Wednesday, June 12, 2019

Progressive With its confident march on the path of development despite the challenging global conditions, the country remains a beacon of progress and peace Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 03

Ambassador's Message

Regular Radio Ads/Plugs We will provide Vodafone with spots for advertisements (commercial jingles) which may pertain to marketing and sales promotions, events, updates, reminders, quotes, announcements, and other information that it wants the public Hits just in 65 days! informed of.

Social Media Reach & RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE Engagement We will provide our social media platforms President to relay Vodafone’ posts, promotions, announcements, link to Vodafone’s website and other materials/media for the public to make sure wider reach and engagements. join the in the Filipinos in to support our State of Qatar in cele- government in its pursuit to create brating the anniversary a strong Philippines by achieving a of the 121st proclama- sustainable environment, a buoy- tion of the Philippine ant economy and enduring nation- Advertise now and avail Independence.I al security. Together, let us move Why advertise with What we offer? The strong efforts of the gov- forward and set aside our personal of our promotional rates. ernment to elevate the life of every differences and individual interests. Filipino is a fulfilment of the lega- Let us stand as one nation to ac- Qabayan Radio? • Regular Radio Program (Block Time) cy of our forefathers, whose faith, complish long lasting progress and • valour and patriotism bequeathed realise our nation's aspirations. • Qabayan Radio is the only Filipino Radio in Standard Radio Commercial to us the blessings of freedom and In this regard, the Philippine Em- www.qabayanfm.com Qatar with more than 260,000 Filipino independence. bassy remains committed to promot- • Announcement on Board The Kalayaan 2019 theme, "Ta- ing the welfare of the Filipinos in Qatar, residents target listeners. Filipinos rank 5th pang ng Bayan, Malasakit sa Mama- ensuring the delivery of good public among the highest residents population in the • Time Check mayan", reminds us to embody the service and enhancing relations with courage fuelled by compassion the host government by fostering co- country. • HE Alan L Timbayan Sponsorship for each other as President Rod- operation in various fields. With these Philippine Ambassador rigo Roa Duterte has said that we goals as its guideposts, the Embassy • • to Qatar English is Filipinos’ second language, thus Social Media Marketing should cherish and protect our in- will continue to faithfully abide by its Qabayan Radio also caters to international • Web Advertising dependence. mandate and duty to our country and communities in Qatar. After one hundred twenty one fellow Filipinos. • Press Releases (121) years of Philippine Independ- • Filipinos are very active in social media. ence, the task of nation building Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! • continues. I wish to encourage all Mabuhay ang Pilipino! Qabayan Radio’s social media have very high Website Co-Branding reach and engagement. In a span of 60 days, • Studio Co-Branding it’s Facebook got more than 12,000 Likes & Followers. • Audio-Visual Marketing

• Qabayan Radio streams online through its website (www.qabayanfm.com). Since its test broadcast in March 25, and as of end of May 2019, our website’s hits reached 2,058,990.

For more information, please contact us: Admin/Finance: +974 4499 4940 Vecteezy.com Sales & Marketing : +974 3388 8943 Editorial / Advertising Office: Barwa Commercial Avenue, Safwa Block - Abu Hamour, - Qatar, Tel: (974) 4000 2222 - (974) 4000 2155, Fax: (974) 4000 2235 - P.O.Box: 22345, Email: [email protected] Info/Reception : +974 4499 4944 MANAGING EDITOR: MARKETING: AD CONTROLLER: SUPPLEMENT EDITOR: SUPPLEMENT DESIGN: Louay Qaddoumi QT Advertising and Marketing Dept Maria Carbungco Ailyn Agonia Jitendra Patel

+974 3388 8943 04 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 05 Philippine Embassy Doha highlights Filipino folk dance group Ramon Obusan FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Asian Qualifi- wows Doha audience ers where they played against Qatar’s national The Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group (ROFG), basketball team at the Al Gharafa Sports Club on one of the leading resident dance companies of the February 21. Cultural Center of the Philippines, performed at the Katara Drama Theatre in April. Campaign on health and wellness launched The event titled ‘Indayog ng Pilipinas: A show- Philippine Embassy in Qatar launched its year- case of Philippine Folkloric Dances’ was organised long campaign on health and wellness through by Cultural Village Foundation–Katara, in coordina- a lecture entitled “Women’s Health and Feminine tion with the Philippine Embassy in Doha. It was at- Hygiene” for distressed overseas Filipino workers tended by Philippine Ambassador to Qatar HE Alan (OFWs) at the Overseas Filipino Workers Resource L. Timbayan, other diplomats and guests Center on February 22. The 15-member dance troupe regaled the The lecture was designed to raise awareness on audience with a repertoire of 13 Philippine ethnic women’s health, instill self-love, and correct wrong dances performed to the tune of ethnic and tribal beliefs and practices on personal hygiene among music, which was played live using Philippine tra- OFWs. The lecture was conducted by Dr. Veronica ditional instruments like agong, bandorya, daba- Cristina Brillantes-Macaraig, a Qatar-based Filipino A forum on ‘Maximising Women Potential’ was held at St Regis Doha. kan, gabang, gandingan, gitara, kulintang, octavina, doctor and an active partner of the Embassy in car- sarunay, and singkil. rying out its mandate to uplift the quality of the lives In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Tim- of Filipinos in Qatar. bayan shared with the audience how the Philippine The Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group performs at Philippine national basketball team Gilas Pilipinas visits the Embassy. geographic make-up as an archipelago of 7,107 is- Katara Drama Theatre. -based orchestra performs at iconic lands has strongly contributed to the evolution of QNL diverse Philippine ethnic dances that are unique to The 69 scholars of the Orchestra of the Filipino each region and province in the country. bayan informed the audience how the Philippines Vine Restaurant in St. Regis Doha on February 28. Youth (OFY) rendered an impressive performance has been vigorous in its campaign to promote equal The dinner launch featured a wide selection of before a diverse audience of music lovers at the Forum on ‘Maximising Women Potential’ opportunities for women at the national and inter- signature dishes and cuisines from ASEAN mem- Special Events Area of the Qatar National Library held to mark women’s month national levels. ber-states with missions to Qatar including the Phil- (QNL) held on November 10 2018. As a culminating activity for Women’s Month, He cited the recent Global Gender Gap Report ippines. The ACD is made up of the embassies of The event, graced by Philippine Ambassador to the Philippine Embassy in Doha held a ‘Forum on of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in December Brunei Darussalam, , Malaysia, the Philip- Qatar HE Alan Timbayan and officials of QNL, was Maximising Women Potential’ at St. Regis in Doha, 2018 that saw the Philippines as one of the most pines, Singapore, , and Vietnam. the first-ever international performance of the full on March 30. gender equal countries in the world by placing orchestra of the Manila-based troupe. The Forum focused on gender empowerment eighth out of 149 countries surveyed. Philippine national basketball team visits Under the direction of Venezuelan conductor through lectures given by Embassy Welfare Of- the Embassy Joshua Dos Santos, the young musicians engaged ficer Evelyn C. Laranang on financial management Philippine Embassy takes part in ASEAN Philippine Ambassador to Qatar HE Alan L. their audience with their mastery of the featured and by Rumaillah Hospital Executive Director of Food Festival Timbayan, together with Consul General Rous- repertoire and deep passion to their music that res- Nursing Mariam Nooh Al Mutawa on psycholog- The ASEAN Committee in Doha (ACD), in part- sel R. Reyes, welcomed the coaches and mem- onated throughout the long-hour performance. ical wellness. nership with St. Regis Doha, successfully launched bers of the Philippine National Basketball Team Philippine Embassy takes part in the ASEAN Food Festival. Philippine Ambassador to Qatar HE Alan L. Tim- the week-long ASEAN Food Festival (AFF) at the Gilas Pilipinas. The team was in Doha for the (Source: www.dohape.dfa.gov.ph) Orchestra of the Filipino Youth performs in Qatar National Library.

