DTI joins Pangasinan LAB for All to boost local biz

DAGUPAN CITY, Pangasinan -- The Dept. of Trade and Industry joined the LAB For All Project to signify the DTI’s commitment to bring essential government services and programs directly to communities nationwide last Feb. 6.

    The LAB For All Project, headed by First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, is a priority undertaking to enhance access to vital services, ensuring that citizens receive the support they need in a timely and efficient manner.

    Through this initiative, the DTI Region 1 aimed to contribute to the overall development and empowerment of local communities by facilitating access to business, trade-related services, resources, and information.

    With DTI Regional Operations Group Assistant Secretary Dominic Tolentino and DTI Region 1 Regional Director Merlie Membrere at the helm, the DTI showcased its services to the community.

    "We are excited to be part of this transformative project. Our participation in LAB For All reflects our dedication to serving the public and fostering economic growth at the grassroots level,” Asec. Tolentino said.

    DTI set up a vibrant array of products from One Town, One Product (OTOP) program.

Attendees explored the Ilocos Region-made goods by local artisans. From the exquisite loom-weaving products of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur to the unique “Luca”l products of La Union and the innovative “Ang Galing” products of Pangasinan, these were all displayed at the OTOP Display Booth.

    In addition to the OTOP display, DTI offered a comprehensive suite of vital business support services.

    Twenty-nine experienced mentors from Go Negosyo provided expert guidance to a total of 159 entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their businesses during the mentoring sessions through the 3M (Mentorship, Money, Market) on Wheels Program.

    Facilitation of business name and Barangay Micro Business Enterprise (BMBE) registrations to streamline the process of formalizing businesses were also available. For those in need of financial assistance, the Small Business (SB) Corporation team provided information and guidance on accessing various financing options.

DTI’s participation in the LAB for All program underscores its commitment to a whole-of-nation approach to development by working in collaboration with other government agencies and private sector partners.

    Meanwhile, Asec. Tolentino took the opportunity and visited the Shared Service Facility (SSF) Project at the Food Innovation Center, located within the Pangasinan State University (PSU) Bayambang Campus.

    The initiative seeks to enhance local food innovation and entrepreneurship. The facility houses machines and equipment specifically designed for food processing, preservation, and packaging. Some of these invaluable resources were provided by the DTI to empower students, cooperatives, associations, and micro, small, and medium enterprises in the region. 

 

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Inspiring growth in the regions

Espresso Mornings

Joe Zaldarriaga

BAGUIO CITY -- Last week, news of the landmark investment of business leader and philanthropist Manuel V. Pangilinan, or MVP in the development of Camp John Hay in Baguio made headlines—signaling optimism for enhancing the tourism and real estate potential of the iconic property.

    Through a 25-year lease agreement with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), the MVP Group will help revitalize Camp John Hay to boost economic activity not just in Baguio City but throughout north Luzon—spurring job creation and attracting more investments.

    MVP, in a statement, assured the public that they need not worry about the ensuing development in Camp John Hay since legacy properties will remain “protected and enhanced as cornerstones of Baguio history and tourism.” These include The Manor, The Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay, and the CAP-John Hay Trade and Cultural Center.

In fact, the BCDA described the MVP Group's involvement as a welcome development, highlighting the growing investor confidence in Camp John Hay. So far, the BCDA has secured at least two commercial lease agreements following the MVP Group's entry, and it is positive that more will express interest.

    But more than enhancing the tourism potential of Camp John Hay, the support of the MVP Group in its development is expected to result in long-term and wide-ranging economic benefits that go beyond Baguio for the benefit of the Cordillera region and even the whole country.

    MVP’s latest venture into Camp John Hay serves as a strong testament to the investment potential outside Metro Manila. This aligns well with the shifting economic landscape in the country to promote decentralization of business activity and boost opportunities outside of the Philippine capital. After all, Metro Manila for years has been the center and driver of economic activity—securing the lion’s share of foreign investments, infrastructure development, and job opportunities.

    It is high time that we highlight and promote business opportunities in the regions to achieve more equitable economic development across the country and empower regions and provinces to become more active contributors to national economic growth.

    In the case of Camp John Hay, development is expected in terms of infrastructure, and amenities for visitors but more importantly—this will create new job opportunities for residents of Baguio and surrounding areas who would otherwise need to find gainful employment in Metro Manila.

    Significant as well is the ripple effect on local businesses.

As Camp John Hay develops into a more attractive tourist and investment destination, small businesses like local restaurants and commercial stores in Baguio and surrounding areas stand to benefit from the increased foot traffic and consumer spending.

    With Camp John Hay’s positioning as a premier eco-tourism destination and the MVP Group’s strong commitment to sustainability, the development of the area can also serve as a model for other developments outside of Metro Manila to ensure balance and harmony between economic growth and environmental responsibility.

