Edge Davao 5 Issue 6

EDGEDAVAO VOL.5 ISSUE 6 • MARCH 11-12, 2012

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Davao City: Land of ‘real estate’ promise

By Carlo P. Mallo

With a relatively amiable weather, rolling terrain, and a peace and order situation that is more ideal than most parts of the country, it comes as no surprise that more and more people are moving and living in Davao City.

Aside from the population, one indication of a city’s growth is the number of industries that has made it its home. Just look at Cebu, Metro Manila, and other cities that have put up their own export processing zones. The same cannot be said for Davao City.

If there is one industry that is in the city, it is the real estate industry. Subdivision after subdivision, condominiums built in droves, and hectares upon hectares of land being cut up into an average of 200 square meters, is what the daily grind in Davao looks like.

The old city center is now being torn down to make way for taller condominium buildings, while what used to be farmlands are now being converted into gated communities with paved roads and storm drainage systems.

While Davao City has no shortage on land area, with more than 2,000 square kilometers to boot, most Dabawenyos would opt to live near the city center or what is referred to as ‘downtown’ Davao.

The exponential growth of real estate has never been as strongly felt as it has been the past few years with new mini-central business districts sprouting all over the city, and mall chains racing for the bigger market share, and condominium developers racing for the tallest tower award. On a quiet side of the city, developers have been literally moving the earth to create new villages that answers the needs of the modern Filipino family.

Condominium living

Living in a condominium was unimaginable five to ten years ago. Who would have wanted to live in a confined space of about 30 square meters when you can enjoy and own a 500 square meter property at almost the same price?

But as Dabawenyos realized, there is so much more to a condominium than a 30 square meter studio unit and the perks of calling your house as a “condo”.

Aside from the amenities

the country,” Debin Uraya, president of ULDI, said.

This year, another player in condominium development is expected to join the robust market in Davao City.

But who is buying?

While there are a number of Dabawenyos who are buying condominium units, a large portion of the buyers are from outside Davao City who have businesses in the city, have children studying in the city, or use the city as a

The old city center is now being torn down to make way for taller condominium buildings, while what used to be farmlands are now being converted into gated communities with paved roads and storm drainage systems. and security that one enjoys as part of the condominium lifestyle, owning a condominium unit entails very little maintenance, as there are no shrubs to trim, no lawn to mow, or trees to prune.

But one still enjoys the perks of greenery, as manicured pocket gardens are a staple in a condominium property.

For most condominium developers in the country, sales have been brisk for the first two months of the year.

“Sales have been very robust since the start of the year, way better than 2011,” Nora Gutierrez of DMCI said.

Marlon Escalicas of the Villar-owned Camella shared that they are projecting a better year in 2012.

Aside from major players, local real estate developers like the Uraya Land Development, Inc. is also looking at putting up condominium units to cater to the demands of the market.

“With condominium units, you can sell it to foreigners who want to have a piece of property here in

jump off point to see the rest of the world.

If you look at the city, you will notice condominiums being built left and right, and most developers project that such phenomenon will continue for the next 5 to 10 years as the market remains to be insatiable with its demand for vertical living spaces called condominiums.

1. Will it serve my purpose?

this investment be secure?

How to select 2.3. Will Is it worth what I’m paying for? your condo unit 4. Will I earn on its returns?

Source: Nora Gutierrez of DMCI

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VOL.5 ISSUE 1 • March 5, 2012

Doing business with the UN A

By Lorie A. Cascaro

nyone can do business with the United Nations (UN), even Filipinos.

This was proven by Toshio Mikami, chief of the logistics and transportation section of the United Nations secretariat of the procurement division.

Having Mikami as the presenter on “How to do business with the United Nations”, the Department of Trade and Industry Davao City Field Office conducted a forum attended by some 100 participants in Davao City.

He provided some background information of the UN Organization and the UN procurement process which will allow anyone to register as a vendor; take part in the solicitation process; and, if successful, win contracts with the UN. In 2008, the total procurement volume of the UN system was more than thirteen (13) billion US dollars. The procurement volume of the UN Procurement Division last year was over three (3) billion US dollars. (Refer to Figure 1) Mikami said the graph shows that the market volume is growing fast; It has doubled in the past five years; and, the UN is buying both goods and services; and each representing half of the total procurement volume.

The procurement trend of the UN from 2003-2010 has the highest record of volume in 2009 with $3.498 billion (refer to Figure 2), while the business placed with Filipinos suppliers reached $48,364 in 2007 (refer to Figure 3).

Not a single organization “The UN is not a single organization, but in fact a large number of organizations. This is very important to recognize if you wish to do business with the UN. It is a market in itself, made up of a variety of organizational entities, each with its separate function and mandate,” Mikami told the participants.

