Protect 2010 Forum on focus to Business vs. Threat Reduction Concerns

Last April 15 to 16, Protect 2010 settled a conference at New World Hotel, Makati City with the theme “Disaster Risk Reduction Forum on Doing Business Amidst New Threats”.

This conference included five major sessions that respectively discussed Threats from Man-Made Disasters, Overcoming Major Threats in Doing Business, Reducing Threats – Preventing Crisis, Business Considerations, and the Latest Developments in Providing Security.

Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza officially opened the council as he delivered his keynote speech which emphasized the continuing partnership between the public and private sectors to prevent, respond, rescue, and recover for terrorism and natural disasters.

Protect 2010, which was co-organized by the Anti-Terrorism Council and Leverage International (Consultants) Inc. with Undersecretary Ricardo R. Blancaflor as the spokersperson, was attended by various representatives from different bureaus and departments inside and outside the country to also deliver sub-topics from each conference’s session.

The group of speakers with their respective sub-topics included (by Session):

Session 1

- Assistant Secretary Victoria S. Bataclan of the Office of ASEAN Affairs, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on the ASEAN Disaster Response Agreement
- Dr. Rohan Gunaranta, Head of the International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research, Singapore on the Current and Emerging Terrorist Threat
- Mr. Joseph C.F. Lufkin, Managing Director of INEX Infrastructure Exchange Ltd., and Consultant of the Asian Development Bank on the Climate Change: Business Implications and Impacts
- Dr. Ma. Leonila Bautista, Associate Scientist of the Philippine Institute Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on the READY Project: Hazards and Mapping Assessment for Effective Community-Based Disaster Risk Management
- Ms. Ma. Lynn P. Melosantos, Senior Scientist of PHIVOLCS on the MMEIRS Project: The Metro Manila Earthquake Impact Reduction Study

Session 2

- Mr. Michael Ross Controy, President of Condoza Software Solution Corporation on the Disaster Management – Hardware and Software Integration
- Mr. Raymond Koh, Regional Sales Manager of AXIS Communications on the Better Protection with Network Video Surveillance
- Mr. Pete Troilo, Country Manager of the Pacific Strategies Assessments, Serves on the Disaster Preparedness Committee, American Chamber of Commerce on the Analyzing Elections – Related Violence in the Philippines
- Mr. Drexx D. Laggui, Principal Consultant of Laggui & Associates, Inc. on the Securing Information Files
- Mr. Stephen P. Cutler, Director of Business Development Pacific Strategies and Assessments, Former FBI Agent on the Dynamic Protection of Critical Infrastructure
- Dr. Juan Ma. Pablo R. Nañagas, MPH, MNSA, Professor of the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, Former Undersecretary of Health for Health Facilities, Standards & Regulations, Former Director of the Philippine General Hospital, of past service with the National Security Council on the Biological Events
- Mr. Vasu Nair, ASEAN Regional Solutions Consultant of Hitachi Data Systems Pte. Limited on the Data Protection and Data Resilience
- Mr. Enrico E. Rampinelli, Chairman of ZETOS Swiss Forensic Supply on the Document Fraud Protection and Detection
- Mr. Luichi Robles, Country Manager of Symantec Philippines on the Managing Outsourcing Risks
- Mr. Alex Pastrana, Managing Partner of Jorge, Pastrana & Associates on the Incident Command System

Session 3

- Usec. Ricardo R. Blancaflor, Director General of Intellectual Property Office on the Presentation of the Philippine Disaster Management System
- Mr. Restiituto B. Macuto, Director of the Program Management Bureau, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on the DSWD Programs and Services: Safety Nets for Projects in Disaster Risk Management
- Mr. Amel C. Capili, National Representative of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), Emergency Services Officer of Asian Development Bank on the Emerging Role of An Emergency Manager
- Ms. Maria A. Ressa, News and Current Affairs Head, Managing Director of ANC ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation on the Best Practices in Crisis Communications
- Dr. Derrick K. Sim, Vice-President of GSK Philippines on the Pandemic Interventions: Protecting the Workforce and Reducing Transmission around the Premises

Session 4

- Mr. German F. Plan, Jr., Senior Vice-President and Head of Broking Operations of Marsh Philippines Risk Advisers and Insurance Brokers on the Impact of Natural Disasters on Insurance
- Mr. Joel L. Tan-Torres, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner on the Tax Implications of National Disasters
- Mr. Efren V. Leaño, Executive Director of the Board of Investments on the Investment Incentives for Projects in Disaster Risk Management

Session 5
- Mr. David Wee, Marketing Manager of the Security Solutions Deparment, SONY Business & Professional Products Asia on the HD Security Solutions
- Mr. Norbert Kiss, Vice-President of ASTARO Asia on the New Way of Looking at Branch Office VPN
- Mr. Raymond Koh, Regional Sales Manager of AXIS Communications on the Best of Network Video

The two-day forum brought the advantages of a partnership between the private and public sectors against cyber-terrorism, disaster risk reduction coordination, updated technologies that are readily implementable when the participants return to their offices, competitive edge in the marketplace for companies with a reputation for resiliency despite a crisis, and compliance with mandates by regulatory agencies and stockholders for corporate good governance.

Protect 2010 Forum about the “Disaster Risk Reduction Forum on Doing Business Amidst New Threats” was sponsored by Axis Communications, SONY, SourceSecurity.com, Bio Red Guide, ANC, BusinessWorld, Malaya Business Insight, BusinessMirror, and Management Systems.

For further information about the council, do contact the Secretariat tel. no. 818-6828, fax no. 810-1594, and/or e-mail at leverage@leverageinternaitonal.com.

