...the indie actress in Singapore

Filipina indie actress topbills Singaporean film

By: Bayani San Diego Jr.
Philippine Daily Inquirer

July 7, 2012

ANGELI Bayani says her small sacrifices are ultimately for her 4-year-old son Marek (left).

Theater and indie film actress Angeli Bayani recalled that her audition for Singaporean filmmaker Anthony Chen happened on a “crazy” day.

She showed up exhausted, because she had just wrapped up work on the musical play “Noli” (where she portrayed Sisa). Her mind wasn’t totally on the screen test, but as she was singing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star,” she felt a single teardrop running down her cheek.

“The director got worried and asked if I were okay,” she recounted. “I explained that I was just tired.”

As luck would have it, she soon received an e-mail informing her of the good news: She had bagged the plum role of a Filipino nanny in the international film, “Iloilo.”

Chen, whose short films have competed in Berlin and Cannes, told Bayani that he was inspired by his own childhood in making his feature film debut.

“It’s his tribute to the Filipino nanny who raised him,” she said. “It’s about the conflict between two cultures… how Singaporeans are coming to terms with the idea that their children are being cared for by Filipinos.”

It was a much-coveted role among the current crop of local indie actresses. “On Facebook, my friends, who also tried out for the same part, congratulated me,” she recalled.X

Then it hit her: These colleagues are not only award-winning; they are among the most talented in her batch as well.

“I felt so lucky,” she said. “Instead of focusing on its significance, career-wise, I thought of my child. It came at the right time… because my 4-year-old son Marek has started going to school.”

A much-delayed reward

Previously, she appeared in French (Joel Farges’ “Slaves of the Sea”) and US productions (Ron Morales’ “Graceland”). This latest international project, however, is a much-delayed reward for Bayani who has been slaving away onscreen and onstage for years.

She played a deranged mother (“Noli”), a gay countess (“Lulu”) and a fag hag (“Care Divas”) in plays; and a mermaid (“Kalayaan”), hired killer (“Detektib”) and political prisoner (“Ka Oryang”) in indie films.

For “Ka Oryang,” she scored a best supporting actress nomination from the critics’ Urian Awards.

Still, “Iloilo” felt like sweet vindication for the underrated actress.

Making teachers proud

She looks at the international exposure as a chance to make her teachers proud. “I trained in theater… starting with Tanghalang Pilipino. I owe all this to my mentors, Irma Adlawan and Anna Valdes-Lim,” she pointed out. “In every performance, I want to honor my teachers… so that when they watch my work, they won’t be embarrassed to say that I was their student.”

She regarded her Singaporean stint as an opportunity to push herself as an artist: “I am furthering my education.”

The only Filipino in the cast of “Iloilo,” she flew to Singapore in May and finished shooting last month.

Although the shoot was challenging, it taught her to fight for her beliefs and trust her instincts.

It also validated her local training as an actress. “I’ve always been open and approachable. I believe in making connections with your co-workers wherever you are. I learned a lot from the local crew – both the veterans and the interns.”

A single mom’s dilemma

She understood her character’s dilemma (of being separated from her family) because she was away from her son during the filming.

“I’m a single mom. I didn’t want to miss my son’s first day in school. But my friends from the Theater Actors Guild looked after him. They volunteered to bring my son to school while I was away,” she said.

Bayani takes consolation in the fact that her small sacrifices are ultimately for her child.

“I’m thankful for the job. It’ll ensure a brighter future for my son,” she quipped.

...the Southeast Asia's best

Philippines is still Seaba’s best, trounces Thailand for crown

By Celest R. Flores
INQUIRER.net

Saturday, July 7th, 2012

SOUTHEAST ASIA’S BEST. The Philippine team clinches the 2012 Seaba title by trouncing host Thailand, 74-52, Saturday, July 7, 2012 in Chiang Mai City. Photo from Assistant coach Josh Reyes' Instagram account.

 

 

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines sealed a tournament-long domination with a 74-52 rout of host Thailand, which clinched 2012 SEABA championship and the lone berth to the Fiba Asia Cup Saturday in Chiang Mai City.

The squad, composed of select amateur players, standouts from Alaska in the PBA and holdovers from the previous Smart Gilas, swept all its four assignments and the Philippines cemented its stature as basketball’s best in Southeast Asia.

The Philippines enjoyed the lead over the hapless Thais all throughout the contest but eased up a bit on the host late in the payoff period.

A trip to Tokyo, Japan late this year for the FIBA Asia Cup was the prize for the Philippines, who also remained undefeated last year, for topping the tournament.

Gilas’ original cast Marcus Douthit and Chris Tiu delivered the goods for the PH team while NCAA standout Garvo Lanete, who averaged 10 points in the tournament, stepped up anew.

...the UNCTAD report

UNCTAD Report Shows Positive Outlook For PH

By MADEL R. SABATER

July 6, 2012

Manila Bulletin

MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang said on Friday that the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) World Investment Report 2012 on the Philippines is a step in the right direction toward having higher foreign direct investments (FDIs) for this year.

The UNCTAD reported that while the Philippines has $850-million in FDIs for the first quarter of 2012 alone, up by 75 percent in the same quarter in 2011, it failed to maximize its potential to attract FDIs.

Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the country’s FDI in the UNCTAD report was based on the 2011 figure. He expressed optimism that the 2011 figures can be exceeded this year.

“The figures posted by UNCTAD were based on 2011 figures and those figures were culled from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP),” he said.

“The figures stated by the UNCTAD were that for FDI in 2011 (at) $1.262-billion. Just for the first quarter alone of 2012, our FDI was already at $850-million,” he added.

Last June, the BSP revised the FDI target for 2012 to $1.2 billion from $2 billion due to the slowdown in the United States economy and crisis in the European Community.
 
The UNCTAD report revealed that the Philippines has the potential to attract FDIs but received “less FDIs than could be expected based on economic deterrents.”

But the Philippines received higher FDIs than Laos, Brunei, Myanmar, and Cambodia but still lagged behind other neighboring countries in Southeast Asia.

...the PH wave in Edinburgh

Edinburgh film fest rides PH new wave

 

by Patrick Camara Ropeta,

ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau

07/07/2012

 

 

LONDON - Filipino films took center stage at the Edinburgh Film Festival featuring a strong contingent of filmmakers from the so-called New Wave of independent Philippine cinema.

 

From shorts to feature-lengths, the international film festival showcased contemporary Filipino filmmakers in a special program entitled “Philippine New Wave,” named after a documentary by indie director Khavn de la Cruz, who attended the festival and advised organizers on the film selection.

Creative Filipino films at the festival included “Amok” by Lawrence Anthony Fajardo, “Nino” by Loy Arcenas, and “Isda” by Adolfo Borinaga Alix Jr.

“Khavn De La Cruz has put together a superb selection of new feature films and a brilliant selection of shorts from the past thirty years. The whole program is an excellent representation of Philippine cinema and it makes a strong case to UK audiences for the vitality of filmmaking in the Philippines,” said Chris Fujiwara, Artistic Director of Edinburgh Film Festival.

He added: “The Philippines is the single most exciting country in the world of filmmaking today. A real creative explosion has been going on there for several years, and it keeps going. The number of Philippine directors who are establishing themselves as auteur increases every year.”

