ARMM to bring Grade 10 completers to Senior High School

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Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC 

The Department of Education (DepEd) has enjoined the education stakeholders in the Autonomous Region Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to encourage Grade 10 completers to enroll in the Senior High School in June 2016, noting that there are only 19,658 early registrants out of the target 28,915 students.

“Look for those Grade 10 students who have not enrolled yet in SHS,” Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC said.

Luistro made the pitch during the K to 12 Summit held recently at the Notre Dame of Jolo College where hundreds of education stakeholders—students from public and private schools, parents, teachers, and school division superintendents pledged their support for the full implementation of the K to 12 Basic Education Program.

“My trip here is actually a vote for Mindanao. Dahil sa palagay ko po, hindi uusad ang Pilipinas kung hindi natin kasabay susulong ang Mindanao lalo na sa larangan ng edukasyon,” Luistro pointed out.

He added that the government will aid Grade 10 completers who will pursue SHS in a non-DepEd school through the SHS Voucher Program.

Starting School Year 2016-2017, the SHS Voucher Program will subsidize the school fees of students who completed Grade 10 in public and private schools, if they enroll in a non-DepEd school licensed to offer SHS. The voucher is accepted in private high schools, State Universities and Colleges/Local Universities and Colleges, and Technical and Vocational Schools.

Luistro also noted the gap between the number of children who enroll and those who complete schooling in elementary and secondary education in the ARMM.

According to Luistro, out of 636,000 enrollees in 2014, about 35.28% or 224,000 completed their elementary education. In the same year, around 72,476 students or almost half of the 148,000 enrollees completed their secondary education.

“This is our mission: that the enrollment and completion rate in Sulu must be at the same level. This is because our overall target is that no Filipino learner must be left behind. That is what we must all achieve together,” Luistro said.

Luistro added that education is not only done through formal schooling, emphasizing that DepEd has other programs that provide alternative options to existing formal instruction, such as the Alternative Learning System (ALS).

Managed by ALS learning facilitators, the ALS education is delivered outside the classroom, usually conducted at community learning centers, barangay multi-purpose hall, libraries, or at home.

“We need to strengthen our ALS program and provide more mobile teachers to reach out to more students and embrace them in our program,” Luistro explained.

DepEd to establish new schools for indigenous peoples in Mindanao

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Pursuing its commitment to provide culture-based education and help ensure lasting peace in Mindanao, the Department of Education (DepEd) will establish 5 new schools for Higaonon communities in Gingoog, Misamis Oriental.

The new schools will be established in Barangays Kalipay, Hindangon, Bantaawan, and Bal-ason, and will be ready to accept its first batch of learners this coming school year (SY) 2016-2017.

Meanwhile in other parts of Mindanao, DepEd will establish 246 more schools for the indigenous communities in Regions IX, X, XI, XII, and XIII. The Agency will establish a total of 251 schools in time for SY 2016-2017.

Among the said schools, there will be a total of 605 classrooms that will be constructed in partnership with the Kalahi-CIDSS National Community-Driven Development Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. In addition, DepEd will hire 583 teachers who will be deployed to the new schools, which are expected to initially serve some 19, 622 learners coming from 22 indigenous cultural communities.

Last year, DepEd adopted the Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Curriculum Framework (DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2015), which was formulated in consultation with community elders, leaders, and implementers of community-based IPEd initiatives. The framework provides guidance in contextualizing the K to 12 Curriculum based on the indigenous community’s respective educational and social background.

As a major milestone in the implementation of DepEd’s IPEd Program, the IPEd Curriculum Framework will benefit more than 1.19-million IP learners enrolled in public schools, as well as learners enrolled in community and civil society organization-run schools.

To celebrate such gains of IPEd, DepEd and representatives of indigenous communities nationwide have come together last year in a symbolic affirmation of commitment to DepEd’s IPEd Program.

Through the inauguration of a pakedlan—an indigenous space for coming together of the Kankanaey peoples of Benguet—and a ritual performed at the Baguio Teachers Camp with the participation of representatives of indigenous communities from different parts of the country, the gathering likewise strengthened the partnership towards the full recognition of indigenous knowledge and learning systems within the national education system.

