M AY 2 0 1 9
Blockchain Application in
Power & Water NEWS
The European bottled water industry unites to make four pledges for the circular economy
Manila Water maintains double-digit net income growth in 1H2018
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DEWA Store on DEWA smart app provides specials offers for customers
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EDITOR‘S NOTE
W
hile blockchain’s powerful capability was initially developed for cryptocurrencies, today it caters to much more applications in the real world. Blockchain is basically offering more convenient, safer, and faster methods for companies who are willing to explore the possibilities. Its shared digital ledger comprised of anything valuable and duplicated to a multitude of copies in hundreds of computers around the globe gives users a much more reliable source of information that cannot be single-handedly falsified by any one entity. The technology also does not need the services of a middleman to aid in the transactions. Any two parties can transact directly with the help of blockchain. As this kind of capability has been explored and integrated into different sectors of the industry, incorporating blockchain in the utility sector also shows great potential. If blockchain will be the future of utility companies worldwide, money transactions will become much faster and the generation and distribution of utilities like power and water can be easily accomplished in real time.
The Untold Story of Blockchain in Utilities
panels and other renewable energy products can do away with platforms to reach millions of people. Sellers can simply upload their products in the network and let buyers contact them directly. In addition, tedious tasks such as supplier switching, which can take longer days with the traditional method, can now be achieved within hours with the powerful coordination and data transfer blockchain provides. Aside from that, blockchain’s application in the utility sector can range from asset tracking and grid management to meter reading registrations.
Even energy trading and selling are done conveniently with a blockchain network. Buy The potential of blockchain has not been realized fully, and sell transactions of solar 4
but with the fast-paced rise in technology, the industry will surely consider adopting this secured and highly costeffective method into their day-to-day operations.
Regional Office: LG Electronics Gulf FZE, P.O Box 61445, Dubai. Tel: +971 4 279 9222, UAE, Mr. Amjad Abu Alika, Tel: +971 50 450 9808, email: amjad.abualika@lge.com; Fortune International Trading LLC, Mr. Wail Halbouni, Tel: +971 50 481 3570, email: fortintl@emirates.net.ae; Ghantoot Trading, Mr. Nour Haboush, Tel: +971 50 109 4109, email: nour.h@ghantootgroup.ae; District Cooling Company, Mr. Ahmed Henedi, Tel: +971 50 658 4832, email: ahmed@districtcoolingcompany.com; Al Yousuf Electronics, Mr. Moitra, Tel: +971 50 457 6170, email: pmoitra@alyousuf.com; Bahrain, AJM Kooheji and Sons, Mr. Jayachandran, Tel: +973 36888801, email: v.jayachandran@ajmkooheji.com: Al Babtain Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Co., Mr. Naji Kataya, Tel: +965 5 051 5771, email: nkataya@albabtaingroup.com,kw; BLK, Mr. Imad Rhayel, Tel: +965 5 157 1229, email: irhayel@blk.com.kw; Oman, Oman Gulf Enterprise, Mr. Narender Kumar, Tel: +968 9 747 4505, email: narenderk@otegroup.com; Aspire Projects and Service, Mr. Vivek Wagh, Tel: +968 99357694, email: vivekwagh@aspireoman.com; Azerbaijan, NBC LLC., Mr. Elkhan Sadikhov, Tel: +994 50 216 3363, email: elkhan.sadikhov@nbc.com; Al-Con Maxiwell Group, Mr. Vagif Alexperov, Tel: + 994 50 216 2092, email: maxiwellbaku@inbox.ru; Armenia/Georgia, ARAY Gulf, Mr. Vilson Melikjanyan, Tel: +374 9 307 7755, email: vilson@aray.am; Yemen, Modern House Exhibition, Mr. Khaled Jabr, Tel: +967 71 172 0202, email: mail@mhe-yemen.com; Pakistan, Iceberg Industries (Lucky Goldstar), Mr. Imran Jamil Khan, Tel: +923 21 277 6100, email: ceo@icebergindustries.net
CON TENTS
NEWS
16 How Blockchain is Transforming the Utility Sector
32 The European bottled water industry unites to make four pledges for the circular economy
36 Manila Water maintains double-digit net income growth in 1H2018
38 DEWA Store on DEWA smart app provides specials offers for customers
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F E AT U R E S T O RY
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How to Comply with Height Safety Regulations
46 265 Hectare Pasay Harbour Reclamation Project is bigger than Palm Jumeirah Dubai
54 Successful WORLDBEX Event for TOSOT Philippines
58 Is the Philippines Ready for Electric-Powered Jeepneys?
60 Top 6 Most Popular Universities In 2019
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S P E C IA L F E AT U R E
This Rechargeable Stand Fan is a Cost-Effective Cooling Solution in the Philippines With summer almost around the corner, portable air coolers are now taking the spotlight. Here’s everything you need to know and more why they are a definite buy this coming season.
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bout a third of the total energy consumed by the average home is solely dedicated to air conditioning. In fact, Filipinos are addicted to aircon, using them even during the cold months of the year. And while this surely brings more comfort to the occupants especially during the merciless heat wave of the long summer days, it can also wreak havoc on their monthly electricity bills. It is a no-brainer how the regular use of aircon is already consuming a large portion of your bill. What more for an aircon open 24/7 during the hot days? But have you asked yourselves this: does it need to be that expensive to feel comfy at home this summer season? Here are a few other reasons why switching to TOSOT Rechargeable Stand Fan will be the greatest decision you will ever make this summer.
