Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Youtube
Home Blog Page 9296

Gifts that give back

The Christmas season makes us again wonder what we will give to our loved ones, friends, and workmates. There are many gift ideas to consider, but one concept is worthy to be chosen for a change: eco-friendly and sustainable gifts.

Sustainable products are among the type of gifts that are really worth giving. Not merely does somebody give an item, he or she also grants the recipient an opportunity to make a lifestyle change that gives back to communities and benefits the environment.

In fact, there has been a growing demand for products that tap into sustainability. An extensive study by the Center of Sustainable Business at the New York University (NYU Stern CSB) found out that 50% of consumer packed goods growth from 2013 to 2018 came from sustainability-marketed products.

Such sustainable products accounted for 16.6% of the market in 2018, and —more importantly — they grew 5.6 times faster than those that were not.

“Consumers are voting with their dollars — against unsustainable brands,” NYU Stern CSB ‘s Founding Director Tensie Whelan and Senior Scholar Randi Kronthal-Sacco wrote in Harvard Business Review on the implications of their findings.

While this might yet be the same sentiment in the Philippines, the push for green living has been very much felt in the country, with a lot of sustainable materials being conceptualized and made available especially online. Sustainable products, therefore, are great choices for Christmas gifts nowadays. Regardless of the apparently high costs, these gifts will surely count for their long-time usability and long-term benefits.

One can go with as simple as a writing instrument like pencils. Eco You PH, Eco Hub Cebu, and Paraluman have come up with unique pencils that have seed capsules instead of tiny erasers.

Another great option is reusable dining and drinking utensils. Tindahan ni Klara offers cutlery sets that come in various colors and come with metal straws and a case. The Bamboo Company, meanwhile, offers bamboo-made baon sets such as Bambootensil, Bambaunan, and Bambote sets; while Eco Hub Cebu has a double-walled insulated bamboo tumbler that maintains the heat or coldness of a beverage for up to eight hours.

Bamboo toothbrushes are an effortless yet very practical idea for gifts or raffle prizes. With only P75, one can purchase from Go Zero PH an eco-friendly alternative to plastic toothbrushes.

Moreover, there are a lot of sustainable hygiene and beauty products to choose from. One can choose from various finely crafted body bars, including the cruelty-free and stress-relieving Amortensia Body Bar from Herbology PH, organic anti-bacterial soaps from Squeaky Clean Kids, or organic bath bars from Bukid ni Bogs in Zamboanga del Sur.

There are also shampoo bars like Haribon Foundation’s CleanAir Shampoo Bar, which comes free with signing up to its Adopt-a-Seedling program; and The Pink Bloom, which improves hair quality without the fuss of a plastic container.

Human Heart Nature is a great source for pampering sustainable gifts, like their Gifts of Comfort and Joy bundle which includes Lavander Oil and Balm as well as Rose Boquet Hand & Foot. There are also sustainable cosmetics like the Glass Skin Glow Set from Ellana Mineral Cosmetics, fitting for anyone who likes make-up.

There are also gift items suitable for men, like the stainless steel razor from loopstore.ph, a better and long-lasting item for shaving instead of disposable razors. Shampoos like the Lazy Boy Dry Shampoo from Paraluman, are also better alternatives to counterparts contained in plastic bottles.

Storage, bags, and clothing are also products that have been transformed by sustainability. For cases, Reduce Reuse PH offers silicone bags for storing food or other items, while Conscious Canvas has handcrafted roll-up cases for make-up instruments or utensils.

Locally-made bags and clothing are available from organizations like Gugma Artisan, which weaves totes made of a plant that produces banig; Anthill Fabric Gallery, which makes hand-woven clothing to accessories like the Abaca Pillowcase; Siklo Pilipinas, with lifestyle bags made of upcycled tires and inner tubes; and Maranao Collectibles, which makes accessories and clothing from a fabric that is usually used to decorate the malong.

Meanwhile, the LoveHopeFaith Group offers its Lifesaver watch that benefits cancer patients and various beneficiaries with 50% of the net proceeds.

Of course, there are also sustainably-produced food that are great alternatives to the usual sweet treats. For instance, Theo and Philo, the country’s first bean-to-bar artisan chocolate brand, offers bars that range from the classic Milk Chocolate to the bizarre Milk Chocolate Adobo and Dark Chocolate Labuyo.

Sustainable giving does not only have to involve the gift itself; the packaging also matters. The best way to do this is to simply go away with buying the usual gift wrapper. One can go from as simple as some unused paper or box to as sophisticated like the Japanese art of wrapping called furoshiki, which uses vintage scarves or fabric scraps. — Adrian Paul B. Conoza

Novel ideas for your next Christmas party

It is once again that time when companies or groups of people gather in celebration of Christmas and a productive and fruitful year. Parties are going to be set and booked in offices, restaurants, or function areas. As many attend a number of parties this month, they are going to look forward to a great and memorable experience and to simply have fun beyond the usual ways.

One of the important aspects of a Christmas party is the theme. While one may go with a simple celebration, which is nonetheless fine, coming up with a theme for the party can spice up the celebrations and can even make it more exciting for prospect attendees. With a theme to center the party on, it could be something people will look forward to and prepare for.

Fresh ideas have been pitched by several sites, suggesting different ways to hold parties this Christmas season.

Although the season is being celebrated in often cooler weather, a Yuletide summer concept relives the summer vibe with a luau or tropical party. A slumber party, on the other hand, can be fitting party theme for the breezy season, more so with people likely to yearn for a much-needed sleep this Christmas.

Parties are also good times for singing, especially that Filipinos are fond of it. A ‘Christmas Carol-oke’ concept is a fun way to stage a Christmas party as officemates group together to perform some Yuletide carols, while others serve as judges. Add to this some concert hall-like design, plus a display that shows karaoke-style scores and lyrics.

A lot of people must have been spending spare time watching series or movies on Netflix these past months. Having a “The Best of Netflix” party can bring people together to enjoy and talk over the shows they have become fans of. Party organizers could also draw from one of the platform’s originals as the theme for their event.

In relation to TV series, a concept centered on a classic or well-known show is good to go, with the food, decorations, set designs, and other details intricately referenced to the characters, plot, and settings of the series. One can have a throwback to the much-loved 90’s situational comedy Friends, or a fresh “Upside Down” take on the well-known science fiction horror series Stranger Things.

