ASPPI organizes its 10th General Assembly and Convention

Last August 27 to 28, 2009, the Association of Safety Practitioners of the Philippines Inc. (ASPPI) organized its 10th National Convention and General Assembly of Safety Practitioners and Advocates. The convention shared the theme “Managing Occupational Safety and Health Amidst Economic Challenges” and was held at the Apo View Hotel, Davao City.

The event generally started through the presentations of ASPPI Regional Chapter by Engr. Joanne Dionela, ASPPI National Board of Directors. Hon. Marianito D. Roque, Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), graced the event’s keynote speaker.

Other speakers who also shared their thoughts for the event were Ms. Cynthia R. Cruz, Executive Director of DOLE Institute of Labor Studies for the topic Building a Safety Culture in the Light of Decent Work Agenda, and Mr. Nomer A. Reynaldo, SHESQ Manager of SN Aboitiz Power Group.

The assembly also included the presentation of Joint Resolution for the Proposed Amendment of Proclamation No. 115-A, and the oath-taking and the renewal of commitment of National Officers and Board of Directors, and all ASPPI Members.

ASSPI is a non-stock, non-profit professional organization composed of Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) and the Bureau of Working Condition (BWC) accredited safety practitioners and consultants and aims to assist DOLE in the promotion, administration and enforcement of the Occupational Safety & Health (OSH) standards.

For more information about the event, do visit ASPPI website at www.asppi.org.ph, or do contact ASPPI secretariat at the telefax number 412-1214 or e-mail at asppi_1999@yahoo.com/asppi1999@yahoo.com.

Eliminating Poverty through Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship is now becoming more and more popular in the country, with an increasing number of Filipinos bringing fresh new concepts and ideas for new businesses.

With this same drive of placing new business ideas on the table, the Business in Development Challenge Philippines was organized in partnership with the BiD Network. Carried by the theme “Promoting Poverty Reduction through Enterprise Development,” viable business ideas which combine poverty reduction and profit were partnered with potential investors.

Participants to the BiD Challenge Philippines received personal and professional coaching for developing a bankable business plan and also got to interact with a network of premier local and international financiers and investors. The local challenge marked Aug. 30 as the final day for submission of the participants’ business plans.

Up for grabs in the competition was a start-up capital of Php1M. The top two finalists were then sent to the international BiD Competition at Amsterdam in the Netherlands, where international winners were awarded up to 20,000 Euros.

The BiD Challenge Philippines 2009 was supported by Citi, Talk N Text, and Pilipinas Shell. Media partners Business World, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Entrepreneur Magazine, and the Cebu Daily News also supported the competition.

For more information regarding BiD Challenge Philippines, please visit the BiD Country Manager at the Philippine Business for Social Progress offices at PSDC Building, Magallanes Cor. Real Sts., Intramuros, Manila. You may also call telephone numbers (632) 527-7741 to 48 local 107; fax numbers (632) 527-5972 or (632) 527-3743; or send an email to info.philippines@bidnetwork.org.

Practicing Responsible Social Welfare Development

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has continually been delivering and developing programs that chiefly target the poorest communities in the country over the years, including the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino cash transfer program.

Although many of the functions of the department have devolved since the early 1990’s, the DSWD has continued to extend support and assistance to local government units that are now responsible for delivering basic social welfare and development programs.

In keeping with its prime responsibility of promoting and protecting social welfare rights and abd social development, the DSWD, together with the Association of Local Social Welfare and Development Officers of the Philippines Inc., held the 13th National Social Welfare and Development Forum at the Manila Hotel last Aug. 27, carried by the theme “Relevant and Responsive Social Welfare and Development Practice in the Third Millennium through Networking, Partnership, and Social Advocacy” and the sub-theme “Social Welfare Providers: Rights, Opportunities, and Challenges.”

Experts presented updates in the Republic Act 9433, the Magna Carta for Social Workers, and the implications of this law on the privileges and responsibilities of social workers. Various awards were also presented to exemplary social welfare workers, including Outstanding Day Care Worker, Outstanding Local Social and welfare Development Officers, and Outstanding Local Chief Executives from the municipal to provincial levels.

Renewable Energy for a Cleaner and Brighter Future

Producing and providing renewable energy sources have become among the most important topics in the long-time campaign for protecting the Earth. And to show its support for this very worthwhile endeavor, the RE Coalition teamed up with the UP Mountaineers and the local government of Tiwi, Albay for the CARERA (Coron Adventure Renewable Energy Race).

Conducted last Aug. 29 and 30 at the Naglagbong Geothermal People’s Park (NagPark Race Base Camp) in Tiwi, Albay, the CARERA carried the theme “Renewable Energy: Ushering and Era of Sustainable Energy Development and Use.” It aims to set the pace for providing a cleaner and brighter future by using safer sources of energy, such as geothermal and hydroelectric power.

This environmental event was sponsored by, among others, Chevron, the World Wildlife Fund, USAID, PhilBIO, Energizer, Schick, Aqua Best, and Euro RSCG Agatep PR.

AASHPI holds 10th Nat’l Convention

With the theme “HR Proactive Strategies During Challenging Times,” the Asian Association of School Human Resource Management and Development Practitioners Inc. (AASHPI) made their 10th AASHPI National Convention, last August 26 - 28, 2009 at the Waterfront Hotel in Cebu City, a resounding success.

A total of 153 delegates who were mainly school owners, administrators, officers, and also non-academe lawyers and human resource practitioners, attended the convention and also participated in the selection of nominees for the ASSHPI Board of Directors (National) 2010 -2011.

Cebu City Vice Mayor Michael Rama delivered the event’s keynote address on the theme “Driving Change and Sustaining Peak Performance Through an Energized Human Resource.” Eight other distinguished speakers who are experts in their respective fields, on the other hand, talked about the latest HR Trends, legal developments, and the secrets of efficient and effective human resource handling.

A guided tour of selected scenic spots of Cebu and the privilege of availing the free one year membership fee were also made up for grabs on the said event. 

For further inquiries, call 8208702 local 106 164 or email aashpi@yahoo.com. You can also visit their website at www.aashpi.org.

11th National Tuna Congress

The 11th National Tuna Congress held at Lagao, General Santos (GenSan) City last August 27-29, 2009 was entitled “Changing Mindsets toward Sustainable Fisheries.” The congress opened the week-long 11th GenSan Tuna Festival commemorating the city’s 41st Charterhood Anniversary. GenSan is known as the major exporter of the fish in the Philippines and contributes as much as sixty percent to the city's economy.

Over four hundred domestic and international delegates from various sectors attended the congress. Around 20 keynote speeches, messages and presentations were addressed. Among the invited speakers were Vice-President Noli de Castro, Senator Loren Legarda and Senator Mar Roxas.

Amid a shrinking global demand for tuna products because of the global economic crisis, the event focused on measures to ensure the appropriate management of tuna resources, including expanding industry cooperation towards responsible fisheries, and new regulations governing illegal and unregulated fishing.

The Congress adopted eight resolutions, including the Philippine tuna industry’s strong commitment towards a more responsive and conscientious tuna resource management; and requests to their government on establishing the country’s maritime boundaries and regular patrol, promoting cooperation with FFA and PNA, research on FAD closure, and creating relevant legislature for responsible and sustainable fisheries in Philippines.

Sessions on current management regimes & market trends, on investment opportunities along with the initiatives on tuna resource management, the industry’s socio-economic impact and accountability, fisheries and economic cooperation with various other industry players in the Pacific and in the BIMP-EAGA, updates on maritime boundary issues, safety and protection of property and life at sea, as well as the effects of the global financial crisis to the Philippine tuna industry were conducted.

A major highlight was the Trade Exhibit at the same venue showcasing various modern technology, and services, as well as fishery products and supplies for fishing and its allied industries, from more than 60 merchants and dealers.

The 11th National Tuna Congress was organized by Socsksargen Federation of Fishing & Allied Industries, Inc. (SFFAII), a private-sector federation based in the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, General Santos City. The members of the federation include purse seine and hand line fishing groups, canners, processors, traders and aquaculture producers who continue to advocate sustainability measures such as using nets with a larger mesh size to avoid depleting juvenile populations of tuna.

