CINEMALAYA CINCO stars “The Last Supper No. 3” as Festival’s Best Film

The 5th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival entitled as CINEMALAYA CINCO had given birth once more to well-thought of Filipino Independent Films of today. Among the ten (10) full-length film entries, the humorous “The Last Supper No. 3”, which canvassed a true-to-life story of a production designer who flopped his career down for two years by losing a “Last Supper” prop, was recognized to feast for the title “BEST FILM”. The festival was held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) last July 17 to 26, 2009.

The bunch of winners and special awards to the participating 10 full-length and 10 short independent films are as follows:

Special Jury Award: Colorum and Ang Panggagahasa Kay Fe (tie)

NETPAC Award: Baseco Bakal Boys

National Council for Children’s Television Award: Dinig Sana Kita

Audience Choice (Full Length): Dinig Sana Kita

Best Director: GB Sampedro (Astig)

Best Actress: Ina Feleo (Sanglaan)

Best Actor: Lou Veloso (Colorum)

Best Supporting Actress: Tessie Tomas (Sanglaan)

Best Supporting Actor: Arnold Reyes (Astig)

Best Screenplay: Nerseri

Best Cinematography: 24K

Best Production Design: Mangatyanan

Best Editing: Astig

Best Musical Score: Dinig Sana Kita

Best Sound Recording: Astig

Best Short Film: Bonsai

Special Jury Award: Blogog

Audience Choice (Shorts): Tatang

Best Director (Shorts): Dexter B. Cayanes (Musa)

Best Screenplay (Shorts): Behind Closed Doors

Aside from film screenings, CINEMALAYA CINCO also accommodated other film-related events like the Cinemalaya Film Congress, a two-day conference that looks at all aspects of independent filmmaking and distribution, and the Cinemalaya Sine Taktakan, a forum with the year’s batch of new Cinemalaya filmmakers.

The Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival is a film competition and festival that aims to encourage the creation of new cinematic works by Filipino filmmakers – works that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity.

The event was made possible by Cinemalaya, Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), Econolink Investments, Inc., Film Development Council of the Philippines in cooperation with Canon, TV 5, and Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC). Other sponsors of the event are 96.3 Easy Rock, Yes! FM, DZRH, Spot, Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP), BlackPencil, Microdata, BusinessWorld, HighLife Entertainment, NU107, XFM, DZEC, Libra , Bandera, Philippine Daily Inquirer(PDI), Penshoppe, Juice.ph, Jolibee, Cinema One, Net25, ClickTheCity.com, RPN, IBC, and NBN.

For more details about the event, do contact CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or visit the following websites www.cinemalaya.org, www.getzmo.com, or www.clickthecity.com.

Whizzing Across Subic in the 2009 PTCC

The Philippine Touring Car Championship (PTCC), under the banner of the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), held its 2009 series at the Subic International Raceway.

Racing enthusiasts kicked off the first leg last July 25 and 26. The second leg raced last Aug. 29 and 30, the third leg on Sept. 19 and 20, and the fourth and final leg last Oct. 24 and 25.

The AAP held the awarding of the winners of the 2009 PTCC in conjunction with the celebration of the 15th Annual Motor Sports Awards concluded just last Feb. 26 at the Grove, Rockwell. The categories and winners are as follows: Super A: Dennis Uy; Class A: Don Thomas Pastor; Class B: John Camus; Class C: Juny Binamira; and Novice: Manger Calderon.

The 2009 PTCC was co-presented by Concept One and powered by Chris Decals. U92 FM “Turbo Time” was the event’s radio partner.

For more information, please call AAP at 723-0808 and 723-0809 (Mark Desales).

Exploring Possibilities for Coconut Farmers in the First Coconut Summit

Coconut is one of the Philippines major exports and the country itself is also one of the major suppliers of this agricultural product in the world market. It is but natural that local governments push through with efforts that will aid in the development of this industry.

With this in mind, the First Mindanao Coconut Summit opened last July 30 and 31. Sponsored by Davao Region Coconut Industry Cluster and the Mindanao Business Council, partners of the vent include the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Department of Trade and Industry, and the Department of Science and Technology.

Hosted by the provincial government of Davao Oriental and the Mati City local government, the organizers geared the summit toward the exploration of income possibilities for coconut farmers. An urgent need for model farms using integrated farming approaches which will hopefully be able to make coconut farming a viable business venture was also discussed.

The confab also focused on the commercial development of coconut products other than copra, including the production of coconut sugar out of the coconut sap or toddy. Another topic discussed in the conference was the prospect of producing bio-organic fertilizer from coco coir dust, a byproduct of coconut fiber extraction. Organic fertilizer is increasingly becoming popular because of the high costs of chemical fertilizers and health concerns regarding the chemical-based products.

The organizers of this conference hoped to aid the coconut industry to give a greater contribution to the country’s economy, which will also affect positively to the benefits of thousands of coconut farmers.

1st MOVE 2009 Achieved More Than 3000 Attendees

Immigrant Visa Centre (IVC) , the event organizer, announced that MOVE Expo 2009 reached up to 3,000 attendees in its first day.

Migration, Overseas Opportunities, Visas, and Employment or MOVE Expo 2009 was a two-day event that opened at SMX Convention Centre, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City last July 31 to August 1. For a first-timer migration fair, the response was really overwhelming and certainly, a success.

Speakers of the fair covered topics on Migration to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA, and the U.K., the Tier 4 student visas, and a British course to enable Filipino enhance their international competitiveness. There were 65 booths built up around the event area that accommodated hopeful immigrants.

IVC Director Crispin Aranda, one of the event’s speakers, expected that attendees would really double from their initial number the first day the Expo was held.

This first ever MOVE Expo 2009 Migration Fair was sponsored by Business World , Digiprint , Rachell Allen Reviewers , Western Union , Grand Monaco , Bobson , National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) , Manila Bulletin, SMX, SM Mall of Asia , Jobstreet.com , and Italianni’s Restaurant .

For more information, contact 634-8717, 0906-440-4777, or e-mail move2009.visacenter.org.

Davao Business Expo

The Pioneer Machinery Roadshow Exhibition & Printing Conventions bought back the latest technology and opportunities to the southern island of the Philippines last July 23 to 26 at the Plenary Hall, Bangko Sentral Davao City.

Carrying the theme, “Ari na para Magnagosyo!”, the event is a back-to-back presentation of Mindanao Packaging/Food Processing/Plastics 2009, Mindanao Bakery 2009, and the Mindanao Printing 2009.

Aside from the exhibitors who have showcased their products, the event also highlighted discussions Production Planning and Control in the Printshop, Cost Estimating Seminar, Latest Technology on Digital Press by Canon Marketing Philippines, and Personalized Items’Election Propaganda Demonstration by G-Match Enterprises.

The convention and exhibit is supported by the Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Printing Technical Foundation, Printing Industry Association of Davao, Inc., Business Mirror, and Canon Philippines. With Media Partners philstar.com, Gold Start Daily, Mindanao Times, Sunstar, Cagayan, Sunstar, Davao, and Sunstar Socsargen Business Weekly.

Other sponsors were Invex Philippines, Foxchit Business Systems Inc., Agility Fairs and Events, and Mt. Apo Travel and Tours. Overall event organizer is the Market Access and Innovations Events Management Philippines (899-2642, 896-9272, 899-5892).

Third Med Expo Showcases Latest Medical Products and Services

In conjunction with the Fourth Philippine International Medical Job Fair and the Second Manila Nursing Expo, ADEXHIBIT Inc. organized the three-day Third Philippine International Medical Expo at the SM Megatrade Hall 1 last July 30–Aug. 2.

The event featured various shows and exhibits of the latest medical products and services, including the Philippine International Hospital; Pharmaceutical; Healthy Food and Beverages; Medical Supply; Optical; Hearing; Health, Beauty, and Fitness; Hair; Dental; and Medical School shows.