2019 has a fair share of viral videos and memes, and out of these a party full of laughs and fun can be formed. With a ‘Viral Videos and Memes’ concept, officemates can make skits out of trending videos or memes, or play games that copy and guess these materials.

An “Ugly Sweater” party could still be tried, with participants donning their most outrageous Christmas gear and just having fun out of seeing each other’s outfits. If something away from wearing costumes is preferred, an “Assorted Pins” party can be considered. Attendees will be decked with felt or custom lapel pins or Velcro patches, in which the games and giving of prizes will be based on.

Aside from what theme the party will have, where the party will be held is also a very important part of holding a successful, hassle-free, and enjoyable party. Aside from hotels and other functional areas that can definitely accommodate parties, especially corporate ones, there are also different venues around Metro Manila that could house Christmas parties, depending on the size and preferred package.

In Filinvest in Alabang, Muntinlupa, for instance, Neil’s Kitchen has three function rooms, the largest of which can accommodate 120 people.

Within Makati City, venues such as Bondi & Bourke at Legazpi Village, Azuthai at San Lorenzo, Milky Way Cafe at Arnaiz Avenue, and Filling Station Bar and Cafe at Poblacion are fine places to consider with accommodation of as few as 16 and as many as 80 people.

In Taguig, there is much to choose from. At SM Aura, there is Todd English Food Hall, with a Balcony Area accommodating as many as 29 people; and Lugang Cafe, with a Lanai Room that can cover 50 pax. In Bonifacio Global City, Thefunctionrooms has seven rentable rooms that can accommodate up to 160 guests together with multi-cuisine buffet packages; while Sagana provides a cozy vibe for parties of up to 50 people.

Quezon City, meanwhile, has a lot of venues to offer, especially around Tomas Morato Avenue. The Frazzled Cook has three rooms fitting 10-18 people. Limbaga 77 provides 2 function rooms at its top floor. Lazat, meanwhile, has 6 dining areas, with the largest set for 120 guests. Oriental Palace has a function room for large special events, while Centerstage’s room can fit 40 people. There is also Ninyo Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge in Loyola Heights for small parties of up to 15 people.

At Kapitolyo in Pasig City, Cafe Juanita highlights its eclectic interiors and classic Filipino dishes and could accommodate as much as 110 people. — Adrian Paul B. Conoza

Creating the best Christmas feast on a budget

Noche Buena, which translates to “good evening” in Spanish, refers to the night of Christmas Eve commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. In the Philippines, it is more than just a night before the Christmas Day; it is a grand celebration where every member of the family — even those living or working abroad — gather together to sit down for a sumptuous feast, while wishing everyone good cheers and glad tidings.

Since Noche Buena is one of the most important traditions among Filipinos that only takes place once a year, it is really considerable to make it extra special and memorable. From the food to serve on the table, to the fun-filled activities to try during the Christmas feast, everything must be planned accordingly.

A Filipino Noche Buena would not be complete without food. And with all the price increases in the market, preparing and cooking for the anticipated feast doesn’t need to be expensive. There are several ways to come up with mouthwatering dishes without breaking the bank. The first tip to take note is to set the budget. According to Singapore-based financial comparison platform GoBear, this is significant as it will guide you on which dishes to include in the menu. “How much are you willing to spend for the feast? Setting a budget will give you a guide on which dishes to include in your menu. It is also important to consider the number of people present during the night,” it says.

Making a complete list of what to buy is also a big help to avoid unnecessary ingredients not included in the menu. “Stay within your plan, and you certainly will pay less on impulse buying,” GoBear says.

Moreover, the financial comparison platform suggests to slash out a few recipes that might be serve in the upcoming occasions. “Make a list of your family’s favorites. There are times when one dish might just look and taste the same as the other. In this case, try to slash out a few recipes which you can also actually serve for Media Noche. You don’t even have to buy everything your family wants to eat that night. A little dash of variety can already spice up the feast,” it explains.

Devoting enough time to shop is also necessary. “It’s the time of the year when everyone keeps on rushing around, and this won’t do good to your ‘shopping-on-a-budget’ venture. Having enough time will let you compare prices of different brands. You can even check out what’s on sale and stay away from regular priced items,” GoBear says.

Furthermore, GoBear suggests to look for the wholesale price but never buy bundled packages. It says that some grocery stores offer ingredients in a basket which seem to be cheaper but it is actually not.

Another great tip to prepare for Noche Buena on a budget is to look for homemade products, which are generally cheaper compared to their grocery-sold counterparts. GoBear says that aside from helping out small business owners, you can even negotiate for prices with them especially when buying in bulk.

Meanwhile, adding some decors in the dining area can also set the tone for an exciting Christmas feast. One inexpensive way to do this is by using fruits and ribbons as accessories.

“Pomegranates, pears, apples, lemons or grapes can all be beautiful (and edible) accessories. Choose a color theme and layer the color in different sizes and textures to make your holiday table unique. It’s an inexpensive way to create the perfect Christmas table setting. No need to store it until next year – just have the fruit for dessert,” Freshome, a go-to destination for anyone who is passionate about home design, says.

In choosing a ribbon, on the other hand, Freshome suggests to look for wired ribbon, which makes it easier to bend and fold into shape.

To make the Noche Buena feast even more special and memorable, don’t forget to gather the entire family for a photoshoot session. Make it extra special with matching outfits or creative shots in different parts of the house. The final photos can be printed out on a bigger canvas that can be displayed on the wall, or have them copied into smaller prints that can perfectly fit in wallets.

“Christmas can be very expensive, but you can always reduce your expenditures through planning, creating a budget and exploring other possible options to buy what you need. It takes a cup of patience, a teaspoon of an initiative, and an ounce of resourcefulness to make the holidays fun yet affordable,” GoBear says.

Above all these things, a secret for the best Noche Buena feast is putting God at the center of any relationships. While the Yuletide season might end, the love of God does not. — Mark Louis F. Ferrolino

The essential Christmas to-read and to-watch list

The holiday season is many Filipinos’ favorite time of the year for a reason. It checks everything off the list of qualities that defines being a Filipino.

