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DMW aims to deploy skilled workers in Austria
The Department of Migrant Workers announced on Wednesday its goal to deploy Filipinos to Austria during the signing of an agreement governing the recruitment of Filipino professionals and skilled workers in the healthcare, information technology, tourism, and hospitality sectors. The Memorandum of Understanding was led by DMW Officer-in-Charge Hans Leo Cacdac and State Secretary Susanne Kraus-Winkler of the Austrian Federal Ministry for Labor and Economy (BMAW). The signed MOA will provide employment opportunities for Filipinos while addressing Austria’s shortage of skilled workers. “Through this agreement, we aim to facilitate the deployment of Filipino professionals and skilled workers to Austria in a manner that is safe, ethical, sustainable, and mutually beneficial. Our workers, in return, will contribute to addressing the labor shortage in Austria and to sharing their expertise and commitment to the economic development of Austria,” Cacdac said. According to Kraus-Winkler, Austria had an excellent experience with qualified workers from the Philippines. “Austria is focusing on attracting skilled workers abroad. The Philippines is the first country which Austria has entered into a memorandum of understanding with that covers all areas of mutual cooperation on recruitment and vocational training. Austria has many decades of excellent experience with qualified workers from the Philippines, and we are truly grateful for the reliable support,” Kraus-Winkler said. Cacdac added the partnership reaffirms the long-standing friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect between the Philippines and Austria, particularly in the field of labor and employment. Under the agreement around 500 Filipino workers will be deployed annually to meet Austria’s demand of around 75,000 to 200,000 job openings across all industries, including sectors of healthcare, construction and engineering, information technology, and tourism and hospitality. The MOU guarantees heightened protection of the rights and welfare of Filipino migrant workers, as well as assistance while they undergo skills assessment, education, and equivalence training and licensing in Austria.The DMW and BMAW also committed to developing a framework for work-based vocational training and other measures to increase technical capacity to upgrade the skills and expertise of Filipino workers. Both countries vowed to combat illegal recruitment and human trafficking as well as ensure adequate access to legal assistance and social protection for OFWs. The post DMW aims to deploy skilled workers in Austria appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SRI Forum highlights ways for sustainable farming
A one-day forum on the System of Rice Intensification attended by several foreign SRI practitioners highlighted the importance of weaning farmers away from the destructive traditional planting, including the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, weedicides, and herbicides that harm not just the farmer but also the environment. Held at the Apacible Hall of the Department of Agriculture, the SRI Global Forum– the first one, held in the country– saw the participation of Nigeria, Iraq, India, Australia, and other ASEAN member countries with speakers explaining their difficult climb to scaling the SRI program in their respective countries. Agriculture Undersecretary Leocadio S. Sebastian for Rice Industry Development narrated that the SRI program in the Philippines often referred to as unidentified field observation several decades ago continues to be struggling because farmers stuck to conventional ways of planting with the use of chemical fertilizers. He said Congress has just granted the SRI program a budget of P250 million for 2024. The keynote was delivered by Prof. Norman Uphoff of Cornell University and lead convenor of SRI International. Dr. Khidir Hameed of Iraq, a country with a severe lack of water for farming explained how SRI worked in their fields despite less water. He said, that with El Nino, SRI becomes more urgent to ensure the country’s rice production even at a much-reduced water level would not suffer so it won’t import all of its rice requirements. SRI is now being scaled in most of the 50 countries that adopted it as a way of addressing rising production inputs costs, and water insufficiency (because of past and coming El Nino) and to help stop soil degradation from years of chemical fertilizer application. Since agriculture contributes to climate change, it is also the sector most vulnerable to climate change impacts. Part of the critical adaptation to climate change is the capacitation of farmers on resiliency strategies. Through the Climate-resiliency Field School, farmers’ education and technology sharing and experiential practice of technologies are propagated, particularly in water-deficient and rainfed areas. CrFS is flexible and experimental and promotes learning across sustainability principles, economically rewarding, low-carbon agriculture, and climate-informed farming practices. The learning farm included a study on adapting local varieties through participatory varietal selection, a comparison of organic farming and farmers’ practices in the area, and the SRI farming methods. The SRI way calls for direct seeding and, depending on the farmers’ beliefs, organic farming or when feasible, a mix of application of organic and chemical fertilizers. However, the SRI practitioners present at the forum were staunch advocates of purely organic farming. Observations raised by the forum delegates were: The utilization of SRI is expanding in various Asian and other countries but it is still a work in progress. SRI provides an opportunity for farmers to learn continuously about a more efficient and effective system of rice production. Successful utilization of SRI for other crops has been documented in several countries as shared by several country representatives. There should be more promotion of SRI through the provision of government and institutional support as well as regional cooperation (for example sharing of best practices) to expand its application. The evaluation and updating of SRI principles is a continuous process. There are a variety of adaptations of SRI. It should be noted that what is important is the use of the SRI principle rather than the technology itself. The ultimate goal is the attainment of a productive, sustainable, and environment-friendly production practice that recognizes the importance of proper ecological management. The forum, according to Sebastian is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s marching order for the Department of Agriculture to enhance the production of rice for the country's food security and rice sufficiency. The post SRI Forum highlights ways for sustainable farming appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Player profile: Shaun Matthew ‘Blurred’ Maglasang of USPF
Shaun Matthew “Blurred” Maglasang is an e-sports (Valorant) player of the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF). Blurred, as he is more known, is from Barangay Apas in Cebu City. As of this posting, the 20-year-old Blurred is taking up Information Technology at USPF. READ MORE: Player profile: Mary Rosyll Roncal of the SWU-Phinma Cobras In a brief chat with CDN Digital, Blurred said he started playing computer games at the age of 7. “I was inspired by a one specific pro player,” he said when asked what pushed him to start playing. His goal is “to be the best and help my family.” READ MORE: Player profile: Jim Paul Amistoso of the UV Green Lancers Blurred said he looks up to Stewie2k in his sport. When asked what his message to young student/athletes is, he answered: “Just keep chasing your passion to reach your dreams.” Know a little more about Blurred in this edition of CDN Minute: READ MORE: Player profile: Ressel Pedroza of the USPF Panthers.....»»
