The 2020 Spring Quarterly Issue

I N S I D E : H O W KO B E B RYA N T I N S P I R E D A G LO B A L C O M M U N I T Y O F F I L I P I N O S O N A N D O F F T H E C O U R T

PHILIPPINES

N O. 66 I VOLUME 11 FEBRUARY I MARCH I APRIL 2020 SPRING QUARTERLY ISSUE

The Return! 8 Great Travel Rediscoveries in the Philippines for 2020

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE I KEEPING A JOURNAL

The Return

On Facebook, one of my friends made a post saying that the coronavirus is not serious and that the way it is being covered in the media and the general public is “annoying.” Being born and raised in the Philippines and later migrating to America, you really become thick skinned and after awhile, it can only take truly significant, profound stupidity to make my blood boil—which this certain Facebook post did (We’re still friends, it’s important to respect other people’s opinions).

However, I disagree. The coronavirus is very serious. More than 1 person has died and that is 1 too many. And the impact that the coronavirus has, had, and will have on the economy is serious. Did you know that with every 1% increase in unemployment, 40,000 people die? I’d say that’s quite serious. To say the least, these are volatile times—2020 is off to a rather alarming start.

Because of the influence and importance of the Asia market on the global economy, the economic impact on the livelihood of all people living on Earth (everyone)—the billions of people around the World is tremendous.

If people won’t travel, people won’t make money. If businesses can’t sell their products, they can’t operate, so people can’t get paid and will die. These are facts.

So what does this all mean specifically for the Philippines? It is not news that China is now heavily invested in the Philippines. Of course with anything, there are positive and negative effects because of Chinese influence on our country’s economy. China has certainly helped ignite and fuel economic growth the past year which in turn has created thousands if not millions of jobs in the Philippines. If hotels are fully booked, condos are

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being sold, and restaurants and shops have customers, then the economy thrives— is booming. Yet, because of unforeseen circumstances such as the coronavirus, our country cannot be so heavily reliant on China. Businesses cannot be so reliant on the Asia market. As a business, you have to participate in the global economy—it is vital. In today’s business landscape of competition, being global is as necessary as having a well-designed website. Which is why, we have been working hard to create an offline an online business ecosystem to help your business thrive—from our business expo, The International Travel, Trade, & Consumer Expo in Los Angeles, California which helps Philippine products scale into the US market. Our community newspapers informing the over 4 million Filipinos living and working in America about what’s going on back home to our digital platforms like BalikbayanDeals.com which helps businesses compete and standout from competition to provide Balikbayans with special travel perks.

That is why it’s critical for the public and private sector to return their focus to you—the Balikbayan. We need you to return because our country needs you now more than ever. And you can surely count on us to work hard to make sure you’re efforts to helping your country is known and respected. The Philippines is your country. It doesn’t belong to everyone—not China, not America, not any other country or ethnicity. Yes all are welcome and we must be welcoming to all people to enjoy the fruits of our beautiful country, but let it be know that the Philippines belongs to us—Filipinos. So take it upon yourself to support the country however which way you can. Did you know that there are special laws protecting Filipino rights in the Philippines? Foreigners cannot own land in the country and real estate developers can only sell a certain percentage of their condo units to foreigners. The majority has to be sold to Filipinos.

Don’t be afraid to travel. And certainly do not be afraid to invest in the Philippines.

That is why in this issue we have 8 glorious destinations for you to consider rediscovering in the Philippines.

Roger L. Oriel Publisher & CEO Asian Journal Media Group

Pinoy ang census. ‘Pag kasali tayong lahat, mas malakas at tumpak ang 2020 Census.

Importante ang pagka-Pinoy ko sa 2020 Census.

Kada sampung taon, ang gawain ng census ay bilangin lahat ng naninirahan sa Amerika. Ang mga numerong ito ay napupunta sa paglalaan ng daan-daang bilyong dolyar kada taon para sa pondong pampubliko para sa mga schools, health clinic at roads.

Pwede akong sumagot sa Tagalog. Importanteng ‘di lang ako ang sasagot, kaya makilahok tayong lahat!

Mas malakas tayo kapag nagkakaisa!

Parating na ang 2020 Census.

Pag-aralan pa sa

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Your land. Your home. Your country.

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Build Your Home Back Home Own land or a condo back home in the Philippines? Whether you’re looking to build your family home, sell your property or interested in exploring a joint venture development project, partner with us and discover ways you can help build the future of the Philippines.

Agricultural I R esidential I Commercial I I ndustrial PremierAsiaPacific.com I Info@PremierAsiaPacific.com (PH) +63-905-453-7004 I (USA) +1-213-596-5970 ISSUE 66 I BalikbayanMagazine.com I The 2020 Spring Quarterly— 015

Plan your visit today to breathtaking Montemaria, Batangas City, The Philippines

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For more information, visit Montemaria.com.ph today.

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Features I Leaders

How Kobe Bryant Inspired a Global Community of Filipinos, On and Off the Court Filipino-Americans recall the Black Mamba and what made him a standout superstar, philanthropist, and ally.

— writer Klarize Mendenilla

— The 2020 Spring Quarterly I BalikbayanMagazine.com I ISSUE 66 018 Fan's mourn Kobe Bryant's death at a vigil at Staples Center on January 26th, 2020. I Photo by Fred Kearney I Unsplash @fredasem

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Features I Leaders

Hundreds of fans flocked to Staples Center, home to the Los Angeles Lakers, on Sunday afternoon to pay tribute to Bryant. I Photo by Victor Sy, Asian Journal

The air in Los Angeles was still on Sunday, January 26, 2020.

TMZ first broke the news of Kobe Bryant being killed in a helicopter crash near Calabasas, California, and nobody wanted to believe it. When more details were released and it was confirmed eight other passengers had died including Bryant’s 13-year-old daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant, the world seemed to stop.

Sunday brought forth worldwide shock and confusion. Los Angeles was a city in disbelief: distraught fans flocked to the Staples Center to cope, many hoisted up Lakers flags on their cars, and crying together on the street were strangers finding meaning in what just happened.

Slowly, the realization is settling in for fans everywhere that the 41-year-old beloved NBA MVP, lifetime Los Angeles Laker, and dedicated philanthropist had tragically passed away.

A collective sadness washed over the entire Southland and the global community of Bryant fans, leaving a deep, emotional wound that will surely take a long while to heal.

“His passing is a lot for everyone, and he was a part of all our families,” Braff who spent a lot of time in close proximity to the team during Bryant’s heyday. “We watched him grow, we felt his pain and we lived it along with him. I don’t think other parts of the country understand this grieving we have for Kobe. He wasn’t just this basketball player to us.”

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For Los Angeles, the 20-year lifelong Laker was even more than a luminary who broke records and directly inspired young athletes; he was a part of our families.

“The Lakers were everything to him, and LA was everything to him. He really loved LA and his name will always, always be synonymous to the Lakers and to LA,” said Filipina-American media personality Jen Braff in a phone interview with the Asian Journal. She was the nanny and personal assistant to the celebrated late owner of the Lakers Jerry Buss for 25 years.

“His passing is a lot for everyone, and he was a part of all our families,” Braff who spent a lot of time in close proximity to the team during Bryant’s heyday.

“We watched him grow, we felt his pain and we lived it along with him. I don’t think other parts of the country understand this grieving we have for Kobe. He wasn’t just this basketball player to us.”

Braff added, “He was someone who was in our home. That’s why people are grieving so deeply because he was really a part of our tradition and our culture.

He was family.”

TRIBUTE TO BLACK MAMBA. Tenement visual artists at Tenement in Taguig City painted a mural of former NBA legend Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna at the center court of the housing unit, as a tribute to their legacy before father and daughter’s untimely death.

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Features I Leaders

Fans leave flowers, candles and signs in honor of Bryant at the Staples Center, where he played for many years with the Lakers.

She first met Bryant when he was a 17-year-old rookie who wasn’t even playing on the team yet. From that moment she knew he was different. Throughout his career she had a pedestrian view of Bryant’s famous Mamba Mentality, seeing him hone his craft with laser-focus, play through injuries and remain steadfast and committed to winning championships.

“Growth isn’t even a big enough word.

He just soared,” Braff shared. “He had that kind of presence that you could feel, even as a teenager. When he walked into the room, you could feel it. And to watch him mature and seeing his talent just blossom right in front of your eyes.”

Basketball is the most popular sport in the Philippines, stemming from a deeply-ingrained adoration borne from the days of Kareem AbdulJabbar, Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan. But no other athlete has made a greater impact than Kobe Bryant.

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A beacon of hope for Filipinos Basketball is the most popular sport in the Philippines, stemming from a deeply -ingrained adoration borne from the days of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan. But no other athlete has made a greater impact than Kobe Bryant.

To much of the international community, Bryant was more than just a fixture on highlight reels, especially among Filipinos. Throughout his 20-year career as a lifelong Laker, he inspired generations of Filipinos through his record-breaking athletic prowess: the countless buzzer -beaters, the 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors the superhuman endurance that allowed him to play through injuries and illnesses.

“I think Kobe represented what we like best about ourselves as Filipinos,” LA-based entrepreneur Celeste Perez told the Asian Journal. “He worked hard and you could see it, which is a trait many of us value, especially [for immigrants]. What made him different for us Filipinos in LA was that he was accessible. Our kids could go and meet him, play in his basketball camps, be inspired and see him play up close and in person week after week.”

In a heart-rendering Facebook post, Perez also recalled a time when she and her family had run into Bryant at the Universal City Walk in 1996. The then16-year-old had just been signed to the Lakers and was hanging out by himself, going unrecognized in a crowd for possibly the last time in his life.

Perez wrote that when they approached him and asked if he was Kobe Bryant, “I clearly remember his face lighting up when she asked if he was Kobe Bryant. He motioned for all of us to come over, and so we all did.”

The family had run out of film for a photo and didn’t have any paper or pens to ask for an autograph, but Perez remembers Bryant greeting “our entire family warmly, answering all of our questions.”

According to Perez, after he had declined an offer to have dinner with the family, Bryant “tracked” the family down at Bubba Gump’s and gave the family postcards with his signature. He stayed with Perez’s family who “promised we’d watch every one of his games as a Laker.”

A memorial is set up by a basketball court in Calabasas, California on Sunday, January 26, hours after news reports said Kobe Bryant, along with his daughter Gianna and seven others, perished in a helicopter crash in this city 30 miles outside of Downtown LA. Photo by Rae Ann Varona, Asian Journal

“Kobe inspired so many of us, in my family and in this town. From him we learned to never be afraid to be the best, to demand excellence from yourself and those around you, and to commit yourself to your craft, your family, whatever it is you choose to create,” Perez wrote.

It seemed that Bryant transcended the traditional bounds of athletic stardom and became the champion for hard work, humility, and community for Filipinos everywhere.

Brian Valdez, who lives in the San Gabriel Valley, has been a diehard Lakers fan for more than 20 years, taking his wife and kids to meet players, including the Black Mamba himself.

Valdez is a proud collector of Lakers memorabilia and, like so many Filipino who became fans in the Magic Johnson/Kareem Abdul-Jabbar era, said that Bryant solidified his love for the Lakers.

Brian Valdez, also known as @thelakercollector on Instagram, shared a throwback photo of him and Bryant and memories of the times he met the late basketball icon.

“I never really felt that I looked up to him in the beginning. He was younger and in typical Asian fashion you don’t

An unidentified woman in Calabasas, California on Sunday, January 26 holds up an April 2016 issue of the Los Angeles Times marking Kobe Bryant’s retirement.

Photo by Rae Ann Varona, Asian Journal

really look up to people who are younger, but that quickly changed as the years of following him went by,” Valdez shared with the Asian Journal.

“I noticed a young man perfecting his craft, dedicating his life to his craft and although no one is perfect this guy came close to it on the court. I learned to be passionate and give it my all in everything I do, no half-ass actions. Either you do it 150% or you don’t do it at all,” Valdez added, remarking that, to him, Bryant was an “icon who went through life chasing perfection while living in an imperfect world.”

As a player during the offseason, Bryant began embarking on a yearly Asia tour where he would host speaking events and host basketball workshops in which he would teach young aspiring ballers the fundamentals of the game.