abayan Radio 94.3, with commercial broadcasting licence in the State of Qatar Qunder Tagalog Channel Company, WLL, is the country’s only Filipino FM radio. The li- cence was granted on December 04, 2018 to establish the first Tagalog commercial radio station in the country. The radio station started its test broadcast on March 25, 2019 -- a historic milestone for the Filipino community in the country. Qabayan Ra- Qabayan Radio dio 94.3 fills the Qatar airwaves with music and 94.3 aims to serve entertainment the ‘Pinoy’ way, showcasing var- ious programme formats that surely entertain, the community not only the Filipinos, but also other internation- al communities, and music lovers in Qatar. Qatar’s newest radio station by providing Team Qabayan comprises dynamic Filipino an accurate, professionals with equally dynamic Qatari coun- terparts, who always dream big, and inspire unbiased, and the Filipinos to uplift the lives of their fellows. relevant broadcast, Qabayan Radio 94.3 is excited to celebrate the hits the airwaves genuine Pinoy music and entertainment through promoting both its daily broadcast operations. It aims to lead Filipino and Qatari the way for ‘qabayans’ in Qatar to embrace the Filipino culture and identity, while maintaining a cultures. Their balance of the multi-cultural diversity. commitment is to Qabayan Radio 94.3 aims to serve the community by providing an accurate, unbi- continuously serve ased and relevant broadcast, promoting both by bringing the Filipino and Qatari cultures. Their commit- ment is to continuously serve by bringing the Filipinos closer to Filipinos closer to home through music, enter- home through music, tainment, sports and events. Working with Qabayan Radio 94.3 means entertainment, enjoying on-air, on-ground, and online mileage as Qatar’s only, and premier Filipino media sports and events. outlet catering to a vast population of radio, and online listeners, as well as followers, lo- cally, and abroad. With more than 40 million Board), time check sponsorship), co-hosted potential annual website hits, over 250,000 po- programme segments (block timing), website tential social media followers, 1 million+ po- placements, press releases, news updates, so- tential social media reach, more than 500,000 cial media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) ads potential social media engagement, Qabayan engagement & reach, full production and event Radio 94.3 clients, and brand partners alike, coverage, as well as live events. are able to optimise full promotional and For more information, contact Qabayan brand recall advantage, with the assurance of Radio 94.3 at (+974) 44994944, or (+974) highest journalistic standards, and quality of 33888943, or email at [email protected], concept implementation. Their services and and official website www.qabayanfm.com. offerings include: radio advertisement (com- Qabayan Radio Qabayan Radio 94.3 office is located at mercials, jingles, segment/program spon- studio Building 44, Room 311, 3/F, Al Difaaf Street, Al sorship, live mentions (Announcement On Sadd, Doha. 06 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 07 Philippines’ national university achieves top 100 ranking in THE Asia

niversity of the Philippines (UP) Asian institutions,” to gauge the performance is one of only five universities from of research-intensive universities across the re- Southeast Asia in the top 100, with gion. The indicators are grouped into five areas: two from Singapore and the other teaching (the learning environment), research two from Malaysia. UP remains the (volume, income and reputation), citations (re- highestU ranked university from the Philippines. search influence), international outlook (staff, UP is now in the top 100 for Asia in two of the students and research), and industry income world’s most influential university rankings, after (knowledge transfer). Citations and research placing 95th in the newly released 2019 Times are the biggest determinants of scores at 30 Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings. percent each. The national university UP secured a place in is a network of seven uni- the top 600 in the 2019 THE versities and one autono- World University Rankings mous college located in the announced in October last Philippines. year. Its rise in the global According to a report rankings has been consist- published on the official ent, from its debut at the 801- website of the university, 1,000 bracket in 2017 to its since 2017, UP has featured jump to 601-800 in 2018 and on the THE rankings for Asia to 501-600 in 2019. but this is the first time it has Earlier this year, Lon- made to the top 100. don-based THE also pub- The university soared lished the rankings for univer- 61 places from its 156th sities in emerging economies position in 2018 to sit in the upper 23 percent of where UP made a 79-place leap to 87th, and in the 417 universities from 27 countries for 2019. It is Asia-Pacific region where UP edged into the 101- University of the Philippines Diliman campus. (^: krouchend/instagram ) one of only five universities from Southeast Asia 110 bracket from 150-160 in the previous year. in the top 100, with two from Singapore and the For the fifth year running, UP was in the top The university soared 61 places from its 156th other two from Malaysia. UP remains the highest 100 of the QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) Asia Uni- ranked university from the Philippines. versity Rankings, holding the 72nd spot in 2019. position in 2018 to sit in the upper 23 percent of The Asia University Rankings use the same The rankings published by British company QS are 13 indicators of the World University Rankings, also among the most recognised in the world. 417 universities from 27 countries for 2019 though “recalibrated to reflect the priorities of (Sources: www.up.edu.ph l www.timeshighereducation.com)

Philippine real estate developer Megaworld thrives in Qatar market

egaworld Corporation is one of the Doha. prime real estate developers in the Philip- “Megaworld International has been sponsor- Mpines. With three decades of solid reputa- ing events for 11 years already in Qatar. In fact, tion and experience in the industry, it now has 24 we will be holding a thanksgiving event on June townships and integrated lifestyle communities 14 to acknowledge our past community partners in 30 cities, spanning over 4,000 hectares, all over in the celebration of our company’s 20th anni- the Philippines. versary. The event will be highlighted with the It has built 667 residential developments, 57 awarding the Megaworld Ambassador and will office towers, 15-full-scale - life feature a showcase of Pinoy food, style malls, five hotels and more bazaar, variety shows and giving than 3,500 hotel rooms. away of prizes,” she added. Megaworld International, the Throughout the years, Meg- global marketing specialist of aworld continuously live up to its Megaworld Corporation, is pres- mission statement which includes ent in more than 60 countries in living up to the trust and expecta- Europe, Middle East, North Amer- tions of its stockholders through ica and Asia Pacific. a consistently outstanding per- In Qatar, Megaworld has been successfully formance geared to deliver earnings and growth. operating for the past 11 years, developing a sol- Similarly, the company aims to ensure utmost id partnership with the local community. In 2016, satisfaction of its customers through high qual- it has been a recognised business organisation ity products conceived in the spirit of innovation by the Philippine Embassy Doha. and born out of continuous research and devel- “The Qatar market has been one of the im- opment. And, Megaworld is committed to be a portant international markets us. Megaworld company where its valued employees can build a International-MEA1 is able to share investment long-term fulfilling career. opportunities for global Pinoys particularly in Qa- Megaworld’s corporate headquarters is lo- tar,” said Bhem Asperilla, Megaworld VP for Sales cated at the Alliance Global Tower, 36th Street (MEA1). corner 11th Avenue, Uptown Bonifacio in Taguig She further said that there are over 2,000 for- City, Philippines. eign investors who are residents in Qatar since the Philippine company started its operations in 08 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 PII-Q offers a variety of courses providing Filipinos with life skills

