BUSINESSWEEk MINDANAO (DEC 3-4 2012)

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Issue No. 134, Volume III •

Market Indicators

AS OF 5:57 PM NOV. 29, 2012 (Thursday)

FOREX

PHISIX

US$1 = P40.90

5,640.45 points

3 cents

X

6.73 points

Briefly

X

Ad congress

DAVAO CITY -- The city government will submit next month its bid to host next year’s Philippine Advertising Congress.

Mayor Sara Z. DuterteCarpio said she is sending a team to the event organizers on Dec. 17 to formalize the offer. The mayor decided to form the team after a 10-man group visited at the weekend to look into the city’s capacity to host the event.

Jason C. Magnaye, the city’s chief investment promotions officer, claimed the ad congress team was impressed with recent developments, specifically with the private sector-driven projects.

Cagayan de Oro City

Monday-Tuesday

Normin’s eco growth

THE National Economic Development Authority - Region 10 (NEDA-10) spearheaded a roundtable discussion (RTD) to track down the economic performance of Northern Mindanao for the third quarter of 2012.

During the RTD, selected key indicators of the regional economy were reviewed, validated, and assessed by representatives from both government and private sectors.

These indicators included agricultural and fisheries production, forest production, investments, exports, labor and employment, tax and customs collections, inflation, and peace and order.

December 3-4, 2012

P15.00

Mindanao’s future flows with hydro power plants

By BONG FABE, Correspondent

“BEING indigenous and renewable, hydro power protects electricity consumers from the violent surges of energy cost sparked by geopolitical turbulence and unrest in Middle Eastern countries, where oil price fluctuations reverberate with prices of other fossil-fuel energy sources in the global market, such as coal and natural gas.”

P350M IP project

DAVAO City – The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and the European Union (EU) are expected to implement the P350-million worth Indigenous Peoples Maternal, Neonatal, Child Health and Nutrition project in five selected areas in Mindanao next year.

The project areas identified by the NCIP include Kitaotao town in Bukidnon, Montevista in Compostela Valley, Dumingag in Zamboanga del Sur, Carmen in North Cotabato, and Binicalan, San Luis town in Agusan del Sur. Dr. Lilibeth Malabanan, the project director said they have selected the areas for having an ancestral domain and an organized network of community leaders. “This is important as we need the leaders to gather community residents to realize their most pressing needs,” Malabanan said during the recent press conference in Waterfront Insular Hotel here.

B en D. Arche

every Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays

LIVE MERCHANDISE. A motorized tri-sikad transports hundreds of live native chicken to a wet market in Cagayan de Oro early morning on Wednesday last week. Despite the city’s worsening traffic condition, unauthorized vehicles are still allowed to ply the downtown area unhampered. photo by rolando sudaria

Italpinas pioneers 8% in-house rate for Primavera Residences CAGAYAN de Oro’s pioneering eco-friendly condominium again innovates with a ground-breaking eight percent (8%) in-house interest rate for its Primavera

Residences Tower 1.

“Our Ultimate Rebate Christmas Promo is based on the famous Christmas carol about The 12 Days of Christmas and will run from

Because Mindanao’s power sources are mainly clean hydro-based, its energy rate is lower by 30 percent to 40% than the mixed generation costs of Luzon and Visayas.

This is the main reason why Mindanawons are adamantly against the sale of the Agus and Pulangi hydropower complexes.

Collectively, the Agus and Pulangi hydropower complexes supply more than 50% of the island ’s total power demand.

Led by Sec. Luwalhati Antonino of the Mindanao Development Aut horit y (MinDA), clean hydropower advocates are urging the government, especially the Department of Energy (DoE) to “go with the flow” and help keep Mindanao’s competitive advantage by developing more hydro power plants because of the abundance of water sources in the island.

Mindanao has a total potential of 2,519.29 MW POWER/PAGE 9

December 1st to 12 only,” said Erick S. Umali, vicepresident for marketing and sales of Italpinas Euroasian and Eco-Development CorpoPRIMAVERA/PAGE 9

MALUNGGAY PASTEL FACADE. A home grown product takes wing at Pueblo de Oro with its official opening Nov. 29, 2012. photo by mike baños

Editorial and advertising email : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com • Cell Number : 0917-7121424

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Economy

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Steag gets PEPP Award for superior environmental performance DEPARTMENT of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) conferred upon energy firm STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI) the DENR Official Seal of Approval in recognition of the company’s exemplary environmental performance.

The award was presented

by DENR Undersecretary for Policy and Planning Manuel Gerochi and Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Chief Juan Miguel Cuna in fitting ceremonies on 29 June 2012 at the DENR headquar-

ters in Quezon City.

SPI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Bodo Goerlich, together with Environment Officer Francis Libao, HR Manager Leah Tadena and Communications Officer Jerome Sol-

devilla, received the award on behalf of the company.

SPI is one of the 18 industries in the country, and among the five large industries in Mindanao that qualified under Track 1 in t he Philippine Env ironment Partnership Program (PEPP).

USec Gerochi explained that PEPP-Track 1 industries are large companies that go beyond compliance and driven by competitive-

(L-R) EMB Asst Director Eva Ocfemia, SPI President Dr. Bodo Goerlich, SPI Environment Officer Francis Libao, SPI HR Manager Leah Tadena, EMB Chief Juan Miguel Cuna, SPI Communications Officer Jerome Soldevilla, DENR Undersecretary Manuel Gerochi.

ness, image and supply chain requirements to improve performance.

To qualify in the award, companies must have no case filed with the Pollution Adjudication Board for the last three years prior to the date of awarding; are

in full compliance of all applicable environmental laws and proven to show cleaner production processes and superior environmental performance by a 3rd party auditor.

SPI is the project company of the 210 MW (net)

Mindanao Coal Fired Power Plant in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental. It is majority owned by the German firm Steag GmbH, which ranks among the German market leaders in electricity and heat generation from mine gas STEAG/PAGE 7

By APIPA P. BAGUMBARAN Contributor

Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is proud of the various reforms his administration has initiated to push the region forward.

During the opening ceremony of the ARMM Investment Forum on November 24, the governor boasted of the pockets of reform his administration had instituted which, according to him, are now being felt on the ground.

“In our first 100 days, we focused all efforts on good housekeeping - introducing transparency mechanisms in our financial transactions; adherence to civil service regulations and audit rules; a merit-based, credible system in the appointment of officials and personnel; and a campaign for efficiency in public service,” he said.

