Philippine Construction & Design # 14 by saibermedia

PHILIPPINE

Vol. 2. No. 14

THE MAGAZINE FOR CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS August 2014

Delta Faucet

Ecomac Introduces Sturdy Concrete Mixer Trucks and Hydraulic Breakers

Introducing cutting-edge in carrier technologies in PHL Managing Risks in Construction Project Contracts Construction on Laos’s Mekong dams faces lawsuits and political pressure Century Spire August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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contents Issue No. 14 -2014

CONSTRUCTION NEWS Calendar of Events August 2014 .........................................................................

News Roundup DPWH: Not authorized for Ilocos Sur offshore dredging permits ............................................................. 05

International Reports

Thailand Labor Shortage ............................................. 14

FEATURES Special Contruction Project

Construction on Laos’s Mekong dams faces lawsuits and political pressure ..............................

24 34

Cover Story

Ecomac Introduces Sturdy Concrete Mixer Trucks and Hydraulic Breakers ................................. 24

Contructor’s Profile

Century Spire ........................................................................ 28 Introducing cutting-edge in carrier technologies in PHL .................................................................... 32

Supplier’s Profile

Delta Faucet ......................................................................... 34

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT Risk Management

Managing Risks in Construction Project Contracts .................................................................. 38

Products & Technology Trimble GCSFlex for Excavators ...........................

Price Movement

Retail Price Index of Selected Construction Materials in the National Capital Region (2000=100) : June 2014 ............................................... 45

40 33 August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

Construction & Design P hi l ippi n e

The Magazine for Construction Professionals

Publisher :

William L. Ogan

Executive Publisher :

Josette Adiong

Business Development Associate :

Rochelle Cuevas

Editorial Editor in Chief :

William Ogan

Contributing Editor : Ed Velasco Choy Gaerlan

Ma. Nenevetch Reyes

Rizal Raoul Reyes

Graphic Artist

Anabelle Flores

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Hardware & Building Materials August 7 – 9, 2014 Venue: Jakarta International Expo Location: Jakarta, Indonesia. This event showcases products like Bathroom & Kitchen Supplies, Building Materials, Flooring, Ceiling & Roofing Materials, General Hardware, Industrial Safety & Law Enforcement Equipment, Lawn & Garden Accessories, Lighting & Electrical Fixtures and Fittings, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Supplies, Tools & Accessories, Doors, Wall Cladding & Coverings etc. in the Bicycles, Rickshaw & Spares, Building Construction, Electronics & Electrical Goods, Hand, Machine & Garden Tools industries. Home Builder Expo 2014 August 21 – 24, 2014 Venue: Plenary Hall 1-3, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center Location: Bangkok, Thailand The Home Builder Association is preparing to host Home Builder Expo 2014, the most comprehensive fair for the home building industry. The event brings together over 40 leading home building companies, including construction material suppliers, home-related equipment, financial institutions, and real estate media. EPC Forum 2014 in Manila August 27-28, 2014 EPC Forum 2014 in Manila will address the challenges faced by owners and EPC contractors from scope of work to delivery of project. Learn key challenges in EPC projects and necessary skills of drafting & negotiating a contract effectively. For further details, contact Sandy Beh: Telephone: +603 27811510, Email: sandyb@trueventus.com Safety & Security Asia 2014 August 27 – 29, 2014 Location: Singapore Ambulances, Anti static equipment and supplies, Decontamination aids and safety cleaning equipment, Defense and Law Enforcement and Security and Safety Equipment and Supplies, Ergonomic support aids, Face and head protection, Fall protection and rescue equipment, Fire fighting equipment, Fire or rescue trucks, Fire prevention,Fire protection, Hearing protectors, Law enforcement, Locks and security hardware and accessories, National Defense and Public Order and Security and Safety Services, Personal safety and protection, Personal safety devices or weapons, Police vehicles, Public safety and control, Respiratory protection, Safety and rescue vehicles,Safety apparel, Safety footwear, Security surveillance and detection, Surveillance and detection equipment,Traffic control, Vision protection and accessories, Water safety BEX Asia 2014 September 1- 3, 2014 Venue: Marina Bay Sands Location: Singapore Aerial lifts, Building and Construction Machinery and Accessories, Building and Construction and Maintenance Services, Building construction machinery and accessories, Building demolition machinery and equipment, Concrete and cement and plaster, Doors and windows and

glass, Earth moving machinery, Environmental Services, Exterior finishing materials, Heavy equipment components, Insulation, Interior finishing materials, Paving equipment,Plumbing fixtures, Roads and landscape, Structural building products, Structural materials and basic shapes, Structures and Building and Construction and Manufacturing Components and Supplies, Tools and General Machinery Façade Design & Engineering UAE Summit September 7 - 9, 2014 Venue: Amwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach - Dubai Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates The start of 2014 has not only seen a number of projects being announced across the UAE, but also the introduction of new building regulations. With the enforcement of these codes, has come the challenge of meeting the regulations whilst using a building’s façade to ensure maximum design appeal and minimal costs. The building regulations have prompted architects and engineers to develop façade designs which are not only sustainable, but also innovative. As a result, more complex combinations of materials, more integration of technology, and more design ideas which are pushing the “envelope”! Future Interiors Qatar September 8 - 9, 2014 Location: Doha, Qatar A specialized interiors conference addressing balancing design, sustainability and innovation throughout the planning, development and fit-out phases to deliver excellence in interior design and construction Construction Indonesia 2015 September 9 - 12, 2015, Venue: The Jakarta International Expo Kemaroyan Location: Jakarta, Indonesia The 17th International Series of Building, Construction and Infrastructure Development Exhibitions, Construction Indonesia, formerly known as Building & Infrastructure Indonesia is the established exhibition for building materials, construction equipment, interiors, ceramics, marble & granite, trucks and specialist vehicles. The rapid growth in the property sector and a new programme of government sponsored infrastructure projects is driving the demand for building materials and equipment. 2014 AGC Building Contractors Conference September 10 -12, 2014 Location: Austin, TX Website: http://meetings.agc.org/austinbcc The 2014 AGC Building Contractors Conference brings together high-level leaders in the building construction industry to share, learn and discuss the issues that are essential to them and their business. The name of this year’s Conference is “AEC Collaboration 2014: Partnering, Opportunity, Risk, Success & the Future”. This event will teach the contractor how to incorporate collaboration in various components of their business.

One Build@JB September 11 - 14, 2014 Venue: Danga City Mall,Johor Bahru, Johor Location: Malaysia Website: http://www.oneinternational.com.my/ home.html OneBuild @ JB is dedicated as one-stop sourcing and trading platform which is specially designed for the local and international industrial professional to explore business opportunities and obtain the most updated solution in building, construction and infrastructure sectors. Building & Infrastructure Indonesia Jakarta September 12 – 15, 2015 Venue: Jakarta International Expo Location: Jakarta, Indonesia The Building & Infrastructure Indonesia is an international trade fair for building and infrastructure and will be held in Jakarta. This exhibition is communication and information platform in the industry and offers the exhibiting companies the opportunity to present to an audience of experts here. Visitors can find in depth and comprehensive information here about the latest developments, trends, products and services in various fields. GREEN BUILD ASIA September 17-19, 2014 Location: Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur The world of sustainable building, design and construction will once again converge in Kuala Lumpur for the GREENBUILD ASIA 2014 Exhibition & Conference – Southeast Asia’s Biggest Event on Sustainable Building, Design and Construction the Putra World Trade Centre. Construction Materials Expo ASIA 2014 September 18 - 20, 2014 Venue: Hall 7, Impact Muang Thong Thani. Location: Bangkok, Thailand The annual industry gathering and market place for suppliers to showcase the latest construction materials. Functional materials, stone and steel structures are exhibited to targeted key decision makers of the construction industry. Electronica and Productronica India September 23-25, 2014 Venue: Bangalore International Exhibition Center Location: Bengaluru, India. For more information call (632) 845-1324 | 7596680 or send email to cahea@eccp.com NORTHERN BUILDING EXPO 2014 October 24-26, 2014 Exibit Hours: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm Venue: CAP Convention Center Location: Camp John Hay, Baguio City RAM Architectural Services is currently offering a great opportunity for you and your company to be a part of what has been considered the largest building expo North of Manila, NorthBuilDEX II with the Theme, “NOW BUILDING: INTENTIONAL COMMUNITIES”. This event will give you and your company the opportunity to expand your clientele interaction and at the same time increase your visibility in our community. A construction boom is currently ongoing in the Northern provinces that you want to take advantage of.

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NEWS ROUND-UP

Iconic UNTV building soon to rise UNTV’s new home, targeted to be completed in January 2016 , will be 200 meters high and will house 18 floors of stateof-the-art office and broadcast facilities. Architect Recio says that “All floors will have the most amazing view of Metro Manila. Also, the building will be covered with LED lights, which will make it seemingly come alive at night.” Mayor Bautista liked that the building will be made iconic as “more than just a requirement of the city government, we want to promote this particular structure as a tourist destination…” Razon acknowledged the support of Mayor Bistek and Henares (who entrusted UNTV to him some 10 years ago when he told him of his vision “to inform, instruct and inspire”). Said he of Henares, “I’m so grateful na ibinigay niya ang pagtitiwala niya sa akin. Sabi niya, bahala ka na kung

PRESENT AT the groundbreaking of the new UNTV building were (from right): Principal Architect Jose Pedro Recio, Regional Director Reynaldo Tagudando, BMPI, Inc., UNTV Chairman & CEO Daniel Razon, Progressive Broadcasting Corp. Pres. Atom Henares, QC Mayor Herbert Bautista, Philam Homeowners Pres. Armando Sutingco, Meinhardt Dir. Oscar Relucio and Brgy. Philam Capt. Simplicio Hermogenes ano ang gusto mong gawin, naniniwala ako sa iyong pananaw…” Atom said, “This structure is not only a monument to Daniel’s vision. More importantly, it is a home to people who continue to inspire that vision…” Crispina Martinez - Belen

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DPWH: Not authorized for Ilocos Sur offshore dredging permits

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has informed those asking to cancel the dredging permits issued to 13 vessels doing offshore dredging in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur that they were “barking at the wrong tree”. DPWH

Secretary Rogelio Singson said the issuance of offshore dredging or mining permits “is not within the mandate” of his department. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Virgilio Mendez told Singson that

Fr. Albert Rabe and Sister Lilian Carranza of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia in Vigan, Ilocos Sur had disclosed that for several years, 13 vessels have been engaged in offshore dredging in Puro, Caoayan town, which they said endangers the lives, livelihood and property of the locals. Rabe and Carranza were asking the DPWH to cancel the dredging permits. Singson clarified that offshore dredging or mining is not his agency’s responsibility, as its mandate concerns the dredging of inland channels and waterways such as rivers, creeks, canals, and lakes being done by the government or contractors. It is also the standard protocol for DPWH to coordinate with the concerned local government units of any dredging, and in most cases, a memorandum of agreement is signed. In compliance with the request of NBIVigan City, DPWH Region 1 director Melanio Briosos reported that they only provided assistance in hauling the processed magnetite back into the sea. Briosos said dredged materials, amounting to some 36,000 metric tons, were scattered back along the shoreline in Caoayan town. Evelyn Macairan (The Philippine Star).

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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NEWS ROUND-UP

Construction of P 40-Million BIR building in South Leyte starts Work on the new structure for the government’s tax collecting office began in earnest at the reclaimed land in barangay Combado here following formal groundbreaking and blessing on a rainy day July 2. Morales Construction from Ormoc City, bagged the contract for the P 40-Million, 2-storey project with a floor area of 600 square meters out of a total lot area of 1,400 square meters donated by the city government. Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Regional Director Atty. Diosdado

Mendoza braved heavy rains to join local BIR personnel and staff led by OIC Susan Golo for the groundbreaking rites -- the rains briefly stopped as if to pave the way for Fr. Garnet Kirong to proceed for the prayer blessings. Gov. Roger Mercado was also around for the lowering of the capsule, as well as city officials led by Vice-Mayor Ma. Effie Sabandal, City Councilor Antonio Cardoza, Mrs. Epifania Sy, head of the Southern Leyte Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and a handful of businessmen.

In his message after the ceremonies, Atty. Mendoza acknowledged Maasin City as one of the big contributors in the region’s overall tax take, saying the city “improved its collection.” He hastened to add, though, that such an improved collection picture “is not enough,” and so he prodded the men and women of BIR Revenue District Office No. 90 to work harder, exert greater effort, even warning them of the strict performance system followed by the agency based more on results and outputs. “To stay in BIR, be performing, otherwise, out you go,” he told the employees, teasing but in a serious mood that some may not be able to enjoy the comforts of the new building now under construction if they continue to be underperforming. He called on the private sector, the local government units, directly addressing to Gov. Mercado “to help Maasin City attain its goal.” Mendoza said that for the entire Region 8 their collection goal for the current year was P 6.1 Billion and as of now they are still 30% short. In an interview after the luncheon, Mendoza said close monitoring and enforcement of laws were the key strategies to attain the goal, saying that in 2012 Region 8 was 5th nationwide but last year no rate was given because of Yolanda. MARCELO M. PEDALINO (AJC/MMP/ PIA8-Southern Leyte)

PAMANA 4.4 kilometers project in Samar to resume where time travel by bus runs from five to six hours. Due to the difficult road, Buan folks are facing low agricultural productivity; low household income; lack of efficient infrastructure facilities and support services. San Jose de Buan bus traveler Rodrigo Cabrillas said that since the construction of the road started last year, their time travel from San Jose de Buan going to Catbalogan now runs from two to three hours, but they still experience hassle during rainy season in some road section.PAMANA TWG members and

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PLGU proponents express hopes that the road project will eventually improve the delivery of government services to the rural folks. Meanwhile, Department of Interior Local Government (DILG) Director 8 Pedro Noval asked the contractor during the meeting to submit a catch up plan to the TWG for updating. The military and PNP also hope that an improved peace and order situation will bring better road connection to the main highway if this is completed this year. (PIA 8-Samar Avha H. Ebalde/AJC)

www.www.opapp.gov.ph

Traveling the road going to the main highway will be easier for Samarnons in the hinterland town of San Jose de Buan in Samar before the end of the year. This is due to the resumption on July 15 of the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayan (PAMANA) 4.4 kilometers Phase II project in Samar. This project is a 4,400 meters one lane, amounting to P 100 million and was funded through the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP). The access road to San Jose de Buan town will start construction again after the Samar Provincial Technical Working Group (TWG) of PAMANA which was approved by Governor Sharee Ann Tan. The TWG also gave Tan authority to grant permit on the contractor to continue the pending project. San Jose de Buan a hinterland town is 74 kilometers from the capital city of Catbalogan. About 24 kilometers of the total road length is poorly maintained and in a very sad state

