First Philippine Congress Anniversary National Conference

THE Center for Bulacan Studies of the Bulacan State University (CBS BSU) with the Philippine Historical Association (PHA), National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), and University of the Philippine Lipunang Pangkasaysayan (UP LIKAS) held the National Conference on the Anniversary of the First Philippine Congress with a theme “IMAHEnasyon: Ang Paghiraya sa Nasyon at Bayan ng Congreso Filipino 1898” last September 14, 2010 at the Bulacan State University Hostel and Function Hall, City of Malolos, Bulacan.

The theme concentrated on the imagined nation and state through the ideas and concepts of the front runners of the freedom and nationhood – from Bonifacio’s 1896 Katipunan to the Aguinaldo-inspired 1898 Congreso Filipino.

Six official papers were read on the conference: Nasyon at Bayan sa Congreso Filipino 1898: Pangkalahatang Perspektibo by Dr. Zeus A. Salazar, retired history professor and History Department chairman at the UP Diliman, and coordinator of the Bagong Kasaysayan, Inc. (BAKAS); Mga Aral ng 1898: Unang Republika, Diplomasya at Imperyalismo by Dr. Evelyn A. Songco, Assistant to the Rectorfor Student Affairs, University of Santo Tomas and president of PHA; Ang Congreso Filipino: Mula Kawit hanggang Tarlac by Dr. Lino L. Dizon, Director, Center for Tarlaqueño Studies, Tarlac State University , vice-president of the Kapisanan ng mga Bahay-saliksikan sa Bansa, Inc., and consultant of the Juan D. Nepomuceno Center for Kapampangan Studies, Holy Angel University; Mga Simbolismo: Halaga ng mga ito sa Pagbubuo ng Bansang Banwa at ang Kaso ng Kongreso ng Malolos by Ian Christopher B. Alfonso, researcher, Juan D. Nepomuceno Center for Kapampangan Studies, Holy Angel University, Fellow of the BSU CBS, and secretary of the Samahang Pangkasaysayan ng Bulacan, Inc. (SAMPAKA); Saligang Batas sa Sinaunang Bayan: Ang Umalohokan at ang Kaloobang Bayan by Dr. Vicente C. Villan, History Department of UP Diliman, coordinator of BAKAS, Inc., and an active member of the Asosasyon ng mg Dalubhasa, may Hilig at Interes sa Kasaysayan (ADHIKA) ng Pilipinas, Inc.; Ang Kartilya at Kaloobang Bayan: Saligang Batas ng Katipunan at Tagapangunang Hiraya ng Saligang Batas ng Malolos by Michael Charleston B. Chua of the History Department of the De La Salle University and vice-president, Philippine Historical Association.

Also, a side lecture was delivered by Isagani B. Giron, president emeritus of SAMPAKA and consulant of the BSU CBS, Si Heneral Miong at ang mga taga-Malolos; as well as other topics by other reactors such as the legendary cat in the Barasoain Church seen in the ten-peso bill and the petition to bring back the Barasoain’s image in any monetary bill of the Republic.

“Among our regular activities and programs, this one is unique because for the first time we are given the chance to co-work with the PHA, NHCP and UP LIKAS which are considered authorities and experts in the Philippine historiography.” Dr. Agnes Crisostomo, director of BSU CBS said.

This national conference was made free to the public, but with limited reservations set to 200 only. It was endorsed by the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education to all the schools and other academic institutions in the country and supported by the Provincial Government of Bulacan and the City Government of Malolos.

The activity was proudly part of the Province’s celebration of Singkaban Fiesta: Buwan ng Bulacan which started last August 15 until September 15.

For more information, contact Ian Christopher Alfonso at 0916-475-2140 or e-mail through ianalfonso7@gmail.com, and Roy Devesa II at 0906-579-6378 or e-mail through roy.carpio.devesa@gmail.com. Interested parties can also get in touch with the PHA Public Relations Office at (63906) 202-0274.

1st Philippine Digital Publishing Conference

With the rise of electronic books, e-readers, and the magnitude of information available on the Internet, fears have arisen that the old-fashioned book might go permanently out of style.

To address this, members of the local publishing industry came together on September 13 and 14 for the country’s first Philippine Digital Publishing Conference at the UP-Ayala Technohub. Entitled “the Future of the Book,” the two-day series of talks covered the changing landscape of publishing, the rise of e-books, and how Filipino readers, writers and publishers can make the best of these changes.