As among the happiest and most hospitable people in the world, we Filipinos love a good celebration. We are also fiercely religious, and what is Christmas but the celebration of faith and goodwill?

Christmas is also a time to gather with families and loved ones and spend quality time over food and entertainment. We’ve compiled a list of the best books and movies to share with friends and family this holiday season.

It’s a Wonderful Life

Many would call Frank Capra’s 1946 film, It’s a Wonderful Life to be the defining American Christmas movie. The fantasy-drama film, based on the short story and booklet The Greatest Gift by Philip Van Doren Stern, tells the sad story of George Bailey, portrayed by Jimmy Stewart. Bailey, battered by life and financial stress, is considering taking his own life before he is stopped by his guardian angel. What happens next is a moving and inspiring tale of how significant one life can really be in making the world a brighter place. A timeless classic made to remind everyone what they should be thankful for this holiday season.

Die Hard

For those more interested in action-packed and high-powered fare, Die Hard is the flick to watch. Hailed as among the best action and Christmas-themed movies of all time, Die Hard was was selected in 2017 for preservation in the United States National Film Registry. The film follows Bruce Willis’s off-duty New York City Police Department officer John McClane when he gets caught up in a Los Angeles skyscraper during a heist led by Hans Gruber, played by the late Alan Rickman. Die Hard is a movie for any time of the year, and especially so on Christmas.

Love, Actually

Love, Actually is a 2003 British Christmas-themed romantic comedy film written and directed by Richard Curtis. Featuring a star-studded cast, this feel-good movie is an anthology of stories about love and all of the complications that comes with it. And though the film received mixed reviews among critics, the film proved to strike a nerve among audiences and was a box office hit, grossing $248 million worldwide on a budget of $40–45 million. It received a nomination for the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

A Nightmare Before Christmas

Still feeling a bit of a hangover from Halloween a few weeks back? Are your kids still donning their costumes looking for candy? Then the Tim Burton classic A Nightmare Before Christmas is the perfect film to watch this season. The 1993 American stop-motion animated film follows Jack Skellington, the King of “Halloween Town” who, after finding a portal to “Christmas Town”, is overcome with a sudden obsession to celebrate the holiday. The movie is among Burton’s best work, and was met with both critical and financial success. It also holds the particular title of being the first animated film to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects.

Home Alone

A relic from the vanishing genre of ‘kids getting up to mischief’, Home Alone is a classic in its own right. The 1990 American comedy film was written and produced by John Hughes and directed by Chris Columbus, and follows eight-year-old Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, when he gets left behind on his family’s Christmas trip to Paris. What happens next is perhaps the most memorable and hijinks-fueled vacation of his young life, as he attempts to thwart the plans of two burglars targeting his home. Home Alone was the highest-grossing Christmas film for nearly three decades after its release.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Perhaps the most famous Christmas story of all time. Dickens’ A Christmas Carol remains as relevant today as it has been when it was written in 1843. In the story, Ebenezer Scrooge, an old, bitter man, becomes haunted by three ghosts who take him on a journey through Christmases past, present, and future. The heartfelt and thought-provoking story is a classic reminder of the true meaning of the holiday season.

The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

Another classic, The Gift of the Magi is a short story about a young husband and wife trying to make ends meet, all the while coming up with a way to buy secret gifts for each other. With very little money, the couple is forced to make sacrifices for the benefit of the other. The well-known twist ending is meant to inspire readers to think about what is really important during this important holiday. As the story ends, the narrator compares the characters’ sacrificial gifts of love with those of the Biblical Magi.

The Little Match Girl by Hans Christian Andersen

The tradition of tragic, heartrending Christmas stories is a popular one in literature, as this fairy tale from Hans Christian Andersen proves. The tale of The Little Match Girl starts with a young girl spending a night on the streets trying to sell matches during the holidays. And while it ends on a tragic note, the story is a meaningful reflection on hope and life. — Bjorn Biel M. Beltran

Ideal gifts for everyone you know

With the holiday cheer and celebrations, there always comes the frustration of not knowing what your friends and loved ones would want for a Christmas gift. Cash is always welcome for anyone, for sure, but there is a unique kind of satisfaction in giving someone a gift that perfectly suits the kind of person they are.

Just a little thought or preparation can show your loved ones how much you treasure the role they play in your life. But that does not make the process of coming up with what to give them any easier.

Of course, the perfect gift is always the one that is well-thought and personally meaningful for both the giver and the receiver, but it doesn’t hurt to get some inspiration. To help with that, we have come up with a helpful list of ideal Christmas gifts for different types of people.

For the music lovers and musicians:

Perhaps you’ve seen them strum up a storm with their guitar at a recent party, or know them to be the person who always gets a perfect 100 on karaoke night. The best gifts for these people are likely anything that would support their passion for music.

Maybe they like K-Pop and support a particular boy or girl group? Get them the group’s merchandise! Are they die-hard fans of the Beatles or Taylor Swift? Maybe get them books on their favorite artists or even vinyl records of their favorite albums.

Got friends who have varied musical tastes? Perhaps quality earphones or headphones or a subscription to their music streaming platform of choice. Give guitar strings, piano sheet music, or drum sticks to the musicians you know.

For the visual art lovers and creatives:

You always see them sketching away during their downtime at the office, they might love taking pictures and putting them up on Instagram, or they watch and recommend animated movies or television series on Facebook. These types of people love the visual medium and like seeing their world with color and style.

Fortunately, their wish is easily fulfilled. There are a number of things you can get art lovers, from posters, photography accessories such as film, memory cards or camera straps, art materials like paints, brushes or tools, or even just a tote bag for their gear and supplies. If your artist or photographer friend offers their services for a commission, you can even score bonus points with them by promoting and supporting their work!

For the technology gurus:

You know them to be reliable founts of information regarding the latest smartphone releases. They know their way around the internet, and maybe they have even helped you fix a pesky glitch on your computer. These people enjoy staying up-to-date on the latest tech developments and feeling like they are on the cutting edge of a tech-crazy world.

Fret not, you don’t have to buy the latest iPhone to please tech gurus. There are a lot of options that can still show you care about their interests without breaking the bank, from external hard drives, smartphone accessories like covers, protective screens, or keyrings, USB ports, or even just a piece of software or video game that you know they like.

