𝐇á𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐚𝐲é 𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐭á, 𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐤 𝐬𝐚 𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐤𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐚 𝐦𝐠𝐚 𝐍𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐛 𝐧𝐚 𝐖𝐢𝐤𝐚

Binuksan noong 29 Abril 2024, ang ikalawang Eksibit sa mga Nanganganib na Wika sa Senado ng Pilipinas. Tampok sa Eksibit na ito ang buháy na dúnong at materyal na kultura ng mga Remontádo at Atá.  Pinangunahan nina Sen. Loren Legarda at Arthur P. Casanova, Tagapangulo ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) ang pagbubukas ng Eksibit.  Dinaluhan din ito ng mga miyembro ng komunidad ng Remontádo na sina Melinda Sta. Ana (Elder, Sityo Nayon, Tanay, Rizal), Violeta Vertudez (Chieftain, Sityo Nayon, Tanay, Rizal), Herminio R. Mendoza (IPMR/Datu, Brgy. Lumutan, Gen. Nakar, Quezon), at Nicanor V. Dela Cruz; at ng mga Atá na sina Reneboy B. Francisco (IPMR, Brgy. Celestino Villacin, Cadiz, Negros Occidental), Garry D. Consing (Chieftain, Sityo Manara, Brgy. Celestino Villacin ,Cadiz, Negros Occidental), Madelyn M. Bodoso (kauna-unahang Ata na nakapagtapos ng kolehiyo, kasalukuyang guro sa elementarya).  

Hátang Kayé ang wikang sinasalita ng mga Remontádo na matatagpuan sa bayan ng Montalban, Lungsod Antipolo, at Tanay sa Rizal, at sa General Nakar, Quezon. Nanganganib nang maglaho ang Hátang Kayé dahil mga nakatatandang Remontádo na lámang ang gumagamit nito, at hindi na ito naipapása sa nakababatang henerasyon. Gayunman, nagsisikap ang pamayanan na maitampok at patuloy na ipakilala sa kabataan ang kanilang wika at kultura sa pamamagitan ng mga programang pampaaralan at pangkatutubo. Inaasahan ding malubhang maaapektuhan ang mga Remontádo sa pagbubukas ng Kaliwa Dam sa loob ng kanilang Lupaing Ninuno.

Inatá ang katutubong wika ng mga Atá na matatagpuan sa Cadiz, Sagay, Calatrava, at Don Salvador Benedicto sa Negros Occidental. Nanganganib na ring maglaho ang Inatá, sa isinagawang language profiling ng KWF noong 2022 sa Sityo Manara, Brgy, Celestino Villacin, Cadiz, 30 katutubong Ata na lamang ang nagsabing natutuhan pa nila ang Atá bilang unang wika.  Sa kasalukuyan, 18 Ata na lamang ang balanced bilingual o marunong ng ibang wika at marunong din ng Inata.  Para muling mapasigla ang wikang Inatá, nakikipagtulungan ang mga Atá sa KWF, sa Pamahalaang Lalawigan ng Negros Occidental, Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Cadiz, at DepEd Cadiz para masimulan ang programang Bahay-Wika at Master-Apprentice Language Learning.  

Búkas ang Eksibit mula sa 29 Abril 2024 hanggang sa 10 Mayo 2024 sa ikalawang palapag ng gusali ng Senado ng Pilipinas, Lungsod Pasay.

LCF launches technology-focused CSR Conference and Expo 2024

In the face of rapid technological advancements and innovations including Artificial Intelligence (AI), the League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) has embarked on a mission to help corporates harness the vast potential of technology, using Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting, for the benefit of society.

LCF is gearing up for the 2024 CSR Conference and Expo—the highly anticipated annual event—which will take place on July 3 to 4 at Dusit Thani Manila, Makati City. A Press Launch was held on April 25, 2024 at the SGV Hall, ACCEED, Asian Institute of Management in Makati City.

Reimagining technology and its impact

Aptly themed “Reimagining a New and Inclusive Future”, this year’s CSR Expo will delve into technology, AI and digitalization and will explore how the principles of CSR and ESG can be utilized by corporates to make these technologies truly inclusive. This event aims to help corporates work to ensure that the positive impacts of technology outweigh the negative, in order to benefit the 51% of Filipinos living in poverty.

