CELEBRATING 117 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE! THE PHILIPPINES: A STAR PERFORMER IN THE GLOBAL ECONOMY
EXPANDING ECONOMIC TIES:
DANISH-FILIPINO RELATIONS
MANILA:
THE NEW CALL-CENTRE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
TOP 10T
TOURATIISONS
DESTIN
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MESSAGE FROM THE AMBASSADOR
I
It is with great pride that I join our kababayans
ested in visiting or doing business in the Philip-
and Danish friends in commemorating the 117th
pines. Listed in this edition are briefs on business
Anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine
opportunities in the Philippines and a preview of
Independence. A year and a half after Typhoon
some of the most beautiful places to see in our
Haiyan, the Philippines is stronger than ever.
archipelago, dare I say the world. Every island
Filipinos are more vigilant and prepared for
in the Philippines welcomes all travellers to our
irregular weather phenomena, and the devas-
shores and its inhabitants eager to give you an
tated areas are now on the road to recovery
experience that will last a lifetime. As the line
with help from the international community,
goes “It’s more fun in the Philippines”.
Denmark among them.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
The past several months saw the rapid strengthening of Denmark-Philippine relations. Mr. Mo-
BAYANI S. MERCADO - Ambassador
gens Jensen, the Danish Minister for Trade and Development, visited the Philippines in January with a business delegation and presided over the re-opening of the Danish Embassy in Manila. In March, the Presidium of the Folketing, headed by Speaker Mogens Lykketoft, visited the Philippines to reaffirm the bonds of friendship and find new areas of cooperation between the Philippines and Denmark. Despite the devastation caused by Supertyphoon Haiyan in November 2013 the Philippines was able to achieve extraordinary levels of growth in 2014. The Aquino government has maximized the benefits of its sound economic policies, increased consumer spending and increasing tourism. Last March, Fitch Ratings affirmed the Philippines BBB- rating and stated that the long term economic outlook is stable. With the Danish Embassy in Manila fully operational, Danish-Philippine relations can only become stronger. Danish enterprises are increasing in the Philippines and are set to benefit from the Philippines’ deep pool of skilled professionals and workers. After reading this supplement, it is my sincere hope that our Danish friends and second and third generation Danish-Filipinos will be inter-
President and Publisher: Ejvind Sandal ● Editor: David Nothling ● Layout: Lyndsay Jensen ● Commercial Director: Hans Hermansen, hans@cphpost.dk, Tel: +45 2420 2411 ● Picture credit for images: iStock & Philippine Embassy
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A STABLE OUTLOOK
FITCH AFFIRMS THE PHILIPPINES FAVOURABLE SOVEREIGN RATINGS. In a statement released in March of this year, the Ratings Agency Fitch, affirmed the Philippines’ Long-Term Foreign and Local Currency Issuer Default Ratings (IDRs) at ‘BBB-’ and ‘BBB’ respectively. Fitch Ratings is a leading provider of credit ratings, commentary and research. Fitch has also forecast that real GDP is to grow at 6.3% in 2015 and slow
pins the country’s economic growth. The Philippines’ five-year real GDP growth was estimated to be 6.3% at the end of 2014, which is far above the ‘BBB’ median of 3.0%. External finances: This is a key credit strength for the country, as stained current account surpluses since 2003 have supported the build-up in foreign exchange reserves and turned the Philippines into a net external creditor. Fitch estimates the country was a net external creditor at 15.4% of GDP at the end of 2014, compared with the ‘BBB’ median net external debtor position of 4.7% of GDP.
slightly to 6.2% in 2016. Public finances: Fitch expects general government debt to reduce further to 34.4% of GDP in 2016 from an estimated 36.4% at the end of 2014. Sustained fiscal discipline and the propensity of the government to underspend keeps the fiscal deficits low. Strong credit growth: Abundant domestic liquidity and generally buoyant economic conditions have supported a sustained period of strong credit growth. Growth in credit to the private sector has averaged about 16% over 2010-14. However, the aggregate size of the banking system remains moderate. Fitch estimates bank credit to the private sector was 39.2% of GDP at end-2014, below the ‘BBB’ median of 66%.
The concerns Weak governance: Governance standards as measured by international organisations, such as the World Bank, remain below the ‘BBB’ median. Governance standards have strengthened under the Aquino administration since 2010. However, the Philippines needs to improve the ease at which it is to do business in the country, something that will develop with better political stability. Low per capita incomes: The Philippines’ per capita remains low at USD 2,836 in 2014 compared with the ‘BBB’ median of USD 10,654.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE PHILIPPINE ECONOMY?
The positives
The stable outlook is reflected in the above-mentioned assessment, as the upside and downside risks to the rating are currently well balanced. The main factors that individually or collectively might lead to positive rating action are; continued strengthening in governance standards that leads to a better business climate, which supports higher domestic and foreign investment. Strong GDP growth accompanied by narrowing of income and development differentials. And a broadening of the general government revenue base that lends stability to the government finances.