Free seminars and product presentations and samplings were also included in the roster of events for the Medical Expo.

The Department of Health – National Capital Region also conducted a seminar regarding the threats and prevention of Influenza A(H1N1).

The three-day event was sponsored by Business World and media sponsors including Manila Bulletin, The Philippine Star, The Manila Times, Action Fitness, and Jam 88.3.

For exhibit inquiries, please feel free to contact (02) 633-9125 or (02) 636-1658 and look for Ms. Leah or Ms. Sheila. Questions may also be directed to adex_medexpo@yahoo.com or sales@adexhibit-inc.com.

All About Business in the Philippine Business and Entrepreneurs 2009 Expo

It was all about business, business, and more business in the Philippine Business and Entrepreneurs Expo 2009 at the SM Megatrade Hall 2, held last July 29 to Aug. 2.

Each day of the event covered a specific topic, with different speakers for different aspects of the said subject, followed through by panel discussions. The topics discussed during the five-day expo were: Why Go into Business; Starting Your Business; Sustaining Business Viability; Business for Various Interest Groups; and Doing Business with OFWs.

Among the speakers for the event were Mr. Gavin Bunker of INSOL Development Foundation; Ms. Annaliza Villar, resource person of the Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC); Mr. Jhermaine O. Fernandez, owner and managing director of Web Dot Com Philippines; Mr. Jay Peñaflor, senior specialist of the Philippine Stock Exchange Market Education Department; Mr. Jose Romblon, chairman of Sure Sales International Corporation; Ms. Florence Getalado, owner of ACECHEM – TLRC Segment; Ms. Edith Santiago, founder-chairman of the KILUS Foundation; Mr. Ramon Lopez, executive director of the PCE; Ms. Jennilyn Antonio, owner of Ehje’s Peanut Butter; Mr. Paolo Tibig, president of VCargo; Dean Pax Lapid of the Entrepreneur’s School of Asia; Ms. Grace Gupana, president of Abs Gen International www.abs-herbs.com.ph/; Mr. Julius Caesar Castillo, president and general manager of Entrepreneurial Training Center; Prof. Rolly Cagay of Century World Marketing; Mr. George Arriola, president of the Pamilyang OFW SME Network Foundation; and Atty. Roy Señeres of the OFW Family Club.

Major sponsor Western Union hosted different games for the participants, set in between the different scheduled activities within each day.

The event, organized by SM Megamall and Megatrade Hall in partnership with MCT Events and GoNegosyo, pushed through with the help of media partners Business World, Web Dot Com. WRR 101.9 For Life, DZMM 630 and DZMM Teleradyo, and Max FM.

For more information on the event, please contact Megatrade Hall or MCT Events through telephone numbers 633-1697, 634-7617, 799-0230, 747-0529, 701-1759 to 60, 0919-3999982, or 0922-7905473. You may also send your inquiries and other concerns to mct_events@yahoo.com, mct_events@gmail.com, or megatrade@smsupermalls.com, or visit the event website at www.pbex.com.ph.

Bringing Higher Education to New Heights

Geodata Systems Technologies, a geographic information systems (GIS) end-to-end solutions provider, in collaboration with the University of Cordilleras (UC), held the first ever GIS Regional Conference at the UC Theater last July 28 and 29.

The conference was attended by a more than 150-strong delegation, led by representative from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). The CHED Technical Panel for Information Technology Education (TPITE) Faculty Immersion Project was also launched on the same day.

Secretary Emmanuel Angeles had two key priority areas which were relevant to the conference: faculty development and institutionalizing industry-academe linkages. With the theme GIS: Technology Solutions for Community-Based Progress, the conference discussed the targets of providing masters and doctorate degrees for teachers, as well as the improvement of on-the-job training programs for students, research collaborations, and extension services.

The GIS project between the UC and Geodata Systems is the first of its kind, and this partnership focused on business operations and, to a lesser extent, technical skills development in the area of geographical information system.

Among the attendees were Mr. John Morales, senior vice president for Technical and Implementation Services; Mr. Patrice Boursier, a professor from the University of the Philippines; and Ms. Dittas Formoso, senior adviser of Geodata Systems for SMBD.

Gov’t Agencies Underscored Coconut Tree Importance at Philippine Coconut Summit

Numerous government agencies reiterated the importance of the coconut tree and encouraged farmers to support coconut tree planting in the province of Cagayan to meet the demand for coconut products in the country during the Philippine Coconut Summit held last July 27 – 31, 2009 at the Brickstone Mall in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.

These agencies are the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) who jointly organized the event. The Summit was part of the Regional Science and Technology Week celebration with the theme "Responding to Global Challenges through Science and Technology".

Mr. Carlos Carpio, Deputy Administrator-PCA, said the province has great potential of coconut plantation considering the good quality of soil it has, however, only few land owners and farmers plant coconut trees because their priority is on agricultural products such as rice and corn.

Carpio said though farmers should really focus on rice, corn and other agricultural products, they must also consider coconut plants to meet the sustainability of coco products and which will also add in their income considering that coconut is a multipurpose plant; as food, medicine, cleaning equipments and many others.

Mrs. Loreta dela Cruz, Provincial Administrator-PCA Cagayan, revealed the problems in the implementation of RA 8042 and the moratorium on cutting coco trees in the province. She said there are illegally transported coco lumbers from the province and there are illegally cut coco trees that the law prohibits.

Dr. Urdujah Tejada, DOST 2- Regional Director, on her part said coconut industry is a big contributor to foreign exchange being one among crops that are exported to other countries. Dr. Tejada said that in the region, DOST has assisted the production of several products out of coconut such as the nata de coco, buko pie, coco vinegar, coco coir, geotextiles and many other products.

As a commitment, Regional Director Purita S. Licas, PIA Region 2, said the NutriComNet which she chairs will also help in the information dissemination and advocate to the people the importance of coconut in human life together with local media practitioners of the province.

For more information about the event, contact the Philippine Coconut Authority at (632) 928-4501, email pca_cpo@yahoo.com.ph, or visit their website at http://www.pca.da.gov.ph/

MANILART gathers artists for 1st Phil. Int’l. Art Fair

The Bonafide Art Galleries Organization (BAGO) in cooperation with the National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) presented the first Philippine International Art Fair, MANILART09, on July 16-19 of 2009 at the NBC tent, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

MANILART09 proudly consisted of 500 artworks with 40 galleries all in one roof. Local, regional and international galleries participated and prestigious museums were well-represented. Daily talks and forums relating to the visual arts were conducted by experts in their field. A world class Art Fair Catalogue was also published in cooperation with Manila Contemporary Art magazine containing the profiles of the MAILART09 participants.

The exclusive preview night was held on July 16 from 6PM to 11PM which eventually opened its doors to the public charging a reasonable admission ticket price of PHP200, from July 17 to 19 from 11AM to 8PM. (students and senior citizens with valid IDs can get 50-percent discount.). The affair brought together the Philippine Art and serves as prelude to the art fair proper. 

The association of privately-owned galleries collectively known as BAGO is grateful to the NCCA through its Committee on galleries headed by Lyn Yusi as they initiated the project and approved the grant. This art fair is a truly historical event as it serves as the impetus for us (gallery owners) to unite with the main objective of showcasing to the whole world how advancxed we are in terms of visual arts, project director and gallery owner Jonathan Sy said.

He added, “Art is one of the best opportunities for Filipinos to feel proud of their countrymen’s creativity, at the same time it is an avenue for us to gain respect and appreciation from foreigners.”

For inquiries and other details, call 531-6231, Email: info@manilart.com or visit www.manilart.com.