The LCF CSR Expo will also provide corporates the opportunity to understand and discuss how AI and other revolutionary technologies can contribute to societal and national development, particularly in advancing health services, resilience, livelihood, education, and financial and cultural diversity and inclusivity.

“The 2024 Conference will imagine a future where people and communities can harness the power of technology, AI, and the digital space, including the careful implementation of AI and other new technologies to form a truly new and inclusive future if aligned with CSR and ESG principles at the outset,” said Sebastian C. Quiniones, LCF Chair and Executive Director, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc.

The Press Launch featured the participation of PCI Innovations Tech Center, a tech solutions provider that focuses on making technology more inclusive and accessible. Engr. Sergio Ramos III, President, and his team demonstrated their virtual reality (VR) device and software that provides an immersive learning experience.

Outstanding CSR initiatives

LCF is also set to announce the winners of the 2024 Guild Awards on the evening of July 3 at Dusit Thani Manila. The awards program upholds exemplary CSR initiatives undertaken by LCF members.

For the first time, the League will also be awarding the CSR Medal of Recognition to non-members to acknowledge the work and effort they provide in their respective communities. The Medal of Recognition celebrates the interventional activities of non-members, including Chambers of Commerce, Jaycees, Rotary, Kiwanis, and Top 1000 companies, among others. This special award will recognize the efforts of businesses in seven thematic areas: Arts and Culture, Disaster Resilience, Education, Environment, Enterprise Development, Financial Inclusion, and Health.

The 2024 CSR Expo will also have a concurrent exhibit at the Glorietta Activity Center on July 4 to 5, highlighting exemplary CSR initiatives undertaken by LCF members and non-members alike. At least 50 exhibitors are to participate in the exhibit. The Medal of Recognition Awarding Ceremony will also be held at the conclusion of the exhibit.

Established in 1991, LCF is a network of operating and grant-making corporate and family foundations and corporations in the Philippines. The League has continued to be at the forefront of promoting and enhancing CSR practice among its members and the larger business community in the country.

The 2024 CSR Conference and Expo is co-organized with Metro Pacific Investments Foundation, Inc. and Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. It is also brought to you by Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.; Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, Inc.; Manila Water Foundation, Inc.; Metrobank Foundation, Inc.; and Vivant Foundation, Inc.

Visit the 2024 CSR Conference and Expo microsite at bit.ly/2024CSRExpo

Root Crops FIESTA kicks off in Baybay, Leyte

Root Crops FIESTA kicks off in Baybay, Leyte

Ribbon cutting ceremony to open the exhibits during the Root Crops FIESTA. (Image credit: Reinier Josef Abagat, ACD, DOST-PCAARRD)

The Root Crops Farms and Industry Encounters through the Science and Technology Agenda (FIESTA) kicks off today with an opening and ribbon cutting ceremony. 

Held today at Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay Leyte, the FIESTA aims to showcase root crops technology outputs of the Visayas Regional Consortia of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) among technology generators, farmers, investors, and entrepreneurs. 

“We hope that the Root Crops FIESTA will be able to inspire participation from local government units, investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, and other stakeholders,” says DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora in his keynote message delivered by DOST-PCAARRD Applied Communication Division (ACD) Director Marita A. Carlos. He added that through collaboration, we can explore new opportunities, share best practices, and co-create innovative solutions to propel the root crops industry forward.

Dr. Ebora also discussed the aim of DOST-PCAARRD’s Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) for Sweetpotato to increase sweetpotato production, enhance the utilization and promotion of fresh and value-added sweetpotato products, and improve food value chains.

Highlighting the FIESTA are the technology pitching and technology forum that hope to further promote root crops technologies that are ready for commercialization.

Root crop products and technologies are also being showcased through an exhibit. Alongside, activities including Technology to People (T2P) media conference, farm visit, cooking demonstration, and other root crops-themed pocket events are set to engage participants.

The Root Crops FIESTA is led and organized by the Western Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (WESVAARRDEC), Visayas Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Program (ViCARP), and the Central Visayas Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium (CVAARRDEC).

