PHILI PPINE
vol. 1. no. 2 September-October 2012
THE MAGAZINE FOR CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS
green roofs are the wave of the future Philippine Construction Boom: Who gets to share the pie LGU acquires Linnhoff asphalt batching plant The destiny of weatherproofing Supplier gears for more demands Engineer Archival’s Eco House Recycling for the future
September-October 2012
Philippine Construction&Design
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| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
PHILIP PINE
from the editor
THE MAGAZINE FOR CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS
The will to provide information continues
contents
O
CONSTRUCTION NEWS
ur maiden issue launch last July was our most memorable moment since it mirrored the result of months of tedious writing and rewriting of news and feature stories, editing and re-editing. Endless hours of research, setting up interviews and layouting our e-magazine characterized most of our working days. When we saw the final output, we were elated. But more than personal satisfaction, we were encouraged to move on to our 2nd issue immediately. The time to work once more has begun. For this 2nd issue, we give preference to the current construction boom. Professionals and stakeholders have expressed optimism for the industry and so we bring the story to you. We want to see the construction industry grow and through our magazine we hope to contribute to this endeavour. Our cover story is about a local government unit’s move to institute infrastructure development initiatives with the construction of its own asphalt batching plant. We are also featuring in our Personality Profile section one of the pioneers in the field of landscape architecture, Architect Dickie Altavas, president of Philippine Association of Landscape Architects. Further, we are bringing you feature stories on Engineer Nestor Archival of Cebu with his unique Eco House, a selfsustaining house using green technology and green roof technology that is fast becoming a popular alternative to traditional construction design. We enjoyed doing this issue and we hope you will have the same experience reading it.
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
02 Calendar of Events
24 Project Managament
04 News Roundup
1st 55-storey tower sparks Cebu construction boom
Construction Project Management is a Team Sport
28 Risk & Safety Management
07 International Report
Construction Safety Management
CMA-Sime JV boosts Klang Valley development
28 Human Resources Management
FEATURES
10 Industry Report
The Philippine Construction Boom: Who Gets to Share the Pie?
Japanese HR Management Model
30 Sales and Marketing Believe it or not, you can still make a sale inside an elevator
14 Project Report -Public
LGU acquires Linnhoff asphalt batching plant
32 Producst and Technology Kubota KX080-3 Super Double Boom
16 Project Report -Private Engineer Archival’s Eco HouseRecycling for the future
18 Special Report
Hilti PD 5 Laser Range Meter
35 Price Movements
Green roofs are the wave of the future
Price sensitivity unchanged despite ease on fuel prices
20 Personality Profile
Finding his heart and soul in landscape architecture
22 Suppliers’ Profile Rodolfo de Guzman Editor-in-Chief
The destiny of weatherproofing
PHILIP PINE
ON THE COVER
LGU acquires Linnhoff asphalt batching plant assures city of steady supply and 30% savings
THE MAGAZINE FOR CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS
Executive Publisher: Editor-in-Chief: Graphic Artist: Contributing Writers: Advertising Sales Executive: Administrative Assistant:
Josette Adiong Rodolfo de Guzman Anabelle Flores Ed Velasco | Rachel Rañosa Analuz Briones | Rocky L. Galban Cherie Flores
The Philippine Construction & Design is an e-magazine published monthly by Saiber Media Inc., with business address at Unit 1524 City & Land Mega Plaza, ADB Ave. cor. Garnet Rd., Ortigas Center, Pasig City. Official website is www.philippineconstructionanddesign. com., e-mail address: saibermediainc@yahoo.com.ph and our Publisher is Mr. William L. Ogan. For online subscription and advertising placement, please contact (632) 945-8510 | 687-1430. Please send your comments and suggestion’s to saibercraft@yahoo.com or rudy. saibermedia@yahoo.com.ph Copyright ©2012 All rights reserved. September-October 2012
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calendar of events Philconstruct Visayas 2012 September 6 – 8, 2012 Venue: Waterfront Hotel, Cebu City, Philippines Build Asia 2012 September 11 – 13, 2012 8th Build Asia Int’l Exhibition and Conference is being organized by full UFI member of the Global Association of Exhibition Industry (Paris – France) and Ecommerce Gateway Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd. that focuses on the immense potential of the building and construction industry in Pakistan. The Event also incorporates Furniture Asia, Property Asia & Stonefair Asia International Exhibitions. Venue: Karachi Expo Centre, Karachi, Pakistan Balticbuild 2012 September 12 - 14, 2012 BalticBuild is a leading autumn fair for construction & inte-riors in the North-West Russia. Prior to 2002 the exhibition was known as Batimat and Baltic Building Week. Venue: Lenexpo Fairgrounds, St. Petersburg, Russia Connex India 2012 September 12 – 15, 2012 CONNEX INDIA 2012 is the outcome of extensive research in the Indian construction industry. Visitors attend to source new products, meet new contacts and increase networks. Venue: India Exposition Center, New Delhi, India Constech 2012 September 19 – 21, 2012 CONSTECH 2012 is re-positioned as the annual construction machinery and equipment “face to face” market place for over 300 exhibitors and suppliers to showcase their latest machinery, equipment, tools and methods. Venue: IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center, Bangkok, Thailand Green Building & Retrofits Expo Asia 2012 September 19 – 21, 2012 Green Building & Retrofits Expo Asia (GBR Expo Asia) will be held in conjunction with the 4th edition of BMAM Expo Asia, an international exhibition and conference on building maintenance and asset management for the Asian market. A total of 251 exhibiting and co-exhibiting companies from 28 countries will showcase an array of technology, equipment and services. Venue: IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center, Bangkok, Thailand Buildtech 2012 October 2 – 10, 2012 The BuildTech trade exhibition is about construction, special machines and equipment information and performance about these mechanics and equipment. Visit this forum on construction, roadbuilding, mining and special-purpose machinery, equipment and technologies. Venue: National Complex Expocentre of Ukraine, Kiev, Ukraine Intermat Middle East 2012 October 8 – 10, 2012 INTERMAT Middle East has established itself as the region’s new industry construction platform that provides exhibiting 2
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
companies access to buyers from across the Middle East, Africa and Asians sub-continent. Venue: Abu-Dhabi National Exhibition Center - Adnec, AbuDhabi, United Arab Emirates 23rd Philconstruct Exhibit Manila November 7-10, 2012 Venue: SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, Metromanila, Philippines 37th Annual National Construction and Expo 2012 November 14 – 17, 2012 This annual event is sponsored by the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Phil. Inc. that will highlight electrical, electronics and energy exposition. Venue: SMX Convention Center, Pasay City Bauma China 2012 November 27 – 30, 2012 An trade fair of international character and offers to exhibitors access to the target market for construction in China and Asia. Venue: Shanghai New International Expo Centre, Shanghai, China ConBuild Vietnam 2012 December 4 – 7, 2012 ConBuild Vietnam International Trade Fair for Construction features building and mining machinery, equipment, materials, vehicles, technology and services; as well as construction machinery, construction vehicles, building material machines, technology and services. Venue: Vietnam Exhibition and Fair Centre (VEFAC) Hanoi, Vietnam Ceramic Asia December 13 –15, 2012 Ceramic Asia is one of the most attended exhibition on the ceremic industry in India. There will be trade seminars and a showcase of a wide selection of ceremic raw materials, decoration equipment, additives, fitting tools and machines. This is organized at the Gujarat University Exhibition Center. There will also be promotional and business networking sessions. Venue: Gujarat University Exhibition Hall, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India Taipei International Building, Construction & Decoration Exhibit December 13-16, 2012 Taipei International Building, Construction and Decoration Exhibition that started in 1987, is a well-attended international construction and building materials show in Taiwan. It is an important venue for purchasing basic and large-scale construction items. Venue: Taipe World Trade Center, Taipei, Taiwan Seattle, Washington Remodeling Expo January 4-6, 2013 Seattle Remodeling Expo will showcase a wide range of products and services for remodelling the interior and exterior portions of the house. This expo will also have home decors and the latest accessories for interior and exterior designs. Other features include landscape design, home accessories, home entertainment, furnishing, security systems, tech smart homes, baths, kitchens, and
video surveillance. Venue: Washington State Convention Washington, United States of America
Centre,
Seattle,
BC India 2012 February 5 – 8, 2013 This international trade fair for construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines and construction vehicles in India provides the international construction industry with a platform for networking, investment and exchange of ideas and information. Venue: Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai, India BaumesseNRW March 22-24, 2013 This trade fair and exhibition features eco building technologies, real estate and vacation properties. Venue: Dortmund, Germany Bauma 2013 April 15 – 21, 2013 One of the leading trade fairs in Germany, the 30th International Trade Fair for Construction Machinery, Building Material Machines, Mining Machines, Construction Vehicles and Construction Equipment shows leading edge technology in the construction industry. Venue: New Munich Trade Fair Centre | Munich, Germany Plantworx 2013 May 14 – 16, 2013 This is UK’s new biennial event for the construction industry. The UK event is for all construction professionals. With more than 100,000 sqm of live construction equipment PLANTWORX will be the largest UK event featuring construction applications and working machinery. There will be products showcase for all construction manufacturers and suppliers. Venue: Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, England
September 11 – 14, 2013 This biennial trade show and exhibition showcase the latest in building and construction equipment and materials. Venue: Jakarta, Indonesia Bauma Africa 2013 September 18 – 21, 2013 The South African Construction and Mining Equipment Suppliers’ Association (CONMESA) expressly welcomes the launch of a show for the whole construction and mining branch. Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa Geo Tunnel October 15-17, 2013 This annual event showcases technologies and equipment for the construction of tunnels and utility lines. Venue: Moscow, Russia BATIMAFrance November 4-8, 2013 This annual event features the latest products and technologies catering to construction professionals. Venue: Paris, France CON-BUILD Vietnam December 2013 This annual trade show and exposition features construction machinery, vehicles, equipments, construction materials, technology and services. Venue: Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
It’s easy as one click, Just visit our website @
www.philippineconstructionanddesign.com
Construmat 2013 May 16 – 21, 2013 The International Construction Exhibition in Barcelona is a trade show that focuses on the future of the construction industry. The Construmat Award this year has prizes in the categories for Building, Civil Engineering, and for the Best Construction Product. Venue: Fira de Barcelona Gran Via, Barcelona, Spain Roof India 2013 May 24-26, 2013 This exposition will bring together all manufacturers, dealers and suppliers of different kinds of roofing materials under one event. Venue: Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, India ELEXPO June 6-9, 2013 This annual event showcases the latest product innovations and technology in elevators and accessories. Venue: Suzhou, China Building & Construction Indonesia
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www.investmentphilippines.com
news roundup
The multinational firm, First Pacific Group, is investing P73 billion in various infrastructure projects this year. The company is seen to invest heavily in toll road operations, telecommunications, mining, power generation, oil exploration, water utilities and hospital services. For infrastructure, about P27 billion will be allotted as follows: P11.9 billion for Manila Electric Company; P8.3 billion for Maynilad Water Services; P4 billion for the parent company; and P1.4 billion for hospitals. Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company got P38 billion share out of the total allotment. On the other hand, Philex Mining was allocated P7.7 billion. Of this amount, P1 billion is reserved for capital outlays for gas exploration project of Forum Energy Plc that incidentally controls 70% of Service Contract No. 72 in the Recto Bank near the Palawan islands. The remaining allocation will be used for the mining project in Padcal and Silangan.
A joint venture between Japan’s Marubeni Corporation and local engineering and contracting firm D.M. Consunji (DMCI) seals the deal for the MRT-7 elevated railway project. The project, that is estimated to cost $1.23 billion, includes a 22-kilometer train line with 14 loading and unloading stations. It will run from the North Avenue/ EDSA station in Quezon City up to San Jose del Monte in Bulacan province in the north. Likewise, MRT-7 will be linked to the MRT-3 line and the Light Rail Transit 1 (LRT-1). When completed, the new rail system will ferry some 1.3 million commuters daily. It will be operated in 2013 by San Miguel Corporation for a period of 25 years.
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photo courtesy by PDI
Marubeni-DMCI JV seals MRT-7 deal
www.skycrapercity.com
First Pacific Group earmarks P73 billion for infra projects
1st 55-storey tower sparks Cebu construction boom Cebu, the queen city of the south, is fast becoming another Makati City with the mushrooming of several high-rise building constructions. Soon, Cebu will be home to the first 55-storey tower along Gen. Maxilom (Mango) Avenue. This will be the first of two towers that will make up the Horizon 101 residential condominium project of the Gaisano-owned Taft Property Venture Development Corporation. Estimated cost of the building is P1.1 billion comprised of 900 units. The project was launched in April this year and will be completed in four years. So far, the tallest building in the city is the Tower 2 of the Crown Regency Hotel and Towers with 38 floors. The bandwagon has started as other developments are sprouting in the main thoroughfares. There is the P5 billion project called The Residences of Federal Land with 25-storeys. It will have 225 units and will be ready by 2014. The City Loft 17-storey residential condominiums will be built by Fuente Triangle. Lastly, Ayala Land is scheduled to build 1016 Residences while Alveo Land’s Sedona Parc is in the pipeline.
