Ms sect d 20170305 sunday by Manila Standard

SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2017

Jimbo Gulle, Editor

Roger Garcia, Issue Editor

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EAGLE FOUNDATION GETS PRIVATE BOOST

HE Philippine Eagle Foundation believes that saving the population of the Philippine Eagle is not a lost cause, after all. The private sector is being tapped to assist and provide the necessary logistical and technical support to PEF through its Philippine eagle adoption program. Currently—through the foundation’s partnership with Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, an oil company based in Davao—they hope to accomplish more in their captive breeding efforts to augment the population of the species. PEF’s conservation breeding program, cooperative artificial insemination techniques and breeding of natural pairs in order to contribute to the species’ population are among the methods currently being employed. Phoenix Philippines Foundation, Inc. of Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, one of the leading private companies that support the foundation’s captive breeding efforts, takes pride in the Philippine Eagle and its significance in keeping a healthy and balanced ecosystem. “We fully support the Philippine Eagle Foundation in its efforts to protect and save our majestic national bird,” said Phoenix Petroleum president and CEO Dennis Uy. PEF executive director Dennis Salvador, meanwhile, airs his group’s call for more private companies like Phoenix to join in this noble mission of protecting our national bird from extinction. Phoenix’s adopted Philippine eagle, named after the company, is a natural pair to the female eagle “Marikit.” They have been paired for about seven years now. They are one of the four natural pairs at the Philippine Eagle Center. The pair has laid eggs in the past breeding seasons, but they were infertile. Philippine eagle Phoenix as part of a natural pair has a crucial role in the efforts to augment the dwindling population of the species. The PEF team is hopeful that in the next breeding season Phoenix and his pair can finally produce their first fertile egg. Philippine Eagles are monogamous birds—they keep only one partner for life. Finding their pair takes time both in the wild and in captivity. At the PEC, pairing attempts are done in an introduction cage about 40 feet high. It has a partition in the middle to avoid the eagles from harming each other in the process. Philippine eagles are highly territorial and show aggression to each other if they are not compatible. “Once an eagle finds a suitable female eagle for him, he will court her by giving her twigs. It’s like giving roses to us humans,” said Rai Gomez, PEF Education administrator. “Once the pair successfully copulates, they are able to lay an egg. It takes 56 to 60 days to hatch an eagle.” The PEF is hopeful for the success of every natural pair in the Philippine Eagle Center. Through the participation of corporations like Phoenix Petroleum, the PEF is able to look after the needs of the eagles in captivity by providing for their food, medicine, shelter and veterinary care.

VIZCAYA STRUCTURES ‘NATIONAL TREASURES’ By Ben Moses Ebreo BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya—The National Museum has declared two timeworn structures in the province as National Cultural properties of the country. These structures are the Dampol Bridge in Dupax del Sur town and the old Provincial Capitol building situated in this town. The Dampol Arch Bridge, built by Spanish Dominican friar Fr. Francisco Rocamora in 1818, was considered as one of the very few remaining historic landmarks in the southern part of Nueva Vizcaya The two centuries old structure is a single-arched brick bridge that spans the Abanatan creek which divides Dupax Sur and Dupax Norte towns. The early Isinay tribe, with other indigenous groups living in the old ‘Ituy’ area, built the bridge. Native hands crafted the red-colored brick from an old adobe workshop near the Dominican church of San Vicente Ferrer in Dupax when Fr. Rocamora was its vicar. The bridge connected the two Dupaxes to nearby towns and facilitated the transport of people and products for trade in horse-driven carts during the earlier period. Earlier, attempts to widen the narrow bridge through the Department of Public Works and Highways was met by protests from the Isinai tribe because of its historical and cultural value.

ACADEME LAUDS TRO ON RCOA Scan this icon to view the PDF

'PHOENIX,' the Philippine eagle adopted by Phoenix Philippines Foundation Inc., has become the partner of 'Marikit' for over seven years now, but they have not produced eaglets yet.

QC, DSWD SIGN PACT TO BUILD HOUSES FOR PWDS QUEZON City Mayor Herbert Bautista and Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo recently signed a joint memorandum of understanding for the development of a housing project to benefit primarily, residents living with disabilities or people with disabilities (PWDs) in Barangay Escopa III. According to Secretary to the Mayor Tadeo Palma, the city government has already poured in P30 million for land development as he announced during the formal signing rites that the 36 housing units are scheduled for turnover by the end of May this year. Taguiwalo, meanwhile, de-

Local Gov’t Units

scribed the joint undertaking as “a good example of public-private partnership.” “What we have here at Escopa is a small paradise for persons with disabilities,” Taguiwalo said. Gawad Kalinga represented during the occasion by GK-QC head Justine Cruz, was tapped to undertake the development and construction of the housing project, which will be known as Bistekville 18. Bautista urged the housing program beneficiaries to take good care of the houses that will be awarded to them. “Sana huwag naman ninyong ibenta ang mga

titulo,” the city mayor said. Bistekville 18, will be established on a portion of the National Vocational Rehabilitation Center in Barangay Escopa III. The property will be designed to yield about 130 two-story housing units with floor area measuring 21 square meters each. An initial 36 units are now under construction. As provided for under the partnership agreement, Quezon City has been tasked to oversee the land development, to include site clearing and construction of roads, drainages and retaining walls and rip-rap and in the development of open spaces.

The city has also been tasked to assist in the social preparation and in the selection of beneficiaries. The DSWD, on the other hand, shall act as the lead agency in the selection of qualified beneficiaries and in the resolution and arbitration of disputes relative to beneficiary selection. Gawad Kalinga shall oversee the provision of the housing component. The city government also facilitated the relocation of non-PWD or able families from Barangay Escopa to the National Housing Authority-designated resettlement site in Pandi, Bulacan.