“Mahalaga na naka-angkla ang ating kurikulum sa ating kulturang Pilipino … Kapag wala ang katutubong kaalaman na nakapasok sa ating kurikulum, mawawalan tayo ng kaluluwa,” Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC said during the gathering which was held on November 12, 2015.

Among other initiatives, DepEd has also forged a partnership with Lubos na Alyansa ng mga Katutubong Ayta ng Sambales (LAKAS) for the implementation of an IPEd Program at Lakas High School, which is the first formal culture-based public secondary school specifically serving the Ayta community in Bihawo, Botolan, Zambales.

Esel Cabalic, a grade 8 student of the Lakas HS said, “Kami ay nagpapasalamat sa Kagawaran ng Edukasyon sa pagkilala ng aming karapatan na magkaroon ng Katutubong Edukasyon o IPEd. Isang Katutubong Edukasyon kung saan ito ay aangkop at gagabay sa pagkatuto naming mga katutubo.”

The establishment of new schools in Gingoog is part of the government’s commitment to the sustainable development and aspirations of indigenous communities by working with them in the delivery of culture-based basic education services for the learners in the area.

“Serbisyo Caravan”

Bringing the government closer to the people, the Serbisyo Caravan is a multi-agency effort that carries out government services and dialogues in communities where indigenous peoples and conflict-affected residents live.

The 5th Serbisyo Caravan has been conducted in Gingoog, Misamis Oriental from February 3 to 4, 2016.

Among others, the Caravan has provided medical services, distributed food packs, educational supplies, micronutrient compact food, hygiene kits, and information materials.

Luistro: next biggest educ reform will come from ARMM

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In his visit to Jolo, Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC said he is confident that the creativity of Muslim Mindanao will create the next biggest educational reform in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

“The most colorful Filipinos are Muslims. There are so many colors seen in a Muslim gathering. They wear colors from head to toe... People who love colors are the most creative people,” Luistro said during the K to 12 Summit held in Jolo, Sulu.

Luistro added that the most creative solutions will come from the Filipinos in ARMM. He said that, “If we walk together, we will be able to outshine the other provinces... the next biggest reform in education will come from here.”

The K to 12 Summit was held last January 20 at the Notre Dame of Jolo College. There were over 300 education stakeholders—students from public and private schools, parents, teachers, and superintendents—who attended the event and pledged their support for the full implementation of the K to 12 Basic Education Program.

“My trip here is actually a vote for Mindanao. Dahil sa palagay ko po, hindi uusad ang Pilipinas kung hindi tayo sabay-sabay. Kailangan kasabay natin ang Mindanao,” Luistro said.

Luistro even asked not to call him “Secretary” because “it does not mean anything. Call me ‘Brother’ because I came here as your brother.”

‘No one gets left behind’

During the said summit, Luistro discussed several prevalent issues in the education sector of ARMM—chief among them was the disparity between the number of children who enroll and complete schooling in elementary and secondary education.

According to Luistro, out of 636,000 enrollees in 2014, about 35.28% or 224,000 completed their elementary education. In the same year, around 72,476 students or almost half of the 148,000 enrollees completed their secondary education.

“This is our mission: the enrollment and completion rate in Sulu must be at the same level. This is because our overall target is that no Filipino learner must be left behind. That is what we must all achieve together,” Luistro said.

Luistro added that education is not only done through formal schooling, emphasizing that Department of Education (DepEd) has other programs that provide alternative options to existing formal instruction, such as the Alternative Learning System (ALS).

Managed by ALS learning facilitators, the ALS education is delivered outside the classroom, usually conducted at community learning centers, barangay multi-purpose hall, libraries, or at home.

“We have students whom we should reach out to. We need to strengthen our ALS program and provide more mobile teachers. We will make sure that they are part of our program,” Luisto said.

Luistro further cited the number of participants for the Senior High School (SHS) Early Registration in ARMM.

“There are 19,658 Grade 10 completers who participated in the SHS Early Registration in ARMM, out of the 28,915 students who enrolled in 2015. Look for that Grade 10 student who has not enrolled yet in SHS,” he said.

He added that the government will aid Grade 10 completers who will pursue SHS in a non-DepEd public or private school through the SHS Voucher Program.

