VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
JULY 2009
OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE ABOITIZ ENERZONES
www.subicenerzone.com
VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
INDEX
JULY 2009
OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE ABOITIZ ENERZONES
NEWS 3 Intro: X’former PMS completed 6 Raymond Roseus: The Big Comeback 8 Ramny Guatelara: The Path to Success
19 PQL Reunion: Back to Basics 21 SEZ undergoes Financial Management Seminar 21 Bandingan, Paredes participates in Budgeting and Forecasting Seminar
10 SEZ assists PANELCO I
COVER STORY
10 SEZ refreshes Adopt-anAmbulance Program
4 AESI’s Passion for Better Ways
11 What do you want to become? BEZ holds Career Orientation Seminar 13 BEZ tags along CIPDI’s Green Project 18 MEZ, BEZ send Labiste, Ubasa for Ratio Analysis Seminar
NUMERO UNO AESI team members pose for a souvenir photo after their branding activity during the company’s Brand Cascade held at the Club Café in Makati, June 1.
CENTERFOLD 14 Not Your Ordinary Summer Outing: SEZ goes to Caliraya!
REGULARS 23 All in a Day’s Work
FEATURES
24 Water Learning
22 Practical Tips to Reduce CO2 Emissions in Your Homes
25 Team Member’s Page 25 The Word SPORTS
This issue’s cover features some AESI team members in action. AESI is an Aboitiz Power company providing integrated customer solutions to reduce power costs, promote energy efficiency, and improve electrical system performance.
26 Wishing Stars turn back Falling Stars, 44-36, in extraordinary All-Star Game 26 All-Star side events 3-pt Shootout ‘09: Tamayo Nails Down Title
Skills Challenge ‘09: Vergara outduels Eldian 2-Ball Shooting Stars ‘09: Stingrays Shoot Stars Out 26 Aboitiz Sportsfest ’09 continues: MEZ, BEZ stays on for the plays 27 Balbuena, Pascua lead Sharks to Championship, 39-26 27 Tabradillo wins MVP number three 27 Undisputed: Figuerrez wins Table Tennis Crown for the Fourth Time
FLAME is the official newsletter of the Aboitiz EnerZones - Subic EnerZone Corporation, Mactan EnerZone Corporation, and Balamban EnerZone Corporation. SEZ Office address: Canal Road corner Labitan Street, Central Business District, Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Tel. No.: (+6347) 252-7392, Fax No.: (+6347) 252-7397. Visit us at www.subicenerzone.com. MEZ and BEZ Main Office address: Aboitiz Corporate Office, Manuel A. Cuenco Avenue, Kasambagan, Cebu City. MEZ and BEZ Admin Office address: VECO complex, J. Panis Street, Banilad, Cebu City. Tel. No.: (+6332) 231-7531, Telefax No.: (+6332) 232-3455. MEZ Field Office Address: Mactan Economic Zone II, Basak, Lapu Lapu City. Tel. No.: (+6332) 340-4692. BEZ Field Office address: West Cebu Industrial Park, Balamban, Cebu. Tel. No.: (+6332) 465-2929.
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X’former PMS completed.
aligned the Hapam Disconnect Switch of the SBMA Line 2 and tapped lightning arresters on the 69kV line.
SEZ Remy Field substation’s Transformer #2 preventive maintenance is done.
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he preventive maintenance of Subic EnerZone Corporation’s (SEZ) Remy Field Substation Transformer number two was completed last July 12. Led by Substation and Electrical Equipment Department VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
This is essential for the upcoming preventive maintenance of Remy Field Substation’s Transformer #1.
(SEED) supervisor Justin Jay Navarro, various standard electrical tests were conducted on Remy Field’s 20MVA Power Transformer #2, Automatic Voltage Regulators, and SF6 Circuit Breaker. SEZ’s Transmission and Distribution (T&D) group re-
These activities were essential for the upcoming preven-
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tive maintenance of Remy Field Substation’s Transformer #1, which was rescheduled because of Subic’s unpredictable weather. SEED also re-terminated the power cable of feeder RP2. They replaced the old stress cone type termination with 3M QT II Coldshrink terminations. Also during the maintenance, SEED isolated and repaired the defective 13.8kV Potential Transformer at the SBIP substation switchgear 13.8 kV bus. ♦ JJNavarro FLAME July 2009
COVER STORY
PASSION FOR BETTER WAYS The AESI team headed by general manager Raymond Roseus (extreme left) pose for a snap shot during their Aboitiz Brand Cascade. AEV’s Paula Ruelan and Carol Ballesteros (7th and 8th from left) facilitated the event.
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FLAME July 2009
Aboitiz Energy Solutions, Inc., Aboitiz Power’s integrated customer solutions provider, recently held its Brand Cascade at the Club Café in Makati. BY RIZZA JOY MONTEFRIO
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he brand and image of a business have very important roles to its success. Strong brands can generate customers’ trust and give us an idea on how good or bad the product is even if it was never tried before. This is what the Aboitiz group aims; to have a brand that gives intense impact to the market. Aboitiz Energy Solutions, Inc. (AESI) held its Brand Cascade last June 1 at the Club Café, Makati Sports Cub. With the two lovely facilitators, AEV AVP for Brand Management Carol Ballesteros and Brand Administrative Officer Paula Ruelan, the team gathered for this event to improve as a vital asset of the company through the Aboitiz Brand. Opening the event was AESI Executive Vice President and COO Benjamin Cariaso Jr. It was followed by an icebreaker, which is the creative introduction of every participant by describing their selves using an adjective that starts from the first letter of their names.
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FLAME July 2009
COVER STORY
“Candid” Carol then discussed and shared on the development of the Aboitiz Brand, understanding on what the brand identity carries. She emphasized the quality and uniqueness of our brand, making the participants realize the importance of being consistent on performing our brand promise and being passionate and committed to it. “Perky” Paula followed the discussion by a workshop that showed the learning of the brand promise by applying it to some of the actual events occurring in the workplace. Divided into two, each group was given the chance to show two sides of the story, one was showing an event without branding and another is showing the same event with branding. It is also a fun part of the event when everyone was asked to write in the paper attached at the back of each one their impressions or any encouraging remarks for that person. Everyone was surprised with the others’ outlook on them; it boosted their morale and was energized to perform the Aboitiz brand promise of Passion for Better Ways. Raymond Roseus, the new general manager of AESI, formally closed the event. He gave an inspirational message that encouraged everyone to bring out the best in them: to be driven, driven to lead, driven to excel, and driven to serve. AESI is a company that provides integrated customer solutions that reduces power costs, promotes energy efficiency and/or improve electrical system performance of industrial, commercial, and electric utility customers. It engages in or acts as consultant, conducts engineering studies, design, and/or manages energy of power plants. Moreover, it engages in the contracting, maintenance, repair and development of electro-mechanical devices. Formally organized in August 1998, AESI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corporation, a major power generation and distribution group in the Philippines. ♦ VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
PROFILES
Raymond Roseus: The Big Com
He is the new captain on board for the Aboitiz E part of the former Aboitiz Power Solutions, Inc Manager, embracing the new challenges offere
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aymond Carl R. Roseus is the new captain on board of the Aboitiz Energy Solutions, Inc. (AESI) and was once a part of the former Aboitiz Power Solutions, Inc. (APSI). He returned to AESI as its new General Manager, embracing the new challenges offered by what he called his “home”. Roseus was very excited to be part of the Aboitiz Group again after being away for about 8 years. He previously worked with APSI from 1999 to 2001 as project Manager. He then moved to Kanematsu, a Japanese firm and spent several years as an Assistant Manager there. He felt that it is his calling to be back with Aboitiz Power where he developed most of his managerial skills. He then accepted the offer to return to the now growing team. BEFORE He was then a simple teen with roots from Alfonso, Cavite. He obtained his degree in Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the Mapua Institute of Technology. He took up his Masters in Business Administration at the Ateneo de Manila Graduate School of Business. Raymond learned how to combine business with recreation from the experiences of his younger days, when he often spent time hanging out with friends while taking care of his Lola’s bakery. SOME THOUGHTS When asked how he balances his personal life and professional life, he said, “As much as possible I make sure I have time to enjoy my weekends with my family. You can say that I work hard but I also play hard.” (laughs) Raymond reveals that he’s still currently single and blurted that it his own preference. However, he added that “being single, I look forward to the day that I would be able to come home to a family of my own.” “It is really nice to be back. I honestly felt at home with the team and really did not have a difficult time adjusting to the environment,” he said. With the new movements that are happening recently in the power sector, he considered it a great challenge to be back. “It’s very challenging these days. The challenge for me
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is to deliver on the things that are tasked of me by the management. To be able to lead the RES/WA industry.” He was referring to the Retail Energy Supplier/ Wholesale Aggregator business. AESI President Jim Aboitiz welcomed him with great enthusiasm. “Welcome home, Raymond! We're very very excited to have you back with us and just as excited with the opportunities the industry now has to offer. We know you're the perfect person to bring all these opportunities to AESI,” Aboitiz said. He was also given the opportunity to be the first president of the RES Association of different power/RES companies and considered it as one of his greatest achievements lately. But above all the hustles that he encounters everyday, one thing though remains constant. “The fun that I have in the office working with the team… it keeps us all sane,” he admitted. WHAT HIS TEAM SAYS A day is never complete without his loud laughter filling the room. He was considered as the Paquito Diaz of AESI – the famous villain of PhilipFLAME July 2009
meback.