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.

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/

DOT Opens MICECon 2010 to all Business, Industry Sector

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Joseph ‘Ace’ Durano has virtually opened the forthcoming conference on meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) to the entire business community as he invites all members of the corporate and entrepreneurial sectors to join the Philippine MICE Conference (MICECon) 2010 slated at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center on Feb. 4 - 7, 2010.

Sec. Durano said MICECON 2010 would orient corporate executives and entrepreneurs on the latest trends in this field, provide them with a lineup of competent foreign and local service providers, present to them the best practices worldwide, and acquaint them with the global network of MICE experts whom they could tap, thus enabling them to optimize the benefits they could derive from staging their own MICE-related activities anywhere in the world.

“MICECON is not just for the MICE sector of the tourism industry, but for the entire business community since it revolves around a marketing tool that is now being used extensively worldwide in pursuit of corporate and entrepreneurial objectives,” Sec. Durano explained.

This is the first time that a MICE event will be held north of Manila. Previous MICE events were staged in Cebu, Boracay, Davao, Bacolod and Batangas. The staging of this event in Subic is intended to develop and market the North as another MICE destination outside Manila. This is also the first time that the country’s two major MICE-related events – the Philippine Incentive Marketing Conference (Phil-Incentive) and the Philippine Asia MICE Forum – are brought together to form MICECON 2010.

Organized by the DOT and its marketing arm, the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corp. (PCVC), MICECON 2010 includes an Amazing MICE Race, MICE Leaders Forum, Educational Tracks for MICE Mates, MICE market seminars, business networking, and bid presentations of future MICECON hosts.

Aside from the seminars, workshops and business networking activities, MICECON 2010 also includes special events in three key northern destinations – Balanga for bird watching, Subic for the main conference, and Clark for the post-tour.

MICECON 2010 is supported by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Philippine Airlines, Philippine Tourism Authority, Provincial Government of Cebu, City Government of Balanga, Bataan, Provincial Government of Bohol, Victory Liner, Islands Philippines, Primer Group of Companies, Recreational Outdoor Exchange (ROX), WOW Jeepney Tours, Clark Development Corp., Clark International Airport Corp., Coltrans, Marriott Hotel, Travellers International Hotel Group, Annset Holidays, Inc., INTAS Destinations, Yellowbird Tours, Abacus International, Smart Communications, Inc., TTG Asia, Manila North Tollways Corp., Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers (PACEOS), Movement of Incentive Travel Executives (MITE), Hotel Sales & Marketing Association (HSMA), National Association of Independent Travel Agencies Inc. (NAITAS), and Travel Café Philippines.

For more information on MICECON 2010, contact the MICECON Secretariat at (632) 525-9318 local 233 or 525-6110, email phil.MICEconference@gmail.com, cit@dotpcvc.gov.ph, or visit www.dotpcvc.gov.ph.

Emerging Business Solutions at E-Services 2010

Bright skies are on the horizon as the tenth anniversary of the largest Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) event in the Philippines – the e-Services Global Sourcing Conference and Exhibition, scheduled on February 8 – 9, 2010 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, signals edgier, more empowered breakthroughs and solutions for the ICT/BPO business industry as world markets recover from recession.

Organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the event carries the theme, "Bright Skies Ahead: Collaborating for Smarter Business Solutions". An annual tradeshow and conference, e-Services has served as a premier platform for converging business and IT interests for local industry players and foreign delegations from places like the US, Japan, China, India, Korea, and the Asia Pacific. The show began in 2001 as a mere IT exhibition before evolving into the international ICT/BPO conference and exhibition it is today.

“We have always envisioned e-Services to be the venue, the go-to place, for global ICT leaders and authorities to interact, exchange ideas, and to showcase their products and services,” said Ms. Ma. Lourdes D. Mediran, Deputy Executive Director and Officer-in-Charge of CITEM. “Now for its 10th year, we want more than ever for IT companies to be where they need to be in order to maximize their business advantage, in light of the current market condition.”

Expectations for the show’s 10th year are high as the Philippines positions itself to grab a bigger market share from the multi billion-dollar BPO industry. e-Services 2009 booked US$100M export sales and US$1.484M in negotiated sales, as well as attracting ICT/BPO brands like Help Desk Institute – Japan (HDI-Japan), Salmat Limited, and Mustang Technologies, among others.

In addition to Back-office Operations, Contact Centers, Engineering and Design Services, Games Development, Animation, Health Information Management, Legal Transcription, and Software Development and Telecommunications – areas that showcase the competitiveness of the local industry – e-Services 2010 celebrates its landmark year with plenty of new attractions aimed at providing IT companies with the capabilities to maintain and improve the competitive advantage of their businesses.

Included in this is the introduction of new Exhibit Zones available: the Outsourcing Nation Zone where IT and BPO companies from neighboring Asian countries participate as exhibitors; the Green IT Zone that features environmentally-compliant IT companies and allied firms; the Consumer Electronics Zone that serves as a one-stop shop for the latest technology products and hardware electronics; the Creative Industry Zone with a sponsored Gaming Competition that includes local and international game developing companies; and the e-Government Zone to feature government agencies providing investments assistance to interested foreign companies.

In a bid to emphasize e-Services 2010 as the venue for high-level business matching and strategic partnerships, the Power Investors Program is launched as a buyer campaign program designed to maximize the business opportunities of exhibiting companies, with new formats Speed Networking and Online Business Matching made available.

Another fresh initiative is a Call for Papers mechanism with the aim of generating broader and more comprehensive choices for relevant topics to be presented in the Conference. Special Events such as the e-Services Awards that recognizes industry champions and ICT /BPO personalities and achievements; a Golf Tournament; a Networking Reception; and post-event company visits are also in the works.