It Lessens Your Monthly Bills While one fan may not be enough to suit your cooling needs when the temperature 8
starts spiking up, did you know that you can buy around five to six floor fans for the price of a single window type air conditioning unit? Of course, this may only be an approximate as the actual prices can vary,
but having six well-placed fans in a room can actually provide the same comfort an aircon can bring, and for a much lesser cost! A regular electric fan in the Philippines has an estimated
cost per hour of about Php0.50 to Php0.70 in contrast with the Php2.00 to Php7.00 of the typical aircon used in Filipino homes. Doing the math, six stand fans with an estimated cost per hour of Php0.70 can only amount to a total of Php4.20, far lesser than the maximum estimated cost per hour for aircon. This approximate may still vary depending on the speed settings and wattage output of your fans, but the difference between the costs of fans and aircon is still significantly greater.
It is Energy-efficient As reported by the Saving Electricity website, the hourly consumption of a medium-sized window type aircon is about 900 watts while a floor fan only consumes nearly 100 watts per hour. The smallest aircon does consume less energy (with about 750 watts per hour) but is still a significant burden in the electricity nonetheless. Newer fans, on the other hand, are manufactured for around 60 watts consumption only. Inverter type ones are less eaters at about 30 watts consumption. With this fact alone, fans are obviously the better choice in terms of energy efficiency, with it being more than 10 times energy-efficient than typical aircon in the market.
It Is Environmentfriendly If you’re an environmental steward, fans are, of course, the crowd favorite. While the modern-day aircon did evolve to exclude harmful and toxic refrigerants in their systems, they can still affect the environment just by simply running all day long. Since most of the
electricity produced comes from carbon-rich coal, it is a great thing that fans are less electricity-eaters than aircon.
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S P E C IA L F E AT U R E
Why try TOSOT? While the above benefits may already be enough to make you switch to the fan side, this TOSOT rechargeable fan offers you even more. Manufactured with high quality and powerful cooling performance, TOSOT rechargeable fans comes with high efficiency and energy saving capabilities perfect to cool Filipino homes this summer. It comes with a built-in Lithium battery with a five-hour capacity that is suitable for places with frequent power interruptions throughout the year. Its adjustable height and stepless speed adjustments give more freedom and flexibility to the users. Aside from its elegant stylish design, the stand fan is manufactured with a double mesh safety grill, a 360 waterproof protection, and the all-new generation ultra-slim fan head, making it both safe and attractive at the same time. Users will also love the handy infrared remote control that comes with the unit, together with its other features such as silent operation, soft and gentle wind blow, eight-hour timer, and its DC inverter motor that is known to consume even lesser electricity than AC motors. Surely, we can never let go of air-conditioning units in our homes. But with the savings and benefits that come with TOSOT Rechargeable Stand Fan is undoubtedly your best bet for a 10
cheaper yet equally refreshing solution to beat this summer’s heat. To find out the best rechargeable stand fan for your home, office or party event venue, visit TOSOT showroom located at 2162 FB Harrison St., San Jose, Pasay City, Philippines or call +632-8330000 to book an appointment. You may also visit their website (click here) to get more information about the best stand fan in the Philippines.
S P E C IA L F E AT U R E
PH Elected Officials Must Have This Lighting System During Election Filipino Politicians Should Have At least One Pelican RALS
It’s a privilege for the Filipino people to choose the country’s leader. This 2019, we will once again practice our right to vote. Everyone is involved which is apparent on social media where most people share their views and opinions. Even those who are loitering in the streets talk about their favorite candidates. Sunday drinking sprees also become an avenue to share views and exchange ideas about a particular candidate’s platform. Yes, Filipinos are very much 12
concerned about the future of our nation. Each one wants to make sure that their vote will not be wasted on the wrong candidate. But what worries most of them is the possible cheating which may mean that their votes intended for their candidate might go to another politician whom they do not like. Aside from that, politicians and voters alike are anxious about what may transpire during the election day. It’s not just the result that worries everyone but the possibility of a power
outage which will conceivably have a huge impact on the turnout of votes as well as the end result of the election.
Power Outage During Election Brownout or blackouts is imminent in the Philippines, especially during an election. Others believe that this is intentional while electric companies claim that this situation is inevitable. Many fear that the power interruptions will affect the poll outcome. Although many are complaining about this perennial problem, it appears that the government’s solution is not enough. In 2016, the Luzon-based Power Task Force Election (PTFE) and the Mindanao Power Monitoring Committee (MPMC) were developed aiming to guard over 1,736 megawatts (MW) of electricity. These groups also gave assurance of uninterrupted power to about 54 million voters. However, power outage still occurred in different areas. Some brownouts last for 15 minutes while others last for 10 hours. Apparently, this has a huge impact on the election process. Voting machines will not be able to function and it would be extremely dark in voting precincts. There will also be delayed transmission of votes from voting machines due to brownouts. As a solution, generators are on standby while others opt for paper ballot voting.
Another worrisome scenario is the increase in crimes during the election. There are shooting incidents for both the politicians and their supporters. Others would illegally acquire guns while the lights are out despite the gun ban. The situation is heartbreaking. It is obvious that many unfortunate situations happen during a power outage. That is why it is important that politicians should acquire Remote Lighting Systems so they have a backup source of lighting when power interruptions arrive.
