How the Android OS dominated the Philippine market

There is no doubt that the Android mobile operating system is growing popularity, especially on devices like the smartphones.  As a mobile operating system, Android supports features of a personal computer such as the touch screen capabilities, cellular connectivity including WiFi, GPS mobile navigation, camera, video capture, speech recognition, voice recording, music player, and personal digital assistant among others.  As of date, the latest Android version available in the local market is the Jelly Bean 4.1.

Since the market is fast-growing, telecommunications companies are beefing up their network services to serve the growing number of Android users.  With the backing of the best telecommunication networks, users can fully enjoy the features and application softwares available to Android phones.  Locally, all telecommunication companies are ready and are serving Android smartphones, making them more accessible to users. 

Nikon will launch the first camera on Android, the Coolpix S800c this September.

The most obvious advantage of the Android is the number of gadgets that are running on the said operating system.  There are smartphones, tablets, and now, even cameras carrying the Android system.  The proliferation of Android products makes connectivity, sharing of files and photos and availability of applications within reach of consumers.  This will easily make for a community of loyal Android users.  In the local market, many mobile phone manufacturers are jumping on the Android bandwagon, making the system more popular than ever.

Android-based devices, like the Galaxy S II from Samsung, are fitted with features that are excellent in terms of style, speed, and capability.  Not to mention, they are user friendly and can be fitted with numerous apps that keep users engaged with their devices.

Unlike its chief competitor, the Android system is widely preferred due to its affordable pricing.  This marketing strategy makes the pull of technology to upgrade hard to resist, thus, consumers avail of smartphones or gadgets sporting the latest technological features their spending income can afford.  But that does not mean that the Android product is less capable compared than its high-priced competitor because the system delivers almost the same kind of capabilities and user experience.

This is a boon to Filipino smartphone users because this allows users to engage with social media formats like Facebook and Twitter without being tied down on a computer terminal.  With updates, shout outs and tweets on real time, information is more accessible to more people in a faster rate as part of the online media.

Since last year or so, an increasing number of developers have joined in the Android bandwagon and developed applications for Android. Now, the Android Market is filled to the brim with applications or apps that deliver variety, quality and entertainment. Android users can easily avail of these applications and that is a strong reason why users remain loyal to their operating system.

The market also responded positively to the fact that Google is the company that developed the Android operating system. With a brand name that is solidly established in the market, users are confident that they are using an operating system that could deliver well.  True enough, many consumers of technological products gravitated toward Android devices as seen by its leadership in the market.

Moreover, the Android operating system had improved dramatically over the past years.  If Google continues to tread toward this direction, users are in for a treat with exciting developments coming their way.  With the unveiling of a much improved Android operating system, smartphones and gadget manufacturers as well as app developers will surely follow suit with more amazing products in the coming years.

Loads of Toys and Fun at the Toy Expo!

Yesterday I went to the first ever Toy Expo at the SMX Exhibition Halls at the SM Mall of Asia.  Staged by Toy Kingdom, the expo was loaded with brand new line of toys, big discounts and fun games.  The expo carried the same brands you can find at any Toy Kingdom stores but shoppers will get to preview and buy new models and sets of their favorite toy brands.

Ivory Ice Crystal Lalaloopsy doll

 I gravitated first at the Lalaloopsy booth and found the first Ivory Ice Crystal Lalaloopsy doll on display (around P2000).  The sales attendant told more characters will be coming soon.  I also happen to spot a smaller version of the Lalaloopsy doll priced around P1000.

The sales attendant also showed me the Moxie mermaid doll equipped with a sensor so the doll swims on its own when submerged in water.

The Hello Kitty was surreal with pink walls and displays.  Shoppers can get real close to the Hello Kitty mascot and take photos with her.

A couple of shoppers were fun to watch as they struggled to copy the dance moves on the new Xbox.  They tried to copy Lady Gaga’s dance routine (yikes!).  The interactive display that responded to the players’ movements really showed the awesome technology the Xbox carried.

There were new models of Transformers, Ben 10 merchandise and even a display of the “new” Bumblebee car, the Chevy Camaro!

I also checked the latest LeapFrog mini tablet.  The sales attendant impressed me with an application the taught kids to write the cursive alphabet.  A bundle of a first generation LeapFrog with two cartridges was up on sale for P8000.  The sales attendant said it was a steal with a total savings of P2000!

Zoobles twin pack

There were big discounts of Zoobles that sell for P100 a piece or a twin pack for P200.  The same twin pack was sold round P500 last Christmas.

If you're interested in the Trash pack, they came out with new gummy soft characters and a starter kit sells for P100 a pop!

I also saw a Justice League set with a 50% price-off.  Moreover, almost all booths carried discounted items from 50 to 70% off!

There was serious fun at the Nickelodeon booth where I played games and won cute items.  The first was the “Guess the Mess” game.  Curious and anxious at first, I thought I would be touching slimy and mushy stuff but won the game outright.  (Spoiler alert! I felt sand, powder and zippers!)  I also played a life-size board game and won more stuff from Nickelodeon.

Be sure to bring your kids this weekend at the SM Toy Fair.  Lots of character mascots will be dropping by for the ‘greet and meet’ sessions with shoppers.  Not bad for an early Christmas shopping trip if you’re up to it!

Moxie mermaid dolls

Trash pack set

Holcim Centennial year celebrated with Community Service

Holcim plant in La Union.

Cement maker Holcim Philippines’s nearly 1,700 employees came out in force for a day of service for its communities in commemoration of its 100th year anniversary of the Swiss construction materials giant Holcim Ltd. Declared as Community Day, Holcim Philippines employees participated in the outreach efforts in its communities in La Union, Bulacan, Misamis Oriental and Davao.

The company also launched Sagot Ko ang Bukas, a campaign to encourage its employees and its partners to pledge on how they can contribute to a better future.

“We’re dealing with an issue of such magnitude, and we know that these efforts can never be enough. We know we have to keep pushing so that we extend beyond our walls – to our families, business partners, to the man on the street.  We know that we have to find a way to bring the concept of sustainability on a personal level, to make it applicable to individual roles,” said Beng Prado, Holcim Philippines vice president for Corporate Communications.

For this, the company has created a Facebook page and microsite on its website where people can register their pledgers.

These activities are part of the Holcim Group’s commitment to have its 80,000 employees world wide participate in outreach efforts in recognition of the role strong community support played in the Holcim Group’s success, and in line with the company’s values and commitment to sustainable development.

Holcim Philippines also plans to add to another flagship corporate social responsibility program (CSR) that focuses on skills training with another which is centered on employee volunteerism for education.

The company’s main CSR program is the ‘Galing Mason, which seeks to raise profile and skills of local masons and has helped train over 3,500 people.

This year, Holcim Philippines will expand its Project Fostering a Child’s Education of Project, which allows employees to contribute to their time and funds to help deserving children finish up to high school. The program was piloted in its Bulacan facility in 2010, and has attracted over a hundred volunteers there.

Dr. MJ Torres: Her dual role and practice at the Zen Institute

Dr. MJ Torres, anti-aging and aesthetic expert

It is of no small feat to practice one's medical profession and manage it into a business venture. As equally demanding fields, medical practice and business management require two set of skills, creativity, and a vision. Wherein formal education falls short, such business model does exist with a doctor at the helm learning, practicing and managing a business close to their passion.