The 10th e-Services Global Sourcing Conference and Exhibition is in partnership with the Board of Investments, Foreign Trade Service Corps, DTI-Regional Operations and Development Group, Commission on Information and Communications Technology and supported by Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPAP), Philippine Software Industry Association (PSIA), Animation Council of the Philippines, Inc. (ACPI), the Contact Center Association of the Philippines (CCAP), Medical Transcription Industry Association of the Philippines, Inc. (MTIAPI), Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP) European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, and the European IT Service Center. Media partners are: Media G8way Corporation (Computerworld, PC World), Outsourcing Magazine, Philstar.com, Business World, IT Matters, Business Mirror, Philippine Graphic, Wall Street Journal, Management Systems Asia, and China Business Philippines.

For more information on the 10th e-Services Global Sourcing Conference and Exhibition, contact the CITEM IT Services Division at (632) 832-5044, 831-2201 ext 212/251, email itservices@citem.com.ph, or visit the event website at www.e-servicesphils.com.

Philippine MMT Recognized at Asia Pacific Mobile Money Transfer Conference

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

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

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

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

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

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

Philippine KPO Status to be Revealed at BPA/P and O2P briefing

The Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPA/P) and Outsource2Philippines (O2P) in cooperation with TeamAsia, invites chief executives and decision makers to attend the senior executive briefing, "The State of Philippine KPO: A New Dawn?" to be held on November 24, 2009 from 8:00 am to 11:00 am at the Makati Shangri-La in Makati City.

The event will provide an unvarnished examination of the fast-evolving knowledge process outsourcing (KPO) industry, the state of the industry in the Philippines, and its implications—both opportunities and challenges. It will feature the presentation of the latest industry survey, which addressed both the state of KPO and related business continuity issues.

The briefing will also feature presentations by top industry executives and analysts, including Mr. Raoul Teh, Senior Site Officer for Thomson Reuters in the Philippines and Mr. David Guerrero, Chairman and Chief Creative Officer of BBDO Guerrero. A highlight of the briefing will be another dynamic panel discussion featuring Mr. Teh, Mr. Guerrero. With them are Mr. Caesar O.V. Parlade, General Manager of Deutsche Knowledge Service; Mr. Eric Tabuena, Country Head – Philippines and Chief Information Officer – Global, Integreon Managed Solutions (Philippines) Inc.; Dr. Vicente Fabella, President of Jose Rizal University; and Mr. Dondi O. Mapa, Managing Director of Duotal.

“The State of Philippine KPO: A New Dawn?" is sponsored by TeamAsia and Teleperformance with Business Mirror as media partner.

Register online at www.teamasia.com to take part in the event. For more information, contact Ms. Rona Castillo at (632) 757- 3500 ext 311, (63917) 881-3706 or e-mail rccastillo@teamasia.com.

RP Hosts East Asian Seas (EAS) Congress 2009

The Philippines will host this year’s East Asian Seas (EAS) Congress, slated on November 23-27, 2009 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila.

With the theme, “Partnerships at Work: Local Implementation and Good Practices,” the EAS Congress 2009 focuses on real actions and initiatives from the local level that contribute to the achievement of international and regional environmental targets and objectives, as well as the issues that confront local governments, communities and other stakeholders. The 2009 Congress, organized by Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), will also serve as the venue to review and identify future actions pertaining to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Strategy for the Seas of East Asia (SDS-SEA).

EAS Congress 2009 aims to highlight the initiatives and good practices at the local level covering wide area or issues on coastal and ocean management. This Congress emphasizes on-the-ground actions and innovations that contribute significantly in the achievement and meeting of regional and global environmental targets and commitments.

This year’s Congress will feature the Third Ministerial Forum, the International Conference on Sustainable Coastal and Ocean Development, the Third EAS Partnership Council Meeting, the Second EAS Youth Forum, an Environmental Exhibition on Good Practices and Innovative Technologies, Field Visits, and other side events.

The EAS Congress began in 2003 and has been held every three years to serve as a marketplace for knowledge and venue for partnership building contributing towards the vision of attaining the sustainable development of the East Asian Seas region.

EAS Congress 2009 is supported by the Global Environment Facility, United Nations Development Programme, United Nations Office for Project Services, and Coastal Management Center.

For more information on the EAS Congress, contact the EAS Congress Secretariat at (632) 929-2992, email congress@pemsea.org or visit the EAS Congress website at www.pemsea.org/eascongress

Asian Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility All Set This November

The eighth annual Asian Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility (AFCSR) will be held on November 19- 20, 2009 at the Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila in Quezon City.

This year's theme is " Sustaining CSR in Difficult Times: How business can benefit and why it still makes business sense". The conference, organized by Asian Institute of Management - Ramon V.del Rosario, Sr. Center for Corporate Social Responsibility (AIM-RVR CSR) and managed by OIC Events features several activities specially designed to address the various issues and concerns of CSR practitioners.

Plenary sessions will update delegates on the major trends and developments shaping the CSR landscape. Special interest sessions will be focused on specific dynamics, learning and best practices of companies AFCSR 2009 will showcase the latest frameworks, examples, products and technology designed to help companies integrate CSR into their business processes.

An integral part of AFCSR is the Asian CSR Awards that recognizes and honors Asian companies for outstanding, innovative and world-class products, services, projects and programs in five categories - Best Workplace Practices; Concern for Health; Environmental Excellence; Poverty Alleviation; and Support and Improvement of Education. These projects should demonstrate the company's leadership, sincerity and on-going commitment in incorporating ethical values, compliance with legal requirements, respect for individuals, involvement in communities and protection of the environment into the way they do business. The Awards ceremonies will take place during the Gala Dinner and Awards Night of AFCSR 2009 on November 20, 2009.