FIESTA is an Intellectual Property Office (IPO)-registered technology promotion and commercialization platform initiated by DOST-PCAARRD. It aims to empower farmers and fisherfolk to improve on their livelihood as well as match technology generators to target adopters. (Gian Carlo D. Camacho, DOST-PCAARRD S&T Media Services)

Hati Health: Bridging Gaps in Women's Healthcare at the Workplace

Hati health platform features on laptop and woman starring at mobile screen

As a value-added resource to modern Philippine Employers, Hati Health announces its Employer Resource Center, which includes reports and insights on how to support women's health at the workplace.

In line with our commitment to empowering women's healthcare in the workplace, Hati Health has launched its Employer Resource Center. Targeted at employers of any size and industry, C-Suite, HR leaders, and other professionals, this Employer Knowledge Center includes comprehensive reports and toolkits for employers on how to best support their teams’ healthcare journey and needs. This new offering is an addition to Hati Health’s innovative products and services, including telehealth, doctor’s consultations, diagnostics, and our very own Hati chatbot for women of all ages.

The Philippines has the highest percentage globally in terms of senior management roles, according to Grant Thornton. A remarkable 43% of senior management roles are held by women. Hati Health recognizes this pivotal role that women play in the workforce and the unique health challenges they face. Hati Health collaborates with employers to foster supportive workplace cultures through inclusivity initiatives, health awareness campaigns, and comprehensive healthcare support for employees, ultimately enhancing productivity and employee retention, by offering accessible, comprehensive, and compassionate healthcare for women. Organizations that provide comprehensive women's health support can attract and retain top talent, foster a diverse and inclusive workforce, and enhance employee well-being and satisfaction. Providing the tools, resources, and access to comprehensive healthcare solutions needed to support the well-being of the female workforce, employers not only demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being but also stand to reap significant benefits in terms of productivity, morale, and retention. In today's dynamic corporate environment, prioritizing employee well-being is not just a matter of social responsibility; it's also a strategic imperative. By offering flexible and tailored health support, and access to information and resources, we can create a supportive environment that empowers female employees to navigate their health journey while thriving professionally! To this end, Hati Health provides accessible, holistic, and continuous care throughout women’s life journey and conditions, from women’s annual screenings, to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Menopause.

As such an innovative benefit for women, Hati Health collaborates with existing Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans, to ensure women of all ages and medical conditions have access to quality healthcare services at affordable rates, prioritizing primary, proactive, and preventative care. Typically, women spend 18% more in out-of-pocket health expenses (excl. maternity), compared to men, which adds to their financial stress and anxiety around their health options and priorities. 

As part of our commitment to advancing the dialogue on women's health and workplace wellness, Hati Health is part of IMPACT '24, an annual project call by Sprout Solutions, the leading HRIS provider in the Philippines. 

Join us as we create more awareness around women’s health, and partner to offer targeted health solutions for a large market segment whose healthcare needs are still largely underserved and unmet. Whether you are an Executive, Business Owner or HR Leader, find out more how we can help your organization by clicking here. Contact us at hello@hati.health 

ABOUT HATI HEALTH

Hati Health offers a seamless and empowering experience for women through targeted health solutions, from seeking expert medical advice connecting with our doctors, diagnostic assessments, personalized and discreet conversations with Hati Bot, and specialized care plans from PCOS, Menopause, Mental Health, and other women’s health challenges. Our platform serves as a one-stop-shop for women's health and wellness needs, currently encompassing the Hati Marketplace connecting users with specialized health professionals; Hati Diagnostics offering specialized diagnostic packages. At its core, it features Hati Bot, an AI wellness assistant providing evidence-based health services and peer-reviewed knowledge through an intuitive chat interface for personalized consultations and symptom checking anytime, anywhere! Women now have unparalleled access to essential healthcare resources conveniently from their fingertips. For more information about Hati Health and its transformative women's health platform, please visit www.hati.health.

GREATWORK PLANS TO EXPAND TO VISMIN

The fourth GREATWORK FLEXIBLE WORKSPACES Company was officially opened on Wednesday (March 6) with a grand opening, office blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremonies at the 32nd Floor of Mega Tower in EDSA, Ortigas Center in Mandaluyong City.

In his keynote speech, Mandaluyong City Mayor Benjamin Abalos, Sr. said that he wanted to see all the innovations in the 6,000 square meters of office spaces at Mega Tower.

Abalos noted that the total land area of Mandaluyong City is 1,124 hectares, out of which, 120 hectares were deducted for the Correctional Institute for Women (CIW), and the ADB (Asian Development Bank), from which, no income is derived by Mandaluyong City.

