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.

HealthCare Information Management Outsourcing Services 2010

In the past few years, the health care information management and outsourcing industry broke through the market and now commands a high-value, world class playing field.

With this trend in mind, the Healthcare Information Management Outsourcing Association of the Phillippines (HIMOAP)(formerly known as Medical Transcription Industry Association of the Philippines, Inc.), together with DL Media Focus International Inc. organized HealthCare Information Management Outsourcing Services 2010 held last Aug. 10 at the Crowne Plaza Galleria.

Centered on the theme “Bringing the Philippine Workforce to the 21st Century,” the conference gathered healthcare information companies, hospital IT administrators, medical and IT professionals, entrepreneurs and business owners, educators, health maintenance groups, and medical transcription companies to learn about the healthcare information business and its various opportunities, the latest information management systems, skill and industry requirements, and the most current network trends and global perspectives in the industry.

Some of the topics discussed were the market trends and service opportunities in the Philippines, IT systems and protected health information, the value of health informatics, the international classification of diseases and current procedural technology codes in healthcare information management, and career development opportunities in the industry.

HealthCare Information Management Outsourcing Services 2010 was held in cooperation with the Business Processing Association of the Philippines, the Congressional Commission on Science and Technology, and Tholons Advisory, Investments, and Research, co-presented by PLDT Business Solutions, and supported by Bayan Telecommunications. The Philippine Star served as the event’s media partner.

For more information, please visit www.mtiapi.com or www.himoap.com, or contact DL Media Focus International Inc. at telephone numbers (632) 889-7763, 856-4954, 844-8341, or telefax number 886-4407.

7-Eleven Tour 500

In celebration of the opening of their 500th store, 7-Eleven gave back its success to the Filipino community, who has remained faithful and staunch customers since the launch of its first store in 1984, through a special biking tour named the 7-Eleven Tour 500. The tour was held at the 7-Eleven Market Drive in Filinvest Corporation, Alabang last August 8, 2010.

This inspiring advocacy was created to provide a safe and fun venue for biking enthusiasts of all ages (experienced and non-experienced bikers alike) to enjoy the world through two wheels, while helping those in need and the less fortunate by giving back to chosen charities.

Open to all biking enthusiasts who want to enjoy the thrills of riding in a safe environment while helping your chosen charities, the 7-Eleven Tour 500 will commence on August 8, 2010 at 7:30am at the 7. The event was joined by various biking enthusiasts who want to complete their first 60km ride in serene and supportive surroundings, as well as those who wish to test themselves in a competitive environment. The first 37km of the route took riders through Daang Hari, Molino Drive, Paliparan Road and Governor's Drive. There were also choices to turn into Amadeo Road or finish at the Tagaytay Convention Center.

The first placer got P25,000 donated to a charity or NGO of his choice, while the second and third placers got P10,000 and P5,000 donated to their chosen charities, respectively. Proceeds from the biking tour will also go to Bantay Bata.

Ms. Irish Valenzuela, a 24-year-old pride of Asingan, Pangasinan took top honors in the 90.4- km. race from Alabang, Muntinlupa in a time of three hours, 18 minutes and 16 seconds.

For more information on the 7-Eleven Tour 500, contact the Philippine Seven Corporation at (632) 726-9968, (63920) 950-8651 or (63917) 871-1475, email franchising@7-eleven.com.ph or visit www.7-eleven.com.ph.

WEAP 5th Annual Convention

The Water Environment Association of the Philippines (WEAP) Inc., a member of the association of the Water Environment Federation (WEF) of the United States held its 5th Annual Convention last August 5 and 6, 2010 at the Waterfront Hotel & Casino Lahug, Cebu City.

This year’s theme is “Climate Change: Act Now for Future Generations.” Andrew T. Montalbo and Artemio F. Baylosis, WEAP president and president-elect respectively, welcomed delegates and the representatives from the various water districts, private companies, LGUs, manufacturers, environmental practitioners and pollution control officers that attended the event.

