On June 12, 2016

| THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016 Freedom should always be exercised responsibly: Envoy

ET us not merely fo- important holiday even if they are country’s development. cus on the festivities, far from their home country. Just but also remem- like every other Filipino, our over- On Philippine politics: Do you honestly believe that ber and internal- seas kababayans are entitled to the new administration can ise the spirit of this be a part of the festivities and look “Change should not affect changes to the coun- Limportant historical milestone,” back at their history. solely come from the try? Philippine Ambasssador to It is also important that we President and his The will of the people has HE Wilfredo C Santos showcase this important mile- team. It should come spoken and we should all unite, reminded Filipino expatriates on stone for our host country, Qatar, regardless of political affiliation, the occasion of the celebration of and members of the diplomatic from within us first to work for the common good. I the 118th Anniversary of the decla- corps, in line with our cultural di- as .” am always optimistic and I am ration of Philippine independence. plomacy thrust. confident that the incoming ad- In an interview with Qatar ministration, with a fresh man- Tribune’s Ailyn Agonia, the In your personal opinion, How do you assess the re- date, will move forward with Filipino envoy talked about the es- what does it mean to be sults of the recently con- its goals for the country. And sence of the annual event that gath- ‘free’? cluded Philippine national change should not solely come ers thousands of Pinoy residents To be ‘free’ should not be sim- elections? from the President and his team. from across Qatar under one roof. ply taken from a political context I am very proud that the Phil- It should come from within us He discussed the current issues only, in this case, freedom from ippines was able to hold a relative- first as Filipinos. that matter to the Filipino nation our colonial masters. Right now, ly credible and peaceful election including how citizens made the to be ‘free’ requires a much more and this was even acknowledged If you could suggest one re- most of their freedom during the comprehensive view. There is that by foreign election observers. form of the legislature, what recently concluded Philippine na- need for every Filipino to be free Here in Qatar, I am thankful that would it be and why? tional elections. from economic hardships, free to no major disturbance was ever Instead of reforms, my only Marking his first year as head choose our leaders (like what hap- reported during the month-long wish is for all three branches of the Philippine mission in Qatar pened during the recent election), overseas voting. of the government – executive, recently, the Filipino envoy also and thereby, being also free to legislative and the judiciary – to highlighted the milestones of the shape our own destiny as a nation What are your personal work closely together to institute Embassy under his leadership and as a people. PHILIPPINE AMBASSADOR TO QATAR HE WILFREDO C SANTOS expectations from the new real change for the betterment of including furthering the vibrant leadership of the Philip- our country. bilateral ties between Qatar and What is your take on the Do you think the Filipino marunong lumingon sa kan- pines? the and spearheading concept of ‘freedom without youth are well-informed yang pinanggalingan ay hindi The fact that incoming Presi- You recently marked your new programmes aimed at ac- responsibility’? about the history of the Phil- makakarating sa kanyang paro- dent Rodrigo R Duterte got an first year as Ambassador tively promoting the rich Filipino Freedom is not just a right ippines? What are the most roonan.” (A person who does not overwhelming mandate from of the Philippines to Qatar. culture, heritage and identity but also a privilege, as not all appropriate means of edu- recognise his or her roots will voters should encourage him How has your first year in through performing arts and the people get to enjoy this and not cating the new generation on not be able to reach his goals or and the rest of the incoming office been? diverse . Excerpts: all countries allow its people Philippine history? destination”.) One of the means administration to work hard to Time surely flies fast, espe- to fully exercise their freedom. I believe that there should be to do this is through education. continue, if not exceed, whatever cially when you’re busy. And we Q. What is the significance of Hence, freedom should always be continuous efforts to inform our We should ensure that the cur- gains were made by the outgoing have been keeping ourselves busy celebrating Philippine Inde- exercised responsibly. ‘Freedom youth about our history, their his- riculum in all Philippine schools, administration. As career offic- laying the groundwork for the pendence Day in a foreign without responsibility’ is tanta- tory, because as time progresses, including overseas schools, offer ers and staff of the government, changes that we want to achieve country? mount to wasting this right and there is a tendency to forget the a comprehensive view of teach- we are always ready to provide for the embassy, as well as fur- A. The celebration of the Phil- privilege as this does not give us past, as we focus on the present ing Philippine history. Of course, any assistance to our new lead- thering bilateral relations with ippine Independence Day in a for- the license to use our freedom the and prepare for the future. the role a family plays in keeping ers in providing efficient and Qatar. So far so good. eign country provides an oppor- wrong way (i.e., to sow chaos and However, like our national hero their children informed about effective services to our kaba- tunity for OFWs to celebrate this disorder, etc.). Dr. Jose Rizal said, “ang hindi their history, is important. bayans and contributing to our CONTINUED ON PAGE 07 

Philippine Embassy in officials and staff. Message from the Department of Foreign Affairs ‘Seize the challenge as one people’ NE hundred eighteen years ago, bound by the desire With the conviction that transparent, open and stream- the Department of Foreign Affairs remains resolute and for liberty, equality and justice, our forefathers valiant- lined processes allow for greater growth, programmes determined to serve, defend and advance our fundamental Oly took a collective stand to break free and fight for were directed to broaden civic engagement and participa- interest on the diplomatic frontlines: the peace and security self-rule, and triumphed with the birth of the Filipino nation tion in governance, and to fortify the highest standards of of the nation, the growth of the economy, and the rights and and our people’s independence. integrity, accountability, and trustworthiness in the coun- welfare of our people overseas and even those at home. To this day, we continue to walk the path of our heroes. try’s public leadership. It has been often said that for us to build the future, we Against every difficulty, we always have come together as a As a result, the Philippines is now widely acknowledged must honour the past. In keeping with this year’s theme of people, united by our selfless love for the country and the for its steady rise as a dynamic economic hub with sustain- “Kalayaan 2016: Pagkakaisa, Pag-aambagan at Pagsulong,” strong sense of duty to our fellow Filipinos. able inclusive development, a vital and responsible member our celebration of our freedom is a powerful reminder of In the past six years, the administration of President of the global community committed to uphold and abide the true measure of our strength as a country; that is how Benigno S Aquino III has worked tirelessly to deepen the by the rules of law, and a stronghold of democracy with its we can bravely seize the challenge, and together – as one meaning of our freedom for each Filipino. Bold structural constituent values that places primacy on the dignity and people, passionately driven by a shared vision of greatness JOSE RENE D. ALMENDRAS, reforms were taken to successfully deliver our renewed worth of the human being. –can we prevail. SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS hopes for better lives. In celebrating 118 years of Philippine Independence, Mabuhay ang Kalayan at ang Sambayanang Pilipino! 02 Thursday, June 2, 2016 | PAGE 03 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016 The 16th President of the Philippines