AFCSR 2009 is supported by Strategic Partner Intel and Lopez Group Foundation, Inc as Asian CSR Awards and Official Technology Partner. Official Industry Partners are Holcim Cement, Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company, Sagittarius Mines, Inc., The Phinma Group, Unilever and The Coca-Cola Company. Cooperating Partners are Ayala Corporation, Banyan Tree Global Foundation Ltd., Jubilant Organosys Ltd, Philippine American Life and General Insurance Company (Philamlife), Philippine Coffee Board (Kape Isla), Microsoft, Inc., and SM Foundation.

Public Relations Partners are Weber Shandwick - Manila, Amex Team - Thailand, APCO Worldwide - China, Creative Crest - India, IntegratedPublic Relations - Malaysia, Masso PR Vietnam and PR Society of Indonesia. Official media partners include International Herald Tribune, ammado, ACN Newswire, ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), Business World, ChinaCSR.com, China CSR Map, China Newswire, CSR Asia, G-PLUS GLOBAL Pte Ltd, Management Systems Asia, Philstar.com, Syntao, The Employer Magazine, and The Trainer Magazine.

For more information about the event, contact OIC Events at (632) 813-0711, 812-6289 or visit their website at www.asianforumcsr.com

Parking Business Operators Take Part in the Philippine International Parking Expo and Conference

Parking business operators in the country are invited to take part in the Philippine International Parking Expo and Conference slated on October 27 – 28, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center in of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

The event serves as a grand gathering of parking business suppliers and professionals showcasing products and services of the industry. This event also aims to convene and organize an association for all parking business operators to professionalize as well as grow the industry in the Philippines.

Metro Manila Development Authority Chairman Bayani Fernando will keynote the Conference. Speakers for the event include Mr. Dennis Cunning from DLC Consultancy; Mr. Peter Guest, Honorary member of the Croatian Parking Association; Dr. Eduardo Fulgencio from the American Society for Industrial Security; Mr. Angus Stevenson – Hamilton, Corporate Security Director for Shangri-la Group of Hotels Resorts, and Mr. John Van Horn, Parking World Editor and Publisher.

The 2009 Philippine International Parking Expo and Conference is in partnership with Department of Tourism, Philippine Society for Industrial Security, Makati Parking Authority, Ortigas Community Association, Inc., Automotive Association of the Philippines, Philippine Convention Visitors Corp., Entrepreneurs Society of the Philippines, and the following media partners: Jam 88.3, Wave 891, Magic 89.9, 99.5 RT,103.5 Max FM, Asenso Pinoy (IBC 13), Parking World, Philstar.com, Business Mirror, Philippine Graphic, Creative Voices, Travelife Magazine, Media G8way Corp., Entrepreneur Philippines, Cebuwebads.com, and BizLINQ.net.

For more information about the event, contact Ex-Link Management and Marketing Services Corp. at (632) 643-3887, 643-7760, 640-1280, email events@exlinkevents.com or visit the conference website at www.philparkingevents.com.

ABA conference in Manila

The Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) hosted and organized the 26th General Meeting and Conference of the Asian Bankers Association (ABA) last October 29 to 30, 2009.

With the theme, What's Ahead for Asian Banking", the event featured prominent speakers from both the private and public sectors which include: Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr,; Morgan Stanley Asia Chairman and author of The Next Asia (Wiley) Stephen Roach; Asianomics Ltd Founder and Managing Director Dr. Jim Walker; McKinsey & Co. Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer Christopher Beshouri; Asian Development Bank Senior Advisor for Financial Sector Noritaka Akamatsu; Credit Suisse Vice Chairman for the Asia and the Pacific Jose Isidro Camacho; Standard Chartered Bank Managing Director Bala Swaminathan; JP Morgan Managing Director Shun Pang; Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management Asia Managing Director Charles Mak.

ABA Members in the country include Development Bank of the Philippines, East West Banking Corporation, the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Corporation, the Philippine National Bank, and the RCBC.

Local and Foreign Business Leaders Gathered for Philippine Business Conference Expo

Local and foreign business leaders as well as policy makers gathered at the 35th Philippine Business Conference and Expo held at the Manila Hotel last October 20-22, 2009.

With this year’s theme: “One. Global. Filipino. Regional Economic Development: Frontline to Sustainability,” the conference, organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), underscored the important role of local and regional development in the overall agenda of national economic development and competitiveness in light of the global financial crisis, says PCCI President Edgardo Lacson.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo serve as keynote speaker during the event. Mr. Bert Hoffman, Country Director of World Bank – Philippines; and Mr. Kingson U. Sian, President, Alliance Global Inc. also addressed the participants comprised of members of various Chamber of Commerce and Industries here in the Philippines.

Speakers include Hon. Marianito Roque, Secretary, Department of Labor and Employment; Hon. Arthur Yap, Secretary, Department of Agriculture; Mr. Manny V. Pangilinan, Chairman, First Pacific Holdings Inc.; Hon. Vincent Perez, Chairman, National Renewable Energy Board; Hon. Emmanuel Y. Angeles, Chairman, Commission on Higher Education, and representatives from various local government units and different business sector.

Topics discussed include “Responding to the Job Crisis: Promoting a Decent Work Agenda,”, “Food Security: Sustaining the Food Basket for Tomorrow,” “Infrastructure Development: Stimulating the Local Economy, Enhancing Global Competitiveness,” and “Energy Security: Striking a Balance between Profitability and Enviromental Sustainability.”