TOWARDS the end of 2016, hundreds of power customers aired their grievances over what they saw as unreasonable and unrealistic rules emanating from a government ruling that requires industrial and commercial customers to forcibly sign up with a Retail Electricity Supplier, or RES, by Feb. 26, 2017. Hundreds in attendance reiterated apprehensions that there was very little time for them to secure a Retail Supply Contract, or RSC, with an RES before the deadline, in accordance with the new ruling imposed under Retail Competition and Open Access or RCOA. Per the Energy Regulatory Commission and Department of Energy resolutions, these previously captive customers should by then have switched to the contestable power market by the cut-off date. Ateneo de Manila University and San Beda College Alabang, in a joint statement, recently expressed satisfaction and relief following the Supreme Court's recent ruling imposing a temporary restraining order on the recent rulings and policies by the ERC and DoE affecting RCOA. Both schools said they are encouraged the SC declared their joint petition as “successfully establishing a clear, legal right to the TRO,” as they seek to uphold the spirit of Epira, or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001, which protects the freedom and the rights of all power consumers. Ateneo de Manila University president Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin SJ said: “ADMU believes that our government and ruling bodies should ultimately seek to protect our basic, constitutional right to freedom of choice. And this right should extend to all electricity consumers.

19TH PAWIKAN NEST FOUND IN DAVAO’S CLEANERGY PARK

A worker of Aboitiz Cleanergy Park in Davao cleans the nest of a hawksbill turtle or pawikan, the 19th nest found in the park in three years.

THE Aboitiz Cleanergy Park welcomed the 19th critically endangered hawksbill turtle or pawikan nest on its property since 2014, and its third for the year. This comes barely two weeks after the discovery of the park’s first and second pawikan nests for 2017. Located in Punta Dumalag, Davao City, the park is an eight-hectare outdoor biodiversity park managed by the Aboitiz Foundation and Davao Light. It showcases urban-based habitat conservation and biodiversity management.

It is one of the few identified nesting sites of the pawikan, and is home to 66 other species. The latest pawikan nest was discovered last Feb. 8 during an inspection of the park’s foreshore lease area. It contained pawikan eggs, which were transferred by Davao Light team members to the park’s hatchery. A female pawikan is known to lay eggs three to five times in two-week intervals during mating seasons (barring no unnecessary disturbances), and the eggs’ incubation

period is expected to last between 50 to 60 days. Prior to the discovery of the third pawikan nest, the park’s first and second pawikan nests for 2017 were discovered last Jan. 10 and 25, respectively. “We are happy to welcome the latest batch of pawikans to the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park,” said Maribeth L. Marasigan, Aboitiz Foundation first vice president and chief operating officer. “We will ensure that they continue making the Aboitiz Cleanergy Park their breeding ground and sanctuary

by creating surrounding communities that are safe, sustainable, and empowered.” The Aboitiz Cleanergy Park is also a haven for various species of trees, birds and fishes. In 2016, the Aboitiz Foundation stepped up its conservation campaign with “#BetterWorld for the Pawikans,” a drive to raise funds for the protection and preservation of the hawksbill turtle in Punta Dumalag, one of the last few remaining natural habitats for this turtle specie.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2017 D2 Standard Manila

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AUSSIES VOW SUSTAINED MINDANAO AID

AVAO CITY -- Over the years, Mindanao “has been one of the priorities of our development cooperation in the Philippines,” Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Amanda Gorely declared recently.

“And given it’s the economic growth, we remain committed to sustain our support programs for Mindanao in education, livelihood, peace and stability,” Gorely added in a recent visit. The ambassador said the Australian government acknowledges the opportunities to expand their bilateral engagement in other key areas in the Philippines such as trade and investment. Trade ties between Australia and the Philippines are valued at approximately AU$3.982 billion per annum. More than 280 Australian companies have an established presence in the Philippines and have created 40,000 jobs.

The total size of the Australian investment in the country is estimated at AU$10 billion covering a multitude of sectors and contributing to knowledge sharing and economic growth. In Mindanao, Australia works with local governments, local organizations and NGOs to support programs in education, technical vocational training, peace building and disaster risk management. The Australian Ambassador was in Davao City to lead the launch of “Australia in Davao” promotions. The Australian Embassy collaborated with partners in Davao to offer a series of events to celebrate the long-

Republic of the Philippines Department of Health CENTRAL OFFICE BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE

Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely (left) meets with Mindanao Development Authority Secretary Datu Abul Khayr Dangcal Alonto.

Manila

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standing partnership with Mindanao, and with the city of Davao. Gorely, together with Australian Senior Trade & Investment Commissioner Elodie Journet, was the event’s keynote speaker. Meanwhile, The Australian Trade & Investment Commission (Austrade) will conduct an Australian Food and Wine Appreciation Class for students of the Institute of International Culinary and Hospitality Entrepreneurship (IChef). Dairy Australia scholars, as well as representatives from Meat and Livestock Australia and food importers will be on hand to share their knowledge and expertise about Australian fresh produce, dairy, red meat and wine. IChef has worked with Workskills Australia to offer training programs suitable for an Australian apprenticeship and traineeship pathway. To honor the Australia Global Alum-

Republic of the Philippines

TODAY ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City

requeSt for exPreSSIon of IntereSt Procurement of conSultIng ServIceS for the SyStem develoPment and exPanSIon of the Integrated lIcenSIng InformatIon SyStem reI-cS-goP-2017-008 1.