P40-M substandard construction materials seized in Cavite

Police, the Criminal and Investigation Group (CIDG) seized P40 million worth of substandard steel bars inside a compound in Cavite. CIDG chief Director Benjamin Magalong said operatives, along with Department of Trade and Industry representatives, raided the compound of the Golden Gate Business Park in Barangay Buenaviste, General Trias, Cavite and confiscated 16,000 pieces of 8 mm. rolled steel bars, 600 tons angle bars size 4.5x50x50, uncertified GI wires, substandard angle bars of assorted sizes and unmarked roofing materials. The raid was done after the Manila Regional Trial Court issued a search warrant for violation of the Consumer Act. The seized construction materials reportedly belonged to the Steeltower Steel Corporation owned by Alex Go, Andrew Go, Jason Ang, James Ang, and Jintuan Wu. Magalong said that sometime in April, Secretary Panfilo Lacson, the Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery, recommended to DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo to deputize the CIDG to assist in the enforcement and conduct of operations against the proliferation of substandard building materials. Magalong said sub-standard construction materials are being smuggled into the country from different ports and are eventually transported and sold in areas devastated by super typhoon Yolanda. Dennis Carcamo (philstar.com)

BSP tougher on property loans

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas will be tough on banks which do not have enough capital buffer against property risks. Once banks fall short of the stress tests started in July, they will be required by the central bank to submit a detailed plan on how soon they can meet the tests or they would be subjected to further remedial measures. Amando Tetangco, BSP governor, said he prefers the stress tests over absolute limits because they do not prejudice the development of the real estate industry. Banks have exceeded by a percentage point the 20 percent limit on property exposure. “Banks can have greater exposures to real estate for as long as they manifest their increased ability to absorb these risks vis-à-vis their capital position,” Tetangco said. Under the revised requirements banks are expected to meet two specific thresholds: universal, commercial and thrift banks (TBs) must meet a capital adequacy ratio of 10 percent of qualifying capital (QC) after adjusting for the stress test results; stand-alone thrift banks, must have a ratio measure of six percent of QC. In addition, big banks as well as their thrift bank subsidiaries will be required to maintain

a level of Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) that is at least six percent of QC after factoring in the stress scenario. The requirement sits squarely with the observation of Moody’s Investors that exposure of the banks to the real property sector is “credit positive” but claimed two large banks’ loans to the sector are above industry average. The two large banks will be required to raise capital. Simon Chen, AVP-Analyst of Moody’s, said “these new requirements are credit positive for Philippine banks because they will impose higher minimum capital requirements on banks that lend more heavily to the real estate sector, and will serve as a proactive measure to regulate banks’ lending to the sector.” Chen noted real estate loans in the Philippines have grown rapidly over the past five years, fuelled by robust economic growth and strong domestic demand. “The compound average growth rate of banks’ real estate loans over 2009-13 was 22 percent, doubling the overall banking system loan growth of 11 percent,” Chen said. He added the growth rate of real estate loans for two of the rated Philippine banks also exceeded that of the industry. JIMMY CALAPATI

“As a result of the banks’ high exposure to real estate sector, we estimate that the two banks would need to maintain the highest amount of additional capital buffer among our rated Philippine banks at 400-430 basis points above the minimum CET1 ratio of 6 percent,” Chen said. However, Chen said results show that the CET1 ratios of the Philippine banks are well positioned to meet the stress test requirements. “The banks’ CET1 ratios as of the end of March 2014 are well in excess of the minimum capital requirements, including the additional capital required under the new stress test requirements. We expect the stress test requirements will force the banks to be more disciplined in their real estate lending, and will act as a measure to regulate the credit extended to the real estate sector and prevent imbalances created by over-supply or property prices from reaching unsustainable levels,” Chen said. Using stress tests is aligned with the international standards set under the Basel Accord. These stress tests are also preferred over absolute limits because, according to the BSP, they do not prejudice the real estate industry. Tetangco clarified that the new measure does not reflect any imminent vulnerability among banks with exposures to the real estate sector. “The measure simply reinforces the prudential policy that banks must have sufficient capital to absorb any possible shock on its credit exposures,” Tetangco said. The MB is implementing the macro-prudential measure while cognizant of the social agenda of providing shelter as a basic need. It also recognizes the continuing growth of the real estate industry in line with national demographic factors. “Nonetheless, the MB believes that this is an opportune time to introduce such measure so that banks will be appropriately guided by the policy direction. This decision of the MB expands the macroprudential toolkit used by the BSP in pursuing its prudential objective of fostering financial stability,” Tetangco said. JIMMY CALAPATI

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

NEWS ROUND-UP

Bacolod Representative Evelio Leonardia delivers his State of the District Address before family members, supporters, friends and barangay leaders, who gathered to celebrate his birthday yesterday, at the Garden Royale, Goldenfields Commercial Complex, Bacolod City. (Archie Alipalo Photo)

P892-M Infra, Agri projects in Bacolod bared A total of P892.843 million worth of projects funded by government agencies is being implemented in this city. In his State of the District Address (SODA), Leonardia said he was able to look for funds for his projects despite the lack of Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). He said the abolition of PDAF took away at least P70 million a year for various projects in every congressional district. Of the P892 million, P612.648 million was sourced from the Department of Public Works and Highways for numerous projects to improve traffic condition, concreting, re-blocking and widening of national roads and to address flooding problems, construction of drainage system, slope protection and flood control. He said the Department of Agriculture allocated P30 million for the construction of farm-to-markets roads that will help farmers improve their production and income. He said P29.923 million went to 27 projects such as water sanitation facilities, rain water collection facilities and school buildings/classrooms in elementary and high schools. PNA

Bike lanes in road projects urged The city council here is urging the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to integrate bicycle lanes in the construction of new roads or rehabilitation of existing ones next year. Councilor Jason Gonzales said there is a need for a multimodal transport system in this city such as the use of bicycle for work, school or recreation. Lydia C. Pendon

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Local officials and members of the Mindanao River Basin-Technical Working Group (MRBTWG) are hastening the implementation of six additional flood control projects worth P6.9 billion to put an end to perennial flooding in three southern regions. The six projects are the channel modification of the Ambal-Simuay River; the dredging of the Rio Grande de Mindanao; dredging and dike construction along the Tunggol River and the expansion of Tunggol Bridge; and the construction of revetments or sloping structures used in erosion control along the Ala, Buluan, and Tamontaka Rivers. “The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) central office has prioritized these projects and the work is expected to be completed by the end of the year,” said Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chairperson Luwalhati Antonino. Present in meeting to discuss the problem were representatives of the DPWH of Regions X, XII and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Regional Planning Development Office, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Office of Civil Defense (OCD). Cotabato City Mayor Japal Guiani Jr., ARMM Executive Secretary Atty. Laisa Alamia, and Ching Ayupan, who represented Cardinal Orlando Quevedo, also attended the meeting. DPWH-ARMM Secretary Emil Sadain, concurrent national DPWH assistant secretary, said these measures would benefit the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, South Cotabato, and the cities of Cotabato, Korondal and Tacurong. Currently, there are seven ongoing projects in the area. These are the P39.89-million River Bank Protection Project along the CotabatoGenSan Road in Tamontaka, Cotabato City which will end in June 2014; the P174.19million Simuay Flood Control Project in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, which will be completed by the end of 2014; the P46million Ala River Flood Control Project in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, which will be finished by July 2014; the P50-million and P74.5-million Libungan Flood Control Projects Phase III both in Libungan, Cotabato, which are expected to be completed in August and October 2014, respectively; the P72.5-million Carmen River Bank Protection with Revetment Flood Control Project in Lumayong, Carmen, Cotabato to be completed in November 2014; and the P15.2-million University of Southern Mindanao Flood Control Project Phase I in Kabacan, Cotabato. MOH I. SAADUDDIN

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P6.9B additional flood control projects in Mindanao bared

After successfully saving the town’s antique houses from the government’s road-widening project, the Sariaya Heritage Council (SHC) again appealed to Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson to spare other historical landmarks from destruction. The SHC initiated an online petition on www.change.org, a popular website that hosts public petitions, to save the centuryold public cemetery in Barangay (village) Sampaloc II from destruction to pave the way for the widening of Maharlika Highway. On his Facebook page, Danny de Luna, SHC president, said one of the old tombs that would be affected belonged to one Briccio Reynoso, a Sariaya native who was a member of the Philippine basketball team in 1925. The SHC, in its petition, also wanted to save a century-old kalachuchi tree in front of the cemetery. The group also appealed to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to spare the 19th-century Spanish adobe masonry that was unearthed during the repair and construction of the narrow Que-anuang Bridge at the town’s entrance coming from Manila. Citing the accounts of Spanish friar Fr. Felix Huertas, De Luna said the adobe bridge was one of the stone bridges that were built by Franciscan missionaries in their areas of mission in Laguna province, Tayabas (now Quezon province) and Nueva Caceres (now the Bicol region) during the Spanish period. De Luna said that in one of Huertas’ narrative accounts, he mentioned the Sariaya stone bridge located in the west side of the town spanning the river called Cay-anuang. “We petition the DPWH to save the surviving portions of adobe bricks by altering the bridge’s design to let people see this masonry as a historical relic,” the SHC said in the petition. De Luna said ruins of the Spanish-period bridge were unearthed last month when DPWH workers uncovered the cemented portion of the bridge covering that had hidden the Spanish masonry and stone works since its reconstruction after the war, or sometime in the 1950s. He said the site of the bridge should be considered a “heritage zone,” having served as a battleground between Filipino freedom fighters and the American regime in the late 1890s. The bridge also served as witness to the battles between Filipino guerrillas and retreating Japanese forces during the last days of World War II, said De Luna. The SHC described the threatened

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Sariaya council appeals to DPWH: Spare landmarks

landmarks as “silent witnesses” to the unfolding of the town’s history and important icons of its colorful culture and heritage. Singson told all DPWH officials that the preservation of historical sites and structures should be incorporated into the designs or feasibility studies of road projects to avoid delays and changes. He reminded DPWH executives to closely coordinate with the National Historical

Institute, the National Museum and National Commission on Culture and the Arts in identifying historical landmarks to avoid damage to these during road construction. Singson’s order was prompted by concerns that were raised by the SHC, which protested the planned road-widening project inside the town that would damage at least four ancestral houses. Delfin T. Mallari Jr. |Inquirer Southern Luzon

P321-M infra projects turned over to Caraga The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), in cooperation with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), turned over P320.8 million infrastructure projects in the Caraga Region as part of the country’s rural development program. The projects include farm-to-market roads, irrigation program, bridges, potable water system, warehouse, solar dryer, school buildings, health center and post-harvest facilities. DAR Regional Director Faisar Mambuay said the development of Caraga Region, one of the poorest regions in the country, aims to reduce the incidence of poverty and raise the standard of living of farmers. “Caraga, whose residents consists mainly of farmers and fishermen, will greatly benefit from these infrastructure facilities. These [infra projects] will enhance the rural economy and in the process, create job opportunities in the region,” according to Mambuhay. Among the projects that were turned over recently were farm-warehouse and postharvest facilities in Tubod town in Surigao del Norte; Libas and Jabonga towns in Agusan del Norte and Tagbabapsa in Remedios Trinidad Romualdez, Agusan del Norte. Recently the Level II Pump in Doña Carmen, and Level II Pump in San Jose, both in Tagbina, Surigao del Sur were completed and turned over to the local government units (LGUs) and farmer beneficiaries in the two areas. The road projects with corresponding bridges in the four areas of Tagbina were already completed while the Phase II Marga-Hubasan road concreting project also in Tagbina is ongoing. “These projects are all under phase three of DAR’s Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Projects [ARISP III] and funded by JICA. Other ARISP projects are still ongoing to beat their target timeline,” Mambuay said.

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NEWS ROUND-UP

P50M sought to solve Cagraray Island water shortage Albay Governor Joey Salceda is asking for P50 million from the Department of Interior and Local Government to solve the water shortage on Cagraray Island in Bacacay town. Residents of Cagraray Island, specifically those from Cabasan village, hardly get safe drinking water after spring, wells and even rivers dried up due to erratic climate. Salceda said the amount he is requesting from DILG, through the Regional Development Council, will be used to develop the existing water source in Barangay Tanagan that can supply potable water to the communities. “We are proposing for DILG funding a P50 million worth Level 3 water system to Barangay Tanagan and this can supply all the barangays on Cagraray Island,” Salceda said. The Manila Times newspaper reported that the situation on the island, where vast tracks of ricefields have turned barren due to

the absence of rain. Because of the prolonged dry spell, residents are also worried of water borne diseases which resulted to fatalities in the island a few years back. “There has been a perennial water supply problem in Cagraray Island and this problem is being worsened by the projected dry spell experienced in the whole region”, said Salceda. Cagraray Island, with its 26 villages, was declared as an eco-tourism destination during the time of President Fidel V. Ramos. Currently, it is an emerging tourism site where the Misibis Bay Resort and Casino is located. In a report to Salceda, provincial health officer Dr. Nathaniel Rempillo said most villages have level 2 water systems which ensure clean and safe water. “The water purification machine cannot function in the Cagraray ecosystem because there are no large volumes of water source that can supply the machine and we cannot distribute safe water because of the

geographical location of these barangays,” Rempillo said. When Rempillo visited six of 26 villages on Cagraray Island, he found that Napao’s 407 households have only one functional spring during dry season; Cabasan’s 445 households have Level 2 water sources but some springs have dried up; Pongco’s 253 households have only one developed spring; San Pablo’s 288 households have a water table source is too deep and needs drilling of water source; Busdac’s 262 households have Level 1 and 2 water system and Namanday’s 275 households have one shallow well. Rempillo said 1,030 of 6,434 households on the island are directly affected by water shortage. Cabasan village chief Roger Barrameda claimed the dry spell is affecting the whole island. He cited Tanagan, Cagraray and Cagbulacao villages as possible sources of water but to develop these sources, Barrameda said the government needs P100 million to provide safe drinking water to 35,000 residents. Meanwhile, Salceda directed the public health office here to conduct training and information campaign on water sanitation and hygiene to all barangays on the island. RHAYDZ B. BARCIA

www.dphw.gov.ph

DOH allots P100M for new Ospital ng Imus

P55-million flood control projects for Bataan Four flood control and rechanneling projects worth P55 million will soon be implemented in this town according to Mayor Alice Pizarro. The projects involve the widening and riprapping of a dike in Barangay Panilao down to the Talisay River that separates Pilar from Balanga City. Riprapping refers to the act of throwing rocks or broken stones in the water to serve as a wall or foundation. Funded by the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, the projects will be supervised by the Department of Public Works and Highways and will be implemented in flood-prone areas in Pilar, including Barangays Nagwaling, Panilao, and Alauli, and portions of Poblacion and Del Rosario. Pizarro asked the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, headed by Engineer Hazel de Guzman, to conduct a risk ownership seminar—the first to be held in Bataan—to help identify affected areas and residents. Pizarro also organized three rescue teams in Pilar composed of members of the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and other volunteers. Ernie Esconde

10 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

The construction of a P100-million Ospital ng Imus was announced by 3rd District Rep. Alex Advincula and other local officials on Monday, the second anniversary of the cityhood of Imus. House Bill 3182 or “An act establishing the 50-bed capacity district hospital in the City of Imus, otherwise known as the Ospital ng Imus was approved by Congress with appropriating of funds. Advincula donated the 30,000-square meter lot last month for the construction of the first government hospital for the poor residents of the city. The Department of Health (DOH) provided the P100-million fund for the construction of the hospital in Malagasang 1-G, Imus City. The national government through Cavite Gov. Jonvic Remulla has allocated P20 million for dialysis Center while the local government contributed P30 million for 50 units of beds and for the salary of the hospital employees. Imus City Mayor Emmanuel” Manny” Maliksi, Dr. Nestor Santiago, head of Center for Health Development for Southern Ta–galog and local city councils attended the hospital’s launch. ROGELIO LIMPIN

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Cement firm helps Greening Program

A cement manufacturing firm based in San Fernando, Cebu has been implementing tree planting and seedling development activities even before the implementation of the government’s National Greening Program (NGP). Officials of Taiheiyo Cement Philippines Inc. (TCPI) and its sister company, Solid Earth Development Corp. (SEDC), said in a press conference they’ve planted a total of 74,969 various trees since they began operations in 1997.