Hataman said the ARMM reform administration also embarked on “ghost-busting” and ran after ghost employees, ghost teachers, ghost schools, ghost students, ghost projects, and recently, even ghost voters.

“In our ghost-busting in the Department of Education (DepEd) alone, in the first 100 days, we were able to save P164 million while in the Department of Public Works and Highways, we saved P56 million, which we used to purchase heavy equipment,” he noted.

The ARMM Governor further said that his administration has intensified the delivery of basic social services to ARMM constituents that earned the confidence of the national government and its line agencies, and the trust of international donor partners.

The Australian governARMM/PAGE 7

Good housekeeping in ARMM saves gov’t coffers: Hataman 0917-7154399 088-856-8562/63

AMENITIES : ZORBIT * ATV * TREE TOP ADVENTURE BUGGY * BUNGEE * PICNIC GROUNDS PLAYGROUND * CAFE * LUGE * MINI GOLF ROOM ACCOMODATIONS

MARAWI City -- Acting Governor Mujiv Hataman of Autonomous Region in

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Motoring

Lexus launches LS 460L LEXUS Manila recently held a press launch of the new 2012 LS model range, including the LS 460L five-seater and fourseater, which sport new styling cues such as the Lexus spindle grille design, not to mention enhanced driving dynamics and cutting-edge technology.

During the unveiling held at the Lexus Manila showroom in Taguig, Kiyotaka Ise, president of Lexus International, said, “With over 730,000 sold during its 23year, four-generation history, the LS has grown and evolved with the times.” He added, “Our new flagship has much greater visual presence; the bold new design reflects how Lexus is evolving.

This new LS brings sharper driving dynamics, the highest levels of refinement and luxury and once again is supported by industry-leading technology.”

“The LS has always appealed to customers who demand the best. They appreciate the highly refined and luxurious nature of the Lexus flagship,” shared Hideki Watanabe, LS chief engineer. “So, at the start of the LS development program, I had to consciously broaden my horizons, focusing on the finer things in life from the worlds of art, design and technology—a first step toward creating the most sophisticated LS yet to satisfy the world’s most discerning customers.”

The exterior of the new LS has been comprehensively redesigned. A Lexus first, it can be equipped with all-LED exterior lighting, including vertical foglamps incorporating the world’s smallest PES lens, and unique, L-shaped, seamless light tube

daytime running lights (DRLs).

New, laser screw welding and adhesive body bonding techniques have increased overall body rigidity, which not only enhances stability, but also allows for a more comfortable ride with no detriment to handling agility.

Through new, Frequency Adaptive Damping (FAD) shock absorbers or a four-wheel interlock control evolution of the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) air suspension system, pitch and bounce control has been enhanced to give an even flatter, road-hugging ride.

Revised steering offers immediately noticeable improvements in accuracy and turn-in response, while the braking system has been enhanced for more immediate power and greater pedal feel.

A new Drive Mode Select system features up to five switchable driving modes—Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport S and Sport S+, to optimize the driver’s preferred combination of economy, comfort, performance and handling characteristics.

Representing further improvements to Lexus’s already peerless standards, the new LS lays claim to being one of the quietest, most comfortable cars in the world.

Comprehensive improvements have been made to engine, road and wind noise sound insulation, and the new luxury sedan may be fitted with Lexus-first, hollow chamber noise reduction wheels, which lower front cabin noise.

Both front and rear seat climate control and the steering wheel rim heater may now be automatically incorporated in the operation of the new Lexus Cli-

mate Concierge air-conditioning system featuring up to 13 sensors managed by a central ECU. The climate control system also incorporates a new Nanoe technology system. Nanoe ions have both an air-purifying and

odor-eliminating effect. Additionally, because Nanoe moisture content is approximately 1,000 times that of conventional ions, the water molecules have a moisturizing effect on skin and hair.

The LS’s interior is complemented by the world’s first Advanced Illumination System (AIS), featuring new, Champagne White

Monday - Tuesday I Dec. 3-4, 2012 interior lamps and dynamic LED instrument panel lighting.

The award-winning Remote Touch Interface (RTI) offers comprehensive infotainment system control via a 12.3” LCD multidisplay screen—the industry’s largest. A 19-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround System offers the finest in-car audio experience available today.

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The four-seater variant adds an ottoman rear seat, 40 mm more rear leg room, a hideaway rear table and a seat massager.

Additionally, it also upgrades the standard DVD system to a Blu-ray system.

The LS 460L five-seater is priced at P7.388 million, while the LS 460L four-seater retails for P8.378 million.

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Monday - Tuesday I Dec. 3-4, 2012

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Opinion

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The BusinessWeek Mindanao is published by BusinessWeek Mindanao Advertising and Promotions every Monday, Wednesday and Friday of the week with office address at Tanleh Building, Abellanosa, Cagayan de Oro City. It is registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Region 10 with Certificate No. 00875701, and with Business Permit No. 2010-5698, TIN No. 946-396-807 – Non VAT. Tel. Nos.: (088)8578447, 74-5380, 0947-8935776, 0917-7121424

Website: www.businessweekmindanao.com

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Marketing Consultants Legal Counsels

Create Your Own Luck THINK a minute…

D o y ou k now s om e people who just have all the luck? They seem to get all the breaks. And you ask yourself: “Why don’t I get lucky? Why don’t I get a great education? A great job or business? A nice house? A wonderful wife or husband?”

But the real reason most people are successful or lucky is that they’ve learned how to put themselves in a place so they can be lucky.

They’ve learned how to, in a way, create their own luck!

I’m not talking about dishonest or illegal ways.

I’m ta l k ing about hard, honest work.

But successful people don’t just work hard, they

Speaking out

-Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (Oro Chamber) -Misamis Oriental - Cagayan de Oro Association of Publishers (MOCAP), Inc.

YES, we need to fall in love.

We would be harming ourselves if we don’t. We are made for it, wired and empowered for it. Love is the purpose of our life, its endall, its law and our true and ultimate perfection.

That’s because God created us so. As image and likeness of his, we cannot but reflect the love that constitutes the very essence of God. “Deus caritas est,” St. John says.

That’s God’s design for us to which we have to correspond freely. Love has to be repaid with love. Thus, when Christ was asked what the greatest commandment was, he immediately responded that it was to love God with all our might, and that the second greatest was to love our neighbor, that is, everyone, as oneself.