Each organization has a different function, each entity also has its own characteristics and requirements; procurement organization; and, processes and procedures, he added.

The UN organization is composed of variety of organizational entities such as Funds and Programmes; Specialized Agencies; and Secretariat, which include UN headquarters, office away from headquarters, commissions, tribunals and field peacekeeping missions.

The UN Funds and Programmes includes of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and World Food Programme (WFP).

Mikami said, “The UNDP is the UN’s global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge; the UNICEF advocates and works for the protection of children’s rights. It specializes in the procurement of supplies for children; and the WFP is the world’s largest international food aid organization, which handles 70% of all global food relief.”

Examples of UN Specialized Agencies are Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, which is the leading international body in food and agriculture, and provides direct technical assistance through its Field Programmes; and, World Health Organization (WHO), the leading agency in international health.

Supplies needed Doing business with the UN involves different business sectors as the supplies needed by each UN entity vary. And, most of their procurement are goods and services.

The UNDP needs include

ment and instruments, medical and surgical equipment, transport, HIV test kits, dental instruments and appliances.

The headquarters and field missions needs include air transportation services, chemical and petroleum products, telecommunication equipment and services, food rations and catering services, motor vehicles/ parts and transportation equipment, computer equipment and services, logistics and freight forwarding, prefabricated buildings, inspection and related services architecture, engineering and construction related services, electrical apparatus and electronic component, real estate lease and rental, banking and investment, security equipment, pharmaceutical products and vaccines, and medical equipment.

How to supply to the UN? Mikami said the first step in supplying to the UN is to start with one’s own company. The company should have sufficient knowledge about the UN procurement system and offices as it is important to become familiar with the structures of different UN organizations and their requirements and to learn more about UN procurement procedures.

Doing business with the UN involves different business sectors as the supplies needed by each UN entity vary. And, most of their procurement are goods and services. telecommunications, electrical, laboratory and agricultural equipment, Medical supplies and equipment, Water supply systems, Pharmaceuticals, Educational, training and social services.

The UNICEF needs include vaccines/biologicals, pharmaceuticals, educational supplies, medical supplies and equipment, water and sanitation, and bed nets.

The WFP needs include food, transport, warehousing and logistics, vehicles, IT equipment, communication equipment.

The FAO needs include chemicals, grain mill products, starches & starch products, agricultural produce, machinery, special purpose, transport equipment, animals and animal products.

The WHO needs include pharmaceutical products & vaccines, X-ray/radiological apparatus, administrative supplies, office furniture, laboratory supplies, equip-

Things to consider the company include experience with supplying goods and or services as required by the UN; have global/international experience; and the capacity to supply under difficult conditions.

The company should also have the language skills to work with the UN. “It is important to note that English is the primary language in procurement, however there are procurement offices such as the United Nations Office at Geneva and several field missions that conduct business in French.”

Some of the questions Mikami raised are “Does your company have the network to operate globally or does it need a partner? It is important to recognize potential difficulties in countries where the UN operates and infrastructure required to service the UN in such locations.”

“Does your company have

Figure 1. Total procurement of goods and services (2006-2010) in $ millions

Figure 2. Procurement Trend 2003-2010 (UN Secretariat)

Figure 3. Business Placed with Filipino Suppliers from 2006-2012

the financial and human resources, capacity and capability to supply to an organization like the UN?” “Can your company be flexible and responsive to accurately supply to the UN? It is important to remember that the nature of the UN sometimes require a quick response time.”

“Does your company have the persistence and patience to conduct business with the UN? It is important to realize that procurement in the public sector is lengthy, and your company should not expect quick wins or short term success and should anticipate the time required to become a supplier to the UN in its long term planning.”

Key to success In order to be successful in beginning to work with the UN, registering one’s company on the United Nations Global Marketplace or UNGM is the key.

“By registering on UNGM,

your company is ensured to be in the database used by UN buyers when searching for suppliers,” he said. Interested suppliers are invited to create their free registration accounts at www.ungm.org.

In preparing oneself to do business with the UN, Mikami advised that one should subscribe to the UNGM Tender Alert service and check procurement notices on UNGM regularly so not to miss a business opportunity.

Further, he also advised to register one’s company with UN, and make sure that one is registered with the global market place (UNGM), and also with the individual organizations / entities.

Market research is important as well by learning about the UN organization and its needs.

“Make sure you are familiar with the UN procurement process and procedures. As a public organization, we have

very strict rules and regulations. Keep yourself up to date with current procurement activities which are posted on the website,” he said.