BoI grants towers green lane access
Deals involving 6,400 shared passive telecommunications towers nationwide by 2030, which will require an investment that will provide thousands of jobs to Filipinos in the telecom industry, will be fast-tracked following the approval of its green lane application by the Board of Investment. On Wednesday, the BoI provided the green lane endorsement to the Common Passive Telecommunications Tower Infrastructure Project of EdgePoint Tower Inc. BoI Governor Marjorie Ramos-Samaniego awarded the certificate of endorsement to EdgePoint Tower representatives headed by its chief financial officer Vicente Francisco Araña at the BoI Main Office in Makati City last 18 September 2023. EdgePoint Tower Inc. is eyeing to build and lease towers for telecommunications and digital services providers in the Philippines, a P50-billion telco infrastructure project that is expected to generate around 9,700 jobs. Aligned with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2023’s goal of expanding and upgrading infrastructure, the project shall support the government’s initiative to enhance telecommunications services nationwide and increase connectivity, mobile network access, and Internet penetration in unserved and underserved regions of the country. The BoI added the project will provide access to the essential telecommunications infrastructure to enhance mobile telecommunications services and create a level playing field among new and existing Mobile Network Operators. Telecom infra levels up “Through continuous innovation and the use of the latest technology, the project aims to elevate the methods by which telecommunication infrastructure is developed, operated, and maintained in the Philippines. It will optimize tower design to use fewer materials and will begin using indigenous materials to replace steel elements. To lower its carbon impact, the project will promote the use of renewable energy to power telecommunications infrastructure installations,” the BoI statement said. The BoI One-Stop Action Center for Strategic Investments will monitor the actions taken by concerned government agencies on Edgepoint’s applications for permits and licenses and will submit a report to the Office of the President accordingly. Telco infrastructure is one of the priority sectors of the BoI alongside EVs, smart/high-tech lighting manufacturing, outsourced semiconductor assembly and test, green metals, high-tech agriculture, renewable energy, and data centers. Aside from generating more jobs for Filipinos, the project will strengthen the country’s telecommunications landscape and provide high-speed Internet connectivity to various areas. The post BoI grants towers green lane access appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
New mission: BuCor reform
Following his tenure as chief of staff in the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 2015, retired four-star General Gregorio Pio Catapang chose to settle in Pampanga. Here, he embraced a simpler life as a farmer, relishing in the delights of native chicken, fresh produce, and the serene natural surroundings. “I am an environmentalist, so I decided to stay in Arayat, Pampanga, to be a farmer upon my retirement in October 2015, and I prayed, ‘Lord, it has been mission accomplished, so give me a new mission,’” Catapang narrated. The former military chief, the AFP’s 45th from July 2014 to 2015, is not a stranger to close encounters with mortality. Throughout his extensive service in the Philippine Army, from graduating from the Philippine Military Academy in 1981, he has endured several clashes with enemies, even more than one could count with the fingers. He held major positions in the AFP as commander of the 2nd Infantry Division — the Army’s largest unit, 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, 703 Infantry Brigade, and 28th Infantry Brigade, among others. He also served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, J3, of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. His rise to prominence was not without hitches because he barely survived nine brushes with death. His strong faith in the Lord enabled him to be alive today. “The first incident that I encountered that almost ended my life was when I fell from the second floor of our house when I was just a kid; the second was when I was in the field where a provincial bus liner rammed the car I was in,” Catapang said. He was airlifted from Basa Airbase to V. Luna General Hospital and eventually transferred to Quezon City Medical City as he continued to bleed due to his severe injuries. “The doctor told me not to sleep because I might turn into a coma. So I fight on as the doctors continue to treat me,” he added. While still recovering, with his facial wounds still not yet fully healed, he was called by his commander to report back to work. “Nakangiwi pa ako dahil sa sugat (I was still grimacing in pain), but as a soldier, I followed the order, and that was then I realized that he was teaching me how to become chief of staff,” Catapang said, adding that as a good soldier, he had to endure the pain. He recalled that a chopper ride in the mountains of Cagayan also nearly took his life as it flew at 1,000 feet and traveled 18 knots. “The chopper is already old. I just have to make the sign of the cross as the chopper made a low-altitude flight due to poor visibility. We plunged downward, and I thought it was the end for me. But thankfully, the chopper normalized, and we safely landed,” he said. While in a restaurant in Angeles, Pampanga, Catapang said he was informed that NPA (New People’s Army) rebels would ambush him. “We ate at a chicken restaurant in Angeles and received information that I would be ambushed on returning to our camp. It was retaliation for the death of eight commanders of the NPA after movement patterns were detected based on information from barangay chairpersons,” he said. He cannot forget, too, that during the Pinatubo eruption in 1991, the roof of the building they were occupying collapsed due to the accumulated volcanic ash. Catapang, named after two generals — Gregorio del Pilar and Pio del Pilar — led his soldiers in helping the indigenous peoples in the area, giving them food, clothing, and other necessities. “The natives very loved us because of that,” he added. He said he is thankful to have emerged victorious and alive from the all-out war against Muslim secessionists in Mindanao. It almost ended his life, but he survived with solid faith in the Lord. Throughout his life, he consistently believed that prayers are always answered, particularly when reciting the rosary. Proof was when he fervently prayed to the Lord to allow him to marry his first girlfriend, and his request was granted. He married Maria Lourdes and has three children. Catapang’s early life lacked the excitement it later encompassed. He was a typical teenager. He attended high school at the Claret School of Quezon City. Shortly after graduating from PMA, he pursued graduate courses at the University of the Philippines. He is the second of four children of Gregorio Catapang Sr., a lawyer for the Securities and Exchange Commission, and Lourdes Punzalan, an accountant at the Department of Finance, from whom he learned the value of public service. As a military officer, Catapang rallied the troops to strictly adhere to the AFP’s slogan of “Kawal DISIPLINADO, bawal ABUSADO, dapat ASINTADO” — three key words that spell out the Do’s and DON’T’s to become proficient in fire and maneuver and avoid collateral damage; be respectful of human rights, adhere to international humanitarian law and the rule of law, and the rules of engagement. Catapang moved on with his career and retirement life, carrying an excellent performance standard, exemplary leadership and a keen vision. Answered post-retirement prayer After retiring from active military service spanning 34 years, he received a divine blessing through a new mission. Following seven years of working as a farmer, he experienced a life-altering moment on the evening of October 19, 2021. