business confidence
on the up in the Philippines
Cultural exchange:
Filipino au pairs share in the Danish way of life
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your is in the paradise es Philippin
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AN ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE IN ASIA:
PRESIDENT AQUINO BOASTS ABOUT THE PHILIPPINES’ SUCCESS FACTORS Improving Infrastructure
rights and guarantees to investors, including
Aquino has overseen the resurgence of a nation once called the Sick Man of Asia and is seeking faster expansion to reduce unemployment and poverty. The benchmark stock index continued its upward trend and recently ranked as among the biggest gainers in Asia, buoyed by the longest stretch of inflows into Philippine equities since at least 1999.
the repatriation of investments, remittance of earnings, access to foreign loans and contracts, freedom from expropriation and requisition of investments. Top quality workforce Filipino workers are recognised as among the world’s best because they have a fast learning curve. It takes only eight weeks to train Fili-
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resident Benigno C. Aquino III has led his country’s bid to become a globally competitive place for doing business through reforms that have aimed to eliminate corruption, improve infrastructure and strengthen the government’s finances. From his inaugural address to the present, the President has held steadfast to his promise of dramatically cutting red tape and implementing stable economic policies to level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler of business. His administration has helped boost the already heightened investors’ confidence in the Philippines. “We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say ‘it all works’,” says the President at almost every appropriate opportunity. As you will read in this supplement, the Philippines is an economic bright spot in the Asian region, and recently the country has won a credit rating upgrade from Standard & Poor’s a year after it was raised to investment grade, aided by President Benigno Aquino’s efforts to improve the nation’s economy and government.
Aquino is increasing spending this year to lure investments and boosts economic growth as much as 7.5 percent after a 7.2 percent gain last year. Builder Ayala Land Inc., brandy maker Emperador Inc. and cement producer Holcim Philippines Inc. are among companies that reported higher profits in the last quarter on rising demand. Pres. Aquino has also recognised the need to improve the country’s infrastructure to attract investments, and as a result public works spending on improving the country’s infrastructure is now on the rise with various projects on the go. “Gradually, we will add and improve on infrastructure for transportation, tourism, and trade,” the President has said. Improvements in infrastructure will also further boost the Philippines’ strategic location in the Asia Pacific region, which, in itself is already a competitive edge and serves as a natural entry point to the other markets and economies in the region, including Southeast Asia.
pino workers compared to 16 to 24 weeks for workers in other countries. The Philippines has an abundant supply of quality labour with a large pool of knowledge-based, multi-skilled, highly educated, highly trainable, literate, English-speaking workforce. Filipino workers are also known for low employment turnover (less than 1%), high productivity yields, highly adaptable to model changes and familiar to quality work needs. Business competitiveness The Philippines is highly rated as a suitable regional hub for the following activities: ❚ Labour-intensive manufacturing ❚ Regional operations centers and outsourcing operations ❚ Marketing support base for the region ❚ Center for regional human resource and training functions ❚ Construction and telecommunications ❚ Top tourist destination
Our success factors
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority
There are many factors why the Philippines has been an attractive area for foreign investments. The country, with a democratic government that continues to institute reforms to
(PEZA) has made economic zones (econ-
make its economy competitive, provides basic
and tourism-related activities.
zones) attractive to investors by providing world-class, environment-friendly sites for manufacturing facilities and other business
President and Publisher: Ejvind Sandal ● Editor: David Nothling ● Layout: Lyndsay Jensen ● Sales & Marketing Director: Hans Hermansen, hans@cphpost.dk, Tel: +45 2420 2411 ● Picture credit for images: Department of Tourism – London and Thinkstock
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a special message from the secretary of foreign affairs
I
t is with great pleasure that I greet the Filipino community in Denmark on the occasion of the 116th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence. This year’s theme, “Following the Footsteps of Great Filipinos towards a Comprehensive and Permanent Change,” resonates particularly strongly. In the wake of Typhoon Haiyan, we have witnessed greatness amongst ordinary people with extraordinary hearts. I thank the Filipino community for your generosity and compassion towards our Kababayans in need.
I also take this opportunity to extend our deepest appreciation to the Danish Government and citizens for their assistance to the victims of Typhoon Haiyan. The survivors draw strength from the support of friends in the international community such as Denmark, and have embarked on the path towards recovery and rehabilitation. The Philippine considers Denmark a true friend and ally. Our countries have expanded cooperation across various sectors, particularly in the maritime industry and clean energy. I expect two-way trade to continue to flourish and people-to-people exchanges to improve significantly, especially with the re-opening of the Embassy of Denmark in Manila in August this year. On this auspicious occasion, I am hopeful that Philippines-Denmark relations will continue to expand and grow on the basis of our shared democratic values and ideals. ALBERT F. DEL ROSARIO Secretary of Foreign Affairs
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Message from the Ambassador It is with great pride that I join our kababayans and Danish friends in commemorating the 116th Anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence.
recovery was only made possible with aid and assistance from our friends in the international community. Denmark was among the first to come to our aid in this time of need. Seven months later, the disaster stricken areas show signs of recovery, and the Philippines says “Maraming Salamat”, many thanks to our Danish friends and to the Filipino Community in Denmark! We appreciate the continued support and mutual cooperation from Denmark. We are also proud of what the Filipino community has accomplished in Denmark.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! BAYANI S. MERCADO Ambassador Advertisement
The past year was an eventful and challenging one for the Philippines. Last November, The strongest typhoon on record hit the Central Philippines and caused massive loss of lives and property. This tragedy, however, failed to stop economic growth in the Philippines which reached 7.2% at the end of 2013.The Philippines is currently undergoing extraordinary levels of growth. Sound economic policies, consumer spending and an increase in tourism have boosted the economy.
