Arts and Music Festival celebrated

The MCO Foundation (Manila Chamber Orchestra Foundation) inspired everyone to “Celebrate Life through Arts and Music” on its Chamber Music Festival at the Insular Life Auditorium, Makati last March 5, 12, 19 and 27, 2010.

The festival serenades the attendees with beautiful music performed by some of the country’s most sought-after musicians today. It, specifically, featured on the first day a performance of Ernest Chausson’s Concerto for Piano, Violin, and String Quartet, and Robert Schumann’s Piano Trio no. 2 as part of a tribute to Robert Schumann’s Centennial Celebration. Artists are pianist Mary Anne Espina, violinist Gina Medina, and cellist Anjo Inacay, and the St. Scholasticas String Quartet.

The March 12 concert, on the other hand, featured guitarist Ruben Reyes and collaborating piano, double bass and percussion players, in works by diverse composers including Alexandre Tansman and Claude Bolling. 

On March 19, moreover, featured chamber performances of opera excerpts by Mozart, Offenbach, Verdi, Bellini, performed by soprano Camille Lopez Molina, soprano Jennifer Uy, tenor Randy Gilongo and bass-baritone Noel Azcona with pianist Peter Porticos.

For the festival-ender on March 27, singing actress Nenen Espina and guest artists present melodies from the American Songbook, including works by Jerome Kern and Richard Rodgers.

The MCO Foundation Secretariat can be contacted at 750-0768.

1st National PSCRS convention

The Philippine Society of Colorectal Surgeons (PSCRS) conducted their 1st national convention on colorectal surgery last March 25-27 at the Diamond Hotel in Manila.

The convention featured scientific sessions, cinemaclinics, and a live surgery workshop for colorectal and general surgeons throughout the three days, handled by foreign faculty members from Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. Moreover, they share expertise in surgery for common anal and colorectal diseases, as well as minimally invasive surgery for colon and rectal cancer.

A live surgery workshop on THD was presented on the third day. It is a new minimally invasive technique for hemorrhoids. All of these are in line with the mission of PSCRS to keep Filipino surgeons abreast of the rapid advances of colorectal surgery.

An advanced nursing workshop was also held on March 25 in partnership with the Enterostomal Therapy Nurses Association of the Philippines (Etnap) to update nurses on recent trends in colorectal surgery. It discussed topics such as nursing care for stomas, intestinal staples, and laparoscopic colorectal surgery equipment.

This forum aims to drive public awareness about the importance of screening and the proper treatment for colorectal cancer.

For more information about the Convention, please contact Ms Cristy Amamanglon at 09178221126 of the Philippine Society of Colorectal Surgeons Secretariat.

400th UST year

This year marked the 400th year of the University of Santo Tomas in España, Manila. The exposition will be from October 15 to 17 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Thomasian Leaders Alumni Association, Inc., and the university administration, is in full swing preparation for its Quadri-Centennial Celebration.

This event will showcase the products and services of corporations, as well as small and medium enterprises that are either owned or managed by UST alumni. As part of the celebration, moreover, last March 24, the Thomasian Global Trade Expo (TGTE) was unfolded at the Hyatt Hotel and Casino in Manila.

Some of the alumni officials noted that this is the first time that UST, in its 400-year history, will have this kind of activity that will showcase the contributions of its alumni to Philippine society and to the rest of the world. The TGTE is one of the major highlights of UST’s Quadri-Centennial celebration.

Interested sponsors and exhibitors are requested to contact Angeli Sobremonte Tuazon, TALA Founding Chairman at e-mail: angietuazon@gmail.com and Dennis Arapeles, at telephone 323-7777.

Inter-U photo contest supports environment changes

Photo enthusiasts from different universities in the metro framed their most coveted shots to display on a photography competition at the Mapua Institute University Gymnasium last March 27.

VIEWPOINT – Developing Positive Changes is an inter-university competition participated by different universities which include: Adamson University, Far Eastern University, Feati University, Mapua Institute University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, San Sebastian College, Technological University of the Philippines, University of Santo Tomas, University of the East, and the University of the Philippines.

This competition aims to encourage the students to contribute to the development of positive changes about Global Warming by sharing simple ways or acts on how to protect the environment using photographs.

The second and third place winners received a cash price and a special gift pack. The grand winner, on the other hand, will have a billboard display aside from the gift pack and cash price.

Legworks Events Management and Consultancy ((02) 491-3243 or (02) 4501233, legworksevents@gmail.com), together with Business Mirror, Bambini, and Zagu, presented and sponsored the successful photo event.

Trekking Down the Road to Fame

With the advent of the so-called “artista” searches and talent shows on TV, My Fame and Fortune powered the Road to Fame Fashion and Talent Congress at the Festival Supermall Trade Hall.

The congress began last January with an online search for talents. Out of more than 500 entries, 24 applicants were selected for an on-the-spot photo shoot at the Fort (Bonifacio Global City), assisted by photographer Noel Ty and make-up and hair stylist Leo dela Cruz and team.

For eight consecutive Saturdays, which began last March 6, auditions were held for everyone interested to become TV and print ad models or TV show and fashion event talents. Auditionees were also given a chance to meet the country's top talent agencies, TV networks, commercial brands, make-up artists and hairstylists, and photographers.

Fashion shows were conducted last March 28, April 18, and May 9, which starred the newest members of the Road to Fame model pool.

The Philippine Fashion and Talent Congress was supported by the following media partners and sponsors: 99.5 RT, Max FM, Magic 89.9, Wave 89.1, Home Radio, Jam 88.3, Nu 107, The Philippine Star, Business World, GMA New Media Inc., Click the City, Fanatxt, Netopia, Mosbeau, Bisolvon, and Filinvest Corporate City Alabang.

For more information and inquiries, please call the customer service hotline at 850-3514 or visit http://modelcongress.multiply.com/ or http://www.myfameandfortune.com/models/index.php.

Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary 26th Annual National Convention

The Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) held its 26th Annual Convention last March 25 at Legend Hotel, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

With the theme: “Saving Lives: Protecting our Seas, Volunteer We Must”, the three day activity highlighted workshops on Maritime Search and Rescue, Marine Environmental Protection, Marine Safety, and Maritime Community Relations. Also, included in the program was the search and rescue and the oil spill response demonstration involving PCG surface and air assets.

Hosted by Coast Guard Auxiliary District Palawan, headed by Rear Admiral Higinio C. Mendoza in cooperation with Commodore Joel S. Garcia PCG, Commodore of Coast Guard District Palawan, the event was attended by PCGA volunteers, together with PCG District and Major Unit Commanders, and Members of the Central Staff of Headquarters Philippine Coast Guard.

Morever, among the special guests of the convention were Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza, DOTC Acting Secretary Anneli R. Lontoc, Undersecretary of Maritime Transport Thomson C. Lantion, Rep. Abraham Kahlil B. Mitra, and Mayor Edward S. Hagedorn of Palawan City.

For more information about the event, contact the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary at (6348) 434-9413, email hcmendozajr@yahoo.com or visit http://www.pcgaux.com/.

3rd Microfinance Best Practices Forum

The Mindanao Microfinance Council Inc presented the 3rd Microfinance Best Practices Forum last March 25-26 at the Waterfront Insular Hotel in Davao City with the theme “Empowering the Leader in Affecting Social Change.

Mindanao Microfinance Council is a strong, united, active and effective organization in Mindanao. It is highly supported by different institutions and organizations which remarkably strengthens its global presence. The organization, moreover, aims to strengthen member institutions in delivering effective financial and capability development services to the poor and to develop its members into effective catalysts of economic and social development of Mindanao.

Keynote Speakers of the said event are well-known personalities in the field of finance, Mr. Francis Kong—President of Success Options Publishing Company; President of FunWorks Inc.; and a Founding member and Director of Inspire Leadership Consultancy, and Mr. Tony Meloto, the founder of Gawad Kalinga.

Sponsors of the said event were Nation Link Network, Business Mirror, Waterfront Insular Hotel, iCCO, Banco de Oro, PCFC, Phoenix, Country Bankers Life Insurance Corporation Globe e-Cash, and Smart Communications, Inc.

For more information, contact the Mindanao Microfinance Council at (6382) 303-1748, fax (6382) 2977561, email mindanaomfcouncil@yahoo.com or visit http://www.mindanaomicrofinance.org/

The Tour of Hope 2010 Bike for a Cause

Bravehearts presented the Tour of Hope Fighting Cervical Cancer in Full Circle last March 20 to 24, as they travel and push pedal in a 300 kilometer cycling tour from Makati City to Baguio City.