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla gave him an offer to lead the Bureau of Corrections. Unaware of the challenges that awaited him within the BuCor, especially at the New Bilibid Prison, he accepted the offer. It was only later that he discovered the appalling issues of corruption among the prison staff and the dire condition of the overcrowded facilities. Under the guidance of Secretary Remulla, Catapang’s mission to reform the BuCor is yielding positive results. They are actively organizing culminating activities to release eligible individuals who have been deprived of their liberty. To alleviate the overcrowding in the jail facilities, the BuCor is actively organizing and implementing various reforms. The main goal is to transfer all persons deprived of liberty from the maximum security compound of the NBP to new facilities outside of Metro Manila. Catapang is confident plans will come to fruition, as they have already presented their long-term reform plan to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for approval. “At present, the reformation of BuCor is in full swing. I am confident we will accomplish and make things happen,” he said. The NBP, he said, is undergoing a significant transformation. The plan is to shut down the NBP in Muntinlupa and repurpose the area into a new business district similar to Bonifacio Global City in the southern part of Metro Manila. Explaining the reason behind the decision, he said high-end residential communities surround the current location of the NBP in Muntinlupa. To align with the surrounding environment, the intention is to close down the NBP and relocate all inmates to regional jail facilities nationwide. Catapang shared plans to dedicate eight hectares of land within the NBP to improve the living conditions of the settlers and provide them with opportunities for reintegration into society. “We will build condominium units for the settlers at the NBP, complete with amenities like a swimming pool, multipurpose facilities, and the like. Repair of residential houses is no longer possible, including power lines, so we decided to allocate the lands for them,” he added. The government will optimally use the land area by developing it into a business and government center, aligning with the DoJ’s plan. To support the food security initiatives of the President, he said they have already started the cultivation of approximately 10 hectares of land at the Iwahig Penal Colony. The aim is to grow rice and high-yield crops, contributing to the government’s long-term food security plans. “Hopefully, this will be done also to other penal farms of BuCor because we have ample lands for cultivation,” Catapang said. For the BuCor Director General who refused to be defined by limitations and setbacks, the relentless spirit and passion for reforms radiate triumphs against the most formidable odds. The post New mission: BuCor reform appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DTI slates Cashless Expo 2023
To promote the benefits of micro, small and medium enterprises to be onboarded to digitization, particularly in adopting digital payments, the Department of Trade and Industry is kicking off Cashless Expo 2023 in November. On Thursday, Trade and Industry Secretary Fred Pascual signed a memorandum of agreement with GoDigital Pilipinas Movement Inc., for the upcoming exposition. “This multifaceted approach in encouraging small businesses to adopt digital payments is aligned with the goal of the government to promote digital inclusivity through innovation to ensure that local enterprises remain globally competitive. Through a whole-of-government approach, the DTI will partner with both public and private stakeholders to foster digital transformation and wider accessibility for our enterprises,” according to Pascual. The objectives of the MoA are to increase digital payment adoption by merchants and encourage cashless transactions among consumers. Following the e-Commerce Philippines 2022 Roadmap launched earlier last year, the agreement further strengthens the aim of the DTI in promoting digitalization and financial inclusion among merchants and consumers. The Cashless Expo 2023, scheduled on 17 to 19 November 2023, is a collaboration between the DTI Digital Philippines E-Commerce Division and the GoDigital Pilipinas Movement. Further, it aims to ramp up efforts to increase digital payments across the nation. The event is supported by other government agencies such as the Department of Tourism, the Department of Agriculture and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, along with the private sector and digital payment enablers. The Cashless Expo 2023, the first cashless expo in the Philippines, will be a three-day trade show that will feature MSMEs that pioneer entirely cashless transactions. It will also showcase businesses using digital payment methods like e-wallets, debit/credit cards, online bank transfers, and QR codes or Near Field Communication technology to enable contactless transactions. The DTI Chief stressed the significance of digital transformation to enable MSMEs to be globally competitive, saying, “This event takes us one step closer to our goal of encouraging the adoption of digital payments across all industries. As the DTI works on science, technology and innovation driven approaches, we encouraged both public and private sectors to work with us in ensuring that digital transformation will happen in the Philippines.” The post DTI slates Cashless Expo 2023 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
16th National Rice Technology Forum focuses on ramping up local rice production
Hundreds of participants from different parts of the country took part in the 16th National Rice Technology Forum (NRTF) which was launched on 19 September in Hagonoy and Digos City, Davao del Sur. With the theme, “Masaganang Palay at Bigas, Maunlad na Pilipinas,” the three-day event, was aimed at promoting the adoption of yield-boosting rice technologies by showcasing high-yielding and climate-resilient rice varieties, machinery, and best practices in a 131.83-hectare demonstration area. It has become a collaborative project by the national government, local government units (LGUs), local farmers, and other partners and stakeholders from the private sector, the NRTF responds with the President’s directives to boost the country’s local rice production and ensure food security through convergence and cooperation. Spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Davao Regional Field Office (RFO 11), DA-Agricultural Training Institute Regional Training Center (ATI-RTC 11), and the private sector-led Rice Board, the event kicked off with a field tour at the technology demonstration farms in Poblacion, Hagonoy. The techno demo farms showcased 24 hybrid rice varieties and smart technologies that have been tried and tested to be high-yielding, pest and disease-resistant, and climate-resilient contributing to higher income for farmers and high-quality and affordable rice for consumers. During the NRTF, 13 seed companies and six nutrient management firms presented their products, best practices, and technologies for proper land preparation, soil and water management, nutrient management, and pest and disease management, among others. In addition, the NRTF featured a Tekno-Tiangge, or a Technology Marketplace, and a “Tektok” or the Digital Agriculture and Farm Machinery and Equipment Demo. Officials and representatives from the Rice Board, DOST-PAGASA, and DA offices including the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program (MRIDP), Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) also played key roles during the event. They discussed the plans and programs to ramp up local production, El Niño action plans, hybrid and inbred rice production, balanced fertilization strategies, pest and disease management, mechanization, and digital agriculture, among others. DA-MRIDP Productivity Enhancement Focal Person, Dr. Frisco Malabanan, discussed the program goals of attaining stable rice supply, affordable rice, prosperous rice-based farming communities, and nutritious rice-secured population under the overall goal of 97.5% rice self-sufficiency by 2028. He also discussed the immediate plans of the program such as the distribution of inputs such as hybrid seeds, biofertilizers, and inorganic fertilizers, the provision of drone services, and the intensified promotion of farm clustering and consolidation. “To transform Philippine agriculture, we need to focus on markets, innovations, scale, mainstreaming, and outcomes,” Dr. Malabanan said. He also stressed the need to mainstream the transformation efforts into the country’s policies, programs, and investment plans. The NRTF will culminate on 21 September 2023 in time with the start of the harvest operations at the techno demo site that is expected to produce a minimum of seven tons per hectare. The post 16th National Rice Technology Forum focuses on ramping up local rice production appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAGCOR changing for better, says solons