ith a vision of helping Filipinos ing courses, among others. achieve a higher level of education, “We are also the first Filipino training cen- WPhilippine Institute-Integrated Qatar tre that gives discount card that can be used (PII-Q) began its operations in 2017 offering in different establishments such as restau- courses that enable its students to develop rants, beauty salons and more. This is called skills that help them take up new challenges. power card,” Diet added. With campuses in Al Saad and West Bay, To date, PII-Q has 36 expert trainers PII-Q is a product of Educate Learning Center and offers around 40 courses on each of its (ELC) purposely designed to cater to the campuses. Among the courses it offers are needs of Filipinos. ELC has been in existence Accountancy, Air Conditioning Technology, in Qatar for more than 10 years. Automotive, Business Planning and Entrepre- “PII-Q aims to shape the career of each neurship, Caregiving, Cosmetology and Culi- student. Our focus is to help our kababayans nary Arts. reach their goals, improve their personal and The extensive variety of short courses do professional skills, and equip them with the not only offer necessary skills for Filipinos to best available knowledge to achieve a bright- thrive and further succeed in life but are also er future,” said Annaliza Diet, founder and designed to be conveniently accessible to the CEO of PII-Q. students, especially the working ones. PII-Q distinguishes itself from other ed- Visit www.piiq-edu.com for complete list ucation institutes for Filipinos in Qatar by of courses and classes information. For in- being the first Filipino training centre to col- quiries, contact PII-Q West Bay Campus at laborate with Qatar government to engage in 3125 5598/ 50501495 or PII-Q Al Sadd Cam- different voluntary activities such as caregiv- pus at 30603366/74000952. 10 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 11 Philippines to log strong growth Top 15 tourists by countries Record 7.1 million tourists Korea 1, 587, 959 China 1, 255, 258 USA 1, 034, 396 Japan 631, 801 despite uncertainties: World Bank Australia 279, 821 visited Philippines in 2018 Taiwan 279, 821 Canada 226, 429 espite the lingering global and local uncertainties, the Philippine he Philippines welcomed a re- creased by 12.91 percent. A 10 percent growth ellers from Western Europe were mainly from UK 201, 039 economy is poised to grow at 6.4 cord 7.1 million tourists in 2018 rate among British tourists was also recorded France (74,389), Germany (92,090) and Neth- Singapore 171, 795 percent in 2019 and 6.5 percent in which is a 7.65 percent increase by the Philippine authorities. erlands (37,047). Malaysia 145,242 2020 and 2021, according to the from the previous year, according The statistics also further showed the Northern European visitors were recorded DPhilippines Economic Update (PEU) released by to tourism statistics of the Philip- breakdown of visitor arrivals in the Philippines at 297,839 and mainly from Ireland (20,051) India 121,124 the World Bank recently. Tpine Department of Tourism. in terms of country of residence. and the UK (28,085). Hongkong 117, 984 These new estimates are lower than the This growth was widely praised since the From the ASEAN region or the neighbour- Southern European tourists were clocked Indonesia 76,651 previous World Bank forecasts of 6.5 percent record was achieved despite the 6-month clo- ing countries of the Philippines, there was an at 44,130 compared to 36,954 in 2017. The Malaysia 145, 242 growth in 2019 and 6.6 percent in 2020 released sure for tourists of the famous Boracay Island, increase of 8.59 percent in tourists or a total travellers were mainly from Italy (35,178) and in January this year, owing to several factors in- named as one of the best islands in the world, of 530,309 travellers mainly from Indone- Spain (44,130). While tourists from Eastern Eu- Singapore 171, 795 cluding the delay in the 2019 budget approval to undertake a major renovation. The island re- sia (76,651), Malaysia (145,242), Singapore rope were at 54,039. and the slowing down of global trade that can opened in October. (171,795), Thailand (59,793), and Vietnam There were a total of 28,958 travellers from lead to weaker demand for Philippine exports. A farmer harvests coconuts from a tree in The statistics posted on the official -web (52,328). Israel and Turkey, 12 percent more than the According to World Bank Country Director Bohol. (^: www.boholpicture.com) site of the Philippine Department of Tourism East Asian tourists, led by Chinese and previous record of 25,854. More tourists also for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand (www.tourism.gov.ph) showed the top 10 tour- Koreans, were clocked at 3,843,180, a 9.26 came from the AustralAsia/Pacific region at Mara K Warwick, the Philippines’ growth outlook ism markets of the Philippines from January percent increase from 2017 record of 354,037. They were mainly remains positive. She said, “Higher private con- ‘Philippine govt to December 2018. This is led by Korea with 3,517,471. from Australia (279,821) sumption due to lower inflation, steady growth 1,587,959 travellers from the country. China South Asian tourists were recorded at and New Zealand (33,340). of remittances, and election spending will fuel ranked second with 1,255,258 of its nationals 6,446, a 15 percent increase over the previ- African tourists, from growth this year. Growth in public investment will visiting the Philippine in 2018, a 29.62 percent ous year. Indians led the pack followed by Nigeria and South Africa, be tempered in the first half of 2019 but is ex- remains steadfast increase from the previous year of 968,447. Sri Lanka (6,446), Nepal (8,696), Pakistan were counted at 9,644 while pected to recover in the second half of the year.” There were a total of 1,034,396 American (4,998) and Bangladesh (5,495). A total of tourists under the category of Growth of the Philippine economy has histor- visitors during the period which was 8 percent 82,251 Middle East tourists visited the Philip- Others and Unspecified Residences ically been driven by consumption, with house- the 2019 budget and a looming drought. Under ing the Philippines’ rapid and more inclusive in its trade higher than the previous year. Japanese tour- pines in 2018. were at 71,000. holds contributing more than two-thirds of ag- a reenacted budget, the report said, the gov- growth include prudently managing fiscal and ists were recorded at 631,801, an increase of North American visitors, led by the US and Meanwhile, there were 71,870 Over- gregate expenditures. ernment cannot implement new programs and current account balances and preserving con- 8.15 percent from their record in 2017. Canada, were at 1,265,071 while South Ameri- seas Filipinos who visited their home country Annual private consumption growth declined projects, thus affecting public investment. The sumer and business confidence. As government Other top markets were Austral- can tourists, led by Brazilians, were at 14,680, in 2018. The record was 48.89 percent less from 5.9 percent in 2017 to 5.6 percent in 2018 El Niño phenomenon that is expected to cause ramps up spending to implement its inclusive partnership efforts’ ia (279,821), Taiwan (279,821), Canada an increase of 19.51 percent. than the previous year. are due to high inflation. However, it is expected to several months of dry spell might reduce farm growth agenda, it would need complementary (226,429), UK (201,039), Singapore (171,795), From Western Europe, a total of 267,275 those Philippine passport holders who are per- rebound to 5.9 percent in 2019 and 6.0 percent in output and raise food prices. reforms to increase revenue and ensure that the he Philippine government Malaysia (145,242), India (121,124) and Hong tourists were welcomed to the beaches and manent residents abroad, excluding overseas 2020 due to declining inflation and the continued The report highlights the risks posed by ex- country’s finances are sound and sustainable,” remains firm in improving re- Kong (117,984). Canadian visitors increased dive spots of the Philippines. The record Filipino workers. job generation in the economy. Remittances are ternal factors, including the potential escalation said World Bank Senior Economist Rong Qian. lations with trading partners by 12.85 percent while tourists from India in- was 9.46 percent higher than in 2017. Trav- (Source: Philippine Department of Tourism) expected to remain steady as new employment of trade tensions between the US and China and In the long term, the report says that the to weather headwinds in the opportunities for Filipinos become available in weak demand for the country’s exports. It also country needs to focus on raising investments global export market, the countries like Japan, Germany, and Poland, fur- mentions potential challenges stemming from a in human capital (people’s health, nutrition, TNational Economic and Development Au- ther fueling consumption. strengthening US dollar, and hikes in US interest education and skills) to speed up inclusive thority (NEDA) said on the release of the The PEU, however, flags several risks that rates that could raise borrowing costs for the growth or growth that benefits the poor and country’s trade figures for February 2019. Free Real Estate can affect the Philippines’ overall growth pros- country’s infrastructure projects. most vulnerable. The Philippine Statistics Authority re- Total registered businesses in the  pects, among them the delay in the approval of “In the short term, key priorities for sustain- (Source: www.worldbank.org) ported that the country’s total merchan- dise trade grew by 1.2 percent, reaching Investment Seminars $13.1 billion in February 2019. every Friday This growth was driven mainly by imports which grew by 2.6 percent, but Philippines reach 1.42 million Time: 5:30 pm tempered by the 0.9 percent decline in Venue: Max’s Restaurant, exports. “In its effort to strengthen bilateral eco- egistered businesses in the Philip- for our programmes to reach MSMEs at the Al Sadd nomic relations, the Department of Trade pines climbed to 1.42 million in May grassroots,” said Lopez. and Industry recently concluded dialogues 2019 from 1.39 million in December The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) with the UK, Hungary, and Czech Republic,” 2018, the Micro, Small and Medium further committed to inform the public on the NEDA Officer-In-Charge (OIC) and Under- REnterprise Development (MSMED) Council has benefits of the Barangay Micro Business- En secretary Adoracion M. Navarro said. reported. This is around 30,000 new businesses terprise (BMBE) law. Lopez clarified that entre- The Philippines also signed a memoran- in five months, according to a report published by preneurs can still register as single proprietors dum of understanding with Indonesia that the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry. in DTI, even after the Securities and Exchange could open up the Indonesian market to Trade Secretary and MSMED Council Chair Commission (SEC) allowed the registration of Philippine agricultural produce, particularly Ramon Lopez said this indicates that it’s a good one-person corporations. This is due to the much bananas and coconut-based products. time to do business in the Philippines, given that simpler registration requirements in DTI. The NEDA official added that more -ex the country is the second fastest growing econo- The MSMED Council is also looking into ports of agricultural products to Eastern my in the ASEAN region. synchronising statistics produced by the Philip- Europe are also underway following the During the 11th MSME Development Coun- pine Statistics Authority (PSA) and the National Happy export promotion mission conducted by cil meeting held on May 14, Secretary Lopez Economic Development Authority (NEDA) on st the Department of Agriculture and private said that programmes for micro, small, and me- MSMEs. It also wants to count the MSMEs in 121 Independence Day sector representatives in Belarus. dium enterprises (MSMEs) should be felt at the the informal sector, or those who have yet to get “For the recovery in exports perfor- barangay-level. The MSMED Council, compris- business permits. These statistics, according to mance, facilitating easier movement of ing public and private sector representatives, the Council, will help DTI, Bangko Sentral ng Pili- goods is crucial,” Navarro said. is the group tasked to advance the interests of pinas (BSP), and other finance institutions grasp The Bureau of Customs (BOC) earlier Filipino MSMEs. where microfinancing is needed. issued a memorandum order temporarily “Part of fulfilling President Rodrigo Duterte’s Upcoming events for MSMEs include the banning importers, truckers, brokers and promise of Tapang at Malasakit is providing job MSME Summit in July and the three-leg Youth other port stakeholders from returning and business options to help Filipinos live more Entrepreneurship Program Roadshow in Visayas empty containers to ports, except those comfortable lives. So even if the DTI’s budget is by June, Cebu by July, and Luzon by November. covered by a special permit. only up to the provincial-level, we will find ways (Source: www.dti.gov.ph) Moreover, a joint administrative order is expected to be released this month, which will institutionalize measures to address concerns over high shipping fees and congestion in the Port of Manila and Manila International Container Port. “While these are positive develop- ments, further actions such as the opti- misation of the use of the country’s other major ports in Batangas and Subic, and streamlining the BOC’s processes are still Contact: Miss Lucille, International Property Specialist for SMDC, +974 5073 4683 necessary,” she said. (Source: www.neda.gov.ph) B: SMDC Team Qatar 12 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 13

