Makati City News March 2015

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Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

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Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.
Makati City Ninoy Aquino Monument.jpg
Monument of Ninoy Aquino

Makati lifts number coding on Holy Wednesday up to Good Friday; opens two-way traffic on Lenten season

By Christopher Lloyd T. Caliwan [(PNA), RMA/CLTC]

MANILA, March 31 (PNA) -- The city government of Makati on Tuesday announced the lifting of the number coding scheme starting Holy Wednesday, April 1 until Good Friday, April 3 in observance of the Lenten Season and also on April 9, Araw ng Kagitingan.

In observance of the Lenten Season, the city government of Makati is set to open two-way traffic at the stretch of J.P. Rizal Street from Reposo St. to Makati Avenue on Wednesday at 10 p.m. to April 5 (Sunday) at 5 p.m. to make way for the “kubols” or “kalbaryos” in the streets of Barangay Poblacion.

The building of kubols is part of the annual rituals observed in the old communities of Makati during Holy Week.

“Kubols” are tableaus with religious themes mounted in different areas of Poblacion where residents, come together for the “Pabasa,” the singing of the Passion of Jesus Christ. Participants also spend time in the kubol to reflect and meditate.

In Barangay Poblacion, some 20 “kubols” or “kalbaryos” have been put up along various streets for the faithful to relive the passion and crucifixion of the Savior and Lord Jesus Christ.

During the same period, the two lanes in the following streets will be closed to traffic: Cardona (from Osmeña to J.P. Rizal), Angono (from Osmeña to J.P. Rizal), F. Zobel (from Osmeña to J.P. Rizal) and Hormiga (from Angono to Antipolo).

The one-way streets that will be closed from April 1 to 5 are Buencamino (two lanes), Ma. Aurora (two lanes) and Zenaida (two lanes).

Meanwhile, Barangay Poblacion has issued a traffic rerouting scheme in connection with the procession on Holy Wednesday (April 1) and Good Friday (April 3), the “Salubong” on Black Saturday (April 4), and the parade on Easter Sunday (April 5).

The rerouting that will take effect from April 1 to 5 starting from 5 p.mm onwards (until events are finished) will be as follows:

J. P. Rizal/Estrella – all vehicles coming from Guadalupe and going to Manila, turn left to Estrella, and proceed straight ahead to EDSA then proceed to destination.

Kalayaan Avenue/Makati Avenue – all vehicles coming from Manila and going to Guadalupe taking Kalayaan Avenue, turn right to Makati Avenue, turn left to Buendia, and proceed straight ahead to EDSA.

Valdez St./Makati Avenue – all vehicles coming from Manila bound for Guadalupe taking Valdez St., turn right to Makati Avenue, turn left to Buendia, and proceed straight ahead to EDSA.

Other streets may be closed to vehicles during the actual holding of the procession.

Deputized traffic enforcers will be deployed in the affected areas to assist the motorists and the public.

New World Makati Hotel presents Easter Candy Dreamland

(MST Lifestyle)

Guests are invited to join the bunny hop to New World Makati Hotel’s Easter celebration. The fun for guests begins with a cool summer retreat in the comfort of plush and stylish accommodation. Starting at PHP6,000 per night for a Superior room, families enjoy complimentary Internet access, buffet breakfast for two and two tickets to the Easter Candy Dreamland activity happening in the ballroom on Sunday, 5 April 2015.

Kids in their best candy costumes are invited to enter the ballroom as it turns into an entertaining Candy Dreamland with sweet surprises and activities. Guests can enjoy hearty snacks, classic confections and summer refreshments as they make their way through the various game booths and play areas, with special prizes and giveaways, plus a live performance of the most popular children’s songs of today by A-Live.

Other enjoyable ways for guests to obtain tickets to the Candy Dreamland include making use of the special Easter brunch offers at the hotel’s signature restaurants. Executive Chinese Chef Wong Kam On invites families to spend fun quality time while sampling a wide variety of freshly cooked Xiao Long Bao, Barbecue Pork Puffs and other dim sum specialties at Jasmine, the only hotel restaurant in the Philippines included in The Daily Meal’s list of 101 Best Hotel Restaurants around the World in 2014. Priced at PHP1,500 per person, the unlimited dim sum lunch comes with one ticket to the ballroom activity.

The Café 1228 Easter brunch offers guests an upgraded buffet experience with a healthy salad station, an imported cheese selection with gourmet appetizers, local and international cuisines, grilled specialties and mouthwatering Lechón, plus desserts for PHP2,500 per person. Two adults enjoying the Easter brunch will receive one ticket to the Candy Dreamland activity.

Rates include service charge. For more information and reservations, please call 8116888.

For the latest news, events, room and dining offerings, follow New World Makati Hotel at www.facebook.com/NewWorldMakatiHotel or at Twitter and Instagram @newworldmakati.

(Feature) Discovering Metro Manila up in the air

By Kris M. Crismundo [(PNA), SCS/KMC]

MANILA, March 29 (PNA) -- I was able to travel in the whole Metro Manila area in 30 minutes. I’m not kidding, I really did. When I say Metro Manila, I mean from Pasay City to Manila Bay to Makati City through EDSA going to Quezon City to Caloocan City to Manila Bay and back to Pasay.

I travelled for 30 minutes over the metropolis via a charter flight of Philjets Aero Charter Corp. under the Philjets Group, a charter service venture of Filipino, French and Cambodian businessmen.

This charter flight over Metro Manila is part of Philjets' recently launched tourism and leisure services; they call it Manila Discovery.

As a regular commuter in Metro Manila, I feel nothing special about the tall buildings and most of all, the notorious traffic situation in majority of the thoroughfares in the metro, specially the circumferential EDSA (Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue).

But the Manila Discovery tour package gave me a different view of the National Capital Region. It was a cool experience to fly over skyscrapers in the central business districts (CBDs). Makati’s skyline was the best attraction for me during that helicopter ride.

Not too far from Manila, Philjets also caters charter tour in Corregidor. Fly over Manila Bay and gaze at the ruins of Corregidor Island, the bastion of allied forces during World War II. See the lighthouse and hospitals destroyed by enemy warships, then head to Fort Drum on El Fraile Island. You may also opt for a land tour in Corregidor.

Planning for your summer vacation in Batangas? Avoid the long queue at the tollgates of South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and have a longer time for your leisure as Philjets can carry you to Punta Fuego. Its charter service will cut the two-hour drive from Manila to Punta Fuego to 30 minutes.

During the flight, witness Manila Bay and Kawayan Island as well as the beauty of the terrain in the Calabarzon (Cavite/Laguna/Batangas/Rizal/Quezon). Enjoy an overnight escapade in Punta Fuego and return to Manila via charter flight as well.

Want to see the "volcano within a lake within a volcano?" Yes, I’m refering to the Taal Crater Lake. Philjets’ charter flight can fly you over Cavite in Southern Luzon for you to have a different view of Taal Volcano. Also have a sightseeing above the agricultural landscapes and green fields of the province before reaching Tagaytay City. You may also want to dine in at Antonio’s Restaurant in Tagaytay -- the first Filipino resto to be in the list of 50 Asia’s Best Restaurants 2015.

Now, why not head up north?

Fly over the Mount Pinatubo in Central Luzon and gaze at the breathtaking scenery of the mountain and its emerald green Crater Lake. Up in the air, see the new shape of this gigantic mountain after its destructive eruption in 1991.

Philjets’ charter flight tours and packages also include the Banaue Rice Terraces. Make your eight-to ten-hour drive to the Cordillera an over three-hour flight. Enjoy the view of the famous UNESCO World Heritage site, the breathtaking region of the Cordillera and scenic view in Sagada. You can also land on Banaue Hotel or directly head back to Manila.

In an interview, Philjets Group Managing Director Thierry Tea said tour and package services of the company aim to exhibit a different view of the Philippines, attracting tourists and bringing them particularly to areas that are hardly reached.

Philjets Aero Charter Corp. can be reached through +632 851 0639 or +63 998 974 0497. Check their website at www.philjets.com.

DPWH to conduct Holy Week road re-blocking on eight major areas in Metro Manila

(PNA), RMA/FGP/SSC

MANILA, March 28 (PNA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reminded the public, especially motorists of the scheduled road reblocking and repairs during the Holy Week covering four cities in Metro Manila.

DPWH-National Capital Region Director Reynaldo Tagudando recommended the road works in 8 areas in the cities of Quezon, Makati, Pasig and Mandaluyong next week for maintenance purposes.

The road repairs will start on April 2, Holy Thursday at 12:01 a.m. until 12:00 noon of April 5, Easter Sunday.