Before the calling to become a doctor took hold, Dr. Mary Jane “MJ” Torres' entrepreneurial spirit first showed at a very young age. In grade school, she took it upon herself to sell the neighbor's Christmas cards and her mother's pili candies to classmates. Later on, Dr. MJ followed her passion and got her degree in medicine at the University of Santo Tomas. Her interests then took her in a direction where she can be of most help to her patients while honing her business acumen.

In November 2006, Dr. MJ opened the very first Zen Institute clinic at the Global City in Taguig. Offering non-invasive, non-surgical medical procedures, the Zen Institute encourages patients toward a lifestyle shift that addresses anti-aging and wellness on top of the aesthetic procedures.

As a spa, patients get to be pampered with feel good treatments that they can avail of on a regular basis at the Zen Institute.  Medical procedures, strictly involve no cutting of tissues, are done by doctors and therapists or para-medical attendants under the supervision of a doctor ensuring safety with no downtime at all for patients.

“The Zen Institute is the only one of its kind in the industry. As its founder and chief executive, I developed the concept and worked hard to build the business,” says Dr. MJ.

With unwavering discipline and focused determination, the Zen Institute's patient base has since grown and prompted Dr. MJ to set up its second branch at Tomas Morato. “There was demand for us to be more accessible in the Quezon City area, thus, the need to expand,” explains Torres. Then, Sofitel Philippine Plaza came in as a partner and housed the third clinic. “Aside from local clients, we also cater to tourists,” adds Dr. MJ in a move that places the Zen Institute in advance footing towards medical tourism.

As a professional hindsight, Dr. MJ learned that “every doctor needs a businessman in tandem. Being in a medical profession does not necessarily translate to good business.” In this case, she has her family, mostly involved in businesses of their own, as her pool of advisers. Her nine siblings give nine different advices and recommendations. But mostly, after careful consideration, she follows her gut feel in the end. “I trust my instinct because most often than not it is correct and that has lead to where my business is right now,” admits Dr. MJ.

In business, Dr. MJ's first challenge was to discern the target market of the Zen Institute. “We do cater to the high-end segment of the market. Treatments can be costly but our market is more concerned with safety, convenience and availability of our services,” explains Dr. MJ. “And, they are most appreciative and would not hesitate to flaunt the results. Thus, they eventually become our brand ambassadors of sort. Their testimonials are very valuable to us because people do take their word for it.”

The second challenge is developing her personal brand. In keeping with her philosophy, Dr. MJ is very selective when it comes to media exposure to her profession. “I am doctor so I do not mind being known by my clients but I am not after the celebrity status. My clinic is targeted to a specific market thus I make sure there would no waste of money and effort in making my business known. Besides, I personally attend to patients so I simply do not have much time to spare thus I make sure such exposures are really worth it.”

The third challenge is the management hurdles of the business. For Dr. MJ, “poor management can make the business fall even if you have a good product.” This is where management and structure comes in with the help of dedicated professionals under her team. “At the head office, everything is centralized – purchasing, quality control, administrative, accounting – and yet, compartmentalized. I am the queen of delegation. I love working as a team and leading them as a group,” she adds.

For the three branches to move in tandem, “each branch has an operations manager, doctors, and therapists. Our sales and marketing people are there not just for selling but to take care of customer relations and conduct evaluation and training as well. They are skin consultants too so they are well-versed with our products and services which they recommend to clients with the approval of a doctor. We also have a public relations group that supports us in terms of communicating philosophy and campaign,” says Dr. MJ.

In 2012, the Zen Institute is moving forward to further refine its thrust and goals. Fully-committed to being a medical spa, they will be introducing more procedures and services soon that would eventually put the definition of a medical spa into a reality.

Women Scientists bag grants from L'Oreal Phils

In photo, (from left) Dr. Conaco, Luc Oliver-Marquet and Dr. Yñiguez.

Curiosity never got old with two lady scientists who were recently awarded with grants under the For Women In Science (FWIS) national fellowship program of L’Oreal Philippines, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).  Under FWIS, doctors Ma. Cecilia Conaco and Aletta Yñiguez will be pursuing their respective scientific researches that would make marine biology more relevant to Filipinos and move science forward among women.

Dr. Conaco, as a child, was an avid reader and her fascination over different life forms drove her to pursue a career in science.  Upon the encouragement of her teachers, she pursued her dream to become a scientist and completed her doctorate in Molecular and Cellular Biology at Stony Brook University in New York.  “Science is fast-moving field and in research, there’s no typical day,” enthuses the lady doctor.

She was on her post-doctoral research at the Neuroscience Research Institute at the University of California when she planned to go back home and the FWIS program gave her the perfect opportunity time to restart her career in the country.

Her research involves the collection of marine sponges that will undergo gene sequencing techniques.  With the title Dynamic Gene Regulation in Marine Sponges, the study stands to reveal the gene expression of marine sponges in different stages of its life cycle, and their recorded responses to environmental changes.  From this information, useful compounds may contribute to the development new drugs or the synthesis of nano materials may help develop new materials. 

“Since adult sponges are immobile and filter water for food, these marine animals record environmental changes and this is an important resource in monitoring and conserving marine ecosystems,” adds Conaco

Curiously enough, Dr. Yñiguez was afraid of the water when she was young.  When she eventually outgrew her fear and started snorkeling, the diversity of the marine environment awed during her.  This fascination prompted Dr. Yñiguez to take up marine ecology as her major during undergraduate studies.  She completed her doctorate in Marine Biology and Fisheries at the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science in the University of Miami.  Currently, she is an assistant professor at the Marine Science Institute at the University of the Philippines.

For Dr. Yñiguez, science fulfills her sense of adventure and excitement when most of her days were spent collecting specimens and sea water samples.  “It is an exciting field, even for women, and there so much opportunities,” she says the Balik-scientist of the DOST.

Researching on the changes in the phytoplankton types and the environmental conditions accompanying those types, Dr. Yñiguez hopes her study would help in the development of computer models in the management and mitigation of harmful algal blooms – an example would be the red tide.

“Marine plants and planktons are at the base of the food web.  When these organisms produce harmful algal blooms, there could be poisoning, fatalities and economic losses. This study can help validate and increase reliability of monitoring platforms that will eventually improve the existing bloom forecasting system,” explains Dr. Yñiguez.

The research study, Enhancing Robustness of Plankton models and Monitoring systems by Understanding Fine-scale Biophysical processes, will place Dr. Yñiguez in Bicol, specifically at Lamon Bay, a productive fisheries area, and Sorsogon Bay, a red tide area.

In aid of their research, both women doctors will receive P400,000  as national fellows of the FWIS. 

Launched in 2010, first batch of FWIS Philippines national fellows included doctors Laura David and Maria Corazon De Ungria.  On its second year in the country, FWIS and UNESCO with the assistance of the DOST, identified two Filipina scientists of no more than 35 years old, and supported their careers by giving them visibility and reward with a grant for their proposed research.

In1998, L’Oreal Foundation together with UNESCO created this ambitious FWIS program to promote research of women in science.  On every continent, L’Oreal, UNESCO and the scientific community have built a worldwide network that encourages women fellows to pursue research in national and international levels.