H20 Ventures pumps in $200M in hotel development www.philfaqs.com
The success of Ocean Park Manila and the marine-themed H20 Hotel prompted its developers to pursue increased investments in the hotel business in the country to the tune of $200 million for the next five years. The concept hotel developer H20 Ventures Inc. and World Hotels of Germany forged a partnership to pursue this development initiative. The first project is a modern 5-star hotel to be located along Kalayaan Avenue in Makati City. It is estimated to cost P2 billion and scheduled to be delivered on the second half of 2014. On the other hand, World Hotel and Residences Makati will also rise in the premier financial district to 40 storeys with 401 rooms. It will offer first class amenities like al fresco dining areas, cosmopolitan cafe,a hip roof deck bar, and a 400-seat function hall. This venture is designed by Singapore-based interior design and architectural firm Suying Design. The company has a number of projects completed in Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, and Vietnam. As early as this time, the joint venture proponents are already planning to build five concept hotels in Boracay, Cebu, and in Coron and Busuanga in Palawan.
PNOC pushes through with $2.1B natural gas pipeline
www.gogreencycloped.blogspot.com
To bolster trade and commerce in the southern region of the Philippines with neighbouring countries like Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei, the Japan International Cooperation Agency or JICA is keen on including Brooke’s Point in Palawan as one of the eight roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) routes. This initiative is being done in support of the economic development efforts of the four countries under the BIMP-EAGA accord. This agreement represents promotion of economic interests of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines (BIMP) comprising the East Asean Growth Area (EAGA). JICA Implementability Assessment Expert Ronald G. Sison disclosed during a consultative meeting with the Palawan provincial government that the Ro-Ro Route proposal is aimed at sustaining continued growth in the area, reduce development gaps and improve connectivity among the BIMP countries and the rest of the world. The feasibility study started March this year and will be completed by March 2013. When the project dubbed Establishment of an ASEAN RO-RO Shipping Network and Short Sea Shipping is rolled off, it will connect Brooke’s Point to Labuan, Malaysia and Muara in Brunei Darrusalam. Other areas pinpointed to be included in the route are Zamboanga City, Davao City, and General Santos City in the Philippines; Bitung, Sintete, Tarakan, Pantoloan, Dumai, and Belawa in Indonesia; Johor, Tawau, Malacca, and Penang in Malaysia; and Phuket in Thailand.
www.realtyflyphilippines.com.ph
JICA eyes Brooke’s Point for Asean Ro-Ro route
With the increasing demand for energy, the state-owned Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC), is strongly considering constructing the $2.1 billion Batangas-Manila (BatMan 1) natural gas pipeline. The project will entail three major phases, namely: Phase 1 for construction of the 105-kilometer pipeline to cost $200 million; Phase 2 for construction of a receiving terminal; and Phase 3 the initial 600-megawatt power plant that will act as the anchor load for the whole facility. According to Energy Undersecretary Jose M. Layug Jr., PNOC will most likely retain ownership of the gas pipeline infrastructure and operate it initially rather than privatizing it immediately to ensure that electricity will be available to all at much lower rates for the benefit of consumers. The supply of natural gas is expected to come from the Malampaya Gas project in Palawan.
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news roundup
www.top-destination-choice-the-philippines.com
P7B irrigation project in Central Luzon to increase farm production
P3B Marco Polo Hotel rises in Ortigas
The National Irrigation Administration or NIA is assuring the farmers from Central Luzon particularly those from Nueva Ecija and Tarlac provinces of a steady and ample supply of water irrigation once the P7.054 billion irrigation project is completed in 2016. The project, aimed at increasing farm productivity to support staple food sufficiency program of the government and increasing stored water in reservoirs, is part of the Casecnan Multipurpose Irrigation and Power Project-Irrigation Component Phase II. When completed, it will increase the number of hectares irrigated by 20,321, thereby bringing the total to 60,321 hectares. It will stand to benefit some 36,900 farmers. Rice productivity is expected to increase by 208,295 metric tons to 599,066 metric tons. The Casecnan project will also boost the amount of water stored in the Pantabangan reservoir and improve its flood control function. 6
Phinma infuses P33B in power projects, P5.7B in housing The Phinma Group, with large stakes in the power generation business, is geared to invest heavily in power generation in the next five years. Total investment allocated is P33 billion. TranAsia Oil and Energy Development Corporation, a Phinma subsidiary, is poised to get P5 billion of the P33 billion allocation for oil and gas exploration in the southwest area off Palawan. In the pipeline are three projects, namely: Phase II of 135-megawatt coalfired power plant in Batangas; Phase II of the 20-megawatt Maibarara geothermal facility in Mt. Makiling; and the proposed 135-mega-watt coal plant in Northern Mindanao. For the housing sector, Phinma has earmarked P5.7 billion. Its real estate arm, Phinma Properties, is targeting the construction of 2,250 units by the end of
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
rooms to its clients, especially targeting business travellers from overseas. It will also house the Sky Lounge and Continental Club, exclusive amenities only found at Marco Polo hotels.It will be located along Meralco Avenue and aimed at servicing the needs of those in the vicinity of Quezon City, Ortigas and Greenhills. Marco Polo Hotels, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Wharf (Holdings) Ltd. Hong Kong, will manage the operation of the hotel.
2012, double than last year. There are also four to five residential communities to be built this year like the Asia Enclaves in Sucat, Alabang. For the next three years, 6,562 new residential units are planned to be completed. Its hotel business is also in full swing as two full franchise Microtel Hotels are expected to be operational this year; one in Libis, Quezon City and the other in General Santos City. About P300-350 million is allotted for this investment.
www.aes.ph
www.icp.ucl.ac.be
Marco Polo Hotels, a sterling name in the hotel business, will be offering its luxurious services in Ortigas central business district come 2013. It will be called Marco Polo Ortigas Hotel. According to Samuel Po, president and chief executive officer of XinTian Ti Development Corporation, the agreement with Marco Polo Hotels marks the third hotel of Marco Polo in the country. The two other hotels are in Cebu and Davao. When it’s completed in 2013, the P3 billion, 14-storey hotel will offer 313
international report
Broadway Malyan bags CilandakBisnis Square project in Jakarta
Inspired by the Javanese planning concept of the “alunalun” or traditional town square, the CilandakBisnis Square (CIBIS) project is expected to draw much of the commercial activities to its core. Broadway Malyan cornered the Jakarta project, the first for the firm in Indonesia. Once construction commences, it will represent about 4% of the global construction spending from 2012 to 2020. The firm was commissioned to produce the schematic masterplan, concept architecture and branding. The project will be composed of a cluster of high rise buildings, business hotel, retail stores and leisure facilities. It will rise on an 11.7 hectare lot at the center of the city. Broadway Malyan revealed that the challenging task will bring together several teams of global experts in design masterplanning, as well as highly capable architects and engineers and renowned designers. The attraction of the project will be the Banyan tree that will be located at the center of the square; symbolizing success and power.
HK Monorail to Connect Kowloon Bay Station to Kai TaK Station Square The Hong Kong Development Bureau has announced its plans to build a 9kilometer monorail system to complete an integrated rail system in the island city. It will have 12 stations that will link Kowloon Bay Station to Kai Tak Station Square passing through the Wang Kwong Road. The entire system is meant to connect the proposed monorail to the future Shatin to Central Link and will end at the MTR Kwun Tong Station. It will have a two-car train that will operate with 2-minute intervals. Total project cost is estimated at HK$ 12 billion. It is programmed to start commuter service by 2023.
www.rockwool.co.uk
www.architect.co.uk
www.railpage.com.au
Focuses on central square design theme
www.en.wiikpedia.org
New Turkey refinery to cost $4.5 billion
Sino development planners turn to Wales
Beijing construction committee looks into insulation technology The State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic or SOCAR is planning to put up an oil refinery valued at $4.5 billion in Turkey. This will be one of the largest projects in the country that include construction of new oil and gas processing complex capable of producing other petrochemical products. When completed, this will boost the economic development program of Azerbaijan. It is estimated that total investments inflow will reach $15 billion with seven years payback period. It will be operational by 2020.
A delegation from Beijing, composed of city planning officials from the Beijing Construction Committee, visited Bridgend, Wales to look at the latest developments in insulation technology. Rockwool UK, a company exporting mineral wool insulation to China, will play host to the Chinese delegation. Rockwool will showcase their latest products including external insulation cladding boards that offer durability and decorative skin to buildings. The insulation uses naturally-occurring volcanic diabase rock in insulation roll, boards and panels. According to Rockwool UK managing directror Thomas Heldgaard, the insulation boosts energy efficiency, serves as noise insulation and offers fire protection to buildings. September-October 2012
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international report
www.en.responsejp.com
CMA-Sime JV boosts Klang Valley development 635,000 square feet of commercial spaces welcome mall goers
www.horlic.com
Japan to build mega solar power plant
Sime Darby Property, Malaysia’s largest developer in terms of landbank has recently partnered with Capitamalls Asia Ltd. (CMA) to put up a shopping mall in Klang Valley. The project cost has an estimate value of S$ 204.5 million. The project is envisioned to spur further commercial activity in the affluent residential district of Taman Melawati, a district northeast of Kuala Lumpur (KL). The 50:50 joint venture will be the first in Taman Melawati. Expected to be completed in 2016, it will have a total of 635,000 square feet of commercial spaces. Malaysian and
international retailers are expected to locate their stores inside the mall to serve the growing needs of the community. Its location is ideal for commercial activity since it is near tourist destinations like the Batu Caves and the National Zoo as well as an international school in KL. This will be the sixth mall of CMA in Malaysia who also owns and operates Queensbay Mall and Gurney Plaza in Penang. For Sime Darby Property, this will boost its corporate portfolio as it is also into the development of serviced apartments, condominiums, town villas and office buildings.
To be able to harness the free source of energy from the sun, three Japanese corporations forged an agreement to build a mega solar power plant in the southern part of Japan. The proposed plant will be located in 314 acres of land in Kagoshima City owned by one of the collaborators, Kyocera. It will generate 70 megawatts of electricity. This initiative is also meant to explore other business models for utilityscale solar power as well as contribute to environmental protect by reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The construction started in July this year with Kyocera as the prime mover that will provide the solar modules, part of the construction work and maintenance. The other two collaborators are IHI who owns the land and will partly operate the plant and Mizuho Corporate Bank who will provide the financial plan.
Brunei agro-technology park construction in full swing The oil rich country of Brunei will soon have its highly integrated Brunei Agro Technology Park (BATP), thereby ensuring a steady supply of agricultural products. It will also house research facilities and other support services for the Brunei Halal Brand. The project will be constructed in the 500-hectare lot that will employ some 9,000 workers to meet its target of completing Phase I by the early part of 2013. Construction works for Phase I will be for 50 hectares composed of 25 lots where building facilities will be erected. There will be a 4.7 kilometers of single and dual carriageways, 3.4 kilometers of sewerage works, and 9.2 kilometers of drainage system. Major work will be on telecommunication and electrical facilities where 22 kilometers of high voltage cable will be installed. There will be one intake station and six substations together with street lighting facilities. The electrical system has a loading capacity of up to 6 megawatts. The project contractor is LCY Development SdnBhd while the project consultant is SepakatsSetiaPerunding SdnBhd. When completed, Phase I will be home to the Halal Science Centre, Food Development Centre, environmental and maintenance services, commercial food incubator and commercial spaces.
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www.facebook.com/pages/brunie-agrotechnology-park
Hub creates 9,000 jobs, 25 lots of infrastructure facilities
www.skyscapercity.com
Vietnam pushes clean technologies
www.thejakartapost.com
www.mymodernmet.com
Vietnam, a fast becoming industrialized country in Southeast Asia is now turning to clean technologies especially in construction of green buildings. The country aims to become highly industrialized by 2020 but at the same time is fully aware of the effect it will have on global warming. In view of this, Nguyen Tran Nam, Deputy Minister of Construction is urging construction industry players to shift to green technology to reduce the country’s carbon footprint. Nam disclosed that the ministry will create a legal framework that encourages the development of green industries. Collaborating in this effort are the country’s major agencies, namely: the Department of Science, Technology and Environment and the Institute of Architecture, Urban and Rural Planning.
Hashtag designed skyscraper dominates Seoul skyline SOKOR starts construction of new reactors South Korea (SOKOR) is aggressively pursuing a nuclear energy program with the construction of two nuclear reactors at the Uljin power plant in North Gyeongsang province. South Korea presently has 21 commercial reactors. The plant is of the APR-1400 design that generates 1,400 MW of electricity. It will cost the Sokor government around seven trillion won or $6.18 billion. The first reactor is expected to be finished in April 2017 and the other one in February 2018. The Ministry of Knowledge Economy stated that the project will not use foreign made materials for the most important areas of the construction. The project is undertaken by Korean Electric Power Company (KEPCO), a subsidiary of the state-run Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Company.
