4th Annual Xmas Toys Fair unfolds

The whole experience of the 4th Annual Toys and Collectibles Christmas Fair 2009, in line with the SM Megamall's "Manila Toys & Gift Show 2009", unfolded at the Megatrade Hall 3, 5th Level, Mega B last December 16 to 22, 2009. This ‘present’ was brought to public by the Collectibles Unlimited in partnership with the SM Megatrade Hall. Collectibles Unlimited is the only events and convention organizer that hosts a toy fair every December at Megatrade Hall and usually inside the Manila Toys and Gift Show.

This fourth Christmas Toy fair featured the best selection of kiddie toys, dolls, action figures, die cast cars, licensed merchandising and high end collectibles this side of town.

The event also highlighted by toy bazaars and sales, raffles and games. Another highly anticipated activity is the live auction where kids and collectors bid for highly sought-after items and win them for way below their actual value.

For seven days, pure toys and collectibles items were sold and at around 80 booth exhibitors will be there selling toys and stuff in a best deal.

Please call or text, for inquiries, numbers 0917-980-2643 or visit the website www.toyconph.com.

Philstar.com bares Christmas Celebrity Run 2009

Celebrating a more meaningful Christmas this year, philstar.com is calling online community members, lifestyle aficionados, sports enthusiasts and race buffs to join the Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 on December 20, 2009 at the Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.

“We invite everyone to celebrate the yuletide season with us and support our campaign to connect Philippine public high schools to the world by joining Christmas Celebrity Run 2009,” said philstar.com General Manager Katrina-Sandejas Mañosa.

The event was designed as a venue where philstar.com online community members can interact with celebrities, who share the same passion for running, healthy lifestyle, online literacy and charity work.

Heading the celebrity roster, according to Manosa, are Christine Jacob-Sandejas, Maricel Laxa, Anthony Pangilinan, Gary Valenciano, Rovilson Fernandez, Marc Nelson, Claudine Barreto, Raymart Santiago, KC Concepcion, Piolo Pascual and Drew Arellano. Business tycoons Jaime and Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Fred Uytengsu and Lance Gokongwei are likewise expected to put on their running gear during the event.

Special prizes await the top three runners in the male and female divisions of the 3-kilometer, 5-kilometer, and 10-kilometer races. In the 21-kilometer race, two winners will be chosen (one male and one female) in each of the five divisions: 18-25 years old, 26-30 years old, 31-29 years old, Male (40 and above) and Female (35 and above). More prizes await those who come in costumes looking like celebrities. Three participants will be named Best in costume (Celebrity Look-a-like).

“More than the social and healthy benefits of running, philstar.com’s Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 will also help fund the computerization program of GILAS (Gearing up Internet Literacy and Access for Students), a multi-sectoral initiative spearheaded by the Ayala Foundation program,” Ms. Mañosa explained “This is in line with our corporate social responsibility of nurturing not just the online community but helping spread online literacy as well.”

Initially scheduled Oct. 11, the race was postponed to give way to relief, clean-up and rehabilitation efforts in Taguig, one of the urban areas badly hit by tropical storm Ondoy last Sept. 26.

The philstar.com Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 is sponsored by Adidas, Yahoo! Philippines, E-Games, Brazilian Agaricus 8-in-1 Herbal Coffee, Crocs, Nutribar, SMART Communications, Inc., Coppertone, Aqua Blue, Sport Beans, Timex, Chris Sports, Vitwater, Mizuno, Paul Calvin's Deli, McKinley Hill, and One Tagaytay Place, Action and Fitness Magazine, Men’s Health Philippines, Women’s Health Philippines, Magic 89.9, AXN-Asia, Jack TV, Jobstreet, Chikka, People Asia, The Philippine STAR, NU 107, and takbo.ph.

For more information, contact project director Mr. Ian Alacar at (63929) 6496762 or philstar.com at (632) 527-6856, email marketing@philstar.com, or visit www.philstar.com.

The Ninth World Bazaar Festival

Celebrating the Yuletide means indulging in the spirit of giving – to your family, your friends, and even to those unfortunate people you don’t even know the names of!

Intent on keeping the true meaning of Christmas, Worldbex Services International organized and conducted the Ninth World Bazaar Festival last Dec. 4–16 at the World Trade Center in Metro Manila.

Featured in the event were night markets, fashion shows, musical shows, a Christmas décor center, a play land for kids, the Manila Flair Open, and Bottle for Supremacy, alongside the usual shops and stalls from the different sponsors concessionaires.

The World Bazaar Festival is held for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. Supporting the event were several sponsors and media partners, including Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Citre Shine, Tefal, LBC, BDO, Fila, Goody, WRR 101.9, Creative Programs Inc., Business World, Manila Bulletin, Myx, the Philippine Star, Star Records, and NU 107.

For more information about the annual World Bazaar Festival, you may contact telephone numbers (02) 531-6350 or (02) 533-6988 or send via fax messages to (02) 533-2026. You may also visit the Worldbex website at www.worldbex.com.

NGO Trade Fair at Trinoma

The Association of Foundation in cooperation with the Caucus of Development NGO Networks and the Peace and Equity Foundation presented the NGO Trade Fair at the Trinoma Activity Center, Trinoma Mall in Quezon City last December 14 to 16, 2009.

With the theme, "Rebuilding Resilient Communities, Reconstructing Democratic Institutions (Hope for Chnage after Ondoy, Pepeng, and GMA)", the event was organized to create public awareness on the role played by civil society and NGOs in national development and to showcase the products of the development community to the mainstream market.

This is part of CODE-NGO's Development Forum Series. A 2-day forum was also held at the Ateneo de Manila University with the topic "Capacity Building for Local Initiatives in Disaster Risk Reduction", and "Learning Public Forum on Civil Society's Disaster Relief Response".

The Trade Fair, moreover, featured quality and reasonably-priced products to support efforts on generating sustainable livelihoods for our community.

The event was also supported by Foundation for the Philippine Environment (FPE), Foundation for Sustainable Society, and Philippine Tropical Forest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PTFCF).

Outstanding Chapters, Individuals, Recognized at Philippine National Red Cross Convention

Numerous staff, volunteers, and chapters of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) were recognized during the 28th Biennial Convention last December 15-16, 2009 at the Manila Hotel.

Carrying the theme, “Modernizing the Philippine Red Cross: Meeting New Challenges”, PNRC Chairman Senator Richard Gordon said that the technological advancement of the modern age, must be directed towards their betterment and well-being and used to modernize PNRC methods of disaster response and even prevention.

The 28th Biennial National Convention served as an occasion to assess the progress of the PNRC and to conceptualize resolutions regarding the difficulties and improvements that are to be carried out by the organization.

On the first day, disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation, early warning systems and public health in emergencies were the topics discussed during the workshop sessions.

The second day of the convention was dedicated to discussions on how information could be harnessed for the PNRC operations, how PNRC services could be scaled up to meet increasing service demands and how services could be improved.

During the convention, incumbent PNRC chairman Senator Richard Gordon also delivered the Biennial Report, which summarized the improvements and actions carried out by the organization.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of the recipients of the Aurora Aragon Quezon Medal, Silver Humanitarian Service Cross Award and Gold Humanitarian Service Cross Award will be honored.

The Service Awards are conferred on volunteers who are highly distinguished in their service and promotion of the Red Cross work. The Aurora Aragon Award is the highest national award and is bestowed to people who have records of highly distinguished service of not less than 8 years as a leader or official of a unit and a highly distinguished service in the promotion of the Red Cross work.