Later on, Christ would perfect and summarize these commandments into a new commandment: to love one another as he has loved us.

Christ is the standard, the law, the power of our love, and not anybody or anything else—a beautiful girl, and much less, power, fame, wealth.

To Christian believers, we should not look for anything else.

That’s why there is always some embers of this essence in us, no matter how inadequately recognized, incompletely developed, thwarted or misdirected. We always tend to love, to at least pay attention to others, to need

Hints and traces

FR. ROY CIMAGALA

them and do something for them. We cannot be by ourselves all the time.

We need to work out this love to its fullness and its purest state. We cannot be cavalier in our attitude toward it. It’s a serious duty, in fact, the primary duty. All other duties and responsibilities flow and derive their ultimate meaning from this.

Remember that beautiful and stirring warning of St. Paul?

“If I speak with the tongues of men, and of angels, and have not charity, I am become a sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

“And if I should have prophecy and should know all mysteries, and all knowledge, and if I should have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

“And if I should distribute all my goods to feed the poor, and if I should deliver my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profits me nothing.” (1 Cor 13,1-3) In short, we can appear CIMAGALA/PAGE 7

even shared the credit and reward with others when he had done much of the work.

He was never satisfied just to get by and do average work. He always made the extra effort to do his very best. He kept working hard when others slacked off.

We have to work hard and do what it takes to be in the way of luck and success when it comes. Otherwise, we’ ll miss it because we weren’t ready.

You never know when the right opportunity will come your way, and when the right, important person is watching your excellent attitude and work. That’s when you’ll get your lucky break!

But when you put your

Think a minute

JHAN TIAFAU HURST

life in Jesus Christ’s hands, the right, important Person is always watching you and all that you do. Then He will reward and bless your life in many ways as you do your very best to please Him in everything everyday.

Just Think a Minute .

Patron of the arts

Member: -Philippine Press Institute

We need to love

also work smart. They keep improving and making the most of their assets and abilities. Yet they also learn to ask for help in things they themselves are not that good at doing.

As the famous Olympic athlete, Eric Liddle, said: “You can’t put in what God left out.” So we not only must make the most of our own special abilities, we must also learn our limits and weaknesses.

A man recently got his lucky big break-a promotion in a large company.

Everyone said, “That guy’s so lucky!” But that man created his own luck.by always arriving at the office early.

He apologized and admitted when he was wrong. He

IGNACIO BUNYE

(Concluded from last week) THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has indeed become a “guardian” of Philippine culture with its breathtaking collection of artworks.

Former BSP Governor Rafael Buenaventura once said of the paintings in BSP’s possession: “The collection, spanning two centuries and numbering over a thousand pieces, serves as a mirror of ourselves as Filipinos: how we shaped our history, how we

grew our sensibility and how we handled our sensitivity.”

Aside from the works of National Artists and the “Thirteen Moderns” discussed in last week’s column, conceptual art is also represented in the BSP collection.

According to the Committee on BSP Ar t work and Paintings (CBAP), this type of art is represented by Roberto “Chabet” Rodriguez—widely acknowledged as the father of Philippine conceptual art.

Chabet, one of the most inf luential contemporary teachers and artists, was a professor at the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Fine Arts for three decades.

Chabet, who is represented in the BSP collection with his early works, described his pieces as “creatures of memory” and himself as their “custodian.”

The great teacher nurtured students, later collectively known as “Chabet’s

babies,” who have become recognized in their own right.

The BSP also possesses works of the so-called “social realists.” During the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos, a group of these more “politically inclined” artists veered away from non-representational imagery and began depicting everyday themes, current events, relationships, and “way of life” as subjects.

First generation social realists Pablo Baen Santos, Edgar Fernandez, Antipas Delotavo, Orlando Castillo, and Renato Habulan are represented in the Bangko Sentral’s gallery, according to the CBAP. The graphic ar ts are also featured in the BSP art collection. The works of first generation printmakers such as Manuel Rodriguez Sr., Manuel Rodriguez, Jr., Imelda Cajipe-Endaya, Brenda Fajardo, and Adiel Arevalo are found at the BSP.

Vision 20/20 (Part 1) To quote William Blake “ the eyes is the window to one’s soul” , so I say, what then is the soul minus one’s eyes? In my practice as a Specialist, my eyes are my most valued organs in my human anatomy. Not only do these eyes of mine make me see the beautiful world I live in, but, these eyes of mine is what I use to see the microscopic details of diseases. Of the five senses that we have, eyesight tops my list of most important.

I remember one time, coming from a 36 hour duty, I accidentally lost my pair of eyeglasses! I could not read, nor could I see very well and I had to wait for somebody to pick me up just so I can get home. The fear of being unable to see is so strong that I had three pairs of eyeglasses made!

Visual impairment may

be in the form of blurred vision, seeing halos, blind spots or f loaters. These changes may represent an eye disease, or can be part of the ageing process. It can also result from injury or trauma, and can occur as a complication of Diabetes Mellitus, which more often than not can be felt only after a decade of having that uncontrolled blood sugar.

Infections that can either be bacterial or viral in origin can impair one’s vision.

Mind you, there are even certain sexually transmitted infections that can affect the eyes. Tumors, stroke, over exposure to outdoor activities, fatigue and yes, certain medications can also result in blurring of one’s vision. A blurred vision is something that may create panic but, worse, if one were to lose one’s vision.

Blurred vision is a common symptom in illnesses

affecting the eyes, whether the cause or condition is temporary or more permanent.

It is not uncommon though to experience in one’s lifetime certain conditions affecting the eyes, which are but temporary in nature, which can present as visual impairment.

One of the most common is conjunctivitis, or what we call as the pink eye, where the conjunctiva is inflamed.

Allergens, chemicals like chlorine in the swimming pools, and foreign bodies can irritate the conjunctiva.

Aside from a blurred vision, one may feel that grating sensation, sometimes it may even be described as burning or itchy and with sensitivity to light. Sty, which occurs when the follicle is infected or tear ducts or glands are blocked, is seen as a pimple.

The patient has that foreign body like feeling, with constant tearing and sensitive to even the lightest touch.

It would be interesting to know that the elder Rodriguez has been called the “Father of Philippine Printmaking” because of his role in promoting graphic arts in the country.

The BSP has likewise become a venue for several extremely talented, “up and coming” artists.