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide, with 500,000 new cases and 250,000 deaths reported each year. Over 80% of cases occur in developing countries including the Philippines but cervical cancer can be treated if diagnosed early.

In its third year, the tour of hope continues to be a vehicle for men and women in inspiring others as they help spread cervical cancer awareness among Filipinas. Proceeds of the said event were donated to the Cancer Institute Philippines for Cervical Cancer Prevention Network (CECAP). Originally done in Thailand, the tour started locally 3 years ago with about 45 core riders from Vigan to Subic Bay. Last year they had 70 core riders that rode from Alabang to Camarines Sur.

This very special event will not be a complete success without the support from CECAP, the Cancer Institute, GlaxoSmithKline Philippines, Team David’s Salon, Smart Communications, the Manila Bulletin, The Manila Times, Health Today, Metro Magazine, Creative Juice, and Geiser Maclang.

For more info, contact the Tour of Hope Secretariat at (632) 780-98908, 713-8144 or email ttoh_phil@yahoo.com.

2nd Autofest at the Festival Mall

Brand new cars and motorcycles from the biggest automobile manufacturers in the country participated in the 2nd Grand Autofest last March 15-21 at the Festival Supermall in Alabang.

Included in the parade of wheels are established and trusted names in the car industry which includes Chevrolet, Honda Cars Alabang, Hyundai Alabang, Isuzu Alabang, Suzuki, Advance Auto Vision, Mitsubishi Motors, and Norkis.

The successful event is in partnership with the Business Mirror, Kotse.Com, Speed, Automobile Association of the Philippines, and the Festival Supermall. Organizer of the event is CA Exhibits (Catherine, 6879099/6872384/6381351).

Professionals Share Tips on How to be a Marketing Guru

The Franchise Institute of the Philippines (FIP) and the GMB Franchise Developers conducted the Franchise Guru Seminar last March 6 and 20 at the Mang Inasal Makati Avenue corner Jupiter St. branch.

The seminar entitled “Approach Marketing with Confidence” was held in partnership with the Association of Filipino Franchisers Inc., and tackled, among others, different ways on successful investments, choosing the best franchise, and the successes and failures in franchising and business.

A fee of Php800 was required from the participants, which included the seminar handbook in CD format, a certificate of participation, and snacks for the duration of the workshop.

Please contact Mr. Arnel Alberca at telephone numbers 359-6801 or 532-8386. You may also send your inquiries and other concerns to franchisemarketingphil@gmail.com.

The 32nd Philippine College of Occupational Medicine Annual Convention

Occupational medicine, or occupational health, is an important sector of healthcare, which ensures the protection, safety, health, and welfare of all those engaged in labor/employment.

With the ever-changing work environments in the Philippines, the Philippine College of Occupational Medicine (PCOM) aptly themed their 32nd National Annual Convention as “New Trends and New Solutions: Working towards Continuous Improvement of Occupational Health Practice.”

Held for two days at the Manila Hotel (March 19 and 20), the convention featured plenary sessions that tackled subjects such as barriers to quality occupation health, providing solutions to current occupational health concerns, enhancing policy infrastructure in occupational health systems, mitigating risks in occupational health practice, ensuring best practices in occupational health, and raising the bar for services of occupational health services.

PCOM originally started as the Philippine Occupational Industrial Medical Association, with 350 members forming the provincial chapters in Baguio-Benguet, Cebu, Negros Occidental, Laguna, Southern Mindanao, and Northern Mindanao.

Today, PCOM has 17 chapters nationwide, led by its president Dr. Rustico A. Jimenez. PCOM continues to be the prime mover in the preservation, promotion, protection, and enhancement of the health, wellness, and safety of workers of all occupations, with 2,815 members working throughout the Philippines.

Philippine Cable TV and the Digital Age

Cable television has long been in the forefront of changing the way people, and especially Filipinos, receive information and entertainment. The dawn of the digital age paves more and more ways to transform ideas into realities.

With this in mind, the Philippine Cable Television Association, Inc. (PCTA) dubbed its 2010 Convention as “Embracing the Digital Age,” held at the SMX Convention Center last March 16–19.

The PCTA Convention presented insights and information on digitization, along with other issues which impact and shape the cable television landscape. It also featured a comprehensive exhibition of the newest programs and technologies; discussions regarding fresher perspectives and new business insights; and an opportunity to establish and strengthen networks within the industry and with business communities.

The convention was held in part with the gold sponsors SES World Skies and TBN; and silver sponsors Cable Boss, HBO, France 24, C-Cor Broadband, Verimatrix, TV5Monde, and Shop TV.

For a full list of exhibitors and sponsors, delegate information, and programme, please visit the PCTA website or cal the PCTA Secretariat at telephone numbers 638-8541 or 638-8544. You may also send an email to cableconvention@pcta.org.ph

GACPA 32nd Annual National Convention at Subic

Government Association of Certified Public Accountants (GACPA) 32nd Annual National Convention was held at Subic Bay Exhibition & Convention Center, Subic Bay Freeport Zone last March 17 to 19 of this year.

With the theme “ GACPA: Strengthening Fiscal Responsibility”, the convention gathered GACPA 2009-2010 Board of Directors headed by Amante A. Liberato, Board of Diretors President, Regional Director – Commission on Audit Region3, the GACPA Advisory Council, and the 2009-2010 GACPA Chapter Presidents.

Honorable Senator Richard “Dick” Gordon was also invited as the Keynote Speaker of the event. In his message, he shared that the theme came appropriately in time when the country needs commitment and good governance.

This three-day convention conveyed four major topics that were discussed during sessions. Those were “Updates on the Current Economic Scenario”, “Winning Attitudes for Success”, “Competence and Effectiveness to Promote Good Governance in the Government”, and “Updates on e-NGAS and Financial Management of Barangays”.

The GACPA 32nd Annual National Convention was made possible through Pag-IBIG Fund and PAGCOR.

For more information about the event, do contact telefax no. 911-3058, e-mail address at zenyluague@yahoo.com, or visit the website www.gacpa.com.

Creativity and Greener Production in the Seventh Philippine Shrimp Congress

Shrimps are one, if not the most sought after crop in Philippine aquatic culture, despite difficulties in its cultivation. Shrimps have always been a prized gourmet food for Filipinos and also generates a sizeable economic income. Its cultivation is an age old tradition and regarded as an art that has brought pride to farmers.

Armed with this knowledge, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) organized the Seventh Philippine Shrimp Congress at the Planta Hotel in Bacolod City last March 17–19.

Themed “Greener Production Technologies and Creative Marketing,” the three-day biannual conference and trade fair drew around 500 participants who are also practitioners of the industries of grow-out farming, hatchery operation, feed milling, processing/exporting, and input supplies.

For more information about the conference, reservations, and general inquiries, please call the secretariat at tele-fax number (034) 433-2131. You may also visit the BFAR and/or the event website.

PSEM holds its 3rd Congress on Prediabetes and the Metabolic Syndrome

The Philippine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (PSEM) held its 3rd Congress on Prediabetes and the Metabolic Syndrome at EDSA Shangri-La Hotel, Mandaluyong City last March 17, 2010.

The theme of the congress was “Prediabetes and Insulin Resistance in Special Populations”. This gave some lectures on pre-prediabetes followed by a discussion on diseases linked to insulin resistance like CVD and cancer.

Elaboration on the difference in insulin resistance between the lean and obese and discussion on metabolic syndrome among the teens and on tackling the intervention and treatment during the transition period were also included in the congress.

Some speakers who attended the congress were Dr. Jovie Joy R. Manuel, Dr. Gregory Joseph Ryan Ardena, Dr. Karla Kristine Silverio-Fernando who discussed the topics Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in Filipino Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Melitus, Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Diabetics in a Rural Community Based Self Management Education Program, and Metabolic Syndrome among First Degree Relatives of Type 2 Diabetes Patients respectively.

The congress started through the event’s opening ceremonies including the singing of PSEM Hymn and the opening remarks of the PSEM President and also the congress’ Over-all Chairman Patricia B. Gatbonton, MD.

For more information, do contact the PSEM Secretariat at the telephone number (02) 633-6420, fax number at (02) 637-3162, e-mail at sec@endo-society.org.ph, or visit their website at www.endo-society.org.ph

COMSTE, MO hold two-day conference on Country’s Resilience over Climate De-stabilization

Engineering covered the discussions on the two-day conference entitled “Engineering Resilience: Confronting Risk Beyond Adaptation” organized by the Congressional Commission on Science, Technology and Engineering (COMSTE) and the Manila Observatory (MO). This conference was held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel last March 15 and 16, 2010.