A total of 28 individuals received Service Cross Award while 24 volunteers and advocates of the Red Cross were given the Aurora Aragon Award. Here is the complete list of awardees:

A. Staff Awardees Silver Service Cross Award a. Aguilus, Thelma B b. Bonus, Nenita R. c. Coral, Fe Rossini B. d. Diaz, Camila B. e. Genato, Lourdes A. f. Landicho, Ofelia R. g. Pascual, Moline R. h. Siawingco, Anita C. i. Ternida, Ulpiano S. Bronze Service Cross Award a. Arguelles, Teresita P. b. Butardo, Francisco C. c. Dela Rosa, Rodolfo A. d. Dorado, Bernardita T. e. Dorado. Domingo Z. f. Fernandez, Leonardo S. *(Posthumous) g. Marquez, Michael Angelo J. h. Tabirao, Luzviminda A. B. Gold Humanitarian Service Cross a. Bañagale, Palermo A. (San Pablo City Chapter) b. Bagatsing, Amado S. (Manila Chapter) c. Dy, Henry (Iligan City) d. Joson III, Tomas N. (Nueva Ecija) e. Ng Cha, William L. (Laguna) f. Tan, William G. (Davao City) C. Silver Humanitarian Service Cross a. Diu, Rosa F. (Zamboanga City) b. Lazaro, Teresita S. (Laguna Chapter) c. Maranan, Lito S. (Manila Chapter) d. Padilla, Pablo M. (Nueva Ecija) e. Santiago, Cesar A. (Pasay City)

D. Aurora Aragon Quezon Award LUZON a. Espiritu, Elmer C. (Rizal) b. Hernandez, Rafael N. (Pasay City) c. Juan, Ma. Lilia P. (Pangasinan) d. Mangussad, Herminia C. (Pasay City) e. Manuel, Virginia A. (Rizal) f. Nolasco, Ricardo L. Jr (Pasay City) g. Ong, Corazon Dayro (Valenzuela Chapter) h. Ortega, Mary Jane C. (La Union) i. Reyes, Manuel R. (Rizal) j. Servano, Pedrito M. (Camarines Sur) k. Tan, Benito K. (Pasay City) l. Victorio, Jaime B. (Rizal) m. Villar, Cynthia A. (Las Piñas) VISAYAS a. Aumentado, Erico B. (Bohol) b. Tirol, Amalia S. (Bohol) c. Robles, Charlie T. (Capiz) MINDANAO a. Barbers, Regina Z. (Surigao del Norte) b. Galicia, Emmanuel D. (Davao City) c. Hao, Loreto B. (Davao City) d. Lim, Rory W. (Gingoog City) e. Lobregat, Celso L. (Zamboanga City) f. Robillo, Eduardo G. (Davao City) g. Te Jr., Lorenzo A. (Davao City) h. Tesoro, Linda C. (Davao City)

The Camarines Sur Chapter of PNRC received the Chapter of the Year for Category III, San Fernando, La Union for Category II and Valenzuela for Chapter I.

For more information about the event, contact the Philippine National Red Cross at (632) 527-0000 or visit their website at http://www.redcross.org.ph/

Porat on Music and One Humanity

A classical music benefit concert entitled “One Humanity: The tie that binds cultures together — a Christmas tribute by Matan Porat” was held last Dec. 5 at 8 p.m. at the Marcelo B. Fernan Cebu Press Center in Lahug, Cebu City.

Regarded as a musician of great insight and sensitivity, an Israel-born pianist and composer, Porat has appeared as soloist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, Irish National Symphony Orchestra and Israel Chamber and Symphony Orchestras. He also believes that through music you can reach the most inner part of a person and that you do not have to be rich or poor to appreciate it.

This event was presented by Omnilogy Inc., in cooperation with the Arts Council of Cebu, Cebu Music Learning Center, YMCA Cebu, Rotary Club of Talisay, Peace Philharmonic Philippines and Cebu Events Organizer, an advocacy business started by the Managements students of University of the Philippines Visayas Cebu College (UPVCC).

The concert is part of the Bridging the Gap concert series for the benefit of the programs of Omnilogy Inc. Sponsors of this series enjoyed two musical performances by international performers Matan Porat (Israel) and Racquel Borromeo (US/Philippines) with Tenor, Ulises Solano (US/Costa Rica) on a different day (December 14) as their gifts helped fund future workshops and other philanthropic activities initiated by Omnilogy.

For more information, please contact Joan Malgapo (253-8659) or Jerra of Arts Council of Cebu ( 233-0452), or email us at info@omnilogyinc.org

OFW Expo for Business and for Christmas

The Mega Balik-bayan Expo and OFW Business Summit 2009 launched last December 11 to 13, 2009 at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall. 

It offers OFWs and general public an opportunity to invest, to start a business, and to grow their money and livelihood. On its 6th year, Mega Balik-bayan Expo and OFW Summit continue its mission of educating OFWs and Balik-bayans on how can they prepare for their future by investing through business and entrepreneurship.

The three-day event showcased different business opportunities, investment tools available in the market using the most effective person-to-person conference and exhibition that greatly reward and benefit the OFWs. It also featured Tour and Hotel Destinations for those who wanted to experience the wonders of the Philippines and start a business with travel.

Moreover, the event presented a business congress which plays as a learning venue for different OFW groups, associations, government and private entities—which also provide networking opportunities essential in moving-up the economic development.

OFW Expo aims to display the widest possible range of gift ideas, including the latest designs in clothing and fashion, winter sports articles and equipment, games and toys, beauty and cosmetics, food and beverages, all sorts of gift items and a variety of Christmas and holiday decorations, making the event the ideal place for any type of retail and wholesale exhibitor.

Exhibitor on the said event include: Realty & Investment companies, Training & Consultancy Firms, Franchising Companies, Dealership & Distributorship Companies, Food Companies, food Suppliers Companies, Food Equipment and Gadgets, Technology Companies, Office Machines & Equipments, Small Office Solutions, Direct Selling Companies, Multi-level Marketing Companies, fashion and crafts (as featured & selected only), Gift items & regional Product, other Christmas products.

14th National Press Congress Tackled Current Issues in Media Practice

The current issues faced by media practitioners today were discussed during the 14th National Press Congress held last December 10 – 12, 2009 at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center in Olongapo City, Zambales.

The three day event, organized by the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), in cooperation with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), carried the theme, "The Challenges of the Information-Driven Age". The congress coincided with the celebration of the National Press Congress Month and the Month of the Community Press in the Service of the Nation as mandated by Presidential Proclamation 1187.

Topics discussed during the event include Media Freedom and Responsibility; The Responsibility of Media in the 2010 Elections; Culture and Media; A Critical Look into the Philippine Political Culture; Career Options for the Youth in Cross Media; Media and the Moral Force Movement; Global Trends in Media; Future of the Publishing Industry; The Gravity and Threats of Global Warming and Climate Change; and, Good Governance and Sustainable Economic Development.

Among the distinguished experts who graced the event include PAPI President Juan P. Dayang, former University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication Dean Luis Teodoro, Philippine Daily Inquirer publisher Isagani Yambot, Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Victor Domingo, Albay Gov. Joey S. Salcedo, election lawyer Atty. Romulo Macalintal, and Press Undersecretary Romeo “Butch” Junia.

Usec. Junia read the speech of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for the said occasion. In her speech, the president noted that this year’s Congress is appropriate with the members of the press embracing the cause of the information and communication technologies (ICT) revolution.

As concluding rites, the 34 journalist-victims of the November 23, 2009 Maguindanao massacre in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao were honored in a special memorial mass.

For more information about the event, contact the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. at (632) 892-9278, 501-3118 (63920) 909-4379, (63917) 849-8730 or e-mail papi_secretariat@yahoo.com.

Philippine MMT Recognized at Asia Pacific Mobile Money Transfer Conference

The country’s mobile money technology (MMT) was recognized by the international community as the Philippines hosted the Asia Pacific Mobile Money Transfer Conference last December 8 – 9, 2009 at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel in Ortigas, Pasig City.

Organized by Clarion Events Ltd., the conference aims to find ways on how to revolutionize the flow and management of money worldwide, giving new definitions to bills payment, management of payrolls, and person-to-person mobile money transfers.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. delivered the keynote address during the event. In his speech, he said that the technology of issuing electronic money was made available in the Philippines through the pioneering efforts of our country’s two largest telecommunications companies, Smart Communications, Inc., through Smart Money, and Globe Telecom, Inc., using GCash platform. Gov. Tetangco added that the country’s experience in MMT shows the benefits that can transform the lives of millions of people stemming from the convergence of ideas in service innovation.

During the two-day event, the country’s telecom and financial partners shared their experiences as pioneers in mobile money services. The event was filled with focus group and round table discussions designed to tackle the issues on MMT and device real solutions and innovations for the industry.

The Asia Pacific Mobile Money Transfer Conference is supported by Commonwealth Telecommunications Organization, GSA, International Association of Money Transfer Networks (IAMTN), Microenterprise Access to Banking Services, MicroSave, Mobey Forum, Mobile Alliance Singapore, Rural Bankers Association of the Philippines, Chemonics, Edgar, Dunn & Co., The event is sponsored by Ericsson, Obopay, SBA Technology, Roamware Inc., Comviva, Western Union, MoneyGram, TransferTo, and Sybase 365, with the following media partners: Developing Telecoms, InfoCom, Maverick China, Micro Capital, Microfinance Focus, Microfinance Insights, Mobile Payments World, Payments Cards & Mobile, Telecom Asia, TelecomWatch India, The Paypers, Wireless Asia, and Wireless Watch Japan.