“Tanaw: the BSP Art Competition,” a biennial art competition launched in 2010, takes off from established national art competitions such as the Shell Art Competition, the Art Association of the Philippines Competition, the PLDT Directories Philippines Competition, and the Metrobank Art and Design Competition.

According to CBAP, only previous winners of these national art competitions and other recognized biennales and triennales are allowed to enter the BSP competition.

The top three winning entries automatically become BUNYE/PAGE 7

Health in Focus

DR. MARY JEAN LORECHE

Blurring of vision, redness and swelling is commonly felt. When there is lack of sleep as is common among students (nagsusunog ng kilay) or those computer addicts, or in instances where a foreign body gets into the eyes, one may experience a temporary impairment of the vision. Not forgetting eye strain, which happens LORECHE/PAGE 7

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Bunye... from page 6

part of the BSP Artwork and Painting Collections, the CBAP explained.

The 2010 winners of the “Tanaw” competition include Gary Custodio from Iloilo, Melvin Culaba of Baclaran, and Brave Singh of Ilocos Sur. Lastly, the BSP also features the works of Filipino artists who have trained abroad, including Juvenal Sanso, Nena Saguil and Macario Vitalis—all of whom have France their “destination of choice.”

“The wide array of art produced by Filipino artists is (both) original and complex, and addresses issues and shows a mixture of several cultural influences,” the CBAP said. *** My book, Central Banking for Every Juan and Maria is now available at Fully Booked, Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City. To reserve your copy, please contact 858-7000 or 858-7036.

Cimagala... from page 6

very successful in many aspects and departments of our life—and they can be no mean feats—but if not inspired by love, the true love that is derived from God, all these “successes” are actually failures.

In fact, this love should not be equated with mere philanthropy and human altruism, no matter how heroic these gestures may

appear.

The love that comes from God goes beyond all these and is and should be their principle and end.

We need to be clear about this truth, because many are now the elements that tend to confuse us about it, if not directly undermine it.

It’s painful to see many people, especially the young, who seem trapped and locked up in the false, or at least, very reduced, illusory, albeit sweet, understanding of love.

That is why we need to pray a lot, focus our attention on the life of Christ, his words and deeds, and especially his passion, death and resurrection, because these are where we can get the real ingredients of the love meant for us.

This is the real love that can tackle everything, good or bad, big or small, that we can meet in life. Again, let’s have St. Paul’s beautiful description: “Charity is patient, is kind. Charity envies not, deals not perversely, is not puffed up, is not ambitious, seeks not her own, is not provoked to anger, thinks no evil. It rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

(1 Cor 13, 4-7) We should not beat around the bush as to what love is and what role it plays in our life. And toward this end, we have to make continuing effort to clarify it in public and in private and personal conversations, going through the endless implications,

theoretical and practical, that it possesses. For one, we should prod everyone of us to love others aggressively, that is, to think well of them, showing affection and understanding, doing acts of service, even without being asked. We should not wait for others to prove they deserve our love. We just have to love them, even before they deserve it.

Steag... from page 2

gas and biomass, and is one of the leading developers and operators of district heating using hot steam from innovative combined heat and power cycles (CHP).

Steag is also a pioneer in efficient technologies for hard-coal-based power production and its technologies are distinguished by high degrees of efficiency and exemplary resource conservation.

SPI’s power plant in Mindanao is equipped with state of the art pollution prevention systems and has pioneered a Continuous Monitoring System (CEMS) that is made on-line with the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).

Since start of its commercial operations in November 2006, SPI has delivered more than 8.3 billion kWh of electricity representing about 20% of the Mindanao’s total power supply. It has sustained an above-industry efficiency rate of 36% and a remarkable availability rate of 93%.

Apart from efficient and reliable power plant opera-

tions, SPI is also engaged in various social and environmental programs that include a 2,200 hectare carbon sink and urban forestry projects and the 16.4 hectare mangrove rehabilitation and development projects in Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental.

Armm... from page 2

ment through the AusAid granted P3.9 billion for basic education programs in Muslim Mindanao. In fact, we just launched the BEAMARMM last November 20, attended by no less than the DepEd National Secretary Bro. Luistro Armin, and AusAid Development Assistance Director General Rob Brazier, he cited.

In terms of infrastructure projects, Hataman said they have also implemented roads, schools and bridges projects the latest of which is a P300million bridge connecting Bongao to mainland TawiTawi and a P320-million water project in the same province.

“We have a P500-million road project in Marawi-Malabang, Lanao del Sur while we committed to complete the province’s circumferential road with P1.2 billion in Basilan,” he added.

According to Hataman, these are just some of our infrastructure projects in the region, many of which came from the President’s stimulus funds for the ARMM. Meantime, Hataman gave assurance that the anticipated economic growth will not bypass the poorest members

of the ARMM community committing the gains of development to increase social spending for public services like education, health care, water systems and housing.

He said the regional government will likewise ensure the protection of the environment and the sustainable utilization of natural resources will not be compromise.

“And although we start with economic growth, our eyes are set on economic stability, one which is founded on sustainability, long-term planning and goal-setting, supported by necessary economic policies and institutionalized mechanisms, the governor further said.

Loreche... from page 6

when reading or watching occurs for long periods of time, causing the eye muscles to tire. Insufficient lighting or reading while a vehicle is mobile can likewise create eye muscle fatigue.

These are conditions that we can do something about: either prevent it from affecting our vision or, if unavoidable, can be treated, in order to improve one’s vision: maybe not a 20/20 vision, but, enough to make one enjoy a quality living.

Our eyes are extremely intricate , but so delicate an organ. It plays a vital role in making us enjoy life, and allows us to interact with others.....

Farmer... from page 8

the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and other member agencies of the Inter-

agency Committee on Rural Women.

DA officials headed by Secretary Proceso J. Alcala together with Undersecretary for Special Concerns Bernadette RomuloPuyat, Undersecretary for Operations Joel Rudinas, and PCW Executive Director Emmeline Verzosa led the conferment of the awards.

Aside from P75,000.00 cash prize, Tamayo also received P500,000.00 worth of projects and one unit of hand tractor with trailer.

According to Fe Ybañez, DA 12 GAD focal person, Tamayo, being the first woman-farmer in Antipas to asexually propagate cleft grafting of cacao, and initiated the rehabilitation of a watershed area in Barangay B. Cadungon which became the source of drinking and irrigation water of the community, led her to reap the award.