The Philippines, a country in which basketball is embedded in the national identity, fell in love with Bryant in a big way. Bryant first visited the Philippines in 1998, but when he first began his Asia tour in the 2000s, he made it a point to revisit the country several times, which he had so warmly welcomed him and canonized him as a national hero.

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Features I Leaders

Fan's mourn Kobe Bryant's death at a vigil at Staples Center on January 26th, 2020. I Photo by Fred Kearney I Unsplash @fredasem 024 — The 2020 Spring Quarterly I BalikbayanMagazine.com I ISSUE 66

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Features I Leaders Filipina-American handbag designer Gina Alexander (2nd from left) and her family pose with Kobe Bryant (center) during a philanthropy event in Los Angeles.

Photo courtesy of Gina Alexander

Brian Valdez, known as @thelakercollector on Instagram, shared a throwback photo of him and Bryant and memories of the times he met the late basketball icon.

The news of Bryant’s passing cast a shadow over the Philippines. In the 24 hours after his passing artists, fans and other residents came together to paint an on-court mural of the NBA legend and his daughter in The Tenement residential complex in Taguig.

On the day of Bryant’s passing, Valenzuela City in Metro Manila had inaugurated the “House of Kobe” a community center with a basketball court adorned with murals and photographs of the Laker.“I can’t understand it. Just 12 hours’ gap from ribbon cutting and hearing the news,” said Congressman Eric Martinez of Valenzuela City who was behind the construction of the House of Kobe. “Everyone has been fighting back tears today.”

Actress and singer Jules Aurora met Bryant when she sang the national anthem at a U.S. Women’s Soccer game last summer. On Instagram, she shared a video of her greeting Bryant on the field and reminisced on the impact Bryant had on the world “My heart is still so heavy just thinking about the families that lost their loved ones yesterday,” Aurora wrote.

“Tragedies like this remind us that tomorrow is never promised and to make the most of the precious time we have in this life. It is truly mind-blowing to see the powerful impact #Kobe has made on so many people…through his career, his mindset, his dedication to his family, and the messages he spreads.”

Fan's mourn Kobe Bryant's death at a vigil at Staples Center on January 26th, 2020.

Photo by Fred Kearney I Unsplash @fredasem

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Giving back Perhaps one of the most prolific things about Kobe Bryant was his dedication to sharing his knowledge. As he grew into a team leader and began mentoring younger guys on his team, he became a teacher, a sensei on the paint.

That manifested itself into youth basketball camps, speaking events, and workshops teaching the fundamentals.

On the day of his death, he was en route to his Mamba Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks, California, a large facility for athletes of all ages and genders to hone their athletic performance through physical and mental training.

But as a philanthropist, Bryant also found it important to teach aspiring athletes who come from disenfranchised communities, including the Filipinos.

Filipina-American handbag designer and philanthropist Gina Alexander developed a close working relationship with Bryant and his wife Vanessa through the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation (KVBFF).

Bryant’s team had reached out to Alexander after seeing her designs in People Magazine and asked her to create bags for his eldest daughter, Natalia. A philanthropist herself who works with underserved kids in the Philippines, Alexander asked Bryant if she could bring some kids to his basketball academy.

Fan's mourn Kobe Bryant's death at a vigil at Staples Center on January 26th, 2020.

Photo by Fred Kearney I Unsplash @fredasem

On the day of Bryant’s passing, Valenzuela City in Metro Manila had inaugurated the “House of Kobe” a community center with a basketball court adorned with murals and photographs of the Laker.“I can’t understand it. Just 12 hours’ gap from ribbon cutting and hearing the news,” said Congressman Eric Martinez of Valenzuela City who was behind the construction of the House of Kobe. “Everyone has been fighting back tears today.”

Fans leave memorabilia at the Kobe Bryant Memorial in front of the Staples Center.

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Features I Leaders

Fans leave memorabilia at the Kobe Bryant Memorial in front of the Staples Center.

Photo by Connor Jalbert I Unsplash @connor_jalbert

Bryant told Alexander that that was something he had been planning to do, and Alexander was able to bring a group of lucky youngsters to meet and train with the Black Mamba himself.

“You have this global icon whom so many people try to get near, and here he is treating all these kids like his own,” Alexander shared with the Asian Journal. “It really showed me a lot about his character and just know how much he loves kids and giving what he can to kids.”

There was one moment in particular during the camp when a 9-year-old Filipino boy named Vincent, who had never been out of the Philippines, began crying hysterically. Unsure of what to do, the other kids and staff tried consoling the young boy.

“It was like serendipity; Kobe and Vanessa walk in and they tell Vincent, ‘It’s going to be okay. You’re family to us now. We love you. I know you miss your mom but just know you have family now here,’” Alexander recounted.

And this kind of solidarity for athletes — of all skill levels, ages, and genders — was the foundation of Bryant’s postretirement second act, imparting pearls of wisdom to future basketball players as well as female athletes, not the least of which include his very own daughter, Gianna.

After retiring in 2016, Bryant began coaching the MAMBAs, Gianna’s

Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) team of middle schoolers, a move that confused a lot of fans, remarked Filipina-American policy expert and lifelong Lakers fan Stephanie Uy, who considered Bryant’s devotion to women’s professional sports as one of his most admirable traits.

“People maybe thought he should do something that they considered greater, like why wouldn’t he put his helm to use for some greater caliber of sport?”

Uy said. “But I think by focusing on his daughter’s team and middle school women’s basketball, he was saying, ‘Hey, women’s sports matters, too. They deserve equity and respect and visibility.’”

In the last few years of his life, Bryant uplifted the world of women’s sports, whether it was taking his family to see the U.S. Women’s Soccer team win the World Cup in 2019, regularly attending WNBA games, mentoring female college basketball players and celebrating women dominating the world of professional sports like tennis players Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams.

“He put the WNBA on the map more than any other professional athlete,” Uy shared. “He shone a spotlight on women’s sports, and I think it was because he was a father of four daughters. He saw the potential in Gigi and wanted her to know that she could join the WNBA and play college ball, that this was a career path that women can successfully pursue.”

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@KobeMural I KobeMural.com Instagram fan page dedicated to promoting artists along with organizing and tracking Kobe Bryant mural locations around the World.

Fan's mourn Kobe Bryant's death at a vigil at Staples Center on January 26th, 2020. I Photo by Fred Kearney I Unsplash @fredasem

A mural in Inglewood, California of Kobe Bryant and daughter Gigi Bryant I Photo by Janine Robinson I Unsplash @janinekroby

Photo by Connor Jalbert Unsplash @connor_jalbert

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Features I Leaders

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The 2020 Spring Quarterly I The Balikbayan Global Briefing on Global Affairs

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The Global Briefing Trade Chief Ramon M. Lopez speaking at the Philippine National Halal Conference last July 2019.

Department of Trade and Industry Chief Sees Halal as a Good Business Venture for 2020

For those looking for businesses ideas in 2020, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez suggested venturing into the Halal market. Secretary Lopez is also the Chair of the Halal Export Development and Promotion Board, a policy-making body composed of public and private sector representatives.

“There is big potential in Halal in the sense that there are many tourists that skip visiting the Philippines because there are only a few places where they can eat,” Sec. Lopez said. He also cited the recently-concluded Southeast Asian Games to illustrate the potential market among ASEAN neighbors.

The secretary said that entrepreneurs should start with a change in mindset and see Halal as a lifestyle that can be enjoyed by everyone. To note, the Philippines has barely scratched the surface of the US$ 3.3 trillion global Halal market.

“DTI is promoting this because Halal certified food products connote positive attributes such as being clean, healthy,

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and pure. We encourage more companies to apply for Halal certification because it opens more markets, so more consumers can buy their products. Some local companies are already starting by certifying their canned tuna and corned beef products,” he added.

He sees Singapore as a good model for domestic promotion. Like the Philippines, only 10% of the Singaporean population are Muslims, but there are many groceries selling Halal products.

There are nine Halal-certifying bodies in the Philippines, namely the Islamic Da’wah Council of the Philippines, Halal Development Institute of the Philippines, Mindanao Halal Authority, Muslim Mindanao Halal Certification Board, Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industries in the Philippines, Mindanao Halal Authority, Islamic Advocate on Halal and Development, Philippine Ulama Congress Organization, Alliance for Halal Integrity in the Philippines Inc., and Prime Aisa Pacific.

But Sec. Lopez is pushing for more certifying bodies to accommodate more applicants.

Halal is an Arabic word that means lawful or permitted and refers to products that can be consumed by Muslims.

Food, cosmetics and personal care items, as well as hotels and restaurants are some products and services that can be Halalcertified.

Interested entrepreneurs can get in touch with the Department of Trade & IndustryExport Marketing Bureau’s Halal Section for assistance on Halal-certification.

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The Global Briefing

More Opportunities for Philippine Exports in 2020 Philippine exporters are seen to gain more opportunities in 2020 on the back of strong support and commitment from both the government and the private sectors. This as the latest Philippine exports of goods and services grew by 5.1% yearon-year (YOY) to USD25.0B in the 3rd quarter of 2019 based on the Balance of Payment Manual 6 (BPM6) data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The Q3 export growth performance was bolstered by an 8.6% YOY increase in services exports, with a value of USD11.1B for the quarter. It was also backed by the 2.4% YOY increase in the goods exports valued at USD13.9B.

Goods and services’ exports climbed 3.7% to USD70.4B spanning from January to September 2019. Services exports rose by 7.7% YTD to USD30.6B driven by a double-digit increase in exports of travel services due to bigger international tourist arrivals. Aside from travel services, Information Technology and Business Process Management (ITBPM) also contributed to the services exports’ good showing.

On the other hand, exports of electronics products, bananas, and forestry and mineral products contributed to the moderate increase in the exports of goods.

“We follow the targets of the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) with strong support and commitment across major industries. We remain positive on the opportunities for 2020 as we in the Trade Promotions Group of the

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DTI continue to pursue the strategies for export growth. Currently, we have electronics, food and beverages, ITBPM and business services, creative industries, lifestyle & wearables, and Halal as among the priority sectors for export promotion driven by global demand,” said Undersecretary for TPG Abdulgani M. Macatoman.

Macatoman pointed out that under the PEDP 2018-2022, the overall objective is to reach between USD122BUSD130.8B by 2022. To achieve this, the DTI is pushing for the improvement of the overall climate for export development and ease of doing business. Likewise, the availment of preferential trade agreements poses as a significant element for the competitiveness of Philippine exports.

“As part of the comprehensive package of support for Philippine exporters, we have initiatives to elevate the capacity of exporters across priority sectors and in parallel, we have identified priority markets for export promotion both for inbound and outbound opportunities,” said Macatoman.

Among the priority export destinations that the TPG is set to visit this year for the outbound business matching missions (OBMMs), through the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC), and various collaborators from other DTI units and the private sector include both the traditional and non-traditional markets: Europe, Canada, and East Asia for the promotion of Creative Services; Europe and East Asia for the promotion of Green Business; Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Turkey, Egypt , China, and Iran for Halal Products and Services; ASEAN, East Asia, and Europe for the Lifestyle Sector; East Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, USA, and the Middle East for the Food Sector; and Russia, Mexico and Africa for Fast Moving Goods.

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The Global Briefing

US Hospitals Aim to Hire More Filipino Nurses for Shortage of 11 Million Nurses There is currently a shortage of 11 million nurses in the United States, an immigration company said on January 21, 2020.

U.S. employers are going overseas, including the Philippines, to hire qualified nurses, according to Frony Fortich, chief operating officer of Fortich Permanent Immigration Services based in Quezon City.

“Nurses are a critical part of healthcare and make up the largest section of the health profession,” said Fortich in a release. His company has been recruiting nurses for employment in U.S. hospitals for several decades.

Citing a World Health Statistics Report, there are approximately 29 million nurses and midwives in the world, 3.9 million of which are currently in the United States.

“Estimates of upwards of 1 million additional nurses will be needed by 2020,” Fortich noted.

He also said that there will be more registered nurse jobs available through 2022 than any other profession in the U.S., as stated by the American Nurses Association.

Furthermore, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected 11 million additional nurses are needed to avoid a further shortage.

“Employment opportunities for nurses are projected to grow at a faster rate (15 percent) than all other occupations from 2016 through 2026,” Fortich said.