“FWIS is one of the strongest programs L’Oreal has globally today, mainly because it values key components in our company DNA – science and women.  Through this program, we have been able to create a community of women who move science forward in the hopes of making the world a better place,” shares Luc Olivier-Marquet, managing director of L’Oreal Philippines.

Christian Cayaba, the Scientific and Technico Regulatory Affairs manager of L’Oreal Philippines, hopes that the program encourages young girls pursue their interest in science.  “We would like to see more women join the science community.  We hope to inspire new models of women with focus, great level of patience, and attention to details, inherent traits found in women that science researches are in need of.”

Cayaba also announced that for the next FWIS national fellows, applicants may submit research proposals related to the Life and Material sciences.  Applicants, who are not more than 45 years of age, must hold or currently pursue masteral or doctoral degrees in any field of Life and Material science.  Two fellowship grants worth P40,000 will be given to deserving women based on the criteria of an esteemed jury composed of representatives from L’Oreal Philippines, UNESCO and the DOST.  Deadline for submission is on March 2013.

HCL Technologies starts operation, introduces Employees First, Customers Second

Last June 14, I witnessed the formal opening of HCL Technologies Ltd., the leading provider of global IT services, as it unveiled its Global Delivery Center for business process outsourcing services in the country.

Initially, employing 400 professionals in their offices in Quezon Ave., Quezon City, HCL technologies will deliver high value added transactions services such F&A, SCM and domain oriented industry specific processes.

According to HCL Technologies Global Operations head Raghavan Rangarajan, the company chose the country because of its time zone advantage, the pool of talent available and the growing prominence as a strong BPO services hub.

Vice President and Human Resource head Subrat Chakravarty said that HCL Technologies is committed to hiring and developing local talent following the management approach as espoused in Vineet Nayar’s Employees First, Customers Second (EFCS) book.  He subscribed to Nayar’s teachings that value creation happens when employees interface with clients and this value, when is delivered to clients, brings profit to the business.

I was personally intrigued by Nayar's pronouncements because this is the first time I heard of a company the puts first its employees before client satisfaction.  During the interviewed, Chakravarty introduced Nayar’s book that has been around since 2005.  Chakravarty largely attributes HCL Technologies’ success – business growth from 600 million to 4 billion and taunted as the fastest business growth in India – to EFCS.

Results of my initial on-line research showed that EFCS is a book based on “a first person CEO’s account” of Nayar that details the transformation of HCL Technologies.  He described his leadership theories as “turn(ing) conventional management on its head”. Admittedly, he said that “placing customer satisfaction second may be an alarming thought for some” but he is also confident enough to say that “once you’ve read this book you may have a very different view.”

I, for one, am very curious and interested to delve more to what Nayar have to say.  I would really like to get hold of his book, prove the worth of this management strategy and learn a thing or two.

So, what do you think?
Reader, please share if you know more about “Employees First, Customers Second”.

First posted on June 15, 2012.

Big Job Fair this June!

For the newly-graduates, in-between jobs and career advancements seekers, brave the weather and head out to the SMX Convention Center at the SM Mall of Asia this June 22 to 23.  Following their successful feat last year, JobStreet.com is once again staging its biggest career fair via the Jobgantic Career Fair 2012.

This year, Jobgantic Career Fair is bigger with over 300 employer booths spanning SMX Convention Halls 2, 3 and 4 that offer both local and overseas employment opportunities.  Job seekers get to have a knack at job positions in top-notch conglomerates and multi-national companies like San Miguel Corporation, Ayala Land, Robinsons, Coca Cola, Toyota, McDonalds, Jollibee, PLDT and SMART, ABS-CBN, Petron Marketing and RCBC to name a few that have signed up for the event.  For BPO work, ADP Philippines, Accenture, Convergys, IBM, JP Morgan & Chase Co. and Sykes are but some of the biggest BPO companies that job seekers can apply to on the spot.

According to JobStreet.com, their job listing shows that jobs in engineering (17%), customer care service (14%) sales and marketing specializations (11%) are among the most sought-after job positions.  These are followed by those which require skills in general works and maintenance services, manufacturing, computer and information technology, building and construction, administrative and human resources and hotel and restaurant.  Thus, job seekers should align their career plans and resumes to grab these opportunities.  The company also noted that there is an influx of jobs for the
                                                                                    youth—almost 80% of the total jobs posted.

 “As of press time (June 4), we have hit our record high, if not one of our record highs of over 80,000 jobs available in our website,” exclaims Carolyn Enriquez, senior marketing manager of JobStreet.com, who further explains that companies have started posting jobs heavily this month.  “If the numbers continue to increase, our job seekers signed up with JobStreet.com can look forward to bigger and better chances of getting the job of their dreams soon. All they have to do is just log on at JobStreet.com and apply to the thousands of jobs online.”

Aside from the employer-companies, job seekers can also visit job assistance booths set up by concerned government agencies such as the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)—making the event a one-stop shop for job seeker services.

To avoid long lines, job seekers can pre-register online to receive the Fast Lane Access during the job fair.  To assist small and medium-sized enterprises with staffing requirements, Jobstreet.com is also willing to post job offerings for free.

First posted on June 13, 2012.

Business solutions for Pinoy SMEs

PLDT SME Nation re-introduced three business solutions designed to liberate entrepreneurs from micro-managing daily operations.  “PLDT makes sure that we offer relevant, useful and effective technology solutions to small and medium enterprise market,” said PLDT SME Nation vice president and head Kat Luna-Abelarde.  “This way, SMEs can increase the efficiency of their operations and expand their market reach.”

For retail businesses, PLDT offers CheckOut, a web-based point of sale system (POS) that automates every function and process of sale transactions.  Since data is stored in an online hosting service, accurate data can accessed from any desktop, laptop or tablet.  Record sales, sales analytics, inventory and other important information now comes handy and readily accessible through CheckOut.  For the CheckOut Software, the monthly service fee starts at P2,750.

The PLDT Watcher really lives up to its name because this business solution gives the entrepreneur access to watch the comings and goings of daily operations in real time.  Designed to help reduce theft and pilferage, whether the treat comes from inside or outside elements, Watcher has a multi-camera system that is backed by a software solution.  Unlike the ordinary CCTV system, camera snapshots and video clips can be sent through email and previewed from a computer monitor or mobile phone.  Pay P2,000 monthly for the Watcher bundle.

For businesses heavily involved in transport, logistics, courier and delivery operation, the Field Asset System for Tracking (F.A.S.Track) is a web-based monitoring system that locates fleet of vehicles and people while on the road.  Easily installed on vehicles or attached on a person’s clothing, the device enables business owners to view their assets in real time from a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smart phone.  With nationwide coverage, F.A.S.Track can be an invaluable tool in fuel cost reduction, better maintenance of vehicles, and effective utilization of manpower.  Packages start at P1,100 a month.

To stay ahead of competition, small and medium entrepreneurs can step up their operation through these business suites.  By embracing technology and automation, SMEs can easily achieve efficiency.  Adopting technology need not be expensive, many business solutions are affordable and offer great returns in terms of higher productivity and eventually, profit as well.

