...the hearty party

Dubai OFWs raise funds for poor elderly in PH via exercise

By Rachel Salinel

ABS-CBN Middle East News Bureau

06/04/2011

DUBAI, UAE - A professionally successful couple from Dubai chose to celebrate their birthdays in May by organizing Hearty Party, an exercise event for a cause. This is to raise funds for the poor and abandoned elderly being sheltered in a home in the Philippines.

Web manager Rocky Parroco, who works at a well known global electronics company, with wife Lou, an HR global manager, managed to raise AED 4,815 (P56,760) from the recent event which was conducted on three Friday mornings.

A fee of AED 30 (P354) was collected per participant per session. This is on top of the collected AED 1,350 (P16,000) from sponsors. Overall, the three sessions were attended by about 200 overseas Filipino workers from Dubai.

It helped that Lou’s brother, currently the president of the local Filipino Dance Club, conducted the 2-hour fitness activity held in a new 5-star hotel in the city.

"My husband and I both celebrate our birthdays in May," Lou explained. “A couple of years ago, we have decided to celebrate our birthdays in a different way. Instead of spending our energy, time and money on big parties with the same privileged friends, we thought of organizing small charity projects," she added.

Both have been living and working in Dubai for more than 10 years.

In May 2009, Rocky raised funds by organizing photography workshops called "Shoot and Shelter" to provide houses for the poor in the Philippines. The series of workshops generated enough funds for two houses through Gawad Kalinga.

A year after, in May 2010, Lou initiated a project called "Color for Her" where she collected a thousand lipsticks from friends and supporters. The lipsticks had brought smiles to women, mostly mothers, in the Philippines who were too poor to afford anything, let alone to buy a lipstick. Those women were fish vendors, street cleaners, nannies and rice field workers.

Rocky, a gifted photographer, again organized a photography workshop in the same year with the help of the Lightbenders group. The proceeds were used to purchase additional lipsticks as well as rice.

This May 2011, the funds from the dance exercise sessions will be given to the elderly housed at the Anawim Foundation in the Philippines particularly those who suffer from cardiovascular disease.

JayR Magbanua, one of the Hearty Party participants, said, “I love to dance and had enjoyed myself dancing Waka Waka steps. I told myself it is really a great way to be fit and healthy while participating in a charity cause.”

He added that he admires the Parrocos because they chose to think of others before themselves. "They are such an amazing couple with a generous heart. We will be supporting future charity events they will organize in the future."

For her part, Lou expressed: "Due to many requests, we are planning to make 'Hearty Party' a recurring project every year on top of new projects. We'll probably campaign for participation on a bigger scale."
For this Dubai couple, no birthdays will definitely be celebrated alone.

...the trusted TV network

ABS-CBN is Reader's Digest trusted TV network The Philippine Star June 04, 2011

| Zoom

From left: ABS-CBN corporate communications head Bong Osorio, ABS-CBN marketing head Cookie Bartolome and Channel 2 head Cory Vidanes

MANILA, Philippines - ABS-CBN is the country’s trusted TV network according to Reader’s Digest.



The Kapamilya network won a Gold Award for the second straight year in the international publication’s Trusted Brand awards, which is voted on by consumers.

ABS-CBN has proven once again to be the choice of Filipinos when it comes to credible news reportage and quality television programming.

ABS-CBN Channel 2 head Cory Vidanes received the award last June 2 with ABS-CBN Corporate Communications head Bong Osorio and ABS-CBN marketing head Cookie Bartolome in a ceremony held at the Resorts World.

Reader’s Digest has a “well-established reputation as the premier consumer-based, international measure of brand preference.”

Apart from the Philippines, it also awards organizations in Hong Kong, India, China, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand.

Meanwhile, ABS-CBN’s flagship newscast TV Patrol also topped the recent survey by StratPolls, Inc. as the most credible news team on Philippine television.

Based on the survey conducted from April 25 to April 29 in the National Capital Region, 45.6 percent of the 250 random respondents picked the team of Noli “Kabayan” de Castro, Korina Sanchez, Ted Failon and Gretchen Fullido (Star Patrol) as most credible news team.

...the spectacular Philippine sea

Save The Philippine Seas

 

A gallery curated by:

Jonas de los Reyes

The Philippines is known for its amazing beaches, diverse marine life and spectacular reefs. But we may not live long enough to enjoy it because it is under attack.

A lot of plunder, corruption and plain irresponsibility is happening right now that is destroying this vast wealth underneath our seas. We should not let this happen.

This gallery will give you a glimpse of what we need to cherish, what we need to be proud of, what we need to protect.

To find out more on what you can do to help Save Our Seas, check out savephilippineseas.com/.

...the "bagong bayani"s (OFWs) in Brunei

Pinoys find respect in Brunei

 

By RAYMUND F. ANTONIO

June 3, 2011

Manila Bulletin

 

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei — One takes charge of the sartorial style of the Brunei royal family while the other takes charge of keeping the royal home in tip-top condition.

They arrived here under different conditions, motivations, and circumstances, but there is no denying they found a second home here in Brunei.

Fashion designer Edwin Bantigue and mechanical inspector Feliciano Caringal Jr. are just two of the thousands of Filipinos working here who have made themselves indispensable in their adopted country.

They are the country’s unsung ambassadors of goodwill—earning the respect of the people of Brunei and making their “kababayans” here proud that they are Filipinos.

Filipino workers here have a high sense of self-worth and command respect from the Brunei people. Some of them are professionals, in high-paying jobs and in managerial positions.

He may be relatively unknown in Manila’s fashion world, but here, Bantigue brushes elbows with the members of the royal family and wives of politicians.

He has been one of the most sought fashion designers in Brunei, with his works combining contemporary and traditional styles.

Bantingue wanted to become a priest but God had other plans for him.

His talent for fashion designing blossomed when he was still a college student at the University of Santo Tomas. He found part-time work with some of the fashion designers in Manila.

After college, he worked at a local garments firm and was tasked to oversee the product development division. “We create products for the next fashion season. We scour materials in the US for launch in the Philippines.”

In 1987, an offer came for him to work in Brunei. “I was fish out of a pond. I don’t know Brunei,” he admitted.

His initial clients were flight stewardess of Lufthansa Airlines. “They opened the doors for me,” he said.
Eventually, a member of the royal family, a sibling of the Sultan, became a regular client.

Thereafter, he found himself designing clothes for the princesses and the Queen’s sister.