Pinoy Ice Skaters Vied for Winter Olympics Slot at 2009 Philippine National Figure Skating Challenge

The country’s best skaters battled in out for gold and the chance to represent the country at the 2010 Winter Olympics during the 2009 Philippine National Figure Skating Challenge held last July 18 – 19, 2009 at the SM Mall of Asia International Ice Skating Rink of SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Organized by the Philippine Skating Union, the event served as venue to identify the country’s representative for the 2009 Nebelhorn Trophy in Oberstdorf, Germany last Sept. 23 to 26, 2009. The event served as the final qualifying competition for the 2010 Winter Olympics on February 12-28, 2010 to be held in Vancouver, Canada.

Mr. Dikki John Martinez was automatically named the men’s champion being the lone entry in the competition, garnering a score of 94.19 points. Mr. John Samuel Minas was also the lone competitor in the boys’ juniors. He scored 97.90 points

In the girls’ junior division, Ms. Zhaira Costiniano from Dallas, Texas won with a score of 108.08 points. Ms. Carmen Naomi Damian took the silver (74.33) and Ma. Jessica Cabili earned the bronze (53.29).

Ms. Mericien Venzon earned the right to represent the country in the qualifying match in Germany as she won in the women’s senior division with a score of 102.29 points. Ms. Lauren Astorga Ko finished second with 102.13 while Ms. Gracielle Jean Tan took home the bronze with 101.86 points.

The awards were handed by PSU President Ric Camaligan, PSU Chairman Hans Sy, PSU Secretary General Manuel Veguillas, and Philippine Olympic Committee President Jose ‘Peping’ Coquangco Jr.

Ms. Venzon’s victory made her the country’s sole representative in the 2009 Nebelhorn Trophy. However, the Fil-Am skater did not qualify to participate in the Winter Olympics after finishing at 88.78 points.

The 2009 Philippine National Figure Skating Challenge is sponsored by Pepsi, Milo, The Philippine Star, Super Bowl of China, 105.1 Crossover, Accel Sporteum Philippines, Nido Fortified Science Discovery Center, Nature’s Spring Mineral Water, Kenny Rogers Roasters, Congo Grille, and Heritage Multi-Office Products, Inc.

For more information about the event, contact the Philippine Skating Union at (632) 833-5088, fax (632) 834-1079, or email rdc@smsupermall.com.ph.

Philippine Biodiversity Highlighted at PIFGEX 2009

The conservation and protection of the country's endemic plants and animals was highlighted during the 2^nd Philippine International Flora and Fauna Garden Expo (PIFGEX 2009) held last July 16 – 19, 2009 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Organized by RPN Flora and Fauna, Inc., managed by Ideas, Concepts and Events Inc., (ICE, Inc.,) and co-presented by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the event carried the theme “Protecting and Sustaining Nature”. PIFGEX 2009 aims to promote the concern of Philippine Biodiversity among the youth. Furthermore, the event aims to showcase the Philippine plants and animals to the world, their uses, their conservation status, and the protection of their habitat.

DENR Secretary Jose 'Lito' Atienza, Ms. Philippines Eco-Tourism 2009 and Ms. PAGCOR Adie Adelantar, ICE, Inc., Event Manager Mr. Bon Reyes, RPN Flora & Fauna, Inc. Representative Mr. Stephen Kamphuis, and Las Pinas City Representative Congw. Cynthia Villar, were among the personalities who graced the opening of PIFGEX 2009.

In his speech, Secretary Atienza stated that the knowledge shared through the event will help boost efforts to protect Philippine biodiversity, particularly as it continues to face threats from habitat destruction, over-exploitation of natural resources, pollution as well as weak enforcement of environmental laws. In addition, he urged people nationwide to increase their knowledge about the country's biodiversity so they can protect and sustainably use this resource.

An array of live domesticated Philippine and exotic birds, small mammals, snakes, lizards, butterflies, and fishes were displayed during PIFGEX 2009. Daily lectures were conducted throughout the three-day event. Topics discussed include global warming, roof gardening, banana farming, organic farming, bee keeping, hydroponics, orchid and mushroom growing, cactus cultivation, wheat grass benefits, flower arrangement, landscaping, backyard vegetable gardening and more. Notable representatives from various environment and plant organizations spearheaded the two-day Conference on Flora and Fauna.

The 2^nd Philippine International Flora and Fauna Garden Expo is in cooperation with the Department of Education, Department of Agriculture, Department of Tourism, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Bureau of Plant Industry, and Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau.

The event is sponsored by Pepsi Cola Products Philippines, Inc., Sony Philippines, Scandinavian Woodworks Corp., Brother International Philippines Corp., Sterling Paper Products Ent., Inc., Schering-Plough Corp., East-West Seed Company, Inc., Ramgo International Corp., EDSA Garden House, Zoobic Safari, King Loius Flower and Plant, Inc., Philippine Orchid Society, Pentel, Philippine Association of Landscape Architects, World Flower Council, Flower Club Philippines, Philippine Horticultural Society, Cactus and Succulent Society of the Philippines, Philippine Native Plant Conservation Society, Rizal Technological University – Research and Development Center, Animal House Pet Clinic and Grooming Center, Philippine Canine Club, Inc., Paradizoo Theme Farm, Philippine Arowana and Luo Han Society, EWK Aviaries, Red Ostrich Farm, and the following media partners: Manila Bulletin (Animal Scene and Agriculture Magazine), Business Mirror, Business World, Marid Agribusiness Digest, Philstar.com, and HerWord.com.

For more information about the event, contact ICE, Inc. at (632) 584-5321, (632) 584-5316, (632) 727-2151, email ice.incorporated@yahoo.com, info@ice.com.ph or visit the event website at www.philippinefloraandfauna.org.

PEACE holds 20th Annual Conference

Aims to professionalize criminology education in the context of national developments, the Philippine Educators Association for Criminology Education Inc. (PEACE) held its 20th Annual Conference last July 17-18, 2009 at the University of Baguio, Baguio City.

Representatives from higher education institutions, both private and public all over the country were invited to attend. Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Emmanuel Angeles, in his memorandum dated June 8, 2009 endorsed said activity addresses to all CHED central and regional directors, presidents heads of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).

The theme of the convention is “The Status of Criminal Justice/ Criminology Education in the Country and Beyond.” Keynote speakers were Director Rosendo Dial, Senator Francisco Pangilinan, PRC Chairman Nicolas La Pena Jr., Hon. Vicente De Guzman III, Atty. Vicente Vinarao and other notable speakers.

For inquiries, contact Dean Yakal Giron, president of PEACE at 8464510 or 0917-8000959.

Print, Online, and Mobile Media Heads Gather for Asian Publishing Convention

Local and international companies involved in print, mobile, and, online media industry took part in the Third Asian Publishing Convention (APC) held at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Makati City last July 16 to 17, 2009.

With the theme, “Multimedia Content Development, Deployment, and Management: Evolving Best Practices, Technology, Organization Structures, Biz Models”, the annual event has essentially established itself as the conference that brings worldwide publishing management thinking and expertise to multimedia publishing managers in Asia. It has proved itself as the annual convention that directs itself to the continuing professional development of publishing professionals in an atmosphere of learning and interacting with counterparts from all over the region.

The two-day event was filled with information-packed plenary and special interest sessions, designed to address different issues and concerns of publishers in this modern age. Speakers during the plenary sessions include Ms. Patricia Go, Corporate Communications Director of JG Summit Holdings, Inc.; Mr. Dondi Gomez, Vice President and Head of Corporate Marketing of Jolibee Foods Corporation; Mr. Erik Hartman, Strategic Partner Development Manager of Google Singapore; Mr. Chris Stevens, Global Account Manager of Swiss Post International; Ms. Lizelle Maralag, Managing Director of Starcom Mediavest Group Phils. Inc., Mr. Eugenio 'Gabby' Lopez III, Chairman and CEO of ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation; Mr. Peter Loh, Sales and Marketing Director – Asia for ATEX; and Mr. Chris Schaumann, Global Advertising and Digital Lead of Microsoft Corporation.