The Department of Health (DOH), through the General Appropriations Act of 2017 intends to apply the sum of Ten Million Philippine Pesos (PhP 10,000,000.00) being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payment under the contract for the Procurement of Consulting Services for the System Development and Expansion of the Integrated Licensing Information System. Bids received in excess of the ABC shall be automatically rejected at the opening of the financial proposal. The DOH now calls for the submission of eligibility documents for the Procurement of Consulting Services for the System Development and Expansion of the Integrated Licensing Information System under REI-CS-GOP-2017-008. Eligibility documents of interested consulting firms must be duly received by the COBAC B Secretariat on or before March 13, 2017, 9:00 A.M. at COBAC Conference Room, G/F Building 6, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Sta. Cruz, Manila. Applications for eligibility will be evaluated based on a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion. Interested bidders may obtain further information from COBAC Secretariat, COBAC Conference Room, G/F, Building 6, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Sta. Cruz, Manila and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given above during 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.

Construction/Expansion of Control Building and other Facilities

Compliance to Environmental Requirements

Fire Protection System Project

TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:

Acquisition of One (I) Airborne LIDAR Equipment

Construction of NGCP’s Hangar at Mindanao

Notice is hereby given that on 12 December 2016, applicant National Grid Corporation of the Philippines ( NGCP) filed an Application seeking the Commission’s approval of its capital expenditure program for the calendar years 2017- 2020, including therein a prayer for the issuance of provisional authority.

Procurement of Gimbal Camera for Airbus AS 350 B3 Helicopter

Procurement of Sling Cables for Helicopters

Tower Perimeter Fences

Electronic Security Access Door System

Installation of Security Surveillance System

Installation of Security Radio Communication System

Construction of a Multi-Level Parking Structure

Replacement of Fire Protection System at NGCP Main Building

Replacement of Centralized Air Conditioning System at NGCP Main Building

Construction of Generator Set Building and Purchase of 1.5 MVA Standby Generator Set

Replacement and Acquisition of Tools, Furniture, and Equipment

Physical Security Enhancement Project

ITD Infrastruscture and Equipment

Procurement of ICT Project

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)- Phase 3 Project

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

In the said Application, NGCP alleged the folIowing: The Applicant 1. NGCP is a corporation created and existing under the laws of the Philippines, with principal office address at NGCP Building, Quezon Avenue corner B.I.R. Road, Diliman, Quezon City. It is the concessionaire which assumed the power transmission functions of the National Transmission Corporation (TRANSCO) pursuant to R.A. 9136, otherwise known as the: “Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001” (EPIRA). It may be served with notices and other processes of this Honorable Commission through its counsel at the address indicated below. 2. Pursuant to R.A. 95111, NGCP was granted the franchise to operate, manage and maintain, and in connection therewith, to engage in the business of conveying or transmitting electricity through a high-voltage back-bone system of interconnected transmission lines, substations and related facilities, system operations, and other activities that are necessary to support the safe and reliable operation of the transmission system2 and is authorized to charge its customers at the rates approved by the Honorable Commission. 3. This Application is filed pursuant to paragraph d, Section 9 of the EPIRA, which direct· the transmission operator to seek prior approval from the HonorabIe Commission of any plan for expansion or improvement of its facilities in the pursuit of its mandate to construct, install, finance improve, expand, rehabilitate and repair the nationwide transmission system and the grid.

Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, cooperatives, and partnerships or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines.

The contract shall be completed within one (1) year and eight (8) months upon issuance of Notice to Proceed (NTP).

The DOH reserves the right to reject any and all bids, declare a failure of bidding, or not award the contract at any time prior to contract award in accordance with Section 41 of RA 9184 and its IRR, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

10.

A copy of the compilation of the Detailed Project Discussion for the projects under Non-Network Projects is attached as Annex “C.” D. Other Proiects 10. Lastly, these projects involve the wood poIe and the associated asset replacement program of sub-transmission assets that were reverted to NGCP’s Regulatory Asset Base pursuant to Table 5.4 of the 3rd RP Final Determination dated 22 November 2010.

4. NGCP’s Final Determination for the Third Regulatory Period (3rd RP) covering calendar years 2011 to 2015, as approved by the Honorable Commission in ERC Case No. 2009-180RC has already ended in December 2015 and under the Rules or Setting Transmission Wheeling Rates (RTW ), the Final Determination for the Fourth Regulatory Period (4th RP) covering calendar years 2016 to 2020 shall commence immediately thereafter. However, NGCP has yet to undergo its regulatory reset for the 4th RP as it is still awaiting the Honorable Commission’s position paper to guide NGCP in the submission of its 4th RP Application.

A copy of the compilation of le Detailed Project Discussion for the projects under Other Projects is attached as Annex “D.” 11.

I. Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) Program for CY 2017-2020 6. NGCP has the legal mandate to ensure the non-discriminatory, reliable and high- performance operation of the transmission system; including a secured, reliable, and efficient management of the high-voltage grid of the Philippines. To perform such functions, NGCP submits to the Honorable Commission, for its approval, its CAPEX program for CY 2017-2020, together with their respective justifications.

(SGD.) MA. CAROLINA V. TAIÑO, CPA, MGM, CESO IV Assistant Secretary of Health COBAC B Chairperson

The DOH now invites bids for the procurement of the above-captioned project. Delivery of the Goods is required within the period specified under SECTION VI. Schedule of Requirements. Bidders should have completed, within two (2) years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the Project, equivalent to at least fifty percent (50%) of the ABC. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II. Instructions to Bidders. Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the 2016 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act”. Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183.

Interested bidders may obtain further information from the COBAC Secretariat, Ground Floor, Building 6, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, Manila and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given above during 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.