Sponsoring the conference were the National Book Development Board (NBDB), Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP), Filipinas Heritage Library, and Vibal Foundation, Inc.

An exhibit right outside the session hall also featured the evolution of e-readers through the years, from readers on the laptop, up until the recently-released Apple iPad.

Keynote speaker and BDAP president Lirio Sandoval said, “The public and private sector of the Philippine book industry are very much concerned about the future of the book industry in this digital generation, and it affects publishers, book sellers and readers alike.”

“This conference is the latest in many such conferences around the world, asking what the future might hold for [books and traditional publishing],” he said. “Some say the digital age will be the end of the book, others say it will be another chapter in the long and illustrious history of the book.”

For further information, contact Vibal Foundation at (632) 712-9156 to 59 loc 343 to 344, fax (632) 416-8460 or
visit their website at www.vibalfoundation.org.

Mathematical Society of the Philippines 2010 Annual Convention

Researchers and educators in all areas of pure and applied mathematics, math education, statistics, and other related areas are invited to join the Mathematical Society of the Philippines (MSP) 2010 annual Convention to be held on May 20-21, 2010 at the Montebello Villa Hotel in Cebu City.

Hosted by the MSP Cebu Chapter, the MSP celebrates its 37th year as the country’s largest professional organization dedicated to the promotion of mathematics and mathematics education. Invited to give plenary talks are Dr. Alnar Detalla (Central Mindanao University), Dr Jesper Jansson (Ochanomizu University), Prof San Ling (Nanyang Technological University), Dr Ester Ogena (DOST-Science Education Institute), Prof Agnes Paras (University of the Philippines) and Prof Paul Terwilliger (University of Wisconsin).

Local researchers will also be given a chance to present their papers and share with their colleagues their latest findings and application practices of mathematics. Participants are encouraged to pre-register, via mail, fax, or email, on or before May 7, 2010.

For more information about the event, contact Dr. Arlene Pascasio, MSP Convention Chair at aapascasio@gmail.com, or Dr. Lorna Almocera, MSP Convention Co-chair at lsalmocera@yahoo.com. Interested participant may also call (632) 920-1009, email mathsoc@mathsocietyphil.org or visit their website at http://www.mathsocietyphil.org/.

Tarlac to Host Palarong Pambansa 2010

The provincial government of Tarlac will host the 53rd edition of the Palarong Pambansa to be held on April 11-17, 2010 at the Tarlac Recreational Park (TRP) in San Jose, Tarlac.

Prior to the event, a launching was held last February 18, 2010 simultaneously in four other towns -- Bamban, Concepcion, Camiling and San Manuel-- as a signal for the start of the Palaro 2010 countdown.

Tarlac province has started the counting from the 53rd day before the event as this is the 53rd Palarong Pambansa. The theme for this year is “Play for the Region, Win for the Nation”. The activity kicked off at 6:30 a.m. with all the 17 municipalities and one city in the province held a firecracker launch, simultaneous with the ringing of all church bells. This was followed by a province-wide cycling and motorcade.

The launching also introduced “Palaro” this year’s mascot. “As first time host, we mark this event with this mascot. We named “Palaro”, -- a multi-faceted yet roundly unified ball to symbolize the energy, the discipline and the verve that go with every jump, every kick and every bounce made during the games.” Gov. Yap said.

He also said that “much like Tarlac, dubbed as the melting pot of Central Luzon where diverse cultures meet and mix, mascot ‘Palaro” also represents convergence and oneness.”

The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Tarlac government also conducted a press briefing at the TRP where mechanics, security, fraud, accommodation of athletes, transportation, traffic and other matters about the competition were tackled.

Governor Victor Yap said that he was excited with the staging of the Palarong Pambansa in the province. He said that although there are some facilities that have not yet been completed, he assured that it will be done before the event. The DepEd, for its part, said that accommodations, mechanics, safety measures and other concerns were already been set.

Gov. Yap also emphasized that Palaro is a dream come true to all Tarlaquenos. “This is our chance to showcase our warm hospitality, our ability to handle the big sports event and to show not only to our countrymen but to the whole world as well the beauty of our province,” he said.

The Palarong Pambansa 2010 hopes to boost the province’s economy, especially the tourism industry. Some 25,000 guests from the country’s 17 regions are expected to attend the annual sporting event.

The 53rd Palarong Pambansa is in cooperation with the DepEd Task Force on School Sports and sponsored by Smart Communications, Inc., and SM.

