2 Senators Reiterate Promotion of Filipino Language, Dialects

MANILA – Two lawmakers on Friday reiterated their commitment to promoting the use of the Filipino and indigenous languages.

Senator Loren Legarda, chair of the Senate Committee on Culture and the Arts, emphasized the importance of Republic Act No. 11961 or “An Act Strengthening the Conservation and Protection of Philippine Cultural Heritage Through Cultural Mapping and Enhanced Cultural Heritage Education Program, amending for the Purpose Republic Act No. 10066, Otherwise Known as the “National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009", during the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino’s (KWF) Gabi ng Parangal (Night of Recognition) at Hotel Lucky Chinatown.

In a video message played during the event, Legarda commended the KWF for its continuous efforts in strengthening, expanding, and promoting various languages and dialects in the Philippines, particularly indigenous languages.

She said the law which was recently signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signified a milestone in safeguarding cultural diversity amid the challenges of globalization.

“The reservation, preservation and protection of our arts, culture and language have been among my most valued and consistently upheld advocacies. In my fourth term as senator, we have proposed the cultural mapping bill, a legislative measure that seeks to amend the National Cultural Heritage Act,” Legarda said.

“Under this law, all local governments across the Philippines will conduct cultural mapping of their respective localities, including their languages," she added.

Meanwhile, Senator Lito Lapid expressed concern over the potential loss and neglect of Filipino languages due to modernization and globalization.

Lapid cited the impact of social media on language evolution and challenged language advocates to maintain proper language use on these platforms.

“In today's time, our young people don't just learn languages in schools, on the radio, television or in films. We can't ignore the significant role of social media in the advancement of languages. Many trending words spread regularly across various Internet platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, causing a continuous evolution of our language,” Lapid said in his message delivered by his chief legislative officer, lawyer Abelardo Manlanque.

Lapid added these posed a challenge to language advocates to be present in these platforms and encouraged everyone, including the KWF, to defend the Filipino languages.

"I encourage each of us, led by the Commission on the Filipino Languages, to be defenders and advocates of our languages. This is not just valuing our culture and integrity, but also fulfilling our duty to keep our language alive and meaningful amid constant change)," he said.

The senator also urged those in power to use the Filipino language to spread proper education, technology and economic progress.

Meanwhile, the KWF awarded the prestigious Dangal ng Wikang Filipino 2023 honor to the Philippine Federation of the Deaf, Inc. and individuals Felipe M. de Leon, Rolando B. Tolentino, Pilar “Pilita" G. Corrales, filmmaker Elwood Perez and Carol B. Dagani.

The Seal of Excellence in Language and Culture or the Selyo ng Kahusayan sa Wika at Kultura 2023 award was given to Catanduanes State University, Sorsogon State University, Aurora State University, Quirino State University and the University of San Carlos.

West Mindanao State University received the Dangal ng Wika at Kultura 2023 award.

The KWF also recognized essayists of the year (Sanaysay ng Taon 2023): Mark Anthony S. Angeles (1st Place); Ariel U. Bosque (2nd place); and Joanah Pauline L. Macatangay (3rd place). (By Noemi Reyes, PNA)

DOST OneLab’s poster presentation in Vietnam highlights the role in ensuring food safety

To further promote the importance of the network in ensuring food safety, the Department of Science and Technology’s OneLab project management team joined the Association of Analytical Communities (AOAC) SEA Section 2nd Annual Conference held on August 1-2, 2023, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

The team composed of the project leader and DOST IX Assistant Regional Director for Finance, Administrative Support and Technical Services, Ms. Rosemarie S. Salazar; Dr. Annabelle V. Briones, co-project leader and Director of Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI); and Mr. Admer C. Dablio, Project Coordinator and Quality and CPD Manager of ITDI led the poster presentation detailing the initiatives of the OneLab Network.

Titled “A Networking Success: The Role of the Philippines’ DOST OneLab Network in Ensuring Food Safety for Both the National and International Markets,” the poster presentation posited that many of the member laboratories under the OneLab Network come from testing laboratories which are being utilized to address the increasing needs from various stakeholders for testing of foods and food products to ensure safety and quality, meeting national and international requirements and standards.

Through the network, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in remote areas of the Philippines, they said, can now have access to testing services to check if their food and food products are complying to quality requirements and are safe for consumption.

This innovative solution has, in turn, enabled MSMEs produce globally competitive food and food products that can penetrate the international market through the economies’ Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs), since the products are tested by accredited laboratories based on PNS ISO/IEC 17025:2017.

For years, the network has helped various sectors: (a) the regulatory bodies in the performance of their function to regulate foods and food products for the strict implementation of Republic Act (RA) 10611 or the Food Safety Act of 2013; (b) the big companies and MSMEs which don’t have internal quality assurance laboratories for their food quality and safety assessments, meeting requirements of their own customers; and (c) the policy makers for the development of food safety national and international standards from scientific data of the local settings in the Philippines.

They said that the DOST OneLab has been influential not only in the monitoring of food safety and quality in the country, but as well as in the contribution to the development of food national standards through the technical expertise provided by DOST.

Pesticide residue as food safety issue in SEA countries

Aside from the poster presentation, Dr. Briones served as one of the panelists in a panel discussion on the “Needs of Pesticide Analysis in the Southeast Asia Region.”

The discussion focused on pesticide residue being one of the major food safety issues in the Southeast Asian countries and on the discussion on the needs of pesticide analysis in the Southeast Asian region with the intention to support international trade.

Ms. Edna Callejas-Mijares, RCh., MSc., CEO of Jefcor Laboratories, Inc., for the Philippines, presented “Pesticides Residues in Food and Food Products: Analysis and CODEX Standards for Maximum Residue Limits” which called for the harmonization of standards by adoption of CODEX Standards as provided for in the Food Safety Act of 2013 and she also served as one of the panelists.