Mandaluyong City is also hosting the ADB with another 120 hectares. And yet, Abalos said, Mandaluyong has become at par with the rest of Metro Manila.

The City Chief Executive stressed that before the Covid-19 pandemic, Mandaluyong City had a Php4-billion income and after the pandemic it now has an Php 8.3-billion income.

In her speech, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Undersecretary Ma. Monica P. Pagunsan said that if the Secretary (Arsenio Balisacan) would not want to come he would just say regrets.

However, Pagunsan said, the Secretary was looking for an office space to welcome foreign investors. "We are optimistic about the innovations here such that our employees are now housed in Mega Tower," Pagunsan said.

She pointer out that the NEDA makes policy recommendations to the President of the Philippines in so far as socio-economic planning and economic development is concerned.

AJ Rocero said that" Great Work is a community, a space where you can have fun." "Flag center of Great Work and a lot more to come. A community area where there is business going," Rocero added.

Great Work has available office spaces at the 24th and 32nd floors of Mega Tower. Guided tour of facilities and networking session were also conducted during the event.

GREATWORK Vice President, and Managing Director Chief Operating Officer NIKITA DEE YU said that" not many of you know that already one million businesses have been put up with a common-minded community."

"We have become preferred by international companies. Great Work is a proud partner of Mayor Abalos with 6,000 square meters of office space already. We are able to do these in five years of operation. We used best practices global top notch services," Yu said.

"In every business, there are ups and downs. Don't quick. Just do it the best you can," Yu added.

Yu expounded that during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic they did not shut down any of their office branch. 

"We also offer a one-month office rental for those who need it," Yu said.

Since Great Work started their operation in 2018 in their first branch office in Quezon City in a 500-square-meter space and a second branch office in 2019 in Quezon City also, they now have their fourth branch office in a 6,000-square-meter space in Mega Tower and they are planning to extend their branches in Visayas and Mindanao, specifically in Cebu City and Davao City, respectively.

Reference:

Philippine Investigative Media Alliance Inc

The AmCham Security Summit

In the dynamic landscape of security and risk management, characterized by evolving threats and the integration of cutting-edge technologies, the importance of strategic security measures cannot be overstated.

The "AmCham 2024 Security Summit: Future Ready", hosted by AmCham Philippines and OSAC Manila will center around the theme "Ensuring Robust Security Strategies for a Changing Landscape." This event will delve into key issues shaping the security domain, with four sessions revolving around the topics of National Security, Cybersecurity, International Organized Crimes and a culminating discussion on a 3-4 Year Security Forecast as the final session.

Expert presentations and panel discussions will shed light on effective strategies and best practices to assist organizations in adapting to emerging threats, embracing innovative security methods, and leveraging technology to fortify defenses. Summit participants will gain valuable insights on cultivating a secure, resilient, and adaptive organizational environment, fostering long-term security viability. The summit will spotlight impactful government programs focused on enhancing the security environment, promoting innovation, and maintaining a balanced security ecosystem.

An Indian trade mission visits Philippines seeking opportunities of collaboration in the Chemical sector

The delegation is made up of more than 20 companies engaged in 

manufacturing and trading of Dyes, Dye intermediates, Organic & Inorganic 

chemicals including Agro chemicals, Speciality chemicals and Cosmetic 

sector for multiple applications in the textile, pharmaceutical, agriculture,

water treatment, plastic, toy, cosmetic and beauty industries, among others.

Trade relations between the nations have grown gradually over the years, 

with the impact of the India-ASEAN FTA in Goods and yet the existing

relationship is tuned to maximize its potential as both economies are 

growing and are complementary to each other. Indian investment in 

Philippines over the years has been mainly in the areas of yarn and textiles, 

IT&ITes, infrastructure, chemicals, automobiles, pharmaceuticals and 

agriculture processing (coconut).

Indian chemical exports to Philippines amounted to USD 75.94 MN & 114.09

MN reporting a growth of 35% during FY 2021-22 followed by 11.82% in FY 

2022-23 respectively. The major sectors witnessing growth included Dyes,

Inorganic , Organic and Agro Chemical sector.