For the fitness and outdoor enthusiasts:

They are the first people to sign up for the company’s gym membership. As friends, they invite you to elaborately-planned trips to faraway beaches or to hiking trails climbing a mountain. You know them to be sports fans and they are always up for a game or two.

Clothes matter a lot for an active lifestyle, especially clothes that are durable, flexible, and are cool enough for the local weather. Good shoes are an option, as well as gym bags or backpacks, a fancy new water bottle, or some merchandise of their favorite sports team.

For the family men and women:

Their kids know you as their ‘tita/tito’ or ‘ninang/ninong’. You see their posts on social media about the latest trip they took with their extended family. These people care very deeply about their family, and there is nothing more important to them.

Do you know them to be proud cooks at home? Maybe you can give them some new kitchen equipment like baking mats, oven mitts, knives, or some unique cookware. Do they love decorating or fixing up their houses? Maybe tasteful new pieces of art for their living rooms or some useful hardware tools! Are they dedicated mothers and fathers? A gift certificate for a massage parlor, salon, a good restaurant, or a movie would brighten their day!

If you’re looking for gifts for teenagers or children, it might be best to consult their parents. If all else fails, cash always works. — Bjorn Biel M. Beltran

A year of recovering lost momentum

Yearend review: Motoring perspectives

Vehicle sales are often taken as an effective indicator of a country’s economic health. This is because new car sales are a sign of consumer economic confidence, that more Filipinos are willing to commit to lease or loan payments for years into the future.

For most of the decade, it was going well for the Philippine automotive industry. Things hit a speedbump in 2018, however, when vehicle sales dropped for the first time in seven years as the industry reeled amid imposition of higher automobile taxes under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion law, and the acceleration of headline inflation to the highest in recent history.

A joint report of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) showed that total sales last year fell 16% to 357,410 units last year from 425,673 vehicles in 2017, the first drop for the country since 2011 when vehicle sales also dropped by 16% to 141,616 units.

So 2019 is shaping up to be a critical year to see whether the country’s automotive sector can pick its momentum back up, or whether it is seeing the start of a downtrend.

Looking back on 2019

Credit and market intelligence experts Fitch Solutions predicted that 2019 would see a mild recovery, as it forecast sales to rise by 3.2% to 120,000 units in a report published in December 2018.

“While we expect households and businesses will have adjusted to the higher vehicle excise taxes imposed under the Philippines’ Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law in 2019, we believe that unfavorable economic conditions in the form of high interest rates, elevated inflation, and a still weak peso will see car sales remain under pressure,” Fitch had said.

The firm added that over the full 2019-2027 forecast period, passenger car sales in the Philippines will average annual growth of 6.5%, to around 205,000 units by the end of 2027.

It did not get off to a great start, as vehicle sales slid 15% in January from 2018 due to industry-wide reductions across different categories, according to CAMPI and TMA’s joint data. Total sales for the first month of this year fell to 26,888 units from 31,645 sold in January 2018, and all segments from passenger cars to commercial vehicles saw double-digit drops in sales.

However, automotive sales have been steadily growing since then, except for a seasonal dip in August. In October, based on the latest available data released by CAMPI and TMA, the industry saw continued recovery and recorded its “highest monthly sales” so far this year.

Data jointly released by the groups showed that overall sales rose 3.8% to 34,397 units in October from 33,150 vehicles in the same month last year, and by 8.1% from 31,820 units sold in September.

CAMPI President Rommel R. Gutierrez described the latest growth clip as a “much-needed boost” for the industry to hit its target for the year. “The current market demand for vehicles along with creative and aggressive sales promotion efforts give us a positive outlook as we aim to sustain the growth trend for the remaining months of the year,” he said in a statement. “We remain positive that our industry target for the end of the year will be achieved as all brands remain committed to providing innovative mobility solutions to the Filipino people.”

Mr. Gutierrez last year projected a 10% sales growth for full-year 2019. Year-to-date, both groups have so far sold 301,761 units, 2.53% more than the 294,311 vehicles sold in 2018.

Broken down, this year’s October sales of passenger cars saw a 6.8% bump to 10,083 vehicles from 9,444 a year earlier. Commercial vehicles — which accounted for 70.69% of the total — went up by 2.6% to 24,314 units from 23,706 a year earlier. Asian Utility Vehicle sales jumped 40.2% to 4,780 vehicles from 3,409 units, while light commercial vehicle sales slipped 3.3% to 18,271 vehicles from 18,896 units.

Year-to-date, commercial vehicle sales went up 3.8% to 211,361 units, while passenger car sales dropped 0.2% to 90,400 units.

Toyota Motors Philippines Corp. (TMP) remained the industry’s biggest player with 47.69% of market share, selling 16,403 vehicles in October or 9.9% more than the 14,927 units sold a year ago. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. followed with a 16.01% market share, even as sales dropped by 8.3% to 5,508 units from 6,004 a year ago.

Nissan Philippines held the third spot with 10.75% market share as vehicle slipped 0.2% to 3,697 in October from 3,703, while Suzuki Philippines, Inc. followed with a 6.41% market share, growing sales by 11.8% to 2,206 units from 1,974.

Ford Motor Company Phils., Inc. followed with 4.78% market share, with sales up 1.1% to 1,643 from 1,625.

However, even as TMP retained the top spot, the company revealed that it was not confident it will achieve its annual sales target of 165,000 units.

A month earlier in September, TMP President Satoru Suzuki told the media that he is not confident about reaching the annual car sales target due to challenges still present in the country’s economic environment.

TMP First Vice-President Rommel Gutierrez, however, added that sales might pick up in the tail end of the year, as this is usually when consumers are most confident about spending.

The same positive outlook seems to gain some bearing among other players in the industry.

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), the official distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the Philippines, while it reported a six percent drop in sales in the first 10 months of 2019, remains confident in the company’s performance in the coming months.

“While we don’t compete in some segments of the market (e.g. pickups), our volumes remain strong, underpinned by the quality of our vehicles and our focus on excellent after-sales services. Our models per segment remain competitive and this bodes well for the Hyundai brand in the Philippines,” HARI President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo said.

Most of the company’s commercial vehicle sales are led by Hyundai buses such as Hyundai County, but after the recent rollout of its Class 2 Modern Jeepney, HARI is optimistic.