    In summary, more investors and business leaders should work together to promote equitable economic development in the regions to highlight the potential of our untapped resources and ensure inclusive growth for all Filipinos.

    More than the immediate economic benefits, regional development will be beneficial for the entire country in the long run as it will help make the economy more resilient by reducing national dependence on Metro Manila’s business activity.

    By accelerating investments in the regions and paving the way for the entry of more businesses in the provinces, our country embraces an inclusive development strategy that inspires investor confidence across the Philippines to benefit generations to come.

 

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Camp John Hay investments to soar to P10B under BCDA

Business

Maricar Gay Savella-Villamil                                         

Following its successful recovery of Camp John Hay in Baguio City, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is now moving forward with plans to unleash the full potential of this economic zone, with investments seen to reach Php10 billion.

As its first order of business, the BCDA is conducting a review of the comprehensive master plan of the John Hay Special Economic Zone (JHSEZ) to set a redevelopment roadmap that will further elevate the camp’s position as a premier ecotourism destination and make sure that economic benefits are felt across all sectors. 

“Big things are coming after our successful recovery of Camp John Hay. Here, we aim to replicate our successes in Bonifacio Global City and Clark by implementing infrastructure projects that will empower the local community and by bringing in high-impact investments that will enable us to contribute more to the state coffers,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang.

“To achieve this, we will determine areas that need improvement and explore new opportunities for development, all while ensuring the preservation of Baguio’s natural and cultural heritage,” he added. 

According to Engr. Bingcang, the BCDA intends to develop around 70 hectares of untapped land inside the former US military base, to be offered to the private sector under a joint venture scheme. There is also a plan to redevelop the Mile Hi Center to bring better retail and restaurant offerings in the ecozone.

Forested areas and other open spaces will be conserved to protect the natural landscape of Camp John Hay, which is considered as the "last frontier" of the vast forested area within Baguio.

Moreover, the BCDA is committed to enhance public infrastructure inside the camp to provide a safer and more comfortable experience for tourists. This will be done by improving roads, jogging trails, and pedestrian lanes, installing solar street lights, and establishing a smart transport system. 

The BCDA is also reaching out to existing establishments inside the camp to negotiate terms for a fresh contract, providing recourse to affected stakeholders in recognition of their contributions to Camp John Hay and Baguio’s growth.

Businesses set sights on Camp John Hay

Reflecting the business sector’s confidence in the BCDA’s track record as a steward of development and in Camp John Hay’s potential as an ecotourism destination, several major players have already begun to pour in investments in the area. 

Among these is Pangilinan-led Landco Pacific Corporation, which took on the mantle as the interim manager of John Hay’s legacy hotels, The Manor and Forest Lodge, as well as the CAP- John Hay Trade and Cultural Center.  A new consortium consisting of Golfplus Management Inc. (GMI), the operations team behind the driving ranges in premium estates Nuvali and Alviera, and DuckWorld PH, a sports management agency, was also formed to oversee the operations and maintenance of the Camp John Hay golf course during an interim period.

With Landco and GMI-DuckWorld’s expertise and capabilities, the BCDA was able to usher a smooth transition in Camp John Hay, ensuring that tourists, hotel guests, and golfers continue to enjoy the facilities and open spaces. They will also be introducing improvements to these Camp John Hay estates to provide premium facilities and services.

Stern Real Estate and Development Corp., the operator Le Monet Hotel and the Filling Station, also signed a landmark deal with the BCDA, allowing the 2,000-square meter property to continue serving as prime destinations for leisure and dining in Baguio City. The company intends to pursue improvements and redevelopment plans in its leased property to maximize economic activities in the area. 

Small- and medium-scale enterprises, as well as residential lessees, have also started to take part in Camp John Hay’s growth under the BCDA’s stewardship. BCDA finalized separate 15-year commercial lease agreements with Amare La Cucina, Baguio’s most successful homegrown pizza chain, for a 1,500-square-meter lot, and with Top Taste and Trading Inc., a specialty cafe and restaurant, for the lease of an 800-square-meter property in Camp John Hay.

Metro Pacific Investment Corp. Director Victorico “Ricky” Vargas also signed a fresh 25-year residential lease contract with the BCDA for two Forest Cabin Units. 

The BCDA was able to regain control of the Camp John Hay property following a groundbreaking Supreme Court decision, which allowed the recovery of the 247-hectare leased area from CJH Development Corp. In accordance with the Supreme Court ruling, the implementation of the writ of execution and notice to vacate was carried on by the court sheriff.