In 1994, at the height of his fashion career, he went back to the Philippines. He felt he had a “calling.”
“I wanted to enter the seminary,” he said.

He joined the Oasis of Love, a Catholic charismatic group which counts among its members artists from the entertainment industry.

He renewed his life in Manila, putting up a business. But Brunei beckoned for the second time.

In 2005, he went back to Brunei only for a visit. But while there, his old clients, finding out he was there, sought and begged him to design gowns for them.

He realized his calling is really in Brunei.

Bantigue said the royal family and the rich and moneyed Bruneians liked his contemporary take on the traditional clothes, like the Badyo Kurong and Kabaya, without compromising convention.

His clients expanded to the wives of politicians and government officials.

He would adopt and adapt his designs according to the fashion taste of the client. “Is she conservative or fashionable, things like that,” he said.

Like most overseas Filipino workers, Bantigue helps support his family and relatives in the Philippines. What he liked most in Brunei “is everything is accessible.”

For his part, Caringal arrived in Brunei in 1982 and was among the construction staff that built the $350 million official residence of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah—the Istana Nurul Iman.

“I was a mechanical inspector during the construction of the Palace. I was in-charge of the mechanical construction, from the airconditioning to plumbing,” he said.

He has not looked back since.

Caringal decided to stay for work, and now, he is the assistant technical working officer of the Palace — overseeing the maintenance of the whole Nurul Istana Iman complex from gardening to electrical and other utilities.

“Well, it’s a very demanding and challenging job actually. Of course they are expecting a high level performance. Everything has to be done expeditiously and accurately,” Caringal said.

With his more than two decades of work here, Caringal said however he could only count with his fingers the time he personally met the Sultan.

“I mean, basically the security within the palace is quite tight,” he said.

Such matters are of little consequence to him.

Caringal said he is proud of the fact that Filipinos like him are well-loved in their adopted country.

“I can say that Filipinos are well-respected community in Brunei in the nation building. I think the local Bruneians are recognizing the contributions of Filipino nationals and other walks of life,” he said.

This high sense of self-worth was evident in interviews with other OFWs here in Brunei.

Ramir Arcena, a native of Ilocos Sur, quickly found work at the Giant Times Square in a grocery store.
Compared with workers in the Philippines, Arcena said he earns a monthly income of 500 Bruneian dollars, or P16,000.

And he is pleased to say that he is a regular worker here.

“It is easy to find work here, especially if they find out you are a Filipino,” he said.

Arcena, a father of a two-month old baby girl, said he is satisfied with the working conditions in Brunei. He has been working here for the past three years.

The only downside, like most OFWs, of working in Brunei is the fact is that they are away from their love ones. “But I go back home every two years. We are doing good here,” he said.

...the MMA fighter

Another Fil-Am tries to carve name in MMA

By Henni Espinosa

ABS-CBN North America Bureau

06/03/2011

SAN FRANCISCO – Justin Buchholz is known for his killer front kick.

For this 27-year old Filipino-American mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, the best way to end a fight is to knock out an opponent.

Buchholz said, “When you end a fight in a knockout, it’s the best feeling. If you actually put a guy to sleep, he can’t do anything for 30 seconds to a minute. It’s the best way to end a fight.”

Buchholz, an Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) fighter, delivered a third-round knockout against Steve Lopez in Las Vegas last May 21.

“It was pretty-surreal when it happened. I was more surprised than anything that the kick actually landed. I did learn that from Steven Seagal and it’s cool to be able to use that to end the fight," he said.

The Sacramento-based Buchholz was born and raised in Fairbanks, Alaska to a Filipina mother from Negros Occidental named Belle Banzuelo, and a Caucasian father. In Alaska, he competed in wrestling for Lathrop High School.

Buchholz is a former Icon Sport Lightweight Champion. He was also a fighter for Elite XC before signing with UFC.

Buchholz, who has a record of 11 wins and 6 losses, is a master at Muay Thai. He trains with Team Alpha Male, the team of MMA veteran Urijah Faber.

Besides training for his fights, Buchholz is also working with Tony Horton, the man behind the famed PX 90 Workout, to develop a fitness video series based on MMA.

He said his ultimate dream is to fight in front of his kababayans in the Philippines. Buchholz is among the mixed martial artists fighting for the World Kickboxing Championship in Manila Grand Resorts on June 26.

“I’ve always wanted to go to the Philippines and learn about the culture. That’s the pinnacle of my career — to have the chance to fight in the Philippines," he said.

...the hero's books

Penguin Books to publish Rizal’s ‘El Fili’

 

 

06/02/2011

GMANews.tv

Another Jose Rizal classic will soon join the ranks of William Shakespeare, John Steinbeck, and Charles Dickens.

Three days before the 150th birth anniversary of Philippine National Hero Jose Rizal on June 19, Penguin Books will launch its English translation of “El Filibusterismo" at the Philippine Center in New York City.

The paperback version of “El Filibusterismo" will be available on September 1, 2011 according to the Penguin Books website.

Source: Penguin Books

Five years ago, Rizal’s first novel “Noli Me Tangere" was also published under the imprint Penguin Classics. The book deals with the themes of love and martyrdom and features the lead character Crisostomo Ibarra, who has just finished his studies abroad and wants to bring education reform to the small town of San Diego.

“El Filibusterismo" is the sequel to “Noli Me Tangere." Set 13 years after the events of the first novel, the book revolves around Simoun, a rich jeweler who is bent on starting a revolution. He also wants to rescue Mara Clara, one of the main characters from the first novel who entered the town nunnery towards the end of “Noli Me Tangere."

Many of the other characters and settings from the first novel make their reappearance in “El Filibusterismo" albeit with a darker, more sinister air.

The second novel’s themes, revenge and obsession, are a stark contrast to the focus of “Noli Me Tangere,’" according to the Penguin Books website. Both however, are generally regarded to have helped push forward the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonizers toward the end of the 19th century.

High school and college students in the Philippines are required to study the life and works of Rizal, particularly the two novels, as mandated by Republic Act 1425.

Penguin Classics, an imprint of Penguin Books, is known for publishing inexpensive paperback versions. It is “the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world," according to their website. The company is also known for using sleek and modern designs in their editions of popular books.

E.V. Rieu’s translation of “The Odyssey" in 1946 was the first book published by Penguin Classics. Authors with the most titles under the brand include William Shakespeare, John Steinbeck, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Graham Green.

Penguin Books’ announcement of the new El Filibusterismo publication is one of many events leading up to Rizal’s birth anniversary.