Soon, Seoul, South Korea will be home to the ultramodern designed skyscraper called the Cross Hashtag Towers. Its name and architectural design were derived from the symbol “#” executed by Danish architects of the BjarkeIngels Group (BIG). The building will be composed of two towers with two connecting bridges at 70 meters and 140 meters height and from afar will look like the “#” symbol. The two towers measure 204 and 214 meters high, respectively. It will be built as the gateway to Yongsan Business District. It will have 600 apartment units, a gallery, a library, a kindergarten and atop the two towers are landscaped sky gardens.
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industry report
www. philippinessckyscrapers.com
In a report from the National Statistical Coordination Board, the construction industry recoiled in 2010 by posting a remarkable 14.3% growth. As a result of its positive contribution, the Philippine economy grew by an average of 4.7% in 2011 and is projected to increase to 5.1% in 2012.
The Philippine Construction Boom:
Who Gets to Share the Pie? By Rodolfo de Guzman
T
www. en.wikipedia.org
he construction industry is a vital sector of the Philippine economy and has since become a significant indicator in determining the health of the country’s economy. The barometer of economic development seems to be riveted on the increase in construction activity whether initiated by the private sector or by government through its various infrastructure projects. The bustling activity in the construction sector is evident in the mushrooming of high rise residential condominiums and office buildings in Metro Manila’s premier financial district in Makati City, along the stretch of EDSA and the nearby Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City. We can only muse and ask ourselves what rippling effect then will this phenomenon has on other allied business sectors like the building contractors, architectural design firms and construction supply companies. Who gets to enjoy the biggest slice of the construction pie? How will small and medium general contractors fare in the current “construction boom” amidst the 10
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
resources of big contractors? Industry players In a report from the National Statistical Coordination Board, the construction industry recoiled in 2010 by posting a remarkable 14.3% growth. As a result of its positive contribution, the Philippine economy grew by an average of 4.7% in 2011 and is projected to increase to 5.1% in 2012. Corollary to this, the Aquino dispensation has remained optimistic banking on a 7-8% growth rate of Gross Domestic Product or GDP from 2011 to 2016. This estimate is anchored on the implementation of various government-initiated infrastructure projects under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Program and the installation of other fiscal and monetary policies conducive to local and foreign investments. If we are to rely on past performances, the construction industry has been faring well on a steady climb from 2006 to 2009 at an average of 10.5% growth and posting
industry report
“There is an undersupply of very qualified contractors and experienced personnel. It seems that many ‘middle management’ technical people are already out of the Philippines. Hence, most of the staff of contractors is young and inexperienced,”
-- Engr. Toby Tamayo
a remarkable 14.3% growth in 2010 with total investments reaching P1,184 billion (refer to Graphs A and B). In an article by Brent Hannon for Business Week magazine entitled “Construction: Riding the Boom…” Hannon interviewed and quoted Manuel S. Mendoza, President and CEO of Monolith Construction and Development Corporation (MCDC) who said, “The recent boom in property development is due to increased consumer confidence, and that has also made the country inviting to foreign investors.” Hannon also reported in the same article that current political situation in the country is one reason for the construction boom and he cited the observation of Jose Acuzar, Chairman of New San Jose Builders, Inc. as, “The real estate business is booming right now because of the economic and political situations.” With a total of around 4,760 private contractors accredited by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) as of September 30, 2011, all are out to win bids and projects both offered by the private sector (with aggregate value of P189.2 billion) and public or government agencies like the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). According to PCAB, private contractors are classified into four major categories depending on their capabilities and expertise. The principal classification is as follows: General Engineering (GE) that accounts for 56.7% of the entire list; General Building (GB) contractors consisting of 33.5% of the total; Specialty contractors at a level of 5.9%; and Trade contractors constituting only 3.9%. The contractors are further classified as to size where large contractors are graded AAA and AA, respectively, and accounts
for 6.4% of the total number of accredited contractors. The medium-sized contractors are tagged A & B made up of about 35.9%. The majority of the contractors remains at 57.7% and considered small contractors identified by other alphabetical codes. Furthermore, the PCAB has issued special licenses to 32 foreign contractors and 135 Filipino contractors with joint venture agreements with international companies. The breakdown of the foreign companies is as follows; Japanese (14), Chinese (8), Korean (8), Austrian (1) and Malaysian (1). So far there are still no statistical records that show the actual work given to listed contractors and therefore, the percentage share of each sector of contractors cannot be identified. But the fact remains that the labor force is around 1.7 million as of 2009, the bulk of which includes civil engineers (35% of total) and mechanical engineers (22% of total). A view from the ground TandeM Engineering
Consultancy,
a hundred percent Filipino company established in 1996, is an independent engineering company that has been in the forefront of providing structural engineering design and consulting services to big property developers and construction firms in the country. For 15 years, the company has seen the ups and downs in the construction industry but now remains very optimistic with the present scenario of massive infrastructure and construction activities going on for quite some time. TandeM Engineering Consultancy’s principals, Engineers Toby and Miriam Tamayo,are convinced that there is indeed a “construction boom” happening now. “Yes, we believe there is a construction boom. We felt it about two years ago when we started to receive many RFPs (requests for proposals). Where before we had limited dealings with major local developers, we are now involved in some of their projects….,” states Engr. Toby Tamayo. From the point of view of small and
Engrs.Toby and Miriam Tamayo (PICE Officer) of Tandem Engineering during the Biennial Homecoming of civil engineers.
September-October 2012
Philippine Construction&Design
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industry report
Graph A
medium contractors and engineering consultancy firms like TandeM, the continuous growth in the construction industry will surely cause incidental positive effect on employment as demand for skilled labor and managerial expertise will likewise increase. When asked for his assessment on what will be the effect of the boom on small and medium contractors, Engr. Tamayo opines, “The advantage to small and medium construction companies will come in the form of increase in the need for ‘sub-contractors’. They will be given the opportunity to work on ‘big’ projects where they will get the experience which can be useful later on.” In fact, the need for more contractors with proven expertise and specializations in engineering design, structural construction and other aspects has also risen in the last few years. “There is an undersupply of very qualified contractors and experienced personnel. It seems that many ‘middle management’ technical people are already out of the Philippines. Hence, most of the staff of contractors is young and inexperienced,” laments Engr. Tamayo. As such, there is still enough room for more companies to share the construction pie. Even though big projects go to sister companies of big developers like Ayala Land, Vista Land, DMCI Homes, etc., other areas of construction are subcontracted to smaller companies either by referrals who most likely offer the most economical prices. The fact remains that the drumbeats for more projects in the metropolis and in the provinces are getting louder each year. With increasing demands from OFW families for residential homes and the increased
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Graph B
spending on housing and recreation, the upward curve for new construction of condominiums and entertainment hubs will continue to gain speed. “The boom will peak within the next two (2) years and will plateau for the following three to five years. However, the big players (Ayala, DMCI, Robinson’s, SM, and Vista Land) will continue with new developments and will venture more into the outer Metro Manila areas,” predicts Engr. Toby Tamayo. Optimism gains momentum A bullish prediction of 10-11% growth in the next three years from 2012-2014 for the construction industry is a welcome scenario. If the projections do push through and other commercial sectors sustain the upward growth trend, then gains will
trickle down to the small and medium sized players in the construction industry as well. Again in the article written by Brent Hannon in Business Week magazine entitled, “Construction: Riding the Boom…” he reported what Jose Acuzar, Chairman of New San Jose Builders, Inc. said on the prospects for growth in the industry as, “My feeling is that we have almost five years to enjoy the boom. There is a big market for what we do.” The key sectors that will buoy the construction industry and promote growth in the contracting industry are the business process outsourcing or BPO, tourism, and mining. Sustained growth in these sectors is expected to pump prime construction activities and therefore generate more work for contractors. With more BPO setting up offices in
On going construction at The Landmark, a premiere shopping destination in Makati City
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
“The advantage to small and medium construction companies will come in the form of increase in the need for ‘sub-contractors’. They will be given the opportunity to work on ‘big’ projects where they will get the experience which can be useful later on.” -- Engr. Toby Tamayo Metro Manila and key cities in other provinces like Cebu and Davao there will be more demand for office spaces and commercial buildings. The BPO industry growth rate is expected to jump to 20% in 2012. According to the Export Development Council (EDC) and BPAP, the main catalyst is the Information Technology-BPO sector that has been exhibiting a robust growth at an average rate of 30% for the past years. On the other hand, the tourism sector expects to rally local and foreign tourists through aggressive marketing strategies. For the first quarter of 2011 alone inbound visitors increased by 13.3% to 1.3 million arrivals, coming mostly from the East Asian region. The Department of Tourism (DOT) expects an increase in foreign tourist arrivals to 6 million by 2016. Because of this additional airports, seaports and roads have to be constructed. Further, the growing focus on the mining sector will give contractors the opportunity to build office sites and housing facilities for mine workers and their families. Based on statistical data from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB),it projects a sustained growth in investments to the tune of $3.9 billion in 2012 and $1.9 billion in 2013, respectively. PPP Projects As the cornerstone of the Aquino administration, Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects are being pushed to generate growth in the construction industry and the Philippine economy in general. Already in the pipeline are 11 projects worth $2.5 billion in 2011 being undertaken by DPWH and DOTC. The three biggest PPP projects on the launching pad are the following: the LRT 1 South Extension to Cavite Project amounting to $1,500 million; the NLEX-
SLEX Connector spearheaded by DPWH at $477 million; and the LRT Line 2, East Extension Project Phase 2 at $251 million. This year onwards there are more than 20 PPP projects to be rolled out by DPWH, DOTC, DepEd, DOH and DA. Noteworthy of the projects earmarked are the Central Luzon Expressway, Phase 1 (TarlacCabanatuan) and the SLEX Extension to Lucena City, Quezon province by DPWH. The DOTC headed by former Senator Mar Roxas will oversee the expansion projects for the Ports of Davao, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos and Zamboanga that aim to boost shipping, fishing and cargo transporting activities in the Mindanao region. On the other hand, the DOH will embark on the Modernization of the Philippine Orthopedic Hospital project that will provide better quality healthcare to the people. Under the Philippine Development Plan for 2011-2016, the government and its various departments and agencies have committed to institutionalizing strategic reforms, crafting investment friendly regulatory laws, and streamlining business procedures. The construction industryis one of the priority areas given full support by the government as it laid out the Construction Industry Strategic Plan for the 21st Century or CI21. Winners Take It All Private initiated development projects are expected to start and most of the PPP projects of government lined up for 2012 and beyond will be bade out and implemented across the country. In Brent Hannon’s article in Business Week magazine entitled, “Construction: Riding the Boom…” he quoted Rey L. Vergara, President of New San Jose Builders, Inc. to have said, “We have a huge market in the Philippines, and for as long as that huge market is here--and I think it will be for 20 to 30 more years—we can take advantage of that strength.” Big and established contractors are favored to corner big projects as they have exhibited vast experience in their fields whether in structural engineering, building construction or road construction. Small and medium contractors usually get farmed out contracts from big contractors who do not maintain a large workforce and there are projects of varied scale that will
The KL Mosaic condominium project in Legazpi Village, Makati City
find its match with all industry players. The Business Monitor International, in its published Philippines Infrastructure Report for 3rd Quarter 2011, forecasted that the annual average growth rate in the construction sector will be 8.4% between 2012-2015 with an estimated total value of Php 852.9 billion or $ 20.9 billion. The challenge now lies not only on the initiatives of government and private construction firms but also on the thousands of accredited small and medium contractors to deliver quality products and services. For its part the government must maintain its transparency and create an attractive investment climate through fiscal reforms and solid policies. On the other hand, the private sector needs to address its capability by upgrading their manpower skills, improving project management, establishing a wider network, and identifying their own niche where their strengths lie. Onlywhen these two sectors move in unison can the entire country ride the wave of growth until the next decade and beyond.