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Street gangs banned in Baguio/ Satellite business processing/ Peaceful holidays

CITY HALL BEAT

Aileen P. Refuerzo

BAGUIO CITY -- Residents were reminded on the existence of an ordinance prohibiting the establishment and operation of street gangs and recruitment of minors to instigate violence and community disorder in the city.
    Adapted in December 2021, Ordinance No. 99 series of 2021 prohibits the following: creation and operation of street gang that vehemently disregards the safety and well-being of an individual; recruitment of persons including minors to participate in street gang violence; instigation on the conduct of gang graffiti; and other activities that disturb public order and threatens public safety and convenience.
    The ordinance was adapted to address activities of street gangs and similar groups taking advantage of misguided minors, children at risk and children in conflict with the law and use and expose them to violence and illegal activities that turn them into juvenile delinquents, unruly citizens and future burdens of society.
    Penalties for adult violators of the measure are a fine of P5,000 or imprisonment of 1 to 30 days or both.
Minor offenders are subject to intervention mechanisms put in place under the Comprehensive Local Juvenile Intervention Program formulated by the
    The Local Council for the Protection of Children which is taking the lead in the implementation of the provisions of the ordinance.
    Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the city needs to sustain the intensive implementation of the ordinance to stop violent incidents especially those involving minors.
    ***
The city government through the City Treasury Office and the Business Permit and Licensing Office set up a satellite Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) at City Hall at a mall here to provide an alternative venue for businessmen to process their business licenses.
    Located between Cinemas 3 and 4, the offsite BOSS at the mall is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Mondays to Fridays from January to March.
    While SM opens at 10 a.m., an arrangement was made for business permit applicants to be allowed entry at 8 a.m.
    "Applicants may just tell the guards at the entrance fronting the grocery area that they will process their permit at the BOSS and they will be accommodated," Permits and Licensing Officer Allan Abayao advised.
    Abayao said the offsite processing scheme was implemented to decongest the BOSS at City Hall and avoid overcrowding and long queues.
    The main BOSS is located at the City Treasury Office One-Stop Shop.
    As of Jan. 4, 2024, the city has processed a total of 607 permit renewal, 13 new business applications, one new business line, one new management, one retirement of business line and 19 full retirement of business.
    Abayao reminded that business permit application is available online via the eBPLS Portal at ebpls.baguio.gov.ph .
    ***
Mayor Magalong said the city's yuletide celebration turned out to be peaceful and orderly thanks to the efforts of law enforcers and the community.
    "Overall, we had a great holiday season in our city with the different colorful and joyful activities that were staged and the various attractions that were offered for enjoyment of all," the mayor said.
    He commended the Baguio City Police Office for the success of its anti-criminality efforts and the community for its cooperation during the entire Christmas season.
    He said the city's crime volume for the entire duration decreased by as much as 56 percent when compared to last year owing to the BCPO's aggressive crime prevention campaign.
    He said the traffic problems encountered were also minimal after adjustments and measures were adopted learning from the bad experience the city had on the first weekend of the month.
    BCPO Director Col. Francisco Bulwayan Jr. affirmed that the city's total crime volume during the Christmas rush from Dec. 21-31 significantly dropped by 56.47 percent or 48 cases from the figure for the same period last year.
    He cited data from the Crime Information Reporting and Analysis System (CIRAS) showing a 33.3 percent decrease in focus crimes, including serious offenses like murder, robbery and rape.
    "This positive trend reflects the city's successful efforts in curbing major criminal activities," he said.
    He said non-index crimes including various illegal acts also decreased by 14.29 percent while special law violations dropped by 72.73 percent.
    "The detailed breakdown emphasizes the city's success in addressing both major and minor offenses showcasing a huge improvement in public safety compared with the same period last year," Bulwayan said.
    Bulwayan said that traffic incidents also decreased by 59.38 percent.
    "Based on the experience of traffic gridlock we had at the start of the month, we made adjustments and adopted strategies to avoid a repeat of the problem and we find these strategies very effective. There were traffic jams that happened but these did not last and were resolved in a short time," he said.

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Small biz owners see better year with gov’t training