Energy Solutions, Inc. (AESI) and was once a c. (APSI). He returned to AESI as its General d by what he called his “home”.
pine movies. A leader teaser that will throw you jokes which will really make everyone laugh. Raymond, as he wants his team members to call him, is like a kuya-slash-buddy to them. With his easygoing nature, his humility earned him the respect of all of his colleagues and staff. He showed everyone the importance of balance in life; to give all your best in your responsibilities, but not forgetting to lighten things up once in a while. He’s always ready to offer his help whenever possible and very generous on listening to the teams’ concerns. He is a very sensitive person who sincerely trusts his people on his or her strengths and capabilities. A cool but clever guy with a motto that applies to him: “Don’t sweat the small stuff”. Q&A FLAME: What are the challenges you face as the new General Manager of AESI? RRR: With the changes that are occurring in the power industry right now, the challenge would be to help AESI evolve into the company that the management envisions it to be. You can also say that a major challenge for the team is for us to be able to lead the retail electricity supply sector, especially during its infancy stage. FLAME: For you what is real success? RRR: Real success is being able to make the most of the things that are thrown your way, without stepping on other people to deliver the things tasked of you. FLAME: What type of movies do you watch? RRR: I watch almost all genre, except horror films. Duwag kasi ako. FLAME: What makes you laugh? RRR: A lot of things make me laugh. The whole team can attest to that. FLAME: What inspires you? RRR: A beautiful woman inspires me. (laughs) FLAME: What irks you or makes you angry? RRR: I try to avoid being irked by anything… bad for my health. FLAME: What is your message to your team members and what can they look forward to in the future? RRR: These are challenging times, we are at the forefront of the evolving industry, a little more patience and hard work will enable us to see the fruits of what we are working for now… it may not look much now but when the changes do happen, we will be at the tip leading the way. ♦ RJMontefrio
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FLAME July 2009
HARNESSING THE TRADES
PROFILES
Ramny Guatelara: The Path to Success. He is considered a “Jack of all trades.” BY DIANNE IRIS UBASA
“I
am never most skilled at anything. I just probably know a little of everything that comes my way. Finance is my forte but I can say that I can also hurdle regulatory matters, administrative works, human relations, inventory connected stuff and customer services,” explains Ramny F. Guatelara, a.k.a. RFG to his teammates. He was recently promoted as Mactan EnerZone and Balamban EnerZone Corporation Administration and Finance Manager. The MEZ/BEZ management signed his formal
captain of his school’s Volleyball Varsity Team; a Junior Red Cross volunteer; an active church member involved in youth organizations; a radio jock, as part of his ministry activities; and a campus leader with the student government. Today, with a wife and an adoring son and daughter, he is still captain of a volleyball team, the MEZ/BEZ team that is; an active member of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants; one of the directors of his cooperative; a member of Toastmasters International; still a regular radio jock on a weekly program for his church ministry; and a generous churchgoer who helps in any way he can for the church’s activities.
He considers himself a people person. When he knows someone, especially those he made contact with in the past, he makes sure to share even a few words, give out a good crispy laugh, even throw a huge smile or a nice tap on the shoulder when he meets them. At work, RFG is as keen and meticulous as any other leader. He always wants to comply with deadlines and accept challenges and workloads that push his limit. Yet when asked what he still needs to improve he said, “I have to know more on how to deal with people. I need to be more sensitive. Sometimes I find myself saying something the wrong way when I am supposed to mean it the other way around. I need to be more elaborate on how to make my sentences right.” What drives this man of energy is his passion to learn, eagerness to never stop gaining more knowledge, and his ceaseless quest for it. “The closer I get with one thing, the more I realize I know a little of it. That’s why I have to push myself into knowing more about it.” During hard times, “I take a deep breath and pray, and accept the bawl out thrown at me. Then I think of ways of what to do first, and then I relax to prepare myself for the battle ahead.” He is firm and strict as a leader, but someone whom his team members can easily talk to. Someone they can joke around and laugh with. MASTERING THE PASSION
The Family Man. Ramny with his wife and kids at home. promotion as manager and better news was that it took effect retroactively, making him a manager since February 2009. MOLDING THE JACK RFG grew up in the City of Gentle People, Dumaguete. He belongs to a family of five, with both parents as retired teachers. Having an older brother for a playmate, and a younger sister to watch out for, the middle child syndrome did not affect him. He is proud of his family and of how his parents were able to bring him up. He studied in public school during elementary and entered Silliman University for secondary and tertiary education. He took up law subjects for some time after passing the Certified Public Accountant board exam. The young Ramny was a sport enthusiast; team VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
SHAPING THE CRAFT For his first job, RFG went to Ontario, Canada on an International Visitor Exchange Program. He was not only the store clerk, but its seller, bookkeeper, and artistic designer. He also became part of a non-profit organization which helps the homeless, abused, prostitutes, and other less fortunate. Being an alumnus of Silliman University, he was given the chance to be in their internal audit for some time. With such strong foundations, he joined the Aboitiz Power Corporation and became a junior accountant. He was then assigned to Subic EnerZone Corporation for three years before he was sent closer to home to handle MEZ and BEZ’s Admin & Finance.