As part of the culmination of the APC, eight winners and 16 excellence awardees from seven categories were awarded during the third Asian Multimedia Publishing Awards (AMPA) - Asia's premier awards program that recognizes best publishing practices in Asia.

The seven categories of this year's AMPA include: multimedia communication; use of digital technology; multimedia strategy and business model; multimedia advertising delivery; best use of multimedia marketing by a book publisher; best book/best writer on Asian media; and innovative corporate communications in a multimedia world. The AMPA incorporates the Asian Book Publishing Awards and Asian Corporate Communications Awards, which attracted 74 entries from 44 companies representing 9 countries worldwide.

The winners for this year’s AMPA are:

Category	Company name	Project / Project Name	Country
Multimedia Communication	CommonWealth Magazine Group	Grow Up 400	Taiwan
Use of Digital Technology	Studio Classroom	Cyber Village – an online English learning community	Taiwan
	UDN.com	UDN Self-Publishing	Taiwan
Multimedia Strategy and Business Model	ASAPP Media Pvt Ltd	CONSTRUCTION WORLD	India
Multimedia Advertising Delivery	Cyber Media India Ltd	“Saahas”	India
Best use of multimedia marketing by a book publisher	Commonwealth Publishing Co., Ltd.	Hot, Flat, and Crowded	Taiwan
Best book / Best writer on Asian media	HarperCollins Publishers India Ltd.	India on Television by Nalin Mehta	India

Philippine company Ayala Corporation won this year’s Asian Corporate Communications Awards for their Ayala: Celebrating 175 Years project.

APC 2009 is supported by Swiss Post International, Synovate, and Atex, in partnership with ACC Group of Companies, Cordillera Coffee, Asian Massage, ABS-CBN Publishing Inc., PLDT Sweetspots, and the following media and PR partners: AdAsia, Adobo Magazine , Media Partners Asia, Yehey.com, The Employer Magazine and Trainer Magazine, ACN Newswire, Weber Shandwick Worldwide, Amex Team Advertising Ltd., Creative Crest Integrated Public Relations, and Public Relations Society of Indonesia.

Conference partners include: ASEAN Book Publishers Association (ABPA), Asia Digital Marketing Association (ADMA), Asian Media Information & Communication Centre (AMIC), Internet and Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines (IMMAP), Magazine Business Association of Taipei (MBAT), Mobile Marketing Association (MMA), Magazine Publishers Association of Malaysia (MPA), Magazine Publishers Association of Singapore (MPAS), National Book Development Board (NBDB), National Book Development Council of Singapore (NBDCS), Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA), Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), Society of Publishers in Asia (SOPA), Telesis Consultation Inc. and OIC Events.

For additional information on the Asian Publishing Convention, contact OIC Events at (632) 813-0711 or the APC secretariat at (632) 818-3289 or visit www.publishingconvention.com

Five Teams Squared Off at First International Ice Hockey Tournament

Ice hockey teams from China, Thailand, Japan, Philippines and Qatar took part in the First International Ice Hockey Championship held last July 16 – 18, 2009 at the SM Mall of Asia International Ice Skating Rink in Pasay City.

Organized by First Philippine Ice Events Organization (PIE.Org), the tournament aims to promote ice hockey in the country and to introduce the Philippines as one of the ice hockey destinations in Asia. It also serves as a convention to gather ice hockey teams all over the world to encourage camaraderie among players.

Five teams, including two representatives from the Philippines participated in the sporting event. In the end, the undefeated Tokyo Canadians/Bangkok Flying Farangs won the inaugural tournament, defeating the Shanghai Red Guard, 3-0. Philippine ice hockey team Label 5 took the third place after defeating the Qatar Qanucks, 2-1.

The First Philippine International Ice Hockey Championship is sponsored by and Kizz Me Energy Drink, Aqua Star Purified Drinking Water and the following media partner: Business Mirror, Manila Bulletin, The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Action and Fitness Magazine http://www.actionfitnessmag.com/, GMA-7, and Magic 89.9.

For more information about the event, contact Ms. Sharm Miguel-Macalua, President of First PIE Org. at (63917) 804-1377, email sharm@philippineicehockey.com or visit their website at www.philippineicehockey.com

Buyers and Seller Met at Corporate Giveaways/Corporate Solutions 2009

Business executives and entrepreneurs once again met with corporate giveaways and solution providers to purchase giveaways and other corporate needs during the 22nd Annual Buyers Show on Business Gifts, Premiums, Promotional Ideas, and Merchandise Incentives and 6th Trade Exhibit on Marketing Support Services, Business Solutions, Office Equipment, Supplies, and Uniforms (Corporate Giveaways/Corporate Solutions 2009) held last July 16 -18, 2009 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

According to Ms. Raquel Romero, General Manager of World Expos and Concepts, Inc., (WORLDEXCO), the organizers of Corporate Giveaways/Corporate Solutions 2009, the event aims to give corporate giveaway businesses a venue to present their various products and services to marketing professionals in the country. Furthermore, the event serves as a one-stop-shop for marketing professionals to canvass and purchase corporate giveaways that will serve as an added marketing and promotional tool of the company.

Corporate Giveaways/Corporate Solutions 2009 also featured the Food and Beverage Gifts Lane, offering food and beverage gift options, and Corporate Lifestyle Showcase, a presentation of merchandise and travel incentives, corporate event destinations, meeting venues, real estates, and auto and financing options.

Around 80 exhibitors participated during the three-day event. These companies offered various products such as common corporate giveaways such as pens, mugs, cups, flasks, electronic gadgets, desk items, organizers, planners, bags, notepads, key chains, T-shirts, and umbrellas. Companies offering office equipment and supplies, digital printing services, large format printing, venue services, and food and beverage packages were also present during the event.

Among the highlights of the event include the awarding ceremony where S Point Products, Inc., received the 2009 Loyalty Award for continuously supporting the event for ten consecutive years. Also, eight companies were presented with the 2008 Excellence Awards, a program designed to recognize Corporate Giveaways Exhibitors for the creative, functional and innovative products they come up with every year. These companies are AD-Man Resources, All Recognition Gifts (Roneena, Inc.,), Filam Sports, Grassroots, Innovative Vision Designs, Langhoff Promotions, Manels Leathergoods, and Touchtab. The event was capped with a corporate wear fashion show showcasing the works of Mr. Robert Dimacali, Ismarte Uniforms, Ms. Adi Velasquez, and Renz Haute Couture Sewing.

Corporate Giveaways/Corporate Solutions 2009 is in partnership with Chase Technologies Corporation, SignMedia, Inc., SidAnn Printing Services, Inc., and the following media partners: 88DB.com, Business World, The Philippine Star, Media G8way Corporation, Philstar.com, Enterprise Magazine, Computerworld Philippines Magazine, Web Philippines, Inc., and The Radio Partners, Inc. (Jam 88.3, Wave 891, Magic 89.9, Killer Bee FM, 99.5 RT, and 103.5 Max FM)

For more information on Corporate Giveaways/Corporate Solutions 2009, contact WORLDEXCO, Inc., at (632) 855-8342 to 45 or visit their website at http://www.worldexco.com/.

GenSan Wedding Industry Unveiled at Kasalang Filipino 2009 Seventh Leg

General Santos' own breed of wedding suppliers unveiled their unique wedding products and services in Kasalan sa Gensan wedding fair and exhibit held last June 19 – 21, 2009 at the Gaisano Mall of GenSan in General Santos City, South Cotabato.

The seventh leg of Kasalang Filipino 2009 12-city wedding fair roadshow, co-presented by Kasal.com, ABS-CBN Regional Network Group, Gaisano Mall of GenSan, and E2 Concepts , supported by General Santos City Tourism Association, Inc., and General Santos City's organization of hotels, restaurants, and caterers, began with a display of various Catholic and Muslim wedding gowns and apparel. In the afternoon, two of the city's acclaimed schools squared off at the wedding table setup competition. In the end, the students from Goldenstate University were hailed as winners.