Senator Edgardo J. Angara, COMSTE Chair, attended the event and shared insights and actions that can remedy or stabilize the civilization while climate change is inevitable. He expounded on the the importance of raising the level of preparedness of the Philippines in the face of the rising challenges brought on by the devastation caused by natural calamities.

“Resilience is the ability of a nation to bounce back in the face of calamity. This is why it is important for the Philippines to understand and minimize the vulnerability of its cities, especially Metro Manila, which is mostly below sea level,” said Angara. This has been a realization in his part as he also shared the hitting of typhoon Ondoy in the country, especially in Metro Manila last September 2009 when the natural calamity devastated lives, destroyed livelihood and infrastructures, and wiped out the efforts in modernizing the country.

Senator Loren Legarda, the primary author of the Climate Change Act of 2009 and also, the Chair of the Senate Committee on Climate Change warned that, “A mere one meter rise in sea level would threaten the lives and homes of millions of Filipinos. This is a serious matter that cannot be ignored. That is why I am pleased to see representatives from all over the world present here, as part of the global community, willing to share their knowledge gained from experience to make the Philippines better prepared to handle the volatile whims of Mother Nature.”

The first day of the conference provided an overview of the country’s climate-change studies, risks, hazards and vulnerability assessments and policy directions (“What The Philippines Should Do About Climate Change”) as well as the lessons the country has learned from typhoon Ondoy (post-Ondoy analysis).

The second day concentrated to infrastructure development by Dr. Vinod Menon, from India, food and agriculture by Dr. Asanee Kawtrakul, from Thailand, marine and coastal- areas resource management by Filipino expert Dr. Laura David from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, energy security through expert analysis from the Manila Observatory, and public health by Dr. Eric Rasmussen of the US.

The said conference was supported by PLDT / SMART Business Solutions.

For more details, contact Manila Observatory at telephone numbers (632) 426-5921, 426-0837, 426-6495, email at manila@observatory.ph or visit the website http://comste.gov.ph/, or contact Congressional Commission on Science, Technology and Engineering at their front desk (632)551-7920 local 7140, telefax at (632)551-7920 local 7141, direct line at (632)446-8745 or visit the website http://comste.gov.ph/.

COMSTE, MO hold two-day conference on Country’s Resilience over Climate De-stabilization

Engineering covered the discussions on the two-day conference entitled “Engineering Resilience: Confronting Risk Beyond Adaptation” organized by the Congressional Commission on Science, Technology and Engineering (COMSTE) and the Manila Observatory (MO). This conference was held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel last March 15 and 16, 2010.

Senator Edgardo J. Angara, COMSTE Chair, attended the event and shared insights and actions that can remedy or stabilize the civilization while climate change is inevitable. He expounded on the the importance of raising the level of preparedness of the Philippines in the face of the rising challenges brought on by the devastation caused by natural calamities.

“Resilience is the ability of a nation to bounce back in the face of calamity. This is why it is important for the Philippines to understand and minimize the vulnerability of its cities, especially Metro Manila, which is mostly below sea level,” said Angara. This has been a realization in his part as he also shared the hitting of typhoon Ondoy in the country, especially in Metro Manila last September 2009 when the natural calamity devastated lives, destroyed livelihood and infrastructures, and wiped out the efforts in modernizing the country.

Senator Loren Legarda, the primary author of the Climate Change Act of 2009 and also, the Chair of the Senate Committee on Climate Change warned that, “A mere one meter rise in sea level would threaten the lives and homes of millions of Filipinos. This is a serious matter that cannot be ignored. That is why I am pleased to see representatives from all over the world present here, as part of the global community, willing to share their knowledge gained from experience to make the Philippines better prepared to handle the volatile whims of Mother Nature.”

The first day of the conference provided an overview of the country’s climate-change studies, risks, hazards and vulnerability assessments and policy directions (“What The Philippines Should Do About Climate Change”) as well as the lessons the country has learned from typhoon Ondoy (post-Ondoy analysis).

The second day concentrated to infrastructure development by Dr. Vinod Menon, from India, food and agriculture by Dr. Asanee Kawtrakul, from Thailand, marine and coastal- areas resource management by Filipino expert Dr. Laura David from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, energy security through expert analysis from the Manila Observatory, and public health by Dr. Eric Rasmussen of the US.

The said conference was supported by PLDT / SMART Business Solutions.

For more details, contact Manila Observatory at telephone numbers (632) 426-5921, 426-0837, 426-6495, email at manila@observatory.ph or visit the website http://comste.gov.ph/, or contact Congressional Commission on Science, Technology and Engineering at their front desk (632)551-7920 local 7140, telefax at (632)551-7920 local 7141, direct line at (632)446-8745 or visit the website http://comste.gov.ph/.

98 Delegates gather at the 3rd FMAP Annual Convention

Last March 12 to 14, 2010, 98 delegates from 28 different institutions gathered together at the 3rd Fund Managers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (FMAP) Annual Convention held at Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa.

The convention shared their theme “Year of the Metal Tiger: Predator or Prey?” aiming to provide clearer future and color to 2010 prospective. It was also attended by the convention’s Keynote Speaker Dr. Jesus Estanislao, Chair of the Institute of Corporate Directors, who urged to be the investigators of change in the area of Philippine corporate governance development.

Other speakers of the event include Ms. Luca Silipo, Chief Economist for Asia Pacific from Natixis Bank on the European Union, the United States and overall prospects for the Philippines; Mr. Sameer Goel of Deutsche Bank on the Global Bond of Market; Mr. Jojo Gonzales of Philippine Equity Partners (PEP) on the Philippine Equities Market; Mr. Tuck Yin Soong of Macquarie Capital on REITS (giving brief description of the Singapore’s and HongKong’s experiences on REAITs and how he envisions Philippine REITS to develop; Mr. Wen Yin from Barclays Capital on the Structured Products; and, Mr. Nitin Jaiswal from Bloomberg on the Different Tools and Indicators Available through the Bloomberg platform.

The Fund Managers Association of the Philippines or FMAP was established in April of 1997 with the mission of fostering the development of the capital and financial markets, in particular, the fund management industry.

Other highlight of the convention was the Fund Managers’ Night where fund managers and their partners in the industry.

For more information, do visit the website: www.fmap.com.ph or contact the telephone number (632) 845-5073, fax through the fax number (632) 845-5088; 816-9033 or contact Chocky Moraña at 0917-8101716 or 0920-9231716.

Overseas jobs offered at Alphaland

The Alphaland Southgate Mall, in cooperation with the Philippine Star, the Department of Labor and Employment, the Public Employment Service Office, offered and presented the Alphaland Southgate Mall Overseas Job Fair last March 12-13 at The Tents of Alphaland Southgatemall in Makati City.

The fair featured and offered job opportunities abroad including Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Libya, Canada, the United States of America, United Kingdom, Australia, Bahrain, and some other countries around the globe.

All of the international recruitment companies are bonafide members of the Philippine Association of Service Exporters Inc., (PASEI) which only guarantees that the hired employees will get a genuine job overseas and will not be a victim of any illegal recruiters.

This event is supported by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, trabaho.com, CareerCare.com.ph, and Ang OFW Ngayon. Morever, this is anadvocacy event managed by Philtrade Exhibits (8281885, 7994018, 3846996, 0920876505, philtradeevents@yahoo.com.ph)

Twin engineering conference celebrated

The Philippine Institute for Industrial Engineers (PIIE) celebrated the 10th PIIE National Congress coincided with the 4th IE Research Conference last March 11-12 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Makati City.

With the theme “75 Years of IE in the Philippines: A celebration of Excellence”, the conference featured well-known and experienced speakers not only in the field of Engineering but from other companies as well, which include: Ms. Rosanna S. Javier, Managing Director and CEO of PricewaterhouseCoopers Financial Advisors, Inc.; Mr. Thomas Jefferson M. de Leon, Logistics Head of Globe Telecom; Ms. Magdalena L. Mendoza, Vice President of the Development Academy of the Philippines; Ms. Shiela Grace B. Nacorda, OPMD Manager of Timex Philippines Inc.; Mr. F. “Perry” Ferrer, Managing Director of EMS Components Assemble Inc.; Mr. Joel M. Gonzales, Executive Director of Amkor Technology Philippines; Mr. Erwin D. de Arroz, Director of SGC & Co.; Mr. Karthik Subburaman, Country Manager of Environmental Compliance Consultants Int’l Corporation; and Dr. Rosemary R. Seva, President of the Southeast Asian Network of Ergonomics Societies of the De La Salle University.