The areas are as follow:

Southbound:

-- Along Mindanao from Road 8 to North Avenue, 1st lane;

-- Along E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue / C-5 between Poseidon Street and Green Meadows Avenue, 2nd lane from sidewalk;

-- Along EDSA between Connecticut to Guadalupe Bridge, Mandaluyong City;

-- Along EDSA from Guadalupe Station to Estrella Street, 4th and 5thlanes;

-- Along C-5 Road Pasig Boulevard to Bagong-Ilog Service Road

Northbound:

-- Along EDSA Guadalupe Bridge to Temple Drive, Mandaluyong City;

-- Along C-5 Road from Valle Verde / Resins Inc. to SM Warehouse, 2ndoutermost lane

-- Along EDSA from Buendia to Escuela Street, 4th and 5th lanes.

With this, Emerson Carlos, Assistant General Manager for Operations of MMDA advised motorists to avoid the said areas and use alternate routes instead.

Makati joins EarthHour 2015, aims higher energy savings

(PNA), FPV/CLTC-PR

MANILA, March 27 (PNA) -- Makati City will celebrate Earth Hour 2015 on Saturday at the Ayala Triangle Gardens and Tower One & Exchange Plaza in Makati starting at 7 p.m.

The city government said no roads will be closed during the event, except for a portion on one lane along Paseo de Roxas to be used for a fire truck and ambulances.

Makati Department of Environmental Services (DES) chief Danilo Villas said through its annual celebration of Earth Hour, the city has made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions.

He said the one-hour lights switch-off in participant households, establishments and institutions in 2014 racked up over 4.8 million watts in total energy savings, which is roughly equivalent to 2,530 kilograms of CO2 emission.

With the theme, “Use your power to change climate change,” the event will officially start at 7pm, while the ceremonial switching off of lights will be from 8:30pm to 9:30pm. Registration will begin at 6pm. Miss Earth 2014 winner and reigning queen Jamie Herrell will host the event.

The Office of the Vice President will grace the occasion to show its support to Earth Hour which began during the term of Vice President Jejomar C. Binay when he was still the mayor of Makati.

Villas appealed to city residents and stakeholders to continue exerting more effort to conserve energy through the use of energy-saving devices and low-heat emitting and sustainable lighting materials.

Participants will be entertained with performances of the 2015 Caracol champion, Pio del Pilar High School students, Davey Langit and DES Band. Besides glow-in-the-dark face painting, booths from the city government offices including DES, the barangays and private partners will showcase different initiatives on water conservation, recyclables, and nutrition, among others to arrest climate change.

The milestones attained by the city government and its partner-organizations will also be showcased to present the impact of ongoing efforts to combat climate change.

Participants will also have a chance to show their commitment through the Earth Hour Pledge.

Since 2008, the city government of Makati has been participating in the global Earth Hour celebration together with partners to lower carbon dioxide (CO2) emission and, at the same time, enhance awareness among residents, the business community, and other stakeholders on the importance of lower energy consumption.

The partners of the city government in this year’s observance of Earth Hour include Ayala Land, Ayala Properties, Jollibee Foods Corp., Nestle Phils., San Miguel Corp., Manila Water and Miss Earth Foundation. Other partner groups include MACEA, CREA, WWF Philippines, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, USAid BLEADERS, Happy Place Nutrition Club and Earth Hour Champion Phils.

Other active contributors include the Makati City Council, city government offices and employees, DepEd Makati, Liga ng mga Barangay, University of Makati Media Center, and Makati Cultural Affairs Office. PNP-Makati, Makati Fire Department, Public Safety Department and Makati Rescue will provide security, response and protective services, while Makati C3 will monitor the one-hour in the city.

Forms for individual partcipants, schools, business establishments and organizations can be downloaded from the Makati Portal, www.makati.gov.ph.

The public may post their participation in the 2015 Earth Hour celebration in the social media (Twitter and Facebook) by using #MakatiEH2015 and #Useyourpower. Information can also be accessed through the city government’s Twitter account @MakatiInfo and Facebook-MyMakati.

PRC signs MOA with MMC and MMCF

(PNA) /LSJ/EDS

MANILA, March 26 (PNA) -- The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) signed on Thursday with the Makati Medical Center (MMC) and the Makati Medical Center Foundation (MMCF) a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) aiming to facilitate the deployment of PRC Emergency Field Hospital (EFH) in cases of mass casualty incidents.

The PRC was represented by its Secretary General, Dr. Gwendolyn Pang, while Dr. Gabriel Gabriel represented the MMC and Dr. Victor Gisbert the MMC Foundation.

The signing ceremony was held at the PRC Logistics and Training Center in Subic.

Under the agreement, the MMC, being a long-time partner of the PRC, will provide manpower support to the PRC-EFH domestic deployment which will enhance the capacity of PRC to respond to health needs during emergencies.

The MMC Foundation, on the other hand, will complement the manpower capacity of MMC in favor of PRC deployments, including but not limited to doctors, nurses, technicians from their partner hospitals, medical personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and privately-owned companies taking into consideration their corporate social responsibilities.

In an effort to better address urgent needs during disasters, the PRC has improved its capacity to respond to future emergency health needs through deployment of EFH.

However, the use of EFH, which aims to cover the basic health care needs of a population of 30,000 patients, as a response tool to disasters requires the availability of experienced personnel on very short notice.

Hence, the PRC sought an agreement with the MMC and the Foundation to ensure that there will be adequate EFH Personnel to be deployed efficiently and effectively during disasters.

JG Summit cuts capex budget

By Krista A. M. Montealegre (Senior Reporter)

JG Summit Holdings, Inc. is reducing its capital expenditure (capex) budget for the year in the absence of big-ticket projects that pushed spending in the last two years.

“This year, it’s around P35 billion,” JG Summit Senior Vice-President Bach Johann Sebastian told reporters when asked about the group’s programmed capex for 2015 on the sidelines of an investment conference in Makati City yesterday.

The budget, which is lower than the “almost P50 billion” spent in 2014, will primarily go to the airline, property, and snack food businesses, Mr. Sebastian said.

Robinsons Land Corp. is investing P17 billion, while Universal Robina Corp. is spending P9 billion this year.

JG Summit embarked on a higher capital spending for 2013 and 2014 to support the construction of a naphtha cracker plant in Batangas, he added.

“We’re done on our funding requirements,” Mr. Sebastian said. In January, JG Summit raised roughly P8.8 billion from an overnight top-up placement.

JG Summit’s earnings from January to September last year surged by an annual 65% to P21.97 billion, while operating revenue climbed 19.33% to P132.68 billion.

Aside from RLC and URC, Its subsidiaries include JG Summit Petrochemical Corp., CP Air Holdings Inc., and Robinsons Bank Corp. The company also holds a stake in Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. and Manila Electric Co.

JG Summit shares lost 0.93% or 65 centavos to end at P69.35 per share on Wednesday.

Cebu Air, Inc., whose ultimate parent is JG Summit, yesterday reported its net income rose 66.7% to P853.5 million in 2014, from P511.9 million in 2013, on the back of higher passenger and cargo transport revenues. Earnings didn’t get much help from falling oil costs, with its expenses on jet fuel rising to P240 million last year, from P181 million in 2013, its financial statement yesterday showed.

Cebu Air shares lost 2.01% or P1.75 each to close trading at P85.25 apiece.

President Aquino opens 4th Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum

(PND), LGI/SSC

MANILA, March 24 (PNA) -- President Benigno S. Aquino III highlighted his administration's economic achievements during the 4th Annual Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday.

In a speech delivered before business leaders and investors at the hotel’s Rigodon Ballroom, President Aquino said the country has had an impressive number of achievements that have contributed to its economic progress.

The President noted the country's "all-time high of US$ 6.2 billion in foreign direct investments and a respectable 6.1 percent Gross Domestic Product growth" last year.

"2014 was a banner year for net Foreign Direct Investments, reaching an all-time high of US$ 6.2 billion, 65.9 percent higher than what we received in 2013. We have likewise posted impressive growth: from 2010 to 2013, the Philippines averaged a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 6.3 percent. Compare this to the previous three-year period, under my predecessor, where growth was just at 4.3 percent. On top of this: even in spite of the lingering effects of Typhoon 'Haiyan' and the uncertainty in the global economy, our country still posted a respectable 6.1 percent GDP growth figure last year," he explained.

President Aquino also cited a Bloomberg report saying the Philippines is forecast to be the world's second fastest growing economy in 2015.

"The tremendous amount of confidence the global community has developed for the Philippines is incredibly gratifying, especially considering that, not too long ago, we were known as the ‘Sick Man of Asia.’ However, our administration remains hard at work so that we can maximize every opportunity available to us, and I think many of you will agree with me when I say: You ain't seen nothing yet," he said.

He also pointed out that infrastructure is one of the sectors that have benefitted from “our drive to become more competitive."

The budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways, he said, has more than tripled from Php165 billion in 2010 to almost Php570 billion in 2015.

"We can expect this to grow even more, as our goal is to have infrastructure spending comprise 5 percent of GDP by 2016," he said.

The President said that under the Public-Private Partnership program, nine projects have been awarded, 16 are in the process of being bidded out, and more than 30 other projects are under various stages of development.