Strong macroeconomic performance: The steady inflow of worker remittances and growth of the business process outsourcing industry under-
Source: www.fitchratings.com
‘BBB’ ratings indicate that expectations of default on credit risk are low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate, but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity. The sovereign rating of ‘BBB-’ for the Philippines reflects the following key rating drivers:
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PRESIDENT BENIGNO SIMEON AQUINO III
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III is the son of Philippine heroes and democracy icons Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino and former President Corazon Aquino. After the assassination of his father in 1983, he took part in the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986, the nonviolent and prayerful revolution by ordinary people that toppled the Marcos regime and restored Philippine democracy. In 1998, he began his first term as the Representative of the 2nd District of Tarlac, serving in that capacity until May 2007 when he joined the Philippine Senate. In 2009, former President Corazon Aquino lost her yearlong battle with cancer and passed away. Her death prompted mourning and sparked an outpouring of love from all over the country. It also awakened a longing for benevolent and incorruptible leadership in a nation that had come to distrust its political system. The Filipino people called on Aquino, urging him to run for president in the 2010 elections. Once again yellow ribbons, the symbol of the 6
EDSA People Power Revolution were seen all around the country. Signature drives and strong public campaigning for Aquino ensued. Moreover, other popular candidates for president such as Senator Manuel Roxas II, Pampanga Governor Eddie Panlilio, and Isabela Governor Grace Padaca stepped aside and gave up their presidential aspirations to support Aquino. On 9 September 2009, Aquino announced his candidacy for president at the Club Filipino in Greenhills, San Juan. And on 9 June 2010, the Congress of the Philippines proclaimed Aquino as the 15th President of the Republic of the Philippines. The presidency of Benigno Aquino III has been defined by a commitment to bringing about shared progress by doing things the right way. Aquino’s massive campaign against corruption has lead the government and the nation towards the straight path and served as the catalyst for unprecedented economic growth, improved government services, education system reform, and conditional cash transfers for the poor. He has continuously campaigned for good governance and justice and has prosecuted corrupt and abusive government officials. A Social Weather Station (SWS) survey, con-
ducted 20-23 March 2015, showed that more Filipinos have become optimistic about the quality of their lives in the past year and that they believe it will get even better within the next 12 months. The SWS emphasised that this optimism goes through all Filipinos from various socioeconomic backgrounds. The survey shows that +37 or 42% of Filipinos believe that their lives will improve. This has been the highest satisfaction rating since 1987, one year after the EDSA revolution. President Aquino has stayed true to his inaugural address when he said “My hope is that when I leave office, everyone can say that we have travelled far on the right path, and that we are able to bequeath a better future to the next generation. Join me in continuing this fight for change.” During his term, the Philippines has been rated for the first time by Sovereign Ratings Agencies (Fitch, Moody’s and Standard & Poor) as investment grade and made substantive progress in Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index and the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business report.
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ASEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY
Envisaging robust regional economic cooperation and integration. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, was established on 8 August 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand, with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration (Bangkok Declaration) by the Founding Fathers of ASEAN, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Today, the association is comprised of 10 member states. The aims and purposes of ASEAN are: ✔ To accelerate the economic growth, social progress and cultural development in the region through joint endeavours. ✔ To promote regional peace and stability. ✔ To promote active collaboration and mutual assistance on matters of common interest, from trade and investment to education and agriculture. ✔ To promote Southeast Asian studies. ✔ To maintain close and beneficial cooperation with existing international and regional or ganisations with similar aims and purposes.
CREATING A REGIONAL ECONOMIC BLOC ASEAN envisioned the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), with the goal of regional economic integration by 2015.
In 1997 Kuala Lumpur, ASEAN Leaders decided to transform ASEAN into a stable, prosperous, and highly competitive region with equitable economic development, reduced poverty and socio-economic disparities. This has come to be known as the ASEAN Vision 2020. Six years later at a Bali Summit in October 2003, ASEAN Leaders declared that the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) shall be the goal of regional economic integration by 2020, this according to the Bali Concord II. In addition to the AEC, the ASEAN Security Community and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community are the other two integral pillars of the envisaged ASEAN Community. All pillars are expected to work in tandem in establishing the ASEAN Community by 2020. During the 2006 ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) it was agreed upon that ASEAN will develop a single and coherent blueprint for advancing the AEC by identifying the characteristics and elements of the AEC by 2015, consistent with the Bali Concord II, with clear targets and timelines for implementation of various measures as well as pre-agreed flexibilities to accommodate the interests of all ASEAN Member countries.” The following characteristics of
the AEC were put in place for the region: ✔ A single market and production base. ✔ A highly competitive economic region. ✔ A region of equitable economic development. ✔ A region fully integrated into the global economy.
WHY DO BUSINESS WITH THE ASEAN COMMUNITY? ASEAN is a dynamic and competitive region, with 67 million households making up the consuming class, and collectively the 3rd largest labour force in the world. ASEAN is expected to become even stronger as time goes on, as economic integration is expected to make this economic powerhouse a force to be reckoned with in the long term. By 2050 ASEAN is expected to become the 4th largest economy in the world. Currently it is already 7th. Starting a business in the Philippines or anywhere in the ASEAN region opens you up to low costs, a large labour pool, uniform business processes and well integrated economies. Source: www.fitchratings.com
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THE NEW CALL-CENTRE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD Manila is the outsourcing destination of choice for global companies.
Have you recently made a call to a local service provider and heard a slight Filipino accent? If so, don’t be alarmed, as more international companies are employing the services of Filipinos living in Manila to handle their call-centre requirements.
OFFSHORE CALL-CENTRES Over the last several years, a quiet revolution has been reshaping the call-centre business: The rise of the Philippines. These jobs have come from the United States, Europe and, to some extent, India as outsourcers followed their clients to the Philippines. India is where offshore call-centres first took off in a big way, and currently fields as many as 350 000 agents, according to some industry estimates. International companies chose countries like India for its vast labour pool, English ability and cost-effectiveness. Today, the Philippine Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector employs more than one million people and the industry’s revenues, which currently stand at USD 18 billion, could reach USD 25.5 billion in 2016, according to estimates by ASEAN Confidential. 8
BUSINESS PROCESS OUTSOURCING
as Filipino call-centre agents typically earn
Factors that make the Philippines the destination of choice when it comes to BPO include; a strong telecommunications infrastructure, and strong government support for the BPO industry.
a month, rather than USD 250, at the entry lev-
Government initiatives such as the Training for Work Scholarship Programme, which enables the IT industry to provide training for BPO applicants, are initiatives taken by the Philippines Government to strengthen the sector within the region. In addition to these initiatives, investors are given a number of other benefits, such as; tax holidays, exemptions on imported capital equipment, simplified export and import procedures, and freedom to employ foreign nationals. It is the strength of the BPO industry that Standard & Poor’s (S&P) cited for maintaining the Philippines’ stable outlook forecast and its BBB foreign currency long-term bond rating.