Bataan Bridge construction delayed The contractor of the P28 million bridge asked for a redesign of the infrastructure after the piles to be used as foundation hit an old hard lumber underground. Bataan First District engineer Wilfredo Mallari said the construction was halted awaiting the approval of the new design and piles by the Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Office in San Fernando, Pampanga. The bridge is expected to be finished within six months. Ernie B. Esconde

Some 60,235 trees have survived, or 80 percent, said Joel Sombelon, the firm’s head of mining operations. These were planted in the plant’s 90-hectare property, particularly in designated buffer zones in their mining areas, he said. Some 28,538 trees were planted in the limestone buffer zone and 26,101 trees in the clay buffer zone. Some 9,120 trees were planted in areas that were mined out of raw materials.

They also planted 4,940 trees within their processing plant, he said. Among the trees they planted were acacia aure, mahogany, narra, neem and mango. The firm has also provided seedlings to different groups, including the Municipal Government. Based on their report, the firm has donated 6,270 seedlings to the town. Sombelon said they continue to invest in the environment as part of their corporate social responsibility in helping their host communities. Eddie Llamedo, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 7 spokesperson, told Sun.Star Cebu that TCPI-SEDC is just one of nine large-scale mining firms in the region that support their NGP by initiating their own greening programs. Llamedo said TCPI-SEDC’s commitment could help the DENR in its compliance with the NGP. When completed by 2016, the NGP is expected to improve the country’s air quality and reduce greenhouse gases by absorbing 38 million tons of carbon with improved forest cover from watersheds in the uplands down to the mangrove forests along the coastlines. Central Visayas’s compliance with NGP registered nearly 82 percent survival rate, which is the second highest nationwide. Justin K. Vestil

Iloilo Mayor asks DPWH to finish all road projects The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) was requested by Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog to rush all ongoing road projects in this city due to flooding brought by heavy rains of the typhoon season. Mabilog said recent downpour placed several barangays under water. The ongoing projects are in San Pedro, Molo; Mabini and Gen. Luna in the city proper; San Rafael in Mandurriao district, near La Paz public market and Sonalan area. Lydia C. Pendon

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

NEWS ROUND-UP

Mines bureau asks help to stop Toledo mining The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Central Visayas has sought the assistance of Cebu Governor Hilario Davide and the police to stop smallscale gold mining in Sitio Boswang, Barangay Cambang-og in Toledo City. In a letter to Davide, OIC-Mining Operations Officer Raul Laput said the gold mining activities are conducted on an area covered by a application for mineral production sharing agreement (MPSA) of Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corp. “Sans any mining permit to support the mining operations, the present activities there are deemed illegal,” Laput said. He said MGB issued a cease and desist order against the small-scale gold mining activities of some residents. The MGB 7 confirmed that residents conduct gold panning and sluicing in Sitio Boswang. It found several portable (manual and engine-driven) grinding mills. Laput said the area where gold mining activities are conducted may be a People’s Small-Scale Mining Area (or Minahang Bayan) under Republic Act 7076. Laput sent a letter of the same tenor to Cambang-og Barangay Captain Timoteo Largo. Laput requested Davide to reactivate the Cebu Provincial Mining Regulatory Board so that the issue can be discussed. Pending this, he asked the Capitol, the School-age children in Sitio Boswang, Barangay Toledo City Government and the police to help put a stop to the gold mining Cambang-og in Toledo City skipped school to help activities in Barangay Cambang-og. Elias O. Baquero their family survive by mining for gold. (Sun.Star File)

www.newsinfo.inquirer.net

Sta. Fe airport eyed for development

MMDA opens 6th Pasig river ferry terminal The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) opened its sixth terminal in the Pasig River Ferry service. MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said the Sta. Ana terminal will benefit passengers going to and from Manila, particularly Paco, Pandacan, and San Andres. The other terminals are in Guadalupe, Makati City, Pinagbuhatan, Pasig City; Escolta, PUP Sta. Mesa and Plaza Mexico in Manila. RITCHIE A. HORARIO

President Benigno Aquino III is interested in developing the airport in Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island aAccording to Gov. Hilario Davide III. The governor filed a motion for the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority Board to include the airports in Bantayan and Camotes in the Department of Transportation and Communications study. Representative Benhur Salimbangon (Cebu, 4th district) said if the Province turns over the airport to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the latter will develop the facility. “I talked with CAAP since this is their responsibility, to negotiate and discuss this with Provincial Government, being the owner of the airport,” he said. Last January, the Sargaso Construction and Development Corp. demanded P146.939 million from the Capitol as payment for the rehabilitation and upgrading of the airports in Sta. Fe and Bantayan towns. The Capitol also owes P70.9 million for the Camotes airport project, while it owes P76 million for the Sta. Fe airport, according to the contractor. As of last December, 500 meters of the runway in Sta. Fe still needed to be cemented. Salimbangon said big planes cannot land at the Sta. Fe airport since the facility can

12 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

only accommodate small ones that carry six to eight passengers, limiting tourist arrivals to the town. “Of course we need an airport but the best gyud ang atong (are the) roads nga mahimong (that will become a) freeway so that you can reach the farthest ends (of Cebu) in one hour,” he said, referring to the trans-axial highway project, a 300-kilometer highway that connects Santander in the south to Daanbantayan in the north through the middle of the province. Salimbangon said Global Sphere, a Dubaibased company, is also interested in the project. He said they turned over the project’s feasibility study to the company last month. “Importante gyud ni kaayo (This is really important) because this will bring my district closer to the city and at the same time closer to its neighbors,” he said. The project has revenue-generating components for the investor like the mountain highway, seven-kilometer-long seaports, the 550-hectare reclamation project that covers Talisay, Minglanilla and Naga and four economic zones in Cebu’s fourth, fifth, third and second districts, water resource areas, wind and solar power farms, said Engr. Edgar Sibonga, head of its Technical Working Group. OCP

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Designâ&#x20AC;&#x192;

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Thailand Labor Shortage This year Thailand is continuing to experience a labor shortage, mainly of vocational graduates. Currently it is estimated that Thailand faces a shortage of 300-365,000[i] workers and with an unemployment rate of only 0.89%, if unaddressed the shortage will continue to get worse as the overall population ages. This has had a long reaching impact on the construction industry and rising costs and project delays become more common. The labor shortage is being impacted by changes to the minimum wage along with changing skill demands from employers. The ASEAN community changes will also have a major impact on the employment community but clear solutions still need to be delivered from the Thai government. For businesses this labor shortage means additional or higher costs, the minimum wage has already risen to Bt300 a day yet

private companies fear they will see an across the board cost increase as a result. Jetro chairman Setsuo Iuchi said “Japanese investors in Thailand were most concerned about labour-related issues”. The survey of 374 Japanese firms in Thailand showed that 65 per cent were facing negative impacts from the rise in the minimum wage and inadequate labour force. Only 22 per cent said they suffered no impact from these problems, and 7 per cent said they had been affected positively. This fear is not causing all investment to flee though, Japanese investment is estimated to be Bt107 billion vs. Bt65 billion in 2011 but at the same time those polled did say they planned moving new production to other nations (Myanmar being the most popular). To cope with the labor shortage temporary foreign workers are being

brought into Thailand yet more needs to be done, especially to provide a lasting solution. One method used in other countries (Canada, America) has been to provide tax credits for businesses that train workers, thus subsidizing the cost. The government has stated it is working on a workforce database to match the education system with the skills needed for each economic sector, among other things. Others, such as Synergy Property Development Services chairman believe the current situation will force industries to increase efficiency and improve mechanization. Increased efficiency is also growing in importance as construction and manufacturing costs (excluding labor) also continue to rise. Construction companies are also moving towards new more efficient materials or ones that involve less labor such as precast concrete. The labor shortage is not entirely negative though; workers will most likely see their wages rise. Businesses need to fight to retain their current workers and will need to compete against other competitors in how they treat employees and what type of corporate environment they provide. Even though options and temporary fixes do exist there still needs to be a permanent plan put into place to help provide a long-term solution. It is clear this issue is not going away and if ignored it could cause long term harm to Thailand’s economy and force businesses to move to other nations, especially as other ASEAN nations become more and more competitive. Jason Campbell, Bangkok Post

www.dailymail.co.uk

NCPO OKs 396 police stations construction project

Deputy Army Spokesman Col Winthai Suwaree

Deputy Army Spokesman Col Winthai Suwaree stated that the NCPO had agreed to a proposal from the Royal Thai Police to proceed with the unfinished construction of 396 police stations across the country. As requested, the budget of the project was increased from 6.67 billion baht to 8.36 billion. About 1.5 billion baht had already been disbursed to the project so far. Out of the total budget, the NCPO is set to promptly spend 2.46 billion baht to build 181 stations that are deemed important and are urgently needed. Another amount of over 4 billion baht for the construction of the remaining 215 stations will be allocated from the 2015 budget. In regard to corrupt practices that caused the project to be stalled for years, Col Winthai said the Department of Special Investigation would continue to investigate the issue in order to prosecute those responsible.

14 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

www.vietnambreakingnews.com

Vietnam shames large international contractors

Vietnam’s transport ministry has published its third annual list of shame, which ranks its construction suppliers according to their performances on government contracts—and it’s not good news for Chinese and Korean contractors. The government included 475 contractors in its latest list. Of these, 57 were identified as not meeting its requirements and will excluded from further public sector contracts. Among them were some of the region’s biggest players, including some of the leading firms in South Korea and China.

Among the underperforming Chinese firms were Guangxi Construction Engineering Group, China Road and Bridge Corporation, Zhongxing Telecommunication and China Railway Sixth Group. China Railway was deemed to be responsible for problems with the Cat Linh elevated railway in Hanoi, which exceeded its budget by $339m, or 61% of the contract price. Among the Korean firms named were the Asan-based Keangnam, a general contractor which has built up a large presence outside its home base,

particularly in Sri Lanka. It had been hired to construct an expressway to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, but failed to raise the funds it said it would during the bidding process, and relied instead on monthly disbursements from its investors. It then delayed work while trying to find cheap Vietnamese subcontractors, workers and equipment. The ministry began publishing its annual ranking in 2012 in response to its frustration with a number of underperforming contracts. In that year some 383 contractors were named as meeting the client’s requirements, and 35 were described as “average”. Firms are judged on their ability to mobilise staff and equipment, follow schedules, guarantee safety, settle payments and provide an after-sales service. Several Vietnamese state-owned firms also made the black list, including Civil Construction Engineering Corporation, the Vietnam Waterway Construction and Vietnam Construction and Import-Export. One issue of more immediate concern to Chinese firms than the displeasure of the Vietnamese government is the safety of its workers in the current wave of antiChinese sentiment sweeping the country. It has been revealed that four construction workers for Chinese firm Metallurgical Corp were killed in last month’s riots. This is double the number of fatalities previously confirmed by the Vietnamese and Chinese governments. David Rogers

Bina Puri secures RM281.5m Brunei housing project

www.binapuri.com.my

Bina Puri Holdings Bhd won a RM281.50mil contract for a housing development project in Brunei. The company said its unit Bina Puri (B) Sdn Bhd has accepted the letter of acceptance for the tender from the Brunei government’s Housing and Development Ministry. The scope of the contract is to undertake the earthworks, infrastructure and units within 24 months. “With this latest award, the group’s unbuilt book order stands at RM2.09bil as at to date. The management is confident to secure more projects for the year 2014,” it said.

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

international reports

Cambodia’s Parliament OKs Dam Compensation Plan Cambodia’s energy minister allayed concerns in parliament over inadequate compensation offered to villagers who face relocation for a proposed China-backed dam on a Mekong River tributary, saying the government has allocated to villagers more than four times the area taken over for the project. Minister of Mines and Energy Suy Sem was summoned to the National Assembly to answer questions on government policy related to the 400 megawatt Lower Sesan 2 hydropower dam, which would be constructed along the Sesan River in northeast Cambodia’s Stung Treng province. Villagers campaigning against the dam have expressed concern about compensation for being displaced by the project, which they say would also destroy protected forest areas, kill rare fish, and negatively impact local ethnic minority culture. National Assembly spokesperson Chheang Von said that lawmakers on the whole accepted Suy Sem’s two-and-a-half hour explanation of plans to compensate villagers, the dam’s construction process and its impact on the environment. But he cautioned that the dam’s developers should stick to their proposed plans. “The villagers who agreed to be relocated have made

VND 100 billion for rural construction

Suy Sem speaks to reporters at the National Assembly in Phnom Penh, June 19, 2014. a big sacrifice and we must repay them,” he said. He added that around 910 hectares (2,250 acres) of villagers’ land will be affected by the project, but the government has reserved about 4,060 hectares (10,030 acres) as compensation.

Continued protests

But despite Suy Sem’s reassurances that the compensation needs of relocated villagers would be met, many of those who will be displaced by the dam’s constructions have continued to hold out and refuse government offers. Some of them wanted to remain on their traditional land while others felt that the offered land was less valuable. “They can’t leave their ancestors land, so there is no solution,” he said. A village official named Sek Mekong said that residents had refused government offers since December because terms were “vague” and compensation “fell short of market price.” He said that if the government continues to push the same policy, he would refuse to participate in relocation talks.

Call for halt

Illustrative photo Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee has just decided to allocate VND 100 billion from preferential credit loan 2014 for 17 communes that would reach all criteria of new rural areas by 2015. The capital will be used to implement projects of canals improvement, rural traffic roads, water-pump station for agricultural production, infrastructure investment for aquaculture, craft villages and cement for targeted communes to concrete their rural roads. Accordingly, VND 66 billion will be allocated to 17 communes of Binh Son , Son Tinh, Tu Nghia, Mo Duc, Duc Pho, Nghia Hanh and Quang Ngai city. quangngai

16 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

In December, villagers living along Mekong River tributaries in northeastern Cambodia protested in front of the Chinese Embassy in the capital Phnom Penh calling on the authorities to scrap three proposed China-backed dam projects, including the Lower Sesan 2, citing environmental and other concerns. Residents of riparian communities along the Sesan, Sekong and Srepok rivers presented a petition to the embassy detailing the plight of the 75,000 people they say could be directly affected by the proposed dams. The petition called on Chinese Ambassador Bu Jianguo to stop Chinese companies Hydrolancang International Energy and Hounan Group from building the Lower Sesan 2, which is to be constructed in conjunction with Cambodian conglomerate Royal Group. The petition called on the Chinese authorities to also scrap two proposed, 300 megawatt dams in Ratanakiri—the Lower Sesan 3 dam to be developed by China’s Sinohydro Resources and the Srepok 3 dam undertaken by Huadian Hong Kong Co. Ltd. Land-clearing preparations for the Lower Sesan 2, which were started in March last year, were suspended by the government in October, but Suy Sem’s visit to parliament suggests the project may go forward.