A sea change in the gaming industry is coming as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. or PAGCOR, transitions into a “purely regulatory” body. Senator Win Gatchalian said PAGCOR’s move will effectively prevent a “conflict of interest” within the agency’s dual functions as a regulator and operator. “Its decision to transition to becoming a purely regulatory body is commendable, representing a significant stride towards improving the governance of the gaming industry,” Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Ways and Mens, told reporters. Senator Grace Poe cited the PAGCOR’s move as a “step in the right direction” as it cannot “wear two hats at a time” at the same time. “It gives the agency a conflicting role that has raised misgivings about its capability to effectively regulate the gaming industry,” she said. Poe stressed the need to regulate the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators and other unauthorized gambling operations, which have brought social ills to the country and deprived the government of earnings. Benefits of improved regulation “If PAGCOR can effectively regulate the gaming industry and weed out unscrupulous activities, then it could even generate better revenues to help fund more government projects,” she added. PAGCOR chairman and chief executive officer, Alejandro Tengco, said the move is part of the agency’s goal to “level the playing field and ensure future growth and viability for all gaming industry players.” “We have started preparing for this transition in earnest, and we are starting where it matters most — within PAGCOR itself,” he said in his remarks during the opening of the IAG Academy Summit at the Hilton Manila last 13 September. Tengco said the transitioning process is expected to be completed by 2025. Gatchalian said he believes that the separation of PAGCOR’s regulatory and commercial functions “will not only attract more private sector investments but also elevate the country’s stature as a premier gaming destination in the region.” “Consequently, this is poised to significantly boost government revenues derived from the gaming industry,” he added. Gatchalian wants PAGCOR to impose stiffer penalties against illegalities perpetrated by the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators in the country. The post PAGCOR changing for better, says solons appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Alden Richards, Julia Montes to conquer the big screen for the first time
Asia's Multimedia Star Alden Richards and Daytime Drama Queen Julia Montes will team up to top bill the upcoming romantic-drama film "Five Breakups and a Romance", their first-ever project written and directed by Irene Villamor. The movie is co-produced by GMA Pictures, Cornerstone Studio, and Myriad Corporation, a multimedia company founded by Richards himself. 5BAAR was first announced during the second quarter of the year and since then, people have been eager to follow the developments involving the movie. Richards will portray the role of a happy-go-lucky guy named Lance Sandoval while Montes will play the character of Justine Royales, a career-driven and goal-oriented lass. A movie teaser released last 1 September had gone viral as the lead actors garnered commendations for their performance. During the first part of 5BAAR's "The Actors" yesterday, the lead stars got the chance to interview each other and share how their journey went. Montes asked Richards why he chose to bet on her on his first time to embark on the field of producing films. The Kapuso actor gave a short and heartfelt response, "From the beginning, it just felt so right." Montes expressed her gratitude as they both got emotional with the flow of their conversation. Their movie "Five Breakups and a Romance" will be released on 25 October 2023. The post Alden Richards, Julia Montes to conquer the big screen for the first time appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US wary of German pride ahead of Basketball World Cup semi
Manila, Philippines Austin Reaves warned his United States team-mates on Thursday that national pride will transform Germany's players when they meet in the Basketball World Cup semi-finals. Reaves is set to square off against former Los Angeles Lakers team-mate Dennis Schroder when the United States and Germany meet in Manila on Friday with a place in the final up for grabs. Reaves expects Schroder to be a different player once he puts on his national team jersey and warned that he has a gift for "instilling confidence in others". "The passion that he has for basketball, when it comes to the Olympics, the World Cup, stuff like that it, intensifies by 10, just because he's so passionate about where he comes from," said Reaves. "They're all like that." Germany are the only unbeaten team left at the World Cup and booked their place in the semi-finals with a narrow win over Latvia on Wednesday. Schroder had a night to forget, scoring only four of his 26 field-goal attempts in what he called "probably the worst game I ever played in my career". The Americans are still wary of the threat that Schroder poses, and US captain Jalen Brunson said the Germany playmaker "can do whatever he wants on the court in any given moment". "He has those gifts," said Brunson. "We just have to be locked in defensively. While he is a lot of what they do, he's not all of what they do." The United States also have plenty of talent at their disposal and showed it in their 100-63 quarter-final demolition of Italy on Tuesday. Head coach Steve Kerr is ready to unleash his full breadth of attacking talent against the Germans and said "they don't need a speech" before the game. "I think the main job of our staff right now is to give them a blueprint," said Kerr. "Everything that we've done in preparation over the last five-and-a-half weeks is to get to this point. "Show them what they need to do, let them be themselves -- that's the plan." Kerr called shooting guard Anthony Edwards -- the Americans' top scorer at the tournament -- "one of the most talented players on Earth". Kerr has been rewarded with impressive performances throughout his squad, and power forward Paolo Banchero said the players have been "counting down the days" until the final. "This is the peak of the tournament, this is winning time, the last two games," said Banchero. "We're locked in." amk/pbt © Agence France-Presse The post US wary of German pride ahead of Basketball World Cup semi appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cap cuffs cartel
Cartels have long lorded over the grains industry as they exploit the heavy reliance of Filipinos on rice and the ever-dwindling farm output due to the failure of the industry to modernize. Just like in any other critical sector, the market opportunists will use the flimsiest excuse to put in place a structured profiteering scheme. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. imposed a price cap on rice as he identified “cartels” and hoarders behind the surging charges. Executive Order 39 fixed the maximum retail price of regular milled rice, consumed by many Filipinos, at P41 per kilo and P45 for the higher-quality well-milled rice. Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile said the dismantling of these groups that dominate the rice business was on the table during the recent Cabinet meetings. As head of the Department of Agriculture, Marcos is well-informed about the syndicates, which have strong backers even within the people surrounding him. Restoring a level field in the rice market would, thus, be a tough operation but it will be a legacy that Filipinos will not forget. Disposing of unscrupulous traders is easier said than done, however. The previous case of Davidson Bangayan, which is the pseudonym of suspected rice smuggling lord David Tan gives the backdrop to the powerful network that the rice syndicates command. Bangayan was placed in the National Bureau of Investigation custody sometime in 2014 when Enrile was the Senate minority leader. Enrile obtained a libel case, Bangayan filed against a prominent businessman in which he specifically stated that he was also David Tan. Before Bangayan’s appearance in the Senate, he met with then-Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to dispute that he and Tan are the same person. After his arrest, primarily due to the Senate probe, strange things started to happen. On his arrest warrant stated “Davidson Bangayan who is not David Tan”, which is the phrase used that led to his release. Also, despite the inquiries in the Senate about his being the kingpin of rice smuggling in the country, the Department of Justice filed electricity pilferage charges against him. De Lima’s excuse then was that her agency was still building up a case against Bangayan regarding rice smuggling. The irony, however, was that De Lima was the last to know what several businessmen and trade groups have long volunteered as information to pin down David Tan, who hides behind the name of Bangayan. The libel case filed by Bangayan against Jesus Arranza, chairman of the Federation of Philippine Industries, or FPI, in 2005 should have ended the charade since Tan admitted in the complaint that he was also Bangayan. It even took the pointed inquiry of Enrile against Bangayan at the Senate apparently to convince the NBI to re-arrest him after he was released through the help of De Lima. With intelligence units of the NBI, the Philippine National Police, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, at her disposal, De Lima had a hard time establishing the identity of David Tan. The elderly Enrile and the other senators, in contrast, were able to amass information to match Bangayan and Tan, pieces of evidence that De Lima did not make use of. The Senate episode on the elusive trader portrays the complex challenges that face Marcos in his goal of removing the mob that manipulates rice prices. Imposing a cap on rice charges sends a message that prices will be the priority of the government and that it will use all means to keep the staple grain within the reach of the majority of the population. The post Cap cuffs cartel appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Project REACHED goal: A disaster-resilient PH