He pointed out that lack of potential educators, high turnover, and inequitable

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distribution of the workforce are some of the reasons why the nursing profession continues to face shortages.

Fortich also commended the Filipino nurses who have stepped in and helped the shortage of nurses in the U.S. hospitals.

“Certainly, Filipino nurses, many of whom are already working in the U.S., help alleviate the shortage,” he said.

According to him, he has vacancies for 1,000 nurses to work in the U.S. for 2020.

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The Global Briefing

Overseas Filipinos Urged to Register for the 2022 Philippine National Elections The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, through its foreign service posts, is beginning to remind all Filipino citizens overseas to register now as overseas voters for the 2022 Philippine National Elections.

What you need to register 01 An accomplished and signed application form (check the website of your local Philippine Embassy or Consulate General); 02 A valid Philippine Passport; 03 If you don’t have a valid passport, submit your NSO birth certificate and a valid Green Card (original and photocopy for both);

04 If you are a Seafarer: a photocopy of your Seaman’s Book or any other document that will prove that you are a seafarer should also be submitted in addition to “1” and “2” above; and, 05 If you are a Dual Citizen: please submit your Dual Citizenship certificate (original and photocopy) in addition to “1” and “2” above.

The registration period will end on 30 September 2021.

Personal appearance is required, since the registrant will need to provide biometrics.

Frequently asked questions 01 I already registered as an overseas voter years ago. Do I need to register again?

That depends if you voted! If you have voted in the 2016 and/or 2019 National Elections, then you are still registered.

However, if you failed to vote in two consecutive elections (2016 and 2019 elections), then COMELEC would have deactivated your registration record.

The list is alphabetical by surname, so scroll down to search for your last name If your name appears in the list, then you will need to apply for reactivation at the Consulate. Please bring the same documents stated above.

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02 Do I need to register to vote?

Yes! Filipino citizens need to register in order to vote. This is to protect the integrity of the election process. If you are not registered, then you must register within the registration period in order to receive a ballot.

03 If I fail to register during the registration period, can’t I just take someone else’s ballot?

No, because that will deprive that person of their opportunity to vote.

There is only one (1) ballot allocated for every registered voter’s name.

04 When is the next election?

The next election is on May 9, 2022.

05 What positions will be on the 2019 election ballot?

In the 2022 National Election, registered voters will be able to vote for President, Vice President, Senators and Party List Representatives.

06 I’m still confused! Who can I ask?

You can contact your local Philippine Embassy or Consulate General.

If sending an email, please don’t forget to include your full name, mobile number, and email address. Include as many details as possible regarding your question.

REUNIONS

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The Global Briefing

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is swarmed by supporters upon his arrival at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Central Office in Quezon City to attend the agency's 69th founding anniversary on January 29, 2020. Presidential Photo by Ace Morandante.

Social Weather Stations President Duterte Satisfaction Rating Reaches New Record High Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte received a record-high satisfaction rating in the fourth quarter of last year, according to a new Social Weather Stations survey released on January 21.

2020.

Based on 1,200 respondents, 82% of adult Filipinos were satisfied with Duterte’s performance. On the other hand, 10% of the respondents were dissatisfied, while the remaining 8% were undecided, resulting in a net satisfaction rating of excellent +72.

This new rating surpassed Duterte’s previous record of “very good” +68 in June 2019. It is also seven points above the very good +65 registered in September 2019.

SWS also noted that public satisfaction with Duterte rose in almost all geographical areas.

Duterte’s net satisfaction rating hit a new record +66 in Balance Luzon in December 2019, up by 12 points from +54 in September 2019.

It stayed excellent in the Visayas, at a new record +79 in December, up by 4 points from the previous record +75 in September, as well as Mindanao, at +81 in December, up by 5 points from +76 in September.

In Metro Manila, Duterte’s rating stayed very good at +66 from September 2019 to December 2019.

Across socioeconomic classes, Duterte’s net satisfaction rating rose from very good to excellent in class E, at +71 in December 2019, up by 14 points from +57 in September 2019.

It also rose from very good to excellent in class D, at +72 in December, up by 6 points from +66 in September, and stayed excellent in class ABC, at +76 in December, up by 6 points from +70 in September.

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President Rodrigo Roa Duterte greets the guests during the 69th founding anniversary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) at the DSWD Central Office in Quezon City on January 29, 2020.

Presidential Photo by Alfred Frias.

The SWS’ latest survey also asked respondents about Duterte’s promises and which among those promises they think will be fulfilled, to which 52% said they are expecting “all or nearly all/most” of Duterte’s promises to be fulfilled.

The SWS survey was conducted from Dec. 13 to 16, 2019. It has a margin of error of ±3 percent for national figures, and ±6 percent for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

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The Global Briefing

The Bangkóta Philippines Pavilion @ Expo 2020 Dubai by: Budji + Royal Architecture + Design

The Bangkóta The Philippines Pavilion at the World Expo 2020 to Rise in Dubai Close to a decade since it last participated, the Philippines will once again take part in what is dubbed as the “The Greatest Show”—the World Expo 2020 in Dubai. To represent the Philippines and its people, the Bangkóta, the ancient Filipino word for “coral reef ” will stand as the embodiment of the creative and compassionate people of the Philippines who number in the millions in the Middle East.

The Bangkóta is truly a representation of Filipinos. Like the polyps that make up the coral reef and are spread by ocean currents across the world to form thriving communities, Filipinos have likewise established themselves in different continents, bringing with them their own culture, traditions, and beliefs while nurturing communities that take inspiration from their homeland. The intent thus is for visitors to the Philippines Pavilion, through their sense of sight, sound, and emotions to gain a better appreciation of the story of Filipinos—a story that is often hidden in the pages of history.

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True to the spirit of “bayanihan”, the Philippines Pavilion is a collaboration of many talents—Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez as Commissioner-General, Ph Expo 2020 Dubai, DTI Assistant Secretary Rosvi Gaetos as Alternate CommissionerGeneral, Overall Artistic and Theme Director Architect Royal Pineda, and PH Pavilion Curator Marian Pastor-Roces, and a selection of noted artists and photographers—Duddley Diaz and his enigmatic creature creations, the upside down forest masterpiece of Lee Paje, the gigantic sculpture of renowned sculptor Abdulmari Imao, and breathtaking underwater images of Scott Gutsy Tuason, and many others who worked together to bring to life what was once an untold, four thousand-year story of Filipinos.

At its heart, the Philippines Pavilion is an appeal to this same spirit of “bayanihan” among Filipinos in the Middle East and the world over for them to not only gain a sense of pride in their history and culture, but for them to also become ambassadors themselves, enjoining and encouraging people from around the world to learn more about the rich history of the Philippines—a history that has spanned the oceans and across several millennia.

The Bangkóta Philippines Pavilion will open at the Expo 2020 Dubai on October 20, 2020.

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The Global Briefing Filipino-American business leaders at the kick off for the Filipino American Franchising Trade Mission organized by the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce Foundation Inc.

Ellen Samson, President of FACC Foundation

Philippine Consul General Adelio Cruz

Franchise Trade Mission Presents Opportunity to Learn About Small Businesses in the Philippines The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce Foundation Inc. (FACC Foundation) presented its kickoff orientation event for the Filipino American Franchising Trade Mission (FAFTM) at the Philippine Consulate on Wilshire Blvd on Wednesday, January 29. Partner organization the Coalition of Filipino American Chambers of Commerce (COFACC) represented by Chamber Presidents attended in full force.

Consul General Adel Cruz and Commissioner Eric Elnar of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) were on hand to encourage the attendees to invest in the Philippines through franchising.

Commissioner Elnar stated that the investing climate is growing as the government has been driving infrastructures, and the Gross National Product GDP has risen 6% in the past year.

Ellen Samson, president of FACC Foundation, emphasized her advocacy for teaching Filipinos “how to fish”, instead of giving them the fish. She is working for a continued change of mindsets, stemming from her “Push for Entrepreneurship” movement while she was president of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Los Angeles (FACCGLA).

The Philippines’ revenues are $27.6 billion in remittances, projected to be $36 billion in the coming years. Samson encouraged U.S.-based Filipinos to invest instead of giving dole-outs to give loved ones back home the dignity of earning a living and the pride of earning their own keep.

She stated that Filipinos are the best workers and employees, with a culture espoused in “safe” employment. It is time that Filipinos start investing their hardearned money into a business that they own, instead of enriching an employer further, she emphasized.

Samson shared that there are at least one thousand successful small and micro businesses in the Philippines, as evidenced in the Philippine Franchising Expo held at SMX Convention Center last year.

For an investment as little as $5,000-

Department of Trade and Industry Commissioner Eric Elnar

$10,000, for example, you may start up a gasoline station, generic pharmacy, supermarket, among others. Food businesses are the most popular, and 64% of brands and stores at the Expo were 64% homegrown.

FAFTM Delegates will learn about the franchises’ operations, speak to franchisees, explore B2B matching, loans and funding during the March 23-29 Trade Mission.

The schedule includes a tour of Clark Freeport Development Project, Manila City Hall and Malacanang, a Trade Exhibit, B2B Meetings, Seminars and Workshops.

Delegates can be U.S.-based on Philippine-based, with the delegate responsible for their own travel depending on their place of origin. More information is available on www.faftm.com, by texting “faftm” to 90407 or call +1 (310) 742-4327.

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The Global Briefing

Senator Go Leads Groundbreaking of Country’s First OFW Hospital—Vows to Fight for Passage of Department of Overseas Filipinos Bill Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go led the groundbreaking ceremony of the country’s first overseas Filipino workers (OFW) Hospital on February 18, at San Fernando City, Pampanga where he reaffirmed his commitment to push for the passage of a bill mandating the creation of an executive department focusing on the needs and concerns of overseas Filipinos.

In his speech, Go said a significant part of his legislative agenda is to push for the establishment of the Department of Overseas Filipinos, which is one of the requests of many overseas Filipino workers he met.

“Masakit makitang iniiwan ng mga kababayan natin ang mga pamilya at mahal nila sa buhay upang makapagtrabaho lamang sa mga malalayong lugar. Suklian natin ang kanilang sakripisyo ng mas maayos na serbisyo para sa kanila at kanilang mga pamilya,” Go said.

According to the Senator, the proposed department seeks “to streamline the services provided for the OFWs and to make the several processes they undergo more efficient and convenient.”

“Sa tulong nitong proposed department na ito, isang lugar na lang po ang pupuntahan nila.

Mula sa paghahanap ng trabaho sa ibang bansa hanggang sa pagpo-proseso ng mga dokumento at pagrereklamo sa mga employers, diretso na po sila sa iisang tanggapan lang,” he added.

Go filed in July of last year Senate Bill (SB) No. 202 or the Department of Overseas Filipinos Act of 2019. The measure seeks to address issues, such as the need to improve coordination among concerned offices, hence the proposal to put them together under one roof to avoid finger-pointing among agencies concerned with overseas Filipinos and OFW affairs.

If passed into law, the following agencies and their powers and functions, funds and appropriations, records, equipment, property, and personnel will be transferred to the new department to be established: (1) Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA); (2) Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA); (3) Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO); (4) International Labor Affairs Bureau of the Department of Labor and Employment (ILAB-DOLE) and (5) National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO).

The powers and functions of the Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs (OUMWA) under the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and all Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs) and their officials under DOLE will also be transferred to the new department as stated in the proposed law.

“Sa ngayon po kasi, kung may kailangan ang ating mga OFWs sa gobyerno, kailangan pa po nilang magpalipat-lipat sa iba’t ibang ahensya para makakuha lang ng serbisyo. Bukod sa nakakapagod na, nakaka-aksaya pa ng oras at pera,” Go said, lamenting the present laborious process OFWs and other overseas Filipinos have to go through just to avail of government services.

The Senator added that the bill will help curb the proliferation of illegal recruiters who usually victimize Filipinos wishing to work abroad for better job opportunities. It will also provide for the creation of the Overseas Filipinos Assistance Fund for migrant workers in distress, inclusive of repatriation and provisions for life savings funds in times of emergencies.

“Magbibigay din po ito ng tulong para sa training, pati na rin ng livelihood loans para sa mga OFWs natin na nais nang bumalik ng Pilipinas for good,” Go said about the measure, adding that the creation of the department will designate police attachés in countries with overseas Filipinos to assist them in times of need.