Yeang Socheameta and Samean Yun/ RFA’s Khmer Service.

www.rfa.org

China Filling with Empty Homes In China, where economists often encounter extraordinary statistics, the number of empty homes has reached astronomical heights. This month, a national survey by China’s Southwestern University of Finance and Economics estimated that nearly 49 million residences in urban areas have been left unoccupied, based on a vacancy rate of 22.4 percent last year. The results mean that the number of dwellings sitting empty in China could house the entire populations of leading U.S. cities including New York, Los Angeles and Chicago combined. The new survey contacted 28,000 households in 29 provinces, the South China Morning Post reported. The high vacancy rate of sold homes is a sign of the scale of China’s building boom and the troubles that a downturn may cause. The vacancy rate has been rising while the proportion of urban families seeking first homes has been falling, said the study by the Survey and Research Center for China Household Finance at the university in Chengdu. In 2011, the empty-home share in urban areas stood at 20.6 percent, while vacancy rates have climbed as high as 27.6 percent in second and third-tier cities since then. Also in 2011, 28.2 percent of families in the survey wanted to buy a first home, compared with just 22.2 percent in the first quarter of this year. Official analysts have tended to reflect awareness rather than alarm. “Based on our research, the risks from the property market

are still controllable,” said Li Yang, vice president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, quoted by the official Englishlanguage China Daily. Prominent property developers have been more pessimistic. “I think China’s property market is like the Titanic and it will soon hit an iceberg in front of it,” said Pan Shiyi, chairman of Soho China Ltd. The slight April-to-May price dip of 0.15 percent was the first in over a year. A steeper stumble in sales was seen in Beijing, where transactions in the first five months of the year plunged 34.9 percent, according to the municipal bureau of statistics.

Even if prices of unoccupied homes fall to within a more marketable range, the volume far exceeds the estimated demand of 32.5 million units from first-time buyers and up graders, the household survey said. Despite the cautionary signals, developers have kept building, investing and relying on the government’s ambitious urbanization plan that would shift some 100 million rural residents to cities by 2020. “Fundamentally, they’ve got to slow down the construction process and allow this inventory to be taken up by people who are going to live there. That’s something that’s going to take a while,” said Jorgenson, estimating that an adjustment could take eighteen months to two years. The housing stock may also continue to swell at the lower end, thanks to the government’s goal of adding 7 million affordable housing units this year. In early June, the Ministry of Housing and UrbanRural Development said construction had already started on 2.86 million units. While the vacancy issue may appear to be a problem primarily for developers and property owners, it is linked to a series of challenges for China as it struggles to get industrial overcapacity, pollution and energy waste under control. “It’s all part of the same picture,” Jorgenson said. “China has a lot of surplus capacity. There’s been excessive investment and this is only gradually being taken up by growth in consumption.” “You can’t have an economy in which you’re investing 50 percent of the national product without getting a lot of excess capacity in every dimension, and that’s exactly what’s happened in China,” he said. Michael Lelyveld

Thailand Five dual-track railway lines proposed State Railway of Thailand (SRT) governor Prapas Chongsanguan has called on the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) to help speed up the environmental impact assessment for five dual-track railway lines so the projects can be undertaken more quickly. Prapas said he met with the NCPO which inquired about the railway projects of the past government. The SRT and the NCPO agreed that the double-track railway projects should be accelerated as they would play important roles in national logistics, he said. The NCPO also questioned him about obstacles hindering the projects and he replied that environmental impact assessment should completed more quickly up for quick implementation. Prapas said that accelerating the environmental impact assessment would not result in a negative impact and that the country would benefit from the quick construction of dual-track railways. Negative environmental impacts could be prevented with scientific solutions, he said. MCOT online news

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Construction stocks rise in anticipation of infrastructure projects revived under junta

www.juta.co.uk

Rai-Chiang Kong, 326km; Ban Pai-Maha Sarakham-Roi Et-Mukdahan-Nakhon Phanom, 347km; and Ban Pachi-Nakhon Luang, 15km. The second pillar involves the publictransport system in Greater Bangkok (10 routes), while the third pillar is intraregional and inter-provincial roads.

Blue-chip stocks related to construction have experienced a robust gain in trading over the past few weeks in response to the ruling junta’s moves on economic reform, including the Bt3-trillion infrastructure project. According to Stock Exchange of Thailand data, Italian-Thai Development has rallied by 34 per cent over the past two weeks An analyst at Finansia Syrus Securities said the ITD rally followed reports on the country’s economic reform plan and investment road map. Prominent projects like railway double-tracking and masstransit extensions were included. The Transport Ministry has drawn up the outline of a Bt3-trillion eight-year (201522) investment plan for infrastructure projects. Most are in line with the ministry’s previous plan that focused on transport and logistics, such as double-track railways, mass-transit trains and improvements of highways and ports. The ministry will forward this strategy to the deputy chief of the ruling National Council for Peace and Order, Air Chief Marshal Prajin Juntong, who is in charge of economic affairs, next Thursday. This strategy consists of five pillars. First is the railways, including the inter-city lines, with five routes getting double tracking worth Bt116 billion. The five routes are Lop Buri-Paknampo, 148 kilometres worth Bt24 billion; Map Kabao-Nakhon Ratchasima, 132km, Bt29 billion; Jira Road-Khon Kaen, 185km, Bt26 billion; Nakhon Pathom-Hua Hin, 165km, Bt20 billion; and Prachuap Khiri

Khan-Chumphon, 167km, Bt17 billion. The railway development strategy also includes the double-tracking of six more routes with total length of 1,364km worth Bt140 billion. They are Hua Hin-Prachuap Khiri Khan, 90km in length; ChumphonSurat Thani, 167km; Surat Thani-Padang Besar, 339km; Paknampo-Den Chai, 285km, Khon Kaen-Nong Khai, 174km; and Jira Road-Ubon Ratchathani, 309km. It also embraces three new double-track routes with total length of 696km worth Bt120 billion, which are Den Chai-Chiang

The fourth pillar is waterway projects such as deep-sea ports. The fifth one is aviation projects such as development of the second phase of the Suvarnabhumi Airport and the procurement of aircraft by Thai Airways International. The development of this pillar is divided into three phases. The first phase, which will begin next year and cover both feasibility studies and the start of construction, is worth Bt210 billion. The second phase in 2016-17 and will mostly cover newly developed projects worth Bt170 billion, while some will be projects carried on from the first phase. The third phase will begin in 2018. Separately, NCPO chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha said after a meeting with 36 relevant agencies on Thursday that he had instructed them to reprioritise the previous government’s Bt350-billion water management projects to be in accordance with the 11th National Economic and Social Development Plan. The projects should be in line with His Majesty the King’s idea of water management, he told them.

Long Thanh Airport Construction to begin in 2015 Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung has given approval for work on the Long Thanh International Airport near Ho Chi Minh City to start in 2015. Based on plans drawn up by Japan Airport Consultants Inc, the first of its three phases will be finished in 2020 with two runways, a terminal that can serve 25 million passengers a year, a cargo terminal with a capacity of 1.2 million tons, parking space for 34 aircraft, and other facilities. The runways will be large enough for giant aircraft like the Airbus A380. The first phase is expected to cost more than US$6.7 billion, including nearly $700 million for land. The second phase, to be finished in 2030, will see one more runway built and capacity increased to 50 million passengers and 1.5 million tons of goods. After 2030, following the final phase, the airport will have four runways and four terminals that can handle 100 million passengers and 5 million tons of cargo. The PM wants the Ministry of Planning and Investment to obtain an ODA loan from Japan to do the project’s feasibility study. Long Thanh Airport will replace Tan Son Nhat Airport in HCMC as the country’s largest international airport, handling 90 percent of international flights and 20 percent of domestic flights, the Ministry of Transport said. After 2035 Tan Son Nhat may be used as a standby airport, it added. Tuoi Tre

18 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

Giant Cambodia Development Waits for Chinese Buyers There is an island in Cambodia that is waiting for Chinese property buyers. Koh Pich — Diamond Island in English — a 100-hectare, or about 250-acre, spit of land hugging downtown Phnom Penh’s shoreline, will be home to more than 1,000 condominiums, hundreds of villas, two international schools, a replica of the Arc de Triomphe, a near-clone of Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands Hotel and one of the world’s tallest buildings. But in a city with a history of stalled real estate projects, the future of the island, in the Mekong River, is far from certain. Even as mainland Chinese property investors have pushed prices up in Hong Kong, London and Vancouver, they are also injecting piles of cash into smaller cities, including Yangon, Myanmar; Chiang Mai, Thailand; and Vientiane, Laos. Phnom Penh, a city of nearly two million, is no different. “Mainland Chinese, especially Shanghainese, are very impressive,” said Um Bun An, sales manager at Casa Meridian, a development that, when completed in 2017, will feature two 33-story condominium towers. “They don’t need loans. They make their purchases in cash.” With street signs featuring the simplified Chinese characters used on China’s mainland (elsewhere in Phnom Penh street signs are in Khmer and English only) and sales executives fluent in Mandarin, Diamond Island seems ripe for Chinese investment. Eight years ago, the entire island was handed over to the local conglomerate, the Overseas Cambodia Investment Corporation, which in Mandarin calls itself the Cambodia Overseas Chinese-Cambodian Investment CorporationTouch Samnang, the corporation’s deputy chief executive, also declined to discuss terms of the deal. The group has sold several plots on the island

to developers for projects, including Casa Meridian, the gated villa development Elite Town, the pedestrian mall La Seine and The Élysée, a proposed mixed-use project that is to include a replica of the Arc de Triomphe. After Cambodia passed a law in 2010 allowing foreigners to buy condominiums in towers above the first floor of approved buildings, developers in Phnom Penh have begun catering to growing foreign demand. A report in March noted that 20 condominium projects had been completed or were under construction. The island’s largest such project is the

$700 million Diamond Island Riviera: three 33-story condominium towers supporting a 650-foot infinity-edge pool, a shopping mall, hospital, an international school, two pedestrian shopping streets — plus two additional 29-story condominium towers. In a nod to Chinese superstition, which considers the number four unlucky, the buildings will not have 4th, 14th, 24th or 34th floors. Diamond Island Riviera is a joint venture between O.C.I.C. and the Chinese company Jixiang Investment on a prime plot with the island’s best river view. O.C.I.C. sold the land for “close to $100 million.” The project has many ties to China’s growing overseas construction industry, which in 2013 included 22 of the world’s top 100 international contractors by revenue,

according to the industry journal Engineering News-Record. A local subsidiary of China State Construction Engineering Corporation China’s largest nonrailway construction contractor, which had more than $81 billion in revenue in 2012, is building the 900-condo development. The Vietnambased Sino-Pacific Construction, a 100 percent foreign-invested consultancy with upper management from China and Taiwan, is in charge of the project’s structural design. The Chinese company Guangzhou Sunho Decoration is responsible for interior design, and A-Seven of Thailand is handling architectural design. Yao Jiguo, the construction company’s project manager for Diamond Island Riviera, said it had plans for additional projects. “We want to establish the mainland brand here, the China Construction brand,” Mr. Yao said. Yao estimated that the Riviera project’s first two condo towers would be finished in 2016. Diamond Island is unlikely to become the Chinatown that the Phnom Penh government has long hoped would attract more mainland tourists. Despite the Chinese money flowing into the island’s projects, Chinese tourists and residents are not a common sight in that part of the city. Much remains to be built. Land is being reclaimed at the island’s north end for Phnom Penh’s most ambitious project, a mixed-use tower topping out at 1,820 feet. If built, it would be one of the world’s tallest structures. Mr. Touch said the tower was still in the design stage, and that the land would need to settle for one or two years after reclamation work was finished. Limited demand from Cambodia’s relatively small wealthy class and a heavy reliance on foreign investment has some observers questioning the viability of the projects. Chris Norton

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Singaporean minister calls for use of robots on construction

The sketch of Ninh Thuan nuclear power plant. Photo: Khaw Boon Wan’s Housing Matters blog

National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan has suggested construction firms embrace the use of robots in order to improve productivity and cut down on labour costs. He mentioned as example the potential for robots developed within the country to be used to tile floors. “Robotics is not new, but we hardly see them in our construction sites,” said Khaw, adding that the country’s Building and Construction Authority would be happy to provide funding support to promote their use. The Singapore-ETH Centre Future Cities Laboratory (FCL) and ROB Technologies have created a working prototype of an automated floor tiling Machine, which Mr Khaw said can lay tiles two-to-three times faster and more accurately than human tilers. In a post on his blog, Housing Matters, Khaw said that if they were to become commercially available, the robots could work alongside humans by doing some of the menial tasks while humans do some of the higher-value work like grouting and cutting tiles to fit room edges. “The arithmetic is impressive. While it takes two masons two working days to complete a 3-room flat, the same two masons in two working days can do four such flats, if they have the help of four robots. This is a four-fold jump in productivity!” He added that the use of robots could also cut the number of workplace accidents. Michael Fahy

Vietnam to delay construction of 1st nuclear power plant The construction of the first nuclear power plant in Vietnam is likely to be delayed until 2020 instead of its previous schedule in 2014. Le Tuan Phong, deputy director general of the general directorate of energy under Vietnam’s ministry of trade and industry (MoIT), said that in order to ensure the safety and efficient exploitation of the nuclear power plant, the MoIT is considering to propose the government to postpone the project. Experts said that the delay will help Vietnam have more time to prepare carefully for the project, particularly human resource training. Minister Nguyen Quan said that “For enhancing safety, the construction will be delayed until 2025, then the first turbine may be put into operation.” Earlier during a conference on implementing tasks for Vietnam National Oil and Gas Group (PetroVietnam) in 2014 in Hanoi, Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung asked the group to ensure the supply of gas for the operation of the 5,000 MW electric stations to replace the expected 4,000 MW from nuclear power, as the construction of the Ninh Thuan 1 could be postponed, reported local online VNEconomy. .Vietnam plans to build the two first nuclear power plants in Ninh Thuan, with the help of Russia for the first plant and Japan for the second. According to the initial plant, the construction of the Ninh Thuan 1, with a design capacity of 2,000MW was scheduled to get off the ground in Phuoc Dinh commune, Thuan Nam district, in 2014 and and it will begin operation in 2020. Consortium of Russian and Ukrainian consultants E4-KIEP-EPT has already selected a construction site for Ninh Thuan 1, and it is currently working on an appraisal dossier and investment projects for submission to the government. After the 2011 Fukushima incident, the government asked consultants to supplement earthquake resistant solutions and adjust the location of the plant, thus resulting in longer preparations than initially expected. Earlier, during the visit of Yukiya Amano, general director of IAEA to Ninh Thuan the IAEA chief said there should be good preparation for safety, security and sustainability of the construction of the nuclear power plant and the country should not be hurried. Amano said that the building of the first nuclear power plants usually takes 10-15 years. However, time is not the main issue for Vietnam, but its careful preparation for this project. “Vietnam should not hurry because this is a big project with a country that does not have experience in nuclear power development,” said Yukiya Amano. Ninh Thuan 1, set to be Vietnam’s first nuclear power plant, is to be built in collaboration with Russian company Atomstroyexport. Xinhua