PLDT and Smart underscored their commitment to building the disaster-resilient Philippines through Project REACHED, the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation initiative, and the Australian Embassy in the Philippines. Project REACHED, or Resilient Emergency Communications and Enhanced Disaster Response, is a two-year program to bridge communication gaps during emergencies or disasters. “The PLDT Group recognizes the vital role of communication during emergencies and disasters, which has now become a lifeline. As network operators, we at PLDT and Smart are uniquely positioned to provide communications support before, during, and immediately after disasters,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of the Stakeholder Management Team at PLDT and Smart. PLDT and Smart will extend technical expertise in the field of communications to contribute to accelerating the goals of Project REACHED. A multi-sectoral collaboration, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Office of Civil Defense and the World Food Programme are also committed to this Project, among others. The post Project REACHED goal: A disaster-resilient PH appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Battle for the Arctic
The Arctic is a very sensitive environmental area. They say that if the Arctic sneezes, the whole world catches a cold. The Arctic also holds vast amounts of oil and gas. Energy is the arch-enemy of the Environment. The Arctic Council was established in 1996 in the Ottawa Declaration “as a high-level forum to provide a means for promoting cooperation, coordination and interaction among the (eight founding) Arctic States” (arctic-council.org). The eight Arctic States are Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and the United States. For some reason, Greenland, the largest island, was not among the eight. The agreement stood until the war in Ukraine. The international spirit of cooperation suddenly vanished. The war in Ukraine made everyone edgy, with two factors as catalysts — energy and security. An intense energy crisis ensued. And security concerns triggered polarizations similar to the ones that preceded World Wars I and II, namely, between the East, led by Russia and China, and the West, led by US-NATO-EU. There was panic over getting new energy resources, and, in fear of wars, panic over procuring new sophisticated weapons, such as hypersonic missiles, killer drones, precision lasers that can take out satellites. Weapons makers like the US and Russia had a field day selling arms to allies. There is now a sudden focus on the vast energy resources of the Arctic, with its billions of dollars in untapped oil and gas — about 13 percent of the world’s oil and about 30 percent of the world’s gas — not to mention uranium, gold, and rare metals, all sitting there under the primordial ice. No wonder the environment is no longer a concern — it has been replaced by the lust for energy. The Arctic Circle The military map above gives an overview situationer on the Arctic Circle. (Source: International Institute for Strategic Studies — Arctic Portal.) There is UN-NATO in the west and Russia in the east. There are two existing shipping routes — the Northwest Passage and the Northeast Passage — which converge at the northern tip of the Arctic Circle. There is a third Future Trans Arctic Route in between west and east. There are 27 US-NATO bases in the west, in blue, and 28 Russian bases in the east, in black. The US-NATO bases are scattered over a wide area, while the Russian bases are concentrated along its northern shores. Note the concentration of both East and West bases in the Norway-Finland area where they face each other eyeball-to-eyeball. Many geopolitical and military analysts consider this the powder-keg for future confrontations. US-NATO cannot build bases near the Russian shorelines, so they concentrated their bases in the Norway–Finland chokepoint. Current energy extractions Russia leads the pack in energy extraction. Its turf covers about 40 percent of the Arctic Circle and 53 percent of coastal areas. There are about two million Russians living in the Arctic Circle in thriving mining communities servicing Liquid Natural Gas Projects 1 and 2. Project 1 is the Yamal LNG Plant. Project 2 is the newer $21-billion Arctic LNG2 Plan, whose goal is to extract 19.8 tons of LNG a year. Global warming has melted a considerable amount of Arctic ice in the last decade, which has triggered a more frenzied exploration and mining among the Arctic States. This is especially true for the ice corridor north of the Russian coastal area, which has triggered more daring Russian ships cutting through the melting ice. There is a 21,000-kilometer passage for Russian ships to bring their export gas to Asian markets through the Suez Canal, a long arduous route through the West, which makes the gas more expensive to deliver. Because of the melting ice, Russia now has an alternative of 13,000 kilometers through the east, 40 percent shorter than the western route. The mining activities of the Western nations will be covered in the next article due to space limitations. Future conflicts The goal of the Arctic military bases is defensive, namely, to protect the mining activities. But an Arctic encounter can be catalyzed by trigger-happy generals, or even by accidental encounters, which have happened before. The first step towards the nuclearization of the Arctic is the introduction of small tactical nukes, similar to those in Belarus, facing Poland, which can be an option if one of two contending forces is “cornered.” Tactical nukes may draw an equal response from the other side in a rapid escalation. Once tactical nukes proliferate on both sides, and an incident occurs, the next steps are the big ICBMs and the war with no winners. The post Battle for the Arctic appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The World Cup and our national pride
Barely a few weeks after our women’s football team, the Filipinas, electrified the Philippine sporting world with a first-ever appearance in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, a first-ever goal and even more unbelievable, a first-ever win stunningly scored no less than against the host country, New Zealand, for the next two weeks, a much bigger world audience will have their eyes focused on the Philippines. Never mind that 90 percent of the Filipinas were composed of recruits from all over the world with some traces of Filipino blood flowing in their veins. Never mind that the biggest stars of the Filipinas, golden girl Sarina Bolden and goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel, and in the case of our Men’s Basketball team, NBA Utah Jazz shooting guard sensation Jordan Clarkson of Gilas, are as American as McDonald’s. Our hearts ever so slightly would start to beat a lot faster whenever these heaven-sent athletes would do what they do best on the pitch or the hardcourt. Surely just watching the replay of Sarina heading in the goal against the Kiwis and sprinting across the field with arms spread-eagled like the Philippine Eagle, you can’t help but scream out loud “Yes!,” get goosebumps, be misty-eyed, and jump with joy all at the same time recalling that single moment of a wondrous feat that boosted Filipino pride in an instant. Why is this so? How can a single goal cause so much adulation for the Filipinas and breast-beating pride in a nation forgetting for a moment all our gargantuan problems, and social and political differences? Apparently, this phenomenon is nothing new. A quick look in Google reveals various articles that conclusively demonstrate that sporting success and national pride are clearly intertwined. For instance, in various surveys of the International Social Survey Program conducted by Social Weather Stations in 1995, 2003 and 2013, from number 2 in 1995, sports moved up to number 1 in 2013 as the main source of national pride, edging out our national history from the top spot. From an 80 percent mark in 1995 representing the number of Filipinos proud of our sports achievement, this moved up to 87 percent in 2013. Not surprisingly, these were the years that Manny Pacquiao became an international sensation putting the Philippines in the world limelight for his achievements as a boxing great. What’s happening in the next two weeks? Well, unless you have been completely zonked out of your senses, the FIBA World Cup, the world’s biggest basketball spectacular, will be happening right here in our backyard. Millions of Filipinos, including yours truly, will have their eyes glued to television, streamed games on their smart gadgets, or for some lucky thousands who can shell out some hard-earned pesos, watch the games live at Araneta, MOA, and Philippine Arena. To be realistic though, the odds of Gilas sweeping our Group A games against Angola, Dominican Republic, and Italy to move on to the knockout stage are next to impossible. I think that at best what we could hope for is a close win against Angola and if NBA Minnesota Timberwolves star center Karl Anthony Towns can somehow be neutralized by wide-bodied but undersized Junemar Fajardo and our guards like Scottie Thompson or Kiefer Ravena can match up against their bulkier but fleet-footed guards, then a miracle for our country might be in the offing. Unfortunately, our game against Italy will be more of a question of limiting the certain Italian win to single digits to keep our national pride from getting trampled on too badly. But in all these games, the fans will be feverishly anticipating the explosions of Jordan Clarkson, our one and only Filipino NBA pride, and perhaps maybe Kai Sotto, and why not AJ Edu and Dwight Ramos, finally getting their much-needed exposure in the international limelight to showcase their talents and demonstrate that they are good enough to make the NBA. Nevertheless, win or lose, I believe what is important is that as a host nation, we put our best foot forward, take a momentary pause and suspend the endless carping on social media and the news, to present to the world just what basketball crazy but hospitable people we are. Go Gilas! Until next week… OBF! *** For comments, email bing_matoto@yahoo.com. The post The World Cup and our national pride appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Michael Ted Macapagal: Making tracks in public service