Mr. Daryl Villarin (third from left) stands proud beside his model-bride as he shows off his trophy for winning the Gandang Pinay Bridal Make up Competition -GenSan Leg. Photo by Gajovy

The second day started off with Mix N Magic winning the wedding cake decoration competition. Meanwhile, NDD Wedding Ideals took the laurel for best wedding floral arrangement. Later in the afternoon, Ever Bilena held a make up

demonstration and its anticipated Gandang Pinay Bridal Make up Competition. A total of twenty four (24) professional and amateur make up artists from various provinces of South Cotabato showcased their skills during the event. In the end, it was Mr. Daryl Villarin from Polomolok, South Cotabato who emerged as champion. He received the grand prize of PhP. 20, 000.00 worth of Ever Bilena products, 1-year Gold Priority Listing advertising in Kasal.com worth PhP. 5, 000.00, and a trophy. Make up artists Mr. Michael Sanchez and Mr. Bonnie Acipin, both from General Santos, were declared first and second runner ups, respectively.

Kasalan sa Gensan was capped with a colorful presentation of a Mock Muslim Wedding performed by the members of the GenSan Kadsayaw Performing Group. This was followed by a bridal fashion show featuring the latest creations of Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines President Johnny Abad. Goldenstate College received the Best Booth Award while the combined booths of Nanette Cake Creations and Jun Ador was chosen as Most Popular Booth. All the couples who attended the event received free gift packs while lucky couples received special gift packs and gift certificates courtesy of the event sponsors.

Mock Muslim Wedding Ceremony. Photo by Gajovy

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Kasalang Filipino 2009 is co-presented by Kasal.com and ABS-CBN Regional Network Group and made possible by Max's Restaurant, Ever Bilena Cosmetics,Goldilocks, Hewlett-Packard Philippines, Ariel Javelosa Photography, QP Designs, and the following media partners: Lifestyle Network, Sky Cable, WRR 101.9, My Only Radio, Metro Weddings, Metro Home and Entertaining, Food Magazine, Foodie Magazine, Flavors Magazine, China Business Philippines, The Manila Times, Business Mirror, Philstar.com, Tsinoy.com, and LocalDirect.com.Technology partners are Touch Solutions, Toshiba, Bitstop Network Services, and Too Many Memory. Local sponsors are Asia United Bank, FluidLight Studios, Gregoria Printing Press, East Asia Royal Hotel, Family Country Hotel, MP Digital Printing Solutions, STI College - GenSan , Marasa Grill , and Circle of Arts.

PGMA Led Honorees for CCAP Conference & Expo 2009

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, led the set of awardees who have contributed the most to the development of the Philippine call center industry during the Contact Center Association of the Philippines (CCAP) Annual Call Center Conference & Expo 2009 held last July 15-16, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

The other honorees are Senator Mar Roxas, former Senator Ramon Magsaysay Jr., and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) director-general Lilia de Lima.

President Arroyo was recognized for her Administration’s full support for the call center industry, through the development of the country’s telecommunications network, the creation of the Commission on Information and Communication Technology (CICI) for ICT policy formulation and implementation, the development of human capital to provide the world-class workers we needed for our industry to grow, and the expansion of the Cyber Corridor to span across the entire Philippines. Senators Roxas and Magsaysay were cited for their early support for the call center industry while Secretary de Lima was acknowledged for making it easier for call center operators to invest and locate in the Philippines.

The CCAP Call Center Conference & Expo 2009, organized by CCAP, carried the theme “Navigating Through the Global Crisis”. The event is the flagship event of the contact center industry, which attracted around 6,000 executives, managers, supervisors, and agents of outsource and in-house contact centers.

Now on its fifth run, the convention, exhibit, and job fair featured panel discussions with CEOs, analysts, economists, support sectors, and call center agents; 32 new conference topics on operations, HR, technology, and career development; a new conference track for call center startups called Call Center 101 Plus. The exhibit featured the latest products and services in the industry which also served as a job fair for jobseekers who wish to be part of the growing industry.

The CCAP Call Center Conference & Expo 2009 is co-presented by Avaya , Bayan Telecommunications, Inc. , Dell , E-Telecare (Stream Global Services) , Huawei , Maxicare Healthcare Corporation , Plantronics , and PLDT Business Solutions . The event is sponsored by Datacraft Asia , FocusMedia Audiovisual, Inc. , Jabra , Medicard Philippines Inc., , Nestle Philippines, Inc. (Nescafe), Pacific Hub Corporation , Teleperformance , SM Cinema , SMX Convention Center , Acquire Asia Pacific Phils., Inc. , Advanced Contact Solutions, Inc. , Aegis PeopleSupport , AKATEK Group Co, Ltd. , BusinessWorld , Commerce Asia, Eastern Communications , T.G.I. Fridays , Inquirer Job Market, Manila Bulletin , Philippine Daily Inquirer , The Philippine Star , Stellar Global Solutions Philippines , Teledata , TeleDevelopment Services, Inc. , TeleTech , Verint Systems, Inc. , Visaya Knowledge Process Outsourcing Corporation , VXI Global Solutions, Inc. , WNS Philippines, Inc. , and the following media partners: Standard Commuters Express , Inquirer Libre , CCAP Connect, Jam 88.3 , Wave 891 , Magic 89.9 , 99.5 RT , 103.5 MaxFM , CallCentres.net , JobsDB, Jobstreet.com, Philstar.com , and Yehey.com .

For more information about the event, contact the CCAP Secretariat at (632) 889-7763, 886-4407 and 844-834 email events@ccap.phor visit their website at http://www.ccaponline.org/.

Building an Education Nation

Education is one of the most effective, if not the best, methods of eliminating ignorance, poverty, exclusion, and misunderstandings between citizens and nations.

Believing the every Filipino deserves and must have access to quality education and acknowledging that the Philippine Education System cannot be left to the government alone but rather takes collective effort from the community, the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) organized several workshops across the Metro regarding different concerns that surround the Philippine Education System.

Banding together to form the Philippine Education Nation, volunteers and other advocates arranged five different workshops: Education Governance and Financing (July 16, Ateneo Professional Schools, Rockwell, Makati); Basic Education Cycle (Aug. 20, AIM Joseph McMicking Campus, Paseo De Roxas, Makati); Teacher Quality and Welfare (Sept. 17, Friedrich Naumann Foundation, San Lorenzo Village, Makati); Higher Education (Oct. 15, Jose Rizal University, Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong); and Alternative Learning System (Nov. 19, Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement Inc., Mother Ignacia St., Quezon City).

The PBEd and Education Nation believe that the Philippines must become an Education Nation and the government must become and support a government that focuses on and prioritizes education as a strategy to combat poverty. These two groups are also campaigning for educational reforms and better management of resources and manpower for a totally renewed educational system.

One of the nation’s three major dailies, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, is a fervent supporter of the Education Nation.

For more details, please contact PBEd at (02) 870-0227 or send an email to tgantonio@phinma.com.ph.

AIM Presents Annual State of Philippine Competitiveness Conference

The Asian Institute of Management (AIM) Policy Center presented the annual State of Philippine Competitiveness (SPC) National Conference last July 13 at the SMX Convention Center.

With this year’s theme of “Infrastructure Gaps and National Competitiveness,” the SPC Conference presented an in-depth analysis of the overall Philippine ranking and focused on critical elements of infrastructure as an area of urgent action.

In 2009, the Philippines slipped down three notches in the record of the World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY), ranking 43rd out of 57 countries. The roles of the WCY include measuring and ranking the ability of economies to create and maintain an environment conducive to sustaining market competitiveness. The Philippines did not fare much better on other categories, including economic performance and government efficiency, although the country posted a better performance in sub-factors including fiscal prices, societal framework, and labor market.