HE Philippine Congress of- Rodrigo Roa Duterte won with a landslide ficially declared lawyer-pol- itician Rodrigo Roa Duterte victory, garnering more than 16,600,000 as the 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines votes in the recently concluded 2016 Phil- Ton May 30. The tough-talking leader becomes the ippine national elections. He is due to take first president of the Philippines who hails from Mindanao. He was born in Maasin in office on June 30 for a term of six years. Southern Leyte and grew up in the prov- ince of Davao. Duterte won with a landslide victory, garnering more than 16,600,000 votes in the recently concluded 2016 national elec- tions, deemed as one of the most contro- versial and emotion-packed elections in the history of the Southeast Asian country. He is due to take office on June 30 for a term of six years. Rodrigo Roa Duterte at a campaign rally. Known by the nickname Digong, he had been a mayor of Davao City, a highly-urban- high costs (e.g. seafarers). sort of ‘game changer’ in traditional Phil- ised city in Mindanao, for seven terms, tota- He also cited as part of his platform for ippine politics. Some expatriates had ex- ling more than 22 years. His political career OFWs the provision of legal orientation for pressed their hopes and aspirations from also included serving as Congressman of both the OFWs and their families and es- the new leadership in a report published Davao City’s first district in 1998 and taking tablishment of heathcare programmes for earlier by Qatar Tribune. Among the no- the role of anti-crime consultant of former OFWs with special focus to those who suffer table appeals to Duterte was that of Doha- Philippine president Gloria Macapagal-Ar- abuse from their employers or those who based human rights advocate and com- royo in 2002. come home with serious illnesses. munity leader Ressie Fos asking the new At 71, born on March 28, 1945, he is the Like in most overseas Philippine missions Filipino leader to consider temporarily oldest to become president of his country. that conducted overseas absentee voting, Du- stopping the deployment of Filipino house- An article published on www.rappler.com terte also was the top choice of Filipino regis- hold helpers in Middle Eastern countries cited that besides his age, there are so many tered voters in Qatar. He received more than until clear and proper laws ensuring the notable ‘firsts’ about the new president. 12,000 votes from the 15,694 safety and rights of those in this sector are This includes being the first president to voter turnout in Doha. in place. come directly from a local post, the first to His landslide vic- Realtor Joseph Timothy Rivera have filed his certificate of candidacy after tory was celebrated highlighted his anticipation of the the official period, first self-declared social- by his staunch sup- issuance of Executive Order on the ist president and the first lawyer president porters in Qatar. Yet, Freedom of Information, the effi- since Ferdinand Marcos. he was reminded cient implementation of all laws Throughout his campaign, Duterte has by expatriates on and the effective delivery of serv- flaunted his intentions of eradicating ille- his obligations and ices by government. gal drugs and ending crime and corruption promises of being a Life Coach Peggy Margaret within a specific time frame immediately Molina reminded Duterte to influ- after assuming office. ence the Filipino nation and be While in a document filed with the Com- a real agent of much- mission on Elections (Comelec), Duterte need ‘change’ in cited some notable plans on issues con- the coun- fronting . Among these try. measures include the standardisation of employment contracts and recruitment fees acceptable to employers and employees to curb illegal recruitment; implement over- seas Filipino workers reintegration pro- grammes that are specific to the needs of OFWs to empower them and facilitate their return in the Philippines; conduct of finan- cial literacy programmes for the families of OFWs and regulating placement fees espe- The tough-talking leader becomes the first president of the Philippines who hails from cially for OFWs who are required to comply Mindanao. with numerous training courses that entail President-elect Rodrigo Roa Duterte A look at the Aquino administration HILE the administration of outgo- Aquino administration, World Economic ing Philippine President Benigno Forum Global Competitiveness Report WAquino III is marred by a number of ranked the Philippines 47th out of 140 controversies – including slow relief dur- countries (2015 to 2016) from 85th out ing super typhoon Yolanda, his leader- of 139 countries in 2010 to 2011. The em- ship was also hailed by many, especially ployment rate was at 94.2 percent in the for transforming the Philippines into one first quarter of 2016, deemed the highest of the promising players in the region and in the last 10 years, according to the re- the world. cords of National Economic and Develop- Below are some of the highlights of ment Authority (NEDA). Aquino’s term: As per the records of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Re- 2012 public of the Philippines), the country’s At home and around the world, the net foreign direct investments were at Philippines got recognised as an example $20.42 billion in the period from 2011 of stability and good governance. to 2015, while they were $11.77 billion On October 7, 2012, the historic between 2005 and 2010. As per the re- Framework Agreement between the Phil- cords of the Department of Budget and ippine government and the Moro Islamic Signing of landmark bills, impressive economic performance and completion of major road projects are among the legacies of outgoing Management (DBM), the country’s basic Liberation Front (MILF) was released, Philippine President Benigno Aquino III. education budget at Php 410.4 billion in paving the way for the Bangsamoro po- 2016, rose appreciably from Php 161.4 litical entity, and setting the stage for a The Philippines took the lead in up- tiveness Report. In terms of infrastruc- itiveness Report. On March 30 2014, the billion in 2010. final, enduring peace in Mindanao. holding a multilateral and consensus- ture, the year also saw the completion of a Philippines submitted its memorial to the In terms of infrastructure in the edu- In the same year, Aquino went up driven diplomatic approach with regard number of projects including the Ternate United Nations (UN) Arbitral Tribunal. cation sector, there are more than 89,000 against powerful vested interests and to disputes in the West Philippines Sea, –Nasugbu Road, Tarlac City-Gerona-Pa- The memorial presents the Philippines classrooms constructed and over 95,000 signed into law historical legislative ini- and allocating Php 12 billion in 2012 to niqui Section of the Tarlac-Pangasinan- case on the jurisdiction of the Arbitral classrooms programmed for construction tiatives including the Anti-Enforced or enroll the poorest quintile of the popula- La Union Expressway (Tplex) Project and Tribunal and the merits of the claim over from 2010 to March 2016. Involuntary Disappearance act, the first tion into universal healthcare. Simuay-Landasan-Parang Road Project. the West Philippine Sea. On September As of 2015, the landmark projects un- of its kind in Asia, which criminalises the In October 2013, the Philippines regis- 10, 2014, the draft Bangsamoro Basic der the Aquino administration included unlawful arrest of civilians and ensures tered an employment rate of 93.5 percent. Law, now House Bill no. 4994, was sub- completion of the Laguindingan Airport, the preservation and protection of every 2013 A total of 1.72 million jobs were created as mitted to the Congress. ongoing development of 9 new airports Filipino’s civil liberties. He also signed The Philippine economy continued its of December 2013. and ongoing rehabilitation of 63 airports the Responsible Parenthood Law which stellar performance, posting some of the and 18 tourism ports. A new railway line fosters public health and access to infor- highest growth numbers in Asia, including 2015 – 2016 connecting Malolos, Tutuban and Le- mation on reproductive health. ranking 108th, a jump of 30 notches from 2014 In the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Busi- gazpi (The North-South Railway Project) Aquino’s first year in office was also 2012, in World Bank Business report and The Philippines is ranked 52nd (2014- ness Report, the country reached the 95th was also developed. highlighted by a 7.1 percent GDP growth jumping 12 notches from 94 in 2011 to 82 2015) from 85th (2010-2011) in the rank in 2015 compared to 144th in 2010. in the third quarter of 2012. in 2013 in Travel and Tourism Competi- World Economic Forum: Global Compet- In 2015, leading to the end of term of (SOURCE: WWW.GOV.PH) 04 Thursday, June 2, 2016 Thursday, June 2, 2016 05 06 Thursday, June 2, 2016