If life were a train, then Michael Ted Macapagal’s has been quite a ride. Raised by a labor leader and human rights lawyer father who served the people of Olongapo, including the workers of the US American Base in Subic, Michael Ted Macapagal had always wanted to become a public servant. It took Ted, though, a long journey to reach his goal, first achieving success in the insurance field in the United States where he lived for 20 years starting in 1991. Today, he is the chairman of the Philippine National Railways, a position “that allows me to make a difference in the lives of my countrymen,” he shared during his recent visit to the Daily Tribune office in Makati. Ted, good-looking and affable, proudly spoke of a father, his namesake, Atty. Teddy C. Macapagal who, early on, exposed his son to a firsthand view of a gentleman who looked beyond himself and his personal interests, and instead dedicated his career to protecting the common man and bettering their lot. The elder Ted served as a city councilor for 10 years. In 1984, he ran for the Batasang Pambansa, and in the late 1980s, for city mayor. “In all these electoral processes, I was involved and saw for myself how my father related to the people. He was a sincere man who helped them in the best way he could. He provided free legal services to those in need,” Ted recounted. Ted grew up in Olongapo, his place of birth. It was in the neighboring province of Pampanga, though, at the Don Bosco Institute in Bacolor town, where he first studied, but he eventually returned home to Olongapo, where he finished high school at the St. Columban. Aiming to become a lawyer, he enrolled at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, where he majored in History, which he intended as his pre-law course. Not unexpectedly, he joined the Upsilon Sigma Phi, his father’s fraternity. He also joined rallies where he stood with those who wanted the retention of US bases in the Philippines, in keeping with the sentiments of his townsmen. “It was the one concern where the whole of Olongapo was united,” he recalled, “because the people’s livelihood was connected to the base and the American presence in the community.” As a lawyer who specialized in labor, his father himself handled cases for the base employees. In 1988, his father lost his mayoralty bid in Olongapo. He fought against his fraternity brother, Richard Gordon. Actually, the two had been fighting it out for decades. “Olongapo became too small for them,” shared Ted. “A vivid memory to me to this day was the night I cried after my father lost. I was heartbroken because, for the most part of my life, I saw him give his all to the people. Throughout all those years, I just loved assisting my father. I followed him whenever he visited his constituents. I was a witness to everything that happened to him, his conflict with his political adversary and the loyalty of the people who believed in him and saw in him the man who would change the face of politics in our city.” The elder Macapagal became OIC-Mayor in 1986, but only two months after he received his appointment from the new president because the incumbent mayor did not easily give up his post which he was required to vacate under the new revolutionary government. “The next local election was the most expensive political exercise that our family ever waged,” Ted recounted. “It was then that my father decided that I pursue a new life in the United States, away from politics back home. “All the while, my heart never left the Philippines. Even before I left, I promised myself I would return to continue what my father started.” First non-white president Ted stayed in San Francisco for 20 long years. He had a tough time at the beginning of his new life. “I started off doing odd jobs. I worked as a security guard, janitor and waiter in a pizza parlor. “I also guarded the heavy equipment in a construction site in San Francisco. Thievery was a problem in that kind of situation. We would sleep in a trailer. “I transferred to a construction firm because I found out it offered a bigger salary. But I didn’t know the technical aspects of construction. Once, I made a portable ladder, but it fell apart, for which I was scolded by the owner of the company. I was fired on my third day on the job. Too bad because it paid high.” Ted then decided to pursue another degree, one that would be more useful in the United States. He took up Human Resource Management, a four-year course at the University of California in Berkeley. When he finally entered the corporate world, his first job was as a clerk. It wasn’t long before he became Division President of Stewart Title Company, one of the largest underwriters in the world, with offices across the United States, and in some 80 countries around the globe. He was based in the San Francisco Bay Area. “I may have been the first non-white president,” he said. “And I was a division president for the whole of North America. I was the first Filipino to reach that level.” Of his trailblazing accomplishments, he shared, “I was able to bring cultural diversity to the company, which enhanced its value. I got the top post because I asked for a meeting with the president. I told him we were not diverse enough to appeal to the non-white clients, and there were many of them who were first-time home buyers. Then, I told him to make the rounds. He would see that none of the home buyers was white. They were of different ethnic groups. I told him that if he appointed me as vice president, I would give him multi-cultural buyers because I would appeal to them and they would be our first-time buyers. So, he appointed me, and one month later, he made me president.” As an adjunct, he lectured on the topic of title insurance and escrow procedures in several community colleges in and around the San Franciso Bay Area. Through it all, he chose to keep his Filipino citizenship. The ‘Railway President’ For all the successes he was enjoying, the Philippines beckoned. He felt he still had a mission to accomplish. “My father was surprised. He asked me why I would still want to go home when I was doing well in the States. I insisted, so I came back and I plunged into political life. I worked on difficult campaigns, like the one for Rodrigo Duterte.” Back to his first love and passion, the political arena, he was in his element and served as president of PDP LABAN in Olongapo City from 2016 to 2021. In 2022, he joined LAKAS-CMD as its local chairman. This engagement led to his original target, as his father had achieved in his lifetime — serving the people. This time, he would be appointed to key posts in the government. He became director of the Clark Board and Gulf Oil Philippines. He took his oath of office as chairman of the Philippine National Railways on 28 April 2023. It is a job in a government agency where he is confident “I could make a difference because I can see that President Bongbong Marcos is really intent on improving the railway system of the country. “On my part, I want to make a difference. I want to be able to contribute whatever I can to help the president to achieve that objective. I call him now the ‘Railway President’ because I consider him the father of the railway system in our country.” Of course, he noted that many plans have been formulated during the time of President Rodrigo Duterte. Moreover, he recognized that President Gloria Arroyo “navigated our country through the global crisis. I was in the United States when the global economic crisis happened, and the Philippines was one of the countries spared, and I give credit to her. The economic fundamentals were very strong during her time. Being an economist, she was there at the right time when the country needed her the most.” With President BBM at the helm, he is confident “we will be able to push through with our development plan and finish the projects we have started, like