in a brief interview with Sammy Candido (PIA). Quillopa disclosed that some 2,429 beneficiaries, government employees included have in fact availed of the assistance.
Also, Quedancor extends assistance to informal sectors, the fisherfolks, entrepreneurs and product marketers. While other banks would not grant loans to these groups because of collateral requirements, they do welcome landless individuals as so mandated by the President to continue the commitment.
Quillopa further said that three or four member-groups are preferred to be granted with the loan, such that P25,000.00 to P150,000.00 is availed of each member of a small group of microfinance entrepreneur: farmers, fisherfolks, meat vendors and sari-sari store. However, a mayor's permit is required to be complied with, background investigation and credit investigation report.
Mrs. Lolita Alar who owns a mini grocery in a Borongan poblacion barangay was one of the lucky Quedancor borrowers. She and her two other women were granted some P300,000.00, but as the group leader, she is tasked to promptly collect the monthly amortization to avoid charges for delayed remittances. Mrs. Alar finds happiness in her booming store as the lending institution has extended her and her group additional capital.
Another business-minded individual who availed of the loan was a piggery owner Raul Patungan of brgy. Bato. Patungan proudly reported that from his first loan he was able to purchase 30 heads of fattening pigs for P2,000.00 each.
Having fully paid the P60,000.00 he first loaned, he was granted P224,000.00 which made him buy 20 heads of sows.Patungan jibed that since he is a good payor, Quidancor increased his loan availment. He added that a borrower is only given a year to pay his loan, and if he is not a delinquent payor more "blessings" are granted to him in loan. (PIA)
This was reported by Quedancor Borongan Manager, Eddie Quillopa in a brief interview with Sammy Candido (PIA). Quillopa disclosed that some 2,429 beneficiaries, government employees included have in fact availed of the assistance.
Also, Quedancor extends assistance to informal sectors, the fisherfolks, entrepreneurs and product marketers. While other banks would not grant loans to these groups because of collateral requirements, they do welcome landless individuals as so mandated by the President to continue the commitment.
Quillopa further said that three or four member-groups are preferred to be granted with the loan, such that P25,000.00 to P150,000.00 is availed of each member of a small group of microfinance entrepreneur: farmers, fisherfolks, meat vendors and sari-sari store. However, a mayor's permit is required to be complied with, background investigation and credit investigation report.
Mrs. Lolita Alar who owns a mini grocery in a Borongan poblacion barangay was one of the lucky Quedancor borrowers. She and her two other women were granted some P300,000.00, but as the group leader, she is tasked to promptly collect the monthly amortization to avoid charges for delayed remittances. Mrs. Alar finds happiness in her booming store as the lending institution has extended her and her group additional capital.
Another business-minded individual who availed of the loan was a piggery owner Raul Patungan of brgy. Bato. Patungan proudly reported that from his first loan he was able to purchase 30 heads of fattening pigs for P2,000.00 each.
Having fully paid the P60,000.00 he first loaned, he was granted P224,000.00 which made him buy 20 heads of sows.Patungan jibed that since he is a good payor, Quidancor increased his loan availment. He added that a borrower is only given a year to pay his loan, and if he is not a delinquent payor more "blessings" are granted to him in loan. (PIA)
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Cebu councilor urges DTI to conduct info drive on product warranty
A Cebu City councilor has urged the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to conduct information drive to inform consumers on the product service warranty provision of the Consumers Act of the Philippines.
Cebu City Councilor Arsenio Pacana, Cebu City Council chairman of the committee on business, trade and industry, said the council is set to pass a resolution requesting the DTI to act on this matter to protect the consuming public from trade malpractices and from substandard hazardous products.
He said many consumers still fall prey to some blatant and sales malpractices observed in some business establishments or stores in malls selling appliances. Pacana cited the non-observance of the product and service warranty provision of the Consumers Act of the Philippines.
He said most of the unpopular brands of appliances sold in merchant stores were not covered by appropriate warranties because the manufacturer of these appliances had no branch office or service center in the locality.
”It must be stressed that the failure of some business establishments or appliance stores to provide buyers, especially those buying unpopular branded appliances, the lack of appropriate warranties clearly violates the mandate of the Consumer Act,” Pacana’s proposed resolution stated.
He also called on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipnas and the DTI to make guidelines on appropriate credit card surcharges to protect consumers particularly those who buy appliances in merchant stores.
Pacana said merchant store owners selling appliances usually impose extra surcharges on consumers using credit cards.
Based on informal survey of appliance stores in shopping malls, Pacana said, credit cards users pay three to six percent more for their purchases compared to those who pay in cash.
He said there is a growing clamor to protect consumers from the unfair practice of appliance stores imposing the additional surcharge.
”Using credit cards instead of cash has a positive effect on the economy since it would encourage consumers, local and foreign tourists to safety shop around and buy goods without necessarily bringing cash,” the resolution said. (PNA)
Cebu City Councilor Arsenio Pacana, Cebu City Council chairman of the committee on business, trade and industry, said the council is set to pass a resolution requesting the DTI to act on this matter to protect the consuming public from trade malpractices and from substandard hazardous products.
He said many consumers still fall prey to some blatant and sales malpractices observed in some business establishments or stores in malls selling appliances. Pacana cited the non-observance of the product and service warranty provision of the Consumers Act of the Philippines.
He said most of the unpopular brands of appliances sold in merchant stores were not covered by appropriate warranties because the manufacturer of these appliances had no branch office or service center in the locality.
”It must be stressed that the failure of some business establishments or appliance stores to provide buyers, especially those buying unpopular branded appliances, the lack of appropriate warranties clearly violates the mandate of the Consumer Act,” Pacana’s proposed resolution stated.
He also called on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipnas and the DTI to make guidelines on appropriate credit card surcharges to protect consumers particularly those who buy appliances in merchant stores.
Pacana said merchant store owners selling appliances usually impose extra surcharges on consumers using credit cards.
Based on informal survey of appliance stores in shopping malls, Pacana said, credit cards users pay three to six percent more for their purchases compared to those who pay in cash.
He said there is a growing clamor to protect consumers from the unfair practice of appliance stores imposing the additional surcharge.
”Using credit cards instead of cash has a positive effect on the economy since it would encourage consumers, local and foreign tourists to safety shop around and buy goods without necessarily bringing cash,” the resolution said. (PNA)
SMED-C calls for networking of SMEs in Siquijor
Visayas Sector Representative of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Council (SMED-C) Joyce Natalie U. Yang called for networking and innovation of small-scale entrepreneurs in Siquijor.
Speaking at the opening of the Halad Siquijodnon Fair and Exhibits 2006, Yang stressed the need for SMEs to network and innovate so as to position themselves to take advantage and go along with the direction of global trade.
Producing world-class products should lie at the core of our concerns, and this can be achieved through innovation and networking", she said. "Without these, SMES can't move forward, with the potential to retard, rather than enhance, the welfare of our entrepreneurs".
Innovation,she said, includes designing/packaging of products to effectively meet market competition while networking means linking with other neighboring provinces to increase market access and to improve viability and operational efficiency.
Yang pointed out the role of policymakers and program implementors to come up with innovative ideas and even "mediocre plans" and develop them in promoting SME's business activities.
"This 'capable team' could be your strongest attractions if all skills and energies are engaged in business-related activities", she said. This team as well as the people of the host communities best determines SME's quality, its intent, and its effectiveness as a vehicle for economic and social development. She likewise called for broader community involvement in tourism planning and development
Yang also expressed high hopes for the outcome of the fair and exhibits in terms of economic development.
The world is taking notice of our advances in all fronts of development, social reform and security.
As noted, political noise has been abated and economic gains are shining through as we have already weathered the worst of political turmoil, and the upward trend all our economic indicators is clear proof that we are on the right track.
The Administration's call for national unity and reconciliation is in earnest and all hands are welcomed to help the people and the Government push this nation up and forward. (PIA)
Speaking at the opening of the Halad Siquijodnon Fair and Exhibits 2006, Yang stressed the need for SMEs to network and innovate so as to position themselves to take advantage and go along with the direction of global trade.
Producing world-class products should lie at the core of our concerns, and this can be achieved through innovation and networking", she said. "Without these, SMES can't move forward, with the potential to retard, rather than enhance, the welfare of our entrepreneurs".
Innovation,she said, includes designing/packaging of products to effectively meet market competition while networking means linking with other neighboring provinces to increase market access and to improve viability and operational efficiency.
Yang pointed out the role of policymakers and program implementors to come up with innovative ideas and even "mediocre plans" and develop them in promoting SME's business activities.
"This 'capable team' could be your strongest attractions if all skills and energies are engaged in business-related activities", she said. This team as well as the people of the host communities best determines SME's quality, its intent, and its effectiveness as a vehicle for economic and social development. She likewise called for broader community involvement in tourism planning and development
Yang also expressed high hopes for the outcome of the fair and exhibits in terms of economic development.
The world is taking notice of our advances in all fronts of development, social reform and security.
As noted, political noise has been abated and economic gains are shining through as we have already weathered the worst of political turmoil, and the upward trend all our economic indicators is clear proof that we are on the right track.
The Administration's call for national unity and reconciliation is in earnest and all hands are welcomed to help the people and the Government push this nation up and forward. (PIA)
Monday, September 25, 2006
Modernization of BOC makes it among the world's best
A top official of the Bureau of Customs said on Saturday that the Philippine Customs office will soon be at par with the best Customs offices of the world through its continuing computerization program and acquisition of modern equipment, systems and technology.
Lawyer Gallant D. Soriano, officer-in-charge in the Office of the Deputy Customs Commissioner for Administration, said with these innovations, the program “nothing moves in Customs without being captured by the computers” shall have been achieved.
Speaking to newsmen here, the youngest son of the late Rep. Jack Soriano, also former mayor of San Carlos City, said this will be achieved through the second phase of BoC’s computerization program called the Automated Systems Customs Data (ASYCUDA) to be completed in January next year.
Soriano said the project was bankrolled by P500 million from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s e-Governance fund.
Completion of the project, said Soriano, will be a big boon to BoC which shall become “paper-less, queue-less and “cash-less” as exporters and importers will all pay customs duties through the banks.
The project, which is just a continuation of BoC’s computerization launched from 1994 to 1999 that had already become obsolete, aims to “fully computerize and automate the systems in the Customs,” said Soriano, a former councilor of San Carlos City and law professor at the University of Pangasinan.
The first phase of the project, which Soriano said had already “outlived its usefulness”, was covered by the Philippine Tax Computerization Program that was jointly undertaken by the BoC and the Bureau of Internal Revenue, funded by a US$ 35 million World Bank grant.
Phase 2 of the computerization program, launched almost seven years after Phase 1, aims to cover both imports and exports.
“The program behind our second computerization program is: Nothing moves in Customs without being captured by our computers” is but a part our vision to make the people more accessible to BoC," he said.
The program gives the people easier access to BoC “anytime, anywhere and using any device”, Soriano explained.
He said the technology can also enable people to reach BoC by texting using the SMS (short messages service) through their mobile phones.
Using the SMS, one can request from BoC for verification as to where his shipment is, his payment of customs duties, including the latter's of entry.
At the same time, Soriano admitted he is the one in charge of BoC’s Non-Intrusive Container Inspection System Project (NICISP), using the 10 scanner equipment acquired through a concessional loan from China, payable in 20 years at two per cent interest per annum with five years grace period.
Two of the equipment will be installed at the Port of Manila, two others at the Manila International Container Port and one each at Subic, Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga and Davao ports.
President Arroyo is set to inaugurate on Oct. 10 the five equipment, now being assembled for commissioning before they are made fully operational.
“It is non-intrusive in the sense that containers will no longer be opened or brought down for physical inspection,” Soriano explained.
He said under this system, if a truck carrying a container passes through, the highly sensitive x-ray with a penetration capacity of 470 millimeters, can capture the images even what’s inside the engine block of the vehicle that is inside the container van.
The images are color-coded: red when it’s a bomb, blue when it’s firearm, green when it’s contraband and yellow when the container is cleared of any illegal shipment.
Soriano said the modern gadgets at the BoC ensure computerization of all aspects of the agency's operations but just like what the BoC officials told the Senate when they were defending the project, these require less human intervention, less face-to-face transaction with the client and less opportunity for the personnel to commit graft and corruption.
Soriano admitted that all these equipment could minimize graft and corruption but “we can’t say this can be entirely eradicated”.
These projects, he added, will ensure the collection of more customs duties as no truck carrying container vans moves from the ports without payment of proper import fees.
Soriano also announced that the BoC’s ASEAN single- window processing now in effect by the agency seeks to minimize red tape for the benefit of exporters and importers.
He explained that under the project, which is being undertaken by all ASEAN countries, an exporter or importer can already secure his needed permit and documents all at the same time from a single window at the BoC. (PNA)
Lawyer Gallant D. Soriano, officer-in-charge in the Office of the Deputy Customs Commissioner for Administration, said with these innovations, the program “nothing moves in Customs without being captured by the computers” shall have been achieved.
Speaking to newsmen here, the youngest son of the late Rep. Jack Soriano, also former mayor of San Carlos City, said this will be achieved through the second phase of BoC’s computerization program called the Automated Systems Customs Data (ASYCUDA) to be completed in January next year.
Soriano said the project was bankrolled by P500 million from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s e-Governance fund.
Completion of the project, said Soriano, will be a big boon to BoC which shall become “paper-less, queue-less and “cash-less” as exporters and importers will all pay customs duties through the banks.
The project, which is just a continuation of BoC’s computerization launched from 1994 to 1999 that had already become obsolete, aims to “fully computerize and automate the systems in the Customs,” said Soriano, a former councilor of San Carlos City and law professor at the University of Pangasinan.
The first phase of the project, which Soriano said had already “outlived its usefulness”, was covered by the Philippine Tax Computerization Program that was jointly undertaken by the BoC and the Bureau of Internal Revenue, funded by a US$ 35 million World Bank grant.
Phase 2 of the computerization program, launched almost seven years after Phase 1, aims to cover both imports and exports.
“The program behind our second computerization program is: Nothing moves in Customs without being captured by our computers” is but a part our vision to make the people more accessible to BoC," he said.
The program gives the people easier access to BoC “anytime, anywhere and using any device”, Soriano explained.
He said the technology can also enable people to reach BoC by texting using the SMS (short messages service) through their mobile phones.
Using the SMS, one can request from BoC for verification as to where his shipment is, his payment of customs duties, including the latter's of entry.
At the same time, Soriano admitted he is the one in charge of BoC’s Non-Intrusive Container Inspection System Project (NICISP), using the 10 scanner equipment acquired through a concessional loan from China, payable in 20 years at two per cent interest per annum with five years grace period.
Two of the equipment will be installed at the Port of Manila, two others at the Manila International Container Port and one each at Subic, Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga and Davao ports.
President Arroyo is set to inaugurate on Oct. 10 the five equipment, now being assembled for commissioning before they are made fully operational.
“It is non-intrusive in the sense that containers will no longer be opened or brought down for physical inspection,” Soriano explained.
He said under this system, if a truck carrying a container passes through, the highly sensitive x-ray with a penetration capacity of 470 millimeters, can capture the images even what’s inside the engine block of the vehicle that is inside the container van.
The images are color-coded: red when it’s a bomb, blue when it’s firearm, green when it’s contraband and yellow when the container is cleared of any illegal shipment.
Soriano said the modern gadgets at the BoC ensure computerization of all aspects of the agency's operations but just like what the BoC officials told the Senate when they were defending the project, these require less human intervention, less face-to-face transaction with the client and less opportunity for the personnel to commit graft and corruption.
Soriano admitted that all these equipment could minimize graft and corruption but “we can’t say this can be entirely eradicated”.
These projects, he added, will ensure the collection of more customs duties as no truck carrying container vans moves from the ports without payment of proper import fees.
Soriano also announced that the BoC’s ASEAN single- window processing now in effect by the agency seeks to minimize red tape for the benefit of exporters and importers.
He explained that under the project, which is being undertaken by all ASEAN countries, an exporter or importer can already secure his needed permit and documents all at the same time from a single window at the BoC. (PNA)
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Bohol province hosts national peace consciousness month
Sprouting peace in the last decades has made Bohol the honored host to the 3rd National Peace Consciousness Month, an activity that brought the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), two Philippine Army major generals and peace advocates in the celebration at the Camp Rajah Sikatuna in Carmen.
The activity, co-hosted by Gov. Erico Aumentado and Col. Arthur Tabaquero of the 302nd Infantry Brigade is Bohol’s testimony of its advancement in the peace process, a long and tedious journey watered by the blood of martyrs and the sweat of government peace advocates.