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 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 nities for interaction, especially on the eco- nomic and trade side. What would you consider as milestones of your first year as head of Philippine mission What’s your assessment of the dynamics here? within the Filipino community in Qatar? In terms of economic diplomacy, the projects we What do you consider as the strengths and were able to organise under Kulinarya Qatar are mile- weaknesses of the organisations and the Courtesy call of Mutya ng Pilipinas winner Janela Cuaton. stones that I am proud of. In fact, the Philippine Em- leaders here? bassy in Qatar is now ranked No. 5 from its previous We are very lucky to have the United Filipino position of no. 11 among the Foreign Service Posts in Organizations in Qatar or UFOQ to help us co- the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in the ordinate the various Filipino community groups area of economic diplomacy. In addition, we continue in Qatar. That is a testament to the level of unity to make our consular services as efficient and conven- of our kababayans in Qatar. They are fully com- ient as possible, and one initiative we pursued in this mitted to improving themselves as leaders and, in regard is the passport delivery service agreement we fact, a leadership training seminar Welcoming Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao to Qatar. signed with Q-Post. was organised by UFOQ in coordi- Glimpses of Several cultural projects have likewise been organ- nation with the Embassy in Febru- Ambassador ised to show the beauty and richness of our culture, ary that saw some of our Filipino Santos’s First such as the widely lauded performance of Ballet Philip- community leaders participating. year in Qatar pines and the gala screening of Heneral Luna, both of I encourage our community or- which were held at Katara Cultural Village. ganisations to hold such semi- nars because they serve as a At the Mega Voice Kids Finals. (PHOTOS: RENAN PRINCENA) What is your view on bilateral relations be- training ground for future lead- tween Qatar and the Philippines? ers of our community. Ever since bilateral relations were established in 1981, our relations with Qatar have been cordial. But as What are the new projects an ambassador, I want to do more in terms of further- and initiatives the commu- ing our engagements, whether it is political, economic, nity can expect under your cultural or people-to-people exchanges. leadership? We are continuously Pinoy Fiesta at LuLu. What are some current or upcoming agree- looking for ways to serve ments/cooperation avenues between Qatar our kababayans better. and the Philippines that excite you and why? This year, we plan to roll out the new We are hoping that our bilateral agreements on e-passport system with better secu- health, culture and visa waiver agreements for dip- rity features and which in- lomatic and official/special passport holders can be cludes an online appointment Philippine Embassy participation in HERO Qatar bowling event. signed within the year. system that will allow appli- Of course, in order to facilitate trade and economic cants to determine a date and exchanges between our two countries, we are hoping time of their choice. The new that negotiations on the agreement on the reciprocal system will allow us to render promotion and protection of investments would also mobile passport services for prosper leading to its eventual signing. the benefit of our citizens resid- ing outside Qatar. It will be im- How do you see Qatar-Philippines relations in plemented under the leadership the coming years? of my Passport Director in the There’s a lot of potential and room to DFA Office of Consular Affairs, explore in terms of our relations. The fact that the who will be assigned in Qatar as Philippines is one of the fastest-growing econo- Consul General. Just stay tuned mies in Southeast Asia, while Qatar is also the for upcoming changes that we Screening of documentary film by the Alliance of Filipino Journalists in Qatar Opening of the first Philippine Property Investment Show in Qatar. same here in the GCC, provides more opportu- plan for this embassy. | PAGE 08 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016 The pride of Filipino community in Qatar AILYN AGONIA Janela vied against 29 talented Filipinas OHAD from across the Philippines and from Fili- WORLD CONQUERORS pino communities overseas including Aus- ITH a 200,000-strong Filipino tralia, Canada and the United Kingdom. community in Qatar, a handful She was crowned as Mutya ng Pilipinas of these expatriates distinguished Tourism International 2015. She was also themselves by bringing pride to chosen to represent the Philippines in the theW community and the host country in dif- Miss Tourism International competition to ferent fields. be held in Malaysia in December. Twenty-eight year old Filipino film- “Besides being able to travel across the maker Jordan dela Cruz, from Qatar, par- Philippines and getting to know how won- ticipated in the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. derful our country is, the best part about Though he did not bag any award as he was winning this pageant is being able to help part of a non-competition category, Dela others. With the crown and title that I Cruz was one of the nine Filipinos whose have, I get to talk to people who have the works premiered in the Festival’s Court capabilities to share love and hope with Metrage (short film corner). His ticket to others. And that, I think, is the highlight Cannes was his five-minute short film ‘Pan- of my reign. aginip ni Nida Chua (May 25, 1985). “Also, I have helped pro- “Oh wow, nakapasok kami sa Cannes mote tourism in our country (Oh wow, we made it to Cannes)!” was Dela in the hope that a lot Cruz’s initial reaction, when he read the ac- of opportuni- ceptance letter from the Festival. The young ties and growth filmmaker flew to Cannes with his family will knock on and had the opportunity to rub shoulders the doors of the with the best in the industry from across P h i l i p p i n e s . the globe, including Philippines’s pride Brillante Mendoza, Best Director winner at the 62nd Cannes Film Festival. Dela Cruz flew back to Qatar with many great sto- ries to tell of his first attempt at an in- ternational film event. Few months before Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach’s unprec- edented victory in Miss Uni- verse 2015 in Las Vegas, then 18-year-old Janela Joy Cua- ton, former student of Doha Academy and an alumna of Philippine School Doha (PSD), got the community here excited when she was named one of the three winners in Mutya ng Pilipinas 2015, one of the Phil- ippines’s most prestigious beauty pageants. A recent monumental victory for Filipinos was the crowning of Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach as Miss Universe 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The 26-year old stunner became the third Filipina to hold the coveted title.

In the field of sports, legendary Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao recent- ly officially ended his illustrious career with a big win against Ameri- can boxer Timothy Bradley held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Presumptive Senator-elect Pacquiao defeated Bradley by One of Qatar’s prominent ramp models unanimous decision. Doha-based filmmaker Jordan dela Cruz (left) with acclaimed Director Brillante Mendoza at Janela Joy Cuaton is the reigning Mutya the 2016 Cannes Film Festival in France. ng Pilipinas Tourism International.

At the recently concluded 2016 Cannes Film Festival in France, the entire Filipino nation celebrated the victory of veteran Filipino actress Jaclyn Jose as the festival’s Best Actress. The recognition makes Jose not just the first Filipino but also the first Southeast Asian to be conferred with the honour at the prestigious event. Gaod Dragon Boat Team placed 6th in the international tournament held in South Korea last year. Festa-Qatar bagged the Championship title in the recently concluded Cup Duterte held in Abu Dhabi. ers in Qatar, Fidel M Escurel, Escurel, M Fidel Qatar, in ers ac lead community most Filipino tive the of one service, UAE. the in held Cup Duterte tourneys concluded recently the in including international country host several their to pride brought also enthusiasts, takraw September. in held be to Korea, South Busan, in nament tour to another in Qatar training represent again is Gaod tival. Fes Boat Dragon Qatar International 2015 the in title pionship cham the lifted also They Dubai. in competed also group The year. last Korea South in held festival Boat Dragon bagged the in spot 6th team the boat The dragon enthusiasts. a Filipino them Team, of Boat group Dragon Among Gaod is international in tournaments. Doha repre in senting successful been have the for competition. international preparation in training extensive an for July in Manila in endeavours,” said. our Janela support and inspire to someone need just talented, we are Filipinos We ture. fu the in especially helpful ally re be would I think, which tions, and nurture the younger genera empower younger the nurture and inspire, to our get I to help, out kababayans reaching productive. really that Besides been say have can I I Qatar, in Here, is Doha resident Fidel Escurel for Community and Social Service The 2016 Bagong Bayani awardee In terms of community community of terms In sepak of group a Festa-Qatar, clubs sports Filipino Several be back will queen beauty The who are in need of of need in are who ------part of the the of part He been has (Tasweeq). Company Marketing Petroleum ternational in Qatar of Web Coordinator and Tele as com employed currently is December. in President pine Philip new the by government, awarded be to Philippine the of Palace, seat Malacanang the at He recognition the receiving Meanfid. be will as known aspora Di the in Filipinos African for and Network East Middle the in especially organisations, various of leadership outstanding his for service social and community for award the of recipient the is (OFWs). He Workers Filipino seas and outstanding Over exemplary Philippines’s the for search wide world a Awards, Bayani the Bagong of recipients the be among ing as announced recently was Escurel, a native of Romblon, Romblon, of native a Escurel, ------Bayubay Revilla, recipient of of recipient Jovelyn Revilla, were Bayubay community the UFOQ. the of leadership top the and C Santos HE tar Wilfredo Qa to Ambassador Philippine by received proudly was award The members. its supporting in work frame its for communities nised recog most the of honoured one being for was community The May. in early Doha, Regis St the at Conference Labor Protection annual Rights third the of side lines the on held 2015, Welfare Awards commu Labour the Filipino during nity the Award to Community given Best the is country the in Filipinos for tion community other initiatives. in being besides involved 1992, since Day Independence Philippine the of celebrations community annual held in Manila in 2013, Frank Frank 2013, in Manila in Category held in Media-Book (MAM) Print the Awards Media 2nd and the C Jamandre, recipient of the the of recipient Jamandre, C Other notable achievers in in achievers notable Other recogni important Another 2011 Bagong Bayani for for Bayani Bagong 2011