On the other hand, the technical sessions highlighted the following topics: “The Basics of Global Warming,” “The La Niña and El Niño Phenomenon,”“Sewerage and Sanitation: The Emerging Challenge,” “Combined Sewage and Septage Treatment: The FTI STP Experience,” “Renewable Energy: The Alternative Source of Energy”, and “Mitigation and Adaptation of Climate Change and The Green Design”.

For more inquiries, contact WEAP Secretariat, (632) 775-2030, email weaphil@yahoo.com, or visit the WEAP website http://www.weaphil.com.

Philippine Six Sigma Conference 2010

Incorporate the 'Six Sigma Discipline' through the Philippine Six Sigma Conference 2010 to be held at the Hotel Intercontinental, Makati City on August 4 to 5, 2010.

This conference is presented by Fiera de Manila, Inc. in cooperation with the Center for Lean Systems and Management, De La Salle University, and the International Alliance of Quality Professionals (IAQP), Digileaf, Inc.

The conference will share learning on the benefits, costs, realities, and truths of the most powerful improvement methodology in the business world today, knowledge on the strategies to identify, evaluate, and campaign projects for Six Sigma implementation, sharing on the techniques and understanding the standard Six Sigma model, case study presentations of success and failure of Six Sigma application or implementation in the manufacturing and service sectors, and networking with Six Sigma Experts and Practitioners.

Presidents, CEOs, Senior Level Executives, Directors, General Managers, Managing Directors, Managers, Business Owners, Entrepreneurs and SMEs, in various industry sectors, such as: Telecom, Healthcare, Financial/Banking, BPOs, Logistics, Transport, Export/Import, Manufacturing, Government, NGOs, and those who are practicing and beginning the journey of quality excellence in their respective organizations are invited to join and register to the event.

The Philippine Six Sigma Conference 2010 will be graced by its keynote speaker, Mr. Dan C. Lachica, President & CEO, First Philec Solar Corporation on the topic "The Opportunities in Lean and Six Sigma". Other speakers who will also share their expertise in their respective fields will also attend the conference. Some of them will be Mr. Amante 'Teng' Araneta Aguilar, Consultant, Supply Chain Management; and Jeff S. Mejia, Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, Digileaf, Inc. on the topics "Building a Culture of Continuous Improvement and Quality Excellence in Organizations;" "Understanding the Fusion of Enterprise Quality Models;" "Understanding Lean & Six Sigma and Its Key Benefits - What's In It for Me?"; and, "Developing Metrics for Six Sigma."

Sponsors of the Philippine Six Sigma Conference 2010 are CLSM, IAQP, Philippine Daily Inquirer, BusinessWorld, BusinessMirror, Studio 23, The Philippine Star, Magic 89.9, 103.5 Max FM, and InfoTXT.

For exhibit, sponsorship, registration, or further information on the event, call (632) 896-0639, 896-0637, 899-6216, fax at (632) 896-0637, 890-2101, e-mail at fiera@info.com.ph or visit the website at http://www.fmi.com.ph.

World Food Expo 2010 at WTC & SMX Convention - an Ultimate Food Show Experience!

Join the celebration of World Food Expo 2010 (WOFEX) for the 10th International Exposition on Worldwide Food and Beverage, Technology and Machinery  - the Ultimate Food Show Experience held at two big venues, firstly at the World Trade Center, and at the SMX Convention Center, both in Pasay City, Metro Manila on August 4 to 7.

Aside from seminars, exhibits and presentations, competition like the 1st Philippine Culinary Cup dubbed as the Country's Most Prestigious International Culinary Competition will also be one of the event's highlights to look forward to.

Some of the Expo's scheduled activities and seminars include Cake Decorating and Korean Cooking for the first day, Mediterranean Cuisines and Bartending Activity for the second day, Franchising and Trade Marking on the third day, and the Search for the Cook Idol for the last day.