The festival also screened classic Filipino films, including Manuel Conde and Lou Salvador’s violent epic “Genghis Khan” from 1950, previously screened at the same festival in 1952.

The film was projected unconventionally as a backdrop to a special theatrical performance by creative collective “The Brockas”, named after legendary Filipino director Lino Brocka, previously seen at various film festivals around the world.

The group is consisted of independent Filipino filmmakers de la Cruz, Lav Diaz and Emerson Reyes, together with special guest members from the local festival scene.

“Khavn suggested that we do a Brockas concert here as part of our celebration of Philippine cinema.

‘Genghis Khan’ lends itself beautifully to this kind of event because it is such a visually striking film, filled with interesting images and scenes of spectacle and action. The film is currently being restored, and the restoration will premiere at the Venice Film Festival later this year,” explained Fujiwara, who was chosen as an honorary member of The Brockas in Scotland, alongside Edinburgh-based drummer, Paul Canavan.

Established in 1947, the Edinburgh Film Festival in Scotland is a major part of the international film festival circuit, aiming to discover and promote creative filmmaking talent from around the world. Films that previously premiered at the festival include Oscar winner “The Hurt Locker”, cult classic “Let the Right One In”, and box-office hit “Billy Elliot”.

Riding the wave

MONDOMANILA by Khavn de la Cruz is a visual rollercoaster ride in the world of Philippine poverty

“Philippine New Wave: This is Not a Film Movement”, a stylized documentary by de la Cruz, led the Philippine delegation at the Edinburgh Film Festival. It presents a cinematic dialogue between independent Filipino filmmakers, including Raya Martin, Kidlat Tahimik, and Cannes favorite Brillante Mendoza.

De la Cruz’s other film, “Mondomanila, or: How I Fixed My Hair After a Rather Long Journey”, also made an appearance at the festival. Based on the novel of Norman Wilwayco, it creates high-octane spectacle out of poverty and demonstrates the resilience of Filipinos in the face of adversity.

Cherry Pie Picache gives birth to a fish in ISDA by Adolfo Boringa Alix Jr.

Adolfo Boringa Alix Jr. brought a surreal twist at the festival with “Fable of the Fish” or “Isda”. With an all-star cast including Cherry Pie Pecache, Rosana Roses, and indie favourite Bembol Roco, the film tells the story of a woman who gives birth to a fish, set against the slums and a fragile marriage.

Featuring Filipino model Hazel Orencio, Lav Diaz’s “Forentina Hubaldo, CTE” took the record of being the longest film in the festival. Screened for 360 minutes without intermission, it tackles the complicated world of poverty, corruption and colonialism through the story of a woman forced into prostitution by her own father, alongside the quest of two men in search of lost treasures.

“Forever Loved” or “Lawis Kan Pinabli” by Christopher Gozum brought a sombre tone to the festival with his stylized documentary about a man’s search for his missing wife in the Middle East, set against a series of recollections and letters from Filipino migrant workers plucked from millions around the world.

A glimpse at the claustrophobic city commute in MNL 143 by Emerson Reyes

Emerson Reyes took a snapshot of the metropolitan landscape with his observational film “MNL 143”, following a commuter’s journey across Metro Manila and revealing subtle moments of irony and poignant life stories unfolding in the claustrophobic space of public transportation.

Starring Mark Gil, “Amok” by Lawrence Anthony Fajardo presents the twists and turns of life from a day in Manila, as a random act of violence quickly turns into a brutal struggle for survival, following the intertwining lives of Filipinos in the Philippine capital.

Filmmaker Loy Arcenas touched on the religious aspect of the Philippines with “Nino”, the story of an aristocratic Filipino family as they experience loss, desperation and hope. It highlight’s one woman’s cry for a miracle through a young boy whom she dresses up as the Catholic holy child Santo Nino.

Cherry Pie Picache gives birth to a fish in ISDA by Adolfo Boringa Alix Jr.

Known for his films about the plight of children, Mes de Guzman’s “Of Skies and Earth”, aka “Sa Kanto ng Ulap at Lupa”, brought the affecting story of four innocent children who attempt to create a home together under a vacant hut in Nueva Vizcaya, their very own paradise. But life is more complicated than it first seemed, as they fight for survival finding regular meals and maintaining some form of order.

The infamous slums of Manila features in “Tondo, Beloved: To What Are The Poor Born?” or “Tundong Magiliw: Pasaan Isinisilang Siyang Mahirap?” by Jewel Maranan. The harrowing documentary about poverty in Tondo follows a woman and her family as they carry on with their daily lives from the biggest slum in the Philippines, surviving on fish from the city’s ports, and creating their own version of home entertainment while dealing with a crisis threatening their fragile existence.

---

...the FUN reaches Korea

S. Korean official ‘nakgwanjeokin’ about PH

By Jerry E. Esplanada
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Saturday, July 7th, 2012

 

 

MANILA, Philippines — Saying he is “nakgwanjeokin”, or bullish on the Philippines’ new tourism brand “It’s more fun in the Philippines,” a top official of the South Korean Embassy in Taguig City has expressed optimism that from over 925,000 in 2011, the number of Korean tourists to the country will break the one million-mark this year.

 

Hwang Seong Un, the embassy’s counselor for culture and public relations, projected “there would be over a million Korean visitors in the Philippines this year given the aggressive campaign that the Department of Tourism has recently launched.”

“Yes, it will break the one million-mark,” Hwang, also director of the Korean Cultural Center, told the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Last year, South Koreans topped the list of foreign tourists to the Philippines, followed by Japan and the United States, according to the Department of Tourism.

South Korean embassy records showed that a total of 653,310 Koreans traveled to the Philippines in 2007, followed by 611,629 in 2008. The figures went down to 497,936 in 2009, but increased to 740,622 in 2010 and 925,204 in 2011.

In January, Koreans accounted for 102,166, or 24.9 percent of the 411,064 foreign visitors in the country.

`During the same period in 2011, 92,249 travelers from the north Asian country visited the Philippines.

Hwang described as “positive” the DOT drive, stressing “it highlights the fun-loving nature of Filipinos.”

“It is a good choice for a slogan as actually, Koreans are finding alternative meanings to fun in the Philippines,” said the diplomat.

He pointed out that the Philippine slogan has an equivalent drive in South Korea.

“Our current tourism brand is “Be Inspired,” which could take any form, like Be Inspired with Korean food, Be Inspired with Korean heritage or Be Inspired by Korean shopping. It really depends on the interest of the tourist. Perhaps for many Filipinos, who are very much in tune with Hallyu (or Korean pop culture), it would be good to Be Inspired with Hallyu,” said Hwang.

During the past five years, some 1.44 million Koreans — including 337,268 in 2011 — visited the Philippines.

Hwang said the top come-ons for Korean visitors were “first, the country’s beautiful beaches, then, the people and third, the ease of communication.”

“Beaches in Batangas, among others, are great…The people here are very friendly and no matter who we approach, they are always willing to talk and communicate in ways they know and in ways that would be understood. Their ability to speak English is one of the strongest points of Filipinos,” he also said.

Then, “there’s Cebu, also Boracay as the popular honeymoon destinations for Koreans. But there are still numerous beaches that would appeal to Koreans and other fun-filled activities apart from the beaches. Also Baguio because the weather there is much closer to Korea.”