The SPC discussed the abovementioned factors and related these in shaping and developing approaches to improve and sustain the country’s competitiveness and http://www.policy.aim.edu/spc_2009.asp

Speakers for the program included Federation of Philippine Industries Chairman Meneleo J. Carlos, Jr., AIM Interim President Felipe B. Alfonso, AIM Policy Center Executive Director Ma. Lourdes A. Sereno, and Ateneo de Manila University’s Dr. Joseph Lim. Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Elmer Hernandez gave the government’s response to the presented scenario on behalf of Sec. Peter B. Favila.

Distinguished participants include Director General Lilia de Lima of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, Mr. Alberto Lim of the Makati Business Club, Ambassador Alistair Macdonald of the European Commission, and Ambassador Peter Sutter of the Embassy of Switzerland. Representatives from the private sector, government, diplomatic corps, civil society, academe, development organizations, and media also graced the event.

The event was organized by the AIM, together with major sponsors SMX Convention Center, SM Investments Corporation, and Holcim Cement.

Other sponsors are Jollibee, EEI Corporation, and Toyota, as well as media partners Business Mirror and Philippine Star Online.

For confirmations and inquiries, please call 750-1010 locals 2109 or 2112, or send an email to policycenter@aim.edu.

AIM Presents Annual State of Philippine Competitiveness Conference

The Asian Institute of Management (AIM) Policy Center presented the annual State of Philippine Competitiveness (SPC) National Conference last July 13 at the SMX Convention Center.

With this year’s theme of “Infrastructure Gaps and National Competitiveness,” the SPC Conference presented an in-depth analysis of the overall Philippine ranking and focused on critical elements of infrastructure as an area of urgent action.

In 2009, the Philippines slipped down three notches in the record of the World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY), ranking 43rd out of 57 countries. The roles of the WCY include measuring and ranking the ability of economies to create and maintain an environment conducive to sustaining market competitiveness. The Philippines did not fare much better on other categories, including economic performance and government efficiency, although the country posted a better performance in sub-factors including fiscal prices, societal framework, and labor market.

The SPC discussed the abovementioned factors and related these in shaping and developing approaches to improve and sustain the country’s competitiveness and http://www.policy.aim.edu/spc_2009.asp

Speakers for the program included Federation of Philippine Industries Chairman Meneleo J. Carlos, Jr., AIM Interim President Felipe B. Alfonso, AIM Policy Center Executive Director Ma. Lourdes A. Sereno, and Ateneo de Manila University’s Dr. Joseph Lim. Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Elmer Hernandez gave the government’s response to the presented scenario on behalf of Sec. Peter B. Favila.

Distinguished participants include Director General Lilia de Lima of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, Mr. Alberto Lim of the Makati Business Club, Ambassador Alistair Macdonald of the European Commission, and Ambassador Peter Sutter of the Embassy of Switzerland. Representatives from the private sector, government, diplomatic corps, civil society, academe, development organizations, and media also graced the event.

The event was organized by the AIM, together with major sponsors SMX Convention Center, SM Investments Corporation, and Holcim Cement.

Other sponsors are Jollibee, EEI Corporation, and Toyota, as well as media partners Business Mirror and Philippine Star Online.

For confirmations and inquiries, please call 750-1010 locals 2109 or 2112, or send an email to policycenter@aim.edu.

Local Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Honoured at 4th OTOP Luzon Fair

Nine successful micro, small, and medium enterprises received the first-ever Presidential Awards for outstanding Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at the 4th One Town One Product (OTOP) Luzon Island Fair held last July 8 – 12, 2009 at the SM Megatrade Hall 1 - 3, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

The 4th OTOP Luzon Island Fair was part of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Week, organized by the MSMED Council through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in cooperation with the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship's “Go Negosyo” program.

The event featured the distinctive products and services of over 200 OTOP MSMEs for the eight regions and 37 provinces of Luzon. A wide array of products and services offered at the OTOP Luzon Island Fair include furniture and furnishing, gidts and houseare, fress nad processed food, jewelery and fashion accessories, footwear, novelty products, organic and natural products, arts and craft, and health and wellness products and services.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo graced the opening ceremony of the fair. The President struck an Ifugao gong signalling the launching of the event. After which, she toured the exhibit together with DTI Secretary Peter Favila and Presidential Adviser on Entrepreneurship and Vice Chairman of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Council Mr. Jose Concepcion III.

The president herself gave the awards in recognition of the exceptional talent of Filipino entrepreneurs. Named outstanding enterprises from Luzon were the Roger and Beth Pilinut Candy (micro), J. Emmanuel Pastries (small), and the Lighthouse Cooperative (medium). In the Visayas, the recipients were the Doods Enterprises (micro), Filbake Food Corporation (small), and the Vicmik Enterprises (medium). Mindanao awardees were Lao Integrated Farm (micro), Manolette Bakeshop (small), and the AMS Employees Fresh Fruits Producer Cooperative (medium).

The President also awarded 26 Presidential Citations for best practices in MSME promotion and development to various best practices nationwide majority of them local government units (LGUs) which have streamlined their respective business licensing units.

The recipients of the Presidential Citation include: Chinese Filipino Business Club, Inc.; St. Mary’s College in Tagum City, Davao del Norte; GTZ Technical Cooperation; St. Louie University Extension Institute for Small Scale Industries Foundation, Inc.; Inglass Sardines of Dipolog Association; Simbag sa Pag-Asenso, Inc.; MASICAP MSME Development Foundation, Inc.; CARD Bank, Inc.; Bank of the Philippine Islands; Planters Development Bank; Fair Bank; National Wages and Productivity Commission and the Regional Wages and Productivity Boards; Cooperative Bank of Benguet and Baao Multi Purpose Cooperative.

The award was also conferred to the local governments of Aurora; Sta. Maria, Bulacan, Aliaga and Talavera in Nueva Ecija; Hermosa, Bataan; San Fernando, Angeles and Candaba in Pampanga; Lumban, Laguna; Camarines Sur; and Bayawan, Negros Oriental.

For more information about the 4th OTOP Luzon Island Fair, contact the Department of Trade and Industry at (632) 890-4697, 896-3302 or visit their website at http://www.dti.gov.ph/.

PRA-CEBU gathers Retailers

The Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) gathered businessmen for the 3rd Cebu Regional Retail Conference last July 1, 2009 at the Victoria Hall, Parklane Hotel.

The event, with the theme, “Retail Strategies for 2009 and Beyond -Ways to Attract Customers and Stay Competitive” had proven itself to be a huge success as the event was attended by more than 200 retailers from Cebu and neighboring region.

Topics such as “Creating a Stylish Retail Concept - Design Techniques for your Stores”, “When Everything Counts-Increase Cost Efficiency in an Uncertain Economy” and Innovative and Creative Entrepreneurship were also discussed by speakers representing their own business.

One of the highlights of this event was the awarding of the 2009 Outstanding Filipino Retailers (OFR)-Cebu Search. Four outstanding retailers from Cebu were able to get recognized by the judges and they were Junrex, Thirsty, Loalde and Cafe Laguna.

Lastly, more than 10 newly members of PRA-Cebu were inducted. They are as follows: AboitizLand, Inc. Banilad Cebu Trade Center, D+B Wines, Gaisano Incorporated, La Mian Bakeshop, New Datche Philippines Traders Corp., NUTECH Marketing, Richmedia Network, Inc., Titay’s Liloan Rosquillos & Delicacies, Inc., Virginia Foods, Inc.

For inquiries, call Ms. Charry Samadan at (+6332)346-2926 local 108 or email pra_cebu@yahoo.com.

CSR Expo 2009 Proved Corporate Social Responsibility Alive in RP

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is surely alive and well-practiced in the Philippines as companies prove that CSR is still an integral and indispensable part of the business processes during the CSR Expo 2009 held last July 9 – 10, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

This year’s theme, “Business Unusual: S.O.S. (Skills, Opportunities, Sustainability)”, addresses the growing concern over the impact of the financial crisis on developing countries, particularly the poor. The conference aims to address the difficulties faced by micro-enterprises in this uncertain climate and how corporations and individuals can help them become sustainable by providing access to market, skills, and capital.