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Being where he is now was never easy. Working hard is an understatement. Commitment to his craft was the exact phrase to describe it. “If things would be done at 5:01 pm, I would have gone home, but a lot are demanded with the work I have,” he explains. With a team leader that is willing to teach, members that share ideas, and such raging teamwork, there is nowhere else to go but up. MEZ/BEZ started out manually, and now it is venturing into a Computerized Accounting System, yet this passionate man does not want to stop there. He tells his teammates to not limit themselves to what has been used to, for a better way is always within grasp. Being in his position made him learn a lot of things, to oversee the different business aspects and operations which had molded him into the person he is now. The best thing about it, he shares, is being able to implement something worthwhile that can make a difference . Topping it all, the best thing about Ramny is he knows how to enjoy life. He has time for sports, relaxation, family, and still nurture his spiritual relationship with God. “I am doing my work to glorify God, to make my family proud, and to meet up with all expectations that had been set.” ON VOICING IT OUT “Team mates, learn fast. Accept challenges at hand. Don’t be afraid. If responsibilities are given, it means trust is added. The things given to you are things that people know you can handle. Never cease asking for guidance and assistance.” “To the management, I am more than thankful for the trust and confidence despite my lapses. The leaders are the ones who pushed me to work hard and continue on the passion.” “MEZ/BEZ groomed me, molded me, gave me confidence and had taught me to accept more challenges that I need to be a better individual.” ♦ FLAME July 2009
leaders that I met. He knows how to deal with people properly.” – Adji Alamillo, brother-in-law
WHAT HIS FAMILY SAYS ABOUT HIM “To me as parent, Ramny is a religious man at heart. I knew and noticed this since he was a boy. He attended bible studies, conducted meetings at church which gave him a lot of time for church activities aside from being an employee of a big company. I’m hoping he will share the goodness of his life to his colleagues and to his company. I also hope that God will give him more blessings.” – Ray Fernando Guatelara, father
“Ramny is a skillful, industrious, stronglymotivated man.” – Lea Guatelara, sister-in-law “Ramny was born to be a leader. Everywhere he goes --- in family gatherings, at the church, in his workplace, he leads. There would be no quorum in the family if he is not around. No one could ever match up with his abilities and talents. The most important thing I learned from him is that one should give importance to faith and character rather than one’s reputation.” – Rowena Guatelara-Olivares, cousin
“As a mother, nothing and no one has made me prouder for having a kind and loving son like Ramny. He is a responsible man and can be depended on any tasks I give him. For just a little explanation, he says, ‘Right away, I can do it Mom, don’t worry.’ He can also get along with people easily without favoritism. He can be an adviser to anybody. A thoughtful person to me and to the rest of the family, that’s what he is. He also like to kid around just to make me laugh and the entire family. I thank God with all my heart for giving me a son like him.” – Myrna Guatelara, mother
The Passion Man. RFG speaks to Buanoy high school students during BEZ’s recent CSR career orientation activity.
“A God-fearing man, responsible, admirable, that’s what Ramny is. He has a strong passion for the role he possesses and the commitment to accomplish what needs to be done. He is always there when you need him.” – Ryman Rey Guatelara, brother
that he is dedicated and loyal to the company he is working with. His heart belongs not only to us, his family, but also to his job. Bro, I am very proud of you.” – Rachel Mae GuatelaraAlamillo, sister
“Ramny is a God-fearing person, a true familyoriented man. He is a responsible and loving brother to me. With regards to his work, I can say
“I knew Ramny since we were in high school. He was the captain of our Silliman University Volleyball Varsity Team. He is among the best team
“To the Doctor Love of the family, thank you for telling me the brutal facts of life when I needed someone to knock some sense into my head. You deserve this! Congratulations! I’m so proud of you.” – Raihanee Maisarah GuatelaraTabua, cousin
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“Tito Ramny is generous and intelligent like me. He always meant what he says. I love you Tito!” – Shannen Keziah Guatelara, niece “Being a leader is often a lonely job. Mostly, you see yourself in the space between the rank & file and the management. It takes an iron fist of justice, balanced with the gentleness of a breeze to go through it and still make the best decision for all. Ramny is one person who has journeyed his way to the top. With the wisdom of those before him and the people behind him, he could definitely bring the company to a higher notch.” – Michael Joseph Guatelara Ramo, cousin ♦
NEWS CORPORATE
SOCIAL
RESPONSIBILITY
SEZ assists PANELCO I. The company sends a team to Pangasinan to help in “Emong” aftermath restoration.
Community Heroes. SEZ’s volunteer assistance team “Task Force Emong” shown here during one of their pole erection works in Pangasinan.
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ubic EnerZone Corporation (SEZ) joined other power distribution utilities help the Pangasinan 1 Electric Cooperative (PANELCO 1) in restoring electricity service in its franchise area in the aftermath of Typhoon Emong. SEZ formed “Task Force Emong” to aid in the restoration of power services in the affected areas. The team included SEZ linemen Edgardo Geronimo, team leader, and Ronald Del Rosario with linemen Ruben Quelestino, Marcelo Abarquez, VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
and Rene Eldian from SEZ’s accredited contractor Power System Electric Cooperative (PSECO). The team was sent to Anda, Pangasinan on May 19 and stayed there until May 27, concentrating on pole erection, primary line constructions, and secondary line works. The team brought with them SEZ’s state-of-the-art brand new AICHI digger derrick truck which made their work more efficient. The SEZ team was guided by engineers William Magno and Fredericto Aquino of PANELCO 1. ♦ RGriva
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SEZ refreshes Adopt-an-Ambulance Program
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ubic EnerZone Corporation (SEZ) recently renewed its corporate social responsibility Adopt-an-Ambulance program. With the refreshed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Administrator Armand Arreza and SEZ EVP/COO Benjamin Cariaso Jr., the company now adopted eight ambulances, from last year’s six, of the SBMA’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Same as the previous years’ agreement only with more “adopted” ambulances, SEZ will allocate P100,000 to provide the necessary spare parts and services required for the repair and maintenance of the eight vehicles for a year. The SBMA-EMS is part of the agency’s primary rescue group composed of personnel from Fire, Law Enforcement, and Public Health and Safety departments. Adopt-an-Ambulance program is a CSR initiative by SEZ which started in 2007. ♦ RTamayo
Rescue. One of eight “adopted” ambulances by Subic EnerZone.
FLAME July 2009
NEWS
Extending a hand A BEZ team member distributing snacks to students who attended the seminar.
1ST CSR ACTIVITY
BEZ holds career orientation seminar. Joins other Aboitiz BU’s in Corporate Social Responsibility. VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
B
BY DIANNE IRIS UBASA
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alamban EnerZone Corporation (BEZ) conducted its first Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity at the Buanoy National High School in Balamban, Cebu, April 1. The activity was a career orientation seminar for its graduating students tagged as “What do you want to become?” and was held in partnership FLAME July 2009
NEWS with the Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. After the invocation and the singing of the national anthem, BEZ AVP & General Manager Irwin Pagdalian kicked off with a briefing of what the company is all about and the reasons for its aid. Pagdalian emphasized that BEZ is a company under the Aboitiz group with a practice of sharing a part of its funds on corporate social responsibility. Aboitiz Foundation’s Senior Project Officer Elena Carnacer had a short talk on the value of education; explaining the advantages of having a solid ground on it. She briefed the students on preparing for a stronger future as to hold on to their dreams and thus reaching every goal they had set their minds to. BEZ Admin & Finance Manager Ramny Guatelara also shared a few words of advice before Carnacer’s talk. To further encourage the students on being the achiever they had been aspiring for, three inspiring real-life testimonies from Aboitiz scholars were delivered for the day. Vida Llevares, HR Associate of Aboitiz Equity Ventures, gave a rundown of her tale being an Aboitiz scholar, her sacrifices and her sweet victory upon immediately landing on a job after graduation. Jayrus Sayson of Metaphil International shared his excruciating journey before landing on his current job. Replacing Sayson in the afternoon session was Romel Urgel, also of Metaphil International, who cheerfully shared his steps to success. Finally, Pagdalian highlighted the affair as he shared his sojourn from his teenage dream unto becoming the company head he is right now. AEV’s Recruitment Specialist Sheryl Veloso discussed the most probable courses to take up during college as well as the jobs in line with such courses. The students were able to throw questions during her talk. Marge Gravador who handles the information drive of Aboitiz on Global Warming had the same lecture on the students during the last hour of the sessions. During the morning session, Julieta Loreto of the Department of Education dropped by to share a few words to the VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
Inspirational MEZ/BEZ AVP and General Manager Irwin Pagdalian addresses the participants of the company’s career orientation seminar.