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I hope that after reading this supplement you will be interested in visiting or doing business in the Philippines. Listed in this edition are briefs on business opportunities in the Philippines and some of the most beautiful places to see in our archipelago. Every island in the Philippines is eager to welcome travellers, investors, students, adventurers and everyone in between, to our shores. We want you to have fond memories of your journey and spread the word that “It’s more fun in the Philippines”. Danish-Philippine relations and cooperation are as strong as ever, with many Danish enterprises present in the Philippines. Our skilled, professional, English speaking workforce is a great asset for Danish multinational companies. And with the Danish Embassy in Manila due to open later this year, Danish-Philippine relations are only bound to get stronger. Typhoon Haiyan was a catastrophe of unprecedented proportions. In its wake, it left millions of Krone in property damage, thousands of lives were lost and many more were displaced. The
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The Philippine Embassy in Norway: The heart of Nordic-Philippine relations The Philippines has 84 Foreign Service Posts around the world. The Nordic Region is under the jurisdiction of the Philippine embassy in Oslo, Norway.
The resident Philippine Embassy in Oslo The Philippines established its resident embassy in Oslo, Norway on 30 April 2007. It is the Philippine government’s official contact point with the authorities in the entire Nordic region covering the Kingdom of Norway, the Kingdom of Denmark, the Republic of Finland, the Republic of Iceland and the Kingdom of Sweden.
then Nanking, China). From 1952 to 1956, Norway was represented by a Consulate, later, by a Consulate General in Manila. The Norwegian Embassy in Manila was opened in 1967.
The main tasks of the Embassy are to work for the enhancement of Philippine political, economic and cultural relations with these countries, to protect and promote Philippine interests throughout the Nordic region and to provide consular services to the approximately 50 000 Filipinos who reside in the region.
In the past, the Philippine Embassy in the United Kingdom was responsible for Philippine relations with Norway. In June 1986, this responsibility was transferred to the Philippine Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden.
The Embassy also oversees the operation of six Philippine Honorary Consular posts in the region: The Philippine Honorary Consulates in Reykjavik, Iceland in Växjö, Sweden and in Stavanger, Norway and the Philippine Honorary Consulates General in Copenhagen, Denmark, in Helsinki, Finland and in Stockholm, Sweden.
History of the Embassy
On 30 April 2007, Second Secretary and Consul Porfirio M. Mayo, Jr. opened the resident embassy in Oslo and was the Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires, ad interim (CDA) until Ambassador Victoria S. Bataclan arrived in Norway in May 2007. In January 2009, Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso took over the Post as Ambassador to Norway, Denmark and Iceland. In September 2011, Ambassador Bayani S. Mercado succeeded Ambassador Buensuceso.
The Philippines established diplomatic relations with Norway on 2 March 1948. Minister Nikolai Aal was the first official to represent Norway in the Philippines (based in what was
With the closure of the Philippine resident embassies in Helsinki and Stockholm in 2012, the jurisdiction of the resident embassy in Oslo
was expanded to cover both Sweden and Finland.
Philippine bilateral relations with Nordic countries The Philippines currently enjoys robust and cordial political, economic and people-to-people relations with all the five Nordic states. On the political level, there are close bilateral contacts between the Philippines and each of the five Nordic countries, built largely on a shared belief in democracy and the promotion of universal human rights. Our countries have convergent interests in many global and regional matters and have worked together in the United Nations and other international fora on issues ranging from non-proliferation of nuclear weapons to gender equality and the protection of the environment. The Philippines also has mechanisms for regular high-level political bilateral consultations with Norway, Sweden and Finland.
In the area of tourism, there has also been a marked increase in the number of tourists from the Nordic region visiting the Philippines in recent years with Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Norway all registering continuous growth every year for the past four years. In 2013, the total number of Nordic tourists visiting the Philippines reached 63 106 up by 50% from the 2010 figure of 42 000. Right now, only Norway has an embassy in Manila. Early this year, the Danish Government announced it would reopen its embassy in Manila on 1 August 2014.
The Embassy’s consular section Another major task of the Philippine Embassy in Oslo is providing consular services to Filipinos and the general public in the Nordic countries. Services include the processing of passport and dual citizenship applications and providing notarial and civil registry services for Filipino nationals, the issuance of visas to Nordic nationals and other foreigners intending to travel to the Philippines and the authentication of legal documents. Some of these services such as visa and authentication are also provided by the Philippine Honorary consular offices in Iceland, Denmark, Sweden and Finland under the supervision of the Embassy. As members of the European Union (EU), Denmark, Sweden and Finland also maintain engagements with the Philippines through the EU-ASEAN dialogue mechanism and the ASEM process. Norway, on the other hand, has been involved in the efforts to bring
The Embassy also regularly brings its passport and other consular services to selected cities and regions with large concentrations of Filipino nationals. Over the past year, the Embassy has conducted mobile consular outreach services in Copenhagen, Stockholm, Reykjavik, Helsinki, Stavanger, Åarhus, Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
about lasting peace in the Philippines playing a significant role as a third-party facilitator in the peace talks between the Philippine
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Government and the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA-NDF). It was also part of the international monitoring team in efforts leading to the landmark 2012 Framework Agreement signed with the Bangsamoro group. On the economic front, the Philippines had a total merchandise trade volume of US$ 585.4 million with the five Nordic countries in 2013. Total Philippine exports to the region amounted to more than a quarter billion dollars at around US$ 285.3 million. Sweden, the largest trading partner of the Philippines in the Nordic region accounted for 44% of total trade volume, with Finland following at 28%. In the area of investments, Denmark and Norway have proven to be eager investors in the Philippines, particularly in the area of sustainable energy, other eco-friendly solutions technologies, IT, pharmaceuticals, and the services sector for Denmark, natural gas and renewable energy projects for Norway. Sweden which sent a business and investment delegation to the Philippines last year has also begun making significant investments in the Philippines in the area of manufacturing. The Philippines also enjoys strong maritime relations with Denmark as major companies like A.P. Moller-Mærsk continue to hire and train Filipino seafarers for their many ships as well as establish hub offices for many other maritime-related services in the country. The Philippines and Iceland also cooperate in the area of geothermal energy. Gastrochef Copenhagen Post Print ad 1/4 page
105mm x 144mm (10mm bleed)
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The history of the Philippines: Looking back, but moving forward “He who does not look back from whence he came from, will never ever reach his destination,” so goes a popular Filipino saying. And so, each year, as thousands of Filipino migrants pack their suitcases for destinations abroad, the Philippine government, through its various Embassies and Consulates, helps Filipino migrants look back, by celebrating and representing all-things Filipino, in order for its citizens and the country to reach their destination and rightful position in the global stage. What better way to look back than through the lenses of history and on such an auspicious occasion as the celebration of the country’s Independence Day. Here’s a look back at the Philippines’ history as we invite readers to come look back and journey with us as the Philippines and its people move forward towards promising horizons: The Philippine archipelago was settled at least 30,000 years ago, when migrations from the Indonesian archipelago and elsewhere were believed to have occurred. Additional migrations took place over the next millennia. Over time, social and political organisation developed and evolved in the widely scattered islands. Later inhabitants evolved into four distinct groups, with the seafaring group eventually trading with the Indianized kingdoms of the Malay Archipelago and nearby East Asian principalities, adopting influences from both Buddhism and Hinduism.