President Aquino further said that the government has been pursuing options to address the projected power shortfall this summer due to the threat of the El Niño weather phenomenon and the rehabilitation of the Malampaya gas field.

"We are expediting the rehabilitation of the 300-megawatt (MW) Malaya Thermal Power Plant Unit 1 to help augment power supply in Luzon. We are also requesting the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines to optimize the dispatch of hydropower plants, which will generate additional energy supply during peak hours. Partnerships with the private sector have also proved useful: Under the Interruptible Load Program, as of January 2015, 252 participants have signed up to use their own generators and de-load a total of 688.67 megawatts during times when power supply is too tight," he said.

He indicated that 48 committed incoming power projects with 4,693.8 MW of power are expected to come between now and 2018.

Out of these 48 power plants, 21 will be from renewable energy, in line with our goal of diversifying our energy mix and building a power supply that is as clean and reasonably priced as possible, he added.

Emphasizing that the country's greatest resource is its people, President Aquino said his administration will continue to channel funds to programs that have the twin effects of creating a skilled, talented, and healthy workforce that can attract more investors, and of allowing the people to retake control of their destinies.

The President told business leaders and investors attending the forum to "take a closer look at the Philippines", inviting them "to bet on the Filipino people and discover for yourself how it's more fun and more profitable to do business in the Philippines."

"Together, I am convinced that we can work to accelerate this country's performance and propel it to even greater heights," he concluded.

Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima earlier introduced President Aquino as guest speaker while Euromoney Institutional Investor Asia Chief Executive Officer Tony Shale delivered the welcome remarks.

Some of the key topics to be discussed during the 4th Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum are the Philippines and the ASEAN Economic Community; infrastructure analysis; capital markets: financing growth; real estate investment trusts in the Philippines; solving the energy and power crisis; and digital economy.

Meralco power interruption to affect 26,000 homes

By Alvin Elchico (ABS-CBN News)

MANILA – More than 26,000 households and commercial establishments may experience power interruptions of up to seven hours today as the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) implements maintenance measures of its distribution lines in various parts of its franchise area.

Affected in the scheduled maintenance works are certain areas in Makati, Las Pinas, Paranaque, Manila and other parts of its franchise network.

Several residents in Sampaloc St. in Barangay San Antonio in Makati are finding ways to beat the heat.

Karinderya owner Randy Manila put a cold mineral water bottle on his nape to cool the temperature inside his eatery where customers are having lunch even though electric fans are not working due to lack of power.

Parlor owner Doods Lacse said the power interruption has affected his customers since the blowers, hot oil treatment and air-conditioning cannot be used due to lack of electricity.

Meralco linemen have been working in the area since 9 a.m. today and they hope to finish by 4 p.m.

In an unrelated development, a transformer of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines exploded in the Laguna area which affected several circuits of Meralco shortly before 10 a.m. today. But the lines were restored by 10:33 a.m. and electricity was restored in parts of Laguna.

Sionil Jose novel in German launch at the German Club

(The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines - Gagamba, the F. Sionil José novel translated into German by Manila expat Markus Ruckstuhl, will be launched at the German Club, Penthouse, Eurovilla II Building, 118 V. A. Rufino Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City on March 26 at 5 p.m.

Der Spinnenmann is published by Horlemann in Berlin. Previously, Horlemann published the José novel Mass.

Gagamba is an excellent guide through the different layers of Filipino society. Gagamba, a cripple, sells sweepstakes tickets at the entrance to Camarin, a posh Ermita restaurant. He sees them all — men in power, politicians, journalists, generals, landlords, and the gorgeous call girls who made Camarin famous. In mid-July 1990 a killer earthquake strikes and entombs all the beautiful people dining at the Camarin; Gagamba survives the earthquake, as do two other lucky people who were buried in the rubble. In this novel, Francisco Sionil José paints in 10 frescoes the diverse groups, the social levels and the countless problems of today’s Filipino reality, and he raises a fundamental question about life’s meaning and suggests at the same time the only rational answer.

DOLE-NCR bares job fair schedule in Metro Manila

By Susan G. de Leon (DOLE/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

MANILA, 21 March (PIA)--The Department of Labor & Employment –National Capital Region (DOLE-NCR) is confident that many jobseekers in Metro Manila will find employment through the various job fairs scheduled in the nation’s capital this year.

DOLE-NCR Regional Director Alex Avila yesterday announced job fair schedules in the coming months saying he is confident even the inexperienced ones, if they have the proper attitude and other qualifications, will easily find their first jobs through the job fairs.

“There are 19 job fairs for local and overseas jobs scheduled in Metro Manila, march to December. And these are for first-time job applicants who we expect will start in earnest their search for their first job,” Avila said.

The year-long activity is spearheaded by Public Employment Service Offices of local government units, higher education institutions, organizations, and private companies, through the DOLE's Bureau of Local Employment (BLE).

The NCR job fairs schedule, as reported by the Bureau of Labor & Employment (BLE) are the following:

Mega Job Fair, Pasay City Hall, 18 March; Mini Job Fair, Amphitheater, Malabon, 19 March; Mini Job Fair, Amphitheater, Malabon, 16 April; PESO Job Fair - Marikina Sports Center, Marikina, 17 April; Mega Job Fair - PESO Office, Pasay, 11 May; Mega Job Fair – Amphitheater, Malabon, 21 May; Mini Job Fair – Amphitheater, Malabon, 18 June.

There will also be a Mini Job Fair - Makati Park & Gardens, Makati, 10 July; Mini Job Fair – Amphitheater, Malabon, 16 July; Mini Job Fair - Marikina Sports Center, Marikina, 17 July; Mega Job Fair - Pasay City Hall, Pasay, 17 August; Mini Job Fair – Amphitheater, Malabon, 20 August; Mega Job Fair – Amphitheater, Malabon, 17 September; PESO Job Fair, Marikina, 16 October; Job Fair – Amphitheater, Malabon, 22 October; PESO Job Fair, Makati, 6 November; Mini Job Fair – Amphitheater, Malabon, 19 November; Mega Job Fair, Pasay, 1 December; Mini Job Fair, Malabon, 10 December.

Labor & Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, who last week expressed elation at the lower unemployment rate, especially for young people, based on the January 2015 Labor Force Survey, said there are 296 job fairs throughout the DOLE’s 16 regions that will be a big help in providing gainful employment opportunities for job-seekers.

Apart from the job fairs, the latest data from Phil-Jobnet, the government’s online platform for job search and job matching, has recorded a total of 20,112 job postings for the first quarter of the year,” Baldoz said.

Baldoz added that PhilJobnet has been enhanced since last year and can now be downloaded as a mobile application for iOs and Android devices.

Thus far, the DOLE has mounted 112 job fairs were conducted in January and February this year.

“We highly encourage applicants to attend these job fairs. It is an efficient way for them to look for employment as numerous companies gather in one venue to facilitate easier job hunting,” Baldoz said.

Baldoz also reminded jobseekers to bring the following when visiting any of the said job fairs: resume or curriculum vitae; 2 x 2 ID pictures (bring extra copies for multiple job applications); certificate of employment, for those formerly employed; diploma and/or transcript of records; and authenticated birth certificate.

The schedules can also be accessed at the Phil-JobNet, the official job portal of the Philippine government.

EDSA 'express bus' system starts Monday

By Mike Frialde (philstar.com)

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Friday said the scheduled pilot test of the EDSA “express bus” system on Monday is green and go.

In a press briefing at the MMDA office, MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino said 50 passenger buses to run on three routes would be ready to ferry passengers from Fairview to stations at the Makati central business district (CBD) and at the SM Mall of Asia. The pilot run of the express bus service will last for two months, the MMDA said.

LTFRB chairman Winston Ginez said the specially tagged “Express Connect” buses that would operate daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Passengers intending to go to either to the Makati CBD and the Mall of Asia simply need to board at the MMDA’s dispatch terminal in Fairview and at various terminals of the three routes.

The express bus system will run on three routes: Route E1 (Fairview-Ortigas Avenue/Gil Puyat Avenue LRT station with 20 bus units), Route E2 (Fairview-Ayala Avenue/Gil Puyat Avenue LRT station with 10 bus units), and Route E3 (Fairview-Ayala Avenue MRT station-SM Mall of Asia rotunda with 20 bus units).

The MMDA said the following bus companies have agreed to field buses during the pilot test of the system: Kellen Transport Inc., Everlasting Transport Co., NAIA Metrolink, Taguig Metro Link Bus Corp., ES Transport Inc., Jayross LS Tours Bus Co Inc., Fermina Express Corp., Worthy Transport Inc., Gloren Transport Service and UBE Express (which will filed an articulated bus).

Ginez said passengers would have to buy their tickets from conductors inside the buses. He said fares for the express buses would be the same as the ones now being charged by airconditioned buses.