Starting School Year 2016-2017, the SHS Voucher Program seeks to subsidize a partial amount of public and private Grade 10 completers’ tuition fees in a non-DepEd public and private schools licensed to offer SHS Program. These include private schools, State Universities and Colleges/Local Universities and Colleges, and Technical and Vocation Schools.

Educ stakeholders

The said event was likewise attended by DepEd ARMM Assistant Secretary for Special Projects Alfhadar Pajiji, Notre Dame of Jolo College President Fr. Romeo Saniel, OMI, and Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada who represented Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines.

“We are one with the government in ensuring the success of this educational reform (K to 12 Program). I challenge everyone to dream of change and lasting peace in Jolo through the education of our children,” Estrada said during the summit.

For his part, Samiel said that, “Wai kita niyu piyasaran sin parinta natuh (Hindi tayo pinapabayaan ng ating gobyerno).”

Pajiji noted that without the full support of DepEd Central Office, DepEd ARMM would have a hard time employing educational reforms in the region.

“Patuloy po tayo sa pagsuporta sa mga programa ng National (DepEd Central Office) at hindi po tayo napapabayaan,” Pajiji ended.

PNoy declared September 25, 2015 as a regular holiday for Eid’l Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice)

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President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared September 25, 2015—a Friday—as a regular holiday throughout the country in observance of Eid’l Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice).

Proclamation No. 1128, s. 2015

MALACAÑAN PALACE

MANILA

PROCLAMATION NO. 1128

DECLARING FRIDAY, 25 SEPTEMBER 2015, AS A REGULAR HOLIDAY THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY IN OBSERVANCE OF EID’L ADHA (FEAST OF SACRIFICE)

WHEREAS, Eid’l Adha is one of the two greatest feasts of Islam;

WHEREAS, Republic Act No. 9849 provides that Eid’l Adha shall be celebrated as a regular holiday;

WHEREAS, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) recommends that the observance of Eid’l Adhain the Philippines be on 25 September 2015 based on the Islamic Calendar and the declaration made by Saudi Arabia’s highest religious authority, thereby amending its earlier recommendation to observe the occasion on 24 September 2015;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BENIGNO S. AQUINO III, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby declare Friday, 25 September 2015, as a regular holiday throughout the country in observance of Eid’l Adha (Feast of Sacrifice).

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

Done in the City of Manila, this 15th day of September, in the year of Our Lord, Two Thousand and Fifteen.

(Sgd.) BENIGNO S. AQUINO III

By the President:

(Sgd.) PAQUITO N. OCHOA, JR.

Executive Secretary

RESOURCES

[PDF] Proclamation No. 1128, September 15, 2015

For Additional Information: 

Eid’l Adha pay rules

From the Department of Labor and Employment

Private sector employers are urged to observe the proper wage rules and core labor standards for the upcoming Eid’l Adha holiday on September 25.

President Benigno S. Aquino III issued Proclamation No. 1128, Series of 2015, declaring September 25 as a regular holiday throughout the country in observance of Eid’l Adha.

The following pay rules for regular holiday shall be observed:

If the employee did not work; he or she shall be paid 100 percent of his or her salary for that day [(Daily Rate + Cost of Living Allowance) x 100%];

For work done during the regular holiday, the employees shall be paid 200 percent of his/her regular salary for that day for the first eight hours [(Daily Rate + COLA) x 200%];

For work done in excess of eight hours (overtime work), he/she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his/her hourly rate on said day [(Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 200% x 130% x number of hours worked];

*For work done during a regular holiday that also falls on his or her rest day, he/she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his her daily rate of 200 percent [(Daily Rate + COLA) x 200%] + [30% (Daily Rate x 200%)]; and

For work done in excess of eight hours (overtime work) during a holiday that also falls on his or her rest day, he/she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his/her hourly rate on said day (Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 200% x 130% x 130% x number of hours worked).

dole.gov.ph

Robinsons Supermarket relaunches Island Favorites in line with DTI-led OTOP program

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Discover Philippines' Finest Delicacies at the Robinsons Supermarket nationwide.

In collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) One Town, One Product Program (OTOP), Robinsons Supermarket relaunches its Island Favorites section in select stores.

In support of the DTI-led program, the grocery chain giant will feature a variety of locally made products in the said section.

OTOP-Philippines is a priority program of the government to promote entrepreneurship and create jobs by promoting patronage of products using indigenous raw materials and local skills and talents. And Robinsons Supermarket is the first retailer to launch the project by reintroducing the Island Favorites section to support the program.

Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. President and COO Robina Gokongwei-Pe

“As a Filipino retailer, we feel it is our responsibility to highlight the best of the Philippines’ products. Through the Island Favorites section, our consumers can be assured of the wide variety of pasalubong choices at competitive prices and of excellent quality – the same standards of DTI’s OTOP program,” said Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. President and COO Robina Gokongwei-Pe.

Stacked in the Island Favorites shelves are delicacies such as Ilocos Fish Crackers, Cebu Dried Mango Chips, Memer Durian Candies, Peanut Kisses, El Tesoro de Cebu Turrones de Mani, Pampanga Chicharon, and Bundy Wine, to name a few. Its mission is to highlight products from different regions that have competitive advantages, in the hopes of improving local products’ quality and marketing.

Apart from being a staunch advocate of health and wellness, Robinsons Supermarket also recognizes its role in strengthening the economic base of every community it serves by supporting locally-made products.

Head on to the Island Favorites Section of Robinsons Supermarket and make a difference by supporting Filipino products.

The OTOP Legacy

What started in 1979, in Japan, as a regional development program to help small-scale businesses flourish is now a business model adopted by many countries worldwide. Called “One Village One Product” in Japan and “One Tambon One Product in Thailand, the program is more popularly known worldwide as “One Town One Product “ or OTOP.

OTOP Philippines was established by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs). OTOP products are created by local communities, highlighting tradition and culture while emphasising sustainability and generating livelihood. OTOP’s role in nation building is extremely vital. Small and medium enterprises are the backbone of the country’s economy and generate jobs nationwide. OTOP Philippines focuses on and develops a particular town’s or province’s or region’s main product or industry with the view of revitalizing each region’s economic activity. In the long-term, OTOP-supported products are envisioned to be very competitive in the world market.

DTI enables these budding enterprises by supporting them through product development, marketing, promotions, business counselling, skills and entrepreneurial training and capital sourcing. Their products are showcased nationwide through regional and national trade fairs. Those whose products have evolved in stature and with better quality standards are, then, introduced in the mainstream market through established retailers thus giving the general public and tourists as well, easier access to the country’s diverse and unique products. OTOP products are also introduced to the world market through international trade fairs and exhibits.

OTOP Philippines stands as a symbol of quality as well. Only products that pass DTI’s stringent standards for quality, market acceptance and competitiveness can carry the OTOP seal. To buyers, it is an assurance that they are getting even better value for their money.

Teachers laud first Tboli SHS TSHS seen to promote global competence and cultural preservation

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Teachers of the recently-launched TSHS at Lake Sebu, South Cotabato said that this program will surely promote global competitiveness without compromising the cultural preservation of the indigenous peoples in the long run.

The teachers perceived the program as a beneficial tool to boost the livelihood status of the Tbloli community since the TSHS offers technical-vocational tracks that are in line with the culture of the Tboli people. 

“Ang diwa ng kultura namin ay naisasalin at ang kaalaman ay made-develop pa kung kaya’t ilang henerasyon man ang magdaan, ang kultura namin ay buhay pa rin. Ang kaalaman at ang kasanayan ay nagmula mismo sa kanila [mag-aaral na Tboli] upang matuto na silang makihalubilo sa mundo,” said Benji Manuel, a Tboli teacher at Tboli Senior High School (TSHS).

This project of the Department of Education (DepEd), in collaboration with Ateneo de Davao, aims to produce graduates who are equipped with entrepreneurial and management skills and are capable of managing and improving their own resources and coming up with sustainable livelihood and opportunities for the Tboli community.

Manuel said that through the program, he now sees the teachers of TSHS as carriers of the plan of the Tboli elders.