DA 12 Regional Executive Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan conveyed her felicitations to Mrs. Tamayo, saying “it is a manifestation that rural women indeed play vital role in ensuring food security and economic stability in the rural areas in the country.”

Datukan also stressed that it is significant to recognize the role of women because of their valuable contributions in advancing the farming and fishing industry in the country.

Other winners were: Conchita Silor-Masim of Davao Oriental and Susan PasacayAceron of Camarines Norte, who bagged the second place; Felomina Hernando-Janiva of Palawan, Alejandrina LazaroCorrea of Cagayan and Desiree Butuhan-Duran of Bulacan placed 3rd, 4th and 5th, respectively.

Last year, Mrs. Remia Apostol of Koronadal City bagged second place of the same national search.

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Agri News

Monday-Tuesday I Dec. 3-4, 2012

WTO defers decision on PHL request to extend rice import restriction THE World Trade Organization’s Council for Trade in Goods (CTG) has put off deciding on the Philippines’ request for an extension of its special protection on rice, due to concerns raised by “influential members” of the council.

The Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the WTO did not identify which members these were, nor explain their concerns.

However, the CTG is scheduled to meet again in March 2013, at which time it is expected to decide on Manila’s request to extend the country’s quantitative restriction (QR) on rice for five more years until 2017.

The CTG oversees 12 committees, including Agriculture, within the WTO. The rice QR allows the Philippines to limit the volume of rice imported into the country by the National Food Authority. In its request, the Philippines underscored the importance of rice in the country’s food and livelihood security, as it is a daily staple that is grown by more than 2.4 million Filipino farmers.

“The Philippines is very pleased with the CTG’s endorsement for the waiver talks to continue and for the Members to remain fully engaged so that solutions to the concerns of the remaining

few but influential members can be had by the next meeting of the CTG,” Agriculture Assistant Secretary Romeo Recide, who heads the rice negotiating panel, said in a statement.

However, Mani la expressed “serious concerns” about WTO members’ failure to complete work on the petition for waiver which caused the delay.

Recide said that India strongly supported the Philippines’ request for an extension of the policy, while Australia, China, El Salvador, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Thailand endorsed Manila’s request for more time so that talks could be concluded.

Manila filed its request for an extension on November 28, 2011. The WTO temporarily waived the lifting of the rice QR so that the Philippines could conduct bilateral talks with other countries about the extension.

According to the WTO, the European Union said that it could support the extension; Indonesia said that the request “had merits”; and China said it would not block the request despite ongoing territorial issues with the Philippines. The US, however, said it had “serious concerns” about the request, RICE/PAGE 9

CAGAYAN DE ORO MAIN BRANCH P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers – Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947 CAMIGUIN BRANCH B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491 CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City DIVISORIA BRANCH Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631 LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-6739a

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Tuna deliveries post 10% rise in Q3 UNLOADING of fresh tuna in fish ports nationwide increased by a tenth last quarter, according to latest data posted on the Web site of a state fisheries agency.

Data of the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), culled from seven fish ports, showed such deliveries rising 10% or 7,152 metric tons (MT) to 78,163 MT in the third quarter from 71,011 in the same three months last year.

That took total deliveries nationwide to 247,657 MT as of September, about 6.7% more than the 232,034 MT recorded in the same nine months last year.

The data covered seven fish port complexes, namely: Davao, General Santos, Iloilo, Lucena, Navotas, Sual (Pangasinan) and Zamboanga.

From July to September, General Santos Fish Port Complex recorded the biggest deliveries totaling 33,980 MT, 5,751 MT or a fifth more than the 28,229 MT in the same three months last year.

Two other fish ports saw increases in the same comparative periods, namely: • Navotas with 31,041 MT, 1,503 MT or 5% more than 29,538 MT; and • Davao, which saw deliveries more than double -- a 584 MT increase -- to 1,058 MT from just 474 MT.

A TYPICAL day at the General Santos fish port is shown in this undated

file photo .

All the rest, however, posted declines: • Iloilo slipped by 170 MT or 3% to 6,164 MT from 6,334 MT; • Lucena, 253 MT or 5% to 4,533 MT from 4,786 MT; • Zamboanga, 183 MT or 13% to 1,257 MT from 1,440 MT; and • Sual, 80 MT or 38% to 130 MT from 210 MT. A canning industry official in General Santos City, however, noted that supply for the sector has been declining.

“Fish supplies [for canneries] have become smaller nowadays,” Mariano M. Fernandez, president of the local tuna canners association, said in an interview.

While PFDA data show unloading of frozen tuna at the fish port complex meant for canning climbed to 15,902 MT in the third quarter from 11,639 MT in the preceding three months, deliveries have dwindled to 300 MT-400 MT per shipment lately from 2,000 MT previously, said Mr. Fernandez.

Ambutong K. Pautong, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources acting director for Soccsksargen, or Central Mindanao, said his agency expects tuna fishers to sustain some growth as they have moved to take advantage of the lifting of a ban covering parts of the Pacific Ocean. “Some of the fishing companies have

already deployed their fleet to a limited portion [of the Pacific Ocean],” he said in an interview late last week.

Earlier this year, the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), of which the Philippines forms part, allowed 36 Philippine purse seine vessels to catch tuna in pockets of the Pacific Ocean until February 2013.

Prior to this, WCPFC had closed parts of the ocean to purse seine fishing by member nations for two years that ended last December to allow tuna species to replenish.

The government’s latest agriculture production report showed commercial fisheries TUNA/PAGE 9

in Barangay Upper Klinan, Polomolok, South Cotabato owned by cassava grower Roger Gomez.

Witnessing the ceremonial harvesting were farmers, local officials, municipal agriculture officials and regional DA officials.

Engr. Norberto S. Leysa, South Cotabato agricultural program coordinating officer (APCO), who represented DA-12 Regional Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan, said that aside from the four banner programs like AgriPinoy Palayan, Maisan, Livestock and High Value Crops, the DA is also pushing for cassava as primary agricultural commodity in the country.

Leysa also urged farmers to come up with project proposals to be submitted to DA 12 for funding as the agency has P1.2-billion budget in 2013.

Gomez, the village chair a nd fa r mer-cooperator, thanked DA for the assistance that included cassava planting materials and fertilizer assistance.

Edgar Laboy, DA 12 regional cassava focal person, suggested an inter-cropping system of cassava and corn to increase profit as proven in previous technology demonstrations in South Cotabato, particularly in the towns of Banga and Tampakan.