Working closely with Philippine government agencies, SFFAII played a role in the creation of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, a treaty-based organization aimed at conserving and managing tuna and other highly migratory fish stocks.

The 11th National Tuna Congress was co-presented by the City Government of General Santos, 1st Congressional District of South Cotabato, Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, SOCSKSARGEN Area Development Project Office, Department of Trade & Industry, and USAID's Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) Program.

For more information, the SOCSKSARGEN Federation of Fishing & Allied Industries, Inc. (SFFAII) may be reached at telefax (6383) 552 9736, (6383) 301 6543, or you may visit their website at http://www.philtuna.org.

National Student Safety and School Security Conference 2009

The 1st National Student Safety and Security Conference (N-SSASEC) 2009 was held last August 29-30, 2009 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Financial Center Area, Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave. cor Macapagal Boulevard, Pasay City, with the theme “The Mission to Provide for a Safe and Educationally-Stimulating Learning Environment for Students Nationwide.”

The two-day event was joined-in by public and private educational institutions nationwide comprising school owners & administrators, faculty & student organizations, socio-civic & community associations, parents & guardians and top leaders of the nation.

The delegates had the chance to partake in hands-on activities and listening-in to the experts and national speakers who shared their insights and knowledge about successful approaches to securing our nation’s campuses and students.

The conference highlighted the important inputs from the authorities who deal with man-made and natural disasters’ risks who shared their experience in threat assessment and crisis planning. They were the specialists from Bureau of Fire Protection, National Disaster Coordinating Council and the Philippine National Red Cross.

N-SSASEC 2009 was organized by PhilEvents Management & Advertising Company in cooperation with Department of Education (DepEd); Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC); Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA); Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA); Department of Health (DOH); Department of Justice (DOJ); National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC); World Health Organization (WHO); National Youth Commission (NYC); and Unicef.

The sponsors of the conference were Five Star ColorPrint, Parajes, Walter, Ultimate Care Card, Inc., Filbar’s, Siming’s Flowers, 360 Media, Mang Inasal, Waters, Media Sponsors: NU 107, Manila Bulletin, Global Destiny, Security Matters, Business Mirror, DWIZ, Job Market, The Manila Times, 97.9 Home Radio, Philippine Graphic, Business World, People’s Balita, RHTV DZRH Television, GNN, UNTV, Gabay Aksyon, Gabay ng Bayan, Bread Tambayan, and Good Morning Kuya!

You may reach PhilEvents’ Sales & Marketing Team at 414.2364, 391.8780, 407.5947, 467.2363, 489.0166, or fax 413.0166. Their website is http://www.philevents.com, but it is temporarily unavailable.

Medical Experts Gathered for PSDBP 5th Biennial Convention

Expert in Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics from all over the country met last August 31 and September 1, 2009 at the Mandarin Oriental Suites in Gateway Mall, Araneta Center, Quezon City for the Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (PSDBP) 5th Biennial Convention.

Consistent with its main objective to promote the science and art of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the event carried the theme, Developmental Disorders: Challenging and Controversial Issues Across the Lifespan”. The event also serves as a channel to present challenging and controversial developmental and behavioral issues across the lifespan.

Topics include “The State of the Disabled Child in the Philippines: Challenges and Opportunities”, “The Hypotonic Infant: Approach to Diagnosis and Management, “Feeding Problems and Dysfunctions in Infants with Developmental Disorders”, The Hyperactive Toddler: Drawing the Line Between Disorder and Normal Temperament”, “The Toddler with Specific Language Delay: Distinguishing Between Developmental Lag and Disorder”, “The Medicated Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Child in School: Issues and Practice Guidelines”, “Social Skill Deficits of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Regular School”, “ The Wrath of Math: Helping Children Overcome Math Difficulties”, “The Teen with ADHD: Drawing the Line Between Disorder & Co-morbidities”, “Sexuality & Reproductive Health Issues of Adolescents with Developmental Disorders”, and “Mentally Challenged Teen: Life After School”.

For more information about the event, contact Dr. Stella Guerrero Manalo, PSDBP Registration Officer at (632) 633 – 6686, (63926) 432-5147, or visit their website at http://www.psdbp.com/

Tourism Educators Stage National Tourism Students Congress

The Union of Filipino Tourism Educators (UFTE) (formerly TESCU) held their Fourth National Tourism Students Congress last Aug. 29 at the De La Salle University Dasmariñas.

Aiming to increase the students’ awareness of their roles in the industry, the congress organizers selected three important topics to be discussed by distinguished guests. Keynote speaker Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan headed an in-depth discussion about tourism opportunities amidst global crisis.

Also gracing the event are Ms. Mae Castellano of Avon Cosmetics and Ms. Ivy de Borja, HR Manager of the Travellers International Hotel Group, with talks about image enhancement for better presentation and career opportunities in tourism and hospitality.

The highlight of the congress is the Tourism Skills Olympics, where the UFTE Cup was awarded to the school that edged out all other participants. Several contests were prepared to test the students’ tourism and hospitality management prowess, including tour guiding and tour packaging competitions, a tourism quiz bee, cultural dance presentations, and a poster/slogan making contest.

An estimated 1,000 students from tourism and HRM schools all over the country attended the event.

For inquiries and more information on the event, please contact Ms. Gracella Rebuena of the De La Salle University Dasmariñas Tourism Department at (02) 844 7832 loc. 3090.

Picture Perfect at the Fifth PCP Workshop

As it continues to promote professionalism in photojournalism in the Philippines, the Philippine Center for Photojournalism (PCP) conducted its fifth Professional Photojournalism Workshop at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone last Aug. 27–31.

Several lectures and hands-on training were conducted across the five days of the conference, which included a return to the basics of photography and the application of photography techniques; the trends and challenges of photojournalism; documentary photography and case studies; digital file management; the creation of a photo story (at an Aeta community at Sitio Kanawan, Barangay Binaritan, Morong, Bataan); and working on wires, newspapers and magazines.

Speakers and lecturers for the conference were Ms. Joan Bondoc, PCP chair and senior photographer of the Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDI), veteran photographers Mr. Alex Baluyut, Mr. Jimmy Domingo, and PDI chief photographer Mr. Ernie Sarmiento, who are also instructors in the Ateneo de Manila University’s photojournalism program; Mr. Luis Liwanag, chief photographer of the Manila bureau of Xinhua News Agency; Mr. VJ Villafranca, 2008 awardee of the prestigious Ian Parry Scholarship for photojournalists; documentary photographers Mr. Paolo Picones and Mr. Jake Verzosa; Ms. Leanne Jazul, art director of the award-winning magazine Newsbreak; and Mr. Jose Torres Jr., a multi-awarded veteran journalist and author.

The fifth day was the oath taking ceremony of the new PCP officers and board members, administered by Olongapo City Mayor James “Bong” Gordon.

The workshop is supported by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office www.pcso.gov.ph/.

Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics on Developmental Disorders

The Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics held its 5th Biennial Convention last August 31 and September 1, 2009 at the Mandarin Oriental Suites Gateway Mall in Cubao, Quezon City.

With this year’s theme, “Developmental Disorders: Challenging and Controversial issues Across the Lifespan”, the event covers a wide-range of topics that of developmental disorders that may occur in the whole lifespan of a human being.

Included on the discusses aspects were: “The State of the Disabled Child in the Philippines: Challenges and Opportunies”, The Hypotonic Infant: Approach to Diagnosis and Management”, “Feeding Problems and Dysfunctions in Infants with Developmental Disorders”, The Hyperactive Toddler: Drawing the line between Disorder and Normal Temperament”, “The Toddler with a Specific Language Delay: Distinguishing between Developmental Lag and Disorder”, “The Medicated ADHD Child in School: Issues and Practice Guidelines”, Social Skill Deficits of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Regular School”, The Wrath of Math: Helping Children overcome Math Difficulties”, “The Teen with ADHD: Drawing the line between Disorder and Co-morbidities”, “Sexuality and Reproductive Health Issues of Adolescents with Developmental Disorders”, and “Mentally Challenged Teen: Life After School”.

For more information, contact Dr. Stella Guerrero Manalo at elefax 633-6686 or visit http://psdbp.org/.