“With the transport department’s support and high demand from transport cooperatives, our modern jeepneys will contribute to our growth over the medium term. We are excited to give Filipino commuters the new King of the Road,” Ms. Agudo said.

“Combined with the acceleration of the government’s infrastructure projects, our CV business is poised to expand and provide fresh avenues of growth,” she said. — Bjorn Biel M. Beltran

2019’s notable rides

There was a pretty good mix of vehicles introduced in the country this year. There are some that exude sophisticated styling with superb exterior, spectacular cabin quality, and excellent ride comfort. There are also newly arrived autos that are more likely performance-oriented, delivering strong performance numbers, great turbocharged engines, and sharp handling, among others. Some of the vehicles, otherwise, are a combination of these impressive qualities.

Despite some uncertainties in the local automotive market this year, one thing is for sure, there is a handful of worthwhile automotive arrivals in the country to choose from. Here, in alphabetical order, are some of them:

Ford Everest

Last August, Ford Philippines launched a new and refreshed version of its popular mid-sized sport utility vehicle (SUV) Everest, coming up with improved capability, safety, and efficiency, as well as notable enhancements to its engine, transmission, and driver-assist technologies.

This Ford Everest is powered by the new-generation 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel engine that delivers 213PS and 500 Nm of torque, and 2.0L Turbo diesel engine that delivers 180PS and 420 Nm of torque. It offers better fuel efficiency and acceleration with the advanced 10-speed automatic transmission.

Engineered with the driver and passengers in mind, the new Everest offers smarter and safer features. Among others, it has a smart keyless entry and push-start button that gives users quicker engine starts, improved convenience and ease of entry and exit from the vehicle; a hands-free liftgate feature that automatically opens and closes the liftgate; and an Active Park Assist feature that helps drivers find parallel parking spaces and steers the vehicle to a parking slot, with the driver’s hands off the steering wheel.

Honda Accord

The all-new 10th Generation Honda Accord was also unveiled in the local market this year. This Honda’s luxury sedan offers a premium and bolder design, a more powerful engine, and the advanced Honda SENSING safety technology.

Powering the Honda Accord is a new 1.5L VTEC Turbo engine developed under Earth Dreams Technology. This new engine puts out a maximum power output of 190PS at 5,500 rpm and 243 Nm of torque from 1,500-5,500 rpm. Its power is transmitted through a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) developed based on Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology. Combining these features under the hood of Honda Accord results in responsive performance, acceleration and efficient fuel economy.

The new Honda Accord now also sports a new eight-inch display audio system, which is one of the most advanced systems offered by Honda to date. Aside from a simplified menu structure and customizable shortcuts for commonly used features and applications, this intuitive and easy-to-use system also comes with navigation and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for a more intuitive smartphone connectivity.

Hyundai Palisade

Competing with the likes of the Ford Explorer, Mazda CX-9, and GAC GS8, Hyundai Palisade is a strikingly styled premium SUV recognized for its refined visual design breakthroughs, state-of-the-art technology and safety features.

A quiet ride, powerful driving performance, and excellent fuel efficiency are guaranteed with Palisade’s R2.2 diesel engine and Atkinson-cycle 3.8L gasoline engine. The eight-speed automatic transmission also delivers a smooth and seamless driving experience, according to its website.

The Hyundai Palisade is engineered with a nine airbag system and active safety system equipped with intelligent driving safety technology. It also comes with advanced features from the backseat conversation and sleep functions to the rearview monitor and active noise-cancelling function. Moreover, it is equipped with blind view monitor, USB ports for second- and third-row passengers, and three-zone independent-control fully automatic air conditioning.

Kia Stinger

Kia Philippines also debuted this year one of its most powerful offerings — the all-new Stinger. This visionary product of the Kia GT Concept showcases a perfect balance of ride, handling, comfort, and impressive powertrain.

The all-new Stinger is powered by a 3.3L V6 Twin Turbocharged Gasoline Engine Direct Injection Dual CVVT. Its maximum power output is 370PS at 6,000 rpm, while its maximum torque is 510 Nm at 1,300-4,500 rpm. Acceleration from 0-100 kilometers per hour (kph) is at 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 270 kph. It is available in RWD drivetrain and mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The Kia Stinger doesn’t fall short on advanced technology features. It has electronically controlled Dynamic Suspension integrated with Drive Mode Select, which adjusts steering boost, shift points, throttle and suspension mapping. Braking is powered by 4-Piston Brembo Caliper Discs on the Front and Rear. Moreover, Dynamic Torque Vectoring system comes standard.

Mitsubishi Strada

As early as January, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) introduced in the country the heavily revised version of the Strada, which is considered as a key model of Mitsubishi Motors in the competitive pickup truck market. It is designed not only to be more durable, reliable and capable, but also to deliver a more comfortable ride.

The new Strada is refined to deliver an unmatched performance with its 2.4L 4 In-line 16 Valve DOHC Clean Diesel with Variable Geometry Turbo and MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control System) 4N15 that gives a maximum output of 181PS at 3,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 430 Nm at 2,500 rpm.

As far as safety is concern, the new Strada hosts an array of passive and advanced active safety features. It carries the proprietary Mitsubishi Motors’ RISE body (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) that absorbs the impact of collision, and retains the current model high durability, high reliability ladder-type frame, and high-impact safety cabin structure. The Active Stability Traction Control (ASTC), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) are now standard in all variants.

Toyota GR Supra

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) Corp. also marked another history in the local automotive scene as it brought the all-new Toyota GR Supra in the Philippine shores. This first-ever Toyota Supra to be retailed in the county is the modern evolution of its predecessors. It inherits key styling features from both the Supra A80 and the Toyota 2000 GT.

The local variant of the Toyota GR Supra is powered by a twin-scroll turbocharged, in-line six-cylinder engine that produces a maximum output of 335 hp and 500 Nm of torque. It comes exclusively in 3.0L displacement and eight-speed automatic transmission.

