Dec 2007-Jan 2008

Available online at www.benpres-holdings.com Season’s greetings! —mmL, OmL and eL3

First Gen wins geothermal energy bid

FIRST Gen Corporation steamrolls its way into geother- , which has the second largest geothermal in- mal energy with its decisive acquisition of the govern- stalled capacity in the world next to the United States. ment’s 60%-stake in Philippine National Oil Company- First Gen, through its special holding company Red Energy Development Corporation (PNOC-EDC) during Vulcan Holdings Corporation, bested three other groups 2007 in review…p. 2 the public bidding held on November 21, 2007 in vying for the government’s remaining stake in PNOC- City. With over 1,100MW equivalent of steam capac- EDC with its bid of P58.5 billion. ity, PNOC-EDC is the largest geothermal producer in the Turn to page 2

P2,900.00 only

a closer look at a royal province ... page 10 The 107625-hectare Leyte Geothermal Production Field is the largest wet steam-producing field in the world. Team-: mission accomplished FOR the past three years, a story unfolded in Mindanao that might well be considered a love story. Unlike your typical love story, however, the main protagonists number in the thousands. It is Have a the story of Television Education for the Advance- ment of Muslim Mindanao or TEAM-Mindanao. Power Plant Much in the same way that “Sesame Street” influenced city kids who grew up in the 1970s and ‘80s, a new generation of children—Mindanao chil- Christmas! dren—will now have fond memories of their own ... page 14 surrogate teacher, Knowledge Channel (KCh). This followed as the alliance known as TEAM- Mindanao, after three years of crisscrossing the Doris Nuval, Thomas Crehan, Jon Linborg, grade 6 student Melvylyn Escibar, DepEd sec. Jesli Lapus and school head Lydia Jimenez. Turn to page 8  LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008  The year that was The 2007 ‘Lopez Link’ year-end report Search for 2nd Gawad By Karen Valeza expansion of manufacturing sector, min- in unconsolidated revenues to P12.949 B had recovered in 2006 due to a stronger Rockwell pioneered in offering loft-type Haydee Yorac awardee on ing investment, stronger property market compared to P12.725B in the compara- financial performance, reorganization and residential units. Future Joya Towers resi- LopezLink takes you back to the impor- and consumer spending brought by the tive period. increased ratings. Due to these companies’ dents will enjoy the luxury and comfort of , in cooperation 40 years old at the tant events that took place in the Lopez upcoming elections. February success, others followed suit also. Ben- living by 2008. with the University of the Phil- time of nomination. Group in the past 12 months. Here’s a He stated that among the Lopez The four pres doubled its share price to P2.16 from Bayan formalized a partnership with ippines (UP), has launched the He/she must have brief look at the Group’s achievements Group’s priorities for 2007 were the entertain- P1.08 in 2005, while First Gen closed at Microsoft Philippines for the Philippine nationwide search for the sec- distinguished himself/ and successes. completion of the financial restructur- ment brands P56.50 in 2006. launch of Microsoft’s Windows Vista and ond Gawad Haydee Yorac for herself in serving the January ing of Benpres Holding Corporation, of Creative March 2007 Microsoft Office system. Outstanding Public Service. The public in the country, Lopez strengthening the governance system and Programs Inc. Securities Transfer April award recognizes leaders from exhibiting courage Group chair- improvement of excellence and corporate (CPI)—Hero, Services Inc. (STSI) ABS-CBN Center for Communication the private sector, government and integrity in the man Oscar M. initiatives to help improve the group’s Myx, Cin- was highlighted as a Arts Inc. (CCAI) or WORKSHOPS@ GOARN regional training participants pose at ELC front steps service and volunteer organiza- face of overwhelm- Lopez (OML), performance. ema One and “15-year-old that could ABS-CBN saved harried mothers from tions whose attributes, personal ing challenges. together with Meanwhile, was Lifestyle Net- get would-be investors a meltdown with work ethics and service to the Just like the late Lopez Group’s touted as the shopping place to be with work—proved to be among the in on the action.” its array of cours- nation are worth emulating. Yorac, the awardee executives, its four floors of fashion brands, as well most popular cable channels in the Joya Towers & es in performing, ELC hosts WHO, eBIZ confabs The first Gawad Haydee Yorac must be a role model welcomed as management’s emphasis on safety and country, giving foreign mainstays a Lofts announced its broadcast and Forty participants from the World lia, China, , Japan, Fiji, (eBIZ) CLIMB Conference 2007. Awardee was Antonio P. Meloto, for public service. year 2007 with security. run for their money. success as all avail- media arts and Health Organization (WHO)-West- , and , Themed “Conquering Mountains founder of the antipoverty and Like her, the awardee an optimistic The increased value of the peso Lopez Group shares performed well able units of Rockwell Land’s second self-develop- ern Pacific attended the Global Out- and the WHO headquarters in of Our Business,” it kicked off with nation-building movement Ga- must have attributes, outlook. At the helped Benpres in reaching P2.981 bil- in the stock market during the first few high-rise project were already 100% sold. break Alert and Response Network Switzerland. an actual rappel climb exhibition wad Kalinga (GK). Through GK, ethics and life exam- annual budget conference, OML noted lion in net income in the first nine months months of 2006. Meralco was leading in Val Soliven, Rockwell vice president of (GOARN) regional training course Epidemiologist Amy Caw- by members of the Philippines’ Mt. Meloto inspires to eradi- ples that guide daily the opportunities he saw in the capacity of 2006.There was also an increase of 2% stock price performance while ABS-CBN sales and marketing, proudly said that Turn to page 7 on international outbreak response thorne, one of the organizers of the Everest Expedition Team—Leo cate poverty through a pioneering manifestations of ser- held at the Eugenio Lopez Center WHO GOARN training course, Oracion and Pastor Emata, Carina movement of volunteerism. The vice and leadership. (ELC) from Nov. 4-10, 2007. expressed satisfaction with the lo- Dayondon, Noelle Wenceslao and GK movement ignites hope in The award will be Despite its offer’s being nearly 30% higher Participants included physi- cation, amenities, food and accom- Janet Belarmino. Art Valdez, team poor Filipino families by build- conferred on March 4, FIRST GEN... than the government’s floor price, observers ing them homes, setting up model Yorac’s birthday. The from page 1 cians on infectious diseases, modations provided by the ELC, leader, described the conquest of have conceded that the acquisition “a long-term professors and epidemiologists, and thanked the management and Mt. Everest as a symbol of what communities and providing sus- winner will receive a trophy by at www.meralco.com.ph/ga- investment” on the part of the First Gen-led and lecturers and consultants on staff for the great service. every Filipino can accomplish, a tainable means of livelihood. National Artist Napoleon Abueva wadhaydeeyorac. The award First Gen vice-chairman and chief executive consortium. disease control and pandemic alert Meanwhile, a virtual Mt. Ever- symbol of unsinkable spirit and The nomination is open to and a cash gift of P300,000. secretariat can be reached at officer Peter D. Garrucho Jr. described the “First Gen did its usual thorough due dili- response from WHO-Western est was installed at the ELC heli- unbreakable Filipino character. any Filipino citizen residing in Entry forms, guidelines and 632-8481. Deadline of nomina- purchase as a “transformational moment” in the gence and saw significant value in the long run. What is PNOC-EDC? Pacific countries such as Austra- pad for the eBusiness Services Inc. (Ethel Bondoc) the Philippines and who is at least other information are available tions is on January 15, 2008. nine-year-old company’s history. We went out there to win because we believe Not ordinary shares in clean energy,” First Gen president and COO CREATED in March 1976 to lead Palinpinon 1 Production Field The joint venture was only one of the two Federico “Piki” Lopez said. the Philippines’ quest for energy self- and the 80.0-MW Palinpinon 2 groups that met the P45.0 billion reserve price Excellent follow-on sufficiency, the mission of Philippine Production Field set by the Privatization Committee of PNOC, “EDC adds a host of quality assets and National Oil Company-Energy De- • Palinpinon 1 exports power to Bayan hits meralco generation charge the other being the FDC Geo-Energy Holdings top Filipino engineering talent to the First velopment Corporation (PNOC-EDC) Bacolod City, Aklan, , Inc., a consortium of holding company Filinvest Gen Group. This is an excellent follow-on is to explore and develop indigenous Capiz and Antique. Power from 100K BWL Development Corp. and Britain’s International to our successful acquisition of the 112-MW energy sources, focusing on those that Palinpinon 2 is exported to Cebu. down for 4th month in a row Power, with P48.5 billion. Pantabangan-Masiway Hydro Plant. Next up are clean and renewable to ensure the • Has the distinction of being the for us are the 192.5-MW Palinpinon and the preservation of the country’s environ- first geothermal project to ben- subscriber MERALCO reported a decrease in tial customers’ electricity bills Last November, the genera- 146-MW Dingle Plant,” Richard Tantoco said. ment. PNOC-EDC is a leading green efit from the Clean Development its generation charge for the fourth went down by 43 centavos per tion charge was further lowered to The Mindanao Geothermal Production Tantoco is the senior vice-president and head company garnering to date 19 envi- Mechanism (CDM) program of consecutive month, yielding a cu- kWh consisting of a 37.86 cen- P4.3525 per kWh, a 29.98-cen- Field target of the Business Development Group of First ronmental awards. Its existing geo- the World Bank, for the Nasulo mulative reduction of P1.3239 per tavos reduction in the generation tavo reduction from the previous Gen. thermal projects produce electricity its long-term stable source of revenues. Geothermal Power Project BAYAN triumphed in its 100,000 kilowatt-hour (kWh). charge and another 5.08 centavos month’s level. Systems loss charges First Gen developed, financed and oper- from resources that are clean, renew- The company’s strong financial profile Bacon-Manito Geothermal Pro- bayanWIRELESS landline These reductions resulted in the system loss charge or lower also went down by 4.27 centavos. ates two natural gas-fired power plants with a able, and generally sustainable. underpins its profitability and its abil- duction Field (BGPF) (BWL) subscriber challenge last from a number of factors, primar- generation charge of P5.2978 per NPC was the largest con- combined capacity of 1,500 megawatts which PNOC-EDC, a publicly listed ity to fund growth going forward. • Awarded one of the best sustain- October 31, establishing the com- ily the restoration of the Automat- kWh and P0.8497 per kWh for tributor to the month’s reduc- are both located in Batangas City. This is in corporation with a market capital- Senior management has an aver- able development projects in the pany as the leader in the Philip- ic Generation Rate Adjustment systems loss. tion. Another major contributor addition to its ownership in a 225-MW diesel- ization of approximately US$2.5 age of more than 25 years of opera- Philippines pines’ wireless lawndline market. Mechanism (AGRA) in July. For September, another 68.46 was Quezon Power Philippines fired plant located in Bauang, La Union and billion, accounts for more than 60% tional and management experience • Consisting of the 110.0-MW Bac- The 100K challenge was an- “The Energy Regula- centavos was subtracted. The gen- Limited Inc. (QPPL) with its the 1.6-MW mini-hydro plant in Bukidnon. of the country’s installed geothermal each in the power industry. This is Man 1 Production Field and the nounced by Bayan chief execu- Mas makakatipid ka, tory Commission’s lifting of the eration and systems loss charges rate down by 25.78 centavos per Last November 2007, First Gen successfully capacity of 1,905 megawatts. It is complemented by 750 geothermal 80.0-MW BacMan 2 Production tive consultant Tunde Fafunwa suspension on the adjustment were lower by 60.36 centavos kWh. First Gas’ Sta. Rita plant took over the ownership and operation of the responsible for making the Philip- engineers with an average of 15 ser- Field last May 18 during the Gawad mechanisms enabled us to readily and 8.1 centavos, respectively also contributed with a decrease 112-MW hydropower plant from the govern- pines the second largest producer of vice years equivalent to 11,000 man- Mindanao Geothermal Produc- Galing and Employees’ Day cel- reflect the lower cost of supply or lower generation charge to of 8.61 centavos per kWh in its ment. geothermal energy in the world, next years. Additionally, the company tion Field (MGPF) ebrations. The BWL subscriber to our customers,” said Meralco P4.6942 per kWh. average generation cost. Biggest clean-and green-energy producer only to the United States. is stepping up efforts to market its • Provides resources for the protec- count was then approaching the vice president for corporate com- In October, the Electric Power “Meralco makes it a prior- The PNOC-EDC acquisition certainly PNOC-EDC operates in seven expertise abroad and to also explore tion of Mt. Apo, the Philippines' munication Elpi Cuna. Industry Reform Act’s (Epira’s) ity to achieve the optimal mix of Energy Sec. Angelo Reyes, First Gen vice 26,000 mark. makes First Gen one of the biggest clean-and- geothermal steamfields in five contract investment opportunities overseas. highest peak Other factors included the mandated Power Act Reduction energy by sourcing from the vari- chairman and CEO Peter D. Garrucho Jr., With only six months left to green energy producers in the world with over areas where it has exclusive rights to Major accomplishments in geo- Consisting of the 52.0-MW Min- declines in the energy market (PAR) for residential users was ous power generators to obtain and First Gen chairman Oscar M. Lopez • meet the target, the task was a 90% of its total installed capacity portfolio geothermal exploration, development, thermal energy danao 1 Production Field and the daunting one. But Bayan employ- prices and regulatory mandates finalized allowing Meralco to the lowest possible rates for our -led Panasia Energy utilizing clean technology. and utilization through geothermal ser- Leyte Geothermal Production 52.0-MW Mindanao 2 Production ees took up the challenge and went lowering energy prices. reflect the reduction of P425.3 customers,“ Cuna said. (Meralco Holdings Inc. offered P39 billion for the PNOC- First Gen was incorporated on December vice contracts with the government. Field (LGPF) Field all-out to reach the 100,000 mark. In August, Meralco residen- million in the bills. Corporate Communications) EDC stake, while the Aboitiz Power Corp.’s AP 22, 1998 as a subsidiary of one of the oldest and The company’s geothermal power • Largest wet steam producing field Northern Negros Geothermal With the support of one ka- Renewables bid solo with P33.2 billion. largest conglomerates in the Philippines, First projects are involved in two principal in the world Production Field (NNGPF) Bayan to another, the challenge Bubbles, etc. on special SkyCable Silver cards Children “We are not merely selling ordinary shares Philippine Holdings Corp. (FPHC). One of the activities, namely: production of steam • Consisting of the 112.5-MW Ton- • Commissioned on February 2007 further boosted Bayan’s teamwork, can enjoy nonstop cartoons from number one kids’ channel here. What we are selling are a block of shares, core holding companies of the Lopez Group, for sale to the National Power Corpo- gonan Production Field, the 132.0- • The 49-MW plant supplies power creativity and innovativeness. Cartoon Network on Channel 43 on SkyCable Silver Prepaid of which whoever gains control of, gains con- FPHC’s ownership include controlling interest ration (NPC); and production of steam MW Upper Mahiao Power Plant, to the Western Visayas region Thus, the sales force was strength- Sign up for any Bayan products and enjoy low, low monthly fees: for as little as P90 for three days. For a limited period, trol of the whole operations of PNOC-EDC,” in the longest toll road in the Philippines, the for delivery to both the company and the 232.0-MW Malitbog Power Other geothermal projects ened, marketing and advertising bayanWIRELESS landline (BWL) for only P599, bayanPHONE with free special, collectible edition SkyCable Silver Prepaid cards PNOC president Antonio Cailao said in a state- largest