Hwang said, “The Malacañang Museum is already open to visitors, but perhaps it would be a good idea if the rules and the code of conduct when inside the presidential Palace are properly outlined and promoted.”

“I understand that security will be at risk, but as Malacañang is a building with a rich history, it would be good to introduce this aspect of the colonial Philippines to tourists apart from the ruins of Intramuros. Malacañang, in general, is a very good compound clustered with seats of Manila’s old families apart from government buildings. There are also good restaurants around the area,” he said.

In Seoul, “selected parts of the Blue House (the official residence of the South Korean president) are open to visitors. They have this Cheongwadae Tours which provide sufficient information and a step-by-step procedure for foreigners as to how to go there and tour the place,” said Hwang.

When interviewed, Hwang said it would be a “very good idea to further intensify the Philippine government’s tourism campaign in Korea.”

“Koreans will continue to fly to the Philippines, given that flights between the two countries average 23 per day. Also, the Korean community in the Philippines has settled in quite nicely and the Korean towns around give Korean tourists a sense of belongingness despite in a foreign country,” said Hwang.

However, he said their host government should do something about what he called a “common concern” among Korean tourists — “harassment many Korean visitors suffer in the hands of immigration officials.”

“The embassy has expressed concern over the Bureau of Immigration (BI) watchlist on certain Korean individuals. Since only the names of blacklisted individuals are indicated in the BI order, Koreans with the same names are the blacklisted ones experience unexpected trouble at Philippine airports. That is why, we have asked that the expansion of the information in the same blacklist or watchlist should include not just the names but also the birth dates of the concerned individuals,” he also said.

Hwang said: “There is also this issue involving the Special Study Permit (SSP) which the embassy seeks to be amended, if not entirely abolished.”

“Under the Philippine immigration law, foreigners with temporary visitors’ visas are required to apply for an SSP if they intend to study in the Philippines regardless of the length of stay. Instead, the embassy has requested the expansion of the temporary visitor’s visa to include other purposes, such as education, thereby helping promote Philippine tourism,” he saiid.

Asked if they have other negative comments on their hosts, Hwang said, “it’s not entirely negative but perhaps the big difference on Koreans’ culture of time compared to Filipinos.”

“Koreans, in general, are very strict when it comes to time, which is very important to them. Filipinos, however, are much more laid back with their “Filipino time,” he pointed out.

These “Korean tourist complaints” notwithstanding, Hwang expressed confidence the Philippines would remain a top tourist destination for South Koreans.

In April, the Philippines and South Korea agreed to increase flights between the two countries amid growing demand for travel in the Asia-Pacific region.

The new air services agreement (ASA) was signed after negotiations on April 2-3, said the Civil Aeronautics Board, which said South Korea is one of the 10 “priority countries” that the government wants to have increased connectivity with.

The ASA is in line with the Aquino administration’s liberalization of air rights program. This is seen as key to the government’s target of increasing tourist arrivals to 10 million by 2016 from more than three million in 2010.

Local airlines that fly to South Korea are Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Zest Air. Korean airlines that fly to the Philippines include Asiana Airlines and Jin Air.

...the world's best island 2012

Boracay named 2012 world's best island

by Jojo Malig,

ABS-CBNnews.com

07/07/2012

MANILA, Philippines (2nd UPDATE) - Boracay has been named as this year's world's best island getaway by an international travel magazine.

Discovery Shores in Boracay was also named best hotel spa in Asia by "Travel + Leisure" magazine's 2012 World's Best Awards.

The magazine's editor, Nilou Motamed, made the announcement Friday on the "Today" daily American morning television show that airs on NBC.

Boracay, which placed 4th in the same awards last year, garnered 93.10 points to take the top spot this year.



Travel + Leisure's top 10 island destinations in 2012, based on a survey of readers are:

1. Boracay, Philippines - 93.10
2. Bali - 90.41
3. Galápagos - 89.55
4. Maui - 89.53
5. Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia  - 89.28
6. Santorini, Greece - 89.20
7. Kauai - 89.09
8. Big Island, Hawaii  - 87.95
9. Sicily, Italy - 87.87
10. Vancouver Island, British Columbia - 87.48

"The world's best island, I confess to never having heard of it in the Philippines," "Today" host Willie Geist said.

"This is important, Boracay. It beat out Bali, number 2. It's one of those islands you should know about if you're interested in culture and value," Motamed told Geist.

"Our readers love this, it's not been on anyone's radar. It's in the Philippines. This is the place that you're gonna get not only hotels that you can stay for $50 a night but incredible hotels like the Shangri-la," she added.

Boracay's Discovery Shores also secured top honors for being the best hotel spa in Asia this year, the magazine said.

Aside from Boracay and Discovery Suites, the winners in other categories are Bangkok (world's best city), Singita Grumeti Reserves (world's best hotel), Crystal Cruises (world's best large ship cruise line), Seabourn (world's best small ship cruise line), Viking River Cruises (world's best river cruise line), Singapore Airlines (world's best international airline), Virgin America (world's best domestic airline), Micato Safaris (world's best safari outfitter), Row Adventures (world's best tour operator), Hertz (world's best car rental agency), Red Mountain Resort (world's best destination spa), and Capella Pedregal (world's best hotel spa).

"Even after 17 years, the opportunity to see what travel experiences resonate with our readers still intrigues and delights me. While some passions change over time, the allure of the exotic and the new remains as strong as ever, as does the attraction to trips that provide distinctive and long-lasting memories," "Travel + Leisure" editor-in-chief Nancy Novogrod said in a press statement.

The full results of the 17th annual "Travel + Leisure" World's Best Awards survey revealing readers' favorite hotels, cities, islands, cruise lines, airlines, car rental agencies, spas, safari outfitters, and tour operators are listed on http://www.travelandleisure.com/ and will be featured in the magazine's August digital editions and its August print issue that will hit US newsstands on July 20.

The 2012 World's Best Awards winners will be honored at a ceremony on July 19 that will be hosted by Novogrod and the magazine's vice-president and publisher, Jean-Paul Kyrillos, at the newly opened Conrad New York.

...the safe haven for investor

PH now a ‘safe haven’ for investors, says US bank

By: Doris C. Dumlao
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Saturday, July 7th, 2012

 

 

“If I think about the Philippines today, I think of it as a country that is probably two to three years behind Indonesia in terms of structural growth story". - Melvyn Boey, Southeast Asian equity strategist at BofA Merrill Lynch Global Research

 

 

 

American financial giant Bank of America Merrill Lynch has upgraded its domestic economic growth outlook for the Philippines this year but tempered its outlook for 2013 as a challenging global environment is seen to affect exports.

 

Gross domestic product forecast for this year was raised to 5.6 percent from 4.4 percent but for 2013, the outlook was trimmed to 5.7 percent from 5.9 percent. In 2012-13, a weaker export growth outlook, paired with larger import demands of a faster growing domestic economy, would tend to restrain the overall GDP growth trend, the company said in a research commentary.

Victoria Ip, chief investment officer for Asia at Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management, said in a briefing on Friday that regardless of the progress on the European Union’s bailout of ailing banks, Europe would likely fall into a recession.