WOFEX is where buyers and sellers gather every first week of August. The most number of exhibitors, the most number of trade visitors, and the most number of sales generated - these are the true measures of a successful exhibition. No wonder why WOFEX is called "The ultimate Food Show Experience!"

World Food Expo's 10th International Exposition on Worldwide Food and Beverage, Technology and Machinery sponsors are GASUL , KLG International Inc., Sun Cellular, Gomeco, Multi-Mach, Cosmic, Ajinomoto, Minami Tsushow Co. Ltd., Sunbest, Vesmach, Tefal, Joe Kuan, The Philippine STAR, Cook Magazine, BusinessMirror, Philippine Graphic, Appetite, FLAVORS, F&B World, QTV Channel 11, JIMAC, Events Incorporated, and the Sweet Life.

For more information, do contact the telefax numbers at (632) 929-7963, (632) 929-7993, (632) 426-9603, (632) 436-4209, (632) 436-4898; e-mail address at info@PEPGroup.com, or visit the website at www.pepgroup.com.

18th Metro Manila Business Conference

The 18th Metro Manila Business Conference (MMBC) was held last July 30, 2010 at the Manila Hotel. Anchored on the theme “One.Global.Filipino.: On the Road to Economic Recovery”, the 18th MMBC reflected the buoyant hopes of businessmen amidst the lingering uncertainties in the global economy and highlighted issues that affect business in the metropolis, among them public-private partnership, energy sufficiency, the status of free trade agreements, disaster preparedness, and environmental protection as a corporate concern.

Vice President Jejomar Binay was the conference Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker. Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvocs) Director Renato Solidum, Department of Trade and Industries Usec. Zenaida Maglaya, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industries President Ambassador Francis Chua, and ABS-CBN Foundation Chairman Regina Lopez were among the prestigious roster of conference speakers, along with PCCI President Amb. Francis Chua.

VP Tony Keh in his welcome remarks said that the conference was a good venue for both government and private sector to interact and reinforce to decisively deal with the present economic situation in Metro Manila and the country as well.

The conference was capped with the event Gala Night at which was co-hosted by PLDT SME Nation. Relaxed setting, dancing and exciting prizes were raffled off.

The conference was hosted by the PCCI NCR – North Sector, composed of four local chambers namely: Caloocan, Malabon, Greater Valenzuela and Greater Malabon, headed by PCCI Vice President for NCR and Conference Chairman Antonio C. Keh and Regional Governor and Co-Chairman Danilo A. Sanchez.

The annual Metro Manila Business Conference is organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Metro Manila Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MMCCI) is an annual gathering of the fourteen (14) PCCI local chambers members in Metro Manila, government officials and other stakeholders for the discussion and resolution of issues and concerns affecting Metro Manila.

For more information, contact the PCCI at (632)896-4549, fax (632)899-1727, e-mail pcci@philippinechamber.com, or visit their website at http://www.philippinechamber.com/.

39th SKAL Asian Congress

It will be red carpet all the way for Skålleagues and their families and friends who will be attending the 39th Skål Asian Congress from May 27 to 30, 2010 in Cebu.

Hosted by Skal Club Cebu, at least 100 foreign stakeholders in the international tourism industry and 60 more of their local counterparts are expected converge in Cebu and take part in the said event.

Numerous activities have been lined up for the Skålleagues throughout the four-day affair. The Asian Board of Officers' Dinner will be held on May 26 at the Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa. Major activities and meetings will be held at the Shangri-la Mactan Resort and Spa. Golfer delegates will show off their strokes at the Asian Golf Tournament to be held on May 27 at the Mactan Airbase. Later, welcome cocktails and dinner will be served at Plantation Bay Resort & Spa. The President’s Meeting, set on May 28, will be held at the Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa. Finally, a Gala Dinner will be held on May 29 at Waterfront Hotel and Casino.

The Cebu Congress will, for the first time, include the Young Skål Forum. Young Skål members from Thailand, Hong Kong, the Philippines and other Asian cities are expected to participate and inject a new phase to Skål Asia. Another first for the Asian Congress is the Skål Tourism Awards for outstanding clubs and personalities to be conducted by the Asian Area and Skål International Philippines to be presented by Skål International Makati.