Meanwhile, Abigail Grace H. Bion, RCh, MSc, and Science Research Specialist I from the National Metrology Division of DOST-ITDI, is one of the three (3) graduate and undergraduate students who won the Best Student Poster Awards conducted in the annual conference.

Ms. Bion won together with contestants from Indonesia and Vietnam, besting 12 students from seven countries in Southeast Asia which were granted student travel awards by the AOAC SEA.

In June 2021, the formation of a new Southeast Asia section of AOAC International was approved by the AOAC Board of Directors. The new section, AOAC Southeast Asia Section, encompasses 10 countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.

Want to be a DOST OneLab Network member? Contact us at our email address, itdi.onelab@gmail.com.    

By Rosemarie C. Señora, S&T Media Service

#OneLabforTED
#OneDOST4U

DOST establishes vibrant partnership with US private companies through the US-ASEAN Business Council

DOST officials, US-ABC executives, and member companies posed for a photo op at the close of the 2023 Philippine Business Mission

Development of Smart Cities, Quantum Technology, Digital Transformation, Advanced Weather Forecasting, and the facilitation of Health Technology Assessment (HTA) initiatives are among the points of interest of the companies during the annual US-ASEAN Business Council 2023 Philippine Business Mission meeting held at the Manila Marriott Hotel. 

The US-ASEAN Business Council represents over 175 U.S. companies, including many of the world’s largest global firms, with operations in Southeast Asia. In this Business Mission, senior representatives from member companies went to the Philippines to engage with priority stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of U.S.-Philippines business relations.

Led by Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., the DOST welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with the private sector in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI). This strategic alignment is expected to bring benefits, such as knowledge exchanges, technological breakthroughs and finding innovative solutions that can improve the STI efforts of the country.

For DOST, research and development projects on OneLab Network, SETUP and CEST, alongside the areas of cooperation outlined in the MOU are envisioned to be continued. These are R&D programs focused on upgrading and supporting countryside development and empowering the poorest communities in the country, through S&T interventions in health and nutrition, water and sanitation, basic education and literacy, livelihood/economic enterprise development, and disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.

Notably, it is important to highlight that the DOST and the US-ASEAN Business Council formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2019. This MOU stands as a testament to the joint efforts in promoting the development and implementation of government-driven science, technology, and innovation initiatives within the private sector.

PH, US Consumer Protection and Privacy Agencies Hold a 5-day Workshop

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the National Privacy Commission (NPC), and the United States Federal Trade Commission (US FTC) successfully conducted a five (5)-day workshop on Emerging Technological Sector Issues in Consumer Protection and Privacy Investigations and Enforcement on 07-11 August 2023 at Ascott Hotel, Makati City. 

With support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Strengthening Private Enterprise to the Digital Economy (SPEED), this workshop brought together esteemed experts from the US FTC, DTI, and NPC. It served as a platform for in-depth discussions on various pressing topics, including the deceptive practices known as dark patterns, generative artificial intelligence, online investigation tools and techniques, and the prevalence of multilevel marketing/pyramiding schemes.

During the opening ceremony, DTI Consumer Protection Group (CPG) Undersecretary, Atty. Ruth B. Castelo, underscored “As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, it has become imperative to safeguard the consumers’ personal information and ensure their confidence in digital transactions and interactions. Throughout this 5-day workshop, we have the privilege of learning from a roster of experts and speakers in the field of consumer protection and data privacy, especially on the topics of tech development, pyramid schemes, dark patterns, and artificial intelligence.”

Meanwhile, USAID Philippines Acting Mission Director Jeff Goebel said, “In our efforts, we must not lose sight of the core participants who drive the digital ecosystem – the consumers themselves. For any digital economy to flourish and be sustainable, it is important that consumers have trust in the integrity and fairness of digital markets.  USAID is eager to contribute and support initiatives that would foster a safe and fair digital marketplace, empowering consumers while nurturing economic growth.” 

The NPC Chief of Policy Division, Atty. Ivy Grace T. Villasoto, emphasized that “Our ability to harness the potential of emerging technology must go hand in hand with our commitment to safeguarding and sustaining the trust of our data subjects. Personal data breaches, privacy violations, and unauthorized personal data processing activities can undermine the trust gained and progress we have made so far. Hence, it is paramount that we are equipped to effectively investigate and take the necessary enforcement actions against any violations that may happen.” 

Throughout the 5-day workshop, FTC experts shed light on the prevalence and impact of dark patterns, emerging trends in native advertising and influencer campaigns, and greenwashing. Speakers also discussed how they dealt with unfair and deceptive privacy and security practices by companies that share personal information with third-party providers. In addition, the workshop explored potential deceptive trade practices related to products and services using machine learning and similar technologies. During one of the sessions, the speaker provided an informative overview of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). This act empowers parents by granting them control over the type of information that websites collect from their children. Participants had the opportunity to engage with FTC experts who shared their extensive knowledge and expertise on these critical topics.

The presenters from the NPC and DTI emphasized their efforts and initiatives to ensure consumer protection and privacy in the country. The NPC provided updates on the draft guidelines regarding Deceptive Design Patterns, and discussed the complaints received against online lending applications. The DTI presented e-commerce policies, including the proposed Revision of the Republic Act No. 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, and the proposed Internet Transactions Act. The DTI also shared its technology-based consumer projects, such as e-Presyo, an online price monitoring system that allows consumers to check the prevailing prices of Basic Necessities and Prime Commodities (BNPCs), and the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Verification Mobile Application, which enables the public to verify the authenticity of the ICC quality seal attached to imported products.

On the final day of the hybrid workshop, speakers from the US FTC discussed how to better protect consumers from the risks posed by new technologies through enhanced collaboration among regulators, the tech sector, and businesses. During the FTC panel discussions, industry representatives addressed the significance of transparency and the current challenges associated with online ratings and reviews. They also discussed the recommended principles for the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) concerning consumers.