35th Philippine Business Conference and Expo is sponsored by San Miguel Corporation, Holcim Cement; PLDT SME Nation; Banco de Oro; Megaworld; SM Investments Corporation; International Container Terminal Services; Philexport; PAGCOR; Department of Agriculture; Zest-O; ZestAir; Philippine Business Bank; Mercedes-Benz; Meralco; Metrobank; Quali Plus International; Gluta-C. and the following media partners: BusinessWorld; Manila Bulletin; GMA 7; QTV11; 97.1 Barangay LS FM; Focusmedia; eCopy; and TraveLife Magazine.

For more information, contact the PCCI at (632) 896-4549 or through the event website at http://pbc.philippinechamber.com/

Global BPO Firms Attends First Outsourcing Summit in RP

Top executives from more than 10 countries from global BPO companies and allied industries such as telecom and network infrastructure are attending the International Outsourcing Summit: Global Market Leaders Addressing Global Issues to be held on October 20-21, 2009 at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Manila.

Organized by the Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPA/P), the event aims to provide a venue for global BPO executives to discuss these issues and other threats and opportunities emerging for the industry and the opportunity to demonstrate the Philippines ’ new position of influence on the industry.

BPAP CEO Oscar Sanez said the key issues up for discussion in the summit include the changing landscape of the industry on a number of fronts.

The 2009 A.T. Kearney Global Services Location Index showed that while 70 percent of offshore outsourcing spending still comes from the US, European spending has increased faster in 2009, resulting in changes in preferred outsourcing locations and language preference.

He added that the shifts in geographical preference, including significant gains in the Philippines and Southeast Asia and the weakening of Eastern European locations, also make the global summit of critical interest to stakeholders around the world. The international event will also introduce new challenges such as educational capacity and workforce readiness, which affects the nature of work being outsourced.

“The International Outsourcing Summit allows us to publicly stake out our leadership role in the industry, and to demonstrate our influence on its development,” Sanez said.

The First International Outsourcing Summit is supported by the Department of Tourism, Department of Trade and Industry, Board of Investments, and sponsored by Excel Asia, Globe Business, Jones Lang LaSalle Leechui, PLDT Business Solutions, Eastern Communications, EXL Services, Alphaland Corporation, and the following media partners: Managements Systems Asia and The Radio Partners, Inc., (Jam 88.3, Wave 891, Magic 89.9, Killer Bee FM, 99.5 RT, 103.5 Max FM)

Soaring Like an Eagle and Beyond: Admin Professionals Hold 2009 Conference-Workshop

Packaging their 2009 Conference as a complete toolkit containing techniques to enhance the effectiveness of secretaries and administrative professionals, the Philippine Association of Secretaries (PAS) and Administrative Professionals Inc. held this year’s Administrative Professionals’ Conference-Workshop last Oct. 15–17 at the Asturias Hotel in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

Filled with several modules and group discussions across three days, the conference provided interactive learning activities that allowed the participants to develop a sense empowerment and improve their level competence – two factors that are very important in making a mark in all organizations and communities.

The overall goals of the conference-workshop included the following: building and supporting positive partnerships within the organization in order to highlight the administrative professional’s role in management; developing diplomacy skills; applying practical techniques to enhance the quality and timeliness of results and solutions to everyday situations and challenges to be able to increase individual productivity and improve overall performance; and creating a personalized action plan for possibilities for work excellence.

For more information regarding the event, you may contact PAS via email at pas_phils@yahoo.com. You may also call the PAS Secretariat at telephone number 813-6468 and look for Nitz Usita, or call 840-8441 (Luz de Jesus) or 810-0281 (Emily Parel). Registration forms and other queries may also be sent to fax number 818-5136.

REITASIA PACIFIC Philippines 2009 Conference “Key to Philippine Capital Markets Growth”

Organized by The Pinnacle Group International, the REITASIAPACIFIC – Philippines 2009 Conference was held at the Heritage Hotel Manila last September 30, 2009.

It discussed the future of REITs in the Philippines – how will it affect the equity market of the country, possible risks involved, the valuation of offshore and domestic IPOs, and identifying potential problems on the taxation, among related matters.

The Philippines, having a strong real-estate industry with an increase in expenditures of private real estate developers in terms of construction and developments of residential and commercial high-rise buildings, plus the influx of remittances by Overseas Filipino Workers, a booming tourism, and a growing number of offshore businesses, sees the current times as a good opportunity in having a bill on Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in the country.

Authored by Sen. Edgardo Angara, a bill on Philippine REITs has already been deliberated upon in the Senate and House of Representatives since January of 2009. The said bill was already implemented and benefited countries like Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and also around Asia such as Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand.

Delivering the key note speech was REITs author himself, Sen. Angara. Private and publicly listed real estate developers, legislators, regulators, and investment analysts were present to tackle further relevant issues on REITs.

Other speakers who graced the event were Mr. Francisco Ed Lim, Pres. & CEO, The Philippine Stock Exchange Inc., Mr. Jaime Ysmael, Senior VP & CFO, Ayala Land Inc., Mr Roy Melick, Chairman, Global Real Estate Group, Baker & McKenzie, Mr. Peter Mitchell, CEO, Asian Public Real Estate Association, Mr. David Moritz, Managing Director, Co-Head of Real Estate, S.E.A., Macquarie Capital Advisers, and Mr. Frederick Go, Pres. & COO, Robinsons Land Corporation.

A 2-day Fundamental of REITs Philippines Masterclass was held prior to the conference on September 28-29, 2009, also at the Heritage Hotel Manila.