For more information about the event, contact Steven Clarke, Event Director of Clarion Events Ltd. at steven.clarke@clarionevents.com or visit the event website at http://www.mobile-money-transfer.com/.

Breaking the Language Barrier: DepEd Slates National Language Teaching Seminar-Workshop

The Department of Education (DepEd) slated a national seminar-workshop, entitled Language Teaching Across Cultures. Originally scheduled for Oct. 21–23 at the Teacher’s Village in Baguio City, the event finally pushed through last Dec. 7–9 at the Monte Vista Resort, Calamba City.

According to Dr. Paraluman R. Giron, Southern Tagalog-A (CALABARZON) host regional director, the seminar-workshop is geared toward gaining an understanding on multicultural education and language teaching across continents. The seminar-workshop was conducted by the Regional Language Center Alumni Association of the Philippines (RELCAAP).

The seminar included in-depth discussions in new developments in teaching language, literature, and culture; responses to cultural and language diversity and gender; electronic collaboration for English instruction across cultures; sharing of new techniques and developments on teaching different languages; teaching strategies; and designing a language program, responsive to cultural diversity and ethnicity and gender.

The event participants included DepEd regional directors, schools division superintendents, RELC grantees, English and Filipino regional and division education supervisors in 17 DepEd regions, and department heads.

For more information on the seminar-workshop, please contact Ms. Liezel Selda, DepEd Region IV-CALABARZON at (02) 682-1054 or (02) 666-5820 or send an email to drparahgiron@gmail.com or liela_zel@yahoo.com

Fueling the World Cup “Kick”

Revving up its engines for the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2010, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) hosted “ Diski Night: A Jumpstart to the FIFA World Cup 2010” at One Esplanade in Pasay City last Dec. 8.

Diski Night was divided into three segments: First was the establishment of Philippine Football Hall of Fame, second is the recognition and handing of awards to special people in football world, and third is the acknowledgment of individuals who have contributed to the growth of Philippine football. The all-night event also included a dinner, the “Diski Dance,” and an art auction, all in the same venue.

Sponsors for the event were Business World, Magic 89.9, Balls, and the Department of Tourism.

FIFA World Cup 2010 partners and sponsors were: Adidas, Coca-Cola, Emirates, Hyundai, Kia Motors, VISA, Sony, Budweiser, Mc Donald’s, MTN, Continental, Castrol, and Satyam.

For more information, please contact the PFF at (02) 571-2871 or GWorld Inc. at (02) 719-0184 or (02) 215-0512.

The Fifth Philippine Congress and Exhibition on Natural Health

Health is wealth as they say. Proof of this adage is the sudden boom of the popularity of health and wellness programs, diets and food products, beverages, and food supplements. However, most people and professionals all say that when it comes to being healthy, going natural is the definite approach.

Powered by this insight, the International Association of Educators for World Peace, a United Nations, non-governmental organization, organized the Fifth Philippine Congress and Exhibition on Natural Health with the theme “ There can be no peace unless there is healing.”

Held last Dec. 4–6 at the Philippine Trade Training Center, the congress featured a health tiangge which showcased vegetarian food, herbal medicines, organic herbs, and other natural products. Various exhibitors were also present to provide free health diagnoses to attendees, as well as acupuncture, live blood analysis, iris analysis, blood typing, and blood pressure check-ups.

Lectures on peace and healing, organic ways, probiotics, blood purification, ten laws of health, financial wellness, diets for cancer patients, chelation therapy, and environmental protection were also conducted for the last two days of the event.

For more information, please call telephone numbers 245-7600 or 371-7016. You may also send an email to worldpeacemanila@yahoo.com.

Philippine Kayaking Series

Red Bull Kayak Explore Cebu-Bohol Island Crossing
3rd and final leg of the 2009 Philippine Kayaking series December 4 to 6

The third and final leg of the Philippine Kayaking Series was a Cebu-Bohol channel crossing that featured a 3-legged 125K marathon and a novice race.

Entitled Kayak Explore Cebu-Bohol crossing, the 3rd run held last December 4 - 6, 2009 followed the route of Mactan Island to Bohol, where paddlers crossed the 125-km scenic route passing through a motley of islets, coves, mangroves and river deltas.

With more than 100 participants who attended the three-day event, Kayak Explore Cebu and Bohol began from Punta Engano following a 5-km coastal run along Mactan Island passing through resorts and other sites, then on to Olango, down to Getafe, Bohol. The race moved eastward towards Panglao passing through coastwise and municipal waters; stopping by at designated control points where local packages and tours are introduced. Coastal municipalities participated with their local cuisine, products and cultural presentation.

The kayak marathon had three classes, the sit-in tandem, the sit-on-top tandem and the Singles Open. However, the number of entries was limited to 30 teams in the tandem class and 10 in the singles open to compensate for the number of kayaks provided by the organizers. Entry fee for participants was pegged at P900 per person.

Apart from the kayak marathon, the event also conducted kayaking clinics, 5-km novice races, eco-touring flotilla, island hopping, moonlight paddling. The flotilla was for pre-booked tourists, sight seers and race supporters who will be riding bancas following the route of the paddlers and stopping at eco-cultural tourism sites and attractions in the coastal communities along the way.

A mini fair of eco-tour packages such as the New Adventure-Kayak Hundred Islands, Historic Manila Bay Kayaking Adventures; Luxury Kayaking Safari in Bacuit Bay, Palawan, and Bohol Extreme Packages: Kayamping (Kayak and Camping) were also held on site.

The three-day event had overnight sleep-overs at locations in Tubigon and Maribojoc. Finish line was set at the Bohol Beach Club, while awarding ceremonies and a victory party was conducted at the Dumaluan Beach in Bolod.

Cousins German Paz (National Windsurfing Team) and Johnder Austria, who hail from Anilao, Batangas, won against local teams in the 125-km race tandem division clocking in a total time of 11 hours, 33 minutes, and 13 seconds.

Bohol’s Jerome Abuyador and Jerwin Castro, meanwhile, managed to finish second despite incurring a 30-minute penalty, while Irene Quisido and Lito Lapure, the only mixed duo in the field, finished third place.

In the singles division, Doyet Dumaluan topped with a total time of 13 hours, 11 minutes, and 58 seconds despite being slapped with a 30-minute penalty. Dumaluan, a doctor by profession who owns 50 kayaks, initiated kayaking in Bohol.

Cebuano engineer Dondon Dimpas came in second at 14:04:10, while Buzzy Budlong of Team Habagat finished third at 14:17:10.

Aside from trophies and other major prizes from sponsors, champions in the tandem categories were given P20,000 while the second and third finishers received P15,000 and P10,000, respectively. First prize in the singles category was P10,000 while the second and third finishers got P7,500 and P5,000, respectively.

The DOT together with the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC) supported the event. Business sector representatives who pledged their support for the event are: Rommel Aquino of Montanara, Allan Santos of Bohol Beach Club, Tambuli resorts, Ric Mercado of Red Bull, Shake Valerio of Cebu Pacific, Anton Bautista of Cord Chemicals and Robert Rezalde of Mojo.

Major sponsors are Cord Chemicals; Cebu Pacific; Bugsay Kayaks; Montanara Sports Gear; Mojo Sandals and Slippers; Habagat Outdoor Equipment; David's Salon; and Union Jack.

Prize donors are Jump Off Point and Waterfront Airport Hotel; Conquest Sports Equipment; Dunkin Donuts; Islands Souvenirs; Headware; Casa Francis Rey; Image Marketing; One Tagaytay Place; Le Bistro and Bohol Limestone Corporation.

Media partners are Inquirer; Business Mirror; Action Asia; MTV-Phils; Studio 23; justgo.ph; Decisive Moments; Monster Radio 105.9 Cebu; Bohol Chronicle and DYRD; 102.3 Kiss and DYZD Bohol stations.

The Philippine Kayaking Series, promoted by the Department of Tourism and organized by the Philippine Kayaking Association, aims to identify kayaking trails in the country. Aside from promoting kayaking as an adventure sport, the event also aims to establish sustainable eco-tourism programs in different provinces.

For inquiries or more information on Kayak Philippines and its events, call 4687091; 8725478; 0915-435-9321; email philkayaking@yahoo.com or visit http://www.kayakphilippines.com.

Philippine Extreme Sports and Rock Festival Urges Super X-Series for RHB Muziklaban 2009

Muziklaban once more staged another milestone from the usual band concerts it brings! Last December 5, 2009, Muziklaban brought the Philippine Extreme Sports and Rock Festival Urge Super X-Series Xports and Music Tour 2009 to rock with the athletes-on-the-streets.