Community and Social Social and Community M Service, and Haina Haina and Service, igration Advocacy Advocacy igration Hollywood, USA. Hollywood, Uddin who brought brought who Uddin (Wcopa) held in in held (Wcopa) medal gold a home Performing Arts Arts Performing of Championships Qatar World 2013 the in resenting rep after bronze medals three and

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09 progress). Itisessentialtounitekeep ournation Pag-aambagan atPagsulong’ (Unity, contribution, of thedeclarationIndependenceDay, ‘Pagkakaisa, celebration ofthe118thAnniversary is reflectiveonthethemeof its independenceandthistriumph ago sincethePhilippinesgained has beenmorethaneleven decades foreign invaders onJune121898.It wave theflagofournationagainst their bravery, were ableto Filipinos in thenameoffreedom.Because Filipinos as possible. possible. as Filipinos many as by shared and celebrated be will event the that ensure to 2016) (PIDC 2016 Committee Day Independence Philippine UFOQ’s entrusted had Santos C Wilfredo Ambassador HE of ership lead the through Doha in Embassy Philippine The Qatar. in community Filipino the of event annual biggest the and colourful most anticipated, most the perhaps is celebration Day event. historic this us with celebrating here you have to honoured and humbled Pagsulong, Pag-aambagan, Pagkakaisa, 2016: Kalayaan welfare of all Filipinos in Qatar. their sense of volunteerism for the support, dedication, friendship and in Qatar (UFOQ) for their unwavering of the United Filipino Organizations tion Hotel, I wish to congratulate the men and women Auditorium, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Conven O T

| THURSDAY, JUNE2, 2016 The Philippine Independence Independence Philippine The - theme year’s this With and suffering of our ancestors and sufferingofourancestors Day remindsusofthesacrifice HE celebrationofIndependence will be observed on June 3, 2016 at Al Majlis Declaration of Philippine Independence, which N the occasion of the 118th Anniversary of the Message from the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Qatar Message from the United Filipino Organizations in Qatar I am am I DAVID LABOR ATTACHÉ EDGAR UFOQ DES T. DICANG - Chairman - U. ANAMI live Filipinos! LongliveLong live thePhilippines! Filipinos! our independenceday. how rich and beautiful our cultures and traditions traditions and cultures our beautiful and rich how kababayans our to only not showing of milestone another ate cre again once and Qatar in here Filipinos the all Mabuhay ang ating bansang Pilipinas. Mabuhay tayong mga Pilipino dito sa Qatar at Independence Day sa ating lahat where they can interact and get to know each other. Together, we form a strong force that will unite unite will that force strong a Together, form we Again, Maligayang pagdiriwang ng 118th Philippine but to the different nationalities here, here, nationalities different the to but tion tohostasuccessfulcelebrationof under ourEmbassyandtheirdedica- pine Overseas LaborOffice(POLO) pine Overseas projects andprogrammesofthePhilip- tothe for theirunwavering support OrganizationsinQatar(UFOQ) Filipino opments inourMotherland. achieve meaningfulchangesanddevel - the progress of our nation we can really willcommittocontributing Filipino moving forward. Ifonlyeachandevery all our bringing good quality entertainment to tar, and to gather them at one venue, Together they share a common goal of with the guidance of the UFOQ Council. Pinoy groups, organisations and clubs with various multi-talented and active associated events is in collaboration celebration. The pre-PIDC calendar of ties leadingtothegrandcommunity with aseriesofassociatedactivi- talents. and skills unique our all showcase to theme perfect at Turismo” Pinoy “Kalinangang theme: 2016 year’s PIDC This are. I thank the leadership oftheUnited I thanktheleadership This year’s PIDCevent ismarked kababayans . everywhere in Qa is a is - - | PAGE 10 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016

Beef Palabok Chicken Barbecue Celebrating being

Chicken Pinoy – food-wise Adobo

AILYN AGONIA food is present on our tables for sure. If there is food DOHA “Filipinos love on the table, no matter how lengthy the conversa- to eat because tion, all will patiently listen and interact. Our food ILIPINOS love to eat as much as they reminds us of someone or our own triumphs and love karaoke. Food is an integral part we love sharing hardships in life,” Sherwin added. of most of their social activities. Be great stories and According to Aisha Hassen al Baker, owner of it a casual get-together, receiving Hillside Restaurant located in the Food Court of guests at home, paying a visit to a sick memories while Quality Mall in Al Mamoura, Filipino food is also Ffriend or even during formal meetings, food is one dining. And SHERWIN CASTILLO popular in Qatar because of its affordability. She said thing that they never leave out of their ‘agenda’. GERRY’S GRILL the value meals they offer, which consists of rice and Whether for almusal (breakfast), merienda whenever we two dishes for only QR13, is what keeps the diners (snack), pulutan (finger food),panghandaan (fiesta coming back to their restaurant. food) and other regular meals of the day, Filipinos have something “Our spices and cooking styles differentiate Fili- make sure to enjoy what they eat. to celebrate, our favourite pino dishes from other cuisines. In our restaurant, “Filipinos eat not just because they are hungry. the most in-demand dishes are (white soup They don’t look at food and think about nutrients food is present on our tables with shanks and marrow bones), Bopis (meat or calories. Filipinos eat and prefer to eat together for sure.” sautéed in tomatoes, chillies and onions) and So- to share. It’s about hospitality. It’s about honesty. tanghon Guisado (noodles). Besides Filipinos, we It’s about celebrating our identity,” said Mawi Salas sweet with salty infusion, the dish Kare-kare (Philip- also have Indian, Chinese and European diners,” Florida, owner of Kamayan sa Doha. pine stew complemented by a thick, savoury peanut Aisha said. Mawi’s restaurant located in Al Muntazah is sauce) is among the top choices. If a diner craves Republik, located in Al Hilal West, takes gaining popularity in the community and other na- for something creamy with a punch of spice, our Ti- pride in its Chicken Barbecue, which has piqued the tionalities because of the dining concept it is promot- nomok or is the best meal to serve,” said Sher- interest of not only Filipino diners in Qatar but other ing- that is dining with bare hands! win Castillo of Gerry’s Grill. nationalities as well. Inihaw’s barbecue is marinat- Eating with bare hands is part of the Philippine “Filipino recipes also point towards the region in ed with , lemon and 7-up soda and then Kamayan sa Doha owner Mawi Salas Florida (left). culture. It is mostly practised in the provinces and the Philippines where they originated. For example, splashed with a special sauce that keeps diners com- when feasting on sumptuous Filipino delicacies in Roxas City, the seafood capital of Philippines, claims ing back for more, according to the restaurant owner the company of family and closest friends. they have the best seafood recipes. If you are up for Manny Canchela. “The most popular and highly in-demand in our extremely hot food, dishes from Bicol are your best “Dining goes back to a personal trait every Fili- restaurant is the boodle fight (military way of eating). bet. And if you want something leafy and packed pino embodies which is being family oriented or Food comes in boodle platters, boodle tabletop (lat- with a variety of vegetables, recipes from Ilocos will with strong family ties. Add this to our penchant for ag sa mesa), or boodle unlimited buffet. This type of satisfy your cravings,” he added. food, eating with family naturally becomes innately dining combined with the right blend of ambience, Gerry’s Grill has about 74 branches across the the norm even at a young age. Philippine cuisine music and hospitality offers traditional Filipino cul- Philippines and six international branches. In Qatar, caters to all taste buds giving the best experience ture of eating. It is fun and a bonding experience it has branches in Al Mirqab, Al Jadeed St and in Al to diners. Among the most popular Filipino dishes which makes you feel closer to home,” the Filipina Nasser Area. It also recently opened in Lulu Hyper- are Pancit, Kare-kare and Palabok. These varieties restaurateur said. market Food Court in Barwa City. prove our point about how Philippine dishes cater Kamayan sa Doha is also frequently visited by The restaurant is best known for its variety of to all, besides being delicious. Our cuisine boasts of non-Filipino diners. Mawi said it is the comfortable grilled food, which is another feature of Filipino cui- local dishes from every region in the country with ambience of their place, including the carefully pre- sine. Pinoys naturally love grilled food which is evi- examples being: Pampanga locally famous for hav- pared food that attracts other nationalities. dent by the abundance of street-food in their home ing the best cooks and Bicolanos for their affinity for “For me, hospitality plays a big part when com- country. Gerry’s Grill’s best-seller is the dish Inihaw spicy delicacies. On a collective share of recipes, in- paring Filipino dishes with other cuisines. Right na Pusit (grilled squid) smeared with a special sauce. gredients and expertise, our nation’s strongest suite from the preparation to serving, we give a lot of care “Filipinos love to eat because we love sharing would be the ability to cater to anybody’s taste pref- and attention to ensure that other than the food be- great stories and memories while dining. And when- erence,” he added. Hillside Restaurant owner Aisha Hassen al Baker (left). ing delicious, every customer is given the best dining ever we have something to celebrate, our favourite Layla Bernal, co-owner of the United Catering experience,” she added. (Eve House of Catering and Events) located in Matar Among the Filipino dishes, the most talked-about Qadeem, said that the Filipino style of dining, which is Adobo. The process of making Adobo involves is also enjoyed by other nationalities, serves as bond- marinating meat in , soy sauce and garlic and ing moment among expatriates. then letting it simmer in the marinade. The dish is “Filipinos are born food lovers and being hard- often considered the ‘unofficial national dish’ in working people, one of our outlets is to find sat- the Philippines because of being tasty yet simple isfaction in food and this is best achieved in in terms of preparation and storage. dining or eating together. Being tasty, healthy However, Filipinos often argue that there is and affordable are among the selling points more to their cuisines besides Adobo. After all, of Filipino food,” Layla said. Filipino dishes are dominated by three cook- Eve House of Catering and Events is ing flavours: sweet tamis( ), sour (asim) and one of preferred venues for Filipino gath- salty (alat). While other delicacies are in- erings, meetings and events. The place has clined to be spicy (anghang) especially in managed to create a professional set-up that few parts of the Philippines. feels like home to many Filipinos. This is what Gerry’s Grill, one of the larg- Besides the usual dishes, among its best- est restaurant chains in the Philippines with sellers is Tagalor or the Filipino version a branch in Qatar, wants to highlight to Doha of beefsteak. The restaurant is also known for its diners. (a popular dish in the City of Ba- “Filipino food stands out among other cuisines colod in the Philippines) and Pancit. It also offers because of the variety of flavours we infuse in each Kare Boodle Fight platters which is a hit among different Eve House of Catering and Events owners Emily Rosete and Layla recipe. We can cater to all taste buds for any specif- Kare community organisations holding regular meetings Bernal (right). ic cravings. Like if someone would like something at Eve.