Passion to Serve The BEZ CSR team with other Aboitiz team members pose for a souvenir shot after the seminar.
students. Balamban Vice-Mayor Ace Binghay came by the afternoon session to speak to the students and extend his gratitude to the company as well. When BEZ ended the affair, School Principal Misael Borgonia extended his gratitude for the support that the company gave unto their graduating students. BEZ’s Dianne Iris Ubasa hosted the event, which was also graced by all
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team members and the CSR team of the company. Around four hundred students were in attendance. Corporate Social Responsibility is an important culture within the Aboitiz organization. With its mission of Helping people help themselves, the Aboitiz Group’s CSR programs are geared towards assisting beneficiaries maintain sustainable projects that will allow them to stand on their own in the future. ♦ FLAME July 2009
NEWS
BEZ tags along CIPDI’s Green Project. The company supported CIPDI’s Green Generation Campaign by participating in a tree planting activity.
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BY JERRE BON MANLANGIT alamban EnerZone Corporation (BEZ) supported Cebu Industrial Park Developers, Inc.’s (CIPDI) Green Generation Campaign by participating in a tree planting activity last April 22, at the newly finished spine road connecting CIPDI and Tsuneishi Heavy Industries in Buanoy, Balamban, Cebu. Green Generation Campaign is the highlight of this year’s Earth Day and is a two-year initiative which will culminate with the 40th anniversary of Earth Day on 2010. This campaign’s core principles cover: a carbon-free future based on renewable energy that will end our common dependency on fossil fuels including coal; an individual’s commitment to a responsible, sustainable consumption; the creation of a new green economy that lifts people out of poverty by creating millions of quality green jobs and transforms the VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
global education system into a green one. The morning tree planting activity was participated by 102 volunteers from THI, FBMA Marine, Inc., Mactan Rock
pines, Inc., T&H Furnishing, and Balamban EnerZone Corporation. BEZ was represented by team members Dennis Montebon, substation engineer; Cesar Galleno, lineman; Mar John Batiao, lineman; and Jerre Bon Manlangit, cadet engineer. Each locator was allotted 10-20 seedlings and will be responsible in nurturing it until it reaches maturity. More than 150 Kamagong seedlings were planted. U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson started Earth Day in 1970 and made it an annual event every April 22nd. This annual celebration is the birth of the modern environmental movement. It was launched as a global campaign in 1990 to raise awareness against deterioraClean and Green tion of the environBEZ team members go “green” in ment, pollution, the joining a treeloss of wilderness, and planting activity. the extinction of wildlife among others. On April 22, 1970, Earth Day marked the Industries, Inc., Metaphil International, beginning of the modern environmental Southern Industrial Gases, K&A Metal movement. Approximately 20 million Industries, Airliquide Pipeline Utilities Americans participated, with a goal of a & Pipeline Services, Sumisetsu Philiphealthy, sustainable environment. ♦
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FLAME July 2009
CENTERFOLD
The Subic EnerZone team experienced another rejuvenating summer getaway, this time at the Lake Caliraya Resort in Laguna, May 2 to 3. BY ANIELOU GELACIO
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Earth Ball SEZ team members engage them selves in an “Earth Ball� match, a football variation using a giant soccer ball.
True to its promise of distinctiveness, the outing included not only rest and recreation but teambuilding activities as well. Participants were divided into two groups - Blue and Yellow teams - for the games and activities. Upon arrival, facilitators headed by Daryll Yap first showed an audio-visual presentation introducing SEZ’s team members one by one. A company music video called “Liwanag sa Dilim” was shown right after. Each team were given 15 minutes to prepare and organize their own group yell. They presented them then which brought laughter and a lot of fun for everybody. It was followed by an “Earth Ball” match, a variation of football only using a gigantic soccer ball, VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
which was won by the Blue team. After “Earth Ball”, the teams competed in the Obstacle course, which the Yellow team won in dramatic fashion. In the afternoon, everyone slid through the infamous “Mud Slide” and soaked into its muddy end. Even SEZ
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VP & general manager Dante Pollescas showed his “kiddie” side and joined in the fun. They all plunged in the swimming pool afterwards. A bonfire dinner was dramatically set-up by the lake, perfected by sumptuous food and relaxing music. After dinFLAME July 2009
Enjoying the summer Clockwise from top left: The guys create a long line to prepare for the infamous “Mud Slide”; posing for a shot after the “Obstacle Relay”; all smiles docking at the port of Caliraya Recreation Center; boating and sight-seeing along Caliraya Lake; and having lunch at the resort’s dining hall. All these and more were what kept them busy for two days.
ner, the facilitators presented a SEZ music video titled “Electricity” sang by Elton John. The evening was highlighted by the unveiling of the company’s Vision, Mission, and Core Values. A short AVP was again presented, while SEZ EVP/ VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
COO Benjie Cariaso led the unveiling with Pollescas. On the second day, the teams went on a boat ride and caught a glimpse of Lake Caliraya’s beauty. Indeed, the lake spells of spectacular scenery. After the ride, everyone enjoyed the resort’s
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amenities like the “Fly Pinoy” zip line, Water Roller, and Zorb Ball. Others just strolled around the place. The two-day summer outing again brought plenty of unforgettable memories and fun-filled moments for everybody. ♦ FLAME July 2009
NEWS TRAININGS
AND
SEMINARS
MEZ, BEZ send Labiste, Ubasa for Ratio Analysis Seminar. In graded lectures and discussions, both scored 100 percent in oral and written tests.
All smiles. MEZ/BEZ’s Dianne Iris Ubasa (4th from left) and Mirza Lea Labiste (2nd from right) pose for a souvenir photo with other participants.
BY RAMNY GUATELARA
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actan EnerZone Corporation (MEZ) and Balamban EnerZone Corporation (BEZ) sent Mirza Lea Labiste and Dianne Iris Ubasa for a Ratio Analysis Seminar at the conference room of Aboitiz & Company (ACO) Banilad, Cebu City, May 13 to 15. Both scored 100% in the VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
graded group exercises and quizzes given and were commended for being responsive and participative all throughout the seminar. During the three-day course, the attendees were introduced into the assessment of business performance, benchmarking, ratio analysis & performance and its perspective. To further sharpen such analytical skills, different points of view were acquainted to them, such as from
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the management, that of the owners as well as from the lenders. They also learned on how to use it best in their field of work. Aboitiz Equity Ventures made it a point to make the seminar an annual event. It proved to be exciting as it was informative as each participant was graded to gauge their understanding of the concepts and tools taught. Katrina Baccay-Aliman and Carmille Golez graced the affair by sharing their knowledge on the participants. Ratio analysis is the study of the relationships between financial variables. Ratios of one firm are often compared with the same ratios of similar firms or of all firms in a single industry. This comparison indicates if a particular firm’s financial statistics are suspect. Likewise, a particular ratio for a firm may be evaluated over a period of time to determine if any special trend exists. It is the single most important technique of financial analysis in which quantities are converted into ratios for meaningful comparisons, with past ratios and ratios of other firms in the same or different industries. Ratio analysis determines trends and exposes strengths or weaknesses of a firm. ♦ FLAME July 2009
NEWS
Back to the Basics. The SEZ team revisit these powerful lessons in personal change. BY ETHEL VALERIO
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t is human nature to tend to forget important lessons especially when it comes to personality development and work back old bad habits into one’s system. With this, Subic EnerZone Corporation (SEZ) team members who already went through the Principles of Quality Living (PQL) seminar gathered once more for a reunion meeting to re-evaluate the powerful life lessons in personal change they have learned years ago. The attendees were divided into two separate batches of 20 participants each and were held on June 18 and June 19 respectively. Both took place at the Golden Dragon Restaurant, Subic Bay Freeport Zone. SEZ previously conducted three PQL seminars. The first one was held on March 2 to 4, 2006 at the Subic New Central Garden Resort also in the freeport. The second time was done at the By The Sea Resort in Olongapo City on March 9 to 11, 2006. The third and final seminar was conducted last September 5 to 7, 2007 at the Bay Front Hotel in the freeport. A total of 40 SEZ team members have
7 Habits ACO training officer Emma Ruth Bernad facilitates in SEZ’s PQL Reunion.
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FLAME July 2009
NEWS stimulus and response, we have the power of free will to choose our response. 2. Habit 2 - Principles of Personal Vision: This is about setting long-term goals based on “true north” principles. Covey recommends formulating a “Personal Mission Statement” to document one’s perception of one’s own vision in life. He sees visualization as an important tool to develop this. He also deals with organizational mission statements, which he claims to be more effective if developed and supported by all members of an organization rather than prescribed.