0.00

192.10

0.00

89,546.72

23,881.70

Justifications for the Issuance of Provisional Approval 12. To reiterate, NGCP is required under paragraph d, Section 9 of the EPIRA to seek prior approval from the Honorable Commission of any plan for expansion or improvement of its facilities in relation to its authority a d responsibility to construct, install, finance, improve, expand, rehabilitate and repair the nationwide transmission system and the grid . 13. Along with its responsibility for the planning, construction and centralized operation and maintenance of its high voltage transmission facilities, it is indispensable for NGCP to ensure a reliable and high-performance operation of the transmission system.

North Luzon Substation Upgrading Project

South Luzon Substation Upgrading Project

Luzon Voltage Improvement Project - 3

Luzon Voltage Improvement Project - 4

Cebu-Negros-Panay (CNP) 230kV Backbone Project Stage 3

Panitan - Nabas 138kV Line 2 Project

Tagbilaran 69kV Substation Project

WHEREFORE, NGCP most respectfully prays this Honorable Commission to:

Visayas Voltage Improvement Project

Baloi-Kauswagan-Aurora 230kV Transmission Line Project (Phase 2)

1. Immediately ISSUE an Order provisionally authorizing the implementation of the proposed CAPEX projects; and

Mindanao Substation Rehabilitation Project

Mindanao Substation Upgrading Project

Grid Replacement of Primary Equipment Project

Grid Replacement of Secondary Equipment Project

Line Tools & Equipment Acquisition Project

Line Equipment & Structure Installation Project

Line Structure Replacement Project

Spares Acquisition Project

Acquisition of Test and Measuring Equipment Project

14. Thus, to avoid distribution of operation and non-compliance with its mandate under the EPIRA as the transmission operator, it is imperative that the implementation of the proposed CAPEX projects be immediately approved . 15. In support thereof, NGCP submits the judicial affidavit of Engr. Darryl Lon A. Ortiz, Head of the Business Strategic Development and Regulatory Management Division of NGCP attached as Annex “F.” PRAYER

The Commission has set the said Application for determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements, expository presentation, Pre-trial Conference, and presentation of evidence on 24 March 2017 at two o’clock in the afternoon (2:00 P.M.), at the ERC Hearing Room, 15th Floor, Pacific Center, San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City. All persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) days prior to the initial hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following:

B. Operations and Wi SM Support Proiects 8. NGCP as the Transmission Service Provider, System Operator and Metering Service Provider (MSP) is required to operate the power system in accordance with the Philippine Grid Code (PGC) and the Wholesale Electricity Market (WESM) Rules. As such, it must fully comply with the requirements of the provisions of the PGC, the WESM Rules, and the WESM Metering Manual and Guidelines. Thus, NGCP proposes the implementation of the following operation and compliance programs: Operations and WESM Support Projects

Telecom Access and Remote Management Component Replacement

Power Supply and Auxiliary Equipment Replacement

Infra and IT Support Facilities Replacement

Bid opening shall be on 27 March 2017, 9:00 AM at the COBAC Conference Room, Ground Floor, Building 6, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, Manila. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address above. Late bids shall not be accepted.

SCADA/EMS Facilities Replacement

SCADA Expansion-Added Interfaces/RTU’s and Monitoring Points

Telecom Access for Added Locations, Subscribers & Application Points

Fiber Optic and Microwave Radio Expansion

Cyber Security

For further information, please refer to:

Network Synchronization System

Network and Facilities Management System and IT Support Facilities

EMS Enhancements

Network Disturbance Monitoring Equipment & Power Quality Analyzer

Real-Time Monitoring and Control Equipment for Distribution Utilities and Monitoring Equipment for Generators

Expansion- Installation of New Metering Facilities

NGCP Station Service - Installation of Metering Facilities

Rehabilitation and Upgrade of Metering Assets

Relocation of Metering Facility to the Prescribed Connection Points

Programmed Replacement of Ageing Metering Assets

APPROVE, after notice and hearing, the proposed CAPEX projects.

NGCP prays for other equitable relief.

A copy of the compilation of the Detailed Project Discussion for the projects under Grid Expansion and Reliability Projects is attached as Annex “A.”

Teleprotection Equipment Replacement

(MS-MAR. 5, 2017)

2,428.88

4. Other Projects

Mariveles - Hermosa 500kV Transmission Line Project

Fiber Optic and Microwave Radio Equipment Replacement

(SGD) MA. CAROLINA V. TAIÑO, CPA, MGM, CESO IV Assistant Secretary of Health COBAC – B Chairperson

3. Non-Network

COBAC-B Secretariat Department of Health San Lazaro Compound Sta. Cruz, Manila Tel. Nos. 651-7800 local 1625 to 1627; 1650 to 52 Facsimile No.: 741-9775; 740-6830

0.00

Relocation of Steel Poles along Hermosa - Duhat 230kVT/L

Bids must be duly received by the COBAC-B Secretariat at the address below on or before 27 March 2017, 09:00 AM All Bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18.

23,881.70

15,056.66

A complete set of Bidding Documents may be acquired by interested Bidders on 06 March – 27 March 2017 from the address above and upon payment of the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents, pursuant to the latest Guidelines issued by the GPPB, in the amount of Fifty Thousand Philippine Pesos (PhP50,000.00)

The DOH will hold a Pre-Bid Conference on 13 March 2017, 10:00 AM at the COBAC Conference Room, Ground Floor, Building 6, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, Manila, which shall be open to prospective bidders.

71,869.08

2. Operations and WESM Support

It may also be downloaded free of charge from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) and the website of the Procuring Entity, provided that Bidders shall pay the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents not later than the submission of their bids. 6.