WHY CHOOSE MANILA? 400 000 Filipinos now work in call centres, surpassing that of India. Manila has also moved up the ranks to the second most important BPO destination worldwide out of 100 top BPO destinations. Linguistic and cultural diversity is also another strong draw card. ‘Westernisation’ has become characteristic of life in the Philippines, which at different times was under British, Spanish and Japanese rule before independence from the U.S. in 1946. Many Filipinos also listens to American pop music, studied English in school and grew up watching Sesame Street, Friends and other U.S. TV programmes – making the country more appealing to the Western market in comparison to some of its other ASEAN counterparts. Some executives say the growth within the sector was not motivated by wage considerations,
more than their Indian counterparts (USD 300 el), but rather because Western customers find it easy to communicate with Filipinos. Equally important, culturally, Filipino workers tend to work longer with one company. It is not unusual to find Filipino workers working for the same company for 10 to 20 years. The outsourcing boom has helped propel the country’s economy, into one of the fastest-growing economies in the region. The industry has spawned bustling business districts in Manila, with skyscrapers, and up-market condos. An ideal location and market for multinational investors. Sources: http://www.latimes.com/; http://www.nytimes. com/; http://www.ibpap.org/; http://acquirebpo.com/; http://www.bloomberg.com/
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A STAR PERFORMER IN THE GLOBAL ECONOMY The Philippines is ranked as one of the fastest growing economies in not only Asia, but globally. The world economy is expected to grow 3.2 percent in 2015 and 3.7 percent next year after expanding 3.3 percent in each of the past two years, according to a Bloomberg survey of economists. Outperforming this modest global growth is the Philippines, as the country is forecast to grow at more than five percent in 2015. 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, including: 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 neighbours, whose populations are aging. The current Philippine economy remains reliant to its export industry, and in 2005, the country’s exports alone amounted to USD41.26 Billion. Its portfolio on export products is very diverse ranging from electronic equipment, machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, garments, copper products, to fruits (mango, banana, nuts, pineapple, and coconut), coffee, handicrafts and medical supplies. 10
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 shortterm 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 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.
OVERALL OUTLOOK The Asian Development Bank attributes the country’s economic successes to the recent recovery in government expenditure, together with robust private consumption, investment, and exports.
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 continues its steady growth in years to come.
WEBSITE OF INTEREST: For all you need to know on investing in the Philippians, visit: www.investphilippines.gov.ph Sources: http://www.bloomberg.com; www.nytimes.com; www.buyfair.org (ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability); www.thediplomat.com; www.adb.org
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RETIRE IN THE PHILIPPINES Settling down and making the Philippines your very own retirement spot is wholesome, simple and worthy. As an archipelago in Southeast Asia, the Philippines offers breathtakingly beautiful islands abundant in flora and fauna. Its tropical climate is nature’s blessing especially to those who dream to escape the harsh winter seasons. To many, who come from places where winter is no longer a wonder of the land, witnessing the sun rise and set in the sky is considered eventful. And it gets better, because there are many more reasons why it is more fun in the Philippines. The cost of living in the Philippines is with no doubt cheaper relative to many places in the world. Coupled with world-class healthcare facilities, this allows foreign visitors, residents, and even retirees to live a comfortable lifestyle and to enjoy the country in many different ways. In addition to the many cultural, food and travel
opportunities in the country, there is no better place to call home in your latter years. Integrating into the Pilipino society is also very easy, for many reasons, such as English being widely spoken, freedom of expression, and a warm, kind and reliable population. For these reasons, the Philippines is pegged as one of the world’s leading retirement destinations. It’s easy to be drawn to its pristine beaches, abundant natural landscapes, tropical weather, affordable cost of living, world-class health and medical care that come naturally from its hospitable and happy people. The Philippine Retirement Authority, a government agency dedicated to the retirement agenda of the country, has designed the retirement visa based on varying retiree lifestyles and needs. It offers the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa; a non-immigrant multiple-entry, indefinite-stay visa. Holders of the visa may stay in the Philippines for as long as they want without giving
up their citizenship. Other benefits include: multiple-entry privileges, exemption privileges, access to greet and assist programmes, discount privileges from services offered by PRA Merchant Partners, and assistance in obtaining documents from other government agencies, among others. For more information, visit: http://www.pra.gov.ph/
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117th CELEBRATION OF THE PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY Filcom-Denmark is the umbrella organisation of the Filipino community in Copenhagen. It was initiated by H.E. Ambassador Elisabeth Buensuceso, from the Philippine Embassy in Oslo, Norway in 2010, thousands of Filipinos in Denmark held its first Philippine Independence Day celebration on June 12, 2010, which was attended. Since then Filcom-Denmark continued in celebrating this important National Day every year in grand scale complete with all the ingredients that mark a typical Barrio Fiesta in the Philippines while strengthening the bonds of friendship, nationhood and cooperation among the Filipinos living in Denmark together our families, friends from our host country and other nationalities. We invite everyone to come and celebrate with us on June 6 at Skottegårdsskolen, Saltsværksvej 65, Kastrup from 12 to 8pm. Join us in sharing our culture, food, dance, music and our known Filipino hospitality!