In early May, the Philippine and German governments unveiled plans to restore the original manuscripts of the two novels. The original manuscripts are in danger of being permanently ruined because of poor preservation conditions in the National Library.

Malacañang has declared June 20, the day after Rizal’s actual birth date, a special non-working holiday.

Click here to watch “Ang Mahiwagang Ngiti ni Rizal," a 2011 documentary by Howie Severino about the photographs of Jose Rizal and the stories behind them. – Bea Cupin/YA, GMA News

...the superstar athlete

Pacquiao 24th in Forbes' 50 highest-paid athletes list

06/02/2011
GMANews.tv

Manny Pacquiao dislodged Floyd Mayweather Jr. in Forbes.com's highest-paid athletes list as the boxing superstar and first-term Congressman in the Philippine House of Representatives placed 24th among 50 superstars of the sporting world.

Mayweather Jr. placed second behind Tiger Woods in last year's list with $65 million in total earnings. But the undefeated American boxer has not fought in 13 months since a dominating win over Sugar Shane Mosley.

Mayweather's 12-round non-title bout against Mosley on May 1, 2010 earned 1.4 million pay-per-view buys, the second-most lucrative non-heavyweight bout ever.

Pacquiao, 32, is the only boxer in this year's list joining 29-year-old Brazilian football star Kaka at 24th spot.

Kaka, an attacking midfielder, appeared with British striker Wayne Rooney on the cover of the Electronic Arts Sports soccer video game FIFA 11, which sold 100 million units.

Pacquiao is currently boxing's biggest draw, said Forbes.com. His last six fights generated more than six million pay-per-view buys combined.

Forbes.com added that Pacquiao has also begun to beef up his endorsement portfolio after the eight-division world champion signed a three-year deal with Hewlett-Packard for a global ad campaign. - Joseph G. Lariosa, JVP, GMA News

...the Baritone in LA

Filipino baritone shines in Russian roles in LA

By Pablo. A. Tariman, VERA Files |

The Inbox – Wed, Jun 1, 2011

Baritone Andrew Fernando has tackled another Russian role with flying colors in Shostakovich's  lone operetta, "Moscow, Cherry Town," mounted recently by the Long Beach Opera (LBO) in California.

Fernando as Sasha in the Shoskatovich operetta, “ Moscow Cherry Town.” Photo by Keith Ian Po …

Fernando said the audience loved last weekend's opening night of the operetta --- a musical comedy in three acts with libretto by Vladimir Mass and Mikhail Chervinsky.

"On the whole, it was a good feeling…lots of laughter and satisfaction from our patrons,"  he said. "This one wasn't particularly difficult but still a singer has to be careful and smart to deliver the message without losing its subtle hint of satire."

Known as "Moskva, Cheryomushki" in Russian transliteration,  the operetta's story is indeed one that would never have been told under the repressive regime of Josef Stalin, who loaded honors on Shostakovich but also twice (in 1936 and 1948) had his music denounced publicly.  Stalin's  opera "Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk" (1934) was sharply criticized by the Soviet press reportedly on Stalin's orders.

The Long Beach critic dissected  the operetta as  "a carefully calibrated satire gussied up as a frenetic farce, concerns Khrushchev's mass housing

 projects,  those concrete behemoths that upgraded citizens' living conditions while pummeling their aesthetic sense and nearly choking them to death with red tape."

The waiting list for these apartments was usually long so that married couples, like the characters of Sasha (played by Andrew Fernando) and Mas

ha (Peabody Southwell), were often forced to live apart until they could get an appropriate residence.

According to Fernando, what was difficult in staging this operetta was telling the story because "it can be quite complex."

Fernando, who received a rousing standing ovation in his intimate concert series "Kiss The Cook Gourmet" in Manila last March, compared his two Russian roles and his operatic transition from the noble man in Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin to Sasha, the government housing unit dweller in Khrushchev's Moscow circa 1980s.

The Filipino singer said he got into the Soviet psyche in the opera by just understanding how people in then Soviet Union felt about the system. In the case of his character, Sasha, he had to internalize the pain of not being a

ble to live in the same house with his wife.

"Sasha is a commoner with no money (while) Onegin is a person of higher status," he noted. "Singing Onegin is truly amazing though. The dramatic content of the character is more vast and deep."

Fernando said he found the Shostakovich operetta extremely singer-friendly.

"The music---to my surprise ---is very tuneful!" he said. "I know that when we mention the name Shoskatovich, we may right away think we would hear very complex music but not 'Cherry Town.' It turned

out a delightful bright operetta!"

He continued: "I think Russian music in general is always beautiful. The part for my role  Sasha is very melodic and sing-able, so to speak."

On opening night, Fernando admitted he was as usual nervous in a positive kind of way. "When I perform, I downplay the critics' coming verdict and think more of communicating the story and music! I always pray I

get to do my best!"

Fernando's journey to vocal maturity was probably helped in no small way when he was presented in public master classes given by  legendary names in opera, namely, Carlo Bergonzi, Tom Krause, Jane Eaglen, Deborah Voight and Dolora Zadjick. He has shared the opera stage with Helen Donath, Vinson Cole, Maria Ewing, Federica Von Stade and  Lauren Flannigan, among others.

He was the first Filipino First Prize winner of the prestigious 2003 Loren L. Zachary National Vocal Competition in the United States and an alumnus of the world renowned San Francisco Opera Merola Program.

Described by Musical America as a "major presence," the  Filipino baritone sang "Rigoletto" in Modesto in February 2007 to critical acclaim. He created the role of Powhatan in the World Premiere of Linda Tutas Haugen's and Joan Vail Thorne's "Pocahontas," presented by the Virginia Arts Festival in cooperation with Virginia Opera in May of 2007 as a contribution to the 400^th Anniversary of the settlement in Jamestown, Virginia.  He also sang the lead role in  Bartok's "Bluebeard's Castle," presented by Let's Shout Out Inc. of Boston.

On the present state of his vocal instrument, he had this to say: "It has become more mature with a lot more ring and focus. We, baritones, develop more as we age. We are like good wine better with age, granted that we are well guided and continue to work hard."

On July 22, Fernando will teram up with  mezzo-soprano Clarissa Ocampo, flutist Christopher Oracion and pianist Mary Anne Espina for an intimate concert at Bahay Kalinaw at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City.

(VERA Files is put out by veteran journalists taking a deeper look at current issues. Vera is Latin for
"true.")