Also cited as a global concern was the United States’ heading into a “fiscal cliff.” This is a term commonly used to refer to the US dilemma on whether to sustain belt-tightening measures and tax increases at the beginning of 2013 or scrap some of the scheduled tax adjustments and spending cuts. Either way worries markets as keeping a tight fiscal policy tends to increase recession risks while doing the reverse can widen the deficit and raise the risk of the US facing the same fiscal woes as Europe.

But Ip said that not everything was gloomy in the US, noting some positive developments in the housing market and the pickup in credit demand. On the other hand, a soft landing is expected for China, Asia’s biggest economy.

Melvyn Boey, Southeast Asian equity strategist at BofA Merrill Lynch Global Research, said that amid lingering global uncertainties, a key theme for the next two to four quarters in equities would be that Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, was standing out as a “safe haven.”

The Philippines, Boey said, was one of his institution’s favored markets given its “structural growth story.” As such, he said investment opportunities would be in the domestic sector, infrastructure, property and, indirectly, the banks.

“If I think about the Philippines today, I think of it as a country that is probably two to three years behind Indonesia in terms of structural growth story,” Boey said, noting that the situation had greatly improved given its higher sovereign credit rating, benign inflation and better-than-expected economic growth.

On its upgraded growth outlook for the Philippines this year, a research released by Merrill Lynch said it believed there was sufficient surplus capacity in banking and properties to accommodate stronger demand.

...the first investment grade

PH expected to bag first investment grade rating in 12-18 mos

 

by Prinz P. Magtulis,

The Philippine Star

07/07/2012

 

 

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines is seen to bag its first investment grade rating in history in the next 12 to 18 months as solid fundamentals continue to work on its favor, Barclays said in a report.

 

“Our base case is for the Philippines to receive its first investment grade rating in the next 12-18 months, although it may take a little longer for it to receive such a rating from two out of the three main agencies,” Barclays said in the report titled “Philippines: The Rising Star.”

 

Standard & Poor’s Rating Services last Wednesday upgraded the country’s debt to BB+, one notch below investment grade and at par with that given by Fitch Ratings last year. Moody’s Investors Service, meanwhile, rates the Philippines at two notches under investment grade.

 

Barclays said the Philippines sovereign credit rating is in a “positive trajectory.”

 

“After Indonesia received investment grade ratings, the market’s focus turned to the Philippines as the next potential candidate in Asia,” the investment bank said.

 

It pointed to recent developments such as the passage of laws strengthening the fight against money laundering, contained budget deficit, moving public-private partnership (PPP) projects and a manageable inflation as reasons for its optimism.

 

Political stability was also noted with the report, claiming President Aquino III remains “popular and has a strong mandate,” following the conviction of former Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona.

 

“With this case out of the way, we believe the government can focus on addressing key areas, such as infrastructure (through PPPs), and passing important legislation, such as fiscal incentive rationalization, “sin” taxes and progress on privatization,” Barclays said.

 

The government is pushing for the passage of the bills that will increase taxes on tobacco and liquor products as well as rationalize incentives to generate more revenues. Both bills are now slated for discussion once Congress opens its new session on July 23.

 

Still however, the national government’s five-month budget deficit remains far below the P109.341-billion ceiling for the first half, hitting only roughly P23 billion, with revenues rising by 11 percent during the period.

 

Meanwhile, Barclays said “foreign interest in PPP projects has increased.”

 

“In line with our expectations, the administration’s public-private partnership (PPP) program, worth an estimated P200 billion is gaining momentum, marking another improvement in the overall investment climate,” it explained.

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...the new Manila's CBD

ALI Investing P65B In QC CBD

10-Year Development

By JAMES A. LOYOLA

July 5, 2012

Manila Bulletin

MANILA, Philippines – Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) is investing P65 billion over the next 10 years for the development of the Metro Manila’s next central business district (CBD) in Quezon City (QC) called Vertis North beside its Trinoma mall.

In a press briefing, ALI president Antonino Aquino said half of the budget will be for office buildings while the other half is for retail spaces, residential condominiums and hotels.

He added that the integrated urban development masterplan calls for the construction of 45 towers on a 29-hectare lot owned by the National Housing Authority (NHA).

“Quezon City is fast becoming a center of gravity for economic developments as it works to be at par with international business standards,” said Aquino.

ALI will invest an initial P12 billion for the launch of Phase 1 of Vertis North which will mark the
 development of its office, retail, and hotel components within a 7-hectare land area, which is expected to be completed in the next three to four years.

This initial phase will put up a total gross floor area of 220,000 square meters, including business process outsourcing (BPO) establishments, hotel, and retail shops.

It will also generate close to 200,000 jobs during its entire development phase, 35,000 of which will be filled during the development stage of Phase 1.

Meanwhile, the national government, through NHA, also eyes to gain P11 billion worth of housing investments through its partnership with Ayala Land at Vertis North.

This will further boost the government’s efforts to reduce the national housing backlog, as it stands to benefit close to 50,000 families, said NHA general manager Chito Cruz.

Vertis North is strategically located at the northern tip of Quezon City as it is the convergence point of commuter rail lines and three major road arteries, particularly the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), Mindanao Avenue, and North Avenue.

It also serves as the gateway to the North given its connection to the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx). Ayala Land intends to capitalize on this huge upside by bringing an intermodal transport terminal facility at Vertis North.

...the Break-out Nations

A Breakout Nation GO NEGOSYO PILIPINAS: NOW IS OUR TIME By Joey Concepcion (The Philippine Star) July 05, 2012

Aligned with our current theme, Pilipinas, Now is our Time, we saw a viral video on Breakout Nations that identified the Philippines as one of the few countries on the rise, and it described Philippines, Turkey and Indonesia as the “future’s big growers for big returns”. It suggests that the time to invest in the country is now, before it breaks out.

Good things are really happening to the Philippines. Our GDP numbers for the first quarter grew 2.5 percent, and are expected to grow to 4-5 percent for the full year. In the forex rates, we have seen the peso at P43 to the dollar in January. These days, it has appreciated to the levels of P41.75. While we are happy to see these improvements, we hope that we do not see our Philippine peso over appreciate below the 40s-level, as this will not be good for our country’s business model that is relying on overseas service exports, supplying the world with workers in almost every field. Back home, we are now one of the largest business process outsourcing providers, which show that the demand for service is greater than ever.

Jokingly, even with the RH bill not in place, Filipinos had to seek employment overseas because of the existing over population and the lack of jobs to meet the growing population through the years. But then, I ask: Was this providential? If we did not have this problem, would the Filipinos be the largest source of overseas workers? Would we have the kind of dollar reserves that we have today, which also brings about a surge in our economy through the increase in consumer spending? To prove this, our reserves have grown to record levels at $76 billion, from only $63 billion level last year. Would we have the real estate boom that we see today, which is driven by OFWs and Filipinos living abroad? Even the increase in interracial marriage is quite obvious, as many Europeans and Americans prefer to marry Filipinas, as they are seen to been more gentle and caring for their families, which manifests our innate advantage in terms of being caring people.