The delegation of 18 Indian companies is scheduled to visit Manila, 

Philippines aiming to explore areas of collaborations and mutual 

cooperation within the framework of a trade mission organized by the Basic 

Chemicals, Cosmetics and Dyes Exports Promotion Council (CHEMEXCIL)

and the support of the Indian Embassy in Manila, Philippines.

INDIA – PHILIPPINES CHEMICAL BUSINESS MEET is scheduled to take 

place at HOLIDAY INN AND SUITES, MAKATI on 11th March, 2024. Some 

companies in the delegation are already supplying to the Philippine market, 

while others will be showcasing their expertise for the first time.

Mr. Raghuveer Kini – Director General, Chemexcil will be leading the 

Indian delegation aiming towards enhancement of trade relations between 

the nations in the Chemicals and Cosmetic sector.

He mentions that “The sector hold immense potential of generating 

significant business between India and Philippines and thus, deepening 

the bilateral trade linkages between the nations. I hereby invite the

Philippine companies to take advantage of this visit during INDIA –

PHILIPPINES CHEMICAL BUSINESS MEET on 11th March, 2024.”

DOST, Italian Liver Foundation, and UPM Strengthen Collaboration for Advancing Liver Research

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Fondazione Italiana Fegato (FIF) and the University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila) are set to explore more collaborative opportunities in liver research.   

Building on the partnership between the DOST- Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) and the FIF, a tripartite agreement with UP Manila was signed in 2021 to facilitate research collaborations that will support the establishment of the Philippine Liver Network. This was initiated to address the lack of evidence and research on liver diseases, despite its significant burdens among Filipinos. According to 2020 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, 27.3 in every 1000 deaths are caused by liver disease. 

"The establishment of a strategic research program is an important foundation in realizing the Philippine Liver Network,” said DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. "It will ensure that our efforts are guided by evidence, and in turn, will address the pressing gaps in liver research and prevention, treatment, and care for liver diseases," he added. 

Through its existing agreement, the parties cooperated in enabling research on the applications of OMIC technologies and artificial intelligence for liver research, as well as animal and non-animal models for liver diseases.  

To date, the Council has supported four completed projects that tackle liver cancer diagnosis, hepatitis stigma, hyperbilirubinemia screening, and the development of the Philippine Liver Research Program. Currently implemented are three ongoing projects exploring AI-driven liver cancer diagnosis, liquid biopsy for liver cancer, and the development of a data registry for liver  This year, a newly-approved program entitled, PHIL LIVER or Promoting Healthy Filipino Liver through Interdisciplinary Innovative Research Program composed of four component projects is set to commence implementation with funding from the DOST Grants-In-Aid Program. Under the PHIL LIVER Program, UP Manila will develop the PHIL LIVER biobank which will be used for the study of liver diseases, identify biomarkers for viral hepatitis, determine metabolic markers for chronic liver disease, and examine the liver condition of people living with HIV (PLWHIV). disease in the country.  

In support of the research efforts led by UP Manila, the pioneering scholars of the DOST-PCHRD PhD in Molecular Biomedicine scholarship program, Dr. Loraine Kay Cabral and Dr. Noel Salvoza, are set to work on the development of the country’s liver research roadmap. The two graduated from the program in September 2023 and are currently working with the Council as S&T Fellows.   

According to Dr. Cabral, the roadmap is important in the achievement of a shared agenda both within and across disciplines of liver research. “This will pave the way for obtaining scientific evidence that is key to creating innovations and formulation of future policies to drive improvements in liver disease prevention, treatment, and care,” she said.  

Dr. Salvoza stressed the role of partnerships in advancing Philippine liver research. "As both a medical doctor and now, a trained scientist, I recognize the vital contribution that our 

research partners bring to this collaboration. Their expertise and dedication are crucial in advancing our understanding of liver health and bridging existing gaps in research." he said. “We are able to make such significant progress in liver research thanks to our partners from Italy and UP Manila, and support from the DOST,” said DOST-PCHRD Executive Director Montoya. “I look forward to more future collaborations that will address the burdens of liver disease among Filipinos,” he added.   

The Philippine Liver Network is envisioned to become a collaborative research hub exploring the application of various fields of research in the context of liver disease. The DOST-PCHRD and FIF are aligned in their shared aspiration to renew their partnership and continue the cooperation for mutual advantages in promoting and pursuing scientific and technological collaboration. With this renewal, both entities aim to sustain the collaboration to support the Liver Research Program led by UP Manila which would contribute in the establishment of the Philippine Liver Network.