Filipino independent power generation Build-Operate-Transfer contractor- Plant, the 180.0-MW Mahanag- • Nasulo, Southern Negros (poten- were intensified, and service and NDD for P499, bayanINTERNET for P399 or bayanDSL for P749 for 384 will feature characters from popular Cartoon Network ment. company and the largest power distribution operated power plants which convert dong "A" and "B" Power Plants, tial capacity: 20MW) infrastructures were enhanced. kbps. At dahil Lopez Group employee ka, you can enjoy special discounts shows. Ben 10 will be available on the P90 prepaid card 60% of country’s total installed capacity company, among others. steam to electricity for sale to NPC and 51.0 MW Optimization Plants • Tanawon-Rangas, Sorsogon (po- Such display of hard work and and easy payment plans sa Lopez Employee Advantage (LEAD) ng Bayan. that is good for three days, while Bubbles of the “Powerpuff PNOC-EDC successfully developed, With the PNOC-EDC acquisition, First Gen and other distribution companies. • Supplies power to Cebu and Lu- tential capacity: 40MW-80MW) determination were translated into Maging kaBayan na! Simple lang mag-join: fill up the application Girls” and Billy from “The Grim Adventures of Billy and financed, built and operated 12 geothermal will account for 16% of the country’s total in- In addition to the core businesses, zon via submarine cables • Mindanao Optimization, North a final count of 104,143 BWL sub- form and authorization to deduct, then submit these to your HR. Upon Mandy” will be on the P380 for 15-day and P636 for 30-day projects with an aggregate production capacity stalled power generation capacity. the company is vertically integrated. • Will serve as the linchpin of the Cotabato (potential capacity: scribers by the end of October 31. approval, submit the forms and required documents to BayanCenter. prepaid cards, respectively. Catch these cards in selected of 1,199 megawatts in five geothermal service Through Red Vulcan, First Gen has gained It offers technical consultancy ser- national electric highway upon 50MW) For this company-wide effort, Required documents are photocopy of company ID, proof of billing and a retail outlets very soon. Apart from Cartoon Network, contract areas; these account for about 60% of the a firm foothold in the electricity markets of the vices to third parties worldwide, as installation of another submarine • Dauin, Southern Negros (poten- Bayan employees received a half- detailed sketch of service address. SkyCable Silver Prepaid has over 60 channels for each country’s total installed geothermal capacity. It is Visayas and Mindanao where PNOC-EDC’s well as for its own steamfields and cable from Leyte to Mindanao tial capacity: 40MW) month bonus which was given Subscribers are guaranteed worry-free service with Bayan’s Money family member to enjoy. SkyCable Silver Prepaid is the looking at seven other geothermal projects which power and steam assets are located. Through power plants. Southern Negros Geothermal • Manito-Kayabon, Sorsogon (po- along with their 13th and 14th Back and 24-Hour Service Guarantees! most convenient way for everyone to enjoy nonstop cable are expected to come on stream in the next three Red Vulcan, First Gen hopes to go into green- PNOC-EDC’s strong contractual Production Field (SNGPF) tential capacity: 40MW) month pays during the nationwide For more information, call the following numbers: 449-9999 for TV entertainment without the monthly bills and is available to five years, with a total potential of 310 MW. field projects in new geothermal sites in the arrangements provide the framework • Model for compact development • Cabalian, Southern Leyte (poten- “100K Victory Party ng Bayan” bayanWIRELESS landline; 412-1212 for bayanPHONE; and 449-3118 for in affordable denominations. SkyCable Silver is initially This is in addition to the drilling, exploration and Philippines and overseas, particularly in the for the company’s business model and • Consisting of the 112.5-MW tial capacity: 50MW-80MW) on November 15. (Gerardo Ba- bayan INTERNET/DSL. available in selected areas of , and Quezon engineering services being rendered abroad. Asia Pacific region. clagon) City. For more information, call the 24/7 Customer Service Hotline at 631-0000. (Juno Chuidian)  LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 

Q3 2007 financial performance potato Peninsula Manila standoff aftermath couch DZmm collects ‘ABS-CBN continued live coverage awards, tops Benpres 9-month revenue rises treats because public has right to know’ Nielsen survey New ‘The The following is the statement issued It is clear that Benpres Holdings Corporation officer, stated: “We are pursuing Net income (loss) attributable to by , ABS-CBN SVP for the arrests of 12 DZMM Radyo Patrol Sais Trenta’s news pro- (Benpres) reported unaudited growth in all our core investments.” Period TOTAL REVENUES equity holders of the parent amazing Race’ News and Current Affairs, on being of our journal- gram “Radyo Patrol Balita” bested more than 50 consolidated revenues of P14.512 Last October 25, 2007, First January- summoned to appear before the office ists along with entries worldwide to cinch the Best News cat- billion in the first nine months of Holdings signed a $300 million dual- September 2006 2007 % change 2006 2007 % change destinations of the Southern Manila Criminal In- our other media egory for Radio plum at the 2007 Asia Pacific 2007, 14% higher than P12.687B in the currency Floating Rate Cor-porate “The Amazing Race 12” vestigation and Detection team in Fort colleagues are Broadcasting Union (ABU) Prizes in Tehran, Iran. same period last year. However, net Notes (FRCN) facility agreement brings together 11 teams that Bonifacio, Taguig City, in connection unconstitutional. Radyo Patrol manager Angelo Almonte said the rec- income attributable to equity holders with BDO Capital and Investment ABS-CBN P12.687 B P14,512 B +14 P551 M P1.104 B +100 will travel about 30,000 miles with the Nov. 29 Peninsula Manila Statements from ognition is an affirmation of the radio station’s strength in breaking and bringing news stories while maintain- of the parent for the period January- Corporation (as the lead arranger and Benpres P12.687 B P14,512 B +14 P2.981 B P2.676 B -10 around the world—including standoff led by Sen. Antonio Trillanes law enforcement September 2007 was 10% lower at sole bookrunner) as well as with other Ireland, Lithuania, Croatia, and IV and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim. and government ing high editorial standards and ethical practices. US$742 M US$800 +7.8 US$66.5 M US$99.6 M +49.7 Station manager Angelo Palmones’ weekly pro- P2.676B from P2.981B in the same financial institutions. Subsequently, First Gen five countries never before vis- In no instance did ABS-CBN ever officials now seem -30 “obstruct justice” or prevent authori- confused: as some gram “Bago Yan Ah” also made it as a finalist in the period last year. This result is primarily last November 9. 2007, the company FPHC P42.6 B P43.4 B +2 P5.3 B* P3.7 B ited on the “Race”—for about due to the 30% fall in equity in net filed with the Securities and Exchange ties from taking action in last Thurs- officials tell us Best Infotainment category for Radio. The show edu- Meralco P134.969 B P155.887 B +15.5 P596 M** P2.801 B +370.1 30 days. Each couple engages cates listeners by dishing out information on science earnings of investees to P2.210B from Commission (SEC) its application day’s standoff in Makati. ABS-CBN there is no probe in challenges at every destina- continued its live coverage because on ABS-CBN, I and technology. P3.175B. The 2006 figure (P3.175B) for an increase in capital stock from tion and those who are farthest the public has a right to know. We receive a subpoena DZMM also dominated the 2007 Catholic Mass includes nonrecurring income booked P12.1B to P32.1B by the issuance of *Including P2.7 billion gain on dilution in First Gen behind will be eliminated as calculated the risks, took precautions “commanding” interviews Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV Media Awards (CMMA) radio awards, won “Radio Sta- by affiliate First Philippine Holdings 200 million preferred shares with a **After providing for probable losses in the amount of P4.621 billion the contest progresses. The for our team, and made the choice to me to appear tion of the Year” from the Rotary Club of Manila, and Corporation (FPHC) from the initial par value of P100 per share. This was stay. We did our job—to make sure at a police hearing [on December These actions show a gradual erosion topped the latest Radio Audience Measurement survey public offering (IPO) of First Gen previously approved during the special first team to arrive at the final destination wins the grand that whatever actions both sides take, 5]. It seems attempts to intimidate of press freedom and degrade our of Nielsen Research covering the third quarter of 2007. Corporation (First Gen) in February stockholders’ meeting held last 10 parent airtime revenue, which soared higher average dispatch levels during 370.1% increase. “Radyo Patrol Balita” won as the year’s Best News prize of $1 million. Catch the they are accountable to the people. and harass journalists continue. country’s democratic processes. last year. October 2007. 36% or P924M during the third quarter the period had increased the fuel 2006 expenses included a P4.6B Program, “ sa DZMM” as Best Stripping out the nonrecurring ABS-CBN thrives on of 2007 and increased P2.0B or 28% component of revenues by US$33.8M. provision for probable losses for new season of “The Amazing Drama Program and “Radyo Negosyo” as Best Busi- income booked by FPHC, Benpres soaring airtime sales during the first nine months of 2007 Average prices of natural gas rose a pending case questioning a rate Race” on Studio 23! ness Program or Feature for Radio in the CMMA. recurring net income attributable to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp.’s compared to the same periods in 2006. from US$8.17/gigajoules (GJ) in 2006 increase approved by the Energy “Knowing that our programs are recognized for equity holders of the parent grew by (ABS-CBN) net income during the The percentage contribution of parent to US$8.31/GJ in 2007 both for Santa Regulatory Commission (ERC) and Celebrity 2 update their excellence and patronized by the public inspires 48% from the same period last year. nine-month period ended September airtime sales was 94% during the first Rita and San Lorenzo. implemented by the company in June Season 2 of us to give the best quality programming, break impor- FPHC continues on growth path 30, 2007 surpassed the P1B-mark. Net nine months of 2007 versus almost The increase in average dispatch 2003. The case was resolved by the tant news and continue providing public service,” said ‘Ugly Betty’ Palmones. First Philippine Holdings income during this period increased to 91% in the same period of last year. levels for the two gas plants resulted Supreme Court in December 2006 in Betty Suarez (America Fer- The public has responded positively to DZMM as Corporation’s recurring income for P1.1B from P554M in the same period ABS-CBN’s ad minutes increased an in higher fuel consumption. Santa favor of Meralco. rera) is back in the second sea- the nine months ending September last year. Overall, faster revenue seen in Nielsen Research’s Q3 2007 Radio Audience unprecedented 15% during the third Rita registered a slightly higher Revenues for the nine-month son of “Ugly Betty.” Betty’s Measurement, where the station obtained an audience 30, 2007 was higher by P713 million growth coupled with slower expense quarter of this year versus the same average dispatch of 79.1% in 2007 as period increased by 15.5% from share of 8.7% compared to its nearest competitor’s or 24% compared to 2006. The strong growth helped the company generate life is in chaos after a series of period of last year. compared to 78.6% in 2006, while the P134.97B to P155.89B. Of this unfortunate events, and she’s 4.5%. (Kane Choa) performance was mainly due to its higher earnings. First Gen revenues also rise San Lorenzo plant posted a record- P155.89B, P8.7B is still to be billed to still in denial about how much power generation business. Consolidated revenues were up Based on the unaudited consolidated high average dispatch of 90.1% as customers. Due to the extraordinary gains in P1.8B or 14% for the first nine months financial statements for the period compared to 80.1% in 2006. The Year-to-date (YTD) energy Henry’s departure has affected 2006 coming primarily from the IPO of 2007 compared to the same period her. Amanda (Becki Newton), Citation for BMPM’ ended September 30, 2007, First Gen’s combined average dispatch of 82.8% sales was up 4.8% to 19,661 gWh, The success of ABS-CBN’s “Boto Mo, I-Patrol of First Gen and the sale of Sirf shares, last year. Airtime sales contributed on the other hand, found out revenues rose to US$800.1M, up by for the two gas plants was the highest led by the commercial segment at Mo” (BMPM) campaign in empowering citizens the First Holdings September 2007 that Fey Sommers was her almost 70% of consolidated revenues 7.8% or US$58.0M higher than the among the power plants in the 6.4%. The residential and industrial to patrol their votes in the May 2007 national Jon Avila Ruben Gonzaga consolidated net income of P3.7B was in the third quarter of 2007 and 68% revenues generated during the same grid as of this period. segments followed at 4.2% and 3.6%, real mother, and Wilhelmina Baron Geisler Donald Geisler Will Devaughn elections received an honorable mention in the lower than last year’s P5.3B by 30%. during the first nine months of this period last year. The net increase was Meralco earnings up as respectively. Continued expansion of (Vanessa Williams) schemes Public Affairs Campaign of the Year category of First Holdings has undertaken two year. primarily due to higher revenues from commercial sales expand sales is expected with the energization to turn the tragic Meade fam- the 2007 Asia Pacific PR Awards. The “BMPM” capital-raising activities during the Airtime revenues rose P1.9B or the sale of electricity which went up Meralco’s net income for the period of new commercial and industrial loads ily events to her advantage. campaign received up to 2,000 reports a day year to strengthen its position in its 23% during the first nine months of during the first three quarters of 2007. January to September 2007 reached having a total contracted capacity of Watch “Ugly Betty” only on and led to some of the most important stories in core investments. Elpidio L. Ibanez, 2007 compared to the same period The combined effect of the increase P2.8B from a net income of P596M in 27.96 megawatts (MW) in the third Studio 23! the elections. Photo shows ABS-CBN corporate company president and chief operating in 2006. This was largely driven by in the average prices of natural gas and the same period in 2006, reflecting a quarter this year. (Carla Paras-Sison) communications manager Kane Errol Choa (right) receiving the award from Haymarket Media Advertising director Stuart Adamson BWL drives growth in Annual budget conference during a presentation dinner in Hong Kong. Bayan landline revenues No to complacency, yes to financial prudence