During the event, Go met Nancy Mallari Valencia, a 34-year-old undocumented domestic helper in Lebanon who was repatriated through the help of the Senator. Aside from the help already rendered by Go, he also promised to provide Valencia with other kinds of assistance to help her start anew now that she is back in the country.

Go also shared during the ceremony about the institutionalization of Malasakit Centers

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all over the country as one of his advocacies to ensure that overseas Filipinos and their families at home are provided with swift access to government medical and financial services.

“Alam ko rin po na napakaraming mga OFWs ang nag-aalala sa kanilang mga pamilya rito sa Pilipinas, lalo na kapag nagkakasakit ang mga ito. Kaya naman po malaking parte rin ng aking adbokasiya ay ang pagpapaganda ng ating health care system, kabilang na ang pagtatayo at pag-institutionalize ng mga Malasakit Centers sa buong bansa,” the Senator said.

Aside from his legislative agenda, Go also shared the programs and projects implemented by the Duterte Administration to promote and improve the welfare of OFWs and other overseas Filipinos.

“Since the President came to power in 2016, his administration has introduced several programs catering to Filipino migrant workers,” he said, mentioning the creation of one-stopshop centers for OFW services and the first ever Overseas Filipino Bank as some of the services implemented by the Duterte Administration that will cater to them.

“For OFW returnees, integration programs were introduced. For one, the Department of Agriculture, together with the Department of Labor and Employment, created a program where OFWs may apply for loans to boost food production services,” Go said.

“Likewise, the Department of Trade and Industry has been leading livelihood and entrepreneurship programs for returning migrant workers,” he added.

The Senator also vowed to protect children of overseas Filipinos from illegal drugs, criminality and corruption by supporting the government’s three-point campaign against these societal ills.

“Ginagawa ko po ito dahil nais ko na suklian ang sakripisyo ng ating mga OFW. Alam niyo po, masakit makitang iniiwan ng ating mga kababayan ang kanilang mga pamilya at mahal sa buhay upang magtrabaho sa malalayong lugar. Kaya panahon na po na suklian ang kanilang sakripisyo ng mas maayos na serbisyo para sa kanila at sa kanilang pamilya,” he said.

Go added that his office is always open to listen to the concerns and provide immediate solution to the plight of Filipino migrant workers.

Ending his statement, Go thanked all the government agencies and organizations responsible for the planned establishment of the first OFW Hospital in the country.

“It is a joy to be able to work with so many people who are putting their hearts into improving the protection and welfare of our modern-day heroes,” Go said.

He added that he believes the project will go a long way towards helping Filipino migrant workers, saying “With over ten million OFWs worldwide, I believe that this project will go a long way towards improving the welfare of our migrant workers and their families.”

Photos from the Office of Senator Bong Go I http://kuyabonggo.ph

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The Global Briefing

Nominations Open for the 2020 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas

The 2020 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO) is now accepting nominations.

Completed nomination forms and supporting documents must be submitted through your local Consulate General on or before June 5, 2020 for onward transmittal to the Commission on Filipinos Overseas. The awarding ceremony will be held in December 2020 at MalacaĂąang Palace.

The Presidential Awards, spearheaded by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, is a biennial search to honor and recognize Overseas Filipinos and other individuals or organizations who contribute to Philippine development initiatives, promote the interests of the Filipino diaspora, or have exceptionally distinguished themselves in their work.

Since its inception in 1991, the PAFIOO has been bestowed upon 485 individuals and organizations overseas in about 52 countries and territories. It highlights the time-honored Filipino values of bayanihan or the convergence of

pakikipagkapwa, pagtutulungan, and pagkakaisa. The four (4) award categories are: 01 Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) Award conferred on Filipino individuals or organizations for their exceptional or significant contribution to progress and development in the Philippines; 02 Banaag Award conferred on Filipino individuals or organizations for their contributions that have significantly benefited a sector of the diaspora, or advanced the cause and interest of overseas Filipino communities; 03 Pamana ng Pilipino Award conferred on overseas Filipino individuals, who, in exemplifying the talent and industry of the Filipino, have brought the country honor and recognition through excellence and distinction in the pursuit of their work or profession; and 04 Kaanib ng Bayan Award conferred on foreign individuals (natural-born) and organizations for their exceptional or significant contribution to Philippine progress and development, or in advancing

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the cause or promoting the interests of overseas Filipino communities.

For detailed guidelines, downloadable nomination and endorsement forms, and other relevant information about the awards, please visit: www.presidentialawards.cfo.gov.ph or contact the Presidential Awards Secretariat through the following: Presidential Awards Secretariat / Commission on Filipinos Overseas at: Telephone Numbers (632) 552-4700 locals 761 to 767 E-Mail presidentialawards@cfo.gov.ph presidentialawards2018@gmail.com For updates on the PAFIOO, interested parties are encouraged to follow the Gawad ng Pangulo Facebook page at www.facebook.com/gawadpangulo.

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The Global Briefing

Philippine Airlines to Reinstate Cebu-Los Angeles Flight Route this May Flag carrier Philippine Airlines will once again have its nonstop Cebu-Los Angeles flight starting this May 2020.

In a press release last January 21, 2020, PAL said this flight is the “only direct air link between the Visayas and Mainland USA.” Residents of various cities in the Visayas and Mindanao will enjoy convenient connections via Cebu for their travels to Los Angeles.

The new service will help boost Philippine tourism, as U.S.-based leisure and business travelers can now avail of the fastest and easiest travel option: a single flight nonstop to the Queen City of the South. Currently, the other options to fly to Cebu from the U.S. involve transfer flight connections via other Asian airports or Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila.

The service marks PAL’s comeback to the Cebu-Los Angeles route as it previously operated Cebu-LAX flights from March 2016 up to May 2017.

The airline is touting that Cebu will be a hub for many tourists to transfer to connecting flights to Siargao, Camiguin, Davao, Boracay, Coron, Bacolod, Iloilo

and other fabled holiday destinations for some sun and sea recreation and other nature adventures.

The launch of the new service will increase PAL’s network offering to a total of 64 flights weekly to the U.S., Canada and the U.S. territory of Guam.

PAL’s Cebu-Los Angeles flights will depart three times weekly for Los Angeles from the new Terminal 2 of the Mactan Cebu International Airport, utilizing PAL’s largest aircraft, the 370 seater Boeing 777-300ER. Starting from May 2, 2020, PAL Flight PR152 (CEB-LAX) will depart Cebu at 9 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and arrive in Los Angeles at 7:30 p.m. on the same days. For the LAX-CEB journey, PR 153 will leave Los Angeles at 11PM every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, touching down two days later in Cebu at 5 a.m. after a 14-hour nonstop flight.

The latest-version PAL B777 features a fully-flat bed in business class, with an 18.4-inch TV screen, retractable privacy dividers, an ottoman which doubles as a storage area, and in-seat power and USB ports. Economy class features a seat pitch of up to 34 inches, and each seat is equipped with 11-inch TV screens and USB ports.

“We look forward to treating our customers to the fastest flights between the U.S. Mainland and the Visayas / Mindanao region, via PAL’s new Cebu-LAX

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route. Our upcoming service from Cebu to LA is a vivid demonstration of our commitment to build up Mactan Cebu as a global aviation hub, a dynamic gateway, not only to domestic points, but to major international destinations,” said PAL President and COO Gilbert Santa Maria. “Los Angeles and the USA now joins Tokyo, Osaka, Bangkok, Nagoya and Seoul in the list of PAL overseas destinations served from Cebu.”

As part of PAL’s 2020 New Year Sale, the airline is offering promo fares for flights between Cebu and Los Angeles for as low as $420 (base rate) exclusive of government taxes. Booking period for this special offering is from January 20 until January 24. Travel period is from July 1 to December 10, 2020.

PAL is the largest airline operator in the Philippines-North America market, featuring all-nonstop flights to and from Los Angeles and San Francisco in the U.S. West Coast, New York ( JFK Airport) in the U.S. East Coast, Honolulu in Hawaii and both Toronto and Vancouver in Canada.

The flag carrier also announced the inauguration of several international routes, including the first-ever nonstop flights between Manila and Perth (starting March 30); Zamboanga and Kota Kinabalu (from March 29); and between Davao and Manado (from March 29).

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The Global Briefing

2019 International Arrivals Exceed Target with 8.26 Million Visitors to the Philippines The year 2019 is deemed celebratory for Philippine tourism as international visitors numbering 8.26 million, exceeded the 8.2 million annual target set in the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) for 2016-2022.

“This heralds a new milestone in the country’s tourism history, breaching the eight millionth mark. Without doubt, our convergence programs with other government agencies, particularly in improving access as well as product development and marketing initiatives with local government and private sector have greatly paid off. These gains we hope to sustain even as we face global challenges,” enthused Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

Canigao Island, Matalom, Philippines I Photo by Ina Carolino I Unsplash.com

The Department of Tourism’s year-end visitor arrival report cited a 15.24 percent growth over 2018’s year-end figure of 7.16 million. Almost all months, except January, registered double digit growth rates, the largest of which was August at 27.54 percent while December recorded the highest volume at 776,798.

2019 was the year the DOT launched its refreshed branding campaign; continuing the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” slogan but repurposing it to advocate for sustainable tourism. The local launch was held in the National Museum of Natural History while the international event was in Berlin during the Internationale Tourismus-Börse (ITB).

To complement the new direction towards sustainable tourism, the DOT launched a movement called “Save Our Spots” to call for each individual to be a responsible tourist and encouraging the same behavior towards others to preserve the country’s natural and man-made wonders.

The Philippine tourism industry also received a number of international awards and recognitions in 2019 such as the World’s Leading Dive Destination at the 2019 World Travel Awards, Asia’s Leading Tourism Board at the 2019 World Travel Awards and Excellent Partner Award (for Sustainable Efforts in Boracay, among others.

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“This is a high point for Philippine tourism as it depicts our solidarity and commitment to make tourism work and prove its full potential as a sustainable and inclusive economic activity. The recordbreaking numbers solidify the effectiveness of the Tourism Act of 2009, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2019.”

Secretary Puyat remarked.

Korea remains as the top source market with a total of 1.98 million arrivals, for a 22.48 percent increase. The ace spot has been well-guarded since 2010.

China follows closely on second with 1.74 million, boasting of a 38.58 percent growth.

The United States of America (USA) on third, yielded 1.06 million visitors for a 2.90 percent increase.

Japan is fourth at 682,788 arrivals, with an 8.07 percent growth followed by Taiwan reporting an equally impressive double-digit increase of 35.01 percent for its 327,273 arrivals.

Rounding up the top 12 visitor markets with their volumes and respective growth rates are: Australia with 286,170 (2.27 percent), Canada with 238,850 ((5.48 percent), the United Kingdom with 209,206 (4.06 percent), Singapore with 158,595 arrivals (-7.68 percent), Malaysia with 139,882 (-3.69 percent), India with 134,963 (11.43 percent) and Germany with 103,756 (12.66 percent).

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The Global Briefing

International Visitor Receipts Skyrockets to USD9.31B in 2019, Up 21% from 2018

#1

$2,614,685,263.92

#2

$2,330,491,557.70

#3

$1,208,970,514.75

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The Philippines’ all-time high 8.2 million international tourist arrivals in 2019, contributed USD 9.31 billion or PHP 482.15 billion in visitor receipts, 20.81 percent higher than the 2018 figure of USD 7.71 billion, the Department of Tourism (DOT) disclosed.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo -Puyat said the constantly rising figures in inbound visitors and the corresponding income earned from their aggregate spend confirms the importance of the tourism sector as a key economic driver.

“The Philippine tourism industry’s continued impressive performance dramatizes the dedication, hard work and resilience of its stakeholders through a most challenging year. We count on the same enduring qualities to get us through the challenges this year,” said Sec. Puyat.

She said the 2019 record-breaking numbers again show the fruits of strong collaborative efforts among government, industry and civil society in realizing the goals of the National Tourism Development Program for 2016-2022 (NTDP), the masterplan of the country’s sustainable and inclusive tourism program designed to spur livelihood of marginal stakeholders and dispersal of benefits to the countryside.