Mabuhay and see you all there!
“Independence 2015: Triumphs through reforms, within nation’s reach”
6th June 2015 - 12:00-20:00 Skottegårdsskolen - Saltsværksvej 65, 2770 Kastrup, Denmark
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PROMOTING DANISH
INTERESTS IN THE PHILIPPINES
DANISH TRADE DELEGATION Visit to the Philippines January 22-23, 2015
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Ambassador Jan Top Christensen on DanishPhilippines relations. Working for Denmark and promoting Danish interests in Manila – this is the primary function of the new Danish Embassy in Manila. We sit down with the man who heads up this extension of Denmark into the Philippines, Ambassador Jan Top Christensen, and discuss his vision for the embassy, current bilateral economic relations between the two countries and his hopes for future relations.
ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR ALL “Our vision is within all spheres to assist building strong partnerships, at government level, at private sector level and at people-to-people level,” says Ambassador Christensen of the purpose of his Manila embassy. It is for reasons such as the high economic growth rates in the Philippines that both Danish companies and the Danish government have rich opportunities in the Philippine market. The Ambassador says that this creates more jobs in Denmark, whilst bringing foreign direct investment to the Philippines. “A key interest of the Danish government is to create more jobs in Denmark. The more we, through the embassy’s commercial expertise, can help Danish companies exporting to the Philippines, the better. I promised our trade and development minister that my target was to double Danish exports to the Philippines during my time in the country. I am optimistic that I shall be able to live up to that promise.”
reunion for the Ambassador. “I spent most of my time in the province of Palawan - I clearly see the huge changes since then. Metro Manila has undergone a huge modernisation, today with several modern business districts with all you expect from a modern city, shopping opportunities, international restaurants, a rich cultural life and schools and hospitals at an international level,” he enthuses of his new home. The Ambassador concludes with these simple words, “The Philippines has so much to offer.” From stunning travel destinations and modern cuisine that is today very delicate and refined, to economic opportunities, you can get what you want in the Philippines, he says. “In my downtime, I love to visit the frequent exhibitions with Philippine art and design. The country has a long and rich tradition for excellent handicraft that I admire for its quality and ingenuity. Outside the capital, the country offers plenty of opportunities for diving and snorkelling, hiking in the mountains, bird-watching. We have just started to enjoy all these opportunities. Luckily, we expect to stay here many years, so we shall have time to enjoy it all!”
Through the opening of the Embassy, the Ambassador and his team will be able to assist Danish companies wanting to do business in the Philippines and vice versa. “I have recently been visiting Growth Centres in the Danish province and was met with a great deal of interest from business’ wanting to know more about the Philippines. The embassy is now ready to facilitate entrance into the Philippine market,” he boasts. He goes on to say that more Danish companies see the appeal in becoming a part of the Philippines’ economic success. “Already we count more than a hundred companies in the Philippines with Danish interest. But I definitely see a rich potential for doing much more business with the country,” he says. The embassy’s physical presence also makes it easier to service Filipinos wanting to go to Denmark. “We have a special visa section at the embassy doing its best to process visas for Denmark. Denmark already has thousands of Filipino seafarers working on Danish ships world-wide. Au-pairs from the Philippines remain very attractive for Danish families because of their English proficiency and cultural adaptability. And with more Danish business in the Philippines, we are seeing more and more staff being sent to Denmark for training. It is important that this can be done in a swift and professional way,” explains the Ambassador. The Philippines is the second largest country in the ASEAN region, with today more than 100 million people, and therefore is a fantastic gateway for Denmark to the rest of the region. At the end of 2015, ASEAN Economic Community will become an important common market with more than 600 million consumers. With manufacturing in the Philippines, companies will have easy access to the growing middle class in the fastest growing region in the world. It is the Ambassadors hope, highlighted by the January 2015 visit of the Danish Trade Minister, that his market be fully utilised by the Danish government and businesses.
THE PHILIPPINES: SO MUCH TO OFFER Having worked in the Philippines from 1987 to 1990 as head of a UNHCR refugee camp for some 10 000 Vietnamese boat-people, this is a 25-year 13
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THE MANY FACES OF THE PHILIPPINES A look into the history of this diverse island nation.
LOOKING BACK, 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 allthings 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: It is thought that the earliest inhabitants of the Philippines lived some 30 000 years ago. On Palawan, the long and small island in western Visayas, human bones were found dating back to about 22 000 years ago. Stone tools from ancient times were also found on Palawan. The age of the tools is estimated to be about 30 000 years old. The Philippine archipelago was created when migrations from the Indonesian archipelago and elsewhere are 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 Indianised kingdoms of the Malay Archipelago and nearby East Asian principalities, adopting influences from both Buddhism and Hinduism. 14
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 Mactan 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.
squadron in Manila and invited Aguinaldo to return to the Philippines. On 12 June 1898, Aguinaldo declared the Philippines’ independence in Cavite and established the First Philippine Republic.
PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN WAR AND THE AMERICAN OCCUPATION (1898-1946) Resentment with the U.S. grew when the latter refused to support Philippine independence. Spain and the United States signed the Trea-
Spanish rule continued well into the 1800s amidst resistance from many local factions. In 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.
ty of Paris, ending the Spanish-American War,
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
al independence. On 24 March 1934 the Ty-
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 lasted for three years, ending with the capture of Aguinaldo. However, by 1916 the Jones Act had created the Philippine senate and promised eventudings-McDuffie Act created the Commonwealth of the Philippines and a 10-year transition period to full independence.