Spanish Colonial Rule and the Philippine Revolution (1565-1896) In 1521 Ferdinand Magellan landed on Homonhon island, claiming it and its surrounding islands for Spain. He was eventually killed by Lapu-Lapu when he attempted to claim Mac-
tan island. Manila was established as the capital of the Spanish East Indies. Spain consolidated its power and waged many futile wars in the Muslim south. Spanish rule continued well into the 1800s amidst resistance from many local factions, but by 1892 The Katipunan, a secret society that aimed to overthrow Spanish rule was founded by Andres Bonifacio who become its Supremo. The Philippine Revolution ensued, but The Katipunan split into two factions with one led by Emilio Aguinaldo, Andres Bonifacio was assassinated whilst Aguinaldo agreed to a truce with Spain and was exiled to Hong Kong. By 1898 conflicts from almost every Philippine province were on the rise, while the Spanish-American war broke out in Cuba. Commodore George Dewey defeated the Spanish squadron in Manila and invited Aguinaldo to return to the Philippines. On 12 June 1898 Agu-
inaldo declared the Philippines’ independence in Cavite and established the First Philippine Republic.
Philippine-American War and the American Occupation (1898-1946) Resentment over the U.S. grew when the latter refused to support Philippine independence. Spain and the United States signed the Treaty of Paris, ending the Spanish-American War, causing Spain to yield the Philippines to the U.S. By 1899 the Philippine-American War had broken out after two American soldiers killed three Filipino soldiers in Manila. The war lasts for three years, ending with the capture of Aguinaldo. However by 1916 the Jones Act had created the Philippine senate and promised eventual independence. On 24 March 1934 the Tydings-McDuffie Act created the Com-
monwealth of the Philippines and a 10-year transition period to full independence.
are relocated in traditional Muslim areas in the South, sparking religious hostilities.
stalls Corazon Aquino as President on 25 February 1986.
World War II and the Japanese Occupation (1939-1945)
Marcos Era, Martial Law, and the People Power Revolution (1965-1986)
The Fifth Philippine Republic (1986-present)
Japan brings WWII to the Philippines by launching a surprise attack on Clark Air Base. In 1943 the unpopular Second Philippine Republic was set up by the Japanese. Jose P. Laurel served as President, causing guerrilla and underground activity against the Japanese. The following year the Philippines together with the 6th U.S. Army station US troops in the country. By September 1945 Japan formally surrendered.
The Third Philippine Republic (1946-1965) Five Philippine Presidents, namely Manuel Roxas, Elpidio Quirino, Ramon Magsaysay, Carlos P. Garcia, and Diosdado Macapagal, served the country during the Third Philippine Republic. Significant events included: Signing of a military assistance pact granting the U.S. a 99-year lease on designated military bases in the Philippines. Land reform is introduced and poor people from the populous Catholic North
The first term of Ferdinand Marcos was marked by economic prosperity and paves the way for his re-election in 1969. However, corruption, and fights with the New People’s Army and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) slowed down economic growth and caused widespread civil disobedience and unrest. In 1973 the constitution changed the form of government from presidential to parliamentary, allowing Marcos to stay in power beyond 1973. Marcos appointed Cesar Virata as Prime Minister creating the Fourth Philippine Republic. In August 1983 Benigno Aquino, Jr. was assassinated upon his return from exile in the U.S. causing nationwide grief and increased animosity towards Marcos. Eventually by 1986 following years of disapproval towards the Marcos government, a peaceful People Power Revolution forced Marcos into exile and in-
Five Philippine administrations headed by Presidents Corazon Aquino, Fidel Ramos, Joseph Estrada, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and Benigno Aquino III currently make up the fifth Philippine Republic. Significant events included: In 1987 the constitution was ratified and enacted, restoring government from parliamentary to presidential, and the Bicameral Congress. During 2000-2001, amidst growing evidence of corruption, Estrada was impeached by the House of Representatives but the trial in the Senate broke down, prompting massive street protests. Estrada was forced from office on 20 January 2001. Post-2010 the Philippine economy has grown significantly under President Benigno Aquino III, who has implemented various economic policies and advocates for a corruption-free government. The government and MILF signed a peace agreement, which further bolstered peace and order, and a positive economic outlook for the country. Advertisement
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Credit rating & global competitiveness rankings go up The Philippines has again won a rating upgrade from Moody’s Investors Service, whilst Standard & Poor’s increased their credit rating for the country. This completes the nation’s ascent to investment rank as President Benigno Aquino leads a growth resurgence that’s outpacing the rest of Southeast Asia.
Credit rating rise Standard & Poor’s raised the Philippines’ credit rating to two notches above investment grade, the first debt watcher to do so, saying reforms are likely to continue beyond the administration of President Benigno Aquino. S&P upgraded the Philippines’ foreign longterm debt by one notch to BBB from BBB minus, and foreign short-term debt to A-2 from A-3, with a stable outlook, saying that the rating reflects the country’s strong external liquidity and investment position, and effective monetary policy framework. S&P’s move to a second notch above investment grade came as a surprise, as the agency didn’t first raise its outlook before changing the rating.