Sec. Puyat noted that a foreign guest incurred USD 128.35 average daily expenditure while the average per capita expenditure for a whole trip is pegged at about USD 1,218.04 on an average length of stay of 9.49 nights, according to the data gathered by the DOT Office of Tourism Development Planning, Research and Information Management (OTDPRIM).

Double-digit growth in visitor spending was observed from February to December 2019, with August exhibiting the highest growth at 31.45 percent. Meanwhile, the largest volume was recorded in the month of December at USD 872.13 million.

The country’s consistent top visitor market South Korea posted the highest tourist spending of about USD 2,614.685,263.92; followed by China, USD 2,330,491,557.70; and the United States, USD 1,208.970,514.75.

Rounding off the 10 highest spending markets are Japan, Canada, Australia, Taiwan, United Kingdom, Germany and Malaysia.

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The Global Briefing

Social Weather Stations More Filipinos Expect Lives, Economy to Improve in 2020 More Filipinos expect their lives and the country’s economy to improve in the next 12 months, according to the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey.

The poll, conducted from December 13 to 16 last year among 1,200 respondents nationwide, found that 48 percent of Filipinos were optimistic that the quality of life would improve this year while 4 percent expected it to get worse.

This yielded a net score of +44 — up by 3 points from the third quarter record — which is classified by SWS as “excellent.”

“This used to be +41 in September, +42 in June, and +47 in March, all classified as Excellent (+40 and above),” the pollster said.

“Only 11 percent of Net Personal Optimism scores since 1983 are within ‘Excellent’ range,” it added.

The SWS said the 3-point rise in the national net personal optimism score in December last year was due to increases of 7 points in Balance Luzon and 2 points in the Visayas, combined with decreases of 4 points in Metro Manila, and 1 point in Mindanao.

In Balance Luzon, net personal optimism rose from +40 (excellent) in September 2019 to +47 (excellent) in December 2019.

It also rose in the Visayas, from +32 (very high) in September to +34 (very high) in December.

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But net personal optimism fell from +48 (excellent) in September to +44 (excellent) in December.

It also fell in Mindanao, from +46 (excellent) in September to +45 (excellent) in December.

The same survey also showed that majority of Filipinos expected an improved economy in the following months.

Some 47 percent of respondents projected economic growth, while 9 percent foresaw a slow down.

“This used to be +28 in September, +33 in June, and +35 in March, all classified as ‘Excellent’ (+20 and above) Twenty-eight percent of Net Economic Optimism scores since 1998 are within ‘Excellent’ range,” SWS said.

SWS attributed the upward trend to higher economic optimism records in the increases of 14 points in Balance Luzon, 10 points in the Visayas, 5 points in Metro Manila and 4 points in Mindanao.

In Balance Luzon, net economic optimism rose from +23 (excellent) in September 2019 to +37 (excellent) in December 2019.

It also rose in the Visayas from +23 (excellent) in September to +33 (excellent) in December.

In Metro Manila, net economic optimism rose from +34 (excellent) in September to +39 (excellent) in December.

It also rose in Mindanao, from +40 (excellent) in September to +44 (excellent) in December.

Meanwhile, the last quarter of 2019 also saw the highest number of Filipinos who said their lives improved.

SWS found that 39 percent of Filipinos said their lives improved (termed by SWS as “gainers”) in the last 12 months while 21 percent said their lives worsened (termed as “losers”).

The December survey, conducted using face-to-face interviews nationwide, had sampling error margins of ±3 percent for national percentages, and ±6 percent each for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.

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The Global Briefing

To download the free app, simply key in “Experience Philippines” on Google Play or the App Store.

Relive the History of Intramuros City with Augmented Reality App “Experience Philippines” Tourists and culture buffs can now immerse themselves in the past of Intramuros via their mobile phones.

Experience Philippines, an augmented reality application available on iOs and Android, houses a treasure chest of visuals and information about the famed walled city of Manila. This innovative tourism application is a joint project of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and iACADEMY, a school in Makati that offers specialized courses on computing, business, and design. To download the free app, simply key in “Experience Philippines” on Google Play or the App Store.

The AR feature currently works only on the DOT logo and certain sites in

Intramuros. These include the Gallery of Presidents, the Fort Santiago Gate, the Ayuntamiento, the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, and the Churches of our Lady of Lourdes, of San Ignacio, of San Francisco, and of Recollects. To activate, simply tap on the “ARTech” button and point at the tourist site.

“With the Experience Philippines app, tourists can relive the past of Intramuros city with just a tap on their mobile phone screens,” says DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

“We hope to be able to expand this cutting-edge technology to other tourist sites around the country with the help of iACADEMY,” adds the DOT chief.

Tourist sites that the DOT is eyeing for AR development include the Banaue Rice Terraces, Corregidor, Mt. Samat, Puerto Princesa, Pampanga and Mt. Pinatubo.

Intramuros Administration Administrator Atty. Guiller B. Asido believes the app will help attract more visitors to

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the city. “Culture buffs will enjoy Intramuros more with this app as they will be able to see how Fort Santiago and other historical sites looked like before,” says Atty. Asido. iACADEMY meantime says technology can be used to promote sustainable tourism. “We saw the opportunity to give back and share our expertise on tech and design to provide cutting edge materials that can help boost our tourism efforts,” says iACADEMY Chief Operating Officer Raquel Wong. “Production of short films and augmented reality content to showcase the Philippines not only makes it more accessible and experiential but it’s also sustainable because it doesn’t require mass print production,” adds Wong.

The Experience Philippines app also serves as a compact version of the www. philippines.travel, which allows tourists to learn and explore their dream travel destinations online.

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The Global Briefing

Philippine Delegation Dazzles at the Largest Tourism Fair in Spain

A Filipino performer with her banga accessories at the Philippine pavilion.

The Philippine delegation at Feria Internacional de Turismo (FITUR) 2020.

Filipino champion bartender Dennis Barela Adiuba skillfully displays his bartending talent during the Philippine promotional event in El Corte Ingles Callao.

Department of Tourism´s new logo of Es Más Divertido en Filipinas (It´s More Fun in the Philippines) appears in the promotional ad of Viajes El Corte Ingles in its El Corte Inglés Plaza Callao billboard at the center of Madrid.

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More than 255,000 potential tourists witnessed the Filipino culture and tourism highlights during the 40th edition of the Feria Internacional de Turismo (FITUR) on January 22-26, 2020 at IFEMA in Madrid.

Tinikling and other cultural dances, kundiman renditions, flair bartending featuring Don Papa Rum by Filipino champion bartender Dennis Barela Adiuba effortlessly lived up to the “It’s more fun in the Philippines” slogan, while Filipino dishes served to booth visitors provided a sampling of the legendary Filipino hospitality.

The Philippine delegation was headed

by Philippine Consul General to Madrid Adrian Cruz, with London-based Department of Tourism (DOT) Tourism Attaché Gerardo Panga and DOT’s Office of Product & Marketing Development Head Glen Agustin.

Consul General Cruz welcomed the delegation and thanked the DOT for sustaining its continuous presence in FITUR and for the vibrant presentations that were rendered for the duration of the tourism fair.

Spain is currently one of the Philippines’ best performing and key source markets in Europe. In 2018, Spanish travelers to the Philippines reached 44,130 (19.42 percent increase).

As of October 2019, outbound travel from Spain totalled 39,663 (11 percent increase). The Philippines is the best performing country in terms of growth rate for Spanish travel to Southeast Asia.

On the weekend of January 2526, 2020, the DOT also organized a consumer presentation at El Corte Ingles’ Callao, arguably the retail giant’s most prominent and visited branch. Philippine tourism banners were prominently displayed on LED screens on the store’s facade, visible to visitors passing by Madrid’s busiest streets.

Now on its 40th year, FITUR remains the biggest travel and tourism fair in Spain with a combined 165 countries and 11,000 tour operators participating annually. Over 250,000 people visit the fair each year, and is a highlyanticipated event by both professionals and consumers.

Photographs Courtesy of the Philippine Embassy in Madrid

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The Global Briefing

DBP President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel G. Herbosa (third from left) in a handshake with Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” M. Domagoso during the ceremonial signing of the loan agreement between DBP and the City Government of Manila. Also with them are (from left): DBP Executive Vice President Fe Susan Z. Prado; Mayor Domagoso’s Chief of Staff Cesar Chavez; DBP Chairman Alberto G. Romulo; DBP Executive Vice President Jose Gabino D. Dimayuga; and DBP Senior Vice President Carolyn I. Olfindo. (DBP Photo)

Development Bank of the Philippines grants P5B loan to City Government of Manila State-run Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and the City Government of Manila have signed a P5-billion five-year term loan agreement to fund various projects under the local government’s Medium and Long-Term Development Plan.

DBP President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel G. Herbosa said the financial assistance under the incumbent administration of Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” M. Domagoso would be used to bankroll various infrastructure projects such as the expansion of the Ospital ng Maynila, construction of the Manila Skydeck; construction and maintenance of various health centers; and the re-development of the Manila Zoo including the construction of a sewage treatment plant.

“I am optimistic that this is the start of another long and fruitful collaboration between our institutions; one that will revive Manila and bring it back to its rightful throne as one of the most beautiful, captivating cities in the country,” Herbosa added.

Aside from being the capital city of the Philippines, Manila is home to around 13.7 million people and is the third richest city in the country with total assets of P40.711 billion as per Commission on Audit report. It is also a center of trade and finance as most of the country’s national imports and exports pass through the city’s ports.

DBP is the eight largest banks in the country with assets totaling P700.9 billion as of end September 2019. It provides loans to strategic sectors such as infrastructure and logistics, small and medium enterprises, social services and community development, and the environment.

Herbosa said that DBP is fortunate to be given the opportunity to serve the people of Manila through this P5

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“...the financial assistance under the incumbent administration of Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” M. Domagoso would be used to bankroll various infrastructure projects such as the expansion of the Ospital ng Maynila, construction of the Manila Skydeck; construction and maintenance of various health centers; and the re-development of the Manila Zoo including the construction of a sewage treatment plant.” billion loan, which is in line with the bank’s mandate to generate economic opportunities and the improvement of social services that would benefit the residents of the nation’s capital.

“Rest assured that DBP, as a government financial institution will continually support sustainable social projects that would cater to the basic needs of our people,” he added.

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The Global Briefing

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose C. Laurel V (seated, fourth from left) welcomes a business delegation from the international Friendship Exchange Council. (Tokyo Philippine Embassy Photo)

Philippine Embassy in Tokyo Encourages Japanese Businesses to Invest in the Philippines The Philippine Embassy co-organized with the International Friendship Exchange Council (FEC) a seminar on Prospects and Opportunities in the Philippines, which was held on January 28, 2020 at the Philippine Embassy Multi-Purpose Hall.

In his welcome remarks, Philippine Ambassador Jose C. Laurel V called on the business community to help strengthen the relations between the Philippines and Japan. “I count on you to establish more business partnerships and help develop strong relations [between our two countries]. We remain optimistic of the prospects ahead and are committed to put in place better strategies and to deepen reforms with the help of partners, such as Japan.”

Deputy Chief of Mission Robespierre Bolivar gave a briefing on Prospects and Opportunities in the Philippines, highlighting the significant growth of the Philippine economy over the last few years and the government’s efforts to ensure that prosperity is shared by all Filipinos.

Deputy Chief of Mission Robespierre Bolivar delivers a briefing on business and investment opportunities in the Philippines. (Tokyo PE photo)

Mr. Bolivar noted that “Sustainable and inclusive development is a priority of the Philippine Government. Over the last three years, the Philippines has reduced unemployment to a 15-year record-low 5.3 percent, increased by almost 30 percent the household income for a significant number of families, and decreased by 200,000 the number of people directly affected by disasters. Under its 10-point socioeconomic agenda, the Philippine Government has been improving the business climate and is investing significantly in science and innovation and in helping develop the Filipino people’s competitiveness”.

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The seminar is part of the FEC’s preparations for the visit of several businessmen to the Philippines from March 1-4, 2020 as part of a twonation swing which includes Indonesia.

The business delegation includes representatives from businesses involved in energy, information technology, transportation, convention services, industrial design, insurance, and hospitality management.