What does BPF Group stand for? BPF GROUP OF COMPANIES in Qatar’ as a central tenet to highlight Qatar as our BPF Stands for Business Partners Forum, a plat- primary base of operations. Mr. Aamir Khan, Founder of BPF Group of Companies that has been form created in Qatar as a one-stop shop and re- Teyseer Motors Company committed to excellence successfully operating in the Middle East and the international source for worldwide business community to enhance What made you decide to create online platform their operations in Qatar and the international market. market for over 22 years. Qatar Tribune had set an appointment with in Qatar? him to explore his vision of business, the evolving Qatari market, The nature of business demands less overheads eyseer Motors Company is built How many companies are there in the BPF and how he implements his business philosophies successfully to with maximum revenues. 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With over 800,000 online followers (and growing), viduals, low-income, part-timers and creative sellers Kumho, and others to provide a complete BPF Shopgate acts as the first U-Commerce platform ownership of Pinoy Ads Qatar and our invitation to without the required resources and platform to start solution for the Automobile industry. of Qatar that covers both E-Commerce-Online Market What are the key features of BPF Shopgate online home-based and low-income sellers to be a part of their own online business. We firmly believe in using the latest Place and E-Business-Digital, Media and Web. Qatar our platform, we are unique from other e-commerce platform? technologies in our business operations, Industrial Gate serves as the first B2B Online Platform Expand the outreach of your business, gener- platforms where only established sellers can be mem- What is your target market? to provide quick and quality services to our of Qatar. Pinoy Ads Qatar acts as an advertisement ate sales, promote your business and diversify bers and experience mainstream online success. To begin with, we are mainly focused on helping all and community platform that covers almost 90% into a digital online business through our Highly Qatar-based offline sellers to transition online. Also, customers. We always look for new ideas of Philippine community in Qatar including Pinoys Interactive Dashboards, Secured Payment Gate- You mentioned that you also have e-business as a Pakistani, I am about to launch Pakistan On- and opportunities to invest in innovations Worldwide. NewageHRC.com provides HR Corpo- ways with Multivendor Platform. Our Manage- aside from e-commerce. What are the services line Store, where Pakistanis from around the globe to take Teyseer Motors to the highest level rate and Technical Training with key HR Solutions. ment, Operational and Technical team is com- under this? can start doing online business in Qatar. This will for of growth. Our customers’ satisfaction pletely in-house and based in Qatar Online business demands more Interaction with sure promote Pakistani commodities, traditions and always delights us.  Vision:Always committed to excellence. Tell us about the BPF Group’s presence in social buyers who only make purchasing decisions once culture in Qatar through serving online buyers with I welcome you to do business with  To provide products & services with high quality standards. media? When did BPF Shopgate start? they are convinced. Our in-house team helps per- Pakistan products. Teyseer Motors, to cherish a wonderful  To always be the market leader in our segment of business. We have over 800,000 followers within the dig- It took us three years to plan and set up the infra- suade buyers through the use of product promotional life-long relationship. ital online platform and continue to expand our videos, social media advertisements, responsive web What is the impact on the Filipino community structure which culminated into our soft launch in No- It’s amazing what you can achieve clientele. vember last year. We are all set to start operations by design and digital graphics. considering the partnership of BPF Shopgate when you work together. first day of Eid 2019. and Pinoy Ads Qatar? What is your vision for BPF Shopgate? What is the idea behind your tag line ‘For Qatar The Filipino community is one of the strongest  Mission:Commitment to our employees is to "invest in you" BPF Shopgate reflects our vision to set the Given all the currently existing e-commerce plat- in Qatar’? communities both within Qatar and worldwide. Get- Adel Abdul Rahman Al Mannai (good people makes a good company). benchmark in E-Media industry by launching the forms now in Qatar, what makes you different Qatar itself does not have any online platform ting the ownership of Pinoy Ads Qatar, we are all set President, Teyseer Motors  Exceptional customer service and satisfaction. first U-Commerce Platform in Qatar. As a seller, among these? that operates at a national level. Either the existing to introduce BPF Shopgate to the Filipino Community whether an individual, entrepreneur, SME, local/ Our ownership and operations are 100% based platforms are not Qatar-based or operate at a much by providing them with online business opportunities international store or a top brand, BPF Shopgate within Qatar. We offer free subscription up to 90 days, smaller scale. We created this platform with ‘For Qatar via our Pinoy Online Store starting on June 10. HEAD OFFICE BPF Group Of Companies Teyseer Motors W.L.L, P.O. Box 35086, Al Matar Street (Old Airport Road), Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 44626480. Fax: +974 44626479. Email: [email protected] Working hours: 07:00 a.m - 05:00 p.m (Sunday until Thursday)

Tofu House: Best Korean food in town ofu House first opened Tits door in 2015, inspired by a passion to introduce au- thentic Korean cuisine to Qatar. Tofu House prides itself in providing its customers with the true taste of Ko- rea. They are passionate about serving and showing customers what people adore in Korea. Tofu House will end- lessly be committed to using the fresh- est ingredients and takes pride in serv- ing superior quality Korean food at an affordable rate. They have introduced two new menus that you must try as they are incredibly popular in Korea -- Soy Glazed Chicken and Yangyeom Chicken. 14 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 15 From trend to mainstream: Al-Safa Medical Polyclinic offers quality healthcare service for all