Benefits of Using Remote Lighting System and Tactical Flashlights The Pelican Remote Lighting System (RALS) and Tactical Flashlights will definitely come handy for politicians this
election. They can use it as backup lighting in their own homes and headquarters, thus ensuring safety not just for themselves but also for their supporters and families. When an area is well-lighted, it is easy to deter criminals since they fear that their personalities will be identified. There are polling places and voting precincts where lighting is not available. The 9430 Remote Area Light can be used here. It can light up an entire room or even a place as wide as a soccer field. The bright beam from Pelican RALS will make voting more convenient. Voters will feel safe to cast their votes while poll officials will feel secure in counting the ballots even during late nights. In most cases, poll officers need to stay overnight in their respective precincts. Even with the absence of power, they will feel safe because of assured lights at the premises. It is better if each polling precinct or election watchers have a Pelican RALS like the 9460 Remote Area Light with dual telescoping LED light heads. Once power outage happens, there is an immediate backup lighting. This will avoid the possible loss of ballot boxes once the precinct resorts to paper ballot voting in case of brownouts. Theft of ballots is a known dilemma during elections which usually happens during power interruptions. 13
S P E C IA L F E AT U R E The group of a particular politician may also carry out roving and inspections in different areas during the election. The Pelican RALS will be very helpful to check dark areas both day and night. It is even more useful during brownouts or blackouts. On the other hand, two of the best Pelican pocket size lighting are the 2350 Tactical Flashlight and 2360 Tactical Flashlight has 4 Selectable Programs with a lifetime guarantee. The 2360 Flashlight has 375 lu-
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mens while the 2350 Flashlight has 178 lumens. Constructed with the most durable of materials, an aerospace grade aluminum body and an impact resistant LED lamp module, the 2350 and 2360 LED keeps you on point without equipment failure. Both the 9430 Remote Area Light and the 9460 Remote Area Light, which are available at Coby’s Gear and Gadget and Cobankiat Hardware, can be operated via Bluetooth making it more convenient to use. The versatility of these lightings and its long battery life are another positive thing about it. All Pelican lighting solutions are sturdy and it can withstand any significant abuse. Even when there is heavy rainfall, the Pelican RALS and Tactical Flashlights can still be used since it is water resistant.
Using a Remote Lighting System is imperative for those who are running for public office. This will not only guarantee them that they get the right results during election despite the power outage, but this will also ensure their safety. We cannot doubt the fact that proper lighting plays a vital role in the security of everyone- politicians or not.
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H o w B lock chain is Tr a n s f o r m in g the Utility Sector
Blockchain is now changing the course of power and water providers You may have heard of bitcoins here and there. You might even have at least one colleague who trades bitcoins regularly. But the power behind such delicate cryptocurrency lies in the potent technology that is blockchain. 16
A promising feature of blockchain includes a joint record book that is distributed to hundreds, if not thousands, of computers worldwide connected in a peer-to-peer network. Every transaction must all be agreed upon by each and every computer for
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COVER STORY
it to be recorded in the book. Falsification of records is impossible since one cannot simply change all the contents of hundreds of copies of the book across the globe. Digital frauds and cyberattacks, which are widespread issues in any industry utilizing the internet, are very much prevented with a simple integration of blockchain. The network’s resiliency is heightened and all data are placed in safe hands. Given this very fact, blockchain is considered a lot more reliable than any other technology in 18
the market to date. Another plus in using blockchain technology is the exclusion of the middleman that controls the flow of transactions. The technology also allows people to identify the source and owner of a particular digital value despite the number of duplicates it has. Its digital ledger can contain nearly anything of use from logistic manifests to land titles and loans. The possible applications of this technology are endless.
COVER STORY
Blockchain’s purposes undoubtedly exceed above and beyond cryptotrading. One neat example of this is streamed music that is much popular nowadays. While traditional music streaming allows users to buy an artist’s song through a content provider, blockchain offers a more straightforward approach. Any artist can sim-
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ply upload their music in the blockchain network, no more copyrights and contracts with content providers, and everyone can browse through the songs anytime, anywhere. Any user who wants to buy the music can pay the artist directly and the payment will just be recorded in the book, giving the artist 100% of the revenue collected. This does,
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in fact, removes the extra expense of hiring a middleman to get a lot of coverage. Blockchain can provide this and more. With its immense security features and very reliable record of transactions, it is not surprising how appropriate this technology is when it comes to utility companies. Since utility corporations are beginning to adopt smart and autonomous systems into their operations, integrating blockchain technology into the equation will undoubtedly make the system easier and more cost-effective. Blockchain can be a means of securely and conveniently monetizing transactions which can be a tedious job for traditional bookkeeping and documentation. The automated system only needs to transact with another automated device, agree on the changes to be written in the book, and record the transaction altogether. From meter reading registrations to wholesale and even retail energy trading, blockchain expands to support bigger and safely secured piles of data. Even technology services providers such as Wipro are exploring the possible applications blockchain has to offer. As mentioned by Krishna Ram, Wipro’s general manager for the utility digital products and innovation practice, blockchain technology is particularly helpful in the utility sector in attaining a single and mutual record of the data collected in the network. With the consistency this technol23
A promising feature of blockchain includes a joint record book that is distributed to hundreds, if not thousands, of computers worldwide connected in a peer-to-peer network.
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COVER STORY
ogy provides, any changes in the record are made by the collective effort of all of the members of the network, and not only a single entity. Ravindra Balija, Wipro’s general manager of digital architecture and technologies for utilities, agrees with this saying that blockchain gives more real-time transactions, making the generation and billing of power almost immediately. The operation does not call for waiting for the data and consuming time in reconciling and validating it 26
since the communications are done in real time. One well-known example of incorporated blockchain in utilities is the Brooklyn microgrid. The project greatly demonstrates how this technology can change the name of the game. Buying and selling locally produced rooftop solar panels from anyone in the community has been an ease for both the customers and the business owners.