Sources: http://www.bloomberg.com/; http://www.cnbc.com/
Philippines on the rise:
“The Philippines’ economic performance has entered a structural shift to higher growth, accompanied by low inflation,” Moody’s said. “The new growth path is being reinforced in part by improved fiscal management.” Fitch was the first to upgrade the Philippines in March of last year, with S&P following in May. In contrast, Fitch cut Malaysia’s credit outlook in July 2013 to negative from stable, while S&P lowered Indonesia’s outlook to stable from positive in May 2013. The World Economic Forum ranks the Philippines 59th in its 2013-2014 Global Competitiveness Index, up from 65 the previous year. Fujifilm Corp., a maker of cameras and medical equipment, and Sonion A/S, which makes high-end microphones and components for audio headsets and hearing aids, are among companies that began production at new factories in the Philippines this year.
The upgrade, according to S&P, was “based on our assessment that even though a change of administration after the presidential elections in 2016 represents some uncertainty for reforms, the risks have shifted toward maintaining the impetus and direction of the process, away from a potential reversal or abandonment of advances achieved to date.”
Aquino plans to boost infrastructure spending to a record next year, and add jobs to reduce poverty levels that are unchanged since before he took office in 2010. The nation’s unemployment rate is among the highest in the region. “Now it is time for the president to sink his teeth into substantial reforms,” said Trinh Nguyen, a Hong Kong-based economist at HSBC
It noted improvements in structural, administrative, institutional and governance reforms in the Philippines.
Holdings Plc. “Raising public investment, loosening of foreign direct investment restrictions and improving the business environment are all required reforms.”
Aquino, widely credited by markets for a reform drive that saw the Philippines shrink its budget deficit and raise its infrastructure spending, serves only until June 2016 and cannot stand for re-election, as the constitution limits a president to a single six-year term. Philippine officials welcomed the credit rating upgrade, noting it was the 18th positive credit rating action since Aquino took office in 2010, and the fourth upgrade from S&P. “We will continue to institutionalise good governance so our country’s economic growth is both sustainable and inclusive,” Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima said in a statement. S&P said the Philippines’ current account is likely to remain in surplus, and inflation expectations remain well anchored owing to an improved monetary policy environment. In 2013, the Philippines’ long history of junk-debt status ended. The country got investment-grade status first from Fitch Ratings, second by S&P and then by Moody’s Investors Service.
Investment upturn The rating on Philippine government debt was raised one level to Baa3, Moody’s said in a statement, citing “robust economic performance,” ongoing fiscal and debt consolidation, political stability and improved governance. The outlook on the rating is positive. Aquino, who won control of the Philippine Congress in May 2013 elections, has pledged to accelerate reforms needed to ensure the nation’s economic revival is sustained. His efforts won investment-grade credit scores from Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings earlier this year, while the country’s expansion of 7.5 percent in the second quarter matched China’s pace.
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The Philippines: An ecnomic brightspot in Asia The Philippine Economy has been on the rise in recent years. By the end of the previous year GDP had grown by 7.2%, second only to China in Asia. In addition, as of May 2014, investment rating agency Standard & Poor yet again upgraded the Philippines’ investment rating to BBB from BBB-.
Currently, the Philippines is projected to be the 6th fastest growing economy in the world for the next 40 years. Around the world, an approximate ten and a half million Filipinos send back remittances that support their families and by extension the country. Injecting much needed currency into the Philippine economy. From within the Philippines, there have also been particular industries that have been instrumental in strengthening the economy and each other: Business Process Outsourcing, Telecommunications, and Construction.
Growing economy In 2012 the Philippines was estimated the 44th-largest economy in the world, according to HSBC estimates. If current trends hold, it can leap to the number 16 spot by 2050. About 61 percent of the population in the Philippines is of working age, between 15 and 64. This figure is expected to continue increasing, which is not the case for many of its Asian neighbors, whose populations are aging. The current Philippine economy remains reliant to its export industry, and in 2005, the country’s exports alone amounted to US$41.26 Billion. Its portfolio on export products is very diverse ranging from electronic equipment, machinery and transport equipment, chem-
Sources: www.nytimes.com; www.buyfair.org (ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability); www.thediplomat.com; www.adb.org
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In May 2013, Standard & Poor’s raised the country’s debt rating from BB+ to BBB, this means that the financial services now considers the country and its debt to be investment grade. icals, garments, copper products, to fruits (mango, banana, nuts, pineapple, and coconut), coffee, handicrafts and medical supplies. The reason for these exceptional growth rates and statistics, according to the HSBC, is because the Philippines has benefited from an increase in government efficiency and revenue collection, as well as aggressive actions to address corruption. Therefore, it is not only this short-term growth that draws investors to the Philippines, but rather the fact that the fundamentals are there. This makes long-term investment, in a relatively stable climate, a big draw factor when business opportunities arise in the region.
Youthful prospects Invest Philippines describes the country’s natural pool of talents and culturally adaptable human resources, as positioning the country as the most value-for-money destination for investments in the Asian region. High-value is
placed on education that which has equipped the labour force with world-renowned technical competency and English proficiency. If you are young, skilled and live in the city, the country has the brightest prospects in decades. A high population growth rate is often seen as a driving force for economic growth. There are a number of countries in Asia that will see their working-age populations decline in the coming years, however the Philippines stands out as the youngest population in the region. As other countries see their labour costs go up, the Philippines will remain competitive due to the sheer abundance of workers joining the labour force. The Philippines’ growing prosperity has also been driven by the 9.5 million Filipinos (almost 10 percent of the population) who work outside the country and who sent home about USD$20 billion in 2011. That is up from USD$7.5 billion in 2003.
The Philippine economy is expected to sustain strong growth in 2014, with inflation within the policy target – Asian Development Bank
Overall Outlook The continued growth of these industries greatly help the development of the Philippine economy. Add this to increased domestic consumer spending, as well as the rising overseas worker remittances and rising tourist arrivals will ensure that the Philippines will be ready for the approaching integration of ASEAN economies in 2015, which can only lead to more opportunities.
