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Sunday, December 17, 2023
Check Shopping tips at World Bazaar Festival
DTI holds pioneering Mindfacturing and Creativity Summit to advance the Philippine Manufacturing Industry
DTI Secretary Fred Pascual Champions PH Creative Industries
MAKATI CITY–On 14 December 2023, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual underscored the significant contribution of the creative industry in propelling the country’s robust economic growth and expansion during the closing ceremony of the 2023 Fiesta Haraya. He underscored that Fiesta Haraya is the very first Philippine Creative Industries Festival showcasing Filipino diversity and artistry.
DTI and Tanauan LGU Relaunch Halal-Ready Slaughterhouse
TANAUAN CITY, BATANGAS—On 13 December 2023, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual represented by DTI Undersecretary Ana Carolina P. Sanchez and Tanauan City Mayor Nelson Collantes officially relaunched a Halal-ready slaughterhouse in Tanauan City, Batangas. Secretary Pascual underscored that this relaunching is part of the DTI’s goal and mandate to develop and promote the Halal industry to position the Philippines as the most Halal-friendly trade and investment hub in the Asia-Pacific region.
ImagineLaw receives second Prince Michael International Road Safety Award for supporting cities to protect children, vulnerable road users
For over 30 years, the Award has been given to groups and individuals with outstanding achievements and innovations that improve road safety around the world. ImagineLaw received its first award three years ago for its work on improving speed limit setting and enforcement in the Philippines.
This year, ImagineLaw received its second PMIRSA in recognition of its advocacy efforts that led to the enactment of comprehensive local road safety policies in the Philippines. With support from the United Nations Children’s Fund, ImagineLaw assisted Angeles City and Valenzuela City in developing and enacting local road safety laws that introduce best practice road safety interventions to be implemented through multi-sectoral coalitions composed of national and local government agencies, civil society, private sector, and the academe.
With the enactment of these policies, efforts are now ongoing to make roads safer for children and other vulnerable road users. The two cities have developed their road safety action plans and conducted road safety assessments around schools to identify engineering and other interventions needed to protect school-going children.
“We are extremely honored to receive this award for the second time. This award is a reminder of the importance of collaboration across all sectors to protect the most vulnerable road users. We hope that in the coming years, more local governments will follow the example of the Cities of Angeles and Valenzuela,” said ImagineLaw’s Executive Director Sophia San Luis.
Thursday, December 7, 2023
Nuclear tech can offer solutions to challenges posed by climate change – Sec. Solidum
“A week ago, we participated in the Conference of Parties (COP) 28 held in Dubai, and the message is clear. Climate change is a problem that we all need to look in to. We will be victims of global warming, so we need to act, and nuclear technology would play crucial roles in addressing our concerns on this,” said Sec. Solidum.
He emphasized how nuclear science and research studies provide solutions as an alternative energy source for power, as well as in developing new breeds of agricultural crops resistant to heat or requiring less water, minimizing the impact on our food supply.
“The protection of the environment will also utilize nuclear technology. Although we believe the Philippines is not a major contributor to greenhouse gases, we should look at these pollutants from a health perspective, not only from the climate perspective because we will be affected by pollution, aside from the increased temperature and changes in rainfall patterns all over the country,” added Sec. Solidum.
Meanwhile, apart from its well-established roles in medicine, agriculture, and industry, the science chief said that the renewed campaign towards the inclusion of nuclear power in the energy mix adds a new dimension to the roles of DOST-PNRI. This includes not only mastering a potentially invaluable power source for economic progress but also ensuring safety, security, and responsible use.
“This is the reason why the country’s science department has its full support for the efforts of the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC), as well as the establishment of a unified independent regulatory body for ionizing radiation sources through the bill for the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act pending in Congress,” said Sec. Solidum.
Gearing up the next generation towards a Nuclear Philippines
The 51st AEW is being celebrated at the DOST-PNRI with institutional partners and guests from December 4-7 at the PNRI grounds in Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City.