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 installed Corazon Aquino as President on 25 February 1986.
THE FIFTH PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC (1986-PRESENT) 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 include: In 1987 the constitution is 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. Source: http://www.philippines.hvu.nl/history1.htm
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WORLD WAR II AND THE JAPANESE OCCUPATION (1939-1945) The Philippines was caught by 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 stationed US troops in the country. By September 1945 Japan formally surrendered.
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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 was introduced and poor people from the populous Catholic North were relocated in traditional Muslim areas in the South, sparking religious hostilities.
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MARCOS ERA, MARTIAL LAW, AND THE PEOPLE POWER REVOLUTION (1965-1986) The first term of Ferdinand Marcos was marked by economic prosperity and paved 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 was changed, and the form of government was transformed from presidential to a parliamentary system, allowing Marcos to stay in power beyond 1973. Marcos appointed Cesar Virata as Prime Minister creating the Fourth Philippine Republic.
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TOP TEN MUST-VISIT PLACES IN THE PHILIPPINES Vigan
Albay
Situated in South East Asia, the Philippines is home to more than 7,107 islands, which are inhabited by friendly, smiling locals and diverse wildlife. From white sand beaches, majestic mountains and historical wonders to interesting natural formations, the Philippines is bursting with many exciting experiences for such a small archipelago. Check out the following Top Ten Must-Visit Places in the Philippines.
VIGAN The City of Vigan is a World Heritage Site and is one of the few Colonial Hispanic towns left in the Philippines with most of its structures remaining perfectly intact. Renowned for its cobblestone streets and architecture that melds Philippine, Oriental and Spanish building design and construction, the city serves as a time capsule for visitors who want a peek at Colonial Life under the Spanish Empire. And because of this, Vigan City was officially recognised as one of the New7Wonder Cities in 2014.
BORACAY Boracay is small island in the Visayas and can
Bohol be navigated by bicycle or motorbike. However, don’t be fooled, this little island is home to some of the best white sand beaches in the world. In addition, the island has become well known for being Asia’s 24/7 island. Parties occur all over the island non-stop with international acts frequently dropping by to keep the music going on all night. It also offers quiet spots like Balinghai Beach for visitors looking for more tranquil spots to sunbathe and relax.
ALBAY Albay province is located in the Bicol region at southeastern end of the island of Luzon. Mayon Volcano is the symbol most associated with the 17
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Siargao
Sagada
province. This perfectly shaped active volcano forms a scenic backdrop to the city of Legazpi and is visible throughout the municipalities and cities of Albay including the surrounding provinces. The region is also known for its extremely spicy and flavourful cuisine for more intrepid adventurers.
BOHOL
Banaue
Bohol is an island province located in the Central Visayas Region. Most known for the Chocolate Hills, it is a prime tourist destination in the Philippines. The Chocolate Hills are a geological formation comprising of more than a thousand hills spread over an area of more than 50 square kilometres. They are covered in green grass that turns brown during the summer season causing them to resemble chocolate bonbons, hence the name.
SIARGAO Siargao is situated in the province of Surigao del Norte at the North eastern tip of Mindanao. A surfer’s haven, the island is most known for Cloud 9, a right-breaking reef wave which serves as the site of the annual Siargao Cup, an international surfing competition sponsored by the local government and attracts some of the best international professional and amateur surfers around the world. 18
SAGADA Sagada is a municipality located in the Mountain province located 275 kilometers north of Manila. Most known for its Hanging Coffins, literal coffins placed on cliffs. Believed to be derived from Chinese and other Asian traditions, the deceased are placed in a suspended caskets to bring their souls closer to the heavens.
BANAUE Banaue province is home to the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras. Inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995 it is the first Philippine location ever included in the cultural landscape category of the list. The majority of the Rice Terraces were constructed in a short time span after the Spanish arrival to the Philippines. The Ifugao Tribe created rice terraces that reached a higher altitude and were built on steeper slopes than many other terraces in other parts of the world, illustrating a remarkable feat of adaptation to climate pressures as well as the drive to develop new ideas and technologies.
CARAMOAN The Caramoan municipality is located in Camarines Sur and is located at the tip of the Caramoan Peninsula. The municipality has many uninhabited islands accessible via boat, filled with wildlife, fine powder beaches and wild fruits. The
Caramoan
Manila
location proved to be so beautiful that it has been used twice as the venue for the US reality competition Survivor as well as its Swedish, Israeli, French and Indian counterparts.
MANILA Manila is the capital of the Philippines. It is listed as a megacity and easily one of the biggest cities on earth. Intramuros the old walled city is located in the heart of the city, with its Spanish Era buildings and old early colonial period walls.
Palawan
A few kilometres east is Makati, the country’s financial artery. Filled to the brim with places to shop and eat at ridiculously prices, it is a theme park for travellers who want to have fun but still within a budget.
PALAWAN The island of Palawan is a nature lover’s paradise. It is home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. A unique sight, it is the world’s longest navigable underground river. Situated within
a protected national park, guided boats allow tourists to see it in all its splendour. In 2012, it was named as one of the New7wonders of Nature and has been a staple of trips to the Philippines ever since. From Puerto Princesa in Palawan divers can also see the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. UNESCO declared the Tubbataha Reefs as a World Heritage Site as a unique example of an atoll reef with a very high density of marine species; the North Islet serving as a nesting site for birds and marine turtles and offering spectacular colourful views of corals and marine life.