Future development Reviving the manufacturing sector, where the Philippines has lagged most other larger countries in Southeast Asia, is critical to further economic growth within the region, according to the Asian Development Bank. This will require a stronger push by policymakers to improve infrastructure and the business environment to encourage manufacturers to locate in the country. For example LINDBERG, creator of fashionable glasses started up a finishing lab in the Philippines in 2000 with 10 people, this Danish company now employs in excess of 450 workers in the country. Future development sparked by stable economic grown and a generally liberal political climate open to free-market investment, will certainly further grow investment in the country. See the link below: As of May 2014, S&P raised the rating again to BBB from BBB - http://www.bloomberg.com/news/201405-08/philippines-wins-s-p-upgrade-as-aquino-schanges-seen-enduring.html
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Our top 10 tourist spots
in the Philippines: Why not discover yours? 1
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Boasting some 7 107 islands, you will need years (if not a lifetime) to explore and enjoy the beauty of The Philippines! This picturesque country offers just about everything you can imagine; from wholesome family vacations, honeymoon retreats and picturesque weddings, to thrilling adventures, nature treks, non-stop partying, impressive music and entertainment, island hopping, volcano sightings, unforgettable spas and sporting facilities, world class medical tourism, amazing food, and much more! The only thing not on offer is snow! You are left asking yourself – where to start? We explore an ever-changing top ten list of places to visit in this stunning country, so that you may discover why it’s more FUN in the Philippines!
1. BATANES GROUP OF ISLANDS Situated on the top most part of the Philippines, this group of islands provides the most picturesque backdrop that will easily rival that of Austria in the movie Sound of Music. Blessed with beautiful landscape and warm climate, Batanes will take your breath away. Long walks and dining with the locals are some musts in this relaxing spot.
2. MT. PINATUBO This landscape was a result of the second most powerful terrestrial volcanic eruption of the 20th century.
3. SONYA’S GARDEN and ANTONIOS IN TAGAYTAY Tagaytay is also known as the nearby summer capital of Manila. Reason being is that it is situated on the highlands and offers a cooler climate than that of the city, and it’s only a stone throw away. If you are into your organic food, a visit to Sonya’s garden is a must; they grow practically everything they serve and also provide bed and breakfast for those who want to “escape to the country”. On the other side of this cliff is a hidden ancestral home gem called Antonios. It’s a culinary indulgence as they offer the best steaks in town. Most importantly, Tagaytay is where you can see the smallest volcano in the world, Taal.
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straight from the banana leaf to your mouth. A FUN way of eating noodles!
8. FOOD TRIP AND PARTYING IN MANILA
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Manila’s nightlife and day scene are equally vibrant with new restaurants opening almost weekly and world-class club facilities open till dawn to entertain. There are hundreds of things to do but the city is best enjoyed with friends and family.
9. EL NIDO PALAWAN
4. DINAGYANG FESTIVAL ILO-ILO The Philippines has many fiestas, and Dinagyang Festival is one of the biggest and most colourful. Held every fourth Sunday of January to honour the Santo Niño (Infant Jesus), thousands of people gather in IloIlo to join the parade and religious feast. This province is also blessed with beautiful (mostly untouched) white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters that visitors can enjoy.
5. DAVAO Home to the Mt. Apo (the highest point in the Philippines) and the Durian (a Philippine fruit). Davao has been constantly voted as one of the 20 ‘Most Livable’ cities in Asia by Asiaweek. It boasts of natural landscapes, gorgeous beaches, scrumptious food, a crocodile farm and the breeding site for the world’s biggest eagle (The Philippine eagle).
6. DUMAGUETE Manjuyod White Sandbar North of Bais Bay in Dumaguete is one of the best kept secrets of Negros Oriental. Here you will find a seven kilometre stretch of pure white sandbar that completely disappears during high tide. With depths between ankle-high and chest-deep – it’s like having a swimming pool in the middle of the sea.
7. PAHIYAS FESTIVAL IN LUCBAN QUEZON This fun and unique festival happens yearly on the 15th of May in honour of St. Isidroe the Labourer (the farmer). A must see attraction whereby locals decorate their houses with all their produce (fruits, vegetables, agricultural products, a rice made decoration called kiping and lots more) as a sign of thanksgiving for the abundance and harvest. This is also the time to eat the famous Lucban longanisa (sausage) and Pancit Habhab (noodle dish that you eat
Tranquil and paradise are two of the best words to describe this place. El Nido is a protected area where big resorts strictly adhere to eco tourism and is famous for its big and small lagoons – a truly magical place.
10. LAOAG and VIGAN, ILOCOS One of the few Hispanic towns left in the Philippines where houses were preserved and are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk in the streets of Vigan will take you back to the Spanish Era in the Philippines. On the other side of town lies Laoag which is home to the former President (and Dictator) Ferdinand Marcos and famous Paoay Chuch which is also famous for its distinct architecture.
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Enjoy fantastic
Filipino food! Filipino food may not be as famous as that of its Thai and Vietnamese neighbours. But with more than 7 000 islands and a colourful history, this archipelago has some delicious dishes of its own.
Filipino food conforms to the St. John’s “nose to tail” style of food - fish / marine life, pork, beef and chicken forming the staples. Parts like knuckles, innards, fat, belly and skin are normally part of food. On your travels to the Philippines, you will see many street vendors selling mais (sweet corn), barbequed pork, chicken and banana, chicharon (pork skin or ears or chicken skin or entrails) squid balls, fish balls, kikiam, squid, eggs in bright orange batter, siomai, peanuts with or without shells, skin and chilli and the famous Balut (boiled duck embryo) and Penoy (Hard boiled duck egg). There are also many sticky rice snacks, many with coconut or casava some coloured with the screaming violet colour of Ube. Just beware that the hygiene of street food may not be as good as food courts and restaurants. If you intend to travel thousands of kilometres to get to the Philippines then you are seriously encouraged to try some of the local gastronomic delights. In Metro Manila, waiters and waitresses in restaurants that have regular foreign customers, can speak English and will advise you on dishes. Keep in mind however that not all of the dishes will suit the European palate.