By John Rojo to P 3.59B during the same SA mga katagang iyan, binati ni Lopez business excellence ang mga kumpanya, obligations used for the acquisition of the Gaby de la Merced Riza Santos Yayo Aguila Gladys Guevarra period last year. Without this Group chairman Oscar M. Lopez (OML) ang sa pangunguna ng Malcolm Baldrige various businesses of the group,” sabi ni BAYAN reported a 10% growth adjustment, net revenues dipped mga senior executives na nagtipon para sa framework at kasama na ang Six Sigma, MML. five-year strategic planning at annual budget Investors in People at ISO (International Upang maseguro ito, dapat ay pag- ‘Princess in landline revenues at P1.59 5% compared to the same period conference noong Nobyembre 28, 2007. Organization for Standardization). ibayuhin ang “operational and organizational last year. Real drama inside Kuya’s house billion from P1.44B during the Bagama’t naliligayahan sa magandang “This is part of what Jim Collins in his capability and competence of the group to Sarah’ nine months of 2007 mainly Amidst significant financial per-formance ng mga kumpanya book ‘Built to Last’ calls clock-making, as support the profitability targets.” “Princess Sarah” is about a BIG Brother finally opened his house a halt as Gaby raced her way to her ties. Kris Aquino served the house- due to the impressive take-up of investments growing the BWL ng Lopez Group nitong naka-raang taon, opposed to time-telling. We must be able Binanggit bilang areas critical importance little girl, Sarah Crewe. After to 14 celebrity housemates. As early passion. mates her carbonara. PBB main host its BayanWIRELESS landline business and the one-time hinimok ni OML na ipagpatuloy ng bawa’t isa to build in our companies the perfect clock ang pag-aaral at pagpapabuti ng mga proseso her father dies in an expedition as its first episodes, exciting twists Emotions were high as the house- Toni Gonzaga had a taste of being a (BWL) service. revenue recognition, net income ang pagiging masinop at mapagkumbaba. which outlasts us all,” sabi ni OML. at sistema ng serbisyo sa mga kliyente at sea, she is forced to work already spark in Big Brother’s house. mates prepared for their weekly task of housemate when she stayed in the Voice revenues derived from slipped 51% from P1.0B in the “Let us avoid the sin of complacency. Naniniwala si OML na ang paggamit ng bawa’t kumpanya at ang pagkakaroon as a maid in the elite board- Imagine how 14 personalities from film production. Mcoy felt disrespected house for about a week. Bea Alonzo first nine months of 2006 to BWL now make up 12% of the Let financial prudence guide our decisions. ng mga business excellence standards ay ng performance management systems, ing school she attends. She is different fields converge and deal with with the issue of plagiarism, which and John Lloyd Cruz hosted a party. total voice revenues. Bayan’s P490.1 million this year. each other, and not to mention Kuya’s prompted him to leave the big yellow Kuya sent Angel Locsin as an “angel Let us continue to be extra diligent in how daan pang maging mapagtibay at gawing mula paggawa ng objectives hanggang sa maltreated by the headmistress total voice revenues grew 6% International leased lines we manage our businesses and our risks pang-matagalan ang magandang financial pagbibigay ng recognition o pabuya. house rules. Here’s a quick glimpse of house. The ultimate pasaway of the of love,” her mission to give Ruben as of the third quarter of 2007 (ILL) revenues registered a 14% and, finally, let us exercise the virtue of performance ng mga operating units. Kasama rin sa critical areas ang risk and other students, but with housemates’ latest scoops. house, Ethel, took advantage of this engagement rings so he could marry at P2.41B compared to P2.28B growth in the nine months ended humility,” wika ni OML. Samantala, binati rin ni Lopez Group management; corporate governance; her pure heart, she gains the “Princess of Charm” opportunity to make her voluntary exit, his line-in partner. International R ‘n’ in 2006. BWL has increased by September 2007 of P180.1M Nalugod si OML sa patuloy na paglakas vice chairman Manuel M. Lopez (MML) financial controls and discipline; paghanap love of new friends. “Princess and the 26K girls Jen and Marylaine reasoning that she could no longer bear B artist Akon’s presence shocked the 30% Bayan’s landline subscriber from P158.4M last year, while ng mga negosyo ng iba’t ibang operating ang mga senior executives dahil sa tinurang ng mga synergies at pagkakaisa sa iba’t Sarah” stars Sharlene San got the first taste of nomination. In the physical tasks and got disappointed housemates despite their anticipation. base, defying industry Internet revenues continued to units ng grupo. “turnaround” matapos ang ilang taon. ibang kumpanya; at succession planning, Pedro, while Albert Martinez the end, the public favored for Megan when Kuya didn’t grant her a phone Fresh from her stay in the US, expectations for the landline register double-digit growths at “We have done well these past two or Sa kanyang closing remarks, sinabi ni pag-recruit at pag-train ng high potential plays her father and Sheryl and the 2-in-1 housemates became the call prize. Big Brother finally decided comedienne Gladys Guevarra found business. P762.2M this year from P471.1M three years. We have been blessed many MML na dahil sa magandang katayuan talents, at executive development para sa mga Cruz plays the headmistress first evictees. Zara’s excessive crying to split the second 2-in-1 housemates, her new home in Big Brother’s house and lack of willingness to do chores brothers Baron and Donnie. Baron gave as the newest housemate. The fourth Net of a one-time revenue in 2006, or equivalent to a 54% times over. All our major, and even minor, ngayon ng grupo, lalo pa dapat paigtingin namamahala ng human resources ng grupo. Miss Minchin. Diether Ocam- businesses are profitable. We have solved ang pagseguro na mayroong “fair and Naniniwala rin si MML na mahalaga brought her to the chopping block as way for his brother but was saved by the eviction led Victor out of Kuya’s house adjustment in wholesale data increase. DSL subscriber growth po, Candy Pangilinan, Carlos most of the problems that have threatened continuing returns on investments” ang mga ang public image or corporate image ng the second evictee. Celebrity house- public through a 24-hour voting. Gaby after losing to Riza and Baron. It’s an meanwhile accelerated 92% and services in 2006, overall our businesses,” sabi niya. mamumuhunan o investors ng Lopez Group. Lopez Group at dapat ay mayroong “active Agassi, and Me- mates got another big revelation as was sent back to Big Brother’s house all-male lineup for the fifth nomina- revenue grew 12% at P4.0B as is expected to reach the 50,000 Clock making Critical areas and very deliberate effort in the group to lissa Ricks round up the cast, racing goddess Gaby had to leave the after her racing seminar in the US. tion as Jon, Will and Donald vie for of September 2007 compared mark by end of 2007. Pinaalala rin niya na dapat magpunyagi “There should be assurance that there manage the overall public perception for the and Ai Ai Delas Alas appears house to attend a racing seminar in the Housemates got excited by the the spot to stay in the house. (Karen sa paggamit ng international standards ng are enough returns to cover loans and other whole Lopez Group.” (Carla Paras-Sison) in a special role. US. This brought the third eviction to surprise visits of different celebri- Valeza)  LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 

Awarded their third Philip- pine Quill for ‘LopezLink’ ‘Maliwanag ang Pasko’ PR CHALLENGE are Benpres assistant vice president Rosan Cruz (second THIS is Meralco’s corporate Christmas from left), senior manager Christmas messages message this year. Our core business of Carla Paras-Sison and staff electric distribution validates this theme for Lopez Group honored at Philippine associate Lucy Torres. John Chambers, the CEO of Cisco, was quoted recently by the Meralco, but more so the collective wish of A season to unite Financial Times as saying “the future is all about collaboration. It will the management and staff of the company be the ‘we’ instead of ‘you.’” The effective organization today, he said, to share the enlightenment, cheer and bless- IT is indeed, a season of joy for the Lopez is all about collaboration or working together rather than command ings of the Christmas to one and all. Quill; ‘Link’ scores 3rd award in 3 years Group. The past year has all but turned and control. The most successful companies these days are those that Throughout the season, we all seek to be around our fortunes with a number of dra- are able to genuinely think of their people as their greatest assets and THE Lopez Group scooped up a total of nine like children where the world can be such matic successes. Just last month, First Gen therefore keep them fired up to produce the results expected in our awards during the Philippine Quill Awards held at a wonderful place even for some moments. won a major privatization bid which now competitive world. Mandarin Hotel Makati on November 14, 2007. If one truly believes in Christ’s birth and resurrection, happiness and puts us in charge of the country’s geother- I dare say that the accomplishments chalked up by the Lopez ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation enchantment are indeed possible, in our hearts and our minds. mal energy efforts. Previous to that, First Group this year wouldn’t have been possible without collaboration… bagged six Philippine Quill Awards, including As 2007 comes to an end, we remember the good and even the Gen won the bid for the Pantabangan Dam without unity. We have expressed this most basic of values of the Lo- two citations for its campaign to empower vot- difficult times we had and come to realize that we have become better, complex. Together, our group is now the pez Group in many ways. Kapamilya, for example, is just another way ers by reporting incidents of election fraud via more resilient and even blessed because of them. major renewable energy producer in the of emphasizing a value that lies at the heart of our group’s success mobile phones and another award for a student We were enriched by the countless smiles from our customers and country today, a timely development in this through the years. congress that tackled current issues and trends from the people we had helped; the colleagues we had worked with; era of global warming. As we approach this most blessed of seasons, I want to encourage in the Philippine media. the unforgettable events we witnessed and participated in; and the Of course, it is also heartwarming for us to be able to buy back a each and every one of us in the Lopez Group to always think in terms “Boto Mo, I-Patrol Mo,” which elicited challenges we passed and even sometimes failed. They prepared us substantial block of Meralco shares to keep us firmly in control for the of collaboration… in terms of unity. It works even in the family set- up to 2,000 messages from concerned citizens for what 2008 will bring and created a strong desire to even do better. first time since its was grabbed from us by the Marcos dictatorship. ting, the focus of our Yuletide celebrations. in the last elections, won an award of excel- Thank you for being with us in the Lopez Group through these Meralco is more than just another business for the group. It carries a On behalf of my family, I would like to wish you all the best of the lence in the Multi-Audience Communications years. sentimental importance if only because everything else we are in today season. Working together in the spirit of unity, we can all look forward Progam and an award of merit in the Social Maligayang Pasko sa inyong lahat at sa inyong mga mahal sa sprung from that bold move of my father, the late Don Eugenio Lopez to an even more prosperous new year. Development Category. Receiving the award for TV Meralco are: (second from buhay! Special event left) program coordinator Cyrel Garvida; executive Sr., to buy control of Meralco from its American owners. OSCAR M. LOPEZ MANUEL M. LOPEZ The good news continues in our other businesses. ABS-CBN has Chairman, Lopez Group The Pinoy Media Congress held recently producer and Meralco Advertising and Special Events Chairman and CEO, Meralco reassumed market leadership in the broadcast industry and continues at the Far Eastern University won an award of (L-R) Jan Kristoffer Enriquez, Camille Labayen, Edgardo Wenceslao, Lorelie Dionisio, Corporate Com- head Ritzi Villarico Ronquillo; and creative director Boy to grow in a highly competitive environment. ABS-CBN has also con- excellence in the Special Events Category. The munications head Bong Osorio, Jennifer Lapis, Katherine Solis, Nicholson Bacay, Ryan Ramos, Cristina Guevara. At extreme left is IABC Philippines president tinued its hold on the overseas Filipino market as well as started to newable energy with the multi-billion-peso annual gathering brings together media practi- Tan and Leonel Velarde of ABS-CBN with their six Philippine Quill Awards. Roni Tapia-Merk. develop new foreign markets for its brand of entertainment. The con- acquisition of PNOC-EDC. Meralco has tioners, communications educators and media solidation of all our media businesses in ABS-CBN puts it in the best WOW!!! also successfully managed a transition to students to discuss media topics and seek ways Meanwhile, LopezLink, published by Group Lopez Group. It is distributed to the 16,000-strong merit award for Communication Program for Customer position to take advantage of new developments from digital television WOW! It was quite a year! No one outside of our extended family in profitability, making it a favorite in the lo- to improve or enhance media products and ser- Public Relations under Benpres Holdings Corpora- workforce of the Lopez Group and counts as readers Relations (Division 1). It was the first time for one to new initiatives in the World Wide Web. the Lopez Group could ever understand the kind of lives we live… the cal stock market again. As its stock price vices. tion, received its third Philippine Quill Award. Lo- the officers and staff of ABS-CBN Broadcasting Cor- Meralco entry entered in two divisions to both win Our tollways operations have continued to deliver good profits and pressures we endure… the sweetness of the victories we savor after surged this year, everyone could only ex- Other entries that won awards of merit pezLink won an award of merit in the Publications poration, First Gen Corporation, Meralco, SkyCable, Quill Awards. good public service. It has consistently received commendations from everything has been said and done. As we reach the end of another press an approving WOW! include the employee program ABS-CBN Ka- Division of the Communication Skills Category, First Philippine Holdings Corporation, Bayan Tele- The Philippine Quill recognizes leading-edge, dy- its publics for the high quality of service that has also set the bar for year, one that was productively action packed, there is no doubt that We in ABS-CBN have adopted WOW as pamilya Services (Employee Communications which highlights technical skills and expertise, communications Inc. and Asian Eye Institute, among namic and highly creative communication. It is consid- other tollway operations hereon. In this regard, it has been awarded we have done nothing short of walking on water… WOW, indeed! the embodiment of the spirit that animates us Category), the book “Kapitan: Geny Lopez such as editing, writing, design and photography. others. ered the country’s most prestigious and relevant award temporary management of the soon to be opened Subic Tarlac Ex- At the comm group side of the business, it had been a great year re- all to accomplish what ordinary mortals deem and the making of ABS-CBN” (Publications Building ‘kapamilya’ spirit Meralco took home an excellence award for for business communications programs. pressway, no doubt in recognition of our good record in managing the establishing our leadership. ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp. is once again too difficult, if not impossible. WOW or Walk Category), and the ABS-CBN 2007 Executive Since 1999, LopezLink has been building Communication Skills for Audio Visual Presentation IABC is a global network of more than 14,000 busi- North Luzon Tollway. able to keep the top position amidst stiff competition. Record revenues on Water, appears to be an ability, a value we Planner (Merchandising Category). community and the kapamilya spirit in the (Division 2) for “TV Meralco—The Program” and a ness communication professionals in over 60 countries. All our other businesses—from Rockwell Land, First Philippine across all platforms are just one of the many pieces of good news this share with the rest of our kapamilya in all the other Lopez Companies if Industrial Park, our construction arm First Balfour, to the various man- year. Best of all, we were able to introduce programming innovations our group accomplishments over this past year are any indication. ufacturing operations under Philec and First Sumiden—have all done that changed the face of the local television industry for all time. We During this holiday season, let us pause to appreciate what each well this year. Our group initiatives to achieve management excellence have also been successful in winning back the credibility of our news and every one of us made possible together while “walking on water.” have no doubt contributed to the noteworthy performance this year. and public affairs programs for all Filipinos, here and abroad. Let us also share our joys with our families and our communities be- I think we will look back at this year as a watershed in our recent Bayan Telecommunications has also shown what sheer determination cause without their continued support our WOW days wouldn’t be as HR COUNCIL history. We are truly up from the ashes. While we are still awaiting the to succeed in the cutthroat world of telecommunications can accomplish. easy or as satisfying. final restructuring agreement for Benpres, it is clear that we are once Bayan employees have given the introduction of our new wireless ser- My best wishes to you and your loved ones this holiday season. again back in fighting form. And this leads me to my main message vice a launch that made us a serious contender again in the business. Maligayang Pasko sa inyong lahat! for the holiday season. And my message can be summed up with one Our kapamilya on the energy and power side of the business also EUGENIO LOPEZ III Breaking through: A holistic word: unity. had a WOW year. We are now the country’s largest producer of re- Chairman and CEO, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp.