Everyone is encouraged to follow DTI’s Consumer Care official social media accounts for more information. For consumer-related concerns and queries, send an email to ConsumerCare@dti.gov.ph or call the One-DTI (1-384) Hotline.  confidential and/or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete immediately; do not use it for any purpose, nor disclose its contents to anyone. Views and opinions expressed herein are those of the sender and do not necessarily reflect the views of DTI.

DTI Celebrates National Coconut Week with the unveiling of Go Lokal!’s Cocomania

In celebration of the National Coconut Week (per Proclamation No. 142, s. 1987) from August 24 to 30, 2023, the Department of Trade and Industry – Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (DTI-BDTP) proudly unveils its Go Lokal! Cocomania project.

Cocomania is a special showcase of coconut-based products in select Go Lokal! stores. The campaign supports the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) which seeks to uplift the lives and livelihood of coconut farmers and highlight the incredible potential of the coconut industry and its crucial role in sustainable economic development.

Cocomania offers a thoughtfully curated selection of coconut-based products such as artisanal crafts, processed food and beverages, food supplements, personal care essentials, and health and wellness products from the following Go Lokal! MSMEs:

The Soap Farm
Marinduque Land Corporation
Innovative Packaging (Oh So Healthy)
B&C Healthy Snacks
Coco Dolce
Mama Sitas
Star Kaffea Coffee
Coco Wonder (Andy Albao)
AG Nutriceuticals
Lakan
Cocoplus
Galo
Pasciolco
Al Di Foods
Amazing Foods
Theo and Philo
Sol’s Italian Foods
Orich
The SuperFood Grocer
Aretei Foods Corporation
Tigre Y Oliva
Coco Libra
Ralph & MatthewsE

Experience Cocomania in select Go Lokal! inline and pop-up stores strategically located within Metro Manila:

Go Lokal! Concept Store, Makati City
Go Lokal! Pop-up Store at Festival Mall Alabang
Go Lokal! x Common Room PH at U.P. Town Center
Go Lokal! x Common Room PH at Ayala Malls Manila Bay

Go Lokal! Cocomania will also participate in the World Coconut Congress, a significant gathering of key players in the coconut industry, from August 30 to September 1, 2023, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay.

Let’s continue to support our local coconut farmers and MSMEs. Follow #Cocomania’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For more information on the DTI’s Go Lokal! Cocomania campaign, you may also email: DTI-BDTP Director Marievic M. Bonoan or Go Lokal! Program Manager Maya G. Arcega at bdtp@dti.gov.ph. 

The Appeal of Bananas Delicious Fruit Products from the Philippines are Best-Sellers in the EU Market

The relaxed charm of fourth-generation farmer 35-year-old Raymund Aaron does not show the hard work he puts into successfully running his small family business of manufacturing food products.

The company Villa Socorro Farm and their factory are situated in Pagsanjan, Laguna province, south-east of Manila.

The self-styled 'Banana Chief' of this social enterprise, Raymund, oversees the production and marketing of the company's famous banana chips.

He inherited his passion for agriculture and farming from his father, incorporating a streak of his own.

Right after obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Management from Ateneo de Manila University in 2009, Raymund joined the budding family business.

"I wanted to be an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember. We used to grow bananas on our land in Pagsanjan, and so, after graduating, doing business using bananas seemed the perfect fit," Raymund shared.

An indirect start

The idea of exporting came through his father's work in marketing for a multinational company, which inspired him to engage in international business.

Starting off in 2008 with an initial capitalization of Php5 million, the company produced banana chips, with the first export in 2014 to the United States.

The Health Safety Certification from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a requirement of the Philippine authorities, was obtained in 2012, which further added credibility to the business as an exporter.

"We began exporting indirectly through a local company that expressed interest in distributing our products to buyers there."

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) helps reach Europe

Raymund, a regular at the Philippine government’s DTI business matching events, recently returned from a similar event held in Dubai coinciding with Gulfood 2023.

Regular participation in business networking events and seminars since 2015 has provided valuable knowledge and insights on export market access, including the European Union (EU).

Be it the DTI or the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) handling the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines, the biggest international food trade show in the country, he always found participation in the trade fairs to be beneficial.

"You never knew who you would meet. I always carried samples of my products along." At one such event arranged by the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), Raymund established a connection with the Philippines’ diplomatic mission in Switzerland. Soon, samples from Villa Socorro reached a few Swiss companies with the help of this link.

The products were a hit with one distribution company. By the end of 2019, a 20-foot container with 1,000 boxes that cost USD14,000 has been shipped to Switzerland. "It was support from the EMB that helped us pursue direct exports to Europe. We made our first link through them."

Recognizing the support he received, Raymund is always willing to share his skills and knowledge with other entrepreneurs and to contribute to local DTI capacity-building initiatives.

Why the EU?

The EU appears to be a lucrative market for the company as Raymund gradually expands the product range by including sweet potato chips and corn snacks. About 80% of total current revenue comes from exports, while 20% comes from sales at hotels, restaurants, canteens, airports, kiosks, and selected supermarkets in the Philippines.

Villa Socorro's exports to Europe are at 5%, with buyers in Switzerland, Norway and EU member state the Netherlands. Raymund wants to increase business with Europe, specifically with EU member states, which he regards as the best destinations for healthy organic food products made from tropical fruits.

"It is a market that is willing to pay a premium for natural products."

EU buyers' requirements

Raymund's drive to grow specifically in the EU market is evident in his readiness to comply with the necessary requirements. 

The REX number to avail of the EU Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) scheme to export tariff-free to the EU was obtained on the recommendation of the buyers to strengthen the business.

The Registered Exporter System (REX) is a self-certification system wherein the origin of goods is declared by economic operators themselves by means of so-called statements about origin. To be entitled to make out a statement of origin, an economic operator must be registered in a database by the competent authorities. The economic operator then becomes a "registered exporter."