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Another great illustration of blockchain was exhibited by BlockCharge developed by RWE and Slock.it. Basically an electric vehicle (EV), BlockCharge offers users convenience in automatically charging their vehicles in any charging station connected to the network and billing the payment autonomously through a blockchain-based method. This does not need any middleman to accept and confirm the payment. The network itself secures the transaction. Supplier switching, which usually takes up to 21 days with the conventional method in the UK, can also be done within a few hours with blockchain. The tedious data transfer and coordination from one supplier to the next can be more convenient and faster with blockchain. Nearly all internal processes are more efficiently done with blockchain. -end-
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NEWS
The European bottled water industry unites to make four pledges for the circular economy The European bottled water industry has pledged that by 2025 90% of PET bottles will be collected and new bottles will contain at least 25% recycled PET as an average in Europe. The EFBW’s pledges, intended to accelerate the shift to a circular economy, are fully in line with Nestlé Waters’ commitments. As a member of the EFBW (European Federation of Bottled Waters), we are proud to support the recent announcement of four industry-wide pledges intended to increase both the collection of PET bottles and the use of recycled PET in the production of new bottles across the EU.
What is a circular economy? The principle of a circular economy is that previously viewed ‘waste’ materials and end-of-life products are treated as a resource or a raw material in their own right. At Nestlé Waters, we have been dedicated to the principles of the circular economy and sustainable resource management for many years. That is why in April 2018, as part of the Nestlé Group’s commitments on all its packaging materials, we made the 32
commitment that by 2025, 100% of our bottles will be recyclable (our global level is already at least 90%) and that all our PET bottles in Europe will include at least 25% recycled plastic (we are also well on target to achieve this aim).
A responsible industry The drink containers used by the industry, be it PET, glass or aluminium, are recyclable. PET is in many ways the ideal material to preserve the taste and purity enjoyed by consumers of natural mineral and spring waters: not
only recyclable, it is lightweight, robust and safe for consumers. PET plastic is also already the highest recycled plastic material in the EU. However, the level of collection of PET drink bottles varies substantially across the Member States, with some collecting more than 90% of PET bottles, while others collect less than 20%. Meaning our packaging today is part of the unacceptable phenomenon of littering alongside other discarded items. Something the industry is keen to address.
Taking joint action NestlĂŠ Waters does not stand alone in its determination to achieve progress. We are delighted that the four pledges taken by the entire European bottled waters industry are perfectly in line with our position. Across Europe, the industry is committed to playing its part in protecting the environment from plastic pollution. The answer lies in greater collaboration between all stakeholders in the chain; from producers and recyclers, to authorities and consumers. With these four pledges, the EFBW is bringing the bottled water producers together to work with all these stakeholders to ensure that empty PET bottles are a valuable resource, and not waste.
A four-point strategy Collect, collaborate, innovate and engage: the pledges constitute a four-point strategy designed to accelerate circularity by ensuring that Europe’s PET bottles find a second life as a raw material. The starting point is significantly improving the collection and sorting of used PET bottles. It can only be achieved if other key stakeholders play their part, too, but the bottled water industry will be a driving force in ensuring 90% of all PET bottles are collected in Europe by 2025
(as an EU average).
2025*. (*As an EU average)
Ecological progress depends on a sound economic basis, of course. The recycling stream will only function effectively if there are reliable markets for high-quality recycled PET (rPET). So in line with the principles of the circular economy, the bottled water industry is pledging to encourage use of recycled PET, by using it in producing new bottles, setting a target of including at least 25% rPET by
Two other key elements of any sustainability strategy are innovation and education. EFBW members are pledging to invest in eco-design and in R&D on innovative plastic materials produced from renewable, non fossil-based organic resources. They will also will engage with consumers who play a key role in preventing littering to support them in understanding the optimal disposal of packaging. 33
NEWS The European bottled water industry’s 4 pledges on the circular economy: - COLLECT: Collect 90% of all PET bottles in Europe by 2025, as an EU average. - COLLABORATE: with the recycling industry to use at least 25% recycled PET (rPET) in its water bottles in Europe by 2025, as an EU average. - INNOVATE: The industry will invest in eco-design and research on non fossil-based materials. - ENGAGE: The industry will support consumers with initiatives which encourage the proper sorting and disposal of packaging.
Nestlé Waters initiatives outside Europe Nestlé Waters is involved in initiatives to promote PET recycling and sustainable resource management not only through the EFBW in Europe, but all around the world. In the United States, it joined forces last year with Danone and a Californian start-up, Origin Materials, to form the NaturALL Bottle Alliance, which aims to develop a PET bottle using only bio-based material. Meanwhile, a new 700 ml Nestlé Pure Life® bottle made of 100% recycled PET was launched in North America in February 2018. 34
NEWS
Manila Water maintains double-digit net income growth in 1H2018 Manila Water continued its strong performance for the first half of 2018, achieving net income growth of 10 percent from the previous year to reach P3.55 billion. This was mainly driven by the Manila Concession, supported by the contribution of international subsidiaries under Manila Water Asia Pacific (MWAP). On a consolidated level, Manila Water maintained its healthy topline trend from the start of the year, posting 8 percent growth to P9.61 billion fueled by higher billed volume (water volume sold) and additional service connections. Recent international acquisitions in Thailand and Indonesia, along with existing operations in Vietnam have yielded notable gains, with income contribution of international subsidiaries growing by 86 percent from the previous year. Cost of services and operating expenses grew by 17 percent to P3.73 billion, as continuing business operations and development efforts remain in-step with growth aspirations. In the Manila Concession, billed volume growth remained robust at 3 percent, with billed connections increasing to total over 975,000. In line with con36
tinued operations efficiency, systems losses (Nonrevenue Water) improved to 12.1 percent via pipeline replacement and asset repair programs. Capital expenditures (CAPEX) maintained its upward trend to reach P4.28 billion – 22 percent better than the same period last year – as the Company works to complete major phases of its water and used water projects. Domestic subsidiaries under Manila Water Philippine Ventures (MWPV) posted 14 percent revenue growth to P1.69 billion, supported by steady billed volume and ser-