First posted on June 1, 2012.

Johnlu Koa: Baking Bread to the Top

Twenty-three years ago, Johnlu Koa as a budding Filipino entrepreneur stepped on uncharted territory when he opened The French Baker, the first French bakery cafe in the country.  Complementing the malls experience, The French Baker created its own niche category.  Totally unheard then, Koa introduced live baking on each store with fully-equipped kitchens and ovens that caught the attention of customers that kept coming back to take advantage of real fresh-baked products, especially the French croissants and baguettes.

Johnlu Koa of The French Baker

 “You cannot find crusty buns and rolls in any other bakeries.  We are so dedicated to making them. Our mission is to bake hard-to-bake breads,” shares Koa.  And the difference with their baked products is in its taste, flavor and symphony of crackle that comes only from good bread. 

Fast forward to present time, The French Baker remains on top of its category after opening 43 stores located mostly at the SM Supermalls.  In 1994, The French Baker received the Agora Award for the Company of the Year by the Philippine Marketing Association.  For 2003 to 2004, the bakery cafe was included in the Superbrands Philippines' roster, then in 2010, the Hall of Fame Award by the Philippine Retailers Association.

Koa's keen sense on market opportunities and formidable drive to product development helped The French Baker to remain relevant in the market to this day.  “We would rather understand the market and pursue what we can potentially do for them that others could not,” reveals Koa.  “Our success formula is to be focused on mall customers, on what they want that we can offer.”

To keep ahead, Koa observes international trends by having frequent trips abroad as well as taking suggestions from local chefs and foodies.  From there, he then takes his cue and foresees the same trend two or three years happening locally. The French Baker achieved a breakthrough when it started carrying 100 percent whole grain, the purest whole wheat bread available in the market today. Lately, he introduced giant-sized “Parisian Macaron” cookies filled with French butter cream in pistachio, mocha, raspberry and chocolate that can be eaten as a snack or dessert. “I believe my macaron comes very close to the ones in Paris,” muses Koa. Every Christmas season, Koa bakes his “pure Danish butter cookies” and packs them in an attractive jar. “Customers look forward to it as I do it only once a year,” he adds.

First posted on May 17, 2012.

A day for Mother Earth

In cooperation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Earth Day Network Philippines, Inc. (EDNPI), the national secretariat of Earth Day in the country, will spearhead the Earth Day celebration on Sunday.

Under the theme “Earth Day Everyday, Everywhere”, this year’s celebration carries on the message that caring for Mother Earth is timeless and goes beyond borders.  To encourage the participation of different sectors, the network shall feature several advocacy activities.

The main even will be held at the Ayala Triangle from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the support of Makati City government, Ayala Land, Inc., and Ayala Foundation, Inc.

Contingent of support groups are expected to march along Paseo de Roxas and Makati streets and converge in front of the Philippine Stock Exchange in an activity called the E(nvironment) Lakad.  At certain points, the marchers will encourage motorists to momentarily stop for the Tigil Buga program of Makati City and Ms. Earth Foundation.

At the main program, DENR Secretary Ramon Paje will deliver the annual State of Philippine Environment report along with different initiatives and actions undertaken.For his part, Roberto Guevarra, EDNPI chairman and president, shall deliver the civil society’s response.  He will also unveil the water project of EDNPI, known as the Agos Ram Pump project that aims to install 100 ram pumps for upland communities nationwide.

Another highlight of the event would be the revelation of three celebrity ambassadors as champions for Green Business, Biodiversity Conservation and Youth Environmental Empowerment, respectively.Several advocacy booths shall showcase different environmental initiatives at the venue such as the Unlitrike booth where a prototype electric tricycle will be displayed. Likewise, an organic market shall be set up for supporters who enjoy healthy and eco-friendly meals.

“Celebrated for more than forty years, Earth Day has become the world’s largest and longest running environmental celebration. This Sunday, more than one billion people around the globe will participate in Earth Day 2012 with people of all nationalities and background will voice their appreciation for the planet and demand its protection,” says Voltaire Alferez, executive director of EDNPI.

First posted on April 20, 2012.

Monsterize your Kitchen

This is not Lady Gaga's kitchen. Monster Kitchen is a baking school that offers very affordable fees for world-class training programs. From a simple hobby, Monster Kitchen's students learn baking techniques that could pave the way to one's career in the food and service industry armed with basic training and professional confidence.

Inside Monster Kitchen

Started in 2008, Monster Kitchen is foremost a supply store but the waning interest in baking prompted  its owner, Jan Michael Uy, to put up a baking school. "We wanted to bring back the passion within the baking community and we are happy with the response," said Uy.

Not your typical culinary school, Monster Kitchen offers a three-month program on Fundamentals of Basic Baking and Pastry Arts. Classes are small with maximum of 12 students learning European and contemporary techniques for three days in a week.

"Students get to bake. We do not simply follow the recipe and do cooking demonstrations. We let them experience the actual baking process using different techniques. This way, they become confident to use any ingredient and use any technique found in any kitchen they may end up later on," explains chef Jesuit Paul Nuges.

A team of high caliber chefs like Albert Chia, Jo Venes, Kathy Dano, Mitchie Sison and Nuges head the trainings at Monster Kitchen that are certified by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

The first batch of students composed of professionals, novices, coffee shop owners and homemakers received their certificates in a simple graduation ceremony last June 15. The event was made mouthwatering and memorable by the lavish spread of creatively-baked goodies, cakes and breads.  "We are proud to showcase the cakes and pastries baked by our students. This way, everybody gets to sample and tastes our products," exclaims Uy.

Based in Gaston Park, Cagayan de Oro, Uy finds the venue as an advantage rather than a concern for students. "For such competitive training, our fees are really affordable and cover the chef's jacket, apron, cap, manuals, certificate and all imported ingredients. Plus, if you stay in the city, you get to see and visit all the tourist spots." The three-month program is priced at P52,000.

Fully supportive of their students, Monster Kitchen also gives extra training in preparation for culinary competitions. As shown by the desserts in plated-design, baking fundamentals are important as well as the development of one's creative abilities that are best shown during competitions.  "We expose them to different culinary competitions. Every competition builds the character and confidence.  Competition allows them to experience cooking and baking under pressure.  And pressure is present in every kitchen," explains chef Nuges. 

The second batch of baking lessons started last July 11.  "We are plan to expand the business outside Cagayan de Oro.  Eventually, we will branch out in Manila since interest in baking can be found everywhere regardless of age," said Uy. 

Of late, Monster Kitchen has been getting inquiries from faraway places like Cebu, Davao, Lucena and Laguna.  Monster Kitchen welcomes inquiries on their Facebook page.

First posted on September 7, 2011.

Going back to Yabang Pinoy

I was lucky enough to check out their bazaar in 2008.  Expecting the usual stuff one might see in many tiangge I dragged myself to the Rockwell Tent but my curiosity was quickly peeked with the new and interesting wares proudly laid-out with pride at the Yabang Pinoy bazaar.

Established in 2005, Yabang Pinoy is an organization of passionate believers and supporters of all things Filipino to realize the joy and spirit of simply being Filipino.  Through their advocacies and campaigns, the organization is seeking "change in the mindsets" of Pinoys into "Shouting Proud Pinoys".