Light and inspiring. Subic EnerZone team members were open and participated very well during group discussions, sharings, and activities.
already undergone the PQL seminar. The PQL seminar was based on the bestselling self-help book “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by internationally renowned leadership speaker and author Stephen R. Covey. Participants reviewed everything they’ve learned from the previous PQL seminars. They also revisited their own personal mission statements, evaluating the status of whether or not they have completed or are practicing what they had written there. It was a light and inspiring follow-up seminar which reminded them of who they really are and encouraged them to continue to pursue their dreams and goals in life. Everyone was very open and participative in the group discussions, sharings and activities. The 7 Principles of Quality Living are as follows: Be Proactive; Begin with the End in Mind; First Things First; Win-Win; Seek First to Understand; Synergy; and Sharpening the Saw. The reunion was facilitated by Emma Ruth Bernad of ACO. ABUNDANCE MENTALITY Covey coined the term “abundance mentality” or “abundance mindset”, meaning a business concept in which a person believes there are enough resources and success to share with others, when looking at optimisVOL. 5, ISSUE 3
tic people. It is commonly contrasted with the scarcity mindset, which is founded on the idea that, given a finite amount of resources, a person must hoard their belongings and protect them from others. Individuals with an abundance mentality are supposed to be able to celebrate the success of others rather than be threatened by it. Abundance mentality is believed to arrive from having a high self-worth and security, and leads to the sharing of profits, recognition, and responsibility. THE 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE 1. Habit 1 - Principles of Personal Choice: Covey emphasizes the original sense of the term “proactive” as coined by Victor Frankl. You can either be proactive or reactive when it comes to how you respond to certain things. When you are reactive, you blame other people and circumstances for obstacles or problems. Being proactive means taking responsibility for every aspect of your life. Initiative and taking action will then follow. Covey also argues that man is different from animals in that he has self-consciousness. He has the ability to detach himself and observe his own self; think about his thoughts. He goes on to say how this attribute enables him: It gives him the power not to be affected by his circumstances. Covey talks about stimulus and response. Between
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3. Habit 3 - Principles of Integrity & Execution: Covey describes a framework for prioritizing work that is aimed at long-term goals, at the expense of tasks that appear to be urgent, but are in fact less important. Delegation is presented as an important part of time management. Successful delegation focuses on results and benchmarks that are to be agreed in advance, rather than on prescribing detailed work plans. 4. Habit 4 - Principles of Mutual Benefit: An attitude whereby mutually beneficial solutions are sought that satisfy the needs of oneself as well as others, or in the case of a conflict, both parties involved. 5. Habit 5 - Principles of Mutual Understanding: Covey warns that giving out advice before having empathetically understood a person and their situation will likely result in that advice being rejected. Thoroughly listening to another person’s concerns instead of reading out your own autobiography is purported to increase the chance of establishing a working communication. 6. Habit 6 - Principles of Creative Cooperation: A way of working in teams. Apply effective problem solving. Apply collaborative decision-making. Value differences. Build on divergent strengths. Leverage creative collaboration. Embrace and leverage innovation. It is put forth that when synergy is pursued as a habit, the result of the teamwork will exceed the sum of what each of the members could have achieved on their own. “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” 7. Habit 7 - Principles of Balanced SelfRenewal: Focuses on balanced self-renewal. Regain what Covey calls “production capability” by engaging in carefully selected recreational activities. Covey also emphasizes the need to sharpen the mind. ♦
FLAME July 2009
NEWS
SEZ undergoes Financial Management Seminar. SEZ TM’s learn practical steps to financial freedom.
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BY ETHEL VALERIO ubic EnerZone Corporation (SEZ) team members and their spouses underwent a seminar on Financial Management entitled “Till Debt Do Us Part” at the SEZ Admin Building Conference Room, May 25 to 26. Facilitated by Rev. Pastor Pines Mabini, the seminar was aimed to help the team members and their spouses to better understand practical financial management principles. It highlighted on how to manage, control, and get out of debts. On the first day, Pastor Pines discussed the right mindset about money based on biblical principles: the foundation of wealth, dangerous attitudes about money, and how to increase cash flow. The second day tackled about practical steps to financial freedom, how to budget and control money, how to reduce unnecessary expenses, and how to save and invest. This seminar is an initiative of SEZ’s Human Resources Department headed by supervisor Mars Escobar. This is one of the department’s initiatives to improve employees’ quality of life. ♦
Bandingan, Paredes participates in Budgeting and Forecasting Seminar
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ilibeth Bandingan of Subic EnerZone Corporation (SEZ) and Patrick Paredes of Aboitiz Energy Solutions, Inc. (AESI) participated in the Budgeting and Forecasting Seminar at the ACO Banilad Conference Room 2 in Cebu, June 25 to 26. The seminar’s objectives are: to refresh on the basics of corpoVOL. 5, ISSUE 3
rate budgeting; to update participants on the recent trends and developments in budgeting; to make them gain information on ways to improve existing budgeting processes; and to discuss current issues and challenges encountered in budgeting. Aside from the lectures and discussions, group exercises and a quiz were administered to
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measure the participants’ understanding of the concepts and tools taught. The tests were also very important in determining how well the participants were able to assimilate new ideas and techniques. At the end of the seminar, overall ratings were posted by Ms. Katrina Baccay-Aliman, ACO Finance Officer. With a passing
score of 75%, Paredes scored 100% while Bandingan got 98%. The seminar was a healthy dialogue from everyone. “We would like to commend Beth and Patrick for being very responsive and participative in the discussions and activities throughout the seminar workshop,” said Ms. Aliman in an email. ♦ EValerio FLAME July 2009
FEATURES
GLOBAL WARMING
Do you ever feel that most of the world is oblivious to the state of the environment? There are simple things you can do to make a real difference.
4. Turn it off. As the MTV ad campaign tells us, SWITCH IT OFF! This means all things electrical from lights to televisions that is not in use, unplug it. In fact mobile phone chargers are worth mentioning here. Most people leave their phone plugged in long after it has fully charged.
Practical Tips to Reduce CO2 Emissions in Your Homes. Efforts to cut carbon emissions is less than it seems. Save the earth. Do your part. RESEARCHED BY RAYMUND TAMAYO
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or this issue, we thought we could give you some cheap yet effective ways to reduce CO2 emissions in your homes. According to the Energy Saving Trust every household creates an average of six tons of CO2 a year from the energy it uses! To give you a visual idea of how much gas this is, one ton of CO2 occupies the same space as six huge double decker buses. So follow these simple steps and try to get rid of bus fulls of CO2!!! 1. Turn up the thermostat. You set it to 18 degrees then you wear a jacket! Take off that
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jacket and set your thermostat up. Turning the thermostat up on your air conditioners by just one degree can cut your bills by 10%. If enough people did this we could save 3.6 tons of CO2 a year. 2. Keep your water at 60 degrees. Your water doesn’t need to be hotter than 60 degrees so don’t waste energy by heating it over this temperature. Don’t wait for the kettle to “whistle” before turning the stove off! 3. Keep your fridge efficient. Set your fridge at the correct temperature and make sure you defrost your freezer regularly. Get as many things as you need when opening it.