vice connections at 2 percent growth. While the increase in operating costs and slowdown in project take-up has affected MWPV net income, business building efforts continue. MWPV was recently granted a 25-year franchise to provide water and sanitation services in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan, and a Notice of Award was similarly granted by the Pagsanjan Water District for a joint venture in water supply and sanitation services provision. MWPV is now working on its submission of a bid proposal for New Clark City, a water and used water concession project of the Bases Conversion and
Development Authority (BCDA). The project will have a concession period of 30 years, with an estimated CAPEX of P10 billion. MWAP has made great strides in its ASEAN growth expansion, posting an 86 percent increase in equity share in net income of associates to P339 million. All operating subsidiaries in Vietnam exhibited healthy net income growth, with the new regional acquisitions – East Water in Thailand, and PT Sarana Tirta Ungaran in Indonesia – contributing positive earnings. Several projects are currently in the pipeline. For Indonesia, MWAP has submitted a bid for the West Semarang Wa-
ter Supply project – a water supply PPP with a 25-year contract period and estimated CAPEX of USD34 million. Also, in Indonesia is the Sembayat Gresik Water Supply BOT, with a similar 25-year contract period and CAPEX of USD56 million. Further west, Manila Water has been invited to participate in the Weliwita Bulk Water project in Sri Lanka, with a 30-year contract period and estimated CAPEX of USD133 million. Manila Water President and CEO Ferdinand M. Dela Cruz said these positive developments augur well with the Company’s growth aspirations not only in the domestic market, but more importantly as it continues to strengthen and pursue its
ASEAN expansion initiatives. “We are pleased with the fresh growth trends happening in the original Manila East Zone Concession due to redevelopment, rising affluence in the metropolis as well finally supplying the other fast developing towns in the Rizal Province very soon. At the same time, we are very excited about our new business opportunities, as these are building blocks of our domestic and ASEAN growth strategy. We are confident that we will provide the brand of excellent service that Manila Water has built over the past 21 years to these new markets.”
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NEWS
DEWA Store on DEWA smart app provides specials offers for customers Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has launched DEWA Store on its smart app to provide exclusive offers and discounts to DEWA’s customers, in cooperation with a number of public and private sector companies. The move is the first of its kind by a government organisation in the UAE, and supports DEWA’s commitment to enhance the happiness of its customers and provide smart services that enrich their lifestyle. DEWA Store offers include discounts on telecommunications packages, bank services, insurance, smart-home systems, maintenance companies, consultants, and logistics companies. “DEWA’s role is not just limited to providing electricity and water services according to the highest standards of quality, efficiency and reliability. DEWA plays a role as a socially-responsible government organisation that makes every effort to contribute to promoting a happier lifestyle. This supports the vision and directives of our wise leadership to improve government services, and the Dubai Plan 2021 to make Dubai the preferred place to live, work, and visit. We are committed to providing and developing innovative initiatives and creative ideas that contribute to providing 38
NEWS
a unique experience for all our customers. This is done by providing value-added services that make their lives easier that will help transform Dubai into the smartest and happiest city in the world,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA. Al Tayer emphasised that launching DEWA Store is part of DEWA’s efforts to consolidate its position as part of the life of every individual and family, and that it makes every effort to cater to their needs and exceed their expectations to make them happier. He noted that DEWA has developed DEWA Store after studying the opinions and 40
feedback of its customers, partners, and members of society about its services to learn their views and suggestions about the value-added services that DEWA can provide to make its stakeholders happier. DEWA Store is yet another great reason for DEWA’s customers to use its smart app, which provides all of DEWA’s services anytime, anywhere, without the need to visit any customer happiness centre. The app provides customers with a unified and seamless experience offering rich and integrated services and features. DEWA’s smart app
supports major platforms such as iOS and Android. DEWA’s services are also available on Internet of Things devices such as Samsung Home Theatre System, Samsung Gear, and Apple Watches. All DEWA’s services are also available on its website (www. dewa.gov.ae), which is compatible with all smart phones and devices.
MIDDLE EAST NEWS
How to Comply with Height Safety Regulations Height safety regulations must be adhered by industrial professionals
R
oof anchor points offer crucial protection to people working at heights. Personal protection equipment (PPE) such as harnesses or lanyard fall protection systems rely on correctly installed anchor points – and so do the people that use them. Today we’re speaking with Ben from Off Your wall based in Melbourne who perform anchor point testing and installation services. Here’s what he had to say regarding height safety
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regulations. Falls can lead to serious injury, which could potentially expose you to costly legal action. The only way to ensure the safety of your workers, and to safeguard your reputation and business, is to follow the required legislation and guidelines and use approved anchor points. When it comes to height safety and fall prevention, compliance with regulations and safety standards is key. Accidents don’t
need to happen, which is why it’s crucial you consult with height safety experts for your roof anchor points. When you are working at heights, or in constricted spaces, you are required to follow the industry protocols and meet the certification required. A compliance assessment service can offer you an inspection to see if your roof anchor points comply with legislation, as well help you achieve annual certification. For roof anchor point certification the roof anchor
points will need to be checked to make sure they meet all industry legislation and guidelines, are in safe working order and don’t pose any hazards or risks. Workplace health and safety is an important consideration in any field, but when you are working at heights it can become a matter of life and death. This is why in New South Wales the requirements you need to meet anchor point safety certification includes workplace health and safety (WHS) legislation. It’s about ensuring you protect your team, the structure you are build-
ing and broader members of the public whose safety also needs to be considered as a priority. The Australian Standards places the responsibility for the health and safety of any person may be affected by the construction work with a broad range of people who may be deemed to be in control of a construction project. This could include people such as principal, head or main contractors, builders, employers or persons with management control. Educating your entire team about
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MIDDLE EAST NEWS
height safety regulations is therefore important. It also states: ‘The person with control of the project must ensure that fall prevention is set up to cover all workers on site, whether the fall prevention is provided directly by the person with control of the project, or by individual subcontractors.’
your workplace.