The conference is supported by the Business Mirror, Sanko Plastics Philippines, Standard, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Bank of the Philippine Islands, Big Pix, TIMEX, the Department of Trade and Industry, Meralco, Panasonic, Mandarin Hotel, and HytecPower Inc.

2010 National Conference on Developmental Disabilities

The Department of Education through the Special Education Division-Bureau of Elementary Education, in coordination with the Foundation for Advanced Professional Development Inc., and the Portage Association of the Philippines for Early Intervention, Inc. presented the 2010 National Conference on Developmental Disabilities.

The conference opened last March 11 with the theme “Going beyond Barriers: Bringing People Together.” It gathered special education and regular teachers, administrators of public and private schools, supervisors in special education, chiefs and assistant chiefs of elementary and secondary divisions, school division superintendents; and assistant school division superintendents in discussing the current needs and issued that bounds the whole industry of developmental disability.

Moreover, the conference aims to promote greater cooperation among teachers, parents, administrators, supervisors, and professionals on programs and services for children with special needs, and to enable them to transcend their disabilities and grow up to become participating and contributing members of the society.

Women in the Forefront in the 19th International Women’s Film Festival

The University of the Philippines Film Institute (UPFI), together with the South African Embassy in Manila, presented the 19th International Women’s Film Festival at the UPFI Cine Adarna last March 9–11.

Carried by the theme “Claiming Spaces for Women’s Voices,” the festival opened with a screening of “Courting Justice,” an intimate portrayal of the lives of women making up 18% of South Africa’s judiciary during the post-apartheid era. It underlined their multiple roles as members of the judiciary, as women, and as South African citizens.

Courting Justice, an internationally acclaimed award-winning film, was directed by Ms. Jane Thandi Lipman and produced by Ms. Bridget Pickering, who was the guest of honor of the festival.

UP President Ms. Emerlinda Roman opened the ceremony with a speech, commending how women have “made full use of the cinema as a platform for their personal and social concerns” and the way women have helped “raise the standards of film making over the years.”

The UPFI also invited several speakers from the academe to discuss how women have claimed their voices in different forms of mass media. Among the roster of the distinguished speakers were Dr. Guy Claudio, Dr. Odine de Guzman, Dr. Judy Taguivalo, Prof. Roselle Rivera, Atty. Joji Alonso, Prof. Brian Bantugan, and Ms. Bridget Pickering herself. A roundtable discussion, also with Ms. Pickering, was held at the afternoon of the first day.

Also a highlight of the festival was the conferment of the Diwata Award to Ms. Gina Pareño, lead star of “Kubrador,” and Director Olivia Lamasan. The Diwata Award aims to recognize women who have made great strides in filmmaking and who have propelled women's issues and concerns in film.

The program was attended by National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera and UP officials including Vice President for Development Armin Sarthou, festival director, UP Open University Chancellor Grace Javier Alfonso, UPD Chancellor Sergio Cao, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Elizabeth L. Enriquez, UPFI Director Eduardo J. Lejano, and UPD College of Mass Communication (CMC) Dean Roland B. Tolentino. South African Ambassador, Pieter Vermeulen, and his wife, Chrisna; Shri Yogendra Kumar from the Indian Embassy; and Fernando Miguel from the Angolan Embassy also graced the event.

Other distinguished films screened during the festival include “Serbis” by Brillante Mendoza, “In My Life” and “Sana Maulit Muli” by Olivia Lamasan, “Kubrador” by Jeffrey Jeturian, as well as new films by women students.

Interested parties may get in touch with Mr. Nonoy Lauzon at (632) 926-3640 for more information about the festival.

77th NRCP General Assembly

The National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) held their 77th General Assembly last March 10 at the Manila Hotel, carrying the theme “Facing the Challenges of Climate Change through Science and Technology.”

Dr. Estrella F. Alabastro, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, delivered a very inspirational welcome remark. Moreover, keynote speaker Atty. Anotnio A. Oposa Jr., 2009 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee for Public Service, also conveyed encouragement to the attendees.

The discussions in the said assembly will dealt with the challenges and opportunities for sustainable development, the current research data and methods on climate change science and their implications for future climate change, and climate change and health and population issues.

NRCPI envisioned in promoting the advancement of science through research that would build up a group of Filipino men and women devoted to scientific investigation. Moreover, it was also to convene as an organization to formulate national plans and to address problems related to health, sanitation, agriculture, and industry.

A group of 114 prominent scientist and technologist constituted the charter membership of the NRCP headed by their president, Dr. Jaime C. Montoya.

All About Hair: The 11th Hair Olympics at the PICC

One hundred and twenty junior and senior hairstylists battled it out in the 11th Hair Olympics last March 10 at the Forum of the PICC. The participants competed for titles in the cut and blow dry, ladies commercial look, men’s commercial look, and evening hairstyling.

This annual battle of hairstylists is an annual project of David’s Salon and supported by major sponsors L’Oreal, Matrix, Schwarzkopf, Davines, Wella, and Great Image Photography.

The affair also featured dance performances, fashion shows, hair cutting/styling demos, and introductions of new hair products from sponsors L’Oreal, Matrix, Davines, Schwarzkopf, and Wella, which are also major suppliers of David’s Salon.

The winners were: Richard Conde, Alabang Town Center (evening hairstyling category); Wilson Rivera, SM Southmall (best in color under the evening hairstyling category); Mark Latoga, SM Lipa branch (cut and blowdry category); Jerrymie Pulongbarit, SM MOA branch (best in color under the cut and blowdry category); Irene Entusiasmo, Katipunan branch (ladies commercial and best in color under the same category); Jogie Minano, SM Marikina branch (cover look by Great Image category); Cenon Alegria, Sta. Lucia 2 branch (men’s commercial category); Joyce Bernasor, SM Megamall 1 branch (best in color under the men’s commercial category); and Bong Veresraiz, Greenbelt branch (cover look by Great Image under men’s commercial category).

David Charlton, together with L’Oreal general manager Ms. Charisse Hernandez and international platform artist Stephen Senz, Top Style Marketing president Ms. Cora del Rosario, Matrix business unit manager Ellen Malacs, and I-2 Beauty Philippines president Mr. Richard Chan awarded the winners.

11th Hair Olympics was also sponsored by Asia Pacific Cosmetics Corporation, Beauty Blends, Inc., Glaxo Smith Kline, Rising Star Printing, Ferr Trading, Sunkist Drinks, Royale Business Club, ABS CBN, QTV11’s Full Time Moms, NBN 4.

The event was hosted by Magic 89.9 DJs Andi 9 and Sam YG.

8th National S&T Fora and Competitions

The regional cluster winners in the 8th S&T Fora and Competitions of the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry and Energy Research and Development (DoST-PIERCD), was held last February 24, 25 and 26, vie for the Outstanding Research and Development in Industry and Energy 2010 at the national level.

The environmental-friendly and innovative technology made out of indigenous resources are presented at the National Academy of Science and Technology 16th of March this year.  Presentation and judging of each qualifier were divided into three parts: Addressing the Concerns of Environmental Protection and Conservation; Responding to the Needs of the Manufacturing Industry; and Harnessing the Use of Energy Resources.  With Dr, Rogelio A. Panlasigui, former DoST Undersecretary for Research and Development and presently director of the Office of Research, Development and Extension Services of the Far Eastern Air Transport Incorporated (FEATI) University, as head of the board of judges.

National Competition qualifiers were: Mr. Shalom Brian R. Mercader  with study entitled “The Design and Evaluation of an Ozone Contractor-Reactor for Color and Organic Matter Removal in Distillery Wastewater”, Engr. Jurex Gallo - “Development of Windrow Composting as an Alternative Sludge Management for a Recycled Paper Mill in the Philippines”,  Ms. Maria Linda B. Arquiza – “Prototype of an Alternative Telemetric System for Davao River”, Dr. Leilanie O. Suerte – “Magmatism and Hydrothermal System at the Kingking Porphyry Copper Deposit: An Insight into the Mineralization of the Copper-Gold Belt in Southeastern Mindanao”, Ms. Maria Gracia Peralta – “Non-cyanide Electroplating Technology”, Ms. Marina A. Alipon – “Development and Commercialization of Locally-Designed Digital Wood Moisture Meter”, Engr. Belen B. Bisana –“ Bamboo Veneer Lathe Technology Innovation for Commercialization”, Ms. Prima Fe R. Franco – “First and Second Generation Bioethanol Production from Sweet Sorghum Using Locally Isolated Micro-organisms”, and Engr. Alexis T. Belonio – “Continuous-Flow Rice Husk Gasifier for Thermal Application.”