By the end of his presentation, Mikami reminded the participants the importance for the company to ahere to the guidelines and instructions provided in the tender documents once it begins participating in the Procurement Division’s solicitation process. Once your company begins participating in the Procurement Division’s solicitation process, it will be very important that your company adheres to the guidelines and instructions provided in the tender documents.

“Once you are awarded a contract, make sure you provide the performance standards as agreed upon in the contract. The UN requires the highest standards of performance,” he said. [Lorie A. Cascaro]

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VOL.5 ISSUE 6 • March 11-12, 2012

GAP Farming Resort: Then and now Land of Promise

Mystical Filipino folklore

By Jims Vincent T. Capuno

Before Eden Nature Park, Crocodile Park, Malagos Garden Resort, Loleng’s Mountain Spring Resort, Philippine Eagle Center, Outland Adventure, and People’s Park, there was GAP Farming Resort.

The resort, from the acronym “good activities of the people,” was once upon a time the symbol of Davao City. In the past, when you looked for Davao’s icon, you saw a giant replica of a carabao that carried on its back a farmer with a hoe.

That’s Gap Farming Resort--a “Ten-hectare hinterland converted into a recreation park, nature reserve and educational center, colorful and lush with tropical flora, complete with all amenities for clean, wholesome enjoyment for individuals and groups.”

Despite the proliferation of tourist destinations in Davao today, GAP resort still attracts hordes of visitors – mostly the kindergarten kind and their parents, high school and college students, and entire families. Visitors don’t have to go far to experience a rural setting in Davao City. GAP is about eight kilometers from the heart of the city.

The resort was the brainchild of Quirino Villegas who, during his lifetime, received several recognitions for his various initiatives. In 1994, he was the recipient of Davao’s coveted Datu Bago Award for “his contributions to the community through worthwhile community projects.”

In 2005, he was given the Aguman Ding Capampangan Davao Chapter Golden Award for “his outstanding performance in his chosen field of endeavor and for being an inspirational role model to the organization’s members.”

Villegas was not a native Dabawenyo. In fact, he was from Arayat, Pampanga. But it was to Davao that he migrated and made a name for him and his family. Although he was no longer a resident of his

verance, hard toil, and lots of prayers, before the resort came into fruition. Once it work on it started, there was no turning back.”

In 1973, Quirino bought the first six hectares where he built the grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes at a natural spring. Being a religious person, he also constructed the chapel of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in the upper portion of the resort.

In 1983, the Gap Farming Resort was officially opened to the public. This

For the near future, management is planning to set up more activities to entice more people to come to the resort. birthplace, he was still cited as an Outstanding Arayateño, an honor reserved for the most successful “sons” of his hometown.

Leny, Quirino’s second daughter, says her father drew his inspiration for the resort from Mount Arayat where he grew up. So, when he saw the area where the resort is now situated, he was immediately smitten by it.

“The resort was ten years in the making,” Leny said. “It took a lot of courage, perse-

was at the height of chaos when Davao City had earned notoriety as the “killing fields”. “It was not the best time to open a resort,” Leny said.

But against all odds, the resort was a hit. People flocked to the resort daily because of its being a novelty. “We didn’t have any competition at the time and we offered what people really wanted,” Leny said.

On weekends, people either went to cinemas or to the beach. There were no GAP Farming Resort

malls then, so, if they wanted to have leisure time and bonding moments, families trooped to Gap Farming Resort.”

But the resort was not the venue for tours only.

Other activities held there included weddings, annual spiritual retreats, family picnics, business parties, even meetings and clan gatherings.

For the near future, management is planning to set up more activities to entice more people to come to the resort. “We are contemplating adding come-ons so that people who used to here can expect something new and exciting when they return,” Leny said.

For those who have not yet been to the resort, here’s what you need to know. Upon entering the resort, a huge concrete statue of a farmer riding on a carabao warmly welcomes you and company. One of its main attractions is the huge imprint in marble of the phrase “Land of Promise” set on its vast lawn, which can easily be seen from the air if one is aboard a plane.

Another attraction is what is billed as a “Japanese cave.” The cave tunnels a few meters into a hillside turns around and exits from the side entrance. At the entrance is a replica of a snake; once inside you get to see a glass-enclosed effigy of a Japanese soldier.

Since it is a farm, you get to see a lot of trees and fruits (rambutan, durian, marang, sampaloc, mangosteen, jackfruit, cashew,

Leny Castillo at the chapel of Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Statues of Indigenous tribes

star apple, and lots of mangoes). Ornamentals and orchids abound.

There is also a picnic area where visitors may take their meals. Scattered about are some buildings and cottages which can be rented for mini-conferences and meetings. The visitir can also come across statues of Filipino heroes and presidents, people from different tribes, and animals.