Ika-236 Kaarawan ni Francisco "Balagtas" Baltazar ipinagdiwang sa Bataan

ORION, Bataan -- Ipinagdiwang ang ika-236 Araw ng Kapanganakan ng Dakilang Makatang si Gat. Francisco "Balagtas" Baltazar ngayong Martes (Abril 2) sa bayang ito sa pangunguna ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF).

Ang pagdiriwang ay hudyat ng pagsisimula ng "Buwan ng Panitikan at Wikang Filipino". 

Ang programa ay itinaguyod ng KWF na may temang: Araw ni Balagtas 2024: "Si Balagtas at ang Kaniyang Pluma sa Kaoayapaan" sa Hardin ni Balagtas, Orion, Bataan na kung saan ang mga nakipagdiwang ay nakasuot Filipiniana.

Dumalo sa pagdiriwang sina Antonio L. Raymundo, Jr., Alkalde ng Orion, mga kinatawan nina Jose Enrique S. Garcia III, Gobernador ng Bataan, at Albert Raymond S. Garcia, Kinatawan ng Ika-2 Distrito ng Bataan, at Arthur P. Casanova, Tagapangulo ng KWF, kasama ang Iba pa. 

Mayroon ding kasabay na pagdiriwang sa Pandacan, Maynila at Balagtas, Bulacan kung saan ipinanganak si Balagtas.

Ang bayan ng Orion ay mas kilala sa pangalang Odiong at ang Balagtas ay dating Bigaa, Bulacan. 

Ang maybahay ni Balagtas at tubong San Vicente, Orion, Bataan. 

Ang mga nasabing opisyal ay nag-alay ng bulaklak at nagtanim ng punongkahoy at halaman sa Hardin ni Balagtas.

Si Balagtas ay "Alagad ng Panitikan" at ang pinakatanyag nyang sinulat ay ang "Florante at Laura".

Sa kanilang mensahe, si Panlalawigang Tagapayo Gaudencio Ferrer na kumatawan kina Gob. Garcia at Kinatawan Garcia, malabis ang kasiyahan ng magkapatid na sa kabila ng init ng araw na 42 degree sentigrado ay nakarating at nakipagdiwang ang mga opisyal.

Natutuwa ang magkapatid na opisyal na kahit na di sila nakarating ay nakikiisa sila sa paggunita ng Araw ni Balagtas.

Ang pluma ay walang bala o nakakasakit, ang importante ginamit ni Francisco o Kiko ang panulat ay ginawa ni Balagtas upang punahin ang kamalian ng pamahalaan.

Ang Florante at Laura ay isinulat ni Balagtas upang ilabas ang kanyang damdamin laban sa kamalian ng pamahalaan. 

Sa kanyang mensahe, sinabi ni Alkalde Antonio Raymundo, Jr. Bawat taon ay itinataas ang pamantayan ng panitikan.

Mahalaga ang bahagi ng panitikan upang hubugin kung paano mag-isip ang katauhan. 

Ang panitikang bayan ay humuhubog sa mapayapang Bagong Pilipinas. 

Sa kanyang mensahe, sinabi ni Dr. Casanova labis labis ang kanyang kagalakan na makapiling ang lahat ng dumalo upang ipagdiwang ang ika-236 taong tingkad nang isilang ang isang sanggol Abril 2, 1788.

Sino ang mag-aakalang isinilang ang isang Dakilang Mskata.

Araw po ito ng husay at galing ni Gat. Francisco Balagtas sa pluma at panitikan.

Patuloy ang pananaliksik sa mga Dakilang Obra ni Balagtas.

Nag-alay ng bulaklak para sa Dakilang Sisne ng Panginay, Balagtas (Bigaa), Bulacan.

Si Francisco Balagtas ang may akda ng Obrang Florante at Laura upang magkaroon ng kapayaaan at katiwasayan noong panahon ng Kastila. 

Ang balangay ng Florante at Laura ay kinapapalooban din kataksilan sa pag-ibig na tinuligsa ni Balagtas. 

Marubdob na pinasalamatan ni Dr. Casanova. si Gaudencio Ferrer na kumatawan sa magkapatid na Gob. Garcia at Kinatawan Garcia, ang National Book Development Board, National Commission on Culture and Arts at Alkalde Antonio Raymundo, Jr. 