“Sa tulong nito, nakikita namin ang aming sarili bilang tagapagdala ng plano ng elders ng pamayanan ng Tboli na dalhin ang indigenous knowledge, cultural and intellectual heritage sa loob ng classroom,” Manuel added.

Ateneo de Davao President Father Joel S. Tabora, SJ said that the Tboli SHS is “the most sophisticated, anthropological, pedagogical project in the country relative to Senior High School”.

"Davao entered into this program--to be able to help the K to 12 create a program that will not make the students foreigners to their own culture, but will make them imbibe the values and the cultural traditions of the tribe even in a global age, even in an age when the Tboli also want to be able to be world-class, to be able to enjoy the advantages of globalization and modernization. The Tboli, it has to be clear, also want first and foremost to preserve their own cultural traditions and their cultural identities. This is the reason why Ateneo de Davao has been really priveleged to be part of this program," Tabora said.

Through the help of Ateneo de Davao, the program commenced through a research wherein they consulted the Tboli community if they would want a program that is appropriate not only to their culture but also to the standards of DepEd. After the research, the Tboli community gave positive feedback, which means that they are willing to have the program being proposed to them.

TSHS will be initially lodged at Lake Sebu National High School and will be catering to approximately 45 students upon the first implementation of Grade 11 this coming school year 2015-2016.

"We are developing ourselves and we are achieving our goals and aspirations but we should not forget our culture. That is our intention," Manuel said.

DepEd launches the first Tboli Senior High School

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Lake Sebu, South Cotabato—After extensive consultations and planning with the indigenous peoples’ community, local government, and education partners, the Department of Education (DepEd) established the first Tboli Senior High School.

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said, “This is the first of its kind. We endeavored to make sure that the curriculum as well as its [senior high school] offerings are in line with Indigenous Peoples culture and language. Ang eskwelahan dapat ang link between culture and development.”

He said, “Ito po ang kauna-unahang Senior High School na sinikap ng DepEd—kasama ang Ateneo de Davao—na kunsultahin at pakinggan ang mga hinaing at mga pangarap ng ating mga katutubo.”

He emphasized the need of the education system to be inclusive and centered on the needs and context of the learners, saying, “We are a nation in search of who we are. Until we are able to return to the roots of our indigenous peoples, we will never be able to find our soul.”

“If we are serious about being learner-centered, we should also be serious about being culturally sensitive,” Luistro added.

Luistro also dedicated the launching of the Tboli Senior High School to the late Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan awardee Lang Dulay, saying that “we need to understand and to nurture of our culture so that the works of Lang Dulay will not be lost with her and that we can pass on her dreams and arts to the next generation.”

Tboli Senior High School (TSHS), which will be initially lodged at Lake Sebu National High School with approximately 45 students for its early implementation of Grade 11 in SY 2015-2016, will be offering technical-vocational track, focusing on Sustainable Community Resources Management with two options: Agriculture and Ecotourism.

Active engagement of the indigenous community

Datu Benito Blonto, chair of the Municipal Tribal Council of Lake Sebu, said that proper consultations and coordination with the parents and students in the Tboli community, Lake Sebu NHS, and other education stakeholders have been crucial in creating the program.

Through consultations with Tboli elders, teachers, parents, students, and other education stakeholders, TSHS came up with its aspirations for its students that seek to uphold, preserve, and promote the Tboli cultural identity through an inclusive, participative, environmentally-friendly, and quality culture-based education.

Blonto said the program will be beneficial to the students, adding, “Pagkatapos nila sa K to 12, makakapasok sila sa employment dahil may skills and qualifications na sila. Sa pamamagitan ng programang ito, ide-develop natin ang skills ng mga estudyante base sa kultura. Sasanayin sila sa ecotourism at paggamit ng resources na mayroon sa lugar.”

The program intends to create graduates who are capable of developing and managing their own resources, creating sustainable livelihood and opportunities for the Tboli community, where the school is situated. Through the program, graduates will be equipped with entrepreneurial and management skills to prepare them for small-scale business ventures or communal cooperative management.

The development of the TSHS is an initiative being undertaken by DepEd in partnership with Ateneo de Davao University, particularly in the areas of curriculum development, teacher training and mentoring, and research.