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project report-public
Mayor Florencio Bernabe Jr. is shown inspecting the city’s asphalt batching plant in Brgy. Tambo, Parañaque City
LGU acquires Linnhoff asphalt batching plant Assures city of steady supply and 30% savings by Rodolfo de Guzman
T
o be able to conduct immediate road repairs in the city of Parañaque, the office of the Mayor approved the acquisition and construction of its own asphalt batching plant. This initiative of Mayor Florencio Bernabe Jr. and the city council is expected to address their need for a steady supplyof asphalt for fast repair of national and secondary roads in the entire city. Likewise, the new plant is expected to lower the cost of maintaining the city’s roads. In effect the savings that the local government will get in putting up its own asphalt batching plant far outweigh the cost of the plant. The cost of the plant was around P 17 million, purchased from Linnhoff Products of Singapore. “In the long run the city is guaranteed ample
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supply of asphalt for its infrastructure and road maintenance needs with a little savings on the side,” disclosed Lloyd Palconan, Parañaque City Public Information Office Head. Commercial asphalt producers like Pacific Concrete Products Inc. sell hot mix asphalt concrete or HMAC at roughly P4,800 per metric ton. Usually a truckload of asphalt can carry 20-21 metric tons. “We are expecting to realize around 30% savings by producing our own asphalt compared to buying it from outside suppliers,” said Engr. Reydivino B. Daval-Santos, Paranaque City Engineering Head. Fast delivery Considered as one of the largest cities in Metro Manila by land area, Parañaque
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
City is host to a great number of factories, manufacturing companies and industrial estates. Likewise, its proximity to the Ninoy Aquino International Airports 1, 2 and 3 also makes the city a logical choice for forwarding and cargo handling companies to locate their operations in Parañaque. As a result of this, vehicular traffic coming from all points makes use of the city streets daily thereby putting much stress on the city’s national roads like Dr. A. Santos Avenue (also known as Sucat Road), Airport Road, Dona Soledad Avenue and other secondary roads. “The asphalt batching plant was constructed to specifically address the need for fast repair work on deteriorated roads using asphalt. With our own plant we can be assured of using high quality materials that meet our standards,” revealed Palconan. The plant sits on a one-hectare property in Tambo, Parañaque City near the Uniwide Coastal Mall in Baclaran. In less than a year of operation, the city has already paved many primary and secondary roads like President’s Avenue inside the BF Homes Parañaque subdivision; Dona Soledad Avenue inside Barangay Don Bosco; Barangay Moonwalk; Dr. A. Santos Avenue; and Jackielou Village.
“We are now producing asphalt as the need arises. This way we get to schedule plant operation and minimize wastage. Our production level is enough to meet our road repair needs. For now, we do not intend to sell asphalt to other cities and municipalities since it is solely for the use of the city,” -- Engr. Daval Santos Kinds of asphalt Asphalt, due to its unique composition, is very ideal for road construction. The characteristics of asphalt, its flexibility to adapt to variations in natural road conditions, as well as its lower production cost, make it the ideal choice for road construction. Asphalt is technically referred to as asphalt concrete. It is a thick, sticky substance with color ranging from dark brown to black that comes from crude oil and other natural deposits near bodies of water or in oil sands that are abundant in the Middle East and Canada. It is either in liquid or semi-solid form with high viscosity. Primarily, it is made up of bitumen, a substance composed of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In fact asphalt is almost 80% carbon, thus giving it its very dark color. There are two major types of asphalt used in construction – the rolled asphalt and the mastic asphalt. Rolled asphalt, commonly used in the Philippines, is made of aggregates like sand, gravel, recycled concrete and an asphalt binder. It is called rolled asphalt because it is applied in layers and then compacted using asphalt pavers or steel drum rollers. Mastic asphalt, on the other hand, is also called sheet asphalt with lower bitumen content than rolled asphalt and can also be used in roofing and flooring applications. There are different types of rolled asphalt depending on the type of process used when binding it to aggregates. The more common is the hot mix asphalt concrete (HMAC) that is produced at 150 degrees centigrade to minimize viscosity and moisture. This process makes it more durable thus ideal for high-traffic roads and highways. It is also referred to as “virgin asphalt”. When heated to 160 degrees centigrade it is called polymer modified asphalt and when heated at 95 degrees centigrade it is called asphalt cement. Their application also varies as to what types of roads are paved. Then there is the warm mix asphalt concrete (WMA) that is produced using asphalt
emulsions, waxes and zeolites. Synthetic zeolites are rock-like materials that aid in decreasing temperature during manufacturing process, thereby allowing the easy compaction of asphalt as well as adapting to cold weather conditions. The process in manufacturing WMA is more environment-friendly as it uses less fossil fuel and fume emission is reduced. On the other hand, the cold mix asphalt concrete is manufactured by emulsifying asphalt in water with soap prior to mixing it with the aggregates. When emulsion breaks after water has evaporated it becomes a cold mix that takes on the properties of cold HMAC. It is ideally used for patching and for roads with light traffic. There is also the cut-back asphalt concrete produced by dissolving the asphalt binder in kerosene before mixing it with the aggregates. However, this has not been widely used beacuse its process is the least environmentfriendly. Lastly, there is the natural asphalt concrete. It is composed of bituminous rocks mixed with porous sedimentary rocks that form near the surface and is impregnated with upwelling bitumen. Sound investment The city government believes that this investment is worth the taxpayer’s money since it will be economical in the long run. “Based on our projections, the city can recoup its investment in just two years and its productive life can extend up to 20 years or more,” disclosed Daval-Santos. Linnhoff Products of Singapore, one of the well-known manufacturers of asphalt and concrete batching plants in the Asian region, shipped the plant in knockdown parts and later assembled on site by engineers
and technicians from Linnhoff.The asphalt batching plant was bought brand new. It is equipped with silos where ready–mixed asphalt is stored for up to eight hours before being used. It is run by a computer program and a trained technician can operate it singlehandedly in the designated control room. The local technicians underwent training conducted by Linnhoff engineers when it was constructed. The plant is diesel-fed and can produce 60 metric tons per hour. The plant is Germandesigned and is low in maintenance. Likewise, it does not require a lot of manpower to run the equipment itself since it is computerized. The City Engineering Office follows a certain standard mixture called Item 310 Grading E, pursuant to standards set by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).This formula makes use of 3,430 cubic meters of gravel 3/8 size; 12,228 cubic meters of sand (S1); 512 cubic meters of natural filler; 970 kgs. of bitumen; 2,610 liters of diesel fuel; and 17 drums of SS-1h tack coat per batch. Presently, the demand for asphalt by the city government is amply met by the new asphalt batching plant at its present capacity of 60 metric tons per hour. However, since road repairs are scheduled, the plant need not produce continuously. The asphalt would harden up in the silos when not immediately used after eight hours. “We are now producing asphalt as the need arises. This way we get to schedule plant operation and minimize wastage. Our production level is enough to meet our road repair needs. For now, we do not intend to sell asphalt to other cities and municipalities since it is solely for the use of the city,” concluded Engr. Daval-Santos.
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project report-private
Engineer Archival’s Eco House
Recycling for the future By Rodolfo de Guzman
W Chandelier made of used noodle plastic cups and wine bottles.
Skylight system on roof allows natural light to come inside the house.
Empty aluminum cans used as balusters on railings and empty tin cans as plant holders.
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ith the advance in modern technology and the prevalence of cost efficient methods of construction, there are also environment friendly materials being used for buildings, thus ushering the dawn of eco-friendly structures referred to as “green buildings”. Today, there are a few residential houses that fit this model with installed solar panels used for water heating. Engineer Nestor Archival of Cebu City, a former Cebu City Councilor, conceptualized and built his Eco House that is now considered a testament to innovativeness and ingenuity of Filipino architectural and engineering design. House close to nature Engineer Nestor Archival, a certified electrical engineer and contractor, is an advocate of environment protection and resource conservation. So when he decided to build his house, he thought of using recycled materials and eco-friendly solutions. It took him two years to conceptualize his plan and he finished building it on a 7,000 square meter lot in December 2007. In an interview with the Cebu Daily News in February 21, 2010, Ma. Bernadette A. Parco quoted Engr. Archival who said, “We need to treat garbage as a resource. There is no such thing as waste, everything is a resource.” True enough, he saw to it that he built his eco house with about 60% using local materials like limestone (an ingredient used in commercial grade cement) applying the “interlocking clay
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
brick system.” Archival’s house was later on called “House Close to Nature” (HCTN), a concrete structure that incorporated three elements, namely: structure stability; unique architectural form; and use of sound electrical and plumbing system that will allow free flow of air for ventilation, utilization of natural daylight for illumination, and efficient use and reuse of waste water. This eye catching edifice in Ylaya, Barangay Talamban, Cebu City was built on six principles, namely: preserving soil fertility; water conservation and filtration; tree growing and gardening; recycling and upcycling of used materials and market wastes; installation of renewable energy devices to produce power and gas; and use of locally available construction materials. With a life of its own Archival’s house is a two-storey structure built with a total floor area of 400 square meters. The design of the house and the open spaces were made to appear as a small biodiversity where animals, plants and man co-exist with each other. In different parts of the compound, you can find an apiary where bees and butterflies frolic and an aviary that serves as a sanctuary for colorful feathered animals. There are also structures built for the piggery, “goatery” and fish pond. This serves as source of food for the Achival family and its eight house help that maintains the compound.
project report- private
“We need to treat garbage as a resource. There is no such thing as waste, everything is a resource.” -- Engr. Nestor Archival At the front yard, there is a duck pond that makes use of rainwater and other treated “grey water”. Grey water refers to used water from kitchen washing, laundry, and bath as differentiated from “black water” found in sewerage system. There is a Waste Recycling Area where non-biodegradable wastes are segregated and reused and biodegradable wastes that are processed through “vermicomposting” to produce organic fertilizer. The composting facility has 50 earthworm beds filled with the African nightcrawler earthworms lying on a 250 square meters plot. The power of the sun is harnessed for electricity provided by seven photovoltaic solar panels installed within the compound. Each panel produces 75 watts of electricity. This is enough to light up four light bulbs and a television set. During the rainy season when presence of sunlight is diminished, two wind turbines serve as generators for producing electricity. Engr. Archival fabricated a biogas facility worth P30,000 that converts human and animal waste into methane gas. “For me, the best thing about this is the savings,” said Engr. Archival on an article for the Sunstar Cebu Yearbook 2011. They save around P1,500-P2,000 in electricity bill. The house was built with water catchment tanks installed on roofs to collect rainwater for flushing toilets; washing clothes; watering plants; and filling up the swimming pool and fish ponds. Unique interior design The façade of the walls are adorned with several square windows of different sizes to allow varied degrees of natural light to illuminate the interior of the house. Skylights were also used that makes natural light available to the mini library and work station. The house was designed to have high ceilings to maximize free flowing of air thereby lessening the use of air conditioning. The walls bore holes covered with used wine glass. There are strategically placed air
vents on walls made from cut up PVC tubes that makes the interior temperature cooler especially during the summer months. The main door is made from scrap wood while used wooden crates and planks were used to build CD racks, chairs and Lazy Boy recliners. Large wooden spools of electrical wires were refurbished with new coat of varnish and made into coffee tables. Scrap metals of all sizes and used wood were made into balustrade and staircase accessories. Aluminum soft drink cans were collected, cleaned and filled with cement to form balusters as part of railings. To create foot paths in the garden and open spaces, non-biodegradable wastes like plastic and styrofoam were shredded and mixed together with small amounts of cement to form bricks. Shift to environment-friendly architecture Engr. Archival’s eco-house was built on the principle of achieving a sustainable development approach to architecture and creative engineering design that promote the use of recyclable materials resulting in an energy saving house. Engr. Archival spent P 7 million to complete his eco-house, but he stressed that the long
term benefits far outweigh his investment. All over the world, there are similar initiatives being done by individuals, companies and educational institutions. Solar bottle bulbs were designed by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) students using plastic bottles filled with water, chlorine and salt that last for up to two years, thereby enabling poor households to use them as free alternative lighting system. Unilever Philippines, a multinational company producing consumer goods has initiated a program of recycling aluminum foil packaging and flexible plastic wrappers into concrete pavers. Boysen Paints recently introduced the KnoxOut brand of paint that reduces harmful effect of air pollution because of the component photocatalytic titanium oxide (TiO2) in its paints that transform water vapor to free radicals. The Plastic Bottle Schools project of social entrepreneur Illac Diaz through MyShelter Foundation makes use of 1.5 to 2 liter plastic bottles filled with liquefied adobe for its walls. Soon there will come a time that the norm for building construction may yet shift to more sustainable development alternatives.
Solar panels installed atop the window stores solar energy that is be converted to electricity.