Now leading the country in advancing peace situation by opening up the venue for dialogs, Bohol has recently earned the nation’s scopes when it successfully goaded the local members of the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army and the National Democratic Front to talk with the government so as to allow a venue for development here.
The move has so far caused almost a hundred former rebels to go back to the mainstreams and into the gathering of peace advocates throughout the province.The move has also earned for Bohol the biblical effort of beating swords into plowshares, when it facilitated the use of some 8 hectares of the military reservation as an agri-farm tourism showcase.
Living simple lives in government resettlement sites and given livelihood assistance, the former rebels rubbed elbows with government soldiers in “Pangahiusa sa Kanhi Rebelde (KR)” at the military camp in Carmen.
OPAPP Sec. Jesus Dureza, who came and observed the activity also delved into the intricacies of the Bohol experience, a success story that caused the dissolution of two guerilla in the province and its transfer of strategic base in Leyte. Sec. Dureza, in his messages has in fact another idea of the KR as Kauban sa Reporma (Comrades in Reform).
Bohol Governor Erico Aumentado handed a check worth P50,000 from the provincial government to the Composite Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CFMPC) headed by Agapito Eduava, one cooperative organized for the livelihood projects for some returnee members.
Maj. Gen. Cardozo Luna and Maj. Gen. Juanito Gomez, commanding generals of the Central Visayas Command (Centcom) and of the 7th Infantry Division in North Luzon respectively witnessed the turnover.
Both were commanding officers of the 302nd IBde when they were still colonels.
Dureza and Aumentado also turned over checks from the national government for livelihood assistance for qualified former rebels through the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (OPSWD) under Constancia Tuñacao.
The activities highlighted the program held at the Coop House of the Rajah Sikatuna MPC, a rebel resettlement site located right at the heart of a 40 hectare military reservation here.
During the program, Eduava, Payot, Julio Hinampas of the Bayanihan Community MPC in Barangay Tuburan, Ubay town and Adela Membrillos, head of the newest group of KRs presented testimonies and their issues to the OPAPP, the national, provincial and municipal governments and the private sector so they can again converge to help.
To note, OPAPP's Ma. Carla Munsayac-Villarta and Danilo Encinas in a meeting at the Capitol here Friday guaranteed the government would provide the assistance.
Some rebel returnees here have been granted land titles for home lots, a farm lot and a communal farm to start their new lives in Tuburan Ubay.
The provincial government is assisting another KR cooperative in an oil palm planting project.
Meanwhile, the Membrillos-led group is now working on its papers for registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The Rajah Sikatuna MPC was then planned as a showcase agri-farm manned by KRs and puts in projects including animal (cattle, goat, chicken, duck and tilapia) fattening and dispersal, rice farming, vegetable gardening, cut-flower production, and skills training.
Earlier, KRs and delegates were treated to a video showing of an episode of Probe hosted by Cheche Lazaro featuring the peace initiatives of Bohol, Abra and Sagada in Mt. Province. These initiatives were also documented via a mounted photo exhibit at the Coop House.
The following day was another symbolic activity that wafted enough aspirations for peace in the eyes of the innocent Boholanos.
OPAPP and the delegates including several Cebu-based regional directors of various national government agencies and Loboc residents were treated to a free Taghoy sa Kalinaw, a concert by the Loboc Children's Choir at the 17th century Loboc Church at 2 p.m.
Singing a repertoire that included universal peace concepts and peace in the eyes of a child, the concert features the multi-awarded choir that had its beginnings as a regular public elementary school choir of 30 pupils.
Now one of the most famous choirs in the country, the choir was adjudged the champion in the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in 1993, 1995, and 2001, International Children's Culture and Arts Festival in China and Europe and its folksongs festival Champion in 2003. (PIA)
The activity, co-hosted by Gov. Erico Aumentado and Col. Arthur Tabaquero of the 302nd Infantry Brigade is Bohol’s testimony of its advancement in the peace process, a long and tedious journey watered by the blood of martyrs and the sweat of government peace advocates.
Now leading the country in advancing peace situation by opening up the venue for dialogs, Bohol has recently earned the nation’s scopes when it successfully goaded the local members of the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army and the National Democratic Front to talk with the government so as to allow a venue for development here.
The move has so far caused almost a hundred former rebels to go back to the mainstreams and into the gathering of peace advocates throughout the province.The move has also earned for Bohol the biblical effort of beating swords into plowshares, when it facilitated the use of some 8 hectares of the military reservation as an agri-farm tourism showcase.
Living simple lives in government resettlement sites and given livelihood assistance, the former rebels rubbed elbows with government soldiers in “Pangahiusa sa Kanhi Rebelde (KR)” at the military camp in Carmen.
OPAPP Sec. Jesus Dureza, who came and observed the activity also delved into the intricacies of the Bohol experience, a success story that caused the dissolution of two guerilla in the province and its transfer of strategic base in Leyte. Sec. Dureza, in his messages has in fact another idea of the KR as Kauban sa Reporma (Comrades in Reform).
Bohol Governor Erico Aumentado handed a check worth P50,000 from the provincial government to the Composite Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CFMPC) headed by Agapito Eduava, one cooperative organized for the livelihood projects for some returnee members.
Maj. Gen. Cardozo Luna and Maj. Gen. Juanito Gomez, commanding generals of the Central Visayas Command (Centcom) and of the 7th Infantry Division in North Luzon respectively witnessed the turnover.
Both were commanding officers of the 302nd IBde when they were still colonels.
Dureza and Aumentado also turned over checks from the national government for livelihood assistance for qualified former rebels through the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (OPSWD) under Constancia Tuñacao.
The activities highlighted the program held at the Coop House of the Rajah Sikatuna MPC, a rebel resettlement site located right at the heart of a 40 hectare military reservation here.
During the program, Eduava, Payot, Julio Hinampas of the Bayanihan Community MPC in Barangay Tuburan, Ubay town and Adela Membrillos, head of the newest group of KRs presented testimonies and their issues to the OPAPP, the national, provincial and municipal governments and the private sector so they can again converge to help.
To note, OPAPP's Ma. Carla Munsayac-Villarta and Danilo Encinas in a meeting at the Capitol here Friday guaranteed the government would provide the assistance.
Some rebel returnees here have been granted land titles for home lots, a farm lot and a communal farm to start their new lives in Tuburan Ubay.
The provincial government is assisting another KR cooperative in an oil palm planting project.
Meanwhile, the Membrillos-led group is now working on its papers for registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The Rajah Sikatuna MPC was then planned as a showcase agri-farm manned by KRs and puts in projects including animal (cattle, goat, chicken, duck and tilapia) fattening and dispersal, rice farming, vegetable gardening, cut-flower production, and skills training.
Earlier, KRs and delegates were treated to a video showing of an episode of Probe hosted by Cheche Lazaro featuring the peace initiatives of Bohol, Abra and Sagada in Mt. Province. These initiatives were also documented via a mounted photo exhibit at the Coop House.
The following day was another symbolic activity that wafted enough aspirations for peace in the eyes of the innocent Boholanos.
OPAPP and the delegates including several Cebu-based regional directors of various national government agencies and Loboc residents were treated to a free Taghoy sa Kalinaw, a concert by the Loboc Children's Choir at the 17th century Loboc Church at 2 p.m.
Singing a repertoire that included universal peace concepts and peace in the eyes of a child, the concert features the multi-awarded choir that had its beginnings as a regular public elementary school choir of 30 pupils.
Now one of the most famous choirs in the country, the choir was adjudged the champion in the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in 1993, 1995, and 2001, International Children's Culture and Arts Festival in China and Europe and its folksongs festival Champion in 2003. (PIA)
Friday, September 22, 2006
Consortium lowers water rate
While conceding to higher penalties for under-delivery, the proponent of the Carmen bulk water supply project has agreed to lower the price of water.
The consortium of Manila Water, Stateland Inc. and Vicsal Development Corp. had originally proposed to sell the water to MCWD at P29.14 per cubic meter, a document presented by the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) in a recent meeting with Cebu mayors, revealed.
But the consortium agreed to lower the price to P25.55 per cubic meter — the amount stated in the contract between the proponent and MCWD that is now being reviewed by the National Economic and Development Authority’s Investment Coordinating Council (ICC). The consortium is the proponent of the Carmen Water Supply Project.
Sherissa Nuesa, Manila Water chief finance officer, earlier said the price of water from Carmen will mean an additional cost for MCWD consumers of only P3 a day.
The price of Carmen water as stated in the contract submitted to Neda ICC already includes such factors as inflation and cost of operation and maintenance of facilities. Nuesa said the consortium has “shaved off” its initial expected earnings.
The MCWD document showed that the consortium had also agreed to raise its penalty payment to 35 percent, from 28 percent of the price of water, if its delivery falls below the agreed 28,000 to 46,000 cubic meters a day.
Another highlight in the presentation made by MCWD General Manager Armando Paredes was that originally, the Carmen water project was to be implemented under a 30-year build-own-operate (BOO) arrangement.
This means the entity that will implement the project—whether it is the consortium led by Manila Water or another company, depending on the result of the price challenge—will remain the owner of all facilities in Carmen, even after recovering its capital investment at the end of 30 years.
But after negotiations with MCWD and its consultants, the consortium agreed that the project will be implemented under a 40-year build-operate-transfer (BOT) scheme. This means that at the end of its 40-year bulk water supply agreement, the consortium or the winner of the price challenge will have to turn over all facilities in Carmen to MCWD.
Apart from paying penalties for under-delivery, the Manila Water-led consortium also conceded to remove a provision in its proposed contract that allows it (the consortium) to “step into” MCWD’s operations if the water district defaults on its payments (PN)
The consortium of Manila Water, Stateland Inc. and Vicsal Development Corp. had originally proposed to sell the water to MCWD at P29.14 per cubic meter, a document presented by the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) in a recent meeting with Cebu mayors, revealed.
But the consortium agreed to lower the price to P25.55 per cubic meter — the amount stated in the contract between the proponent and MCWD that is now being reviewed by the National Economic and Development Authority’s Investment Coordinating Council (ICC). The consortium is the proponent of the Carmen Water Supply Project.
Sherissa Nuesa, Manila Water chief finance officer, earlier said the price of water from Carmen will mean an additional cost for MCWD consumers of only P3 a day.
The price of Carmen water as stated in the contract submitted to Neda ICC already includes such factors as inflation and cost of operation and maintenance of facilities. Nuesa said the consortium has “shaved off” its initial expected earnings.
The MCWD document showed that the consortium had also agreed to raise its penalty payment to 35 percent, from 28 percent of the price of water, if its delivery falls below the agreed 28,000 to 46,000 cubic meters a day.
Another highlight in the presentation made by MCWD General Manager Armando Paredes was that originally, the Carmen water project was to be implemented under a 30-year build-own-operate (BOO) arrangement.
This means the entity that will implement the project—whether it is the consortium led by Manila Water or another company, depending on the result of the price challenge—will remain the owner of all facilities in Carmen, even after recovering its capital investment at the end of 30 years.
But after negotiations with MCWD and its consultants, the consortium agreed that the project will be implemented under a 40-year build-operate-transfer (BOT) scheme. This means that at the end of its 40-year bulk water supply agreement, the consortium or the winner of the price challenge will have to turn over all facilities in Carmen to MCWD.
Apart from paying penalties for under-delivery, the Manila Water-led consortium also conceded to remove a provision in its proposed contract that allows it (the consortium) to “step into” MCWD’s operations if the water district defaults on its payments (PN)
Thursday, September 21, 2006
WESM to be implemented in Cebu in 1st quarter next year
Philippine Electricity Market Corp. (PEMC) president Lassi Mattia A. Holopainen bared the wholesale electricity spot market (WESM) will hopefully be implemented in Cebu between January to March in 2007.
The WESM will facilitate the trading of wholesale electricity and encourage competition among power producers. It is said that with WESM in place, competition in the generation of electricity will be encouraged leading to a more efficient and reliable power sector.
Holopainen talked on the benefits derived from the WESM as the long-term objective is to help bring down electricity costs.
Initial operations of WESM in Luzon has started in late June of this year of which in the first month of operation witnessed an eight percent reduction of electricity price and one percent lower a month after, Holopainen disclosed.
Albeit prices are erratic and when power supply is lower and the demand is greater would translate to higher rates, the PEMC president said.
Some consumer groups however, said the WESM will not exactly help lower electricity rates of household consumers as only industrial and commercial consumers and distribution utilities will benefit from the initial operations as the minimum energy requirement to be able to directly buy power from WESM is 1MW. Residential consumers on the other hand, only have an average consumption of about 200-300 kWh.
Holopainen said that WESM provides transparency for power prices where industries and distribution utilities wanting to get cheaper electricity can buy that would result to savings on their part that could be used for employees' benefits. The savings could also be used to expand business operations that would eventually result in job opportunities for the people, he added.
For residential consumers to avail of the WESM, Holpainen suggested for them to form a homeowners association so they could reach the minimum energy requirement needed to buy from WESM.
Department of Energy (DOE-7) regional director Antonio Labios declared that power industries here are also waiting for the WESM's implementation here so they could start bidding their power rates to industries and distribution utilities.
Holopainen said the PEMC will soon open an office here this coming December. (PIA)
The WESM will facilitate the trading of wholesale electricity and encourage competition among power producers. It is said that with WESM in place, competition in the generation of electricity will be encouraged leading to a more efficient and reliable power sector.
Holopainen talked on the benefits derived from the WESM as the long-term objective is to help bring down electricity costs.
Initial operations of WESM in Luzon has started in late June of this year of which in the first month of operation witnessed an eight percent reduction of electricity price and one percent lower a month after, Holopainen disclosed.
Albeit prices are erratic and when power supply is lower and the demand is greater would translate to higher rates, the PEMC president said.
Some consumer groups however, said the WESM will not exactly help lower electricity rates of household consumers as only industrial and commercial consumers and distribution utilities will benefit from the initial operations as the minimum energy requirement to be able to directly buy power from WESM is 1MW. Residential consumers on the other hand, only have an average consumption of about 200-300 kWh.
Holopainen said that WESM provides transparency for power prices where industries and distribution utilities wanting to get cheaper electricity can buy that would result to savings on their part that could be used for employees' benefits. The savings could also be used to expand business operations that would eventually result in job opportunities for the people, he added.
For residential consumers to avail of the WESM, Holpainen suggested for them to form a homeowners association so they could reach the minimum energy requirement needed to buy from WESM.
Department of Energy (DOE-7) regional director Antonio Labios declared that power industries here are also waiting for the WESM's implementation here so they could start bidding their power rates to industries and distribution utilities.
Holopainen said the PEMC will soon open an office here this coming December. (PIA)
Philippine economy growing
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicted last April that the country’s gross domestic product could grow by 5.6 percent which it reduced to 5.5 percent last month during its post program monitoring visit in the Philippines.
According toNEDA Secretary Romulo Neri, the forecast has been viewed as a challenge to meet and surmount, as the country’s yearend growth targets and those of succeeding years remain in track and can be reached.
The Philippine economic agenda is gaining ground and even rallying at high points and the bullish economic indicators speak for themselves said Finance Secretary Margarito Teves.
Budget Secretary Romulo Andaya pointed out that the markets are upbeat, exports are up, investments are pouring in, the dollar reserves are steady and the fiscal program is taking deep root in the growing firmness of the political environment.
Meanwhile, reinforcing the growing Philippine economy is the uptrend collection of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) here. Last August BIR collected P43,790,758.87 against target of P22,138,000 or an increase of P20,107,758.87 or equivalent to 84.90 percent.
RDO Ursula Equiña explained that the collection efficiency has been attributed to the dedication of her personnel and the support of the taxpayers, the corporations or the business community.
Government agencies remittance on withholding tax on compensation amounted to P1,608,531.17 which contributed to the collection efficiency. The Department of Education – Division of Antique had remitted P5,462,474.35 to BIR which became part of the total tax collection for the period.
Tax collected will return to the people through the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) share of the local government units. Funds are utilized for government’s infrastructure projects, like roads, bridges, school buildings, social services and to plug the budget deficit.
The BIR RDO No. 73 ranked 2nd in the top District Office nationwide, for having surpassed revenue targets for 2nd semester of 2005 and 1st semester of 2006.
BIR Antique was given an achievement award by Secretary Jose Mario Buñag in August during the BIR 102nd anniversary celebration in Quezon City, added Equiña. (PIA)
According toNEDA Secretary Romulo Neri, the forecast has been viewed as a challenge to meet and surmount, as the country’s yearend growth targets and those of succeeding years remain in track and can be reached.