For more information about the event, contact the Palarong Pambansa - Tarlac Secretariat at (6345) 6114148, (63910) 387-3956, email palaro2010@gmail.com or visit the Palarong Pambansa 2010 blog at http://palarongpambansa2010satarlac.blogspot.com/ or Tarlac Government website at http://www.tarlac.gov.ph/

CHED to Hold First Academic and Cultural Festival

To encourage students in promoting academic excellence, culture and arts in the country, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chair Dr. Emmanuel Angeles said the commission will hold its first ever Academic and Cultural Festival to be held from March 1 to 5, 2010 at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City.

Dr. Angeles said if the event will be successful, he plans to take it to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Education Council and make it an annual event for promoting culture and arts in the region.

“We will gather all the best performing students in each country that will represent their schools in the competition. It will be a chance for different educational institutions to market themselves as well as promote academic excellence in their country,” he said.

“We want to hone the students’ talents and competencies in a healthy, physically and intellectually-stimulating environment and developing the students’ discipline, hard work, and love for the country and his fellowmen," he added.

The first-time festival is an endeavor of CHED and the National Association of Higher Education Institutions (NAHEI), an umbrella organization of the Regional Association of Higher Education Institutions (RAHEI).

Dr. Angeles pointed that the would-be annual festival will provide public and private college students a chance to compete in various events in the areas of academics and culture.

For academic competitions, students will battle with their minds in the impromptu speech, oration, poetry interpretation, story telling, debate, science, math and computer quizzes.

On the other hand, cultural competitions will include awit saya (vocal solo and vocal duet), sayawitan (choir), tipa at tugtugan (solo instrument), likhawit (song writing), sayaw Pinoy (Philippine creative folk and ethnic dance), and ginoo at binibining pamantasan (pageant).

The CHED chairman said 17 regions in the country will participate in the event. Around 819 student representatives will compete for the cultural category while some 221 will compete for the academic events.

“We believe that this kind of competition brings out the best in every contestant. That is why we will strictly monitor the qualification of each contestant, including the grades. No one with failing grades would be allowed to join the competition even if they have the talent and skills,” he said.

For more information about the event, contact the Commission on Higher Education at (632) 687-13-17, 637-35-71, email info@ched.gov.ph or visit their website at http://www.ched.gov.ph/.

Philippine Astronomy Convention 2010 Slated

The Astronomical League of the Philippines invites everyone to attend the 2nd Philippine Astronomy Convention PAC 2010) on February 20, 2010 at the Manila Planetarium in Rizal Park, Manila.

The Philippine Astronomy Convention (PAC) is the annual gathering of professional and nonprofessional astronomers in the Philippines. This event, hosted by the Astronomical League of the Philippines, is the major astronomy convention in the country. The convention was initiated by the Astronomical League of the Philippines as a means of establishing a forum for all astronomers and astronomy-related organizations, institutions and agencies in the country to exchange ideas, and discuss matters on astronomy and astrophysics. The convention is held every year during the National Astronomy Week; a weeklong celebration participated by numerous astronomical organizations, institutions, schools and universities in the country.

Astronomical exhibits are presented during the annual gathering, showcasing astronomical photographs taken by Filipino astronomers. Poster contributions from local and international scientists are also being displayed to disseminate their activities and research outputs.

In order to foster observational astronomy in the country, observing sessions are held to introduce the general public to the scenic beauty of the cosmos. The stargazing session will be held on February 20 at the Rajah Sulayman Park in Baywalk from 6:00 – 9:00pm

Held during the Philippine Astronomy Convention, the plenary session or conference serves as a formal venue for astronomers in and outside the Philippines to disseminate their studies and researches in the different branches of astronomy, as well as other topics of astronomical interest. Plenary speakers and lecturers come from varied fields, such as observational astronomy, instrumentation, astronomy education, astrophysics & cosmology, and other areas.

Registration for PAC 2010 is free, but there will only be limited seats. To register for the event and other concerns, email personal details to jkty@astroleaguephils.org, pjastro@astroleaguephils.org, and kewpee7@astroleaguephils.org.

DepEd Understanding By Design Staged

The Department of Education’s (DepEd) National Conference entitled “Understanding by Design: Getting into the Core of the 2010 Secondary Education Curriculum” will be held this February 2010 at two venues, to accommodate participants from all over the Philippines.