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special report
Green roofs are the wave of the future Architecture takes on new challenges by Rachel Ranosa Geno Haus, Stuttgard, Germany photo Metropolis Magazine
A
green revolution has begun – but not exactly the kind that we knew way back during the Marcos era. The advent of green architecture has come. Residential and commercial spaces are being transformed into earth-friendly structures, and the shift is expected to benefit our environment and revolutionize the field of architecture. Innovations in roofing techniques, for instance, are borrowing concepts from landscaping to mitigate the effects of global warming. But one groundbreaking method that has taken Europe, Asia and the United States by storm has finally reached the Philippines -green roofs. Green roofs The word “green” refers to the environment—not literally the color green— as it utilizes the rooftops of homes and buildings as garden spaces. Due to its immense popularity and practicality, the green roof system has now reached Philippine shores. Although it has yet to reach the same level of popularity in the country as it has in Hong Kong and Singapore, a number of suppliers have begun offering options for Filipinos who wish to follow the green roof trend. Two well-known designs are the Daku and the Bungkal or BubongKalikasan (nature roof). 18
The Daku’s design is lightweight and requires minimal maintenance. A model of a Daku is located at the Rizal Bustle of Rockwell Residences, where it was installed a decade ago. The Bungkal is more affordable and recommended for non-critical areas, such as the top of garden canopies and garages. An example of this design is installed in the Mind Museum at Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. A number of business establishments have also looked into the advantages of installing green roofs as suggested by the Philippine Green Building Council (PGBC) in their Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE) rating system. PGBC estimates that building construction uses up to as much as 40% of the total energy use globally. This contributes to some 30 to 40% greenhouse gas emission and generates about 30 to 40% of the solid waste in the world. The BERDE system, conceived by the PGBC in partnership with computer-aided design company Autodesk, is designed to meet the requirements for cost effective and environment friendly building constructions. The SM North EDSA Sky Garden,the first of its kind in terms of design, is now being viewed as the model for the subsequent innovation in SM’s mall designs. Ayala Land, Inc., on the other hand, has added this eco-friendly feature to the architecture of
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
its malls: Greenbelt 5 in Makati, TriNoma in Quezon City, Market! Market! inTaguig and the Ayala Center in Cebu. TriNoma and the Ayala Center Cebu’s the Terraces both incorporate the green roof as part of a multi-level vertical garden. According to Ayala Land, Inc. representative Arch. Joel Luna, the company also plans to follow the BERDE standard in their existing developments, namely: the One Evotech Building and NUVALI Evoliving Center in Sta. Rosa, Laguna; the Tower One, Exchange Plaza and Solaris One Building in Makati City; and the UP-Ayala Land Techno Hub in Quezon City. Environmental benefits Green roofs or living roofs contain plants that flourish on a waterproofing membrane. In some cases, it may also include a root barrier as well as irrigation and drainage systems. There are two main types of green roofs. The first is the intensive green roof, characterized by the use of a reasonable depth of soil to grow large plants or a conventional lawn. It is intensive because of the higher degree of maintenance needed for irrigation and feeding. It is close to having an actual park on a rooftop. The second is the extensive green roof, designed to be more self-sustaining and
Chicago City Hall photo, by Tony the Tiger
it requires minimal maintenance. Plants included in this design need only fertilizer and annual weeding. According to advocates of the green roof system, the benefits of having one installed on top of houses or buildings can be divided into three: the environmental or eco-friendly benefits, the private benefits for people, and the agricultural and aesthetic value it adds. Green roofs also help lessen the effects of the Urban Heat Island or UHI in densely inhabited cities by absorbing light and converting it into heat energy. Urban heat island is a term used by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to refer to the heating up of urban areas by about 10 degrees Fahrenheit due to lack of vegetation. The effects of UHI are eased due to the cover the vegetation provides.This blanket effect is also referred to a sa black rooftop. Economic benefits A 2003 study by the National Council Research of Canada discovered extensive green roofs moderate the temperature in buildings. Improved insulation reduces the daily energy demand for air conditioning by 75% especially during summer. Green roofs also limit the exposure of waterproofing membranes to drastic temperature fluctuations,which can cause ultra-violet radiation and micro-tearing.
Another advantage is the system’s storm water retention. Green roofs have the capacity to reduce storm water run-off by 50 to 90%. They can reduce the peak flow volume and also delay the peak flow period by almost four hours, minimizing the damage to existing drainage systems. The overall life expectancy of the roof is lengthened. Green roofs protect the roof membrane from climatic and physical abuse similar to the way a protected membrane roof (PMR) functions. Costs While there are a number of advantages in having green roofs installed in residential and commercial spaces, it still has its fair share of obstacles. One of which is the cost. The price tag for installing a Bungkal, for instance, ranges from P2900 to P3200 per square meter while a complete setup for a Daku costs around P3800 to P4000 per square meter. For bigger scale green roof designs, the prices can go up considerably, depending on the species of plants and the appropriate soil to be used. The cost for irrigation and drainage systems must also be considered. Structural retrofitting is also needed for high-rise buildings to accommodate the additional weight load for larger green roof projects. In some instances, retrofitting is not
possible especially in regions of the world that are susceptible to earthquakes. Waterproofing is also another challenge as certain kinds of roots can penetrate the waterproofing membrane. Additional waterproofing systems and root barriers can increase the initial cost but it is generally viewed as practical in the long run. Green roofs protect waterproofing membranes from the elements, virtually lengthening their durability. Green efforts The green roof system is seen as the wave of the future. One by one, communities around the world are adopting its principle of lowering the harmful effects of industrialization on nature. The Quezon City Council, for one, has passed a legislation promoting the use of green roofs by reducing the real estate tax on residential and commercial spaces that install this eco-friendly feature. Despite being a relatively new concept for Filipinos, the shift to the green roof system is steadily gaining momentum. Environmental concerns may have prompted builders and designers to address the issue as a business challenge, but these have also created an opportunity for innovation as the aesthetic and functionality behind our contemporary spaces reach new heights.
September-October 2012
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personality profile
L. Arch’t. Frederick Peter C. Altavas
Finding his heart and soul in landscape architecture By Rodolfo de Guzman
D
olly Q. Perez, the Doyenne of Landscape Architecture in the Philippines, once told me, Design proportionally to the space you are given, and you will avoid the busy-ness of over-design or the emptiness of under-design. “Use a soft pencil in sketching your thoughts, the softer the strokes the more fluid the design”. Ildefonso P. Santos, Jr., the future National Artist, advised “In a park or a mall, never give a person a fixed path to walk on, rather, give him wide open spaces punctuated by islands of planting, where he can choose to discover or simply stand still.” Dolly and I.P., two of the most influential mentors, showed Frederick Peter C. Altavas, the future, the fun and the freedom in a career in landscape architecture. Frederick was a 4th year irregular student in the 70’s taking up BS Architecture. There was an elective course called LA 50 which was an Introduction to Landscape Architecture under Professor Cliff Peronilla.He was probably at the right place, at the right time, because with the encouragement of Prof. Peronilla, he soon found himself dabbling with designs of pocket gardens, landscaped lawns, and promenades. He then shifted to the Bachelor course in Landscape Architecture and hasn’t looked back nor regretted his decision since. Dickie graduated from the University of the Philippines, Diliman in 1982. After college, he apprenticed with IP Santos and Associates.
Solariega Clubhouse
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Later, he became a graduate assistant to Dolly Perez and taught Landscape Design to first. and second year students at UP. In 1984, he and five of his friends opened a partnership called Total Designs Atelier with Dolly Perez as Senior Partner. He passed the Board Exams for landscape Architecture in 1985.
Like painting on canvas
Landscape architecture is all about people, places and stewardship of the land where the environment is shaped to create a positive impact in peoples’ lives by enriching the natural beauty of its surroundings.For Dickie, landscape architecture is both a science and an art. The landscape architect is a trained professional who approaches a diverse landscape with artistic flair and technical knowledge. In their work, they encompass a wholistic approach by touching on human culture, space and the environment. When a property development project starts, ideally, it is the landscape architect who is the first to visit the project site. He is the one who surveys the terrain and draws a master plan indicating where buildings are to be built; where open spaces are to be situated; and how to work around nature in the most environment-friendly way. “It is like this, landscape architecture does not aim to overwhelm the architecture, rather it helps to frame and enhance the beauty of
Solariega Swimming Pool
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
Landscape Architect Frederick Peter C. Altavas
“
You are only confined or restricted by your imagination and that’s what makes landscape architecture very interesting… I got the encouragement from my professors and mentors who showed me how to open my mind, like Professors Peronilla and HonoratoPaloma, to think outside the box.
”
-- Dickie Altavas structures,” declares Dickie.
More than gardening
Landscape architecture is a multi-disciplinary study that includes among others architecture, site planning, basic engineering, land surveying, horticulture, design theory, natural sciences (geology and ecology), research, and the social sciences (economics and psychology). Furthermore, it requires a great deal of creativity. “You are only confined or restricted by your imagination and that’s what makes landscape architecture very interesting… I got the encouragement from my professors and mentors who showed me how to open my mind, like Professors Peronilla and Honorato Paloma, to think outside the box,” said Dickie. To change the common perception that landscape architects are just glorified gardeners, they must educate their clients on the importance of landscape architecture. Because of this, the Philippine Association
Landscape Architect Altavas’ Golden Haven French Royale Garden
of Landscape Architects or PALA, the sole organization accredited by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) and recognized abroad by the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) is pursuing education as its primary advocacy.
At the helm of PALA
Dickie is the current president of the Philippine Association of Landscape Architects and has served as its steward since 2006. PALA was established in December 8, 1977 with nine charter members as founders. Under Dickie’s stewardship, PALA has initiated and is presently offering the Visiting Professors Program where they conduct lectures and talks in different colleges and universities. There is also an on-going Continuing Professional Education Program which aims to augment and enhance the capabilities of PALA members. “There are presently three campuses that offer a landscape architecture course; the University of the Philippines,Diliman that started in 1971, University of San Carlos in Cebu in 2003; and the Bulacan State University in 2007. By the 80’s there was already a Masters degree in Tropical Landscape Architecture in UP,” disclosed Dickie. PALA was instrumental in lobbying for the passage of the law governing the practice under Republic Act 9053 or the Landscape Architecture Act of 2000. With it came the creation of the Board of Landscape Architecture (BoLA) that oversees the licensure examinations under the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).
Milestones
Following the footsteps of his mentors, Architects Ildefonso P. Santos Jr.and Dolly
Perez, Dickie has a number of laudable projects tucked under his belt. He designed and executed the Clubhouse amenities of the Caribbean-inspired community called Solariega Subdivision in Talomo, Davao City. Dickie also created the Clubhouse of the Plantacion Meridienne in Lipa City, Batangas; an exclusive community that mimics the southern ambience of New Orleans in Louisiana. The Golden Haven Park in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental is considered a unique park development project where he incorporated 10 different designs like Japanese Zen garden, California Mission, and Moroccan Tapestry to name a few. Dickie was commissioned to design the Sendong Memorial inside the Golden Haven Memorial Park in Cagayan de Oro City to commemorate the over 1,000 victims of typhoon Sendong with a backdrop of 13 pillars where the victims’ names are inscribed. His latest project is the Entrance Statement of the North Ridge Pavilion (a collaboration with Dolly Perez) at Monterrazas de Cebu by Genvi Development Corporation; an exclusive resort-inspired residential enclave.
Greener pastures
It is unfortunate that there are a lot of talented Filipino landscape architects that are now working abroad for the promise of greener pastures. However, they cannot be blamed because in Singapore, according to L. Arch’t.Zeny Galingan of the University of the Philippines Diliman, Filipino landscape architects can earn as much as the equivalent of P80,000 per month salary. In the Philippines, landscape architects employed by design firms earn lesser and those with their own companies
charge only from 7.5% to a maximum of 15% of the project cost. “We are good, but unfortunately it is also us Filipinos who do not see that we are good because we are more often than not, made to play second fiddle to foreigners. We are so trained to look up to anything foreign because we think they are better, but the truth is that the locals do great work and they even get compliments and recognitions abroad for their designs and their talent,” lamented Dickie.
Creating impact
For Dickie, landscape architecture is here to stay. There is already a growing consciousness for environmental protection and conservation among leading property developers like Ayala Land, Vista Land, and DMCI Homes. He believes that landscape architecture is now more of an imperative than luxury. “In fact, you can borrow landscape… if you have a golf course in front of your property then the view is yours like the Pacific Plaza at the Fort. You can have a choice of your ceiling like for the overhead you can have the sky, or it can be a canopy of trees, and so on… and these become yours,” explained Dickie. When asked who he idolizes among the successful landscape architects, he said he preferred calling them mentors. He said that the temptation is there to copy your idol’s works which does not necessarily develop your talents; whereas, seeing them as mentors brings out the greatness in you and that makes you a designer and a landscape architect. “Our responsibility as Landscape Architects is to educate our clients, to give them a lifestyle, a setting, a space designed to suit their personalities and their needs, to educate them about what, in our experience and knowhow, we know will fulfill all those needs and more,” concluded L. Arch’t. Dickie.
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supplier's profile
The destiny of weatherproofing
Supplier gears for more demands By Ed Velasco
“When you say weatherproof it means you give your buyer comfort even during typhoon or heavy rains because these are top enemies of any structure whether man-made or natural.” –Charlie Lim, Sales Engineer, Paradise Chemical Corp.