Another come-on is the Conferencia ng mga Multo, which showcases popular mystical folklore creatures in the country. Among those featured are replicas of popular Filipino ghosts and monsters like the “White Lady”, a tikbalang (half man-half-horse), a kapre (smoking giant), and a manananggal (a half-bodied witch), among others.

A few steps from the area is a large statue of Juan Tamad reclining on the ground—the epitome of a fictional character who was notorious for being a lazy person (one story tells of

Juan lying on his back under a fruit tree with mouth wide open as he waited for a ripe fruit to fall into it, instead climbing up the tree to pluck it off the branch).

Another attraction is its Olympic-size swimming pool (6 feet deep). Entrance fee to the pool is P50 per person.

Indeed, GAP Farming Resort has come a long, long way since it was launched in 1983. One visitor wrote: “GAP Farm is definitely my top favorite weekend outing destination for my family. I can no longer recall the countless times my family and I went to this beautiful resort where several fond, unforgettable memories transpired.”

The GAP Farming Resort is located on the hilly part of Green Valley, Diversion Road in barangay Ma-a. It is a 15-minute drive from downtown. Entrance fee is P30 per person.

For further details, visit its website: www.gapfarmingresort.webs.com

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Ups and downs of the mango industry

By Jims Vincent T. Capuno

Three years ago, hundreds of mango farmers and growers from the cities of Davao, Digos, Tagum and the province of Compostela Valley attended a series of intensive training on good agricultural practices in producing the world’s best mango.

Antonio Teh, who heads the Southern Mindanao Mango Council, said the wide-ranging training would make sure the region’s mango farmers and growers can achieve sustainability in mango production, get reasonable profits from the venture, produce high-quality, safe and affordable mango products, protect the environment and provide jobs for people in their communities.

Indeed, there is a sure market for mangoes, according to the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) in the Davao region. About 93 percent of the country’s mango supply is consumed locally. Of

Philippine mango

Mango spraying

this proportion, it is estimated that 75 percent are eaten as fresh fruit and 25 percent as processed products in various forms.

In foreign trade, AMAD said the world export market grew by 10% per year up to 2010. In 2007, the country exported 26,336 metric tons of for fresh mangoes worth US$23,284,589 and 2,622 metric tons of dried mangoes worth US$15,216,165.

The Philippines exports

mangoes to 48 countries. The major destinations are Hong Kong and Japan, which buy 89 percent of the country’s mango exports. Other existing markets for are the United States, Australia, Singapore, German Federation, Malaysia, New Zealand and Canada. The Netherlands, South Korea and the Middle East are new markets for Philippine mangoes.

Most mango exports come from Guimaras Island in the Visayas, particularly those

that are shipped to Australia and the United States. In 1993, the National Mango Research and Development Center in Guimaras was established as the center for research and development of the mango industry.

Most of those who have tasted the mangoes from Guimaras say that the fruit tastes differently from mangoes in other parts of the country or anywhere else in the world. One blogger wrote: “Guimaras is located in the Western Visayas region, where the climate is not as humid as the other areas of the country. The location as well as the climate directly affects the quality of any fruit.

Moreover, the soil where these trees are planted is very rich in nutrients which help the trees to bear fruits that are rich in flavor and nutrition.”

Next to banana and pineapple, mango is the third most important fruit crop of the country based on export volume and value. The country’s export variety, the “Carabao mango,” is one of the best varieties in the world. In fact, the Guinness Book of Records listed the variety as the sweetest mango in the world.

About 73 percent of the total area planted to mangoes is owned by small-scale farmers while 24 percent operate farm sizes between three to 9.99 hectares. Those operating 10 hectares and over constitute only about three percent. The mango industry supports about 2.5 million farmers.

The 2004 report of the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics listed the Philippines as the world’s seventh-largest mango producer. But it may not hold the distinction anymore as mango production in Mindanao – where most of the mangoes are grown – went down by more than 30 percent last year.

The culprit: the unusually wet weather. Fred Dumasis, president of the Sarangani Fed-

Mango planting materials

eration of Fruit Industry Association, said Mindanao has not experienced favorable weather for mango production since 2008. “There has been no clear dry and wet season. There is only wet and wet season,” Dumasis told the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Mango trees bear more fruits during the dry season. Due to wet weather, production slumps. Before 2008, the annual mango production was around 970,000 metric tons per year. After that, mango production in the entire country was a measly 670,000 metric tons per year.

Bad weather is not the only problem that besets the mango industry in the Davao region. It is also hampered by low buying prices of mango traders who consolidate the quantities of all harvested mangoes from several local mango growers to supply the requirements of mango exporters and mango processing plants.