approach to transformation THE 2007... The redevelopment of the North Lu- July Oscar M. Lopez (OML) Sterling Professo- Sumiden Circuits Inc. (FSCI), were spot- from page 2 zon Expressway (NLEX) not only made The HR rial Chair in Law and Economics. lighted. through, starting from the trading of agricultural prod- With political will, we can make the difference. Our travel faster and safer but also boosted Council took September Another breakthrough product from ucts and the decision to eventually abandon agribusi- values spell out the difference and we have all the tools ment that occupied the kids during the the economy and tourism in Northern a bow as the La Mesa Watershed is at risk due to ABS-CBN, digital TV (DTTV), was ness to focus on power generation. In this journey, he and the support to make thing happen. Large-scale summer months. Philippines. Manila North Tollways Cor- CEOs’ partner the Metropolitan Water tested in and Bulacan and said that “people made the difference… the right people change occurs only if each of us change even just a In preparation for the upcoming na- poration (MNTC) and North Philippines in nurturing District’s 58-hectare hous- got favorable response. DTTV will soon in the bus and in the right seats.” little.” tional elections, ABS-CBN and its technol- Visitors Bureau (NPVB) organized the peoples and ing project. ABS-CBN broadcast in January 2008. Summit guest speaker Senator Mar Roxas gave The summit ended with a studio tour, fellowship ogy and media partners launched “Halalan “Rediscover the North” campaign and growing the Foundation Inc. (AFI), November the participants a situationer on the country’s political and cocktails, raffle draws, entertainment and games. 2007: Boto Mo, I-Patrol Mo.” aimed to highlight tourism and to attract various busi- together with its environ- Mark Lopez introduced the rest of the May By Jun Mayo and economic situation. He cited the Lopez Group as a Thanks to this year’s host and the HR Council, which major companies, film nesses of the mental arm Bantay Ka- Lopez Group to eMeralco Ventures Inc. model for “country play” and stressed the importance made all these happen. Truly, you have inspired Orga- ABS-CBN and its part- outfits and event - man likasan (BK), opposed (eMVI), the Lopez Group. of the family values that kept the Lopez family together nizational Transformation involvement and empower- ners helped stoke election agements to use the key the project, as this will new kid on The 6th HR Summit that took place at the Training Hall The debt through extreme adversity. ment among the participants of the 6th HR Summit. fever with their “Boto Mo, I- areas in North Luzon pollute the main source the fiber op- of the ABS – CBN last November 15, 2007 was defi- restructuring of Benpres pros- The succeeding topics included The Leaders’ Fo- Mabuhay! Patrol Mo” for their events and pro- of water for 12 million tic block. nitely a “break through.” The summit was attended by pered after five years of -nego rum on Leading Transformation which featured panel- project that ductions. people in Metro Ma- Asian a record number of 196 participants from the different tiation with its creditors. Benpres ists Maria Ressa, former CNN bureau chief for Asia allowed June nila. Eye Insti- Lopez Group companies. president Angel S. Ong said that and now senior vice president and head of ABS-CBN voters to Bayan Foundation OML reminded Lopez Group tute’s first The Summit started with the welcome of participants “the capacity to pay them im- News, and Josiah Go, TOYM/TOYP awardee and cur- take the marked its tenth year executives during the midyear conference satellite by Agnes Fidelino, managing director of MMLDC, proves with better business outlook for our rent CEO of Mansmith and Fielders. Both panelists power of with a shift in its phi- to have a high degree of preparedness clinic was this year’s host company. She highlighted the group’s units.” shared their experiences, key strategies, insights and the media losophy and strategies, August for whatever obstacle the group might opened in “Transformers” whom she recognized as those respon- challenges in leading transformation in their respective literally from pure microfinance encounter. TriNoma sible for the breakthroughs in their respective areas. Bayad Center ventured into franchis- organizations. in their institution or MFI to The results of a Lo- in Quezon HR Council chair, Mercedes “Cedie” L. Vargas who ing to allow it to expand locally and be After a sumptuous buffet lunch and networking, hands. social development institution offering pezLink readership sur- City. gave the opening message talked about the achieve- global as several learning modules followed, which included ses- ABS- “microfinance plus-plus.” vey indicated the read- New ments of the HR Council as the prime mover for group well to reach sions on performance and rewards management, talent CBN con- ABS-CBN flourished due to the 20% overseas ers’ growing preference and different programming (Top photo) Sen. Mar Roxas (center) with activities which include enhancing the HR strategic management and retention strategies, and OD trends. tinued to increase in airtime revenues in the first Filipino for more English stories lineup await Sky Cable sub- (l-r, front row) HR Core Council members role, Investors in People (IiP), HR website and shared The second plenary session on the Things We Can dominate the TV industry as AGB-NMR three months of 2007, also attributed to workers and over Tagalog or English- scribers beginning January 1, Fil Alfonso, Agnes Fidelino, Lea Wong, services project (HR BPO). Do for Our Country was handled by Atty. Alexander National Urban TV Audience Measure- numerous campaign ads. Meralco also re- communities Tagalog or Taglish. 2008. Art Florentin, Cedie Vargas, Beth Canlas, She also emphasized the role of HR in Organiza- Lacson, author of the “Twelve Little Things Every Fili- ment (NUTAM) declared the network as covered from its net loss of P748 million abroad. October Twenty-two electricity Budith Palmero and Cris Villaluz; (back tional Transformation involvement and empowerment pino Can Do to Help Our Country.” the leading station nationwide. The TV during the Q1 2006 and gained P532 mil- First The achievements of thieves were convicted since row) Jig Yan, Pinky Diokno, Mabelle Ra- as key to development and change. The closing message was rendered by Miguel L. ratings were garnered from March 4-31, lion net income in Q1 2007. First Gen’s Gen donated the Lopez Group’s Six January 2007 due to Meral- mos and Yiessa Borbon; (Above) Panelist Keynote speaker Federico “Piki” R. Lopez talked Fil Alfonso and Mike L. Lopez. who delivered the clos- Lopez, Meralco AVP and head of North Branches. 2007 where ABS-CBN got an overall net profit increased to 33% during the first P3 million for Sigma pioneer, flexible co’s strict implementation of Maria Ressa, ABS-CBN SVP. about the rapid change that the Lopez Group went ing remarks. “Breaking through transformation is done by design. share of 47% vs. the competition’s three months of 2007 while consolidated the establish- printed circuits (FPCs) its campaign against electric- 35%. revenues increased to 22%. ment of the manufacturer First ity pilferage.  LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 

and math for Grades 5 and 6 and a begin- as “an effort to lift the standards of educa- TEAM-Mindanao launched “Salam” ning read program for students in Grades tion for Filipino students in ARMM public (Arabic for “peace”) in response to an Impact of 1 and 2. The latter is implemented through schools in order to give them a stronger urgent need to wage peace…in the minds a partnership between USAID’s Education chance for a brighter and better future.” of our youth who have been overexposed EXECUTIVE FEATURE in ARMM for Quality Access to Learning and Liveli- As part of TEAM-Mindanao, KCFI was to violence in all its forms,” said KCFI’s hood Skills (EQuALLS) program, of which tasked to provide ETV through its flagship Lopez-Bautista. The 10-episode video These figures and anecdotes prove TEAM-Mindanao is a part, and the Austra- project, KCh, and ensure that the channel modules, which aimed to deliver the mes- that Islamic end-users—children lian Agency for International Development was being used continuously by the schools sage of peace through visuals and drama, living amidst the sociocultural is- (AusAid). for maximum impact. were aired in the Makabayan subject slot sues that plague the Autonomous According to Sec. Lapus, in TEAM- Partners’ roles and contributions for Grades 5 and 6. Region in Muslim Mindanao Mindanao, “we see emerging an effective The other private organizations The KCh Quiz Bee Challenge was (ARMM)—respond positively to framework which has proven effective and government agencies that made up also held in Zamboanga del Sur in 2007, innovative and sustained inter- outcomes. All schools we have visited have TEAM-Mindanao also got busy, taking on a sequel of sorts to the first competition vention, not unlike their Metro registered improvement in their national specific roles and contributions to achieve in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao in 2006. Manila and Luzon counterparts. Clockwise from top: The last TEAM-M satellite dish is assembled by USAID mission director Jon Lindborg achievement tests and shown the capacity the goal of providing access to quality Students from 29 elementary schools dem- • Some ARMM schools report- (center) and Department of Education Sec. Jesli Lapus (second from right) with representatives of Knowledge building to mobilize support from the com- education to 150 ARMM schools within onstrated the effectiveness of KCh as a ed an increase in enrollment Channel, San Isidro ES representatives, local government officials and the Parent-Teacher Community As- munity, local government units and PCTAs three years. learning tool by answering questions based of 10%, and a decrease in sociation lending a helping hand; KCFI president Rina Lopez with Titay Central ES champ in Zamboanga; and [parents, teachers and community assem- The central office of the DepEd assist- on the channel’s math, science, English and absenteeism, especially in the TEAM-Mindanao staffers get together one last time for a photo op: (front row) Nagdir Jauhali, Doris Nuval, blies].” ed KCFI in integrating KCh in the public Filipino content. primary levels. Cyprus Ibnohasim and Nikki Marquez, (back row) Ali Monib and Loriedel Clarito. He also said that “education in general educational system, while DepEd-ARMM By the time TEAM-Mindanao galloped • In Zamboanga Sibugay, al- TEAM... is considered the number one measure in supported TEAM-Mindanao in carry- towards its third and last year of implemen- most all KCh schools posted from page 1 poverty alleviation and…proven worldwide ing out the project on the field level. The tation, 150 Muslim Mindanao schools had significant increases in all to be an instrument of peace in areas of con- Alliance for Mindanao Off-grid Renew- been provided with KCh, benefiting a total subject areas in the Division Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao flict.” able Energy Program (Amore) provided of 78,529 students every year in 31 munici- Nuval (center of last row) Achievement Tests, such as: (ARMM), Region 9 (Zamboanga del Norte, Equal footing and maintained the solar panels used to palities in ARMM, Region 9 and Region hams it up with TEAM-Min- Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay Reflecting on the most evident effect electrify public schools in 35 island- and 12. All “Salam” and “Negosyo Ko, Asenso danao beneficiaries in Brgy. Tumbao, Buluan, Maguin- SCHOOL SY 2005-2006 SY 2006-2007 and ) and Region 12 (North of KCFI, USAID and TEAM-Mindanao’s mountain-barangays. The free use of ABS- Ko” episodes had also been produced and danao after installing ETV Rank Score Rank Score Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sarangani, Sultan three-year odyssey, project director Doris CBN’s transponder space allowed KCh to are currently airing over KCh and its sister infrastructure in one of the Habib Moin Anduhol 25 50.35% 7 63.34% Kudarat, Kidapawan City and Koronadal Nuval pointed out that the children and beam its programs to KCh schools all over stations. most depressed project sites Bangkerohan Elementary 27 43.03% 1 68% City), made its 150th and final stop in the teachers of Sitangkal, Tawi Tawi to a cer- the country, even as ABS-CBN Foundation Project director Nuval, who moved to south in November 2007. For San Isidro tain degree are now on equal footing with Inc. (AFI) assisted KCFI in programming Mindanao in 2004 especially to oversee the in ARMM--Tumbao ES. • Activated Parent, Teachers’ Elementary School in Midsayap, North Co- their counterparts in Manila. Like Manila KCh. TEAM-Mindanao project, noted that KCh and Community Associations tabato, TEAM-Mindanao for the final time schoolchildren and teachers, they “now also Other TEAM-Mindanao partners in- has impacted on the academic performance (PCTAs) which have raised played the part of modern-day wise men enjoy and learn from educational television, cluded the National Broadcasting Network, of its end users, especially in the province funds for 45 additional TV sets bearing the Gift of Knowledge: free satellite in effect equalizing teaching and learning Eskwela ng Bayan, Save the Children, cable of Zamboanga Sibugay. for their respective schools, TV infrastructure, digital receivers, 29-inch opportunities,” Nuval said. TV operators, LGUs, local school boards, Risks for love for the Filipino ensuring project sustainability. TV sets and other educational TV (ETV) It was in 2004 when KCFI and the and PCTAs. As TEAM-Mindanao’s ends its • General S.K. Pendatun Pri- facilities. USAID signed a memorandum of agree- Accomplishments southern odyssey, Nuval recalled the last mary School in Paglas also Witnessing the turnover of the Gift of ment (MOA) to provide Knowledge Chan- In its first year, KCh installed 42 satel- three years: “[They were] dotted with reported an increase in enroll- Knowledge to the school’s young represen- nel—the cable TV channel that supplements lite dishes, digital receivers and TV sets adventures of the riskiest and richest ment levels. tatives were DepEd Secretary Jesli Lapus, the chalk-and-board teaching method with in seven Maguindanao municipalities, kind—getting lost in the middle of the Doris S. Nuval • Teachers have reported a light- US Agency for International Development ETV materials matched to the curriculum of including Datu Paglas, a formerly war-torn Sea looking for island barangays ening of their loads and an (USAID) officials led by mission director the Department of Education (DepEd)—to area that has since been transformed into which disappeared in the mist, crossing increase in children’s learning Jon Lindborg, and local government offi- public schools in the ARMM provinces of a thriving economic zone. Ten episodes of crocodile-infested waters to get to