Currently, the prevailing

market price of fresh cassava is P2.50 per kilo, P1.50 higher as compared to last year’s buying price. If the cassava is granulated, it would sell at P10 per kilo.

San Miguel Corporation told DA officials that it needs 300,000 metric tons of cassava for its 34 feed plants nationwide.

The firm officials said the prevailing buying price of cassava could even go up as the demand in the market increases.

Cassava production, according to its growers, needs limited input, not laborious and gives higher profit as compared to corn production. (PNA)

COTABATO City -– Agriculture officials in the region said that Region 12 is definitely proving to the whole Philippines that it is the home of exceptional farmers.

Representing Region 12, farmer Tiny “Inday” Rosareal-Tamayo from Antipas

town in North Cotabato reigned supreme in the recently concluded Search for Outstanding Rural Women of the Department of Agriculture (DA).

Tamayo, 50 years old, was declared the top winner of the quest during the

awarding ceremonies held at the National Irrigation Administration in Quezon City early this week.

The award was given by the DA under its Gender and Development Program (GAD) in partnership with FARMER/PAGE 7

DA pushes for more cassava production in C. Mindanao COTABATO City -- Due to increasing demand for cassava in Central Mindanao and in the country, the Department of Agriculture (DA) is now pushing for massive planting of cassava to prevent shortage.

On Thursday, a ceremonial harvesting of cassava products was held in a five-hectare plantation

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Despite Comelec purge, party-list race to be dominated by influential

Maxie

the first half of 2012, there were only seven kidnapping cases in the country.

However, the Movement for the Resolution of Peace and Order (MR PO), t he group of anti-crime crusader Teresita A ng See, said there were already 11 kidnapping cases in the first half of the year, excluding the case of a Burmese child who was abducted in Laguna and rescued in Rizal province by the National Bu reau of Invest igat ion

(NBI).

“Ang See claims that the recent case of kidnapping was resolved after paying a P2.5 million ransom and that she has already talked to PNP General Nicanor Bartolome about the incident only to be allegedly rebuffed by Bartolome for making a mountain out of a molehill and that she was also told to be exaggerating these reports of kidnappings,” Rodriguez said.

He said some reports

unstable fuel prices “and lesser appearance of some species”. Less operations were particularly noted in Cagayan Valley, Quezon, Eastern and Western Visayas, and Soccsksargen, which consists of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City.

but also “looked forward to” more bilateral talks with the Philippines.

The CTG meeting was held on November 26 and was attended by Recide, National Food Authority Officer in Charge Ludovico J. Jarina, and Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the WTO Ambassador Esteban B. Conejos, Jr.

heavy rains in 2011, according to the Global Climate Risk Index released Wednesday by Germanwatch on the sidelines of a major UN climate change conference being held in Doha, Qatar.

Extreme weather-related events also caused more than $1 billion in damages across the Philippines, the study said.

The country also placed top 5 on the list of the 10 most affected countries on the index. Thailand topped the list, followed

by Cambodia, Pakistan, and El Salvador.

“In 2011, the Philippi nes endu red a ha rsh typhoon season and were s e vere ly h it by t ropi-

cal storm Washi which claimed over 1,600 f lood victims, topping the list for most human casualties of the year,” said the report authored by Sven Ha r mel i ng a nd Dav id Eckstein.

The study, citing new scientific data, directly attributed extreme weather events to climate change.

“W h i le a c ouple of years ago there was hardly any event where science experts made a clear link to cl i mate cha nge, t he research community has progressed,” it said.

The study warned that d e ve lopi n g d e ve lop e d countries are genera lly more af fected t han industrialized countries.

“Wit h rega rd to f uture climate change, the Climate Risk Index can serve as a warning signal indicating past v ulnerabi lit y which may f urther increase in regions where extreme events will become more f requent or more severe through climate change,” it added.

T he st udy ’s aut hors urged participants at the ongoi ng COP 18 c onference in Qatar to act decisively in scaling-up international response to address climate change.

“The time window for putting the world on a track to stay below 2°C is closi ng rapid ly, a nd Doha should insert new dynamics,” they said.

locally was 16-18 percent.

Mr. Umali, who has vast experience in the real estate marketing industry with some of the country’s leading real estate companies, said this rebate will not only set the trend for local projects but will likewise give an opportunity to investors who are intimidated or cannot comply with the documentary requirements of other financing firms, in much the same way that

Primavera Residences has set the trend as Northern Mindanao’s first and so far only eco-friendly building designed by multi-awarded Italian Architect Romolo Valentino Nati and constructed using the tenets of sustainable architecture.

The U lt imate Rebate Promo gives the potential unit owner the option of choosing the in-house package best suited for his preferences. Options available

cover three (3), five (5) or seven (7) years to amortize the balance of his unit after his 30 percent down payment.

Tower 1 of t he twintower P250-million Primavera Residences has been completed while Tower 2 is scheduled for completion on the second quarter of 2014. It has been cited as one of the best condominium developments in the Philippines by the prestigious South East

Asia Property Awards 2011 based in Singapore while its business plan was similarly recognized as one of the most promising clean energy investment opportunities in the Philippines during the CTI-PFAN Philippines Clean Energy Investor Forum held at the EDSA Shangri-la Manila on June 21, 2010.

Most recently, Primavera Residences qualified for the next stage of the CTI PFAN Asia Forum for Clean Energy

Financing (AFCEF-3) Business Plan Competition to be held on 22nd February 2013 in Singapore. The forum aims to facilitate a marriage between entrepreneurs, their ideas and projects and investment.

Interested parties may call Italpinas at tel. no. (088) 310-8173 or 0917-792-1078 for further details and private viewing or log-in to their home page at www.primaveraresidences.com.

2012, the power development projections for coal is 30 T W h at t he most, peaking in 2009 while its power development projections for hydro is 50 TWh also peaking in 2009, or a difference of 20 TWh in favor of hydro. But in the new PEP 2009-2030, the DoE’s priority is to “accelerate t he exploration and development of oi l, gas and coal resources.”

Instead of helping Mindanao and the country’s economy, the DoE is draining it with its promotion of coal-fed power plants.

According to Highlights of

PEP 2009-2030“currently, the country imports around 75.4% of the domestic coal requirements.”

Instead of prioritizing coa l-based power plants to solve Mindanao’s power crisis, the DoE should focus on what Mindanao has in abundance, and that is hydro, said Cerael “Dodong” Donggay, former National Power Corporation (NPC) vice president for Mindanao.