the North-South Commuter Railway, which is a 147-kilometer stretch from Clark to Laguna. We hope to have the dry run in 2026 and it will be fully operational in 2027.” He also looks forward to the completion of the Bicol South Long Haul project. He is equally hopeful for the North Long Haul, the Subic-Clark and the Mindanao railways. He clarified that “we are now talking with the proponents, while some negotiations are being undertaken.” Working boots and a hard hat It would seem that this successful insurance executive was out of place in the railway sector. He pointed out, though, that “coming from the outside, I have the technical advantage of being able to look outside the box. So, I’m looking at it from outside the box, looking in. I am able to see the problems that need to be fixed. Stoppage is one of the problems so we have a bus augmentation program. We will also deploy UV Express units. We are closely coordinating with the LTFRB to provide emergency alternative transportation.” On the other hand, his exposure to people of all backgrounds from his youth, being his father’s son, has given him the advantage of “knowing how it is to be one of the boys. Something that I also experienced in the United States. “When people ask me what my management style is, I tell them straight I like to go down to the ground. I like hands-on supervision. I want my hands to be dirty. If you open the trunk of my car, you will find my working boots and my hard hat. I enjoy going to the construction sites and seeing for myself the progress, the problems, whatever it is that needs to be attended to. “Finally I want those working in the field doing the most difficult tasks to be satisfied and never to be hungry. Gusto ko, busog sila lagi. I am not happy when I get invited by the constructors and I am honored with a feast-like lunch or dinner, and not knowing what the workers are eating. I am on a diet anyway, so I make sure that my hosts bring the food to where the workers are eating. I can only eat so much and I would rather that the workers and the staff are full and happy. I am vocal about my displeasure when the construction workers are not eating the same food that is served to me. I may not be able to invite them to where I am eating but I can have the food brought to them.” Smiling from heaven Without a doubt, the old man Atty. Teddy C. Macapagal is smiling happily from his heavenly perch. He had served his fellowmen well, but he had done right as well by raising a son who took after his heart, to whom service to the people and compassion for the less fortunate matter more than any personal gain. His father, according to Ted, “died a broken man at the young age of 63. But whatever he lacked in longevity and riches, he made up for it with his compassion for others, for the free legal services that he gave to the people of Olongapo. “If you didn’t have money, you went to him because he was generous with his time and expertise. He would even give you some cash to use for your transportation fare to go home. That was my father. “The people whom he helped in turn would come to our home and bring him gifts like eggs, fruits, fish, vegetables and native chickens that they raised in their backyards. My father accepted them all. When I came home and saw all this, I teased him and said that he should probably open a sari-sari store so he could resell them. “Of course, we had a good laugh. But beyond the laughter, we both knew in our hearts that doing good to one’s fellowmen is its own reward and nothing in this world can take the place of personal fulfillment for having put a smile on people’s faces because you somehow made their lives better. “I am grateful that I have been raised by such a great father.” The post Michael Ted Macapagal: Making tracks in public service appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SM Prime, partners hold symposium on wetland conservation
As the world celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity 2023, SM Prime Holdings Inc. joined the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands Inc. in hosting the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium on 29 May 2023 at the MAAX Building in the Mall of Asia Complex. [caption id="attachment_170633" align="aligncenter" width="1131"] SM Prime AVP and head of Marketing, PR and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo.[/caption] Under the theme "Build Back Biodiversity: Wetland Centers and Nature-Based Architecture," the hybrid symposium featured presentations centered on fostering knowledge and awareness about wetland conservation and innovative design approaches. SCPW president Architect Celestino Ulep opened the symposium by sharing his optimism on how collaboration and embracing nature-based architecture can pave the way toward creating a future where wetlands thrive and biodiversity flourishes. Notable experts in the field also graced the event, including Chris Rostron, global manager of Wetland Link International, and Alex Hughes of Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust in London, UK. Ulep introducing the concept of nature-based architecture, highlighting the importance of prioritizing sustainability and harmony in design by creating structures that seamlessly integrate with the natural environment. Meanwhile, Architect Aaron Lecciones, SCPW special projects officer, made a detailed visual presentation on the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park design team's experience. He highlighted the challenges and triumphs of designing a wetland park, to serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and architects. Stakeholder partners Rida Reyes Castillo of SM Prime, Dr. Arvin Diesmos of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Laudemir Salac of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region 3 and Architect Gleo Raymundo of United Architects of the Philippines Student Auxiliary also attended the event. "It is an honor and privilege on the part of SM to partner with the SCPW and UAPSA in realizing its common goal of protecting ecosystems, particularly wetlands, by inspiring the youth to engage and take action on the socio-civic and economic issues in their communities by finding workable solutions towards building a sustainable future," SM Prime AVP and head of Marketing, PR and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo said. Castillo further emphasized that environmental protection and nature conservation are integral pillars of SM Prime's sustainability campaign, along with cultivating the younger generation’s devotion to building a sustainable future. The symposium concluded with a comprehensive discussion on the rules and guidelines of the design competition, followed by an open forum and exchange of ideas among participants. The symposium also marked the beginning of the 4th SCPW Wetland Center Design Competition, which aims to create a platform for talented students in the field of construction and design to showcase their skills and ingenuity and encourages them to address environmental challenges through sustainable solutions. The post SM Prime, partners hold symposium on wetland conservation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hamlin returns to NFL play seven months after cardiac arrest
Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin returned to NFL competition in a pre-season game on Saturday, seven months after suffering a cardiac arrest after being hit during a game. The 25-year-old defensive back took part in his first on-field game action since being carted off the field in an ambulance in January, playing in the first quarter at home against Indianapolis. Hamlin helped make a tackle on a fourth down in a short-yardage situation. It was the completion of a comeback from an incident that took place last 2 January at Cincinnati when Hamlin tackled Bengals receiver Tee Higgins and seconds later collapsed on the field. Emergency medical workers restored his heartbeat on the field and he was taken to a nearby hospital, the game halted and never completed. Hamlin eventually recovered and was diagnosed as having been struck in the chest between heartbeats in a rare incident that stopped his heart. In April, the Bills announced that medical officials had given their approval for Hamlin to return to the NFL, something Hamlin said was his goal. He returned to the team for pre-season workouts and took part in Buffalo's first preseason contest against the Colts in hopes of making the team again for the upcoming campaign. The post Hamlin returns to NFL play seven months after cardiac arrest appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Larone Crafts’ trendy Filipino handbags make waves in Europe