Express buses are only allowed to stay for 20 seconds at the stations to pick-up or unload passengers.

Commuters can expect an express bus arriving at each station every five minutes (during peak hours) and every 10 minutes (non-peak hours).

Express buses running on the E1 route will have the following stations: Fairview, Litex/COA, Batasan, Ortiagas, Megamall, Ayala Avenue. Gil Puyat LRT station and the Cultural Center of the Philippines parking area (Roxas Boulevard).

Express buses running on the E2 route will have the following stations: Fairview, Litex/COA, Batasan, Ayala Avenue, Gil Puyat LRT station and the CPP parking area.

Express buses running on the E3 route meanwhile will have the following stations: Fairview, Litex/COA, Batasan, Ayala MRT station and SM Mall of Asia rotunda.

Meanwhile, MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino called on the participating bus companies to be extra careful on the road as the express buses would be allowed by the MMDA to use EDSA’s tunnels and flyovers. The express buses that would be using the lane nearest the center island would also be exempted from the number coding scheme.

“Kung gaano kaingat yung sa yellow lane dapat mas doble kaingat yung sa express lane dahil dadaan sila sa tunnel and flyover dahil pagnagkaroon ng aksidente ay mahirap ayusin,” he said.

MMDA Assistant General Manager for Operations Emerson Carlos earlier said the express bus system would help decongest traffic along EDSA as motorists can now take the express bus system instead of driving their cars.

"Our main reason is to entice the public not to use private cars but instead take public utility vehicle," he said.

Carlos said the number of vehicles plying major thoroughfares would be lessened.

Ortigas CBD gets highest office take-up in 2014

By Kris M. Crismundo [(PNA), RMA/KMC]

MANILA, March 19 (PNA) -- The central business district (CBD) of Ortigas has the highest take-up of office spaces in 2014, real estate services firm KMC MAG Group Inc. said in a briefing on Thursday.

KMC MAG associate director Gerold Fernando said that office spaces take-up in Ortigas CBD for the full-year of 2014 reached 132,640 square meters (sqm) -- the highest among other CBDs including Makati, Bonifacio Global City, Alabang, Quezon City, and the new Bay Area CBD in Pasay City and Parañaque City.

“Despite high take-up, the market could not absorb all the new spaces introduced last year,” Fernando said. Ortigas CBD has 160,000 sqm office spaces supply last year with vacancy increasing to 7.0 percent from 2.5 percent in 2013.

Increase in prime rents in Ortigas had one of the lowest rates among other CBDs at Php599.70 per sqm per month or an increment by 4.0 percent.

Following Ortigas, office spaces take-up in the Quezon City CBD pegged at 114,310 sqm in 2014 with supplies meeting the demand last year.

Fernando noted that majority of these office spaces demands in Quezon City were from the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector as most of the industry’s talents are coming from the area.

“We see big potential in Quezon City for the property market with its large population,” KMC MAG managing director Michael McCullough said on the other hand.

With the high take-up in office spaces in Quezon City CBD in 2014, vacancy declined by 20 basis point to 0.7 percent, but new supply will be introduced in 2016.

Prime rents in Quezon City went up by 11.1 percent to Php664.9 per sqm a month.

Bonifacio Global City has the third highest office space take-up last year at 94,500 sqm. This decreased by 44.1 percent after the strong turnover of more than 150,000 sqm in 2013.

“Vacancies are likely to increase with the bulk of new supply coming online during the second half of the year,” Fernando said.

Vacant office spaces in Bonifacio Global City this year is seen at 287,000 sqm.

Monthly prime rents in Bonifacio Global City CBD pegged at Php832.50 per sqm, an increment of 7.6 percent.

CBDs with lowest take-up last year include Bay Area, Makati, and Alabang with office spaces turnover at 13,140 sqm, 33,910 sqm, and 36,920 sqm, respectively.

Low take-up in Bay Area CBD was due to limited supply while Alabang CBD only introduced new spaces in the last quarter of 2014.

Despite more office investments intend to locate in Makati City, office spaces supply remains low.

“There’s no new supply coming online. We expect take-up to remain low for the next four years,” said Fernando.

With the limited office supply, prime rents for Grade A is at Php812.40 per sqm per month while premium space is at Php1,147.70 per sqm a month.

Meanwhile, McCullough said there will be over 560,000 sqm office supply available in the market this 2015.

Meralco sees less than P0.07 /kWh additional charges for ILP this summer

By Juzel L. Danganan [(PNA), RMA/JLD/RSM]

MANILA, March 18 (PNA) -- The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has estimated a less than 7 centavos per kilowatthour (kWh) additional charges for the Interruptible Load Program (ILP) this summer.

”It might be lower than 7 centavos (per kilowatthour),” Meralco First Vice President and Regulatory Management Head Ivanna Dela Pena said Wednesday during the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX) 3rd General Membership Meeting at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City.

Dela Pena mentioned the estimate after Aboitiz Power Corporation (APC) First Vice President and Chief Finance Officer (CFO) Manuel Lozano revealed the Interruptible Load Program (ILP) rates in Mindanao had a Php 4-5 increase in their power bills.

The ILP is the de-loading of power demand, through firms and establishments using generator sets.

On Tuesday, Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Executive Director Francis Saturnino Juan said the final ILP guidelines, for the summer, might come up this week.

It will serve as the blueprint for the rules and payment scheme, since the Congress had not reached an agreement on the President's emergency power.

The impending ILP increase is aside from the Php 1.18 per kWh boost on April and May during the Malampaya plant's maintenance shutdown.

As of March 16, Meralco and the Retail Electricity Suppliers Association (RESA) had signed a de-loading capacity of 855.91 MW from 253 ILP participants.

It already had two dry runs, with the first having an output of 400 MW and the second producing a capacity of 529 MW.

Meanwhile, Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Zenaida Monsada said the joint-resolution still needs to be passed, which is still hostaged at the Congress due to a lack of agreement of the House of Representatives and the Senate on how the ILP will be paid.

The Senate does not want to subsidize the ILP and pass on the charges to consumers, while the Congress wants to tap the Malampaya royalties for a full subsidy.

Former reports from the Senate, estimated the bill impact of the ILP at Php 0.04 per kWh.

Makati seniors enjoy perks

By Jerome R. Paunan

MAKATI CITY, March 17 (PIA) -- Senior citizens of the city continue to enjoy privileges and benefits being provided by the local government, these are on top of their free access to quality health care and medicines that include maintenance drugs for hypertension and diabetes.

Programs for senior citizens implemented by the Elderly Welfare Section of the Makati Social Welfare Department (MSWD) include the BLU Card program, which is now being enjoyed by some 66,546 members. Now on its 13th year, BLU Card started out with P3,000-burial assistance then was later expanded to include cash gifts given twice a year, free birthday and golden wedding anniversary cakes, free groceries every Christmas, and recently, P100,000 cash gift for centenarians.

MSWD officer-in-charge Ryan Barcelo said other privileges granted by the city to elderly residents beyond what the national law requires also include unlimited free entrance to all Makati cinemas, free tours to famous tourist destinations in the country, and a grand welcome party for new senior citizens.

Under the BLU Card Program, senior citizens who are 60-69 years old are entitled to a P2,000 cash gift, those aged 70-79, P3,000, and for 80 and above, P4,000. The cash gift is given in two tranches – half in June and the other half in December.

To date, 21 centenarians of Makati have received P100,000 from the city government since the initiative took effect in 2012 through City Ordinance No. 2012-099. For 2015, the city has allocated P194 million for the cash gift and centenarian incentive under BLU Card.

Last year, a total of 61,255 birthday and golden wedding anniversary celebrators received free cakes from the city government. For this year, the city allocated P22 million for the free cakes program.

Every December, BLU Card holders also receive a bag of groceries through the city’s “Pamaskong Handog” program.

The city government has also earmarked P5 million for its Lakbay Saya program, which was launched in 2004. It gives able-bodied senior citizens the privilege to travel to popular spots and historical sites within Metro Manila and other parts of the country, all for free, including meals and lodging. They also get the chance to have fun as live studio audience in the country’s popular noontime TV shows, and to watch monthly free “Aawitan Kita” concerts at the University of Makati theatre.

For its free movies program, the city has allocated P20 million for this year to cover both senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWD). In 2014, the city government paid around P21 million to four cinema owners as its 25 percent subsidized share of the cost of tickets issued to senior citizens and PWDs who availed themselves of this privilege.

The four cinema partners of the city government are Ayala Land, Inc. which operates theaters in Glorietta 1 and 4 and Greenbelt 1 and 3, Rockwell Land for Power Plant cinema, Adebe Realty Company, Inc. and Century City Development Corporation.

Every year, the city government hosts a grand party to welcome residents who have turned 60 years old to the city’s elite Tribe of Senior Citizens. It is also at the party that the new tribe members receive their BLU Card. If they are qualified for the mid-year or year-end cash gift, they will also receive their first P1,000 cash incentive.