“Mindanao is blessed with a bounty of hydro resources with over 1,143 MW potent ia l capacit y, such as the 132 MW BulanogBatang Project, whose feasi-

bility study was conducted

by ELC Electroconsult of Italy in 1993; the 300 MW Pulangi 5 Project, the feasibility study of which was conducted by SNC Lavalin of C a nad a i n 1996; t he 225 MW Agus 3, the only undeveloped hydro project along Agus R iver in the Lanao provinces.

There is also a 186 MW total aggregate capacity for 11 Small Hydro Projects with feasibility studies done

by NEWJEC of Japan in 1992; adding the 300 MW total aggregate capacities for the undeveloped Pulangi 1, 2, 3 & 6 hydro projects.

All these hydro potentials can generate 5 billion KWh of energy annually, enoug h to avoid energ y imports of 8.3 million barrels of oil, save P35 billion of foreign exchange, avoid emission of 3.5 million tons of carbon dioxide which on ly a g g r av at e s g lob a l warming as evidenced by superstorms such as Typhoon Ondoy in the South Pacific, severely affecting the Philippines in 2008, ty phoon Sendong which crippled Northern Mindanao just last year and the recent ‘Sandy’ in the North Atlantic whose estimated

damage is more than US$50 billion,” he said.

It is clear, with climate change and global warming upon us, Mindanao, and the rest of the Philippines, has nowhere to go but return to the basics, and that is using and properly utilizing what we have in abundance — water, Donggay said.

Sec. Antonino also said that “with the extensive river system in Mindanao, there is a huge untapped potential of over 1,000 MW” in the island. “ M i n d a n a o’s f u t u r e f lows with hydro power,” Donggay stressed.

Tuna...

Primavera... from page 1

designers and owners of Primavera Residences. “We call it a rebate because we will give back 8% of the usual 16% interest rate given to buyers who opt for in-house financing, provided they avail of this offer within the 12 day promo period.”

Prior to this, local brokers confirmed the lowest inhouse interest rates offered

Power... from page 1

f rom hyd ro s ou rc e s a s against the 1,163.30 MW f rom coa l, according to the DoE’s PEP 2003-2012.

And Region X (Northern Mindanao) leads the rest of Mindanao with 958.40 M W of potent ia l hyd ro power followed by Region XII with 719.69 MW. The rest of Mindanao’s regions’ hydro potentials are as follows: Caraga (288.09 MW); Region XI (259.64 MW); ARMM (232.65 MW); and Region IX (60.82 MW).

In the DoE’s PEP 2003-

Rufus, Maxie seek kidnapping probe

Rufus

He, however, added that the poll body has tried its best in purging the system of bogus party-lists.

“May kaunting blemish kasi decision-making maraming factors na kino-consider.

But we tried our best to be faithful sa standards ng batas,” Sarmiento said.

A cursory look at the partial list would show that the party-list scenario next year features groups affiliated with government officials, millionaires, and well-entrenched political families.

The group claiming to represent the farmers’ sector has fielded nominees affiliated with the Estrella family of Pangasinan and the Ortegas of La Union. For the 2013 elections, the group nominated Conrado M. Estrella III, who was Pangasinan sixth district representative from 1987 to 1995. Conrado is also the brother of incumbent representative Robert Raymond Estrella.

Meanwhile, the second nominee, Francisco Emmanuel R. Ortega III, who is Abono’s incumbent representative, belongs to a family of politicians in La Union. His father, Manuel Ortega, is the current governor of La Union while his uncle, Victor Francisco, is the incumbent La Union first district representative.

fisheries output nationwide dropped 2.14% to 781.48 million MT as of September from 798.61 million MT in the same nine months last year amid reduced operations in the face of rough seas,

9

showed that there were 41 cases reported from January to June this year, but the PNP rebuffed the report, saying that only four cases were confirmed kidnap for ransom (KFR) cases while the rest turn out to be simple cases of abduction, missing persons and those who were arrested in legitimate law enforcement operations.

Q u ot i n g t h e M R P O leader, the Cagayan lawma ker further disclosed that seven foreign nationals were kidnapped in separate incidents last Ju ly 2012 whi le on a tour outside Metro Manila.

“There is really a need to conduct an inquiry on the issue and thus ser ve notice to a ll concerned, particularly the PNP, the MRPO and other agencies and entities which may shed light and resolve the issue,” Rodriguez said.

DESPITE the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) aggressive purging of party-list hopefuls seeking congressional seats in the 2013 elections, some groups linked to individuals who can hardly be described as belonging to the marginalized and underrepresented were able to make it to the list.

No less than Comelec chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. had expressed disappointment with the list, even saying that if he could have his way, he’d rather that the party-list system be “abolished.”

“I am not satisfied, if you’re going to ask me,” Brillantes said Thursday. “Ako mismo, gusto ko sana i-abolish lahat ‘yan para wala nang eleksyon na party-list.”

Brillantes suggested starting from scratch. “Para magbago na tayo, magsimula na tayo ng panibagong batas,” he said, referring to Republic Act 7941, which legislated the party-list mechanism of representation enshrined in the Constitution.

For his part, Commissioner Rene Sarmiento admitted that the Comelec is not perfect in their decision-making.

“We respect ‘yung decision ng aming kasamahan dahil that is our honest and mutual belief. May respetuhan naman,” he said.

from page 8

Monday-Tuesday I Dec. 3-4, 2012

BOTHERED by conflicting reports on the number of abduction cases, two brother lawmakers from Mindanao are calling on Congress to look into the true state of the kidnapping situation in the country.

Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, along with his brother, Abante Mindanao party-list Rep. Maximo Rodriguez Jr., sought a congressional investigation to determine the real situation to enable the authorities to fully and immediately address the situation.

“The only way to properly solve the kidnap for ransom situation in the country is to face reality and act accordingly based on what the true situation is,” he said in filing House Resolution 2863.

He cited that the AntiKidnapping Group of the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that during

Philippines had most disaster deaths in 2011 THE Philippines had the highest death toll caused by weather-related disasters last year, a new study said Wednesday.

A total of 1,659 people died from typhoons, f loods, landslides, and

Rice... from page 8

10

Monday-Tuesday I Dec. 3-4, 2012

Property/Banking

BSP approves new rules on property financing THE Philippine central bank has approved new rules on mortgage loans as it intensifies oversight of real estate finance to prevent an asset bubble in one of fastest-growing sectors of the economy.