The 8th run of the CSR Expo, presented by League of Corporate Foundations and organized by TeamAsia, showcased exhibits of CSR programs and enterprise development projects of corporate foundations, trade associations, non-government organization partners, and community-based groups.

Well-renowned CSR advocate William Kramer, founder of the Global Challenge Network (GCN) and co-author of “The Next 4 Billion: Business Strategies for the Bottom of the Pyramid,” gave the keynote address during the two-day event.

Among the notable personalities who graced the event and shared their CSR strategies include Mr. Tony Tan Caktiong, Chairman and CEO of Jollibee Foods Corporation; Mr. Federico Lopez, Chief Executive Officer of First Gen Corp.; and Ms. Annie Garcia, President of SM Supermalls,

Mr. Tomás Sercovich, Corporate Responsibility Executive of Business in the Community Ireland; Dr. Jun Uriarte, Executive Director of ASEAN Foundation; and Mr. Paul Aquino, President and CEO of Energy Development Corporation headed the luncheon plenary primarily focused on crafting a CSR vision for the Philippines.

A special debate/panel discussion was staged which provided a platform for an open discussion on the relevance of CSR amidst current social and economic realities. During the debate, views of selected sectors were taken and discussed how business can effectively achieve its objective of helping the base of the pyramid.

Breakout sessions were held during the event which focused on numerous challenges and issues concerning CSR, its implementation, and new strategies to communicate it to the public. The event also featured various lecture series on entrepreneurial skills development.

CSR Expo 2009 is sponsored by sponsored by Lopez Group Foundation, Energy Development Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, Petron, Ayala Foundation, TeaM Energy, Jolibee Foundation, SM Foundation, Smart Communications, Inc., Aboitiz Foundation, Manila Water Company, Shanri-la Hotels and Resorts, Splash Foundation, Inc., Sun Life Foundation, Tan Yan Kee Foundation, Inc., Bato Balani Foundation, iBoP Asia ( Science And Technology Innovations For The Base Of The Pyramid In Southeast Asia) Motolite, Philam Foundation, Philippine Associated Smelting and Refining Corporation, Toyota Philippines, and World Vision Philippines. Souvenir Program Sponsor is Vibal Foundation, Inc.

Event partners are ASEAN Foundation, Fundacion Codespa, Management Association of the Philippines, PinoyME Foundation, and the following media partners: ABS-CBN News Channel, Insular Life, Inquirer.net, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business Mirror, Veritas 846kHz, and The Radio Partners, Inc., (Jam 88.3, Wave 891, Magic 89.9, Killer Bee FM, 99.5 RT, 103.5 Max FM).

For more information about the event, contact TeamAsia at (632) 757-3500 local 327, e-mail CSRExpo2009@teamasia.com, or visit the event website at http://www.teamasia.com/events/LCF2009/

WEAP Sets Annual Convention at Baguio City

The Water Environment Association of the Philippines (WEAP) Inc., will hold its fourth Annual Convention on July 23-24, 2009 at Camp John Hay Trade and Cultural Center in Baguio City.

The theme for this year's WEAP Annual Convention is “Protecting the Water Environment for a Better Life”. Among the issues to be tackled are “Balik Scientist Research on Ground Water Pollution”, “Baguio City Water District Watershed Management Experience”, “Planning and Design of Sewage Treatment Plant”, “Master Planning of Sewerage System”, “Natural Resources Valuation” and “Water Leak Detection System”.

After the resource speakers' presentation, open fora will be held to enable convention delegates and practitioners to take part in discussions of issues.

Right at the convention center, various new products for water resources management will be exhibited. WEAP may be contacted at 127 Bansalangin St., Veterans Village, Project 7, Quezon City, telefax ( 02) 371-9790 (02)-410-1110, email weap@yahoo.com.

31st ASM Recognized 2009 Best Works in Science and Technology

Scientists who continuously aim for the advancement of science and technology and research works designed to uplift the status of the whole Philippine society were awarded at the prestigious National Academy of Science and Technology 31st Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) held at the Manila Hotel last July 8-9, 2009.

The event was spearheaded by the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), the highest government advisory body on issues and concerns related to science and technology. This year's ASM convention carried the theme “Active Aging: Preparing for Quality Life”.

Nineteen scientists, 7 scientific papers, 2 books, a monograph, and 6 posters were recognized as the best in their respective fields.

Leading the roster of awardees are the four newly-elected Academicians: Dr. Rodel D. Lasco (Forestry), Dr. Eufemio T. Rasco Jr. (Plant Breeding), Dr. Rhodora V. Azanza (Botany), and Dr. Fabian M. Dayrit (Chemistry); and one Corresponding Member: Dr. Manuel M. Garcia (Microbiology).

Dr. Felino P. Lansigan is this year’s NAST-Hugh Greenwood Environmental Science Awardee. The NAST Talent Search for Young Scientists award was given to Dr. Roel R. Suralta of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (Philrice) and Dr. Mary Ann O. Torio of the University of the Philippines Los Baños, and special citation for Dr. Jonas P. Quilang of the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman.

Nine scientists and researchers were awarded as this year’s Outstanding Young Scientists. They are Dr. Antonio G. Lalusin (Plant Breeding) and Dr. Lucille B. Villegas (Microbiology) of UP Los Baños; Dr. Ronald D. Villanueva (Marine Science), Dr. Julius M. Basilla (Mathematics) and Dr. Stella Luz A. Quimbo (Economics) of UP Diliman; Dr. Ma. Stephanie Fay S. Cagayan (OB-Gyne and Trophoblastic Diseases) and Dr. Leoncio L. Kaw (Surgery) of UP Manila; Dr. Melito A. Baccay (Civil Engineering) of the Technological University of the Philippines Manila; and Dr. Lawrence B. Dacuycuy (Economics) of De La Salle University Manila (DLSU).

Dr. Maricor N. Soriano of UP Diliman bagged the award for the Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) Prize for Young Scientists in the Philippines for her outstanding contributions in information processing and pattern recognition of optical signals.

The winning papers include the “Development of Integrated Pest Management Program for Mango in Palawan, Philippines” (Medina et al) ; “Geodatabase Development for Forest Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation in the Mt Makiling Forest Reserve, Philippines” (Bantayan et al); “Coastal Pollution Due to Increasing Nutrient Flux in Aquaculture Sites” (David et al); “Decolorization and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) Reduction of Sugar Refinery Spent Ion-Exchange-Process (SIEP) Effluent by Electrochemical Treatment Method” (Capunitan et al); “Cloning and Characterization of the Oleosin cDNA Isoforms from Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)” (Regalado et al) and “Isolation and Characterization of the Oil Bodies and Oleosin of Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)” (Rodelas et al); and “Activity of Metal Oxides Supported on Activated Carbon During Xylene Oxidation” (Gallardo et al).

Books on the Fragrant Ornamental Plants in the Philippines by Teresita Lantin-Rosario (UP Press: 2005) and Bone Tumors in Filipinos by Edward H.M. Wang and Ariel Vergel de Dios (Bookmark, Inc: 2007) were relegated to the top of this year’s Outstanding Books. On the other hand, the Banwa Natural Science, Special Issue on Sago (Metroxylan sagu Rorrb.) published by the Office of Research of UP Mindanao was awarded as the Outstanding Monograph.