The Philippine economic agenda is gaining ground and even rallying at high points and the bullish economic indicators speak for themselves said Finance Secretary Margarito Teves.
Budget Secretary Romulo Andaya pointed out that the markets are upbeat, exports are up, investments are pouring in, the dollar reserves are steady and the fiscal program is taking deep root in the growing firmness of the political environment.
Meanwhile, reinforcing the growing Philippine economy is the uptrend collection of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) here. Last August BIR collected P43,790,758.87 against target of P22,138,000 or an increase of P20,107,758.87 or equivalent to 84.90 percent.
RDO Ursula Equiña explained that the collection efficiency has been attributed to the dedication of her personnel and the support of the taxpayers, the corporations or the business community.
Government agencies remittance on withholding tax on compensation amounted to P1,608,531.17 which contributed to the collection efficiency. The Department of Education – Division of Antique had remitted P5,462,474.35 to BIR which became part of the total tax collection for the period.
Tax collected will return to the people through the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) share of the local government units. Funds are utilized for government’s infrastructure projects, like roads, bridges, school buildings, social services and to plug the budget deficit.
The BIR RDO No. 73 ranked 2nd in the top District Office nationwide, for having surpassed revenue targets for 2nd semester of 2005 and 1st semester of 2006.
BIR Antique was given an achievement award by Secretary Jose Mario Buñag in August during the BIR 102nd anniversary celebration in Quezon City, added Equiña. (PIA)
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Shipbuilding firm sets US$ 100M expansion of Cebu facility
Cebu-based shipbuilding company Tsuneishi Heavy Industries Cebu Inc. (THICI) has committed to invest US$ 100 million or roughly P5 billion in the expansion of its shipyard in Balamban town in Cebu’s western seaboard.
THICI, a joint venture between Tsuneishi Corp. of Japan, one of the world’s leading shipbuilders, and Aboitiz and Co., has been building 58,000 deadweight-ton (dwt) bulk carriers since 1995.
These ship were sold around the world from their Japan base.
THICI director Roberto E. Aboitiz said the expansion was triggered by the upsurge in the shipbuilding industry, with the expected growth in the global movement of goods, particularly to and from China.
Aboitiz said the additional investment would cover the construction of two more docks for boat building.
Under the expansion plans, the company would add another 86 hectares to its current work area of 40 hectares at the West Cebu Industrial Park in Balamban, Cebu.
The expansion, Aboitiz said, would enable THICI to build bulk carriers as big as 170,000 dwt from 58,000 dwt and almost double its production capacity from 14 ships a year to 24.
Bulk carriers of this size, designed to carry goods such as fertilizers, grains, ore and others, can travel long distances and are almost the same size as crude carriers.
Aboitiz said the expansion would also mean the hiring of an estimated additional 4,000 skilled workers on top of its some 2,000 workers.
He said THICI’ sales would hit one billion US dollars a year with the expansion. He said construction is expected to start early next year for completion in 2010.
THICI, a joint venture between Tsuneishi Corp. of Japan, one of the world’s leading shipbuilders, and Aboitiz and Co., has been building 58,000 deadweight-ton (dwt) bulk carriers since 1995.
These ship were sold around the world from their Japan base.
THICI director Roberto E. Aboitiz said the expansion was triggered by the upsurge in the shipbuilding industry, with the expected growth in the global movement of goods, particularly to and from China.
Aboitiz said the additional investment would cover the construction of two more docks for boat building.
Under the expansion plans, the company would add another 86 hectares to its current work area of 40 hectares at the West Cebu Industrial Park in Balamban, Cebu.
The expansion, Aboitiz said, would enable THICI to build bulk carriers as big as 170,000 dwt from 58,000 dwt and almost double its production capacity from 14 ships a year to 24.
Bulk carriers of this size, designed to carry goods such as fertilizers, grains, ore and others, can travel long distances and are almost the same size as crude carriers.
Aboitiz said the expansion would also mean the hiring of an estimated additional 4,000 skilled workers on top of its some 2,000 workers.
He said THICI’ sales would hit one billion US dollars a year with the expansion. He said construction is expected to start early next year for completion in 2010.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Panglao airport construction now underway
The construction of a world-class international airport in Panglao, Bohol is now underway.
In a regular Kapihan ng Bayan forum hosted by Government Mass Media Group (GMMG) Secretary Cerge Remonde, DOTC Secretary Leandro Mendoza said that fund has already been set aside to acquire the land where the airport will be constructed.
Mendoza said he expects the acquisition of the land to be realized before the end of this month.
The DOTC head also disclosed that the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) will be funding the construction of the airport and the terminal with some P3 billion.
“This will be a big boost to the tourism industry, particularly to the Visayas region,” Mendoza said.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has earlier instructed the DOTC to prioritize the construction of the multi-billion airport as a key to develop the island into a tourism estate.
With the proposed construction of the Panglao airport, the province of Bohol would have two airports, in addition to Tagbilaran airport.
Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) General Manager and chief executive officer Robert Dean Barbers also earlier said that with the development of the airport, the island of Panglao would be another potential prime tourist destination in Asia.
"Indeed, Panglao boasts of one of the finest beaches in the country. Likewise it is also one of the best dive sites in the world, Barbers said.
Barbers also said that with Panglao International Airport, accessibility for inter-island transfers via air, land and sea will thus be completed and would open all avenues to visit the beautiful and exciting site that the country has to offer. At present, mode of travel to and from the island is only through seacrafts. (PIA)
In a regular Kapihan ng Bayan forum hosted by Government Mass Media Group (GMMG) Secretary Cerge Remonde, DOTC Secretary Leandro Mendoza said that fund has already been set aside to acquire the land where the airport will be constructed.
Mendoza said he expects the acquisition of the land to be realized before the end of this month.
The DOTC head also disclosed that the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) will be funding the construction of the airport and the terminal with some P3 billion.
“This will be a big boost to the tourism industry, particularly to the Visayas region,” Mendoza said.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has earlier instructed the DOTC to prioritize the construction of the multi-billion airport as a key to develop the island into a tourism estate.
With the proposed construction of the Panglao airport, the province of Bohol would have two airports, in addition to Tagbilaran airport.
Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) General Manager and chief executive officer Robert Dean Barbers also earlier said that with the development of the airport, the island of Panglao would be another potential prime tourist destination in Asia.
"Indeed, Panglao boasts of one of the finest beaches in the country. Likewise it is also one of the best dive sites in the world, Barbers said.
Barbers also said that with Panglao International Airport, accessibility for inter-island transfers via air, land and sea will thus be completed and would open all avenues to visit the beautiful and exciting site that the country has to offer. At present, mode of travel to and from the island is only through seacrafts. (PIA)
Philpost "express pouch" guarantees next day delievery
In its efforts to continuously give quality service to the public, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PhilPost) has its "Express Pouch" next day delivery service which guarantees a next day door-to-door delivery of pouches sent by any individual.
The service is perfectly apt for sending time-sensitive important documents because it guarantees a 24-hour door-to-door delivery within the specified areas of coverage.
Sender availing of the service can put in all his mailable items at one time for as long as the items fit in the pouch bag. He is assured that his pouch has been delivered rightly because a delivery receipt where the sender can write delivery instructions is provided for in every pouch.
He is also sure that his pouch has been received by the right person because a proof of delivery is mailed or faxed back to the post office of origin within 24 hours from the time of addressee’s receipt of the pouch for sender’s verification purposes.
The PhilPost computerized Track and Trace System which enables the sender to know the whereabouts of pouches sent is another assurance of a sure and right delivery.
Mailing rates under this service depend on the weights of pouch sent. Small pouch up to 0.5 kilogram is P80.00, medium pouch up to 1.0 kilogram – P115.00, and large pouch up to 2.0 kilograms – P175.00.
The PhilPost offers a free pick-up service for bulk mailers. While the PhilPost is still studying how feasible is the implementation of this kind of service on other areas, this "Express Pouch" next day delivery is presently implemented between Metro Manila and Tacloban City areas for the meantime. (PIA)
The service is perfectly apt for sending time-sensitive important documents because it guarantees a 24-hour door-to-door delivery within the specified areas of coverage.
Sender availing of the service can put in all his mailable items at one time for as long as the items fit in the pouch bag. He is assured that his pouch has been delivered rightly because a delivery receipt where the sender can write delivery instructions is provided for in every pouch.
He is also sure that his pouch has been received by the right person because a proof of delivery is mailed or faxed back to the post office of origin within 24 hours from the time of addressee’s receipt of the pouch for sender’s verification purposes.
The PhilPost computerized Track and Trace System which enables the sender to know the whereabouts of pouches sent is another assurance of a sure and right delivery.
Mailing rates under this service depend on the weights of pouch sent. Small pouch up to 0.5 kilogram is P80.00, medium pouch up to 1.0 kilogram – P115.00, and large pouch up to 2.0 kilograms – P175.00.
The PhilPost offers a free pick-up service for bulk mailers. While the PhilPost is still studying how feasible is the implementation of this kind of service on other areas, this "Express Pouch" next day delivery is presently implemented between Metro Manila and Tacloban City areas for the meantime. (PIA)
Monday, September 18, 2006
Cebu tourism groups form coalition
Stakeholders and players in Cebu’s tourism industry had decided to form into a coalition to fast track the industry’s developments and to establish a niche in the tourism hubs in other parts of Asia.
This developed as the Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines , Peter Sutherland told the various tourism-related groups in Cebu that the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) is willing to provide technical assistance to Cebu’s tourism industry through its PEARL 2 program (Private Enterprises Accelerated Linkages 2) saying further, “But the industry must organize first and apply for assistance as one.”
Mila Espina, chairperson of the tourism committee of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) said she has already discussed the industry’s need for funding with the Canadian Ambassador, “but he said we have to be a bigger group; we have to unite into a bigger organization without losing the identity of each association,” Espina added.
Espina further said, PEARL 2 has provided financial and technical assistance to the CCCI, Cebu-GTH Manufacturers and Exporters and the Confederation of Philippine Exporters Foundation Inc. Cebu, in terms of capability building in serving the member organizations, which are mostly small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
To achieve this goal, the CCCI invited representatives from the Dept. of Tourism, the academe and various tourism-related organizations i.e. Association of Tour Operators and the Hotel and Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, to a planning meeting recently to respond to the issues and concerns in the industry, primarily on the challenge that the Canadian Ambassador posed to them and other equally important concerns such as the need to establish a ‘Cebu tourism brand’ and to revive the ‘Cebu Plus’ program.
Teodoro Locson, CCCI vice president for external affairs said, the ‘Cebu Plus’ Program was conceptualized by the chamber, identifying 15 safe, clean, compelling, attractive, friendly tourism destinations in the Visayas (that are just a few hours’ travel from Cebu City) that can be promoted with Cebu.
The areas included in the Cebu Plus were: Cebu-Mactan, Southeast Cebu (Carcar to Oslob and Mantalongon); Southwest Cebu (Badian, Pescador, Moalboal); North Cebu (Bogo, San Remegio, Bantayan, Malapascua); Northeast Cebu (Danao, Carmen, Camotes); Bohol; Dumaguete-Siquijor; Boracay, Bacolod Iloilo, Palawan, Tacloban; Guiuan, Surigao, Siargao, Zamboanga, Iligan, Dipolog, Camiguin, Cagayan de Oro, and Legaspi, Sorsogon.
Under this program, it was envisioned that Cebu will serve as the hub with the rest of the areas as satellite destinations the complement each other in promoting tourism. However, the program failed to take off due to the opposition by other provinces that branded Cebu as “imperial Cebu.”
Hopefully, with the organization of a coalition and the establishment of the Central Philippines Super-Region, Cebu ’s tourism industry will be given a boost through the cooperation of the various players and stakeholders in the business. (PIA)
This developed as the Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines , Peter Sutherland told the various tourism-related groups in Cebu that the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) is willing to provide technical assistance to Cebu’s tourism industry through its PEARL 2 program (Private Enterprises Accelerated Linkages 2) saying further, “But the industry must organize first and apply for assistance as one.”
Mila Espina, chairperson of the tourism committee of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) said she has already discussed the industry’s need for funding with the Canadian Ambassador, “but he said we have to be a bigger group; we have to unite into a bigger organization without losing the identity of each association,” Espina added.
Espina further said, PEARL 2 has provided financial and technical assistance to the CCCI, Cebu-GTH Manufacturers and Exporters and the Confederation of Philippine Exporters Foundation Inc. Cebu, in terms of capability building in serving the member organizations, which are mostly small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
To achieve this goal, the CCCI invited representatives from the Dept. of Tourism, the academe and various tourism-related organizations i.e. Association of Tour Operators and the Hotel and Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, to a planning meeting recently to respond to the issues and concerns in the industry, primarily on the challenge that the Canadian Ambassador posed to them and other equally important concerns such as the need to establish a ‘Cebu tourism brand’ and to revive the ‘Cebu Plus’ program.
Teodoro Locson, CCCI vice president for external affairs said, the ‘Cebu Plus’ Program was conceptualized by the chamber, identifying 15 safe, clean, compelling, attractive, friendly tourism destinations in the Visayas (that are just a few hours’ travel from Cebu City) that can be promoted with Cebu.
The areas included in the Cebu Plus were: Cebu-Mactan, Southeast Cebu (Carcar to Oslob and Mantalongon); Southwest Cebu (Badian, Pescador, Moalboal); North Cebu (Bogo, San Remegio, Bantayan, Malapascua); Northeast Cebu (Danao, Carmen, Camotes); Bohol; Dumaguete-Siquijor; Boracay, Bacolod Iloilo, Palawan, Tacloban; Guiuan, Surigao, Siargao, Zamboanga, Iligan, Dipolog, Camiguin, Cagayan de Oro, and Legaspi, Sorsogon.
Under this program, it was envisioned that Cebu will serve as the hub with the rest of the areas as satellite destinations the complement each other in promoting tourism. However, the program failed to take off due to the opposition by other provinces that branded Cebu as “imperial Cebu.”
Hopefully, with the organization of a coalition and the establishment of the Central Philippines Super-Region, Cebu ’s tourism industry will be given a boost through the cooperation of the various players and stakeholders in the business. (PIA)
Bahandi 2006 promotes SMEs in Eastern Visayas
The Region 8 Small and Medium Entrepreneurs get the needed boost through the Bahandi 2006, pursuant to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's thrust of promoting SMEs as a poverty alleviation tool.
The Bahandi 2006 Eastern Visayas Regional Fair is a special annual event that showcases newly developed products and designs of the producers from all over the Region on the 20th to the 24th of September 2006 at the Megatrade Hall 3, Building B, 5th Level, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.
There are over 70 producers-exhibitors in this prestigious Trade Fair from the six provinces of Region 8, namely Leyte, Southern Leyte, Biliran, Samar, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar.
The product focus of the exhibition are abaca-based gifts, toys and housewares, sinamay rolls, raffia rolls, ladies handbags and other fashion accessories, Tikog mats and other fashion accessories, pandan-based gifts, toys and housewares, fossilized leaves, handmade paper products, holiday decors and furnishings, baskets and ceramics, processed food and native delicacies.
The word Bahandi means treasure and wealth among the Waray and Cebuano-speaking people of Eastern Visayas. It is the most appropriate word to describe the richness, diversity and abundance of indigenous materials found only in Region 8.
How these natural materials have been hand-crafted by the producers of the different provinces of the Region, and new designs of professional designers from the foreign designers, PDDCP, APFTI through the various product development activities conducted, are indeed treasures of artistic shapes and wealth of opportunities of profits for businessmen and exporters.
Organized by the Department of Trade Region 8 and the Bahandi Producers Association of Eastern Visayas with the support of the local government units, the exhibitors are divided into regular producers, the CARP assisted and OTOP while the products are composed of furnishings, processed food, fashion accessories, shellcraft, novelty items and organic products.
Leyte compose 45 % of the regular exhibitors pie; Samar 16%; Easter Samar, 16%; Souther Leyte, 12%; Northern Samar, 9% and Biliran 2%.(PIA)
The Bahandi 2006 Eastern Visayas Regional Fair is a special annual event that showcases newly developed products and designs of the producers from all over the Region on the 20th to the 24th of September 2006 at the Megatrade Hall 3, Building B, 5th Level, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.
There are over 70 producers-exhibitors in this prestigious Trade Fair from the six provinces of Region 8, namely Leyte, Southern Leyte, Biliran, Samar, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar.
The product focus of the exhibition are abaca-based gifts, toys and housewares, sinamay rolls, raffia rolls, ladies handbags and other fashion accessories, Tikog mats and other fashion accessories, pandan-based gifts, toys and housewares, fossilized leaves, handmade paper products, holiday decors and furnishings, baskets and ceramics, processed food and native delicacies.