“This industry cannot survive for long if we allow this situation to continue. That’s why we’re working out a synchronizing plan for mango growers that will make them harvest the fruit at different schedules,” Teh was quoted as saying by the Philippine News Agency.

The simultaneous harvest of all fruits by mango growers – causing a glut in the local market – is cited as one reason why the price of mangoes goes down. “We can’t allow this situation to go on without doing anything,” Teh said.

The possible solution to the problem: a synchronization program. Already, a calendar guide for mango production has been printed and distributed to mango growers and farmers in the Davao region to help them synchronize the harvesting of the fruits, thus improving and stabilizing the price.

The guide shows a chart listing the seven mango producing areas in the region as well as the

months from January to December, marking the areas with color for “flower induction” and another color for “harvesting.” Also shown is a circular calendar chart of production activities for mango growers from January to December to guide them on what to do during each month.

At the bottom of the calendar guide are four spaces to indicate “Philippine Mango Standard Specification,” “Minimum Residue Level,” “MRL Compliance Guide/Tips,” and Mango Tree Rejuvenation Tips” to be used as references for the mango grower.

In the Philippines, ripe mangoes are eaten fresh as a dessert or processed into dried mangoes, puree, juice, concentrate, shakes, and many more. When eaten green, they are a tasty treat for lovers of sour fruits as they are usually dipped in salt, fermented fish, or shrimp (bagoong). Green mangoes are also pressed into juice and shakes.

Mango is also used to make juices, both from ripe and unripe form. Pieces of fruit can be mashed and used in ice cream or blended with milk and ice to make thick milkshakes. In Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, sweet glutinous rice is flavored with coconut then served with sliced mango on top as a dessert.

History records show that the mango originated from the Myanmar region, where it was known to have been cultivated 4,000 years ago. Buddhist monks took mango to Malaya and eastern Asia in the 5th century B.C. Later in the 18th century, Portuguese explorers would introduce mango in Brazil. From there, mango cultivation would reach Florida, USA in 1833 and eventually in Africa and in other lowland tropical and sub-tropical areas. Today, there are about 83 mango-producing countries in the world.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 6 • March 11-12, 2012

PHL cacao production rising

By Lorie A. Cascaro

Cacao production in the country had experienced a nonstop fall since 1990, the earliest record presented by the Philippine Bureau of Agricultural Statistics, under the Department of Agriculture.

Statistics show that the Philippines had a total of 5,752,940 cacao trees in 1990, but the number was down 4,639,556 trees by 2001. As a consequence, there was a difference of 3,317.5 metric tons or 33.67% in cacao production between 1990 (9,848.06 metric tons) and 2001 (6,530.56 metric tons).

But in 2009, there was a minimal yet significant increase in the number of trees and volume of production of cacao, particularly in the Davao region. Although the existing number of cacao trees in the country is less than what it was two decades ago, data show that more Filipino farmers have been planting cacao in the last two years.

In the Davao region, cacao production is considered one of the sunshine industries this year. Reports say that more farmers have opted to plant cacao while many are investing in cacao farming.

With a target of 100,000 metric tons of cocoa a year in 2020 to supply both domestic and international demands, farmers continue to increase cacao production while enjoying its high price in the local market. An average of 50%

increase in price is noted such that wet cacao beans alone which used to cost only P1520 per kilo now sell for P3034 per kilo, according to Olive Puentespina.

Puentespina Farm, located in Barangay Malagos, Calinan, Davao City, has a nursery for cacao seedlings accredited with the Bureau of Plant Industry. With its annual Malagos Farm Fair, now on its third year, the Puentespina family is encouraging Dabawenyos to go back to farming, noting that agriculture is vital to the Philippine economy.

Also located in the Malagos Farm is the Mars Cocoa Development Center, a partnership between Puentespina Farm and Mars Chocolate USA. Puentespina told Edge Davao that because of the Malagos Farm Fair more people have become interested in cacao farming.

Apart from the seminars given during the fair, the Puentespina Family hosts seminars on cacao farming. It is a three-day live-in learning package for P7,500 per person, inclusive of full-board meal plus flowing coffee; lecture and hands-on sessions on cocoa farming; certificate

In the Davao region, cacao production is considered one of the sunshine industries this year. of attendance; use of Malagos Garden Resort amenities; and, airport transfers. Some participants of previous seminars, Puentespina said, came from Iloilo and Manila. Still at Malagos Garden Resort, the 2012 Seminar Series will be on March 15 to 17.