Delegate fee (inclusive of lunch, refreshments, and conference documentation) was USD800 for conference plus masterclass. For PSE, MART, IHAP, APREA members, it was a 20%-discounted price of USD640. For foreign-based companies, however, fees were USD1200 and USD960 respectively.

The conference was supported by The Philippine Stock Exchange Inc. (PSE), Asian Public Real Estate Association(APREA), Investment House Association of the Philippines (IHAP) and Money Market Association of the Philippines (MART).

Sponsors of the event included: Macquarie Capital Advisers Real Estate, Quisumbing Torres, ATR Kimeng, and Baker & McKenzie; Associate Sponsors: DLA PIPER, ATCHISON Consultants, Standard Chartered, KPMG, Filinvest Land Inc., Robinsons Land Corporation; Media Partners: Business World, Philstar.com, MoneySense, Focus Economics, Asia Monitor, Emerging Markets Monitor and ChinaHedge.

To know more about the event organizers, you may reach their marketing team at +65 6846-2713, fax +65 6747-6131, or e-mail angel.rellama@tpgi.org.

5th Asian Carriers’ Conference

The Asian Carriers’ Conference (ACC) is an annual conference organized by the PLDT-SMART International & Carrier Business (ICS) Group. The event is attended by middle management to top executives from fixed and wireless telecommunications operators, equipment and software developers, VAS and VOIP providers, vendors and submarine cable operators from more than 44 countries to refresh business partnerships and explore new opportunities, negotiate and conclude agreements, to share insights, experiences and to learn of breakthroughs and innovations in the emerging marketplaces of Asia.

Going into full IP technology was one of the topics discussed during the 5th ACC held at the Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, Cebu City last September 9-12, 2009. The theme of this year’s ACC was “Pushing the Boundaries for Wholesale Carriers: Finding Silver Lining in the IP Cloud.”

The conference encourages telecommunications industry players to go beyond the boundaries of traditional business and exploit opportunities in the IP space. The 5th ACC is throwing the challenge to wholesale carriers to work closely together and realize revenue streams available over the internet.

Programme
Mr. Alejandro O. Caeg, Head of the International & Carrier Business (ICS), PLDT & SMART Communications, Inc. gave the welcome remarks on the evening of September 09, 2009.

Majority of the conference proper took place on September 10, 2009. Mr. Orlando O. Vea, PLDT Advisory Board and Chief Wireless Adviser of SMART Communications, Inc. delivered the keynote speech that morning. Among the presentors on that day were Stephane Dartige du Fournet, VP, Carrier Sales Asia, International Wholesale Solutions, Orange; Drew Kelton, Managing Director, Telstra International; Philippe Millet, Chairman, i3 Forum; Volker Burghardt, Director Business Development, Ancotel GmbH; and Dan Powdermaker, Sr. Vice President Sales & Marketing, Arbinet. A round table discussion was also conducted on the same day, which was moderated by Mathew Whalley, Editor of Capacity Magazine.

Day 3 of the conference, September 11, 2009, was primarily devoted to the individual workshops hosted by sponsors Global Crossing, Arbinet, NTT and Mera Systems. Also, viewing of the exhibits which opened on day 2 was ongoing. Booth exhibitors included PLDT & SMART; Orange; Telstra International; HKColo; Teliasonera, Ancotel and Voxbone. The conference was formally closed on September 11, again with Mr. Alejandro O. Caeg of ICS, PLDT-SMART giving the closing remarks.

Shift to IP-based services
The inevitable shift of the Philippines to Internet Protocol (IP)-based telecommunications, the future of the industry, from the existing radio signal-based global system for mobile communications (GSM), has foreseen challenges, including a massive capital expenditure, the need to interconnect and synchronize with other carriers and the need to develop new revenue generators as the traditional charges for voice calls could go obscure.

According to Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT) spokesperson Ramon Isberto, while some telecom providers like PLDT are starting to convert their infrastructure to full IP, it will take time for Internet users to fully maximize the full experience of IP. The Philippines will be able to fully take advantage of the IP (Internet Protocol) technology in the next four to five years, until telecommunication carriers will be able to complete transporting infrastructure from analog and digital to IP.

Dan Ibarra, PLDT head for retail business group, additionally said that the market has not yet picked up on the IP trend. For mobile phones alone, only 10 percent of total units is third-generation (3G) mobile service- and IP-capable. Most of the 36 million phone users are still dependent on GSM-based services like texting and calling.

For the Philippines, there is one sign needed to determine whether Filipinos are ready to jump into the bandwagon. “The first sign should be when prices for 3G phones go down. It hasn’t yet,” Ibarra said. “It’s ultimately the consumers who will determine it. When customers start to see the value of 3G then that’s when you see it [IP shift] happening.”

Internet Protocol (IP) Telephony is the transmission of voice signals over the Internet, wide area network (WAN), or local area network (LAN). IP Telephony uses voice-over-IP to break down voice transmissions into packets of data and transmitting them across a network.

Once telecommunication infrastructure in the Philippines will be able to be IP compatible, Internet users will be expecting exciting new data services, such as live video streaming, among others, which are not offered by the traditional telecom infrastructure.

Going into full IP capability is part of the PLDT’s multi-billion-peso capital expenditure to convert old system to New Generation Network (NGN). PLDT, the country’s biggest carrier, is already partially IP capable, but still needs to do a lot of changes in the switches, core network and terminals, before declaring full IP.

At this time, since going into full IP is still new, Isberto said there are still a lot of technical issues that need to be looked into, players still has to familiarized some of the technological changes, bugs and glitches still are to be expecting in the early introduction of full IP.