2010 Hair Asia Event

The 20th National Open Championship for Hair and Makeup launched last March 9, at the World Trade Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City. It is one of Hair Asia’s annual competitions anticipated by salon professionals all over the country, which was also supported by the Unilever Philippines.

“Unilever has been our faithful partner ever since our very first event,” says Evelyn Cruz, president and organizer of the Hair Asia Competitions.

The country’s premier celebrity makeup artist, James Cooper, also launched the newest addition to his premier makeup line. The Jazzy Collection features new exuberant colors for summer as well as shimmery colors for the young crowd. Unbeknownst to most, James Cooper is actually the first Filipino makeup artist to produce and launch his very own line of products.

Other exhibitors include: Ahglow, Aktuelle, Beauty Concept, Beauty Lane Phils., Beauty Touch, Botanique Spa, Caronia, Creatic, Cosmocare Int’l. Inc., DKC Trading, Folia Herbal Extract, Finesse, Golden Fabulouz, Handle Enterprises, Indola, Konad Stamping Nail Art, LBY Enterprises, Lynelle Hair Fashion, Max Factor, Modern Salon Supply, Mondes Professional, MRC, MTN Marketing, Pro Babylis, Revlon Professional, Schwarzkopf, Shawill Corporation, TBS Beauty Products, Vybrance International, Wahl and Wella.

The Hair Asia can be reached through 415-2742, 926-9480, 0918-3725555, hairasia@hotmail.com.

CBE, DOE, CHED, TESDA hold 4th Cebu Ed-Expo

The Coalition of Better Education (CBE), Department of Education (DOE), Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) held the 4th Cebu Education Expo last February 19 to 21, 2010 at the SM City Cebu Trade Hall 2, Cebu City.

This three-day event gathered educational institutions that offered services to the public scouting for finest schools for their children. The expo also provided valuable information, products and equipment to put in place an educational system that is appropriate to the Filipinos.

Some lined-up ctivities presented in the Education Expo were Exhibit & Innovative Teachers Contest, Multipoint Demo, Education Nation 10-point Agenda Launch, Global Filipino Teachers Media Presentation (Globe Telecom), Gallery Walk-Innovative Teachers Contest, Multipoint Demo, Busog-Lusog-Talino Jollibee Parents' Seminar, and 21st Century Leadership (for Educational Leaders)

This event is sponsored by Microsoft Philippines, Globe Telecom, STI College, Jollibee Foundation, Cebu Daily News, Sunstar Cebu, The Freeman and Business Mirror with the following exhibitors: Aboitiz Foundation, Academy for International Culinary Arts, BEP NZ Aust Corp_Immigration Placement Services, Cebu Institute of Technology, Center for Healthcare Professions, Eastwestways Consultants, Education Center of Australia, Ellipse Institute New Zealand, Euro Asia Worldwide Consultants, Fusion Excel International, Global Summit Consultancy Assistance Services, Grace Christian College, High Access Line, Ibon Foundation, IDP Education Australia, I-Search International, Lead Career Movers, Magsaysay Institute of Hospitality, National Historic Institute, NSN Worldwide, O’Hair Salon, Paulines Publishing House, Philippine School of Culinary Arts, Philippine State College of Aeronautics, Phoenix Education Specialist, Reyes International School of Cosmetology, RK Franchise Consultancy, Rodech Training Services Link International, Royal Christian College, Southwestern University, St. Theresa’s College, University of San Jose Recollettos, and University of Visayas.

For more event details, call (02) 995-0734 / 439-1579 or (032) 273-3827/ 238-3933, e-mail info@ceoexpos.com or info@cebueducation.com , or visit www.cebueducation.com.

CEO EXCEL AWARDS 2010 named new winners

The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) presented the CEO EXCEL Awards 2010 last March 23.

This awards is to give recognition to the most outstanding business communicators not only in the Philippines but also worldwide. Previous CEO EXCEL winners include: Paul Aquino, President and CEO of Energy Development Corporation; Andrea Domingo, General Manager and CEO of Philippine Reclamation Authority; Hon. Francisco Duque III, former Department of Health Secretary; Ian Thackway, Chief Operating Officer of Holcim Philippines, Inc.; and Hon. Luis Raymund Villafuerte Jr., Governor of Camarines Sur.

This year IABC awarded new outstanding business communicators which include: Mayor Madelaine Alfelor - Gazmen of Iriga City; Marixi Rufino-Prieto, Chairman of the Board of the Philippine Daily Inquirer; Oscar M. Lopez, Chief Executive Officer of the Lopez Group of Companies; Charo Santos-Concio, President of ABS-CBN; Amb. Jose Antonio, CEO of Century Properties, Inc; Ernest L. Cu, President of Globe Telecom; Atty. Roberto P. Laurel, President of the Lyceum of the Philippines University; Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon, Vice President of Enchanted Kingdom; Regina L. Lopez, Managing Director of ABS-CBN Foundation; Gilda E. Pico, President of Landbank of the Philippines; Alfredo Salcedo Jr., President of BPI Family Savings Bank; and Mel Tiangco, Executive Vice President of GMA Kapuso Foundation.

This successful event is sponsored by San Miguel Corporation, Meralco, Bank of the Philippine Islands, Unilab, and Anchor Land Holdings Inc. Also with media partners ABS-CBN, GMA, ANC, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, and the Business World.

Green Pinoy Expo 2010 at SM Megamall

As a response to the recent financial crisis and calamities that have visited the country in the past year, the Philippine Product Safety and Quality Foundation conducted the 1st Green Pinoy Expo 2010 at the SM Megatrade Hall 1 in SM Megamall last March 5 to 7.

The event aims to promote environment and eco-friendly products to drive an awareness campaign to save the environment. Moreover, the expo also hopes to create awareness in preserving our natural resources and in promoting and generating jobs through local patronage.

Exhibitors in the said event include appliances with energy saving features, construction materials that carry the green label or have sustainable environment practices, testing laboratories, and other consumer products.

Mr. Montri Maharplekpong, President and CEO of United Pulp and Paper Corporation, together with an urban planner Mr. Felino Palafox were the guest speakers on the first day of the event.

Sponsors and supporters of the successful Green Expo were: Mariwasa Siam Ceramics, Cemex Philippines, Philippine Wood Producers Association, and Flat Glass Alliance of the Philippines Inc.

ASEAN Experts Discuss El Niño Effects on Agriculture

The El Niño Phenomenon has cascading effects – not only does it change the weather cycles, it also affects the production of food, especially in agriculture-based regions of the world.

With this in mind, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN-FAO) and the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization-Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEAMEO SEARCA) organized the “FAO-SEARCA Research Study on the Impacts of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO).” The International Rice Research Institute was also part of the organizing committee of the project.

The three-day conference slated last March 8–10 aims to examine the impact of El Niño on the production of the top three staple foods in Asia: rice, wheat, and maize (corn). Said SEARCA director Dr. Gil Saguiguit , Jr., the research program also aims to expand the number of countries and crops covered by the project.

This first of two meetings of the FAO-SEARCA project would hopefully be able to assist researchers regarding the impact of the climate on cereal/grain production. The output of the project is also directed in helping agricultural institutions and governments in developing policies and programs to address the effects of ENSO on agriculture in general by providing empirical and comprehensive data.

The FAO-SEARCA project’s research component currently covers 11 countries – Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Find Your Hospitality Business Needs All in One Place

The Hotel Show Philippines 2010 kicked off last March 3–7 at the SMX Convention Center and showcased different products and technologies in the hospitality business currently available in the market.

Held coinciding with Manila Now 2010, the event also featured international hotels, service apartments and resorts, interior and exterior designs, operating facilities and supplies, special amenities, and technology services exhibitions.

Organized by Global-Link Exhibitions Specialists and endorsed by Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines, attendees included hospitality business owners and purchasing and property managers. A wide array of products were also put on display, including appliances; decorative accessories; chinaware; textiles for curtains and bedspreads; flooring and carpeting; billing and reservation systems; and safes, locks, and room security, to name a few.

Sponsors of the event included www.88db.com, Archikonst, Business World, Centrex, the Manila Bulletin, the Manila Pavilion, PAGCOR, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, the Philippine Star, the Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Travelife Magazine, and the Heritage Hotel.