...the Food Network finalist

Fil-Am becomes finalist for "Food Network Star"

Balitang America Staff

ABS-CBN

06/02/2011

 

A Filipina restaurant owner from South Carolina is among the 15 finalists for Food Network’s Season 7 of "Food Network Star."

39- year-old Fil-Am Orchid Paulmeier, owner of "One Hot Mama" restaurant in Hilton Head, South Carolina made it to the finals of reality TV show "The Food Network Star."

Finalists from all over America will battle it out to be the next star chef and host of the Food Network show. She is already making a head start by leading the fan vote in this tight race to get fans' approval.

Season 7 of the "Food Network Star" begins Sunday, June 5 on the Food Network.

...the 'green' celebrity advocates

'Born To Be Wild': 1st ASEAN champion of Biodiversity in Media; celebs, directors campaign for Underground River

 

By ALEX VALENTIN BROSAS

June 2, 2011

Manila Bulletin

 

 

Kiko Rustia says 'Born To Be Wild' is meant to bring valuable environmental information to as many people as possible

MANILA, Philippines – GMA-7 adds another feather in its cap with “Born To Be Wild” adjudged as first ASEAN champion of Biodiversity in Media, beating 11 other finalists in Southeast Asia.

Overwhelmed by the show’s success, host Kiko Rustia quipped, “We’ve really been working hard. (It’s) meant to bring environmental information to the people, to the masses.”

Angeli Atienza, program manager of the show, says, “It’s a huge honor for us.”

“Pakiramdam namin dala namin hindi lang ‘yung bandera ng GMA pero ‘yung bandera ng Pilipinas,” Atienza said on “24 Oras,” June 1.

The show’s simplicity, coupled with various information about the environment, made it a winner. This is according to Rodrigo Fuentes, Executive Director, ASEAN Center for Biodiversity, who said, “It’s a very effective program. Simple lang tapos fast-paced and then ‘yung information that was being shown makikita agad.”

In another environment-related story, celebrities and indie directors have joined hands in the campaign to make Puerto Princesa Underground River as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Celebrities like Piolo Pascual, Christian Bautista, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Jed Madela, Diether Ocampo and John Prats have appeared in various campaigns to promote awareness of the environmental program. Currently, the Puerto Princesa River is on 11th place among  28 finalists. The deadline for voting is on Nov. 10, 2011.

ABS-CBN Foundation President Gina Lopez, Cannes Filmfest Best Director Brillante Mendoza and other indie directors have come together to help boost the chances of the Puerto Princesa Underworld River in the Seven Wonders of the World poll. A TV-movie project that promotes anti-mining activities in Palawan has already started. Also in the planning stage is a “Maalaala Mo Kaya” special about mining in Palawan, inspired by slain environmentalist and broadcast journalist Gerry Ortega.

“They are protected forests for protected place like Palawan. Dapat talaga walang mining. Napaka-alarming, kailangan  talaga may gawin ka. Sobrang manhid mo na lang bilang mamamayan kundi mo maramdaman ‘yung nangyayari,” Mendoza stated on “TV Patrol” the same night.

Singer Noel Cabangon sang the theme song for longest subterranean river in the world in the campaign launch, which included video screenings. A recent discovery of the 20 million old fossil of a dugong was one of the highlights of the launch. Also shown in the video campaign was President Noynoy Aquino asking everyone to help in environmental advocacies.

Palawan Mayor Edward Hagedorn is confident that “kahit mag-number one, mag-number seven tayo. Basta one of the seven wonders ‘yan.”

To create more awareness about the campaign, this Sunday, OPM and Ms. Philippines-Earth beauty pageant will mount “Tunog Wonder Ground” concert at the Quezon City Circle.

...the gifted artist

Filipino artist with autism holds exhibit in Vancouver

ABS-CBN 

02 June 2011

 

 

VANCOUVER – Jose Antonio or J.A. Tan was only three years old when he was diagnosed as a high functioning autistic.

Life wasn’t easy for a child with autism back in the Philippines, which is why their move to Vancouver was a big turning point for the whole family.

Zellie Tan, J.A.’s mother said, “He got bullied and called abnormal.”

“We told him, you are different. Do the best with what you have.”

His mother says it was in Vancouver where J.A. learned independence and creativity.

J.A. said, “It was hard at first but then I got over it. I get inspired by my painting.”

J.A.’s excitment and pride was clear when he welcomed guests at the opening of his first exhibit in Vancouver. Family, friends, former classmates and teachers came to the Emily Carr University where he graduated with a Fine Arts degree.

J.A.’s former teacher, Landon Mackenzie said, “He would just draw thoroughly... He just really progressed so much about how his work fit into a larger context.”

Tan’s works have also been show at the Ayala Museum in Manila. 

...the Chinese children learning about PHL

Children in China learn about PHL in 'Ni Hao' activity

06/01/2011

GMANews.tv

Children in China learned facts about the Philippines because of a "Ni Hao" (Hello) activity hosted by the Philippine Embassy in Beijing.



Chinese children learns about the Philippines. This one was held in Beijing.

 
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the activity was held in Shenyang in Liaoning province on May 26 and 27.

Liaoning Province in Northeast China is host to hundreds of Filipino teachers, musicians and information technology specialists, the DFA said.

"Entitled 'Ni Hao, Philippines: Everything a Chinese Kid Should Know about the Philippines,' the event was attended by more than 400 students of Shenyang's No.2 Hunnanxinqu Elementary School and No.1 Chaoyang Primary School," the DFA said in a news release posted on its website.

The activity was meant to mark the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China.

The DFA said the activity aimed to teach children about the Philippines and the things that they have in common with Filipino children.

Embassy Chargé d' Affaires (CDA) Alex Chua said the event was part of the Embassy's series of people-to-people activities "to create awareness of and appreciation for the Philippines among the Chinese public, including children."

"Our Embassy team was warmly welcomed by the people of Shenyang, especially the students and teachers of the two schools. Shenyang is very far from the Philippines. But this should not prevent us from cultivating friendly ties between the peoples of the Philippines and Shenyang," Chua added.

The event, which was held in both schools, featured a video presentation on the Philippines and an enactment of Philippine folk tales, "Origin of the Stars" and "How the Firefly, Bat, Mosquito, Field Lizard and Light Bug Acquired Their Characteristics."

The other activities included the teaching of basic Filipino words and customs and traditions of the Philippines.