A variety of Filipino sweet delicacies. Dinakdakan A typical Filipino budget meal includes a cup of rice and two viands. Thursday, June 2, 2016 11 12 Thursday, June 2, 2016 Thursday, June 2, 2016 13 | PAGE 14 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016

For two consecutive months, the country’s tourism sector grew by double digits: at 13.17 percent in January and 20.42 percent in February.

SAMAL ISLANDS DAVAO

HE country’s tour- ism industry per- formance is shin- COTABATO ing right from the start of this year andT continued to break records in February, reaching a total of 549,725 visitors for a double- digit increase of 20.42 per- cent from 2015. In the past 62 months under the Aquino Ad- ministration, this has been the highest growth rate and the big- gest volume of visitor arrivals. For two consecutive months, the country’s tourism grew by double digits at 13.17 percent in January and 20.42 percent in February. The total number of inbound visitors recorded from January to February 2016 CEBU is already at 1,091,983 or a 16.7 percent growth from the same period in 2015 and surpassing one million visitor arrivals in just two months. By regional grouping, East Asia is the country’s biggest Typical rush of passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. source of arrivals with 565,971, constituting more than half of growth market is Taiwan, which Japan followed by contributing with 23,990 arrivals. the total visitor volume. Korea posted an increase of 30.89 per- 92,531 visitors, comprising 8.47 Countries which also posted continues to supply the most ar- cent. percent of the total inbound substantial growth in inbound rivals to the country with a total The United States of Amer- traffic. The 5th major market traffic to the Philippines in Jan- of 284,763 arrivals. This mar- ica was ranked 2nd visitor- was Australia with 43,712 arriv- uary and February 2016 include ket accounted for 26.08 percent generating market with 155,796 als, comprising 4.00 percent of France with 12,502 (+22.10 per- which is more than one fourth of visitors, constituting 14.27 per- the total. Rounding up the top cent), Spain with 5,092 arrivals the total arrivals. Except Hong cent of the total and recording ten visitor markets are Canada (+32.23 percent), Sweden with Kong, all countries from East a 9.54 percent increase from its (+18.36%) with 36,773 arrivals, 7,073 arrivals (+21.09 percent), New Zealand with 3,294 arriv- ism a clear policy mandate to Asian markets posted increases, arrivals of 142,226 in the same Taiwan (+30.89%) with 35,344 Indonesia with 8,824 arrivals als (+13.55 percent). drive rapid and inclusive growth with China reflecting the biggest period of 2015. China which arrivals, Singapore (+4.04) with (+16.66 percent), Switzerland In the past five years, the in the country. Boosting tour- growth of 107.88 percent from provided 130,916 visitors se- 28,376 arrivals, United King- with 6,494 arrivals (+17.09 per- Daang Matuwid programme ism played an important role its arrivals of 62,976 in 2015 to cured the 3rd spot, with an dom (+20.98%) with 28,238 ar- cent), Netherlands with 6,049 under the Aquino Administra- in unlocking the much needed 130,916 this year. Another high 11.99 percent share to the total. rivals, and Malaysia (+2.33%) arrivals (+13.83 percent), and tion has made developing tour- investments in the Philippines’s

CHOCOLATE HILLS, BOHOL | PAGE 15 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016

emerging economy, and raising greater aware- with a total spending of PhP0.96 billion for the MANILA SKYLINE ness among the international community helped month of February 2016. open the door for tourism consideration. The The month of February 2016 recorded an av- Philippines is now approaching almost double the erage daily expenditure (ADE) of Php 4,907.47. arrival figures that it started with in 2010. On the other hand, average length of stay (ALoS) “The biggest change during this administra- of visitors for the same month was registered at tion is that we now have the Filipino people more 10.03 nights. Moreover, the month’s average per enthusiastic about tourism itself. And the growth capita expenditure of visitors was computed at that we see today is precisely the result of our Php 49,221.93. people’s renewed confidence. We, as a country, “This unprecedented growth we are now expe- believe that we can deliver an experience to tour- riencing did not happen overnight. It is the work ists that is more fun because we allow visitors to and effort of the Filipino people who have nur- take part in our joy. And the whole world is as tured and sustained this progress despite various convinced that more people should visit and re- political and economic challenges. Truly, it is the visit the Philippines,” Tourism Secretary Ramon passion and energy of the Filipinos for the Philip- R. Jimenez Jr. said. pines that became instrumental in driving these Tourism activities for the month of February numbers. In only a few years time, we have finally 2016 generated an estimate of PhP 27.49 billion achieved an enhanced orientation for the DOT as earnings, posting a growth rate of 42.09 percent the country’s primary marketing and selling unit. from PhP 19.35 billion earnings in February 2015. We have restored confidence in the Philippines Korea remained the top spending market during through a professional, well-planned, and well- the month with receipts amounting to PhP 12.92 supported tourism industry. While we have suc- billion. USA ranked second with an aggregate vis- cessfully ushered in an era of modern Philippine itor spending of PhP2.87 billion. China rose to the tourism, we believe this is just the beginning of a third place with expenditure totaling PhP1.71 bil- more promising future,” Secretary Jimenez said. lion followed by Japan with PhP1.45 billion. Com- pleting the top five spending markets is Australia (Source: Department of Tourism Philippines) Philippines aims to attract tourists with Halal food