5th Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibit at the Mega Trade Hall

The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) headed the 5th Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Commercialization Forum and Exhibit last August 27- 30, 2009 at the Mega Trade Hall 3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

“Enhancing Entrepreneurships in Agriculture and Fisheries through Technology Commercialization” is the theme of the said even which showcased viable and commercialized technologies developed by state universities and colleges and the Department of Agriculture national and regional offices. It aims to strengthen the partnership between research organizations and the private sector towards a progressive and more sustainable agriculture. 

The event was organized in partnership with the Ginintuang Masaganang Ani-High Value Commercial Crops, GMA-Corn Program, Association of Colleges of Agriculture in the Philippines, and the Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers, Inc.

The event started with the ribbon cutting of the booth exhibits and displays on Aug. 27 led by guests of honor, Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yap and Director General William D. Dar of the India-based International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics. Other guests include Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar of the Bureau of Agricultural Research, Asst. Dir. Teodoro S. Solsoloy, and other Department of Agriculture key officials. The launching of the Department of Agriculture-supported books and the awarding of BAR Outstanding Employees was also part of the opening program.

There were series of cooking demonstrations on some practical and in-demand livelihood sources including sweet sorghum and pigeonpea food products, malunggay-based foods, easy to prepare meat products, and tilapia products as part of the said activity.

Moreover, seminars on various technologies including topics on biofuels, herbal products, post-harvest technologies, Good Agricultural Practices, organic agriculture, and effects of climate change were conducted by the Bureau of Agriculture under its National Technology Commercialization Program.

For more information, contact the Technology Commercialization Unit of BAR at (632) 928-8624 local 2626/2627/262 or email tcu@bar.gov.ph

Cacao on its first summit

The Cocoa Foundation of the Philippines (Cocoaphil) and ACDI/VOCA hosted the Philippine Cacao Summit at the SM Megatrade Hall Conference Room B of the SM Megamall last August 28, 2009.

US Ambassador to the Philippines, Ms. Kristie Kenny cut the ceremonial ribbon of the exhibit and gave the keynote address at the opening ceremony. Other guests were Dr. Rene Espino, Philippines Department of Agriculture division of High Value Commercial Crops, Mr. David Wolf, USDA, Mr. Peter Van Grinsven, MARS Inc. and Mr. Edward David, CocoaPhil.

Cocoaphil President Edward David noted that the summit tackled the promotion of SUCCESS Alliance II program, the evaluation of the sultant's report, and plan for the cocoa sector growth and investment forum panel. Moreover, Ambassador Kenney emphasized the importance of the cocoa value chain development to uplift the economic conditions of the cacao smallholders, and Dr. Espino announced the Philippine cocoa bean standards and its acceptance in the world trade and emphasized cacao as a recognized High Value Commercial Crop in Philippine agriculture.

Cocoaphil (952-6397) is an umbrella organization promoting an integrated and sustained development of the local cocoa industry.

Philippines 21 Class of 2009 Joined Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit

Business upstarts, cultural workers, civic leaders and education advocates which comprise the Class of 2009 of the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative convened during the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Forum held last August 27-29, 2009 at the Asian Institute of Management Conference Center and International Rice Research Institute in Makati City.

The Class of 2009 represented the country in the Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit held last November 20-22, 2009 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with the theme “The Changing Face of Leadership: Crisis and Opportunity.” Philippine 21 Fellows were among the 150 young leaders from Asia-Pacific and US who took part in the yearly event.

The Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative Class of 2009 are: Mr. Steve Laurence Arquiza (Non-Profit/Civil Society); Ms. Jocelle Batapa-Sigue (Government-Local); Mr. Jose Romeo de la Cruz (Government-Local); Ms. Cecile Victoria Dominguez (Non-Profit/Civil Society); Mr. Jaime Enrique Gonzalez (Business); Mr. Ryan Guinaran (Arts and Culture); Mr. Dennis Gupa (Arts and Culture); Mr. Rommel Juan (Business); Mr. Darwin Mariano (Business); and Mr. Efren Peñaflorida (Non-profit/Civil Society).

This year's Philippines 21 Fellows are a mix of prominent names and promising young talent. Business leaders know of the success of Mr. Enrique Gonzales and Mr. Rommel Juan. Mr. Gonzales took his IT start-up IPVG Corp. from garage to public and has since expanded operations from their Philippine homebase to seven countries, including India and the United States. Mr. Juan’s native food chain Binalot Fiesta Foods, on the other hand, has become one of the more successful local franchises.

Recently, Mr. Peñaflorida was hailed as CNN Hero of the Year for his group, Dynamic Teen Company’s alternative kariton (pushcart) classrooms for out of school youth to serve as alternative against gang membership. Mr. Efren Peñaflorida was not able to join the delegation in Malaysia since the awarding ceremony for CNN’s Hero of the Year was held on November 21.

The Class of 2009 is the most geographically representative Philippines 21 batch to date, with seven out of ten Fellows coming from or residing outside Metro Manila. Mr. Steve Arquiza and Ms. Cecile Dominguez hail from Davao and Sarangani respectively, and are dynamic examples of young Mindanaoan leadership. Mr. Arquiza is secretary-general of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Davao and immediate past president of the Mindanao Young Leaders Parliament, while Ms. Dominguez heads the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation. And though City Councilors Jocelle Batapa-Sigue (Bacolod City, Negros Occidental) and Jose Romeo de la Cruz (Santiago City, Isabela) may hail from different parts of the country, they share a vocation for public service, and support environment and youth issues.

Aside from demonstrating expertise in their chosen field and the spirit of community service, Philippines 21 Fellows also share an inclination for cross-sectoral activities. Mr. Darwin Mariano’s day job as public affairs head of Cemex Philippines does not hinder him from his duties as core member of Movement for Good Governance http://www.mgg.ph/. Mr. Mariano has supported this advocacy since his days as the founder of Aksyon Demokratiko Youth. Mr. Ryan Guinaran, on the other hand, is a licensed phycisian whose Cordillera heritage has imbued him with a sense of cultural pride. He founded two NGOs: KOSDEY, which promotes and preserves Ibaloi culture, and DITENG, which advocates culture-sensitive health programs. And while UP Los Baños’s Dennis Gupa is primarily a stage director schooled in classical and contemporary theater, his work in theater-in-education has led him to collaborate with science researchers and social scientists to develop educational and/or socially relevant plays.

Established in 2006 by Asia Society Philippines and social entrepreneur/governance advocate Harvey Keh, the program is the first locally-organized chapter of the Asia 21 Young Leaders Initiative, which aims to develop a core group of leaders aged 25-40 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.

For more details on the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Forum, contact Ms. Patricia Vega at (632)752-4374, 810-8983 or email patriciav@asiasoc.org.ph.

QC tackles Culinary, Tourism Etc.

As endorsed by the Department of Tourism Philippines and organized by an events company called Stram Events, the “2nd QC NA! KULINARYA, TALENTO, TURISMO, ATBP!” was held from August 21-23 at Eastwood City, Libis.

Different activities were lined up during the event such as Top Culinary Restaurant Trendsetters Recognition Night, Fruit and Vegetable Carving Competition, BBQ & Original Sauces Competition, Cocktail Mixed Drink Competition (Amateur) and Cocktail Mixed Drink Competition (Professional).

Some of the event’s highlights also include the Manila’s market basket cooking competition, low cholesterol diet meal competition, and fruit and vegetable carving competition. The event also had various sponsors such as Monterey, Purefoods Hormel, Purefoods Ham Selections, Fast n Easy, Antonov Vodka, G.S.M. BLUE, Gran Matador, Basso, CCA, Harvey Fresh, Marigold, Health Plus, and Maxim. On the other hand, media sponsors were consisted of F&B World, Cool, Business World and Depot Home.

This event was co-organized with Quezon City Tourism Council, Quezon City Government, Quezon City Chamber of Commerce, La Loma Lechoneros Quezon City and Chilis.

For inquiries, please call 927-7208 or email them at stram_events@yahoo.com.

Franchising, Dealership, and More at the 2009 Negosyo Power Expo

It was a full three days of learning for entrepreneurs at the 2009 series of the Negosyo Power Expo. Held last Aug. 21–23 at the Trinoma Activity Center, the free-admission event featured exhibitors including franchising and dealership companies, multi-level marketing organizations, and health and beauty product sellers, and business financing groups.