Previously scheduled last November 5-7, 2009, the conference will still be held at the Manila Hotel, Roxas Blvd., Manila, on February 4-6, 2010, for Metro Manila and Luzon participants. For Visayas and Mindanao participants, it will be at the Waterfront Hotel, Lahug, Cebu City, on February 8-10, 2009.

A registration fee of Php 8,500.00 (inclusive of lunch and two snacks per day, a conference kit, and 3 ASCD books) will be charged per participant.

The conference aims to orient school heads and teachers on Understanding by Design (UbD), a worldwide “teaching for understanding” model that links curriculum, instruction and assessment to improve learning outcomes. UbD was introduced in 1998 by Jay McTighe and Grant P. Wiggins, and it adopts the process of “backward design” in the development of a school curriculum.

Backward design aims at eliminating two common flaws in the traditional method: coverage-focused teaching and activity-focused teaching. In coverage-focused teaching, educators try to cover all topics as specified by a textbook for the whole school year, but end up with students who do not understand why they are being taught this much information. In activity-focused teaching, educators come up with all sorts of activities that students participate in and enjoy, but again, students do not completely understand why. This is what backward design aims to resolve: to make students understand and gain a deeper insight into why they are being taught information or made to participate in activities.

Internationally-renowned speakers Everett Kline and Jeanne H. Purcell from the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) in the United States are invited to conduct the conference.

Presented by DepEd in cooperation with Fund for Assistance to Private Education (FAPE), the conference shall be conducted in support of the implementation of the 2010 Secondary Education Curriculum in public and private secondary schools.

FAPE was established in 1968 to promote the development of private education in the Philippines. It pursues this mission by helping private schools in their quest for academic excellence, managerial competence and financial viability, through the extension of logistic and technical support. Over the last three decades of its existence, FAPE has already become an institution in the Philippine educational system.

For more information about the conference, you may call FAPE at (632) 818-7923, (632) 381-8071, e-mail info@peac-fape.org.ph or visit their website http://www.fape.org.ph.

First Special Education Expo Slated

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

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

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

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

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

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

RP is over-all champion in PIMC 2009

For several years and in many attempts, the title, “over-all champion” had been very elusive for the Philippines. It was only in the Philippine International Mathematics Competitions (PIMC) 2009 held last November 28-December 2, 2009 at Iloilo City where the Philippines managed to grasp the title for the first time.

The international event, organized by the Mathematics Trainers’ Guild (MTG), Philippines, is endorsement and support by the Department of Education and Department of Science and Technology.

Twenty one countries/territories namely: Bulgaria, Brunei Darussalam, China, Cyprus, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Nigeria, Philippines, Romania, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan and Thailand sent 96 teams to participate in the 2009 Philippine Elementary Mathematics International Competition (PEMIC) and 2009 Asia Inter-cities Teenagers Mathematics Olympiad (AITMO).

The Philippines fielded 10 teams each for PEMIC and AITMO. Using the effective strategy in grouping the RP’s best math wizards, the Philippines ended up champion in the individual and team contests which made it emerge as the over-all champion for garnering a 100 medals consisting of 24 gold, 32 silver and 44 bronze medals.

Team Philippines B was hailed as Over-all Champion for PEMIC. Taiwan Team A was awarded Over-all First Runner up while Thailand Team D won second runner up. In AITMO, Over-all Champion and second runner up went to Team Philippines while Thailand Team C got the first runner-up.

South Korea will host next year’s international math contest.

For more information about the event, contact MTG at (062) 992-3045, (63917) 3246302, email philsimc@yahoo.com or visit the event website at http://pimc.wordpress.com/.

14th ESEA Conference Examined Changes in English Research, Policy

The 14th English in South East Asia (ESEA) Conference entitled “English changing: implications for policy, teaching, and research” was held at the Ateneo de Manila University last November 26 to 28, 2009.

Distinguished professionals in the field of language education were invited as keynote speakers: Dr. Ahmar Mahboob Ahmar Mahboob from the University of Sydney (Australia), Dr. Brian Morgan from York University (Canada), and Dr. Patricia Licuanan, president of Miriam College.

The conference became a venue for discussion of current issues and challenges faced by English educators from a variety of perspectives. Today, learners need different Englishes for diverse purposes, all while English and its uses are changing, thus raising new questions for policy, teaching and research.

Among the topics discussed included the relationship of English and other languages in education, workplace, and society; systems for language education and the improvement of their capacities; way research and teaching informs policy; practice of teaching in light of new Englishes and various contexts of use; the materials, media, and curricula appropriate for teaching and learning; transformation of teacher education and development; applicability of different research paradigms for investigating various issues in English language teaching; and the connections between different strands of research in English language teaching.