However, the social costs and implication to the family cannot be equated with monetary considerations as spouses get separated, which leads to an increase in the number of broken families, creating a negative impact on their children. Some would say that at least, families would have a better chance to rise above poverty by providing them with better shelter, education, and eventually, a negosyo. It is good that modern technology now offers a solution to families who are far away from each other. Companies like PLDT and Smart are providing cheaper means for OFWs to communicate with their loved ones in the Philippines. Internet connectivity has also allowed this to happen, and applications like Skype let us see and talk to people overseas for free.

Over all, the Philippines have weathered most of the economic crises in the past, and we can weather this European crisis because our business model is not dependent on the export of durable goods that consumers overseas can defer to buy. The export of Filipino services has become a necessity for many companies abroad that aims to lower their operating costs. Economic crises such as this even pushed more companies to outsource their labor, which made them set their eyes on the Philippines.

But a strong peso is also not good for our country, as I mentioned earlier. Recipients of the remittances will get less, and those paying for amortization on real estate purchases will have to pay more in dollars.  What should the government do to prevent this from happening? One way is to lower interest rates. Another way is for the government to keep borrowing in pesos, and convert it to dollars. I am sure they have other ways to maintain a favorable exchange rate that will continue to push our country’s growth further.

We are witnesses to this economic surge.   We hope that the success that we are currently enjoying will be sustained for a long time.

Pilipinas, now is our time!

...the PH supermom

Meet PH’s new super women in science

By Karen Flores,

ABS-CBNnews.com

07/05/2012

Dr. Aletta Yñiguez is an assistant professor at the Marine Science Institute of the University of the Philippines. Photo: Handout

MANILA, Philippines – Today’s women are out to save the world, whether from red tide or cancer.

Dr. Aletta Yñiguez is one of the two Filipina scientists who received a P400,000 grant this year under the For Women In Science (FWIS) program of cosmetics firm L’Oreal and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for her research on harmful algal blooms (HABs).

HABs, more popularly known as red tide, refer to an accumulation of harmful phytoplankton in a large body of water. These have been associated with shellfish poisonings and large-scale deaths of sea creatures.

Using the grant from the FWIS, Yñiguez will observe phytoplankton types in the Bicol Shelf (a productive fisheries area) and Sorsogon Bay (a HAB site) and look for environmental conditions that cause a red tide.

The data will then be used to develop computer models, which will help government agencies and local communities in monitoring the phenomenon.

“We will collaborate with government agencies and local government units to get these models in a level where we can help provide early warnings if a bloom will eventually occur,” Yñiguez explained.

“I want to figure out why particular organisms (such as phytoplankton) are becoming dominant, and under what conditions. From here, we can recommend a course of action,” she added. “People will know when it will not be a good condition for fisheries, then they can warn the community and help them find other means of livelihood.”

Yñiguez said she has always been interested in phytoplankton because of its important role in the marine food web, comparing it to terrestrial plants.

“We as a planet rely on these organisms,” she said.

Unexpected

Yñiguez said she never thought that she would end up as a marine scientist, considering that she used to be very afraid of the water.

“My swimming instructor actually gave up on me,” she said. “But when I tried snorkeling, it made me see the diversity of marine life. I really wanted to explore that more, so I took up Marine Ecology as a major.”

Yñiguez, 33, also completed a PhD in Marine Biology and Fisheries at Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science at University of Miami, where she was a recipient of the Maytag Fellowship.

Currently, she is an assistant professor at the Marine Science Institute of the University of the Philippines.

“I have to find creative ways to keep my students interested in marine science. I don’t just do lectures – I use videos, make them interact, use examples that they can relate to,” she said. “It’s a challenge.”

With projects such as the FWIS, Yñiguez hopes that more Filipino women would pursue a career in science.

“It’s a great idea to push FWIS even further down to high school students. Let’s start encouraging young women who haven’t seriously considered going into science,” she said.

Now on its third year in the Philippines, FWIS awards grants to deserving Filipina scientists to aid in their research.

Sponge work

Dr. Maria Cecila Conaco is a post-doctoral researcher at the Neuroscience Research Institute at the University of California. Photo: Handout

The other FWIS awardee is Dr. Maria Cecilia Conaco, who was recognized for her research on sponges which scientists said may help cure cancer.

Conaco’s work aims to study the genes of different sponges and their response to environmental changes.

These, she said, will provide insights into the development of drugs, antibiotics and nanomaterials.

“Sponges have been dubbed as the ‘drugstores or pharmacies’ of the ocean because of its many chemicals,” she explained. “They are also the ideal system where we can study different environmental effects, since they filter sea water for food.”

“The study will help us understand how to properly conduct resource monitoring and conservation efforts,” she added. “We can also identify genes involved in producing useful substances such as drugs.”

Conaco admitted, however, that finding a cure for cancer from sponges may take a long time.

“The amount of compounds they can get from the sponge is very small. By looking at the genetic mechanisms, we’ll push ourselves closer to get them tested. But we’re not sure how long it will take,” she said.

Still, the FWIS awardee is not giving up without a fight. “Science is a fast-moving field, and everyone is becoming more collaborative. Now is the best time to do science and be in the middle of a discovery.”

Conaco, 34, completed her PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology at Stony Brook University in New York.

A “balikbayan” scientist, she is currently a post-doctoral researcher at the Neuroscience Research Institute at the University of California.

Like Yñiguez, she encouraged all women to pursue their passions, especially if it is for science.

Conaco also asked families, teachers and society to support women scientists, whether emotionally or financially.

“There’s no typical day in science. It’s always a new discovery,” she ended

...the Madrid Protocol

Madrid Protocol to draw more investors to PH

By: Riza T. Olchondra
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Wednesday, July 4th, 2012

The Philippines expects higher investor interest in trademark registrations starting this month as the country opens applications under the Madrid Protocol, which allows brands to get protection in several countries through a single filing, according to the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (Ipophl).

Ipophl director general Ricardo R. Blancaflor said that, overall, the number of trademark registrations is increasing and there may be 10 percent more registrations in 2012 from 2011.

“As of end-June, we’re up around 3 to 4 percent so I think we can hit 10 percent growth,” Blancaflor said.

In terms of registrations specifically under the Madrid Protocol, Blancaflor said initial reports reaching his office indicated that at least 200 trademark applications may be filed on the first day of registration alone on July 25.

Citing information from law firms specializing in trademark registration and protection, Blancaflor said the San Miguel group alone may have about 2,000 marks that may be registered under the protocol.

“We expect many Philippine brands going global. International brands [coming] to the Philippines are also expected and the bulk will come from European brands. If international brands file their marks in the United States that would cost them $400 (per filing) but in the Philippines, it’s less than $100,” Blancaflor said. “This also helps Philippine companies since they get protection when they go global.”

Blancaflor noted the Philippines can beat Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia in terms of attracting filings because these Asean countries will only join the Madrid Protocol by yearend. He also said the Philippines is a significant market because of its strong middle class and Filipinos’ “very good taste” in brands.

The Philippines’ accession to the Madrid Protocol also gives investors, such as British companies, more confidence in the market, said British embassy trade and investment director Derek Page. “It enables me to promote the Philippines as a market where intellectual property rights are protected. And of course anything that lessens bureaucracy and red tape is very welcome,” Page said.

Ipophl will begin accepting applications filed via the Madrid Protocol by July 25, 2012. Trademarks registered through the protocol will also be automatically registered in the other 85 member-countries.