The Chinese children were taught to sing and dance the popular Filipino folk song "Kamusta, Kamusta, Kamusta," and playing a favorite Filipino game, "Pahabaan ng Linya."

Another highlight of the event was the mail exchange between 35 students of Hunnanxinqu Elementary School and 35 students from Manuel L. Quezon Elementary School in Quezon City.

Quezon City and Shenyang are sister-cities.

The Embassy team, led by Consul Myca Magnolia Fischer and Mrs. Marla Chua, donated more than 300 copies of the book "A Selection of Folk Tales from the Philippines for the Young Chinese Reader," and other children books to the two schools.

The book on Filipino folktales was launched during the visit of former President Gloria Arroyo to Shanghai on June 9, 2010 as a gift of the Filipino children to the Chinese children. - VVP, GMA News

...the 1st 3D magazine

Pinoys launch 1st 3D magazine in UAE

06/01/2011

GMANews.tv

In time for the 113th Philippine Independence Day on June 12, Pinoys in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will launch the first 3D publication — Mint Magazine — in the region.

Mint's June issue, with the theme "Pinoy Freedom in 3D," will feature photos and artworks that were enhanced using a technique for creating optical illusion of depth called stereoscopic or 3D imaging. Special 3D glasses will come with each copy of the magazine).

“We innovate to figure out a way to capture our readers’ attention and in the process connect with them through stories that will uplift and change their lives," Mint Magazine’s editor and creator Jonah Cruz said in a statement.

“Mint Magazine is about telling people to step out of their comfort zone; to do something that will challenge their perceptions of who they are and what they can do to give them the courage and self-confidence to do things that will allow them to develop their self-worth," Cruz said.

“There is an abundance of creativity in the media industry. Technology creates out-of-the-box thinking to deliver stories to the readers. Mint Magazine is about old-fashioned commitment to maintaining high standards of journalism fused with fast-paced changes in the media to develop high-value content," Cruz noted.

She added that “offering a magazine in 3D is also an innovative marketing approach that will reverse shrinking advertising revenue and dropping circulation in the print industry."

The special issue of the magazine will feature stories of Filipino people’s struggle for freedom on a personal level such as overcoming fears commonly experienced by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). - VVP, GMA News

...the car

PHL students build hybrid cars for intl competition

 

JESSE EDEP, GMA News

06/01/2011

Students from various schools in the Philippines have created a hybrid car for the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia 2011 in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia in July.

The schools from the Philippines that will compete in the event are the:

• University of the Philippines (UP),
  
• De La Salle University,
  
• Don Bosco Technical College,
  
• Mapua Institute of Technology,
  
• Technological Institute of the Philippines, and
  
• University of Santo Tomas

UP engineering students created "Kidlat," which will be one of 121 cars that will participate in the competition that challenges students from all over the world to design, build, and run a vehicle that can travel farthest with the least amount of fuel.

GMA News TV’s “State of the Nation" featured the UP engineering students who created Kidlat, a car that consumes less than one-fourth liter of gasoline for a five-kilometer travel.




According to the newscast, Mapua is aiming to achieve the top spot at the prestigious competition. Last year, it placed second in one of the categories in the eco-marathon tilt.

Mapua believes that its own versions of “Kidlat" — named “Amihan" and “Habagat" — can break fuel efficiency records.

“We can achieve our goals," said Cyril Radovan, group leader of the Mapua team.

Mapua’s Kenneth Bernardo pointed out: “Sa project namin na ‘to, malaman ng Pilipinas at ng buong mundo na we can design fuel-efficient cars."

For this year, the teams will be entering in either two categories — “futuristic prototype" category for vehicles that can yield more streamlined and aerodynamic designs, and “urban concept" which concentrates on the more practical four-wheeled designs.

This will be the second time the Philippines will be participating in the international competition. The first one was last year.

How the marathon began

The Shell Eco-Marathon idea started in 1939 when the “Shell Mileage Marathon" scientists in the US challenged each other in an internal competition to see whose car gave the best mileage.

The concept pushed the introduction of the Shell Eco-Marathon Europe in 1985.

Twenty-two years later, the Shell Eco-Marathon Americas was launched. The competition in Asia began only last year.

The marathon hopes to inspire engineering students to craft strategies on mobility and fuel efficiency, according to Shell.

It also wants to help promote the use of efficient energy to address environmental concerns on the use of fossil fuels, and to explore alternative energies, it added. — VVP, GMA News

...the education hotspot

Top education for less in the Philippines

By Jason Gutierrez

Agence France-Presse

06/01/2011

MANILA, Philippines - Thousands of foreign university students are flocking to the Philippines, attracted by cheap yet high-quality courses conducted in English and an easy-going lifestyle outside class.

With more than 2,100 private and state-run institutions nationwide offering a wide array of courses, and an immigration policy friendly to foreign students, the former American colony is enjoying an enrolment boom.

Nearly 20,000 foreign students held special visas at the end of the school year in March, according to the immigration bureau, which said the number would rise when classes began in June.

This excludes the tens of thousands enrolled in small institutions that offer short courses in English and are particularly popular among South Korean and Chinese students.

Korean students in the Philippines

Nigerian medical student Dike Edward Ikechukwu, 22, said he learnt about studying in the Philippines at an education road show conducted by Manila schools in his country.

Then already studying pharmacology in Lagos, Ikechukwu said he was intrigued by the prospect of studying in a foreign country where he could expand his medical knowledge without depleting the family resources.

"It was cost effective for me," said Ikechukwu, who is president of the 605-member foreign students' organization at Manila's 400-year-old University of Santo Tomas.




University of Sto. Tomas



"I would have spent so much more in the United States for the same quality of education."

A 4-year degree course in the Philippines costs between $1,000 and $2,500 a year, significantly cheaper than in the United States for example where one could spend more than $30,000 annually, educators here say.

Another important factor for Ikechukwu was English. He said his father, a shipping consultant, travelled to the Philippines before he enrolled to inspect the university and liked the fact English was widely spoken.

The Philippines inherited English from the Americans, who colonized the archipelago at the end of a war with Spain in 1898.

American teachers fanned out across the country to open up schools in remote villages, teaching English grammar, diction and generally instilling a love for education in a legacy that lasts to this day.

Even though the Philippines is one of the poorest countries in Asia with one of the biggest wealth divides, the literacy rate remains one of the highest in the region at about 90%, according to government data.

The government began enticing foreign students to study in the Philippines in the 1980s, mostly in specialized fields such as medicine and agriculture.