For 2014, the elite tribe welcomed 600 new senior citizens. This year, the amount of P340,000 has been allocated by the city government for this program.

Ayala Musem presents a traveling exhibit on Botong Francisco

(The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines - After reaching three destinations in the Western Visayas from August 2013 to January 2014, and nine more destinations all over the Philippines in 2014, Ayala Museum’s traveling exhibition on Carlos “Botong” Francisco is scheduled to visit six more venues this year.

Titled “Botong Francisco: A Nation Imagined,” the show features 25 reproductions of Botong’s paintings from institutional and private collections. Accompanying these images is a film produced by Ayala Foundation Inc. (AFI), and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Peque Gallaga on Botong’s vision and artistry.

This outreach initiative of AFI’s Arts and Culture Division is a traveling version of the museum exhibition held last December 2012 to March 2013 in celebration of Botong Francisco’s centennial birth anniversary at Ayala Museum in Makati City. The exhibition showcased over 40 actual paintings by Botong supplemented by a short film that captured his large-scale works and murals commissioned for public buildings. The film had also been selected for inclusion in the documentary category at the 2013 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. An exhibition catalogue with the same title was also published for this exhibition. Together with the film documentary presentation in each site, the exhibition catalogue also forms part of the educational component for each site. Copies are donated to partner venues for their reference centers and library.

The traveling exhibition was launched at the District North Point Mall in Talisay, Negros Occidental and subsequently toured to Museo Negrense at the University of St. La Salle, Bacolod and Museo Iloilo, Iloilo City in 2013 through early part of 2014.

By partnering with malls and centers of education such as universities, museums, and tourism councils, Ayala Museum believes that the life and legacy of the artist will be widely promoted, particularly to students and general audiences outside Metro Manila, where its main building and exhibition spaces are based.

“Botong: Francisco: A Nation Imagined” is currently on exhibit at Casa San Miguel, Zambales City as part of the 22nd Pundaquit Arts Festival. It will be on view until April 6.

The show will soon be presented at the Art Gallery of the People’s Museum and Library, Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya from April 10-30.

Ayala Museum will collaborate with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) in presenting this traveling exhibition in five NHCP-sites: Rizal Shrine, Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila from May 6-31; Museo ng Katipunan, San Juan, Manila from June 5-30; Museo ng Mabini, Tanuan, Batangas from July 3-29; Barasoain Church Historical Landmark, Malolos, Bulacan from Aug. 6-31; and President Ramon Magsaysay House, Zambales City from Oct. 7 to Nov. 3. This partnership with NHCP was initiated with the presentation at the Aguinaldo Shrine, in Kawit, Cavite City, as part of their Christmas celebration in December 2014.

“Botong Francisco: A Nation Imagined” exhibition catalogue and film by Peque Gallaga are now available for sale at the following Fully Booked branches: The Fort (BGC), Alabang Town Center, Rockwell, Greenhills-Promenade and Cebu.

For information, email Aprille Tijam at tijam.ap@ayalafoundation.org or call 759-8290.

Makati condos most expensive in Metro Manila

By Richmond S. Mercurio (The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines — Online property platform Lamudi has released its list of the required salary buyers need in order to afford a condominium in Metro Manila.

In its latest report, Lamudi Philippines said couples looking to buy a 60-square meter, mid-end two-bedroom unit in Mandaluyong, San Juan, Pasig, Parañaque, Muntinlupa or Las Piñas should have a combined income of P125,000 per month on the average.

Likewise, those who are searching for the same size and type condo in Makati or Taguig should have a combined monthly income of P178,000 or more, Lamudi said.

When looked at individually, however, Lamudi said the cities of Metro Manila show great diversity.

For example, it said a condo buyer who plans to buy in Makati should have a monthly gross salary of P196,820 – the highest anywhere in Metro Manila.

In contrast, the report showed those who plan to purchase a similar unit in Las Piñas – Metro Manila’s cheapest city to buy a condo – should be earning approximately P70,580 per month.

“However, the data gleaned from Lamudi’s analysis is just an estimate. Real property taxes and insurance costs will vary depending on the location and type of property, not to mention that buyers do not have uniform lifestyle and spending habits,” Lamudi said.

“Furthermore, some people have more savings than others, allowing them to put a larger downpayment, which saves them thousands on interest payments every month. These people can also save on mortgage insurance as having a large equity on a property makes them financially attractive to lenders,” it added.

The global online real estate marketplace determined the amount of gross monthly income of a prospective condo buyer in order to afford mortgage payment of condos by using 6.5 percent annual interest rate fixed for five years and a loan tenor of 15 years.

Lamudi’s calculation also assumed that the buyer spends not more than 30 percent of their gross monthly income on mortgage repayments, including principal and interest, and makes a 20 percent downpayment on the property following most banks’ 80/20 loan-to-value ratio.

Lamudi is a global property portal focusing exclusively on emerging markets, generating about one million visitors per month. Its fast-growing platform is currently available in 28 countries in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America, with more than 600,000 real estate listings across its global network.

Makati condos most expensive in Metro Manila

By Richmond S. Mercurio (The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines — Online property platform Lamudi has released its list of the required salary buyers need in order to afford a condominium in Metro Manila.

In its latest report, Lamudi Philippines said couples looking to buy a 60-square meter, mid-end two-bedroom unit in Mandaluyong, San Juan, Pasig, Parañaque, Muntinlupa or Las Piñas should have a combined income of P125,000 per month on the average.

Likewise, those who are searching for the same size and type condo in Makati or Taguig should have a combined monthly income of P178,000 or more, Lamudi said.

When looked at individually, however, Lamudi said the cities of Metro Manila show great diversity.

For example, it said a condo buyer who plans to buy in Makati should have a monthly gross salary of P196,820 – the highest anywhere in Metro Manila.

In contrast, the report showed those who plan to purchase a similar unit in Las Piñas – Metro Manila’s cheapest city to buy a condo – should be earning approximately P70,580 per month.

“However, the data gleaned from Lamudi’s analysis is just an estimate. Real property taxes and insurance costs will vary depending on the location and type of property, not to mention that buyers do not have uniform lifestyle and spending habits,” Lamudi said.

“Furthermore, some people have more savings than others, allowing them to put a larger downpayment, which saves them thousands on interest payments every month. These people can also save on mortgage insurance as having a large equity on a property makes them financially attractive to lenders,” it added.

The global online real estate marketplace determined the amount of gross monthly income of a prospective condo buyer in order to afford mortgage payment of condos by using 6.5 percent annual interest rate fixed for five years and a loan tenor of 15 years.

Lamudi’s calculation also assumed that the buyer spends not more than 30 percent of their gross monthly income on mortgage repayments, including principal and interest, and makes a 20 percent downpayment on the property following most banks’ 80/20 loan-to-value ratio.

Lamudi is a global property portal focusing exclusively on emerging markets, generating about one million visitors per month. Its fast-growing platform is currently available in 28 countries in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America, with more than 600,000 real estate listings across its global network.

Makati, Taguig lead NCR cities in fight vs malnutrition

By Jodesz Gavilan (Rappler.com)

MANILA, Philippines – Urbanization may be hindering food security in the Philippines, but some cities in the National Capital Region have shown that they can overcome this hurdle.

According to data from the 2014 Operation Timbang (OTP) Plus, all of the cities in Metro Manila are doing fairly well in fighting malnutrition, compared to those in other regions.

Despite being the most populous region in the country with at least 11.5 million residents, NCR still ranks the lowest when it comes to the prevalence of undernourishment among children under 5 years old.

The results of the 8th National Nutrition Survey (NNS) of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) show that almost 13% of children under 5 years old in NCR are underweight, below the national average of 19.9%.

In addition, the combined prevalence of underweight and severely underweight children under 6 years old has been decreasing over the years.

YEAR - PREVALENCE
2011 ----- 2.59%
2012 ----- 2.52%
2013 ----- 2.63%
2014 ----- 2.47%

The downtrend is not possible without the efforts of local government units (LGUs) and their nutrition programs that target underprivileged sectors.

What are the top 5 NCR cities with the lowest number of malnourished children based on OTP Plus results collected by Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS)?

GOOD PERFORMANCE. Oplan Timbang Plus results in 2014 show the best performing NCR LGUs when it comes to fighting malnutrition. Graphic by Nico Villarete GOOD PERFORMANCE. Oplan Timbang Plus results in 2014 show the best performing NCR LGUs when it comes to fighting malnutrition. Graphic by Nico Villarete

The data is based on the results of the annual weigh-in of pre-schoolers below 6 years old (or 0 to 71 months old) in different communities. The weigh-in is led by the National Nutrition Council (NNC) and aims to identify and locate malnourished children for local nutritional planning.

Out of the 5 cities, 4 have been part of the list for 3 consecutive years: Taguig, Mandaluyong, Marikina, and Makati.