Jennifer Lo is living proof that an eye for aesthetics can be inherited. Based in Makati City, Metro Manila, the third-generation entrepreneur has carried on her family’s business of handicrafts—Larone Crafts, registered in 1984. Growing up, she helped her mother during trade shows, observing how business was conducted with foreign buyers and taking minutes of business meetings. After completing a short course on Manufacturing Management at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles in 2006, she worked with various fashion companies before coming back to the Philippines to help in her mother’s handbag business. “I’m the steward of my parents’ and grandparents’ hard work. My goal is to make the business sustainable for another 20 years,” said Jennifer, who operates out of a compact 500-square-meter office that includes a production area and warehouse on the top floor. Larone Crafts’ designs are modern but remain true to Pinoy traditions by incorporating Tinalak weaves and the woven fabric Inabel. Natural plant fibers such as abaca, raffia and seagrass sourced from all around the Philippines add an indigenous charm to the products. The results are timeless accessories that buyers can keep in their wardrobe season after season. “The bags are meant to be used all year round. We do not make items that are just for a certain season to be thrown away the next. We manufacture them to last," said Jennifer. Among Larone Crafts’ handbags, the signature hand-embroidered clutch bags are a particular hit with buyers. Larone Crafts' agility to keep abreast with technological advancements and design trends has kept it exporting successfully over the years. The company’s first exports were made in 1984 to the USA. Back then, Jennifer was only three years old. “I can see how conducting international business at a time when the Internet was not yet existing must have been quite a challenge,” she said. In 2009, when Jennifer joined the company, she continued to step up to evolving market trends. “Smaller niche brands were coming into the field. Rather than large containers of orders with thousands of pieces of the same style, orders of several styles and colors in a few hundred pieces were preferred,” she recalled. In 2022, following the pandemic, 3 percent of Larone’s customers were from the European Union, 90 percent from the USA and the rest a mix from other countries. For a long time, the only way to start an international business was through participation in trade fairs, which is not an easy thing to do alone. The company has been part of the Manila FAME almost every year since the 1980s. Showing at Maison et Objet, NY Now and Ambiente over the last 10 years has also been fruitful. “We received support from the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, the export promotion arm of the Philippine government’s Department of Trade and Industry, to participate in international trade shows in the EU and in the USA. Before the internet and emails, this was the only way of gaining new overseas customers.” Jennifer feels that her company’s participation in these trade shows has been instrumental in reaching customers, particularly in the EU. Trade shows boost market research, linkages, design aesthetics and competitiveness. She emphasized that CITEM’s support in terms of product design, booth design and implementation, and pre-show marketing has been invaluable in upgrading her business. “These are all high costs that would be difficult for our small business to absorb when initially trying to enter into a new market.” Jennifer sees many benefits from the EU Generalized System of Preference Plus (GSP+). “The EU GSP + makes our products more competitive in the EU market by reducing the cost of importing our goods into the country for our buyers. It improves access to the 27 countries in the EU.” Larone Crafts is already exporting to Spain and the Netherlands, with samples sent recently to Italy which are expected to generate more orders. “The EU is an attractive export market for our company because of the ease of doing business with their bilingual teams, the market’s love for sustainable, handmade and natural products, and the favorable trade policies such as the GSP+.” As Jennifer works towards expanding her product assortment in home and lifestyle products, she is cognizant of those who work for her. Depending upon the volume of orders, in any given season, she employs approximately 100 workers. She not only retained artisan families from her mother’s time, but also sources from small businesses that employ women. “We work with weavers and artisans in their communities from all over the Philippines, giving them a reliable livelihood and helping to preserve the region’s traditional crafts.” The ARISE Plus Philippines project is enabling Philippine exporters to take advantage of European Union market access and the trade privileges granted under the GSP+. It supports the overall EU-Philippines trade relationship and trade-related policies. ARISE Plus Philippines is a project of the Government of the Philippines, with the Department of Trade and Industry as lead partner together with the Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, Bureau of Customs, the Department of Science and Technology, as well as the private sector. It is funded by the EU, with the International Trade Centre as the technical agency for the project. The post Larone Crafts’ trendy Filipino handbags make waves in Europe appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DA targets sufficient rice harvest
The Department of Agriculture on Friday said it is targeting to plant one million hectares of rice this year to achieve rice self-sufficiency anchored on its Masagana Rice Industry Development Program. Agriculture Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development Leocadio Sebastian disclosed that the target areas are in irrigated areas in both national and communal systems of the National Irrigation Administration. He added that if they are able to achieve their target, they will not need to worry about the country’s rice supply next year. “If we are able to do this, we don’t need to worry about our rice supply next year and if sustained, we can reach our President’s self-sufficiency goal of 97.5 percent,” Sebastian said. However, Sebastian said that in order to achieve their target, there must be a strong working convergence of all DA agencies, regional field offices and their rice focal persons, the NIA, Bureau of Soils, the Philippine Rice Research Institute, Philippine Center for Post Harvest and Mechanization, the Cooperatives Development Authority, the National Food Authority, the Department of Agrarian Reform, the Department of the Interior and Local Governments and its attached local government units, Agriculture Credit Policy Council and Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. and state banks — the Development Bank of the Philippines and Land Bank of the Philippines. He added that the different stakeholders must design location-specific interventions based on the agriculture science and data, which must be communicated in simple terms to the municipal agriculture officers who in turn would advise the farmers the best practices to optimize yields even in areas to be affected by the coming El Niño. The PhilRice, on the other hand, presented the El Niño risk maps for validation by the regional executive directors of the DA and the different attached agencies and rice industry stakeholders. The post DA targets sufficient rice harvest appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gen Z café owners open 90th branch in Fairview
The first black soft-serve ice cream in the Philippines, Black Scoop Cafe, finally opened a branch in Fairview, Quezon City, last 7 July. Since its inception in 2018, with the first outlet in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City, Black Scoop Cafe has branched out to 89 locations all over the Philippines, making the Ayala Fairview Terraces’ garden in Fairview more memorable as the 90th branch of the cafe. The cafe’s owners are the youngest merchants of all store owners in the mall. They are there not just to sell and earn but for a more meaningful reason — to bolster Gen Zs taking over the business field. Black Scoop Cafe in Ayala Fairview Terraces, co-owned by chief executive officer RK Peralta, 23, and his partner and chairman of the cafe, Jason Dublin, 24, envision themselves taking over the business but, more importantly, Gen Zs to take over the business industry. “There’s like a connotation that Gen Zs aren’t capable of doing these things, so this is a testament that we are capable,” Peralta said. Even up to the employees, Peralta and Dublin hired Gen Zs, showing a more powerful testament to their primary goal of uplifting the status of the current generation in the business sector. “Gen Zs are ready to take over. I believe that everything can be learned naman, so I’m confident also with the staff, with the team that we have,” Peralta explained when asked about their biggest challenge. Black Scoop Cafe offers a variety of sweet and savory food and beverage options that everyone can indulge in. Menu includes (tea drinks) frappe, coffee, cream cheese lattes; (food) pancakes, rice meals, pasta, wings, sandwiches/wraps. The café also serves a “secret menu” — known only to loyal patrons — the Biscoff collection. It includes a Biscoff-flavored milk tea and frappe. The post Gen Z café owners open 90th branch in Fairview appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»