The Best Quality Furniture at Manila… Now

The Philippine International Furniture Shows, in cooperation with the Philippine Institute of Interior Design showcased the best creative and quality furniture at the Manila Now 2010 held last March 3–7 at the SMX Convention Center.

Opened to trade buyers and industry professionals for the whole five-day duration and to the general public for the last two days of the event, Manila Now consolidated all ASEAN furniture shows to make it more convenient for furniture buyers who flock to Southeast Asia every year.

The event was organized by the Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines and managed by Global-Link Exhibitions Specialists. It featured high quality furniture and décor and light fixtures, both made locally and abroad, which are heavily influenced by diverse cultural traditions.

Participants were required to pay an entrance fee of Php500, although this amount was waived for visitors who were pre-registered online. Hotel reservations with partner hotels (Manila Pavilion, Heritage Hotel, Bayview Park Hotel, and Sofitel Philippine Plaza) were also made available through the web portal.

For more information, please call Global-Link at (632) 750-8588 or log on to the event website.

Second Mega Summer Expo: All the Best Summer Getaways and Greatest Bargains

Filipinos absolutely love the summer! Flocking to pools and beaches, clad in swimsuits and sunglasses, and armed with sunscreen, Pinoys just can’t seem to get enough of the sun and water.

To help the summer-loving crowd in choosing the best summer destinations and finding fabulous summer fashion, the SM Megamall and Megatrade Hall organized the Second Mega Summer Expo last March 3–7.

The three-day fair featured a selection of the best summer destinations, summer apparel and accessories, shoes and bags, travel essentials, skin and beauty products, sporting gear, food and cooking demos, and several summer workshop options.

Media partners of the event included Business World and HerWord.com.

For inquiries and full details regarding the expo, please contact Megatrade Hall of MCT Events Management via the following contact details. Telephone numbers 634-7617, 633-1697, 701-1759, 799-0230, or 747-0529. Fax number 631-9637. E-mail addresses megatrade@smsupermalls.com or mct_events@yahoo.com.

Stay Young in a Holistic Way

With the continuing increase of anti-aging and other beauty products in the market – from facial whitening to food supplements that aid fertility – it seems as if everyone could stay young in every way possible.

This is the fuel of the Ninth Annual Convention of the Philippine Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, Inc. (PAAMI) with the theme “Anti-Aging: The Holistic Approach” at the Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila last March 6 and 7.

Hosted by Ms. Jeanne Harn, Ms. Philippines Earth 2007, specific topics in the two-day confab included the bio-integrative approach to weight loss, filler, laser lipolysis, male virility, implantology, proper nutrition, adult immunization, photolight laser hair therapy and alopecia, the psychology of preparing the aesthetic patient, colostrum as a “miracle,” advances in rhinoplasty, and the surgiwire technique.

The event was organized by PAAMI, together with IgCo, Unilab, Creative Skin and Spa Products, New Placenta, and Psalmstre.

Please contact the secretariat at (02) 711-2083 or (02) 382-3410 for more information. You may also direct inquiries, via email, to paaam2000@yahoo.com.

V-MAX as Prexy for the 16th NFMC Annual Convention in Cebu

With the organization’s tradition of giving the presidency to each year’s host of the Annual Convention of the National Federation of Motorcycle Clubs (NFMC), V-Max Owner’s Group (VOG) got to seat on the throne in its 16th year.

The convention, with VOG Prosecutor Benvenido Mabanto Jr. as the Chairman, was held at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) last March 4 to 7, 2010. This year’s convention’s theme was “Road Discipline is the Key to Traffic Safety”. The theme generally concentrated on the discipline the convention wanted to impart to motorcycle drivers to be their first-hand thoughts that they would expectedly exercise along the road to lessen or even eliminate road accidents.

The activities which were all held at the CICC started from registrations up to entertainments such as Bike and Auto Shows in cooperation with the Sportscar Club of Cebu that featured five Generaiton of Corvettes from C-1 to C-5 and Ford Mustangs from 1965 to 2007, welcome dinners with live band and fireworks display for the delegates, the meeting of all the motorcycle club presidents nationwide, and the bike ride from CICC to Tsuneishi Shipyard in Balamban via Naga-Uling Road.

Delegates from Luzon and Mindanao were expected to take two routes from the Strong Republic Nautical Highway or SRNH, and from Surigao, Nasipit, Cagayan de Oro, Ozamiz, and Dapitan, respectively.

This 16th Annual Convention of the National Federation of Motorcycle Clubs was sponsored by Castrol, DAVIES, ANZAHL Urethane Paint, Caloocan Sales Center, Inc., McGill’s Acrylic Primer, Timeless,CW, Sycwin Coating & Wires, Inc., 2GO, PLDT, Ducati, A.X.C., Motolite, NC, San Miguel Corporation, PAGCOR, LP Trading Co. Inc., Drei Bikes, Norkis, Federal, SuperFerry, Cebu Ferries, Alpa City Suites, and Citi Park Hotel.

PhilCes’ 1st Interschool Economic Quiz

The Philippine Council of Economic Student (PhilCes) and the Philippine Stock Exchange together with the Business World, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, ClicktheCity.Com, and John Robert Powers presented the First Inter-High School Economics and Capital Markets Quiz Competition last March 6 at the PSE Trading Floor in Ortigas, Pasig City.

The Philippine Council of Economics Students (PhilCES), a national socio-academic conglomeration of college organizations from various universities in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. For nearly a decade now, the organization have been affixed upon representing and embodying the youth in its vital role in the country’s economy—providing innovative venues that allow one to merge economic theory and actual practice, achieving distinguished proficiency in enriching scholarly value in the aforementioned undergraduate course among academic institutions and, promoting general awareness and interest in the field of economics among the Filipino youth.

Moreover. PhilCes envisions competitive economics education in academic institutions all over the nation and also aims to achieve this by providing innovation and diversity in the study of economics.

Expo Kid 2010

All parents want to become only one thing: good parents to their kids. From healthcare products, to toys, to food, moms and dads simply want the best for their children.

Mommy Matters Nursing Wear, the Philippine Association for Childbirth Education, and GlaxoSmithKline understand this need and used it to fuel the Expo Kid 2010, held last March 6 at the Rockwell Tent.

Featuring interactive activity areas for children from Kids Ahoy, My Masterpiece, and Kiddieparty.com, the whole-day event also gathered over 30 exhibitors and vendors who showcased top-of-the-line products and services for kids of all ages. The stage area, meanwhile, served as a place for gathering moms, dads, and their kids for talks and discussions of relevant parenting topics and product demonstrations.

Together with ExpoMom in organizing the event were logistics partner Creative Juice Communications, RCBC Savings Bank, and media partners Manila Bulletin, the Lifestyle Network, Junior Inquirer, Smart Parenting Magazine, Mommy Pages, and Urban Mom.

JAPI held Golf Classic for a cause

The 21st Junior Achievement Golf Classic of the Junior Achievement of the Philippines Inc. (JAPI) set last March 5 at the Canlubang Golf and Country Club in Laguna.

With Business World as its major media partner, the Golf Classic aims to raise funds for JAPI’s programs on entrepreneurship and Youth Development. Moreover, it is also a way for companies & potential donors to learn more about the organization and its programs.

JAPI is a see-registered, a non-stock and non-profit organization. It has been giving students opportunities to learn about entrepreneurship & manage a business through mentorship program. Morever, JAPI envisions to develop future business leaders, inspiring and equipping students to understand business, economics and entrepreneurship. They also aim to educate and inspire young people to value entrepreneurship, to understand the dynamics of business and economics, and to be workforce ready.

This successful golf event was spearheaded by JAPI’s trustees: Ernesto Alberto of PLDT; Enrique Umali of Energizer; Geronimo Latinazo of EMC; Gerard Sanvictores of SGV; Angelito Gabriel of Isla Lipana; Laura G. T. Lariosa of Nortel; Gil Chua of DDB Philippines; George Macasero of Entrepreneur Society of the Philippines; Stephen Thomas Misa of Cisco; Danilo Mojica of Smart Communications; Siripong Phoungpaka of PTT Philippines; Eric Recto and Marilou Erni of Petron Corporation; William Schultz of Coca Cola; and Ernst Wanten of Total Petroleum Corporation.

Digital Forensics and Network Security Conference Slated

Digital forensics is playing a more prominent role in law enforcement, network security, and information assurance. The field of study encompasses not just digital evidence, but also the areas of cyber law, sociology, and security to name a few. Its increasing importance is reflected in its growing role within crime investigations, civil cases and security.