Produced and organized by Ex-Link Management and Marketing Services Corp., together with the Entrepreneurs Society of the Philippines and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the 2009 Negosyo Power Expo was tagged as the grandest SME expo and learning event of the year. It also featured three learning events: The Women Entrepreneurs Congress, the Young Entrepreneurs Summit, and the OFW Business Congress.

Several speakers also conducted discussions throughout the three-day event, and covered a wide range of topics including rags-to-riches stories, finding inspiration for a business, excelling in business as a woman, the latest tools in marketing, creative entrepreneurship, and ready and easy businesses for OFWs, to name a few.

The roster of speakers included Ms. Litay Ferrera-Brunner, president and managing director of Enzio Ferrera; Ms. Ting Ting Roberto, chief finance officer and co-founder of Salt and Light Ventures; Ms. Cora Jacobs of the Cora Cares Foundation; Ms. Michelle de Ocampo-Ballesteros, chief marketing director of Ex-Link Corp.; Ms. DeeDee Ledonio, president of Coltrans Cargo Philippines; Ms. Cristy Oreta, president and owner of EBusiness Management; Mr. Jerry Yao, entrepreneur professor at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines; Ms. Krishna Alejandro, executive director of Junior Achievement Philippines, Inc.; Mr. George Masecaro, president of the Entrepreneurs Society of the Philippines; Mr. Jimmy Siybauco, president of the Handwriting Institute; Mr. Pocholo Gonzales, managing director of Creative Voices; Ms. Lourdes Rivera, vice president of Ultima Entrepreneur; Ms. Melanie Valenciano, SIM officer of the Unlad Kabayan Foundation; Mr. Alvin Tabañag, money management coach from the Pinoy Smart Savers Learning Center; and Mr. Butch Albaraccin, founder and CEO of Center for Pop.

Media partners for the said event are Magic 89.9, Jam 88.3, Wave 89.1, 99.5 RT, 103.5 Max FM, Media Gateway Corp., The Business Mirror, Philstar.com, Cebu Web Ads.com, Biz Linq.net, the Philippine Graphic, Asenso Pinoy at IBC 13, Creative Voices, and TV 5.

Manila Studies Association holds Conference at NCCA

With the assistance of National Commission for Culture and the Arts committee on historical research, the Manila Studies Association Inc., held its 18th Annual Manila Studies Conference last Aug. 25 and 26, at the Tanghalan Leandro V. Locsin, National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) at 633 General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila. The registration fee was P2,000 for the two-day conference. 

The conference will presented papers on various topics covering Manila’s history and culture. They included the following: 

“Archaeological Excavation at Iglesia de San Ignacio Site, Intramuros, Manila” (Angel Bautista, National Museum); “The Reconstruction of the Second Monastery of San Agustin, Intramuros” (Demetrio C. Alcaraz, Jr., University of Santo Tomas); “A Reified View of the Original Site of the University of the Philippines”(Celia Bonilla, University of the Philippines Manila); “Far Eastern University and Its Urban Advocacy” (Annabelle Verdote, Far Eastern University); “The British Consulate in Manila, 1844-1903” (Ruel V. Pagunsan, University of the Philippines Diliman); “Tundo, 1946-2000: Sosyo-ekonomikong Sulyap sa Isang Makasaysayang Distrito” (Gil G. Gotiangco, Jr. II, University of the Philippines Diliman); “Remembering Ladislao Bonus (1854-1908) the Father of the Filipino Opera” (Fernando A. Santiago, Jr., De La Salle University Manila); “Sandugong Panaguinip: The First Tagalog Opera” (Genesis C. Rivera, University of the Philippines Diliman); “‘Sources Said…’ - The Philippine Press Act of 1946 and the Media’s Right to Protect News Sources (A Historical Perspective)” (Jose Victor Z. Torres, De La Salle University Manila); “Figuring the Social Condition: Benedicto Cabrera’s Sabel and Other Allegories in Philippine Painting” (Patrick D. Flores, University of the Philippines Diliman); and Film Documentary – Unsurrendered 100 Voices (Peter Parsons and Lucky Guillermo).

The Manila Studies Association Inc. (MSA), formally established in June 1989, is a non-profit professional organization devoted to the study and research of all aspects of Manila studies. The MSA also aims, through the dissemination of relevant historical literature, to preserve and conserve Manila’s historical and cultural landmarks.

For information, call or SMS Lorelei D.C. de Viana at 0917-855-0060, e-mail deviana_ph@yahoo.com, or call Bernardita R. Churchill at 921-4575, SMS 0918-444-4510, or e-mail nitachurchill@hotmail.com.

Local Martial Arts Underscored at National Yaw-Yan Sports Championship

The practice of Filipino martial art Yaw-Yan (Sayaw ng Kamatayan or Dance of Death) was underscored during the First National Yaw-Yan Sports Championship last August 22 and 23, 2009 at the Barangay Greater Fairview Covered Court in Fairview, Quezon City.

Jointly organized by Yaw-Yan Sports Philippines in cooperation with International Federation of Yaw-Yan Sports, the event aims to promote and propagate Yaw-Yan in an amateur level as Yaw-Yan Sports, unite and promote camaraderie among Yaw-Yan practitioner, and to encourage youth to be interested in sports such as Yaw-Yan and keep them away from vices.

No less than Yaw-Yan founder and Grand Master Napoleon “Nap” Fernandez graced the first amateur competition which he established in 1972. 36 teams all over Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao took part in the martial arts competition. The event was divided in to two events: Yaw-Yan Anyo and Yaw-Yan Contact Sparring. Yaw-Yan Anyo was a form or dance competition involving display of pure Yaw-Yan and Traditional Yaw-Yan techniques. Like in any contact sports, the Yaw-Yan Contact Sparring was classified under different weight divisions.

The National Yaw-Yan Sports Championship 2009 is sponsored by Octagon Pro, Pocari Sweat, Cake2Go, RPN 9, The Manila Times, and Radyo ng Bayan DZRB 738 kHz AM.

For more information about the event, contact the International Federation of Yaw-Yan Sports at (63922) 850-2942, (63915) 901-0118, email int.fed_yawyansports@yahoo.com.ph, yawyansports_phil@yahoo.com or visit their website at http://yawyansports.multiply.com/

Marine Biodiversity Emphasized at MAMARE ‘09

Issues on marine biodiversity were emphasized during the Manila Aqua Marine and Aquatic Resources Exposition (MAMARE) 2009 held last August 20 – 23, 2009 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Organized by Lotty Events Management, the event carried the theme "Sustaining the Philippines as the Crown Jewel of Marine Biodiversity in the Entire Planet”. It is considered as a most significant gathering of marine and aquatic environmentalists, celebrities, government organizations and nongovernment organizations (NGOs), technical experts, inputs suppliers, manufacturers, investors and many others.

MAMARE aims to provide a single venue for the promotion of various aspects of the Philippine marine environment, including: marine conservation, water utilization, habitat preservation, marine development, water sports, travel, tourism and recreation. In addition, it aims to advance the agriculture, aquaculture and other potential business investments and opportunities in the country.

The four-day event showcased innovations and latest technologies in the maritime industry (commercial marine and government agencies), sports & recreation, hobbies, fashion, food, art, schools, tourism, shipping etc. Business opportunities lectures in aquaculture and mariculture, seminars on marine lifestyles best practices were also conducted by experts in the industry. A Marine and Aquatic Advocacy Contests and Aqua Art Demo was opened for students in order to encourage the youth to participate in marine conservation. Entertainment, fashion and ramp modeling shows also highlighted the exposition.

Proceeds from the event were directed to the nationwide programs of marine preservation and conservation of Bantay Kalikasan Program of ABS-CBN Foundation. One of the beneficiary was the municipality of Pola in Oriental Mindoro, which is the center of marine biodiversity.

Manila Aqua Marine and Aquatic Resources Exposition 2009 is in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, NU 107, Agri-Aqua Network International, Inc., and DWWW 774 kHz.