Product and packaging development were also adjusted. There is a shift to use a more natural Brown Muscovado Sugar to suit customer preferences in the EU.

The company also created a sub-brand, Farmony, to market its products in the EU. "Farmony creates harmony between farmers, manufacturers, and consumers. Our existing brand, Villa Socorro Farm Sabanana Banana Chips, really targets Filipinos or people looking for Filipino products. We created Farmony to have a product that can easily blend on the shelves of the EU market," Raymund shared.

Social entrepreneur

Being on a farm allowed Raymund to become a social entrepreneur. He understands well the needs of the farmer.

To support banana farmers around his family plantation, Raymund buys 98% of the fruit from the community that he fondly refers to as “partner-farmers."

"We buy bananas from more than 200 farmers in a radius of 5km around our farm. We only plant 2% of the bananas that we use for banana chips," he shared. By processing 600,000 tons of bananas every year, he provides the local farmers with a market for their produce.

He considers himself lucky that things fell into place, enabling him to give back to the community that helped him get to where he is today.

Gearing up for the future

"I am still here. I look forward to expanding our business. Sticking with the snacks theme, we're looking at making use of the abundant farm produce in our region and the rest of the Philippines to create fun and healthy snacks.

Raymund is determined to transform the business into a reliable food company by creating an entire line of banana products and drawing in loyal customers at home and abroad.

The ARISE Plus Philippines project is enabling Philippine exporters to take advantage of European Union (EU) market access and the trade privileges granted under the Generalized System of Preference (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 (ITC) as the technical agency for the project. 

Panasonic Opens the Doors to its First Showroom for System Solutions Products

Taytay Rizal, Philippines - Panasonic Manufacturing Philippines Corp. proudly announces the successful launch of its Panasonic Systems Solutions Group Showroom, titled "Glimpse into the Future." The highly anticipated event took place on June 30, 2023, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the second floor of the Panasonic HDC Building, located within the Panasonic Compound in Taytay Rizal, Philippines.

The event was attended by prominent industry professionals, valued partners, and media representatives. Also, this event served as a platform to showcase the diverse range of cutting-edge products designed specifically for the thriving business-to-business (B2B) markets in the digitalized era. 

The event featured an array of groundbreaking products and solutions, providing attendees with a firsthand experience of Panasonic's extensive capabilities. The showroom presented an immersive journey into the future of business technologies. Surveillance and Analytics Solutions Security using Video Intercom System

Panasonic's commitment to delivering exceptional solutions is not limited to home appliances alone. With the Showroom Launch, Panasonic demonstrated its unwavering dedication to revolutionizing the business industry. With the impressive display of advanced solutions, the audience was captivated as it meets the evolving needs of the businesses. From intelligent automation systems to smart surveillance technologies, Panasonic exhibited its expertise in leveraging innovation to enhance productivity, efficiency, and overall performance across industries.

Visual Solutions (High power projectors, broadcast camera and interactive display)

This milestone event reaffirms Panasonic's position as a pioneering force in the business solutions market. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies and industry expertise, Panasonic continues to provide forward-thinking organizations with the tools they need to thrive in globalization. Restaurant Solutions

For More information about Panasonic System Solutions Group Products contact us with the information below

Heherson B. Bala

Marketing Manager

System Solutions Group

0917 549-3602 / (02) 8635-2260 loc. 6230 heherson.bala@ph.panasonic.com

OGAWA Elevates Wellness and Home Aesthetics in Perfect Harmony

Innovative items that skillfully combine usefulness and style have gained prominence in the modern world, where the quest of wellbeing and the need for a harmonious living environment have taken center stage. OGAWA is a remarkable design that transcends its functional use and emerges as a symbol of elevated life and artistic sophistication. It has been drawing considerable attention. OGAWA has evolved from its modest beginnings as a wellness aid to become a product that not only rejuvenates the body but also raises the soul of your house. In this feature story, we explore deeply into the alluring world of OGAWA, investigating how it transformed from a wellness tool to a style statement and how it skillfully integrates both aesthetics and well-being into the very fabric of life.

Wellness Redefined
OGAWA's transformation from a basic wellness tool to a symbol of substance and flair begins with its primary goal: holistic well-being. OGAWA offers a haven of tranquility, a respite from the commotion, and an opportunity to renew both body and mind in a fast-paced world that continually asks more of us. A sensory experience that goes beyond simple relaxation is delivered by its cutting-edge features, such as its intelligent massage modes, zero-gravity positioning, and soothing heat therapy.

Imagine coming home after a long day's work, feeling the weight of the world slowly melt away as OGAWA's expertly designed rollers glide along your body, easing tension and promoting blood circulation. The gentle hum of the machine, coupled with the warmth of the heat therapy, creates a cocoon of comfort that envelops you, inviting you to leave behind the worries of the day and immerse yourself in the present moment. This experience alone is enough to place OGAWA firmly in the realm of wellness, but its journey is just beginning.

Aesthetic Harmony
Our ideas of what makes an ideal living environment change as the idea of wellness does. We now understand the intrinsic relationship between our physical environment and our mental state as a result of the shift toward holistic well-being. This insight has sparked a new philosophy of home design where form and function coexist together. Enter OGAWA, a stunning work of art that turns your home into a luxurious haven in addition to serving as a healing tool.

Picture a minimalist living room adorned with clean lines and a neutral color palette. The centerpiece, a meticulously crafted OGAWA massage chair, seamlessly integrates with the room's aesthetic. Its sleek, modern design exudes sophistication, while its supple leather upholstery invites tactile exploration. This is no longer a mere piece of furniture; it's a conversation starter, a testament to your discerning taste, and a beacon of refined living. The marriage of form and function is complete, and OGAWA's ability to elevate your home's style is undeniable.