The 39th Skål Asian Congress is supported by Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, Duty Free Philippines, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) (formerly Philippine Tourism Authority), Department of Tourism, Cebu Pacific Air, Lapu-Lapu City Government, City of Cebu, Province of Cebu, Amadeus and Islands Group, and Islands Souvenirs.

For registration, visit the following websites www.skalasia.org, www.skalasiancongress.com or email skal2010cebu@gmail.com.

Celebrations 2010 - A Bridal Show and Events Expo

Soon-to-wed couples, debutants, and other individuals can start planning their parties by meeting up with local wedding and events suppliers during Celebrations! A Bridal Show and Events Expo to be held on May 22 – 23, 2010 at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Celebrations! is created with the idea that all of life’s big events deserve a special celebration. Hence, Celebrations! covers it all: venues and facilities, catering, entertainment, event styling and decoration, photo and video services, invitations, souvenirs, wedding rings, cakes, flowers and balloons, lighting and sound facilities, audio visual equipment, special effects and more.

Celebrations! aims to make your special event exactly what you have hoped for – perfect weddings, successful corporate events and fun private parties. With this goal, Celebrations! will showcase only the best and most credible in the industry to help save time in the process of selecting the right suppliers for your every event need.

Numerous activities have been lined up for attending guests. Admission is free for pre-registered couples, debutants and guests. P100.00 will be charged for walk-in and non-registered guests.

Celebrations! A Bridal Show and Events Expo is partnership with Eloquente Catering Service, Goldilocks Bakeshop, 4th Wall Designs, BDO, Fotoloco, Great Image Photography, Mr. Hardinero Landscaping and Flower Shop, Weddings at Work, Tambayan 101.9, Lifestyle Network, and Metro Weddings Magazine.

For more information, contact Chu-U-Yen Events at (632) 456-2104, (63919) 681-0600, fax (632) 361-7670, e-mail chu_u_yen@yahoo.com or visit their website at http://www.celebrations.com.ph.

Insider Secrets to a Google Friendly Website

Undoubtedly, Google  is one of the most popular online destinations and the leading search engine in the web today. With hosts and hosts of companies and groups vying for the number 1 spot in the search results in Google, what do you do to rise over your competition?

This and more was discussed in the one-time “Insider Secrets to a Google Friendly Website,” organized by Powermax Consulting Group Inc. last April 29 and 30 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Galleria.

Former Google Optimization Specialist and international marketing expert Mr. Simon Leung was the featured speaker of the event, who shared with the participants of the conference some valuable information to make your website stand out among the pool of competitors.

Other topics discussed were the top priorities of Google for the year 2010, the mistakes to avoid and the things to include in your website to make it stand out, integrating social media and setting up outbound and navigational links in your site, and essential content pages and the critical quality criteria that are often missed out by the companies in the process of developing their websites.

A bonus topic, the debunking of Google Adword Myths, was also discussed in the event.

Together with Powermax Consulting, event partners the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Inquirer Job Market, UK Derm Pharma, and Porter and Miles Inc.

Interest parties may contact telephone numbers. 470-1054 to 55, 470-1057, 470-1342, or 706-0514 (look for Leni), or mobile number 0905-3364486. You may also send an email to info@powermaxph.com.

Netizen Icons and Experts to Grace 3rd Social Networking Conference 2010

Digital Marketing think tanks, media personalities, social media experts and netizen icons will share their expertise during the 3^rd Social Networking Conference 2010 scheduled on April 22-23, 2010 at the Grand Ballroom of Hotel Intercontinental in Makati City.

The Social Networking Conference 2010, presented by Fiera de Manila, Inc., and DigitalFilipino Club is an event geared towards companies and digital marketing/advertising professionals and businessmen/entrepreneurs who are interested to use social networks for advertising/marketing their products and services. It is for dynamic and innovative companies, start-ups, and upcoming players who would like to leverage on current technologies to communicate and sell their products/services through social networks; and, gain knowledge as to how this industry is working and evolving.