Ace vs bad weather The firm’s Destiny flexible liquid bond is its answer to protection from bad weather or heavy rains. The firm produces almost a hundred products from primer to topcoat. Manufacturing of weatherproofing materials is almost similar to paint manufacturing that uses certain substances from rubber trees extensively for cohesion plus other raw materials which Lim declined to divulge. “Its raw materials are very confidential,” he explains. The sticky substance from rubber tree, which is sap in layman’s parlance, helps weatherproofing/waterproofing materials to
www.herberthconstruction.com
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T
HERE is a boom in condominium and infrastructure development in the Philippines in the last few years brought by renewed confidence in the existing business climate. The once sleepy Fort Bonifacio is witness to this trend after it was privatized in 1997. From that year, condominiums, malls and offices have never stopped mushrooming in the area. There is one common denominator for almost all structures wherever you go whether in Libis, Fort Bonifacio or Ortigas area—they are all weatherproof to withstand the country’s harsh weather. Almost all structural surfaces—roofs, gutters, bathrooms, walls, firewalls, terraces and verandas—are required to be weatherproofed so that it can withstand all weather conditions usually accompanied by typhoons and cyclones. “When you say weatherproof it means you give your buyer comfort even during typhoon or heavy rains because these are top enemies of any structure whether man-made or natural,” explains Charlie Lim, sales engineer of Paradise Chemical Corp., the maker of Destiny paint brand and weatherproofing/ waterproofing products. It’s a common misconception for buyers that when they choose Destiny, it means they are buying a weatherproofing substance. The product maker stressed they have a hundred different products and weatherproofing/ waterproofing materials are just one of them.
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
be more elastic and flexible when mixed with other materials, such as polymer. Although he didn’t divulge the more vital raw materials, all weatherproof products under the Destiny brand are lead-free, nontoxic and easy to apply. All one needs to do is to ensure that the surface is structurally sound, no large cracks, no loose particles, no dirt and no oil, grease, wax, soap and other contaminants. Lim said the liquid bond has three primary uses—as waterproofer/weatherproofer, as tile adhesive and as mortar patch. It can also be used in swimming pools, fishponds, metal sheet roofs and concrete walls. When used for weatherproofing/ waterproofing, Destiny liquid bond requires a 1:1 ratio to a kilo of cement. When properly mixed and applied, it can last for 10 years unless there is a devastating intensity 8 or 9 earthquake. Quake worst enemy “Because that will cause the surface to crack, then the use and lifespan of the weatherproofing/waterproofing material will be lessened by at least 50 percent,” Lim explained. He admitted that the weakness of any weatherproofing/waterproofing substance is when the surface covered by it cracks. “Because the level of the surface is lost, then its effectiveness is also lost but that scenario is far-fetched unless the earthquake is very strong and damaging,” he explained. For tile adhesive and mortar patching, 1:2 ratio for the liquid bond and cement must be followed. For weatherproofing/ waterproofing, a 4-liter liquid bond can cover 10-15 square meters using a brush. Used as tile adhesive or mortar patch, it can cover 5-6 square meters for every 4 liter mixture depending on thickness. If anyone is wondering what are the unique features of their weatherproofing/ waterproofing products Lim replied: “The rubber bond is flexible, rubberized and elastic that’s why it’s weatherproof.” Lim added that none among their liquid tiles’ raw materials are sourced locally. “Our raw materials are imported from Germany and the US.” Destiny liquid bond is also relatively priced lower than its fiercest competitor. A 4-liter Destiny liquid bond costs P775 in Metro Manila with a little adjustment in the provinces. The product is available in 1-liter, 4-liter and 16-liter sizes. Liquid bond is available in almost all hardware and paint stores and can be bought retail or in bulk.
Paradise technical staff can do the application and carries with it a 1-year guarantee. “If the buyer applies it himself, there is no guarantee,” he said. He added that price for single purchase or bulk buying is the same because it is the net price already. As a proof of the market’s increasing demand for weatherproofing/waterproofing products, Paradise is now producing an average of 5,000 gallons of liquid bond per month to meet demands. Four years ago, the firm was only selling 2,000 gallons a month. Paradise disclosed that it is capable of meeting demands of the market even if the current 5,000-gallon demand triples, the engineer assured. High rise structures common buyers The engineer said demands for liquid bond are so brisk, especially among high rise structures in the Bonifacio Global City and Makati areas. Their buyers said they use the liquid tile in roof decks, comfort rooms and firewalls. Lim added that the best feature of their product is its being lead-free, eco-friendly, non-flammable and non-toxic because almost all products in the world are now removing lead in their produce, particularly paints, lights, thermometers, toys and batteries. Although lead has been banned in household paints, since 1998, old traffic paint or zebra crossing in many US states may still contain
lead. Alternatives such as water-based, leadfree traffic paint are readily available. Many states in the US and federal agencies have changed their purchasing contracts to specify lead-free traffic marking paint. With the current race in condominium and building development in many areas, Lim says Paradise might double its current production capacity. In Fort Bonifacio alone, there are two areas—West McKinley and Uptown Bonifacio—that will be filled with condos and buildings to rival Bonifacio High Street. Lim is confident that increase in infrastructure development will continue in the country due to more foreign investors looking at opportunities in the Philippines. “As of now the 5,000-gal per month demand hasn’t changed yet. But we’re ready even if it doubles or triples. Let the demand come and we’re here to supply them,” the sales engineer added. When asked about product innovation, the engineer said there is no need at the moment for further research and development as materials and processing methods for weatherproofing/waterproofing haven’t changed. The only thing that will change is the volume of production, not the procedures or the materials required, he added. At present, the firm’s facilities at San Antonio, Makati is enough to supply the demands needed by the market.
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Construction Project Management is a
Team Sport P
roject management is a business discipline aimed at efficiently and effectively conducting a specific project that will result in realizing set objectives. In doing so, a project manager, the point-man tasked with the responsibility to oversee the entire project, works with people with specialized expertise who can provide him with the needed logistical support. In a nutshell, project management becomes a new ball game for a company. Once the company starts to develop a project, it is important to set specific goals and objectives, targets and timetable. By
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| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
Photo by jozeph klinger/ www.sxc.hu
setting the parameters as well as identifying the resources available at hand and those that are still needed to finish the project, it will be easier to manage the project on a day-to-day basis. On top of all these, the project manager must take the role of a leader to keep the project going on the right direction. Are there really born leaders? The question we often ask is, “Are there people who are born leaders?” Perhaps yes but not all the time so much so that leadership can be learned and acquired.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
“Are there people who are born leaders?”
Photos courtsy by jozeph klinger / www.sxc.hu
The project manager is tasked to set the goals; map out the work strategies; manage available resources and utilize manpower skills effectively. For a project manager to be an effective leader he or she must be able to do the following in relation to the people he is working with:
Today, there are so many leadership seminars, workshops and symposia that aim to teach the essential rudiments of good and effective leadership. In effect, leaders can be trained and maybe those who we can say “have it” will learn faster than those who do not possess it. According to Stephen R. Covey, author of the book “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People”, project management involves putting together all the important resources available, making use of them the best way possible and leading the group of people involved in the project. In other words, if a construction project is to be done within a specified budget and time frame, the project manager must be able to identify what resources he needs and how to use them to achieve his objective. If he needs to use heavy equipment like excavators for land preparation, then he must access information as to
what equipment is suited for his project. Likewise, he must ensure that he has the appropriate manpower, like the operator, with the exact competency to operate the excavator. Otherwise, if the project manager fails to put these two elements together, the project will be compromised. People skills The project manager as a leader must be able to work well with his people and minimize “personal friction” among his staff. The project manager must possess a high degree of interpersonal relationship skills to be able to identify the strengths and weaknesses of his team. In short, the project manager must not only be capable of managing financial budgets, utilizing resources and monitoring time schedules but more so be adept at managing people – the core asset of a project or a company.
1) must be able to set a clear vision and direction for his team; 2) must be able to establish reasonable goals; 3) must effectively communicate with his team; 4) must be able to motivate all stakeholders; 5) must be knowledgeable in managing available resources; 6) must be proficient in time management; and 7) must be sensitive and can adapt to a changing environment. All these skills can be acquired and learned. The only requirement then to become a good leader is for him or her to be open-minded in acquiring knowledge that can enhance his or her performance. It is therefore very important for a project manager to be both a manager and a leader. But there is also a new emerging role of the project manager. He must also be a good “coach”. Managing people is like coaching a basketball team If the analogy of good leadership is that of a good coach of a basketball team, then I would surely vote Chot Reyes of Talk ‘n Text team in the PBA as an example of a good and effective leader. Similarly, Phil Jackson can exemplify good leadership when he steered the Chicago Bulls to numerous championship titles and later on dominated the NBA scene when he duplicated his feat with the Los Angeles Lakers. A project manager who will act and think like a basketball coach will definitely be in the right direction towards achieving success for his project. The discipline and approach of a team coach in managing his people, the team players, and setting objectives of winning games are akin to performing well.
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risk & safety management
Construction Safety Management
www.Igsafetyservices.webds.com
Construction safety is everyone’s business. Planning ahead saves lives and possibly millions of pesos in damages.
C
onstruction jobsite safety is the concern of all involved in various construction projects whether performed by a general contractor and/or various sub-contractors. This construction work might involve the construction of new facilities, facility maintenance, re-build, or modification. Construction jobsites are by nature hazardous. Heavy equipment, electric hand tools, materials being moved around with various workers involved in various work often carry a toll in the relatively high frequency and severity of worker injuries. Efforts by top construction management to establish and conduct conspicuous, high quality safety programming for the benefit of all persons at their jobsites is a must. Safety in the workplace Because workplace safety is so important to construction work, it is essential that initial responsibility for overall jobsite safety be clearly accepted by one party with the authority to initiate and accomplish what
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is required to achieve jobsite safety. Safe working conditions at construction jobsites are best achieved when the prime or general contractor assumes his rightful leadership role and takes primary responsibility to manage the overall basic safety program at his jobsite. Undefined authority among the parties involved related to jobsite safety is not a workable arrangement for such an important matter that literally affects the life and limb of each and every worker on the jobsite. It is only logical that the prime or general contractor assume overall safety responsibility and safety program leadership. The prime contractor has primary and overall authority and control of the jobsite. All persons performing work at his jobsite are either his employees or have been directly or indirectly hired or controlled by the prime contractor. For these and other reasons, the prime or general contractor possesses a singular responsibility to conduct specific jobsite safety programming. This programming
| Philippine Construction&Design  September-October 2012
should establish and provide a workplace free of recognized hazards that have the potential to cause serious injury to workers or other individuals at the jobsite. Sub-contractors The prime or general contractor, depending on circumstances, may assign certain specific safety activities if there are other contractors involved in the project. These contractors will then share a corresponding responsibility for jobsite safety. When a prime or general contractor engages one or more sub-contractors, the sub-contractor should have a verifiable, high quality safety program. When the prime or general contractor assigns certain safety management responsibilities to a subcontractor, both parties agree to have joint responsibility for jobsite safety. But the prime or general contractor retains overall responsibility. To illustrate this point, consider the following comparison. When a prime or general contractor delegates construction tasks to one or more specialty subcontractors, a reasonable and prudent prime or general contractor will continue to monitor the delegated work to ensure compliance with his directives and the project plans and specifications. Certainly the party that hired the prime or general contractor can reasonably expect this. If it can be timely arranged or the opportunity is offered to specialty craft subcontractors, they should actively participate in the development of the overall project safety program established during pre-job safety planning sessions conducted by the prime or general contractor so that hazards specific to their trade are addressed. Regardless, sub-contractors have the responsibility to (a) actively participate and adhere to the safety program advanced by the prime and general contractors presented to them during pre-job planning sessions, (b) establish and implement their own
risk & safety management
safety program relative to general safe work methods and specific craft hazards not requiring assistance, cooperation, or coordination with others, (c) utilize communication procedures established by the prime and general contractors to discuss safety issues as they arise, and (d) coordinate their craft activities with the prime and general contractors and other subcontractors as such work might relate to the safety of all workers and other individuals at the jobsite. Safety management plan A construction safety management plan is a must for any contractor or real estate developer actively doing business and taking on construction projects. In fact, most cities and municipalities in developed countries would almost always require a company engaged in the construction business to present such a plan, before any government clearances and permits are issued. In some instances, there may be some unscrupulous developers and business owners who do away with this requirement, resorting to bribery or to sheer neglect. Some small firms, believing that they do not have much impact on the environment, also choose to circumvent or not take such requirements seriously. The fact still remains that the consequences of not having a construction safety management plan are extremely farreaching and serious. Simply relying on luck that nothing adverse will happen on the jobsite is a foolish thing to do. It always pays to be safe than sorry because when accidents occur, time and valuable resources are wasted; not to mention the reputation of the construction company may even be jeopardized.
together with their employees, staff and even external partners and suppliers. For small companies who may not be able to afford professional services, they can still undertake the creation of a construction safety management plan by themselves. With the wealth of resources and information available on the internet or the web these days, business owners can initiate the planning process themselves. ASCC safety management plan The American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC), St. Louis, Mo., has published a “Safety Management Plan,” which can be customized by contractors to serve as a company’s complete safety program. The manual was prepared by ASCC’s Safety & Risk Management Council to help contractors develop and implement a basic safety management plan that can be customized to meet the needs of individual companies. The plan covers the following topics: basic policy statements, safety responsibilities,
inspections, accident investigation, safety meetings, safety rules, training, recordkeeping, first aid, emergency planning, hazard communication, concrete construction, electrical safety, fall protection, confined spaces, lock out/tag out, scaffolding, trenching and excavating, and substance abuse. The plan includes numerous sample forms and tags. The plan is available in a three-ring, tabbed binder, or on a CD. ASCC members receive discounted pricing. Pricing for both manuals and other concrete-related safety publications is available by calling 866-7882722 or visiting www.ascconline.org. The ASCC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of those who build with concrete. It also provides them a unified voice in the construction industry. There are approximately 600 member companies in the United States and five foreign countries. For more information on the ASCC visit their website at www.ascconline.org or call 314-962-0210.