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Construction on Laos’s Mekong dams faces lawsuits and political pressure In a gesture likely aimed at placating its neighbors, Laos has agreed to submit its second Mekong River dam to the regional consultation process it sidestepped last year. But experts say Laos is nowhere close to abandoning the dam and another it’s building on the Mekong. Environmental groups say these projects threaten the livelihood of tens of millions of people who depend on the mighty river. “I fear that this will, at the best, only delay the construction by six months,” Marc Goichot, who works for environmental group WWF’s Greater Mekong program on sustainable hydropower, told Thanh Nien News. “There are not yet any signs that the proponents of the project are taking seriously the concerns voiced by other Mekong riparian governments,” he said, adding that

22 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

he believes the Lao government is unlikely to reconsider the project. Last September, Laos announced that it would embark on the Don Sahong project, the second of 11 dams planned by Laos on the lower reaches of the 4,900-kilometer (3,045-mile)-long Mekong, which is second only to the Amazon in terms of biodiversity. Work on the Don Sahong dam is slated to

“

Most dams have been relatively uncontroversial because they have been on tributaries. Don Sahong and Xayaburi are controversial because they are on the Mekong itself

”

begin in December at a site less than two kilometers from the Cambodian border, according to Lao officials. Environmental groups have warned that the 260-megawatt dam threatens to block the only channel that currently allows year-round fish migrations on a large scale and will certainly wipe out one of the last populations of endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. Laos, which shrugged off those concerns altogether, has also been at odds with its riparian neighbors -- particularly Vietnam and Cambodia -- over the project’s prior consultation (e.g. regional decision-making) process. Laos maintains that it need only notify its neighbors of its intent to build the dam because it is located neither in the tributary nor on the mainstream of the Mekong. It’s downstream neighbors, however, have demanded that the consultation process take place before the dam is built, citing its trans-boundary impacts. Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia are bound by a 1995 Mekong treaty that requires each signatory to hold inter-governmental consultations before damming the river. No single country has veto powers and Laos will have the final say on whether or not to proceed. At a regional meeting of the Mekong River Commission -- a regional body

established to coordinate dam projects on the river -- Laos said it would agree to resubmit the Don Sahong project to the prior consultation process. But environmentalists say they view the process as a diplomatic formality. A recent site visit by International Rivers, a California-based environmental group, has confirmed that construction work towards the Don Sahong dam in southern Laos has continued despite opposition from neighboring governments and ongoing calls for regional consultation. The site visit held in early June confirmed that workers have begun construction of a bridge connecting the mainland to Don Sadam Island, the group said. The bridge will create an access route for construction on the Hou Sahong Channel, it added. “One has to wonder how sincere a consultation process is when infrastructure in support of the project is being put into place at the same time,” said Ian Baird, an expert on Laos and specialist on hydropower dams and fisheries at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

‘Laos has few resources’

In November 2012, Laos broke ground on the US$3.8-billion 1,260-megawatt Xayaburi dam project despite vehement objections from environmental groups and its neighbors who said the 810-meter (2,600ft) dam would unleash massive ecological changes on a river that feeds around 60 million people. The project is now 40 percent complete, according to Lao officials. Opponents of the Xayaburi and Don Sahong projects said their commencement would usher in the construction of the 9 other dams planned by Laos on the Mekong. The river begins in the Tibetan plateau and flows through China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam before emptying into the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea). At that time, Laos prematurely insisted that the prior consultation process on the Xayaburi project was already over, which drew sharp criticism from three other Mekong nations. Since then, the four countries have failed to agree on whether or not the process is still ongoing. “The failure to reach consensus was interpreted by Laos as a green light to move ahead with construction of the Xayaburi dam,” Goichot said. “We cannot see any signs that this will be different for Don Sahong.” Landlocked Laos plans to become the “battery of Southeast Asia” by exporting the vast majority of its power - mostly to Thailand - and has promoted the Xayaburi dam as a potential source of income and

investment that will spur its small economy. “Laos has few resources. Hydroelectricity is one, and the Lao government is determined to exploit it,” said Martin Stuart-Fox, a Laos expert at the University of Queensland in Australia. “Most dams have been relatively uncontroversial because they have been on tributaries. Don Sahong and Xayaburi are controversial because they are on the Mekong itself,” he said. “From the Lao point of view, why should they be prevented from exploiting the river?” But on the bright side, the concession made by Laos has come at a convenient juncture for environmental groups and activists. Reuters reported that a Thai court agreed to hear a lawsuit against state-owned Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and four other state bodies for agreeing to buy electricity from the Xayaburi project. Thailand plans to buy around 95 percent of the electricity generated by the massive mainstream dam. Villagers from Thai provinces near the Mekong petitioned the Administrative Court in 2012 to suspend a power purchasing agreement signed by EGAT and Laos’s Xayaburi Power Company Limited, but the court ruled it had no jurisdiction to hear the case. That decision was reversed when the Supreme Administrative Court sided with villagers, who are demanding full environmental and health impact assessments. “[If] the power purchase agreement is suspended or cancelled, it will be financially risky for the developer to proceed with construction on the Xayaburi Dam as there will be no buyer for the dam’s electricity,” said Ame Trandem, Southeast Asia program director for International Rivers. A growing civil society movement against dam construction has taken hold throughout the region. Meanwhile, Vietnam and Cambodia have reiterated their calls for a 10-year moratorium on all dam construction on the Mekong’s mainstream. Numerous studies have underlined the threat the dam poses to Vietnam’s Mekong Delta (the world’s rice basket) which is already sinking and shrinking. Activists say that although it is still not too late to halt the dams and devise a plan to promote the sustainable development of the Mekong, success in doing so would hinge on the political will of governments to make sound scientific decisions before forging ahead with any more dam construction. If the dam-building binge continues unchecked, “Vietnam, as the most downstream country, has probably the most to lose, but millions of people in Cambodia Laos and Thailand are also at risk,” Goichot said. An Dien/ Thanh Nien News

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

cover story

Ecomac Introduces Sturdy Concrete Mixer Trucks and Hydraulic Breakers By Choy S. Gaerlan

Tough looking construction tankers, ably transporting huge loads, especially built for extremely harsh conditions and do daunting tasks in big and rough construction sites—machines that easily turn overwhelming obstacles into manageable tasks—and still look good after. Just like CIMC concrete mixer trucks that spell tough and striking durability even at a glance, with their steel components designed for longer service life, “1.5 times more than average.”

24 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

ow about solid-looking, heavy-duty construction drills that relentlessly carve out land size and shape and split huge rocks to pieces or pierce through the earth creating great depths? Just like Feel hydraulic breakers made with “cutting edge technology” able to do any excavation or demolition job with ease, accuracy, and less noise. Ecomac’s Newest Product Lines The China International Marine Containers (CIMC) mixer trucks and Feel Industrial Engineering Company, Ltd (Feel) hydraulic breakers are two of Ecomac’s new product introductions to the construction industry in the country. Together, they are seen to significantly improve construction drilling and concrete mixing processes to expedite the more laborious, soiled, first-phase aspects of construction—excavation and concreting. Ecomac Equipment and Development Corp. or EEDC deals with heavy equipment sales and rental and is reportedly “the Philippines’ premier supplier and importer of heavy equipment from Japan and other Asian countries.” CIMC Concrete Mixer Truck Considered among CIMC’s successfully launched “100 types of special-purpose automobiles in three series,” manufacture of this concrete mixer truck benefits from the latest German and Japanese mounting technology in conjunction with the technical know-how of major chassis producers in China, plus imported hydraulic systems from manufacturers popular worldwide.

Luoyang CIMC Linyu Automobile Company, Ltd., a “backbone” enterprisepartner of CIMC, has been in the automobile manufacturing industry for over 40 years, and CIMC says Linyu series of special-purpose vehicles—including its concrete mixer trucks—enjoy state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. For instance, their structural parts are “all treated with phosphate process and shot-blasting pre-treatment” with the application of “advanced spot welding equipment and girth weld tooling (that) significantly improve welding quality,” adds CIMC. CIMC itself brags of being “the largest container manufacturer in the world.” Moreover, production of this mixer truck is applied with “large-scale wide tailor-weld and plate-bender (that) improve production efficiency.” In addition, even the premium painting and coating done on it allow for a “highquality bus-baking varnish standard” that makes the truck look good “with bright appearance and strong stainless ability” even after a frenetic and arduous day at the field. Truck Body Strength To easily cope with the extreme demands of mammoth construction projects, Linyu series of concrete mixer trucks follows European manufacturing standards which generally focus on attractive design, cogent structure and sure performance. According to CIMC, all body parts are assembled with the appropriate steel type for sturdy construction, and the steel is provided only by the best steel manufacturers, resulting in a service life longer than what average mixer trucks offer. Each body part is painstakingly fitted accurately through the use of the “CNC plasma equipment and leading international fixtures (to) ensure that accuracy of the parts.” CNC automatic welding production lines, in turn, ensure weld strength. Furthermore, Consequently, Linyu mixer trucks have a mixing capacity of “three-20 m3 all-volume products” and “mainly adopts Dongfeng, Sinotruk, Shacman, Auman, Faw, C&C Truck, Jac, Hongyan, Bei Ben, Dayun, Hino, Mitsubishi and Isuzu chassis (using) special upper tank projects for special chassis” creating a reasonable match.

Features • Control System - uses 3-point control mode, namely the control stick on both rear sides plus the in-cab device for easy and convenient drum control. • Hydraulic Driving System – uses international top brands in hydraulic driving, namely German, American and Italian, resulting to the integral structure and excellent performance. • Water Supply System – uses various water volume capacities. Water is directly supplied for mixing or cleaning. It has large water pipes and various feeding solutions using air pressure, reducer pump, or electronic pump, to name a few choices. • Blade Anti-Wear Protection – because

mixer blades do most of the concrete aggregate mixing, blades are of modified logarithmic helical curve and parts are treated with antiwear protection. This prolongs blade usability and synchronizes eventual blade and drum wear. • Blade Strength – blades are made using a special cold-forming pressing molder. They are welded into the drum “by a new welding process without obvious trace.” • Humanization Design – fitted with a powerful tail working lamp at the back part of the truck to assist workers at night. This aids in a safe working environment. It has steel ladder with reasonable handrail for safe climbing when checking drum top. This feature also includes self-locking in-cab for operational smoothness and security, plus remote operation capability, water metering, and drum-mouth seal, to mention a few.

Feel Hydraulic Breakers There’s probably no way to stop this hydraulic breaker from doing tough demolition and perforation jobs, with its special design to render “the longest service life due to applied high technology”—and to think that this is said of just one small detail of the drill, which is the through bolts used on Feel hydraulic breakers. Feel drills have other interesting distinguishing characteristics that make them above par from competitors. Actually, durable hydraulic breakers are just among Feel’s quality construction equipments “needed in the new millennium,” manufactured and developed “to exceed our customers’ expectations.” And for the new millennium of heavy construction, the innovative company includes only the best in its product line. This includes the Excavator Rock Drill; Demolition Crusher, Pulverizer and Metal Shear; Hydraulic Sheet Pile Driver and Side-Grip; Hydraulic Compactor; Hydraulic Quick Coupler; Hydraulic Grab Series; and Hydraulic Rotary Cutter. Features Consider the following features of this hydraulic breaker: • It has a specially designed hole for autogrease function. • Through-supply air is provided for underwater drilling works. • The valve adjuster enables efficient manual control of oil

flow. • The external valve system is made easy to maintain. • It has an accumulator for surefire protection of base machine pump during high pressures, providing shock absorbing properties. And speaking of the latter, the Upper-Damper feature provides added durability during shock absorption. • Piston stroke power is accumulated through the use of charged nitrogen gas. • The cylinder adjuster manages blow impact made by the piston action. • The carefully designed piston dimensions and the unique steel quality used allow for longer service life. • Auto-stop feature protects impact area

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

cover story

“

modular design and assembly line operation keep product quality consistency.

”

Hydraulic BreakerSilenceseries

Hydraulic Breaker Bracket-Side

Hydaraulic BreakerBracet-top

during blank fire working. • Minimized cylinder parts for easy and economical maintenance. • The front cover is easily replaceable and the special material used for it protects against wear and tear. • Working tool ensures good performance and economical use of the hydraulic breaker. Users generally have 4 tool options: the Blunt-End for reducing oversizes; the InLine Chisel for digging, narrow trenching or demolishing concrete; the Wedge Chisel also for digging, narrow trenching or concrete demolition; and the Moil Point Type for mining application and other uses. Feel proudly claims that their hydraulic breakers “have been proving their power and efficiency in any demolishing jobs.” Moreover, the hydraulic breaker uses special steel—Hadox—that minimizes shock and makes possible underwater drilling jobs. FINE Hydraulic Breakers FEEL deals with a “worldwide network of FINE products” portrayed as quality, competitive, reasonably priced and delivered on time. Combining the names, clients using the drills are bound to FEEL FINE with them. Here are some product features:

26 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

Noise-Less Drillers A special Feel drill model provides clients with a “silenced” FINE Hydraulic Breaker X-Series that uses an “adapted power mechanism combined with hydraulic pressure and nitrogen gas.” The “adapted piston idle-blow prevention function” is a standard in this model. Moreover, the number of drill parts is put to a minimum for easier and more practical maintenance. Consequently, the overall effect is reduced drill vibration so that users enjoy lesser noise even during heavy-duty drilling jobs. Furthermore, this silenced X-Series reportedly incurs lower operating cost albeit improving impact strength. Overall, it is of a more powerful and durable make, owing much to its less vibration property and minimized parts. Bracket-Top and Bracket-Side Breakers Another FINE hydraulic breaker models are the Bracket-Top and Bracket-Side breakers. The bracket-top features an additional blank firing protection system that safeguards the piston for more durability. It also uses an “adapted piston idle-blow prevention function” as a standard. The bracket-side type, on the other hand, affords convenience through easy transport even with its machine base. It is “specially designed and developed to be mounted on excavators in Asia.” Among its special features is the nonuse of side bolts for easy maintenance. Thus, it is more economical compared to other brands. Specifications To get an idea of FINE breaker specifications, here is a summary of what can be expected: Feel-Fine hydraulic breakers are categorized according to operating weight (expressed in kilograms and pounds), overall height (in mm and inch), operating pressure (in bar and psi), required oil flow (in lpm and gpm), impact rate (in bpm), impact power (in joule and ft-lb), tool diameter (in mm and inch), hose diameter (in mm and inch) and suitable excavator (in ton and pounds). FINE drill models are specific for particular drilling job requirements such that users can choose the accurate size and capacity apt for every drilling situation. To date, there are 19 models for Hydraulic Breaker (Silenced) Close-Type X-Series, 14 models for the Side Bracket – Side Type, and 16 for Top Bracket – Open Type.