With the theme "Gearing up the next generation towards a Nuclear Philippines," this year's celebration becomes even more thrilling with the inaugural Philippine Nuclear Science Olympiad. Open to junior and senior high school students nationwide, the competition offers cash prizes, meals, and certificates to the top five awardees. Additionally, the highest achiever will represent the country in the first-ever International Nuclear Olympiad scheduled for August next year. Notably, this marks the first in-person AEW celebration since the pandemic.
“I also find particularly commendable the AEW’s theme for this year, which is Gearing up the next generation towards a Nuclear Philippines. It is quite timely and consistent with the DOST’s renewed thrust towards reaching out to the youth, inspiring more to take up science-related courses,” said Sec. Solidum
The four-day celebration also features technical sessions where DOST-PNRI researchers and experts share how their various research studies could offer numerous alternative solutions to several pressing concerns in different sectors and communities.
On the other hand, a Gender and Development (GAD) Forum will also be held on December 07, 2023, where there will be an in-depth discussion on how individuals, irrespective of gender, can thrive in this technically demanding field such as nuclear science. The said forum also explores the social dimensions of nuclear S&T, discussing applications, fostering equitable environments, compliance with the Safe Spaces Act, and cultivating positive dynamics in labs and offices.
Of course, one of the main highlights for the participants will be the guided tours and exhibits to all the service facilities at the DOST-PNRI. These include Isotope Techniques, Radioactive, Atomic Structure and Radioactivity, Nuclear Analytic Techniques, Radiation Protection, Radiation Processing and Radiochemistry, Cytogenetics, Microbiology, Food Irradiation, Wound Dressing, Sterile Insect Techniques, and Irradiation Technologies, among others.
“With a still-stigmatized perception of the word 'nuclear,' it is best that we slowly change such notions by educating and fully informing our young generation. In this day and age, when misinformation is easily proliferated by certain individuals who undermine and disregard the impact they can make on our country's future, it is my hope that through AEW, we will be able to shed light on this crucial and social topic of nuclear science and technology,” said DOST-PNRI Director Carlo A. Arcilla.
Messages of support from the partners
“This week, (AEW) acts as a lighthouse, shedding light on the amazing developments and prospects that come from the field of atomic energy. It explores the many facets of nuclear science and provides insight into how it can be used in the industry, agriculture, medicine, and sustainable energy generation, among other fields,” said Dr. Leila P. Areola, director of Bureau of Learning Delivery of the Department of Education.
For his part, Civil Service Commissioner (CSC) Chair Karlo A. B. Nograles said that people generally respond with awe and fear when they hear the word atomic. He pointed out that it is inspiring to know that energy is harnessed when an atom is divided. On the other hand, it is distressing that the same energy can be used for destructive purposes.
“History has shown that atomic power has greatly contributed to the industrialization of the world and has ushered infinite advancement possibilities. Through the years, the DOST-PNRI has utilized the accordance of atomic energy for the benefit of our people and our country. Many of its exemplary initiatives have had a nationwide impact on public interest, security, and patrimony,” said Chair Nograles.
The annual AEW celebration is one of DOST-PNRI’s platforms for communicating to the public on the latest nuclear and radiation-related innovations. It is also a venue for scientists, industry professionals, educators, students, and the public to get together to understand and appreciate the contribution of nuclear science in various fields and nuclear S&T’s growing role in the country’s larger development policy.
Updates on AEW 2023 can be accessed at http://aew.pnri.dost.gov.ph. Further, the the different programs and some of its activities will be simulcast across various PNRI’s social media platforms to reach audiences that are not able to participate in person.
The annual AEW celebration, as mandated under Presidential Proclamation No. 1211 in 1973, aims to generate awareness among the Filipino people about the beneficial uses of nuclear science and technology.