1. Grid Expansion and Reliability

Total

Grid Expansion and Reliability Projects

The Department of Health (DOH), through the Continuing Appropriations of 2016 and General Appropriations Act of 2017 intends to apply the sum of Fifty Two Million One Hundred Thousand Philippine Pesos (PhP52,100,000.00) being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments under the contract for the Procurement of Servers under IB No. 2017-149. Bids received in excess of the ABC shall be automatically rejected at bid opening.

Beyond 2020 PhP Mn

To provide the Honorable Commission an overview of the costs of the projects, NGCP hereby submits the 2017 2020 Total CAPEX attached as Annex “E.”

7. One of the core mandates of NGCP is to improve and expand its transmission facilities3, and to ensure and maintain the reliability, adequacy, security, stability and integrity of the nationwide electrical grid4 to guarantee that grid meets: forecast demand, system reliability, demand market requirements, and capacity of new generators. Thus, NGCP is seeking approval for the following new projects:

Republic of the Philippines Department of Health CENTRAL OFFICE BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE

2017-2020 Php Mn

A. Grid Expansion and Reliability Projects

(MS-MAR. 5, 2017)

InvItatIon to BId Procurement of ServerS IB no. 2017-149

The total CAPEX program are as follows: Projects

5. Notwithstanding the absence of the Final Determination for the 4th RP, NGCP is mandated to ensure and maintain the quality, reliability, adequacy, security, stability and integrity of the nationwide grid. Hence, NGCP seeks authority from this Honorable Commission for the immediate implementation of various capital expenditure projects.

For further information, please refer to: COBAC B SECRETARIAT Department of Health 2nd Floor, Building 6, San Lazaro Compound, Sta. Cruz, Manila 1003 Tel. No. 651-7800 Loc. 1625 – 1627; Telefax No. 711-6061 Website: www.doh.gov.ph;

Non-Network Projects Refurbishment of ODCmC, Establishment of DDCmCs and Acquisition of Geospatial Precision Data-Capture Equipment

Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using nondiscretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the IRR of R.A. 9184.

C. Non-Network Projects 9. To support in fulfilling of its mandate discussed above, NGCP seeks the approval of following similarly significant and indispensable projects: 1

Applicable Experience (40 %) Qualification of Personnel (40 %) Current Workload (20 %)

The Procuring Entity shall evaluate bids using the Quality-Cost Based Evaluation Procedure (QCBE). The Procuring Entity shall indicate the weights to be allocated for the Technical and Financial Proposals. The criteria and rating system for the evaluation of bids shall be provided in the Instructions to Bidders.

AMR System Upgrade

ERC CASE NO. 2016-197 RC

The COBAC shall draw up the short list of consultants from those who have submitted Expression of Interest, including the eligibility documents, and have been determined as eligible in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act”, and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). The criteria and rating system for short listing are:

Procurement of Spares

NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES Applicant.

A complete set of Bidding Documents may be acquired by interested Bidders on March 06 to April 10, 2017 from the address above upon payment of applicable fee for the Bidding Documents, pursuant to the latest Guidelines issued by the GPPB in the amount of Ten Thousand Philippine Pesos (PhP10,000.00).

a) b) c)

Procurement of Testing Equipment

A copy of the compilation of he Detailed Project Discussion for the projects under Operations and WESM Support Projects is attached as Annex “B.”

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CAPITAL EXPENDITURE PROGRAM FOR CALENDAR YEARS 2017-2020, WITH PRAYER FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY

ni based in the region, the Ambassador will be hosting a reception at the recently opened Australian-themed restaurant Bondi and Bourke. The Australian government had invested AU$92 million over five years to support to Basic Education Assistance in Muslim Mindanao (BEAM-ARMM) which has trained over 12,000 teachers, established over 800 learning centers, and provided technical and vocational skills to 11,000 out of school youths. The Australian-funded Provincial Road Management Facility recently rehabilitated 170.2 kilometers of roads and helped maintain 161.7 km of roads in Davao including seven provinces in Mindanao to help improve access to markets, health facilities and schools. The total investment for the road maintenance and rehabilitation projects amounted to P655 million.

The petitioner’s name and address;

II.

The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and

lll.

A statement of the relief desired.

All other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of th case may file their Opposition or Comment thereon at any stage of the proceeding before Applicants rest their case, subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following: 1) 2) 3)

The name and address of such person; A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and The grounds relied upon.

All such persons who wish to have a copy of he Application may request from Applicants that they be furnished with the same, prior to the date of the initial hearing Applicants are hereby directed to furnish all those making such request with copies of the Application and its attachments, subject to the reimbursement of reasonable photocopying costs. Any such person may likewise examine the Application and other pertinent record filed with the Commission during the standard office hours. WITNESS, the Honorable Chairman JOSE VICENTE B. SALAZAR, and the Honorable Commissioners ALFREDO J. NON, GLORIA VICTORIA C. YAP-TARUC, JOSEFINA PATRICIA A. MAGPALE-ASIRlT, and GERONIMO D. STA. ANA, Energy Regulatory Commission, this 28th day of February 2017 at Pasig City

ATTY. NATHAN J. MARASIGAN Chief of Staff Office of the Chairman and CEO

2 3 4

An Act Granting the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines a Franchise to Engage in the Business of Conveying or Transmiting Electricity Through High Voltage Back-bone System or Interconnected Transmission Lines, Substations and Related Facilities, and For Other Purposes; ld, Section 1; Section 9 d, EPIRA; Section 9, c, EPIRA; (MS-MAR. 5 & 13, 2017)

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Gadgets & Games

CEBU STUDENTS WIN SMART TECH TOURNEY

SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2017 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

Another achievement of the “5x Dual Camera Zoom” is a state-of-the-art optical image stabilization.