HE Department of Tourism (DOT) of Commerce and Industries of the Phil- CARAGA Southern Philippines Medical Center The Farm at Carpenter Hill has set its sights on seeking a larg- ippines, Inc. (Hiccip) and CrescentRat- Hotel Tavern Tinhat Boutique Hotel & Restaurant Ter slice of the global Halal tourism ing, to prepare the kitchens and facilities Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa Villa Margarita Hotel ZAMBOANGA market. of 43 hotels, resorts, restaurants, and Zabadani Inc. Astoria Regency Convetion Center Citing a recent Crescent Rating data other tourism-related establishments in CEBU Azenith Royal Hotel that sees the 117 million Muslim travel- Manila, Cebu, Boracay, Davao, Bohol, Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel MANILA Barcode Restaurant ers to rise to 168 million by 2020, Phil- Zamboanga City, General Santos City, Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan Berjaya Hotel Makati Bay Tal Mal Restaurant ippines’ Department of Tourism Secre- Koronadal, Cotabato City, Surigao City, Maribago Bluewaters Resort Dusit Thani Manila Dennis Coffee Garden tary Jimenez “the Philippines is one of and Siargao Island, to be halal-certified. Persian Kebab Tandoori Edsa Shangri-La Manila Dulang Restaurant and Catering Services the countries in Southeast Asia that is Shangril Mactan Resort and Spa Marco Polo Ortigas Grand Astoria Hotel determined to partake 20 to 25 percent HALAL-CERTIFIED ESTABLISHMENTS Marriot Hotel Palacio del Sur of the $200 billion global Halal market. IN THE PHILIPPINES DAVAO The Mabuhay Manor Woodland Resort The market is already there, with arriv- BOHOL Al Sultan als from Malaysia, for one, growing at Bohol Beach Club Banana Beach SOCCSKSARGEN (Source: Philippine Halal Tourism Project) double-digit rate. The only thing that is South Palms Resort Panglao Ecoland Suites Alnor Hotel and Convention Center wanting is capacity.” The Bellevue Resort Park Inn by Radisson Family Court Inn and Hotel The agency has worked with Na- Pearl Farm Beach Resort FB Hotel tional Commission on Muslim Filipinos BORACAY Marco Polo Davao Green Leaf Hotel (NCMF), Halal International Chamber Alta Vista Rumah Karl Restaurant Hotel San Marco | PAGE 16 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016 GDP grows 6.9% in first quarter of 2016 E are pleased to be turn- ing over a strong and sta- ble economy onto the next The Philippines’s socio- administration, said Em- manuel F Esguerra, Direc- economic planning chief Wtor-General at the National Economic highlighted that the and Development Authority (NEDA). The Philippines’s socio-economic planning chief highlighted that the country exceeded mar- country exceeded market expectations ket expectations with a with a 6.9 percent growth in the first quarter of 2016. He further added that 6.9 percent growth in the performance of the Southeast Asian country for the period even exceeded the first quarter of 2016. that of regional giant China. He further added that Strong domestic “The growth is above market expec- tations given average consensus fore- the performance of the demand boosts cast of 6.6 percent for the first quarter. This robust performance of the econo- Southeast Asian country my increases the likelihood of achiev- imports in March ing the official GDP growth projection for the period even ex- of 6.8 to 7.8 percent for 2016, despite ceeded that of regional ONTINUED demand for capital a weak agriculture and fishery sector. and consumer goods drove imports Also, among 11 selected Asian econo- giant China. Cgrowth of 11.7 percent in March mies that have already released their 2016, according to the National Eco- growth data for the quarter, the Phil- nomic and Development Authority ippines was the fastest-growing econo- (NEDA), an independent cabinet-level my, followed by China at 6.7 percent, agency of the Philippine government Vietnam at 5.5 percent, Indonesia at responsible for economic development 4.9 percent, and Malaysia at 4.2 per- and planning. cent,” Escuegarra said during a press The Philippine Statistics Author- briefing on the 2016 Q1 performance of ity reported that imports reached $6.4 the Philippine economy held recently. billion from $5.7 billion in the same pe- The official’s statement, published riod. This is on account of higher pur- on the agency’s website, also highlight- chases of capital goods at 24.1 percent ed few points on the Philippine eco- and consumer goods at 39.4 percent. nomic performance including growth Nino. Overall, he noted an exciting eco- “The continued strength of mer- in construction at 12 percent during nomic growth for the Philippines. chandise imports and the fact that it the period compared with 7.6 percent “Ultimately, the economic perform- is fuelled by spending on capital goods in the last quarter of 2015 and 4.5 per- ance of our country from 2010 to the bodes well for the economy. This cent in the first quarter of 2015. He also first quarter of 2016 remains the high- growth also mirrors the positive pros- cited that public construction saw a re- est growth average recorded by the pects of the economy that are expected versal of its 23 percent contraction last country that is backed by sound mac- to be sustained for the rest of the year,” year to 39.9 percent in the first quar- roeconomic fundamentals. This is a said Socioeconomic Planning Secretary ter of 2016 as capital outlays of big de- testament to the good governance and Emmanuel F. Esguerra. partments posted significant increases. equally good economic reforms that we Additionally, among 11 select Asian While private construction also picked have implemented since the beginning countries, only the Philippines posted up by 7.1 percent, from only 1.1 percent of the Aquino administration. This positive growth of imports in March last year. continuing high growth pattern should 2016. South Korea, Malaysia and Tai- Esguerra also noted the acceleration encourage all of us to continue work- wan showed the steepest declines. of economic growth for the first quarter ing and making our own little contribu- “Given the general sluggishness of of this year driven by gains in the in- tions to the growth of the economy and import activities in the region, govern- dustry and services sectors. The indus- higher well-being of our people. ment support for higher spending on try sector recorded a growth of 8.7-per- “These are exciting times ahead as infrastructure is critical not only be- cent, the highest in five consecutive this government will soon be turned cause it supports domestic demand but quarters, supported by manufacturing, over to a new presidency. We are hope- more importantly, because it increases ‘Seize the challenge as one people’ construction, and utilities. Also, the ful that the economic agenda of the in- the country’s attractiveness to inves- services sector recorded a 7.9-percent coming administration—that includes tors,” the Cabinet official said. growth, on the back of faster growth in agricultural development, increasing Imports of capital goods continued trade, finance, and real estate, renting infrastructure spending and expand- their double-digit growth path for the and business activities. The strength of ing the government’s conditional cash seventh consecutive month by reaching both the industry and services sectors transfer programme, among others— $2.1 billion in March 2016. This bodes once again shows the ongoing structur- will continue and build on the gains of well for robust economic activity. al transformation taking place in our the last five years,” the official said. Similarly, imports of consumer economy, which is crucial for sustain- quality jobs, he added. poor performance in the agriculture goods increased to $ 1.2 billion in ing economic growth and generating However, he also pointed out the sector he attributed to the impact of El (SOURCE: WWW.NEDA.GOV.PH) March 2016 due to higher spending on both durable goods (67.9%) and non- durable goods (15.6%) during the pe- riod. “Expected to fuel imports growth in the near term will be the continued ex- pansion of public and private construc- tion, along with investments in durable equipment. Meanwhile, increased em- ployment opportunities with increased government spending for personnel services and maintenance and operat- ing expenditures will contribute to the growth of consumer goods imports,” said Esguerra, who is also NEDA Direc- tor-General. However, purchases of raw materi- als and intermediate goods as well as mineral fuels and lubricants declined during the period owing to the waning demand for wheat, inedible crude ma- terials, and lower import payments for other mineral fuels and lubricants, and petroleum. “The government needs to stay on course towards improving the climate for doing business in the country. This will improve our attractiveness to both local and foreign investors. The passage of the Customs Modernization Act is a step in this direction, as it will reduce opportunities for corruption and tech- nical smuggling,” said Esguerra. In terms of market source, im- ported goods from Thailand rose sig- nificantly by 84.2 percent, overtaking China (45.3%) and Japan (48.9%), and replacing the United States as one of the top three import source since Au- gust 2014.