Experts who will share their time and knowledge with participants include:

• Maria A. Ressa, Senior Vice-President, ABS-CBN News & Current Affairs and Managing Director, ANC
• Paul Papadimitriou, Digital Intelligence Strategist, Driving Left, Limassol and Tokyo
• Paul John M. Peña, Head - Digital Marketing, Globe Telecom, Inc.
• Juan Armando V. Rojo, Vice President, Corporate Brand and Communications, Bayan Telecommunications
• Alex Dan Tacderas, Brand Manager, Kraft Foods
• Eduardo Mapa Jr., Managing Director, Media Contacts Manila
• Rosan Cruz, Assistant Vice President of Group Public Relations, BENPRES Holdings Corporation
• Joey Alarilla, Social Media Editor, Yahoo! Southeast Asia
• Jim Ayson, Senior Product Manager, VAS & DATA Services/WCD, SMART Communications Inc.
• Janette Toral, Founder, DigitalFilipino
• Racquel Cagurangan, General Manager, PoliticalArena.com
• Nick B. Fontanilla, Ph.D., President, The Asia-Pacific Centre for Research, Inc. and President, Philippine Marketing Association (PMA)
• Leah Camilla R. Besa-Jimenez, General Manager, Proximity Philippines
• Brad Geiser, Co-Founder, Geiser Maclang Marketing Communications Inc.
• Chinie Hidalgo-Diaz, Marketing Director, Teleforce Asia Inc.

Other highlights of the two-day event include technology presentation, case study analysis, and the Social Networking Awards Ceremonies 2010 which honors Filipino excellence in social media and social network marketing and advertising.

The 3rd Social Networking Conference 2010 is sponsored by Yahoo Philippines, Globe Telecom, Inc., Eyeblaster, SMART Communications Inc., Inquirer.net, BusinessWorld, Business Mirror, Studio 23, Philstar.com, Jam 88.3, Wave 891, Magic 89.9, 99.5 RT, and 103.5 Max FM, Filbars International Subscription System Inc, and Blog4Reviews.

For registration and inquiries, please contact the Event Manager at (632) 896-0639, 896-0637, 899-6216 or e-mail at fiera@info.com.ph. Visit the website at www.fmi.com.ph or http://socialnetworkphilippines.blogspot.com.

Pinoy Architects All Set for UAP CONEX 2010

Thousands of Filipino architects will meet to share educational programs, and explore the latest research, as the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) stage its annual Convention and Exhibition (CONEX 2010) on April 22-25, 2010 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Held in conjunction with the 36th UAP National Convention, CONEX 2010 aims to develop an appropriate market setting to enhance sales productivity, open opportunities for public interaction, forge and renew client contacts, generate market presence, launch new products, disseminate information, ascertain client needs, influence client decision-making and close deals.

Today, CONEX 2010 has become the buzzword in the industry and has been generating positive feedback from construction suppliers. By gaining access to firsthand information and the free flow of ideas, event participants become more armed as they get to hone their competitive edge and throw their gates wide open to newer technical innovations.

Living up to its renewed commitment for professionalism, the UAP has envisioned CONEX’s globalization through the implementation of comprehensive marketing solutions to the construction community. Providing excellent opportunities to network and gather market intelligence as well as to sell, CONEX 2010 forms a successful, real-time meeting ground for the construction industry.

For more information, contact the United Architects of the Philippines at (632) 412-6403, 412-6364, fax (632) 372-1796, email uapconex@yahoo.com or visit the event website at http://www.uapconex2010.co.cc/

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/.

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)

PRSP Held Two-Part Digital PR Seminar

The Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) held there Professional Development seminar focused on digital PR last September 25, 2009 and October 16, 2009 at the InterContinental Hotel Manila in Makati City.