The ESEA conference series is a collaboration between the National Institute of Education (Singapore), University of Malaya (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia), University of Brunei Darussalam,, Curtin University (Perth, Australia), Ateneo de Manila University (Quezon City, the Philippines), Hong Kong Institute of Education, Sanata Dharma University (Yogyakarta, Indonesia), King Mongkut’s University of Technology (Thonburi, Thailand), and the University of Waikato (New Zealand).

ESEA 2009 was supported by British Council, Manila Bulletin, Ateneo Language Learning Center, Anvil Publishing House, and Phoenix Publishing House.

For more details, call 426-4322/4266120, or e-mail esea2009@admu.edu.ph. Visit the conference website at http://www.ateneo.edu/.

FUSE Marks 15th Year with Essay Writing Contest

The Foundation for Upgrading the Standard of Education (FUSE) is holding an essay-writing contest with the theme, “FUSE: Igniting my Passion for Teaching”, as part of the nonprofit organization’s forthcoming 15th anniversary celebration in December.

“The contest, the first-ever for FUSE, aims to encourage teaches to share their experiences on how the Foundation helped hone and enrich their teaching skills and how the group’s founders inspired them” explained FUSE President and Rep. Salvador Escudero III.

The contest is open to all elementary, high school, and college levels teachers who have been trained in the use of FUSE teaching materials. Interested participants are required to register at www.fusephil.com

Contestants must write an essay in English, with a length of two to four pages, or 700 to 1,000 words relating how FUSE helped them become a better teacher or instructor/lecturer. Entries must be endorsed and certified original by the school principal.

Each essay may or may not have its own title. It must carry the complete name, home and school address and contact numbers of the contestant. Entries must be saved and submitted as an MS Word document or Rich Text Format and should follow standard essay format (double-spaced, 8.5” x 11”, one inch margins, Times New Roman or Book Antiqua, 12pts.). The contestant’s name must not appear on any of the essay’s page.

Participants may submit via email at fuse15contest@gmail.com or send via snail mail (FUSE@15 Essay Writing Contest, 12A Pearl of the Orient Town Condominium, 1240 Roxas Blvd., Ermita, Manila).

Deadline for the submission of entries is on November 15, 2009.

The entries will be classified under four clusters: National Capital Region, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Five finalists will be chosen from each cluster and the top three winners picked from the 20 finalists. The top three winners, to be chosen by a board of judges, will get a bus or airfare and hotel accommodations for the awarding ceremony, slated on the FUSE anniversary rites.

The winning entry will receive P15, 000.00; 2nd place, P12, 500.00, and 3rd place, P10, 000.00. The 17 finalists will receive consolation prizes.

For more information, contact FUSE at (632)567-1072, 567-3784, 567-2597, email fuse15contest@gmail.com or visit the contest website at www.fusephil.com

PSSN Holds 9th Annual Scientific Conference in Lanao del Norte

The Philippine Society for the Study of Nature, Inc. (PSSN) will be holding its 9^th Annual Scientific Conference on November 11 – 15, 2009 at the Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte.

The event will carry the theme, “Nature in Crisis: A Look at the Social Responsibility of Universities, Media, Government, private Sector, and Grass Roots”. The convention will feature interesting plenary topics that will be delivered by well-known personalities in the academe, media industry, government, and private organizations. Updates on the various fields of nature study will likewise be presented by researchers from all parts of the country. An exciting post-symposium tour to major tourist destinations in the area awaits every participant.

The first day of the convention will have activities to reach out to young high school and college researchers from all over the country. They will be presenting their research projects in the form of oral and poster research papers, films on nature in crisis, protection and conservation issues to be shared to all members and participants of the convention. Outstanding research projects of Philippine scientists will be competing for this year’s Best paper Awards.

The second day of the convention will feature plenary papers of invited speakers who are known personalities in the academe, conservation and protection of nature. The third day of the convention will feature the presentation of research papers and academic posters

For inquiries or details about the event, contact MSU-IIT at (063) 221-4050 loc 137, (0928) 996-0185, or visit the conference website at http://pssnposter.webs.com/

Farming Merged with Robotics at 2009 National Robotics Competition

The 2009 National Robotics Competition (NRC) was held at the Music Hall of the SM Mall of Asia last October 23-24, 2009.