While high prices of cocoa attract farmers to plant more cacao trees, the Agricultural Cooperative Development International and Volunteers in Overseas Cooperative Assistance (ACDI/VOCA) continue their programs in helping Filipino farmers plant 50 million more cacao trees that require 150-200 thousand hectares of land. [Lorie A. Cascaro]

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Pineapple exports show promise

By Jims Vincent T. Capuno

Mindanao, the country’s second largest island, is touted to be the “food basket of the Philippines.” Agriculture, one of the most important industries, provides not only livelihood and employment opportunities but also food security to the country’s growing population.

As most parts of Mindanao are free from typhoons, various crops are grown. One major crop that is grown in most part of the island, including the provinces of Bukidnon, Davao and South Cotabato, is pineapple. Next to banana, it is the second most popular tropical fruit.

The Philippines ranks third in pineapple production, next to Brazil and Thailand, accounting for ten percent of the world’s supply. Most pineapples from the Philippines are processed into juice, jellies and jams, dried fruit, pineapple vinegar and fruit cocktail.

Pineapple shows great promise in export. In 2008, official data showed that Mindanao’s pineapple industry posted robust growth despite the global economic downturn, generating export sales of $352.3 million. A year earlier, pineapple export generated some $247.8 million.

Most of the exports in 2008 went to the United States and Japan. The US took the bulk of canned products while Japan bought fresh pineapple.

Mindanao produces nearly 90% of the country’s pineapples, a large part of which comes from Northern Mindanao and Central Mindanao. Northern Mindanao is home to the pineapple farms of Del Monte Philippines, Inc., while Central Mindanao hosts Dole Philippines, Inc. (Dolefil).

Dolefil mostly exports pineapple canned goods while Davao region exports fresh pineapple mostly to Japan.

Perhaps not too many Filipinos know that pineapple is not a native of the country. It is believed to have originated from Brazil, where tribal peoples have always regarded pineapple highly and have used it as a staple food and as an ingredient in some wines. When early explorers brought the pineapple back to Europe, its sweetness and unusual appearance made the fruit a symbol of royal privilege.

Being popular in Europe, the Spaniards (who carved pine-

apples over doorways) brought the fruit in the Philippines after the latter was rediscovered in 1521. Today, the Philippines, along with Brazil, Malaysia, Taiwan, Mexico, the Philippines, South Africa and Puerto Rico, are the top producing countries in the world.

For years, Hawaii supplied 70% of the world’s canned pineapple and 85% of canned pineapple juice, but labor costs have shifted a large segment of the industry from Hawaii to the Philippines. In 1983, Dole has transferred 75% of its operations to the country.

How pineapple got its name is an interesting story. When he came across pineapple in 1493 on the island of Guadeloupe, Christopher Columbus called it la piña de las Indians(“the pine of the Indies”) because, as he later told Ferdinand and Isabella, they resembled “green pine cones, very sweet and delicious.” The odd name stuck, and pineapples are still called piñas in most Spanishspeaking countries. In fact, the word pineapple originally meant “pine cone” in England.

Aside from eaten raw, pineapple is also added to fruit salad, pies, cakes, ice cream, yogurt, punches, and other desserts. Pineapple is an ingredient in most sweet and sour dishes and is used in many savory dishes.

Throughout all this history, the pineapple was valued strictly as a table delicacy. All but forgotten were the early explorers’ intriguing observations that Indians had used pineapple poultices to reduce inflammation in wounds and other skin injuries.

Then, in 1891 an enzyme called bromelain was isolated from the flesh of the pineapple and was discovered to be proteolytic – that is, it breaks down protein. Hence it is a natural meat tenderizer (the pineapple rings atop a baked ham are not there just for the flavor) and a digestive aid. It can also break down blood clots-proteins are what hold blood platelets together to form clots – and clean away the dead tissue left by burns, abscesses, ulcers, and various kinds of surgery. Bromelain also has proved effective in killing parasites such as worms.

Studies have shown that bromelain in pineapples can interfere with the preparation of some foods, such as jelly or other gelatin-based desserts.

The bromelain breaks down in the canning process, thus canned pineapple can generally

Pineapples for sale

Growing pineapple

Mindanao produces nearly 90% of the country’s pineapples, a large part of which comes from Northern Mindanao and Central Mindanao. Northern Mindanao is home to the pineapple farms of Del Monte Philippines, Inc., while Central Mindanao hosts Dole Philippines, Inc. (Dolefil). Dolefil mostly exports pineapple canned goods while Davao region exports fresh pineapple mostly to Japan. be used with gelatin.

Just a word of warning: Bromelain can be hazardous to someone suffering from certain protein deficiencies or disorders, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Pineapples should also not be consumed by those with hemophilia or by those with kidney or liver disease, as it may reduce the time taken to

coagulate a consumer’s blood.