Sponsors
The 5th ACC was sponsored by Philippine Long Distance Company (PLDT); Smart Communications, Inc. (SMART); Symbio Networks; Orange (France Telecom); Telstra International; Belgacom International Carrier Services; Deutsche Telekom International Carrier Sales & Solutions (ICSS); Rogers Communications (Canadian communications and media company); Tata Communications; IDT Telecom Asia; Sprint; Ancotel; Directo; Verizon Business - International Partner Services (IPS); PCCW Global; TeliaSonera International Carrier; MERA Systems (together with CBoss and Telejet); Zoha Kish Telecom; HKCOLO; and Voxbone.

For more information on the conference, visit ACC at http://www.asiancarriersconference.com or contact the Secretariat at +63 32 231-5555, +63 32 234-0048, fax +63 32 234-0046 or email info@asiancarriersconference.com.

Low-cost Housing Industry Leaders Present Best Practices, Partnership Opportunities at 2nd Asia-Pacific Housing Forum

Housing developers, microfinance institutions, local governments, and academics are encouraged to attend the 2^nd Asia-Pacific Housing Forum slated today until September 9, 2009 at the Dusit Thani Manila Hotel in Makati City.

Organized by Habitat for Humanity International in cooperation with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies this year's forum revolves around the theme, "Maximizing Urban Poverty Housing Solutions for Greater Results." It gathers major stakeholders from the social, private and public sectors, academe and international organizations to share best practices, solutions and resource needs for the large and growing number of people living in substandard housing environments.

The forum presents opportunities for forging joint partnerships in housing projects, as potential sources of housing finance, cost efficient technologies, and social entrepreneurs are brought together by this event. The three-day event is structured in a manner to maximize dialogue, interaction and networking among participants. The forum's plenary sessions and discussion groups will focus on four themes: (1) innovations in housing the urban poor; (2) rethinking disaster response; (3) UNESCAP Quick Guides on Housing the Poor; and (4) "Leaders of Tomorrow Meet Leaders of Today".

Internationally acclaimed speakers and leading experts in housing concerns who will share insights at the forum, include:

• Dr. Nicolas P. Retsinas from the Joint Center for Housing Studies, Harvard University, with a plenary presentation on "Housing Policy: How to Meet the Needs of the Poor".
• Bruce Ferguson, former urban economist of the World Bank and member of the Advisory Board of Global Urban Development, on the plenary topic "A Value Chain Approach to Affordable Housing: The Key to Massive Scale";
• Graham Saunders, head of the shelter department at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Geneva, Switzerland, to speak on "Linking Disaster Response with Sustainable Development"
• Huub Cornelissen, director on energy and housing of The Netherlands Development Finance Company, to present the organization's initiatives in housing finance for the poor, and
• Nestor A. Espenilla, Jr., deputy governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas,to talk on the BSP's role in supporting housing microfinance in the banking sector

Vice President Noli de Castro, who is also the chairman of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council will be the guest of honor and will deliver the keynote address.

The 2nd Asia-Pacific Housing Forum is in partnership with the Department of Tourism Vestergaard Frandsen, Local Government of Taguig City, and sponsored by Citi, Acer Business World, Epson, ACNNewswire, and IndianNGOs.com.

For more information and for online registration, visit http://www.aphousingforum.org or contact the Secretariat at (632) 897-3356, 897 3069 loc. 107 or email 2APHFSecretariat@habitat.org.ph.

18th Mindanao Business Conference (MINBIZCON)

The biggest annual gathering of business and industry leaders, government policy makers and other stakeholders, the 18th Mindanao Business Conference (MINBIZCON) was hosted by the South Cotabato Chamber of Commerce & Industry Foundation Inc. last September 17-18, 2009 at the Fit Mart Mall Convention Center, Koronadal City, South Cotabato.

This year’s theme, “One. Global. Filipino. Rising Above the Global Challenges,” emphasized the Mindanao’s Business community’s vision to move ahead and further strengthen its alliance with global partners.

US Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney and Edgardo Lacson, president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), led the opening ceremonies. Kenney delivered her keynote address on the first day and reiterated her government’s continued support to Mindanao’s development initiatives. She held a press conference thereafter.

Members of the American Chamber of Commerce also came to seek prospects in the southern Philippines. The American government has been supporting Mindanao through various socio-economic programs in the past several years, funded through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) is one of the projects being implemented under the oversight of the Mindanao Economic Development Council (MEDCo).

Aside from the United States delegation, officials and businessmen from Brunei Indonesia Malaysia Philippines – East-Asean Growth Areas (BIMP-EAGA) Region also attended the event.

National Government officials invited to speak at the event were Senators Francis G. Escudero, Edgardo G. Angara, Francis N. Pangilinan, Loren B. Legarda and Manuel B. Villar Jr.

Also present were Mr. Gabby Cui, PLDT-SME Community Consultancy Head; Haji Ismail Damit, Business Council Executive Vice Chair, BIMP-EAGA; Hon. Fernando Q. Miguel, Mayor, Koronadal City; Bashir D. Rasuman, DPWH; Robert Anthony Te, Holcim Cement, Peter J. Forrestal, Chairman, Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI), Jose Alejandro, PCCI, Jonathan De Luzuriaga, Industry Affairs Director, Business Processing Association of the Philippines; Atty. Ferdinand L. Hernandez, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority; Hon. Daisy P. Avance Fuentes, Governor, South Cotabato; Prof. Ma. Lourdes A. Sereno, Executive Director, Asian Institute of Management Policy Center; and Dr. Victor B. Endriga.