Falls and serious injuries are a risk the industry faces every day. It’s the nature of working at heights! But accidents can put a business at huge legal risk if they do not comply with WHS. The‘Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces ‘code of practice that relate to roof anchor points is therefore another important document to familiarise yourself with and implement in
The Australian Standards guidelines also cover a minimum uniform standard when it comes to working with roof anchor points. By adhering to these Standards the industry is further able to minimise injury and even the loss of life. Some of these include:
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Another factor that is important to ensure the safety of roof anchor points is product quality. It’s crucial you only work with high quality roof anchor points and that they are systematically and regularly checked to ensure they are sound.
• Industrial fall arrest systems and devices
• Harnesses and ancillary equipment • Horizontal lifeline and rail systems • Fall-arrest devices • Selection, use and maintenance • Industrial rope access systems • Selection, use and maintenance • Manufacturing requirements for single-point anchor devices used for harness-based work at height. With many obligations to follow and height safety legislation to adhere to, working with experts in the roof anchor point and heights safety industry can assist you to navigate your requirements and achieve certification.
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265 Hectare Pasay Harbour Reclamation Project is bigger than Palm Jumeirah Dubai A massive push by the local government to build an entirely new city within the bay area
The Pasay Harbour reclamation project is a massive push by the local government of Pasay City, Philippines to build an entirely new city within the bay area. Learn the details of this 3 part series report and how to win the construction bidding.
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A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S Table PD-1. Project Proponent/EIA Preparer
ITEM
Project Information
Project Proponent
City of Pasay, Philippines
Proponent Address
F.B. Harrison St., Pasay City
Telephone Number
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Responsible Officer
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EIA Preparer
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Contact Person
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Address
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Contact Numbers
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Table PD-2. Project Fact Sheet/PD Summary
ITEM
Project Information
Name of Project
PROPOSED 265 HECTARE PASAY HARBOUR RECLAMATION PROJECT
Location
Along Coast of Manila Bay in the territorial jurisdiction of the City of Pasay
Nature of Project Nature of Project
Reclamation Project ECP in an ECA (Presidential Proclamation 2146 dated 14 December 1981)
Project Classification & Type
Major Reclamation Project ≥ 50 hectares
Project Classification Code
D.1.
Size/Scale
265 Hectare
Status of ECC
Expansion Project Being Applied For
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areas of Manila Bay. Among the Metro Manila LGUs, Pasay City is one of the smallest in terms of land area. However, it has the potential to expand its land through sea reclamation activities.
Project Description
entities.
The proposed reclamation project covers 265 hectares involving two (2) islands with areas of 210 hectares and 55 hectares respectively. Consistent with the protocol of the Revised Procedural Manual (RPM), the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) application being applied for involves only the horizontal development phase. The operations phase will be subject to the applicable requirements of the Philippine EIS System (PEISS).
Project Rationale
The Private Sector Project Developers for the original (360 hectares) and the new (265 hectares) projects will be different and separate corporate 50
The increasing demand for readily developable lands for urban expansion areas has pushed the real estate market in Metro Manila to its highest since the 1997 Asian financial crisis. Since the other urban centers of Mega Manila has no other way to expand their existing inventory of land, the increasing requirements for areas to accommodate and satisfy the demand for rapid commercial and residential growth falls on the coastal LGUs. This therefore necessitates the creation of more lands for economic activities through reclamation developments along the coastal
The proposed Pasay City land reclamation project along the coast of Manila Bay, near the current SM Mall of Asia complex, can produce some 2,650,000 square meters of additional buildable/developable space. This could be translated into about 1,855,000 square meters of building gross floor area, based on the existing 70% buildable vis-à -vis to 30% open space/public area ratio. The additional 1,855,000 square meters of building gross floor area can be allocated for tourism, office, residential, commercial, and other non-industrial mixed uses in a master planned community including an integrated port facility complex for cruise ships visiting Manila. The proposed 2,650,000 square meters of reclaimed land is in line with Pasay City Ordinance No. 5768 (Series of 2016), which calls for the reclamation activities covering the identified areas located offshore of the current SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City. The project will provide expansion of the City’s current land area for economic activities. The proponent believes that the proposed 265-hectare reclamation project will bring
about meaningful progress to Pasay City and its people, and shall kick-start the favorable transformation of that section of the Manila Bay, instead of the area’s further degradation. The proponent cites the mega success of its past reclamation projects – the CCP Complex and the Mall of Asia areas – as proof and blueprint for success of similar undertaking. In 2015 alone, the City Government of Pasay was able to collect about PhP3.2 billion in real property taxes, and business and work permits from the existing MOA reclamation area. With the proposed project, the proponent could derive double, or even triple that amount, which will definitely translate to more and better services for the people of Pasay. The 265-hectare reclamation
project is an expansion of the original 360-hectare project and is intended to enhance further the visions embodied in the original project, i.e.: • Further promote the well-being of the people of the City of Pasay especially in terms of employment and livelihood; • Stimulate city growth by providing a basic infrastructure – land to investors; • Help solve congestion problems; and • Actualize the vision of government through the PRA. Thus, this proposed 265-hectare Pasay Harbor City will satisfy the current and future demands of lands for tourism and commercial activities in accordance with Pasay City Ordinance No. 5768 (Series
of 2016) and in support of the “build-build-build” developmental concept in Pasay City and in Metro Manila as envisioned by the current administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Project Area, Location and Accessibility Location and Political Boundaries- The project, broken down into 2-islands, is located west of Metro Manila, within the municipal waters of Pasay City and adjacent to the City of Manila, as shown in Figure PD-1. It is adjacent to the Proposed 360 Hectare Pasay City Reclamation Project, which has recently been granted an ECC. The impact barangay for the Proposed Project is Barangay 76 Zone 10,
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as indicated in Figure PD-2. Geographic Coordinates (Shape File Data) of Project Area – The coordinates are vital for: (a) identifying the scope of the ECC that is being applied for; (b) providing the footprints from which impact assessments may be made, e.g., water circulation, bathymetry; geotechnical investigation and marine surveys; and for (c) ascertaining that the site is indeed within the political boundaries of the City. Accessibility – The nearest existing major road to the proposed project site is J.W. Diokno Boulevard approximately located at a straight distance of 1.68 km from the nearest corner of the reclamation landform, shown in Figure PD-3. The Access Ways – Preliminary design works are underway for the link from shore to the reclaimed land. Connectivity and Associated Transport Systems For the development of the Pasay Harbour City Project, the following components to support the transport system are being planned to be built by third parties with the rationale of supporting the government mass transport system plan: A connection to the airport through the existing NAIA Expressway (already in place); • A connection to the southern gateway through the CAVITEX;
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• A connection to the northern gateway via C1 and C4 then to NLEX; • A connection to the seaport in Manila via Roxas Boulevard; and • A connection to the rest of Metro Manila through existing and planned mass transport system.