The contest was open to all Filipino students between 9-18 years old (born before Nov 1, 1991). Any type or brand of Robot, or custom-built automaton, was allowed for the competition.

The tournament was divided into two categories: open, wherein students were tasked to create a presentation based on a theme; and regular, where students were tasked to build a robot designed to battle in a “sumobot” match.

With the theme “Agribots in the City,” this year’s open category revolved around the farming cycle and possible activities in Philippine setting where technology and robotics can be applied. Students were tasked to construct two robots that “will do tasks that represent harvesting, sorting of grains, storage, transporting to market, feeding of animals, and switching of irrigation and biogas.”

The mainstay “sumobot” competition, aptly described as the “wrestling of the robots,” had a simple premise: to push the opponent robot out of a makeshift dohyo (sumo ring). Robots battling in the sumobot match must not weigh more than 500 grams, and must not exceed dimensions of 15 cm by 15 cm.

Around 80 teams participated and competed for the prize award of representing the country in the 11th International Robot Olympiad (IRO 2009) held at Daejeon Metropolitan City, South Korea, last December 17-20, 2009. Students from Makati Science High School emerged as winners in the “open” category. All top-prize winners received cash, plaques and robot kits.

Pasay City Mayor Wencaslao “Peewee” Trinidad graced the opening of the competition.

Coinciding with the 2nd NRC were several seminars conducted by the organizers. PRGF conducted a free robotics workshop featuring robotics inventions and robotics competitions by the private and public high schools in the whole country, and student delegates from other Asian countries.

GCI arranged a Seminar Series for I.T. Educators and Robotics Workshop, which centered on various Science, Technology and ICT programs.

A wide range of participants joined in the seminars – from students to parents and I.T. teachers. The seminars were free of charge but pre-registration was required. Among the workshop topics were:

• Technology Tools for Schools
• Opening your school to Open Source Technology
• Fashion 101 for Teachers
• Robotics in Schools - patterned after the Singapore style
• Using Microcontrollers in Science Experiments
• English Teaching and Learning Technology
• Hotel System for HRM Schools
  

The 2nd National Robotics Competition was organized by the Genetic Computer Institute (GCI), INEX Singapore, Nido Science Discovery Center, SM Mall of Asia, Honda and the Pinoy Robot Games Foundation (PRGF) and sponsored by GENETIC Infoservices Corporation, Innovative Experiment (INEX), Nido, and the following media partners: Manila Bulletin, TV5, Yehey!.com, Jam 88.3, Wave 891, Magic 89.9, 99.5 RT , and 103.5 Max FM.

For more information about PRGF, email info@pinoyrobotgames.org or visit www.pinoyrobotgames.org.

LSP Hosted International Confab of Linguists

The Linguistic Society of the Philippines hosted the 15th Conference of the International Association for World Englishes (IAWE) held last October 22-24, 2009 at Parklane International Hotel in Cebu City.

The annual conference is a forum that promotes the exchange of ideas among linguists, applied linguists, sociolinguists, writers, scholars, and educators on the philosophy of World Englishes and issues of convergence and diversity specifically in language.

This year’s theme: “Connecting Cultures through World Englishes: Convergence and Diversity in Language, Literature, and Pedagogy,” covered a wide range of topics in the domains of education, government, industry, and media.

Delegates discussed the following topics: 1.) Literary creativity in South, Southeast, and East Asia; 2.) Philippine English, Philippine Englishes in the World Englishes paradigm; 3.) World Englishes, Asian Englishes, and competing norms; 4.) World Englishes and the ASEAN lingua franca; 5.) World Englishes and language use in media; 6.) World Englishes and the ASEAN workplace; 7.) World Englishes vs English as a Lingua Franca.

The event was keynoted by known experts in the field such as Dr. Danilo Tayag, Full Professor and Chairperson, Department of English and Applied Linguistics at the Dela Salle University and President of Linguistic Society of the Philippines; Dr. Eyamba G. Bokamba, Professor of Linguistics and African Languages at the University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign; and Dr. Yasukata Yano, Professor Emeritus of Linguistics at the Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan .

The 15th Conference of the International Association for World Englishes was organized in partnership with Dela Salle University Manila, SIL Philippines; and the Philippine Social Science Center.

For more information, contact the Linguistic Society of the Philippines at (632) 524-4611 or through their website http://www.lsphil.org.