The word Bahandi means treasure and wealth among the Waray and Cebuano-speaking people of Eastern Visayas. It is the most appropriate word to describe the richness, diversity and abundance of indigenous materials found only in Region 8.
How these natural materials have been hand-crafted by the producers of the different provinces of the Region, and new designs of professional designers from the foreign designers, PDDCP, APFTI through the various product development activities conducted, are indeed treasures of artistic shapes and wealth of opportunities of profits for businessmen and exporters.
Organized by the Department of Trade Region 8 and the Bahandi Producers Association of Eastern Visayas with the support of the local government units, the exhibitors are divided into regular producers, the CARP assisted and OTOP while the products are composed of furnishings, processed food, fashion accessories, shellcraft, novelty items and organic products.
Leyte compose 45 % of the regular exhibitors pie; Samar 16%; Easter Samar, 16%; Souther Leyte, 12%; Northern Samar, 9% and Biliran 2%.(PIA)
Visayans urged to go franchising
Visayans who wish to go into business but are uncertain how to do it should consider franchising.
The best place to start looking for a good franchise is at the 7th Cebu Franchise Expo 2006 happening from Sep.15-17, 2006 at SM City Cebu Tradehall.
The expo is organized by RK Franchise Consultancy, bringing in over 200 business opportunities, together with the Filipino International Franchise Association (Fifa) which is an non-profit organization that helps franchisees who have problems with their franchisors.
“This expo is one way to bring franchise opportunities and franchise development services closer to the Visayas and Mindanao regions where franchising is ‘booming and growing’,” said Rudolf Kotik, president and chief operating officer of RK Franchise Consultancy.
This year’s Franchise Expo in Cebu is the largest exposition event organized by the company in the last seven years. About 70 companies from all over the country and even from abroad will be opening their businesses for franchising.
Entrepreneurs will be given the opportunity to start a business through franchise from a franchise cost of as low as P170,000 to as high as P18 million, Kotik said.
Franchising is the most successful business system in the world. It is simply a special type of licensing arrangement for the distribution of services and products.
Philippine Franchising Association (PFA) chairperson Alegria Limjoco said franchising if the easiest way to start a business as franchisees, or those who buy the license to operate and use an established business name, get the assurance that the system of operation the are implementing has been proven successful.
Jay Aldeguer, chairman of the Cebu Franchise Conference and Expo of the Cebu Business Month 2006, said franchising has become an essential tool to expand businesses.
Last year’s Franchise Expo in Cebu held in Ayala Center, sold about 75 franchises. Franchising in the Philippines accounts for 15 percent of the total retail sales, there are over 100,000 franchise businesses operating nationwide.
From 2002 to 2003, the franchise business in the Philippines is dominated by local companies which account for 56 percent of the total number of franchisors, while 44 percent are foreign companies offering franchise to Filipino entrepreneurs. (PIA)
The best place to start looking for a good franchise is at the 7th Cebu Franchise Expo 2006 happening from Sep.15-17, 2006 at SM City Cebu Tradehall.
The expo is organized by RK Franchise Consultancy, bringing in over 200 business opportunities, together with the Filipino International Franchise Association (Fifa) which is an non-profit organization that helps franchisees who have problems with their franchisors.
“This expo is one way to bring franchise opportunities and franchise development services closer to the Visayas and Mindanao regions where franchising is ‘booming and growing’,” said Rudolf Kotik, president and chief operating officer of RK Franchise Consultancy.
This year’s Franchise Expo in Cebu is the largest exposition event organized by the company in the last seven years. About 70 companies from all over the country and even from abroad will be opening their businesses for franchising.
Entrepreneurs will be given the opportunity to start a business through franchise from a franchise cost of as low as P170,000 to as high as P18 million, Kotik said.
Franchising is the most successful business system in the world. It is simply a special type of licensing arrangement for the distribution of services and products.
Philippine Franchising Association (PFA) chairperson Alegria Limjoco said franchising if the easiest way to start a business as franchisees, or those who buy the license to operate and use an established business name, get the assurance that the system of operation the are implementing has been proven successful.
Jay Aldeguer, chairman of the Cebu Franchise Conference and Expo of the Cebu Business Month 2006, said franchising has become an essential tool to expand businesses.
Last year’s Franchise Expo in Cebu held in Ayala Center, sold about 75 franchises. Franchising in the Philippines accounts for 15 percent of the total retail sales, there are over 100,000 franchise businesses operating nationwide.
From 2002 to 2003, the franchise business in the Philippines is dominated by local companies which account for 56 percent of the total number of franchisors, while 44 percent are foreign companies offering franchise to Filipino entrepreneurs. (PIA)
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Negros hotels comply with new DOT memorandum
Hotels in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental are complying with the recent memorandum of the Department of Tourism for the adoption of safety and security measures in their establishments, Augusto Sison, president of the Hotel and Restaurants Associations in Negros Occidental announced.
Sison, who received a copy of the Memorandum Circular 2006-09, said it is a reiteration of earlier directives on instituting measures to ensure safe, convenient and enjoyable stay and travel of tourists.
It's nothing new, he said, as what are stated in the guidelines are already being implemented by hotels. "We always comply. But if there's anything new, we are happy to implement it, for it would also improve our service," he said.
Hotels, resorts and similar establishments are directed to submit within 60 days a written report of compliance, after which the DOT will conduct an on-the-spot inspection.
The directive, issued by Secretary Joseph Durano on August 23, requires registration of guests' visitors and joiners and proper accomplishment and verification of guest booking/information sheets; recording of information on vehicles; establishment of efficient ID system for all personnel; and proper selection of manpower and security personnel.
Hotels, resorts and similar establishments are directed to organize their respective Crisis Management Teams and provide security spotters and detail perimeter roving guards.
Hotel managers and/or security officers are asked to undergo annual training program on security and emergency procedures in coordination with the Association of Hotel Security Officers of the Philippines Inc. or any concerned government agency.
Establishments are required to provide their public areas with an electronic surveillance system manned by a security officer and high-rise hotels, by electronic access control device.
DOT said that linkages with local police, hospitals and other concerned agencies should be institutionalized to be able to respond to emergency situations.
The directive also said that failure to comply will be a valid ground for reviewing the accreditation of the establishment. (VDS)
Sison, who received a copy of the Memorandum Circular 2006-09, said it is a reiteration of earlier directives on instituting measures to ensure safe, convenient and enjoyable stay and travel of tourists.
It's nothing new, he said, as what are stated in the guidelines are already being implemented by hotels. "We always comply. But if there's anything new, we are happy to implement it, for it would also improve our service," he said.
Hotels, resorts and similar establishments are directed to submit within 60 days a written report of compliance, after which the DOT will conduct an on-the-spot inspection.
The directive, issued by Secretary Joseph Durano on August 23, requires registration of guests' visitors and joiners and proper accomplishment and verification of guest booking/information sheets; recording of information on vehicles; establishment of efficient ID system for all personnel; and proper selection of manpower and security personnel.
Hotels, resorts and similar establishments are directed to organize their respective Crisis Management Teams and provide security spotters and detail perimeter roving guards.
Hotel managers and/or security officers are asked to undergo annual training program on security and emergency procedures in coordination with the Association of Hotel Security Officers of the Philippines Inc. or any concerned government agency.
Establishments are required to provide their public areas with an electronic surveillance system manned by a security officer and high-rise hotels, by electronic access control device.
DOT said that linkages with local police, hospitals and other concerned agencies should be institutionalized to be able to respond to emergency situations.
The directive also said that failure to comply will be a valid ground for reviewing the accreditation of the establishment. (VDS)
Friday, September 15, 2006
PeopleSupport expands operation in provinces
An executive of a business process outsourcing (BPO) provider is optimistic of the bullish industry in the country and is now expanding operation in the provinces to sustain its increasing manpower requirements.
PeopleSupport Philippines president and vice president for Global Operations Bong Borja in a press conference after the launching and opening of its Davao office at Luisa Avenue Square in Jacinto Extension said there is rapid growth in the industry.
The five-year old industry in the Philippines already has employed 179,000 call center agents or about 200,000 workers involved in the entire BPO industry, he said. Borja is also the chairman of Business Processing Association of the Philippines.
The BPO industry, he said has several services and this includes the call center, back office, medical transcription, legal transcription, animation, software development and engineering design.
And by 2010, about half a million will be employed in different services of the industry.
As a leading BPO provider PeopleSupport, Inc. (NASDAQ: PSPT) offers customer management, transcription captioning, accounts receivable management and other related services.
The PeopleSupport, he said, has put in few million US dollars as investments for its recruitment and training center in Davao City.
"Our moving in to the south speaks strongly of our firm intention in Davao City," he said.
He said they decided to set up permanent recruitment center here to also study the flow of applicants.
He said there are a lot of good schools in Davao and the neighboring provinces where there are a lot of potentials.
Out of the weekly processing of application and interviews of 3,000 to 4,000 about 300 are hired with 70 to 80 slots for those recruited in Davao.
The successful applicants from Davao will be assigned to the Company's facilities in either Cebu or Manila with relocation packages made available to help in the smooth transition of the young executives.
Generally Borja said hiring rate of these type of workers range from P10,000 to P16,000 plus other benefits.
He also said that the training center will be for their recruits although he said that they might expand in the future by opening a language school.
Looking at the current absorption rate of those who applied at ten percent, Borja said there has been an improvement saying that it started as low as one percent then move up to five and has regularly been improving.
He said the government support has slowly paying off where the private sector had a continuing partnership with the Commission of High Education in improving on its language curriculum.
One reason that was cited why only a ten percent absorption rate of applicants was the lack of proficiency in the English language even as Borja said that PeopleSupport is willing to help enhance their skills. (PIA)
PeopleSupport Philippines president and vice president for Global Operations Bong Borja in a press conference after the launching and opening of its Davao office at Luisa Avenue Square in Jacinto Extension said there is rapid growth in the industry.
The five-year old industry in the Philippines already has employed 179,000 call center agents or about 200,000 workers involved in the entire BPO industry, he said. Borja is also the chairman of Business Processing Association of the Philippines.
The BPO industry, he said has several services and this includes the call center, back office, medical transcription, legal transcription, animation, software development and engineering design.
And by 2010, about half a million will be employed in different services of the industry.
As a leading BPO provider PeopleSupport, Inc. (NASDAQ: PSPT) offers customer management, transcription captioning, accounts receivable management and other related services.
The PeopleSupport, he said, has put in few million US dollars as investments for its recruitment and training center in Davao City.
"Our moving in to the south speaks strongly of our firm intention in Davao City," he said.
He said they decided to set up permanent recruitment center here to also study the flow of applicants.
He said there are a lot of good schools in Davao and the neighboring provinces where there are a lot of potentials.
Out of the weekly processing of application and interviews of 3,000 to 4,000 about 300 are hired with 70 to 80 slots for those recruited in Davao.
The successful applicants from Davao will be assigned to the Company's facilities in either Cebu or Manila with relocation packages made available to help in the smooth transition of the young executives.
Generally Borja said hiring rate of these type of workers range from P10,000 to P16,000 plus other benefits.
He also said that the training center will be for their recruits although he said that they might expand in the future by opening a language school.
Looking at the current absorption rate of those who applied at ten percent, Borja said there has been an improvement saying that it started as low as one percent then move up to five and has regularly been improving.
He said the government support has slowly paying off where the private sector had a continuing partnership with the Commission of High Education in improving on its language curriculum.
One reason that was cited why only a ten percent absorption rate of applicants was the lack of proficiency in the English language even as Borja said that PeopleSupport is willing to help enhance their skills. (PIA)
CITE calibration laboratory in Cebu City meets ISO standards
Electrical and electronics companies and manufacturing firms in the Visayas and Mindanao may now find relief from issues related to meeting calibration standards of the global market.
The Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE) Electrical Standards and Testing Laboratory or CITE Calibration Laboratory has been validated to conform the requirements of the Philippine National Standard/ International Standard Organization/ International Electrotechnical Committee (PNS ISO/IEC) 17025:2000.
The Philippine Accreditation Office (PAO) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued the certificate of accreditation to CITE Electrical Standards and Testing Laboratory on August 22 at CITE.
DTI Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya handed in the certificate of accreditation to CITE president Pedro Dimaculangan in a simple ceremony attended by Rene Burt Llanto, Department of Science and Technology-7 director; John Manzanas, National Program Manager of Private Enterprise Accelerated Resource Linkages (Pearl2) Project, Jens Funk of Deutcher Entwicklungsdienst (DED-Philippines); and members of the CITE board of trustees, management, and staff.
PAO evaluated the laboratory's capabilities, in both management and technical aspects, based on international standards through a rigorous laboratory accreditation scheme.
CITE calibration laboratory was found to have complied with internationally accepted standards of quality, performance, technical expertise and competence.
CITE calibration laboratory, which is located in San Jose, Cebu City, has been servicing industry partner companies by providing them with a wide gamut of top-quality calibration services and fast turn-around time.
Its management and staff have ensured that all activities are conducted in accordance with the company procedures and in compliance with the requirements of PNS ISO/IEC 17025:2000.
Having established on June 6, 2003, as partner of DOST-7 to expand the capability of its Regional Standard and Testing Center, CITE calibration laboratory received financial and technical support from Consuelo Foundation Inc., TESDA, Pearl2, and DED. (PIA)
The Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE) Electrical Standards and Testing Laboratory or CITE Calibration Laboratory has been validated to conform the requirements of the Philippine National Standard/ International Standard Organization/ International Electrotechnical Committee (PNS ISO/IEC) 17025:2000.
The Philippine Accreditation Office (PAO) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued the certificate of accreditation to CITE Electrical Standards and Testing Laboratory on August 22 at CITE.
DTI Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya handed in the certificate of accreditation to CITE president Pedro Dimaculangan in a simple ceremony attended by Rene Burt Llanto, Department of Science and Technology-7 director; John Manzanas, National Program Manager of Private Enterprise Accelerated Resource Linkages (Pearl2) Project, Jens Funk of Deutcher Entwicklungsdienst (DED-Philippines); and members of the CITE board of trustees, management, and staff.
PAO evaluated the laboratory's capabilities, in both management and technical aspects, based on international standards through a rigorous laboratory accreditation scheme.
CITE calibration laboratory was found to have complied with internationally accepted standards of quality, performance, technical expertise and competence.
CITE calibration laboratory, which is located in San Jose, Cebu City, has been servicing industry partner companies by providing them with a wide gamut of top-quality calibration services and fast turn-around time.
Its management and staff have ensured that all activities are conducted in accordance with the company procedures and in compliance with the requirements of PNS ISO/IEC 17025:2000.
Having established on June 6, 2003, as partner of DOST-7 to expand the capability of its Regional Standard and Testing Center, CITE calibration laboratory received financial and technical support from Consuelo Foundation Inc., TESDA, Pearl2, and DED. (PIA)
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Capiz SME center gets PACAP grant
The P2.2-million grant for Capiz SME Center has been approved by the Philippine-Australian Community Assistance Program (PACAP) under the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
A project of the Provincial Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council (PSMEDC), the Center was conceived to provide efficient, effective and quality service/assistance to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and other target groups in order to spur the economic growth and development of Capiz.
The SMEDC is composed of various stakeholders in the SMEs sector led by the provincial government, Capiz Multi-Purpose Cooperative and DTI.
The funding grant for the Center was approved by PACAP along with those of six other SME projects in the province worth P12 million.
The DTI provincial office said the Center will initiate and implement programs and projects that would improve the managerial competence of entrepreneurs, ensure product sustainability, and provide relevant and timely market information needed for business decisions.
It will supervise and coordinate the activities of other PACAP grant recipients, as well as ensure that PACAP policies and guidelines are properly observed while individual SME/NGO goals and objectives are realized.
The SMEDC, provincial government of Capiz and DTI provincial office have made a commitment to support the Center.
SMEs make up one of the priority thrusts of the government and have contributed in the making the economy buoyant and on the upward trend as indicated by current developments in the economic front. (PNA)
A project of the Provincial Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council (PSMEDC), the Center was conceived to provide efficient, effective and quality service/assistance to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and other target groups in order to spur the economic growth and development of Capiz.
The SMEDC is composed of various stakeholders in the SMEs sector led by the provincial government, Capiz Multi-Purpose Cooperative and DTI.
The funding grant for the Center was approved by PACAP along with those of six other SME projects in the province worth P12 million.
The DTI provincial office said the Center will initiate and implement programs and projects that would improve the managerial competence of entrepreneurs, ensure product sustainability, and provide relevant and timely market information needed for business decisions.