l-Safa Medical Polyclinic is operational alities who can speak the language of all our specialty with a plan to expand and add more Christine A. Dela Cruz, a Dermatology Specialist in the heart of Doha for 10 years now. It clients. From inception, we continue to invest in specialiasation to cover and achieve its goal of at Al Safa. Ais one of the largest multi-specialty poly- the field of medical technology providing holistic care for all Fil- Another part of Al Safa team is Dr Princess D. clinics in the capital with more than 25 physi- to increase our range of servic- ipinos in Qatar. Lizardo, an Associate Specialist / Obstetrician- cians in all specialty departments such as In- es in meeting the needs of our “I have been in the practice Gynecologist and has been working with Al Safa The world craves for Filipino cuisine ternal Medicine, General Medicine, Pediatrics, patients,” said Charbel Ghanem, of Dermatology for the last 15 for more than two years. In the Philippines, she Obstetrics & Gynecology, ENT, Ophthalmology, Al-Safa Medical Polyclinic Man- years in the Philippines and just previously worked for Medical Center Muntin- his year, Filipino food and chefs 2019 as the only Philippine entry at rank 43. liance of Filipino chefs and restaurants abroad to answer the question “What’s NXT in the world Dermatology, General Surgery, Orthopedics, aging Director. beginning a new practice here lupa Inc, Sta Rosa Medical Center, University of have been getting rave reviews and As the world craves for Filipino cuisine, it begs with their refined culinary techniques and choice of FOOD?” by giving exhibitors from the Philip- Dental and Physiotherapy. Furthermore, it is the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar. Since the population Perpetual Help Hospital Las Pinas and Unihealth international recognition for their a question: what is next for Philippine food? of quality Asian ingredients, as well as the pines and beyond a platform to showcase pre- equipped with full pledge Medical Laboratory QCHP Department and are of the Philippines is high, Filipi- Parañaque Hospital. culinary technique, creativity and “The next step for Filipino food is to chan- Philippine food exhibits overseas,” Suaco‐ mium food exports, emerging trends, best with advance fully automated technology and undergoing continual improve- no doctors have the advantage “Filipino Doctors are knowledgable and well usage of local ingredients. nel all of its culinary technique, wealth of Juan said. practices, and industry innovations to the Medical Imaging Facility such as X-Ray, Ultra- ment through trainings includ- of handling a large census of trained in their respective fields and are very TNational Geographic has listed Filipi- ingredients and traditions from a global “Now is an exciting time for Phil- world’s biggest buyers. sound, CT Scan and MRI. ing taking part in professional patients every single day. This compassionate to patients. We do not only treat no food as one of the top food trends sensation to actually become a main- ippine food. Our local cuisine is A highlight of the event is the “We provide personalised, cost effective, development events hosted by enables us to manage a va- the illness or perform the procedures but we also in 2019 with the food rave on Filipi- stream staple on dining menus all rising in the world of food and showcase of the country’s “Pre- comprehensive and high quality affordable the Ministry. He said, “This is to riety of cases differently and see to it that the patients understand their condi- no-led eateries across the globe over the world,” shared Pauline we want to push for Filipino mium 7” export products, healthcare for all with outstanding hospitality. ensure their competency in per- observe a range of results and tion and make them feel good and relieved after such as Washington DC’s Bad Suaco-Juan, the executive food products, dishes namely banana, coconut, We care for individuals and family members dur- forming their role as Healthcare sequalae. We meet patients each and every consultation,” said Dr Lizardo. Saint and LA’s Lasa in the director of the Center and ingredients to be- coffee, cacao, man- ing every stage of life, focusing on prevention, professionals. In this way, we Charbel Ghanem, Al-Safa Medical from different walks of life While Dr Carolyne Marie Rayos-Catapang, United States, as well for International come the next big go, pineapple and disease management and appropriate clinical can safely state that our team Polyclinic Managing Director making us learn how to adjust who have been practicing in the field for three as London-based Trade Expositions Asian trend,” she tuna. Foodies interventions. Al-Safa Medical Polyclinic main- is reliable and competent in to the uniqueness of each per- years in the Philippines and almost a year in Qa- restos Filishack, and Missions added. who attended tains professionalism with well trained, motivat- handling patients focusing on quality.” sonality of every individual. That is why, when in tar, said that among the advantages of Filipino The Adobros (CITEM). This state- the event also ed healthcare professionals of different nation- Currently, the Al Safa healthcare profession- abroad, Filipino doctors are flexible with excellent doctors are being more passionate and more ap- and Mama- CITEM ment comes a relished dishes or al team includes 10 Filipino doctors for different professional ethics. We are fluent in English and proachable in dealing with their patients. sons’ in the is the export day before CITEM products made with very adaptable,” said Nova Al-Safa Medical Polyclinic will soon open its United Kingdom. promotion arm opened its gate to the “Rising Stars of Fil- new clinic in Al Khor. Filipino-American of the Department thousands of local and in- ipino food,” which include chef Tom Cunanan of of Trade and Indus- ternational food buyers and ube, calamansi, turmeric Bad Saint finally won the try (DTI) and the agency culinary influencers to check (luyang dilaw), moringa (malung- Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic at the that is mandated to promote out what’s the next big thing in gay), muscovado rice and heirloom James Beard Awards, which is Philippine food in different in- Asian food in IFEX Philippines NXT- rice, among others. : freepik) considered the “Oscars” of the culi- ternational exhibits in US, Germa- FOOD ASIA at the World (^ “International foodies and chefs nary world. ny, Japan, Taiwan, China and many Trade Center Metro Ma- across the globe are welcomed to see, taste Meanwhile, Toyo Eatery, led by Filipi- more. nila (WTCMM), held in and experience the wealth of ingredients in the no culinary star Jordy Navarra, has recently “The complexities and diverse Pasay City from May Philippines and see how they can use it in their entered the list flavors of our homegrown dishes are 24 to 26. own local dishes,” said Suaco‐Juan. of prestigious now being unraveled to the global au- According to Sua- “We cannot wait to show the world what Asia’s 50 Best dience thanks to the bril- co-Juan, IFEX Philippines makes Filipino food a champion. We want the Restaurants NXTFOOD ASIA sought world to know that when it comes to food, the best in taste and quality can be found in the Philippines,” she added.

(Source: Philippine Department of Trade and Industry www.dti.gov.ph) : freepik) ^

( Tropical fruits of the philippines (^: CITEM)

Duty Free Philippines adds homegrown brands to new website

he Duty Free Philippines is now offer- customers’ flight details. The shoppers are- al ing Filipino brands on its new shop- lowed to buy up to US$1,000 worth of items ping website in a bid to support local 48 hours upon arrival and their items will be farmers and small and medium-sized prepared for pick-up at the airport. enterprisesT in the Philippines. Meanwhile, overseas Filipino “For three decades, Duty Free Philippines workers and balikbayans can shop is known to be a haven of luxury and import- up to 15 days from their date of ed goods. That is still true but we want to also arrival. The shopping privi- emphasise the importance of enabling our lo- lege is further extended cal entrepreneur,” Duty Free Philippines Corp. to 30 days during the (DFPC) Chief Operating Officer Vicente Pelagio Christmas season Angala said. (arrival from According to the DFPC, some 54 local November 15 to brands, all available in physical Duty Free January 15). stores, would be offered on its online store by Senior citizens and end of 2019. persons with disabilities To date, homegrown brands present in the (PWDs) on the other hand DFPC online store are Just Fruit manufactured have an extended privilege up to in Metro Manila; Kick-start Coffee of Silang, Cav- 365 days from the date of arrival. ite; Malagos Chocalates of Davao; Risa Choco- : Duty Free Philippines/Facebook)Under the Tourism Act of 2009, ^ lates of Las Piñas City; Tanay Hills Coffee of ( 50 percent of the revenue of Duty Free Rizal; etc. via Chinese mobile payment applications We- million sales target for 2019 with the full use Philippines is remitted to the Department The state-owned corporation launched its Chat and Alipay. of this online store. of Tourism (DOT) for tourism-development online shopping store dutyfreephilippines.ph in In a recent interview, Angala expressed op- Unlike the regular local online shopping, projects. December 2018 and started accepting payment timism that the DFPC will achieve its US$220 using the dutyfreephilippines.ph store requires (Source: Philippine News Agency) 16 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 17