Makati remains unmoved from the top spot since 2013, while others alternate ranks.

It is important to note, however, that the biggest improvement in the past years can be seen in Taguig. The city climbed from 5thin 2012, to 4th in 2013 and in 2014, is just behind Makati.

NNC-NCR awarded the 2014 Green Banner Award to Taguig City for its outstanding nutrition program implementation and management among its constituents.

RANK -------- 2012 --------------- 2013 ----------------- 2014
1 -------------- Makati ------------- Makati -------------- Makati
2 -------------- Marikina ---------- Mandaluyong ----- Taguig
3 -------------- Mandaluyong --- Marikina ------------ Mandaluyong
4 -------------- Quezon City ---- Taguig --------------- Marikina
5 -------------- Taguig ------------- Quezon City ------ Valenzuela

Quezon City fell out of the top 5 after two years, replaced by Valenzuela which is in 5th place.

From 4th place in 2012 and 5th in 2013, Quezon City is now in No. 8.

Increasing population

The OTP results, however, show that the nutritional status of children in NCR is faring well compared to other regions.

Data showed that 96.09% of all children under 6 years old are found to have normal nutritional status – a slight increase from 96.04% in 2013.

However, several factors may hinder more improvement in the region, such as the increasing number of families who do not consume the right type of food.

Based on the results of a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey in 2014, Metro Manila’s hunger rate average was 16%. In addition, families who consider themselves as food-poor, or lack the proper type of food to meet their daily nutrients needs, rose to 41% –higher than 2013’s average of 39%.

The NNC recommends strengthening the various programs of the LGUs that target not just those who are suffering but also those vulnerable to malnutrition such as children in impoverished areas.

Through this, any increase in the prevalence of malnourished children can be prevented.

Century Properties eyes medical tourism for new project

(MST News)

Century Properties Group recently completed Centuria Medical Makati, the country’s largest outpatient IT-medical building located in Century City, Makati.

“It is a realization of our vision to change the game in health care,” said Century Properties chairman Jose E.B. Antonio. “Centuria Medical Makati addresses the country’s need for a point of reference when it comes to a medical tourism facility, as well as an elevated form of outpatient experience.”

In the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines is still in the developing stage when it comes medical tourist services. But Century Properties wants to fast-track the process.

Antonio said that on account of its natural attractions alone, the existence of top hotel chains and shopping centers, as well as an English-speaking population with some of the best healthcare professionals in the world, the Philippines is already at an advantage.

Century Properties believes the presence of a central facility for patients to consider is a surefire way to ensure a steady stream of patients to the country. The 28-year-old firm has a history of creating medical arts facilities, including Medical Plaza Makati, Medical Plaza Ortigas, and the medical arts center of Asian Hospital in Alabang.

It also helps that the Philippine government is keen on strengthening tourism as a whole, as can be seen in its landmark tourism promotion efforts across the globe.

Because of the success of Centuria and the demand for this kind of facility, Century is considering its expansion to other cities nationally and regionally.

“One of the challenges that this sector faced years ago is the lack of proper infrastructure to house practices specifically geared to accommodate medical tourists,” Antonio said.

Centuria will host Centers of Excellence in Primary care, Multi-specialty Surgery, Dermatology and Cosmetic Laser Treatment, Multi-specialty dentistry, Cosmetic and Facial Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ophthalmology/Laser Eye Surgery, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Urology, Physical Therapy, Chiropractic Treatment, Orthopedic, Dialysis, Podiatry, Oncology/cancer treatment and Wellness and Complementary Medicine.

DTI pushes for “Green modernization” of industries

By Kris M. Crismundo [(PNA), FPV/KMC]

MANILA, March 12 (PNA) -- Inclusion of environmental standards in the development in various industries is being pushed in the Philippines in order to increase industries’ resilience against climate change and strengthen the economy’s competitiveness.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Industry Development Group undersecretary Adrian S. Cristobal Jr., during a forum on Greening the Philippine Manufacturing Industry Roadmap in Makati City on Thursday, said “green economic development” now become an integral part of business practices globally.

Cristobal said adapting environmental requirements in various industry roadmaps is crucial for the growth of the manufacturing sector.

“We want to make sure that the manufacturing sector growth is sustainable and one of the initial components is sustainability and environmentally-sound strategies that could mean moving into the more advanced technology and relevant practices -- operational practices -- that would not only infuse efficiency but also not damage the environment,” he told reporters at the sidelines of the forum.

He cited that among the industries that are crucial to adapt environmental standards include automotive and auto parts, pulp and paper, copper, furniture, and housing, among others.

The trade official also noted that since environmental requirements become global trend, the country -- if it will not adapt green economic development -- will have a hard time to export to the world, particularly in European market.

“This could be a non-tariff barrier. That’s why we have to be alert,” Cristobal said.

He added that the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement, which the Philippines aims to join, also has chapters on environmental standards.

On the other hand, the World Trade Organization (WTO) stated that environmental requirements can impede trade or can be used as an excuse for protectionism.

“The answer is not to weaken environmental standards, but to set appropriate standards and enable exporters to meet them,” the WTO said.

Registering for GIs on local goods, services improve PHL export value to EU

By Kris M. Crismundo [(PNA), CTB/KMC]

MANILA, March 11 (PNA) -- The Philippines must prepare its goods and services to be registered for geographical indications (GIs) in order for the country to improve export value to the European Union (EU).

European Commission ASEAN desk office director for agriculture Laurent Lourdais, at a forum on EU-Generalized System of Preferences Plus (EU-GSP+) and GI in Makati City Wednesday, has recommended inclusion of GIs on free trade agreement (FTA) talks of the Philippines and EU.

“GI chapter is a must have in the FTA. Today, the Philippines should be ready to deal with GIs to get a good FTA outcome,” Lourdais said.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) defines GI as an intellectual property used as a distinctive mark which uses names of places to identify the origin and quality, reputation or other characteristics of products.

Famous GIs around the globe include Champagne, a sparkling wine produced from grapes in the Champagne region of France; Tequila, a distilled beverage from a blue agave plant in the City of Tequila in Jalisco which is a state of Mexico; and Darjeeling tea, a tea from the Darjeeling district in West Bengal, India, among other GIs.

“We can make use of these (GI) products to export more value to the EU market. You can make profit from existing trade preference scheme,” Lourdais added.

Currently, the Philippines is benefitting from the EU-GSP+ which provides zero-duties to 6,274 products entering the EU market.

The EU-GSP+, likewise, is expected to increase Philippine exports to Europe by 600 million euros in the initial years of implementing the preference scheme.

“The EU-GSP+ will not last forever… You have to prepare for that today, in that respect, the legislation your authorities working on today, to protect GI, will affect future export,” he said.

Aside from improving exports value to EU, registering local goods and services for GI will protect the country’s unique products and services.

“You must protect your GIs properly, before it’s too late, from case of squatting trademarks in other countries,” he mentioned.


Four cleanest, healthiest Metro Manila barangays to be announced Thursday

By Clara Masinag (InterAksyon.com)

MAKATI CITY - Four of the best among 48 finalist barangays in Metro Manila vying to be declared the cleanest, healthiest and best in solid waste management will be announced at the Barangay Power 2014 Awarding Ceremony to be held Thursday, March 12, at MMFF Cinema, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) complex.

Coinciding with the event, held under the auspices of the MMDA, is the launching of Barangay Power 2015, in which hundreds of barangays will show off their strongest competitive advantage in keeping their respective areas clean and healthy, as well as in implementing the provisions of Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

Up for grabs for Thursday’s Barangay Power 2014 are livelihood showcases worth a total of P4 million pesos to the four barangays garnering the required points to bag the awards in their respective categories.

Each of the four winners will receive a cash prize of P1-million worth of barangay environmental projects.

The MMDA opted to level the playing field of the 1,706 competing barangays in Metro Manila by dividing them into four categories, namely: Category A for barangays with big income and area, Category B for middle income and middle-size area, Category C for small income/small area, and Category D for village-barangays.

Since the inception of the Barangay Power project in 2012, the MMDA has been encouraging barangays to assume the responsibility of managing their solid waste due to the high rate of solid waste generation in Metro Manila, which remains one of the major development challenges of the rapidly growing urban center.

"At the rate we are going, I am proud to say that we have taken an inclusive and holistic approach to the once dysfunctional solid waste management system," MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said.

Criteria have been revised to provide more emphasis on compliance with RA 9003.

The weight for RA 9003 compliance was increased from 40% to 60% with a corresponding increase in the required solid waste diversion rate from 25% to 50%.

The weight for cleanliness was reduced to 20% from its former 60%. Another 20% weight was devoted for livelihood development using recyclable materials.

Furthermore, Tolentino instructed the competition organizers to provide a refresher course on RA 9003 for all Punong Barangays of the combined finalists of Barangay Power 2012 and 2013.