Hiring safety specialists Undertaking a policy and plan on construction safety is actually easier than it sounds. Business owners are daunted by the task, but it is well worth the initial effort to prepare rather than to deal with the consequences of accidents and mishaps later on. A construction company or real estate developer can hire the services of a professional consultant who can guide them on the right steps to develop their own safety management policy and plan. This would involve a planning and brainstorming session spearheaded by management,
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www.freestockphotography.com.au
human resources management
Japanese HR Management Model
International HR Managers gain insights in Japanese HR practices
J
apanese companies are well known to maintain a certain degree of discipline among its employees as well as their managers. It is a routine activity for most, if not all, Japanese companies to engage in some kind of ritual exercise either at the start of the day or as prescribed in their work conduct. This practice is believed to promote the company culture, achieve productivity and create harmony in the work place. In contrast, the Western companies focus
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| Philippine Construction&Design  September-October 2012
more on work and production schedules with minimal time allocated to socioculture related activities compared to Japanese firms. In both ways, the objective is the same: to achieve the highest degree of productivity and efficiency in the plants and offices. The main difference lies on the approach to human resource management. There may be similarities between Western and Eastern methodologies but there are also glaring differences worth a second look.
Human resource strategies The Japanese style of human resource management zeroes in on three basic strategies that nurture human relations and human needs. Firstly, Japanese companies create a philosophy that revolves around the needs and concerns of its employees. This may not necessarily involve financial remunerations or rewards. This may take the form of job security, further skills training and other personal needs. This belief addresses the need of the employees for overall job satisfaction. Second, Japanese firms draw up strategies to encourage teamwork and cooperation among employees and the different departments within the company. This is most logical in the sense that a collective approach to work, if guided properly, can be most productive. As a result, this saves available time and resources. Lastly, they are akin to the internal labor market. Japanese firms put value on harnessing the internal labor market and developing the necessary skills and competencies needed for specific jobs. Cultural influence in hrm practices The rich Japanese culture has for decades influenced human resource management policies of Japanese companies. The old practice puts great value on loyalty and employees are given a security of tenure. In effect, employees are rewarded commensurately for their long stay in the company. Also, the concept of group performance was regarded as a means to productivity and harmonious work environment. This was believed to improve efficiency in the work place and to some extent it did. However, this practice is changing rapidly in corporate Japan as a shift to more performance-based concept is evident. Although the basic Japanese culture and values are preserved, more and more companies now adopt the so-called dualpromotion system where salary and job title are determined based on individual performance. This system now is closer to Western philosophy in regard to human resource management.
records and train them to the positions required. Again this practice is changing. HR practitioners are now more inclined to hire more experienced employees with highly specialized skills and training. Though this may involve higher pay grades and benefits, the cost of training and reeducating may be minimal. Furthermore, the practice of internal promotion to fill up vacancies is slowly being replaced by external recruitment. With the waning of time-based promotions and seniority, companies are also retooling their training program. The formal and institutional management and supervisory training program is now replacing the informal on-the-job training program. HR Imperatives With the changes in Japanese corporate environment particularly in human resource management, there are learnings to be studied further and taken into serious consideration. The biggest factor is cultural diversity. For any particular setting, the HR manager must be sensitive and keen on the differences of culture and tradition. To effectively implement a program, this factor must be considered since this is the heart of employee relations. Together with this is the close study of the prevailing value system. There must be clear understanding of teamwork, collective efforts, individual wants, reward system, and non-monetary needs of employees. The role of government must also be
Although the basic Japanese culture and values are preserved, more and more companies now adopt the socalled dual-promotion system where salary and job title are determined based on individual performance. This system now is closer to Western philosophy in regard to human resource management.
taken seriously as all policies may depend on what the government is implementing with relation to regulations as well as restrictions. Then, the HR manager must focus on maintaining an effective labor relations policy especially if there are existing labor unions or associations. Policies could vary depending on the character of the labor union or when there is no union in some cases. References: International Human Resource Management in Japanese Firms. Personnel Psychology. Durham by A. Clardy, Vol. 56, Issue 1, 2003.; Human Resource Management in Japan-Adjustment or Transformation? International Journal of Manpower, Volume 22, Issue 3 by J. Salmer, 2001.; Recent Trends in Japanese Human resource Management: The Introduction of a System of Individual and Independent Career Choice. Asian Business Management. Volume 2, Issue 1. By W. Takashi, 2003.
Recruitment initiatives More and more Japanese companies are now redefining its recruitment policy. Before, they look for fresh graduates from top universities with impressive scholastic www.prettyclever.co.uk
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sales and marketing
Believe it or not, you can still make a sale inside an elevator
www.introtosoc.wiki.usfea.edu
Preparedness is the key to making an effective sales pitch
Is there a proper way to make a sales pitch? Is there a right approach to closing a sale? Is there an appropriate place to make a sales call? The answers to these are yes, yes and NO!
pitch is preparedness. Ifyou have only 45 seconds or less to get your message across to a prospective client inside an elevator, leave nothing to chance.
Y
Avoid silly mistakes When you chance upon a prospective customer in an elevator, think twice before saying a word to avoid the common mistakes salespeople often make. First, according to Steve W. Martin, a salesperson must never use truisms even if the company provides them because the prospective client may not necessarily
es, the answer to the last question is a no. In the field of selling, any place can be the ideal venue to make a sales pitch and surprisingly there are instances when sales are made in placeswe least expect. According to Steve W. Martin, a marketing expert who teaches sales strategy
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at the USC Marshall School of Business, a sales pitch can be successful even done in a cramped elevator. Writing in his blog dated August 22, 2012, Martin suggested that the important thing to remember is to always be prepared with what you have to say and how you say it. So, the key to making a successful sales
| Philippine Construction&Design  September-October 2012
Sales linguistics Steve W. Martin has also written a blog entitled “Persuasion Tactics of Effective Salespeople” and he discussed about a new field of study called “sales linguistics”. According to Martin this new approach to
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accept the claim you make. The important thing to remember is to gain the trust of your prospective client. By avoiding selfpromotion, you establish credibility and the chances of getting the prospective client’s attention get higher. Second, the salesperson must avoid talking about something that the prospect may find confusing or words that are unfamiliar to him or her. This refers to the use of technical jargon you use in your company. Avoid using such terms you think are “exclusive” to you only. Do some research on the prospective company and its decision makers so that when you chance upon them in an elevator, you are prepared to give your sales pitch. Third, the salesperson must also defer making small talk or asking irrelevant questions that may annoy the prospect. This only applies to persons you are already familiar with. If the chance encounter happens to be the first time you will talk to the prospective client, it is prudent to maintain a certain degree of formality. Fourth, the salesperson must remember to value his prospect as well as himself by not posing statements or questions that may lessen their stature. The salesperson can simply say he represents a certain company that manufactures a product or provides service the prospect company can benefit from. This way, the prospective client will feel comfortable enough that he is dealing with a professional and a reliable company representative. Fifth, the salesperson should consider making a close on his sales pitch by giving importance to the prospect client as to his or her rank or position in the company. The salesperson must maintain a certain degree of distance and accord the prospect the respect he or she deserves. Lastly, the salesperson must maintain composure, a certain degree of confidence and project an image of competence and reliability. He or she mustnot stutter or show nervousness that will reflect negatively on the salesperson and the company he is representing.
salesmanship involves the use of specific language by salespersons and customers during the actual sales conversation. Martin stated that to succeed in the elevator sales pitch, the salesperson must acquire communication skills that focus on specific strategies as follows. First, the salesperson has to use the “softener technique” to prepare the prospect and put him or her at ease. Martin described it with the opening statements like, “I am sorry to bother you” or “It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m not sure if you are familiar with us.” By using the preapologizing softener technique, respect and trust are established. Second, the salesperson must establish only the facts when stating things about the company and its dealings with other clients. Third, metaphors can be used like stories that the prospect can identify with and relate to. Martin said that metaphors help in making complex ideas be understood easily. Likewise, metaphors makeideas interesting to hear; and when the attention of the prospect is solicited it will be easier for him to appreciate what the salesperson is proposing. Fourth, the salesperson can give “foreground and background suggestions” that relay messages of facts with reference to the product or service that his company provided for other clients. Martin mentioned that salespersons can site consumer reports
where the company’s products or services were given a high rating. Also, he said that it will further convince the prospective client by stating other customers or companies who availed of the product or service. Some marketers use a similar method by using client testimonials. Fifth, there must be a “fallback position” by giving the prospect options to choose from rather than forcing an answer that might end up in a negative result. Pressuring the prospective client by giving an ultimatum may not be a wise move. Lastly, the salesperson should create a moment of “silence”. According to Martin, this is an important linguistic structure to let the prospect know that you are listening and waiting for the response patiently. Maintaining a moment of silence actually sends a clear message you are giving the prospective client importance and the chance to fully evaluate his options. Again, the important thing to remember is to be prepared with what you need to say. To be prepared, the salesperson must practice aloud his sales pitch so that when the time comes that he accidentally meets the prospective client in an elevator, he will be confident and relaxed. Remember, without ample preparation a minute or two can spell the difference between a closed sale and lost opportunity. Source: Steve W. Martin blog entitled Win the Business with this Elevator Pitchposted at www.hbr.orgonAugust 22, 2012 at 7:00pm.
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products & technology
www.taylorandsons.us
GOMACO GP-2400 - This is an economical half-width concrete paver equipped with 10-foot Gomaco series two tracks. It features a G+ control system with self-diagnostics for grade and steering. It is powered by a 174.5 hp turbocharged Caterpillar C6.6 diesel engine. It has a travel speed of 105 fpm.
www.casece.com
Kubota KX080-3 Super Double Boom - The Kubota KX080-3 model has cleanrunning Interim Tier IV engine and adjustable maximum oil flow on auxiliary circuit. It has an electric fuel refilling pump and standard third line hydraulic return to tank. The maximum digging height is 27 ft. and 4 inches. Maximum dumping height is 20.4 ft. and 5 inches.
www.volvove.com
Case 570 MXT Loader Tool Carrier - The 570 MXT belongs to Series 3 with a powerful Tier II 445T/M3 diesel engine that gives outstanding performance and fuel efficiency. It has hydraulic PTO option for increased versatility coupled with a single-lever loader control in push –button activation for the differential lock and transmission de-clutch. It has a three-point hitch for variable flow hydraulics, optional dual tilt for increased ditching and a 15-degree swivel seat for increased visibility.
www1.casece.com
Ingersoll Rand SD-105DA - It runs with Cummins B3.9-TAA 4-cylinder turbocharged engine generating 125 horsepower. It belongs to the TF series compactors designed with dual frequency, machine drum and auto reversing eccentrics and eight amplitudes. It has an automatic on/off spray and vibration system. It is 236 inches long, 90 inches wide and has a height of 122 inches. Drum width is 84 inches.
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| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
Case CX160B Excavator - The Case CX 160B Excavator carries the common rail Tier III engine with reduced noise and vibration. It has three work modes, namely: automatic, heavy and speed priority. The pressurized isolated-mounted cab has reduced noise level by 4.7 dBa. It has an auto power boost that increases bucket digging force by 10%.
www.volvoce.com
www.komatsueq.com
products & technology
Komatsu WA250-6 - This 2012 model Komatsu loader WA250-6 runs on a 4-cycle engine with 6 cylinders. It has a 140 hp/104kW gross horsepower at 2,000 rpm. It is 22 ft. and 10 inches to 24 ft. and 7 inches long. The height is 10 ft. 6 inches and operating weight of 25,441-25,904 lbs. It has a 4-speed transmission and runs at forward speed of 38 km/h on 4th gear and reverse speed at 4-13 km/hr. on 1st gear.