The chassis and body frame of the all-new Toyota GR Supra are masterfully crafted to enjoy a 50:50 front-rear weight distribution, which is crucial in achieving optimum cornering performance. Its front wheels are equipped with double-joint type MacPherson Strut, while its rear wheels come with Multi-Link suspension. It also features a limited slip differential and ventilated disc brakes. — Mark Louis F. Ferrolino

Steady progress in the automotive industry

Yearend review: Motoring perspectives

As the automotive industry recovered from the challenges of the previous year and have reached stable growth with new and upgraded releases this 2019, insights have further shed light on the activity of car makers and the choices of the driving public.

Consolidating figures from distributor groups Association of Vehicle Importers and Distributors (AVID), Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI), and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA), AutoIndustriya.com reported last July that the Philippine automotive industry accumulated a total of 195,057 units sold for the first half of the year.

This meant an improved performance by 1.87% compared to the same period last year, which tallied 191,470 units.

Commercial vehicles — which include car types like sport utility vehicles, light trucks, and bus trucks — still took the large share of the market with 131,708 units. Passenger vehicles, on the other hand, had 63,349 units.

Among the leading players in the market, AutoIndustriya continued, Toyota Motor Philippines remained the top manufacturer with 37.49% of total units sold in the January-to-May period. This was followed by Mitsubishi Motors with 15.68% of the units; Nissan Philippines, Inc. with a 10.8% share; Hyundai Philippines with 9.05%; and Ford Motor Company Philippines, Inc. at 5.76%.

Meanwhile, as the year nearly wraps up, auto sales kept on a positive trend albeit a momentary decline. The sales have been growing since February. However, after recovering in June with a year-on-year increase of 8.7%, the data jointly gathered by CAMPI and TMA recorded a “seasonal” drop of 2.4% (29,599) last August, as reported by BusinessWorld. Sales recovered the following month with a 2.3% y-o-y growth to 31,820 units, as well as a 7.5% increase from total sales in August.

So far, the data continue to reflect a steady growth as overall sales rose by 8.1% to 34,397 units last October.

CAMPI President Rommel R. Gutierrez is optimistic about this sustained growth. “We remain positive that our industry target for the end of the year will be achieved as all brands remain committed to provide innovative mobility solutions to the Filipino people,” he was quoted as saying in a statement.

In relation to innovative solutions, it must have been apparent that connected cars — vehicles that are connected to the internet through a mobile data stream — have started appealing to the driving market.

“Connectivity has been a key enabler for automakers like Ford to offer greater level of comfort, convenience and safety to car owners,” said Linus Mattson, infotainment supervisor of Ford Asia Pacific, in a report by Newsbytes.ph.

These connected automobiles have expanded their capacities to the point of giving access right at the fingertips of motorists holding their smartphones. And such advancements have come just in time, as recent research by Euromonitor International suggests.

“Strong economic prospects and government policies seeking to boost the performance of the automobile industry have created a positive platform for the further development of in-car entertainment in the Philippines,” the global market research company wrote. “The domestic economy is projected to grow substantially in the coming years thanks to investment from foreign companies and rising government and consumer spending.”

Online shopping and auto loans

Aside from the monthly stream of data on car sales, there were further insights regarding the automotive industry mined by local online automotive marketplace AutoDeal in its quarterly Philippine Automotive Industry Report.

The latest release of the report noted the consumers’ “heightened interest in several Chinese brands such as MG, Foton, BAIC, GAC, and JAC.”

“This has been particularly evident in the subcompact crossover segment where models like the MG ZS and the JAC S2 have given more established household brands a run for their money,” Christopher Franks, chief operating officer of AutoDeal, wrote in the report. “With competitive price points, these nameplates have struck at the heart of a segment that is still recovering from a substantial drop in consumer interest following last year’s increase in excise taxes.”

Furthermore, he noted the prominence of online marketplaces as “one of the most valuable research commodities for consumers.”

Analyzing the volume of pages on AutoDeal visited by consumers before making a purchase, the report found out that “consumers with a single interest only navigated to three pages before making a purchase whereby in comparison, consumers who were interested in multiple brands visited 60”.

In terms of leads, the Asian Utility Vehicle & Multi-Purpose Vehicle, subcompact car, and light pick up truck are the leading market segments. Among automakers, Toyota remains the most inquired brand with more than 30% of total inquiries. This was followed by Honda, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Nissan, Ford, Isuzu, and Hyundai.

Another interesting trend within the year was a finding by India-based market intelligence analysis firm Ken Research about auto loans. The research stated that “it is expected that by the end of 2023, outstanding auto loans in the Philippines could reach P4.7 trillion.”

What makes this spike in loans possible are a mix of factors. An easy access to vehicles through loans offered by banks and dealers have been observed, with streamlined processes in applying for such. Add to that an increase in the middle-class sector who have “higher purchasing power.”

“Credit disbursement will increase as more people become part of the banking system. Both banks and nonbanking institutions are targeting these segments in the most untapped areas, which will result in a steady increase in auto loan disbursements for these segments,” Ken Research was quoted as stating in a report by Visor. — Adrian Paul B. Conoza

SMHCC President Elizabeth T. Sy: Driven by passion and an enterprising vision

By Mark Louis F. Ferrolino, Special Features Writer

In the local business scene, the name Elizabeth T. Sy, together with her other five siblings, is often associated with their late father Henry T. Sy, Sr. Over the years, however, Ms. Sy has proven that she is more than just an heir of the well-loved SM founder. She has carved her own path to success with her burning passion and an enterprising vision.

From being an assistant at her father’s first hotel business, the Manila Royal Hotel in Quiapo, Manila, Ms. Sy now sits at the helm of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), the hotel and convention arm of the SM Group.

Under Ms. Sy’s leadership, SMHCC has grown tremendously with a combined inventory of 1,960 rooms and over 38,000 square meters of leasable convention space. From only two hotels and one convention center since its inception in 2008, the SMHCC has now a total of eight hotels and five convention centers, spread across the archipelago.

The list of hotels in its portfolio include the 261-room Taal Vista Hotel, a heritage hotel located in Tagaytay City; the 400-room upper upscale Radisson Blu Hotel in Cebu; the 154-room Pico Sands Hotel in Hamilo Coast; the 204-room Park Inn by Radisson in Davao; the 155-room Park Inn by Radisson in Clark in Pampanga; the 200-room Park Inn by Radisson in Iloilo; the 238-room Park Inn by Radisson in North EDSA; and the 348-guestroom deluxe 5-star hotel Conrad Manila in the Mall of Asia Complex.