For more information about the event, contact Lotty Events Management at (632) 391-3461, 391-3474, fax (632) 311-1488, or email lottyevents@yahoo.com

2009 World Press Photo Exhibit Tour in Philippines

Over one hundred award-winning photos from all over the world were displayed during the Philippine Leg of the 2009 World Press Photo Exhibit Tour last August 1 – 23, 2009 held in different malls in the Metro Manila area.

The Podium in Ortigas Center, Pasig was the first stop of the Philippine exhibit leg. The award-winning photos were displayed there from August 1 – 8. It proceeded to The Block at SM North EDSA in Quezon City from August 9 – 14. Finally, SM Mall of Asia served as the venue for the last leg, held last August 15 – 23.

The photos showcased during the event were composed of portraitures, news coverage, sport events, daily life, arts and entertainment, and nature, which passed through a rigid process of screening. This year’s World Press competitions attracted 5,508 photographers from 124 countries. In total 96,298 images were entered in the contest. Entries are judged for their news value and on the photographer's creative skills.

The main overall prize, the World Press Photo of the Year, is awarded for the single photograph that is not only the photojournalistic encapsulation the year, but represents an issue, situation or event of great journalistic importance, and does so in a way that demonstrates an outstanding level of visual perception and creativity.

A total of 196 photographs were included in this year’s roster of winners which were showcased during the year-long road show exhibit. These include World Press Photo of the Year 2008 by American photojournalist Anthony Suau. Taken in March 26, 2008, the black and white photo, which was part of the story commissioned by Time Magazine, shows Detective Robert Kole of the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Office moving through a home in Cleveland, Ohio, following eviction as a result of mortgage foreclosure.

The 2009 World Press Photo Exhibit Tour started last May 4 in The Netherlands and will end in Germany in March 2010.

The Philippine leg of the 2009 World Press Photo Exhibit Tour of the is a joint partnership of the Konrad Adenauer Asia Center for Journalism at the Ateneo de Manila University, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Unilever Philippines, The Podium, SM City North-EDSA, and SM Mall of Asia

For more information about the event, contact the Konrad Adenauer Asian Center for Journalism, at the Ateneo de Manila University at (632) 926-3253 or visit the event website at http://www.worldpressphoto.org/

PCOM’s 11th in Davao City

The Philippine College of Occupational Medicine (PCOM), and affiliate society of the Philippine Medical Association and accredited by PhilHealth, held its 11th midyear convention at the Apo View Hotel in Davao City last August 21 to 22, 2009, carrying the theme " Refocusing on Worker's Welfare."

The event supported the PCOM's objective of intensifying the awareness and involvement in occupational health care of the different institutions, government and non-government organizations, societies, groups and the various specialties and sub-specialties in medicine. PCOM has remained the prime mover in the preservation, promotion, protection, and enhancement of the health, wellness, and safety of workers in all occupations thru its 2,815 members working throughout the country.

On the other hand, the symposium also coincides with the celebration of the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City.

The Southern Mindanao Chapter hosted the event spearheaded by the chapter's president Dr. Evelyn Abaloso-Lao. Moreover, Dr. Peter Dela Peña (0907-8139736), Dr. Luningning Cubero (0921-7941623), and the PCOM Secretariat (929-7741, pcom@skydsl.com.ph, pcomsecretariat@yahoo.com) was in charge of the registration.

Stroke Experts Shared New Techniques, Findings at 10th SSP Annual Convention

Medical practitioners who specialize in stroke treatment and prevention shared their latest finding and treatment techniques during the 10th Stroke Society of the Philippines Annual Convention held last August 20 – 22, 2009 at the Holiday Inn Resort in Clarkfield, Pampanga.

Organized by the Pampanga Chapter of the Stroke Society of the Philippines (SSP) in cooperation with the Department of Health, the event carried the theme, “The Philippine Stroke Agenda: Tackling Knowledge, Issues, Concern, and Awareness in Stroke. It aims to serve as a forum for all members to disseminate information concerning the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention of cerebrovascular diseases (CVD) and related diseases.

Prior to the formal event, held last August 20; the SSP conducted a postgraduate course seminar for barangay health midwives (BHM), midwives assigned in rural health units (RHU), and nurses. For BHM and RHU midwives, the seminar was held at the Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital. Topics discussed include pathophysiology and types of stroke, pre-hospital stroke evaluation and triage, stroke risk factors and prevention, and blood pressure taking.

Meanwhile the Nursing Postgraduate Course was held at the Angeles University Foundation Auditorium. Topics discussed were blood pressure, glycemic control and thermoregulation for stroke patients, basic admitting orders, stroke clinical pathways, National Institute of Health Stroke and Glasgow Coma Scale, and monitoring for thrombolytic theraphy in acute ischemic stroke.

During the formal event, held last August 21, Pampanga Governor Ed Panlilio welcomed the delegates from all over the country. Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Chairman Dr. Rey Aquino gave the keynote address to the participants. Topics discussed during the event include stroke awareness, thrombolytic therapy, stroke physiotherapy, CT and MRI analysis, endovascular treatment, connection between stroke and epilepsy, connection between substance abuse and stroke, psychosocial distress in stroke survivors and caregivers, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer’s Disease, among others.

The convention concluded with a Fellowship Night held at Hilltop Restaurant.

For more information about the event, contact the Stroke Society of the Philippines at (632) 723-0101 loc. 5304, 722-5877, email ssp_secretariat@yahoo.com or visit their website at http://www.strokesocietyphil.org/

Minorities shine in Tribal Games

Mangyans, Aeta, and Dumagat athletes showcased their skills in the field of sports such as archery, foot race, and spear throwing during the series of elimination rounds for the 1st POC-ACB MAD (Mangyans, Aeta, Dumagats) Regional Tribal Games: Protecting our Natural Heritage held in Pampanga, Occidental Mindoro, and General Nakar, Quezon held from August – November 2009.

The Tribal Games is a joint project of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity (ACB) to showcase how indigenous people conserve their natural environments and generate a greater awareness for biodiversity conservation among the people of the ASEAN region.

The ACB and the POC embarked on this project in recognition of the key role that indigenous peoples (IP) play in conserving flora, fauna, and other biological resources. For millennia, indigenous peoples have developed a relationship with their environment that has sustained and nourished their bodies, fostered community relations, and strengthened their culture.

The project brought together students, youth, and the general public on a personal encounter with the tribes to get first-hand information on how to protect and appreciate the environment.

Top contenders from each of the minority groups faced one other during the National Finals held on November 6 in Clark Field, Pampanga. Winners from the finals will compete during the International Year of Biodiversity next year with tribal groups from ASEAN Member States: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, LAO PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The exact date and place to determined.

Other partners are POC Athletes’ Commission, National Commission of Indigenous People, Philippine Tri-Media Agencies and UP Los Baños Community and ASEAN Member States for 2010.

For more details, please contact The Asean Center for Biodiversity at (+6349) 536-1044 local 501 or thru their website http://www.aseanbiodiversity.org and the Philippine Olympic Committee at (+632) 632-1254, (+632) 631-5417; fax (+632) 637-7104; email jose_cojuangco@yahoo.com,
philolympic@smartbro.net or thru their website http://www.olympic.ph

Good Citizenship Movement Campaigns for Moral Transformation

Carried by its theme “Moral Transformation for National Development,” the Good Citizenship Movement held its Fourth National Congress last Aug. 21 at the Br. Andrew Gonzalez Hall Auditorium, De La Salle University, Taft Avenue, Manila.

The congress centered on the importance of moral standards and transformation in the country in order to make the Filipinos more productive and effective members of the society toward overall development.

The event also bore witness to the awarding ceremonies of the Ninoy Aquino Award for Nationalism to Chief Justice Reynato Puno, Bishop Socrates Villegas and Commissioner Cris Carreon, as well as the Manuel Quezon Award for Exemplary Governance to Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, business mogul John Gokongwei, and environmentalist Nicanor Perlas.

The awards were conferred by the Good Citizenship Movement, together with the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines and the Federation of Catholic Schools Alumni Association.

2009 ASAP Conference Business Refreshed Ideas of Advertising Suppliers

Despite the wilting economy, the Advertising Suppliers Association of the Philippines (ASAP) held its annual conference at the Grand Ballroom of the Hotel InterContinental Manila August 18, 2009.