For more information on AEW 2023, visit the DOST-PNRI Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PNRIDOST/ or please contact the Institute at information@pnri.dost.gov.ph
The wait is over as the 51st Atomic Energy Week was launched. Here are glimpses of the opening ceremony of the Atomic Energy Week happening at DOST - Philippine Nuclear Research Institute . The said event will run for four days, showcasing the advancements of nuclear science and cutting-edge research. Overall, the first day sets the stage for addressing messages, the official launch of the 1st Philippine Nuclear Science Olympiad, formal commencement, and general promotion activities to increase awareness and understanding of atomic energy. By Allan Mauro V. Marfal, DOST-STII
Wednesday, December 6, 2023
PH delegation surpassed performance targets in the 6th CIIE
A delegation of 16 Philippine businesses engaged in food and beverages capped its participation in the world’s biggest import expo, held from November 5 to 10, and broke the USD 655 million sales recorded last year, yielding a total of USD 1.1 billion in overall sales this year.
This included purchase agreements made prior to the opening of the 6th CIIE, tallying nearly USD 900 million[1] with ceremonial turnover and signing during the show. More than USD 226 million[2] was recorded under booked sales, sales under negotiation, retail sales, and business matching activities after the 6-day trade exhibition. This is the highest earning recorded by the Philippines following its participation in the Chinese expo since its maiden edition in 2018.
The top food products in terms of dollar value of export leads were durian, bananas, specialty coffee, and pineapples. Bananas and pineapples remain as the staple Philippines’ fresh fruits exports to China
This monumental milestone translates to substantial employment opportunities for Filipino families, a more inclusive economic growth felt by a larger population. In a report issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), a huge portion of the Philippine economy is driven by export-related activities. A significant growth was recorded in 2022, tallying a total of USD 78.8 billion in export revenue from 74.7 billion in 2021.
Led by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and in close collaboration with the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry - Export Marketing Bureau (DTI-EMB), Philippine Trade and Investment Center - Shanghai (PTIC-Shanghai), Philippine Department of Agriculture - Office of the Agriculture Counselor in Beijing (DA-OAC Beijing), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc., (PhilExport), and the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), 16 food exhibitors took the center stage to showcase the rich and diverse heritage of Philippine food landscape. Joining the Philippine delegation are four (4) other Philippine businesses supported by the International Trade Centre (ITC) from the food, consumer, and services sectors.
As part of the overall export sales in CIIE, business matching activities led by the DTI-EMB, in partnership with the Bank of China (BOC) contributed a total of USD 3.4 million.
The Philippine pavilion opened its doors to international and Chinese trade buyers through a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by DTI Undersecretary for Industry Development and Trade Policy Dr. Ceferino Rodolfo. He was joined by Philippine Ambassador to China, H.E. Jaime FlorCruz, Consul General Josel Francisco Ignacio, CITEM Executive Director Edward Fereira, PTIC-Shanghai Commercial Counselor Glenn Peñaranda, and DA Regional Executive Director Abel James Monteagudo.
Stressing the importance of the country’s consistent participation in CIIE, DTI Undersecretary Rodolfo said that the Philippine government eyes “to expand its bilateral trade and investment relations with China and the rest of the world.”
“The CIIE has become an important platform for the country to showcase its best-selling food products and attract potential investors in China, creating new business opportunities and boosting the economy,” Rodolfo explained.
Chinese buyers from major traders and food organizations have, likewise, “displayed a strong interest in agricultural produce and various food products offered in the Philippine Pavilion.”
“As you know very well, the Philippine government is keen on exploring opportunities for partnerships with Chinese enterprises to increase its export capacities to China by enhancing the entire value chain. And every sector plays a crucial role in attaining this because export development entails a whole-of-nation approach,” PTIC-Shanghai Commercial Counselor Glenn Peñaranda said.