Blessed with an abundance of seafood, tropical fruits and creative cooks, there’s more to Filipino food than the mind-boggling balut (duck embryo). You just have to know where to find them and how to eat them.
Filipino food culture In the Philippines, food is a serious pastime. Filipinos tend to usually eat six times a day, with rice forming part of every meal. Most countries have a culture which is eating three times a day from a clearly defined menu. But in the Philippines, the rules are different. Beside the normal three meals a day, there is also merienda. A light snack which is no longer just a Spanish style cake or pastry but can be a small portion of anything!
Traditional dish No list of Filipino food would be complete without adobo. Adobo is considered the signature dish of the Philippines. Almost all meats, seafood, and vegetables can be cooked using this method. Chicken Adobo is an example of a famous adobo version that is gaining popularity around the world. This simple dish that once captured the palate of Filipinos is now making its debut in the world’s kitchens. Another good adobo recipe is the Pork Adobo. This recipe has many versions; almost all families have their unique way of cooking this dish. From the four basics ingredients; vinegar, soy sauce, peppercorns, and dried bay leaves, other components are added to produce unique adobo dishes.
Pork and Chicken Adobo Recipe Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs pork belly, chopped 1 ½ lbs chicken, cut into serving pieces 3 to 4 pieces dried bay leaves 2 teaspoons whole peppercorn 1 head garlic, slightly crushed 6 tablespoons vinegar (white or sugar cane) 3 /4 to 1 cup soy sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 3 tablespoons brown sugar 1 cup water Salt to taste 3 tablespoons cooking oil
Method: Heat oil in a pan. Once the oil becomes hot, add the garlic. Cook until the colour turns golden brown. Remove the garlic and set aside. Add pork and chicken. Cook for 5 minutes or until the colour turns light brown. Add whole peppercorn, bay leaves, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and water. Let boil and simmer until the meats are tender. Add the sugar and stir. Pour-in vinegar and let boil. Simmer until most of the liquid evaporates. Add salt to taste. Put-in the fried garlic, stir, and cook for 2 minutes. Serve.
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The Philippine Honorary Consulates:
The Embassy’s Reliable Representatives in Denmark
D
iplomatic relations between the Philippines and Denmark were established on 28 September 1946. In the past, the Philippine Embassy in the United Kingdom was responsible for the Philippines’ relations with Denmark. In 1979, this responsibility was transferred to the Philippine Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden, which, at that time, also handled the Philippines’ diplomatic links with the other Nordic countries (Norway and Finland). When the Philippine Embassy in Oslo, Norway was established on 30 April 2007, jurisdiction over Denmark was transferred to the latter. Denmark, on the other hand, maintains an Embassy in Malaysia whose envoy exercises concurrent jurisdiction over the Philippines. Despite differences in political and social structures, both countries have found common causes in both regional and international affairs, developing extensive relations in maritime affairs, among other areas. The Philippine Embassy in Oslo is represented in Denmark by its Honorary Consul General in Copenhagen, Mr. Poul Krogh whose office is locaed along Jægersborg Allé, in Charlottenlund, Denmark. Mr. Henrik Esmann Lindberg is the Philippine Honorary Consul based in Jutland. The services provided by the Honorary Consulates include visa application processing and the legalisation or authentication of various documents.
Philippine Honorary Consulate General Copenhagen The Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Copenhagen extends consular services to the public, Mondays to Fridays, except during public holidays from 10am
From left to right: Honorary Consul Henrik Esmann Lindberg of Århus, Denmark, Philippine Honorary Consul General Jukka Nyrölä and Philippine Honorary Consul Teresita Ruutu of Helsinki, Finland, Ambassador Bayani S. Mercado, Honorary Consul Renee Ikdal of Stavanger, Norway, Honorary Consul General Poul Krogh of Copenhagen, Denmark.
to 12 noon. For more information, interested parties may visit www.filipinsk-konsulat.dk or call +45 2563 6711. Consul General Krogh is the founder of DEKO LOFT & VÆG A/S, a company in the construction business since 1967. He also owns Kroghs Vinimport and several other businesses and is a board member of several Danish companies.
Philippine Honorary Consulate Århus The Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Århus is open 10am to 3pm on Mondays to Thursdays and 10am to 1pm on Fridays, except during public holidays. The Honorary Consulate is located at Bjarkesvej 30, 8230 Åbyhøj. For more information, interested parties may call +45 8744 4000. Consul Henrik Esmann Lindberg is the President and CEO of LINDBERG A/S one of the leading luxury eye-wear companies in the world. The Philippine Embassy in Oslo is proud to have Honorary Consul General Krogh and Honorary Consul Lindberg as its representatives and partners in Denmark.
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The Philippines marks th 116 Independence Day
O
n 12 June 1898, two years after the Philippine revolution, led by Andres Bonifacio, broke out against Spain, Filipinos gathered below the open windows of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo’s ancestral home in the town of Cavite El Viejo to witness Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista solemnly read the Acta de la Proclamacion de la Independencia del Pueblo Filipino (Act of Proclamation of Independence of the Filipino People) and the very first unfurling of the Philippine flag and playing of the national anthem. Gen. Aguinaldo would later on become the Philippines’ first and youngest President. 64 years later, through Presidential Proclamation No. 28 issued by then President Diosdado Macapagal, 12 June was officially declared a special public holiday throughout the Philippines “…in commemoration of our people’s declaration of their inherent and inalienable right to freedom and independence.” And through Republic Act No. 4166 of 1964, 12 June was officially proclaimed “Philippine Independence Day.” Today, 12 June is celebrated by Filipinos the world over, with those based overseas organising special day-long community events reminiscent of the Philippine fiesta, which is a festive and colourful day filled with food and merriment to be enjoyed with family and friends. In the Philippines, all government offices are closed on this day and so are schools and other private enterprises save for commercial establishments. Philippine flags can be seen displayed in some homes and other places and fireworks displays are the norm. Independence Day is also a day where many people, including government officials, employees, and students, participate in nationwide parades. However, the main highlight is the police and military parade in Manila headed by the country’s incumbent president, followed by a speech and a 21-gun salute.