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Designâ&#x20AC;&#x192;

contractor’s profile

Century Spire By: Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

It started with a meeting in Berlin, Germany when Century Properties Group chairman and chief executive officer Ambassador Jose E.B. Antonio met world renowned architect Daniel Libeskind in Jewish Memorial Museum while vacationing with his wife in Europe. Ambassador Antonio told the Polish-born architect that he wished that he could plan and design one of the company’s projects. Finally, on May 28, 2014, Century Properties Group launched the residential tower Century Spire in collaboration Libeskind in a grand event that boosted the company’s reputation as a marquee property developer in the country. “Daniel Libeskind’s design brings another dimension to Century City. He has given us something really iconic in Century Spire. This building will not only change the architectural landscape of Makati, but will likewise elevate the Philippines’ image as a world-class destination,” he said. “It is a privilege to work with a visionary like Daniel Libeskind. Together with Armani/Casa, he will set the bar even higher for condominium design in the Philippines through Century Spire,” said Robbie Antonio,

28 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

“

It is a privilege to work with a visionary like Daniel Libeskind. Together with Armani/ Casa, he will set the bar even higher for condominium design in the Philippines through Century Spire

”

---- Robbie Antonio

request, residential apartments can be delivered with full Armani/Casa interior design, finish and furniture as a special commission. “I am delighted to be part of a project destined to reshape Manila’s skyline and to make a bold and optimistic statement about the future of the Philippines,” said Libeskind. Born in Łód´z, Poland in 1946, Libeskind was recognized as a musical genius at a young age before becoming an architect. He was a recipient of several awards and designed many worldrenowned projects including the Jewish Museum in Berlin, the Denver Art Museum, the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, the Military History Museum in Dresden, and the Ground Zero Memorial in New York.

He is committed to broaden the scope of architecture by integrating philosophy, art, literature and music. His architectural vision underscores the notion that buildings are crafted with perceptible human energy and address the cultural context in which they are built. Libeskind teaches and lectures at universities across the world and lives in New York City with his wife and business partner, Nina Libeskind. “I am very happy with this collaboration, and I think that the combination of my vision with that of Daniel Libeskind will lead to the creation of a truly special place, characterized by elegance and a unique charm,” said Giorgio Armani, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Armani Group, in a press statement.

Century Properties Managing Director and Century Spire Project Head, and son of Ambassador Antonio. Furthermore, the younger Antonio said the market has responded positively as pre-sales have reached 64 percent five months after company has formally launched the project. Century Spire, located at Century City, a master-planned development of premiere residential, office and commercial buildings in Kalayaan Avenue, Makati City. It is scheduled for completion in 2018. As a project that exudes a grandiose image, Century Spire will definitely be beautiful addition to the landscape of the 3.4-hectare Century City, a masterplanned community of branded residential towers, a modern mall, and soon, an ITmedical arts building. It is also as a project that will reshape the Makati skyline with its unique sophisticated design.

LOBBY

Obviously positioned for the highend market with a price of P250, 000 per square meter, it will have a stellar group of people led by New York-based Libeskind as the principal designer of the common spaces and amenities. Meanwhile, the Armani/Casa Interior Design Studio has provided complete interior design services to private individuals and property developers since 2003 under the artistic direction of Giorgio Armani. For Century Spire, it is responsible for the design of common spaces and amenities, which include the grand lobby, library, swimming pool with juice bar and relaxation area, as well as the spa, gym, and fitness areas. In addition, on

POOL

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

contractor’s profile

“

I am very happy with this collaboration, and I think that the combination of my vision with that of Daniel Libeskind will lead to the creation of a truly special place, characterized by elegance and a unique charm

”

----Giorgio Armani

Century Spire will be composed of more than 500 residential units that are divided into eight different types, from suites to penthouses. The largest and most prestigious apartments will be located on the tower’s top floors.

the crown also serves to provide more floor space for the spacious, light-filled penthouses with spectacular views of the surrounding city and Manila Bay. The slim tower profile at the base of the building provides a benefit as well by maximizing public space to the east of the tower, for a new, landscaped public plaza. The diagonally braced structure of the Century Spire creates distinctive spaces and floor plans, and a fully glazed façade opens up the interiors to light and views. The tower is clad in a semi-reflective glass curtain wall, articulated with balconies and terraces that create a rhythmic geometric pattern on the facade. The tower’s lower third will be dedicated to office space, and the upper floors will be residential comprised of

penthouses, duplexes, suites and onetwo- and three-bedroom apartments. Each unit features floor to ceiling glazing and a unique floor plan. The complex features two floors of amenities for its residents as well as underground parking. Ambassador Antonio said Century Properties Group, Inc. continues to redefine the “residential development landscape and has successfully positioned itself as the progenitor of progressive living, as well as a forward-thinking catalyst of urban change.” Project completed by Century Properties include Essensa East Forbes in Bonifacio Global City; the Trump Tower, Gramercy Residences, The Milano Residences and Knightsbridge Residences in Makati, Century City; and the Acqua Private Residences in Mandaluyong City.

According to the company, each apartment will have a different color identity to give the owner an opportunity to show his or her artistic preferences and enhanced it. A common feature of the units is the owners’ preference in the use of exquisite materials such as onyx, white-gold leaf and rosewood alternating with wood in unusual tones and wallpapers made of natural fibres. Moreover, the interiors have painted faux finishes and metal features that divide the walls adding a sense of movement in the spaces. Golden beiges, warm greys and muted greens are used in the common areas and amenities. The configuration and decoration of the walls emphasise the bold geometry of the space, which sits in complete harmony with the building’s exterior.

The Dining area at a fully upgraded 1 BR apartment at Century Spire Photo by Fabrizio Marco Nanni

The main lobby features a pattern of oblique pilasters that enclose a system of indirect lighting. A similar pattern is used in the library, whose split wall contains collections of books. The pool’s juice bar incorporates large screens that render the space modular. Century Spire will be a high-rise glass masterpiece that expands with a dramatic crown, as it rises. As the tower shaft rises upward, Spire divides subtly into three branches that rise to different heights. Libeskind creates a design crescendo at the top of the tower by placing a glassclad form between the two highest tower shafts. Introducing this fourth volume at

The Living area in a fully upgraded 2-BR apartment at the Century Spire Show flat. Photo by Fabr

30 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

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“

This expansion allows us to meet the strong growth in the Philippines. It will enable us to respond to the demands of the existing and new customers and continue providing them with high standard of service

”

--- Gerard van Dijk

Manila Bay Resort

Introducing cutting-edge in carrier technologies in PHL By: Rizal Raoul Reyes

Finnish elevator and escalator manufacturer is bullish on the Philippine market. As part of their expansion program, KONE moved to a bigger office to provide better support to its customers. “This expansion allows us to meet the strong growth in the Philippines. It will enable us to respond to the demands of the existing and new customers and continue providing them with high standard of service,” said Gerard van Dijk, president for KONE’s Philippines operation, KPI Elevators Inc. KONE has introduced leading-edge technologies in elevators that help buildings

achieve energy efficiency. For instance, KONE won a contract in 2013 from Rockwell Land Corporation to supply People Flow solutions for the Lopez Tower and Museum. By deploying the People Flow solutions, the Lopez Tower and Museum will enable to pursue a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. Further, KONE will also install People

32 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

Flow solutions such as the Remote Call, a personalized elevator call through enduser’s smartphone) and Hybrid Destination Control, dubbed as KONE’s most advanced elevator destination control system. KONE said the Lopez Tower and Museum will be the first local building to use KONE’s hybrid-destination control system. Under the plan, the system will be integrated with the building’s access control system and the security turnstiles in the lobby. The turnstiles will enable the end-users to automatically assign an elevator, with pre-programmed users’ destination floor and ready-to-go.

Last year, KONE won the right to supply 126 elevators and 36 escalators to the Manila Bay Resorts complex. To date, it is the largest elevator contract in the Philippines. It includes a three-year maintenance contract.

KONE solutions

If a company is looking for robust solution for their operations, KONE’s People Flow Intelligence is the answer. It is a complete and flexible package of solutions for access control, destination, guidance, information communication and equipment monitoring. The company said these solutions were developed based on their industry-leading technology and world-class visual design. The benefits of the technologies are smarter people flow, efficient building management and increased values in property. Destination solutions enhance the convenience to users and at same time boosting elevator handling capacity and performance. KONE designed it to ensure shorter travel times and at the same time provide convenience to the passengers. Some of the prominent features of the destination solutions are intuitively designed touchscreen destination operating panels and a mobile application that allows users to issue instruction to order the elevator by using their smartphone. With the dynamic changes occurring rapidly in the technology sector, the KONE information solutions provide a comfortable way to share multimedia and web-based content as well as safety and building – related information in elevator cars and other areas in the building. The updating of information screens can be done through a personal computer-based interface. Meanwhile, KONE’s monitoring solutions provide real-time searching of the elevator and escalator across multiple locations through a single interface. To view the equipment status and performance, KONE has been designed to achieve smooth integration with existing facility management systems. The KONE UltraRope, a new hoisting

technology, is designed for high-rise buildings that eliminate the disadvantages of conventional steel rope technology. Designed with a carbon fiber core, the KONE UltraRope can deliver a significant reduction in energy consumption because of its light material. “The drop in rope weight means a dramatic reduction in elevator moving masses-the weight of everything that moves when an elevator travels up or down, including the hoisting ropes, compensating ropes, counterweight, elevator car and passenger load. Due to the significant impact of ropes on the overall weight of elevator moving masses, the benefit of KONE UltraRope increases exponentially as travel distance grows.” “We are proud to introduce this innovation that we are certain will revolutionize the elevator industry for the tallest segment of buildings across the globe. The benefits of KONE Rope versus conventional elevator hoisting technologies are numerous and indisputable,” said KONE President and

CEO Matti Alahutta in a statement. The company assured the KONE UltraRope has passed the most stringent testing procedures both in real elevators and simulation laboratories at its research and development facilities in Finland. The ultimate test was done at the Tytyri, the world’s tallest elevator testing laboratory. The facilities were built over 300 meters underground adjacent to an active limestone mine. In Tytyri, the materials have to undergo tensil strength, bending lifetime and material aging. The entry of KONE UltraRope into the market is very timely as urbanization is on a rapid pace. One major key elements of urbanizations is building upwards to achieve an urban sustainable solution. According to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, approximately 600 buildings of 200 meters or more are currently under construction. The development of these tall buildngs could benefit with the use of KONE UltraRope.

EU-KONE-elevator-12008-Cool-Vintagelo-res

Lopez Tower

KONE-Info-Screen-in-Car-with-People-lo-res

Michiel-De-Moel---product-demo-lo-res

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

SUPPLIER’S PROFILE

Delta Faucet By: Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

As the Philippine economy continues to grow, we can see people adopting a lifestyle change such as buying a car and a house. With their increase in income, they develop a taste for the luxury items whether in food or other items.

Delta Faucet Company fuses the values of form and function to create a wide roster of design options and help customers to find the perfect expression of one’s personal style.

David Naber, general manager, Asia Pacific of Delta Faucet Company, said economic growth also trickles into the high-end products such as faucets and related solutions. “People are starting to realize the value of highend products because it distinguishes us from the rest,” said Naber in a recent press briefing held in Makati city.

Delta Faucet Company general manager for ASEAN David Naber presents some of the company’s products under the Delta and Brizo line.

34 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

“On the same note, Filipinos are starting to be aware of our products such as the Brizo for their homes,” he added. Delta has recently introduced the Ara Bath Collection in the local market. It includes award winning contemporary line of faucets showers and bath accessories. The Ara line is influenced by the angular silhouettes seen in modern homes. Moreover,

“

Geometric shapes are making their mark in the contemporary design category and our new Ara collection satisfies this growing trend with a clean shape that aligns perfectly with modern interiors

”

---- McKinney

it has crisp rectangular shapes with slim profiles that will get the nod of home and commercial building owners looking for sophisticated designs to complement their modern interiors. “As modern interior designs continue to be sought after in the Philippines, we are extremely excited to introduce Ara Bath collection, which we believe will appeal to the local market with its sleek design and innovative water-saving technology,” said Naber. “We have been in the Asia Pacific region for over two decades and have observed home design trends evolving as consumers become more discerning. With an eye on these trends, we are now strengthening our presence in the region in line with Delta’s global expansion plans,” he added. Allison McKinney, Delta brand product manager, noted Ara’s geometric designs are getting noticed in the market. “Geometric shapes are making their mark in the contemporary design category and our new Ara collection satisfies this growing trend with a clean shape that aligns perfectly with modern interiors,” said McKinney. “This angular, modern style is so universally appealing, we plan to debut Ara products in regions across the globe.”

The Delta Addison® Bath Collection, inspired by the scalloped shape of seashells.

The Ara Bath collection

Offered in contemporary chrome and Brilliance Stainless finishes, the Ara bath collection comprise a large range of products that includes enclosed spout and channel spout configurations on its single-handle and two-handle widespread and wall-mount faucets; 14, 17 and 17T series tub and shower trims; handshowers; and 3- and 4-hole Roman tub faucets. Moreover, the one-handle vessel riser option and enhanced coordinating accessories including a 24-inch double towel bar, universal mount tank lever and 30-inch towel bar are also available. The Diamond Seal Technology (exclusively for 2H Widespread products) combines a durable DiamondTM Valve with InnoFlex PEX waterways. Being cutting-edge valve, the DiamondTM valve doesn’t no lubrication, eliminates wear on seals, and ensures “like new” operation for the life of the faucet, lasting up to 10 times the industry standard. Further, the InnoFlex waterways eliminate potential leak points and easier to install. For people who are pursuing a lead-free lifestyle, the MultiChoice universal valve is the faucet for you. It doesn’t allow water to come in contact with metal surfaces once inside the faucet, meeting all current and upcoming state and national lead free legislation.

The Brizo Vesi™ Collection features a curved spout and crisp lines at the base.

The Brizo Charlotte™ bath collection appeals to those who desire a space with clean lines and a hint of classic opulence.

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

SUPPLIER’S PROFILE

“

We make innovation the centerpiece of our products to give people the best experience in faucets

”

--- David Naber

Delta Faucet integrates smart solutions to its products, which makes water consumption and experience more intelligent and earth-friendly. H2O kinetic showers are not your typical showers. Each showerhead and handshower contains an internal system that is designed to shape the water into a unique wave pattern, creating a consumer-proven feeling of more water, all without using more water. All showerheads in the Ara bath collection feature H2Okinetic technology. It offers the1.5 GPM and 2.0 GPM, and a new coordinating square H2Okinetic handshower. The handshower is being sold with a new square wall mount holder or slide bar and is included with the 4-hole Roman tub.