the cials. “Negosyo Ko, Asenso Ko” livelihood Maguindanao and BaSulTa (Basilan, Sulu “Negosyo Ko, Asenso Ko,” a business and mountain schools of Zamboanga del Sur, Savingthe world because they are “stimulated by the visuals, catching up video modules for the parents and out-of- and Tawi Tawi). livelihood skills series, were also produced getting caught in the crossfire of feuding easily with the day’s lessons.” school youth were also turned over to Sec. The agreement was entered into as part by TEAM-Mindanao in that first year for families in Basilan, and installing satellite • PCTAs from 16 schools in Lapus at the same event. of the TEAM-Mindanao program, which out-of-school youth displaced by the armed dishes in the midst of military operations North Cotabato, Maguindanao, Impact of RP-US investments sought to provide “quality educational inter- conflict. in Maguindanao.” one classroom at a time Zamboanga Sibugay and Tawi The DepEd chief and Lindborg later vention in the form of ETV to schools and The launch of Year 2 in November 2005 “No doubt, there were times when we Tawi raised funds on their own L-R: Children enjoy new books at a learning center established visited a number of schools in Cotabato students in ARMM.” heralded the entry of KCh into the BaSulTa asked ourselves if the effort was worth all to buy 45 additional TV sets by USAID/EQuALLS’ ASCEND-Mindanao (Assistance for the City and Maguindanao province to see Used for maximum impact area, as well as the arrival of Tawi Tawi these,” she shared. “We found the answers By Carla-Paras Sison Nuval says: “I really would like for their schools, highlighting Comprehensive Educational Development of Mindanao) program first-hand the impact of joint Philippine- The ARMM provinces, according to to the age of communications technology. in the faces of little children whose eyes lit to see KCh mainstreamed as soon as the program as a “prototype of implemented in Midsayap public schools; Newly published teachers’ US investments in education in Mindanao. the TEAM-Mindanao brief, had had “the Tawi Tawi is believed to be one of the most up and stay lit upon seeing television for the SA totoo lang, a more colorful person- possible for the collective sake of our project sustainability.” guides for “Salam”—peace education modules for Grades 5 and They observed a teachers’ training session worst human development indexes in the neglected Philippine provinces as far as the first time.” ality I cannot find. children and our country’s future.” 6—have been distributed to all Knowledge Channel beneficiaries. that improves the quality of English, science country.” The region not only grappled delivery of basic services—especially edu- KCFI president Lopez-Bautista ex- For 1970s activist, people organizer At present, KCh is trying to raise with a myriad of socio-eco-political and cation—is concerned, with a reported 40% pressed it best in her speech during the and broadcaster Doris S. Nuval, joining funds with which to produce a complete cultural issues; the dismal picture ex- illiteracy rate among children over 10 years launch of TEAM-Mindanao’s second the Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. set of high school programs covering all tended to the area of education: teacher- old. year in Languyan, Tawi Tawi in 2005: (KCFI) was a fortuitous confluence of her major subject areas—math, science and to-student ratios of up to 1:153, paucity At the end of Year 2, TEAM-Mindanao “The Knowledge Channel is only one of a personal and KCFI’s organizational goals. English. The project is estimated to cost of books and other learning materials, the had brought the world to some 75,000 grade multitude of programs being implemented “I decided that it was only the Lopez approximately P312 million for a mini- TEAM-Mindanao BRIEF perception of corruption in the bureau- school and high school students in 127 pub- in Mindanao and around the Philippines Group which could do this feat, which mum of 40 weekly episodes for four cracy, and lack of emphasis on values lic schools in ARMM, Region 9 and Region to end poverty and promote peace. But it really was my dream for the longest year levels for the three subject areas. POOR quality of basic public education per- TEAM-Mindanao echoes the priorities set out-of-school youth and the underemployed formation. 12. is our way of expressing our love for the time,” recalls Nuval. “My passion for us- Attitude with a big ‘P’ petuates poverty among Filipino families. It is by the USAID. It focuses on the education in ARMM. The alliance capitalized upon the KCFI president Rina Lopez Bautista in Last year of implementation Filipino, which includes the Muslim Fili- ing TV as an educational tool was borne “Where to find that kind of money a root cause of the Philippines’ underdevelop- sector, addressing the need for a strategic and expertise of partners in educational television 2004 had described the KCFI-USAID pact At the start of its third year in 2007, pino.” during my prison days when I used to at the quickest possible time without ment. The call for urgent and collective action innovative intervention in ARMM. Alliance programming, communications technology, spend a lot of time in front of the boob my cancer recurring is the biggest persists for the resource-rich but war ravaged partners contribute cash and their expertise in and audiovisual content and production. Lo- tube and realized how much it could challenge I face today,” quips Nuval, a Mindanao. communications technology, broadcast media, cal groups were directly involved in project mold people. It was in prison that I made breast cancer survivor and volunteer of Hence, TEAM-Mindanao, a public-private education and educational television to deliver implementation, monitoring and evaluation. up my mind to join TV if and whenever patient advocacy group ICanServe. alliance under USAID’s Global Development the services to the target beneficiaries. Cable operator partners’ services were sought; it was that I would get out. When I did, “It will get done,” she declares. Alliance was created which falls under USAID’s Delivery of the technology-based interven- especially for the far-flung and war-torn areas Milestones in mindanao I joined People’s Television 4 as its news This is why she is scouring the envi- L-R: Nagdir Jauhali, Knowledge Channel Zamboanga City area manager; objective of providing access to quality education tion requires the pooling together of the expertise of Basilan and Sulu. and public affairs director, where I stayed ronment in order to be as exact as pos- Rene Olympiada, SkyCable Zamboanga; Aldo Kohoyan, AMORE electrical under the program Education for Quality Access to and resources of key institutions and organiza- • Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. Knowledge Channel at the end of Year senior officials from the USAID, for 13 years until I joined the NGO (non- sible in pinpointing potential funders. engineer; Jong Alvarez, SkyCable Zamboanga City; and Nuval. Learning and Livelihood Skills (or EQuALLS). tions. The alliance partners that will implement (KCFI) and alliance partners in Datu 1 of TEAM-Mindanao. KCFI and DepEd at the DepEd office government organization) sector.” “Working on further enhancing The provinces of the Autonomous Region TEAM-Mindanao include, among others, the Paglas, Maguindanao signed a memo- • The first KCh Quiz Bee Challenge is on July 2007. Turning point of public education one’s charm in order to captivate the time student activist organizing labor Tawi, Sulu and Basilan, and immersing of Muslim Mindanao (or ARMM)--predomi- Department of Education/ARMM DepEd, randum of understanding with the Alli- held in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. • Completion of 150th school in Nuval’s dream is to see Knowledge elusive donor certainly wouldn’t do unions. It’s a lifetime commitment I with her “constituent” Muslim brothers nantly Muslim provinces, namely: Basilan, La- Knowledge Channel (educational television), ance for Mindanao Off-Grid Renewable The competition aims to gauge the ef- ARMM, Region 9 and Region 12 are Channel (KCh) in every classroom in any harm. Lastly, I do bank on a lot of made at that time—to serve my country and sisters—Nuval would now like to nao del Sur, Maguindanao, Shariff Kabunsuan, Central CATV Inc. (cabling and satellite tech- Program (AMORE) to provide access to fectiveness of KCh as a learning tool provided with Knowledge Channel the Philippine educational system. attitude with a huge ‘P’ for POSITIVE, in any which way I can; and so far, I try out life in the Cordilleras as that Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, and the Philippines’ only nologies), ABS-CBN Broadcasting, National the Knowledge Channel through wire- with its contest questions based on the through the installation of satellite As project director for the Televi- and prayers of course, so that enlight- haven’t reneged on that promise.” area holds a special place in her heart. predominantly Muslim city, the Islamic City of Broadcasting Network and Eskwela ng Bayan less technology or digital satellite dishes channel’s content in English, Filipino, dishes, digital receivers and 29-inch sion Education for the Advancement of enment may befall the donors.” Nuval has spent 20 years of her “I’m not done yet with my adven- Marawi--ihave the worst human development (programming for educational TV). and electricity through the installation science and math. TV sets. This translates to 78,529 Muslim Mindanao (TEAM-Mindanao) Lifetime commitment professional life in public service, and tures. I’d truly like to stay with KCh indexes in the country. ARMM is torn by de- Other private and public partners were of solar panels in unenergized schools • Formal turnover of peace education students in 31 municipalities watch- project that ran for three years, Nuval Looking at the bigger picture, Nu- the past seven years in the development until I retire—whenever that may be.” cades of war and rebellion. also on board to implement the project, such in the Autonomous Region in Muslim modules “Salam” to DepEd Sec. ing the channel’s curriculum-based has witnessed firsthand how educational val hopes to see fellow Filipinos pull world, “trying to make that proverbial dif- Her message to fellow members of Enrolment rates in ARMM are far from being as the Mindanao-based Notre Dame Founda- Mindanao (ARMM). The MOU is Jesli Lapus with US Ambassador to programs. TV works. She believes it “could well themselves out of poverty and live their ference in the lives of our kababayans.” the Lopez Group: “Seize the moment. the lowest. But the education crisis is interwoven tion for Charitable Activities Inc. and Save At the first installation, alliance partners of the three- signed as part of the three-year program the Philippines Kristie Kenney, Lopez • Formal turnover of business and live- be the turning point of public education lives in dignity. Trying out life in the Cordilleras Keep the welfare of our country and in a more complex web of socio-eco-political the Children’s ASCEND-Mindanao program. year project, L-R: acting US deputy chief of mission Television Education for the Advance- Group chairman and KCFI chairman lihood modules called “Negosyo Ko, from the state it finds itself in”—with its “I know I may not see this in my After her stint with the USAID-as- kababayan primordial in your minds. and cultural issues. Within the educational sys- On-the-ground partners helped pinpoint Scott Bellard, KCh executive director Rina Lopez- ment of Muslim Mindanao (TEAM- Oscar M. Lopez, KCFI president Rina Asenso Ko” for out-of-school youth own elementary school products failing lifetime but am prepared nonetheless to sisted TEAM Mindanao project which The Group is sooooooo correct in tem alone, teacher-to-student ratios run up to learning centers, community telecenters and Bautista, former mayor and TOYM awardee Datu Mindanao). Lopez-Bautista, Office of the Presi- to DepEd Secretary Jeslie Lapus and the high school readiness tests, and high wait it out and perhaps even help speed took her back to her activist years— keeping its investments in the Philip- 1:153. Textbooks are scarce. The quality of the village halls where the Knowledge Chan- Ibrahim ‘Toto’ Paglas II, USAID’s Chato Calderon • 42 satellite dishes, digital receivers dential Adviser on the Peace Process the Bureau of Alternative Learning in schoolers placing second to the last in up the process. I have been at this since sometimes backpacking for weeks on pines, and am mighty proud to belong teaching-learning process is lacking. nel may be installed for the benefit of the and USAID chief of education Thomas J. Kral. and 29-inch TV sets were installed by (OPAPP) Secretary Jesus Dureza and Midsayap, Cotabato. international math and science tests. my late teen years when I was a full- end in the island barangays of Tawi to it. Sa totoo lang.” 10 LOPEZLINKDec 2007 - Jan 2008 CSRACTIVITIES LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 11 MNTC president Jose LOPEZ Group Foundation Inc. P. de Jesus (kneeling, (LGFI), in cooperation with the left) and Pulilan Iloilo Economic Development mayor Vicente Es- MNTC to plant 20,000 trees within NLEX Foundation, recently held twin guerra plant the launches for the coffee table book first sapling at the By Kit Ventura De Jesus was joined by Pulilan committed to environmental pro- together with Candaba Mayor “Iloilo: A Rich and Noble Land.” Pulilan interchange Mayor Vicente Esguerra, MNTC tection.” Jerry Pelayo, employees went to The book was launched in Rock- of the North Luzon EMPLOYEE volunteers from employees and friends, and town The “Greening of NLEX” is part the Candaba Swamp in Pampanga well Palm Grove on November Expressway (NLEX) Manila North Tollways Corp. officials and employees. of MNTC’s larger environmental to plant about 3,000 trees; their 21, 2007 and at the Investment to set in motion (MNTC) and the Pulilan, Bula- “We will plant trees wherever program, earlier implemented and objective was to prevent erosion Forum in Iloilo City on Novem- MNTC’s “Green- can government planted about there is plantable space within the monitored during the construction in the area. ber 27, 2007. ing the NLEX” tree 500 young trees at the Pulilan expressway,” said De Jesus, “so and at the start of NLEX operations, MNTC also participated in the In his launch speech, LGFI planting program. Interchange of the North Luzon long as they do not pose risks to according to Luigi Bautista, MNTC Green Philippine Highways project chair Oscar M. Lopez (OML), who Witnessing the rite is Expressway (NLEX) to set in safety.” He added: “These trees senior vice president. of the Department of Environment will add beauty to the entire length De Jesus said that MNTC’s and Natural Resources (DENR) by also served as chair of the “Iloilo” MNTC vice president motion MNTC’s “Greening the of the NLEX.” tree planting program reflects planting trees along NLEX inter- editorial board, said: “Iloilo de- for corporate