Jehmar Tabili Bhem Ranoco Asperilla high in the corporate world and they are open to investments Federation, Pinoy Football Club Qatar, Qatar Asian Communities Chairman, Philippine Professional Organization-Qatar VP for Sales- MEA1, Megaworld globally,” she added. Football Tournament under Qatar Football Authority, Almuwasat Charity and Qatar Red Crescent. Tabili, is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Megaworld is one of the biggest real Jafar Abdulhamid Management Accountant and a Certified Controls estate developers in the Philippines that Instructor and PII-Q Dean (Al Sadd Branch) Victor Magnipes Specialist. He is working with the prestigious has been in the business for 30 years NHRC Coordinator-Filipino Community Qatar Petroleum and has been a resident of with 24 townships all over the Phil- Abdulhamid is one of the few Filipinos in Qatar who is fluent Qatar for 15 years. ippines and 12 Megaworld inter- in the Arabic language. He makes good use of this skill not only A resident of Qatar for 13 years, Aside from his responsibilities at national territories worldwide. to advance his career but more so in his volunteer works in the Magnipes is one of the most active work and being a doting father to his In Qatar, it has been community that mainly benefit Filipinos in need. Filipino community leaders in the two children, he currently heads the operating for more than He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from Qatar Univer- country. He serves as a coor- Philippine Professional Organiza- a decade led by Asperil- sity in 2015. The young community leader started teaching Arabic dinator for his community tion-Qatar (PPO-Q), an umbrella organ- la, a mother of two girls as a volunteer to the community since 2016. at the National Human isation of at least 13 Filipino professional aged 12 and 10. She said “I offer my skills in Arabic language for free to the members Rights Committee groups in Qatar. there are over 2,000 foreign of the community every time they ask for help in translating and (NHRC) Legal De- PPO’s main objective is to serve as the im- investors of Megaworld who are interpreting documents, especially those coming from the court partment, and is the plementing arms of Philippine Overseas Labor residents of Qatar in the last 10 years and public prosecution as well as in solving some misunder- current Head of the Le- Office-Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (PO- of operation of the Philippine real estate standing between locals and expats due to language gal Committee of Bayani- LO-OWWA) in the conduct of Special Professional Licen- developer in the country. She also underlined barrier,” he said. han Qatar, a federation of sure Examination in Qatar. the wide support of the Philippine company to He also underlined the many benefits of around 30 Filipino community “Professional groups will serve as your steering wheel to various projects and programmes of different community groups. learning the language of the home country. groups mainly from grassroots increase the level of competence in your chosen field. Aside from She said, “Megaworld International MEA 1 has been a con- He said, “Learning a language is learning sector, and is founding chairman of meeting the required CPD (Continuing Professional Development) sistent community partner of Filipino organisations and about the culture of the country where Filipino Qatar Red Crescent. units mandatory to keep your licence (whether locally or interna- other sectors in Qatar. The company has been providing the language is spoken. If you are an When not attending to his volunteer tionally), being part of a professional group gives you the sense of sponsorships to various projects of different organ- expat and you know Arabic, it will works in the community, he is busy with pro- jects as a pro- belonging and confidence,” said Tabili on the importance of being isations. Megaworld has also been a recognised make you stand out as there fessional photographer. His clients include private companies, a member of Filipino professional groups. business organisation by the Philippine Embassy are very few people coming organisations and other entities. Through his passion in pho- Aside from being the chairman of PPO-Q, Tabili is also an in 2016. Qatar market has been one of the impor- outside of the MENA region tography, which started in 2009, he was also able to support a active member of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Ac- tant international markets for us.” who speak the language. Learn- number of outreach initiatives as well as programmes of other countant (Picpa) Doha Chapter and a member of the Institute of As one of the most successful Filipino female ex- ing Arabic will open many opportuni- community groups. Management Accountants. His other affiliations are the Institute ecutives in the country, Asperilla said that since women ties and will make you appreciate more An engineer by profession, he previously worked as a Senior of Internal Controls, Filipino Tennis League-Qatar and the Berean empowerment is strongly recognised in Doha, working in the culture of your second home.” HSE Engineer in one of the prestigious companies in the coun- Baptist Church-Qatar. a diverse environment has never been a difficult task for- ca Abdulhamid is affiliated with different try. Recently, he ventured into events management through his reer-oriented women like her. community and local organisations including company Doha City Events Management. The company produces Mary Rose C. Uy, RGN “Qataris are encouraging business-minded women to soar Philippine Muslim Association, Philippine Muslim some of the biggest entertainment events in the country. Registered Nurse/ President of the Philippine Nurses Thriving Association- Qatar Uy is a registered nurse for over 15 years in the Philippines and for over five years in Qatar. Currently, she is the Corporate Manager of Siklabhe latest addition Dragon to the growing Boat number Team of Qatar Care and owner and dragon boat teams in Qatar is the Filipino CEO of Praxis Interna- Tgroup Siklab Dragon Boat Team (SDBT). Es- tional Staffing and tablished in September 2018, the team’s mission is Management Inc. to create a sustainable and enjoyable dragon boat- She has been active ing environment as well as promote the physical, in the Filipino community social and emotional benefits of dragon boating. GREETINGS FROM in Qatar for more than five Similarly, SDBT aims to promote community years. She is currently the Pres- outreach programmes. It also envisions being an PSME QATAR ident of the Philippine Nurses As- outstanding and competitive dragon boat team sociation-Qatar (PNA-Q), a non-profit that nurtures and inspires every member and professional nursing organisation creat- sports enthusiast to excel in the field by keeping which is a Filipino word meaning blaze. da and Raul Manzano (Recruitment Team), Warren HAPPY ed in 2008 in Qatar in response to the grow- a positive attitude, maintaining a healthy living, de- The roster of office-bearers of Siklab includes F. Molas (Head of Promotion), Jaime B. Veras Jr Filipinos ing number of Filipino nurses in the country. veloping and strengthening leadership skills and Michael Mendoza (Team Manager), Alexis Magsi- (Technical Coach), Erickson Mejorado (Team Cap- Uy is an epitome of a woman with authority. A woman who abilities through the dragon boating sport. SDBT re- no (Head of Marketing), Arlyn Piccio and Michelle tain), Jan Michael Reyes (Assistant Team Captain) is gentle yet firm. She has this certain obsession in helping other cently inaugurated its new boat aptly named “Alab”, Pallan (Head of Sponsorship), Mark Anthony Espi- and Rogelio Salvador Jr (Trainer). people. But she is very firm on decision making. She will fight for what is right and just. INDEPENDENCE DAY She is also very active in doing charity works both in the Phil- ippines and in Qatar. Every time she goes for vacation in the Phil- in Qatar ippines, she always makes sure to visit different orphanages, and give them foods and gifts. During her birthday, instead of having Welfare and Services Associated with a luxurious celebration, she would conduct outreach programmes Bayanihan Qatar with her friends and family instead. As part of PNA-Q, she attends to medical missions that target to help workers of any nationality Hospitality-Qatar (WASAHQ) who can hardly avail healthcare.

Annaliza T. Diet CEO and Founder of Philippine Integrated Institute-Qatar (PII-Q) www.conozcopablo.com) : ^ ( Diet established PII-Q in 2017 inspired by her set of friends who share the same passion in teaching as well as her personal experience in conducting trainings for more than 15 years. She said establishing PII-Q is ormally launched in 2018, Bayanihan Qatar is made up her way of giving back what she has of around 30 Filipino community groups united by their vi- learned, and sharing her professional Fsion of extending a helping hand to the community through experience. many outreach initiatives, and rendering support to the pro- PIIQ is one of the well-established grammes of the Philippine Embassy as well as those of the companies in Qatar. Its mother company host country. is Educate Learning Center (ELC) which has Many members of Bayanihan belong to the grassroots ormed in 2013, WASAHQ is the graduation of its 85 students By Ailyn Agonia been existing in Qatar for more than 10 years. sectors. And yet, they are at the forefront of serving the com- one of the most successful pro- in basic baking and 39 in basic DOHA With 36 instructors to date, PII-Q offers about 40 munity through various activities such as organising outreach Fgrammes of the Philippine Over- culinary. With the recent batch of varied courses on its two campuses located in West programmes benefiting distressed Filipinos and supporting ini- seas Labor Office-Overseas Workers graduates, a total of 660 students ilipinos living in Qatar have an enviable distinction of being one of the most active Bay and Al Saad. The courses include Arabic Proficiency, tiatives aimed at advancing workers’ welfare. Welfare Administration (POLO-OW- have so far graduated from WASAHQ Cosmetology, Caregiving, Procurement, Logistics, Videogra- During the launch of Bayanihan Qatar, the initial priority pro- WA) Doha office. The organisation in its basic baking class since 2013 expat communities in the country. Making up this dynamic community are over a phy and Document Control. jects of the federation were unveiled. They include conducting focuses on providing assistance to and 74 from basic culinary class hundred varied groups and organisations catering to diverse interests and actively “For me, education is perhaps one of the most important in- paralegal trainings and leadership trainings for Filipino leaders Filipino workers in Qatar in hospitali- which started in the last quarter F gredients to a happy, successful and constructive life. Having an as well as holding activities aimed at building camaraderie and ty management. of 2017. promoting different initiatives and causes mainly for the benefit of Filipinos in the country, as additional skill provides high impact in our lives. It helps develop familiarity among its growing members. It is offering courses every Friday The current leadership of WA- well as in support of the programmes of the host country. our professional career path and our perspective about life. It helps The current Bayanihan Qatar leadership is led by Qatar on basic baking (6-month course SAHQ comprises of Voltaire Cabre- build confidence and boosts our passion into something,” Diet said. Pilipino Helping Hand founder Jerry Ronquillo together with with morning and afternoon ses- ros (Chairman), Alma Barcelina There are also a growing number of Filipino professionals who are leading in different As a way of further giving to the community and extending as- Republika Supremo founder Pascual Castro and Emil Libres of sions) and basic culinary (6-month (Vice Chairman), Noemi Bernal (Ad- industries and sectors. Many of them are not just achievers in their respective career fields sistance to distressed Filipinos in the country, PII-Q has also recent- The Filipino Community (TFC) as Vice President External Af- course in morning session). min) and Executive Chefs Venison ly collaborated with the Philippine Overseas Labor Office-Overseas fairs and Internal Affairs, respectively. Last year, WASAHQ celebrated Talimongan and Ernesto Lingad. but also serve as inspiration and enablers to other hardworking Filipinos in the country. Workers Welfare Administration (POLO-OWWA) in Doha. 18 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 19