To arrest the lack of concern over the Filipino language, Yabang Pinoy challenges every Filipino to enrich their knowledge through radio campaign and interactive shirts.  The group popularizes Filipino idioms like "Batu-bato sa langit, ang tamaan huwag magagalit" by distributing posters, stickers and printed shirts.  The Mark Pecson project features a series of five-minute webisodes of an inglesero's bold attempt to straighten his Filipino in a month's time.

This enthusiasm and motivation is generously spread to different schools via Magyabangan Tayo Debate, Todo Patintero at Abakaya activities that help shape a nationalistic consciousness founded on the use of the Filipino language in the discourse of our unique and rich culture.

National pride is claimed through different Yabang Pinoy projects that promote the country's rich marine biodiversity and endemic species.  The Pinoy's ingenuity and ideas are fostered by giving out books, journal notebooks and art materials to the youth.

In Pinasport, the group encourages members and advocates to boost local tourism by producing a travelogue of their island trips.  These travel memoirs showcases the beautiful spots and adventurous possibilities of local destinations. 

Suelas shoes at the Global Pinoy Bazaar.

Yearly, Yabang Pinoy sponsors the Global Pinoy Bazaar wherein they rally in local entreprenuers and patrons to the Filipino consumer revolution.  By staging this business exchange, they encourage the Pinoy to join their nation-building efforts by buying local concepts, talents, services, and products.  They believe in the purchasing power of the peso that could bring more consumption and demand toward a better economy.

This year, Yabang Pinoy will be staging its fifth Global Pinoy Bazaar and showcase Filipino products made with 100 percent Filipino love and pride on November 6 to 7at the Rockwell Tent, Makati City.

All Filipino artists and entreprenuers with products borne out of 100 percent Filipino love and pride are invited to join the bazaar.  Interested parties may visit www.yabangpinoy.com.

The rest of us can sit around or go to this bazaar and find out one more reason to be proud of ourselves.

First posted on September 14, 2010.

The Growing World of Internet Marketing

With nearly 30 million Internet users in the Philippines, the advertising landscape has changed in the sense that marketing products and services are no longer confined to e-mail blasts and banner ads.

Of the 28-million Philippine online community, 83 percent are into social networking, 90 percent produce blogs and 98.6 percent watch videos, Yehey.com CEO Donald Partrick Lim said.

If 1 percent of the 10 million Filipino workers overseas would transact online that would already be a sizable captured market, he said.

He noted the rise of viewers watching digital television not just on normal TV sets but also online on their computers and cell phones that by the end of 2010 he estimated that the 500 million digital ads will grow by 100 percent to 1 billion.

In terms of business models, outsourcing is lucrative when it comes to demand for online delivery of professional services.

Outsourcing specialist John Jonas said opportunities could be found on the Internet by linking to sites that advertise jobs overseas, as well as Web hosting, online wholesalers and retailers and marketing write ups.

Pay-per-click marketing or Search Engine Optimization refers to Web pages that receive high ranking among search engines for maximum visibility and reach for online visitors.  "Search engines are keyword driven.  Response is immediate with traffic generation that is cost-effective, widely exposed, controlled and measurable," said Fabian Lim, chief executive of Asia Internet Academy.com.

Liam recommended uploading effective ads with consistent marketing messages and simple page designs.  "It is better to create several ads for the split test and tracking of viewers."

For Singapore's list building master Jaz Lai, e-mail marketing could be the best tool in expanding the effectiveness of existing database.  In the absence of a list, Lai said post a page offering free products and other benefits to be given away after accomplishing the registration form.  "This must be equipped with an auto-responder to complete the process."

Bigger traffic on the page creates a bigger database.  A single article can generate attention and traffic when the database can be accessed through sent e-mails, audio files for podcast, video uploaded on YouTube as well as blogs and social networking sites.

Products and services could also generate a great number of responses by writing e-mail messages with a personal and friendly tone of voice.  "Instead of thinking how you can earn, think of how the audience can benefit from it," said Lai.

With the right revenue models, social networking sites could be developed to sell products and services.  "You can create online presence by building on social networks," said Simon Leung, a Google optimization insider.  "Blog your way to your own personal branding, put up a fan page, or develop massive exposure using micro-blogs like Tweeter.  Encourage a community of loyal followers by sharing videos, your favorite photos, and book-marking your favorite sites."

FireballOnline.com CEO Ian del Carmen said there is more to the Internet than trading, getting jobs, selling advertising space and being known.  Through membership sites, one could earn extra income from member registrations, subsequent visits to the page and use of its contents.

To generate traffic, put up contents like articles, reports, e-books, e-zines, newsletters, or manuals, according to Del Carmen.

When it comes to branding "invest in your Web sites," said Lloyd Luna of Lloydluna Communications.  Your company's Web site must be sleek, logical, reflecting the image of the company.

You involve your market by asking for recommendations from visitors and having an auto responder.  Aside from carrying the domain name, company e-mails should be short, easy to remember, understandable and uniform, Luna said.

Published on Manila Standard Today on April 10, 2010.  First posted on May 26, 2010.

On a reader's comment about MyPhone

Before Christmas, I received a comment from a reader of my blog site.

The reader, basically, aired his complaint about the services of MySolid Technologies.  The guy happened to be shopping for a new cellphone at SM Megamall.  Upon payment for a new Myphone unit, he asked for a receipt but the sales attendant could not provide one.  In his disgust, he withdrew from the transaction altogether.

In his comment, he mentioned that he would rather patronize foreign companies than buy from homegrown counterparts that do not follow laws and thus, deprive government of much needed taxes.

For my part, I immediately forwarded his comment to MySolid Technologies.  They were to quick to reply and stating that "SM Megamall MyPhone Kiosks and Stores are NOT operated by us (MySolid Technologies) but by our dealers. The dealer (in question for Megamall) is Sienna Telecoms."

They also added that "MyPhone is a subsidiary of the Solid Group holdings - a PUBLICLY LISTED company under the Securities and Exchange Commission."  This makes the company an active and legitimate player in the industry.

First, I would like to recognize the reader for bringing up the matter.  It is a fact that customer service in our country is lousy with few exceptions.  Like him, we should do our part in protecting our rights as consumers.

Second, direct sellers and dealers should not operate unless they are fully prepared to be of service to their clients which includes issuing receipts for every transaction.  This is a basic requirement but sadly is being overlooked by some businesses and government units as well.

Third, I appreciate the immediate response of Jingo Fermin of MySolid Technologies to my query.  His reply readily answered all concerns.

I sincerely hope this clears the air for all involved.  I am just glad my blog site had become a conduit in addressing and understanding the matter.

Lastly, I would to thank all those who read my blogs last year and rest assured that more exciting blogs will coming your way this 2011.  And of course, comments are most welcome.

First posted on January 5, 2011.

MySolid Technologies carves niche over foreign brands

Myphone Android

Among the handful of Filipino mobile phone brands that emerged in the last two years, my[phone by MySolid Technologies Inc. stood out as a true-blue homegrown brand.

By tapping directly into the Filipino psyche via customized identifiers linked to the myphone brand consumers can easily identify with, that combined with affordability and the common features offered by foreign brands, Solid Broadband seemed sure of clinching the market in its favor.