Craftsmanship Unveiled
To truly appreciate OGAWA's transformation into a style statement, one must delve into the intricate craftsmanship that goes into its creation. Every curve, every stitch, and every mechanism is meticulously designed to not only optimize its wellness features but also to blend seamlessly with diverse interior aesthetics.

The process of crafting an OGAWA massage chair is a symphony of engineering and artistry. Expert designers collaborate to ensure that every detail aligns with the brand's commitment to both wellness and elegance. From selecting premium materials that exude luxury to fine-tuning the mechanics that deliver precise massages, OGAWA's creation is a testament to human ingenuity and dedication.

Personal Expression through Wellness
In the era of self-expression, OGAWA offers a unique canvas for personal storytelling. The brand's commitment to customization allows you to choose from an array of styles, colors, and finishes, ensuring that your OGAWA massage chair is a reflection of your individuality. Whether you opt for a bold statement piece that adds a pop of color to your living room or a subtle, understated design that seamlessly integrates with your existing decor, OGAWA empowers you to infuse your space with your personal aesthetic.

Imagine a chic, urban apartment where the OGAWA massage chair takes center stage, its sleek black leather and chrome accents contrasting beautifully against the backdrop of exposed brick walls and industrial-inspired furnishings. This deliberate juxtaposition of elements showcases the chair not only as a wellness companion but also as a work of art that amplifies the ambiance of the room.

The OGAWA treat to satisfaction
The true master of your satisfaction is bringing more to the table by giving out FREE OGAWA #MySofaLuxe for every purchase of OGAWA #NEORev in-store.

From ₱399,000 SRP to a whopping slash of ₱300,000, customers can enjoy up to 36 months of installment payment terms with our credit card partners like HSBC, PNB, Citibank, Union Bank, Bank of Commerce, BPI, and RCBC.

The OGAWA Renaissance
In a world where the boundaries between wellness and aesthetics continue to blur, OGAWA emerges as a trailblazer that effortlessly bridges the gap. From its origins as a tool for rejuvenation, it has evolved into a masterpiece that elevates your home's style, transforming it into a sanctuary of well-being and refined living. The OGAWA massage chair stands as a testament to the harmonious fusion of wellness and design, reminding us that the pursuit of a balanced, beautiful life begins right at home.

In a symphony of style and substance, OGAWA takes its rightful place in the spotlight, not just as a tool for wellness, but as a timeless creation that enriches both body and soul, and adds an exquisite touch of elegance to the tapestry of your home. As we celebrate this renaissance of OGAWA, we are reminded that true luxury lies not only in opulence but in the seamless integration of beauty and function.

Operating at full capacity and with over 30 stores nationwide, that include a branch in Shangri-La Plaza, SM Megamall, Greenbelt 1 & 5, Lucky Chinatown Mall, Robinsons Manila, Ayala Malls Vertis North, Eastwood Mall, Glorietta 3, Robinsons Magnolia, SM Fairview, SM North EDSA The Block, TriNoma, UP Town Center, Promenade 3, Alabang Town Center, Evia Lifestyle Center, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, SM BF Paranaque, and Newport Mall. For stores outside Metro Manila, OGAWA is located in SM City Bacoor, Ayala Solenad 3, and SM Sta. Rosa in Laguna, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Lanang Premier in Davao, SM Clark in Pampanga, and SM City Olongapo Central.

Achieve wellness at home with your own personal masseuse, worry-free. For more details, visit OGAWA’s official website and order online or you may also send inquiries to their Facebook page and Instagram page.

International Peace Organization and DepEd SDO Cavite Signs Partnership for Peace Education

ALFONSO, CAVITE – The spirit of bayanihan and community unity takes center stage as the international peace organization Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) joins hands with the Department of Education Schools Division Office of Cavite (SDO Cavite Province) as they sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) during the Brigada Eskwela Division Kick-off on August 12, 2023.

The partnership aims to establish a framework of cooperation between the parties to promote cessation of war and the dissemination of a culture of peace through integrating peace education in the curriculum and conducting various awareness-raising activities in the schools.

HWPL is an international non-governmental organization that holds Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and is associated with the UN Department of Global Communications (DGC). Their dedication to the achievement of global peace and humanitarian efforts has garnered international and local recognition. This includes one of their main initiatives, the integration of peace education from basic to higher education which is being carried out through partnership with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Department of Education (DepEd).

The DepEd SDO Cavite Province stands as one of the largest divisions in Region IV-A CALABARZON, overseeing 39 senior high schools, 63 junior high schools, and 262 elementary schools with over 163,020 students. Through the signed partnership, their teachers will be capacitated to integrate HWPL’s 12 Peace Education Lessons into the curriculum.

Dr. Rosemarie D. Torres, Schools Division Superintendent of DepEd SDO Cavite Province, said in an interview, “I'm very much grateful to your organization… for your mission, for your dedication and commitment to bring out peace and to orient and capacitate our school children and even our teachers to have that peace and to integrate in all subject areas. I promise that we will endorse and support your projects because we knew that what you are definitely thinking is the welfare and, of course, the success of our school children in all aspects.”

Dr. Diana P. Topacio, School Governance and Operations Division Chief of DepEd SDO Cavite Province, expressed her support, “Umasa kayo na ang aming pakikiisa at suporta sa layunin na maipalaganap ang peace education ay maibigay namin para sa pagkakaroon ng kapayapaan hindi lamang sa loob ng aming mga paaralan kundi maipalaganap pa namin ang kapayapaan sa mga komunidad at sa buong mundo (You can expect that we will give our solidarity and support for the cause of spreading peace education for the achievement of peace not only within our schools but to also spread peace in the communities and around the world).

HWPL, represented by its Chief Branch Manager in the Philippines, John Rommel Garces, received recognition during the Awarding Ceremony together with other official stakeholders.

The teachers and officials also signed to support the legalization of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW), a document that HWPL is submitting to the United Nations to be implemented as international law. These elements are intended to engage the community in actively participating in the journey towards a more peaceful world.