Tourism Students Gathered for LTSP National Convention

At least 450 students enrolled in tourism and hospitality management courses in various universities, colleges, and schools from around the country gathered for the 2nd League of Tourism Students of the Philippines (LTSP) National Convention held last September 26 – 28, 2009 at the Cebu Grand Convention Center in Cebu City.

Organized by the Tourism Educators and Movers Philippines (Team Philippines), the three-day event aims to update students with the latest trends in the global tourism industry, integrate to them the culture of tourism, and involve and empower the tourism academic sector towards development.

In her welcome remarks, Department of Tourism (DoT) 7 Director Dawnie Roa challenged the tourism students to strive for excellence despite the current global financial crisis once they get employment in the industry. Dir. Roa added, ''The tourism industry will continue to soar despite the crisis and negative stories churned out by the media. Don't be distracted, just do your best and prepare yourself as you embark on the tourism industry in the future,''

Topics discussed during the convention included Basic Exhibition Planning, ASEAN 2015 and Mutual Recognition of Tourism Professionals, Bidding for an International Event, and Organizing an Exhibition. Speakers during the convention were LTSP President Xander Xim Sigua, National Association for Independent Travel Agencies (NAITAS) Chairman Emeritus Robert Lim Joseph, Premiere Events Plus Group, Inc., President Mr. Joel Pascual, and several others, who shared their experiences with the students.

''There are things that can be learned in schools and there are things that can be learned based on experiences of industry movers,'' he stressed. ''The convention, hopefully, will give the students a glimpse of the industry in reality,” said Mr. Joseph.

The 2nd LTSP National Convention is supported by the Department of Tourism, Cebu Provincial Government, Philippine Tourism Authority, and Philippine Airlines.

For more information about the event, contact the League of Tourism Students of the Philippines, Inc. Secretary General at (632) 510-5129 or (63921) 686-8944. Visit their website at http://www.ltsp.org.ph/

Book Lovers, Authors, and Publishers Celebrate 30th MIBF

Book lovers, authors, and publishers from all over the Philippines are invited to be part of the pearl anniversary of the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) scheduled on September 16 – 20, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center , Mall of Asia Complex, in Pasay City.

The 30^th MIBF carries the theme, “Proud to be 30: Words Without Borders”. MIBF is organized by Primetrade Asia, Inc., in partnership with Asian Catholic Communicators, Inc. (ACCI), Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP), Philippine Booksellers Association, Inc. (PBAI), and Publishers’ Representatives Organization of the Philippines (PROP).

This annual fair, which began in 1981, has grown to reach out to a wide range of audiences, spanning different generations, interests and socio-economic backgrounds to share and celebrate their love of books. And now, thirty years from when it started, the MIBF continues to promote books and reading by giving the bookselling and publishing industry a venue to promote new titles and authors, dialogue with readers, and discuss ways to improve the quality of books. In its 30-year run, the MIBF has been instrumental in showcasing books in all their forms, encouraging people to read and find their inspiration. Thus, the MIBF serves as a platform for traditional and new media, presenting books and other published works in all their permutations to an ever-growing audience. Yet its vision remains the same: to be a platform for books and other published works, and to promote reading and literacy.

Numerous activities have been lined up during the event such as storytelling sessions, writing workshops, seminars and talks about the issues and concerns of authors and publishers, and more. The 30^th MIBF will be highlighted with the exhibition of Tomas Pinpin's “Librong Pag-aaralan nang manga Tagalog nang Uicang Castilla”, the first book authored and printed by a Filipino. The exhibition is in preparation for the book's 400th Anniversary in 2010.

Also co-located during the event is the Edu.Shop, a trade fair featuring school materials, supplies, equipment, and facilities.

The 30^th Manila International Book Fair is sponsored by Albergus Catering, The Brain Computer Corp., Oishi, ARMVET Printing Company, Immovation Printshoppe, Inc., and the following media partners: The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Veritas 846, 96.3 Easy Rock, A-Z Direct Marketing, Inc., Sambuhay (by Society of St. Paul), 99.5 RT , and NU 107.

For more information, call (632) 890-066, 896-0682, e-mail bookfair@primetradeasia.com or visit their website, www.manilabookfair.com/

Asia’s Green Experts Met in Manila for ICGIA 2009

An array of distinguished global and regional leaders and experts in environment and business presented their views on orienting industries toward sustainability during the International Conference on Green Industry in Asia (ICGIA) held last September 9-11, 2009 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

Carrying the theme “Managing the Transition to Resource- Efficient and Low-Carbon Industries”, the landmark conference was co-organized by the Government of the Philippines through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), with support from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission (UNESCAP). 