The my[phone-Pinoyphone was launched last year with contents reflecting the Filipino culture, like the audio versions of the Holy Rosary, Stations of the Cross and Novenas, Pinoy jokes, bugtong, salawikain, alamat, and popular movie lines, original Pinoy music, food recipies and trivia.

Pinoyphone was the sub-concept of my[phone that delves into purely Pinoy matters, said Jingo Fermin, president of Mytel Mobility Solutions Inc., also a unit of Solid Group, that handles the sales and distribution of my[phone.

"We know Filipinos are very attached to foreign brand names when it comes to cell phones, according to Carlo Umali, business development manager of Solid Group Inc., the consumer electronics firm that brought such global brands such as Sony, Samsung and Aiwa in the local market.

The Ninoy and Cory collectors' edition phones were also launched last year, loaded with audio trivia, biographies, famous speeches, life stories, inspirational messages, Ninoy's letters and poems, Cory's personal prayers and testimonials, and thumb nails of Cory's paintings that could also be set as wallpaper.

When the movie New Moon of the Twilight saga was shown in local cinemas, my[phone was its official partner with specific interface, wallpapers, ring tones, SMS tones, animated icons, screen savers and actors' profiles.

"The New Moon phones made good sales returns, but after the hype the sales also took a downturn," said Fermin.  "We regarded this move more of building a marketing image for us.  This has proven that even though we are small, we are more flexible, unlike the big companies that turned down the opportunity."

MySolid Technologies also created other ventures for my[phone through custom made content, like the my[phone-Pinoyphone of Taguig City Mayor Sigfrido Tinga, who ordered 1,000 phones for his constituents.

With unique content packed into my[phone, MySolid Technologies was able to carve non-traditional channels of distribution, including religious institutions like Caritas, Radio Veritas, Word of Joy, Family Land and Couples for Christ, with a percentage of the sales allotted to support their advocacies.  Father Anton Pascual, executive director of Caritas and Radio Veritas also asked MySolid Technologies to supply the needs of priests of San Carlos Seminary's Bahay Pari and the Caritas micro-finance group, Salve.

Efforts by the first Filipino mobile phone company that made the dual-SIM technology affordable are starting to pay off, as consumers are stopping in their tracks for practical reasons and added value offered by a homegrown brand.

Banking on its newfound strategic advantage, MySolid Technologies has made it a point to capture the qwerty phone market.  Apparently, qwerty phones are emerging as the preferred choice among phone users because of the single-press typing mode in writing text messages, and is fast becoming the choice  handset for the social networking addicts.  Based on the appeal of the more expensive brands, the my[phone Qwerty has a full keypad and wide LCD for web viewing, and is Java-equipped for online applications.

In a swap challenge in Davao, consumers exchanged their handsets for a myphone Qwerty so they could surf, e-mail and chat.  With hundreds joining the swap, over 2,000 handsets were taken for less than the P2,990 price tag.

The myphone Qwerty now accounts for 46 percent of the company's monthly sales, according to Fermin.  "With Qwerty models, we have hit the sweet spot that delivers safe margin where we could not only survive but also expand."

First posted on July 6, 2010.

Your Second Home in Cebu

Forget all your worries and set your eyes in Cebu this summer!  With the opening of Imperial Palace hotel, the newest condominium-hotel on Mactan Island, Cebu, experience a leisurely life with amenities of a 5-star hotel while owning a vacation home that earns for you. 

This summer, Philippine BXT Corporation will open their latest addition to their world class hotel chain.  The Imperial Palace Waterpark Resort & Spa in Maribago, Mactan Island consists of 556 deluxe and suite rooms with 24 pool villas that are fully-equipped with private pools and jacuzzis.  In addition to the 180-meter wide beach line, the resort hotel boasts of several themed pools in the very first water park in Cebu. 

Imperial Palace hotel guests get to enjoy amenities like the full-service spa and wellness center with massage rooms, sauna and plunge pool.  International cuisine, drinks and snacks will be served on several specialty restaurants and bars within the resort.  Promenade decks and the private beach provide the relaxing mood in the 7.5 hectare seaside property.

For business and private functions, the Dubhe and Selena convention and banquet halls has the capacity of 800-1,000 people with modern facilities, convenient transportation system and a huge parking lot.  Imperial Palace can accommodate small to medium size gatherings with five halls that are perfect for birthday parties, baby christening, engagement parties and family celebrations.  The resort is very accessible with just 20 minutes from Mactan International Airport and 30 minutes away from business and leisure center of Cebu City.

First Tourism Ecozone

On January 30, the Philippine BXT Corporation, the Imperial Palace developer, was officially proclaimed as Cebu’s first Tourism Economic Zone by virtue of Proclamation No. 1681 signed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and PEZA certificate no. EZ 08-47.  The commemorative marker was unveiled at the resort together with DOT Secretary Ace Durano, Congresswoman Nerissa Soon-Ruiz, Director General Lilia de Lima of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), DOT Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque Jr., department key officials, Imperial Palace management and Phil. BXT team.  “The Imperial Palace is one of the international hotels and resorts in the country that tends to improve the Philippine standing in terms of tourism investments and hospitality,” shares DOT Secretary Ace Durano. 

Relax and Invest

Accredited under the Dept. of Tourism’s “Live Your Dreams” campaign that encourages foreign visitors to own a second home, the Imperial Palace Hotel in Cebu puts on the market a viable investment package that includes real estate appreciation and a steady income.  Under the rental program, condotel unit owners will receive a portion of the total income of the entire hotel minus the expenses.  Thus, investors stand to earn even if their respective units are under lease or not. 

As a registered owner of a 5-star unit, buyers are entitled to shares from the Golf Course and Country club and enjoy privileges as club members.  For 60 days at any time of the year, unit owners can stay in the unit and use the waterpark facilities, fitness club and kids’ land.  Discounts of 20-40% are also available on restaurants, spa and wellness salons.

Annually, every unit owner is guaranteed of an 8% return on their investments up to three years.  On the fourth year, buyers will have a pro-rata share of the total room revenue less fees, costs and incentive shares.  There is also a buy back guarantee at its original contract price after three years from the date of final payment.  The reservation fee is P100,000 and is considered as partial payment.

“As a world tourist destination, we saw Cebu’s potential with our investments.  The warm weather, hospitality and accommodation made us very happy with our stay,” reveals Park Jong Hwan, the president of Phil. BXT Corp.  Imperial Palace Hotel group will be in management of the resort waterpark and spa.  This management group has portfolio hotels located in Seoul, South Korea, Fukuoka, Japan and now in Cebu. 
Time magazine awarded the Imperial Palace South Korea as Asia’s Best hotel in 2006.

First posted on May 26, 2010.

Womanly Touch to Success

Annette Gozon-Abrogar

Her demeanor exudes femininity.  It may be man's world out there but Annette Gozon-Abrogar, the President of GMA Films, Inc. and GMA Worldwide, Inc, proved that caring your femininity in the workplace can be an asset.  Her womanhood transcends to the network's TV programming and movie offerings and that is where her success lies.