Aptly titled, “A Whole New World of Digital PR”, the 2-part seminar aims to gather industry experts to discuss and share their insights on the various aspects of online reputation management, the online media as a part of campaigns and strategies to build brand relationships with stakeholders.

Among the list of respected speakers include:

Speaker	Topic
Mr. Jay Bautista, The Nielsen Company Philippines – Media Group Executive Director	The Philippine Digital Landscape: An Assessment
Mr. Mike Palacios, Havoc Digital General Manager	How to use Digital PR Tools Effectively
Ms. Janette Toral, founder of DigitalFilipino.com	Effective Online PR with Bloggers
Mr. Reggie Velasco, Yellow Brick Road Philippines General Manager (Yahoo!)	Digital PR the Yahoo! Way
Mr. Paulo Pangan Yehey! Corporation Digital Strategy Manager	Digital PR Techniques for Politics
Mr. Donald Patrick Lim, Yehey! Corporation Chief Executive Officer	Viral Marketing Techniques for Online Word of Mouth (WOM)
Ms. Aileen Apolo, Google Country Consultant for the Philippines	Using Google Search for Online PR
Ms. Crisela Magpayo-Cervantes, ABS-CBN Interactive Customer Marketing Head	Using Online Communities for Digital PR
Mr. Carlo Ople, Friendster Global Digital Marketing Manager	Using Social Networks for PR

Mr. Donald Patrick Lim, along with Ms. Elaine Uy, Chief Marketing Officer of Yehey! Corporation facilitated the workshop on the process of organizing a blogger event as a tool for brand relations and crisis management.

For more information about the event, contact the PRSP at telefax (632) 638-0012, 638-0010, email publicrelations.prsp@yahoo.com, prsociety.prsp@yahoo.com or visit www.prsp.ph

Philippine Tourism Boosted at 20th Philippine Travel Mart

Spearheaded by Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), the biggest association of tour operators and allied members, the 20th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) was held last September 4-6, 2009 at the MegaTrade Hall of SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

PTM, the premiere and biggest travel, tourism and trade show in the country, has the most extensive coverage of the tourism and travel industry in the Philippines. It has a solid track record of bringing in thousands of local corporate buyers and consumers in a single venue for travel and tourism. It has also carved a niche in the international market as a prime venue for foreign buyers as a must-see, must-be event held in collaboration with the Department of Tourism.

PHILTOA, the main proponent behind the PTM, is the biggest association of tour operators and agencies that promote exclusively domestic and inbound tourism. It has a nationwide membership and has been at the frontier of Domestic tourism promotion, partnering with DOT, and its regional offices.

With “Beyond the Usual… Experience IT Here” as conference/exhibition theme, the main highlight of this year’s PTM was the Grand Vacation Sale ng Bayan, where exhibitors and participants offered beyond the usual, attractive discounts and special offers to consumers during the 3-day event. Reservations for travel and tour, hotel, transport (sea and air) were available to be purchased at lower rates but should be availed of or completed on or before November 15, 2009.

BPI credit card holders were entitled to 12-month instalment term promos inclusive of 3 day-2 night packages, complete with airfare, land transfers, hotel accomodations plus beyond the usual activities.

Aside from individual buyers, programs were also available for small and medium businesses to big corporations. The Corporate Buyers Program offered options for trips, tours and adventures geared towards corporate outings or even as company incentives to its employees.

Eco-tourism is one of the main pillars of this year’s efforts of showcasing beyond the usual in Philippine tourism and encouraging consumers to experience the Philippines in unusual ways. For this year, PTM has partnered with ABS CBN Foundation for their Kapit Bisig Para Sa Ilog Pasig project in launching another new innovation in Philippine tourism –thru the Pasig river travel cruise. The intent is to promote the Pasig river cruise as a tourism vehicle that ends in Escolta, tying it in with a walking tour of Binondo, cuisines galore from street foods to fine dining and tiangge shopping.

Entrance to the PTM exhibit was Php 50.00, while for senior citizens and students it was only Php 40.00.