The SMHCC has also set the bar in upscale convention facilities with its SMX Convention Centers and trade halls located in Manila, Davao, Taguig, Bacolod and Olongapo. These facilities are ideal for large-scale institutional events, town hall meetings, weddings, exhibits, and concerts.

As the chairperson and president of SMHCC, Ms. Sy adopts an empathetic approach in leadership. She lends a listening ear, an open mind, and a wide understanding toward her subordinates, guiding them to realize their purpose and value in the workplace while inspiring them to be better.

Ms. Sy’s intent as the head of his team is clear — unite and not divide, find remedies and not faults, and influence one another in a positive way. With such kind of leadership, Ms. Sy’s subordinates remain empowered and continuously contribute to the success of SMHCC as a whole.

By helping shape the country’s tourism and hospitality industry, it is not surprising that Ms. Sy, along with the properties under SMHCC, has been recognized repeatedly by different institutions and award-giving bodies.

Last August, Ms. Sy received the SKAL International Tourism Personality Award for the Hotel Category. SKAL is a professional organization composed of tourism leaders around the world whose aim is to promote global tourism and camaraderie. The awards are given to individuals who unselfishly offered their services to further promote and develop the tourism industry.   

The Conrad Manila, on the other hand, was awarded the Hotel Suite Asia Pacific 2019 winner at the International Hotel and Property Awards for its majestic Presidential Suite. This recent accolade is only one of the many affirmations to SMHCC’s unquestionable integrity, foresight, and quest for success.

In fact, Ms. Sy meticulously scrutinized every detail of this Presidential Suite that turned into such masterpiece. She, in particular, ensured that only the best team would be behind the development of the stately suite, especially its designer who was interior architect Michael Fiebrich.

As an avid art enthusiast, Ms. Sy also commissioned no less than former Cultural Center of the Philippines President Nestor Jardin to curate art pieces, including the works of Filipino artists Sam Penaso, Nestor Vinluan, Jonathan Olazo, and Alain Hablo. The presence of this tasteful collection exudes Filipino luxury at its finest.

Meanwhile, aside from being the pillar behind SMHCC’s robust growth, Ms. Sy is also instrumental to the development of other institutions. She is a member of the Executive Committee and Trust Committee of the Board of Directors of BDO Private Bank, Inc.; the chairman of Nazareth School of National University; and advisor to the board of SM Investments Corporation. Moreover, she is an active board of trustee of the World Wildlife Fund, and the designated Honorary Consul General of Iceland in the Philippines.

In the next five years, the SMHCC, under Ms. Sy’s leadership, aims to double its portfolio across the country by building and operating hotels and convention centers that take pride in Filipino warmth and hospitality.

Embracing innovation and helping others

MPCTI President and CEO Derrick Ang Tan shares his secrets to success

By Bjorn Biel M. Beltran, Special Features Writer

Since he was young, Derrick Ang Tan had a knack for finding problems. He had an inquisitive, entrepreneurial mind, and he had always wanted to seek solutions for the everyday problems he encountered throughout his life.

At the time, the news was dominated by titan industrialists such as the late John Gokongwei and business magnate Lucio Tan. As an aspiring entrepreneur, Mr. Tan wanted to emulate them.

“When I was younger, my focus really was more on profit. So the reason I started this business was profit and so it was more of me, me, me,” he told BusinessWorld in an interview.

Mr. Tan started his business in 2001 as more of a distributor of various goods and products, working with that notion of success.

Years later, Mr. Tan is now the president and chief executive officer of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies, Inc. (MPCTI)  along with various leadership roles in Philippine manufacturing and construction industry groups like the Philippine Dry Mix Mortar Association and the Philippine Association of Paint Manufacturers.

Mr. Tan admitted that he would never have gotten this far if he had never changed his mind-set. Starting out as a selfish businessman who was determined to make his wealth, he realized there was more to business than the selfish drive to make money.

“When architects are your end-customers, they will ask you for a product like this or that. So we came in and adjusted, we started hearing them out and listening to their needs. It was only when we did this that we experienced a kind of a multiplier effect, where we saw exponential growth,” he said.

“It was a hard realization for me that I had it all wrong. When doing business, it was never about myself,” Mr. Tan said.

Necessity is the mother of all invention

Listening to their customers and end-users, Mr. Tan found a use for his talent for seeking solutions to everyday problems. Magna Prime transitioned into the construction chemicals business and has since built a reputation of innovation and a customer-centric strategy for growth.

Mr. Tan with his MPCTI Technical team

The company, Mr. Tan said, had four core pillars of innovation. The first was to have a listening ear for all of the problems of their customers and find opportunities providing solutions to those problems. When there are no obvious problems, the second part of Magna Prime’s strategy is to send in technical experts to examine how their products are used in the workplace and find the areas where things might be improved.

Another method of keeping in touch with the issues of the industry is through monitoring innovations abroad and find ways to incorporate new discoveries into the Philippine setting. Lastly, Magna Prime invests into research and development to find new opportunities.

“What I say to our employees is if you’re not helping our customers, then we’re not going to sell anything. Selling is just the byproduct of us helping others,” Mr. Tan said.

“If you want to be successful, you have to help others. If you’re a salesman or saleswoman, you have to help your customers. If you are an employee, you have to help your boss and your company for you to get promoted. In short, it is always about others. So if your business is not about helping others, if it’s not about providing for the needs of others, then it doesn’t really have meaning,” he shared.

“Because construction chemicals as an industry is dominated mostly by multinational companies, we’re happy to say that we’re one local company that is now competing with these big multinationals,” he added.

The vision and mission for Mr. Tan is to bridge the innovation gap between the Philippines and more developed countries like the United States and China, and spark a new era of innovation and discovery in the country.

Mr. Tan with his wife Sabrina and their two sons Jacob and Noah

Magna Prime is pursuing this through strengthening its foundation on which the company reaches out and communicates with its customers through digital platforms, social media, through training workshops and the technical hubs it has established all over the country.