com- NLEX” tree planting program. By the end of 2008, MNTC Mayor Esguerra said: “We the Lopez Group’s commitment changes in Bulacan and Pampanga, serves a closer look. I thought it munication Marlene shall have planted 20,000 trees welcome this opportunity to plant to environmental protection. as well as the Pampanga provincial was high time for a book like N. Ochoa and Pu- lilan councilor Mar along the stretch of the NLEX, said trees at the Pulilan Interchange, The company piloted its tree government’s “Save Mt. Arayat this—a multifaceted look at the MNTC president Jose P. de Jesus. since our local government is planting program in 2006 when, Movement” in 2006. province we love. As you will find The Queen City of the South Enriquez. out as you read our book, it re- minds us about the noble heritage as much as the outstanding work of our ka-Ilonggos at present.” The book, which was edited AFI’s E-Media launches S4S campaign ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.’s E- youth to reach out to public el- by Anna Feleo, takes the reader AFI E-Me- Media program recently launched ementary schools in Bicol, Biliran, on a tour of Iloilo’s history, eco- dia program its S4S (Schools for Schools) cam- Samar and Leyte by providing nomics, culture, food, language, director Zen paign, with Department of Educa- them with educational television architecture, literature, sports, updates Dimalanta (2nd tion (DepEd) officials and school (ETV) materials. cosmology and many more. from left) with organization leaders from Metro Celebrity supporters of S4S The book also provides attrac- (l-r) DepEd’s Manila colleges and universities include , Arvin tions of present-day Iloilo such is back Dr. Rebecca attending the event held at Studio “Tado” Jimenez and the band 12 schools receive Ragrag, Romeo as its tourism sites and facilities 1 of ABS-CBN. 6cyclemind, which arranged and Glen Sumido, like the Santa Barbara Golf Club, S4S aims to encourage school interpreted the campaign’s theme ‘Gift of Knowledge’ Usec. Antonio the oldest golf club in the Philip- organizations to make S4S the song entitled “Sagot Kita.” Check Inocentes and Dr. pines which is celebrating its The Knowledge Channel Foundation (KCFI) beneficiary of their outreach and out the music video and other de- Sol Matugas at 100th year. The colorful volume and Samsung Electronics Philippines (SEPCO) fundraising activities. With this tails on S4S at www.s4scampaign. the S4S launch. also gives helpful information on recently turned over the Gift of Knowledge to project, S4S hopes to gather the org. (She Capili) retirement havens and investment 1 12 beneficiary schools. Representatives from the opportunities in the province. schools in Antipolo, and Camarines Norte “It frankly brought back attended the turnover ceremonies held in Gatla- memories,” OML said of the bayan National High School in Antipolo City. The book. “When I was born in 1930, schools now watch programs on the Knowledge Call for entries: Iloilo was the undisputed Queen 2 3 Channel through satellite dish installations. This City of the South. My siblings is made possible by a P2-million grant from FPCI leads coastal Geny, Presy and I were raised in Samsung’s Digital Hope program. Photo shows ‘Panibagong a city then at the peak of its gran- Rina Lopez Bautista (3rd fom left) at the turnover deur. We grew up feeling that we ceremonies with (l-r) Antipolo mayor Victor were a part of a rich and noble Sumulong, SEPCO head for product value infor- Paraan’ mation Lyna Tan, and Antipolo Schools Division cleanup in Batangas heritage.” superintendent Dr. Aurea Sto. Domingo. OML stressed that though the in Laurel Park in Batangas City. P1M grant Lopezes are now based in Metro Sector coordinators agreed to spin Manila, they have never lost their the motorcade early on to get to affection for the city of their their respective sites early and start competition childhood. removing debris. ENTRIES are now being accepted for Sixteen writers, among them 4 Volunteers from First Gen, FPCI, the “Panibagong Paraan 2008” project Dr. Leoncio Deriada, Demy Son- local divers from Verde Island and OC- grant competition, where winners will za, Raul Rodrigo, Go Bon Juan, VAS made up the underwater cleanup be extended grants of up to P1 million to Art Cariaga, Augusto Villalón, 5 team. Eric Parfan of FPCI led the div- turn their innovative ideas into action. Hazel Villa, Diosa Labiste and ing team in removing debris along the “Panibagong Paraan 2008” invites Michaela Fenix. More than half reef areas of Pagkilatan. Rey Laguda of ideas for projects that can be completed of the book is devoted to color First Gen took pictures of the volunteer within one year and can help improve pictures, with photographer Son- divers conducting the “scubasurero.” citizens’ quality of life through effec- ny Yabao capturing through his Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto (extreme right) listens to the ICC presen- By midday, the cleanup was over tive local governance. lenses the beautiful landscapes tation of FPCI’s Reyes. Beside her are PG-ENRO Estigoy and Conservation and the volunteers were happy and Proposed projects should revolve and seascapes of Iloilo, the old International Philippines’ Romy Trono and a DENR-EMB official. felt fulfilled a sense of pride for shar- around the theme “Building Partner- churches and the elegant family PHOTOS:CARLO BAVIERA ing their day to help Mother Earth. ships For Effective Local Governance,” mansions and the day-to-day life By Gerry Reyes tional areas in the bay. Cleanup sites in The one-day cleanup serves as a and utilize multi-stakeholder partner- of the Ilonggos. Batangas City covered 25 barangays. wakeup call to raise the awareness ships to improve transparency and in Philip Morris cited on the issue on the marine debris. According to OML, the board More than 4,000 volunteers de- In the 2006 ICC, Batangas province governance, improve quality of citizen Together, we can make a dif- hopes that “our book will awaken scended on beaches, waterways and outnumbered other provinces in the participation in governance, strengthen 6 for work with KCh mangrove areas in various sites of ference and take the challenge to the entrepreneurial zeal of the Philippines with a huge volunteer collaboration among stakeholders and 7 the Batangas Bay on September pursue our quest for a cleaner world Ilongos, as its pages make that ap- 8 9 Philip Morris Philippines’ work with educational turnout, totaling 14,231. Partial results improve efficiency of public services. 15-16, 2007 to show their environ- of the recent cleanup submitted by co- environment. peal to share and be involved for TV in the Philippines was recognized as one of Entries should be in the form of a mental support to the annual Inter- ordinators the good of our beloved Iloilo.” the best examples of corporate citizenship by the concept paper and submitted to dimp@ Prominent Ilonggos and other guests who trace their roots to Iloilo spotted at the book national Coastal Cleanup (ICC). show more “Iloilo” editorial board members US Chamber of Commerce. worldbank.org, cc: dimp2008_wb@ launch: The company was one of five finalists for the First Philippine Conservation than 27,000 yahoo.com (please indicate subject as: include Narzalina Lim, Rex Drilon, 1. Lopez Group chairman Oscar M. Lopez at the book launch International Community Service Award—one Inc. (FPCI) spearheaded the global volunteers. Project Grant Competition Entry). They Raul Rodrigo, Dario Pagcaliwagan 2. Connie Lopez with Washington SyCip of five categories for the 8th Corporate Citizen- event in Batangas City, together T he may also be mailed, sent by courier or and Dulce Festin-Baybay. 3. Lopez Group executives Art de Guia, Angel Ong, Elpidio Ibañez and Boo Chanco ship Awards—for its two-year collaboration with with the Rotary Club of Batangas, volunteers hand-delivered to “Panibagong Paraan “Iloilo: A Rich and Noble 4. Fourth generation Lopezes: Jay, Cary, Mike and Mark Knowledge Channel. the industry-based Batangas Coastal from vari- 2008” Secretariat, 23/F Taipan Place, Land,” published by LGFI, is 5. ‘Iloilo’ book’s writers with OML with editorial board members Narz Lim and Rex Drilon Managing director Chris Nelson and Knowl- Resources Management Foundation ous schools, F. Ortigas Jr. Road (formerly Emerald distributed nationwide by ABS- 6. Ping de Jesus, Rex Drilon, Sen. Manny Villar, Jun Palafox and Jose Mari Chan edge Channel Foundation (KCFI) president Rina (BCRMF), the University of Batan- govern- Avenue), Ortigas District, Pasig City. CBN Publishing Inc. To order 7. Margot Fragante with Sen. Serge Osmeña Lopez-Bautista attended the awards dinner at the gas, Provincial Government-Envi- ment of- Deadline is on December 22, 2007, contact Joanne Celocia at 454- 8. Former First Lady Ming Ramos National Museum Building in Washington DC. ronment and Natural Resources Of- fices and 5 p.m. For more information, visit 5192 or 454-5195, or visit www. 9. Secretariat girls Dottie Gonzales, Giselle Abcede, Vanessa Suquila, Diane Miñon and Julie “We have to give credit to our partner which fice (PG-ENRO), and other sector civic orga- www.panibagongparaan.com or contact metrozines.com. A 10% discount Cueva is the Knowledge Channel and that helps when coordinators. nizations [email protected], cc: dimp2008_ will be given for orders of 10 10. Pepito Ng, Rockwell Land’s Tong Padilla and Lopez Memorial Museum’s Cedie Lopez- you’re working with someone who’s progressive, Blessed with a beautiful day, assembled [email protected] or cellphone no. 0920- copies or more. Free delivery na- 10 11 Vargas who’s also keen to work with you,” Nelson said cleanup volunteers eagerly removed as early as 9251137. tionwide. (Dulce Festin-Baybay) 11. Sen. trash in known marine debris deposi- 5:30 a.m. UB-NSTP volunteers on Leah Beach, Brgy. Tabangao 1 LOPEZLINKDec 2007 - Jan 2008 LIFELONG WELLNESS LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 1 meralco is back-to-back champion Team standings Ongoings @ ZeRO IN 6: HYBRIDITY By Macky de Lima court press to a 2-3 zone defense. This and individual Catch ongoing ‘Zero In: turned the second quarter into a wres- Stories on Philippine art: ‘Filipina MERALCO repeated as basketball tling match inside. Veteran lead guards champions with a 93-87 victory over Enriquez and Nandy Padua orchestrat- Hybridity’ exhibits ABS-CBN last Nov 23, 2007. Relying ed successful scoring opportunities for Final team standings as Couture’ with Patis Tesoro on its balanced scoring and veteran Cerezo in the perimeter which freed up January 19, 2008 (Saturday), 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. ON its sixth year, the Zero In wranglings, appropriations W L savvy, Meralco showed nerves of steel the shaded lane for Meralco bigs Rom- Fee: P50 (Students), P100 (Museum Foundation members), P150 (Nonmembers) museum consortium of Ateneo Art and erasures—how the hybrid to out-steady the athletic and youthful mel Bonifacio and Mark Soriano. The Meralco 8 l Gallery, , Bahay not only brings up the idea of ABS-CBN squad in the end game. second quarter ended with Meralco on ABS-CBN 8 2 THE Lopez Memorial Museum and the nila University, the Dakilang Pilipina award Tsinoy, Lopez Memorial Museum newness but also of move- Meralco had four scorers in double top by nine points, 49-40. Tollways Management Corp 6 3 Museum Foundation of the Philippines for Fashion from the Caloocan Jaycees, and takes on the ment as opposed to stasis, as Flurry of three-pointers will host a lecture by pioneer local and the Ten Outstanding Women in the notion of the crossbreed in a joint well as residue or debris in its figures: Jefferson Tabora (20 pts.), Regin Soluziona 5 3 Cerezo (13 pts.), Ace Lee (13 pts.) and After the half-time break, ABS CBN fabric advocate Patis Tesoro on “Fil- Nation’s Service (TOWNS) award in institutional exploration of like- formulation. Rodrigo Enriquez (10 pts.). ABS-CBN tried to regain the lead with Simbajon, First Gen 3 4 ipina as Couture” on Jan. 19, 2008, 1992. ness and variance. The exhibit, curated by relied mostly on Marlon Simbajon who Randy Picache and Jun Panganiban in Philec 3 4 Saturday, from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. The “Stories on Philippine Lopez Museum’s Eileen Le- the husband-and-wife team of Angono Regional Pilot School had 30 points on 71% field goal accuracy the forefront. However, Tabora scattered First Holdings 3 5 Discovering that weaving of Art” lecture series aims to increase gaspi-Ramirez noted that Zero Chit Ramirez and Eileen Legaspi- In 6: Hybridity touches on both for the Arts and Joey Rafal who garnered 18 points on eight points in the third quarter which First Sumiden 3 5 indigenous fabrics was in decline, awareness of personalities, art forms Ramirez, also features the works 50% accuracy from the three-point range. ended at 71-65 in favor of Meralco. Tesoro sought to stem the tide by and practices in the country. Fee is utopic and dystopic inflections of of National Artists Ang Kiukok, art, displaying each child’s inter- First Balfour 1 6 Entering the championship match, The fourth quarter started with a enhancing the fabrics’ competi- P50 for students, P100 for Museum the shared theme. Bencab, Cesar Legaspi, Vicente pretation of “hybridity” in art. The Meralco and ABS-CBN were the top- flurry of three-pointers from Simbajon Wellness Team MNTC 0 7 tiveness. Various blends and use Foundation members and P150 for “The bad rap accorded ‘hybrid- Manansala, J Elizalde Navarro, exhibit will run until January 17, of natural dyes provided relatively non-Museum Foundation members. ity’ comes out of its being looked and the works of Ruiz and Garcel- 2008. scoring teams in the 2nd Lopez Life- and Rafal to put ABS-CBN ahead at head Raffy Alunan Individual awards inexpensive alternatives and Tesoro’s Lopez Memorial Museum is upon as an all-too convenient, lano. The exhibit will run until ’s Passion long Wellness Basketball Open. Both 76-75. A scoring drive by Picache and III hands the Most Valuable Player innovative designs enabled people to located at G/F Benpres Building, Exchange power-blind, cop-out against ro- April 5, 2008. and Compassion: A Collector’s teams topped the elimination round a three-pointer by Garett Cailles gave championship Randy Picache (ABS-CBN) see Filipiniana in a new light. Road cor. Meralco Avenue, Pasig City. For manticized notions of the unique View is a groundbreak- with identical 6-1 records. The tour- ABS-CBN its biggest margin of the trophy to two-time Best defensive player Tesoro’s interpretation and adaptation of the more info, call 631-2417 or 404-2685. and distinct,” she said. “After all, ing exhibit, a one-man nament Final Four showed Meralco game at seven points (82-75) with 6:12 winner Meralco Teodoro Blanco (Philec) Filipiniana to current fashion trends has earned for For more information on Patis Tesoro, visit very few contemporary portrayals show from the private victorious over Tollways Management remaining on the game