ell-known as “the SurfingSiargao Capital of the Philippines”, Siargao Island is Wsituated 800 kilometres southeast of Manila in the province of Surigao del Philippine destinations well-loved by Norte in Northwestern Mindanao. Its relaxed atmosphere highlighted with nice beaches and clear blue waters, friendly people and inexpensive accommoda- tions have lured many local and international tourists to explore the island group comprising municipalities. Among the municipalities comprising the island is Dapa. One of the well- known surfing waves on Siargao and the Philippines, with a reputation for thick, hollow tubes is “Cloud 9”. This right-breaking reef wave is the site of the annual Siargao Cup, a domestic and international surfing competition sponsored by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte. international vloggers Other spots to explore in Siargao include the Naked Island which is a tiny island with no coconut trees and no rocks but only its stunning beach, Guy- am Island which is great for snorkeling and free-diving and the Taktak Wa- here is a growing number of international vloggers have become terfall for its cool fresh water. travel vloggers and YouTubers who visit effective tools to promote (Sources: www.wikitravel.org/ wikipedia/ www.siargao.surf) the Philippines to explore its renowned the Philippines. They take their tourist destinations, seeking adventure audience who hail from different : backpackerbanter.com) T (^ in some of the remote areas of the country, or parts of the world to places across the to get to know more about the Filipino culture Southeast Asian country that even many through its people, food and festivals. locals, especially those based in the capital, : Freepik) he province situated in the Central Luzon regionBataan of the Philippines, is well known for its rich history (^: YouTube) While some vloggers stay for a couple have never been before. Through their works, ^ ( Tprimary for the Battle of Bataan which was fought by the US and the Philippines against Japan during of weeks and move to another country, a many have come to know that Boracay or El Nido, World War II. These days, Bataan is frequented by vloggers to explore the Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, an open air mu- number of them have fallen in love with Filipino) who is currently based in Palawan are not only what the Philippines can seum and heritage collection of houses in Bagac, Bataan. The heritage park features a collection of 27 Spanish the Philippines and its people and Cagayan de Oro, and Finn Snow, a offer to the international tourists! colonial-era buildings with the entire side made to resemble a period settlement. The heritage houses include Casa backpacker born and raised in Biñan (Alberto House), a partial replica of the house of Teodora Alonso, the mother of national hero José Rizal; Paseo made the country their second Here are some of the top destinations de Escolata which used old and new material to recreate commercial buildings in the early 1900s in Manila; and Casa home such as Canadian Iceland, who now lives in Cebu. and activities in the Philippines often featured Hidalgo which was the first campus of the University of the Philippines’ School of Fine Arts built in 1867. national Kyle Jennermann The documentations and in the vlogs and have received rave reviews The heritage park also features a restaurant, a beach, swimming pool, calesa rides and cultural shows and activities (Sources: www.lascasasfilipinas.com/ wikipedia) (Kulas or Becoming stories shared by these from tourists:

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar (^: Kurt Ibanes/www.bataan.gov.ph) ocated in the CagayanBatanes Valley Region, Batanes is the northern- Lmost province in the Philippines. It is known for its traditional houses, enigmatic landscapes and breathtaking seascapes. It is not just a photographer’s haven but also a favourite site for filming movies, documentaries and television commercials. The pictur- esque Batanes is dream wedding destination to many. Among the top things to do when visiting Batanes is diving and swimming given its stretches of fine white sand beaches. The prov- he active stratovolcano in the Zambales Mountains made ince is also blessed with perfect terrains for hiking. Travel Tips it to internationalMount headlines Pinatubo in 1991 for its HikeVolcanic Ex - Marlboro Hills in Batanes  T Island hopping is also a must-do in Batanes for those who Light clothing is ideal year-round, and absolutely during the plositivity index 6 eruption, the second largest terrestrial (^: sheilaraut.files.wordpress.com) would like to brave the channel where the Pacific Ocean meets the hot and dry months from March to May. Temperatures average eruption of the 20th century after the 1912 eruption South China Sea to visit the island municipality of Sabtang. Fishing, from 78°F/25°C to 90°F/32°C. Mean humidity is at 77%. of Novarupta in Alaska. The effects of the eruption  biking, birdwatching and trekking are other activities attracting lo- Never leave home without your rain gear, umbrella, and were felt worldwide. heavy clothing during the rainy months from June to October as cal and international tourists alike. These days, Mount Pinatubo has turned into a well as when setting out to the mountainous areas. (Source: www.batanes.gov.ph) favourite destination for those who would like to hike  When shopping in a public market, it is perfectly acceptable the picturesque volcano and view the turquoise waters to haggle for the cheapest price. of the volcanic Crater Lake. The adventure begins in getting  English is the most widely spoken next to Filipino/Tagalog, the onboard an old 4x4 Filipino jeepney while driving across Crow national language. Learning the basic local phrases may come in Valley, a moon-like terrain with vast ash fields and rocky rivers. The handy. Over 111 local dialects are spoken in the country. visitors will hike up towards the summit until the crater lake highlight-  Comfortable yet sturdy footwear are best, as travelling the he highly urbanisedIloilo city is Cityon the southeastern tip of Panay island in the Phil- ed by its stunning view. An opportunity to meet Aeta people is also part islands will often involve some walking. ippines. It is known for its more than 50 cultural attractions, at least 15 festivals of the attraction of this adventure. T  When headed to the remote areas, come prepared with an and special events, and 26 destinations catering to special interests. (www.trekkingpinatubo.com/ wikipedia.com) insect repellant and even your own water in handy containers. Among its attractions include the island chain known as the Islas de Gigantes Always have the island map with you. featuring island hopping and diving. Iloilo is also known for its heritage landmarks  Prepare to hop in a jeepney, tricycle, or pedicab – exotic such as the Avancena Ancestral House built around 1860s; Casa Mariquit built in the modes of land transport that are the most commonly available early 1800s and considered one of the oldest existing houses in Iloilo; and the Calle for going around. Always bring loose change when taking public Real (JM Basa Street), also known as the Central Business District of Iloilo which transport. : mmcg968.blogspot.com) houses many heritage structures built during the American period and has survived (^  Know the transport schedules. Some destinations are only World War II. being serviced intermittently, not to mention extreme weather (Source: www.iloilocity.gov.ph) conditions that will affect these schedules.  Casual clothing is acceptable inside churches and business offices. Dining establishments and hotels impose no dress code but shorts and slippers are deemed improper.  For formal occasions, the traditional Barong Tagalog, the 102 Philippine national costume for men, is just as suitable as the Meeting the -year old suit-and-tie.  When travelling by car, be mindful of the number coding ordinance for vehicles that is being implemented strictly in selected cities. he municipality of Tinglayan is located in the  Do not miss visiting during the summer, when there is a con- : wikipedia.com) provinceWhang-od of Kalinga and features panoramic rice centration of major festivals, celebrations, and events. T (^ terraces and breathtaking mountain range. Among  Adopt to local customs; accept local differences. The Filipi- the attractions of Tinglayan is the hike at the Sleep- nos are divided culturally into regions a total of 16, at present, Whang Od ing Beauty and some local products such as coffee. each with its own distinct traits and traditions. But what makes the place a favourite destina-  The Philippine monetary unit, the peso, is generally preferred tion to vloggers is the presence of its local celebritiy for financial transactions. Money-changing shops are available Whang-od, the last and oldest mambabatok (tradi- in key cities and towns. tional tattooist) at the age of 102. She has been tat-  Tipping is expected for many services. The standard amount is 10% of the total bill. Tipping is optional on bills that include a tooing since she was 15 years old. In 2018, the Na- Islas de Gigantes service charge, which is often 10% as well of the total bill. tional Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) (^: https- boreddyingdead.wordpress.com)  For tourist information and assistance, get in touch with conferred to Whang-od the prestigious Dangal ng the Department of Tourism and any of its accredited offices Haraya Award of Tabuk. She was also nominated for nationwide. the National Living Treasures Award (Gawad Manli- (Source: Philippine Department of Tourism) likha ng Bayan). (Sources: wikipedia) Buscalan Village, home of Whang Od (^: lostwonder.com) 20 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 Wednesday, 12 June, 2019 21

the Awards acknowledges outstanding wom- Acclaimed Filipina journalist on the 2019 en who are pushing the frontiers of science, TIME 100 List technology, engineering and mathematics. Dr CEO Maria Ressa has been named Romero was recognised for her research on by TIME Magazine as among the “100 Most quantum physics. Influential People in the World” in 2019 along- (Source: www.asianscientist.com) side the likes of former US first lady Michelle Obama, US House Speaker Nancy Palo- Philippines bags first medal in world si, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahatir wakeboard championships Mohamad and music icons Taylor Filipino wakeboarder Raphael Trini- Swift and Lady Gaga. dad of Cebu gave the Philippines its According to a report, first ever medal finish at the IWWF Ressa was recognised as World Wakeboard Champion- icon for her work at the ships held in Buenos Aires, Manila-based online Argentina on February 23, news site citing her 2019. According to a commitment report of Philippine to “exposing Olympic Commit- corruption,