Entitled “Business Refreshed! Inspire. Incite. Ignite,” this year’s conference offered trendsetting and eye-opening topics pertinent to the industry, the changing themes of media and technology and the profile transformation of its leading players.

Now on its 30th year, the annual ASAP Business Conference presented top-calibre speakers and experts who shared real experiences aimed to jumpstart life back to the staggering business. The conference boasted of the following guest speakers: Dean of the Lyceum of the Philippines University College of Business Administration Dr. Leonardo Garcia, Jr., CPM AMEd, on “Recession Proof Marketing,” Chairman and Chief Disturber of Business Works, Inc. Anthony Pangilinan on “Blue Ocean Strategy,” Chief Executive Officers of Woo Consultancy Mon and Abby Jimenez who exposed the ins-and-outs of “Family in Business” and University of Asia and the Pacific Professor, Dr. Bernardo Villegas who tackled “Economic Prospects.”

Rod Nepomuceno and Greg Banzon simply discussed “Brand You”. Relative newcomer to the ASAP conference, Professor Jacinto C. Gavino, DPA of the Asian Institute of Management tackled the encompassing topic “Successful Business Management”, and last but not the least, Remigio Tito C. Tirones, Senior Vice President and Head of SME Banking Group of Planters Development Bank took on “Financial Management in SMEs.”

The 2009 ASAP Business Conference is sponsored by PLDT SME Nation, Adobo Magazine, BOS, Business Works, The Parenting Company, a.s.v. Events Pool, CTV Corporate Television, Design Archipelago, 88 Storey Films, Executive Decisions, Fiera de Manila, Focus Media, Forsc Ink, Inc., GA Printing, Holy Cow! Animation, Modern Ads & Promo, Paradigm Visions Photography, RoadRunner Network, Soundesign, Studio Teknik, The Next Step Events, Unitel Pictures; and the following media Partners: Philippine Daily Inquirer, The Philippine Star, The Manila Times, Business World, Jam 88.3, Wave 891, Magic 89.9, 99.5 RT, and 103.5 Max FM.

ASAP represents exemplary service to advertising, production and multi-media endeavors. For more information about ASAP, call (632) 893-0564, (632) 893-0738, telefax (632) 893-0404, e-mail asap@pldtdsl.net or visit their website at http://www.asapmanila.org.ph.

DLSU ECES holds Resurgence: The National Convention

Dubbed as De La Salle University’s (DLSU) number one student organization, the Electronics and Communications Engineering Society (ECES) carried out “ECE and Beyond 2009 Resurgence: The National ECE Convention last August 13-15, 2009.

In celebration of their 30th anniversary with the goal developing the academic skills of Lasallian ECE students through interaction with other ECE students from schools and universities all over country, the convention featured an academic competition entitled “Ultimate ECE Challenge.” They also had ECE career discussion and forum, Convergence seminar, company talks on latest innovations, and elective seminars with topics that include information technology, embedded systems application, technopreneurship, and manufacturing-based systems.

Awarded as Best Short Term Activity, ECE and Beyond: The National Convention’s advocacy is to prove that amidst of this crisis or recession that the world is facing right now the ECE body can stand as one and be productive for the years to come.

The Electronics and Communications Engineering Society of De La Salle University - Manila an affiliate of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers is a UNITED Organization powered by PROACTIVE Christian Achievers, committed to the holistic development of its members through the Integrations of moral values in the pursuit of academic, technical and service excellence.

For more inquiries, contact Leo Sy at 0917-527-6888 or visit their website http://www.ecesdlsu.org.

Maximum Exposure at the Auto Summit 2009

Living up to its reputation as the longest running indoor car show in the South, the Auto Summit Marketing Car Show kicked off at maximum exposure last Aug. 15 at the Carousel Court, Festival Supermall, Alabang.

Auto Summit 2009 coursed through nine days and featured corporate auto displays, auto paint shop showcases, car accessory exhibit booths, and a Tamiya championship race. Monster Radio RX 93.1 hosted the live broadcast of the event.

Organized by Omnisource International, the summit featured several engine, car, and motorcycle makers as exhibitors including Citimotors, Suzuki, Sssangyong, Isuzu, Nissan, and Hyundai. Auto detailing businesses also participated in the event.

The Auto Summit 2009 was sponsored by www.smart.com.ph and GM Carrs, together with media partners Uno Magazine, the Manila Times, Monster Radio RX 93.1, Stoplight, and Astoria Plaza.

Interested parties and enthusiasts may receive more information through the following contact information: Telephone numbers 838-4163, 838-2359, and 0917-78273500; fax number 834-0587; or email address autosummit@mayaads.net.

Palawan in Metro Manila: The Visit Palawan Expo

Palawan, indeed, is one of the country’s most treasured paradises. Virtually untouched, this cluster of islands in Southern Luzon boasts of pristine white-sand beaches and a peaceful ambiance.

Last Aug. 14 and 15, the local government of Palawan, headed by (then) provincial governor Joel T. Reyes, held the Visit Palawan Expo at the Glorietta 3 Park Covered Tent at Ayala Center Makati, inviting everyone to indulge in the beauty that is Palawan.

Palawan also houses the Tubbataha Reef, one of the world’s most famous diving sites and among the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.

The two-day event highlighted the province as a tropical paradise and encouraging the expo visitors to “discover its charm and beauty, be dazzled by its natural wonders, unwind in its quiet and peaceful surroundings, or just commune with nature at its best.”

“Discover Palawan, where every island is an adventure.”

PhilCAT Stages 16th Annual Convention

The Philippine Coalition Against Tuberculosis (PhilCAT) held its 16th Annual Convention at the Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila, Ortigas Center, Quezon City last August 13-14, 2009.

The convention, dubbed “Synergy in TB Care: A Holistic Approach,” tackled numerous topics surrounding the management, diagnosis and treatment of Tuberculosis (TB).

Led by Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Francisco Duque III, doctors, nurses, health workers, LGU officials, NGO's, DOH personnel, Muslim Religious Leaders (MRL), funding agencies, private practitioners, and other health professionals who attended were all united in improving their knowledge on combating Tuberculosis (TB) in the country.

An exhibit showcasing various activities by private and public institutions against TB was among the highlights of the convention.

PhilCAT is in support of DOH’s National TB Control Program (NTP) which aims to reduce the prevalence and mortality of TB by half and to contribute to the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015.

Below is the summary of lectures presented during the convention:

Topic	Presenter/s
National TB Control Program (NTP) Updates	Yolanda E. Oliveros, MD, MPH Director IV, National Center for Disease Prevention and Control Department of Health
Fighting the TB Epidemic in the Western Pacific: Current Situation & Challenges Ahead	Nobu Nishikiori, MD, MSc, PhD Regional Stop TB Advisor WHO-Western Pacific Region
Psychosocial Aspect in the Management of TB - In children and Adolescents	Grace A. Macapagal, MD
Biopsychosocial Approach to the Care of Tuberculosis	Josefina S. Isidro-Lapeña MD, MFM Associate Professor, UP College of Medicine
Management of TB in Various Settings – TB in schools	Elmer Angus, MD
Management of TB in Various Settings - TB in Workplace: Local Experience	Ma. Teresita S. Cucueco, MD and Victoria B. Dalay, MD
TB in Prisons and Jails	Ma. Lorela Averilla, MD, Jubert P. Benedicto, MD, Ilna Rita Maderazo, MD, and Cecilia Villanueva, MD
Clinical Pearls: Approach to Commonly Encountered Pitfalls in the Diagnosis and Management of TB: Common Pitfalls in the Diagnosis Approach of TB	Noel G. Macalalad, MD
Clinical Pearls: Approach to Commonly Encountered Pitfalls in the Diagnosis and Management of TB: Common Pitfalls in the Radiologic Diagnosis of TB	Pedro Danilo Lagamayo, MD
Clinical Pearls: Approach to Commonly Encountered Pitfalls in the Diagnosis and Management of TB: Common Pitfalls in the Therapeutic Approach of TB	Jose Hesron Morfe, MD
Updates in Extra-Pulmonary Tuberculosis - Diagnosis and Management of TB Meningitis	Paul Pasco, MD
Updates in Extra-Pulmonary Tuberculosis - Diagnosis and Management TB of the Bone	Edwin Jerd Siatan, MD
Updates in Extra-Pulmonary Tuberculosis - Diagnosis and Management of Genito-Urinary TB	Angel Rodriguez- Bandola, MD
Management of Common PTB Complications: Pleural Effusion, Pneumothroax, Fibrothorax, Hemoptysis - Medical Approach to PTB Complications	Lalaine Llamado-Mortera, MD
Management of Common PTB Complications: Pleural Effusion, Pneumothroax, Fibrothorax, Hemoptysis - Surgical Approach to PTB Complications	Antonio B. Ramos, MD
TB as a Differential Diagnosis - TB vs. FUO	Mario M. Panaligan, MD
TB as a Differential Diagnosis - TB vs. Malignancy	Guia Elena Imelda R. Ladera, MD
Improving the Quality of Direct Sputum Smear Microscopy (DSSM)	Cristina C. Villarico, MD
MDR-TB Rapid Diagnosis	Grace Egos, RMT, MSPH
Dietary Supplements in TB: is there a Role?	Susana M. Balingit, MD
Impact of Inappropriate Antibiotic Use in the Development of MDR-TB	Camilo C. Roa, Jr., MD., FPCP, FPCCP Professor of Physiology and Medicine UP College of Medicine - PGH
Antibiotic Collateral Damage: How it leads to MDR-TB	Roberto P. Salvino, MD
Vaccines that Really Matter for TB Patients	Cecilia Montalban, MD, and May B. Montellano, MD