Aside from the known bands of the generation such as Slapshock and Jeepney Joyride, Skateboarders and BMX Stuntmen gathered together at the Open Parking, (Near Brick Road, Imelda Ave.Entrance), Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall and joined the event that also featured the Grand Finals of Skateboarding and BMX Stunt Park Competition, Best Trick Contest, Big Air Contest, Professional Demonstrations, and Interactive events.

Other bands who joined the event were Chonckeys, Even, More Than Linda, Descant Gott, Live Tilapia, Intolerant, April Morning Skies, COG, Bloodshed, and Hardboiledeggz.

Red Horse Muziklaban is an annual rock band competition that has been held in the Philippines since 1999 and is sponsored by San Miguel Brewery for Red Horse Beer.

The Philippine Extreme Sports and Rock Festival Urge Super X-Series Xports and Music Tour 2009 was sponsored by San Miguel Brewery Inc., Dickies, Daily Tribune, NU 107, The Manila Times, MonsterRadio RX 93.1, Rakista.com, Tonight , and Hotel SOGO.

For more information about the event, do visit the websites www.urgesuperx.com or www.redhorsebeer.com.

1st Sinukuan Film Festival adds up to Kapampangan Language Promotion Advocacy

The Annual Sinukuan Festival baptized one of the advocates in promoting the Kapampangan Language – the First Sinukuan Film Festival 2009.

Held last December 4 and 5, 2009, the Film Festival featured 10 to 20 minutes short films of any topic, theme or genre that used dialogues mostly in Kapampangan. This event was joined by amateur and professional filmmakers both Kapampangans and non-Kapampangans living in or outside the country.

There were also free workshops facilitated by Kapampangan filmmaker Jason Laxamana of Kalalangan Kamaru, a co-sponsor of the contest, and lectures by Cannes Film Festival Best Director Brillante “Dante” Mendoza, a native of San Fernando City for those who joined the contest.

The film entries were shown during the festival. Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Screenplay, Best in Cinematography, Best in Production Design, Best in Sound & Music, and Special Jury prize were the awards given to those who starred the event. The winner of the festival or the Best Picture was given P30,000 along with a trophy.

Robby Tantingco, Director of the Center for Kapampangan Studies, one of the co-sponsors of the contest, said that the film festival celebrates the contribution of Kapampangans to the film industry in the Philippines. However, above all, he said that the festival's aim is to show that it's better to use the Kapampangan language in films depicting the Kapampangan experience. "Eventually we will have our own movie industry here in Pampanga, the way the Cebuanos, the Davaoeños, and the other regions have done. It's time to decentralize the movie industry from Manila,” he added.

The First Sinukuan Film Festival was sponsored by the Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan, Inc. (KLFI) and was co-sponsored by Kapampangan filmmaker Jason Laxamana, and Director Robby Tantingco.

For more details, do contact the Center for Kapampangan Studies at telephone numbers (045) 888-8691 local 1312 or 1369, e-mail kapampangancenter@yahoo.com, or text 0918-941-8599.

Cebu continues part 3 of Run Clinic

Organized by Cebu Executive Runners Club, City of Cebu, and ASAP Advertising, Services and Productions, the Cebu City Marathon Running Clinic Part 3 was held on Dec. 5, 2009 at the Active Zone, Ayala Center Cebu.

With the carrying slogan “Training Techniques,” part of 3 was still up for free just like the first two clinics, There were two speakers namely Coach Jim Saret and Coach Julius Giron for the segment dubbed as “tips from the experts.”

Saret talked about running and training techniques, necessary preparations to take up running as a sport, Tips for different levels or runners: starting out, beginners, advanced, marathoners, etc., and how to determine readiness: when to move from 3K to 5K to 10K to 21K and 42K. While Giron talked about benefits of heart rate monitor, compression wear and forefoot/midfoot running.

This event was brought to you by the newly-opened RUNNR store, Ayala Center and The Walk and presented by Summit and Globe.

For further inquiries, call Marlin at 2328518/19 or log on to www.cebumarathon.com.

PEN launches New Writing in the Philippines

The Philippine Center of the International Poets and Playwrights, Essayists, Novelist (PEN) rekindle the spirit of literature in the Philippines as it held its annual conference for writers at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Bulwagang Pambansang Alagad ng Sining last December 5, 2009.

With its theme “New writing in the Philippines”, the event discussed various tips and topics from Keynote Speaker Mr. Ricardo de Ungria, commissioner of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and Jose Rizal lectures that was discussed by National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera. Convenors, on the other hand, include National Artists S. Sionil Jose and Elmer Ordoñez. 

The PEN Annual Conference is sponsored by the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Washington Sycip, Sen. Edgardo Angara, Mr. Henry Sy and the SM malls, Alfonso Yuchengco Foundation, National Bookstore, Solidaridad Book Store, De La Salle University, and the Official Student Publication of the University of the Philippines, The Varsitarian.

PCP on its 4th annual convention

This year, the Philippine College of Psychopharmacology (PCP) held its 4th annual congress with the theme “Looking Beyond… A new Frontier”. The congress focused on launching the latest trends and new and effective way in treating cases of psychiatric illness with emphasis on pharmacological dimensions.

The convention was held at the Imperial Palace Suites, Tomas Morato, Quezon City last December 4-5, 2009. 

Keynote Speaker Dr. Jesjeet Singh Jill started the congress in Dec. 4 as he shares wider explanation of the convention’s theme. Meanwhile, other speakers on that day include Dr. Mariano S. Hembra, Dr. Raymond L. Rosales, Dr. Ramon S. Javier, Dr. Paul V. Lee, Dr. Audwin Victor V. Fuentes, and Dr. Ponciano Z. Jerez, Jr.

The second day of the convention was highlighted with speakers Dr. Grace A. Macapagal, Dr. Nelson T. Mallinllin, and Dr. Joy P. Malinit.

PCP President Dr. Gavino V. Ranoa, Jr. plays as the over-all chair of the convention, together with Dr. Vicente S. Cabuquit.

For more information about the event, contact the Philippine College of Psychopharmacology at (632) 927 8001 or email dtas_725@yahoo.com

Debating Environmental Issues in the First Cebu Energy and Environment Sustainability Forum

Climate change is a very real phenomenon that is steadily affecting the all aspects of living all over the world. What is causing the change? How can it affect us? What could we do as individuals and as a society to lessen the harm? Are there issues directly relevant to Cebu?

These and other questions were answered at the first E+E=Sustainability Energy and Environment Summit, held at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel last Dec. 4. Guided by its objectives to debate and discuss key issues that surround Cebu’s unstable power supply sources, the province’s needs for economic growth, and the inescapable need to address climate change, the event was held a few days before the 15th Conference of the Parties on Climate Change in Denmark (COP15), where a replacement for the Kyoto Protocol was introduced.

The Cebu Business Club organized the summit, together with the United Nations Development Programme, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Global Legal Action on Climate Change, and the Cebu Leads Foundation.

The event is also supported by the Cebu Energy Development Corp., Aboitiz Power, the Visayan Electric Company, the Cebu Daily News, Pilipinas Shell, and Petron.

Interested parties may contact the Cebu Business Club at Rm. 305, Centro Maximo, Jakosalem St., Cebu City, or telephone numbers (032) 253-4441 or (032) 253-4427 (look for Perry of Glenda). You may also email your concerns to cbc_summit@yahoo.com.

TEDxManila empowers passion for change

The first TEDx event in the Philippines dubbed as TEDxManila situated last December 5, 2009 at the University of the Philippines College of Law Auditorium. At TEDxManila, TEDTalks video and live speakers were combined to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group.

TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that brings people together to share a TED-liked experience. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x=independently organized TED event.

Moreover, it is a small nonprofit annual event bringing together some of the world’s leading thinkers and doers to share what they are most passionate about when it comes to Technology, Entertainment and Design (TED). Their mission is to spread ideas and believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives and ultimately, and the world.

With the theme, “Sa Isip, Sa Salita at Sa Gawa” the event featured guests and speakers like Antonio Oposa Jr., Illiac Diaz, Graham Glass, Mark Ruiz, and Maria Melizza D. Tan.

Mr. Rommel Feria, event orgainizer, noted that this year’s attendees were thought leaders in the field of education, Business and Communications.

You can follow TEDxManila on twitter. Submissions of a potential TEDxManila theme or TEDxTalk for the next TEDxManila event can be sent to info@tedxmanila.com.