An exciting line-up of special crowd-drawing events were conducted to ensure patronage from the different provinces as well as the greater Manila area consumers. Among this year’s events were the traditional Bituin ng Kasuotang Filipino, the traditional Best Cultural Presentation, Tourism Quiz Bee, seminar for students and practitioners in the travel industry entitled Biyahe-info, one-on-one corporate business meeting between sellers and corporate buyers entitled BiyahExhange, and an Eco-Chorale Competition which had two divisions, High School level and College level. A thanksgiving mass was given on the last day of the exhibit, and also the awarding of winners was done on the same day. The theme for the 21st PTM was also unveiled before the last day of the event ended.

The 20th PTM was sponsored by the Department of Tourism, Philippine Tourism Authority, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Philippine Airlines, PAGCOR, CLARK Freeport, Primer Group of Companies, Chase Technologies Corporation, Jeepney Tours, BPI Express Credit, Kapit Bisig Para Sa Ilog Pasig, ABS-CBN, ABS-CBN Foundation, Manila Bulletin, ANC, Expat Travel & Lifestyle Magazine, Travel Update Philippines, The Foreign Post, Travel Plus, Travelife, Good News Pilipinas!, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Homestyle Magazine, and Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission.

For more information on Philippine Travel Mart, contact the Philippine Tour Operators Association at info@philtoa.org, secgen@philtoa.org or visit the event website at http://www.philtravelmart.com.

Experts Shared Views and Practices at 3rd Internet Mobile and Marketing Summit

Internet and mobile marketing experts from all over the world shared their insights and success stories in utilizing the power of the internet and mobile media for marketing purposes during the 3^rd Internet Mobile and Marketing Summit held last August 25 – 26, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

Organized by the Internet and Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines, the event was guided by the theme, “Digital Delivers”. The informative 2-day conference aims to assess the digital marketing scenario in the Philippines and present relevant studies and practices of marketing and ad agencies that utilizes the internet and mobile.

IMMAP President Arthur Policarpio welcomed the delegates of the event. Nestle Philippines Senior Vice President and Communication and Marketing Service Director Sandra Puno and Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA) President Charmaine Canillas delivered the keynote address during the first day of the event. While Unilever Philippines Chairman Fernando Fernandez and Mobile Marketing Association President and CEO Mike Wehrs gave the keynote address during the second day of the conference.

Several notable speakers graced this year’s conference including:

• Ms. Bennett Porter, Head of Marketing Emerging Markets for Yahoo! Inc.,
• Mr. Kent Wertime, Asia-Pacific Director for OgilvyOne Worldwide
• Mr. James Laffery, Ret. Vice President of Procter and Gamble Philippines
  
• Mr. Rahul Vasudev, Director of MediaCom Interaction
• Mr. Jerico Barrera, Client Service Director for Media of The Nielsen Company
• Ms. Teresita Villareal, Marketing Director for Customer Marketing Group of ABS-CBN Broadcasting, Inc.
• Mr. Masaki Iwata, Digital Solutions Producer of Dentsu Japan
• Ms. Riana Roces Trinidad, Co-Managing Partner of Proud Mama Concepts, Inc.,
• Mr. Jose Anton Diaz, owner and blogger of Our Awesome Planet.
  

The second day of the conference was highlighted by a special case presentation courtesy of the 2009 Boomerang Gold Award winners. The winners are:

• Cyber Boomerang Category: Nescafe Palistuhan by Proximity Philippines
• Mobile Boomerang Category: Quaker Oats Eat Well and Win Promo by Proximity Philippines/BBDO Guerrero
• Integrated Boomerang Category: Sandbox by: Smart Communications, Inc. and Wolfpac Mobile, Inc.
  