Formally known as Atty. Anna Teresa M. Gozon-Abrogar, Annette has both degrees in law and management engineering from the University of the Philippines and Ateneo de Manila University, respectively, both with honors as cum laude.  She got her Masters degree in law from Harvard University.  She became a junior partner in Belo Gozon Elma Parel Asuncion & Lucila and an Associate Professor at the University of the Philippines, College of Law where she taught taxation.  "I was a full-time lawyer before but with GMA, I became a part of the team that makes the final decision when it comes to content and program schedules.  That is where I started," Annette explains.

Currently, the GMA Kapuso Network enjoys top ratings on most of their shows during prime time and daytime viewing in Mega Manila and the rest of Luzon.  Interestingly enough, a number of the network's top rating shows headline women as protagonists.  "Most of our viewers are women.  They are our main target audience.  Having a perspective of a woman provides a lot of benefit.  We do not have to second-guess what our largest audience wants," shares Abrogar.  "For GMA, we want to portray the woman in her entirety, so we will be able to show the realities surrounding women in an inspiring way.  We would like to show their strength as modern women and empower them to be the best women they can be."

"We often show women as heroines, as fighters, as strong people in celebration of womahood.  The best example would be the four sangres of Encantandia that showed different strengths of women yet, also the bonds of sisterhood, of the mother and child relationship, among others.  That show encompassed the many facets of womanhood."  Most shows on QTV11, co-produced with GMA Network, are also geared toward women audiences, "but we also target the whole family", adds Annette.

As one of the network's executives, Annette Gozon-Abrogar is very comfortable being herself and a woman and her position further boosts her confidence.  "There are a lot of females in the (media) industry.  As to gender issues, I particularly did not have any difficulties.  I would say we have a woman-friendly environment."  True enough, she credits her feel of the market to her innate, womanly attributes.  "Being a woman is advantageous.  Women are naturally more emotional speak more than what the mind says.  We are more in touch with our emotions and that is needed in programming."

Definitely, Annette is passionate about her work but she equally shares that passion for her family.  As a mother of two children, ages five and nine, she makes sure she attends to them whenever she is at home.  "Being a mother is fun and at the same time exhausting.  My children are demanding of my attention and of course, I give in.  We play and cook together and go malling.  For me, a successful woman is happy and content with herself and her family.  Women today play a lot of roles in the workplace and at home.  But whatever role she plays, as long as there is happiness at home, there is already success.  The key is to find the right balance between work and family."

Speaking on top of her game, Annette Gozon Abrogar shares her vision for the Filipina, "I want the Filipina to be empowered.  Given any situation, they should always find strength within themselves.  But they should also not lose that special feminine touch that enables them to be caring persons...be it as mothers, co-workers, relatives or friends.  As for GMA, our audience can always expect that we would exert all our efforts to give them the best programming possible."


First posted on August 25, 2010.

Flower Power: a livelihood blooms

With scant resources, they say "Make do with what we have."  The women of Cainta, Rizal did just that with water lily.

One hardly notices the water lily except when they have clogged canals, rivers and waterways of the Pasig River, Laguna de Bay, and other coastal areas.  The water lily, more appropriately called the water hyacinth, is known as a "nuisance" by most fishing communities but now, this aquatic plant is considered as an important source of raw material.

Processing of water hyacinth involves scouring, cutting, harvesting, drying, dyeing, bleaching, treating, waxing, and finishing of the indigenous fibers.  The material then can be used in the production of bags, wall décor, table runner, pouches, mats and slippers. 

When the innovative "leather look" was introduced to the fiber cloth, local producers have started to supply this raw material to international bag makers like Cora Jacobs.

Aside from consumer products, the water hyacinth's fibrous stem can be turned into charcoal and organic fertilizer.

Among the communities that has benefited from harnessing the water hyacinth are the families from Bagong Cainta, Cainta, Rizal.  With the help from Manila Electric Co., 32 women recently attended a livelihood program on the production of the water hyacinth fiber cloth.  The said program was aimed to assist families adversely affected by typhoon Ondoy.  The training was conducted by Cesar Pasco, founding chairman of Samahan para Gabayan ang Nayon ng San Pedro, San Pablo City and proprietor of Sarilikha Handicrafts.

First posted on August 5, 2010.

Riding the property boom

With numerous real estate developments and expanding markets, the Philippine real estate industry rests comfortably on the crest of an industry boom.

Viewed as prime investments, big industry players like Ayala Land Inc., Robinson's Land Corp., Vista Land and Lifescapes Inc. and Megaworld Corp. are now joined by SM Development Corp., Eton Properties Philippines Inc. and DMCI Holdings, Inc.

"The demand for housing is on the rise and I do not foresee any downturn in the next 10 years," shares Bibcee de Guzman, Caloocan chapter president of  the Real Estate Brokers Association of the Philippines.  "The investment climate is good and nobody's scared to develop real estate projects.  When the construction stops, that is the time to worry."

The promising developments in the real estate industry provide enough reasons for buyers and investors to seriously look into the market.

Rising from the global financial crisis, the local real estate prices remain competitive.  The Ondoy tragedy dampened the market for some months but has been seen on the rebound lately.  Vibrant as it is, the industry even attracts foreign property investors and buyers.

Our banking system remains strong and liquid and these contributes to both investors and consumer confidence.  From 30-percent loan interest rate during the 1997 Asian financial crisis, banks now offer 10.75 percent to an even low interest rate of 8.50 percent.  For low-cost housing, Pag-Ibig Home Development Mutual Fund offers 6-percent interest on housing loans with payment terms extended up to 30 years.

Tourist arrivals are steadily rising and the figure easily translates to a surge in demand for hotels and condominiums.  In the first quarter of 2009, a total of 1.3 million tourists arrived in the country.  For the same quarter this year, tourist arrivals grew by 7.89 percent.  Foreigners are also taking advantage of the retirement packages and incentives for ownership as provided by law.

The Philippines, through the Philippine Retirement Authority, has been attracting foreign retirees to settle in the country. In fact, prospective investors are already eyeing to put up retirement villages in Pampanga, Zambales and Bataan.

Medical tourists, attracted by lower costs, quality services and tourist spots, add the numbers in the demand for accommodations.

The projections for offshoring and outsourcing businesses that require the availability office rentals and commercial office spaces remain optimistic.  Office rentals in Makati, Fort Bonifacio and Ortigas are highly-favored locations in the Metro.  

Migrant workers have great interest in Philippine properties because prices are more affordable than those overseas.

As a rule of thumb, it is always best to transact with certified real estate brokers and reputable real estate companies in the Philippines when considering acquisition of real properties.

To set higher standards for the industry, Republic Act 9646 was approved by former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo last June 29, 2009.  Entitled as An Act Regulating the Practice of Real Estate Service in the Philippines, Creating for the purpose of a Professional Regulatory Board for Real Estate Service, Appropriating Funds Therefore and for other purposes, the law covers all industry players including investors, brokers, appraisers, city assessors and real estate consultants. 

Brokers are now bound by law to apply for their licenses, pay taxes and comply with industry regulations.  The implementing rules and guidelines were published last July 24 and fully implemented last August 9.