 Entrepreneurship

Liza Agoot

BAGUIO CITY – Small businesses that opened right before the Covid-19 pandemic have high hopes of better opportunities, especially with the capacity building training from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
    Guil Ocampo, a young entrepreneur in his mid-30s who is operating a coffee shop along Session Road here, is hopeful of good prospects for another year after seeing good signs in recent months and after undergoing management and financial preparation training from DTI’s “Kapatid Mentor Me” (KMM) program.
    He said the KMM training “was a big change in the set-up (of my business)” since it allowed him “how to view the daily sales for a long-term situation.”
    “Knowing how to make the financial report and interpret it, and how to properly run the business without encountering problems with government regulatory offices are also important factors. More importantly, having the confidence that I know what I am doing in managing the business is a big boost,” he said in Filipino.
    Ocampo joined the KMM program in 2022, when he nearly lost everything and realized the need to be equipped with additional knowledge.
    “I was unemployed after resigning from work to start a business and my life's savings were drained from opening the cafe and moving to another location along Session Road," he shared.
    Ocampo and his friends opened their business in Feb. 2020 in a hotel near Wright Park after seeing the potential of a coffee-related business while doing documentaries as a government media practitioner.
    Around a month later, a nationwide lockdown was declared due to the pandemic, prompting the immediate closure of the establishment.
    Ocampo tried to continue operating by adopting a delivery service as there were no dine-in clients.
    He said the pandemic taught him a lesson - - to cooperate and collaborate with other businesses.
    The current location of his coffee shop was used as a drop-off area for cosplay items.
    To date, the venue houses not just a coffee shop that allows its customers to play board games but also a place where cosplayers can display and sell their costumes and other items.
    Similarly, Florence Aquino, 45, and her sister opened a mini grocery in 2021 on the ground floor of their family residence in Irisan.
    Like Ocampo, she and her sister first opened a small milk tea and fruit shop at the university belt in January 2020, but which also became a casualty of the pandemic.
    Aquino was forced to attend the KMM training in 2022 since her sister cannot attend because she was working as a nurse at the local health office.
    "The mentoring program of your specific venture was very helpful. It will allow you to take a glimpse at the future while standing in the present," she said in Ilocano.
    Samuel Gallardo, assistant director of DTI-Cordillera in an earlier interview, said the KMM program is a regular activity of the agency that is being implemented with the help of stakeholders from the private sector who serve as mentors.
    "This is a good opportunity to be trained as an entrepreneur since this allow the business to flourish. Everything that will make a person well-rounded in knowing how to start, run the business and improve it are provided free to trainees, " he said. -- PNA
 

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Council restricts trade fairs at People’s Park

BAGUIO CITY -- City officials recently restricted conduct of trade fairs and similar activities here at Malcom Square or People’s Park and its surrounding vicinity, specifically Perfecto Street.
    Under resolution 724, series of 2023, the City Council stated that as early as August 17, 1956, the city council passed Ordinance No. 264, series of 1956 to prohibit certain acts contrary to the proper care and maintenance of public parks, playgrounds, gardens and plazas, roads or streets that sell or offer for sale or peddle of any food stuff, fruit, vegetables or ice cream in public park or garden; provided that any person holding any concession or lease duly authorized by the body may sell at stalls or structures constructed by the local government for the purpose, only light food stuff usually for snacks and non-intoxicating drinks.
    Various ordinances were also passed by the body to regulate the conduct of a
trade fair or other similar activities in the city such as Ordinance No. 049, series of 1994 or the Trade Fair Ordinance of 1994; Ordinance No. 001, series of 1997 which amended certain provisions of Ordinance NO, 049, series of 1994; Ordinance No. 32, series of 2006 that further amended Section 12 of Ordinance No, 049 series of 1994 as amended; Ordinance No. 10 series of 1997 and Ordinance No. 13, series of 2012 that furthermore amending the Trade Fair Ordinance of 1994.
    The council noted that Malcolm Square or People’s Park has been a favorite venue of organizers for the conduct of trade fairs considering that the public place is located at the heart of the city where residents and visitors converge as it is near the city public market and the famous Burnham Park, the city’s premier tourist destination.
    The People’s Park has been earlier declared as the city’s freedom park where gatherings groups may be conducted for the redress of their grievances. 

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Converge enables PH bizmen in Geeks on a Beach confab

By Rizza Ompong

In a show of support to local startups, leading fiber broadband provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. provided free internet connectivity to the Geeks on A Beach (GOAB) conference, which connects emerging entrepreneurs with venture capital investors and technology, design, and innovation leaders.

    Co-organized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the social enterprise #GeeksPH, GOAB returned this year after a five-year hiatus. Over 300 technopreneurs, startups, investors, venture capitalists, and angel sponsors gathered at the Bellevue Resort in the beach town of Panglao, Bohol.
    Converge Co-Founder and CEO Dennis Anthony Uy said Converge has always been supportive of small businesses and has always been inspired to become an enabling force for entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses.
    “Just like many of the GOAB attendees, I was once a startup entrepreneur. My wife Grace and I started Converge with the vision of giving Filipinos access to world-class connectivity — the same kind that you get in progressive countries. From a startup in Pampanga, we challenged the giants and expanded our network nationwide to reach Visayas and Mindanao,” Uy said. “May Geeks on a Beach continues to encourage and support Philippine startups so that more and more Filipinos will benefit from the digital solutions brought about by the creativity and innovation of our young businesses,” he added.
    Leonardo Baniqued, Converge AVP and Head of Innovation and Product Management, expressed the readiness of Converge to work with startups.
    “We have the broadest fiber network in the country and this means that our network is already available. We can now provide budding businesses with productivity solutions that will help them scale up,” he said.
    Converge is going beyond connectivity products with the introduction earlier this year of Converge Workplace, a suite of cloud-based business productivity solutions which are especially curated for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
    During the conference, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy said he is heartened to see that the Philippines has been transformed into a pivotal regional hub for startups and digital innovation.
    “Our vibrant startup ecosystem has been promisingly growing with more than 1,100 startups, 60 incubators and accelerators, 50 venture capitalists, and more than 200 co-working spaces nationwide that enable collaboration,” Uy noted.
Among the topics discussed in the GOAB conference are the evolution of the Philippine startup ecosystem, challenges of startup life, venture capital, trends, legislation and policies, and scaling up talent management. Other recurring themes included artificial intelligence, Web3, and cybersecurity.
    A lightning pitch session also allowed startups under the DICT’s startup program – with projects ranging from an agri-tech platform to a security alert system – to showcase their projects in front of investors and other attendees.
    Also present at GOAB were officials from the DICT and representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology, and the local government of Bohol.
    The GOAB conference capped this year’s celebration of the Philippine Startup Week, a series of events led by the government and organized by the country’s startup community.
 