VOLVO EC290C Standard Demolition Excavator - This demolition machine is packed with power and strength with a 195 hp (143 kW) Volvo Tier 3-Stage IIIA compliant engine with V-ACT (Volvo Advanced Combustion Technology). The hydraulic system matches hydraulic flow to engine for maximum performance and fuel efficiency. It is equipped with safety features like FOG (frame-mounted falling object guard), doublethickness side doors, bolted side-impact protection system, and bucket and boom cylinder guards. With the Volvo quick fit system, demolition attachments can be easily switched including hammers, shears, pulverizers and grapples.
www.kubota.com
KUBOTA R520S - This type of loader from Kubota has a liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder diesel engine with 46 hp at 2,600 rpm. Its overall height is 106.5 inches including cab. Its length including bucket and weight is 184.5 inches, overall width is 69.3 inches and operating height of 165 inches. Its operating load with bucket is 2,205 lbs. and 1,625 lbs. with pallet forks. It operates with one gear for forward and reverse at maximum speed of 12.5 mph.
www.volvoce.com
www.kubota.com
VOLVO PL4611 PIPELAYER - The Volvo PL4611 is a heavy duty machinery built to perform extreme lifting activity with its powerful 329 hp (245 kW) Volvo Tier 3-Stage IIIA compliant engine with V-ACT (Volvo Advanced Combustion Technology). Its 360-degree lifting and positioning swing performance makes it ideal for lifting and laying big steel pipes. Its load management system features a boom-mounted light bar, an in-cab monitor and warning system for maximum safety and protection.
Kubota SVL 75 Track Loader- This has a factory cab unit with heat/ac and hydraulic bucket disconnect. It has load sensing hydraulics with 2-speed power. It has 4.7 psi ground clearance and packs a 74 horsepower engine.
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products & technology
www.hilti.de
Hilti PD 5 Laser Range Meter - This precise measuring tool from Hilti is capable of measuring distances of from 0.2 to 70 meters with extreme accuracy. It is ideal for measuring heights and difficult areas with limited accessibility. This tool is simple to use with a single-button operation; very compact, lightweight and easy to handle due to its ergonomic design. At the same time PD 5 is rugged, durable, waterproof and dust tight so it is ideal for all situations.
www.vertikal.net
www.hilti.com.ph
Potain MD 560 B Tower Crane - This 550 tonne-meter rating crane is the largest in the tower crane line. It has two variants; the 25 ton and the 40 ton versions. It has improved tie bars with innovative design that is easier to transport and erect. The 25–ton crane can lift 5.4 tons at the jib end while the 40–ton crane with a 70 meter jib is capable of lifting 7.5 tons at the jib end.
Miller Big Blue 400 Eco Pro Welder Generator - This welder generator is compact at 44% smaller and 41% lighter than other models of similar specifications. It can be used for Stick, MIG, TIG, FCAW and the CAC-A processes. Its peak power is rated at 5,500 watts. It runs on a Mitsubishi S4L2 diesel engine that has a useful life of 10,000 hours before a major overhaul. It is economical with registered 25% reduction in fuel consumption. 34
www.constructionequipment.com
www.millerwelds.com
Hilti TE 7-A Cordless rotary hammer drill - This precision tool from Hilti has an ergonomically designed D-grip for easy handling even on continuous use. Compatible with Hilti Li-ion (B36/3.9 Liion) and NiCd batteries. It can be applied from 5-24 mm diameter in concrete and has chuck interface for TE-C click chuck, 3-jawed keyed chuck, quick release chuck and angular chuck.
Peterbilt Model 382 Vocational Truck- Powered by Cummins ISL9 engine, this truck has a new electronic control module and has improved airflow. Its horsepower rating varies from 345 to 380 and has a maximum torque of 1,300 lb.-ft. It also has higher axle ratings of 20,000 lbs. in front and 40,000 lbs. at the rear.
| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012
PRICE MOVEMENTs
Construction material prices move with fluctuation in fuel costs
www.freeliving.com
Suppliers react slowly to downtrends
T
he reduction in prices of fuel and other petroleum products has significant effect in the prices of basic construction materials. Historically, as the prices of fuel like gasoline and diesel together with lubricants and other petroleum products go down, the prices of construction material also go down. On the contrary, when fuel prices go up, construction material prices shoot up immediately. In fact, this roller coaster scenario greatly affects the contractors and the home builders as well. Because of this phenomenon, construction projects sometimes exceed allocated budget. In some instances, when budget shrink due to numerous price increases and no contingencies were included in the budget, work on the project stops. Suppliers of construction materials must
adjust accordingly to price fluctuations. Unfortunately, there will be some business owners that will take advantage of such event. The unscrupulous ones will not lower their prices in the guise that what they are selling are old inventories bought at higher prices. When this happens, the buyer can either accept the price or look for other suppliers who can give a lower price, and in the process waste valuable time. Perhaps the most prudent thing to do is for the contractor to be well-informed of fuel price fluctuation and prices of construction materials for a certain period. By keeping abreast with prices, the contractor can anticipate changes and timely adjust quotations. At the same time, the contractor must establish good business relations with two or more suppliers of specific construction materials to avail of
possible discounts or preferred prices. Wholesale prices NCR On a year-on-year basis, the Construction Materials Wholesale Price Index (CMWPI) in the National Capital Region (NCR) slightly improved from the end of the 2nd quarter to the beginning of the 3rd quarter. The annual increase dropped to 2.2% in July from 2.4% in June. Other indices also posted notable decline as the rate of price increase slowed down. The sand and gravel index went down to 7.6% in July from 9.0% in June. The concrete products index slightly changed to 2.5% from 2.7% for the same period. The plywood index posted movement of 3.4% from 4.0%. Structural steel also declined from 5.0% to 4.2%. For tile works, the index showed slowing down in
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pRCE MOVEMENTs TABLE A Table A. Month-on-Month Changes in Percent of Construction Materials Wholesale Price Index (2000 = 100)
================================================================================ Commodity Group 2 0 1 1| 2012 Dec | Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAND AND GRAVEL CONCRETE PRODUCTS CEMENT HARDWARE PLYWOOD LUMBER G.I. SHEET REINFORCING STEEL STRUCTURAL STEEL TILEWORKS GLASS AND GLASS PRODUCTS DOORS, JAMBS, AND STEEL CASEMENT ELECTRICAL WORKS PLUMBING FIXTURES & ACCESSORIES/WATERWORKS PAINTING WORKS PVC PIPES FUELS AND LUBRICANTS ASPHALT MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT RENTAL
0.1 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.2 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.2
0.1 0.6 0.3 0.3 -1.6 0.0 0.5 0.0 0.3 -0.9 0.6 0.0
0.8
1.1 1.3 0.0 0.6 -0.3 1.5 0.1 0.6 -0.6 0.3 -0.1 0.4 0.9 0.7 0.4 0.3 0.3 0.7 0.0 0.2
0.7
-0.3 -0.8 0.1
1.6 0.2 0.0 0.0 1.1 0.1 0.0 0.2 0.4 0.0 0.7 0.1 1.3 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.6 0.2 0.0 0.1 1.6 1.3 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.4 1.2 0.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.0
0.1
0.2 0.1 0.2
1.6 0.0 0.2 0.5 0.1 0.4
0.7 0.9
0.8 1.0
0.0 -0.1 0.0 0.5 0.3 0.0
0.0 1.1 0.0 -0.4 0.0
0.1 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.4 0.2 0.0 0.6 0.5 0.7 0.0 0.0 2.2 -0.1 -3.2 -6.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
0.3 0.5 0.0 0.6 1.2
0.3 0.3 0.1 3.1 0.0
0.0 0.0 0.0
0.0
0.0
www.123rf.com
All Items
0.0 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.0r
0.0 0.0 0.0
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Source: Economic Indices and Indicators Division Industry and Trade Statistics Department, National Statistics Office Republic of the Philippines Page last updated: August 15, 2012
TABLE B
Table B. Month-on-Month Percent Change on RPI of Selected Construction Materials in the National Capital Region (2000 = 100) ======================================================================= 2011 | 2012 Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec | Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------All items 0.2 0.1 0.7 0.1 0.2 0.4 -0.2 0.4 0.6 0.3 A. Carpentry Materials 0.2 0.3 -0.1r 0.0 0.3 0.1 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.3 B. Electrical Materials 0.2 -0.1 -0.1 0.0 0.2 0.2 -0.3 0.7 1.3 0.3 C. Masonry Materials -0.3 0.3 2.1 0.1 0.1 0.3 -1.4 0.2 0.6 0.1 D. Painting Materials and Related Compounds 0.6 0.1 0.9r 0.0 0.4 0.1 -0.5 -0.1 0.8 0.2 E. Plumbing Materials -0.1 -0.4 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.6 0.4 0.0 0.6 0.0 F. Tinsmithry Materials 0.2 0.0 1.6 -0.3 0.0 0.0 -2.3 -0.4 -1.0 0.2 G. Miscellaneous Construction Materials 0.1 -0.1 3.4 1.0 0.1 2.5 2.9 1.6 1.6 1.4
-0.1 1.9
0.5
-0.2 0.1 -0.1 0.0 5.3 0.1 0.1 4.3 6.7 -0.1 0.1 -0.1 0.2 0.0 0.0 -0.3 0.3 -0.1 -0.6 -0.9 0.0
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------r - revised Source: Economic Indices and Indicators Division, Prices and Indicators Section Industry and Trade Statistics Department National Statistics Office Republic of the Philippines Page last updated: August 15, 2012
price increasefrom 4.1% to 3.8%. For electrical works index, rate of price movement registered 5.1% in July from 5.7% in June. Painting works also slowed down a bit from 4.9% in June to 4.8% in July. On the other hand, upward movements in the rates of price increases were seen in the other indices particularly in cement, reinforcing steel
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| Philippine Construction&Design  September-October 2012
and asphalt. The cement index moved up from 0.1% in June to 0.9% in July. Reinforcing steel index rose from 2.8% to 3.3% while asphalt index slightly increased from 3.1% to 3.5%. Other construction materials that exhibited upward movement were the following: hardware index, from 2.5% to 2.8%; glass and glass products, from 0.4% to 0.6%; lumber index, from 3.7% to 3.9%; and PVC pipes index, from 2.1% to 2.4%. What is notable is the zero movement in price increase for machinery and equipment rental from June to July of this year. On a month-on-month basis, there was a slight increase from -0.8% in June to 0.1% in July. There were minor increases in prices from zero growth for selected items like hardware, tile works, lumber, concrete products, plywood, and PVC pipes. Prices also increased for cement and hollow blocks. (Please refer to Table A for details). What is surprising though with these statistics is the increase on prices of majority of the listed construction materials despite the decrease in fuel prices for the same period. The fuel and lubricants index plunged from -1.9% in June to -2.1% in July. This scenario may be attributed to the slow reaction of suppliers in slashing down prices for reasons only they know. Retail Prices NCR In the retail sector, price movements were the opposite of wholesale prices. The year-on-year growth of the retail price index moved up from 4.7% in June to 5.0% in July. The masonry materials index showed the largest increment from 6.4% in June to 13.9% in July. Likewise, plumbing materials index rose from 1.8% in June to 1.9% in July. The tinsmithry materials index moved to -2.1% in July from -1.9% in June. On a month-on-month basis, the retail price increases slowed down further from 1.9% in June to 0.5% in July. There were even negative increases noted among three categories, namely: carpentry materials, painting materials and related compounds and tinsmithry materials. Zero growth was reported for two items; plumbing materials and miscellaneous construction materials. Prices declined for the other materials like plywood, hinges, paints and tinsmithry. On the other hand, increases in prices were recorded for gravel, sand, cement and hollow blocks. (Please refer to Table B for details).
Publishers: Philippine Construction & Design
General
Readership, Distribution and Circulation
Philippine Construction & Design is published to •serve the construction industry and all its stakeholders
The publication is published in the web and is made •available for free to all interested. The web has potentially
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 magazine will also discuss issues and topics that are important to the construction trade. It hopes to serve 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.
millions of readers all over the world though the magazine’s primary target readers are the professionals and decision makers involved in 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.
Publisher Publishers are Filipinos 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 Pattaya, What’s On Phuket, What’s On Chiangmai and What’s On Samui, all tourist publications 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 that time and the ensuing financial turmoil. The Publishers plan to reestablish 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.
Philippine Construction & Design is an e-magazine published monthly by Saiber Media Inc. with business address at 1524, City & Land Megaplaza, ADB Ave. cor. Garnet Rd. Ortigas Center, Pasig City, e-mail add: phil.constructionanddesign@yahoo.com.ph|saibercraft@yahoo.com, for free online subscription: www.philippineconstructionanddesign.com and www.issuu.com/philippine construction and design. Send email for your comments and suggestion to saibercraft@yahoo.com or contact Tel. No.: 02 945.8510 | 02 687.1430.
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Philippine Construction&Design
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| Philippine Construction&Design September-October 2012