OPPO'S 5X DUAL CAMERA ZOOM LAUNCHED

Smart has been visiting different schools all over the country to inspire students to create meaningful mobile and digital innovations. Among the speakers are SWEEP Awards alumni like Chino Atilano (far left), a native of Tawi-Tawi who now runs his own technology company.

ETRO Manila may be considered the country’s technology hub, but a national competition for innovative student projects is seeing more and more winners coming from the provinces. In the latest round of the SWEEP (Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program) Awards for Innovation and Excellence, a team from University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) in Cebu won the grand prize for developing a mobile and web application called BloodSeeker, which connects those in need of blood with potential donors. The students took home P300,000, while their school got a P150,000 grant from Smart Communications. In its 13-year run, the annual SWEEP Awards has had 10 grand prize winners from the provinces, with Wesleyan University Philippines in Nueva Ecija and Bulacan State University each producing two champion teams.

Changing the world

“We are happy to get a lot of outstanding submissions from students in the provinces, as it is SWEEP’s mission to promote innovation not just in Metro Manila, but all over the country,”said Stephanie Orlino, head of Smart’s education program. The SWEEP Awards was launched in 2004 to provide college students with the platform to create mobile and digital innovations that solve consumer pain points. It is an initiative under SWEEP, a long-running collaboration between Smart and the academe which aims to raise the standards of engineering and information technology (IT) education in the country. Because of SWEEP, Smart was cited last year by international magazine Fortune as one of 50 companies that have “changed the world.”

Promoting a culture of innovation in PH schools

Greg Gabison, dean of the USJ-R College of Information, Computer, and Communications Technology, said the SWEEP Awards has had a “big impact” on the culture of innovation in the university. “You can see that students are more motivated and inspired to come up with great ideas and tackle social or business issues,” he said.

USJ-R students first joined the SWEEP Awards in 2015, with a team placing third in the final judging. The following year, four teams from the university made the Top 10, out of 230 entries from 52 schools all over the country.

Improving projects via mentorship

Gabison said the SWEEP program contributed to the USJ-R students’ improved performance. “I have to take my hats off to the SWEEP mentoring process. If you check out the original ideas for our projects, you’d find that these were a bit different. The mentoring process added a lot of ideas and increased the viability of the projects.” As it was calling for entries to the competition, Smart held workshops in different schools all over the country to teach students how to build a business model, how to make a value proposition, and how to make an effective pitch to judges and potential investors. When the entries were trimmed down to the final 10, Smart brought all student finalists to Makati City for a boot camp. There they were introduced to technical and marketing mentors who taught them the importance of knowing their market and checking out competitors, as well as how to guard against fraud.

HITACHI CONVENTION. Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning Products Phils. Inc. recently handed out awards to top-selling and outstanding distributors and retailers, as well as unveiled their exciting new products during the recent dealers convention, an event connecting hundreds of certified Hitachi dealers with top company executives and other industry stakeholders at the SMX Convention Center in Mall of Asia recently. Highlighting the dealers’ convention was the awarding ceremony, where Hitachi recognized dealers that provided exceptional service to the company. Also unveiled was Hitachi’s new Inverter Air Conditioners, which utilize a revolutionary Full Inverter DC Inverter technology that combines three inverters—compressor, fan motor and module—packed in one clever solution. All three components work together efficiently, providing higher EERs that deliver the desired cooling comfort, while consuming less power. Leading the event were VIPs (from right) Hamasako, Takahiro—General Manager of Taiwan Hitachi Co. Ltd.; Louis Lien—CEO of Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning Phils. Inc.; Yokoyama, Hidenori—President of Taiwan Hitachi Co. Ltd. & Chairman of Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning Phils. Inc.; Paul Chen—General Manager of Taiwan Hitachi Co. Ltd.; Ko, Chung-Hsin—General Manager Taoyuan Factory Taiwan Hitachi Co. Ltd.; and Kuo, Wen-Cheng— General Manager Taoyuan Factory Taiwan Hitachi Co., Ltd.

HOME CREDIT, CIC FORMALIZE AGREEMENT HOME Credit, a Prague-based consumer finance company that helps customers avail of smartphones, appliances and other gadgets through installment, recently formalized its partnership with state-run Credit Information Corporation, with the sharing of its Philippine credit database to CIC now underway. Home Credit Philippines’ data sharing, which will happen in stages, is in compliance to Republic Act 9510, which requires banks, finance companies and other credit facilities such as utility companies to submit data related to their clients’ credit history to the CIC. HCPH was one of the very first companies to become compliant. In a simple recognition ceremony held at the CIC office in Makati, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) chair Teresita J. Herbosa, who also serves as CIC Ex-Officio Chairperson, underscored the key role that non-bank institutions such as Home Credit play in promoting greater financial inclusion in the country. “Our work gets easier because of [com-

panies such as] Home Credit Philippines, one of the leading compliant entities submitting their credit database, who from the very start had nothing but the spirit of cooperation and partnership with the CIC,” chair Herbosa said. “We’re pioneers in the field of credit registry, and Home Credit is a pioneer in terms of the financing business in PH, especially considering the demographics of their borrowers. Many of them are younger people, and these are the ones who we expect will be full-fledged users of our system,” Herbosa added. Credit Information Corporation (CIC) President and CEO Jaime P. Garchitorena remarked that “Home Credit has a lot to do with the confidence that we have in moving the CIC forward, [since they were] one of the first organizations to engage with us. They have played a huge role in providing alternative methods for giving credit, which gives opportunities to people who are not yet included in the system.” “The fact that a very successful institution

such as Home Credit is willing to engage with us shows that the CIC has a firm place in expanding the realm of credit, not just as a business, but in making credit accessible to anyone,” Garchitorena said. For its part, HCPH CEO Annica Witschard remarked that “in every country that Home Credit is in, we firmly believe in the importance of having a system in place to promote financial inclusion, and ensure that more and more people are given access to financial tools.” “CIC’s work in creating a unified credit database will surely be beneficial for everyone, most of all ordinary Filipinos, and we hope that this can develop as quickly as possible, and that the data gathered from all of these sources is as good as possible,” Ms. Witschard added. As the number of the unbanked or financially excluded remains high, non-bank institutions, with their use of alternative data, a more liberal framework for lending, and more points of access, is seen to have a big role to play in making sure that more Filipinos