JTR Reports 040224 -- MHE

On the Way to a Salu-salo at IFEX 2024!

It’s the time of the year again when the most exciting food finds of the Philippines convene under one roof for IFEX Philippines! Thank you for helping is champion our export quality products.

The Center for International Trade Missions and Expositions (CITEM) has been a primary proponent for the country’s SMEs as major players in the export industry. As the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) lead promotions arm for export, CITEM continues to develop its platform for local food companies to become competitive, stable, and sustainable amid challenges in the global food market.

For its signature program under the FOODPhilippines banner, CITEM will stage IFEX Philippines 2024: It’s a salu-salo! – where one can find the best flavors in this 17th edition of the biggest international trade show for food and ingredients – happening at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City from May 10-12, 2024. This year’s IFEX Philippines expects to bring in a new stream of importers along with its regular community of buyers and visitors from the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East regions.  

CITEM understands the challenges local companies face when it comes to effective promotion to the international F&B market. IFEX Philippines has become a crucial platform for global recognition and networking between local businesses and international buyers, importers, and retailers.

For IFEX Philippines 2024, the country continues its tradition of bringing together the very      best of Philippine gastronomy with its showcase of global food and flavors through a multitude of premium quality food, beverages, ingredients, and services for an exciting salu-salo  like no other. A valuable marketing platform for SMEs, IFEX Philippines also creates a lucrative space for international and local buyers looking to discover new and exciting flavors and food culture from across the country and other Asian ingredients.

Changing the food landscape

Calls for healthier and certifiable options are now top priorities among enterprises across food industries, from sourcing down to the last detail in packaging. These reflect the global consumer demand for more sustainable, functional, culture-driven, and convenient choices. Many of the world’s major importers of goods are located in Europe, where the Philippines, as a member of the World Trade Organization, has benefited in terms of zero tariffs on over 6,000 products via the European Union Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (EU GSP+). Meanwhile, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) stands to become the first free trade agreement of the country with the Middle East, as negotiations with the United Arab Emirates are underway. This move will further enhance the Philippines’ prospects to become a major sourcing hub for Halal-certified products to better cater to the growing Muslim communities in the country and across the region. 

Filling the European basket

In 2022, sales of coconut products contributed to almost half of the total agricultural exports of the country at 43 per cent. Given that the coconut is the biggest food export of the Philippines, the fruit continues to be among the popular Asian food imports in the European market.

The coconut's versatility has spanned an entire category of products that include coconut oil, copra meal, desiccated coconut, coconut water, coco peat, and activated carbon among others. Driven in large part by the global call for more health-oriented and plant-based food offerings, importers continue to embrace the functional benefits of coconut. The lauric acid in the fruit makes it a premium commodity, and comes in next to olive oil, price wise, among the world's vegetable oil productioilippine food exports that cater to the growing demand for healthier and plant-based nutrition include various products of coconut, such as fresh and toasted meat and oil among others. (Photo credit: www.alphafoodie.com)

PH durian reigns supreme

In the first half of 2023 alone, the value of Philippine durian exported to China stood at USD 1.88 million (per the DTI). Keeping the momentum for export trade with leading export partner China and Asia-Pacific neighbors is the ratification by the Senate of the Philippines and subsequent implementation in June of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). This economic integration is seen to increase export-import trade efficiency and further strengthen the overall supply chain in the region.

Durian remains a top export product to China, and continues to grow in popularity due to healing benefits, such as anti-aging and cancer-fighting properties. (Photo credits, l-r: @milosfruitshop and www.cooking-therapy.com)

Stemming from the China visit in January 2023 of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Protocol of the Phytosanitary Requirements for Export of Fresh Durians from the Philippines to China was signed, opening doors to bring fresh durian to the China food market. This bilateral agreement began full implementation last April 2023, with the first shipment of 28,000 kilograms of fresh durian. 

Island flavors to the world 

Participation and attendance to IFEX Philippines 2024 will allow buyers, importers, and other retailers to easily connect with over 500 participating exhibitors and industry insiders with CITEM’s dedicated B2B and digital trade show components, which include incentive programs, talks and seminars, and other related technical engagements. There will be a plethora of food offerings, one that is in tune with the consumer pulse toward more nutrition-rich, natural, culture-based, and convenient offerings and innovative practices. The country expects local exporters to benefit further, given the strong agricultural supply capability for many of today’s top healthy in-demand food and ingredients, namely: banana, cacao, coffee, coconut, mango, pineapple, and tuna. 