The Embassy has been proactively conducting seminars and briefings on investment, trade, tourism, and cultural partnership opportunities in the Philippines for the Japanese business and academic sectors.

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The Global Briefing

Department of Public Works and Highways Photos

Bonifacio Global City to Ortigas Center in 11 Minutes by 2021 Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar inspected the on-going construction of Bonifacio Global City to Ortigas Center Road Link Project aimed to decongest traffic from EDSA and C-5 and improve accessibility within the central business districts of Metro Manila.

Secretary Villar said that upon completion in 2021, the BGC-Ortigas Center Road link will be a traffic game changer as it will reduce to 11 minutes travel time between Bonifacio Global City and Ortigas Central Business District.

This will serve as an alternate corridor from EDSA and C-5 along the section of Guadalupe Bridge and Bagong Ilog Bridge, eventually allowing more economic opportunities for our “kababayans”, said Secretary Villar.

The P1.6-billion project involves

construction of the four-lane Sta. Monica-Lawton Bridge across Pasig River connecting Lawton Avenue in Makati and Sta. Monica Street as well as rehabilitation and widening of Brixton to Fairlane Street in Pasig City.

It also involves construction of the 565-meter Lawton Avenue to BGC viaduct that will traverse Lawton Avenue onwards to the entrance of BGC implemented by DPWH Unified Project Management Office (UPMO)Roads Management Cluster 1 (Bilateral) under the leadership of Undersecretary

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for UPMO Operations Emil K. Sadain and Project Director Virgilio C. Castillo.

With an accomplishment of 45 percent, we are fast tracking the completion of this high-impact project linking Pasig ang Taguig to ease traffic woes of motorists and commuters in Pasig, Mandaluyong, Taguig, and Makati,” said Secretary Villar.

DPWH is in close coordination with respective stakeholders to address issues on road right-of-way (ROW) and relocation of utilities that hampered the progress of activities.

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The Global Briefing

Valerie Escalera, Presidential Photo

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte answers queries from members of the media during a briefing on the 2019 novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) at the Malacañan Palace.

Toto Lozano, Presidential Photo President Rodrigo Roa Duterte reads a report on the 2019 novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) during a briefing at the Malacañan Palace.

Toto Lozano, Presidential Photo

Allaying Public Fears, the Philippine Government Announces Countermeasures to Fight Coronavirus

The Duterte administration has spelled out measures to be carried out in case the country experiences an outbreak of the deadly 2019 novel coronavirus (2019 nCoV), which continues to spread around the world.

In a media briefing in Malacanang on February 3, 2020, President Duterte said among the measures to be undertaken by the government is the creation of regional facilities that could house patients affected by the coronavirus.

“But if it comes to the fore requiring the quarantine of persons, either local or foreigners, I have directed Secretary Duque here to prepare a space, a ward in our hospitals or a separate room — building, room — where we can house them,” the President told reporters.

The government could expropriate privately owned facilities for the purpose

of converting them into hospitals in case of an outbreak, according to the President.

In times of emergencies, the government can confiscate such structures to make room for hospitals and equip them with medical facilities and personnel.

The government could also use the drug rehabilitation facility at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija donated by a Chinese philanthropist to accommodate patients needing quarantine and treatment, the President said.

“Nandiyan sa Fort Magsaysay. That building is inside a national government reservation. Maluwang ‘yan. So marami akong ilagay diyan kung ang contagion actually… It’s epidemic if it is just regional or local or national,” he said.

During a briefing with top government officials and health experts in Malacanang, the President said he wants local govern-

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ment units (LGUs), particularly barangays captains, to become frontliners in the government’s fight against the disease.

President Duterte said the LGUs and the barangays must work with health officials in reporting and transporting individuals suspected to be infected by the novel coronavirus.

The President also appealed to private hospitals to help the government fight the scourge by accommodating patients seeking treatment after hearing reports that some private facilities refuse to accept patients manifesting symptoms of the virus.

Health officials were also mandated by the President to conduct an inventory of vehicles at the DOH’s regional offices to be used in transporting infected persons.

He vowed to allocate money for the DOH to help it buy new vehicles that will only cater to coronavirus infections.

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PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is not only home to pristine natural wonders and beautiful beaches, but also home to a vibrant, thriving, and booming metropolis that is filled with renowned hotels and resorts, restaurants, bars, shops, schools, investment opportunities, to a burgeoning music, art, culture, and nightlife scene. Come and see for yourself and rediscover the gems of the Philippines. We’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

— Welcome to Love of Country.

Welcome home.

Find your next destination on the BalikbayanDirectory.com.

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Wine & Dine I Lifestyle

The Balikbayan’s Go to Destination for Truly Authentic Japanese Cuisine in Metro-Manila With all the countless Japanese restaurants gracing the metro, it isn’t an easy feat to stand out from the rest. Luckily, Izakaya Kenta manages to do this just fine, all with its authentic Japanese food and dining experience.

Unlike other Japanese dining establishments, Izakaya Kenta boasts of a wide range of Japanese fare that almost seems limitless with its offerings. You can find almost every kind of sashimi, sushi, maki, noodles, nimono (simmered dish) and agemono (or deep-fried Japanese cuisine) in its menu. Overwhelmed? Try the Nana Ten Mori — a smorgasbord of seven kinds of sashimi that are all fresh and juicy, to ease your appetite in.

Try the crowd-favorite Tako Potato, as well. It’s Izakaya Kenta’s take on takoyaki, using deep-fried potato to envelop a generous amount of octopus meat instead of batter.

If you’re into chicken dishes, you won’t go wrong with the restaurant’s chicken yakitori platter that serves different parts of chicken in skewers. Izakaya’s Katsu Curry, with its thick, fragrant, porky roux glopped across delicate short-grain rice and topped with a deep-fried pork cutlet, will sure to satiate your hungry appetite, too.

Izakaya Kenta has been capturing the hearts and palates of diners since it was established in 1997 along Pedro Gil. It

closed for three years in 2010 but reopened in 2013 after ‘Doc Rey’ Medina bought its rights. Notably, its menu offers something that most Japanese restaurants do not — the food here is as close as you can get to tasting homemade Japanese food.

It’s no surprise, then, that Izakaya Kenta’s customer base is mostly comprised of Japanese folk seeking food that tastes and feels like home.

“It’s very authentic, almost like lutong bahay,” Medina proudly stated. This is all thanks to head chef Dennis Ganzon, who has accumulated more than 20 years of cooking experience both in local and international kitchens. He’s also an original staff member of Izakaya Kenta who rejoined after it re-opened and relocated in Malate.

Aside from the authentic food, you can also experience the traditional Japanese style of eating with Izakaya Kenta’s interiors. It has tatami rooms for groups and private gatherings — all of which are accentuated with tatami mats that hail originally from Japan.

Here’s another secret why customers keep frequenting Izakaya Kenta: their service is top-notch and almost personalized. The staff here are all friendly and attentive, radiating warmth and hospitality that’s just not reflected in other restaurants. They make it a point to know the diners and memorize their orders so they can serve them well and diners can feel like they’re a priority.

Because of all of these, it’s hard not to love Izakaya Kenta. With its warm and brightly-lit facade, authentic menu, and stellar service, it’s the one Japanese restaurant you’ll keep coming back to for your Japanese cravings.

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Visit Izakaya Kenta today at one of their 3 branches in Metro-Manila in Quezon City, Malate, and San Juan City.

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INFO@PREMIERASIAPACIFIC.COM ISSUE 66 I BalikbayanMagazine.com I The 2020 Spring Quarterly— 075

Wine & Dine I Lifestyle

Pull out all the stops with an unforgettably delicious modern Filipino buffet.

Table Styling by ACME Innovatives Studios.

Sentro 1771 is the Perfect Venue for All Your Celebrations Nothing brings Filipinos together better than good food, and over the past 18 years, Sentro 1771 has become known for its delectable modern Filipino dishes, especially the famous Corned Beef Sinigang. Those who are planning to celebrate special occasions in Manila will be happy to know that this well-loved restaurant also offers catering services and welcomes in-house events.

Whether you prefer simple flowers and balloons or want to go all-out with event styling, Sentro 1771’s banquets team will coordinate with your stylist to make your vision come to life.

Styling by Oomph Styling

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The Ideal Setting for Every Occasion Sentro 1771 has long been a favorite setting for reunions and family gatherings, thanks to its sophisticated offerings that put a twist on Filipino cuisine while retaining the comforting flavors we know and love. And with its proximity to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Sentro 1771 Uptown Mall BGC is often the first stop for balikbayans craving a taste of the dishes they’ve missed.

Nothing’s as exciting as welcoming your bundle of joy into the Christian world, and Sentro 1771’s Uptown Mall BGC branch has become a popular venue for baptismal receptions, particularly because of its convenient location near St. Michael the Archangel Parish. Doting parents often choose to hold their little ones’ milestone 1st and 7th birthday parties here as well. With its easy access to Uptown Mall BGC’s driveway, and healthy yet flavorful added-sugar-free and vegetarian meals on the menu, it’s also a frequent choice for 70th birthday parties.

Meanwhile, the Greenbelt 5 branch is a favorite among travel agencies looking for a place where their tour groups can experience a taste of local cuisine in a modern and elegant setting. Companies often book their product launches and media events at Sentro 1771 Greenbelt 5; as the restaurant is located right in front of the mall’s open space and gardens, companies can easily hold a program outdoors then invite their guests inside for a sumptuous buffet.

Last but certainly not the least, Sentro 1771 Capitol Commons has a second floor that can accommodate up to 60 guests, making it an ideal setting for social occasions like cocktail parties and dinners, as well as corporate events like board meetings and workshops. Pulling out all the stops for a children’s party? You can set up a play area in their private room, while the adults mingle at the spacious second floor landing. Dreaming of a small wedding with only your closest friends and family? Sentro 1771’s banquets team will work with you to make your vision come true and ensure that everything goes smoothly on your big day.

With each restaurant’s thoughtfully decorated interiors, only minimal styling is needed to add a festive air to the place. Each location has its own unique ambience, from Sentro 1771 Greenbelt 5’s lush, striking Barcelona-inspired interiors to the bright and airy Commonwealth Era style of Sentro 1771 Capitol Commons and the warm, cozy wooden tones of Sentro 1771 Uptown Mall BGC. If you’ve already found the perfect venue for your party, Sentro 1771 also accepts catering bookings for up to 300 guests.

Sentro 1771 Capitol Commons’ second floor can accommodate all kinds of setups, whether you prefer sit-down, buffet, or cocktails. Styling by Oomph Styling

Over the past 18 years, Sentro 1771 has a become balikbayans’ go-to venue for family reunions and entertaining foreign guests. Styling by Oomph Styling

Celebrate the mother-to-be with a delightful baby shower. Sentro 1771’s homey interiors lend themselves well to gender reveal parties, christenings, and children’s parties too. Styling by Oomph Styling ISSUE 66 I BalikbayanMagazine.com I The 2020 Spring Quarterly— 077

Wine & Dine I Lifestyle

Turonettes Merienda Platter

A Modern Filipino Feast A once-in-a-lifetime occasion calls for an unforgettably delicious meal, and your guests are sure to be delighted by Sentro 1771’s expertly prepared offerings. The restaurant takes pride in cooking all of its dishes from scratch as much as possible, and using only the best locally-sourced ingredients. Treat your loved ones to a sumptuous buffet, or opt for the elegance of plated service.

During the event itself, Sentro 1771’s warm, friendly, and efficient servers offer true Filipino hospitality, making sure your guests are well taken care of and that your buffet tables are promptly refilled.

As for libations, Sentro 1771’s beverage menu includes original cocktails and a wine list especially curated by a sommelier to complement Filipino dishes.

Whatever you decide, a dedicated representative from 1771 Group of Restaurants’ banquets arm, 1771 Events and Catering, will work hand in hand with you from the planning stage to the day of the event itself to ensure your celebration is a delicious success.

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Pad Thai Style Noodles with Pork Merienda Platter

Party Platters for Festive Gatherings at Home Hosting a simple gathering at home?