Makati 'SMART' summer program now open to youngsters

By Jerome R. Paunan (ICRD/RJB/JCP/PIA-NCR)

MAKATI CITY, March 9 (PIA) -- The Makati Youth and Sports Development Department (YSDD) is now accepting and screening applicants for its summer youth program dubbed Sports, Music, Arts and Recreational Training (SMART), which offers chess and athletics starting this year in addition to 19 regular events.

Registration forms and waiver for SMART applicants are available at the 18th floor of City Haill main building, Office of Councilor Eusebio from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Mondays to Fridays.

Registration is on a ‘first come first served’ basis, and will continue until all slots have been filled up. The orientation date and venue will be announced later.

The events this year include academic tutorial for grades 2 to 6; aikido for 12 to 21 years old; arnis for ages nine to 15 years old; athletics for ages seven to 15; badminton for ages eight to 16; basketball clinic for nine to 15 years old; chess for ages seven to 15; classical ballet for six to 13; cooking and baking for ages 10 to 16; dance clinic for 12 to 21 years old; and drama and acting workshop for ages seven to 12.

Other events are drawing and painting for ages six to 15 years old; guitar lesson for ages nine to 18; karate for ages 10 to 15; muay thai for 12 to 21; personality development for 12 to 21 years old; swimming for seven to 12; table tennis for ages eight to 12; taekwondo for seven to 15 years old; voice lesson for seven to 15; and volleyball for kids ages eight to 12 years.

Makati Mayor jejomar Erwin S. Binay, who founded the program 13 years ago, encouraged young residents to enroll in the event of their choice to be able to learn new skills and develop their potential talents during the summer vacation for free.

Binay said each student will be given free t-shirts to serve as their uniform. The summer program will run from April 6 to May 21.

The Makati SMART summer program is open to residents who are required to present the following: duly accomplished registration and waiver form, original and photocopy of Birth or Baptismal Certificate of the child; original and photocopy of Voter’s ID or COMELEC Certificate of parent or legal guardian; Affidavit of Guardianship (for guardian); and two pieces 1x1 latest picture of the child.


For more information on the SMART program, you may call the numbers 870-1152 or 899-8739 or visit the website www.jesb@makati.gov.ph or email youthandsports@yahoo.com.

MMDA to bring back ‘heat stroke break’

By Anna Liza Villas-Alavaren

The summer heat is on. And so is the heat stroke break policy of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for traffic constables and street sweepers who work under the scorching heat of the sun.

MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino said the agency will revive the daily heat stroke break policy starting March 15 that aims to protect its frontliners from health-related illnesses as the weather gets hotter.

Under the policy, personnel working outdoors will be allowed to leave their designated posts and take a rest for 30 minutes.

The heat stroke break will be implemented from 1 pm to 1:30 p.m. and from 2:30 to 3 p.m., said Dr. Loida Labao-Alzona, head of the agency health public safety and environmental protection.

The heat stroke break will be in effect daily until May 31.

First Gen announces 14.5 B investment in LNG

(Rappler.com)

The investment is needed because the Malampaya supply could run out by 2024

MANILA, Philippines – First Gen Corporation said on Friday, March 6, that its board approved the appropriation of P14.5 billion ($327 million) as investment to reinforce its Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects during the natural gas summit held in Makati City.

LNG is natural gas that has been converted into a liquid state for easier storage and transportation. Upon reaching its destination, LNG is regasified so it can be distributed through pipelines as natural gas.

The Lopez-led company gave no futher details.

"Our current gas supply contracts from Malampaya will expire in about 10 years' time, so we are already preparing for a post-Malampaya gas world to provide replacement fuel for our new and existing powerplants," First Gen President Francis Giles Puno said.

The firm has two plants, Santa Rita and San Lorenzo, generating a combined 1,500 megawatts (MW) that is currently powered by gas produced from the Malampaya field off southwestern Palawan province.

The Malampaya natural gas project generates 2,700MW, which accounts for about 40% of Luzon's power requirements. The government has said, however, that Malampaya's output may run out by 2024.

The company however is more focused on developing two new gas power plants in Batangas, which together, represent around $800 million of capital expenditures (P 35.4 billion), according to Puno.

One of them is the 100MW Avion Open Cycle Natural Gas-Fired power plant, which will cost about $130 million (P5.7 billion).

The Avion facility will be adjacent to First Gen’s 1,000MW Santa Rita and 500MW San Lorenzo natural gas-fired power plants in Batangas City.

The second project is the San Gabriel natural gas power plant which will cost $700 million (P31 billion). It is envisioned to be the most efficient gas-fired power plant in Southeast Asia with an efficiency of more than 60%.

The San Gabriel plant will initially run on natural gas produced from the Malampaya field. First Gen also plans to expand San Gabriel by another 414MW. ­­

“Avion will, hopefully, run by June this year with San Gabriel up by March next year. Sta. Maria, an expansion of San Gabriel, will probably be put up in the second half of 2017 or early 2018,” added Puno.

The company also plans to put up a $1 billion (P44.3 billion) LNG import terminal and have this running by end of 2019.

Asia’s first inmate green coop succeeds with DOLE convergence grant

(PNA), FPV/DOLE-PR/PJN

MANILA, March 6 (PNA) -- Who would have thought that in just two years after receiving government assistance, this cooperative composed of inmates at the Makati City Jail would be earning money more than they could imagine while languishing in prison?

But it’s true, the Makati City Jail Integrated Green Producer’s Cooperative (MIGCO), Asia’s first green cooperative established by prisoners, is in business and making handsome profits.

MIGCO is only three years old. Established on 5 November 2011, its 66 members—all inmates—thought of recycling old tarpaulins into grocery bags, messenger bags, wine bags, etc. The idea was sensible. There were plenty of discarded tarpaulins lying around, or hanging in electric posts, that no one cares to dispose of properly.

“Tarpaulins are an eyesore for some city dwellers. To us at MIGCO, it’s money,” says MIGCO Chairman Ireneo A. Espinocilla.

MIGCO’s success journey began in September 2012, when the inmates submitted a feasibility study to the city government of Makati through the Makati Cooperative Development Office (MCDO).

“We drafted the feasibility study upon the advice of the MCDO for us to avail of a livelihood grant from the Pasay-Makati Field Office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Makati City Public Employment Service Office (PESO),” Espinocilla explained.

On 22 October 2012, at the Koopbida 2012 Awards Night at the University of Makati, the DOLE awarded the cooperative P108,630 worth of materials and consumables, to be delivered in two tranches.

The first tranche covered the raw materials and consumable items for MIGCO’s job order from Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc. for 1,000 pieces of carry-all bags, made out of poly-vinyl materials, with a total contract value of P215,000.

“We have delivered this order on schedule, on 14 December, and MIGCO was promptly paid on 4 January 2014,” said Espinocilla

The second tranche of the DOLE grant followed shortly. The materials covered the job order of the Makati Gospel Church for 700 pieces of brown leatherette bags, worth P125,000, and an additional order of 50 pieces of the product that needed to be printed with labels and worth P50,000. These were delivered on 28 November 2012 and in January and February 2013. From then on, MIGCO’s business started to roll.

The cooperative has transformed itself from a sewing labor contractor to a manufacturer. Two years after, or in January 2014, the cooperative again submitted a feasibility study to DOLE when it was informed of the DOLE-DOST Convergence Program.

The convergence program aims to maximize the use of scarce government resources in building sustainable, technology-based and innovation-led enterprises utilizing local resources to open up opportunities for the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized workers.

Under the convergence program, the DOLE commits to deliver working capital in the form of raw materials, equipment, tools and jigs; skills and entrepreneurship training; training on productivity, safety and health, and organizational development; and payment of premiums to SSS, PhilHealth, or micro-insurance for three months, inputted in the total project cost.

On the other hand, the DOST commits to provide scientific and technological skills and strategies that beneficiaries can use and tap the Technology Resource Center, DOST’s corporate arm, to work on the business and livelihood program interventions. More importantly, the DOST shall provide the necessary technologies for people or group of people for potential technology transfer or adoption for business, as well as counterpart funding in the form of technologies and innovations, technical assistance, experts’ man-hours, and the like.

MIGCO said because of its volume of orders, it needed to acquire additional equipment to boost productivity and competitiveness. It also said its members needed to get additional knowledge and skills, particularly on “green technology” that can be used inside the jails.

With the endorsement by the Makati City PESO and the MCDO, the DOLE approved the proposal. It released the grant under the supervision of the PESO, while the implementation and management was done in close coordination with the MCDO.

On 20 November 2014, the DOLE delivered to MIGCO four units of hi-speed sewing machines, a button holer, an over-edging machine, and a heat press machine through the Makati Cooperative Development Office. The following day, representatives from the DOLE, DOST, Department of Trade and Industry, and the Public Employment Service Office arrived to inspect the equipment.