ASPPI holds 11th OSH

With the theme “Sustaining Business Excellence Through OSH Innovation,” the Association of Safety Practitioners of the Phils. Inc. (ASPPI) with the support of the Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) held its 11th Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Symposium last December 4 at the OSHC Auditorium, North Ave., cor. Agham Road, Quezon City. This was done in line with their common goal of making the working environment a better and safer place.

BWC Director Lawyer Brenda L. Villafuerte, ASPPI National President Engr. Andres Larry B. Serif and Engr. Michael D. Arguelles who stood as the symposium chairman all helped together to bring safety professionals, experts and advocates of occupational safety and health to discuss current developments as well as share experiences and expertise on Safety and Health. Collaborative activities enhancing OSH in the country were further facilitated. 

On the occasion, safety advocates from the government and private sectors shared their expertise on workplace safety and health. Resource speakers were DOLE Undersecretary Lourdes M. Trasmonte, DOH Undersecretary Mario C. Villaverde, Unilever Marketing Director Rene M. Morente, Senior Manager EHS Irving c. Guerrero, Mr, Andres Larry B. Seril Jr., Mr. Michael M. Mayo, PRI VP Dr. Teresita Cucueco and BWC Director Lawyer Brenda L. Villafuerte.

For further details, please contact telefax no. (632) 412-1214 or send e-mail to asppi_1999@yahoo.com.ph.

NPSP Convenes for Chemical Diversity

In cooperation with the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) situated in Nueva Ecija, the Natural Products Society of the Philippines (NPSP) held its 14th Annual Convention last December 3-4, 2009 at the Philippine-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology. The two-day event carried the theme, “Mining Nature’s Chemical Diversity for Various Applications” gathering scientists, teachers and students from different research and academic institutions in the country.

Meanwhile, the phytochemistry pioneer in the Philippines and National Scientist, whom serves as a model for the next-generation scientists, Dr. Alfredo Santos conducted a lecture series that touched on various areas namely biosystematics, natural products chemistry/biology (terrestrial, marine, and microbial), natural products potential applications, and biodiversity. In addition, there were scientific and plenary sessions, poster exhibits, a business meeting and a tour of Banawe Rice Terraces that were also held among other things.

As it is known that natural products provide needed leads for the development of therapeutic agents and are indispensable tools in providing potency and selectivity, the event presented various ways by which chemical and biological data serve as tools in transforming natural products into more useful biological agents.

PSSE on Current Environmental Issues

The Philippine Society of Sanitary Engineers (PSSE) Inc. celebrated the 2009 Annual Convention last December 3 to 4 at the Great Eastern Hotel, Quezon Avenue, Quezon City.

Moreover, the convention also covered the General Assembly and Elections of Officers of the organization for the incoming year 2010-2011.

Engr. Ronulfo C. Feliciano, PSSE National President, noted that this year’s convention theme is “Responding to the Challenges of Local Environmental Protection Amidst Global Crisis.” Speakers, moreover, tackled various topics that presented the current issues in the environment and their experiences in their respective fields.

Covered issues are: “A Situation Report on Water Supply in the Philippines by the National Water Resources Board”; “The Philippine Sanitation Road mapping”; “Engineered Sanitary Landfill: Its Current Issues and Concerns”; and “Climate Change: Local Impacts and Global Implications”.

Coordinators of the said event were Ms. Christine Ann Guardiano and Engr. Bong Fonte of the Philippine Society of Sanitary Engineers Inc.

First Organ Transplant Summit

The First Philippine Organ Donation and Transplantation Summit kicked off recently in the Philippines focusing on the issues that the country is currently facing in the organ transplant industry.

Based on statistics, there 6,000 people who are currently in the organ waiting list, and only 350 will be able to get a transplant. Instead of dampening people’s spirits, this number inspired individuals and groups from private and public sectors to gather and seek to find solution for this predicament.

In this year’s first summit, Howard Nathan, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Gift of Life Donor Program was invited to be the keynote speaker. He is one of the pioneers of deceased organ donation and transplantation in the United States. He believes that it is now the time for the Philippines to create its own deceased donor program.

In his keynote speech,“Setting Up an Organ Procurement Office [OPO]: The Gift of Life Experience,” he shared his expertise as the pioneer of OPOs in the United States as well as to share a constructive framework that we can use to set up our own deceased donor program.

In the Philippines, on the other hand, we have the IPOD or the Integrated Program on Organ Donation Foundation Inc. http://capitolmedical.org/cmcupd/2009second/2nd_6.htm. It is a non stock, non profit agency mainly serving Metro Manila. IPOD is a world class primary deceased organ donation facilitating institution in the country and in the Asia Pacific Region.

Dr. Angel Joaquin Amante, President and Chief Operating Officer of the local initiative, the IPOD is all focused with what Nathan has shared. He also stressed that other countries have had a head start and that the country can also do and start our own deceased donor program.

Moreover, recovering organ transplant patient Violeta Tandoc shared a testimonial on the actual burden that a patient has to endure. She shared the most difficult part of her struggle was the financial aspect. She also mentioned where she has seek for financial assistance from institutions like the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes (PCSO), the Department of Social Welfare and Development , and a number of generous senators and individuals who were possible sources of financial aid.

SFA on taking care of damaged archives

The Society of Filipino Activist (SFA) conducted a live out seminar on Managing Electronic Records and Workshops on Disasters at the University Hotel, University of the Philippines, Diliman Quezon City last December 1-3, 2009.

With the theme, The Morning After: Recovery of Office Records, Library and Archival Materials, the event discussed the problems of offices, libraries, and archives with collections damaged or destroyed by disasters. The first day was spearheaded by Ms. Teresa S. Montesa, former SFA president and senior records/archives officer at the International Monetary Fund.

The training, moreover, helped the participants learn more about the fundamentals and requirements of managing electronic record. Hands-on exercises were also performed to practice more on salvaging water-damaged collections.

Recovering destroyed office records and material caused by disasters become well rampant and is one of the top issues in the last months due to the recent storms and floods experienced in Metro Manila and in some other parts of the country.

Ms. Emma M. Rey took charge in gathering participants (0917-8534609, emmarey@yahoo.com), together with Ms. Ma. Teresa S. Bondoc (5526856, Fax: 5526764, 0917-5660120, dirbondic@yahoo.com), and Ms. Candida G. Sarmiento (9318380loc. 432, 0919-4171205, aidagsarmiento@yahoo.com).

UST hosts the 16th RSCE

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) hosted the 16th ASEAN Regional Symposium on Chemical Engineering (RSCE) at the Manila Hotel last December 1-2, 2009. Carrying the theme “Chemical Engineering at the Forefront of Global Challenges”, the event is intended for academicians, researchers, and industry partners.

UST Rector Rev. Fr. Rolando V. dela Rosa presented the opening of the event with his welcome remarks on the first day of the event. He also welcomed the participants at the fellowship night held at the UST Quadricentennial Square of the same day. On the same night, UST Rector and Dr. Maria Natalia Dimaano, also the chair of RSCE 2009, renounced the turnover ceremony to the representative of Thailand—host of the 17th Asean Regional Symposium on Chemical Engineering.

A poster exhibit of research papers and company technical exhibits were also held at the Centennial Hall of the Manila Hotel, apart from the plenary and technical speeches.

Speakers of the said symposium include established names in the industry and tackled specific fields of their expertise staring with Dr. Mohamed Elisa of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (Environment Genetics), Dr. Mohammed M. Farid from the Engineering University of Auckland (Energy, Environment, and Food Process), President and Dr. Filemon Uriarte of Asean Foundation in Indonesia , Dr. Hiroo Niiyama of Tokyo Institute of Technology(Heterogeneous Catalysis), Dr. (Neal) Tai-Shung Chung of the National University of Singapore (Nanotechnology and Nanocomposites), Dr. AnilKumar Pabby of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in India (Membrane Science and Technology and Nuclear Energy), Engr. Ferdinand A. Tumpalan of San Miguel Packaging Specialist Inc. (Product Innovations and Packaging), and Dr. Rigoberto Advincula of the University of Houston, Texas USA (Polymer and Organic Ultra Thin Films).

For more information about the event, contact the Research Center for Natural Sciences Secretariat of UST at (632)406-1611 local 4041/8517/4037/8275, or email rsce2009@mnl.ust.edu.ph.