In this light, Globalknowledge Philippines, Inc., will stage the 2010 GK Conference on Digital Forensics, Security and Law on March 19, 2010 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Makati City.

The aim of the conference is to bring together IT managers, system and network administrators, security specialists, academics, security solutions vendors, practitioners and anyone interested in computer forensics its role and application, and techniques in detecting, responding and investigating computer and related security incidents. The event shall also serve as an avenue to share their views, experiences and knowledge with those involved in the forensic computing field.

Topics include Forensic Acquisition, Forensic Process, Digital Forensic Education, Mobile Device Forensic, and Network Forensics, which will be discussed by practicing IT Forensics Experts from the Philippine National Police, EC-Council, and Guidance Software.

For more information, contact Globalknowledge Philippines, Inc at (632) 721-4380, 724-1891, email roselle@globalknowledgeph.com, sandra@globalknowledgeph.com or visit their website at www.gkphilippines.com

Galileo New Approaches to Business Education Conference

Galileo Enrichment Learning Program together with ABS-CBN Games and ABS-CBN Interactive presented another excellent, effective, educational, and enrichment event tagged as New Perspectives & Approaches to the Business Education last March 4-5 at the Rockwell Tent in Makati City.

Seminars and talks were conducted on the first day of the event by Professor Cecilla B. Manikan which tackled Learning How to Learn: The Whole-Brain Learning System, and Professor Danilo A. Antonio whom discussed Understanding the Business of Educational Institutions: Controllables, Uncontrollables, Influentiables.

On the second day, moreover, Dr. Queena Lee-Chua discussed a more closer view on Creating and Delivering Syllabi that Ensure Optimum Learning Opportunities followed by Dr. Jose Jesus F. Roces covering the topic “The Search for Value: Real Marketing for Educational Institutions”.

This two-day workshop for school owners, administrators, teachers and parents aims to update educators on the latest trends in the industry and to equip them with the necessary know-how on marketing, financial and functional areas which are helpful to a more profitable social enterprise.

For more information, contact the Galileo Enrichment Learning Program at (632)895.8095; 898-1234, fax (632)890.2509, email info@galileoenrichment.com, or visit http://www.galileoenrichment.com/

PWJA Members meets up at 15th Annual Convention-Seminar and General Meeting

The Members of the Philippine Women Judges Association (PWJA) led by President Supreme Court Associate Justice Teresita J. Leonardo de Castro gathered together at the Historic Landmark Manila Hotel last March 4, 2010 for their 15th Annual Convention-Seminar and General Meeting. This was to focus themselves to their roles in protecting the environment.

The convention’s Keynote Speaker was Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno, the proponent of the historic and impending Writ of Kalikasan. Aside from the seminars, the Magistrates also visited the La Mesa Ecopark and took part in a tree planting activity to connive with their theme “Role of Lady Magistrates in the Protection of the Environment”.

International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), a non-profit, non-governmental organization of more than 4,000 members at all judicial levels in more than 90 nations, had chosen PWJA in assisting them pursue the implementations of their projects. Since forming in 1991, the IAWJ has united women judges from diverse legal-judicial systems who share a commitment to equal justice and the rule of law.

The members of the PWJA have also advocated various other concerns, from the inviolable rights of every individual to the elimination of all forms of discrimination and violence, especially to the most vulnerable sector of the society – women and children.

The 15th Annual Convention-Seminar and General Meeting was made possible by the International Association of Women Judges or IAWJ.

For more information about the event, do contact PWJA through IAWJ’s contact information at the telephone number 202-223-4455, fax number at 202-223-4480, or e-mail at office@iawj.org.

Preserving the Memories of the World

Asia-Pacific members of the National Memory of the World (MoW) gathered at the Bayview Park Hotel last March 1–3 for a workshop on the promotion and advocacy of documentary heritage preservation and access.

The Southeast Asia Pacific Audio Visual Archive Association and the Philippine UNESCO National Commission worked together with the Philippine Information Agency to host the said event, which included participants from Cambodia, Fiji, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The three-day workshop was centered on the strategies in order to promote the awareness of the general public, the government, and other societal sectors on the need to safeguard the world’s fast-disappearing documentary heritage through the MoW Programme of the UNESCO.

For more information regarding the event, please visit www.unesco.org/webworld/en/mow and www.mowphilippines.org.

Quality Brands awarded

The 2010 Quality Brands & Celebrity Awards fused with the Ultimate Cyber, Business and Lifestyle Congress last March 3 at Gerardo’s Events & Celebrity Hall in Quezon City.

The Top Quality Awards is a prestigious benefit-tribute to Outstanding Consumer Products, Services and Corporate Brands & Trademarks with the objective of helping excellent companies, products or service to enhance marketing value, branding and trademarks.

This successful collaboration aims to be a significant venue for promoting business and lifestyle enterprises as well as in facilitating profitable transactions between the participants and the general public.

It was organized by QB & C Awards Committee & MCEAM in cooperation with RT events management. The events was also supported by its sponsors: Business Mirror, The Code Factory, PC Buyer’s Guide, 103.5 Max FM , ABS-CBN, DENKAT, AQUA Health, ROTABOARD, Fast PC, Love Electronics, Gerardo’s, and other media partners.

Mr. Rob Tabali, Producer & Marketing Director of RT events managements can be contacted through 385.1724 or 09289746975.

WORLDBEX 2010 Goes Green

WORLDBEX 2010 has turned green into more than just a color—it has become a goal, a statement and a mission.

In its 15th year anniversary and its grandest show to date, WORLDBEX (Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition), the first and foremost international construction trade show in the country, has adapted the theme “Constructing the Future Green Communities through Efficient Technologies and Materials.” Here, the latest building materials and technology will be showcased from March 17 to 21, 2010 at the World Trade Center, and Philippine Trade Training Center in Pasay City to aid architects, engineers, contractors and interior designers in making better structures that will stand up to the elements.

While this annual world-renowned expo has become the source of the most premium local and international products and services in the construction industry, local architects and building specialists are also looking forward to it because it has become an indispensable source of information for the latest construction trends and developments. This is all because of the highly anticipated WORLDBEX Seminars.

Acclaimed speakers from different parts of the globe who will grace the event include Engr. Sipco de Jonge (Netherlands); Arch. Timothy Wong (Singapore); Arch. Tai Lee Siang (Singapore); Ken Witherell (USA); and Terry Waterhouse (UK).

Meanwhile, local green advocates and experts will tackle a variety of topics: from living stylishly and efficiently in small spaces (by interior design guru Leo Almeria), to proper urban planning that will avert possible disasters (Arch. Felino Palafox, Jr.). Each day from March 18 to 20 will feature four different speakers who will share their expertise.

Who says the Philippines cannot go green? The country’s top architecture practitioners such as Arch. Jun Palafox, Arch. Albert Yu, and Arch. Philip Recto as well as leading interior designers Leo Almeria, Natalia Benitez, Suzet Cocuaco, Lot Hilvano, Wilmer Lopez, Chat Fores Lozano, Roland Laurena, Michael Pizarro, Tessa Prieto Valdez, Maritess Magcase & Rosalie Si, and Hubilla Design Group will show a uniquely local twist to sustainable design at the WORLDBEX’s Architects and Interior Designers Gallery.

Another facet of WORLDBEX 2010 that proves that sustainable development is now a global concern and responsibility is its Grand Embassy Pavilion. With about 28 countries represented, the Grand Embassy Pavilion will include United States of America, Turkey, Thailand, Finland, Syria, Indonesia, Korea, and Malaysia, among others.

WORLDBEX 2010 is sponsored by Boysen Paint, Davies Paint, Hunter Douglas, HCG, Lepanto Tiles, Mariwasa Tiles, WilsonArt, Puyat Steel, Puyat Flooring, and Cubes International.

For more information about the event, contact the Worldbex Services International at (632) 531-6374; 531-6350; 531-5044; 533-6988, fax (632) 533-2026, email: info@worldbex.com or visit their website at www.worldbex.com

Manila Now

Philippines’ biggest international furniture show took place last March 3 to 7, 2010 at the SMX Convention Center. The event plays a vital role in pushing the industry’s products to global markets in gearing for bolder innovations.