Interisland Connectivity A bridge connecting Islands 1 and 2 will be built. A preliminary architectural sketch is shown in Plate PD1 below. Vicinity Map and Adjacent landmarks- The vicinity map shown in Figure PD-4 indicates the nearest landmarks and shows the adjacent other proposed reclamation project. To date, none of these other proposed project have been implemented yet since the Notices to Proceed
(NTPs) from the PRA have not been issued yet. Important landmarks adjacent to the project site include: • Cultural Center of the Philippines • Coconut Palace • Philippine Sofitel Hotel • PICC • The Philippine Senate • GSIS • J.W. Diokno Blvd. • Mall of Asia • Okada Resorts Club • Solaire Resorts Club • Diosdado Macapagal Blvd. The adjacent other proposed reclamation project are: • The 360-Hectare Pasay Harbour Reclamation Project
A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S
Successful WORLDBEX Event for TOSOT Philippines In the 5-day duration of WORLDBEX, TOSOT received countless of delegations
The Philippine World Building and Construction Expo (WORLDBEX) has finished its 23rd installment. The event, which happened last March 13 to 17, 2019, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center Manila, was bigger and bolder, as promised. The expected number of attendees were met and many partnerships were built. A memorable event indeed, many corporations bent on upholding product effectivity and efficiency without infringing upon sustainability showcased their 54
life-improving innovations. One of the companies that acquired numerous delegations and partnerships from various organizations in the engineering, design, architecture, retail, and management industries, among others, was TOSOT. As the leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality HVAC units and home appliances in the Philippines, TOSOT received hundreds of trade visitors from mechanical engineers to CEOs of multinational companies that
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inquired about their high-tech products. Their chillers, cost-effective and high-tech wall-mounted and floor-standing air conditioning units, sleekly gorgeous kitchen appliances such as home induction cookers and water dispensers, TMV5s, to name a few, were thoroughly examined by many willing purchasers. In the 5-day duration of WORLDBEX, TOSOT received countless of delegations from various engineering organizations, HVAC distributors, retailers, building owners, shopping mall directors, facilities management professionals, contractors and interior designers who showed strong interest in TOSOT’s air conditioning units and kitchen 56
appliances. Those at TOSOT were able to close countless deals during the event amounting to hundreds of thousands of pesos to further their goals of creating more effective, efficient, products while championing sustainably. With these deals, they can continue to stay ahead of the curve in the industry of technological appliances. For those who are interested to see TOSOT aircon units, visit their showroom in Pasay. During the event TOSOT conducted a photo challenge game for every visitors who visited TOSOT booth. Lucky winners will be posted in TOSOT social media accounts.
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Is the Philippines Ready for Electric-Powered Jeepneys? One group suggested that we take their initiative of turning from diesel engines to lithium-ion batteries in jeepneys.
After the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in the Philippines enforced the PUJ modernization program by the Duterte administration, several companies responded by showing their designs of a much safer and less carbon-emitting versions of the jeepney. One of these companies is Japanese truck maker Isuzu. It introduced an 18-seater modern jeepney carrying 12% more cargo than conventional jeepneys. Theirs has 2,325 kilograms of 58
payload. “The modern jeepneys are designed to meet regulations in emission, safety and roadworthiness. It will also provide better passenger comfort,” noted Joseph Bautista, a division manager at Isuzu Philippines’ marketing department. While this Isuzu jeepney still runs on diesel, a local startup wants to pitch a more environmentally-friendly option: get this form of Philippine trans-
A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S portation to run on electricity to be known as green jeepneys. QEV Philippines Electromobility Solutions and Consulting Group, Inc., or simply QEV Philippines, has designed its own version of the modern jeepney which is powered by lithium-ion batteries. The company is a satellite office of Singapore-based electromobility holding firm QEV Capital Pte. Ltd. “The jeepney is as much Filipino as all of you,” tells Endika Aboitiz at the unveiling ceremony in July at The Fort in Taguig City. He is an investor in the proposal of powering an initial 50,000 jeepneys over the five years with lithium-ion batteries instead of diesel engines. “It is like London’s double-decker bus, it in itself is a moving museum,” he added. “Taking the jeepney away is taking away a piece of our colorful history, an icon that many have come to associate with the Philippines. We can preserve the jeepney and modernize it without taking away its charm.” The lithium-ion batteries are designed to have a range of up to 140 kilometers, with 80 kilometers at minimum, depending on load and conditions. They can be charged from 20% up to 80% in just 15 minutes, to be facilitated by Cleanergy network which is AboitizPower’s clean and renewable energy brand.