Style and innovation

Style and innovation are the main elements of the Delta brand, according to Naber. “We make innovation the centerpiece of our products to give people the best experience in faucets,” said Naber. To be consistent in the quality of their products, Delta invests in developing internal processes and systems that develop innovative solutions and ensure a high degree of customer satisfaction. As a result of their quest for excellence, Delta has garnered several citations from the industry. Naber said the awards motivate Delta to continue is raising the benchmark and lead the industry by innovating and improving best practices. Last year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the United States awarded Delta a WaterSense Manufacturer Partner of the Year for the excellent design of Delta, Brizo and Peerless. Furthermore, Delata was also honored in Las Vegas during the sixth annual WaterSmart Innovations Conference for advocating water efficiency and outstanding efforts to support the WaterSense progam in 2012. In 2013, the Delta Pilar kitchen faucet with Touch 2 0 technology has been recognized the Parent Tested, Parent Approved (PTPA) Winner’s seal of approval. It is the second citation for the brand as its Addison bathroom faucet with Touch 2 0.xt technology received the award in 2012. After testing, the Delta Touch 2 0 kitchen faucet was given a

36 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

Naber says that Delta Faucet’s products go beyond the virtue of mere functionality and highlight the values of innovation and experience as well. seal of approval by unbiased volunteer families in their homes and was named the Most Trusted Seal by 22,000 parents. The company’s objective was to develop a nexus between innovative companies with discerning customers, to improve consumer access to quality products and services for their families and homes. With the different citations received by Delta, Naber said the company is confident it can deliver the goods to its buyers. “The Delta Touch 2 0 kitchen faucet is a marvel of the company’s innovation,” said Naber. With the Touch 2 0 technology, we aim to provide the user with the experience to save water without sacrificing the flow from the faucet. As part of its smart living/kitchen product line, Delta has also the Diamond Seal technology. The system does not require lubrication and eliminates the wear and tear of the seal to ensure the faucet is always in shape. Other smart solutions offered by Delta are In2ition 2 in 1 shower, Multi-Choice universal, Mutli-flow Technology, Magnatite Docking, Brilliance Finishes, International Roughs, Touch-Clean Spray Face, Proximity Sensing Technology, H2 0ptics technology, Smart Touch technology, Smart Touch Plus technology, Temp IQ temperature control technology and Brizo Hydrati.

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Designâ&#x20AC;&#x192;

risk management

Managing Risks in Construction Project Contracts

www.buildipedia.com

How project risks are managed will often determine the success of a project.

n general risks are managed through careful preparation and review of project contract documents. Properly allocating risks during the contract formation stage to parties best suited to bear the risks minimizes the cost and likelihood of each risk. There are six key risk allocation and management concepts that key executives need to consider during the contract preparation stage. The first step is to assign risk to the party that can best control the risk. Owners and contractors should anticipate and evaluate potential risks at the start of any project and assign responsibility for these risks to the party or parties in best position to control them. As for example the contractor should assign the owner responsible for design

errors since owners usually employ architects and engineers responsible for the design. Owners works closely with the project designer and is therefore in a better position to minimize errors. The contractor, from the point of view of the owner, should take primary responsibility for bodily injury and property damage from accidents in the project, since the contractor is in better position to minimize risks by keeping the project job site safe. The next step is to allocate risks through indemnity provisions. Contract indemnity provisions require one party to pay for the losses suffered by another party due to claims made by a third party. This means that an indemnity contract provision would require a contractor to pay for claims against physical injury or property

38 | Philippine Construction&Designâ&#x20AC;&#x192; August-2014

damage due to negligence of the contractor or its sub-contractors. On the other hand owners are also held liable to the contractor for claims against losses arising from existence of say hazardous substances at the project site to the extent that the contractor does not have any control of the same. The third step is to use insurance to support indemnity provisions. Insurance coverage providing assurance that each party can satisfy its indemnity provisions required as part of the contract terms of agreement. Effective insurance initially requires that risks obligations of each project participant is properly identified and making sure that each party has the correct insurance for these obligations. This means that owners must have their contractors and also subcontractors to have

participants. Such subrogation enables an insurer to stand in place of the insured party to recover amounts paid in behalf of the insured for damages for which another party may be liable. Thus through a variety of contract provisions project participants are able to shift risk. Waiver of subrogation prevents the insurer from seeking reimbursement for amounts paid on claims thus preventing insurer from passing assigned risk back to other project participants. To allow an insurer to recover amounts paid in behalf of a project participant to whom the risk was shifted could undermine the intention of the parties to the contract. Finally, as the sixth and last step, experienced consultants should be allowed to review documents. A construction normally requires a number of contracts which need to be consistent and complementary. As for example payment timing and condition requirements, for both project lender and owner, should flow down through all project contracts. There should be consistency in dispute resolutions provisions throughout the contract to guarantee that all parties to a dispute are subject to the same dispute resolution rules. Also many standard contracts in construction continue to use insurance terms that are inconsistent with modern insurance industry usage, offerings and customs. To prevent problems that may possibly arise out of antiquated, inconsistent, and conflicting terms project participants should depend on experienced insurance consultants to review all terms essential for proper risk management for a construction project and thus assist in the success of the project. “The best way to win an argument is to avoid it,” said famous author Dale Carnegie. This is a very true advice particularly for the construction industry as shown by the evolution of construction contracts. A construction project, with its normally many parties as stakeholders involved, including owners, designers, contractors and subcontractors, lends itself ripe for disputes. A construction project not only involves a number of parties as stakeholders and with many components, the project itself needs to be completed in a defined sequence with definite time constraints. A successful construction project is one in which each party performs as expected and no one suffers an unanticipated financial loss. So as to avoid conflict, particularly these that lead to possible large monetary expenditures and expensive litigation, parties increasingly look to their contracts as first line of risk protection. A review of how construction projects evolved over time

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commercial general liability, automobile liability and worker’s compensation/ employers liability insurance coverage. Commercial general liability will normally cover physical injuries and property damage resulting from contractor or subcontractor negligence. But it should be borne in mind that liability insurance policies do not include nor cover the contractor for defective work. Such risks are covered by the contractor’s warranty. Also liability policies do not include coverage on project improvements or construction material damage due to unknown site conditions, which is covered by “Builder’s Risk” policy. This is normally obtained by the owner. Design professionals, like architects, engineers and contractors performing design build functions, also require professional liability insurance to cover errors and omissions in providing design services. Professional liability insurance normally need to be sufficient to cover all the professional’s design project during a given policy period and sufficiently high to protect the owner with respect to the specific project. Owners can obtain projectspecific coverage or excess limits applicable to professional liability. Owners can also obtain owner’s protective professional liability coverage to indemnify the owner directly for losses attributable to design professional’s negligence. Fourth step is that owners and contractors should also require subcontractors and other lower tier contractors to include owners and subcontractors as additional insureds. The additional insured status is to make sure of the insurer’s main responsibility to defend claims against additional insureds. Such additional insured status is obtained by endorsement, which should be sufficiently broad to cover ongoing and completed operations on a primary and non-contributory basis. All contractual insurance requirements, including their coverage’s, policy limits, and additional insured status must be confirmed, properly documented, and obtained by all participants. Parties should not depend nor rely solely upon certificates issued by brokers to confirm insurance requirements. Most certificates of insurance issued by brokers, rather than insurer, are not contractually binding. Thus insurance provisions of a project contract shall require delivery of copies of policy declarations and all applicable endorsements. Contracts should include waivers of subrogation, as fifth step, wherever it is applicable to guarantee that projects risks are allocated in the manner intended by project

show the various types of disputes that have commonly risen and on how contracts have attempted to deal with them. Around 50 years ago most contracts were about “scope of work” disputes. So as to manage the risks involved in “extra work claims” contracts broadened the scope of work definition as all things needed to produce the intended result regardless of project drawings. Then as the times lines of projects became more critical and with the introduction of the “Critical Path Method” (CPM) of scheduling, delay claims came to be the most prominent cause for disputes. Construction contracts respond was to try to eliminate delay and disruption type claims Then construction contracts started imposing draconian provisions that results in waivers if not strictly followed. A dramatic increase in contract-driven communications claims for every hiccup on a construction project followed. Because of instead promoting harmony such contracts promoted adversarial relationships and a “me first” mentality. Thus came the realization that using construction contracts to shift risk is not effective in reducing the number of disputes and claims in construction projects. A new approached was developed which promoted effective communications with the belief that construction dispute issues are controlled better if they are understood by the parties involved and resolved as quickly as possible. Based on an article by Marla McIntyre, Daniel Gentges & Paul D. Cranley

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY

PP-R PIPES AND FITTINGS

For Hot and Cold Water

Advantages: • Resistant to corrosion • Leak Proof • For hot and cold Water • Can be connected to any other material used in existing installations • Easy installation • High Impact strength and flexibility PP-R Pipes and Fittings Manufacutured by Tanay Industries Corp. For more information contact LYS Marketing Corporation with Telephone No.: (632) 4122452; 4127155

Trimble GCSFlex for Excavators Trimble GCSFlex for Excavators is a simple, entry-level technology for that provides the operator with visual guidance of the position and angle of the bucket, stick, boom and body. This can

be used with laser catchers for excavation of basements, foundations, and footers; trenching with flat bottom or simple slopes; grading of embankments; profiles of canals and batters; and layering. This is ideal for site development, utilities and public works. Excavator owners can increase productivity - even less experienced operators become more productive, more quickly. It allows the operators to increase accuracy, avoid rework and perform higher quality work. Installation and calibration takes only 2 hours. No expensive tools or welding are required. The whole system fits on a case. Trimble GCSFlex is distributed by SITECH PHL Inc. Contact (info@ SITECH-PHL.com to schedule a demo) or visit www.SITECH-phl.com

INNOVATIVE TILING TECHNOLOGY

Hydraulic Breaker bRACKET-TOP FINE hydraulic breakers have been proving their power and efficiency in any of demolishing jobs. -Adapted piston idle blow prevention function as standard - Additional Blank firing protection system to protect piston - More powerful and durable structure

This 2 in 1 Adhesive & Grout bonds and grouts your mosaic tiles all in one step. ABC recommends using the thinbed method application for faster, professional and lasting tile installations. The 2 in 1 mortar is economical because it saves time and labor costs. Made of high quality portland cement, natural fillers and selected chemical additives, ABC 2 in 1 is an eco-friendly product that assures lasting adhesion. To meet the demands of the Philippine market, ABC 2 in 1 also comes in color white to beautify and brighten your tiles at the same time. A pioneer in modern tiling technology, ABC Phil. Inc. Inc has developed the latest building solution for a faster and more convenient Mosaic Tile Installation.

For more information, call Ecomac Equipment & Dev’t. Corp. Tel. Nos. +63 02 3727106 +63 02 374-3351 to 55 loc. 12 & 13 website: ecomac.com.ph ; email: eedc@pdc.bayandsl.ph ; eedc_sales@pdc.bayandsl.ph

40 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

LANKO 101 PARENTDUIT

101 PARENDUIT is a skim smoothing rendering paste to be mixed with cement or gypsum for levelling uneven surfaces and filling small bubbles in concrete surfaces. A smooth surface is obtained by eliminating blemishes such as grooves, seams and rock pockets. USES: Interior / Exterior, Reinforced concrete; Precast concrete panels; Traditional rendering mortars. Interior only: Lightweight concrete or lightweight block. Gypsum board (in gypsum mix). For more information call PAREX Group Inc. Tel. (632) 672 1708 Fax. (632) 672.17.07 e-mail: philippines@parexdavco.com or visit http://www. parexgroup.com.ph.

The rock security

9100 system

Serious about security?

Having a CCTV installed at your place does not guarantee your safety. But it’s a good start. Choose the cameras for your security system that not only clearly catch the image as it happens, but deliver as crisp images when you review. Can you review/replay the images clearly? Does your system send alerts when suspicious accurrence is detected? Can you view and monitor while you are mobile? Does your system reliably save and put a time stamp on the recorded data? if you are serious about your security for your home or business. Choose the provider that can give you the total solution. Research and development team continues to develop products using leading technology and innovative design. For more information call The Rock Security Tel. No.: (+632) 7095125 E-mail: info@therocksecurity.com visit www. therocksecurity.com

Tokina® 3 in 1 Rechargeable LED Flashlight TRL-001 Features: • 3 in 1: Flashlight, Emergency Light & Sensor Night Light • 14+6 super bright LEDs • Comes with AC plug-in contact-less charging base • Automatically turns on when there is power failure • At night, lights up when motion is detected (IR motion sensor) • Modern, minimalistic design • Lithium-ion battery lasts for up to 8 hours depending on use For more information call Switch Sales International Tel. No.: (632) 6228922; (632) 7323709 E-mail: aiinno.sales@gmail.com

Superior protection that requires no priming: • Maximum corrosion protection • Applicable floor to ceiling, • Less prep and application time • VOC compliant For more information Contact Holz Coatings Int’l. Inc. at Tel. No.: (+632) 6425022; (+632) 5702491 e-mail: holz@holzcoatings. com, visit www.holzcoatings. com

DTM Epoxy Mastic

Gratings/platforms Features: Anti Thief, Light weight/low installation cost, Corrosion/ Fire Resistant, Very Low noise on impact payload, Many colors available, Bearing and Load Standard. Serial No. Application Capacity 1 Walk Platform 2kN/m2 equivalent uniformly distributed load. 2 Platform between 3.5 kN/m2 Equivalent uni stairs formly distributed load. 3 Overhaul Platform 4kN/m2 equivalent uniformly distributed load. 4 Staircase Tread Proposed by the clients. Exclusively Distributed by: D.B. International Sales & Services, Inc. for more information call Tel. No.: (632) 723.4460 to 64 or visit www.dbiphil.com

CP HYDRAULIC POWERPACK CP Hydraulic Powerpack is an extremely versatile hydraulic driven power generator construction equipment which has attachments for breaking, cutting, coring, pile driving and water pump. It functions as a compact hydraulic system similar to that backhoes. Attachments such the BRK 70 can be connected to the powerpack can be used as a 70 pound jackhammer. Another useful attachment is the SAW 14 which can be used as a 12-14” concrete cutter. Other attachments can provide other extremely useful functions which will help user accomplish the job faster, can just load it in a pick-up truck or SUV then perform all the necessary road works. Compare to using the conventional screw compressors which need to be towed behind a separate vehicle or a large and heavy concrete cutter which takes up a lot of space, the user can just bring the powerpack and use the attachments to get the same job done. Save time, save space, save effort, cost savings. For more information contact Elektro Werk at 411-0333; 724-1686.

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY

Doosan DX27Z

The highest performance is guaranteed in any working condition. The advanced hydraulic system combined with a powerful engine provides for powerful excavation and work efficiency as well as the biggest break out and tractive forces. Bucket Capa. (m³) : 0.08Operating Wgt.(tons) : 2.8E/G (ps/ rpm) : 21.5/2,200. The cabin has been ergonomically redesigned with comfort in mind. Starting a fresh, newly designed DX27z provides the operator with maximum comfort and various convenient features. The most advanced technology developed by Doosan Infracore Co., Ltd. was integrated into the DX27z excavator providing powerful performance and simple, easy maintenance. This provides the operator with convenient maintenance check points and maximizes the work efficiency of the DX27z.