tee, the 17-year old ) documenting competed against the abuse and com- best in the world including batting misinforma- three-time world champion tion”. She delivered a Military personnel arrange the three Balangiga bells upon arrival at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. www.olympic.ph Lior Sofer of Israel. It was Trin- : toast for freedom during (^: PNA photo by Joey O. Razon) (^ idad’s debut on the world stage. the 2019 TIME 100 Gala held His exemplary performance makes in New York in April. ond Filipino to receive the title after former presi- of the panelists in a plenary session titled “The Hidilyn Diaz of the Philippines competes in the women's 53kg weightlifting competition during the 2018 in on August 21, 2018. (^: AFP) him a favourite to win a gold medal in In December 2018, Ressa was dent Corazon Aquino in 1986. Targeting and Demonisation of Journalists and wakeboarding in the 2019 South East Asian included in Time’s Person of the Year Ressa also attended the 18th edition of Doha News Outlets: What Should be Done?” featured Games to be held later this year. Raphael2018 Trinidad as one of “the guardians of truth” Forum, a platform hosted by Qatar to tackle on the first day of the Forum. Philippines’ Winning Moments (Source: www.olympic.ph) alongside other journalists. She is the sec- world’s pressing challenges. She served as one (Sources: www.rappler.com / www.time.com) 5 Filipino women dominate in 2018 Asian US returns Balangiga Bells to the Filipino Farmers as entrepreneurs: Country’s first farmer-owned tire brand rolled out Games people The Philippines finished 19th overall in the On December 11, 2018, the Balangiga Bells medal tally of the 2018 Asian Game held in Ja- has been returned to the Philippines, after 117 eeing farmers become the manu- karta and Palembang, Indonesia from August 18 years, by the US government. The three church facturers and entrepreneurs of their to September 2, 2018. The country won 21 med- bells were taken by the US Army from the Church own products is a dream come true als including four gold bagged by its female ath- of San Lorenzo de Martin in Balangiga, Eastern for Philippine Department of Agricul- letes in weightlifting, golf (women’s individual and Samar as war trophies during the Philippine-Amer- ture (DA) Secretary Manny F. Piñol. women’s team) and roller sports. ican war in 1901. SThe DA chief shared his delight during the Hidilyn Diaz, a native of , In the remarks of US Ambassador to the Phil- launch of the Pilipinas Agila Tires, the first local delivered the Philippines’ first gold in the 2018 ippines Sung Kim during a ceremony officially farmer-owned tire brand in the country on April 26, games when she won in the Women’s 53 kilogram turning the bells over to the Philippines govern- 2019. weightlifting event. She defeated the athletes ment, he said that the return of the bells under- “The event marks the first step in the dream of from and Thailand. scores the enduring friendship, partnership, and the country’s rubber farmers to process their raw At the 2019 Asian Weightlifting Champion- alliance between the two countries. rubber produce to high value products,” Secretary ship held in Ningbo, China in April, Diaz once again Meanwhile, Philippine Department of Tourism Piñol said. brought glory to her country by capturing three sil- Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat assured that Owned by the Philippine Rubber Farmers Co- ver medals in the women’s 55kg division. the Balangiga Bells would be a historical treasure operative (PRFC) and manufactured by the Leo Another Asian Games heroine is Yuka Saso that will be preserved for all the world and future Tire Manufacturing in Valenzuela, the Pilipinas from Bulacan who won the first ever gold medal generations to see. Agila Tires is the product of the Agriculture De- for the Philippines in both women’s individual and (Sources: www.tourism.gov.ph / www.ph.usembassy.gov) partment’s initiative to organise rubber farmers women’s team event in Asian Games gold compe- and elevate their status. titions. In the women’s team event, she was joined Miss Philippines brings home country’s In 2017, DA organised the cooperative and by Bianca Pagdanganan and Lois Kaye Go to se- fourth Miss Universe Crown helped them avail of a P10-million loan from the cure the historic victory for their country. Twenty-four year-old Catriona Gray Agriculture Credit Policy Council (ACPC) to start While Skateboard Margielyn Didal, a bested 93 other candidates from all over up their business. native of Cebu, competed for the Phil- the world to bring home the coveted “This is just the beginning,” Piñol said as he the Province of North Cotabato where the PRFC is tires and other commonly used tires. undertaken to support the small farmers in the ippines in the women’s street skate- crown in the Miss Universe 2018 announced that 10,000 pieces of 300 x 17 motor- currently based and will be marketed in the other The product launch coincided with the first coconut industry, rice industry, fisheries, and oth- boarding event. She brought coronation night held in Bang- cycle tires will initially be marketed a week after parts of the country soon. Production Loan Easy Access (PLEA) Partners’ er sectors wherein the producers depend on the home the fourth gold for her kok, Thailand in Decem- the product launch. The Filipino farmer-owned tire brand is also Reception and Recognition of the ACPC. prices dictated by traders. country in the Games that ber 17, 2018. She is the The Pilipinas Agila Tires will be available in slated to release new products such as tractor Piñol announced that similar effort will be (Source: www.da.gov.ph) earned her the right to fourth Filipina to win be the flag bearer of the crown after the Philippine del- Gloria Diaz in egation for the 1969, Mar- closing cer- garita Mo- emony of the ran in 1973 event. and Pia Wurtz- Philippines’ first simulation packaging testing lab facility (Sources: www.rappler. bach in 2015. com/ www.olympic.ph/ : @sinag_jacq /Twitter)Gray, who won state-of-the-art packaging lab- further harness its people and facilities in de- ^ Wikipedia) ( the hearts of the peo- oratory with the capacity to simulate veloping new packaging technologies,” said De ple across the world with A stress conditions will soon rise at the la Peña. Better, more sustainable her signature “lava” walk and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) According to the DOST-ITDI, the packaging lab- Boracay re-opens wittiness, is an avid supporter of grounds in Bicutan, Taguig City. oratories, once completed, will help the local pack- Boracay Island, named one of the the organisation Young Focus Phil- At the ground breaking ceremony for the aging industry level up with other players particular- world’s best islands, was closed for tour- ippines which financed educational establishment of the first Simulation Packaging ly in the ASEAN region. The industry will increase its ists for six months since April 2018 and un- Dr Mary Jacquilineand aid Romero programmes of children living in Testing Laboratory (SPTL) and Green Packaging competitiveness and will forge possible collabora- derwent a redevelopment. The closure followed the slums of Manila. She is also a singer and Laboratory (GPL) in the country held recently, tions with other global market players. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s comment songwriter, a fashion model as well as a former DOST Secretary Fortunato T de la Peña stressed The facility will provide opportunity for small on the situation in the island, particularly its wors- black belt martial artist. the need to improve packaging technology with and medium enterprises to avail of its services ening sewage conditions. Boracay is frequented (Sources: www.rappler.com/ www.missuniverse.com/ better equipment and facilities. so they can improve on quality packaging ma- by millions of tourists including Hollywood stars. www.youngfocus.org) The DOST-Industrial Technology Development terials and processes that will eventually make The island’s closure made headlines across Institute (ITDI) has made great strides in the pack- their products stand out in both the domestic the world and was met with criticisms including Filipina scientist among recipients of aging industry through its own packaging research and world markets. its impact to local businesses in the area. At the L’Oreal- UNESCO International Awards and development and testing laboratory, according The SPTL and GPL facilities will offer more same time, the effort of the Philippine govern- Filipina quantum physicist Dr Mary Jacquiline to the science chief. However, he said, there is still cost-effective stress testing of product packaging ment to preserve the tiny tropical island, known Romero of the University of Queensland was one a need to step up to global industry leaders, which as the facilities can easily simulate the stress condi- for its stunning white beach and world-class sun- of the four women scientists from the Asia Pacific is one of the reasons for the establishment of the tions that affect products when transported. sets, was lauded by many. who have been honoured at the 21st L’Oreal-UNE- modern SPTL and GPL. “Instead of transporting the products many A better and more sustainable Boracay wel- SCO International Awards for Women in Science “We can see the evolution of the packaging times over, the transport process can be simulated comed back visitors on October 26 with new (FWIS). The winners were celebrated at an awards center. While it has achieved a certain level of in our laboratory which is the first of its kind in the rules. It is expected to usher in newer and bigger ceremony held at UNESCO’s Headquarters in Par- expertise on its own, on learning by doing, they country,” said DOST Undersecretary for Research Miss Philippines, Catriona Gray, celebrates after being crowned as the new Miss Universe 2018 during the Miss markets awaiting the island’s full recovery. is on March 14, 2019. have a strong belief that they need to partner and Development Dr Rowena Cristina L Guevara. Universe pageant in Bangkok, Thailand. (^: Tribune News Service/ Xinhua via ZUMA Wire) (www.tourism.gov.ph, www.boracaycompass.com) According to a report by the Asian Scientist, Ground breaking of first simulation packaging testing lab facility. (^: www.dost.gov.ph) with world leaders in packaging technology to (Source: www.dost.gov.ph) Wishing all our Filipino readers a very happy