The event was made possible in collaboration with the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians and the DOH. Founded in 1994, PhilCAT works in partnership with DOH to spearhead efforts in controlling TB, together with chest physicians, infectious disease specialists and non-government organizations.

You may contact PhilCAT at +632 749-8990, 781-9535 to 36; e-mail pcat@pldtdsl.net; or visit their website at http://www.philcat.org.

Understanding Commercial Opportunities in the 5th Philippine Ports and Shipping Expo

Now on its fifth year, the Philippine Ports and Shipping Exhibition and Conference conducted the biennial event at the Peninsula Manila Hotel in Makati City last Feb. 12 and 13.

Endorsed by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and hosted by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), the two-day confab concentrated on the understanding of the commercial opportunities that the Philippines could offer to all sectors. The event also boasted of exhibitions from 50 international shipping lines, container ports, logistics and IT companies, container terminal equipment, and service providers.

The event, counted to be one of the best among all container ports and terminal operations exhibitions and conferences and known as one of the largest biennial trade events in the entire Asian region, also featured a discussion regarding the global and regional transport and logistics issues facing shipping lines and cargo owners

Sponsored by the PPA, Asian Terminals Incorporated, and Harbor Center Port Terminal Inc., the event also held panel discussions about growth opportunities in infrastructure financing, the direction of the growth in shipping, the effort for the integration of supply chains by port logistics, and technological solutions for the port and container shipping industry.

For a complete list of the program itinerary, speakers, and supporting organizations and media, please visit http://www.transportevents.com/documents/ManilaConfProgv56.pdf. You may also call telephone numbers +60 87 426 022 or +60 87 426 223. You may also send your questions and other concerns to enquiries@transportevents.com.

Metalworking Products Showcased at PDMAEC 2009

Local and international companies involved in the metalworking industry showcased their latest products during the 4^th Philippine Die & Mold, Machine Tools, Sheet Metal, Metalworking Machinery, Equipment, Tools, Accessories, Hardware and other related Products and Services Exhibition and Conference (PDMAEC 2009) held last August 27 – 30, 2009 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Organized by the Philippine Die and Mold Association, Inc., the event incorporates five events, namely 2^nd Philippine Automation, Controls, Robotics, Accessories and Services Exhibition (AUTORCOR 2009); 1st Metal Finishing Equipment, Tools, Accessories and Services Exhibition (METALFIN 2009); 1^st Philippine Plastics Machinery, Equipment, Tools, Accessories, Raw Materials, Products and Services Exhibition (PHILPLAS 2009); 2^nd Philippine Welding Equipment, Tools and Accessories Exhibition (PHILWELD 2009), and the 2^nd Philippine Manufacturing, Subcontracting, Metrology, and Outsourcing & Engineering Exhibition (SUBMETR SOURCE 2009).

According to Ms. Angie Barrios, Marketing Manager of MAI (Market Access and Innovations) Management Philippines the event manager, PDMAEC 2009 aims to serve as a venue for these companies, who were deeply affected by the global financial crisis, to boost up their sales and explore new business opportunities. Over 250 exhibitors from around the globe displayed their state of the art technology machines, tools, and accessories used for moulds & die, manufacturing, fabrication and precision engineering.

Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Atty. Lillia de Lima graced the opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Dir. Gen. de Lima chose Penta Technology as the winner for Best Booth. The booths of OSG Philippines and Optitiech Machine Tools were chosen as first and second runner-ups, respectively while PKC International received a special award.

Afterwards, members of the Metalworking Industries Association of the Philippines, Inc., (MIAP) convened for their Mid-year Conference and 2^nd Quarterly Meeting of MIAP National Board of Trustees. Lucky conference guests and exhibitors won raffle prizes such as IWATA Aircon Cooler, 10-megapixel AGFA Digital Camera, welding masks, and gift certificates from different resorts and spas during the Exhibitor’s Fellowship Night.

PDMAEC 2009 is sponsored by Business Mirror, IKK Ichigan, Inc., Big Pix Graphic Systems, Objet Geometries Ltd., CityNeon (official booth contractor), The Heritage Hotel (official hotel), Agility Logistics (official forwarder), and the following media partners: Orange Media, Ringier AG, International Metalworking News for Asia, Manufacturing - Metalworking Industry Bulletin, China Business Philippines, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Malaya Business Insight, Manila Bulletin, The Manila Times, and The Philippine Star.

For more information about the event, contact MAI Management Philippines at (632) 899-2642, 896-9272, 899-5892, fax (632) 898-2198, e-mail mai_mgt@compass.com.ph, maimgt@gmail.com or visit their website at http://www.maimanagement.net/.

POS 63rd Mid-year Orchid and Garden Show Celebrates Waling-waling Season

The Philippine Orchid Society (POS) in cooperation with the Quezon City Government will hold its 63rd Mid-year Orchid and Garden Show from August 27 to September 7, 2009 at the Orchidarium Park of Quezon City Hall.

Carrying the theme, “Growing Orchids for Health and Wellness”, this year's show will also feature traditional landscape exhibits, trade fair, plant competition, as well as health, wellness, and cultural activities.

The event is highlighted by the flowering season of various local and imported orchid species and hybrids, which include the Vanda sanderiana, popularly known as Waling-waling.

A landscape booth will feature rare orchids and ornamental plants while the commercial section boast some 70 suppliers carrying the widest assortment of plants and garden supplies. POS members and officers will also conduct a lecture-demonstration on the various arts and techniques of orchid growing, indoor gardening, and flower arrangement, among others.

Entrance fee is P30 for adults and P20 for students and senior citizens with valid ID. Group discounts are also available. For inquiries, call (632) 929-4425, 906-5036, (63917) 848-5468 or (63922) 895-9544; e-mail philorchidsociety@yahoo.com, philorchidsociety@gmail.com or visit www.philippineorchidsocietyph.org.

The POS 63rd Mid-year Orchid and Garden Show is sponsored by Department of Tourism, Department of Education, National Commission for Culture and Arts, Dai-Ichi Electronics, and the following media partners: UNTv 37, C/S 9, NBN 4 (Mag-Agri Tayo), Manila Bulletin (Agriculture Magazine), The Philippine Star, Philstar.com, Philippine Daily Inquirer, The Manila Times, Abante Tonite, Buy and Sell, and DZRH.

Triathletes From Around the World Take on Ironman 70.3 Philippines

The most prestigious triathlon series in the world will hit Philippine shores as the country stages the Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines on August 23, 2009 at the Camarines Sur Watersports Complex (CWC) in Pili, Camarines Sur.

According to Mr. Wilfred Steven Uytengsu, Chairman of the Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines, the event aims to support of the government’s thrust to make the Philippines a destination of choice for “sports tourism”, help develop the growth of triathlon in the country, and create a world-class triathlon event on local soil.