7-Eleven kicks off expansion into Mindanao

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Davaoeños can now enjoy 24/7 convenience of 7-Eleven everyday!

Philippine Seven Corporation (PSC), the country's largest convenience store chain operator, launched its business expansion in Mindanao on May 8, 2015 with the grand opening of its first 7-Eleven store in "The Land of Promise."

As part of 7-Eleven’s strategy to maintain market share, the company continues to protect and expand its leadership by continuing to grow its store expansion rate. Aside from securing its foothold in Luzon and Visayas, PSC aims to capture a new market in Mindanao. 

“We’re excited to be in Mindanao, especially since it’s a very attractive market and we look forward to seeing its potential, which is why we’re committed to jumping in with both feet,” said Jose Victor Paterno, PSC President and CEO.

Located within Abreeza Mall in Davao is the first of the 50 targeted 7-Eleven stores to be opened in the cities of Davao and Cagayan de Oro this year. 

7-Eleven aims to open 30 stores in Davao and 20 in Cagayan de Oro respectively by year-end. And by June, PSC will have 4 other operational stores to be followed by 12 more sites by September in both Davao City and Cagayan de Oro.

Following 7-Eleven’s Mindanao opening on May 8, will be a series of store openings at Ulas Crossing in Davao and George Town Cybermall and Limketkai Center in Cagayan de Oro. PSC targets to open 120 stores in Mindanao in the next 3 years.

7-Eleven aims to lead the convenience store industry in Mindanao, beginning in the two cities that have been experiencing an increase in tourist arrivals and per capita income in the past few years. 

Among the other potential key cities PSC is eyeing for future expansion include General Santos, Bukidnon, and Iligan. 

Expanding into Mindanao also marks a vision realized for the late PSC Founding Chairman, Vicente T. Paterno – for 7-Eleven to go national. With Mindanao having been close to his heart, the first store in Mindanao is being dedicated in his honor. 

Mr. Paterno was an ardent advocate for Mindanao’s development and worked tirelessly to further its growth. He had been named “Adopted Son of Mindanao” for prioritizing policy supporting Mindanao's development over his two decades in government.

The 1st International Business Summit on Mindanao

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First International Business Summit on Mindanao, the frontrunner summit on Mindanao to be held at The Manila Hotel on June 28, 2014 as marks a significant milestone in the history of Mindanao as business leaders all over the world.

In line with the vision "RESTORE THE LOST GLORY OF MINDANAO", the summit aims to showcase Mindanao to the world business community and to encourage global investors as well as businessmen to personally interact with local community leaders and entrepreneurs.

Trade from here and abroad will attend the 1st International Business Summit on Mindanao. Shariff Ibrahim Albani, head of summit organizer Unity for Revival Foundation, said delegates from Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Japan, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Indonesia and European countries led by Russia are attending the summit along with some 500 local leaders, including governors, mayors and lawmakers from Mindanao.

The panelists to the summit will include, but not limited to, persons and entities which have more than enough exposure and experiences about Mindanao and have plans of further improving the overall development of the region.

Mindanao, with its rich mineral resources, ecological value, human talents and skills, and economic potentials was, in the past, regarded as one of the richest regions not only in the Philippines, but in the whole world.

The recent signing of the much awaited and historic Bangsamoro Agreement has tremendously enhanced the investment climate of Mindanao and has paved the way both for domestic and international investors, businessmen and entrepreneurs.

Events changed the prosperity once enjoyed by Mindanao and its people. Diversities led to divisions and the unity of the people of Mindanao in the past was disrupted by selfish motives. Business was corrupted by the desire to make profits in dishonorable ways and means. The rich became richer and the poor became poorer.

However, recent events have altered this unwanted environment. With globalization, Mindanao has started to change for the better. Mindanao is now stable and ready to cultivate and nourish intensive and harmonious business links and investment tie-ups with the global community.

Summit organizer, Unity For Revival Foundation (URF) Chairman Shariff Ibrahim Albani is confident that, with the active and productive participation of various sectors in the summit, bright and achievable ideas will emerge to make Mindanao PROGRESSIVE AND UNITED ONCE AGAIN.