Sentro 1771 also offers a variety of merienda party platters for take-out. Serve your guests Fried Suman and Mangoes and bite-size Turonettes with mugs of hot chocolate, or munch on Adobo Pan de Sal Sandwiches and Macau Chorizo & Egg Pan de Sal Sandwiches. For seafood lovers, there’s the Adobong Pusit Sotanghon, while vegetarians will enjoy the Vegetable Empanada. Looking for something heavier and more satisfying? You can’t go wrong with Pad Thai Style Noodles with Pork.

Simply place your orders at least one to two days in advance and pick up your platters at your preferred Sentro 1771 branch.

With their scrumptious modern Filipino dishes, reliable service, and beautifully appointed interiors, Sentro 1771 will bring 18 years of experience in events and catering Fried Suman with Mangoes to help make your party a memorable and Merienda Platter meaningful affair.

Adobo Pan de Sal Sandwich Merienda Platter

Our warm, friendly, and efficient staff will make sure everything goes smoothly during your celebration.

Sentro 1771 is located at Uptown Mall BGC, Taguig City, Greenbelt 5, Makati City, and Capitol Commons, Pasig City, with a new branch opening soon at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Aseana City, Parañaque. For more information regarding celebrations at Sentro 1771, visit 1771 Events and Catering on Facebook, log on to www.1771eventsandcatering,com, or contact sales@1771group.com. For more information about Sentro 1771, visit sentro1771.com. Like and follow Sentro 1771 on Facebook and @sentro1771 on Instagram.

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Destinations I Travel

The Return!

8

Great, Amazing, & Memorable Travel Rediscoveries & Getaways in the Philippines for 2020 Writer Raphael John Oriel

#1

Where Kayangan Lake, Coron, Philippines Why Go 10 years running, Coron has been consistently voted by our Balikbayan Magazine Editorial Board as the must visit place for first timers to go to and discover in the Philippines. You’ve heard your friends and family and most likely colleagues rave about this majestic place on Earth. The food is great, the people are incredible, but consume the beautiful wonders of the Philippines’ natural landscape— Coron is surely to keep you satiated for your wanderlust needs. Beware however, once you’ve seen Coron, it may ruin the rest of the entire Planet for you—you’ll say, “This place is nice, but it’s nothing like Coron.”

And when you plan to come home again to the Philippines, you’ll tell your wife or husband—let’s go to Coron again.

How To Get There Check flight rates and special offers on BalikbayanDeals.com.

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Destinations I Travel

#2

Where Oslob, Cebu, Philippines Why Go What was once an open secret of travel enthusiasts experienced by locals and the savvy traveler, adventure seeker, the whale shark sightseeing a short 3 hour drive from Cebu City has remarkably exploded.

A trip to Cebu is simply not complete without seeing Mother Earth’s incredible treasures.

Swimming next to these friendly gifts of the Earth are quintessential for not simply the nature lover but for travelers of all ages.

How To Get There Check flight rates and special offers on BalikbayanDeals.com.

Ideal Traveler 1) Environmentalists 2) Retirees 3) If you’re one of those people who likes to make people envious of your life on social media.

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Destinations I Travel

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#3

Where El Nido, Palawan, Philippines Why Go Unless you live under a rock, you’ve either been here, Googled it, or seen and heard about this enchanting place from your social networks. No bucket list is ever complete without seeing and feeling first hand the grandeur that is El Nido, Palawan.

When I first went to El Nido, for nearly 2 years I didn’t tell anyone to go to this place because I wanted to keep it all to myself—that was my younger, selfish self. Today, all of humanity must visit El Nido at least 3 times in their lifetime.Still to this day, one of our more popular issues of Balikbayan Magazine was when we put El Nido Resorts on the cover of our publication.

How To Get There Check flight rates and special offers on BalikbayanDeals.com.

Ideal Traveler 1) If you’re locked inside on Winter‘s day and dreaming of warm, immaculate weather. Book your trip like right now—there’s no better place if you’re looking for the penultimate vacation.

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Destinations I Travel

#4

Where Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins, Legazpi, Philippines Why Go Don’t overthink about booking this trip to the Bicol Region just because you see a Volcano. If Mayon does erupt while you’re there, consider yourself lucky—consider it a good omen of Earth reminding you that you live on such a beautiful planet. A 16th-century Franciscan church, This late 16th-century Franciscan church of the town Cagsawa was burned down and destroyed by Dutch pirates nearly 300 years ago. But in the early 19th-century, during the massive eruption of the Mayon Volcano it was destroyed yet again. Visit this place not only if you like the food Bicol Express, but also if you love nature, history, and culture—you’ll get your 3-in-1 fix just marveling at this wondrous spectacle.

How To Get There Check flight rates and special offers on BalikbayanDeals.com.

Ideal Traveler 1) Adventure Seekers (not necessarily backpackers, the adventurous can 5-star it too) 2) If you want to ride an ATV 3) Foodies!

Photographer Camille San Vicente via Unsplash.com

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Destinations I Travel

#5

Where Siargao Circumferential Road, Dapa, Surigao del Norte, Philippines Why Go I’ve recently fell in love with Mindanao. Simply put, it’s different there. There are so many places to explore, from Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Lake Sebu, T’boli, Cotabato—you name it, Mindanao has mystifying, awe-inspiring, and exotic destinations—something for everyone. But when you’re rediscovering Mindanao, be sure to make the journey to Surigao del Norte. Traveling to these exotic locations in the Philippines will make you feel accomplished and you’ll be sure to tell yourself, “Wow, I got out of my comfort zone and really finally did it. I went on an adventure.” Trust me, of all the 7 other places we recommend you to rediscover you must absolutely return to Mindanao.

It’s different there.

How To Get There Check flight rates and special offers on BalikbayanDeals.com.

Ideal Traveler 1) Adventure Seekers 2) Thrill Demanders Photographer Eibner Saliba via Unsplash.com

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Destinations I Travel

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#6

Where The Runs, Talisay City, Bacolod, Negros Occidental, Philippines Why Go Ok, picture this—getting married here or attending a wedding here.

Right? I inquired—they allow this.

Google it, you’ll find some of the most beautiful wedding photos outside of Italy, France, and Morocco.

This ancestral mansion of the family of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson and Maria Braga Lacson is largely known as the Taj Mahal of the Philippines. Here is where you get to experiene the Motherland in it’s romantic glory. Beautiful, peaceful, and serence are instant thoughts that will strike your mind as you engulf yourself in Philippine aesthetic.

In addition to this remarkable destination, Bacolod is a vibrant, bustling city that is a must for travelers looking to rediscover parts of the country you have yet to discover.

How To Get There Check flight rates and special offers on BalikbayanDeals.com.

Ideal Traveler 1) Destination Wedding Couples 2) Culture Buffs 3) ArchitectureEnthusiasts 4) Romanticists Photographer Innz via Unsplash.com

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Destinations I Travel

#7

Where Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro-Manila, Philippines Why Go I posted a photo on Facebook of eating a double stack burger at Shake Shack and immediately got messages from my family and friends back home in New York saying, “You’re in New York?!?!” I quipped, nope—I’m in Manila—we have Shake Shack now. Not only that, Michelin rated restaurants abound. Metro-Manila has truly changed, but the essence remains. It’s bit cleaner, its a bit more traffic, but it’s always kept that stylish character­—hustle and bustle.

Everyone is tired, but everyone is smiling. Manila is in exhausted city, but it’s got that innate Mamba Mentality.

How To Get There Check flight rates and special offers on BalikbayanDeals.com.

Ideal Traveler 1) Disconnected Overseas Filipinos Photographer Ian Romie Ona via Unsplash.com

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Destinations I Travel

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#8

Where Chocolate Hills, Bohol, Philippines Why Go Every time I’ve asked people if they have seen the majestic Chocolate Hills of Bohol, I ask what time of season did they go? Was the scenery lush and green or brown and dry?

Seeing the Chocolate Hills at their most fertile, lush, and green aura is a completely different experience then seeing them during the hot, summer, dry season. It’s a thing—and it’s the best thing. It really makes you feel proud you’re from the such a magical land. The way it looks is as though yu’re seeing Earth in it’s infancy— when the Planet was fresh—when dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

How To Get There Check flight rates and special offers on BalikbayanDeals.com.

Ideal Traveler 1) Travel Photographers 2) If you’re stressed and need to unplug.

3) If you’re burnt out and need to surround yourself in countryside forestry.

Photographer Jacky Lo via Unsplash.com

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Informing and empowering Filipinos in 60 Countries & 101 International Cities.

In Focus

MEDICAL TOURISM IN THE PHILIPPINES What you need to know Analysis

The Cost of Healthcare HOW DOES THE PHILIPPINES COMPARE TO OTHER COUNTRIES?

Icons

DR. FE del MUNDO —————— The Artist

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APPLEONE PROPERTIES

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Escapes

REDISCOVERING DIVING IN NEGROS OCCIDENTAL Destinations

5 HOT SPOTS FOR A HEALTHY RECOVERY

US$ 5.00•PHP 150.00

SPECIAL INVES TORS’ GUIDE ON FRANCHISING IN THE PHILIPPINES

INSIDE: SPECIAL REPORT ON THE 2015 ASEAN ECONOMIC INTEGRATION

S P E C I A L R E P O RT: P O P E F R A N C I S V I S I T S T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

INSIDE: CHRIS TMAS AT LIMA PARK HOTEL IN BATANGAS

JUNE & JULY 2014

PHILIPPINES

THE ASIAN JOURNAL TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Issue 39, Volume V

Issue 40, Volume VI

Issue 40, Volume VI

OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014

DECEMBER 2014 / JANUARY 2015

DECEMBER 2014 / JANUARY 2015

EARTH-BAG HOUSE Andres P. Tamayo Sr. Foundation, Inc. joins hand with DataLand, Inc. and DDT Konstract, Inc. in rebuilding Lajala, Coron

Issue 41, Volume VI FEBRUARY / march 2015

MORE THAN JUST THE BASICS, MORE THAN JUST BUSINESS

THE SILK RESIDENCES The Finer Things In Life THE OLIVE PLACE Balanced Living Defined

Exploring the Treasures of

pangasinan Reviving Urduja

THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE CAPITAL

ART WALKS

Galleries. Restaurants.

the economy

IS PANGASINAN READY FOR TAKEOFF?

MANILA CATHEDRAL

Restoring Historical Emminence

bangus

NOT JUST ANOTHER FISH IN THE SEA

FORTITUDE ON A FRIDAY Meeting with the Families at the SM MOA Arena

MUTYA NG PILIPINAS BEYOND THE BEAUTY…

agriculture tourism

More Than The Crown

A COMING OF AGE

G TÖNGI

OUR LADY’S CALL

THE PERFECT STORM Pope Francis visits Tacloban, Leyte

Her Passion. Her Craft.

VISITING MANAOG

Her True Calling.

RIZAL’S ROOTS

TACLOBAN A Year After

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN

BELIEVE IN THE GOODNESS Encounter with the Youth at the University of Santo Tomas, Manila

GINA DE VENECIA

THE QUINTESSENTIAL FILIPINA

dasoland family adventure park AN UNEXPECTED EDEN

america in our hearts

A LANDMARK BOOK ON IMPORTANT FILIPINOS IN THE UNITED STATES

Eastwood City

A pioneering township and the country’s first cyberpark

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PALAWAN

THE ANCIENT ART OF BATOK

The Luxe Life at Princesa Garden Island Resort & Spa

An ongoing series about the indigenous tribes in the Philippines

POPE APPETIT Chef Jessie Sincioco talks about her experience cooking for Pope Francis

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Issue 41, Volume VI

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FEBRUARY / march 2015

APRIL / may 2015

AMORITA

DISCOVER BOHOL’S “LITTLE DARLING” AND BE CAPTIVATED BY PANGLAO’S BREATHTAKING CHARM

BALESIN

INSIDE QUEZON PROVINCE’S EXCLUSIVE, LUXURY RESORT

AN ISLAND HIDEAWAY IN THE TROPICAL PARADISE OF BUSUANGA, PALAWAN

MALASIMBO

PUERTO GALERA’S ANNUAL FEAST OF MUSIC, ART, AND NATURE ISSN 2012-4589

9 772012 458001 >

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Special in-Depth Feature: phinma property holDingS corporation

OUTLOOK: ALL THINGS CONSIDERED, THE INTRICACIES OF POLITICS

In-Depth: the GolDen opportunIty for the travel InDustry

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THE TRIBES CALLED MANGYAN

MANAOAG

PUERTO GALERA’S CULTURE SHAPERS

THE COUNTRY’S NEWEST MINOR BASILICA

INSIDE: MORE THRILLING REASONS TO COMEBACK HOME

THE FORECAST: LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL, BUT FOR EVERYONE

PHILIPPINES

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

BALIKBAYANMAGAZINE.COM

Issue 48, Volume VII

Issue 49, Volume VII

APRIL & MAY 2016

JUNE & JULY 2016

S P E C I A L R E P O RT: T H E E M E R G I N G M E D I CA L TO U R I S M I N D U S T RY I N T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

Issue 51, Volume VII OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2016

the asian journal business, travel & culture magazine

Where luxury meets serenity

ESSENCE OF PLACE

SOUL SEARCHING: BALAY SAN JOSE

KEEPING A JOURNAL LABOR POLICY AS FOREIGN POLICY

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GUIDEBOOK

FROM THE EXECUTIVE’S DESK ALEJANDRA “DADING” CLEMENTE PROFILES AMBASSADOR JOSE L. CUISA, JR.