It will supervise and coordinate the activities of other PACAP grant recipients, as well as ensure that PACAP policies and guidelines are properly observed while individual SME/NGO goals and objectives are realized.
The SMEDC, provincial government of Capiz and DTI provincial office have made a commitment to support the Center.
SMEs make up one of the priority thrusts of the government and have contributed in the making the economy buoyant and on the upward trend as indicated by current developments in the economic front. (PNA)
AIPO heads to ink joint statement
The Asean Inter-Parliamentary Organization (AIPO) 27th General Assembly concludes Thursday in Cebu with the signing of a Joint Communiqué by the heads of eight member-delegations embodying the new initiatives and changes approved during Speaker Jose de Venecia’s presidency of the body.
The drafting committee started work on the joint communiqué after some 300 delegates in four major committees discussed and approved resolutions and proposals relevant, among other things, to fighting terrorism through interfaith dialogues, expanding trade and investment opportunities in the region, and transforming AIPO into an Assembly to align it to the objective of building a caring and sharing community in Southeast Asia.
The Assembly was held following an unprecedented agreement by the ASEAN and AIPO to hold regular yearly consultations.
The agreement, the first in 27 years, was reached in June when de Venecia flew to Kuala Lumpur on invitation of Foreign Minister Albar of Malaysia to brief the ASEAN Standing Committee on the current programs and initiatives being undertaken by the AIPO.
In his opening speech, de Venecia noted the growing linkage between the two organizations and said both AIPO, the legislative pillar, and the ASEAN, the executive edifice, “achieved major breakthroughs” in 2006 in the effort to bring the region united politically, economically and culturally.
On the final day of the five-day assembly, Deputy Speaker Raul del Mar (1st District, Cebu City) will preside at the closing ceremonies for Speaker de Venecia, the outgoing AIPO president.
De Venecia left Cebu City Wednesday morning to fulfill a commitment to attend the Non-Aligned Movement conference in Havana, Cuba where he is scheduled to speak on September 16.
De Venecia and del Mar observed that the AIPO General Assembly attained its major objectives and the more than 300 delegates from regular member-parliaments took part in extensive committee discussions on the substantive issues. (PNA)
“We have had fruitful and substantive discussions on many vital issues raised by the different delegations. We have had an excellent assembly,” de Venecia and del Mar said.
Del Mar will also deliver the closing remarks after which he will turn over the AIPO gavel to the delegation head of the incoming host country, Malaysia.
Rep. Antonio Cuenco, chairman of the Organizing Committee of the host Philippine House of Representatives, said the joint communiqué was being finalized and refined Wednesday by a committee appointed to draft it.
The communiqué is scheduled to be signed at 5 p.m. Thursday at the conference closing, before delegates will be treated to a final night of Cebuano hospitality that del Mar promises “will be quite warm and memorable to all delegates.”
The Assembly on Wednesday approved at the committee level agreements to combat terrorisms through interfaith dialogues, engage in the production of bio-fuels, and transform AIPO into a body closely integrated with its mother-organization, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Among the other resolutions approved included building energy security, strengthening regional cooperation in fighting cyber-terrorism, and transforming the AIPO into the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly to prepare it for the ASEAN vision of a community in Southeast Asia. After three days, the delegates took a breather Wednesday either playing golf or taking sight-seeing trips in this historic Queen City of the South.
The drafting committee started work on the joint communiqué after some 300 delegates in four major committees discussed and approved resolutions and proposals relevant, among other things, to fighting terrorism through interfaith dialogues, expanding trade and investment opportunities in the region, and transforming AIPO into an Assembly to align it to the objective of building a caring and sharing community in Southeast Asia.
The Assembly was held following an unprecedented agreement by the ASEAN and AIPO to hold regular yearly consultations.
The agreement, the first in 27 years, was reached in June when de Venecia flew to Kuala Lumpur on invitation of Foreign Minister Albar of Malaysia to brief the ASEAN Standing Committee on the current programs and initiatives being undertaken by the AIPO.
In his opening speech, de Venecia noted the growing linkage between the two organizations and said both AIPO, the legislative pillar, and the ASEAN, the executive edifice, “achieved major breakthroughs” in 2006 in the effort to bring the region united politically, economically and culturally.
On the final day of the five-day assembly, Deputy Speaker Raul del Mar (1st District, Cebu City) will preside at the closing ceremonies for Speaker de Venecia, the outgoing AIPO president.
De Venecia left Cebu City Wednesday morning to fulfill a commitment to attend the Non-Aligned Movement conference in Havana, Cuba where he is scheduled to speak on September 16.
De Venecia and del Mar observed that the AIPO General Assembly attained its major objectives and the more than 300 delegates from regular member-parliaments took part in extensive committee discussions on the substantive issues. (PNA)
“We have had fruitful and substantive discussions on many vital issues raised by the different delegations. We have had an excellent assembly,” de Venecia and del Mar said.
Del Mar will also deliver the closing remarks after which he will turn over the AIPO gavel to the delegation head of the incoming host country, Malaysia.
Rep. Antonio Cuenco, chairman of the Organizing Committee of the host Philippine House of Representatives, said the joint communiqué was being finalized and refined Wednesday by a committee appointed to draft it.
The communiqué is scheduled to be signed at 5 p.m. Thursday at the conference closing, before delegates will be treated to a final night of Cebuano hospitality that del Mar promises “will be quite warm and memorable to all delegates.”
The Assembly on Wednesday approved at the committee level agreements to combat terrorisms through interfaith dialogues, engage in the production of bio-fuels, and transform AIPO into a body closely integrated with its mother-organization, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Among the other resolutions approved included building energy security, strengthening regional cooperation in fighting cyber-terrorism, and transforming the AIPO into the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly to prepare it for the ASEAN vision of a community in Southeast Asia. After three days, the delegates took a breather Wednesday either playing golf or taking sight-seeing trips in this historic Queen City of the South.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Samar sets mussel congress
The Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) Samar Provincial Office in its effort to intensify the promotion of mussels to local and foreign markets and to address the problems of the mussel industry has proposed a Mussel Congress sometime next month.
The congress plans to assemble those directly and indirectly involved in the mussel industry to include small mussel farmers so that they can discuss ways to have a more focused and synchronized activities for the development of the mussel industry.
Another objective eyed by DTI and partners is to organize the Samar Provincial Mussel Industry Association.
In a talk with DTI Provincial Director Ruth Thelma Samonte, the lady executive told PIA that the mussel industry is one of the productive sub-sectors in the Samar fishing industry and provides an ample source of livelihood opportunities of Samar. It is also considered the second biggest mussel producer in the country next to Cavite.
With the big potential of this industry in generating income and employment in Samar, mussel industry was enrolled as the Provincial One-Town-One Product (OTOP) and eventually chosen as the region’s Model OTOP. This was intensified with the establishment of a processing plant in Jiabong, Samar, Samonte explained.
In the proposal submitted to DTI Regional Office 8, the rationale stated that the mussel industry is one of the productive sub-sectors in the fishing industry, currently contributing to the Philippine Fisheries production and estimated production volume of P220,000 MT at P800 M at a very conservative estimate.
Fish and other marine products provide about 50%-75% of the protein requirements for Filipinos. The aqua culture sector contributed about 35% of the various fisheries products produced in the Philippines and the mussel industry contributed 1 to 2% of the total aqua culture production.
The mussel industry can provide ample source of livelihood opportunities for the people of Samar.
Based on the latest industry figures, mussel culture provide a projected gross and income of about P14 M based on an annual projected mussel production capacity of nearly 4,700 MT.
At present, there are about 320 households directly engaged in mussel farming in the municipalities of Jiabong, Villareal, Tarangnan, Catbalogan and Daram.
The existing markets for fresh mussels are Manila, Cebu, Bicol, Davao, Cagayan de Oro and other parts of Mindanao, the proposal further stated. (PIA)
The congress plans to assemble those directly and indirectly involved in the mussel industry to include small mussel farmers so that they can discuss ways to have a more focused and synchronized activities for the development of the mussel industry.
Another objective eyed by DTI and partners is to organize the Samar Provincial Mussel Industry Association.
In a talk with DTI Provincial Director Ruth Thelma Samonte, the lady executive told PIA that the mussel industry is one of the productive sub-sectors in the Samar fishing industry and provides an ample source of livelihood opportunities of Samar. It is also considered the second biggest mussel producer in the country next to Cavite.
With the big potential of this industry in generating income and employment in Samar, mussel industry was enrolled as the Provincial One-Town-One Product (OTOP) and eventually chosen as the region’s Model OTOP. This was intensified with the establishment of a processing plant in Jiabong, Samar, Samonte explained.
In the proposal submitted to DTI Regional Office 8, the rationale stated that the mussel industry is one of the productive sub-sectors in the fishing industry, currently contributing to the Philippine Fisheries production and estimated production volume of P220,000 MT at P800 M at a very conservative estimate.
Fish and other marine products provide about 50%-75% of the protein requirements for Filipinos. The aqua culture sector contributed about 35% of the various fisheries products produced in the Philippines and the mussel industry contributed 1 to 2% of the total aqua culture production.
The mussel industry can provide ample source of livelihood opportunities for the people of Samar.
Based on the latest industry figures, mussel culture provide a projected gross and income of about P14 M based on an annual projected mussel production capacity of nearly 4,700 MT.
At present, there are about 320 households directly engaged in mussel farming in the municipalities of Jiabong, Villareal, Tarangnan, Catbalogan and Daram.
The existing markets for fresh mussels are Manila, Cebu, Bicol, Davao, Cagayan de Oro and other parts of Mindanao, the proposal further stated. (PIA)
Japan opens door to Philippines' agricultural products, nurses and caregivers
The historic signing of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) barely two hours after her arrival at Helsinki shows that President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is losing no time in moving the country towards growing strength in an integrated East Asian economy.
The signing of the agreement between President Arroyo and Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi opened the doors for the Philippine's agricultural products as well as opportunities for Filipino nurses and caregivers.
This development is a big boost and a welcome news not only for the Filipino investors but also to Filipino nurses and caregivers who now have an addition to their choices on where to work and gain employment.
During her bilateral meetings with the Japanese, Finnish and Singaporean leaders, President Arroyo pushed for greater cooperation and understanding between the Philippines and the countries of Japan, Finland and Singapore, respectively.
This is a good indication that the world is taking notice of the countries developments in all fronts, social reform and security.
For one, the political noise has been noticeably abated and economic and fiscal gains are shining through as the country has already weathered the worst political turmoil. The upward trend of all the economic indicators, is a tangible proof that the country is on the right track.
Every Filipino including the opposition can help the country by responsibly fiscalizing the Administration agenda and by helping strengthen good governance in all fronts, instead of engaging in a perpetual propaganda campaign and smear tactics.
Even as President Arroyo is doing all she could in order that the country will gain the respect and confidence of the international community, her continuous call for national unity, teamwork and reconciliation is in earnest.
All hands are welcomed to help the people and the government push this country towards a growing strength in an integrated East Asian economy. (PIA)
The signing of the agreement between President Arroyo and Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi opened the doors for the Philippine's agricultural products as well as opportunities for Filipino nurses and caregivers.
This development is a big boost and a welcome news not only for the Filipino investors but also to Filipino nurses and caregivers who now have an addition to their choices on where to work and gain employment.
During her bilateral meetings with the Japanese, Finnish and Singaporean leaders, President Arroyo pushed for greater cooperation and understanding between the Philippines and the countries of Japan, Finland and Singapore, respectively.
This is a good indication that the world is taking notice of the countries developments in all fronts, social reform and security.
For one, the political noise has been noticeably abated and economic and fiscal gains are shining through as the country has already weathered the worst political turmoil. The upward trend of all the economic indicators, is a tangible proof that the country is on the right track.
Every Filipino including the opposition can help the country by responsibly fiscalizing the Administration agenda and by helping strengthen good governance in all fronts, instead of engaging in a perpetual propaganda campaign and smear tactics.
Even as President Arroyo is doing all she could in order that the country will gain the respect and confidence of the international community, her continuous call for national unity, teamwork and reconciliation is in earnest.
All hands are welcomed to help the people and the government push this country towards a growing strength in an integrated East Asian economy. (PIA)
RP's first constructed wetland brings clean water to fisher folk in Bayawan
Polluted ground water will not be a problem for fisher folks in a resettlement village in Bayawan City with the construction of the first LGU-managed artificial wetland in the country.
Bayawan City holds the distinction of being the first local government unit in the country to construct and manage an artificial wetland that will rid domestic water of organic and toxic pollutants.
The Wastewater Treatment Plant is intended for the fishermen and their families living in the Gawad Kalinga Housing Project in Barangay Villareal, Bayawan City.
There are 700 households in the housing project known as Fishermen's Village.
During the inauguration and turnover ceremony of the project, Bayawan City Mayor German P. Sarana, Jr. noted that water pollution is one of the biggest problems in the country which resulted to the deaths of many Filipinos.
He hopes that the project will be replicated in other local government units in the province.
Saraña's sentiment was echoed by Hon. Austere A. Panadero, Assistant Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, who said that the country is wracked by a liquid waste problem yet only few recognize it.
He said that there are only a few liquid treatment facilities in the country as it is very costly.
He lauded Governor George P. Arnaiz for the province's innovative projects especially in the agricultural and health sectors. "If you want a solution to your problem, go to the smart province, Negros Oriental," he quips.
Gov. Arnaiz in his message also urged other local chief executives in the province to acquire their own wetlands similar to that of Bayawan.
He congratulated the Bayawan local government unit and challenged the fishermen beneficiaries of the project to help maintain its cleanliness and safety as well.
The Bayawan city government poured in P10M for the project, which broke ground in June 2005, with the technical assistance provided by the German Technical Cooperation Agency (GTZ).
The constructed wetland covers an area approximately 3,000 square meters.
Andreas Kanzler, Country Director of the German Technical Cooperation Agency (GTZ) described the wetlands as a perfect solution to treat the sewage ofa small community since it is cost effective, easy to maintain and very efficient in the cleaning process.
Director Kanzler said that the technology of constructed wetlands proved to be very successful and reliable in several countries in Asia. "This technology can address the very serious situation of contamination of the water bodies by untreated waste water in many regions in the Philippines," he said. (PIA)
Bayawan City holds the distinction of being the first local government unit in the country to construct and manage an artificial wetland that will rid domestic water of organic and toxic pollutants.
The Wastewater Treatment Plant is intended for the fishermen and their families living in the Gawad Kalinga Housing Project in Barangay Villareal, Bayawan City.
There are 700 households in the housing project known as Fishermen's Village.
During the inauguration and turnover ceremony of the project, Bayawan City Mayor German P. Sarana, Jr. noted that water pollution is one of the biggest problems in the country which resulted to the deaths of many Filipinos.
He hopes that the project will be replicated in other local government units in the province.
Saraña's sentiment was echoed by Hon. Austere A. Panadero, Assistant Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, who said that the country is wracked by a liquid waste problem yet only few recognize it.
He said that there are only a few liquid treatment facilities in the country as it is very costly.
He lauded Governor George P. Arnaiz for the province's innovative projects especially in the agricultural and health sectors. "If you want a solution to your problem, go to the smart province, Negros Oriental," he quips.
Gov. Arnaiz in his message also urged other local chief executives in the province to acquire their own wetlands similar to that of Bayawan.
He congratulated the Bayawan local government unit and challenged the fishermen beneficiaries of the project to help maintain its cleanliness and safety as well.
The Bayawan city government poured in P10M for the project, which broke ground in June 2005, with the technical assistance provided by the German Technical Cooperation Agency (GTZ).
The constructed wetland covers an area approximately 3,000 square meters.
Andreas Kanzler, Country Director of the German Technical Cooperation Agency (GTZ) described the wetlands as a perfect solution to treat the sewage ofa small community since it is cost effective, easy to maintain and very efficient in the cleaning process.
Director Kanzler said that the technology of constructed wetlands proved to be very successful and reliable in several countries in Asia. "This technology can address the very serious situation of contamination of the water bodies by untreated waste water in many regions in the Philippines," he said. (PIA)
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Nokia CEO calls on PGMA, confirms RP tag as Text Capital of the World
No less than the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Finland-based Nokia Corporation, the world’s largest manufacturer of mobile communications devices, recognized the Philippines’ lofty tag as the "Text Capital of the World" when he called on President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at the Radisson SAS Plaza Hotel.
Nokia Chairman Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo informed the President of his elation over the company’s successful venture in the country and vowed to give the Philippines a visit by attending a scheduled Information Technology (IT) convention in Cebu City.