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5. Buy better light bulbs. There are lots of energy efficient light bulbs in the market now. Apparently they last twelve times longer than ordinary one thus saving you money. 6. Close your curtains. During the day, close your curtains to keep your house cool. 7. Fill up. Fill up your washing machines to the max. Maximize your laundry time. This will save energy. 8. Boil the minimum amount of water. That’s right folks. Only put the amount of water you need for a cup of tea. Filling the kettle to the top and boiling it is a waste of energy. If you accidentally do it, take a cup around to your neighbors. Save the planet and make a friend! This goes for boiling your vegetables as well. Only boil enough water to cover your veggies. So there we have it. Some practical tips to help reduce CO2 emissions right in your doorsteps. They are so simple you have no excuses. The fact that they will save you money should also be a good incentive. You now can start writing about where to invest your extra savings! ♦ FLAME July 2009
today for the laziest one among you,” the foreman announced. “Will the laziest man please put his hand up.” Nine hands went up. “Why didn’t you put your hand up?” the foreman asked the tenth man. “Too much trouble,” came the reply. OFFICE TRUISMS A pat on the back is only a few centimeters from a kick in the pants.
“What is your name?” was the first thing she asked the new guy. “John,” the new guy replied.
Don’t be irreplaceable. If you can’t be replaced, you can’t be promoted. You can go anywhere you want if you look serious and carry a clipboard. When the bosses talk about improving productivity, they are never talking about themselves. Anyone can do any amount of work provided it isn’t the work he is supposed to be doing. The last person that quit or was fired will be the one held responsible for everything that goes wrong - until the next person quits or is fired.
She scowled. “Look… I don’t know what kind of a namby-pamby place you worked before, but I don’t call anyone by their first name. It breeds familiarity and that leads to a breakdown in authority. I refer to my employees by their last name only… Smith, Jones, Baker… that’s why I am to be referred to only as Mrs. Robinson. Now that we got that straight, what is your last name?” The new guy sighed, “Darling. My name is John Darling.” “Okay, John, the next thing I want to tell you is…” WHO IS THE BOSS
If you are good, you will be assigned all the work. If you are really good, you will get out of it. If it wasn’t for the last minute, nothing would get done. When you don’t know what to do, walk fast and look worried. A clean desk is a sign of a cluttered desk drawer. I love deadlines. I especially like the whooshing sound they make as they go flying by. MEETINGS, a practical alternative to work.
The boss was complaining in a staff meeting that he wasn’t getting any respect. The next day, he brought a small sign that read: “I’m The Boss” He then taped it to his office door.
“I can fix that with some Aspirin. I’ll just take some and I’ll be better in a second.” So, he reaches into his pocket and pulls condom after condom out until he finds the Aspirin. He takes it and his blinking goes away. The CEO says “We don’t approve of womanizing!” The guy says “Oh no! Have you ever tried to ask a pharmacist for aspirin while your winking?” PLEASE DON’T TELL THE BOSS A salesman dropped in to see a business customer. Not a soul was in the office except a big dog emptying wastebaskets. The salesman stared at the animal, wondering if his imagination could be playing tricks on him. The dog looked up and said, “Don’t be surprised. This is just part of my job.”
“Your wife called, she wants her sign back!”
“Incredible!” exclaimed the man. “Does your boss know what a prize he has in you? An animal that can talk.”
LAZY WORKERS
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One day a man tried to get a job at a great company. He passed every test with flying colors. At the final interview part, the CEO told him that his constant blinking would bother customers.
Later that day when he returned from lunch, he found that someone had taped a note to the sign that said:
WHOOPS A lady manager of a large office noticed a new man one day and told him to come into her office.
ASPIRIN
A site foreman had ten very lazy men working for him, so one day he decided to trick them into doing some work for a change. “I’ve got a really easy job
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“No, no,” pleaded the dog. “Please don’t tell him! If that man finds out I can talk, he’ll make me answer the phone as well.” ♦ Lifted from officejokes.com FLAME July 2009
REGULARS
Water Learning RESEARCHED BY CORINNE GRACE MANALO
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ow much water should you drink everyday? – a simple question with no easy answers. Studies produced varying recommendations, but in truth, your water needs depend on many factors, including your health, how active you are, and where you live. Though no single formula fits everyone, knowing more about your body’s need for fluids will help you estimate how much water to drink each day. Water is your body’s principal chemical component, comprising, on average, 60 % of your weight. Every system in your body depends on water. Water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells, and provides a moist environment for ear, nose, and throat tissues. Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don’t have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. How much water do you need? Every day you lose water through your breath, perspiration, urine, and bowel movements. For your body to function properly, you must replen-
ish its water supply by consuming beverages and food that contain water. A couple of approaches attempt to approximate water needs for the average, healthy adult living in a temperate climate. 1. Replacement approach. The average urine output for adults is 1.5 liters a day. You lose close to an additional liter of water a day through breathing, sweating, and bowel movements. Food usually accounts for 20 % of your total fluid intake, so if you consume 2 liters of water or other beverages a day (a little more than 8 cups) with your normal diet, you typically replace the lost fluids.
Nearly all of the major systems in your body depend on water. 2. Dietary recommendations. The Institute of Medicine advises that men consume roughly 3 liters (about 13 cups) of total beverages a day and women consume 2.2 liters (about 9 cups) a day. It is generally the case that if you drink enough fluid so that
you rarely feel thirsty and produce between one and two liters of colorless or slightly yellow urine a day, your fluid intake is probably adequate. Factors that influence water needs 1. Exercise. The more you exercise, the more fluid you’ll need to keep your body hydrated. An extra 1 or 2 cups of water should suffice for short exercise, but exercise lasting more than an hour requires additional fluid. How much is needed depends on how much you sweat, but 13 to 26 ounces (or about 2 to 3 cups) an hour will generally be adequate, unless the weather is exceptionally warm. During long bouts of intense exercise, it’s best to use a sports drink that contains sodium, as this will help replace sodium lost in sweat and reduce the chances of developing hyponatremia, which can be lifethreatening. Drinking 16 ounces of fluid per pound of body weight lost during exercise is recommended. 2. Environment. Hot or humid weather can make you sweat and requires additional intake of fluid. Altitudes greater than 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) may trigger increased urination and more rapid breathing, which use up more of your fluid reserves. 3. Illnesses or health conditions. Signs of illnesses such as fever, vomiting and diarrhea cause your body to lose additional fluids. In these cases you should drink more water and may even need oral rehydration solutions. Certain conditions, including bladder infections or urinary tract stones, also require increased water intake. On the other hand, certain conditions such as heart failure and some types of kidney, liver, and adrenal diseases may impair excretion of water and even require that you limit your fluid intake. 4. Pregnancy or breastfeeding. Women who are expecting or breast-feeding need additional fluids to stay hydrated. Large amounts of fluid are lost especially when nursing. The Institute of Medicine recommends that pregnant women drink 2.4 liters (about 10 cups) of fluids daily and women who breastfeed consume 3 liters (about 12.5 cups) of fluids a day. ♦
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Dehydration and complications
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ailing to take in more water than your body uses can lead to dehydration. Even mild dehydration – as little as 1 percent to 2 percent loss of your body weight – can sap your energy and make you tired. Common causes of dehydration include strenuous activity, excessive sweating, vomiting, and diarrhea. Signs and symptoms of dehydration include: Mild to excessive thirst, fatigue, headache, dry mouth, little or no urination, muscle weakness, dizziness, lightheadedness. Mild dehydration rarely results in complications – as long as the fluid is replaced quickly – but more severe cases can be lifethreatening, especially in the very young and the elderly. In extreme situations, fluids of electrolytes may need to be delivered intravenously. STAYING SAFELY HYDRATED
It’s generally not a good idea to use thirst alone as a guide for when to drink. By the time one becomes thirsty, it is possible to already be slightly dehydrated. Further, be aware that as you get older your body is less able to sense dehydration and send your brain signals of thirst. Excessive thirst and increased urination can be signs of a more serious medical condition. Talk to your doctor if you experience either. To ward off dehydration and make sure your body has the fluids it needs, make water your beverage of choice. Nearly every healthy adult can consider the following: Drink a glass of water with each meal and between each meal. Hydrate before, during, and after exercise. Substitute sparkling water for alcoholic drinks at social gatherings. Though uncommon, it is possible to drink too much water. When your kidneys are unable to excrete the excess water, the electrolyte (mineral) content of the blood is diluted, resulting is a condition called hyponatremia (low sodium levels in the blood). Endurance athletes – such as marathon runners – who drink large amounts of water are at a higher risk of hyponatremia. In general, though, drinking too much water is rare in healthy adults. If you’re concerned about your fluid intake, check with your doctor or a registered dietitian. He can help you determine the amount of water that’s best for you. ♦ CManalo
FLAME July 2009
REGULARS
Team Members’ Page Jessie E. Ebanen; surveyor/data encoder, GIS Dept.