The following decade saw an explosion of schools and institutions offering short-term courses in English language, aviation, hotel and restaurant management and maritime-related classes.

Then, in 2000, the government embarked on a strategy to promote the Philippines as a center for education in Asia, with one plank making it easier for foreign students to apply for visas.

It also established exchange programs between Philippine schools and universities in many countries, including Australia, the United States, South Korea, Canada and European nations.

Professor Evelyn Songco, assistant to the rector for student affairs at the University of Santo Tomas, credited the high number of foreigners to the government's strong push to make the Philippines an academic mecca in Asia.

"Many Philippine schools are accredited abroad, and those who graduated from here have created a good impression around the world," she said.

"Our diplomas are competitive abroad, and Philippine universities have always strived to do justice to the tuition fees these foreigners pay. We give them quality education, quality faculty members and facilities."

Beryl France Buendia, an American studying for a physical therapy degree at the University of Santo Tomas, said she believed studying in the Philippines would not disadvantage her in the US job market.

"I believe a Philippine diploma can be just as competitive in the States," the 22-year-old said, although she added cost was a big factor in deciding to study in Manila.

"My dad's quite old and my mom's going to retire soon so they had to budget the plan, so we decided to enrol here," she said.

A younger sister, Bethany, is finishing a degree in communication arts, also at Santo Tomas.
For South Korean psychology student Juhyun Kim, 18, learning English and low costs were important reasons for enrolling at the Ateneo de Manila University.

Ateneo de Manila University at night

But she said another factor in choosing to study in the Philippines was the reputation of Filipinos for being so friendly.

"Koreans are very welcome here. Filipinos sincerely care. I like staying here," she said.

...the must experience place

DoT: PH to become Asia’s ‘must-experience’ destination

 

By Izah Morales, Yahoo! Southeast Asia

The Inbox - 01 June 2011

 

 

Photo by Izah Morales, Yahoo! Southeast Asia

Even without a clear international branding for the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DoT) has laid out its vision to be the "must-experience" destination in Asia.

 

"Wala pang bagong branding (There's no new branding). We're still working on that," said DOT secretary Alberto Lim in a press conference held Monday.

To achieve the vision, the DoT worked to improve market access and connectivity. "We'll be improving our airports with the help of the Department of Public Works and Highways," explained Lim.

In line with this goal are the construction of new airports such as the Bicol International Airport in Daraga, Albay and Panglao International Airport in Bohol, as well as the rehabilitation of the Puerto Princesa Airport and Cagayan de Oro Airport.

Lim said that the bidding for the said projects have started and are expected to be finished within the next three years.

"We're developing new international gateways to address the congested NAIA terminals," said Lim.

When asked about the negative feedback of tourists on the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1, Lim told Yahoo! Southeast Asia that the Manila International Airport Authority is working on the plumbing problems of the terminal.

"We will also have improvements on the look and feel of Terminal 1. The interiors will be renovated to have a brighter atmosphere and modern look," said Lim.

He also disclosed that a new greeting area at the parking area of Terminal 1 would be constructed and finished by 2012. The project costs P 200 to 300 million, revealed Lim. "We want to present a good image when we welcome our tourists here in our country," he added.

Out of the seven tourism markets in the ASEAN region, the Philippines posted 3.5 million international visitors in 2010 and ranked sixth, lagging behind Vietnam and just ahead of Cambodia.

Nonetheless, the DoT said the international market continues to grow by 13.33% year on year with 1.3 million visitors recorded during the first quarter of the year (January to April 2011).

The DoT hopes for 3.75 million international tourist arrivals by the end of the year.

...the singer with a big heart

Pinay singer in Belgium launches new CD

by Raquel Bernal-Crisostomo

ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau

06/01/2011

DIEST, Belgium - It was a jaw-dropping performance  for Pinay singer Bianca Evangelista during her CD launching last week.

The singer, who is also known as Bianca Eve, delivered a stirring performance that earned several standing ovations.

The CD launching coincided with her first ever solo concert.

Pinoys in audience danced  as Bianca sang some fast-beat songs, such as "Waka-Waka" that was popularized by Shakira.



Belgian singers JD Cooper and David Gilles of D' Romeos rendered special numbers to show support for Bianca.

"Ladies and gentlemen, let’s support Bianca Eve," David Gilles said during the concert.

Admiration
Francois Pinnewaert, the man who discovered Bianca Eve, said he is very proud of what the singer has achieved.

"I first met Bianca in a singing competition where she emerged the winner. Then I introduced her to my friend Albert who is now her manager. Bianca has come so far and I believe she’ll be a big star someday," he said.

Even Pinoys believe in  their kababayan's  ability.

"We hope that with God's help, her debut CD will succeed," Pinoy fan Arlda Hueva exclaimed.

It was also an emotional evening for Bianca's mother, Lily Cassas, who is battling cancer.  While she wishes her daughter success, she reminded her to keep grounded at all times.

"Nagpapasalamat ako sa lahat ng tumulong at sumuporta sa anak ko, Belgians at Pinoy.  At kay Bianca, sana manatili syang mapagkumbaba at matulungin sa lahat ng mga nangangailangan," she said.

Part of the proceeds from Bianca's CD launching will go to Bantay Bata.

...the hotel booking site that helps

Hotel ‘pencil project’ benefits underprivileged kids

By Shielo Mendoza, Yahoo! Southeast Asia

The Inbox – Tue, May 31, 2011

AP Photo/Pat Roque

An online hotel booking site organized a digital signature campaign which aims to help provide basic education to underprivileged children.

For every signature they collect, hotelwithheart.com (HWH) will donate a pencil to the children being taught by the Dynamic Teen Company (DTC).

DTC is a group of concerned young people with a mission to help children with no access to education. It was founded in August 1997 by four teenagers from Cavite National High School. Efren Penaflorida, who went on to be named CNN Hero of the Year in 2009, was one of DTC's founders.

"We can measure statistics of children without the means of basic education, we can measure poverty, we can measure the rising crime rate, and we can even measure the cost of ignorance. But can we truly measure the potential of a child? By providing these children with the materials wherein they can continue to learn, we are offering them a brighter future," said HWH director Dr. Rudy Sabater.

HWH hopes to gather 10,000 pencils from this project, which will run for a month starting June 1 to 30. To support this campaign, visit the HWH Facebook fanpage.