While he was happy that the Philippines fully supports Nokia products, he felt concerned that it was also one of the big reasons for the country’s present imbalance of trade with Finland.
Kallasvuo suggested that he will explore the possibility of Finland getting parts manufactured in the Philippines to help correct the trade imbalance.
He then showed the President the fourth generation of phones or 4G devices that Nokia is manufacturing.
Owners of these kind of phones can now watch television programs from their units, according to Kallasvuo.
After watching the morning news on the 4G phone during the demonstration, the President briefed Kallasvuo about the Philippines’ cyber corridor, where the Nokia official expressed interest in.
For the past several years, Nokia has also been working together with the Ayala Foundation, Globe Telecom, Philippine Multimedia System Inc. (PMSI), SEAMO Innotech, and Chikka Asia Inc. for its Bridge it Program.
Locally called Text2teach, the program is designed to reach undeserved youth in their communities through an educational system using digital communications.
Teachers are trained to use this system to create classroom experiences with the help of digital technologies to deliver educational content.
Selected videos are downloaded via satellite to a digital video recorder connected to a television set in the classroom.
A library of over 100 Knowledge Box and 270 locally produced Science, Math and English videos, together with 480 lesson plans to support the video packages, can be accessed by the teacher. (gov.ph)
Nokia Chairman Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo informed the President of his elation over the company’s successful venture in the country and vowed to give the Philippines a visit by attending a scheduled Information Technology (IT) convention in Cebu City.
While he was happy that the Philippines fully supports Nokia products, he felt concerned that it was also one of the big reasons for the country’s present imbalance of trade with Finland.
Kallasvuo suggested that he will explore the possibility of Finland getting parts manufactured in the Philippines to help correct the trade imbalance.
He then showed the President the fourth generation of phones or 4G devices that Nokia is manufacturing.
Owners of these kind of phones can now watch television programs from their units, according to Kallasvuo.
After watching the morning news on the 4G phone during the demonstration, the President briefed Kallasvuo about the Philippines’ cyber corridor, where the Nokia official expressed interest in.
For the past several years, Nokia has also been working together with the Ayala Foundation, Globe Telecom, Philippine Multimedia System Inc. (PMSI), SEAMO Innotech, and Chikka Asia Inc. for its Bridge it Program.
Locally called Text2teach, the program is designed to reach undeserved youth in their communities through an educational system using digital communications.
Teachers are trained to use this system to create classroom experiences with the help of digital technologies to deliver educational content.
Selected videos are downloaded via satellite to a digital video recorder connected to a television set in the classroom.
A library of over 100 Knowledge Box and 270 locally produced Science, Math and English videos, together with 480 lesson plans to support the video packages, can be accessed by the teacher. (gov.ph)
Vice president praises Cebu
Vice President Noli de Castro yesterday praised local leaders for their efforts to make Cebu safe and comfortable for the foreign guests who would be attending the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit in December.
In his welcome address during the opening of the ASEAN Inter-Parliament Organization held at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel, the vice president also invited the participants from different ASEAN member countries and observing countries to discover more about Cebu.
"I hope that you will have enough time in between sessions to discover the many aspects of the Filipino culture in Cebu. Cebu is likewise rich in history, as the place in the Philippines where the Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan first landed in 1521 and as a thriving center of commerce and trade even before western powers came to these islands," De Castro said.
With the hosting of Cebu of the ASEAN Summit, he said: "It is but fitting to recognize the efforts of the local leaders who will make sure that your stay in Cebu now and in the future will be truly memorable and comfortable."
He made special mention to Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña and the rest of the local chief executives of the other cities.
De Castro also recalled how the ASEAN prospered, from a loosely knit political grouping whose members have their own misunderstandings, to a 10-country association bound together in multi-dimensional ties where ideological differences no longer matter.
"As the ASEAN enters its fourth decade of existence, it must reinvent itself to be more relevant to our modern society," he said.
He also enumerated the achievements of the association like the establishment of the ASEAN Free Trade Area, the Vientiane Action Plan, Bali Concord II and other agreements and declarations.
But De Castro stressed that much work would still need to be done to realize the goal of ASEAN in "building a people-centered community of caring societies."
"As you, the region’s parliamentarians, spend the next few days to talk about serious issues like regional economic integration, terrorism, and transnational crimes, it is our fervent wish that you also consider ways of bringing the ASEAN closer to the people of the region," he stressed.(The Freeman)
In his welcome address during the opening of the ASEAN Inter-Parliament Organization held at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel, the vice president also invited the participants from different ASEAN member countries and observing countries to discover more about Cebu.
"I hope that you will have enough time in between sessions to discover the many aspects of the Filipino culture in Cebu. Cebu is likewise rich in history, as the place in the Philippines where the Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan first landed in 1521 and as a thriving center of commerce and trade even before western powers came to these islands," De Castro said.
With the hosting of Cebu of the ASEAN Summit, he said: "It is but fitting to recognize the efforts of the local leaders who will make sure that your stay in Cebu now and in the future will be truly memorable and comfortable."
He made special mention to Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña and the rest of the local chief executives of the other cities.
De Castro also recalled how the ASEAN prospered, from a loosely knit political grouping whose members have their own misunderstandings, to a 10-country association bound together in multi-dimensional ties where ideological differences no longer matter.
"As the ASEAN enters its fourth decade of existence, it must reinvent itself to be more relevant to our modern society," he said.
He also enumerated the achievements of the association like the establishment of the ASEAN Free Trade Area, the Vientiane Action Plan, Bali Concord II and other agreements and declarations.
But De Castro stressed that much work would still need to be done to realize the goal of ASEAN in "building a people-centered community of caring societies."
"As you, the region’s parliamentarians, spend the next few days to talk about serious issues like regional economic integration, terrorism, and transnational crimes, it is our fervent wish that you also consider ways of bringing the ASEAN closer to the people of the region," he stressed.(The Freeman)
Monday, September 11, 2006
The 27th General assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Organization opens in Cebu
Some 300 lawmakers and officials from all over Southeast Asia are in Cebu to participate in the 27th General Assembly of the Asean Inter-Parliamentary Organization (AIPO), a five-day event which kicked off on Monday at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel in Lahug, Cebu City.
The AIPO is one of two meetings that the Philippines, specifically Cebu., is hosting this year. The other one is the Asean Leaders’ Summit, which will be held in December.
“These two events are seen to further bolster the country’s image in the region and recognize the parliamentary leadership of House Speaker Jose de Venecia and the executive leadership of President Arroyo in tackling some important issues in Southeast Asia,” AIPO host chair Rep. Antonio Cuenco (Cebu City, south) said.
“The AIPO is not just a mere special gathering. It is a potent force in shaping the destiny of the region,” he added.
In a statement, AIPO president de Venecia said the gathering is also expected to strengthen sentiment for political unification in Asean, by launching the beginnings of an Asean parliament to legislate and confirm common action on world peace, anti-terrorism, poverty, environmental health, narcotic drug trade, cross-border crimes, human rights and social justice.
“This will take years. It took Europe some 100 years to realize the establishment of the European parliament. But we will begin talks this year,” Cuenco said.
The creation of an Asean parliament could also pave the way for having a common currency in Southeast Asia, he added.
Cuenco, who chairs the House foreign relations committee and heads the organizing committee of the AIPO assembly, said some of the achievements of the AIPO are the crafting of uniform laws, such as the death penalty, to crack drug trafficking among the Asean-member countries.
The AIPO general assembly carries the theme “Caring and Sharing for Asean Prosperity.” “This reflects the strong concern for economic growth and equity among neighbors in the region,” Cuenco said.
The Philippine delegation is composed of senior members of the House of Representatives. (PNA)
The AIPO is one of two meetings that the Philippines, specifically Cebu., is hosting this year. The other one is the Asean Leaders’ Summit, which will be held in December.
“These two events are seen to further bolster the country’s image in the region and recognize the parliamentary leadership of House Speaker Jose de Venecia and the executive leadership of President Arroyo in tackling some important issues in Southeast Asia,” AIPO host chair Rep. Antonio Cuenco (Cebu City, south) said.
“The AIPO is not just a mere special gathering. It is a potent force in shaping the destiny of the region,” he added.
In a statement, AIPO president de Venecia said the gathering is also expected to strengthen sentiment for political unification in Asean, by launching the beginnings of an Asean parliament to legislate and confirm common action on world peace, anti-terrorism, poverty, environmental health, narcotic drug trade, cross-border crimes, human rights and social justice.
“This will take years. It took Europe some 100 years to realize the establishment of the European parliament. But we will begin talks this year,” Cuenco said.
The creation of an Asean parliament could also pave the way for having a common currency in Southeast Asia, he added.
Cuenco, who chairs the House foreign relations committee and heads the organizing committee of the AIPO assembly, said some of the achievements of the AIPO are the crafting of uniform laws, such as the death penalty, to crack drug trafficking among the Asean-member countries.
The AIPO general assembly carries the theme “Caring and Sharing for Asean Prosperity.” “This reflects the strong concern for economic growth and equity among neighbors in the region,” Cuenco said.
The Philippine delegation is composed of senior members of the House of Representatives. (PNA)
Call center opens ICT job fair in Bohol
Keeping a low key approach following an International Labor Organization citation for job generation by Southeast Asia and the Pacific sub-regional office at a workshop in Manila, Bohol again sets an information communication technology (ICT) job fair this Thursday and Friday, September 14-15, at the Governor's Mansion Grounds.
Hiring is a Tampa, Florida based company called Sykes, a global leader in expert outsourcing and consulting solutions to Fortune 500 companies specifically into technology, finance, retail and consumer engineering outsourcing.
The Bohol job opening is also a feeler sort of activity to standardize the ICT industry here as well as spur local training to cope with the international standards so that workers and skills can be matched with the global demands.
The fair also opens up to ICT enabled Boholanos the chances to explore other communication and information related employment chances now made open in the global job demand fields.
Founded in 1977, the company has grown form its roots in North Carolina to ins main base in Tampa and into its satellite offices in five continents.
Skykes has also been in the country since 1997 and has been credited for some 7000 jobs in five call centers across the country.
Sykes, reportedly one of the best paying business process outsourcing companies in the country is looking for dynamic applicants willing to be trained, with a good working attitude, service oriented and has a good command of the English language.
American accent is an advantage, but it is not required, organizers said.
Sykes also promises attractive salary packages including an equally handsome benefit packages including meal allowances, overtime allowances, health bonus, medical insurance assistance, incomparable vacation and sick leave benefits, study assistance, hazard pay and still a good package of allowances.
Allowances also include account driven benefits inclusive of language, certification, technical, tenure, performance and incentive allowances with still a good drop-down menu for other benefits for Boholanos. The company also boasts of two Boholano top executives.
The Provincial Government of Bohol, Bohol Employment and Placement Office, Bohol Investment Promotion Center, Department of Trade and Industry Bohol Provincial Office sponsor the activity.
This development came amidst the buoyant outlook the country shares in affirmation and support for the country's general resolve to achieve sustained economic growth, to be competitive on the next decades. (PIA)
Hiring is a Tampa, Florida based company called Sykes, a global leader in expert outsourcing and consulting solutions to Fortune 500 companies specifically into technology, finance, retail and consumer engineering outsourcing.
The Bohol job opening is also a feeler sort of activity to standardize the ICT industry here as well as spur local training to cope with the international standards so that workers and skills can be matched with the global demands.
The fair also opens up to ICT enabled Boholanos the chances to explore other communication and information related employment chances now made open in the global job demand fields.
Founded in 1977, the company has grown form its roots in North Carolina to ins main base in Tampa and into its satellite offices in five continents.
Skykes has also been in the country since 1997 and has been credited for some 7000 jobs in five call centers across the country.
Sykes, reportedly one of the best paying business process outsourcing companies in the country is looking for dynamic applicants willing to be trained, with a good working attitude, service oriented and has a good command of the English language.
American accent is an advantage, but it is not required, organizers said.
Sykes also promises attractive salary packages including an equally handsome benefit packages including meal allowances, overtime allowances, health bonus, medical insurance assistance, incomparable vacation and sick leave benefits, study assistance, hazard pay and still a good package of allowances.
Allowances also include account driven benefits inclusive of language, certification, technical, tenure, performance and incentive allowances with still a good drop-down menu for other benefits for Boholanos. The company also boasts of two Boholano top executives.
The Provincial Government of Bohol, Bohol Employment and Placement Office, Bohol Investment Promotion Center, Department of Trade and Industry Bohol Provincial Office sponsor the activity.
This development came amidst the buoyant outlook the country shares in affirmation and support for the country's general resolve to achieve sustained economic growth, to be competitive on the next decades. (PIA)
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Cebu welcomes 300 lawmakers from Southeast Asia in AIPO gab
Cebu City is rolling out the welcome mat for some 300 parliamentarians and officials from all over Southeast Asia in the 27th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Organization (AIPO), which kicks off here on Sunday.
Philippine House Speaker Jose de Venecia, current AIPO president, leads nine speakers of parliament who have confirmed participation in the meeting that will tackle vital issues and the possible conversion of the body into the ASEAN Parliamentary Council as a prelude to an ASEAN Parliament.
The delegates have started arriving in this Queen City of the south from the AIPO member legislatures that include Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and the Philippines and the leaders of special observer countries of Myanmar and Brunei.
When De Venecia formally opens the assembly on Monday, the Philippines will be hosting the first of two premier meetings this year, one of the region’s top parliamentary leaders and the other the ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in December in Cebu City.
The two events are seen to further bolster the country’s image in the region and recognize the parliamentary leadership of De Venecia and the executive leadership of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in tackling some of Southeast Asia’s most important issues.
“The Philippines has the unprecedented honor of hosting two important regional meetings this year,” said De Venecia, who is AIPO president for the second time.
De Venecia is also former president of the Association of Asian Parliaments for Peace, and is chairman for an unprecedented third time of the Standing Committee of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), which is currently convening its fourth assembly in Seoul.
After De Venecia, eight other heads of parliament from Southeast Asia have confirmed their AIPO attendance. They are Samdech Heng Samrin of Cambodia, Suchon Chaleekure of Thailand, Tan Sri Dato Diraja Ramli Ngah Talib of Malaysia, Agung Laksono of Indonesia, Abdullah Tarmugi of Singapore, Thongsing Thammavong of Laos, Nguyen Phu Trong of Vietnam, and Senate President Manuel Villar of the Philippines.
The General Assembly carries the theme “Caring and Sharing for ASEAN prosperity,” reflecting a strong concern for economic growth and equity among neighbors in the region, says Rep. Antonio Cuenco, chairman of the House Foreign Relations Committee and head of the Organizing Committee for the 27th AIPO General Assembly.
Cuenco said “AIPO Cebu 2006” is also expected to strengthen sentiment for political unification among Asean nations by launching the beginnings of an Asean parliament to legislate and confirm common action on world peace, anti-terrorism, poverty, environmental health, narcotic drug trade, cross-border crimes, human rights and social justice.
AIPO dialogue partner-countries, such as Japan, Australia, Korea, New Zealand, the European Parliament, and the Russian Federation, will be sending their delegates.
The Philippine delegation is made up of senior members of the House of Representatives, namely, Deputy Speaker Raul del Mar, Representatives Roque Ablan, Robert Ace Barbers, Edgar Chatto, Simeon Kintanar, Ramon Durano VI, Clavel Martinez, Nerissa Soon-Ruiz, Antonio Yapha, Herminio Teves, Eduardo Zialcita, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Luis Villafuerte, Emmylou Talino-Santos, Iggy Arroyo, Mat Defensor, Vincent Garcia, Janette Garin, Eduardo Gullas, Josefina Joson, Milagros Magsaysay, Oscar Malapitan, Reylina Nicolas, Joey Salceda, Lorna Silverio and Akbayan party-list Rep. Loretta Ann Rosales. (PNA)
Philippine House Speaker Jose de Venecia, current AIPO president, leads nine speakers of parliament who have confirmed participation in the meeting that will tackle vital issues and the possible conversion of the body into the ASEAN Parliamentary Council as a prelude to an ASEAN Parliament.
The delegates have started arriving in this Queen City of the south from the AIPO member legislatures that include Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and the Philippines and the leaders of special observer countries of Myanmar and Brunei.
When De Venecia formally opens the assembly on Monday, the Philippines will be hosting the first of two premier meetings this year, one of the region’s top parliamentary leaders and the other the ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in December in Cebu City.
The two events are seen to further bolster the country’s image in the region and recognize the parliamentary leadership of De Venecia and the executive leadership of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in tackling some of Southeast Asia’s most important issues.