The collaboration between the DepEd SDO Cavite Province and HWPL represents a significant step towards cultivating a culture of peace and unity. Through the combined efforts of these dedicated partners, a brighter future is envisioned for the children of today and the generations to come.

VALENZUELA TO REGULATE UNHEALTHY FOOD MARKETING TO CHILDREN

The City Government of Valenzuela announced yesterday that it is taking steps to regulate unhealthy food marketing and advertising that target children. 

“Today, we are building Valenzuela City as a healthy city for children,” declared Mayor Wes Gatchalian during a children’s activity on nutrition hosted by the city on Tuesday. Proposed Ordinance No. 2023-101 has been filed to prohibit the marketing of processed food items high in sugar, salt, and fat, alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, and soda, among others, to children in the city, Gatchalian reported to the media. “This ordinance is an essential step in building healthy eating habits among Valenzuelanos and starting these habits young,” he said. 

Nationwide, 1 in every 7 Filipino school children (ages 5-19 years old) is obese or overweight, according to the 2021 data of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI). The United Nations Children’s Fund in the Philippines (UNICEF Philippines) also links the promotion, sale, and consumption of unhealthy food and beverages to increasing obesity rates among Filipinos. Overweight and obese individuals are more at risk of developing non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. 

The proposed measure,  once approved by the city council, will ban ‘child-directed marketing’ or any form of marketing that uses images, sounds, and characters or celebrities that appeal to children or promotional giveaways that include toys, books, or games and activities that are popular with children.

Sponsorships of the food and beverage industry in activities and settings that involve children such as schools, parks, playgrounds, and service centers frequented by families will also be banned. Once enacted, food establishments and manufacturers that violate provisions of the ordinance will face fines, and in severe cases, cancellation of applicable licenses.

Public interest law group ImagineLaw welcomed Valenzuela City’s initiative. “The commitment to improve children’s health and well-being starts with a healthy local food environment,” said Atty. Sophia San Luis, executive director of ImagineLaw. “We laud Valenzuela City’s political will in protecting children from the harms of unhealthy food marketing,” she added. # 

Link to children’s 2020

Link to the Valenzuela City proposed ordinance. 

PhilSA Opens Space Week with Landmark Agreements Promoting Value Creation Through Space

08 August 2023, Quezon City- The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) opens the Philippine Space Week celebrations with the signing of five (5) landmark agreements envisioned to deepen space data acquisition and the use of space science and technology applications for value creation. This vision is in line with PhilSA’s fourth year anniversary theme, Yamang Kalawakan tungo sa Maunlad na Kinabukasan

PhilSA inked formal agreements with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), the Department of Science and Technology-Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI), Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

Monitoring government-funded projects from space DBM Undersecretary Maria Francesca del Rosario and PhilSA Director General Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano, Jr. lead the agreement signing on the DIME project  PhilSA and DBM signed a Memorandum of Understanding to implement the “Digital Information for Monitoring and Evaluation,” or DIME project. This initiative is expected to improve the monitoring of government property and government-funded infrastructure projects with the use of data and images from satellites processed and made available by PhilSA. This would reduce costly on-ground efforts such as field-based validation activities and would ensure the proper use and expenditure of public funds. “We wanted to highlight the importance of what PhilSA can offer to the country and to good governance. What we wanted to fulfill in this project is for the public to use space science and technology for them to know whether the government projects and programs are properly implemented in the areas where they are supposed to be implemented. For example, farm-to-market roads, school buildings, and so on. We can leverage on space science and technology and provide good governance for the public to have this sense of comfort that public funds are being used properly,” Budget Undersecretary Ma. Francesca del Rosario explained.

Space R&D for financial applications

Engr. Alvin Retamar of the Department of Science and Technology-Advanced Science Institute, Senior Vice President Elcid Pangilinan of Land Bank of the Philippines, and Director General Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano, Jr. of the Philippine Space Agency sign the tripartite memorandum of understanding for scientific and technological research collaboration on the use of space data and analytics for financial applications

PhilSA, LBP, and DOST-ASTI signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate in scientific and technological research on the use of space data and analytics for financial applications.  Areas of cooperation among the three agencies include: the development and utilization of space-related technologies for financial applications; the conduct of joint research and exchange of information necessary for the research undertaking; organization of training symposia or similar activities; sharing of technological resources, and; other areas that may be mutually identified and agreed upon by the parties.

“I am inspired by the boundless potential that lies ahead of our partnerships. These collaborations not only enhance our individual capabilities but also amplify our collective impact in the society and the communities that we serve. DOST-ASTI commits to supporting this undertaking within the bounds of our mandate, that is, the science and technology infrastructure that we run, which exists to support national initiatives that drive groundbreaking discoveries and further revolutionize the landscape of space science and technology in the Philippines,” DOST-ASTI Chief Science Research Specialist Engr. Alvin Retamar said.

“Through this partnership, we look into enhancing our capabilities to roll out more effective lending strategies for the agriculture sector by leveraging on the latest advancements in geospatial technologies and data analytics tools. This is very much aligned with LandBank’s efforts to intensify our support to the sector by streamlining our processes and providing improved services through innovations,” LandBank Senior Vice President Elcid Pangilinan said.

Space data utilization for Mindanao socio-economic development

MinDA Secretary Belen Acosta and PhilSA Director General Joel Joseph S. Marciano, Jr. sign a collaboration agreement on the use of space assets to promote socio-economic development in Mindanao.

PhilSA formed a partnership with MinDA through a Memorandum of Understanding to work together on research and development projects to accelerate socio-economic development in Mindanao through the use of space data. This collaboration, called PhilSA Integrated Network for Space-enabled Actions towards Sustainability or PINAS Mindanao, aims to highlight the increasing relevance of geospatial data in local government policy-making, planning, and monitoring. PINAS Mindanao seeks to develop projects in different local government units in Mindanao to advance peace and development imperatives, promote best practices in governance, and empower communities towards socio-economic inclusion.