Jaypee C. Cabreros; cadet engineer, PBR
NEW REGULAR TEAM MEMBERS, MEZ/BEZ (from L to R): John Gener Quintayo, Jerre Bon Manlangit, and Ernesto Villarba Jr., cadet engineers; (inset) and Ava-Lou Perez, HR specialist.
Elmer C. Amigo (left), from DLPC, replaces Dick B. Cabrera (right), also from DLPC, as SEZ T&D Supervisor. Cabrera is back in Davao after two years of service in SEZ.
THE WORD
Raising Our Expectations Beyond the tap: Although it’s a great idea to keep water within reach at all times, you don’t need to rely only on what you drink to satisfy your fluid needs. What you eat also provides a significant portion of your fluid needs. On average, food provides about 20 percent of total water intake, while the remaining 80 percent comes from water and beverages of all kinds. For example, many fruits and vegetables – such as watermelon and cucumbers – are nearly 100 percent water by weight. Beverages such as milk and juice are also comprised mostly of water. Even beer, wine, and caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, or soda can contribute, but these should not be a major portion of your daily total fluid intake. Water is one of your best bets because it’s calorie-free, inexpensive and readily available. ♦ CManalo
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Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things which you do not know - JEREMIAH 33:3 Too often we settle for much less than what God wants to do through us. We read in Jeremiah 32:27: “I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is anything too hard for Me?” and we answer, “No, Lord.” Yet when we face difficult situations we begin to qualify our belief in God and lower our expectations of what God will do. It is one thing to believe God could perform a miracle in the Bible, or a thousand years ago, or even in the life of a friend; it is quite another matter to wholeheartedly believe God can do anything He chooses to do in our lives. When almighty God speaks to us, what we do next proves what we believe about Him, regardless of what we say. God revealed to Moses His plan to orchestrate the greatest exodus in human history, and He wanted to use Moses to accomplish it.
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Moses responded by arguing with God! Moses was overwhelmed by what he heard and began to make excuses for why he could not participate in God’s activity. Moses would have readily acknowledged his belief in God’s power; he simply did not believe God could do His miraculous work through “his” life. Moses’ argument with God limited his ministry for the rest of his life (Exod. 4:13-16). Do you sense there may be far more that God wants to do through your life than what you have been experiencing? Ask God to show you what it is. Then be prepared to respond in faith and obedience to what He tells you. ♦ (Taken from Experiencing God by Henry and Richard Blackaby) FLAME July 2009
SPORTS ALL-STAR RISING STARS ‘09
Wishing Stars turn back Falling Stars, 44-36, in extraordinary All-Star Game
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ometimes in life, wishes do come true. In a dream of a game, Jeff Figuerrez, Carlo Laydia and the rest of the Wishing Stars lit up Subic EnerZone with their own version of Showtime, romping past Chog Mojal and the Falling Stars, 44-36, last April 15 in the 2009 SEZ Rising Stars Challenge. An event that some called “The Dream Game”, it was for Figuerrez, Laydia and their teammates to turn that dream into reality. “Nabuhayan ako nung nalaman ko na magkakaroon ng Rising Stars Challenge (I got excited when I learned that there will be a Rising Stars Challenge),” Figuerrez said. “It is an opportunity para sa amin na hindi gaano nakakapaglaro na makapaglaro (It is an opportunity for us who seldom plays to play).” Figuerrez and Laydia each scored 14 points and was both named MVP of the contest. Jeremy Picones added 5 points for the Wishing Stars, which held on with single digit leads throughout the game. “Hindi ko naman iniisip na manalo. Ang nasa isip ko lang ay maglaro at mag-enjoy (I didn’t think about
winning. All I thought of was to play and enjoy),” Figuerrez added. “Masaya ako at ako ang napiling MVP, kasi sa tanang buhay ko, hindi ko inaasahan na mananalo ako ng MVP sa basketball (I am happy that I was chosen as MVP, because not once in my life that I expected to win it in basketball).” Mojal scored 10 points for the Falling Stars while Richard Bulaon, Brian Benedicto, and Wilson Gayagaya scored 6 points each. Still the game was secondary to the show that we have achieved in this most unusual of All-Star games – and it was quite a show. Tired of the annual process of seeing the best players in the league square off in a match, a handful of SEZ basketball players suggested to have a one of a kind AllStar game featuring seldomused bench players. It was a success and the fun-factor was up to the brim. “We’re doing everything we can to make this tournament a little more interesting and better every year,” said Sportsfest Chairman Raymund Tamayo. “This suggestion from the players was one of the highlights of this seaRISING STARS. (from L son. Everyone had a lot of
Three-Point Shootout ‘09 Tamayo Nails Down Title Yellow Dolphins’ Raymund Tamayo made 5 of a possible 15 balls to capture the 2009 SEZ Three-Point Shootout title, defeating defending champion Jerry Paul Mendez of the Blue Seals and Ricky Coronel of the Black Stingrays. Mendez scored 4 points in the final round to capture silver. The three finalists went in a triple tie with 4 points in the first round of competition. Skills Challenge ‘09 Vergara outduels Eldian John Vergara of the Yellow Dolphins was less than a second faster VOL. 5, ISSUE 3
Quarterscores: 10-12, 22-20, 33-26, 44-36 ♦
to R) Co-winners Carlo Laydia and Jeff Figuerrez receives the Rising Stars MVP trophy from Mars Escobar during the halftime of Game 1 of the Finals.
DUO. (from L to R) Yellow Dolphins’ one-two punch Emon Tamayo and John Vergara won the 3Point Shootout and Skills Challenge.
ALL-STAR SIDE EVENTS
fun.” The game also left everyone with the lesson that if anyone was given a chance to perform, hidden skills and talents will be uncovered. It added up to the rich culture and history of SEZ basketball and will be remembered as an initiative by the players to improve their teammates for years to come. Here are the scores: WISHING STARS (44) – Figuerrez 14, Laydia 14, Picones5, Esguerra 4, Morales 4, Solis 2, Rodriguez 1. FALLING STARS (36) – Mojal 10, Benedicto 6, Bulaon 6, Gayagaya 6, De Leon 4, Ducos 4, Vete 0.
Aboitiz Sportsfest ‘09 continues
MEZ, BEZ stays on for the plays
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he “Kiddielympics” was just a start, now the real hardcore sports mania has just begun as the quest for the best Aboitiz sports teams started. Despite a series of rain showers, the first game of Aboitiz Basketball commenced last May 18 between Unionbank of the Philippines (UBP) and Aboitizland, Inc. Other basketball teams in the tournament are: 2GO Express, Visayan Electric Company (VECO), SuperCat, Team A & Team B of Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV), and the MEZ/BEZ team merged into one. Bowling started on May 23 at the Bowling Center of Gaisano Country Mall, Banilad, Cebu City. The volleyball games for women, men, and the standard mixed division started on June 23 at the Sacred Heart School Volleyball Court, with VECO and AEV battling in the first game of the women’s division. Four teams will compete for the crown in the women’s division; AEV, VECO, Aboitizland, and the combination of UBP & Pilmico. In the men’s division: AEV-CSD, AEVSecurity, Aboitizland, VECO, and MEZ/ BEZ. In the standard mixed division: AEV, Aboitiz, Aboitizland, 2GO, UBP, VECO, and MEZ/ BEZ. ♦ DIUbasa
than Red Sharks’ Rene Eldian and won the 2009 SEZ Skills Challenge. Vergara timed 31.84 seconds in the final round as against Eldian’s 32.01 seconds in one of the closest decisions in the annual contest. Noel Batingal of the Black Stingrays settled for third with a time of 39.68 seconds in the first round. 2-Ball Shooting Stars ‘09 Stingrays Shoot Stars Out Black Stingrays’ Chris Celiz and Vanie Olesco wins the 2009 SEZ 2Ball Shooting Stars with an all-time record of 45 points in the final round against the 25 points of the Blue Seals’ Ronald del Rosario and Lilibeth Bandingan. The Red Sharks duo of Kheng Balbuena and Karen Matawaran took third place with 20 points in the first round. ♦
GO, FIGHT, WIN. Team EnerZone huddles up for a play in a volleyball match in the standard mixed division of the Aboitiz Sportsfest ‘09.