(SOURCE: WWW.NEDA.GOV.PH) | PAGE 17 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016 Four institutions in QS Max’s tasteful varsity rankings for 2015 journey to Qatar

AX’S Restaurant was established in Quezon City, Philippines in the year 1945. From humble beginnings of a single roadside café to over M120 restaurants across the Philippines, North America and The Mid- dle East, Max’s today is a household name and has come to be the most loved Filipino brand. Max’s Restaurant is famous for its deli- cious Filipino dishes which combine sweet and savoury flavours, the legendary ‘Sarap to the Bones’ Max’s Fried Chicken, cosy interiors and heart- warming service. Max’s opened its first restaurant in Qa- tar at Al Sadd, Doha in September 2015. This University of the Philippines, Diliman campus. resulted in an over- whelming response OUR universities from the are the National University of Singapore, constituent universities and one autono- and sheer demand Philippines made it to the the University of Hong Kong, and the mous college spread throughout 15 cam- from the Filipino com- list of top universities in Asia Korea Advanced Institute of Science and puses in the archipelago. munity. Max’s opened released by education firm Technology. The institution is often cited as the its second restaurant Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). According to a report published by CNN Philippines’s top university. As of 2012, at B-Ring Road, Doha FThe country’s national university, Philippines, the QS University Rankings: seven Philippine Presidents, 13 Chief Jus- in March 2016. Max’s the University of the Philippines (UP) Asia has been highlighting top schools in tices of the Philippine Supreme Court, has recently launched is ranked 70th out of 300 –seven spots the region since it was launched in 2009. 36 National Scientists and 40 National its home delivery lower than its 2014 rank. The London-based education group uses Artists of the Philippines have been affili- service. The ‘Sarap to Following in ranks 114, 143, and 181 nine indicators in determining ranks in ated with UP. It has also produced 15,000 the Bones’ experience to 190, respectively are Ateneo de Manila Asia namely: Academic reputation (30%), doctors, 15,000 engineers, 8,000 lawyers, is now just one call University (ADMU), University of Santo Employer reputation (10%), Faculty/stu- 23,000 teachers, and thousands of gradu- away. The increasing- Tomas (UST) and De La Salle University dent ratio (20%) ates in other academic fields, which com- ly popular ‘4Sharing (DLSU). Citations per paper (15%), Papers per prise some of its approximate 260,000 liv- Meal’ will be launched for the first time in June. This meal is based on the ADMU, the third oldest university in the faculty (15%), Proportion of internation- ing alumni worldwide. love of sharing in the Filipino community and such, is perfect for 4 persons. Philippines, surfaced with a better rank as al faculty (2.5%), Proportion of interna- UP has the most National Centers of Guests can look forward to new ‘4Sharing Meal’ every month featuring a it was ranked 115th in Asia in 2014. While tional students (2.5%), Proportion of Excellence and Development among higher range of new dishes. UST, one of the world’s largest Catholic inbound exchange students (2.5%) and education institutions in the country, and Max’s currently operates 9 restaurants in the Middle East, 6 in the UAE, universities in terms of enrollment found in Proportion of outbound exchange stu- is one of the only three schools in Asia that 2 in Qatar and 1 in Kuwait. As it moves into its 71st year of operations, one campus, and DLSU, a Roman Catholic dents (2.5%). have received institutional recognition in Max’s will expand with new openings in the region taking its signature research university, retained its position in The Philippines’s top university in the the Ramon Magsaysay Awards. Filipino fare closer to the community. the ranking since last year. ranking, UP, was established in 1908 and is (Advertorial) This year’s top three schools in Asia now a university system composed of seven (SOURCE: CNN PHILIPPINES/RAPPLER.COM/WIKIPEDIA) | PAGE 18 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016

From organisations highlighting popular sports like basketball, volleyball and football, to groups catering to diverse United through interests of Pinoy health buffs such as dragon boating, mountain bik- ing, dancesport, sepak takraw, there’s some- sports & wellness thing for everybody.

Festa-Qatar showcasing the sport sepak-takraw. Filipino Fitness and Health in Qatar promotes healthy lifestyle through Zumba and aerobics.

AILYN AGONIA DOHA

NGAGING in sports and physical ac- tivities is a high priority among EFilipinos in Qatar. This is ev- ident by the growing number of community organisations dedicated to promoting cer- tain sports or advocating healthy living through vari- ous forms of exercise. From organisations highlighting popular sports like basketball, volleyball and football, to groups ca- tering to diverse interests of Pinoy health buffs such as dragon boating, mountain biking, dancesport (activ- ity that combines sport and dance), sepak takraw (kick volleyball), there’s some- thing for everybody. “Engaging in regular fit- ness or sports activity is nec- essary for expatriates, since we spend most of our time at work. It is a way of ensuring Philippine Embassy endorses the new health programme Weight Loss Challenge. we maintain healthy bodies and it gives the necessary learning among referees and version among expatriates. in Abu Dhabi, where it lifted dance with us. He said he balance in our lives. In most coaches here,” Carido added. It keeps you entertained and the championship title. had lived in Dubai, Kuwait cases, focusing on sports ac- Upcoming events of in touch with other Filipinos Dance for fitness is also and and didn’t tivities keep expatriates from Pibaq include SBP Referees having the same interest. at the core of sports and have this kind of opportunity being drawn to vices,” said Accreditation and Licens- Working abroad is not just wellness initiatives within to engage in exercise on this Pinoy Basketball of Qatar ing Seminar scheduled on performing your respon- the community. Through scale. We are receiving a lot (Pibaq) President Pat Carido. June 14 to 17, Junior Falcons sibilities at work. You also Filipino Fitness and Health of compliments about this The group, which is at Academy (youth basketball need to find an activity that in Qatar (FFHQ), Filipinos initiative,” said FFHQ Chair- the forefront of promoting camp) for 15 to 18-year-olds you can do during your free and non-Filipinos alike have man Randy Frogoza. Filipino basketball in the and 10 to 14-year-olds slated time. Sepak takraw is not caught the Zumba fever. The The group has about country, currently has 780 for June 10, the 1st PIDC really a popular sport even group’s regular Friday ses- more than 3,000 members active members, including Basketball GCC Invitational among Filipinos. It is part of sion at the Corniche has been on its official Facebook page. Filipino youth. It has organ- Cup 2016 featuring Filipino our mission to educate our uniting all nationalities to The crowd during its regular ised various tournaments for teams from Abu Dhabi, Du- kababayans and other resi- the tune of Latin-American Friday sessions is about 200 all categories – newbies and bai, Dammam and Doha in dents on this physical activ- dance music! people or more all dancing professionals – and has been July, and Allan Caidic’s Bas- ity,” said Festa-Qatar Vice- “We are privileged at the along with some volunteer engaging young children ketball Academy on July 29. President Harold Angeles. FFHQ to be able to serve instructors. This summer, through its basketball clinics Another organisation He added that among the community through our FFHQ intends to continue and camps. gaining popularity in the their plan this year is to hold regular two-hour Zumba with their sessions at an in- “Besides initiating SBP country is the Filipino Expa- a summer tournament some- sessions. I have heard of so door venue. (Samahang Basketball ng triates Sepak Takraw Asso- time in June or July in prep- many people who appreci- Recently, the Philippine Pilipinas) programme, our ciation Qatar or Festa-Qatar. aration for the 2nd Inter- ate what we do for the com- Embassy Doha even joined in concern includes educat- The group has piqued the in- national Invitational Sepak munity. A British expatriate the call for ‘a healthier Filipino ing the community when it terest of joggers and passers- Takraw Championships tak- who regularly attends our community’ by endorsing the comes to international bas- by at the Corniche with their ing place in Dubai in August. session once said that fitness Weight Loss Challenge pro- ketball rules. Making basket- regular exhibition games of Festa-Qatar also takes and exercise became more gramme organised by Beats ball leagues in Qatar profes- sepak takraw, a sport native pride in representing Qatar enjoyable and fun because & Bytes Production. The pro- sional is part of Pibaq’s plan. to Southeast Asia. in various international tour- of what we do. A member gramme involves fitness activ- We also intend to promote “Being part of sports naments such as the recently from Egypt, comes to Cor- ities as well as talks on health camaraderie and continuous groups is a worthwhile di- Basketball clinic for the young by Pinoy Basketball of Qatar. concluded Duterte Cup held niche with his family just to and wellness and nutrition.