“The Memorandum of Understanding on Sustaining the Development Imperatives of Mindanao through Project Planning and Development Research using Space Data and Information is a product of our commitment to work together in achieving the development goals of the island region […] This mechanism will provide a sustainable means of building expertise and sharing up-to-date space-based information about the country, which is essential for development planning. Such an undertaking can be further strengthened through data and knowledge co-creation with relevant stakeholders. Acquiring and processing space-based information, like satellite image maps, costs money, so it is essential that these assets are maximized and effectively utilized, particularly in Mindanao.

“And now, I am confident that through this cooperation with PhilSA, we will be able to provide even better science-based data as an important resource for our development agenda. More importantly, our Mindanao LGUs are poised to reap the benefits of this upcoming project, and we are looking forward to more of Mindanao’s inclusion in various space-based information and project development initiatives through this MOU,” MinDA Secretary Belen Acosta emphasized.  

Use of space science and technology for the fisheries sector

DOST-ASTI Chief Science Research Specialist Engr. Alvin Retamar, PhilSA Director General Joel Joseph Marciano, Jr., and DA-BFAR Assistant Director Isidro Velayo, Jr. lead the agreement signing on the use of space science and technology, remote sensing, and data science applications in support of sustainable fisheries and marine biodiversity conservation.

PhilSA has also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with DA-BFAR and DOST-ASTI, signifying a collaboration on space science and technology, remote sensing, and data science applications for enhancement of fisheries management and application.

Working all together to optimize SSTA, all parties are set to cooperate on the development, application, and use of nighttime satellite images in support of sustainable and resilient fisheries conservation, as well as the protection and management of marine biodiversity.

“The use of cutting-edge technology in advancing the Philippine fisheries sector has always been at the forefront of our priorities. We believe that through responsible and conscientious use of technology, we will be able to achieve greater heights in fisheries management and conservation, DA-BFAR Assistant Director Isidro Velayo, Jr. said.

Tackling air pollution from space

The Record of Discussion between PhilSA and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) was signed on 02 August 2023. (L-R: PhilSA Deputy Director General Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez, PhilSA Director General Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano, Jr., KOICA Country Director Mr. Kim Eunsub, KOICA Deputy Country Director Ms. Yoo Jiyoung).

Earlier this month, PhilSA and KOICA signed an agreement to strengthen the Philippines’ capacity to monitor air quality and work on developing plans and policies to address air pollution. The Record of Discussions signed between Philippines and Korea on 02 August, seeks to build the Pan-Asia Partnership for Geospatial Air Pollution Information Project and the Pandora Asia Network (PAPGAPI-PAN) in the country. PAPGAPI-PAN is a technology transfer, data-sharing, capacity-building, and international cooperation initiative on air pollution.

The partnership aims to monitor the condition of air quality in the Philippines using data from the Geostationary Environment Monitoring Spectrometer (GEMS) aboard Korea’s GEO-KOMPSAT-2B Satellite complemented by ground-based remote sensing instruments called Pandora. The

agreement allows the Philippines to receive Pandora instruments funded by KOICA, which then grants PhilSA the capability to combine satellite and ground measurements for a comprehensive overview of air quality in the Philippines. The Pandora instruments deployed in the country will be part of the Pandonia Global Network (PGN), which collects Pandora data around the world and provides real-time standardized, calibrated, and verified air quality data.  

And the celebration continues...

PhilSA has continued to expand the local space ecosystem with its evolving programs, projects, and capacity-building initiatives. The sharing of resources and exchange of know-how and best practices with its partners proves to be crucial in building and reinforcing the local space community as a diverse, responsive, and participative network that will ensure sustained knowledge and innovation in the Philippine space sector. One way to continuously nurture and grow the local space ecosystem is through meaningful partnerships.  

As to capabilities, resources, and infrastructure that the country can leverage in the outer space environment to benefit Philippine society, PhilSA Director General Marciano explained that the theme Yamang Kalawakan tungo sa Maunlad na Kinabukasan underscores the significance of opportunities in the global space economy that the Philippines can take advantage of for progress and prosperity now and into the future.

“The celebration of Philippine Space Week aligns with and supports the Philippine Space Agency vision—that of a nation bridged, uplifted, and empowered through the peaceful uses of outer space. As we celebrate the Philippine Space Week, the very first one, starting today, as is customary, we endow it with a theme: “Yamang Kalawakan tungo sa Maunlad na Kinabukasan.

“We propose Yamang Kalawakan, which literally means “space resources” or “space wealth”, to take on a larger, bigger, more figurative, and more encompassing meaning. We use Yamang Kalawakan to refer to the resources, capabilities, infrastructure, products, services, and outer space as a precious environment, that benefit society. Moreover, this theme also stresses the significance of opportunities in the global space economy that the country can seize for progress and prosperity now and well into the future. “It reflects the PhilSA mission of value creation–that is, that we will build and sustain a robust space ecosystem that adds and creates value in space for and from Filipinos, and for the world. To guide us and to frame this mission of creating value, we look at value chains for strategy guidance. A crucial part of this chain are the end users. That is, those to whom we push, or, more importantly those who pull on, the space-based capabilities that we strive to build. In sum, without the end users, without the utilization, the socio-economic benefit from space science technology and applications cannot possibly be had,” PhilSA Director General Marciano explained.

Dr. Marciano adds: “The pandemic raged and presented challenges and difficulties, but this did not deter the interim PhilSA team from pursuing the opportunities to build the domestic space ecosystem that will contribute to nation-building. We tried to seize opportunities to highlight the role of space science and technology applications and to bring satellites and space capabilities to bear on national recovery efforts–anticipating how the country and the world will eventually rebound and rise from the downturn, and with space data and high value space industrial capabilities prospectively contributing to robust growth.”