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THE PHILIPPINE HONORARY CONSULATE GENERAL The Philippine Honorary Consulate General offers consular services to the public. Open: Mondays - Fridays (10:00-12:00) *Not open during public holidays
SERVICES INCLUDE: ✓ Visa application processing ✓ Legalization or authentication of various documents ✓ Pairing application forms along with daily au-pair consultation via telephone as well as via email
For further information, please visit our website at www.filippinsk-konsulat.dk • Jægersborg Allé 16, 2. • 2920 Charlottenlund • Tel: +45 25636711 / + 45 40137711 • email: philcon@philcon.dk
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FOOD FROM THE PHILIPPINES Our top 10 picks, from traditional to modern gastronomy. Filipino food may not be as famous as cuisines form other countries in the region, such as Thai and Vietnamese, but with its natural abundance of tropical fruits and vegetables, coupled with vibrant culture – it is definitely worth a bite, or two! With more than 7 000 islands and a colourful history, this archipelago has some delicious dishes of its own. Blessed with an abundance of seafood, tropical fruits and creative cooks, there’s more to Filipino food than its traditional duck delicacy, balut (duck embryo). But what is Filipino food? “The simplest way to put it is our food reflects our history,” says Yana Gilbuena, founder of The Salo Project. The food of the Philippines is shaped by its many colonisers and immigrants, incorporating a fusion of Chinese, American and Spanish styles in its food. These influences are reflected through the cooking styles and tastes of the various regions in the country – therefore it is difficult to pinpoint a specific style of cooking or taste of food. Underpinning the variety of food and tastes is one common theme - a fusion that brings diners bold flovours; sour (vinegar), sweet (fruits) and spicy, and meals that are enjoyed family style.
POPULAR FILIPINO FOODS Our top picks that you simply have to try on your next visit to the Philippines:
Adobo No list of Filipino food would be complete without adobo. This is a staple dish in every household in the Philippines. It’s Mexican in origin, but Filipinos found that cooking meat (often chicken and pork) in vinegar, salt, garlic, pepper, soy sauce and other spices, was a practical way to preserve it without refrigeration. 20
Lumpia
Lechon
Filipino–style spring rolls were inherited from the Chinese. The filling varies, but one thing remains the same: You can eat them by the dozen – simply delicious.
Seafood, duck, chicken, none come close to
Pancit When Filipinos have guests, they don’t skimp. The pancit palabok served at most birthday parties is oozing with flavour and textures. This noodle dish is layered with rice noodles, a rich orange sauce made from shrimp broth, pork, hard boiled eggs, shrimps, chicharon (pork rinds) and sometimes oysters and squid.
touching a Filipino favourite, the pink and curlytailed animal – baboy (the pig). Next to fish, the pig is the most important and accessible source of food for Filipinos. Cebuanos enjoy the distinction of being top dog hog when it comes to the preparation of lechon, or whole roasted suckling pig (fight you for the cheeks), but they spin on spits everywhere. Numerous dishes can be gleaned from the whole animal, including lechon kawali, deep-fried pork belly, served with Mang Tomas “all-purpose sauce”
Sinigang
and/or vinegar for dipping; and crispy pata, or
A hot and sour soup of Tamarind paste and calamansi (or Philippine lime) juice infuse the broth with its signature sour flavour. Variations may calls for salty chunks of pork and a splash of creamy coconut milk to round out things out.
deep-fried pork knuckles.
Cassava cake This is a creamy, not-too-sweet, dessert made from cassava root and coconut milk. Although it is sweet, it is not overpoweringly so.
Balut No trip to the Philippines would be complete without sampling its famous balut. Vendors peddling these eggs on the street chant “Baluuuuut!” to entice buyers. This 17-day-old duck embryo is boiled, served with rock salt or spicy vinegar and is often consumed with beer.
The lechon is the most invited party guest in the
Sisig Nothing goes to waste in Filipino food. In the culinary capital of Pampanga, they turn the pork’s cheeks, head and liver into a sizzling dish called Sisig. The crunchy and chewy texture of this appetizer is a perfect match for a cold beer. Served with hot sauce and seasoning to suit your preference.
Philippines. The entire pig is spit-roasted over coals, with the crisp, golden-brown skin served
Chicken inasal
with liver sauce, the most coveted part. In Cebu,
Grilled chicken, but this is no ordinary grilled chicken. The meat is marinated in lemongrass, calamansi, salt, pepper and garlic and brushed with achuete (annatto seeds) oil. Every part of the chicken is grilled in the Philippines, from the paa (drumstick), pecho (breast), baticulon (gizzard), atay (liver), pakpak (wings) and corazon (heart). It must be eaten with a generous serving of garlic rice, with some of the orange oil used to marinade the chicken poured over the rice.
the stomach of the pig is stuffed with star anise, pepper, spring onions, laurel leaves and lemongrass resulting in an extremely tasty lechon, which needs no sauce.
Biko Biko is a sweet sticky rice dessert. It is easy-tomake and only requires a few ingredients, but it still packs a ton of flavour. It is garnished with equally addictive latik, or cooked-down coconut milk or cream.
Sources: http://travel.cnn.com/; http://www.seriouseats.com/
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CELEBRATING 117 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE 12 June marks the Philippine Revolution from Spanish rule, and celebrations fiesta style. On 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-Viejo. They witnessed 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. Philippine flags can be seen displayed in some homes and other places of interest, 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 po22
lice and military parade in Manila headed by the country’s incumbent president, followed by a speech and a 21-gun salute. 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 our 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 117 years ago, as it perseveres to gain other freedoms for its people, such as freedom from poverty through effective policies geared towards economic growth and a clean and competent government.
NATIONAL SYMBOL 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.