Despite the global recession the Manila Now chairman, Mr. Eduardo Zuluaga spearheads the organization’s aim for a bigger and event this year, compared to the last few years of showcasing Filipino industry, with services fit for international furniture and furnishing markets.  Preparations are being made to accommodate 10,000 visitors and buyers. The show will feature talents of various exhibitors from Cebu which known to be a design-driven region, accessories hand-crafted from the region of Bacolod and IloIlo, the hospitality furniture of Metro Manila and the giant furniture-carvings of Pamapanga. Organizers, plans to add a new major attraction for this year’s show, the “Interior Designer’s Pavillion”, this section features individual display of the country’s top 25 interior designers with their real-life setting applications on various furniture and furnishings.

For more information call the event manager at 7508585 or, log on to www.manilanow.ph.

4th Annual Call Center and BPO Training Convention Set This March

Teledevelopment Services, in coordination with strategic marketing communication firm TeamAsia, is organizing the 4th Annual Call Center and BPO Training Convention on March 11 – 12, 2010 at the Quezon Ballroom of Makati Shangri-la Hotel in Makati City.

The two-day event will carry the theme, “The Vision of the Next Decade: Conquering Uncharted Grounds”. Major speakers from industry leaders and aligned sectors have been invited to share their views and expertise on the new challenges business process outsourcing (BPO) companies will face, as well as the next trends and opportunities that will emerge.

Invited speakers include Mr. Celeste Ilagan, former Board of Investments Executive Director and now Assistant Vice-President for Marketing and External Affairs of Sutherland Global Services representing the industry; Mr. Vincent Fabella, president of Jose Rizal University and Philippine Association of Collegiate Schools of Business, representing the academe; and Mr. John Philip Orbeta, Vice-President for Human Resources of Ayala Corporation, representing talent and leadership management.

Approximately 250 delegates from major industry service providers and their clients are expected to attend the conference.

The convention also marks the first Annual BPO Training Excellence Awards, organized in cooperation with the Philippine Society for Training and Development. It aims to recognize organizations and individuals that have exemplified distinction in the field of BPO training.

The 4th Annual Call Center and BPO Training Convention is in partnership with the Commission on Information and Communications Technology, Business Process Association of the Philippines, Contact Center Association of the Philippines, People Management Association of the Philippines, Philippine Society for Training and Development, and sponsored by inContact, Inc., and the following media sponsors: Philippine Daily Inquirer JobMarket Online, Business Mirror, and 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 about the event, contact Ms. Rona Castillio, Conference Secretariat at (632) 757-3500 loc 31, (63917) 881-3706, e-mail rccastillo@teamasia.com or visit the event website at http://www.tdstrainingconvention.com.

Most Anticipated Food and Beverage Expo Slated this March

The 3^rd Philippine International Food and Beverage Expo (PIFBEX 2010), most anticipated food and beverage expo in the country providing the supply solution in this industry will be staged from March 4 - 6, 2010 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Organized by Trade Advertising Exhibitions & Conventions International, Inc. (Tradecon, Inc), the three-day event will bring together food and beverage industry players and professionals from all over the Philippine and the world to interact, transact, and explore limited business opportunities among themselves. Since its inception, the event continues its advocacy to bringing together the Food and Beverage industry players from the Philippines and around the globe to explore unlimited business opportunities.

PIFBEX 2010 also aims to open the gateway to further trade expansion and reach by offering innovative business opportunities to decision-makers and new potential customers on the latest machinery, equipment and technology related to food processing, handling and packaging.

“The expo will feature programs and activities that offer a timely opportunity to create consumer awareness on new developments on food and beverages and directly promote them in the market and among shoppers, inspired food buyers and enthusiasts,” said Tradecon, Inc. president Mildred Caballero.

Among the highlights of PIFBEX 2010 is its dessert-making competition with the theme “Filipino Desserts” where students from different culinary schools in the country will take part in.

PIFBEX 2010 targets over 18,000 trade buyers and guests who are expected to the fair that will showcase everything on food and beverages, as well as food franchising and business systems.

For inquiries and updates on PIFBEX 2010, contact Tradecon, Inc., at (632) 482-5318, 395-5009, e-mail tradecon.inc@gmail.com or visit the event website at www.pifbex.com.

Go Negosyo Celebrates National Women’s Month with Entrepreneurship Summit

Go Negosyo celebrates National Women’s Month by recognizing inspiring women, uplifting the country’s small entrepreneurs, and showcasing possible business opportunities for women (and men, too) at the Go Negosyo Women Entrepreneurship Summit on March 8, 2010 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Organized by Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship in partnership with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) (formerly known as National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women), this year’s summit will carry the theme, “Babae Tagumpay aka ng Bayan”.

Over 200 booths and exhibits will showcase business ideas and opportunities in health & wellness, beauty & cosmetics, fashion & accessories, food & culinary business, technology, direct-selling, franchising, and more. Free seminars on the how-to's of starting a business will be held during the event: from knowing your strengths and your ambitions, to finding business opportunities, to marketing your products and finding capital. Talks on women's health, education, good governance, and other issues and concerns facing women today will be staged as well.

Filipinas who have excelled in their fields but who also embodies admirable traits of compassion, concern for others and care for community, and integrity will be recognized at the Go Negosyo-PCW Inspiring Women of the Year Award Ceremony.

The summit will also serve as the grand launch of the Go Negosyo book, "100 Inspiring Stories of Small Entrepreneurs: Tagumpay Mula sa Kahirapan". Visitors will be given a chance to have their books signed by the women and men are featured in Go Negosyo's fifth book and ask them how they started their business, how they overcame challenges, and how they grew their negosyo (business)
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The 2010 Go Negosyo Women Entrepreneurship Summit is sponsored by the Department of Trade and Industry, Land Bank of the Philippines, and National Livelihood Development Corporation.

Admission is free. Interested exhibitors may call Ideal Events International at (632) 431-3694 or Go Negosyo at (632) 637-9229. For more information about the event, email womensummit@gonegosyo.net or visit their website at http://www.gonegosyo.net.

Asia Internet Congress to be Held in the Philippines for the First Time

For the first time, local entrepreneurs who are utilizing the power of the internet will have a chance to hear from the best practitioners in the industry as the Asia Internet Congress will be held in the Philippines for the first time on March 4-5, 2010 at Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila in Quezon City

Co-presented by Powermax Consulting Group, Fireballonline.com, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Inquirer Job Market, and LloydLuna Communications, the event will carry the theme, “Internet Marketing: A Click to Business Profit”.

The Congress will feature today’s sharpest internet marketing minds like Mr. Simon Leung, Google Optimization Insider and Master AdWords Optimizer; Mr. Alvin Phang, Asia’s top Wordpress Blogging Expert; Mr. Jo Han Mok, One of the World's Top Copywriters; Mr. Jaz Lai, Singapore’s List Building Master, and a Top Multilevel Marketing Expert; Mr. Fabian Lim, CEO of AsiaInternetAcademy.com and top internet marketer who has been featured in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Japan.

Philippine experts will also grace the event, including Mr. Donald Lim, founding President of Internet and Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines (IMMAP) and the CEO of Yehey.com; Mr. Ian Del Carmen CEO of Fireballonline.com, Internet Marketing Expert, and International Best-selling Author of “Crack the Secret of Code” and “Rags to Dot Com Riches”, Mr. Lloyd Luna, New Media Marketing Expert and a sought-after motivational speaker and author; Mr. Nix Nolledo, Chairman of Xurpas.com, myayala.com, and Havoc Digital Media; and Mr. Joel Disini, President and CEO of dotPH.

Topics include Internet Marketing Success; Best Practices in Internet Marketing; Common Blunders in Internet Marketing; Search Engine Marketing; Social Media Marketing; Email Marketing; Copyrighting; Corporate Branding in the Internet; Passive Recurring Income Through Membership Sites; PLUS Bonus Topics – Word Press and Everything You Need to Know on How to Start an Online Business.

The 1st Asia Internet Congress Philippines is sponsored by Center for Pop Music Philippines, Inc., Stars and Events, UK Derm Pharma, Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts, Creative Voices Production, Crowne Plaza Galleria, Certified eMarketing Consultant, PinoyInternetMarketing.com, Slimmers World, One Tagaytay Place Hotel Suites, and the following media partners: Open AXCSS Solutions, Friendster.com, TipidCP.com, TipidPC.com, Inquirer.net, Philstar.com, PinoyExchange.com, Business Mirror, and The Radio Partners, Inc., (Jam 88.3, Wave 891, Magic 89.9, 99.5 RT, and 103.5 Max FM), and Entrepreneur Magazine.

For more information about the event, call Liezel Anam of Powermax Consulting Group at (632) 470-1054 to 55, 470-1267, (63926) 695-8428, or visit the event website at http://www.asiainternetcongressphils.com/