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Chinese bizmen interested in Cagayan investment hub

By Villamor Visaya, Jr.

TUGUEGARAO CITY – After a two-day tour in Cagayan, a group of Chinese businessmen have expressed interest in investing in the economic and industrial zones of the province.
    Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba told the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday that the Chinese investors led by Vivian Zhang, Chen Yan and Xhen Zhen Cui toured economic areas in the region and the proposed areas for development, including the proposed international airport at the tri-boundaries of Tuao, Piat, and Solana towns from Dec. 19-20.
    Zhang said once they are back in their country, “we will also definitely endorse the province’s economic zones for possible investments.”
    The Chinese traders were briefed about Cagayan’s investment plan by provincial officials.
    The Cagayan International Gateway Project, which includes the long-term development plans of the province such as the Cagayan International Airport, Cagayan Smart City, International Seaport, Heavy Industrial Park and Cagayan Railway were presented to the investors.
    Rolando Calabazaron, Cagayan Provincial and Planning Development Officer, described Tuao as “a strategic location as the center of neighboring provinces such as Apayao and Kalinga.”
    The vast land could potentially be developed at any time for investment, he added.
    Meanwhile, during their visit to the Port of Aparri, the investors were briefed on its history and its proposed reopening.
Aparri town administrator, lawyer Mary Jane Tadili said the "expansive areas" of Aparri West and East will be connected through the current bridge that is being built in the area, while a space for the industrial zone for investors is also ready.
In Enrile, Mayor Miguel Decena Jr. presented the tourism development plan of his town including a view deck with a zipline in the "Tsukulate Hills" and a fishery in Carague Lake.
    Zhang, who owns a silk cloth and courier business and is president of the commerce chamber in Zhejiang, China, said their group has at least 100,000 members.
    Chen's family, on the other hand, owns some 200 coffee and cake shops, aside from a plane and car seat factory. -- PNA
 
 

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Converge president Grace Uy triumphs in Stevie Awards for Women in Business

 Business

Solidifying her reputation as one of the country’s leading women entrepreneurs and tycoons, Converge president and co-founder Grace Y. Uy receives recognition once again in the acclaimed Stevie Awards for Women in Business, winning the Gold Stevie for Woman of the Year - Technology category.
    The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honors women entrepreneurs, executives, employees, and the organizations they run for their impact on and contribution to their respective industries.
    Since Converge was founded in 2007, Uy committed herself together with her husband, Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy, to uplifting the unserved and underserved, pledging to leave no one behind as she works to fulfill the promise of what a digitally-connected nation can do. Her voice has been instrumental in steering the company’s sustainability agenda and ensuring Converge is on solid financial footing to weather market turbulence.
    “In the realm of business, where innovation, resilience, and leadership are celebrated, I am thrilled to celebrate this achievement. This award not only recognizes individual accomplishment but serves as an example of women’s impact in shaping the future of business,” said Uy.
    Grace Uy bested foremost women tech executives from around the world, including those from Uber, Microsoft, and GCash.
    Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners were determined by the average scores of more than 200 business professionals around the world, working on six juries. 
    Embodying her unique traits as a woman in business, Grace ushered a series of triumphs in her pursuit to power a digitally-connected Philippines.
    Co-piloting the business with her husband Dennis, Converge is now the Philippines' fastest-growing fixed broadband provider with a subscriber base of  2.05 million as of Q32023 from approximately 530,000 in 2019.
    Grace spearheaded the company's nationwide expansion through significant inter-island connections in Visayas and Mindanao, from major cities to the most remote communities.
    Currently, Converge boasts the most extensive fiber-to-the-home network in the Philippines and one of the country's most advanced and extensive cable systems, having 7.9 million fiber ports nationwide and a remarkable 680,000 km of fiber assets.
    Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions, Inc. (PSE:CNVRG) is the fastest-growing fixed broadband service provider in the Philippines. It is the first to run an end-to-end pure fiber internet network in the country, providing Filipinos simple, fast, and reliable connectivity. Aside from broadband services, Converge also offers integrated data center and network solutions services.
    With over 680,000 kilometers of fiber optic assets nationwide, it has one of the most extensive fiber networks in the Philippines.
    With this fiber-powered network, Converge provides premium world-class digital experience for residential, enterprise, and wholesale customers.
    Stevie Awards are conferred in eight programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. A ninth program, the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence, will debut in 2024.  Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com.
 