Christmas Gifts Made Affordable at 2nd Manila Toys and Gifts Show

Hundreds of toys and gift items will be sold in affordable prices at the 2^nd Manila Toys and Gifts Show (MTGS) on December 16 – 22, 2009 at the SM Megatrade Hall 2 and 3 in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

Organized by Megatrade Hall and MCT Events Management, The seven-day event will feature toys and collectibles, apparel and shoes, fashion, home, and kids’ accessories, food, and even novelty gift items, just in time for the Christmas Season.

Last year’s event drew over 80,000 guests of all ages. This year, the event expects an even bigger crowd with a wide array of products perfect for the last-minute Christmas shopping.

Within the MTGS flag is the highly-anticipated 4^th Annual Toys and Collectibles Christmas Fair, to be held on December 19 – 21. The event has already been dubbed the ultimate event for collectors and hobbyists with its extensive range of collectibles and rate toys offered both on direct sale and on auction. In addition, new and exciting activities have been lined up for the attendees, such as Holiday Cooing Demos, Meet and Greet Santa, Fashion Shows, Toy Auctions, Cosplay Competitions, Arts and Crafts, and other games and surprises.

More than a selling fair, MTGS also aims to share the Christmas cheer to the children of Bantay Bata 163 by raising funds for the “Light the Tree, Light a Hope” project. A portion of the show proceeds will be donated to Bantay Bata 163. The visitors will not only get to shop for toys and gifts, they will also be given the opportunity to share their blessings with less fortunate children.

For inquiries, contact Megatrade Hall at (632) 633-1697, 634-7617 or MCT Events Management at (632) 799-0230, 747-0529, 701-1759 or email mctevents@gmail.com

First Special Education Expo Slated

Parents of special children, special education schools, therapy centers, toy manufacturers, suppliers of special tools and equipment, specialized food sellers, book publishers, and other special education (SPED) industry practitioners are invited to take part in the First Special Education Expo scheduled today, December 1, 2009 at Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City.

Organized by Etera Events, Special Education Expo 2009 is the first fair on special education to be held in the country. With the theme “A World of Possibilities”, the event aims create awareness on the needs of special children and provide options for these individuals to ensure they live a happy and normal life. Furthermore, it aims to deepen awareness on the current situation of Filipino children with special needs and the condition of special education in the Philippines.

Simultaneous to the exhibition is a SPED forum, exhibitor’s presentation, storytelling, learning block sessions by SPED practitioners and experts, raffle draws, entertainment, games and celebrity guest performances.

Proceeds for the said event will be given to Support and Empower Abused Deaf Children (SEADC), a non-profit organization dedicated at defending the rights of deaf children who are victims of sexual abuse and maltreatment.

The First Special Education Expo 2009 is sponsored by World Vision Foundation, with the following media partners: Philippine Daily Inquirer, Inquirer.net, Manila Bulletin , and Philstar.com.

For more information about the event, contact Mr. Ronald Salvador at (632) 391-5673, (63906) 295-6153, or Ms. Faith Salazar at (63922) 845-7380, email, spedexpoph@gmail.com or visit their website at http://spedexpo.blogspot.com/.

COMDDAP Expo Manila 2009 Set to Showcase Best of Philippine IT

The best and the latest technology of the information technology (IT) industry will be present in this year’s biggest IT selling exhibit, the Computer Manufacturers, Distributors and Dealers Association of the Philippines (COMDDAP) Expo Manila 2009, to be held on December 3 - 6, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center of the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

Aptly titled “Maximum Exposure,” the event serves as the biggest one-stop-shop for IT products and services. The event will be highlighted by four major activities designed to exhibit the best of Philippine IT.

Twelve of the best minds and companies of the local IT industry will be featured in the special exhibit, Open Pinoy Solutions (OPS). It aims to place the Filipino IT geniuses into the spotlight and give them their well-deserved recognition.

3D Philippines Initiative or 3DPI is a one-of-a-kind program, featuring incredible and usable virtual models of the Philippines’ breathtaking sites found on Google Earth using Google SketchUp.

Reprising its widely popular shootout events, COMDDAP Expo Manila stages the back-to-back blockbuster this 2009. Now sharper, brighter, and with more brands in the running, The Great Projector Shoot-Out and LCD Monitor Shoot-Out are sure to help experts and consumers determine which brands are the most superior.

Finally, in the tradition of the COMDDAP Shootouts comes the latest showdown of pixel proportions. Visitors will train and challenge their sights in choosing the best quality inkjet printers at the Printer Shootout. The most popular printer brands will face off in a showdown of printing prowess by displaying photographic printouts for display and intense scrutiny.

Aside from this year's series of special events and seminars, offering the most up-to-date discussion and hottest tech trends on Adobe, Microsoft Windows 7 and data loss prevention, lucky expo-goers have the chance to win amazing gadgets and other exciting prizes in the daily raffle.

For inquiries, contact COMDDAP Secretariat at (632) 8103814, 8927947, 7509456 or visit their website at www.comddap.org for more details.

Dancers Show Flair in DanceSport National Tilt

The DanceSport Council of the Philippines Inc. (DSCP)launched the DSCP National Championships in conjunction with its 13th anniversary celebration. The competition was held last Nov. 29, with almost 400 dancers competing for the top spot.

Also geared toward finding the best candidates for the national pool of competitive dancers, DSCP Becky Garcia said that this competition is a way to keep the Philippine dancers visible on the international scene and also to develop of the skills of the country’s representatives in future dance tilts. The event was originally scheduled to be held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium last Oct. 10, but was rescheduled to the Nov. 29 launch because of Typhoon Ondoy. The dance competition was held at the Rizal Ballroom of the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.

Serving as adjudicators in the competition are Mr. Jeff Elworthy (Australia), Ms. Hermien Rachmat (Indonesia), Mr. Marcel Keijzer (Netherlands), Mr. Victor Buenavida (Spain), Mr. Paul Harris (United Kingdom), Mr. Michael Lim (Singapore), and Mr. Gheorghe Raducan (Romania), licensed adjudicators from the International Dance Sport Federation (IDSF).

The dance championships had a total of 27 divisions in the Standard and Latin categories. Among those competing are National DanceSport athletes Emmanuel Reyes and Maira Rosete (Standard), Brian Ocana and Karla Ocana (Standard), Ronnie Vergara and Charlea Lagaras (Latin), and John Melencio and Dearlie Gerodias (Latin).The winners in the different divisions are:

Grade A Latin: Ronnie Steve Vergara and Charlea Lagaras (Cebu)
Grade A Standard: Brian Ocana and Karla Ocana (Metro Manila)
Grade B Latin: Anselmo Estillore Jr. and Mae Lozada (Cebu)
Grace B Standard: Gil Satrain and Chiao-Mei Chu (Metro Manila)
Grade C Latin: Jungie Zamora and Sheena Richen Daminar (Mindanao)
Grade C Standard: Don Kristian Bolaños and Alona Dangcalan (Luzon)
Grade D Latin: Joseph Bautista and Luzviminda Atruz (Metro Manila)
Grade D Standard: Glenn Marvin Fabul and Richelle Cabigas (Luzon)
Junior A Latin: Nigelandes Legaspi and Rochelle Canoy (Metro Manila)
Junior A Standard: Tristan John Ducay and Willanne Rose Ducay (Metro Manila)
Junior C Latin: Nigelandes Legaspi and Rochelle Canoy (Metro Manila)
Juvenile C Latin: Joshua Orapa and Dannah Joyce Piol (Metro Manila)
Juvenile C Standard: Joshua Orapa and Dannah Joyce Piol (Metro Manila)

The event was sponsored by the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, PCSO, PAGCOR, NU 107, Savannah Moon, Water Zone, Studio 116, and Ho. Andrea Domingo.

For more details of DSCP and the complete list of winners, visit their website at http://www.dancesportphils.com/.

PAMET observes Sapphire National Convention at the Manila Hotel

Last November 25 to 27, 2009, the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists, Inc. (PAMET) held its 45th Annual National Convention which was also dated as the organization’s Sapphire Anniversary at The Manila Hotel.

The convention dwelt on the theme "Medical Technologists: On A Higher Leap amidst Global Challenges". This conveyed how the association optimistically would look forward to the future despite the country’s challenges brought by the natural disasters that inevitably destroyed million worth of properties and thousands of lives. The shifting trends on the profession both locally and globally were also pondered upon and focused on in the convention.

Medical Technologists’ high degree of commitment in addressing social concerns such as global warming, environmental protection, and climate change was also given a wider viewpoint on the convention.

The event started with the registrations of delegates, participants, and visitors, and scientific workshops where relevant topics on various areas of laboratory practice were thoroughly discussed. The traditional processional of PAMET National Board, Regional Directors, Chapter Presidents, Advisory Council and Keynote Speaker that followed the opening or pre-conference events was meaningfully done with the presence of representatives from various country- members of the Asia Association of Medical Laboratory Sciences (AAMLS).