Ph Durian along with other food products mainstreamed
Thousands of visitors flock to the Philippine pavilion to grab a bite of its fine-tasting local Durian variety popularly known as the golden “Puyat.” Chinese consumers who have tasted the same have likened the homegrown Durian to Malaysia’s own variety, “Musang King” which is currently the most expensive Durian in the Chinese market.
In April this year, the Philippines successfully started durian exports to China. In just a few months of market access, China has become the major export destination for fresh Durian at about 3,481.29 metric tons out of the total 3,916.36 metric tons exported to the world from January-October 2023. This year, the focus on durians at the CIIE is celebrated and supported, especially for hundreds of small farmers who will benefit from these exports. This signals a promising future for the Philippines’ local agricultural communities as it is also expected to generate at least 10,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Sharing what sets “Puyat” apart from other Durian varieties sourced from China’s neighboring countries, Durian Industry Association of Davao City (DIADC) President Emmanuel Belviz said that “the strategic location where Puyat was grown is one of the factors that makes it special.”
“Our unique fruits are grown around the majestic foothills of Mt. Apo, the tallest mountain in the Philippines, situated in the beautiful region of Mindanao. The rich volcanic soil and distinct weather conditions provide for the creamy texture and custard flavor of our homegrown Durian,” Belviz explained.
“This delightful fruit is a seedling fusion of varieties from Thailand and the Philippines. It boasts a pear shape, browner husk, and flesh with a more vibrant gold-yellow color, making it distinct from Chanee D15 variety,” he added.
Agriculture Counselor Ana GM B. Abejuela of the DA-OAC in Beijing attributed the increasing popularity that “Puyat” has been enjoying to its marketability.
“Chinese consumers already love the Durian. The introduction of one from a new source naturally aroused their curiosity as to the taste and, of course, the price,” Abejuela said.
Aside from fresh Durian, the country pavilion housed an array of delectable fresh produce along with an innovative lineup of processed food products like the coco aminos and syrup from the coconut flower/sap. A diverse selection of fine-tasting agricultural produce includes mango, coffee, coconut and other related products. Fun and healthy snacks were, likewise, offered such as banana chips, dried mangoes, desiccated coconut products, milkfish, and shrimp products, among others.
On Wednesday, underscoring the fourth day of the trade show, the China Chamber of Commerce of I/E of Foodstuff, Native Produce and Animal By-products (CFNA) formally launched its Big Data Report on International Trade of Philippine Food and Agriculture Products at the Philippine Pavilion.
Speaking before representatives of the CFNA, CITEM Executive Director Edward Fereira expressed his gratitude for the “collaborative efforts the organization has extended.”
“Again, all these will not be possible without your help. It is paramount that the entire team behind our country’s participation maintain full speed ahead in order to sustain these economic gains. But having an efficient team such as yours in our corner allows us to face insurmountable challenges with courage,” Fereira added.
As early as now, CITEM is gearing up for the continued expansion of the Philippine participation in the annual Chinese expo.
“The Philippines’ 8th participation in CIIE 2025 coincides with the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Philippines-China Diplomatic Relations. That’s the reason why next year, we will somehow present a preview of what will be the grand presentation in 2025,” CITEM OIC-Project Manager Ms. Rowena Mendoza shared.
About CITEM
The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is the export promotions arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). For nearly 40 years, CITEM has established the country’s image as a premier destination for quality export products and services. It continues to set the highest standards of creativity, excellence, and innovation to achieve competitiveness in the home, fashion, lifestyle, food, creative, and sustainability sectors. CITEM is committed to developing, nurturing, and promoting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), brands, designers, and manufacturers by implementing an integrated approach to export marketing in partnership with other government and private entities.
About FOODPhilippines
FOODPhilippines promotes the country as a source of quality food products and ingredients in physical and/or digital trade shows and business-to-business platforms in priority markets around the world. Under the FOODPhilippines banner, the Philippines is positioned as an exporter of healthy, organic, natural, and specialty food products and services.
Ref. Elmer Harold Grande
Email: ehgrande@citem.com.ph
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