Trade groups have welcomed the accession as this would make their members’ trademark registration faster, easier and more affordable. A single channel will likewise facilitate renewals and changes in trademark ownership.

The Philippines’ major trading partners—including Japan, the US, China, Singapore, Korea, Australia and the European Union—are all members of the Madrid Protocol.

...the Woodbury U Prez

UP grad becomes president of Woodbury University in California

 

July 4, 2012

GMA News

 

 

A Filipino international expert —  Dr. Luis Ma. Calingo — became the 13th president of Woodbury University, a private university in Burbank, California.

 

 

 

According to a news release on the Woodbury website, Calingo succeeded Kenneth Nielsen who will be retiring.

Calingo will be formally installed president of the 128-year-old university in a ceremony this October.

“Woodbury University is a place that believes the best way to predict your future is to create it. I am honored to lead Woodbury and to work with students, faculty, staff, and the community to honor this institution’s rich tradition of transforming lives through education, while embracing the many opportunities of tomorrow,” Calingo said.

Woodbury University said Calingo holds degrees from the US and the Philippines:

• a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh;
• an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh;
• a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of the Philippines (UP), and
• a B.S. in industrial engineering from UP.

Woodbury described Calingo as an international expert in strategic planning and quality management, who has helped the governments of Indonesia, Mongolia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.

 

He also helped establish quality assurance into the higher education systems of these countries.

 

"Dr. Calingo has made more than 80 intellectual contributions (including books, journal articles, book chapters, and conference presentations) and served as a reviewer for various scholarly journals and professional associations. He also wrote the first internationally distributed textbook in Asian business strategy, Strategic Management in the Asian Context," Woodbury said.

 

Calingo joins Woodbury from Dominican University, where he was executive vice president and chief academic officer since 2009. Earlier, he was dean of the university's School of Business and Leadership.

Before his stint at the Dominican University, he served as:

• dean of the Boler School of Business at John Carroll University in Cleveland;
• dean of the College of Business Administration;
• professor of international business at California State University, Long Beach;
• past chair of the California State University Association of Business Deans, and
• member of the Board of Examiners of the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award.

 

His professional interests include servant leadership, strategic planning, total quality management, and international business with a focus on Southeast Asia.

His biography on the Woodbury website said he has been married to his wife Gemeline for 31 years. They have three daughters, Ashley, Alexandra, and Arienne.

 

An article on Marinscope.com said Calingo was born in 1955 in Quezon City. He was the oldest child of Mariano and Lucia Calingo, both engineering graduates.

 

Calingo attended the University of Philippines High School and initially wanted to be an attorney. He created a church choir and was inclined toward Catholic social teaching.

 

In his teens, he protested the regime of then President Ferdinand Marcos and joined farmers, drivers and priests who marched on Plaza Miranda.

 

At UP, he helped organize farmer associations, build small-scale irrigation systems and mechanized farming.

 

He moved to the US in 1980 and then moved his family to Singapore in 1993, and became an academic force at the Nanyang Technological University.

 

In 1996, he returned to Fresno and took another leave to be Professor of International Management at the Monterey Institute business school. - VVP, GMA News

...the PH's S&P rating

S&P raises Philippines credit rating

AFP News 

04 JULY 2012

Standard & Poor's raised the Philippines' long-term foreign currency credit rating to within one rung of investment grade on Wednesday, citing the government's improving finances.

The US rating outfit assigned the government a "BB+" rating with stable outlook, from "BB" with positive outlook, the agency's credit analyst Agost Benard said in a statement.

"The foreign currency rating upgrade reflects our assessment of gradually easing fiscal vulnerability, as the government's fiscal consolidation improves its debt profile and lowers its interest burden," he added.

"The rating action also reflects the country's strengthening external position, with remittances and an expanding service export sector continuing to drive current account surpluses."

S&P's action put the Philippine government within one step of its bid for investment-grade status, which starts at "BBB-" in the S&P scale.

President Benigno Aquino's spokesman Ricky Carandang hailed the upgrade, saying it put the government one step closer to investment grade status.

"This is an affirmation of the fiscal management of the Aquino administration," Carandang said in a statement.

Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima said the upgrade gave the government confidence it was following the right economic policies.

"We can now clearly make our case for an investment grade status," he said in a statement.

...the asian motocross

PH finishes third in Asian moto

The Philippine Star

07/04/2012

 

 

MANILA, Philippines - Mark Reggie Flores turned in a second overall finish in the Asian Junior 85cc category while Kenneth San Andres salvaged sixth place in the Pro 125 category as Team NAMSSA-Philippines finished third in the Asian Nations Cup of the FIM Asia Motocross Supercross Championship in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia recently.

 

The Phl took the second runner-up honors behind champion Thailand and runner-up Japan based on the placings of Flores and San Andres in Round 2 of the Asian series. The competition is decided by the aggregate scores of riders from the participating countries in various categories.

Flores finished second overall in the Asian Junior 85cc category to currently lead the series with 94 points after two rounds, leading his Round 2 conqueror Mongolian hotshot Munkhbolar Khishigmunk, who has 80 points.

The 13-year-old San Pablo City pride Flores ruled the series’ opener last April in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

San Andres got slowed down by mechanical problems and settled for sixth in the Pro 125 category of the Asian event, topped by Thailand’s Arnon Theplib.

The event drew riders from Mongolia, the Philippines, Thailand, Japan, Guam, China, Korea, United Arab Emirates, Australia, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, India, Saipan, Macau, New Zealand, Singapore and Iran, competing in the categories of 85 cc, 125/MX2 and veterans class.

San Andres, who is backed by Oakley, Bridgestone Tires, Polisport, FOX, Go Pro, HJC Helmets, Auto Plus, Motul Philippines, Bike Plus, Inside Racing, Starting Line Magazine, EZ Trailer, JBS Motorcycle Shop and GCG Pipe, was coming off a twinkill in the 2012 Philippine Olympic Committee-Philippine Sports Commission National Games, where he crushed the challenge of veteran Jovie Saulog (second) and rising star Jerrick Mitra in both the motos of the Pro 125.

Flores matched the double win with victories in the Junior 85 cc over Gabriel Macaso and Radzie Kallahal.

---

...the best resort for holidays

PH resort named in Vogue-UK as "best for holidays"

By Thea Alberto-Masakayan

Yahoo! Southeast Asia Newsroom 

Sun, Jul 1, 2012

Ariara describes itself as the 'ultimate off the beaten track destination'. (Photo from their website)

An island resort in a remote area in Palawan has been identified in Vogue Magazine-United Kingdom as a top vacation site.

Ariara, located in Linapacan, Palawan, was described in the article as "exotic" and "adventurous."

"It will house you and your guests along a stunning beach so that you truly feel that you’ve found your corner of the world," the magazine said in its slideshow.

"Supreme in quality from the water sports to the food and wine, it’s worth every penny of its breath-taking prices," the magazine said, adding that the resort is "best for the most decadent of group holidays."

According to Ariara's website, reservations during the peak season may cost some P180,000 per night for a group of only eight guests.

"Ariara is only available for exclusive rental to one group/party of guests at a time," the resort added.

Vogue UK said the price, however, "for a really special occasion might just be justified." Other resorts that made it to Vogue's list include several posh hotels in Brazil, New York, Maldives, among others.