CELEBRATIONS IN DENMARK This year, Fil-com Denmark will be celebrating Independence Day with a cultural event, including an authentic Filipino food court. When: 06 June 2015 Where: Skottegårdsskolen Time: 12pm to 5pm For more information, visit the official Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/filcomdk. Sources: http://www.timeanddate.com/
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DANISH EMBASSY IN MANILA Assisting Danish citizens and those residing in Denmark with ease of access to the Philippines.
OPENING ITS DOORS After 12 years of absence, Denmark once again has an embassy in the Philippines. According to Ambassador Jan Top Christensen, Denmark reopened its embassy in Manila mainly because of the important and positive political and economic reforms over the last five years in the Philippines. “With a full-fledged embassy, we will be in a much better position to serve Danish interests in the Philippines, be they commercial, private, cultural or political, and deepen and widen the relations between the two countries,” explains Ambassador Christensen. The Philippines plays an increasingly important political and economic role in Southeast Asia. Impressive economic growth rates and increasing trade relations between Denmark and the 24
Philippines have contributed to the need for an increased and permanent Danish presence in the archipelago. Annual GDP growth rate of 7.2 per cent in 2013 along with an expected growth rate of 6.6 per cent in 2014 make it one of the most promising markets in the region – and an important trade hub for Denmark. The Embassy previously serving the region in Kuala Lumpur, extends its best wishes to the new team in Manila and also its profound appreciation for the hard work over many years by the honorary consuls in Manila, Cebu and Davao and the staff of the Consulate General in Manila. The opening of the Danish Embassy in Manila this year is proof of the Danish government’s commitment to further strengthening its existing friendship and cooperation with the Government of the Philippines in all spheres,
developing business-to-business relations and facilitating inter-people relations. Only the sky sets the limit for building further and deeper contacts between the two countries and their citizens.
SAFE TRAVELS In addition to supporting relations between the two countries, the embassy in Manila will also serve the citizens of Denmark and those residing in Denmark when it comes to their travel needs and access to the Philippines. Information about travel and residence and any assistance while in the Philippines is also accessible through the embassy. For more information about the embassy in Manila, and for sevices offered, visit the website; http://filippinerne.um.dk/ or email mnlamb@um.dk. Source: http://www.expatarrivals.com/
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THE HONORARY CONSULATES
THE PHILIPPINE HONORARY CONSULAR OFFICERS IN DENMARK Diplomatic 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 in 30 April 2007, jurisdiction over Denmark was transferred to the latter.
PHILIPPINE HONORARY CONSULATE GENERAL COPENHAGEN In 2009 the Philippine government appointed Mr. Poul Krogh as its new Honorary Consul General and in April of the same year, Mr. Krogh opened his offices along Jægersborg Allé, in Charlottenlund, Denmark. The Honorary Consulate General in Copenhagen provides consular services to Filipinos, such as visas and the legalization or authentication of documents in Demark. The Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Copenhagen offers consular services to the
public, Mondays to Fridays, except during public holidays from 10am 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 In 2013, Mr. Henrik Esmann Lindberg was appointed as the first Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Århus covering Jutland. The services provided by the Honorary Consulate include visa application processing and the legalization or authentication of various documents. The Philippine Honorary Consulate in Århus offers consular services to the public and 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 our representatives and partners in Denmark. Their dedication and commitment ensures that Philippine-Danish relations will only grow stronger in the years to come. 25
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DANISH-FILIPINO RELATIONS: EXPANDING ECONOMIC TIES Visit of Danish Trade Minister Mogens Jensen to the Philippines.
In January of this year the Danish Minister for Trade and Development, Mogens Jensen, visited the Philippines, for the first time, to discuss bilateral cooperation in trade and investment. He met with the Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario, Secretary Gregory L. Domingo of the Department of Trade and Industry, and was accompanied by the Danish Ambassador to the Philippines, Jan Top Christensen, and a Danish business delegation. With the decision of the Danish government to re-open its embassy in Manila, both countries are optimistic of a significant improvement in their trade relations, which registered an average of USD 110 million over the past three years. “Yes there is a reason to be cheerful, we are re-opening our embassy, and there is a great interest from Danish side, to further engage with the Philippines. Of course, we are already present with more than a hundred Danish companies, but we brought another load with this delegation and it looks very, very positive in 26
terms of further cooperation,” Minister Jensen said.
TRADE SEMINAR During the Ministers visit to Manila, a series of business-to-business seminars were held. Danish companies operating in the Philippines in areas such as energy, energy efficiency, environment, education, food and food technology, healthcare and pharmaceutical could access important decision makers in the Philippines, to network with existing clients and partners and to meet new potential customers.
FUTURE RELATIONS Danish Ambassador to the Philippines, Jan Top Christensen says that as part of the development of the relations between the two countries the Danish government is working on a comprehensive framework for intensifying future relations. “We have already had visits of our minister for trade and development and an important delegation from our Parliament. We are expecting many more high-level visits to take place in the future. I would also be happy soon to see the Philippine president on a first official visit to Denmark. Other high-level visits
After the Danish trade seminar and bilateral talks between the Danish and Philippine Trade ministers, the Danish Minister expressed confidence that Danish companies will gain a larger
from the Philippines to Denmark are also being
share of the Philippine market.
Sources: http://scandasia.com
planned for,” he explains.
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GROWING DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS
Visit of the Danish Presidium to the Philippines. Following the success of the January visit to the Philippines by the Danish Minister for Trade and Development, Mogens Jensen, distinguished members of the Presidium of the Danish Parlia-
During a break in Plenary, Speaker Belmonte led Members of the Congress in presenting a copy of House Resolution No. 1958 “conveying the highest recognition and commendation to the President of the Danish Parliament headed by Hon. Mogens Lykketoft, Speaker of the Danish Parliament, for their commitment to the ideals and principles of democracy, good governance and social development.�
ment, led by Speaker Mogens Lykketoft paid a visit to the House of Representatives in March.