"We welcome this law because we are now considered as professionals.  With this law in place, we are protected from colorum agents that stripped us of sales opportunities in the same manner that buyers are protected from shady transactions," adds De Guzman.  "Real estate buyers lose huge amounts of money as they become victims of scams especially with the introduction of online selling.  But since we will now carry brokerage licenses, buyers can go to the Professional Regulation Commission for verification."

In the same manner, property titles can be checked for authenticity with the Register Deeds, Assessor's Office and the Land Registration Authority.  The LRA is now putting into motion its program of filing land titles in digital format to curb the proliferation of fake documents.  Land titles in digital format can already found in Quezon City, Cebu and Parañaque.

Real Estate Brokers Association of the Philippines is composed of more than 500 regular and associate members spread over 21 chapters in Metro Manila and the provinces. Under the leadership of national president Emily Quevedo-Duterte, the association  remains as the premiere real estate organization in the country aimed at professionalizing the real estate industry and raising the level of ethical standards of licensed real estate practitioners.

First posted on December 2, 2010.

Citizen Eco-drive: Batteries are not included

Your active lifestyle need not be hindered with antiquated personal, everyday accessory like your wristwatch.  Gone are days when you have to crank up your watch every day, adjust the date at month’s end and disrupt your daily routine just to replace your watch’s battery.  With the Citizen Eco-drive line, all you need is light to be unstoppable. 

Citizen Eco-drive Satellite Wave watch

Citizen Eco-drive watches are solely powered by light.  Introduced years ago, Citizen Eco-drive watches apply today’s advanced technology for a more convenient and user-friendly products.  Under the guiding principle “fusion of beauty and technology”, impressive are the Citizen’s timepieces with its exquisite beauty in modern features and design. The new line of Eco-Drive products showcase the Radio Controlled watches, the Twin Date Perpetual calendars, Aqualand diver’s watches, Sports watches and the Complication series.

The old ways of discarding used battery had become obsolete with the Eco-drive models.  This line relies on light power for its multiple functions.  Through the photovoltaic process, the crystal and dial on every timepiece converts solar energy to electrical power.  This makes it possible to harness the power of light from any natural and artificial source.  When sufficiently charged, excess power is then stored in a special energy storage cell that can last up to 40 years. 

Eco-drives watches must be regularly exposed to light but it is so energy-efficient that it only requires very little light for normal use.  Even in total darkness, a fully-charged Eco-drive watch can run for 45 days to 5 years depending on the model.  Low maintenance, free charging and environment-friendly, the Citizen Eco-drive can be your lifetime wrist companion.

For active world travelers, the Global Radio Controlled watches can provide precise time
anywhere in Europe, the United States and Japan.  Radio transmissions from Germany, United States and Japan are channeled through the watches by choosing a local area for the most accurate world time.  These watches can show time in your home city, UTC time, local time and date so that any trip through different time zone are more manageable and convenient.  Breeze thru 43 cities and 29 time zones with the interchangeable display of the home time and local time with the radio controlled timepieces.

When you switch into different time zones, this can make your calendar date quite confusing.  With the Eco-drive perpetual calendar models you have access to a big date display with two disks.  Each disk has its own motor for separate control and adjustment.  Time difference will automatically change whether in advance or reverse over a 24-hour period.  With the light power feature and the perpetual calendar, you are totally free from battery changes and date adjustments.

On top of the Citizen diver’s watches is the Aqualand Eco-Drive.  It is the first light- powered diving watch that starts measuring depth, temperature and diving duration as soon as it is underwater.  Its bold asymmetrical form and coloration highlights the many features that compliment the diving experience as technically-sound and worry-free.

Sports watches require precision and reliability that is critical to the game.  Eco-drive watches have both functionality and reliability.  One hand moves on 1/5 of a second and instantaneously returns to 0 (zero) position as needed.  The stylish solid case and detailed face of this watch comes very elegant for a sports watch.

The Complication series only means that these particular models “fuse complicated functionality into refined style”.  The Eco-Drive Minutes Repeater has chimes to announce time with a distinctive face design.  Other models sport an asymmetrical design with minute measuring display on a semicircular design.  Different functions can be changed by simply adjusting the crown.

A special power save function can also be found on some Eco-Drive models.  This feature allows the watch to conserve power when light is not readily available.  This allows extended run times from a single full charge.  Some functions may cease to operate with insufficient light but correct time is always kept internally.  So, there is no time to wait. Get going with Eco-drive now.

First posted on June 7, 2010.

Reforestation site now a wildlife sanctuary

United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB) have successfully restored the 33.3-hectare UCPB-CIIF Reforestation site in Sitio Boso-Boso, Antipolo, Rizal as a natural habitat for a growing number of Philippine flora and fauna, some of which are rare and threatened with extinction.

In 1990, UCPB embarked on the reforestation program in response to the call of government for the private sector to take an active role in protecting the environment.  The Environment and Natural Resources Department initially awarded the bank stewardship over 20 hectares of denuded forestland.

Through its UCPB-CIIF Foundation,  the site was maintained by organizing treks for UCPB Group employees and plant four kinds of indigenous tree species on selected areas within the site.
A full-time forester was hired to manage the reforestation activities.  Aside from the annual treks involving employees from the bank, its subsidiaries and affiliate companies, an onsite tree nursery was established.

The reforestation work was completed in 2002 with more than 42,000 trees planted on the site.  The   Environment and Natural Resources Department then increased the reforestration site to 33.3 hectares.

Employees of the UCPB-CIIF Foundation and the UCPB-CIIF Finance and Development Corp. took part in the trek at the reforestation site in July.  In previous tree-planting activities, employees of UCPB Savings Bank, UCPB Leasing and Finance Corp., UCPB Securities, UCPB General Insurance, Cocolife and Cocoplans participated.
Haribon Foundation, a private conservation group, had recommended the planting of indigenous tree species to further enhance the reforestation site’s biodiversity.  “Indigenous tree species are more appropriate for watershed or forest rehabilitation. The use of indigenous tree species will recreate an ecosystem similar to the original state of the area.  As foundation species, they can provide habitat to many wildlife species and help restore the faunal biodiversity, ” stressed by the group.

In a recent biodiversity survey of the site, Haribon Foundation found 108 species of trees, shrubs, palms, herbs and ferns; 53 species of birds, six species of mammals and seven species of amphibians and reptiles.

Haribon recorded 19 more new animal species than were reported in previous surveys of the area, which suggests that the successful reforestation of the area is giving rise to a thriving wildlife. 

Among the notable bird species that the Haribon team observed during its survey are the Philippine Serpent-Eagle, the Indigo-banded Kingfisher, the Red-bellied Pitta, the Mangrove Blue Flycatcher, the Philippine Hawk-Owl and the Ashy Thrush.  The latter two are significant finds since they can be found only in the Philippines and both face serious threat of extinction owing to habitat loss.   

The mammal population on the site had grown as well. Civet cats or Musang and chattering groups of long-tailed Macaques or Unggoy now roam the reforested area.

Haribon also noted the presence of fruit bats as very encouraging since they “play a pivotal role in the ecology of the forest ecosystem” as pollinators and seed dispersers.  Another bat specie, the Flat-headed Bat, one of the smallest bats in the world measuring only 5 centimeters in length, made the bamboo groves on the site its home.

First posted on October 8, 2010.