As stated by Carlito Y. Uy, South Cotabato Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (SCCCIF) president and business conference director, discussions focused on improving the island's agriculture, trade, tourism and energy, infrastructure and information and communications technology potentials.

Other major concerns were the imminent power shortage feared to hit Mindanao and the private-public partnership initiatives to improve local government units' revenue generation measures. Speakers also discussed legislative reforms to benefit the Mindanao business sector and a special report on the status of priority infrastructure projects in the island.

Business leaders and policymakers also tackled the country’s commitment to the tariffs and trade agreements in the Asean Free Trade Area (AFTA). The AFTA was scheduled to implement the reduction of tariff of all products by 2010.

The topics were grouped into four quadrants. Quadrant 1 tackled “Legislative Reforms to Benefit Mindanao Business.” Quadrant 2 dealt on the issue “International Trade Cooperation and Mindanao’s Competitive Edge in Agriculture”. These included Plenary Sessions on Trade, Agriculture and Infrastructure. Quadrant 3 talked about “Pump-priming Mindanao’s economy through focus industries”. Plenary sessions discussed Mining, Energy, ICT and Tourism. Finally, Quadrant 4 focused on “Mindanao’s Public-Private partnership to improve LGU Revenue Generation”.

At the end of the conference, business leaders in the southern Philippines were to present to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo a set of integrated policy agenda containing the vision of the Mindanao business community to catapult the island to greater economic heights. The submission to the President of the Mindanao 2009 Business Policy Agenda was supposed to be the highlight of the two-day conference.

Unfortunately, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who was invited as keynote closing speaker, declined the invitation due to previous commitments. She designated Trade Undersecretary Merly M. Cruz to represent her instead.

While the plenary sessions were set at the Fit Mart Mall Convention Center, The Trade and Expo Fair which opened on September 14 was located at the Supermarket Area, Atrium, and 2nd floor of the same mall. It featured around 50 exhibitors from the following sectors: Tourism, Information and Communications Technology, Franchising, Foods and Crafts, Services, LGU Investment Desk, Corporate Showcases, Institutional Support Services, among others. Leading the pack of companies showcasing their products was General Santos City-based conglomerate RD Corp., which is into fishing, real estate banking and pawnshop, among others. The fair lasted until September 20.

The Department of Trade & Industry of Region 12 (DTI-12) also facilitated an investment matching on September 18, which generated a total of P601 million investment commitments. Investment areas included production of cardava banana, moringa or malunggay, fresh water shrimp or ulang, barako coffee and hotel development.

Attended by over 500 participants, MINBIZCON’s main goal was to attract investments in resource-rich Mindanao. The event was organized by South Cotabato Chamber of Commerce & Industry Foundation Inc. (SCCCIF), South Cotabato, and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with Dole Philippines Inc., Department of Trade and Industry, and Business World.

MINBIZCON was sponsored by City of Koronadal, US AID, Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM), Department of Tourism, PLDT SME-Nation, Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI), Holcim Cement, Banco De Oro, Foton Motor Philippines, Harbor Centre Port Terminal Inc. and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

For more information on MINBIZCON, visit their official event website http://www.southcotchamber.com/18thminbizcon/index.php courtesy of the South Cotabato Chamber of Commerce.

Bigger and Better PHITEX 2009 All Set this September

The Department of Tourism (DOT) through the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC), will spearhead the 9^th Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX ‘09) on September 2 – 4, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

PHITEX is an annual marketing event to strengthen the country’s brand image and to encourage participants to promote affordable and competitive tour packages. This year’s theme is “Explore, Experience... The Philippines is made to be traveled”. The country’s unique 7,107-island geography is ideal for those seeking adventure, diving, history, dining and shopping. DOT is spearheading the promotions to highlight some of the archipelago's unique island attractions that a traveler can explore and experience.

The main component of PHITEX is the Travel Exchange or (TRAVEX), where sellers of Philippine tourism packages meet up with international Buyers in one-on-one scheduled business appointments. In addition to TRAVEX, pre- and post-conference tours to key Philippine attractions and destinations are available for the Buyers to experience first-hand the beauty of the islands and the warmth of its people.

The Philippine Travel Exchange 2009 is supported by Philippine Airlines, OksPinoy, Inc., Philippine Tour Operators Association, Philippine Travel Agencies Association, TTG Asia Media Pte. Ltd., and Hotel Sales and Marketing Association International, Inc.

For more information, contact the Phitex 2009 Secretariat at 632) 525-7320 / 525-9318 loc. 270, 240, email phitex2009@dotpcvc.gov.ph or visit their website, http://www.okspinoy.com/phitex/

AFFI Holds 8th Filipino Franchise Show

The Association of Filipino Franchisers, Inc., (AFFI) will hold the 8^th Filipino Franchising Show at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on September 4 – 6, 2009.

With the theme “Franchising Opportunities: Rising Above the Crisis”, this trade fair promises to showcase the Philippines' most responsible and most promising Filipino franchisers under one roof. It offers a wide variety of franchises to interested investors with different budgets.

The show is part of AFFI's effort to provide business opportunities among entrepreneurs and educate them about the franchising business.

The 8^th Filipino Franchising Show is sponsored by Globe Business, SeaOil Philippines, Inc., Clerysys Philippines, Bank of the Philippine Island Family Savings Bank, in partnership with Mindgate Systems, Inc. Event is managed by Trade Advertising Exhibitions and Conventions International, Inc. (TRADECON, INC.)

For inquiries, call the Association of Filipino Franchisers Secretariat at (632) 633-8547, 395-5009, email affisecretariat@gmail.com. Visit their website, www.franchiseshowphilippines.com for free online registration.