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Meanwhile, the conversion work will be taken care of by Sarao Motors, a local jeepney manufacturer. It can produce green jeepneys from scratch. According to a press release, the green jeepney was developed by engineers with ample experience in high-profile electric car ventures. Campos Racing is one of the teams behind the Arcfox-7, an electric supercar by Chinese outfit BAIC, and in the Mahindra entries in the Formula E last season, among others. If the Philippine government really wants to produce virtually no-emission jeepneys, then this one is the way to go. Not only is this jeepney all electric, it is ex-
pected to seize an estimated 540 tonnes of carbon million trees and earn $35 million in United Nations carbon credits. Moreover, the charging stations are also expected to help save 375 million liters of oil per year. That is equal to 3% of the country’s total imported Brent crude barrels. This should not worry jeepney drivers when it comes to costs too, as QEV Philippines assured that they can save about P40,000 a year for energy and maintenance. It is not the company’s intention to replace the existing jeepneys, but instead only to rehabilitate
S P E C IA L F E AT U R E
through its retrofit kit. “What we propose is not replacement, but rehabilitation,” said Enrique Bañuelos, a businessman who partnered with Aboitiz and QEV Philippines for this project. “Rehabilitate old jeepneys and make them like new, complete with electrical motors that will 62
make it run on electricity instead of diesel. Help drivers pay for the rehabilitation, through a special program that the Philippine government will make out for them—and in the end put more money in their pockets because the costs of charging with electricity would be so much cheaper than filling it up with diesel,” he added.
F E AT U R E S T O RY
Top 6 Most Popular Universities In 2019 This post looks at university ranking, with emphasis on the most popular ones
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housands of universities in the world are always in competition for top slots in the global ranking. And with millions of students yearning to be part of the best learning centers, the only barriers to their dreams is crafting a top-notch admission essay. This post looks at university ranking, with emphasis on the “most popular universities” such as Stanford graduate school.
What makes an institution of higher education a university? You would want to delve deeper into finding why some institutions are more popular than others. Well, a professional college online essay editing service should help you with this topic by emphasizing the following: High learning institutions that rank high on the popularity index usually register excellent academic performance every academic year. Universities that have a rich his64
tory are among the most popular on the global index. It could be because they are the oldest or pursue a holistic study tradition that distinguishes them from the rest. Another basis on which some graduate schools have ranked the range of diploma or degree programs. An educational institution can also be popular given the numbers of international students it admits and still remain a top institution for higher learning.
State-of-the-art libraries or/and research centers is another aspect that often catapults a learning institution to the global index of most popular learning centers. Thus far, let’s take a look at a list ranking the world’s most popular universities. Remember, you can always ask a college essay editing service to tweak the list as desired depending on the changes that may take effect in the future.
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Popular known as MIT, Massachusetts Institute of Technology remains a force to reckon with the list of world’s most reputed institutions of higher learning. From a mind-provoking motto, competitive learning system to state-of-the-art teaching methodologies, MIT remains on top for a seventh straight year. Thousands of research scholars around the world trace their problem-solving skills and critical thinking capabilities to MIT, an Ivy League member.
2. Stanford University Stanford University is popular for many things. From 100 percent academic excellence, high employability ratio of graduates from the institution, tens of scholarly citations every year, thousands of international students to competitive faculties, Stanford is a known for outstanding research. It sits at the heart of America’s Silicon Valley in California, thereby providing great opportunities to students who would wish to pursue their careers in fortune 500 companies like Google and Yahoo. Moreover, straddling 8, 180 acres of land make Stanford one of the largest US university campuses. 65
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3. Harvard University Harvard is the oldest higher learning institution in America dating back to 1636, a year in which it was founded. Over the years, it has remained a center of academic excellence, a reputation that keeps soaring on the world stage. It plays host to the world’s biggest library for academicians, not to mention 10 facilities offering quality degree programs.
4. University of Oxford For decades now, Oxford remains an academic center with global appeal. It boasts of great research output and plays host to thousands of students, both local and international. It is remarkable that while the university does not run the main campus, its tradition of instilling distinctive professional character remains impeccable even after tens of decades into its existences.
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5. The University of Tokyo Japan’s history of hardworking citizens and industrial excellence is deeply entrenched into its education system. The University of Tokyo, for example, is one of the most popular in the world housing more than 4000 academic staff and thousands of students. Dating back to 1877, it remains the most prestigious Japanese University and competes favorably with others such as Yale, Harvard and Cambridge. Thousands of top CEOs around the world are alumni of the institution.
6. Columbia University A Columbia spectator would agree that the institution’s presence on Ivy League is not for nothing. Established in 1754, Columbia is a research-based university that boasts of high acceptance of graduates in the job market. There are also hundreds of Oscar winners among and successful professionals and Nobel Laureates who were once students at the institution.
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The Bottom Line
In a nutshell, there are tens of other universities that would occupy top slots on this list based on their popularity. Therefore, with the help of a good essay editing service, others such as the University of Michigan, the Australian Nation University, the 68
University of Hong Kong, the National University of Singapore, Imperial College London and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology cut above par in ranking.
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