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Council to execs: Explain fire victims’ displacement

 Public market fiasco 

BAGUIO CITY – The City Council recently agreed to invite  city public market superintendent Ceasar M. Emilio and city treasurer Alex Cabarubbias to the next regular meeting of the local legislative body to explain the rules in the market regarding the fire-displaced vendors of Blocks 3 and 4.
    In a resolution, Councilor Maria Mylen Victoria G. Yaranon said it was urgent both be invited to explain prevailing rules in the market which is allegedly now causing a lot of displacement from vendors at Blocks 3 and 4.
    Earlier, the council passed resolution 174, series of 2023 that supported the temporary relocation of fire-displaced vendors at Blocks 3 and 4 of the city public market to allow the fire-displaced victims to continue their established sources of livelihood at a similarly ideal location for vending that is accessible to market goers.
    The councilor said present rules implemented by concerned offices of the local government was causing much confusion to the fire-displaced Blocks 3 and 4 vendors, thus, the need for the concerned city officials to clarify the same before the situation worsens.
    Copies of the resolution will be furnished to the offices of the Baguio public market superintendent and the city treasurer for their information, guidance, ready reference and further needed action, especially clarifying said rules for the appreciation and understanding of concerned stakeholders.
 
 

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80-K tourists visit Baguio during three-day holiday

Business booming 

By Gaby B. Keith

BAGUIO CITY -- An estimated 80,000 local tourists visited this mountain hideaway during the long weekend from Nov. 24-26, the City Tourism Operations Office said.
    City Tourism Officer Aloysius Mapalo said the surge in tourists' arrivals during the long weekend was manifested by the hotel occupancy rate which ranged from 90 to 100 percent.
    It was also during the long weekend that the city government opened the Botanical Garden Christmas Metamorphosis — a prelude to the city's month-long calendar of yuletide events dubbed "An Enchanting Baguio Christmas" — giving the visitors some good idea on what to expect in the Summer Capital the whole December.
    He said a similar trend is expected in all weekends of December, the month being a perennial tourist peak season in the city.
    He said heavy traffic was experienced in major attractions in the city, particularly in the Botanical Garden, Camp John Hay, Baguio Country Club Christmas Village, Wright Park, Igorot Stone Kingdom and Mirador Eco-park.
    As of October, the City Tourism Office has recorded 787,572 tourist arrivals.
    The city's tourist data are 1,042,309 in 2022; 247,480 in 2021; 1,536,458 in 2019; 1,760,729 in 2018; 1,521,748 in 2017; and 1,294,906 in 2016.
    The tourist data could be higher as they only include visitors who stayed in the registered accommodation establishments (AEs) that submitted their occupancy reports.
    The figures do not include the day tourists who did not stay in AEs and those who made use of AEs but were unreported.
 

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Union Bank sets digital solutions for businesses