In recent years, there is a growing demand for pineapple as a beverage. Crushedpineapple, juice, nectar, concentrate, marmalade and other preserves are commercially prepared from the flesh remaining attached to the skin after the cutting and trimming of the central cylinder. All residual

parts cores, skin and fruit ends are crushed and given a first pressing for juice to be canned as such or prepared as syrup used to fill the cans of fruit, or is utilized in confectionery and beverages, or converted into powdered pineappleextract which has various roles in the food industry.

Chlorophyll from the skin

and ends imparts a greenish hue that must be eliminated and the juice must be used within 20 hours as it deteriorates quickly. A second pressing yields “skin juice” which can be made into vinegar or mixed with molasses for fermentation and distillation of alcohol.

Another product that can be exported from pineapple is its fiber. The pineapple leaves yield a strong, white, silky fiber.

Chinese people in Kwantgung Province and on the island of Hainan weave the fiber into coarse textiles resembling grass cloth. In India, the thread is prized by shoemakers. In the Philippines, piña cloth is highly esteemed for it is made into a barong Tagalog, the country’s national dress. In Taiwan they also make a coarse cloth for farmers’ underwear.

Meanwhile, Inocencio Obrero, a researcher from the Research Outreach Station of the Department of Agriculture in Daet, Camarines Norte has discovered a technique for growing export-quality pineapple.

“Pineapple performs well when given the right amount of fertilizer,” he said. The new technique, he explained, would give fruit growers fruits “that are in accordance with the standards of the export market.”

According to Obrero, nitrogen and potassium applied to the soil can improve the height, length and width of the pineapple plant’s leaves. “Attaining a specific plant growth means high-quality fruits that suit the requirements of the export market,” he pointed out.

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VOL.5 ISSUE 6 • March 11-12, 2012

Camella Northpoint’s 12 feats for 2012

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here are at least twelve good reasons for Camella to be proud of its landmark condo development, Camella Northpoint. Since its groundbreaking in 2009, this British colonial themed condo community is being built with advantages that have remained unmatched to date.

1. Location. Situated at the junction of J. P. Laurel Avenue and Buhangin Road, Camella Northpoint is strategically located within the hub of north Davao’s commercial and business district, making vibrant living the norm in this new premier address.

Camella Northpoint is less than ten minutes away from malls like Abreeza, Gaisano Mall, Victoria Plaza, and the upcoming SM Mall in Lanang, as well as modern corporate offices and business centers, and public utilities like banks, hospitals, supermarkets, telecommunications, wet markets, churches, seaport, airport, and schools and universities.

With its close proximity to all daily essential needs, residents can go on foot, take public transport, or drive the short distance to all modern conveniences.

2. Pine Estate. With about P4 million worth of all-weather Caribbean pine trees imported from New Zealand transplanted across its grounds, Camella Northpoint will turn into a veritable pine estate when the pine trees grow to about a hundred feet tall. That means crisp, cool, pine-scented ambiance all year round, making it a fresh, green oasis in the city.

3. Subdivision charm. Wakefield Manor, the stately clubhouse that is the cen-

Camella Northpoint’s first two condo buildings stand majestic in this aerial shot.

terpiece of Camella Northpoint’s excellent facilities and amenities, is located at the center of the green, pine-dotted open spaces, giving it a distinct subdivision charm.

4. Green, open spaces. Upon entering the condo property, one is greeted by a vista of green freshness, wide open spaces, and naturally undulating land enhanced by meticulous landscaping, lush trees and plant life, and a green carpet of grass. This is the natural backdrop by which a park, pocket gardens, and the playground will be shaped.

5. Green buildings. The freshness of the outdoors is brought inside with the indoor garden, natural light streaming in through the skylights, and natural air flowing in and out of the condos built following the principles of green architecture. Residents enjoy healthy living with the condo’s green buildings, designed to minimize impact on human health and the environment, keeping its resident safe from sick building syn-

drome.

6. Low-rise advantage. Built up to six to ten storeys only, the condo buildings offer low- and mid-rise advantage: no over-crowding, no competing for elevator use, and no tiring high climb at the stairs. At Camella Northpoint, population is less dense than high-rise condos and there’s no long waits and tight space at the elevators.

7. World-class facilities and amenities.

The clubhouse has a charming multipurpose hall with wide windows, and on the ground level, a fitness gym, cabanas, grill pits, Davao’s first salinated wellness pool, and soon, a Zen-inspired meditation pond. There is also WiFi access, a shuttle service, and 24/7 stateof-the-art security system bolstered by CCTVs. 8. Commercial area. With a commercial development in the offing, Camella Northpoint residents get to enjoy an enhanced lifestyle with fine dining restaurants, quaint shops, boutique ho-

tel, open amphitheatre, and specialty stores, just a few steps away from their condo home. The landmark White House is preserved as the centerpiece of the commercial area, exuding old Davao charm amidst the modern development around it.