“With the additional high speed sewing machines and the heat press machine, we were able to accept more cooperative members who are given the opportunity to “learn and earn” while in detention. In return, this gave MIGCO a boost to become more sustainable and profitable,” said Espinocilla.

In 2014, MIGCO received an order for the supply of labor and materials, including printing, of Maya eco-bags from Liberty Commodities, Inc. When the initial order of 2,000 pieces were delivered, the company placed an order for another 2,000 pieces to be delivered this early February.

A new learning experience for MIGCO members was the sewing of 500 pieces “sheep” stuff toys. Makati City-based retailer Landmark Department Store, through GTG Stuff Toys, placed the order in time to welcome the Year of the Sheep.

Currently, MIGCO is working to deliver 2,000 pieces of seminar kit bags made out of poly rubber materials to the Design Center of the Philippines of the Department of Trade and Industry, Inc.

The labor-only contract, including printing, was placed by the Directorate for Inmates’ Welfare and Development, National Headquarters, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

This latest development is an indication that the program of the Makati city government to help develop less fortunate individuals, such as those behind bars, by giving them opportunity to engage in productive activities, is greatly rewarding.

Makati offers free anti-rabies mass vaccination

[(PNA), FFC/CLTC]

MANILA, March 5 (PNA) -- In line with the nationwide observance of March as Rabies Awareness Month, the city government of Makati, through the Makati Veterinary Services Office (MVSO) and in coordination with the National Rabies Prevention and Control Committee (NRPCC), will conduct a series of free anti-rabies mass vaccination for dogs and other pet animals in the different barangays throughout the month starting on Saturday.

MVSO chief Dr. Vivien C. Manalastas said the annual activity is one of the many initiatives of the city government that have contributed to the rabies-free status of Makati, with zero deaths from rabies recorded in the city for four straight years now.

Manalastas said the activities for the month will start with a kick-off activities at Fidela’s Youth Club located at M. Reyes corner Lucban St., Barangay Bangkal on March 7, Saturday. The kick-off activities will include mass anti-rabies vaccination, mass dog/cat castration, T-shirt design-making contest and “Moments with my Dog” photo contest.

The free anti-rabies mass vaccination will also be conducted in Barangays Bangkal, Comembo, East Rembo, West Rembo, Guadalupe Nuevo, Cembo, Pitogo and South Cembo from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the barangay halls.

Dr. Manalastas is encouraging owners to bring their pets for registration and free anti-rabies vaccination to their respective barangay halls on scheduled dates as follows: March 5-6, Pio del Pilar; March 10, Carmona and Kasilawan; March 11, Valenzuela and Singkamas; March 12-13, Tejeros and Olympia; March 17, Sta. Cruz and San Isidro; March 18-20, Poblacion and San Antonio; and March 24-26, Palanan and La Paz.

Freebies like dog food and pet accessories will also be given to early registrants during the kick-off celebration.

Meanwhile, the MVSO, assisted by Animal Welfare Coalition (AWC) and Love Pets, also conducted “Spay Day 2015” last February 24 in Barangay La Paz where 57 pets were spayed.

Last year, a total of 4,499 pets benefited from the free anti-rabies vaccination program conducted during the observance of Rabies Awareness Month.

March has been declared Rabies Awareness Month, pursuant to Republic Act No. 9482 signed on May 25, 2007, to build public awareness on the prevention and control of rabies through education and vaccination.

Shui Mo painting workshop at Yuchengco Museum on March 11

By Lily O Ramos [(PNA), CTB/LOR]

MANILA, March 4 (PNA)-- Shui Mo, a traditional Chinese brush painting is one of the oldest continuous artistic traditions in the world.

This summer, the Yuchengco Museum at Ayala Avenue in Makati City will conduct an intermediate Shui Mo workshop starting March 11 for interested participants starting at 15 years of age.

Prior experience in Western or Chinese painting is required.

Workshop fee is P6,500 which does not yet include materials. Supplies can be purchased from the instructor on the first lesson.

Shui Mo which uses water and ink is a freestyle technique with the use of a brush dipped into the combination and painted onto rice paper.

It expresses the harmony between man and nature.

Practicing Shui Mo expresses one's creativity and artistry, calms the mind, and gives a better appreciation for the beauty of art and nature.

Workshop students are given photocopies of the lesson for the week. The instructor demonstrates the lesson, describing the steps and the proper handling of tools and materials.

Students then work on their own paintings, while the instructor checks on individual progress. Weekly assignments are given, to be submitted the following session.

PHL Property Awards 2015 launched

By Kris M. Crismundo [(PNA), CTB/KMC]

MANILA, March 3 (PNA) -- Asia's luxury real estate magazine Ensign Media, in partnership with ABS-CBN Publishing Inc., launched on Tuesday the Philippine Property Awards (PPA) 2015 to recognize the best property developers, projects, and innovations in the local property industry.

“Since its debut in 2013, PPA is one of the regional awards show of the Asia Property Awards which showcases outstanding developers and industry professionals. We would urge any company with an outstanding development that hasn’t done so already to ensure that they get their entry on time,” Ensign Media chief executive officer Terry Blackburn said.

Blackburn, in a press briefing on Tuesday, said nominations for the PPA 2015 will close in two weeks time.

PPA’s gala night will be on July 9 at Fairmont Hotel in Makati City, in which organizers will be giving out 26 awards in different categories.

PPA 2015 winners will be competing at the regional level for South East Asia Property Awards happening in Singapore on October 15.

Moreover, PPA chair of judges Cyndy Tan Jabarata mentioned that the PPA encourages innovations in the local property sector, not only among major players but boutique developers as well.

Jabarata also said that there are now growing trends in the sector particularly in areas of architecture, resort development, and luxury properties.

Last year, Ayala Land Inc. was named as the Best Property Developer in PPA as well as in the South East Asia Property Awards while Megaworld founder Andrew L. Tan was chosen as Real Estate Personality of the Year.

Meanwhile, Ensign’s Property Awards started in Bangkok, Thailand a decade ago and diversified to Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Hong Kong.

DSWD to conduct forum on adoption

(PNA), FFC/LSJ

MANILA, March 2 (PNA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will conduct a “Forum on Adoption” at Makati Palace Hotel, Makati City on Tuesday (March 3).

With the theme: “Legal na Ampon Ako: Anak na Totoo”(A Child Finds worth in Legal Adoption), the forum aims to tackles significance of adoption and shares related laws on child’s right to identity/name, family and nationality.

Republic Acts 9523, 8552, 8043 and 10165 will also be tackled during the forum to enlighten adoptive parents and interested adoptive parents.

Among the guests in the forum will Atty. Dulfie T. Shalim, Director, Special Operations, Adoption and Social Welfare Attaché Office, DSWD-NCR Director Ma. Alicia S. Bonoan, Atty. Gwendolyn Pimentel-Gana of the Association of Child Caring Agencies of the Philippines (ACCAP), Director Rosario dela Rosa Kaisahang Buhay Foundation and adoptive parents Mr. & Mrs. Gil and Cecil Velez.

The forum on adoption is a yearly advocacy of DSWD to discuss easing and enhancement of laws to encourage more adoptive parents to consider legal adoption in giving name/identity, family and nationality to parentless or abandoned children needing the love of a family that will love them as their own.

The forum also serves as an inspiration for childless couples to realize the beauty of adoption and how their lives can be transformed by adopting children needing the warmth of their love, affection and guidance.

MMDA opens own film center, archive

By Kristine Felisse Mangunay (Philippine Daily Inquirer)

Its hands are already full just minding the capital’s traffic situation, but it looks like the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has more than enough energy and resources to spare for its other passion: movies.

The MMDA on Thursday inaugurated the MMFF Cinema as a new section of its headquarters on Orense, Makati City, which is envisioned as a new archive center for Filipino films. MMFF stands for Metro Manila Film Festival, which is organized by the agency during the Christmas season.

MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino said the cinema could serve as a library for local movies made as far back as 50 years ago, where preservation efforts will receive technical assistance from France.

“Before the French President (Francois Hollande) arrived, I talked to the French ambassador in Manila and [we agreed to] have a tie-up this July. They will help in the MMFF Cinema,” Tolentino said in his remarks during the opening.

The MMFF Cinema occupies two floors formerly housing traffic-related offices of MMDA. It is composed of the theater proper which can seat about a hundred viewers, classrooms and the library.

The cinema may also serve as a training center for mass communication and film students, with independent film directors tapped as instructors or resource speakers, he added.

Among its possible projects within the year is the holding of a monthly film festival targeting young audiences and exposing them to global cinema, in partnership with the different embassies.

Pasay City Mayor Tony Calixto, who graced the event to represent the Metro Manila Council composed of the capital’s 17 city and municipal mayors, said the body was fully supportive of the MMDA project as it would foster the development of Filipino filmmaking.

Veteran actress Susan Roces, the program’s guest of honor, lauded the new cinema as a venue where the youth can get to know the actors, directors, writers and producers from her generation.

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