..the local tourism

DOT eyes 32.1 mil Filipino travelers, 3 mil new jobs by 2016

By Izah Morales, Yahoo! Southeast Asia |

The Inbox - 31 May 2011

Voltaire Domingo/NPPA Images

The Department of Tourism is optimistic that by 2016, there will be 32.1 million Filipino travelers, which is projected to generate 3 million new jobs in the tourism industry.

"Domestic tourism redistributes income to the countryside where there is higher incidence of poverty," said DOT secretary Alberto Lim, adding, "It is picking up not only because of low airfares but because the destinations are getting the interests of (younger travelers)."

In 2009, the National Statistics Office recorded 22.8 million Filipino travelers, with an average of two trips a year per person.  Out of the 22.8 million Filipinos, 7.8 million traveled for leisure trips and vacations.

The top destinations were Manila, Camarines Sur, Cebu, Davao City, Cagayan Valley, Baguio, Boracay, Zambales, Puerto Princesa, Bohol, Negros Oriental, Camiguin, and Ilocos Norte.

Early this year, the DOT launched the campaign, "Pilipinas, Tara Na!" to encourage Filipinos to explore the country.  Lim said that the campaign's focus areas were on culture, history, eco-tourism, nature and adventure.

In line with this, Smart Communications, DOT's partner in the campaign, identified destinations which attract the youth market such as Boracay, Baler, Batanes, Anawangin, Donsol, Camarines Sur, Mt. Pinatubo, Palawan, and Mt.Pulag.

Lim related that as part of the promotional campaign, Smart would provide information on the tourist destinations via short messaging service.

...the resolution

PHL resolutions adopted at UN meet

 

05/31/2011

GMANews.tv

At least two key resolutions of the Philippines were adopted at the 67th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported on Tuesday.

The UN ESCAP adopted the resolutions on:

the improvement of civil registration and vital statistics in the Asia-Pacific region, and

enhancing accessibility for persons with disabilities.

"The resolutions were part of a set of 15 resolutions adopted in the meeting on issues from bridging wide development and infrastructure gaps within the region, to cooperation for energy security and disaster preparedness," the DFA said in a news release posted on its website.

The Philippine resolution on civil registration and vital statistics was co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, and Thailand.

The resolution emphasized the importance of these systems in designing social protection schemes and improving development outcomes.

It also called for the commitment of Asia-Pacific countries in convening a regional meeting of decision makers to strengthen civil registration and vital statistics systems.

"The Philippines is only one of two countries in the region with an integrated civil registration and vital statistics system," the DFA said.

ESCAP meeting

The DFA said the ESCAP's meeting was held in Bangkok from May 19 to 25.

The next session of ESCAP, to be held in Bangkok in April or May 2012, will focus on enhancing regional economic integration in Asia and the Pacific region.

A comprehensive social and economic agenda for sustainable and inclusive development in the region was drawn up during the week-long annual UN forum.

The central theme of this year's session emphasized the urgency of social protection and development amidst crises that worsened poverty in Asia-Pacific region.

The 67th session of UN ESCAP was participated in by more than 45 countries and 30 UN bodies, international organizations (IOs) and observer non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the region.

Governing council member

During the ESCAP meeting, the Philippines was elected member of the new Governing Council of the Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT) 2011-2014.

The other countries elected to the Governing Council were Bangladesh, China, Fiji, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Samoa, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Uzbekistan.

The Department of Science and Technology's (DOST) Engineer Edgar Garcia will represent the Philippines in the Governing Council.

During the meeting, Asia-Pacific member states achieved consensus on a wide-range of policy recommendations aimed at sustaining the region's economic growth while minimizing its social and environmental costs.

"The Philippine delegation was active in discussions on information and communications technology, social development and statistics," the DFA said.

"It also shared its experience on the implementation of its Conditional Cash Transfer Program, resulting in greater access to primary schooling, improved maternal mortality and lowered infant mortality among the poor," the DFA added.

A key outcome of the session was an agreement by Asia-Pacific countries to invest in building a "social protection floor" offering a minimum level of access to essential services and income security to all.

The Philippine delegation to 67th UN ESCAP session was headed by Social Welfare and Development Undersecretary Mateo Montano and composed of representatives from the DFA, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the Department of Social Welfare and Devleopment (DSWD), the National Statistics Office (NSO) and the Commission on Information and Communications Technology (CICT).

The Philippines also successfully presided as Vice Chairperson of the meeting, with Montano elected Vice Chairperson of the Bureau for the Ministerial Segment held from May 23 to 25.

NSO Administrator Carmelita Ericta was elected First Vice Chairperson of the Committee of the Whole II of the Senior Officials Segment held on May 19 to 21. - VVP, GMA News

..the hero

PHL film on Rizal featured at heritage month in US

05/31/2011

GMANews.tv

A Philippine film on national hero Dr. Jose Rizal was shown at the Asia-Pacific American Heritage Month celebration in Chicago.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday said the Philippine movie “Bayaning Third World" was shown in the United States for free last May 25.

The DFA said the free film showing was held at the prestigious Cindy Pritzker auditorium of the Harold Washington Library Center.

The event commemorates the 150th birth anniversary of Rizal, according to the department.

“Directed in 2000 by Mike de Leon, the movie was shown with English subtitles," it said.

Students, professionals, the library’s patrons, and Filipino community members went to the film screenings, the DFA said.

“Bayaning Third World" starred Joel Torre, Ricky Davao, Cris Villanueva, Ed Rocha, Joonee Gamboa, Rio LOcsin, Cherry Pie Picache, and Lara Fabregas. — JE, GMA News

...the chess master to World Cup

Paragua books trip to World Cup (The Philippine Star) May 31, 2011

  

GM Mark Paragua| Zoom

MANILA, Philippines - Three-time Olympiad veteran GM Mark Paragua beat IM Wei Ming Goh of Singapore in the final round to finish second in the Asian Zone 3.3 Chess Championships and clinch the last berth in this year’s World Cup.

Paragua outwitted Goh in 35 moves of the Sicilian and wound up with 6.5 points in the nine-round tournament topped by Indonesian GM Susanto Megaranto at the Tagaytay International Convention Center in Tagaytay yesterday.

Paragua, 27, actually finished tied with top seed Zhang Zhong of Singapore and compatriot IM Richard Bitoon but took the second and last World Cup berth with a superior tiebreak score.

Megaranto downed GM Joey Antonio to emerge the solo champion with seven points in the event organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with the Tagaytay City government.

Megaranto’s win over Antonio came exactly 12 hours after he stopped erstwhile leader GM Darwin Laylo in the penultimate round.