The 4th Annual National Convention also had given awards to some of the promising members of the association. Ms. Jacinta B. Cruz as the Most Outstanding Medical Technologist of the Year; Ms. Vivian V. Tagama for the Distinguished Service Award of the Year; the Pangasinan Chapter for the Most Outstanding Chapter Award; and, Ms. Razel L. Kawano for the Crisanto G. Almario Memorial Award for Research.

For more information, do contact 09287990940 or e-mail at pametevc@yahoo.com.

CAS, PAF hold 7th Annual Bird Show and Exhibit

The Cebu Avian Society (CAS) and the Philippine Avicultural Federation (PAF) celebrated the7th Anniversary Bird Show and Exhibit at the Parkmall, Mandaue City last September 25 to 27, 2009. This gathered bird enthusiasts that joined the exhibit-competition to showcase the best breeds of birds they could share.

In the anniversary celebration, CAS together with the PAF did not just opened the cages for bird lovers, but also brought the winners to the deserving enthusiasts’ entries in different categories. The following are the lists of those who won in their respective categories:

Parakeets Category:
a. Normal Parakeets - #111 Noel Nacua
b. Pied Parakeets - # 58 Lito Palacio
c. Red-Eyed Parakeets - #37 Dodong Uy
d. Rainbow Parakeets - #160 Noel Nacua
e. Fancy Parakeets - #190 Arlie Gesta

African Lovebirds 1 Category:
a. Peach Face - #113 Lito Palacio
b. Orange Face - #90 Arlie Gesta
c. White Face - #137 Lito Palacio
d. Peid Face - #239 Joy Cadilla
e. Opaline - #146 Armand Arong

African Lovebirds 2 (Eye Ring) Category:
a. Normal Fisher Personata - #142 Alejo Aclan
b. All Fisher Except Normal and Pied - #126 Alejo Aclan
c. All Personata Except Normal and Pied - #173 Jun Rubin

Finches Category:
a. Gouldian - #45 Clyde Pilario
b. Zebra and Society - #46 Dennis Tamara
c. Fancy Finches - #27 Alejo Aclan

English Buddies Category: #125 Jun Rubin

Cockatiels Category:

a. Normal Cockatiels - #155 Arlie Gesta
b. All Color Cockatiels - #43 Eusebia Perez

Best Bird in a Show: African Lovebirds 1 Category, Pied Classification - #239 Joy Codilla

The 7th Anniversary of Bird Show and Exhibit is made possible by the major sponsors – the Manila Bulletin, The Golden Peak Cebu, and the Animal Scene; event patrons – Piper’s Petshop, Philippine Avicultural Federation, GraphicStar, and SunStar; event donor – PETSS, Inc., Boy Diaz – EB Karmine Commercial), Federal North Hardware, Starburst Marketing Corporation, Gallego Merchandising, and RJN Enterprises; and benefactors – El Salvador Beach Resort, JG BAS Roof Master Services, Kapper Phils., SKL Trading, Antonio Go, Joselito Palacio and Family, Tudtud Family, Mire Family, and Armando Arong and Family.

To know more about the event, contact Mr. Glenn Quisido at +639198170687 or visit the website www.cebuaviansociety.com.

CPAs Live It Up in the 64th PICPA Annual National Convention

The Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), with the National Organization of Certified Public Accountants and the PICPA Metro Manila Region, celebrated its 80th year with “Live It Up: The PICPA Spirit” in the 64th PICPA Annual National Convention, held last Nov. 29 and 30 and Dec. 1 and 2.

Several events were across the four-day celebration, including a golf tournament at the Club Intramuros Golf Course, a seminar on business opportunities, trade exhibits, and forums on commerce, education, public practice, tax, and government.

The Chapter Presidents’ Meeting and Regional and Chapter Awards were also included in the program.

The 64th PICPA Annual National Convention was made possible by sponsors ABS-CBN, PLDT Watch Pad, SGV and Co., Accenture, Oracle, Philflex Mining Corporation, UFC, San Miguel Corporation and Smart Communications and media partners ANC and Business World.

CCP Stages PPO 27TH CONCERT SEASON

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) staged the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra's (PPO) 27th Concert Season 2009-2010 billed as The PPO Signature Series: Tour de Force Performances with 8 Maestros last from September 2009 to April 2010 at CCP’s Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater).

The season was a series of unique, original and moving musical experiences highlighting the guest conductors, the individuality of their musical perspectives in collaboration with the PPO. The PPO season began on September 3 featuring Antonin Dvorak’s Carnival Overture Op. 92, Buenaventura’s By The Hillside, Anica Galindo’s For Lambent Isles for String Orchestra, Debussy’s La Mer, and Peter Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 in F-Minor Op. 36. American conductor Anthony Quartuccio leads the PPO.

Noted conductor Robert Ryker of the USA takes the baton on October 8 with Bach/Rÿker’s Prelude and Fugue in E-flat Major (on Sainte-Anne), BWV 552, Brahms’ Variations on a Theme by Franz Joseph Haydn, Op. 56a, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D Minor (Choral), Op. 125.

On November 12, Korean conductor Jae-Joon Lee leads the PPO featuring Berlioz’s Roman Carnival Overture, Op. 9; Delibes’ Les Filles de Cadix (soprano solo), Verdi’s Tutte le feste al tempio-Piangi from “Rigoletto” (soprano, baritone duet), Giordano’s Come un bel di di maggio from “Andrea Chenier” (tenor solo), Verdi’s E strano!...Sempre libera from “La Traviata” (soprano solo), and Dvorak’s Symphony No.8 in G Major, Op. 88 “The English”. Guest performers are Korean soprano Yun-kyoung Yi, Filipino baritone Noel Azcona and Filipino tenor Randy Gilongo.

Renowned Italian conductor Maestro Ruggero Barbieri wields the baton in a Christmas concert on December 10, featuring Filipino Fredeline Parin, principal trumpet of the PPO. Program consists of Beethoven’s Symphony no.7 in A Major, Op. 92, Corelli’s Concerto Grosso in G minor, Op. 6 no. 8 (Christmas Concerto), and Haydn’s Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra in E flat Major, H. VIIe: 1.

The PPO ushered in the New Year on January 14, 2010, with pianist Albert Tiu and Conductor Laureate Oscar C. Yatco at the baton. The evening opens with Brahms’ Symphony No. 1 in C minor, Op. 68, Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op.11, and Hindemith’s Symphonic Metamorphosis of Themes by Carl Maria von Weber.

On February 11, conductor Agripino Diestro conducts a birthday concert of National Artist for Music Lucio San Pedro, featuring his works Ang Buwan sa Kabundukan Tone Poem, and Lahing Kayumanggi Symphonic Poem.

Italian conductor Piero Gamba returns to the stage with violinist Joseph Esmilla as guest performer on March 18 featuring Sibelius’s Violin Concerto in D minor, Op. 47, Prokofiev’s Symphony no. 1 in D major, Op. 25 “Classical Symphony”, and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34.

The PPO had its season finale last April 15, 2010 as conducted by its incoming Music Director.

Ticket prices were sold at P1000/800/500/P350/200, with discounts made available to students, senior citizens and groups. For inquiries, please call the CCP Marketing Department (832-1125 loc. 1806) or the CCP Box Office (832-3704).

A Celebration of Commitment to Professionalism in Real Estate

Real estate developers and properties have been sprouting in the metropolis, and even in the fast-developing provinces, in the recent years. Real estate brokers, in their quest to promote their company and generate income, may then be tempted to resort to unprofessional methods in order to lure buyers.

This is what the Real Estate Brokers Association of the Philippines (REBAP) is trying to prevent within its ranks as it celebrates its 31st year. Their theme, “A Commitment to Professionalism” was geared in instilling and uplifting the professional standards of real estate brokers.

Held at the Taal Vista Hotel at Tagaytay City last November 26–28, the convention also served as a venue for the election of officers and directors of REBAP.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Governor (at the time) Ayong Maliksi of Cavite were among those who gave messages for REBAP for the convention. It is to be noted that Cavite arguably the premier province for real estate development, home to hundreds of different subdivisions and low-cost housing options.

Ms. Evangeline Yia, Chairman of the Board of REBAP, said that the passage of the Real estate Service Act (RESA) 9646 calls for a celebration of a milestone after 20 years of their crusade. Ms. Yia also emphasized the Filipino real estates practitioners’ abilities and professional values to be at par with the international standards.