“The Philippines has the unprecedented honor of hosting two important regional meetings this year,” said De Venecia, who is AIPO president for the second time.
De Venecia is also former president of the Association of Asian Parliaments for Peace, and is chairman for an unprecedented third time of the Standing Committee of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), which is currently convening its fourth assembly in Seoul.
After De Venecia, eight other heads of parliament from Southeast Asia have confirmed their AIPO attendance. They are Samdech Heng Samrin of Cambodia, Suchon Chaleekure of Thailand, Tan Sri Dato Diraja Ramli Ngah Talib of Malaysia, Agung Laksono of Indonesia, Abdullah Tarmugi of Singapore, Thongsing Thammavong of Laos, Nguyen Phu Trong of Vietnam, and Senate President Manuel Villar of the Philippines.
The General Assembly carries the theme “Caring and Sharing for ASEAN prosperity,” reflecting a strong concern for economic growth and equity among neighbors in the region, says Rep. Antonio Cuenco, chairman of the House Foreign Relations Committee and head of the Organizing Committee for the 27th AIPO General Assembly.
Cuenco said “AIPO Cebu 2006” is also expected to strengthen sentiment for political unification among Asean nations by launching the beginnings of an Asean parliament to legislate and confirm common action on world peace, anti-terrorism, poverty, environmental health, narcotic drug trade, cross-border crimes, human rights and social justice.
AIPO dialogue partner-countries, such as Japan, Australia, Korea, New Zealand, the European Parliament, and the Russian Federation, will be sending their delegates.
The Philippine delegation is made up of senior members of the House of Representatives, namely, Deputy Speaker Raul del Mar, Representatives Roque Ablan, Robert Ace Barbers, Edgar Chatto, Simeon Kintanar, Ramon Durano VI, Clavel Martinez, Nerissa Soon-Ruiz, Antonio Yapha, Herminio Teves, Eduardo Zialcita, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Luis Villafuerte, Emmylou Talino-Santos, Iggy Arroyo, Mat Defensor, Vincent Garcia, Janette Garin, Eduardo Gullas, Josefina Joson, Milagros Magsaysay, Oscar Malapitan, Reylina Nicolas, Joey Salceda, Lorna Silverio and Akbayan party-list Rep. Loretta Ann Rosales. (PNA)
Capiz town to expand solar energy access in barangays
The municipal government of Tapaz plans to expand its photovoltaic battery charging or solar energy project to cover more households in the hinterland barangays of the municipality that could not be reached by the local electric cooperative system.
Solar energy is one of locally available alternative power sources that are being harnessed by the national government to lessen the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels whose prices have been continuously going up.
The government has been using oil to run power generating systems that supply electricity to homes and businesses.
The P3-million solar energy project in Tapaz is a joint project of the municipal government, Office of Capiz 2nd District Congressman Fredenil Castro, Department of Energy, Capiz Electric Cooperative, and Korean Electric Power Company.
It uses solar panels to run charging stations that supply electricity to upland homes at a minimum cost of P25.00 a month payable to the barangay power association.
Earlier, Mayor Romualdo Exmundo, Jr. has said that the photovoltaic battery charging project suits the needs of far-flung barangays in his municipality.
Already, some 400 households in 21 barangays have access to the project. The municipal government said they are keen on widening the coverage of the project so that it would benefit more households and barangays as part of the overall socio-economic development program of the municipality.
There are three major kinds of solar energy technologies, namely solar-thermal, solar power concentration and photovoltaics.
Solar-thermal devices use direct heat from the sun and focus it to produce heat to do everything from heating swimming pools to creating steam for electricity generation.
Plants that concentrate solar power produce electric power by converting sunlight into high temperatures heat using large mirrors, then channeling the heat through a conventional generator.
Photovoltaic technology is the fastest-growing solar technology. The word comes from photo, meaning light, and voltaic, meaning voltage producing. Sunlight, not heat, fuels photovoltaic cells. The cells, made mostly of the semiconductor silicon, convert sunlight directly into electricity. (gov.ph)
Solar energy is one of locally available alternative power sources that are being harnessed by the national government to lessen the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels whose prices have been continuously going up.
The government has been using oil to run power generating systems that supply electricity to homes and businesses.
The P3-million solar energy project in Tapaz is a joint project of the municipal government, Office of Capiz 2nd District Congressman Fredenil Castro, Department of Energy, Capiz Electric Cooperative, and Korean Electric Power Company.
It uses solar panels to run charging stations that supply electricity to upland homes at a minimum cost of P25.00 a month payable to the barangay power association.
Earlier, Mayor Romualdo Exmundo, Jr. has said that the photovoltaic battery charging project suits the needs of far-flung barangays in his municipality.
Already, some 400 households in 21 barangays have access to the project. The municipal government said they are keen on widening the coverage of the project so that it would benefit more households and barangays as part of the overall socio-economic development program of the municipality.
There are three major kinds of solar energy technologies, namely solar-thermal, solar power concentration and photovoltaics.
Solar-thermal devices use direct heat from the sun and focus it to produce heat to do everything from heating swimming pools to creating steam for electricity generation.
Plants that concentrate solar power produce electric power by converting sunlight into high temperatures heat using large mirrors, then channeling the heat through a conventional generator.
Photovoltaic technology is the fastest-growing solar technology. The word comes from photo, meaning light, and voltaic, meaning voltage producing. Sunlight, not heat, fuels photovoltaic cells. The cells, made mostly of the semiconductor silicon, convert sunlight directly into electricity. (gov.ph)
Saturday, September 09, 2006
More jobs from SMEs in Aklan
Even before the government’s call for the creation of some six to 10 million jobs for Filipinos by 2010 to eradicate poverty, Aklanons, through their Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have already made headway in this direction by employing some 13,506 provincemates.
These Aklanons now work for Aklan’s manufacturing, trading and service industries, which, as of June this year total 140, based on the data supplied by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here.
The manufacturing industry, composed of loomweaving, gifts and housewares, food processing, furniture and garden have the biggest number of workers at 12,353, followed by the service industry, 1,135 and trading, 18.
DTI gave this information during a series of Harmonization Workshops on Local SMED Plans spearheaded by DTI-Aklan, Provincial Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council of Aklan, Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprises Development and CIDA Pearl 2 wherein Aklan’s SME Situationer and Critical Issues and Concerns were presented.
DTI – Aklan Provincial Director Ermelinda Pollentes said Aklan was chosen as the pilot province for the SMED Harmonization Plan, workshop output of which was presented recently before Aklan’s provincial officials, DTI-6 and CIDA Pearl 2 officials and representatives.
Through Aklan’s strengthened SMEs, DTI aims to catapult Aklan as the country’s Piña and loomweaving capital, said Pollentes. (Panay News)
These Aklanons now work for Aklan’s manufacturing, trading and service industries, which, as of June this year total 140, based on the data supplied by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here.
The manufacturing industry, composed of loomweaving, gifts and housewares, food processing, furniture and garden have the biggest number of workers at 12,353, followed by the service industry, 1,135 and trading, 18.
DTI gave this information during a series of Harmonization Workshops on Local SMED Plans spearheaded by DTI-Aklan, Provincial Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council of Aklan, Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprises Development and CIDA Pearl 2 wherein Aklan’s SME Situationer and Critical Issues and Concerns were presented.
DTI – Aklan Provincial Director Ermelinda Pollentes said Aklan was chosen as the pilot province for the SMED Harmonization Plan, workshop output of which was presented recently before Aklan’s provincial officials, DTI-6 and CIDA Pearl 2 officials and representatives.
Through Aklan’s strengthened SMEs, DTI aims to catapult Aklan as the country’s Piña and loomweaving capital, said Pollentes. (Panay News)
Bohol excels in fund management
Bohol copped the 25th slot among 79 provinces in handling its finances for Fiscal Year 2005.
The Commission on Audit (COA) published the financial reports of the 79 provinces and 117 cities as well as those of the municipalities in the National Capital Region, Region 1, Cordillera Administrative Region and Region 2 in the Wednesday, Aug. 23 issue of The Philippine Star.
In Region 7, Cebu, Bohol and Oriental Negros are 1st Class provinces while Siquijor is a 4th Class province.
The balance sheet showed that Bohol has total assets of P1,228,853,000, total liabilities of P191,692,000 and total equity of P1,037,161,000. This means the province has a total income of P656,094,000 that clinched for it the 25th rank out of 79 provinces where total income is concerned.
Regionwide, Bohol ranks No. 3 income-wise.
Of this income, Bohol spent P492,267,000 claiming the 26th slot where expenses are concerned, making it the 3rd fastest spender in Region 7, next to Cebu and Oriental Negros, in that order.
After expenses, Bohol's net income stood at P163,827,000 landing it on the 18th of 79 provinces in handling its finances and second best after Cebu in the region ? landing a better mark than Oriental Negros this time.
All told, the percentage of Bohol's net income to its total income landed it the 25th slot. Cebu landed 16th, Oriental Negros 21st and Siquijor 27th.
Approximating Bohol's total income in Region 6 is Capiz with P514,746,000. However, it spent P425,239,000, hence it netted only P89,507,000 and landed 34/79. A 1st Class province, Capiz is 2/6 regionwide.
In Region 8, top-ranking Leyte topped Bohol at P839,241,000 in total income, but it spent P677,391,000 and netted P161,850,000 in the process. It landed 19/79 and 1st of 6 provinces regionwide.
Meanwhile, Tagbilaran, a 3rd Class city, had a total income of P279,549,000, the 6th of 12 cities in Region 7. It spent P247,697,000 or 76/117 and still 6/12 regionwide. As such, it netted P31,852,000 or 94/117 or 10/12 regionwide. Its net income is 11 percent of its total income. (BT)
The Commission on Audit (COA) published the financial reports of the 79 provinces and 117 cities as well as those of the municipalities in the National Capital Region, Region 1, Cordillera Administrative Region and Region 2 in the Wednesday, Aug. 23 issue of The Philippine Star.
In Region 7, Cebu, Bohol and Oriental Negros are 1st Class provinces while Siquijor is a 4th Class province.
The balance sheet showed that Bohol has total assets of P1,228,853,000, total liabilities of P191,692,000 and total equity of P1,037,161,000. This means the province has a total income of P656,094,000 that clinched for it the 25th rank out of 79 provinces where total income is concerned.
Regionwide, Bohol ranks No. 3 income-wise.
Of this income, Bohol spent P492,267,000 claiming the 26th slot where expenses are concerned, making it the 3rd fastest spender in Region 7, next to Cebu and Oriental Negros, in that order.
After expenses, Bohol's net income stood at P163,827,000 landing it on the 18th of 79 provinces in handling its finances and second best after Cebu in the region ? landing a better mark than Oriental Negros this time.
All told, the percentage of Bohol's net income to its total income landed it the 25th slot. Cebu landed 16th, Oriental Negros 21st and Siquijor 27th.
Approximating Bohol's total income in Region 6 is Capiz with P514,746,000. However, it spent P425,239,000, hence it netted only P89,507,000 and landed 34/79. A 1st Class province, Capiz is 2/6 regionwide.
In Region 8, top-ranking Leyte topped Bohol at P839,241,000 in total income, but it spent P677,391,000 and netted P161,850,000 in the process. It landed 19/79 and 1st of 6 provinces regionwide.
Meanwhile, Tagbilaran, a 3rd Class city, had a total income of P279,549,000, the 6th of 12 cities in Region 7. It spent P247,697,000 or 76/117 and still 6/12 regionwide. As such, it netted P31,852,000 or 94/117 or 10/12 regionwide. Its net income is 11 percent of its total income. (BT)
Cebu Chamber launches web portal
The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is set to launch their very own web portal next month to promote Cebu province to the rest of the world.
The web portal called the Cebu Business Portal (CBP) is made possible with the aide of the German government-funded Small and Medium Enterprise Development for Sustainable Employment Program (Smedsep).
Web portals are Internet sites that typically provide personalized services to their visitors. Business portals are designed to share collaboration in workplaces.
Smedsep consultant Carl Krug noted the portal's contribution in the local and regional economic development.
"It would serve as a free and efficient marketing channel for products and services in Cebu and provide potential investors easier identification of business opportunities in the province," Krug said.
Useful information, which could easily be updated about the CCCI members and other relevant businesses and institutions will be posted in the web portal, which would implement an aggressive internal and external marketing plan.
But uncertainties were later raised during a briefing as the web portal's database would depend on inputs of member firms from CCCI mostly composed of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), many of whom have limited access to the Internet.
CCCI vice president for external affairs Ted Locson said that most SMEs are not computer savvy. He raised the need to first conduct computer literacy training for them.
Krug admitted that computer access continues to be a nationwide challenge but CBP needs to be started now.
DTI-Cebu chief Nelia Navarro, on the other hand, said DTI could initially conduct computer literacy training for SMEs.
"We have received computer donations from Intel and free Internet access from Globelines that we can use to train our SMEs," said Navarro. She also committed to provide necessary data on the web portal.
"We have been passive in providing information to SMEs. Our website is sometimes outdated and telling them to just go to the office to get info is a disservice on our part," Navarro added.
DTI-7 Director Aster Caberte also confirmed DTI's support to the CBP in terms of information, saying the web portal is one of the means to speed up DTI's support for the Arroyo administration's plan to harmonize SMEs. (PIA)
The web portal called the Cebu Business Portal (CBP) is made possible with the aide of the German government-funded Small and Medium Enterprise Development for Sustainable Employment Program (Smedsep).
Web portals are Internet sites that typically provide personalized services to their visitors. Business portals are designed to share collaboration in workplaces.
Smedsep consultant Carl Krug noted the portal's contribution in the local and regional economic development.
"It would serve as a free and efficient marketing channel for products and services in Cebu and provide potential investors easier identification of business opportunities in the province," Krug said.
Useful information, which could easily be updated about the CCCI members and other relevant businesses and institutions will be posted in the web portal, which would implement an aggressive internal and external marketing plan.
But uncertainties were later raised during a briefing as the web portal's database would depend on inputs of member firms from CCCI mostly composed of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), many of whom have limited access to the Internet.
CCCI vice president for external affairs Ted Locson said that most SMEs are not computer savvy. He raised the need to first conduct computer literacy training for them.
Krug admitted that computer access continues to be a nationwide challenge but CBP needs to be started now.
DTI-Cebu chief Nelia Navarro, on the other hand, said DTI could initially conduct computer literacy training for SMEs.
"We have received computer donations from Intel and free Internet access from Globelines that we can use to train our SMEs," said Navarro. She also committed to provide necessary data on the web portal.
"We have been passive in providing information to SMEs. Our website is sometimes outdated and telling them to just go to the office to get info is a disservice on our part," Navarro added.
DTI-7 Director Aster Caberte also confirmed DTI's support to the CBP in terms of information, saying the web portal is one of the means to speed up DTI's support for the Arroyo administration's plan to harmonize SMEs. (PIA)
Friday, September 08, 2006
Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council formed
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed on August 28 Executive Order 559 creating the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council, a press release from Malacanang said.
The creation of MIGEDC, which focuses on the acceleration of the economic development of Iloilo and Guimaras provinces, is in line with the Mega-Region Economic Development Strategy of the national government.
Iloilo City Jerry Treñas has been named MIGEDC chairperson with Guimaras Gov. JC Rahman Nava, as co-chairperson.
EO 559 states that "the local government units involved recognize the need to collaborate on certain specific areas in order to speed up the economic and tourism development of the area," the press release said.
It said the MIGEDC "shall formulate, coordinate and monitor programs, projects and activities for the acceleration of the economic growth and development of the City of Iloilo, the municipalities of Oton, San Miguel, Pavia, Leganes, and Sta. Barbara, all in the province of Iloilo, and the entire Province of Guimaras."
The creation of the Council came on the heels of the M/T Solar 1 oil spill that affected four towns of Guimaras and two towns of Iloilo, the press release added.
The creation of MIGEDC, which focuses on the acceleration of the economic development of Iloilo and Guimaras provinces, is in line with the Mega-Region Economic Development Strategy of the national government.
Iloilo City Jerry Treñas has been named MIGEDC chairperson with Guimaras Gov. JC Rahman Nava, as co-chairperson.
EO 559 states that "the local government units involved recognize the need to collaborate on certain specific areas in order to speed up the economic and tourism development of the area," the press release said.
It said the MIGEDC "shall formulate, coordinate and monitor programs, projects and activities for the acceleration of the economic growth and development of the City of Iloilo, the municipalities of Oton, San Miguel, Pavia, Leganes, and Sta. Barbara, all in the province of Iloilo, and the entire Province of Guimaras."