AT THE largest gathering of the smartphone industry held in Barcelona, Spain, mobile technology brand OPPO unveiled the world’s first periscope-style dualcamera technology for smartphones called the “5x Dual Camera Zoom.” The groundbreaking technology, which made its debut at the Mobile World Congress, is also the first-ever lossless 5x dual camera zoom that captures images of similar quality to snaps from digital cameras. “The ‘5x Dual Camera Zoom’ has opened up yet another realm of possibility in terms of smartphone photography, and is a reflection of our dedication to delivering on what our customers want and need—to take beautiful and clear pictures,” said OPPO Vice President and Managing Director of International Mobile Business Sky Li. “Our 5x Dual-Camera Zoom will again set yet another technological standard that others will emulate,” Sky added.

Breakthrough technology

OPPO’s latest breakthrough technology for smartphones, which took almost a year to develop, re-designs current standards of dual-camera solutions that can only achieve a 2x zoom. By matching the 3x optical zoom to a proprietary image fusion technology, OPPO came up with the first-ever lossless 5x dual camera zoom that captures landscapes, portraits, and close-ups with the same depth and vividness of images from digital cameras. The “5x Dual Camera Zoom’s” design takes inspiration from a submarine’s periscope. A 90-degree angle shift on the telephoto lens gives space for a deep zoom, while a periscope-style prism gives the light a 90-degree path for the light entering the camera. The periscope-style prism then sends the image through the telephoto lens when the user zooms in on a subject or object. The periscope design also keeps the 5x dual camera module at only 5.7mm thick, which is 10 percent thinner than a smartphone’s typical 2x optical zoom lens. Another achievement of the “5x Dual Camera Zoom” is a state-of-the-art optical image stabilization (OIS), which OPPO applied directly to the telephoto lens. This approach is a departure from the method used by other manufacturers who use optical image stabilization on the wide-angle lens. By allowing both the prism and telephoto lens to intelligently sense vibrations, the new OIS technology eliminates vibration-caused blurs and ensures clarity at full 5x zoom. The all-new OIS solution also improves the performance of previous generations by 40 percent while its prism mechanism dynamically adjusts its angle at precise increments of 0.0025 degrees.

Leader in mobile photography

The introduction of pre-installed beautification feature in smartphone cameras was OPPO’s first breakthrough in mobile photography. The beautification feature is now a standard configuration in every Android phone. Beautify 4.0, the latest iteration of the beautifying app, is installed in devices like the F1s. In 2016, OPPO introduced the camerafocused “Selfie Expert” F-series. The second phone in the series, the F1 Plus is the first device to sport a 16 megapixel front camera. That same year, OPPO and Sony co-developed the customized 1/2.8-inch IMX398 sensor with a big f/1.7 aperture for its R9s model.

Smartphone giant on the rise

CIC president Jaime Garchitorena (right) with HCPH CEO Annica Witschard (center) and SEC Chair Teresita Herbosa have access to financial services. According to a recent survey by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, up to 86% of Filipino households do not have bank accounts, which is often a requirement for many loans.

A report by German market research firm GfK revealed that as of July last year, OPPO is the Philippines’ second bestselling smartphone brand. OPPO achieved this feat despite being in the country for less than three years. Global market intelligence firm International Data Corporation also reported that OPPO is the world’s fourth bestselling smartphone brand for two years now.

SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 2017 Riera U. Mallari, Editor rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

Gadgets & Games

GLOBAL TECH INNOVATIONS TO MARKET YOUR BRAND W

E are almost nearing the end of a dynamic decade that has seen increasingly fast advancement in technology. Innovations continue to appear and push the boundaries of branding, marketing, and the retail space. If you are a brand manager or you own a brand that seem to need that extra marketing kick this year, then consider these five tech innovations for your brand this year. There is an app for that!

With smartphones figuratively attached to virtually every person in any demographic, it is time to tap into mobile apps, if you still haven’t done so. There is practically a mobile app for everything, and young people love to use them. So, creating an app for your brand allows it to be more user‐friendly and personalized, especially if your brand caters to millennials, largely referred to as the mobile-‐first generation. Moreover, being available through mobile significantly increases your brand’s visibility and reach.

Keep it (virtually) real!

Everyone knows what virtual reality or VR is. It is probably one of the new buzzwords of the past year the momentum of which has carried on to 2017. VR is not just for video games and trippy shorts for killing time. Exploring the vast realms of VR opens up a plethora of immersive marketing possibilities for your brand. You simply have to use the VR technology that is already available and apply it to your messaging. Popular campaigns that have made use of this include Mercedes’ 360 virtual drive that lets users take a spin in a convertible on California’s Pacific Coast Highway and Merrell’s Trailscape that simulates a hike with optic motion capture.