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FLAME July 2009
SPORTS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
Balbuena, Pascua lead Sharks to Championship, 39-26
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heng Balbuena and Rey Pascua enhanced the championship resume of Manny Tabradillo while starting their own. Playing without their injured three-time MVP, Balbuena and Pascua lifted the Red Sharks past the deflated Black Stingrays, 39-26, in Game 4 of their best-of-five Finals showdown to capture the 2009 SEZ Basketball title. Rallying behind the leadership and dedication of team manager Dick Cabrera and playing coach Jun Bustria, the Sharks racked up the required 3 final round wins to exceed just about everyone’s expectations except their own. “Ang sabi ko lang sa kanila ay depensa (What I only told them was to play defense),” Cabrera said. “Depensa lang at suporta sa bawat isa ang kailangan namin para manalo (Defense and helping each other out are what we need to win).” Leading the way in the final game was Balbuena, a perennial MVP candidate, and Pascua, this year’s Finals MVP. This was a break-out game for Balbuena, playing for the first time with a championship caliber team, while Pascua had been a steady presence in the paint. “Tiwala lang sa kakayahan ng bawat isa ang naging susi ng panalo namin (Trust in each other is the key to our win),” said Balbuena. “We only made the most out of what we had without Kuya Manny.” Overcoming injuries and absence
of key players, Balbuena and Pascua scored 16 and 13 points respectively that swung the game in favor of the Sharks. “Malakas ang Stingrays, pero hindi namin nilagay sa isip iyon para hindi mawala ang kumpiyansa namin (The Stingrays are a strong team, but we didn’t let that sink in our minds to maintain our confidence),” Balbuena added. The Stingrays, also without main man Noel Batingal, managed to keep the game close for two quarters, trailing by just two points at halftime, 16-14.
CHAMPIONS. Members of the Red Sharks and their supporters pose for a photo after winning the SEZ Basketball Finals series, 3-1.
TABLE TENNIS — SINGLES
UNDISPUTED Figuerrez wins Table Tennis Crown for the Fourth Time
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or the Yellow Dolphins’ Jeff Figuerrez, winning the SEZ Table Tennis tournament is becoming a habit. For the fourth time in five years, Figuerrez stayed on top by dominating surprise finalist Richard Bulaon of the Blue Seals in straight sets, 21-12, 21-10, 21-10, in the finals. Bulaon entered the finals with a close 24-22, 13-21, 21-16 win over finals-favorite Achilles Phill Balbuena of the Red Sharks. Curiously, Figuerrez
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Red broke the game wide open with a blistering 13-2 run in the third period to enter the final quarter with a 29-16 lead that was never relinquished. Here are the scores: SHARKS (39) – Balbuena 16, Pascua 13, Eldian 8, Caseja 1, Geronimo 1, Bustria 0, Griva 0, Laydia 0. STINGRAYS (26) – Pamintuan 8, Nanquilada 5, Celiz 4, Coronel 4, Laungayan 2, Veloso 2, Lacanin 1, Tabago 0. Quarterscores: 11-6, 16-14, 29-16, 39-26 ♦
remained unbeaten in three years, with the exception of last year’s elimination round loss to Bulaon. “Hindi ko inisip na ganun lang kabilis ang magiging laban namin ni Richard (I never expected that the match with Richard will be that quick),” admitted Figuerrez. “Natalo niya ako last year, at alam ko ang kakayahan niya kaya hindi ako nagbakasakali (He beat me last year, and I know his skills that’s why I didn’t take the risk).” This year, there were no signs of any elimination round setbacks. Figuerrez routed everyone on the way to the finals and was hardly challenged. He finished this season without dropping a single set and without an opponent scoring more than 17 points in a set. It was that scary. Now the question that’s arising is: Is he SEZ’s greatest player to ever play the game? “Ni minsan hindi ko inisip na ako ang pinakamagaling. Marami kasi akong practice kaya ako nanalo (I never considered myself the best. I only have much practice that’s why I won),” he
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CONTENDERS. Noel Batingal (left) goes for a jump shot while Manny Tabradillo gets ready for the possible rebound. These two are constant MVP contenders.
Tabradillo wins MVP number three
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ed Sharks legendary center Emmanuel Tabradillo has been named SEZ Basketball’s Most Valuable Player for the third time. Tabradillo finished the 2009 campaign by averaging 18.3 ppg, including the league all-time record of 37 points in a regular season game against the Blue Seals, shattering Raymund Tamayo’s previous record of 33 points in 2005. The only player in league history to have won more than one MVP award, Tabradillo received 18 MVP votes from SEZ team members and had 110 statistical points to run away with the award. Placing second is perennial MVP contender Noel Batingal of the Black Stingrays, receiving 10 MVP votes and scoring 90 statistical points. Yellow Dolphins’ Raymund Tamayo placed third with 10 MVP votes and 85 statistical points. ♦
quipped after the match. “At isa pa, lagi kong sinasamahan ng dasal bago ako maglaro, tinutulungan ako ng Diyos (And another thing, I always pray before games, God is helping me),” he added. Even in moments of glory, the man called “Master” stays humble. Lower class winners were: Jerry Paul Mendez, Blue Seals, Class A (21-17, 21-15, 12-21, 21-19 win over Yellow Dolphins’ Jeremy Picones); and Jerome Tuazon, Blue Seals, Class B (21-15, 2116, 13-21, 16-21, 21-12 win over Red Sharks’ Ryan Griva). Meanwhile, in the Women’s Singles division, Blue Seals’ Anielou Gelacio had a similar dominating performance by trouncing Red Sharks’ Kristine Pulido, 21-12, 21-6, in the finals. Black Stingrays’ Corinne Manalo took the bronze with a 15-21, 219, 21-10 win over Yellow Dolphins’ Ethel Navarro. ♦
FLAME July 2009
JULY 2009
Canal Road corner Labitan St., CBD, SBFZ Tel. No.: (047) 252-7392 Fax No.: (047) 252– 7397
OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE ABOITIZ ENERZONES
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Erramon I. Aboitiz PRESIDENT, CEO Jaime Jose Y. Aboitiz EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, COO Benjamin A. Cariaso, Jr.
STAFF
BOX
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/LAYOUT ARTIST Raymund Tamayo ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dianne Iris Ubasa FINANCE OFFICERS Corinne Grace Manalo, SEZ; Janice Veriña, MEZ/BEZ STAFF John Louis Ducos, Ethel Navarro, Justin Jay Navarro, Ryan Griva, Jerry Mark Famanila, Anielou Gelacio, Karen Matawaran, SEZ; Ava-Lou Perez, Kim Khyber Anton Niño Ang, Dennis Montebon, Mirza Lea Labiste, Joanna Mae Baguio, Vegie Niala, Jerre Bon Manlangit, MEZ/BEZ; Rizza Joy Montefrio, AESI EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS Mars Escobar and Ramny Guatelara GENERAL MANAGERS VP Dante Pollescas, SEZ; AVP Irwin Pagdalian, MEZ/BEZ, Raymond Carl Roseus, AESI
What drives us is a passion to do better every time.
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