TECHNOLOGY

noW ConneCtInG: free WI-fI natIonWIDe

CALLAO CAVE

THE GREAT OUTDOORS THE pERFECT GETAWAY

GREAT ESCAPES 01 CATCHING THE PALAD SANDBAR 02 TIPS FOR A BUDGET TRAVELER

one-on-one WIth MIss unIverse, pIa WurtZBaCh

HEALTH

ADVENTURE WHAT TO PACK

TECHNOLOGY ARE WE MOVING FORWARD OR STANDING STILL?

MarKetInG to the MoDern fIlIpIno

TABLE FOR TWO

ISABELA, STA. MARIA: THE STAR OF THE NORTH

COVER

THE ECONOMY 01 UNINTERRUPTED, ROBUST TOURISM GROWTH 02 MORE JOBS, MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES

another upGraDe for the phIlIppIne eConoMy

INFRASTRUCTURE

DISCOVERY

INFRASTRUCTURE GETTING THERE

GREAT GETAWAYS

BATANES

CULTURE MALASIMBO: OF NATURE, MUSIC, & ARTS AMAZING GETAWAYS 01 SHANGRI-LA, THE FORT 02 SHANGRI-LA, MACTAN

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PORTFOLIO

RESTAURANTS & BARS 01 OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE 02 ABV: ALCOHOL BY VOLUME

HISTORY PAL’S 75TH YEAR BRINGS LOS ANGELES TO CEBU FLIGHTS

BALIKBAYANS+FRANCHISING: THE BUSINESS OWNER

INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS RETIREMENT, MORE FUN IN THE pHILIppINES

RESORTS WORLD MANILA BRINGS BACK THE BELOVED MUSICAL FEATURING AN ALL-FILIPINO CAST

EXECUTIVE’S DESK RALpH SANTOS AND THE CASHLESS SOCIETY

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PORTFOLIO: THE 2017 INVESTMENT ISSUE IN-FOCUS: THE BENEFITS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS AND RETIREES IN THE PHILIPPINES

S P E C I A L R E P O R T: T H E P H I L I P P I N E ’ S Q U E S T TO B E T H E B E S T D E S T I N AT I O N I N T H E WO R L D F O R M E D I C A L TO U R I S T S

SPECIAL REPORT: IS MEDICAL TOURISM THE RIGHT OPTION FOR YOU?

Issue 55, Volume VIII I June & July 2017

PHILIPPINES

Issue 54, Volume VIII

Issue 52, Volume VII

APRIL & MAY 2017

DECEMBER 2016 & JANUARY 2017

BUSINESS

How to balance work and summer vacation as a family.

AMAZING ESCAPES LIMA PARK HOTEL: REVEL IN EVERYTHING LUXURIOUS

GREAT ESCAPES 8 Things To Do In Davao DISCOVERY 72 Hours In Batanes PORTFOLIO Lombard By The Bay, The Next Big Thing In The Philippines THE ECONOMY A Tribute To Filipino Workers LEADERS Norman Agatep WINE & DINE Izakaya Kenta Japanese Restaurant

Do you have what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur?

ON THE COVER

LEADERS Dr. Edgardo ‘Gary’ Cortez GREAT ESCAPES It’s More Fun In Batangas AESTHETIC How To Haggle Like A Filipino INVESTMENT Don’t Just Ask Why, Ask When RETIREMENT Staying Fit As We Age HEALTH Cost Analysis (USA vs Philippines) LIFESTYLE From Employee To Entrepreneur

St. Luke’s Medical Center

I N - F O C U S : T H E F I R S T A N N UA L LOV E O F C O U N T RY G LO B A L A M B A S S A D O R S P R O G R A M S TA R T I N G I N T H E U S A

Issue 57, Volume VIII I November-January 2018

PHILIPPINES

LEADERS

A Conversation with Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas

ON THE COVER

Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast Experience A Luxury Beach Lifestyle

AT LEISURE NURTURE WELLNESS VILLAGE: EVERY BALIKBAYAN’S SANCTUARY

BUSINESS INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS: BECOMING A BETTER BUSINESS LEADER & INVESTOR

Issue 56, Volume VIII I August - October 2017

INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS

Q&A Pocholo Paragas, COO & GM of TIEZA CULTURE Religious Tourism on Limelight THE NATION The First PH Subway System FASHION Rene Salud BUSINESS Social Media Trends for 2018 HISTORY How Do Filipinos Celebrate Christmas?

AMAZING ESCAPES Club Balai Isabel

N O . 58 I VOLUME 09 FEBRUARY I MARCH I APRIL 2018 SPRING QUARTERLY ISSUE

ON THE COVER

Inside One Of The Best Medical Institutions In The World

Montemaria, Batangas, the Philippines

The Mother of All Asia and the Rise of Batangas’ Religious Tourism

CULTURE FILIPINO SUPERSTITIONS ON NEW YEAR’S EVE

Q&A JOJI GREGORIO: OFFICER-IN-CHARGE OF THE TOURISM PROMOTIONS BOARD

TECHNOLOGY STARMOBILE KNIGHT SPECTRA: A WORLD-CLASS FILIPINO FLAGSHIP SMARTPHONE

LEADERS GOVERNOR OF LA UNION, EMMANUEL “PACOY” ORTEGA III INDUSTRY RANG-AY BANK’S CEO, IVES NISCE

BREATHTAKING WEDDING DES TINATIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES (AND THE ICONIC CHURCHES TO GET MARRIED IN)

BUSINESS 10 MODERN WAYS TO STAY FOCUSED AND PRODUCTIVE

RADAR MANILA HOSTS MISS UNIVERSE

OUTLOOK THE PHILIPPINES, FILIPINOS, AND THE INCOMING TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

TRAVELER

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THE ECONOMY #NEWPHILIPPINES & THE MODERN LANDSCAPE

24 MUST DO’S FOR AN INCREDIBLE 2017

INSIGHTS & ANALYSIS WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

the asian journal’s bi-monthly briefing on the growth, development, and progression of the philippines.

ISSUE 55 — 01 01 — ISSUE 56

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(1) Tourism Outlook & Development I (2) Lombard By The Bay I (3) Spring Fashion & Makeup Trends (4) The State of Marriage In The Philippines I (5) Amazing Weight-Loss Transformations (6) The Filipino Invention Saving The Environment & Your Money I (7) The Current Landscape Of Business In The Philippines (8) Goodbye Cash? I (9) Unconventional Date Ideas For Couples I (10) Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide (11) The Philippines Now Ranks #1 In Budget Transparency In All Of Asia

GREAT GETAWAYS 24 THINGS TO DO IN BATANGAS the asian journal’s quarterly briefing on the growth, development, and progression of theISSUE philippines.

56 — 01

01 — ISSUE 58 the asian journal’s quarterly briefing on the growth, development, and progression of the philippines.

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S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

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Enriching Filipino Hospitality

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N O. 61 I VOLUME 09 NOVEMBER I DECEMBER I JANUARY 2018 WINTER QUARTERLY ISSUE

Indulge in Asia’s Top Luxury Hideaway Resort

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01 — ISSUE 61

PHILIPPINES

A Vibrant Standard of Hotel Living

01 — The 2020 Spring Quarterly I BalikbayanMagazine.com I ISSUE 66

N O. 63 I VOLUME 10 MAY I JUNE I JULY 2019 SUMMER QUARTERLY ISSUE

ISSUE 63 — 01

ISSUE 63 — 01

I N S I D E : H O W KO B E B RYA N T I N S P I R E D A G LO B A L C O M M U N I T Y O F F I L I P I N O S O N A N D O F F T H E C O U R T

A Modern Marvel for the World in Batangas, Philippines

ISSUE 64 — 01

IN FOCUS: THE PHILIPPINES AND CHINA REAFFIRM FRIENDSHIP

N O. 63 I VOLUME 10 MAY I JUNE I JULY 2019 SUMMER QUARTERLY ISSUE

ISSUE 61 — 01

ISSUE 61 — 01

N O. 65 I VOLUME 10 NOVEMBER I DECEMBER I JANUARY 2019 WINTER QUARTERLY ISSUE

N O. 64 I VOLUME 10 AUGUST I SEPTEMBER I OCTOBER 2019 FALL QUARTERLY ISSUE

S P E C I A L A DV E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

N O. 62 I VOLUME 10 FEBRUARY I MARCH I APRIL 2019 SPRING QUARTERLY ISSUE

The Philippines: A World Tourism Powerhouse

I N S I D E : OV E R 1 T R I L L I O N P E S O S I N A P P R OV E D I N V E S T M E N T S F O R T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

R E P O R T: A N I N - D E P T H LO O K AT T H E OV E R S E A S F I L I P I N O C O M M U N I T Y

PHILIPPINES

I N F O C U S : P R E S I D E N T D U T E RT E I N KS M O N U M E N TA L L E G I S L AT I V E M E A S U R E S

I N F O C U S : P R E S I D E N T X I J I N P I N G ’ S H I STO R I C V I S I T TO T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

N O. 61 I VOLUME 09 NOVEMBER I DECEMBER I JANUARY 2018 WINTER QUARTERLY ISSUE

ISSUE 58 — 01

12/20/17 2:45 PM

ISSUE 65— 01

PHILIPPINES

N O. 66 I VOLUME 11 FEBRUARY I MARCH I APRIL 2020 SPRING QUARTERLY ISSUE

The Return! 8 Great Travel Rediscoveries in the Philippines for 2020

ISSUE 66 I BalikbayanMagazine.com I The 2020 Spring Quarterly— 01

ISSUE 66 I BalikbayanMagazine.com I The 2020 Spring Quarterly— 097

098 — The 2020 Spring Quarterly I BalikbayanMagazine.com I ISSUE 66

Home to the World’s largest statue devoted to Mother Mary.

The best investment is peace of mind.

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Lombard By The Bay is a future, world-class township development located in Montemaria, Batangas. The development overlooks the Verde Island Passage which is recognized by the United Nations as the “Center of the Center of Marine Bio Diversity in the World.”

LombardByTheBay.com

Info@PremierAsiaPacific.com For inquiries, contact Rene Cinco at: (PH) +63-905-453-7004 or (USA) +1-213-596-5970

ISSUE 66 I BalikbayanMagazine.com I The 2020 Spring Quarterly— 099

SEND LOVE EVEN IF YOU ARE ABROAD Be there for every special occasion even when you are across the seas.

Remit cash or send gifts along with your love and best wishes.

Remit via BPI's Remittance tie-ups. To know more, visit www.bpi.com.ph

Terms and conditions apply.

For any concern, you may contact Bank of the Philippine Islands at (02) 889-10000 for Metro Manila; 1-800-188-89100 for domestic toll-free calls (available to PLDT subscribers); 63 + 2 + 889-10000 for mobile phone and international access; and International Toll-Free Numbers (refer to www.bpi.com.ph at Contact Us link for details) or email expressonline@bpi.com.ph. Bank of the Philippine Islands is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas with email address consumeraffairs@bsp.gov.ph.

0100 — The 2020 Spring Quarterly I BalikbayanMagazine.com I ISSUE 66

Deposits are insured by PDIC up to P500,000 per depositor.