Let ‘em hear it

Customized in—store music and messaging have already become a branding trend. With all the visual stimulation and overkill that swarm consumers nowadays, creating more impactful consumer experiences that result in better brand recall means having to go beyond pure sight. Sound plays a big role in how people perceive your retail space and what feelings they will associate with your brand. The best solution is to go for a curated sound that is customized for your specific theme, through both hardware and music choices. A good example of customized audio technology is the AudioWAV Music System by local tech company AudioWav Media or, simply, WAV. It is an all-in-one music player that also remotely controls multiple speakers

Four—star hotel Picasso makes use of a custom scent wafted throughout its interiors to greet guests with a distinct and pleasant aroma, courtesy of WAV Global’s Atmospheric Branding solutions.

and equalizers, synchronizing all your devices and operating them through unified software that only plays a curated choice of music to fit your brand.

for marketing campaigns.“It’s a win-‐win for both consumer and brand,” says Hinolan.“Clients who go for the sensory route always see a spike in foot traffic and brand loyalty because the consumUse the smell of success ers remember positive experiences and Building off visuals and audio, better familiarity when interacted with the next step is to add another key in this way.” element—scent. With scent diffusing technology, you can create a distinct Make senses of it all aroma for your brand that will not only Now, like all great unifying causes, add to recall but also trigger specific combine everything and make your feelings with your consumers. Studies branding initiative a multi-‐sensory from Tulane University and University approach.Sensory technology has of Notre Dame reveal that scent mar- been created to directly target and keting can “amplify consumer spend- stimulate different senses (hearing, ing, attract customers, and create seeing, smelling) to create a deeper memorable brands.” This is because and lasting brand impression. 75 percent of emotions and reactions The ideal multi-‐sensory tech stimare triggered by smell. ulates the different senses all together A major player in the scent tech field, in a unified system that is complemenWAV’s CEO and President Caloy Hinolan tary to every brand message that you champions the use of sense association want to convey. Visuals come from

customized TVs, LED signage, and even tablets for an interactive touch. Multi-‐channel speakers and customized audio messaging sets the feel of your space. The finale comes through scent, with a distinct custom aroma that seals the deal. WAV has pioneered a harmonious multi-‐sensory tech ecosystem in Asia using proprietary hardware and software that is tailor-‐made for every industry. Already among the industry leaders making use of mobile marketing and synced hardware and software, WAV is expecting to expand and offer even better tech solutions and innovative equipment through their P2.6-‐billion Initial Public Offering this March. Surely, technology and its solutions will continue to change, but with these essential tools in your catalog, you won’t be left behind.

SAMSUNG FACEBOOK VIDEO APP FOR TV IS HERE SAMSUNG Electronics announced today that the new Facebook video app for TV is available on Samsung Smart TVs, including its 2017 QLED TV lineup and the app will be available on all of its 2015, 2016, 2017 Smart TV models. Further solidifying its role as the global leader in TV, Samsung is the only TV manufacturer that will support the app at its launch. “It is a pleasure to bring the world’s social network to Samsung Smart T V users, as well as continue to see the value of Samsung Smart TV, as a platform, growing,” said Sangsook Han, Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “We will continue in our innovation on various fronts, including technologies and partnerships, to make sure our consumers can enjoy a wider variety of services.” The new Facebook video app for TV is a new way to enjoy Facebook videos on a bigger screen. Through the app, users can watch videos shared by friends or Pages they follow, top live videos from around the world, and recommended videos based on their interests. To access the app, users can simply log into their Samsung Smart Hub and download the application. Following a prompt for a one-time Facebook login, they can begin enjoying and discovering new content. Earlier this year, Samsung announced its elevated Smart TV offerings, which focus on a unified, simple user experience tailored to address consumer pain points. With the new features, users will be able to control all devices connected to their TV via one source, the Samsung One Remote. Additionally, users can now enjoy their favorite live T V programs and video - ondemand services directly on TV with a simple click on Smart View mobile app. This enhanced Smart Hub platform was rolled out on the company’s new QLED TV lineup at CES 2017. Among its many standout features, the QLED TV lineup includes dramatically revamped color performance, and was the first technology in the world to be verified by one of Europe’s largest technicalscientific associations Verband der Elektrotechnik ( VDE) for reproducing 100% color volume. For more information on Samsung’s QLED TV lineup and smart innovations, please visit http://news.samsung.com.

LENOVO K6 NOTE PROMISES ENDLESS FUN, ENTERTAINMENT By Paul Duran

Lenovo K6 Note

SEARCHING for a phone that can keep up with today’s fast-paced digital lifestyle? Well, look no further as Lenovo’s latest smartphone can certainly deliver. Launched recently at the Society Lounge Restaurant in Makati, the all-new Lenovo K6 Note promises endless fun and entertainment in the palm of the hand and comes with a pretty enticing price tag. Featuring a massive 4000 mAh battery, a blazing Qualcomm Snapdragon 430 64-bit 1.4GHz octa-core processor, enhanced 4G LTE connectivity and smooth 4GB RAM performance is a power-

packed phone that will hit the shelves at an attractive P11,999. Take share-worthy photos with the Lenovo K6 Note’s 16MP rear camera with Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF) for sharp details and vivid colors, while its Lithium-polymer battery gives users enough battery capacity to stream all their Spotify playlists and Netflix videos all day. Also, enjoy an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos, which complements the Lenovo K6 Note’s 5.5-inch full HD IPS display. “We want to bring the modern Filipino smartphone user infinite entertainment everywhere with the Lenovo K6 Note through its

outstanding pro-mode camera features, Dolby Atmos speakers and a long-lasting battery,” said Lenovo Mobile Business Group country manager Dino Romano. The Lenovo K6 Note sports a sleek, all-metal unibody design in sophusticated dark gray, gold, and silver versions. Get a free Bluetooth audio headset when you purchase the Lenovo K6 Note at Lenovo stores and authorized dralers nationwide. Buyers can also enjoy financing options such as six months zero interest via credit cards or low monthly payments via Flexi Finance through selected dealers. For more info visit their website at www.lenovomobile.com.ph

Dino Romano, country manager of Lenovo mobile Business Group