clock. (above) and to Mythical Five her a Parangal ng Bayan award from Ateneo de Ma- www.patistesoro.com.ph/index.html of the Philippines and the Filipino collection of Dr. Leovino Corporation (TMC) (85-75) and ABS- It was at this point that the trio of Randy Picache (ABS-CBN); Marlon Simbajon first runner-up fail to play up how we come out Ma. Garcia, former dean CBN overcoming Soluziona, 77-62. Tabora, Lee and Manuel Calderon (ABS-CBN); Ramon Fabros (Meralco); Ace Lee A tale of four quarters ABS-CBN (right) of a Sino-Malay-Iberian-Yankee of the Ateneo de Manila stepped up big time with three-point- (Meralco); Jefferson Tabora (Meralco) blend, and that as this clichéd University’s School of The first quarter showcased the ers, barreling drives and offensive Statistical leaders imagining of the postcolonial, we Humanities. It explores scoring of ABS-CBN ace Simbajon rebounds to put back Meralco in the Points: 36.0 ppg Ralph Obuyes (MNTC) come branded as one of way too the largely unexamined who had 11 points in the period, mostly driver’s seat 90-87 with 1:36 to go. The Rebounds: 11.6 rpg Teodoro Blanco (Philec) many Asian variations of the meld- relationship between the on layups as his speed allowed him to last counted points of the match came hands when time Assists: 5.9 apg Wilfredo Alcala (Philec) ing of tradition and modernity.” visual artist and art en- beat the full court press of Meralco. via a booming three-pointer, courtesy expired. for hard work, Meralco repeated as Steals: 3.75 spg William Torres (First Sumiden) Dedication to teamwork “What we are attempting also thusiast in the Philippine The first quarter ended with ABS-CBN of reliable Tabora with 53 seconds re- champions of the Lopez Lifelong Well- Field Goal Shooting: 0.639% Rogelio Aquino plays into what may continue to setting. on top by 1 point, 20-19. maining in the match. The towering A counted dunk or not, the end of the ness Basketball Open. (MNTC) ‘Lumpia’ from ‘Comida China’ confront anyone who will become The exhibit revolves To negate ABS-CBN’s speed Lee tried to put an exclamation point match saw Meralco’s players, coaches Congratulations to Meralco! Con- 3-pt. Field Goal Shooting: 0.588% Kristian Arel- immersed in future cultural work,” ’s Comida Chi- around the works of Lao Lianben, advantage, Meralco’s coaching staff to the game with a two-handed dunk and cheering gallery ecstatic as they suc- gratulations also to ABS-CBN, TMC, lano (First Balfour) she said. “That said, hybridity ap- na references a gustatory meeting one of the country’s leading ex- composed of Ely Utzurrum and Cesar off Picache but this was waived off and cessfully defended their title. Through Soluziona, First Sumiden, First Hold- Free Throw Shooting: 0.825% Ralph Obuyes pears as a functional overarching of cultures, insinuated within ponents of abstract art. Dr. Garcia Dawana called for a change from full not counted as the ball was still in his its dedication to teamwork and passion ings, Philec, First Gen, First Balfour (MNTC) handle to accommodate this year’s historical accounts that remind us also curates, focuses attention on and Manila North Tollways Corp. Blocks: 4.29 bpg Enghelbert Castillo (Soluzi- outing, which in the tradition of that what appears as “seamless fu- the artist’s stylistic development (MNTC) for their active participation. ona) and Teodoro Blanco (Philec) past Zero In has been a coming to- sion” cuisine is not only about an and traces the fruitful interaction INNER WELLNESS CALENDAR Congratulations and thanks to Manage- Notable feat gether of polyvalent energies and enriching encounter, but also chips between painting and philosophy, ment Partners Group Inc. (MPG) for a Ralph Obuyes scored 73 of MNTC’s 93 points in START 2008 by uplifting your spirit istic insights can offer new insights into (students) museological persuasions. Zero away at prejudice and insistence vision and discourse, imagination job well done in managing this year’s a 94-93 loss vs. First Balfour on Nov. 15, 2007! with these lectures and workshops at the teachings of Jesus, and give clarity Contact: 0918-963-2305 basketball tournament. In: Hybridity then is a hybrid of on rabid notions of purity. Comi- and thought. The exhibit runs until , Makati. to some of His more obscure parables. takes on hybridization.” da China is one of many modest February 15, 2008. Part 1 is on “Reconciling Truths and Vital Switch Work- tales about indigeniza- Zero In:Hybridity represents a ‘Kabbalah and Building Bridges: The Relationship of shop French ambassador views exhibits, compatriots’ work at the Lopez Museum Ambassador Gerard tion—why component spectrum of mandates, audiences, Christianity and Kabbalah.” A one-day lecture with Samantha Wellness Team creates Lopez Chesnel of France, his wife Ning (center) and MNTC-Aegis Project S.A. director Jean Claude Neuman elements survive and acquisitional and educational Christianity’ In Part 2, “Kabbalistic Spirituality and Keen and Stephan Gorskiewicz visited the Lopez Memorial Museum. Museum director Mercedes Lopez-Vargas, Lopez Group chair- why others are relegated benchmarks. For more informa- A 2-part lecture series with Dr. Hugo the Christian Religion: Using the Wis- on February 2, 2008 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. man Oscar M. Lopez and wife Connie accompanied the guests as they viewed the exhibitions “Dime a to memory. The exhibit tion, contact Fanny San Pedro at Schwyzer dom of Kabbalah to Rediscover the @ Group health database Dozen,” “Blur” and “Cut and Paste,” and the library’s collection of books written by French travelers. will run until January 631-2417or visit www.zeroinmu- Spirit Behind Religious Laws, Dogmas A special treat for the visitors was the exhibition of selected Philippine and world maps, one of which on January 8-9, 2008, from 7:30 Fee: P2,000 “HEALTH is wealth” is never a cliché for the with information on their health and lifestyle, 31, 2008. seums.org. and Traditions,” Dr. Schwyzer will try was made by a French cartographer, Jacques Bellin. (Mary Ann Pernia) p.m.-9:30 p.m. Contact: 0918-9632305 employees and executives of Lopez Group from which a health and lifestyle profile will Museo Pambata’s to resolve apparent contradictions be- @ The Loft, 39/F Manansala Vital Switch provides meditation of companies. Chairman Oscar M. Lopez be developed. Child’s ART—Ad- tween Kabbalah and Christianity with Fee: P1,000 per day or P1,750 for and vitality exercises for people in is known for advocating for wellness as a The exercise will also determine how vocacy, Rights and historical and spiritual insights. two days. Early bird rates of P750 the corporate world. These tech- critical component of a company’s pursuit of aware the employees are of the group well- Thoughts invokes in- and P1,400 apply until Dec. 23, 2007 niques have been derived by Keen and journey to excellence even as the Lopez ness programs, as well as the level of their Cheers from MMLDC! terdisciplinarity in the Contact: Luigi Mapa at 0922- Chronic Fatigue context of alternative and Gorzkiewicz after studying with Lifelong Wellness (LLW), the group’s formal involvement. At the same time, the survey Artists Jose Tence Ruiz and Lyra Abueg 7681040, [email protected] education and child Syndrome Lecture Dr. Samuel Sagan, who has taught program and wellness policy, continues to participants will be able to suggest appro- Garcellano US-based history and Christianity A lecture with Samantha Keen thousands of people how to meditate ensure employees’ health and well being. priate wellness programs for the employees advocacy. By bringing professor Dr. Hugo Schwyzer will ex- on Jan. 31, 2008 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. through the Clairvision School of To this end, the Lifelong Wellness Team, in general and for specific groups in particu- Have a holiday party in the hills In Lopez Memorial Museum, together productions from the amine the compatibility of Christianity @ Rockwell Club, Amorsolo Bldg., meditation. with the cooperation of the HR officers of lar. THIS Christmas, Meralco Man- hybridity within the context of Museo’s Children’s Advocacy and Kabbalah, revealing how Kabbal- Fee: P500 (professionals), P200 the different companies, recently conducted The survey will enable the Lifelong Team agement and Leadership Devel- artistic agency. The exhibit Blur Program and works by children a survey to collect the latest health data of to streamline its programs for three categories opment Center (MMLDC) offers draws upon the creative practice from the Angono Regional Pilot Lopez Group employees. of employees—healthy, low-medium risk, and a stress-free and exciting holiday of a survey of artists repre- School for the Arts, the exhibition The survey is being conducted by a team high risk. Apart from knowing the group’s party package! sented in the museum collection, posits a nexus of art and social Meralco holds from the University of the Philippines (UP) health profile, the profiles of subsidiaries with With a minimum of 50 mounted alongside contemporary issues affecting Filipino children School of Statistics, led by its dean, Dr. Lisa a good sample size will also be known. guests, all the necessities will installations of Jose Tence Ruiz today. Child’s ART assembles a Dr. Garcia looking at spooky chess Bersales. HR officers met with the sampled em- be provided, including a buf- and Lyra Abueg Garcellano. Blur confluence of forms such as mu- Lao Lianben According to Lifelong Wellness Team ployees to administer the completion of the fet lunch or dinner, free round recognizes traces of negotiations, sic, painting, literature and media match head Rafael M. Alunan III, the survey aims questionnaire. In one of these meetings, the of iced tea or juice, Christmas to establish a baseline database of employees employees submitted their heath status data. centerpiece, free videoke setup, To celebrate Halloween, the gift certificate for lunch/dinner Zero In exhibition venues Meralco Chess Club, with the worth P500 net at the Areva support of Joel San Miguel of Food Pavilion, waived corkage fee “Blur” Kaisa-Angelo King Heritage Drive, Ermita, Manila and Recreational Services, recently ‘Walk the Talk’ goes to for up to five bottles of wine, Ongoing until April 5, 2008 Center Tel. no. 523-1797 conducted a blitz tournament at the free use of the sound system Lopez Memorial Museum 32 Anda cor. Cabildo Streets, JOIN the newest installment of “Walk the Talk” as it goes to Bay- Lopez Building Canteen. Employees and free parking. All these for G/F Benpres Bldg., Exchange , Manila “Passion and Compassion” walk, Pasay City on December 8, 2007 (Saturday). and their children played in their only P480.00++ per person! Road, Pasig City Tel. no. 526-6796 Ongoing until Feb. 15, 2008 This will be followed by a walk at the Ateneo de Manila Uni- best Halloween costumes and, as Have a blast with your friends Tel. no. 631-2417 and “Interactive” ongoing versity campus in January 2008. Additional details and posters will night fell, Romy Aguilar of Call and officemates as you enjoy the “Child’s ART (Advocacy, until March 31, 2008 be posted at lopezwellness.com. Center and dependents Joshua food, amenities, ambience and 30 minutes from Ortigas and 45 For inquiries and reserva- “Comida China” Rights and Thoughts)” Ateneo Art Gallery, Ateneo de “Walk the Talk” is open to all Lopez Group employees and their families. Participants Bersamina and Jerome Saltorio the excellent service in the lush minutes from Makati and Quezon tions, call the Marketing De- Ongoing until Jan. 31, 2007 Ongoing until Jan. 17, 2008 Manila University, Katipunan must register with their respective HR departments. Wear comfy attire and walking shoes, landed on top to win the gold, silver 10-hectare property of MMLDC City. With just a snap of a finger, partment at 632-8111 locals Bahay Tsinoy: Museum of Museo Pambata ng Maynila Avenue, Loyola Heights, Que- and bring cap, extra shirt, towel and water/refreshments. For more info, call Rico de Man- and bronze medals, respectively. situated along Km. 27, Sumulong your Christmas party preparation 304 to 306. (Ma. Carmela P. Chinese in Philippine Life Roxas Boulevard cor. South zon City ; Tel. no. 426-6488 zana at 449-6122. (Rolly Sol Cruz) Highway, Antipolo City—only problems are solved! Young) 1 LOPEZLINKDec 2007 - Jan 2008 MALLFINDS LOPEZLINK Dec 2007 - Jan 2008 1 Sudoku MERRY Christmas, kapamilya! Maglaro tayo ng Sudoku, ang bagong libangan By now everyone must be caught up in ng bayan! Ayusin lamang ang mga numero the usual whirlwind of activities that Fili- pino Christmases are known for—parties, simula 1 hanggang 9 para ang bawat numero gift collection and visits to charities, get- Yuletide cheer when ay minsan lang magagamit sa bawat row, togethers with dear friends at a favorite res- column at kahon. taurant, and reunions. We suggest you take Dear Rosie balikbayan relatives to some of the best the comes Lopez Group has to offer: shopping at the According to MNTC’s Marlene Ochoa, the company does not Power Plant Mall, plus a reintroduction to package tours, but they can ask the Baguio Conventions and Visitors Philippine art at the Lopez Museum, where Bureau for assistance regarding your query. Email Marlene Ochoa at the Zero In exhibit Blur is still ongoing. A [email protected]. bit further afield is MNTC’s answer to the ooOoo Autobahn, the world-class North Luzon How can we get a copy of “The Extra Mile” for our company? By Mira Marasigan near Expressway (NLEX). Thanks.—L.J. These past years, our Christmases have also been characterized by Bheng Relatado says you may contact the LAA Program Manage- a certain kind of accident. In fact, many us probably know of someone ment at 449-6005 or 449-6035 for a copy. Please take note that each whose house burned down on Christmas (personally, I do) because of company will soon be given a certain number of copies through their IT’S that time of year again fool you—it packs products Christmas raffle tax-free! New winners will your worries! Email him di- unattended or malfunctioning Christmas lights. We don’t want this to respective HRs. Thanks. when the days get shorter and that’s sure to please those who What better way to reward be drawn every weekend of rectly and confide your secret happen to anyone, so please take time to review the safety tips provided ooOoo the air starts to get cooler. love luxurious skin solutions, your passion for shopping December. So by purchasing Christmas yearning. We guar- by Meralco; you may think you know them by heart, but it won’t hurt to I’m thinking of getting a landline and Internet connection for Christmas is really just around from fragrances and divine than with a Christmas raffle items to check off from your antee his response will be one take another look. You may even post them in a prominent area in your home use. Why should I subscribe to BayanWIRELESS Landline the corner! lotions to bath and body prod- promo that gives you even Christmas list, you can con- that you’ll be waiting for. home. Tell your family and friends about them too! over other providers?