Preserving Information Resources: The ASLP Seminar on Disaster Management

Natural calamities strike the Philippines every year, leaving in their wake damages not only to homes and commercial structures, but also to important resources such as books and other reading materials. Of particular concern was last year’s Typhoon Ondoy that brought about heavy rains and floods that destroyed a great number of schools and their resources.

In light of these events, the Association of Special Libraries in the Philippines (ASLP) held on Nov. 23 a one-day seminar regarding disaster management at the NEDA sa Pasig, DIOC Room, J. Escriva Drive, Pasig City. The seminar was geared toward preparing libraries and information centers for natural calamities and disasters; to promote awareness in the importance of archiving information resources; the empowerment of the information professionals; and share good practices in the creation, management, and preservation of information materials.

Dubbed “Disaster Management: Preservation of Information Resources,” the seminar covered the essentials, benefits, and practices of preserving the information resources of libraries and other information centers; limitations and issues encountered in the conservation of library/information resource center collections; and the preservation of digital media resources.

Participants were required to pay a Php1,000 seminar fee, which included seminar materials, lunch, and snacks. Certificates were also handed out after the event.

For more information about the seminar, interested parties may call Ms. Edita M.Dumo (NEDA), Tel. No. 631-3757 or Fax: 631-3282; Ms. Wilhelmina D.P. Lopez, Tel. No. 890-4660 or Telefax 890-4721; Ms. Andrea A. Canlas Tel. No. 996-4541/631-0921 loc. 134 or 168; Ms. Ma. Luisa Madlangbayan, Tel. No. 734-3971 loc. 115; or Ms. Edeliza C. Gallo, Tel. No. 924-2413.

LARYNX – 53rd PSO-HNS Annual Convention Focal Concern

“Larynx in Focus”, the theme of Philippine Society of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Inc. (PSO-HNS) 53rd Annual Convention, set the conference’s concentration to the delegates and specialists who attended the event at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel, Mandaluyong City last November 29 to December 01, 2009.

Mr. Jacob S. Matubis, MD, President of PSO-HNS, Inc. and the convention’s Honorary Chair, relayed in his message that the theme generally encompassed the issues on the larynx, which he described to be an “oft-neglected anatomical part”, to help ENT Practitioners face the challenges they encounter from patients, from Infection to new growths, diagnosis to treatments, Voice health and rehabilitation, and using simple to the state-of-the-arts paraphernalia needed in its management. The theme also aimed to assert an increasing role in the care and treatment of all ENT problems.

The convention was attended by plenary speakers including Mr. Wei-Chung Hsu, MD, PhD and Mr. Kuo-Sheng Lee, MD of Taiwan, Mr. Kiminori Sato, MD, PhD and Mr. Eiji Yumoto, MD, PhD of Japan, Ms. Wen Xu, PhD of China, Mr. Jack Kiang, MD, PhD and Professor Gregory Postma, MD of United States of America (USA), Mr. David Lau, MD of Singapore, and Prof. Wolf J. Mann, MD of Germany, and foreign speakers including Narinder Duggal, BSc (Pharm), CDE, CGP, BCPP, MD, FRCPC, FASCP of USA, Sheng-Po Hao, MD, FACS, FICS of Taiwan, Hong-Ryul Jin, MD, PhD, Kwang-Hyun Kim, MD, PhD and Sung-Wan Kim, MD, PhD of Korea, Joachim Mΰller, MD of Germany, Prof. Henryk Skarzynski, MD of Poland, and Pontus Stierna, MD, PhD of Sweden.


Topics on Facial Plastic, Sleep Medicine, Otology/ Neuro-Otology, Head & Neck, Maxillofacial, and Rhinology other than Laryngology were also discussed in the convention.

The event was organized by PSO-NHS Organizing Committee of 2009 led by Mr. William L. Lim, MD, PSO-NHS 35th Annual Convention Over-all Chairman, and was sponsored by UNILAB.

For more information, do contact the following information: telefax: (+632) 633-2783; tel. No. (+632) 633-8344; e-mail: pso_hns@yahoo.com; and, website: http://www.psohns.org.ph

34th National Duckpin Kegfest

The 34th National Invitational Open Duckpin Bowling Championships showcased big cash prizes at the Marketplace Bowling Center in Mandaluyong City last November 27 to December 6, 2009.

Philippine Duckpin Bowling Council (PHIDBC) President of Organizing Inez G. Magbual stressed that the men’s and ladies’ team champions bagged Php. 35,000 and Php. 30,000. The second-placers, on the other hand, received Php 20,000 each for the men’s and ladies’ singles champions (ABC) , Php 9,000 each for the runner-ups and Php 7,000 each for the third-placers. Moreover, the men’s and ladies’ high team single scores received Php 1,000 each and Php 500 each for the individual high single, top single and hi-pinning scores.

Prizes for the mixed-doubles event, however, were based on the number of participants that joined in the competition.

Then Representative, now Senator, Bongbong Marcos of Ilocos Norte, attended the competition to grace the association’s traditional Christmas party on December 3.

ICS 60th Annual Convention

The International College of Surgeons—Philippines Section held its 60th Annual Convention last November 27 to 29 at the Hyatt Hotel and Casino, Malate Manila.

Attended by well-known and respected local and foreign speakers, the event themed as “ICS: Innovations, Center for Excellence, and Service” discussed a comprehensive and in-depth topics for their members. Moreover, the speakers shared heir knowledge and experience as part of their commitment to continuing surgical education.

The convention also celebrated the induction of new members and new set of officers for 2010-2011. ICS World President Professor Christopher Chen officiates the Induction Ceremonies. He is a Singaporean national dedicated to giving ICS the advancements, improvements, and expansion.

Under the leadership of Dr. Edwin Argonza, ICS-Phil Section President, the college has reached the honor of ranking number three in the world as far as membership growth concerned.

Dr. Placido Calimag Jr. is the overall chair of the annual fair and the new president-elect of ICS-Phil Section. Their office is located at PMA Building North Avenue, Quezon City (982-1190, 0922-8286709, 0922-8286942)

Noel Discovery Bazaar and Christmas Shop Expo

The GMA Network’s Noel Discovery Bazaar and Christmas Shopping Expo treates all shopaholics to a unique gallery of exclusive finds at bargain prices on its sixth year at the World Trade Center last November 21 to 25.

Aside from fashion lines, food items, home and Christmas decors and novelty items, the expo also displayed a wide array of special events such as entertainment numbers, fashion shows and cooking demos.

Morever, the event highlighted shows such as a Sweet Life segment with Ms. Lucy Torres-Gomez, QTV’s Moms with Ms. Lani Mercado, Manilyn Reynes and Sherilyn Reyes, a band performance presented by Barangay LS FM, GMA Artist celebrity auction, fashion shows, entertainment numbers and autograph signing with GMA celebrities, the Century Rich Flavors of Health Culinary Tour, Cooking Demos by Kusina Argentina and a once in a lifetime opportunity to catch the international cast of Up With People.

The successful event was supported by GMA Network, Seair, the Philippine Daily Inquire, Pier One, and Centrex Corporation. Also with the help of its media partners: QTV, Sunday Inquirer Magazine, the Foreign Post, Preview Magazine of Summit Media, Radio Partners Barangay LS FM, Max FM, Wave 89.1 and Jam 88.3, and online media partner Inquirer.net. The event will benefit the projects of the GMA Kapuso, Bantayog ng mga Bayani and Associate Missionaries of Assumption Foundations http://www.ama.org.ph/.

Asian Forum revisits Oceanic Fertilizer Issue

The annual rice forum was held on Nov.26, 2009. The forum, billed “Revisiting the Oceanic Fertilizer issue in Rice,” was one of the many activities that were lined up during the observance of National Rice Awareness Week in November. President Arroyo, through Presidential proclamation 524 issues on Jan.5 2004, declared November as National Rice Awareness Month to honor rice, the staple food of Filipinos providing fuel to the agricultural economy. Theme of the month-long celebration was “The future is bright, the future is rice.”

The Southeast Asian Ministers of Education organization-Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEAMO SEARCA) based in the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) in Los Banos, Laguna served as the venue of the rice forum.

Government-hosted SEARCA, headed by Director Gil c. Saguiguit Jr. is one of the 15 regional “centers of excellence” of SEAMEO, an inter-government treaty organization founded in 1965 to foster cooperation among the Southeast Asian nations in the fields of education, science and culture.

For inquiries, contact 536-2287 or e-mail post_at_agri.searca.org. You may also visit their site at http://www.searca.org/web.