“While the sport is relatively small here, there has been significant growth in the past couple of years. As more and more people seek a healthier lifestyle, triathlon is well positioned to attract many new participants.” added Uytengsu.

The triathlon will cover 1.2 miles (1.9 km) of swimming, 56 miles (90 km) of biking and 13.1 miles (21.1 km) of running which adds up to 70.3 miles of total racing.

But since the Ironman 70.3 could be too challenging for many participants, organizers, World Triathlon Commission and Sunrise Events, Inc., have decided to offer a relay category during the event wherein three individuals can team up to complete the swim, bike and run. Within the relay category there are different classes: men, women, mixed, corporate and collegiate.

The Ironman 70.3 Philippines is sponsored by Cobra Energy Drink , Globe Telecom, Department of Tourism, Philippine Airlines, Air Philippines, Alaska Milk Corporation, Audi, Oakley, Timex, New Balance, SKI Construction, Gatorade, and the following media partners: ABS-CBN Publishing, The Philippine Star, C/S 9, and Solar Sports.

Local and International F & B Firms All Set for WOFEX 2009

The finest food and beverage (F & B) industry players, as well as representatives of allied services from here and abroad will again showcase their latest products and services at the 9^th International Exposition on Worldwide Food and Beverage, Technology, and Machinery (WOFEX 2009) to be held on August 5 – 8, 2009 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Dubbed as “The Ultimate Food Show Experience”, WOFEX 2009, organized by Premier Events Plus Group, Inc., will showcase the newest technologies, trends, products, and services in food preparation, storage and packaging, presentation and more. The annual event continues to co-locate events that bring together all segments of the food and beverage industry and allied industries.

Baker's Fair showcases different baked products, confectionaries, ingredients, and bakery equipment. Baking demonstrations are lined-up to provide this growth market up-to-date know how of the latest technologies and techniques.

Foodmatch Expo, on the other hand, brings in the various process and manufacturing machinery, providing solutions to the needs of the food & beverage industry. At Foodmatch Expo, the latest technologies in manufacturing, processing, packaging, handling, kitchen equipment, and other food service equipment will be on display for both commercial and industrial applications.

Taste Expo will highlight the culinary skills of the Filipino chefs and big prizes are at stake plus the prestige of being adjudged as the best by some of the most prominent experts in the field.

And last, the World Food Summit is a series of seminars and workshops that serves as forum for the dissemination of cutting-edge technologies and industry trends. The summit offers well-conceptualized seminars on different sectors of the F & B industry such as restaurants, manufacturing, supermarket, bakery, catering, and others.

The four-day event will be filled with numerous activities such cooking and baking demos, cake decoration competition, product demonstration, barista competition, flare tending exhibition, and seminars to help restauranteurs, managers, and aspiring entrepreneurs know how to improve and expand their business.

WOFEX 2009 is sponsored by Petron Gasul, Sun Cellular, KLG International, Inc., Foodservice Division, Gomeco Metal Corporation, Multi-Mach International, Inc., Cosmic Chemical Corporation, Ajinomoto, Molina Sunbest, Vesmach, Minami Tsushow Co. Ltd., Tefal, JIMAC, Inc., Joe Kuan Food Corporation, The Philippine Star, Business Mirror, Cook Magazine, Flavors Magazine, Philippine Graphic, F & B World Magazine , Appetite Mgazine, and Q11 (The Sweet Life and Events Incorporated)

For more information about the World Food Expo 2009, contact Premier Events Plus Group, Inc., at (632) 9297963, 9297993, 4269603, 4364209, 4364898, email info@pepgroup.com, or visit their website, http://www.pepgroup.com

7th ARMM Biz Congress to Maximize Investment

The 7th Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Business Congress was held on August 5-6 in the Islamic City of Marawi. This focused on the development of seaweed, fruit and abaca industries considered as the area’s top dollar earners. President of the ARMM Business Council (ABC) spearheaded the event under the oversight of the Mindanao Economic Development Council, as a timely opportunity to show potential investors that business is alive and well in the region, said Datu Baron Bandilla.

Themed "Maximizing Investment Gains to Propel Economic Development in ARMM," the Congress serves as a door for investment and business opportunities to local and foreign industries amidst the global economic recession. Plenary sessions on the impact of the global financial crisis and on how to maximize ARMM’s resources in fisheries, aquaculture and farm production were featured in the 2009 congress.

Activities such as that would help the business sector to become more competitive and responsive to the demands of local and foreign markets as perceived by Mangondaya Solaiman, president of the Maranaw Chamber of Commerce and Industry, host chamber and co-organizer of the congress.

On the other hand, local entrepreneurs and potential investors, which included foreign delegates from the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area and the Middle East, conducted business-matching sessions in between of other activities. Participants also presented recommendations to the ARMM regional government on how to make it easier and to do business in the region and to attract more investment.

The Autonomous Muslim region covers the province of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi.

For inquiries, visit www.mindanao.org or www.medco.gov.ph.

Systems Integration Philippines 2009 Showcases Latest Gadgets

The most innovative technologies, products, and services in digital media, audio and video equipment, home theater systems, electronics, and gadgets will be presented at the Systems Integration Philippines 2009 to be held on August 20 – 22, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Systems Integration Philippines 2009 is the only trade show in the country which covers today’s shift toward business integration and convergence in its entirety. The event incoporates the

• 7^th International Telecommunications, Broadcasting, Electronics, Gadgets, Information Technology and E-Commerce Exhibition (COMMWORLD '09)
• 3^rd Total Digital Media, Audio and Video Systems, Home Theater and Entertainment, Personal Electronics, Gadgets and Lifestyle IT, Technology, Products and Services Exhibition (Digital Electronics 2009)
• 9^th International Pro Audio and Video, Lighting, Music and Movie Technology, Concept Designs, Visual Communications, Multimedia and Commercial Electronics Products and Services Exhibition (PALMM Philippines 2009)
• 7^th International Business IT Solutions, Audio and Visual Communications, Digital Printing, Graphic Design and Office Automation Technology, Products and Services Exhibition (The T.O.P.S. Show 2009), and the
• 7^th Corporate Giveaways, Office Supplies, Stationery, Incentives, Premiums and Souvenir Exhibition (Corporate Gifts Expo 2009)
  

The show aims to provide insights into new business opportunities in audio/video systems, computer hardware and software, copying and duplicating machines, digital audio systems and equipment, home theater and entertainment systems, and web based learning systems, among others.

A seminar about proper audio and acoustics for institutions will be held during the event. The seminar is specifically designed to equip businesses as well as other institutions with the skills and knowhow in getting the best entertainment and sound systems. Another seminar, called O.P.E.N. For Business, is a sales and marketing training program that will teach owners and management level employees techniques to address the various challenges facing businesses today. Special discount and packages are available to registrants on both seminars.

There will also be discounts on on-site purchases, and attendees can watch product presentation by leading brands, technical seminars, new product showcase, and a whole lot more.

Entrance is free to all pre-registered guests and trade buyers. Pre-register online at http://www.globallinkph.com For more information about the event, contact Global-Link MP Events International, Inc. at (632) 750-8588 or email sip@gesi.com.ph

Systems Integration Philippines 2009 is sponsored by Sanyo, Agility Logistics, Amazing Philippines Theater, BusyTrade, Big Pix Graphic Systems, Centrex Corporation, Chase Technologies Corporation, EVI Distribution Inc., FocalCast Network, Inquirer.net, JIMAC Inc., Microdata Systems and Management, Inc., Multistiq, Inc., PowerSpeak Inc., SMX Convention Center, Stage Craft International, Tamayo's Catering Yehey.com, Zamony Venture Corporation, and the following media partners: Business World, DaigdigPinoy.com, Fair News Media, Inc., Gadgets Magazine, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin PC World Philippines, The Philippine Star, Speed Magazine, Home Radio 97dot9, Mellow 94.7, XFM 92.3, and Jam 88.3. Official Hotel Sponsors are Bayview Park Hotel Manila, Century Park Hotel, The Heritage Hotel, and Manila Pavillion. Official Internet Provider is PLDT MyDSL.