AQUABEST to Join MINBIZCON: Water firm gears up for Mindanao expansion

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Water franchising leader GQWEST announced plans to expand its Aquabest franchise to more areas in Mindanao as it joins the Mindanao Business Conference (MINBIZCON).

MINBIZCON now in its 22nd year is the largest gathering of businesses in Mindanao and represents a huge opportunity for the company to expand in the region. Expanding its presence in Mindanao has been a priority for the company as it seeks to capitalize on the increased development in the area.

The company’s head, Carson Tan says “The growth of urbanization and the economy in Mindanao has opened up a large opportunity for us as we seek to further enlarge our nationwide presence. At the same time, expanding in the region will allow the company to fulfill its mission to offer safe drinking water to people in areas where potable water remains problematic.”

The company says it intends to pursue growth opportunities in Mindanao particularly in Davao. The company says hat Mindanao has a rapidly urbanizing population which is critical to support the business. The areas also represent an opportunity to expand from the congested Luzon markets where the company’s stores are mostly located.

To help prospective franchisees take out a franchise the company inked partnerships with banks like BPI that would facilitate loan applications to possible franchisees. The company also offers in house financing to prospective franchisees.

The MINBIZCON would run from August 8-10 at the SMX Convention Center at SM Lanang Premier Davao City.

Eid’l Fitr Festival 2013

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EID’L FITR INTERNATIONAL ART FESTIVAL and EXHIBITION celebrates the end of RAMADAN launched at The Podium, Ortigas Avenue yesterday, August 2,2013.

Eid'l Fitr International Art Exhibit with works of world-renowned crafstmen and National Artist Abdulmari Imao,Toym Imao, Jamila Tamano , Dominic Rubio, Jovan Benito, Rameer Tawasil, Kublai Millan, and Aljo Pingol. And featuring fashion creations by Pitoy Moreno. 

The Eid'l Fitr Festival is organized by the Magbassa Kita Foundation, Inc. led by its Chairperson , former Senator Santanina Razul.

This will feature a variety of activities from country displays by the different Islamic embassies in the country; institutional exhibits by Local Government Units (LGUs), government agencies, and donor agencies working on peace and development initiatives; trade fair of products from  Mindanao; fashion exhibit on traditional Muslim attires; interactive Salam Villages; and cultural presentations.

DOT joins Filipino Muslims in Eid’l Fitr Festival

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) have stepped up support for this year’s Eid’l Fitr celebrations from 9-11 August 2013 at the Atrium/The Block of SM North, Quezon City and in other areas of the country.

Eid’l Fitr (also known as Eid-al-Fitr, Id-Ul-Fitr, Eid) is the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal signaling the end of  Ramadan, the month of fasting and prayer. Eid literally means festivity and after a month-long sacrifice, Eid’l Fitr (festival of fast-breaking) is looked forward to as a period of merriment, sharing, and forgiveness.

In 2002, the Eid’l Fitr was recognized as a national holiday by the government, making the Philippines the first predominantly Christian country worldwide to have done so. The proclamation was enacted to promote peace and harmony among all major religions in the country.

“The DOT is one with our Muslim brothers and sisters in this year’s celebration of Eid’l Fitr.  As in the past, our participation is a constant recognition of the close affinity with the Muslim community and deep appreciation of our cultural diversity that lends more beauty to our country. The Eid’l Fitr celebration provides opportunities to showcase the best of Muslim culture and traditions, as well as enable guests and even strangers to experience the practice of thanksgiving and sharing.  The Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, a milestone achievement forged under President Aquino’s administration, is one among the many reasons why this year’s celebration is more meaningful,” DOT Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. said.

The DOT has rallied various tourism-oriented establishments to support the festival.  Among the mall chains with sale and activities are SM (Bicutan, Quiapo, Davao, Lanang, GenSan), Robinsons (Robinsons Place and Starmills in Pampanga) and Ayala (Glorietta 2 in Makati City, Trinoma in Quezon City and Market! Market! in Taguig City).  On the other hand, restaurants offering Halal food are the following Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP) members:  Bacolod Chicken Inasal in Greenhills, Coffee Shop of Bayview Park Hotel, Café in the Park of Century Park Hotel, Riviera Café of Heritage Hotel, Market Café of Hyatt Regency Hotel and Casino and Circles of Makati Shangri-La.