ICGIA aims to promote and emphasize ecologically sound business practices. It serves as a platform for industry leaders, economics experts, ecologists, and governments to exchange information and experiences.

More than 1,200 participants, including government ministers and senior officials of Asian countries, business leaders, top officials of the United Nations system and other international/regional organizations, ASEAN secretariat, prominent experts, media and civil society representatives attended the conference. 



Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Peter B. Favila welcomed the participants of the three-day event. In his speech, Sec. Favila said the Conference provides an opportunity to address approaches for improving industries’ environmental performance.

Representatives from various international organizations also expressed their insights on the conference. These include UNIDO Director-General Kandeh Yumkella, International Labour Organization (ILO) Director-General Juan Somavia (who spoke through a video message), UNESCAP Chief of the Environment and Development Policy Section, Environment and Development Division Masakazu Ichimura (who spoke on behalf of UN Under-Secretary General and Executive Secretary Noeleen Heyzer), and International Panel for Sustainable Resource Management Co-chair Ernst Ulrich von Weizsacker.

In his keynote address, DENR Secretary Jose ‘Lito’ Atienza stressed that the global financial and climate change crises, while both independent problems, cannot be solved with separate solutions. He said green growth was the common solution to these twin challenges, and noted that Asia needs to solve their economic problems in a sustainable manner that protects the environment, creates jobs, generates income and stimulates economic growth.

The highlight of the event was the adoption of the Manila Declaration on Green Industry in Asia and Framework of Action, which is the outcome document of the International Conference on Green Industry in Asia.

While the Manila Declaration and Framework of Action is a non-binding document, it outlines the steps needed to reduce resource intensity and carbon emissions of Asian industries. It also provides a mechanism to periodically review and assess progress in implementing the framework of action towards a low-carbon future.

The Manila Declaration encourages Asian countries to set the appropriate institutional and policy framework towards a transition to resource-efficient and low-carbon industries. It calls for measures such as the incorporation of cleaner production policies in national development plans, and the fostering of a viable business environment conducive to investments in green industries.

Moreover, it encourages the promotion of the increased use of renewable energy and energy-efficient processes in the industrial sector, research and development programs that will lead to green innovation, and investments and financing in low-carbon and resource-efficient manufacturing industries.

The Framework of Action calls for the establishment of a communications strategy to enhance awareness towards green industries performance tools. It also calls for a network of green industries by setting up of energy management standard among Asian countries.

For more information about the event, contact DENR at (632) 929-6626 or visit the conference website, http://www.unido.org/index.php?id=7781

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.

31st ASM Recognized 2009 Best Works in Science and Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Religious and Academic Books Went on Sale at Philippine Academic Book Fair

Numerous religious and academic books were sold at fair prices during the 13th Philippine Academic Book Fair held last June 23 to 27, 2009 at the SM Megatrade Hall I, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

Organized by the Academic Booksellers Association of the Philippines (ABAP), this year’s book fair carried the theme “The Filipino Booksellers: Responding To Academic and Information Needs In The Midst Of Global Challenges”.

Association of Local Colleges and Universities (ALCU) and the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) President Atty. Adel Tamano, and University of the Philippines – Diliman Head University Librarian Prof. Salvacion Arlante led the ribbon cutting ceremony to signify the formal opening of the five day event.

Atty. Tamano talked about the importance of the reading culture today and how instrumental the booksellers are to address this issue. Meanwhile, Prof. Arlante shared about the UP Library experience with booksellers and how they have bridged the needs of the Library. ABAP President Mr. Lino Dagus briefly discuss the state of the Association and the book and publishing industry itself.

Filipino folk singer and composer Mr. Noel Cabangon also graced the occasion and serenaded the audience with his inspiring compositions.

This year’s fair featured 44 exhibitors in the book publishing and book selling. It became a perfect venue for librarians, students, professionals and book enthusiast and took advantage of purchasing new books sold at fair prices.

The 13th Philippine Academic Book Fair is co-organized by Primetrade Asia, Inc., and supported by the Department of Education and Commission on Higher Education with the following media partners: St. Paul Libreria, 99.5RT, 101.1 Yes!FM, and NU107.

For more information about the event, contact Primetrade Asia, Inc., at (632) 896-0661, 896-0682, fax (632) 896-0695, email: bookfair@primetradeasia.com or visit their website at http://www.primetradeasia.com/