The Philippines for years has been fostering a steady growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) engaging in the food export industry. These local businesses have become consistent players in various food segments, thereby strengthening the country’s trade reputation as one of the go-to sourcing destinations for premium quality food and ingredients.

As challenges in the food and beverage (F&B) scene continue to evolve toward more conscionable, healthy, and sustainable products and services, so does the race for more equitable opportunities for food makers, distributors, and consumers. Market indicators aid in building the necessary bilateral trade relations with regional neighbors in congruence with the country’s trade laws and regulations. These export-driven initiatives have been built on a reliable network of industry partners, whose vast resources are instrumental to the success and growth of local exhibitors in the global and local scenes.

CITEM also regularly participates in overseas trade fairs to showcase the latest offerings of Philippine companies engaged in the food industry in various regions, such as Asia Pacific, Americas, Europe, and the Middle East. It recently concluded its Philippine showcase  in Gulfood 2024 in Dubai last February.

The registration for buyers to IFEX Philippines 2024 is ongoing until May 05, 2024. Interested buyers may send queries to: ifexbuyers@citem.com.ph.

Get to know more about participating IFEX Philippines exhibitors and their product lines by visiting www.ifexconnect.com and find stories on the Philippines’ rich food culture and culinary landscape on foodphilippines.com. 

Follow us on our official Facebook (ifexphilippines), Instagram (official_foodph), LinkedIn (IFEX Philippines), and X (@_foodph) accounts for other news and updates.

𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐲𝐮𝐥 𝐬𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐨 𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐨 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐢𝐤𝐚

𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐥a 𝐧𝐚 𝐬𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐞𝐤𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚 𝐚𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐥𝐮𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐝 𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐲𝐮𝐥 𝐬𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐨 𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐨 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐢𝐤𝐚 𝐬𝐚 𝟏𝟕 𝐀𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒, 𝟏–𝟒 𝐧𝐡, 𝐬𝐚 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲.

Handog ito ng Komisyon Ng Wikang Pilipino KWF sa pakikipagtulungan sa PNU, sa mga guro at mag-aaral ng wikang Filipino. May 20 slot lámang at ibibigay ito sa mga mauunang magpapatalâ. 

Link para sa pagpapatalâ: https://forms.gle/z8JGn1cdyAD4TP1t5.

Bridging the Future with MIAS 19th Year!

The Philippines’ premier automotive event is back, even bigger and bolder than ever! The Manila International Auto Show 2024 (MIAS) returns to showcase the best of the automotive industry and its future, elevating the industry to newer heights! For the first time in MIAS history, this event will be held in TWO mega-venues: the World Trade Center Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center Manila!

 

This year’s theme for MIAS 2024 is “Bridging the Future”, a statement that describes MIAS very well as the prime auto show event to showcase the future developments and innovations of the automotive industry and display all of these to the present-day people for them to look forward to. The opening of this event was held on April 4, hosted by avid automotive influencer and TV personality, James Deakin. Guests of honor were present in the opening ceremony, giving their welcome messages. President of the Automobile Association of the Philippines -, Mr. Augustus “Joe” V. Ferreria; First Gentleman of Pasay City and the President of Expedia Management Inc. her better half, Mr. Edgardo Rubiano; Usec Frisco San Juan of MMDA; From the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs ASEC Kristine Joy Diaz-Teston; and Hon. Sec. Jaime Bautista represented by Assistant Secretary Road Transport and Infrastructure ASEC James Melad.

MIAS 2024 is packed with many activities and events that will entertain you. From the latest car reveals, truck displays, Russ Swift’s Stunt Show, the Die-Cast Car Collection, and even the Petron Custom and Classic Car Competition, you’ll find MIAS 2024 to be an unforgettable

experience.

Witness how MIAS 2024 is bridging the future of the automotive industry when you come visit the event, from April 4 to 7, 2024, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center Manila! What are you waiting for? Get your tickets now at https://manilaautoshow.com/

MIAS 2024 is for the benefit of ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. and is organized by Worldbex Services International.