National symbol Many Filipinos spend the day in parks and malls. Overseas, Philippine Embassies hold diplomatic receptions to commemorate the event and participate in Filipino community festivities. The Ambassador delivers the President’s message and gives his or her own speech, highlighting the significance of 12 June in the lives of modern-day Filipinos and what the freedoms won by their ancestors and heroes mean in the 21st century. Today, under President Benigno S. Aquino III, the Philippines continues to celebrate its independence, so bravely won 116 years ago, as it perseveres to gain other freedoms for its people, such as freedom from poverty and want, through effective policies geared towards economic growth and a clean and competent government.
The Flag of the Republic of the Philippines, representing the country is symbolised by the following: Royal blue field – peace, truth, and justice. Scarlet red field – patriotism and valor. White triangle – equality and brotherhood. Three stars on the corners of the triangle – the three main geographical regions of the country namely Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao. The sun at the center of the triangle – has eight rays representing the eight Philippine provinces that started the revolt against Spain. The flag is seen in various places across towns and cities in the Philippines during the country’s Independence Day. Many cars also sport miniature flags on this day.
Denmark’s
helping hand:
The Filipino Danish Centre Denmark has the fortune of having a well-established welfare system that caters for both the needs of Danish nationals, and to a certain extent foreign nationals, who find themselves in Denmark. In contrast, the Philippines’ doesn’t have such a system in place, and when disaster strikes it often requires assistance in the form of foreign aid from organisations like the Filipino Danish Centre (FDC).
More than just aid supplies Tom Meyer of the FDC says that his organisation is both involved in sourcing aid destined for the Philippines in times of need, as well as a support structure for Filipino’s living in Denmark. “This involves assisting in the collection of all kinds of hospital equipment and sending them to the Philippines; from monasteries that have clinics to small community clinics and hospitals,” explains Meyer. Locally, the FDC assists with any problems Filipino’s living in Denmark may have, including assisting at meetings with public offices or any private matter. “We do this to the best of our ability making use of the many resourceful persons in our network. We are also part of the Au pair network which fights for the rights of Au pairs in Denmark, and assist in any way we legally can,” says Meyer. In addition the Centre is involved with the youth through a basketball team, and culturally by hosting several events throughout the year. “We celebrate Pista Sa Nayon on June 7, a festival that showcases Philippine cuisine and show dancers, as well as other events and concerts including beauty pageants.”
On-the-ground disaster relief In cooperation with the Philippine Red Cross, through their National Headquarters, the FDC most recently assisted with aid provision in the wake of the devastating Typhoon to hit central Philippines. “We assisted them with a 40-foot-high container filled with hospital supplies, both sterile and non-sterile, wheel chairs, crunches and orthopaedic items (for broken legs arms knee etc.)” says Meyer. In addition to national relief supplies, the FDC also helps on the ground in communities where tangible aid is sent to. “We spent one week working with the Tacloban Red Cross and now are appealing for aid so to help rebuild a nurses college; and in addition to offering three big boxes of supplies and some equipment we gave LEGO and DUBLO (sponsored), school books and pencil sets (300), teddy bears, clothes and shoes and groceries for the
ordinary people in the community,” enthuses Meyer. The food donations were given out in cooperation with the local Department of Social Welfare and Development office and the mayor. Some of the sponsors of these aid parcels were; Scan Shipping, LEGO Charity, 7-11 Kastrup Airport, Mr. Møllback, and Poul Area Consul General. Emirates also gave and additional 30kg of luggage free of charge to all whom went to Philippines during the time of the disaster. In order to continue with the excellent work that the FDC does Meyer says that the Centre needs sponsors who are willing to help with supplies, including container shipment at least once a year. “I would like to thank all our sponsors and want them to know that with their help; together we can do so much more!” Advertisement
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Business opportunities
in the Philippines The positive ratings that the Philippines’ economy has received by the various ratings agencies, as well as the levels of growth seen under the Aquino administration, firmly positions the Philippines as a first-class business destination in the Asian region. In particular, there have been specific industries that have been instrumental in strengthening the economy and each other, namely; Business Process Outsourcing, Shipbuilding, and Construction.
Business Process Outsourcing According to the IBPAP the Business Process Outsourcing Industry in the Philippines is projected to be worth US$ 25 billion in 2016 from US$ 9 billion in 2009. That translates to 1.5 million jobs from the current 500,000 direct employees working in the industry today. For 2014, an estimated 124,000 jobs are expected to be created. Filipinos’ English language technical proficiency is well known and much sought after around the world. Filipinos have found work abroad in various service industries from Health Care, Hotel management, and even in Casinos. In the Philippines, this language proficiency is most sought after in Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) services. While not all BPOs require voice support, it is the call-centre industry that is undoubtedly the most visible in the industry. It’s no surprise then that the Philippines has become the number one destination for voice services and only second to India for non-voice services. And the Philippine BPO industry is only getting stronger. By the beginning of 2014, the Metro Manila has become the 2nd top outsourcing destination, following Bangalore, India according to investment advisory firm Tholons. The Department of Science and Technology-Information and Communications Technology Office (DOST-ICTO) along with the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) created the Next Wave Cities programme with the purpose of creating outsourcing destinations
outside Manila. Across the Philippines, other cities such as Cebu and Davao have also placed within the list. Other notable locations such as Laguna, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Baguio also found their way into the list. In addition to the low cost of setting up in the Philippines, the steady pool of ready and welltrained graduates has made the process all the more easier to accomplish. The Philippines enjoys one of the highest literacy rates in the world. Not to mention Filipinos easily adapt and understand the primary enabling factor of the BPO industry: technology. This is due to a high frequency of internet and social media use. Thus, there are 36 major firms in the Philippines competing in the BPO market. Together, these companies on their own had a combined revenue of US$ 4.5 billion. Some of the more notable ones are Accenture Inc., JP Morgan Chase Bank, IBM Daksh, Emerson Electric, Maersk Global Services Centres, Thomson Reuters Corp. Pte. Ltd., HSBC Electronic Data Processing, and Deutsche Knowledge Services Pte.