The six winning scientific posters were “Carbon storage and sequestration potential of upland and mangrove forest ecosystem in Binahaan watershed and Padre Burgos, Quezon” (Gevaña et al); “CpG Oligodeoxynucleotides as Immunomodulators of rBio t 5-Induced Allergic Reactions” (Ramos et al); “Synthesis and Characterization of Cordierite Prepared from Mixtures of Philippine Kaolinite Clay, Talc and Other Additives” (Pondoc & Mendoza); “Histomorphometry and Osteoinductive Growth Factor Levels of Fracture Callus Versus Iliac Crest Bone Grafts” (Gaston et al); “The Young, the Elderly and Household Saving: Evidence from the Philippines” (Mapa & Bersales); and “Physical Activity, Energy Requirements and Adequacy of Dietary Macro- and Micronutrient Intakes of Older Persons in a Rural Filipino Community” (Resonar et al).

The National Academy of Science and Technology 31st Annual Scientific Meeting is sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Health, Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Office of Senator Edgardo Angara, Institute of Human Genetics – NIH-UP Manila, Centro Escolar University, United Laboratories, Inc., Omnibus Biomedical Systems, Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development, Philippine Council for Advanced Science and Technology Research and Development, Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture, Ateneo de Manila University, Philrice, and DLSU.

For more information, contact the National Academy of Science and Technology at (632) 838-7739, 838-7766, 838-7792, email secretariat@nast.ph, nast@dost.gov.ph, or visit their website at http://www.nast.ph/.

Peri-operative Nurses Joined Together for 35th Annual Convention and Scientific Meeting

Thousands of nurses assigned in the operationg rooms, delivery rooms, emergency rooms, and other perioperative areas from both government and private hospitals participated in the Operating Room Nurses Association of the Philippines 35^th Annual Convention and Scientific Meeting held last July 4 – 5, 2009 at the Fiesta Pavillion of Manila Hotel in Ermita, Manila.

Carrying the theme, “Embracing a Culture of Safety in Perioperative Care”, the event aims to enhance peri-operative nurses’ awareness in the practice of patient safety. It seeks to strengthen the partnership and proactive communication among the health care team toward the maintenance of a safe and caring work environment. It recognizes perioperative nurses’ safety initiatives and standard of care relevant to the quality improvement process. Finally, the meeting seeks to rekindle personalized and human caring toward quality outcomes in perioperative nursing care.

Professional Regulations Commission Commissioner Ruth Padilla, RN gave the keynote address for this year's convetion. Eight specialized topics were discussed by respected medical practitioners in the country during the two-day event. The topics are as follows:

Topic	Speaker
What can go wrong in the OR? The Hidden Dangers Unfold	Rey Melchor F. Santos, MD, MHA, FPCS, FACS, FICS, FPSGS, FPALES
Wanted: A Few Good Perioperative Nurses	Annabelle Borromeo, RN, PhD, CNS, Vice President of Division of Nursing -St. Luke's Medical Center
Quality Improvement Systems and Processes towards Patient Safety	Alejandro C. Dizon, MD, FPCS, FACS
Anatomy of a “Time-Out”	Marie Carmela M. Lapitan, MD
OR Nurses on Stage: Ethics in the Workplace Maria	Linda G. Buhat, RN, Ed.D
Current Technology in Healthcare: Introduction to Brain Lab Surgery	Mario R. Ver, MD, FPOA, FPCS
Presentation and Ratification of Core Competency Standards	Cathline D. Avellano, RN - Chair, Core Competency Standards
Peri-operative Nurses Reach Out Amidst the Hustle & Bustle in the OR	Sor Paz Marfori, D.C.

For more information about the event, contact the Operating Room Nurses Association of the Philippines at (63918) 465-6271 or visit their website, http://www.ornap.org.

Kasalan sa Kagay-an Set to Highlight Northern Mindanao Wedding Suppliers, Customs

The wedding customs along with the premier wedding suppliers of Cagayan de Oro City and the rest of Northern Mindanao, will be highlighted at the Kasalan sa Kagay-an wedding fair and exhibit to be held on July 16 – 19, 2009 at the Limketkai Mall in Cagayan de Oro City.

Cagayan de Oro City Wedding Photo courtesy of Ariel Javelosa Photography

Kasalan sa Kagay-an wedding fair and exhibit is the eight leg of Kasalang Filipino 2009, co-presented by Kasal.com, ABS-CBN Regional Network Group, Professional Organizers Unlimited, Inc., and Limketkai Sons, Inc.,

Kasalang Filipino 2009 is a nationwide wedding fair road show which ties twelve (12) Philippine cities with one goal of promoting the local wedding industry. The following are the 12 cities of the 2009 road show – San Pablo, Tagaytay, Tarlac, Dagupan, Legazpi, Dumaguete, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Bacolod, Manila, and Cebu. This year’s Kasalang Filipino is endorsed by the Department of Tourism. The Cagayan de Oro leg forms part of the official calendar of Kagay-an Festival.

Numerous activities have been lined up for attending couples such as talks on wedding planning and wedding trends, and legalities of marriage. Pots and Pans owner and Sun Star contributor Chef Ed Dychauco will teach about decorating small cakes and cooking for two. Amateur and professional make up artist will showcase their skills at the Ever Bilena Gandang Pinay Bridal Make up competition. Finally, Cagayan de Oro's local bridal couturiers will present their works at the “Down the Aisle in Style” bridal fashion show. Lucky couples will get a chance to win free wedding giveaways and honeymoon packages during the bridal fair.

Admission is free. Register online at www.kasal.com to take part in this nationwide bridal road show. For inquiries, contact Professional Organizers at (088) 857-6223 or Kasal.com at (02) 415-9249, 414-3596, 416-1828 or email kasal.com@gmail.com.

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Kasalang Filipino 2009 is co-presented by Kasal.com and ABS-CBN Regional Network Group and made possible by Max's Restaurant, Ever Bilena Cosmetics,Goldilocks, Hewlett-Packard Philippines, Ariel Javelosa Photography, QP Designs, and the following media partners: Lifestyle Network, Sky Cable, WRR 101.9, My Only Radio, Metro Weddings, Metro Home and Entertaining, Food Magazine, Foodie Magazine, Flavors Magazine, China Business Philippines, The Manila Times, Business Mirror, Philstar.com, Tsinoy.com, and LocalDirect.com.Technology partners are Touch Solutions, Toshiba, Bitstop Network Services, and Too Many Memory. Local sponsors are Sun Star Cagayan de Oro, Dunkin Donuts, Dragon Fireworks, Inc., Edwin Orbe Digital Photography and Videography, MVP Digital Video, Roel Yap (Event Stylist), and Blaster Pro Audio Services.

2009 Philippines 21 Young Leaders Forum Now Open for Nominations

Asia Society, a leaading global organization working to strengthen relationships and promote understanding among the people, leaders, and institutions of Asia and the United States, recently announced the opening of a new class of promising young achievers for the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative.

A flagship program of the Asia Society Philippine Foundation, the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative seeks to identify and develop a network of change-makers across various sectors to meet, educate, and inspire each other; collaborate and share ideas on public service and other meaningful initiatives; and build relationships of trust and understanding.

Nominees must be between 25-40 years old, of Filipino citizenship, and must have substantial leadership experience in their chosen field, including but not limited to the following: academe, business, civil society, media, arts and culture, military, and government. Also, prospective Philippines 21 Fellows must be able to commit time and effort to achieve the goals and projects set by their Class.

Upon selection as Philippines 21 Fellows, the Class of 2009 will convene at a two-day forum where they will engage in roundtable discussions on issues concerning the Philippines and the Asia Pacific region, in preparation for their participation in the international program, with the ultimate goal of developing projects to address these issues.

The annual Forum, co-presented by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, the official media partner of the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative, will be held in the last week of August.

Philippines 21 Fellows will serve as the country’s official delegation to the Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit. This year’s Summit, scheduled for November in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, will bring together some 200 of the most dynamic next generation leaders from Asia and the United States.

Nomination forms may be requested from the Philippines 21 Secretariat via email at philippines21@gmail.comor patriciav@asiasoc.org.ph on or before July 5, 2009. Short listed candidates will be notified by the third week of July 2009.

For more details on the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative, please call Patricia Vega at (632)7524374 or (632)8108983.