...the PH economy Q2 growth

Malacañang says Q2 GDP like grew 6.5%

AMITA O. LEGASPI

GMA News

July 3, 2012

 

 

The Philippine economy in the second quarter likely performed better than the 6.4 percent output in the first three months of the year, Malacañang said Tuesday.

Factors that drove growth in the first quarter seemed present in the second quarter, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office head Ricky Carandang said in a press briefing.

Expectations are rife that second quarter growth will approximately hit 6.5 percent, the Palace official noted.

“Pag tiningnan niyo po ‘yung agriculture output in the first quarter, it grew by about one percent net. I am told by (Agriculture) Secretary Proceso Alcala that the second quarter figures are most likely going to be higher than that,” Carandang told reporters.

Government spending, which the administration started revving up last December, continued to accelerate well into the second quarter, the Palace official added.

“We’re seeing some confidence that second quarter growth could be very strong,” said Carandang.

“I think many people were surprised when we hit 6.4,” he said. “Nobody thought we would go above six percent except for some of our economic managers.

“So I don’t think our economic managers would be surprised kung tumama tayo ng 6.4, 6.5 again. I don’t think the President would be surprised either,” Carandang added.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan earlier revealed that economic managers decided to stick to their GDP growth targets of 5 to 6 percent for the rest of the year, and 6 to 7 percent for 2013.

They decided to remain conservative due to the foreign debt situation in Europe and the low income earned from electronic exports, Balisacan noted.

European countries buy about 13 percent of Philippine exports and account for 17 percent of overseas Filipino remittances. — VS, GMA News

...the new record high

 PSEi hits new record; peso at strongest level in 4 years

 

ABS-CBNnews.com

P 07/03/2012

 

 

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) rallied to a new record high, while the peso closed at its strongest in over 4 years, as hopes for further policy easing by major central banks boosted riskier assets.

 

The PSE index closed at a new record of 5,365.70, up 1.23% on Tuesday, breaking the previous record set on May 3. This is the 20th record set at market close this year alone.

The PSEi also hit a record intraday high at 5,374.35, beating the previous level set on May 4.

"Expectations that US and European central banks will move to stimulate their economies bode well for global markets going forward. We continue to be optimistic that similar developments in the future should help sustain our momentum as we start the second half of 2012 on a high note with the latest PSEi record," PSE President and Chief Executive Officer Hans B. Sicat said, in a statement.

The local bourse followed the lead of most Asian markets that rose on Tuesday, on hopes that central banks in the United States and Europe would take action to boost their sluggish economies after a stream of negative data.

Regional bourses shrugged off a lacklustre performance on Wall Street, as investors hoped the Federal Reserve would take stimulus measures after weak US manufacturing data, and that the ECB would cut rates at a meeting on Thursday.

Tokyo closed up 0.70 percent, or 63.11 points, at 9,066.59, and Seoul ended 0.87 percent, or 16.17 points, higher at 1,867.82.

Hong Kong was up 1.24 percent in afternoon trade, while Shanghai put on 0.13 percent.

Sydney finished down 0.14 percent, or 5.80 points, at 4,127.2, although analysts said a central bank decision to keep interest rates on hold at 3.50 percent after two recent cuts had little effect on the market.

Peso at strongest since 2008
Meanwhile, the peso settled at P41.72 to the US dollar, the strongest finish since April 11, 2008.
Reuters reports investors dumped the greenback amid talk of one-time dollar flows of some $700 million that's linked to Banco de Oro's recent stock rights offer.

The Henry Sy-led bank said on Monday it raised over $1 billion from the sale of shares to be listed on the stock exchange this week. - With ANC, Reuters, Agence France-Presse

...the Philippine goddesses 2012

Cristine, Solenn, Marian in FHM top 5 sexiest list

ABS-CBNnews.com

07/01/2012

For complete ranking, visit: http://www.fhm.com.ph/100sexiestwomen2012/archives/2012/1/

 

 

Composite picture of Cristine Reyes and Solenn Heussaff. Photo courtesy of FHM.com.ph

MANILA, Philippines -- FHM Philippines on Sunday released the Top 10 winners of its 100 Sexiest Women in the World 2012 poll.

The popular men's magazine earlier announced that former "Pinoy Big Brother" Sam Pinto is again this year as FHM's "sexiest woman," edging out Kapamilya star Angel Locsin who finished at No. 2 in the poll.



1. Sam Pinto

2. Angel Locsin



3. Solenn Heusaff



4. Cristine Reyes

5. Marian Rivera

6. Ellen Adarna

 

 

7. Jackie Rice

 

8. Bela Padilla

 

9. Jennilyn Mercado

10. Lovie Poe

Model and actress Solenn Heussaff climbed two notches to finish at No. 3 this year, while actress Cristine Reyes stayed at the No. 4 spot with last year's No. 2 "sexiest woman" Marian Rivera completing the Top 5.

"Because she almost shines like celestial light — and we say this with no use for hyperbole at all, as anyone who’s ever seen the luster of her skin will attest to being nearly blinded — it has been a difficult task to behold Cristine and keep focus. That, or maybe there have just been many distractions of late," the magazine said of Reyes, whose teleserye "Dahil Sa Pag-ibig" ended its run last Friday.

"The distraction is now a sibling rivalry, a legal entanglement, involving a sister who once occupied a stellar place on this list. It’s sad. Still, Cristine shines. And we’re sure all the more better with none of the distractions," the magazine added.

On Rivera, the magazine said, "Few are able to age gracefully, and Marian is well on her way to becoming an ageless classic."

Completing the Top 10 are: Belo endorser Ellen Adarna at No. 6 (up fropm No. 10 last year); actress Jackie Rice at No. 7 (up from No. 9); actress Bela Padilla at No. 8 (soaring from No. 77 in 2011); actress Jennylyn Mercado at No. 9 (down two notches); and actress Lovi Poe at No. 10 (up from No. 15 last year).

Padilla vaulted to the Top 10, thanks in part to her controversial FHM cover for the magazine's March 2012 issue, which was criticized for being "racist."
The magazine praised the 21 year old for carrying that controversy "on her slim, shapely shoulders, smiled prettily through the struggle, and banished any 'shadows' that stopped her supreme sexiness from shining through."

"For admirable poise under pressure (and of course, innate gorgeousness) Bela ranks high on this list," the magazine said.

---

...the largest croc

Guinness: Philippine croc is largest in captivity

By Jim Gomez
Associated Press

Sunday, July 1st, 2012

 

 

 

In this file photo, Bunawan Mayor Edwin Cox Elorde pretends to measure a huge crocodile which was captured by residents and crocodile farm staff along a creek in Bunawan in Bunawan town in Agusan del Sur province, southern Philippines. Guinness World Records has declared Sunday that the huge crocodile blamed for deadly attacks is the largest in captivity in the world. (AP Photo)

MANILA, Philippines — Guinness World Records has declared that a huge crocodile blamed for deadly attacks in the southern Philippines is the largest in captivity in the world. The giant reptile has brought pride, fear, tourism revenues and attention to the remote town where it was captured.

The saltwater crocodile named Lolong, which was captured last September in Bunawan town in Agusan del Sur province, measures 20.24 feet (6.17 meters) and weighs more than a ton, Guinness spokeswoman Anne-Lise Rouse said in a statement seen Sunday. The reptile took the top spot from an Australian crocodile which measured more than 17 feet (5 meters) and weighed nearly a ton.