Shipbuilding The Philippine shipbuilding industry is the fourth largest in the world after South Korea, China and Japan. Shipyards all around the country are now building more higher capacity ships like bulk carriers, container ships and passenger ferries. Recently, one of the biggest South Korean shipbuilding companies, Hanjin Heavy Industries Corporation chose the Philippines to construct its 180,000 deadweight tonnage commercial ship. Philippine shipbuilding industry is expanding because of the opportunities in the export market. Many shipyards in major shipbuilding countries are often already fully booked for new order. When it comes to shipbuilding demand is far outpacing available locations that can produce durable, quality products. The Philippines with its facilities and nautical history is one of the few countries that can deliver. Skilled manpower in the Philippines is readily available. The Technical Skills Development Authority stated that about 95,000 are certified welders. In addition, Filipino workers are easily trainable for any other specific skills that the shipbuilding companies may need. Technical training for workers have definitely improved Hanjin’s productivity. The Hanjin shipyard in Subic is now employing 19,750 workers. Also, being an archipelago in South East Asia, the Philippines is ideal as a shipbuilding hub
and does not lack for suitable locations that can serve as build sites. A number of new shipyards are opening or being developed into world class sites like the 54,000 hectare business hub in Port Irene at the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority. In addition, companies in the Philippines can easily get their components and raw materials from foreign sources as importation of such items have been liberalized since 1989. This along with the fact that shipbuilders located in economic zones enjoy tax exemptions and other benefits allows companies can produce high quality products at lower costs. Other benefits include deduction for labor expenses, simplification of customs procedures, exemption from duties on the importation spare parts, etc. The Philippine government also recognizes the importance of the Shipbuilding industry. Republic Act No. 9295 was passed to promote the development of the Philippine Industry. The act provides incentives to encourage investments. And most importantly, Shipbuilding is not covered by limitations or foreign ownership, meaning foreign investors can fully own their companies in the Philippines. It is expected that the Philippine Shipbuilding industry will continue to grow over the next five to ten years and remain one of the biggest in the world.
Construction The Construction industry in the Philippines is classified into three sub-groups. The first is public construction which creates public facilities using public funds and is subject to regulated wages for workers, and a transparent bidding and later subcontracting process to safeguard the funds from untoward business practices. The second is private construction,
which is the creation of facilities for private individuals or corporations. And lastly, Public-Private Partnership projects wherein private investors invest in government infrastructure projects. The Philippines experienced a growth in infrastructure spending last year in spite of Typhoon Yolanda. There was a 20% increase in public infrastructure spending and a 7.6% increase for private construction spending for 2013. Overall, the construction industry grew 10.9% at the end of 2013 and that is with the negative impact of Yolanda. At the beginning of 2014, the construction industry accounts for 8.9% of the Philippine GDP, an increase from the previous year’s 8.5%. The industry is also aided by government spending, most specifically the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The Philippine government has increased infrastructure spending to approximately US$ 6.2 billion. As it stands, the whole industry accounts for US$ 16 Billion of the Philippines GDP and provides 2.2 million jobs.
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Filipino au pairs Equally important to Phil-
you are an au pair for a family in Denmark, it is the basic idea that you live on an equal footing with the rest of the family members.
ippine interests are the protection and promotion of
Although many of the au pairs in Denmark enjoy the chance to learn and discover the Danish culture, it is important to acknowledge that the exchange can be a bit more of an adjustment for some. Au pairs are encouraged to learn Danish, but in some instances don’t get the opportunity because they work too much. But learning the Danish culture is part of the experience. The money that many au pairs earn is also sent home to the Philippines. Most of the wages of these young women goes towards paying for their parents’ house, their internet, their medication and food. So having work is often more important than learning the culture of the host family.
the welfare of the growing Filipino community in the Nordic region. There are an estimated 50 000 Filipinos residing in the Nordic region - a fifth of whom reside in Denmark, many of whom are au pairs. The Filipino communities in the Nordic region Working conditions are generally good in
A helping hand
the Nordic countries. The labour sectors in these countries are governed by comprehensive laws/rules/regulations which ensure that mechanisms are in place to address workers’ concerns and basic human rights. Labour unions are also strong in these countries ensuring that the rights of workers are usually promoted and protected. National labour laws in Nordic countries generally provide sufficient protection for all workers regardless of citizenship or immigration status. While fiercely proud of their heritage, Filipinos in the Nordic region have also shown a remarkable capacity to integrate into their adopted culture while at the same time con-
To date, there are about 100 Filipino community associations in the Nordic region that are registered with the Philippine Embassy. The Embassy regularly reaches out to many of these organisations to partner with them in extending assistance to Filipinos in distress.
Au Pairs in Denmark The Embassy of the Philippines in Oslo defines an au pair as a young Filipino citizen, between 18 and 29 years of age, unmarried and without any children, who is placed under a cultural exchange arrangement with a Danish host family for a maximum stay of two years, as permitted by Denmark’s immigration authorities.
tributing elements of their own heritage into Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, Finnish or Icelandic society. The positive contributions of the Filipino community in the Nordic states have helped to further strengthen the friendly relations between the Philippines and these countries.
Sources: www.philembassy.no; www. aupairnetwork.dk;
Cultural exchange:
The Filipino people are known for their good spirit and sense of community, and live up to the Filipino word Bayanihan, used to refer to a spirit of communal unity or effort to achieve a particular objective. It means: To help each other, because this is what should be done. If
Babaylan Denmark is an organisation that offers a weekly counseling service for aupairs from the Philippines. The advocacy of this organisation is helping the au pairs – for example, giving orientations and conducting weekly counseling services. One such service Babaylan Denmark provides is financial literacy seminars so that these women are able to better manage their remittances, so the money they send home can generate jobs, be used for education and building sturdy houses, instead of just being spent on consumer goods and non-essentials. Au pairs working in Denmark have specific rights. These rights and rules are defined in a contract, and in Danish legislation. The au pair as well as host family are obliged to comply with these rules. For more information on these rules and au pair guidelines you can visit www.aupairnetwork.dk.