The TPB, as the marketing arm of the DOT, intends to institutionalize annual support to the Eid.  TPB Chief Operating Officer Domingo Ramon C. Enerio III said, “Festival support is just one aspect.  What is more important is capacitating local government and communities to enhance existing and develop new tourism products.  Our industry is likewise excited by the prospects of a peaceful Mindanao. Our brand campaign will ring truer as this unfolds.”

“We are thankful for the support of these establishments who have responded to our call for participation. The success of Eid’l Fitr is also a testament to the government and people support for the peace process towards the sustainable development of Mindanao. Tourism is a vehicle to achieve inclusive growth and Mindanao can very well capitalize on its rich natural and cultural resources. We enjoin every Filipino to take an active role in making the entire country a peaceful, more fun, and must-experience destination in Asia,” Secretary Jimenez added.

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World Food Day Brings Boost to School Children in Central Mindanao -Thanks to Unilever and WFP

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As part of this year’s World Food Day celebrations, Unilever Philippines has again renewed its commitment to help improve the health and well-being of Filipino children by donating Php6 million to support the United Nations World Food Programme’s (WFP) school feeding programme in remote and conflict-affected areas of Central Mindanao.

The amount is being donated through Unilever’s number one food brand, Knorr, and will be used to provide 600,000 hot nutritious school meals to 100,000 public elementary school children in the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, and Lanao del Norte. WFP will be carrying out the programme in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Department of Education.

“We would like to thank Unilever for its consistent and valuable support to WFP in the Philippines. Over the years, Unilever has mobilized its different brands to come up with innovative and creative ways to help raise awareness of, and mobilize resources for, the fight against hunger – they are true champions of the cause,” said WFP Philippines Representative and Country Director Stephen Anderson.

“The support that we give to school feeding is just one part of the overall sustainable living plan of Unilever to help improve the nutrition levels of Filipino children and contribute to the Philippines’ effort to meets its Millennium Development Goal targets. But we cannot do this alone. We are privileged to have as a global partner such as the World Food Programme to help us in achieving this goal,” added Unilever Philippines Foods and Customer Development Director Carl Cruz.

Unilever has contributed to WFP and its fight against hunger in the Philippines since 2008, through the global event “Walk the World,” organised in collaboration with TNT Express and DSM to raise funds and awareness for WFP’s work. In the Philippines, Walk the World has generated over PhP13.8 million to fund school meals.Globally, Unilever has been a WFP corporate partner since December 2006, donating a total of US$18.7 million to support WFP’s work around the world.

About WFP

WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide. Each year, on average, WFP feeds more than 90 million people in more than 70 countries.

WFP now provides RSS feeds to help journalists keep up with the latest press releases, videos and photos as they are published on WFP.org. For more details see: http://www.wfp.org/rss.

Twitter: @wfp_asia and @wfp_philippines and @wfp_media Facebook: WFP Philippines

About Unilever

Unilever works to create a better future every day. We help people feel good, look good and get more out of life with brands and services that are good for them and good for others. We are one of the world’s leading suppliers of fast moving consumer goods with strong local roots in more than 100 countries. Consumers buy 170 billion Unilever packs around the world every year, and our products are used over two billion times a day. Our portfolio includes some of the world’s best known brands such as Knorr, Lipton, Dove, Sunsilk, Surf and Rexona.

Our ambition is to double the size of our business, while reducing our overall environmental impact (including sourcing, consumer use and disposal). We are also committed to doing what we can to improve health, nutrition and hygiene, with goals to help more than a billion people take action to improve their health and well-being, as well as to source all our agricultural raw materials sustainably by 2020. Supporting our three big goals are more than 50 time-based targets in the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan.

For more information about Unilever and its brands, please visit www.unilever.com. 

For more information, please contact:

World Food Programme - Philippines (Email: charlene.tordesillas@wfp.org): Charlene Tordesillas, WFP/Manila, Tel: +63 2 7502561 Mobile: +639178809368

Unilever Philippines (Email: liza.vengco@unilever.com): Liza Vengco, Communications Manager, Tel: +63 2 5887342 Mobile: +639088805776