Bunawan Mayor Edwin Cox Elorde said the news sparked celebrations in his farming town of 37,000 but also fostered concerns that more giant crocodiles might be lurking in a nearby marshland and creek where villagers fish.

“There were mixed feelings,” Elorde said by telephone. “We’re really proud because it proves the rich biodiversity of our place but at the same time, there are fears that Lolong may not be alone.”

Lolong has become the star attraction of a new ecotourism park and research center in the outskirts of Bunawan and has drawn thousands of tourists since news of its capture spread. Elorde said his town has earned 3 million pesos ($72,000) from the modest entrance fees at the park, with most of the money being used to feed and care for the crocodile and for park maintenance.

Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje welcomed the Guinness announcement and the growing attention being given to the crocodile, saying it would help people realize the biodiversity of their surroundings and the need to protect it. He said he would recommend that the government help Bunawan become an ecotourism destination.

The crocodile was captured with steel cable traps during a three-week hunt after a child was killed in 2009 and a fisherman went missing. Water buffalos have also been attacked by crocodiles in the area, officials said.

About 100 people led by Elorde pulled the crocodile from a creek using a rope and then hoisted it by crane onto a truck. It was named after a government environmental officer who died from a heart attack after traveling to Bunawan to help capture the beast, Elorde said.

Elorde said he saw a bigger crocodile escape when Lolong was captured and villagers remain wary of fishing there at night. He said he has formed a new team of hunters and is seeking government permission to start hunting that crocodile.

PH’s fish hotdog bags international award

 

ABS-CBNnews.com

07/01/2012

 

 

MANILA, Philippines - A Philippine company has bagged the 2012 Superior Taste Award in Belgium for its all natural fish frankfurter.

 

The Belgium-based International Taste and Quality Institute, which is a global organization of chefs and sommeliers, conferred the award to Fisher Farms, Inc., one of the Philippines’ largest aquaculture processors.

Fisher Farms CEO Imelda Madarang (3rd from right) and Technical Director Kate Buenaventura receive the 2012 Superior Taste Award from the International Taste Quality Institute during the awarding ceremony in Brussels, Belgium

The award, which is described as the “Michelin Guide of Food,” is one of the most sought-after awards in the food and beverage world. It is highly recognized by the food industry in more than 80 countries.

Fisher Farms’ so-called “All-Natural Fish Frankfurter” got the nod of judges from 13 of the most prestigious European culinary and sommelier associations like the Maîtres Cuisiniers of France and Belgium, Academy of Culinary Arts, Hellenic Chefs' Association, Académie Culinaire of France, Verband der Köche Deutschlands, Jeunes Restaurateurs d'Europe, the Federación de Asociaciones de Cocineros of Spain, Federerazione dei Cuochi Italiana, Portuguese Chefs Association, Årets Kock of Sweden, Euro-Toques and the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale.

The All-Natural Fish Frankfurter is the first in the world and does not have artificial preservatives. It mimics the meaty and spicy taste of frankfurters without the taste of “fish.”

Fisher Farms chief executive Imelda Madarang received the award with technical director Katherine Buenaventura in Brussels.

“Fisher Farms is honored to be the first Filipino food company to receive this distinction,” Madarang said.

“We hope this award highlights Filipinos’ ability to create innovative world-class products out of our indigenous agricultural and aquatic resources.”

Fisher Farms exports fish products to the United States, Canada, the Middle East, and Europe. It has established strong business ties with large quick service restaurant chains in the Philippines and created a wide range of innovative and export-quality fish products like fish sausages, cold cuts, and microwaveable meals

...the PH status

PH status in stem cell-based therapy elevated

By: Charles E. Buban
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Friday, June 29th, 2012

 

Within the confines of the 170-square-meter facility located on the 6th floor of the Makati Medical Center lies one of the country’s most sterile environment. And there’s a reason it should be.

 

“Before we could even convince our patients about the value and effectiveness of stem-cell-based therapy, we need to assure them that their cells will be processed by one of the most experienced staff and advanced facilities in the region,” says Dr. Eric Flores, head of MMC Cellular Therapeutics Laboratory.

Room facility

The MMC Cellular Therapeutics Laboratory offers ultra-clean room facility (class 100) that can handle cell-based products and culture facility as well as sophisticated procedure to isolate stem cell (magnetic-activated cell sorting).

“Our laboratory is unmatched in terms of providing the best cellular product or quality,” Flores says, adding that the laboratory also performs meticulous quality control and documentation as well as follows established system to monitor the patient’s progress.

He admits that while stem cells were first proposed for scientific use in 1908 (by Russian scientist Alexander Maximov at the congress of hematologic society in Berlin), it wasn’t until the past decade that their astounding potential to change medicine’s entire approach to fighting disease really took hold.

“Stem cells are unspecialized cells that can renew themselves and differentiate into a diverse range of specialized cell types. This means they can generate specialized cells, such as muscle cells and heart cells. So if stem cells in a lab can be coaxed into producing different specialized cells, they can provide a virtually unlimited source of cells to repair or replace damaged or diseased cells and tissues,” explains Dr. Francis Chung, scientific officer of the Cellular Therapeutics Laboratory’s Stem Cell Lab.

Their possible uses include creating fully functional heart tissue ready for grafting on to a damaged heart; stimulating stem cells in the brain to reduce the effects of stroke; and “curing” diabetes with pancreatic stem cells that produce insulin.

Because of these promises for curing major deadly diseases, MMC, in line with its 2015 mission, inaugurated the Cellular Therapeutics Lab late last year to give hope to those with cancer, diabetes Type 1, neurologic diseases and joints disorders.

The facility is designed and built to ensure that it is free from biological and nonliving contaminants, which is crucial considering that most of the laboratory’s patients suffer from a weakened immune system.

3 notches better

“We put premium importance in the quality and sterility of the product. In comparison with other laboratories, the lab is at least three notches better in providing a sterile environment,” Chung assures.

For example, the Biosafety Level 5 instituted at the laboratory is at least one or two notches higher than what is recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration. Moreover, as part of the routine procedure, the facility is continuously monitored for its sterility by a third party.

Chung adds that in cases wherein the stem cells will be sourced out from a donor, the MMC Cellular Therapeutics Laboratory has the capability to identify a possible crossmatch—using 10-point DNA matching—for the recipient.

“We assure our patients that we have the technology to push this cellular transplantation process that will significantly minimize complications,” Chung says.

According to Flores, the laboratory has affiliated with the International Society for Cellular Therapy, a nonprofit organization composed of leading cell therapy experts from 40 countries. Based in Washington DC, the ISCT actively provides scientific, educational and technical support for laboratories engaged in cellular therapy all over the world.

He says these assurances are important considering that stem cell based treatment has been documented in a number of instances to help those suffering from previously considered incurable diseases. In fact, he adds that based on several reports, stem cell based treatment has demonstrated its potential in boosting the immune system, controlling the growth of the cancer, or even eradicating the tumor in the cancer patients.

“Quality of life has also been positively influenced considering that unwanted side effects from conventional treatment (such as chemotherapy) has been reported to have lessened,” Flores adds.