By Mariel De Los Santos

Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) embarked on a digital transformation journey in 2016, long before the Covid-19 pandemic underscored the importance of digital readiness.
    This forward-thinking approach has enabled UnionBank to position itself as a digital trailblazer in the financial sector, allowing them to scale their operations efficiently and stay ahead of the curve.
    One of the most striking aspects of UnionBank's digital transformation is the overhaul of their customer touchpoints.
    The bank has gone the extra mile to provide a seamless and enhanced experience for its customers: from transforming physical branches into today’s ‘Arks’ — advanced, digitally-integrated spaces catering to customers’ various needs — to developing user-friendly, online banking applications which allow them to conveniently access their accounts and manage their finances within the comforts of their homes, and even the creation of a specialized platform which addresses the unique needs of corporate clients.
    UnionBank’s tailored approach is an excellent demonstration of the bank’s commitment to meeting the diverse requirements of its customer base, as it embraces the advantages of the digital age.
UnionBank's core strength lies in transaction banking, with 51% of their deposits originating from corporate clients, surpassing the industry benchmark of 45%.
    The adept manner in which they handle their transaction banking processes has led to quicker and more secure financial transactions, and has earned the trust of their corporate clients in the process.
    Unionbank recognizes the evolving business landscape and is committed to helping other enterprises succeed in the digital age by ushering in a new era of innovative transaction banking solutions. Unionbank aims to empower businesses — to be built for beyond.
PayExpress
A first of its kind, PayExpress, is an electronic supplier payment solution with automated Check Disbursements and Creditable Withholding Tax (CWT) Generation. Unionbank understands the significance of streamlining supplier payments and enhancing efficiency — and PayExpress does just that. It allows clients to conveniently manage transactions by collecting Official Receipts (ORs) from suppliers and vendors prior to disbursing or crediting payments.
    What sets PayExpress apart is its immediate generation of Creditable Withholding Tax (CWT) and Invoice Vouchers, sent directly to nominated email addresses of suppliers and vendors, once the ORs are collected and funds are credited to payees.
    PayExpress complements the Bureau of Internal Revenue's (BIR) forward-looking strategy to adopt an e-Invoicing and e-Receipt System. The initiative is a significant step in the modernization of the country's tax documentation processes. By providing a secure and efficient platform for collecting Official Receipts (ORs) and generating essential documents like Creditable Withholding Tax (CWT) and Invoice Vouchers, PayExpress helps businesses seamlessly adapt to these evolving tax regulations. This alignment not only simplifies tax compliance but also contributes to the overall transparency and efficiency of financial operations.
Payroll Digital Account Opening (eDAO)
Say goodbye to in-person bank visits when setting up payroll accounts with UnionBank’s Payroll Digital Account Opening (eDAO). eDAO is a solution which provides efficient, paperless, and fully-digital end-to-end ePaycard payroll and corporate disbursement solution for corporate clients to their employees. Corporations can now efficiently distribute salaries, while offering an array of value-added benefits to their employees allowing them to open an account at the convenience in their own home.
    Moreover, eDAO also complements the upcoming Bank Account Portability For Workers Act (Hb7619), granting private sector employees the prerogative to select and change their preferred bank accounts, thereby liberating them from the constraints of a one-size-fits-all banking system.
    In essence, eDAO not only simplifies the account setup process for corporations; it also positions UnionBank as a forward-thinking institution aligned with legislative changes aimed at enhancing the financial flexibility and convenience of employees.
Remote Check Deposit
Remote Check Deposit (RCD) redefines the way checks are deposited. With RCD, corporate clients can effortlessly use a check scanner to deposit a hundred checks at a time online, eliminating the need for branch visits. All they need to do is upload the images along with the check details on The Portal, and UnionBank will take care of the rest — from validating the submitted images and details to depositing the approved checks. RCD supports deposits of both current-dated and post-dated checks, with a cap of PhP20,000,000. Clients can conveniently track their status online, from warehousing to clearance and return. RCD also provides a clear display of cleared and bounced checks, making it a cutting-edge innovation in check payments, perfectly complementing the bank’s mobile check deposit service
Mobile Check Deposit
The implementation of the Check Image Clearing System, adopted by the Philippine Clearing House Corporation (PCHC) in 2017, marked a significant advancement in the modernization of banking processes. This innovation eliminated the need for physically transporting checks for clearing, as only check images and their electronic payment information were required to be transmitted to the paying bank. In tandem with advancements in mobile technology, UnionBank introduced its award-winning Mobile Check Deposit (MCD) in 2020, effectively reshaping the operational landscape for business clients. MCD capitalizes on the prevalence of the most commonly used gadget – a smartphone — by allowing corporate clients to conveniently deposit checks at their preferred time and place, thereby overcoming the limitations of having to visit traditional physical counters and embracing the convenience of a digital interface.
The PORTAL
All these cutting-edge transaction banking solutions are all conveniently accessible through a single platform known as "The Portal”. This one stop shop corporate banking facility offers corporate clients seamless access to UnionBank's extensive array of products and services, making it the go-to-choice for large corporate entities seeking a convenient, secure, and efficient solution for their day-to-day financial transactions.
    The future of banking is here, and UnionBank remains dedicated to elevate businesses’ transaction banking experience through its continuous pursuit of innovative solutions.
 
 
 
 

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BPI holds digital, money gab for RDC, bizmen, mall-goers