—Jennie Imagine a hall lined with ucts. more reasons to shop! A min- tinue earning chances to win! Santa’s Wishing Station Our “Hall of Fame” this period includes LopezLink, which received John Rojo, head of Bayan’s Corporate Brand and Communica- bright red poinsettias, col- Crabtree & Evelyn is at imum single receipt purchase Truly, shopper’s elbow never is located by the R1 level its third Philippine Quill award in three years from IABC/Philippines, tions division, answers: “The package will depend on your needs. If umns adorned with garlands R2 level, near Aldo. Call 898- of P2,000 in any Power Plant felt this good! alongside other Lopez Group companies; ABS-CBN in particular went you use the Internet for checking emails or surfing news sites, Bayan and amber lights and a tow- 1702 for more details. Mall, Block 9, Manansala or And while you rest your home with six Philippine Quills this year, plus a bunch of citations from Wireless Landline (BWL) allows you to access the Internet on a per- ering Christmas tree decked CPK Joya establishment or a mini- feet after a long day of Christ- the KBP’s Golden Dove Awards, the PMPC’s Star Awards, the CMMA use basis or an additional P150 pesos for 300 minutes of Internet use with toys, bears, Christmas Share the cheer of the mum single receipt purchase mas shopping, you and your and even the Asian PR Awards. Knowledge Channel Foundation led monthly. The speed of connection is up to 128 kbps, which is much stockings, snowflakes and season with comforting selec- of P3,000 in Rustan’s Super- family can relish the atmo- c Very Easy by Rina Lopez-Bautista also made us proud this year. It was the only better than a dial-up. The real value of BWL is that if allows unlimited gift boxes. Spend your days at tions from Pizza market can get you one raffle sphere that the season’s music  Easy homegrown company to be recognized in the 8th Corporate Citizenship local calls to any provider while being mobile for a monthly rate of Power Plant Mall at Rockwell Kitchen. Nestle in its rustic brings. Hear angelic voices Awards (International Community Service Award category), given by only P699. coupon. c Medium among the lofty toy soldiers warmth and cozy atmosphere Redeem your receipts at as internationally acclaimed the US Chamber of Commerce, for its collaboration with Philip Morris. If you however use the Internet to download songs or watch videos that stand guard at the mall while you devour a scrump- the Archaeology Wing, R2 choirs and musicians perform tell c Hard The Lopez Group as a whole ends the year with a bang with First over YouTube, I suggest you get a Bayan DSL with a bundled phone entrances. tious salad or a slice of pizza! level, and get a chance to win at the North Court every Fri- him how nice you’ve been Gen and its Red Vulcan Holdings partners’ purchase of the majority for P1,199 at 768 kbps speed. You are also assured of our customer Crabtree & Evelyn Nothing says Christmas better your dream shopping spree in day to Sunday until December this year as he will be very stake in PNOC-EDC. We think this is a sign of very good things to service guarantees, which include a Money Back Guarantee and a 24- come for the group, as the purchase effectively puts First Gen at the Hour Quick Repair Guarantee.” With the recent reopen- than the whole family enjoy- Power Plant Mall! Up to P2 24. Hear the Philippine Opera eager to hear your wishes top of the Philippine heap—and second in the world, the first being the ing of Crabtree & Evelyn ing a hearty meal. Company’s Holly Ho!, the starting December 8, and million will be given away, US—of geothermal energy producers. Congratulations, everyone! ooOoo exclusively for the Christmas CPK is located at the Philippine Youth Ensemble the following weekends ooOoo If you have questions, comments, opinions, suggestions and re- season, holiday-gift shopping Archaeology Wing. Call of De La Salle University leading up to December Answer to November puzzle I read about MNTC’s “Rediscover Baguio” drive. Can the MNTC actions about anything and everything about the Lopez Group, has never been easier! Don’t 895-4404 for reserva- (DLSU), the University of 20 when he will greet come up with a cheap and available-year-round weekend vacation please send them to Dear Rosie through fax no. 633-3520 or to let the store’s minute exterior tions. the Philippines (UP) Singing every man, woman and Solution, tips and computer program available for employees on a strict budget? Thanks!—Eric [email protected]. Maraming salamat! Ambassadors and the Ateneo child every day from 4 p.m.-7 escalator, fronting Salvatore at www.sudoku.com College Glee Club as well as p.m. at the North Court. Get a Ferragamo. the angelic voices of the Kily- photo taken with the jolly old All these treats and more awan Boy’s Choir, the Philip- man underneath the Christmas await you this Yuletide season PAKWELA pine Children’s Choir and the tree. at Power Plant Mall at Rock- Ateneo Boys Choir. Relish the And if you happen to miss well! For more information, REDISCOVER THE NORTH brass and string sounds of the him on call 898-1702. Tips on spending your bonus Manila Philharmonic Orches- these dates, Simbang Gabi at Harana tra String Quartet and Brass don’t fret. Celebrate Christmas Para kay Maria By Vanessa Suquila You can even make a bag out Buy gifts that support Quintet as well as the DLSU Santa’s December 15 of the old tarpaulin banners a cause. Greeting cards from Chamber Ensemble and the Wishing the northern way Sta. Catalina de Alexandria BEFORE you blow your eating up space in your office Unicef, Bantay Bata 163 and Philippine Youth Symphonic Station Parish Grounds Christmas bonus on the lat- stockroom. other foundations are available Band. is sure Bagac, Bataan est techie gadget that will be Find a foundation. Every for sale; you may get in touch Meet and greet Santa and to ease By Karen Valeza Christmas in outdated in a few months, here Christmas season, many foun- with AFI to order cards. You Baguio Simbang Gabi/ Pasko sa are some other ways you can dations need volunteers and may also buy nifty handicrafts NOW that Christmas is in the December 1-De- Hermosa maximize your cash. resources to light up the lives made by cooperatives or disad- air, head up north and spend the cember 31 December 16- December 25 Sponsor a kid. For rough- of orphans and other disadvan- vantaged groups such as urban Check out these mall events! vacation with your loved ones. Baguio City Various barangays of Her- ly the same amount that you taged groups. You can start by poor housewives, prisoners, Feel the nippy breeze and travel mosa, Bataan spend on your cellphone load learning more about what your indigenous peoples or people (P350 a month) you can send Christmas raffle @ North Court Dec. 1 (Sat.): Manila Philharmonic Dec. 24 (Mon.): Manila hassle-free en route the North Rimat Ti Amianan Kapamilya foundations are with disabilities. Call AFI at a kid from a disadvantaged Luzon Expressway (NLEX). December 1-18 Misa de Gallo sa Agoo doing—check out www.lopez- 924 2740 or Sundays @ 5 p.m. String Quartet Philharmonic Brass family to school. Phil-Asia Experience how Christmas is San Fernando City December 16-December 24 group.org. 922 4842. Dec. 2: Draw 1 Dec. 2 (Sun.): De La Salle Chamber Quintet Assistance Foundation Inc. Hometown hero. Be a celebrated in the northern prov- Agoo, La Union Dec. 9: Draw 2 Ensemble (PAAFI) partners with Caritas hometown hero. Go back to inces: delight yourselves with Fil-Am International Golf Dec. 16: Draw 3 Dec. 7 (Fri.): Philippine Youth Workshops @ Archae- to identify children from urban the province of your ancestors colorful Christmas decorations, Tournament Tambora Dec. 23: Final Draw Ensemble ology poor areas who have the desire or to the place where you were festive food and fun activities. December 15 December 23 Dec. 8 (Sat.): UP Singing Ambas- Dec. 1-2 (Sat.-Sun.): to learn in school. For more born. Find out from your local Baguio City Currimao, Ilocos Norte Baker’s Dozen @ Concourse Level sadors Portia Leuterio Creative Celebrate Christmas early with information, please call Leah captain or former these events you shouldn’t or Fe at 415 9297. teacher the priority needs Weekends Dec. 9 (Sun.): Ateneo College Glee Packaging Workshops Galicayo Festival Pawil Dagupan miss. Bring a bag. You use plas- of your hometown. Either Dec. 7-9 Club Dec. 8-9 (Sat.-Sun.): December 19 December 25-December 31 tic bags for only a few minutes you will respond to the Dec. 14-16 Dec. 14 (Fri.): Kilyawan Boys Choir Portia Leuterio Beading Workshop Lighting of the Giant Manaoag, Pangasinan Dagupan City Dec. 21-23 Dec. 15 (Sat.): Chiang Kai Shek Dec. 13-20 (Thu.-Thu.): Bag-making, but it takes almost a lifetime problem yourself by do- Christmas Tree for plastic to disappear from nating ABS-CBN Founda- College Youth Choir etc. by the School of Fashion and the December 1 Pampanga Day Damili Festival Santa Claus @ North Court Dec. 16 (Sun.): Ateneo Boys Choir Arts (SoFA) our environment. The next time tion Inc. (AFI) E-Media Abucay Town Plaza December 11 December 26-December 30 you do your groceries, why not educational CDs or Weekends from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 21 (Fri.): Philippine Children’s Abucay, Bataan Pampanga City San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte bring your own bag instead by cabling a school to Dec. 8-9 (Sat.-Sun.) Choir BMW previously-owned car sale of using plastic? You can buy Knowledge Channel, Dec. 15-16 (Sat.-Sun.) Dec. 22 (Sat.): The Las Piñas boys @ Plaza Parking Minoyongan Garden Show Lantern Parade/ Walking Horse Festival several sturdy, lightweight or you will use your Dec. 20-24 (Thu.-Mon.) choir (to be confirmed) Dec. 8 (Sat.): Exclusive BMW Previ- December 1-9 Christmas Décor December 29-December 30 canvas bags (you can buy these sphere of influence Dec. 23 (Sun.): Philippine Youth ously-owned Car Sale by Prestige DMMSU-MLUC December 12 Plaridel, Bulacan as gifts and encourage others to pool funding for your Musical Christmas Symphonic Band Cars San Fernando, La Union Laoag City (Source: Department of Tourism to use them when they shop). hometown. website) 1 LOPEZLINKDec 2007 - Jan 2008

By Joseph Uy What’sfrom ABS-CBN Publishing new this Christmas Start the year sizzling with ‘Metro Bodies’ Get ready for the gallery of hot celebs in Metro Bodies 2007. Photographed by Ron- nie Salvacion, it features Drs. Vicki Belo and Hayden Kho, Jon Avila and fashion designer Reian Mata, among others. Be inspired by women who moved to a new country, changed of model/DJ Cristina Bartges, and go on vacation with careers, got a breast job and started from scratch after losing Mariel Rodriguez! everything. Pick a fabulous foot treatment, and eavesdrop in Get a full year on our discussion with men whose significant others have subscription kids from past relationships. Presents Perfect 2 in ‘FOOD discount up to 50% off cover price! Magazine’ All about diets in ‘Working Mom’ Pastry chef Joey Prats offers his recipes for scrumptious snow The Christmas season brings with it a lot of parties—and cake with chestnut filling, lucky golden macadamia fudge brown- opportunities to eat and break your diet. Working Mom gives ie bars, merry cherry truffles and holiday orange cheesecake. For tips on how to stay on that diet, reasons we have that start- New Year get-togethers, Tina Diaz suggests mixes for cocktails and-stop diet habit, and how to stay on the path to a healthier and “mocktails,” while Dorothy Ferreria gives her recipe for you. golden mamon. FOOD Magazine’s December ‘07-January ‘08 issue also features Part 2 of Presents Perfect, a catalog of gift suggestions, the two-week menu guide, advice from nutritionist Celebrate Christmas with ‘Chalk’! Sanirose Orbeta and the Christmas traditions of Pampanga. Chalk has an early gift for you—the annual list of 50 Hottest Guys of 2007! Jake Cuenca leads the pack of hotties who Get the newest issues of your favorite magazines at leading made your year. Jocks, rockers, actors, models—name him, bookstores and magazine stands nationwide. Exclusive to we’ve got him! Chalk gives its fearless forecast of trends Lopez Group employees within , use your of- that will be big in 2008. Party girl Tara Tambunting tells all fice address and get a full year subscription discount up to about her struggle with manic depression. Plus, take a look 50% off cover price. For inquiries, call ABS-CBN Publish- inside Bianca Gonzalez’s home, get to know the quirky style ing Inc. at 455-9434. A bright and safe Christmas THE influx of cheap Christmas decora- reau of Product Standards (PS) mark. tions from China has contributed to the This indicates that the product passed changing face of this most anticipated strict safety standards. of seasons in the Philippines. Most of • Avoid “octopus” connections. If us can only shake our heads as we read you need to, use a maximum of three or hear stories about Yuletide yet an- sets of Christmas lights strung together other conflagration resulting in loss or and connected to one outlet. damage to property, and worst, loss of • Keep young kids away from the lives. lights, no matter how much they clamor Homeowners must have sighed to touch the decorations. in relief at the sight of agents from • Do not leave Christmas lights on Editorial Advisory Board Boo Chanco / Danny Gozo the Department of Trade and Industry unattended. Unplug them before sleep- Executive Editor Rosan Cruz (DTI) checking and confiscating sub- ing at night or even if you’re leaving the Contributing Editors Carla Paras-Sison (Benpres) Marlene Ochoa (MNTC) standard lights from one of Manila’s room for a long period. Maite Bueno (Meralco) John Rojo (Bayan) busiest shopping districts, as aired over • Outdoor Christmas lights must Estela de la Paz (First Gen) Juno Chuidian (SkyCable) “Bandila” recently. We however should have a rubber seal between the bulb Kane Choa (ABS-CBN) Joseph Uy (ABS-CBN Publishing) also do our part—more than saving a and its socket; wires entering the socket Nicole Carlos (FPHC) Vienn Tionglico (Rockwell) Rafael Alunan III (Wellness) Vanessa Suquila (LGFI) few bucks, the main consideration here that are sealed or bonded into the bulb Circulation Lucy Torres (Tel. 449-2468) should be the safety of our family as socket; and heavier or thicker insulated Editorial and Layout HIP Custom Publications Department well as that of our community. Here are wires. some reminders from Meralco: • Keep lanterns and other outdoor LopezLink is published by Benpres PR Group • Before you drape those lights decorations away from electric lines 4/F Benpres Bldg., Ortigas, Pasig City around your tree or on your walls, check and other overhead facilities. Telefax: 633-3520 that these do not have any frayed wires • Keep firecrackers away from For feedback, please email or broken sockets. Christmas trees, electric wires and other [email protected] • Buy only lights that bear the Bu- overhead facilities.