• Innovation Boomerang Category: Awesome Philippines Second Life Press Conference by the Philippine Department of Tourism and Media Contacts Philippines

The 3rd Internet Mobile and Marketing Summit 2009 is sponsored by OgilvyOne Worldwide, DentsuIndio, Smart Communications, Inc., Business World, Fiera de Manila, MobiThinking, Yahoo! Philippines, Friendster, Inquirer.net, Admax Network, iHub Media, Eyeblaster, Snapworx, Inc., PinoyExchange.com, Adobo Magazine, The Philippine Star, Philstar.com, IT Matters (Special section of Business World), Affle, Business Mirror, Canon, Studio 23, 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 Internet and Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines at (632) 896-0637, 896-0639 or visit the event website at http://www.interactivesummit.com.ph/.

2009 ASAP Conference Business Refreshed Ideas of Advertising Suppliers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Social Networking and E-Business Conference All Set this April

Be prepared for Marketing and Advertising in the 21st century by attending the 2nd Social Networking and E-Business Conference 2009 on April 23 – 24, 2009 at the Hotel Intercontinental, Makati City.

Organized by Fiera de Manila and DigitalFilipino Club, in cooperation with SME.com.ph and Bizster.com, the event aims to present social networking sites as the new venue for marketing and advertising. It is undeniable that social networking has reached its level of popularity with sites like Friendster , Facebook, and MySpace boasting of a membership reaching hundreds of millions. Still, many corporate executives either dismiss social networking as a distraction or regard it as a risk management problem. In corporations where such tools have been expected to bring profound transformations, there is still a strong resistance to change. By utilizing the wide reach and audience of social networking sites, blog, and other Web 2.0 platforms, companies will be able to communicate to their market more effectively.
Amongst the conference topics to be highlighted in this learning event are:

• Ms. Janette Toral, Founder, Digitalfilipino.com for “Harnessing the Top Social Media Sites (Friendster, Facebook, Multiply, MySpace, etc)” ,
• Mr. Andrian Lee, General Manager, Asia Pay for “Application Platforms Race to Micro-Payments”,
• Mr. Jerome Almirante, Head, VAS and Data Services, Smart Communications, Inc. for “Using Mobile Technologies to Extend Social Networking”,
• Mr. Phil Cahiwat, Chief Content Officer,Level Up! for “Digital Marketing Through Online Games”,
• Mr. Adonis Yap, President, SME.com.ph and Bizster.com and Ms. Crisela Cervantes, Head Customer Services, ABS-CBN Interactive/Multiply for “Advance Social Networking and Advertising”,
• Mr. Christian Lim, Product Manager, SMEG Marketing, PLDT SME Nation for “Enabling SMEs Through Internet and Other Technologies”,
• Mr. Cyril Rocke, President, DataOne Asia for “The Next Generation Communication Services”
• Atty. JJ Disini, Professor, UP College of Law for “Data Privacy in Social Networks”,
• Mr. Wilson Chua, CEO, Bitstop Network Solutions and Mr. Cris Conception, Head, Sales and Business Operations, Yahoo! Philippines for “Application Development Platform Updates”,
• Mr. Ranulf Goss, Technical Director, SunGame for “Having a Start-Up Business in Web 3.0 Era”,
• Wendy S. Ang, Founder, My Optimind Solutions and Janette Toral, Founder, Digitalfilipino.com for “Search Engine Optimization and Marketing”,
• Mr. Jay Frank de Jesus, Founder, Titik Pilipino for “Philippine Music Surviving the Download Era”,

A mini-exhibit of products, goods, and services featuring state-of-the-art technologies of Web 2.0 will run simultaneous with this two-day conference.

The 2^nd Social Networking and E-Business Conference 2009 is sponsored by Yahoo! Philippines, Friendster.com, PLDT SME Nation, Smart Communications, Inc., Philstar.com, Business World, Bworldonline.com, IT Matters, Business Mirror and Myoptimind.com.

For registration and inquiries, please contact the Event Manager at (632) 896-0639, 896-0637, 899-6216 or e-mail at fiera@info.com.ph. Visit the website at www.fmi.com.ph or http://socialnetworkphilippines.blogspot.com.