“I’m very happy to make it to the World Cup again. It’s been a long time since I last played there,” said Paragua, who earlier escaped with a hard-fought draw with Zhang in the eighth round.

Paragua made it to the 2004 World Cup in Tripoli, Libya, losing to GM Viktor Bologan of Moldova, 1.5-.5, Russia in the first round.

In 2006, he defeated GM Sergei Movsesian of Armenia, 1.5-.5, in the first round but lost to GM Alexei Dreev of Russia in the blitz playoffs, 6-5, in the second round.

Zhang foiled Laylo, while Bitoon crushed GM Dao Thien Hai of Vietnam for joint second.

Newly crowned Asian Youth 16-under gold medalist Jan Emmanuel Garcia settled for a draw with IM Nguyen Huyn Monh of Vietnam, while IM Rolando Nolte beat GM Cerdas Barus of Indonesia for joint fifth with six points.

Garcia also earned an outright IM title based on his exceptional showing.

The 16-year-old Ateneo student also won over Wei Ming Goh of Singapore in the eighth round.

In women’s play, WIM Beverly Mendoza drew with Hoang Thi Nhu of Vietnam to emerge as the highest-placed Filipina player at 11th with 5.5 points after the tiebreak.

Mendoza finished a full point behind top seed IM Li Ruofan of Singapore and WGM Hoang Thi Bao of Vietnam.

...the foresight

The economic picture looks good

By BETH DAY ROMULO

May 31, 2011

Manila Bulletin

MANILA, Philippines — The latest ratings released by Standard & Poor’s international rating service views the Philippines economic outlook as “stable.” Better yet, the World Bank has listed the Philippines as one of the countries worldwide with the “highest growth potential.”
 
 

And the fact that the Philippines is no longer listed by the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) as a country that offers safe haven for tax evaders and money launders encourages foreign investment.


The most active sites for foreign of investment have been the former US military bases at Clark and Subic Bay.


The former Clark Air Force Base is the home to the US chipmaker Texas Instruments which set up shop there in 2009, and Korea’s Samsung Industries which came in last year. The Japanese tire maker Yokohama which has been at Clark since 1996 has announced plans for expansion this year.


At Subic Bay, South Korea’s giant Hanjin Heavy Industries has built one of the largest shipyards in the world and already delivered 20 ships since it came in five years ago.


The port at Subic is now second only to Manila in volume of cargo, and revenue collections hit two billion pesos in the first quarter of this year. The Subic Bay Freeport has become a bustling hub for regional budget airlines and cargo ships. It is also developing as a tourist attraction with its sandy beaches and rainforests.


The Asian Development Bank recently released a report on the roll-on-roll-off (RoRo) projects introduced during the Arroyo administration which have provided local employment at ports throughout the country and also stimulated the economy through the “nautical highway” which connects the major islands of the archipelago.


In the Metro Manila area, the business process outsourcing firm Accenture has opened a new 9-floor facility at Global One Center in Quezon City, and expects to add another 5,000 employees to its work force.


Last year, the Foreign Joint Chambers of Commerce listed seven potential areas of investment in the Philippines: Agriculture, business process outsourcing (BPO), creative industries, manufacturing, infrastructure, mining, and tourism. Of the seven, five are doing well, but two – mining and agriculture – received no fresh investments last year. This year, there has been some activity in the mining sector but agricultural businesses still fail to attract investment.


In an attempt to rectify this situation, the Department of Agriculture (DA) decided to conduct a census of food producers and fishermen in 80 provinces to determine this sector’s “gaps and vulnerabilities.” This is the first time such a study has been made.
 

Currently, the census taking, which is being conducted by DA regional officers who interview farmers and fishermean, has finished the Southern Luzon area and is now working in Quezon province. The national survey is expected to be completed by 2014 and will provide a database which will give a detailed picture of what policies proved effective and what needs yet to be done to improve production.

...the Pinoy animators

'Animating' Filipinos for a global market

By Dan V. Paurom
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Monday, May 30th, 2011

FILIPINO DIGITAL animators may soon be joining the global animation industry as they expand their work portfolios.

The country’s first full animated feature film “Urduja” is reminiscent of Disney classics with its charming hand-drawn style. Local animators have also released the first Filipino 3D film in theaters, “RPG Metanoia,” showing that Filipinos have the potential to create world-class animated feature films.

Despite the considerable gains, however, the local animation scene still has a long way to go due to a lack of skilled digital animators. This is partly because there are very few opportunities for Filipinos to gain the necessary skills.

Digimation UK, an animation school based in the United Kingdom, wants to change all that. In a press conference, it announced it would be offering 3D digital animation courses at reasonable prices at La Consolacion College Manila (LCCM).

Dilip Amdekar, chief executive officer and dean of Digimation, said this was an opportunity for Filipinos to get into the billion-dollar gaming and animation industry.

Amdekar said, with the quality and level of education they were offering, Filipinos would have access to high-paying digital animation jobs.

Suren, a teacher at Digimation UK, said simply knowing digital manipulation and computer programs such as Maya and Adobe Photoshop was not enough to succeed in the business.

Aspiring animators should have a burning passion and love for their craft. Educators should not only teach students the needed technical skills but also ignite the spark of creativity inherent in everyone.

Suren showed a video presentation made by Digimation UK students on the history of animation—from crude cave paintings to motion “scopes” of the late 19th century and today’s advanced computer programs capable of projecting entire worlds before global audiences.

An impressive segment broke down explosion scenes in Hollywood movies to show viewers how they were made and how much effort was taken to make them look as realistic as possible.

Present during the press conference was Ryan Flynn, a principal lecturer in games design at University of Greenwich in the United Kingdom. Flynn said the entertainment industry always thrived, especially during times of recession, because of the masses’ insatiable demand for entertainment.

Flynn added that anyone with skills in digital animation could work from their beds at home and, on their laptops, create games that could sell immediately. He cited Angry Birds, a simple game made by a small team of skilled individuals that became a hit worldwide with more than 200 million downloads.

But Flynn said, despite the potential of the games industry, there was a shortage of qualified digital animators. Many game developers had to settle for professionals with limited skills.

Digimation UK hoped that by offering accessible quality education, they could help individuals get respectable positions and salaries in a respectable field.

The school offers two-year courses that teach students technical skills that can also be used in many other fields related to computer programming.

Students who graduate from the two-year courses can take advance animation courses at the prestigious University of Greenwich in London.