The creation of the Council came on the heels of the M/T Solar 1 oil spill that affected four towns of Guimaras and two towns of Iloilo, the press release added.
Central Visayas business still upbeat
Investments in Central Visayas continue to grow during the first half of 2006 as 720 new establishments open in various locations in the region, according to the Department of Trade and Industry in the region (DTI-7).
DTI-7 data revealed that the number of registered business establishments from January to June 2006, increased by 10.3% from 6942 in 2005 to 7662 this year with a paid-up capital of he corporations amounting to P2.21-Billion, an 11% increase from last year’s P2.1-Billion.
Records from the Securities and Exchange Commission further showed that the total capital of business partnerships grew by 36% for the first six months in 2006 at P35.95-Million compared to P26.53-Million in 2005. SEC registered corporations also increased to 462 from 434for the same period last year.
DTI-7 data showed that investments in the economic zones in the region under the PEZA grew 40.43% in the last six months to 3.13-Billion from 2.26-Billion in 2005.
With the increase in investments comes also the increase in the number of employees and jobs generated by the new firms. There were 185 new locators at the PEZA that brought the total number of employees to 85,185 as against the 82,883 in 2005.
Cebu has become the favorite business sites of multi-national corporations. The Cebu Light Industrial Park of Lapu-lapu City has employed 392 workers, a 31.54% increase from the 298 in the same period last year.
At the Asiatown IT Park in Cebu City, the total number of employees more than doubled in the period to 2,384 from 1,424 in 2005. Asiatown IT Park hosts several call centers such as E-Telecare, People Support and Qualfone; several software development companies—NEC, Telecom Software Philippines, Epson, Tsuneishi Technical Services, NCR-Cebu Development Center and Versagrafix are also located at Asiatown IT.
DTI-7 data revealed that the number of registered business establishments from January to June 2006, increased by 10.3% from 6942 in 2005 to 7662 this year with a paid-up capital of he corporations amounting to P2.21-Billion, an 11% increase from last year’s P2.1-Billion.
Records from the Securities and Exchange Commission further showed that the total capital of business partnerships grew by 36% for the first six months in 2006 at P35.95-Million compared to P26.53-Million in 2005. SEC registered corporations also increased to 462 from 434for the same period last year.
DTI-7 data showed that investments in the economic zones in the region under the PEZA grew 40.43% in the last six months to 3.13-Billion from 2.26-Billion in 2005.
With the increase in investments comes also the increase in the number of employees and jobs generated by the new firms. There were 185 new locators at the PEZA that brought the total number of employees to 85,185 as against the 82,883 in 2005.
Cebu has become the favorite business sites of multi-national corporations. The Cebu Light Industrial Park of Lapu-lapu City has employed 392 workers, a 31.54% increase from the 298 in the same period last year.
At the Asiatown IT Park in Cebu City, the total number of employees more than doubled in the period to 2,384 from 1,424 in 2005. Asiatown IT Park hosts several call centers such as E-Telecare, People Support and Qualfone; several software development companies—NEC, Telecom Software Philippines, Epson, Tsuneishi Technical Services, NCR-Cebu Development Center and Versagrafix are also located at Asiatown IT.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Capiz Center project, SMEs receive PACAP grant-funding assistance
The Capiz SME Center recently got the nod of the Philippine-Australian Community Assistance Program (PACAP) for a grant-funding assistance amounting to P2, 205,588.00 for its project proposal that was designed assist small and medium enterprises in the province.
The project proposal is in support to the project that has grouped local SMEs into the Alliance to Uplift SMEs of Capiz (AUSCap). ASUCap is the brainchild of the Provincial Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council (PSMEDC) through the Capiz SME Center .
It was conceptualized to attain the vision of providing efficient, effective and quality service/assistance to the SMEs and other target groups in order to spur the economic growth and development of Capiz.
The grant was approved by PACAP along with those of six local SME sub-projects worth P9,803,082.68 million that include the following: Capiz Small Coconut Farmers Marketing Cooperative (CASCOFAMCO), p1,995,500.00; Progressive Women ARBs MPC, P1,527,008.68; Mambusao Banana Planters MPC, P1,780,825.00; Datu Bangkaya Traders MPC, P1,691,749.00; Capiz Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc., P1,504,500.00; and, Dao Federation of Small Farmers MPC, P1,303,500.00.
These sub-projects are engaged in micro-enterprises that qualified them under the bilateral development program of Australia and the Philippines that supports community-initiated, economically sustainable, ecologically sound and gender sensitive development efforts.
One of these projects, the Village Level Integrated Coconut Processing Project of CASCOFAMCO at Barangay Ondoy in Ivisan town was launched last August 29, 2006. Other NGO-beneficiaries have commenced operation based on the grant agreement signed with PACAP.
PACAP is a component of Australia ’s Development Cooperation Program under the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). The developed nation “down under” is one of the most significant sources of bilateral aid to the Philippines .
The SME Center looks forward to major development in the status of SMEs in Capiz.
It will initiate/implement programs and projects that would improve the managerial competence of the entrepreneurs, ensure product sustainability and provide relevant and timely market information needed for business decisions.
Notably, the Center will focus its support on product development and aggressive marketing strategies. As the proponent organization, it is responsible in supervising and coordinating the activities of the other six NGO-beneficiaries.
The Center will ensure that PACAP policies and guidelines are properly observed while individual NGO’s goals and objectives are realized.
Although the project duration is only 18 months under PACAP, project sustainability is ascertained by the mechanisms that will be set in place to help ensure that the Capiz SME Center will be self-liquidating in its future operation.
Moreover, the Provincial Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council, provincial government of Capiz and DTI-Capiz have made a commitment to maintain the project in order to offer continuous services/assistance to SMEs. (VDS)
The project proposal is in support to the project that has grouped local SMEs into the Alliance to Uplift SMEs of Capiz (AUSCap). ASUCap is the brainchild of the Provincial Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council (PSMEDC) through the Capiz SME Center .
It was conceptualized to attain the vision of providing efficient, effective and quality service/assistance to the SMEs and other target groups in order to spur the economic growth and development of Capiz.
The grant was approved by PACAP along with those of six local SME sub-projects worth P9,803,082.68 million that include the following: Capiz Small Coconut Farmers Marketing Cooperative (CASCOFAMCO), p1,995,500.00; Progressive Women ARBs MPC, P1,527,008.68; Mambusao Banana Planters MPC, P1,780,825.00; Datu Bangkaya Traders MPC, P1,691,749.00; Capiz Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc., P1,504,500.00; and, Dao Federation of Small Farmers MPC, P1,303,500.00.
These sub-projects are engaged in micro-enterprises that qualified them under the bilateral development program of Australia and the Philippines that supports community-initiated, economically sustainable, ecologically sound and gender sensitive development efforts.
One of these projects, the Village Level Integrated Coconut Processing Project of CASCOFAMCO at Barangay Ondoy in Ivisan town was launched last August 29, 2006. Other NGO-beneficiaries have commenced operation based on the grant agreement signed with PACAP.
PACAP is a component of Australia ’s Development Cooperation Program under the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). The developed nation “down under” is one of the most significant sources of bilateral aid to the Philippines .
The SME Center looks forward to major development in the status of SMEs in Capiz.
It will initiate/implement programs and projects that would improve the managerial competence of the entrepreneurs, ensure product sustainability and provide relevant and timely market information needed for business decisions.
Notably, the Center will focus its support on product development and aggressive marketing strategies. As the proponent organization, it is responsible in supervising and coordinating the activities of the other six NGO-beneficiaries.
The Center will ensure that PACAP policies and guidelines are properly observed while individual NGO’s goals and objectives are realized.
Although the project duration is only 18 months under PACAP, project sustainability is ascertained by the mechanisms that will be set in place to help ensure that the Capiz SME Center will be self-liquidating in its future operation.
Moreover, the Provincial Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council, provincial government of Capiz and DTI-Capiz have made a commitment to maintain the project in order to offer continuous services/assistance to SMEs. (VDS)
"Pamilihan ng Lalawigan" contest to promote fair trade laws
Getting the best value for your peso's worth pushes the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to embark on the program 'Pamilihan ng Lalawigan' contest to ensure that public market places in the country adhere to fair trade laws with the basic aim of protecting the rights of consumers.
In Cebu, only 12 out of 56 public markets qualify for the program. Criteria include the use of price tags, price board, common weighing scale, consumer welfare desks, clean market surroundings and the existence of a vendor's association and market administrator.
DTI-Cebu Province provincial director Nelia Navarro in a Kapihan sa PIA this morning identified the 12 public markets in Bogo, Carmen, Danao City, Liloan, Consolacion in the north and Carcar, Minglanilla, Talisay City, Pardo in the south and Lapulapu City and Cordova and Carbon Market in Cebu City.
Navarro said the contest is the first time being conducted as the DTI hopes that this will propel local government units to give importance to the rights of consumers as the value of the peso today is diminishing.
Consumer rights mentioned include the right to information, the right to choose (by having price tags and price board), the right to redress (by placing consumer welfare desks to address complaints) and the right to safety (safe meat, rice & products sold) for public health concerns.
The DTI-Cebu started its round of inspection of public market places in the province as the contest began last month while the announcement of the provincial winner will be done by September.
The winner in Cebu will compete in the regional level and likewise, the top contender in Central Visayas will represent the region in the national contest.
Navarro said that out of the 56 public markets in the province, 45 have market administrators and only 12 have vendors' association. Except for Lapulapu, Mandaue, Consolacion, Minglanilla, Carbon, Pasil and Ramos markets, most public markets have designated a market day that usually falls on a Sunday or Thursday.
The land area of public markets ranges from 300 sq. m. to two hectares while the number of stalls varies from 25 to over 1,000.
The robustness of business activities however, is not dependent on the size of the market, Navarro claimed.Under the Local Government Code, the local government units are mandated to provide the structure for a public market in their area of jurisdiction for the sake of public welfare.
As an economic enterprise, public markets provide a source of income for the LGUs through store rentals.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
DTI integrates product safety and quality in school curricula
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) links with the Department of Education (DepED) to integrate the importance of standards for product safety and quality in the curricula of students as well as mobile learners so as to mold them to be responsible and vigilant consumers.
DTI Consumer Welfare and Trade Regulation Group (CWTRG) undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya said, during the recent launching of the DTI-Certified Establishment program in Cebu, “the main thrust of the DTI is to strengthen consumer welfare awareness among the young for they are very influential to the buying preference of their parents.”
”Ultimately, through extensive classroom discussions on product safety and quality, we would be able to rear intelligent young consumers that demand for reliance and safe goods in the market,” Maglaya added.
DTI Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) has been closely working with DepED’s Bureaus of Elementary Education (BEE), Secondary Education (BSE) and Alternative Learning System (BALS) for the development of lesson exemplars (lesson guides and modules) on standards, which will be used by teachers in classroom discussions.
“With standards integrated in the teachers’ lesson guides and modules, children would be able to distinguish safe and reliable products from inferior or defective ones and eventually promote patronage of DTI-certified products among their family and peers,” stressed Usec. Maglaya.
Maglaya pointed out that, through the continued support of partners in DepEd and the private sector, DTI will be able to reach its goal of including standards in the school curricula to raise consumer awareness on product safety and quality at the same time encourage the children to be DTI’s young consumer advocates.
She said that if plans push thru next year, standards shall be taught in every classroom of the elementary and secondary education including the alternative learning system.
DTI Consumer Welfare and Trade Regulation Group (CWTRG) undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya said, during the recent launching of the DTI-Certified Establishment program in Cebu, “the main thrust of the DTI is to strengthen consumer welfare awareness among the young for they are very influential to the buying preference of their parents.”
”Ultimately, through extensive classroom discussions on product safety and quality, we would be able to rear intelligent young consumers that demand for reliance and safe goods in the market,” Maglaya added.
DTI Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) has been closely working with DepED’s Bureaus of Elementary Education (BEE), Secondary Education (BSE) and Alternative Learning System (BALS) for the development of lesson exemplars (lesson guides and modules) on standards, which will be used by teachers in classroom discussions.
“With standards integrated in the teachers’ lesson guides and modules, children would be able to distinguish safe and reliable products from inferior or defective ones and eventually promote patronage of DTI-certified products among their family and peers,” stressed Usec. Maglaya.
Maglaya pointed out that, through the continued support of partners in DepEd and the private sector, DTI will be able to reach its goal of including standards in the school curricula to raise consumer awareness on product safety and quality at the same time encourage the children to be DTI’s young consumer advocates.
She said that if plans push thru next year, standards shall be taught in every classroom of the elementary and secondary education including the alternative learning system.
Pardo is one of 2006 winners of search for "Huwarang Palengke"
The Pardo Public Market received P500T worth of prizes for being one of the five top national winners this year of the "Search for Huwarang Palengke" initiated by the Department of Agriculture (DA).
DA-7 chief of the agribusiness and marketing assistance division Geraldine Franza disclosed that the Talamban Public Market was also a finalist while the search only covers public markets in urban centers.
Franza said the criteria of the contest involved observance to consumer protection laws with 25 percent and another 25 percent for the prices of goods and structure, hygiene and sanitation with 50 percent.
The DA-7 is daily monitoring the prices of wage goods that specifically covers four products namely rice, meat, vegetables and sugar.
The DA-7 is in constant coordination with the local price monitoring and coordinating councils (LPMCC) of local government units (LGUs) to monitor the stability of prices in public markets in their areas while only the LPMCC of Cebu City is very active, according to Franza.
Franza was one of the guests of the recent Kapihan sa PIA that tackled the 'Pamilihan ng Lalawigan' Contest of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) with the basic objective of adherence to fair trade laws by public markets nationwide.
DTI-Cebu provincial director Nelia Navarro claimed that the contest aims to protect consumers so that they could get the best value for every peso they spend in the public market.
National Meat Inspection Service regional director Dr. Romeo Capa on the other hand, said prices of meat in Cebu are basically lower compared in Manila. The price of beef in Manila costs P238/K and in Cebu, P171/K while pork in Manila is P142/K and P141/K in Cebu and dressed chicken is P104/K in Manila and P101/K in Cebu, Capa bared.
Since the monitoring of hot meat is primarily devolved to the LGUs, Capa said they are urging the LGUs to form the 'Task Force Bantay Karne' to monitor the entry of hot meat in public markets in their areas.
National Food Authority (NFA-7) chief of the licensing division Ernesto Lariosa said common complaints reaching their office is on mislabeling of rice where a certain quality of rice is sparsely mixed with an inferior quality.Lariosa said sanctions involved a fine of P1,000 to P4,000 to cancellation of license depending on the gravity of the offense.
For this year, over 100 retailers/wholesalers have been found guilty of violations ranging from expired or operating without a license, overpricing and mislabeling. (PIA)
DA-7 chief of the agribusiness and marketing assistance division Geraldine Franza disclosed that the Talamban Public Market was also a finalist while the search only covers public markets in urban centers.
Franza said the criteria of the contest involved observance to consumer protection laws with 25 percent and another 25 percent for the prices of goods and structure, hygiene and sanitation with 50 percent.
The DA-7 is daily monitoring the prices of wage goods that specifically covers four products namely rice, meat, vegetables and sugar.
The DA-7 is in constant coordination with the local price monitoring and coordinating councils (LPMCC) of local government units (LGUs) to monitor the stability of prices in public markets in their areas while only the LPMCC of Cebu City is very active, according to Franza.
Franza was one of the guests of the recent Kapihan sa PIA that tackled the 'Pamilihan ng Lalawigan' Contest of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) with the basic objective of adherence to fair trade laws by public markets nationwide.
DTI-Cebu provincial director Nelia Navarro claimed that the contest aims to protect consumers so that they could get the best value for every peso they spend in the public market.
National Meat Inspection Service regional director Dr. Romeo Capa on the other hand, said prices of meat in Cebu are basically lower compared in Manila. The price of beef in Manila costs P238/K and in Cebu, P171/K while pork in Manila is P142/K and P141/K in Cebu and dressed chicken is P104/K in Manila and P101/K in Cebu, Capa bared.
Since the monitoring of hot meat is primarily devolved to the LGUs, Capa said they are urging the LGUs to form the 'Task Force Bantay Karne' to monitor the entry of hot meat in public markets in their areas.
National Food Authority (NFA-7) chief of the licensing division Ernesto Lariosa said common complaints reaching their office is on mislabeling of rice where a certain quality of rice is sparsely mixed with an inferior quality.Lariosa said sanctions involved a fine of P1,000 to P4,000 to cancellation of license depending on the gravity of the offense.
For this year, over 100 retailers/wholesalers have been found guilty of violations ranging from expired or operating without a license, overpricing and mislabeling. (PIA)
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