9. Developer reputation. Camella as a brand equates to longevity, financial stability, and unblemished reputation.

A subsidiary of Vista Land & Lifescapes, the largest homebuilder in the country, Camella carries the same commitment to excellence in all its developments in Davao where it has 16 years of experience in property development.

Camella’s expertise in condo development emanates from the solid track record of Vista Land, a forerunner in residential development that offers a fresh take on urban living. To date, Vista Land’s successful condo projects are Mosaic in Greenbelt, KL Mosaic in Legaspi Village, The Gallery in Salcedo, Laureano de Trevi in Pasong Tamo,

Avant at the Fort, Pacific Residences in Taguig, The Currency in Ortigas, Crown Tower in Manila, Symphony, Pine Crest, Madison Place and Will Tower in Quezon City, Presidio and The Marfori in Sucat.

10. Value for investment. With its prime location, unique features, modern facilities and amenities, Camella Northpoint’s affordable prices yield more value for the homebuyer’s money. With rental rates around Bajada, Buhangin and Lanang going for at least P13,000 a month, investing in a Northpoint unit is a wise move for those who know their condo unit is an earning asset that allows them to recover their investment fast.

11. Professional property management.

Northpoint is managed by a professional property management team responsible for keeping the condo property well maintained and secure at all times, as well as establishing harmonious relationship and healthy camaraderie among the homeowners.

12. Excellent living proposition. Camella Northpoint gives its homeowners the best of both worlds: a stylish, modern home ensconced within the tranquility of a natural, lush setting where unit owners find peaceful living possible in its urban location. The careful screening of homebuyers has resulted to a select and diverse group of homeowners that make the condo community vibrant and interesting.

To enjoy Camella Northpoint’s 12-point advantage, get in touch with Camella at 2/F Delgar Building, J. P. Laurel Ave., Davao City, numbers 222-0963, 222-5221, 222-5223, 09178576572, vismin@camella.com.ph, and www.camella.com.ph.

VOL.5 ISSUE 6 • March 9-12, 2012

EDGEDAVAO

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Franchising sector sees 20% growth in 2012

The country’s franchising industry is targeting a 20 percent growth this year, with the thriving local economy and the growing interest of Filipinos who consider franchising a good investment opportunity.

Rudolf Kotik, founder of RK Franchise Consultancy, said the growth of franchise businesses is largely fueled by the increased interest of Filipinos in franchising. ”Franchising is popular because it already has a tested system. It has a security factor in the sense that everything is already in place and is proven to be profitable,” Kotik said. ”This is the kind of business where one doesn’t need to be an expert. You can run a drugstore even if you’re not a pharmacist or run a pizza business even if you don’t have the baking or cooking skills,” he said.

RK Franchise Consultancy organized a three-day Franchising Expo that opened Friday at the SM Cebu Trade Hall. The expo was participated in by 70 franchise brands and recorded 8,000 visitors. ”The increased number of visitors from 5,000 last year to 8,000 is a good indicator of the kind of interest Filipinos have towards

KOTIK

franchising,” Kotik said.

He said some of the walk-in guests came all the way from General Santos City, Bohol, Davao and other parts of Visayas and Mindanao. ”So long as you have the interest, resources and location for the business, you’d thrive in the industry,” Kotik said.

A minimum franchise package starts at P250,000.

A factor that also helps the industry is the country’s strong economy, he said.

Kotik said that with an increased purchasing power, Filipino consumers may likely invest and franchising is one proven alternative for those who wish to run and own a business.

Kotik said the success rate of a franchise business is at 95 per-

cent compared to putting up a business from scratch.

The three-day expo is expected to close at least 100 franchise applications.

Kotik noted that some participants are already close to signing franchise contracts.

RK has about 438 existing clients nationwide. It targets 60 new clients for franchise development this year.

In Cebu, RK was able to draw seven new clients this year.

Among Cebu’s successful franchise businesses are Thirsty, Mooon Café, Julie’s Bakeshop and the new entry, Dong Juan. ”Dong Juan, for instance, is

growing so fast. We developed this last year and now it already has 10 outlets and is going nationwide,” he said.

Kotik said franchising is also a good investment for the overseas Filipino market.

The Philippine Franchise Association and Association of Filipino Franchisers Inc. are aggressive in implementing programs for investment opportunities for overseas Filipino workers.

[PNA]

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VOL.5 ISSUE 6 • March 11-12, 2012