Health talk for the community by Beats and Bytes Production. Friday Zumba by FFHQ. A tournament organised by Festa-Qatar at the Corniche. | PAGE 19 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016

LBC Balikbayan Drums for sending more secure cargo

AJORITY of the Overseas Filipino Workers are look- ing for a cargo service provider that they can trust for sending their balikbayan boxes back home. LBC Ex- press, the leading cargo and courier service provider Mlaunched the LBC Balikbayan Drums as an alternative for se- cured cargo sending from the Middle East. “Our aim is to provide peace of mind for our customers whenever they avail our cargo service. LBC Balikbayan Drum was launched to provide additional options for sending their packages. At LBC, we always take extra steps to help ensure the safety of packages our customer entrusts to us.”, shared Mark Agalo-os, VP for LBC Middle East Operations. A lot Middle East have shifted from boxes to LBC Balikbay- an Drum. Norna Igsoc from Doha, Qatar was one of the cus- tomers who availed the product, “Gumamit ako ng LBC Ba- likbayan Drum kasi safe at useful at marami kang mailalagay na padala. Magagamit pa siya kapag dumating na sa Pilipinas. First time ko magpadala sa LBC at so far, it turned out well.” (I used LBC Balikbayan Drum because it’s safe and use- ful and I can put a lot of things inside. It can even be re-used when it is delivered to the Philippines. This is the first time I sent to LBC and so far it turned out well.) “We understand that we are the link between the overseas Filipino and their loved ones back home and this makes us more keen in finding ways of providing the best cargo sending experience to our customers whenever they send their pack- ages through LBC”, added Agalo-os. (Advertorial) | PAGE 20 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016 Bigger investments, more jobs UOYED by the approvals by the Philippine Board of BInvestments (BOI) in the first four months this year in- vestments reached Php 117.26 billion, up by 64 percent com- pared to the Php 71.62 billion posted in the same period last year. These were generated from 101 projects and are expected to create 16,366 additional jobs, once fully operational. For April alone, a total of Php 55.33 billion was generated, which recorded a remarkable 225 percent increase compared to the Php 17 billion generated for the same month in 2015. Among the big ticket projects approved in April were GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Cor- poration (Php 16.75 billion), a PPP project for the Cebu Inter- national Airport Project (Phase 2 – operation and maintenance of Terminal 2); Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC Php15.15 billion), modernisation of the ex- isting system – operations and maintenance of Manila LRT 1 In- tegrated Railway System Project; and Cordillera Hydro Electric Power Corporation (Php12.18 billion), renewable energy developer of 60MW Kapangan Hydroelectric Project in Benguet. “The remarkable growth in the agency’s investment approvals is spectacular, given the slug- gish global economy,” said Trade Undersecretary and BOI Manag- ing Head Ceferino Rodolfo. “The significant growth in investments was mainly driven by infra- structure and power sectors, elevating the country’s produc- tive capacity to further grow at higher rates,” he said. “Equally significant, these infrastructure and power projects are dispersed across the country, ensuring support for future growth in areas outside the national capital region,” he added. At the sector level, electric- ity, gas, steam and air condition- ing supply recorded the largest share of investment commit- ments at Php 48.97 billion (42 percent), followed by the con- struction sector with Php 31.90 billion (27 percent), real estate activities, specifically, the eco- nomic and low-cost housing sub- sector with Php 19.61 billion (17 percent), transportation and storage with Php 10.06 billion (nine percent); and manufactur- ing with Php 5.97 billion (five percent). Of the total investment approvals, 84 percent or Php 98.54 billion came from local investors and the remaining 16 percent or Php 18.73 billion from foreign sources.

(SOURCE: DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY)

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Filipino divers in Qatar led by Fritz Cabunilas (scuba diving instructor) usually meet over the weekends to enjoy scuba diving with their families and friends. Scuba diving is one of the activities enjoyed among community members. LBC Qatar Team: We Like to Move It | PAGE 21 | THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016

Mount Makiling Forest Reserve

Tubbataha Reefs Mount Apo Natural Park Natural Park Raising awareness about country’s protected areas

HE Biodiversity Manage- ment Bureau of the Depart- The Guidebook to ment of Environment and Protected Areas of Natural Resources (DENR) of the Philippines recently the Philippines aims launchedT the Guidebook to Protected to showcase the Areas of the Philippines. The book aims to showcase the Phil- ippines’s natural wealth by highlighting country’s natural the biodiversity richness, research and wealth by highlighting conservation programmes, and ecotour- ism destinations in the country. Envi- the biodiversity sioned as the first of a series, the publica- tion will eventually feature all protected richness, research areas in the Philippines, so that more and conservation people can appreciate the natural beauty of the country, and contribute to the con- programmes, and servation of its rich and increasingly rare biodiversity. ecotourism destinations “Our inter-relationship with the en- vironment is also evident in Filipino cul- in the country. ture, with natural elements inter-woven into myths and legends, music and the maining wilderness in the Philippines arts. Increasing pressures, however, with 1,079 species of trees, 55 species from deforestation, habitat loss, pollu- of mammals, 294 species of birds, 25 tion, climate change, and many others, species of amphibians, 65 species of threaten the integrity of the country’s reptiles, 36 species of freshwater fish, ecosystems and the wildlife they har- 128 species of butterflies and 35 spe- bour. We are in a race to protect the cies of dragonflies. country’s biodiversity, and various ap- Other protected areas include Ban- proaches are currently in place to en- gan Hill National Park, Mounts Ban- sure that more generations of Filipinos ahaw-San Cristobal Protected Land- will continue to see the magnificent Ninoy Aquino Parks scape, Mount Makiling Forest Reserve, creatures as well as the exceptional Mounts Iglit-Baco National Park, Tub- landscapes and seascapes found in our and Wildlife Center bataha Reefs Natural Park, Sagay shores,” said DENR Secretary Ramon Marine Reserve, Mount Kanlaon Nat- PJ Paje. ural Park, Central Cebu Protected Land- The book cites 240 protected areas tem, featuring initial components of the the 22.7 hectare Ninoy Aquino Parks Seascape encompassing the entire prov- scape, Mimbilisan Protected Landscape, under the National Integrated Protected Nipas, Philippine Asean Heritage Parks, and Wildlife Center which is home to ince of Batanes with 96 species of fern Mount Malindang Natural Park, Mount Areas System (Nipas) covering a total and the home of the Biodiversity Man- 135 species of trees and shrubs, 73 spe- and fern allies, 251 species of flowering Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctu- area of about 5.45 million hectares, or agement Bureau, the main DENR agency cies of birds, 11 species of reptiles, nine plants, nine species of mammals and 104 ary, Mount Kitanglad Natural Park and 14.2 percent of the total area of the Phil- tasked with the conservation of the na- species of fish, five species of mammals species of birds. Mount Apo Natural Park. ippines. The book highlights a mere frac- tion’s biodiversity. and three species of amphibians, and Also included is the Northern Sierra tion of the country’s protected area sys- The featured protected areas include the Batanes Protected Landscape and Madre Natural Park, one of the last re- (SOURCE: WWW.DENR.GOV.PH)

Batanes Protected Landscape and Seascape 22 Thursday, June 2, 2016 Thursday, June 2, 2016 23 24 Thursday, June 2, 2016