Through Proclamation No. 302, s. 2023, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. declared the annual celebration of the Philippine Space Week from 08 to 14 August of every year. This celebration coincides with the enactment of the Philippine Space Act on 08 August 2019.

“The declaration recognizes the vital role that space science, technology, and its applications play in the lives of Filipinos—from satellites and their by-products and services that we have come to expect and rely on, to advancing humankind's collective scientific knowledge and understanding.  

The annual celebration to be led by PhilSA will give importance to the space capabilities and the know-how we strive to build and strengthen in the country, and to the contributions of Filipinos everywhere in space science, technology, innovation, policy and cooperation,” PhilSA Director General Marciano highlighted.

More about PhilSA

Envisioning a Filipino nation bridged, uplifted, and empowered through the peaceful uses of outer space—PhilSA, created under Republic Act No. 11363 or the Philippine Space Act, is the central government agency responsible for addressing all national issues and activities related to outer space. Signed on 08 August 2019, this Act mandates PhilSA to be the primary policy, planning, coordinating, implementing, and administrative entity of the Executive Branch of the government that will plan, develop, and promote the national space program in line with the Philippine Space Policy.

Directly attached to the Office of the President, PhilSA’s function among many others, as the national space agency, includes ensuring space policy and program coordination as well as national policies and priorities alignment. Guided by its six (6) key development areas (National Security & Development, Hazard Management & Climate Studies, Space Research & Development, Space Industry & Capacity Building, Space Education & Awareness, and International Cooperation) for SSTA development, PhilSA, up to this day, moves its mission forward of promoting and sustaining a robust Philippine space ecosystem that adds and creates value in space for and from Filipinos, and for the world.

DOST Reveals International Collaborations on health at the 16th PNHRS Week in Tacloban

Department of Science and Technology Undersecretary for R&D Leah Buendia presented high-impact health-related research and development (R&D) initiatives between the Philippines and selected international countries during the 16th Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week Celebration on 8-11 August 2023, at the Summit Hotel, Tacloban City.

This event is hosted by the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC).  Themed “Sustainable Development: Resilience through Health Research,” the event featured the critical role of health research and innovation in driving sustainable development, particularly in the post-COVID-19 era. 

Five bilateral health-related R&D collaborations were cited by DOST Undersecretary for R&D Buendia along with other capacity building programs and other international collaborations. 

Leading the list is the Newton Agham Program - a collaboration between the Philippines and the United Kingdom in science, research and innovation.  This program completed 12 high quality R&D projects in the areas of infectious and lifestyle diseases including the increasing threat of anti-microbial resistance and neglected tropical diseases; diagnostics, e-health systems, and biomedical device development.  

Another high impact international collaboration is the Manila Economic Cultural Office (MECO) and Taipei Economic Cultural Office (TECO) Joint Research Program which serves as an avenue for collaboration between Filipino and Taiwanese scientist and researchers on Virology, Nutritional Genomics, Space Technology and Application for Medicine, Antimicrobial Resistance, among others.

The Philippines also formed a collaborative initiative with the country’s counterpart in India to prioritize virology and applications of artificial intelligence on health.  Since the Philippines is plagued by yearly outbreaks of dengue virus (DENV), the viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes that are also vectors of chikungunya (CHIKV) and Zika viruses (ZIKV) were given focus. With the lack of vaccines and therapeutic drugs against these arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses), Philippine and Indian researchers are working on the development of new molecular entities (NMEs) and small molecule inhibitors targeting host and viral proteins.  This is an essential component in drug discovery to address dengue.

 

DOST Undersecretary for R&D Buendia also cited various scholarship programs which include health as a priority area: 1) DOST Newton PhD Program; 2) Leaders in Innovation Fellowship; 3) PhilFrance-DOST Fellowship; and 4) PHC-SFTP Researchers Mobility Program. 

 

“Through collaboration, we are able to build up local capacities and help our young early career scientists and researchers for the next generation of world class men and women of Philippine S&T, “ said DOST Undersecretary for R&D Buendia.  “Our country will also be recipients of the collective benefits through the sharing of information and best practices with other countries."

WOCEE and WOSAS 2023: Enter a New World of Innovations and Safety

The country’s biggest and most innovative technology and safety expositions are finally back at the SMX Convention Center Manila. Today, the 5th edition of WOCEE and WOSAS officially launched, showcasing more innovations and safety features than ever before. This year’s themes for both events highlight how these events will take you away to a new and never before seen place. WOCEE will take you to a “World of Innovation” and WOSAS will take you to a “World of Safety”.

The opening of WOCEE and WOSAS was graced by DOST- Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) Head Ms. Annabelle V. Briones, Undersecretary Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Ms. Anna May Yu Lamentillo, DILG Assistant Secretary for Public and Safety Mr. Florencio Bernabe, and Chief of Staff- Pasay City Mr. Peter Eric D. Pardo. All of the distinguished guests provided their own keynote speeches to welcome the return of WOCEE and WOSAS.

Both expositions will feature an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and product demonstrations, offering attendees an unforgettable opportunity to engage with industry pioneers, and thought leaders. These events will also showcase the greatest innovations and inventions the Philippines has to offer. These range from security lock systems, durable apparel, advanced security cameras, robots, and even smart AI tools. You can also visit the different and informative seminars from the Tech Talk and SECUCON seminars. These seminars will feature different topics to get you the jumpstart you need in getting on the right track to living in the future. Lastly, come and see the different product demos from the exhibitors who are eager to show off their latest products and see how these inventions can help enhance a person’s lifestyle. You can even try out these products when you come to these exhibits.

This year’s WOCEE and WOSAS is shaping to be the prime event for innovations to shine. Enter a brand new world of innovation and safety at the SMX Convention Center Manila starting today until August 12, 2023!