Signature Hindware Faucets

Selecting the right faucet for bathrooms isn’t that difficult! All you have got to do is to gauge whether the faucet suits your lifestyle, is water efficient and user-friendly, and, if you may consider, cost-effective. Indian sanitary ware giant Hindware (HSIL) offers a diverse range of indigenously designed faucets matching lifestyle needs and demands. With progression of technology and the changing consumer preference for a good life, balancing consumerism and environment has become crucial, and this is where faucet aerators come to play. An effective water conservation saving opportunity for your home, a faucet aerator adds air to the stream of water coming out of the faucet by breaking the water into fine droplets. All products from HSIL use high quality, virgin brass ingots, thick nickel and chrome plating to ensure everlasting shine and hygiene.

Hindware 4-in. Square Work Light Super Bright LEDs’ 4-in. square work light produces 4,000 lumen and features a rugged design with advanced oversized heatsink for use in heavy-duty applications. • Features 4 - 10W CREE high-efficacy LEDs producing 4,000 lumens • 4.1 in. high by 4.1 in. wide by 2.76 in. deep for use on vehicles and equipment with limited space • Features a wide operating voltage range of 9~50V DC suitable for a variety of vehicles • Operating current is 3.35 amps at 12V DC and 1.36 amps at 24V DC • Total power consumption of only 30 watts • Beam is distributed through a specially diffused lens to create an excellent 60-degree light pattern

42 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

Steel Frame Supported Tension Fabric Structures

A range of pre-engineered and custom fabric building options coupled with turn key construction management services guarantees a structure solution to meet all project goals. Signature specializes in steel frame, aluminum frame, and architectural tensile fabric structures. Common profiles are straight sidewall structures, curved sidewall structures, entrance canopies, pavilion structures and wheeled & crane liftable structures. Although there are many terms used to describe the frame supported tension fabric structure the most frequently used terms include fabric structure, fabric shelter, fabric building, membrane structure, tensile structure, sports bubble, sports dome, air dome, tent building, tent structure, temporary building, portable building, or relocatable building. All Structures are engineered to meet all building codes with in-thefield structures designed to 160mph wind load and 50lb snow load, including: • Clearspan widths to 300’+ • Indefinite Lengths • Heights to 100’+ Accessories include interior liner systems complete with HVAC, R19 - R41 insulation, lighting, doors, fire suppresion, foundation, and interior buildout. Applications include Indoor Sports, Casinos, Entertainment, Military, DOE, DOD, EPA, Port Authority, Warehousing, Cold Storage, Bulk Storage, Salt Storage, Environmental and Remediation, Energy, Construction, Churches, Equestrian, Convention Centers, Retail, Museums, Gymnasiums, Classrooms, Aviation, Emergency Relief, and Amphitheaters.

SUPER BRIGHT LEDS Subsite 720ML The 720ML magnetic locator can detect metallic or ferrous objects such as marker stakes, manhole covers, valve boxes and cast-iron pipe around excavation and horizontal directional drilling jobsites. It has only two controls, located at the base of the display housing, so it can be easily operated with one hand. Its easy to read digital bar graph displays signal strength and polarity to help pinpoint the target. Four sensitivity settings allow the unit to be customized to suit soil conditions. Two 9-volt lithium batteries enable more than 60 hours of operation.

www.subfloorscience.com

www.forconstructionpros.com

Model RD6536 Skid-Steer Concrete Pump

The 2,700-lb. Model RD6536 skid-steer pump attachment features a universal design compatible with any skid steer. The 3-in. hydraulic squeeze pump is suited for ICF, block fill, form and pour, driveways, basements and various shotcrete applications. It is able to pump 3/8-in. aggregate shotcrete and 3/4-in. aggregate concrete mixes. A hydraulic agitator is included in the receiving hopper to keep the mix well blended. The unit offers variable speed from 0 to 25 cu. yds. per hour. Vertical pumping distance reaches 50 ft. with the use of a rubber delivery line, while horizontal distance can reach up to 250 ft. Blastcrete

Portable Concrete Conveyor & Material Placer This portable modular conveyor attaches to any 3-cu.-yd. capacity and larger front-end wheel loader to place concrete in front of a concrete slipform paver. • Third valve function can be retrofitted to most loaders • Operated from inside cab using the hydraulic controls and power of the loader • Low torque, high-speed hydraulic motor requires a pump feed of 40 gpm and 3,000 psi • Can also place aggregates, spread topsoil and other materials and backfill trenches, retaining walls or dams

www.bobcat.com

E2 SYSTEMS, LLC

Bobcat Concrete Pump Attachment

www.betterroads.com

Groutzilla System

The PTO-driven Groutzilla placement system easily places grout and masonry mortar in blocks, walls, forms and foundations. • Handles 20 cu. ft. of material, including most slump • Replaceable steel hopper swivels on heavy-duty roller bearings • Self-wiping Talet auger system with reinforced, composite polymer flighting that prevents binding due to various aggregate sizes • Positive hydraulically controlled shutoff valve • Heavy-duty fork pockets

www.forconstructionpros.com

Bobcat’s 2,200-lb. attachment allows contractors to pump concrete with up to 1.5-in. aggregate in hard-to-reach places with a standard-flow skid steer loader or compact track loader. • Attaches to either side of the loader • Pumps as far as 250 ft. horizontally and up to two stories vertically • Places up to 28 cu. yd. per hour • 10 cu. yd. hopper • Features include a horizontal agitator, an expanded metal walkway, a swiveling control panel and a protective guard panel. Bobcat

SS-585 Skid Steer Mixer The SS-585 skid-steer mixer features all-welded steel drum construction with internal paddles to provide uniform mixing and clean dumping. • Suitable for mixing cement, feed, fertilizer, incoulating seed, potting soil and more • 5-cu.-ft. capacity • Features a hydraulic motor drive and flow control valve • Direct-mount, all-welded frame fits all skid steers with universalstyle attachment systems Worksaver Inc.

STONE CONSTRUCTION EQUIP. INC.

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY

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The Cooper Wessex Aggregate Abrasion machine CRT-AAM determines the Aggregate Abrasion Value (AAV) by measuring the resistance of aggregate to surface wear by abrasion. • Inadequate abrasion resistance of road surfacing aggregates means an early loss of the texture depth required to maintain high speed skidding resistance • Determines the Aggregate Abrasion Value by testing the measure of the resistance of aggregate to surface wear by abrasion • Two specimens are pressed against the surface of a steel disc rotating in a horizontal plane, with a force of 0.365 Newton COOPER RESEARCH TECHNOLOGY LTD.

HDD Pipe Handling System

The HDD Pipe Handling System utilizes wireless remote controller operation and the latest vacuum-lifting technology to tilt and place drill stem at angles between 0° and 30° without the use of ropes or slings. Suitable for use with MC Series Lifters... VACUWORX INTERNATIONAL

www.forconstructionpros.com

www.testinternational.co.uk

Aggregate Abrasion Machine

Concrete Delivery Hoses

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The Putzmeister concrete delivery hoses are available in steel-wire and fabric-reinforced options. All hose sizes are available with either heavy-duty ends or metric ends. Steel-wire hoses: • Will stand up to abrasive applications and harsh weather conditions • Available in sizes from 2 to 6 in. • Up to four-ply layers of high tensile strength steel wire cord Fabric-reinforced hoses: • Sizes from 1.25 to 5 in. • Up to six layers of woven fabric reinforcement depending on hose size PUTZMEISTER AMERICA

Separating Stone from Landfill Material This ALLU D-Series model DH4-17/40X was installed on a Caterpillar 330D excavator to separate stone from landfill liner material. The liner is being reclaimed after closing a section of the landfill. The material is made up of clay, stone and a large percentage of iron ore. The heavy-duty outer shell of the attachment is durable to handle the large load, while the rotating drums process the sticky clay with an end product of 1 1/2-in. minus.

The Spritz shotcrete system CSS-3 resolves any sprayed concrete pumping and distribution problem, both for underground and open-air jobsites. • Fully contained specialized truck unit features a robotic shotcrete arm with three-section Z shape for a maximum vertical reach of

26 meters • Maximum output of 30 m3/h • Fifth-wheel block can rotate 180° on vertical and horizontal planes • Spritz truck features a 75-KW Deutz engine, hydrostatic transmission, mechanical and hydrostatic gearbox, four-wheel drive and independent all-wheel steering • Uniflux EAS 2 (Electronic Additivation System) automatic accelerator and peristaltic pumps allow liquid setting accelerating agents to be precisely metered CIFA USA

44 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

www.forconstructionpros.com

Spritz CSS3 Shotcrete System

BSF 58Z-Meter Concrete Boom Pump

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Retail Price Index of Selected Construction Materials in the National Capital Region (2000=100) : June 2014 Year-on-Year and Month-on-Month Growth Rates of Construction Materials Retail Price Index All Items

June 2014

May 2014

June 2013 Year-to-date

Year-on-Year

1.1

2.1

Month-on-Month

0.1

0.3

0.1

0.9

• Year-on-Year The annual hike in the Construction Materials Retail Price Index (CMRPI) in the National Capital Region (NCR) was pegged at 1.1 percent in June. This was the same rate posted in May. The annual growth in June 2013 was 2.1 percent. A higher annual gain was noted in painting materials and related compounds index at 1.8 percent in June. Meanwhile, the annual increments in the indices of carpentry materials eased to 1.1 percent; electrical materials, 1.4 percent; and tinsmithry materials, 2.6 percent. The plumbing and miscellaneous construction materials indices still registered annual decreases of 1.0 percent and 2.4 percent, respectively. The masonry materials index retained its last month’s rate of 2.3 percent.

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

PRICE MOVEMENT at 0.2 percent; tinsmithry materials index, 0.4 percent; and miscellaneous construction materials index, 0.5 percent. The carpentry materials index moved at its last month’s rate of 0.1 percent. Price add-ons were observed in plywood, nails, selected paints, corrugated GI sheets and steel bars. Downward price adjustments were however, seen in wiring devices, sand and plumbing materials

• Month-on-Month The monthly uptick in the CMRPI in NCR slowed to 0.1 percent in June. Last month, it grew by 0.3 percent. The index for electrical materials declined by 0.1 percent; masonry materials index, -0.3 percent; and plumbing materials index, -0.4 percent. Moreover, a slower monthly growth was noticed in painting materials and related compounds index

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS WHOLESALE PRICE INDEX (CMWPI) IN THE NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION (NCR) (2000=100)

Republic of the Philippines NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE INDUSTRY AND TRADE STATISTICS DEPARTMENT Manila

Table 3 Month-on-Month Percent Change on Construction Materials Retail Price Index in the National Capital Region (2000 =Materials 100) Retail Price Index in the National Capital Region Table 3 Month-on-Month Percent Change on Construction (2000=100)

COMMODITY GROUP

2014

2013

JUN

MAY

APR

MAR

FEB

JAN

DEC

NOV

OCT

SEP

AUG

JUL

JUN

0.1

0.3

0.1

0.8

-0.2

0.0

0.1

0.0

-0.1

0.2

0.1

A. CARPENTRY MATERIALS

0.1

0.3

0.4

-0.2

0.1

-0.2

0.4

-0.6

0.1

0.4

0.3

B. ELECTRICAL MATERIALS

-0.1

0.3 r

0.7

0.4

0.1

-0.7

0.0

0.5

0.4

-0.1

0.0

0.2

C. MASONRY MATERIALS

-0.3

0.1

0.0

3.8

-0.7

0.8

-0.2

-0.1

-1.2

-0.3

0.1

0.3

-0.3

ALL ITEMS

D. PAINTING MATERIALS & RELATED COMPOUNDS

0.2

0.4

-0.1

0.3

0.2

-0.4

-0.1

0.2

0.5

-0.1

0.3

0.4

-0.7

E. PLUMBING MATERIALS

-0.4

0.0

0.1

-0.2

0.1

-0.3

-0.1

0.2

-0.2

-0.1

0.2

F. TINSMITHRY MATERIALS

0.4

0.5

-0.1

0.8

-0.4

0.8

0.1

0.5

0.1

0.2

-0.4

0.7

G. MISCELLANEOUS CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

0.5

0.8

-1.0

1.6

-2.8

-0.4

0.3

-2.1

1.0

-1.0

0.4

-0.2

Sources of Basic Data: NSO and other reporting establishments Processed by NSO

46 | Philippine Construction&Design August-2014

Saiber Media Incorporated

Publishers: General

Philippine Construction and Design is published to serve the construction industry and all its stakeholders particularly architects, engineers, contractors and suppliers, providing them news summaries and information on latest developments, management technologies, new products and equipment, cost movements of construction materials, profiles of leading personalities in the industry, construction projects, etc. The e-magazine also discuss’ issues and topics that are important to the construction trade. It serves as a voice for the industry as a whole as well as provide information that construction professionals will find useful to their business and profession.

Publisher

Publisher are Filipino based in Thailand with 40 years of experience in publishing since 1972. They pioneered in the publication of construction, business and tourist publications in Thailand. Publishing Siam Construction, a monthly trade journal for the construction industry, What’s On This Week, What’s On Pallaya, What’s On Phuket, What’s On Chiangmai and What’s On Samui, all tourist publication located in major travel destinations in Thailand. They also publish a newspaper Samui Express in the Island of Samui. Over 20 years ago in the Philippines, they also published Philippine Civil Engineer, a professional publication published for Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE), Philippine Construction Management, a professional journal for construction executives; and various directories for professional buyers like the Philippine Construction Directory, Philippine Export Directory, and Philippine Professional Buyers Guide. However, they closed their Philippine operations around 10 years ago after almost 20 years in the country due to political problems at the time and the ensuing financial tumoil. The Publishers plan to re-establish their operations initially with this construction publication, Philippine Construction & Design, to be followed with other magazines involving trade and logistics, medical hospitals and clinics, travel and hotel management within the next 24 months after the launch of Philippine Construction & Design. The Philippine Construction & Design is an e-magazine published monthly by Saiber Media Incorporated with business address at 121 Splendor Hills Aznar Road, Pardo Cebu City. Telephone Number +63 02.463.4352 Cebu: +63.032.5119499 Laguna: +63 049.5230132 Office Website is www.philippineconstructionanddesign.com E-mail address: saibermediaincorporated@yahoo.com.ph; saibermediainc@yahoo.com.ph. Send email for your comments and suggestion to saibercraft@yahoo.com; jo727ph@yahoo.com; jo727ph@gmail.com

Readership, Distribution and Circulation

The publication is published in the web and is made available for free to all interested. The web has potentially millions of readers all over the world though the magazine’s primary target readers are the professionals and decision makers involved in the Philippine Construction, which is estimated to be over 100,000 stakeholders in the industry. Readers include major decision makers and top executives that make buying decisions, leading government officials, and other professionals involved in planning, investing, design and construction.

August-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

48 | Philippine Construction&Designâ&#x20AC;&#x192; August-2014