The Monetary Board called the new voluntary g u id e l i ne s , d e ve lop e d largely by t he ba nk ing industr y, a “milestone” because they set uniform rules and recognize the risk s involved i n what was prev iously a n u nmon itored prac t ice by property firms that signed contracts with homebuyers which they later on-sold to banks.

The practice has been instrumental in the current property boom which has seen mortgage loans rising 23 percent by value at the end of June to hit a four-year high, according to the latest central bank data.

Some property analysts have expressed concerns of a possible bubble in the middle-market segment of the residential condominium sector, amid

Homebuyers holding contracts from property firms can only be granted bank loans if they have paid at least 10 percent of the total home value, either through equity or downpayment.

“The BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) has been stepping up its oversight of real estate finance. The actions it has taken are designed to prevent excesses that may lead to financial crisis,” it said in a statement.

“They are pro-active steps meant to mitigate any potential easing of banks’ credit standards under a global regime of low interest rates.”

In August, the central bank said it would tighten rules on banks’ real estate exposure to address the financial system’s vulnerability to asset bubbles. an ongoing f lurry of construction as developers compete for homebuyers confident of spending in an environment of strong growth and low interest rates.

Under the new rules, both real estate developers and their housing projects must first be accredited by banks before they can sell their receivables to the formal banking sector.

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Property development agreement in the works PHILIPPINE REALTY & Holdings Corp. (PhilRealty) has moved to forge a preliminary deal with its majority investor Green hi l ls Properties, Inc. to develop the latter’s property in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) into a mixed-use project, PhilRealty said in a disclosure last week.

“In its regular meeting today (Nov. 27), our board of directors approved the signing of a memorandum of agreement with our principal shareholder, Greenhills Properties, whereby the compa ny u nder ta kes to prepare at its sole expense, a master plan for the development of Greenhills Properties’ 6 ,4 0 0 -squ a re-meter property at Bonifacio South District, BGC,” the disclosure read.

“The signing of the a g re ement w i l l t a ke place as soon as we finish evaluation of proposals solicited from local as well as foreign architectural firms. The preparation of the conceptual master plan will take thee to six months, after which our company and

Greenhills Properties intend to enter into a definitive joint-venture agreement.”

I n it s d i s c lo s u re , Phi l Rea lt y descr ibed the property owned by Greenhills Properties as consisting of four 1,600-square-meter lots bounded by 5th Avenue, 25th Street, 6th Avenue, and 24th Street.

“A mixed-use development is envisioned with retail, residential, office, and serviced apartments components,” PhilRealty said.

Ph i l Re a lt y, i ncorporated i n 1981, has been engaged in the development and sale of residential and office condominium projects as well as the lease of commercial and office spaces. It is the f irm behind Pasig City developments The Alexandra condominium complex and The Philippine Stock Exchange Centre (Tektite Towers).

The company saw its net loss double to P9.10 million as of September from P4.37 million in the same nine months last year.

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Monday-Tuesday I Dec. 3-4, 2012

11

The Night Stalker:

SEDA Centrio introduces Urban Lifestyle Experience AYALALAND Hotels and Resorts Corporation reboots the book on hospitality excellence with its new line of Seda (“Silk”) Hotels that aims to bring the Makati urban lifestyle experience to the regions.

During the Nov. 9 launch of Centrio Mall, Andrea Mastellone, Seda Group General Manager said the new Seda Hotels collection of AHRC is the first line of urban lifestyle hotels in the country that aims to bring together style, comfort and value in one destination.

Seda is also the first set of hotels to be operated and owned by AyalaLand, developer of the Philippines’ top master-planned, mixed-use communities.

“Seda Hotels enjoy superior location advantages over competition, making it an ideal choice for the contemporary business and leisure traveler,” said Mr. Mastellone. “Seda hotels are found in prime emerging cities and developments such as Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, Davao City, Cagayan de Oro City, and NUVALI in Sta. Rosa, Laguna with a total of 628 rooms.”

“The Seda Hotel collection offers a new experience in hospitality: the Urban Lifestyle Hotel. We provide comfort and value for tech savvy customers of the digital generation with our modern amenities and latest technology,” said Melissa J. Carlos, Group Director of Sales and Marketing. “Each hotel fuses contemporary design with the local vibe to create an inviting mix of relaxation, play and work. Thus, while every hotel displays Seda’s trademark style and service, each has its distinct personality.”

Scheduled to open next month, Seda Centrio is nes-

tled within the 3.7-hectare Centrio complex in downtown Cagayan de Oro, an easy elevator ride away from Centrio Mall’s 300 retail and dining establishments and only 30 minutes from Lumbia airport.

Designed by Rchitects, Inc. and C. T. Onglao Architects, it will have a total of 150 stylish but cozy guestrooms, consisting of 136 standard rooms (28 sq.m.) and 14 premier deluxe (35 sq.m.).

Besides having the largest and poshest rooms for hotels in its price range, Seda Centrio also boasts of four fully equipped function rooms featuring modern contemporary themes and natural lighting in the fourth floor which can open up to each other to accommodate

up to 100 people at a time for business or social events.

An adult and kiddie’s pool as well as a fitness gym are also found in the same floor.

Its Misto presents a 3-in-1 All-Day Dining Concept (Restaurant, Bar and E-Lounge) where travelers can enjoy food and drinks with the convenience of wi-fi that’s seamlessly linked to the lobby lounge and e-lounge. Guests can also explore the wide array of restaurant choices in Centrio Mall which is just one elevator ride away.

Here’s where Seda transcends the boutique hotel concept under which it was originally conceived to a higher “urban lifestyle experience.”

“For instance, every guest room has a 40-inch LED HD

TV ( first in the industry), media panel with HDMI, USB and A/V connectivity; phone with iPod docks and FM Stereo Features and complimentary Wi-Fi and Broadband Internet Access, ” said Seda Centrio General Manager Jeffrey M.

Enriquez during a recent presentation to the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro. “ On top of that, Seda Centrio would have Ms. Katrina Morris as its “Lifestyle Manager” charged with matching the guest’s inclinations to what’s going

on in the mall and the rest of the city.”

Seda Centrio is undertaken

by Northgate Hotel Ventures, Inc. (NHVI), a joint venture between Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corporation (AHRC) and Anflocor.

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