The Danish officials, who were with their spous-
es, were accompanied by H.E. Jan Top Christensen, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Denmark to the Philippines with Consul Ms. Pia Heide Salman, and Hon. Bayani S. Mercado, Philippine Ambassador to Oslo, Norway (with jurisdiction over Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Iceland). The Danish officials were officially welcomed by House leaders and officials led by Deputy Speaker Carlos Padilla and Deputy Speak27
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Fast-forward to current relations, Denmark, a modern and prosperous nation which has played a significant role in the general political and economic integration of Europe, is host to some 8 000 Filipinos and has given Filipinos opportunities to become productive members of the community and integrate into Danish society. Filipinos have been migrating to Denmark since the 1970s to work mostly in the service industry. This is mainly because working conditions are generally good in Denmark. The labour sectors in the country are governed by comprehensive laws/rules/regulations which ensure that mechanisms are in place to address workers’ concerns and basic human rights.
er Giorgidi Aggabao, Congressional Spouses Foundation, Inc. President and Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte with House Secretary General Atty. Marilyn Barua-Yap, after which they were presented by Speaker Belmonte the resolution of commendation during a break in Plenary, and met with members of the House who each warmly welcomed the visiting delegation.
the way for many landmark agreements be-
DOING MORE FOR DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS
He highlights José Rizal, national hero of the
Diplomatic relations between the Republic of the Philippines and the Kingdom of Denmark were established as early as 1946, which paved 28
On the other hand many Danish businesses have set up shop in the Philippines, due to the vast and relatively cheap labour pool, coupled with the Westernised culture of the Filipinos, and their eagerness to do business.
tween the two countries in the areas of social security, air transport, maritime sector, investment promotion, and water resource development, among others. Next year Denmark and the Philippines will celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, however according to Danish Ambassador to the Philippines, Jan Top Christensen, historic relations go back much further. Philippines fighting for independence, who established a special link to Denmark by trans-
“The visit of the Presidium of the Danish Parliament to the House of Representatives is a significant act of affirmation of the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the Republic of the Philippines and the Kingdom of Denmark, and of the shared commitment of the Filipino people and the people of Denmark to democracy, freedom and good governance, and unity as enduring foundations of social, political and economic development,” the House Resolution stated.
lating five of the fairy-tales by Hans Christina Andersen into Tagalog.
Source: http://www.congress.gov.ph
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POWERING THE PHILIPPINES Danish equipment used in wind farms in the Philippines.
Wind energy, a secondary form of solar energy, is considered one of the safest and cleanest forms of renewables. Wind turbines do not generate greenhouse gases although there are concerns about their noise and harmful effects on bird life. Moreover, wind energy systems do not pose environment problems related to decommissioning of obsolete plants. Apart from low operating costs, wind energy systems can be used for various applications in agriculture and industries. In the Philippines, the wind energy system has many advocates. Following the completion of the wind resource map of the country, potential sites for wind energy generation have already been identified, many being on the western side of the archipelago. Among the promising areas are: Cuyo Island, Basco, Batanes, Catanduanes and Tagaytay City, and several projects are either underway or in the pipeline. Although wind farm technology is not widely used in the Philippines, it has had more advanced applications in Europe and the US. The Middelgrunden wind farm in Denmark for example is currently the world’s largest offshore wind farm with a capacity of 40 MW. It is the first step towards a batch of other Danish offshore wind farms, each planned to generate 150 MW. As a vast archipelago a lot of the Philippines’ 7000 islands are not connected to the main power grid, Danish Minister for Trade and Development, Mogens Jensen suggested that putting up Danish wind turbines on secluded islands would be a mutually beneficial cooperation between Denmark and the Philippines. With Danish technologies when it comes to wind power, and the scope for wind farms in the Philippines, there is much more than just 30
power that will result. “The companies that come here from Denmark, are world leading in the technologies, products and services they offer, so I believe Danish companies are really competitive,” Mogens Jensen said in January of this year.
PILIPINO FARM, DANISH TECHNOLOGY The Northwind Bangui Bay Project is located at the municipality of Bangui, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. Located at the north-west tip of Luzon Island, the windmills face the sea from where the wind blows towards the land. It was the first in a series of three projects that will add 120MW of wind power to the NAPOCOR (National Power Corporation of The Philippines) grid. It is connected to the nearest trunk transmission line by a 42km power transmission line. Globally, wind power is mainly found in areas between latitudes 30° to 60° N. After gathering wind data from multiple locations, PNOC EDC focused its attention on Pagali and Saoit as
sites for the NLWPP. Here, wind profiles meet minimum and nominal wind velocities needed for wind turbines of around 4m/s and 14m/s respectively. Some locations in the North Luzon have 7.5m/s annual averages. Northwind Power Development Corp, a Danish power firm, supplied the wind turbine-generator units (WTGs) for the site, similar to those already found in Denmark. Over fifty 750kW wind turbine generators will be installed. These will have three vertically oriented rotor blades on top of a 50m-high tubular tower. The nacelle (casing), which encloses the generator, the gear box and the yaw mechanism (which turns the blades into the wind), is at the rear of the rotor blades. The North Luzon project is uniquely important for the Southeast Asian region as the first commercial wind power development ever undertaken in this part of the world. Sources: http://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PNADD877.pdf; http://scandasia.com/; http://www.power-technology.com/
Palawan Above ground and underground
info@itsmorefuninthephilippines.co.uk