By Eugene S. Caccam

BAGUIO CITY -- The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas North Luzon Regional Office (BSP-NLRO) conducted an information drive on financial literacy and digital financial transactions during the National Statistics Month closing program recently here at Maharlika Livelihood Center. 
    Participants during the said event were members of the Regional Statistics Committee of the Cordillera Regional Development Council, representatives from regional line agencies, merchants, storekeepers and mall-goers.
    In his opening message, BSP-NLRO Director Noel Malimban cited importance and benefits of digital financial transactions, particularly in fostering financial inclusion. 
    He said with more people using mobile phones, even workers from the informal sector can now easily transact within the formal financial system conveniently and securely.
    Promoting financial inclusion is a priority of the region, as enshrined in the Regional Development Plan 2023-2028, as it provides an equal playing field for all members of society to have access to all available products in any form of financial transaction, whether public or private.  This would translate to consumer protection with the public enabled to have informed choices and options for financial services they prefer best.
    Dennis Gundran, also of the BSP-NLRO, provided an overview of the current state of digital payments in the country.  He shared that there is a big increase in the share of digital payment transactions from 1.09% in 2013 to 42.1% in 2022. 
He said majority of digital accounts or 79%, which include bank accounts and e-wallet accounts, are used for payments rather than savings.
    He also presented tips for securing online financial transactions. 
    These include using strong passwords, utilizing two-step verification processes, and regularly reviewing transaction history. 
    He also advised everyone to log out from their accounts after using digital financial services, even from their gadgets.
    Gundran then presented the Paleng-QR PH program and the National Retail Payment System, which are geared towards mainstreaming digital financial transactions and payments. 
    The Paleng-QR PH is seen as a means to improve access to better financial services, as well as to open new income opportunities, like for small storeowners, and job generation. 
    The NRPS, on the other hand, works around interoperable digital payment facilities such as the PesoNet, InstaPay, EGov Pay, QR Ph, and Bills Pay Ph.
    Also during the program, the BSP conducted the “Piso Caravan”, wherein old, dilapidated, mutilated, and severely damaged banknotes were changed with new ones.  These “unfit” bills are changed with fresh ones to ensure that only legal banknotes are used to purchase goods and services.  This is also because several merchants and business establishments do not accept these “unfit” bills.  To encourage more trades, the BSP gave out prizes to lucky clients.
    The NSM is annually celebrated every October to foster a better appreciation of statistics, which is connected to important aspects of everyone’s life.  The annual commemoration is led by the RSC CAR headed by NEDA Regional Director Susan Sumbeling as chairperson and PSA Regional Director Villafe Alibuyog as Vice-Chairperson.
 

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Pangasinan bizmen eye higher income at Christmas bazaar

By Hilda Austria 

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – About 60 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) offering various items and food products to residents and tourists, are eyeing higher incomes with the opening of the Christmas bazaar at the Provincial Capitol beach park here Friday.
    Among them was Janice Bernardino who said her income doubles during the duration of the bazaar, organized annually by the local government.
    "Two years na akong nakiki-join sa bazaar at maganda kita. Mabenta yong laruan ng mga bata na pailaw (I’ve been joining the bazaar for two years now and it is profitable. The children's toys with lights are the best sellers)," she said in an interview.
On regular days, Bernardino sells children's toys along Lingayen Beach.
    Sally Dapuyen, a food stall vendor, said the Vigan empanada, although not a product of Pangasinan, is their top seller.
    "Since 2012 pa ako dito nakikisali at maganda kitaan kasi maraming tao (I've been joining the bazaar since 2012 and the income is good because there are a lot of people)," she said.
    On the other hand, the bazaar not only provides the public with a venue to buy various items and food products in one place but also a place for entertainment and family bonding.
    Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office head Maria Luisa Elduayan said the bazaar is also a venue for guests to enjoy themselves or bond with family and friends.
    "Ang Pasko ay isang pinakamahabang selebrasyon sa ating bansa at gusto natin ma-enjoy ito ng ating mga kababayan habang nagbibigay naman ng kabuhayan sa ating mga kababayan (Christmas is a long celebration in our country and we want the people to enjoy it while giving livelihood to our province mates)," Elduayan said in a separate interview.
    She said the Christmas bazaar is open from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily, enabling visitors to enjoy the sunset, sea breeze, and carnival rides until Jan. 15 next year.
    Elduayan added that there would be other offerings, such as the Christmas Village, which will open to the public for free starting Dec. 1, and concerts featuring local bands and performers.
    To ensure public safety and well-being, she said, an incident command post manned by personnel of the Philippine National Police, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and Provincial Health Office, among others, is stationed in the area. -- PNA
 

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SM City Baguio, SLU ink MOA

By Josie Lyn Galario

BAGUIO CITY -- Saint Louis University renewed its MOA partnership Nov. 14 with SM City Baguio, securing another outstanding opportunity for growth and development.
    With this, both institutions can continue to work together to achieve greater success.
    The agreement aims to help students learn and participate in the company’s apprentice programs and learning sessions to strengthen their knowledge, skills, and attitude in preparation for their future careers and assist them in future job placements.
    Present during the event were SLU officials headed by Andrew Macalma, University Registrar; Dr. Mary Grace Carrido, director of Office of Global Relations and Alumni Affairs; Dr. Joselito Guiterrez, executive assistant to the president.
    SM executives during the event included SM SAVP North Operations Marc Janssen Pe and regional HR head Irene Peralta including SM regional operations manager-North 1 Rona Vida Correa.
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

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