Currently, Magna Prime has technical hubs in CW Home Ortigas Pasig, CW Home Commonwealth QC, CW Home Sta. Rosa, Laguna, CW Home Balintawak, QC, CW Home Alabang, Muntinlupa, Trust Hardware Buhangin, Cebu Home Banilad, Mandaue, MC Home Ortigas, Pasig, MC Home The Fort Taguig, MC Home San Fernando, Pampanga, and Olivan Hardware, Naga City.

“In this sense, if you’re able to set up all these channels in educating people, then it would be easy for us to teach them about new innovations in the space,” Mr. Tan said.

“Our core mission really is helping educate Filipinos on what construction chemicals are and what are the advantages of using them to construct more resilient buildings.”

Looking forward, Mr. Tan identified the current demand for more sustainable cities and green buildings as areas for further innovation. He hopes that a generation of future innovators can find the most significant problems in the future, and find their own opportunities in coming up with new solutions.

“Filipinos are very creative. They have to focus on new unique products that solve new problems. Invention will never end. There’s always a need for it,” he said.

“To be a good inventor, you need to be a good listener and have an eye for opportunities. Every problem is a gold mine,” Mr. Tan said.

 

Changing perks could halve jobs — SEIPI

ELECTRONICS MANUFACTURERS — whose products make up more than half of the country’s goods sold abroad — expect 50% job loss by 2026 if the current version of the bill that overhauls tax incentives was passed, Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines, Inc. (SEIPI) President Danilo C. Lachica said.

Mr. Lachica told reporters on the sidelines of a forum on Tuesday that the industry projects 38,000 annual employment losses between 2022 to 2026 — totaling some 190,000 positions — cutting down half of the 380,000 direct jobs in electronics.

He said these job losses are probable “if the version of CITIRA that will be passed doesn’t address the concerns of the industry.”

SEIPI in a position paper last October offered recommendations for the proposed Corporate Income Tax and Incentives Rationalization Act (CITIRA), including retention of five percent tax on gross income earned (GIE) in lieu of national and local taxes, after expiration of the income tax holiday for existing investors who meet performance criteria.

The group also recommended the increase of GIE tax to seven percent from five percent for new and expansion projects, as well as to remove the five-year cap on import duty exemption of equipment, parts and materials.

SEIPI as well as the Philippine Economic Zone Authority have pressed for a longer 10- to 15-year period for companies now enjoying tax perks to shift to the new incentive scheme, compared to the two to five years in the CITIRA bill approved on Sept. 13 by the House of Representatives.

The same measure also removes the five percent GIE tax that kicks in after the income tax holiday expires.

It also slashes the regular corporate income tax to 20% in 10 years from 30% currently, which is the highest among major Asian economies.

Mr. Lachica explained that job losses begin in 2022 due to the nature of the industry. “The way our industry works, we will continue to run the products until they are obsoleted. But if we don’t have expansions, if the multinationals decide to locate elsewhere, then once the products are obsoleted the factory will shut down,” he said.

The industry provides employment, including indirectly, for at least three million people.

CITIRA’s principal author, Albay 2nd District Rep. Jose Maria Clemente S. Salceda who heads the House Ways and Means Committee, in a mobile message on Sunday said he wants to see the basis for SEIPI’s job-loss claim.

Asked on SEIPI’s proposed revisions for the bill, Mr. Salceda replied: “I will wait for the Senate version. I stand by the House version. No GIE as we know it.”

“GIE as we know, it is pure fiscal evil, mother of all transfer pricing — P560 [billion revenues foregone] in 10 [years] and most unfair to 1 [million] firms paying 30% with more employment and value contribution to the economy.”

CITIRA now awaits Senate action, but the Trade department said last week it would propose a new version to the Senate by yearend that would incorporate the longer transition period.

The Finance department supports the two- to five-year transition period in the bill approved by the House, while the Trade department has backed a five- to seven-year transition period in general and a seven- to 10-year transition for companies that employ over 3,000 people.

A SEIPI member company employing about 300 people will shut its Philippine operations by yearend, Mr. Lachica said, and more firms drafting exit plans for the next few years.

Companies exiting the country, however, “will not say it’s because of the tax reform,” he said, but noted it’s part of what companies consider.

“Some companies have exit plans. I don’t know if they’re gonna be triggering them once they see the final version [of the bill]. I don’t want to be a bearer of doom and gloom but multinationals — they always have contingency plans,” he said.

“I think it’s premature at this point to say the sky is falling, but there’s always the risk.”

Latest available data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show electronics products made up 56.4% of total merchandise exports at $29.654 billion as of September, growing 2.2%% from $29.029 billion in 2018’s comparable 10 months.

Semiconductors alone, which made up 73.14% of Philippine electronics products sold abroad and 41.27% of total merchandise exports as of September, edged up by a percent to $21.688 billion from $21.464 billion, the same data show.

SEIPI has 346 members, with over 100 in manufacturing. — Jenina P. Ibañez

Proposed 2020 budget approved by Tuesday, then ratified

THE PROPOSED P4.1-trillion national budget for 2020 will be approved on Tuesday, instead of Monday as initially planned, as senators sought more time to study the version produced by the Bicameral Conference Committee, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Senator Juan Edgardo M. Angara said on Sunday.

Albay 2nd District Rep. Jose Ma. Clemente S. Salceda, House of Representatives Appropriations Committee vice-chairman, had earlier said that the budget would be up for Bicameral Conference Committee approval and ratification of both chambers on Monday.

But Senator Juan Edgardo M. Angara said in a mobile phone message, “Moving naman ’yung discussions but senators asked for a one-day period to review the reconciled Bicam[eral Conference Committee] version of the budget.”

“So to give that, we will likely meet Tuesday for approval.”

In a separate message to reporters, Mr. Angara said that the two versions of the proposed 2020 national budget have been “approximately 90-95% reconciled” by the bicameral body.

He also noted that the proposals made by Senator Panfilo M. Lacson had been incorporated in the budget. “Senator Lacson’s proposals like placing some limits on administrative costs and having the possibility of greater local projects have also been adopted in some form in the budget’s general and special provisions.”

Mr. Lacson had proposed to realign funds for implementation of the Universal Health Care Act, Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act and the Philippine Identification System Act.

He also moved to slash the budgets of the Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Works and Highways, particularly funds allocated for right-of-way acquisition.

Mr. Salceda said postponement of the meeting scheduled for Monday did not result from any problem between the House and the Senate, telling reporters via text: “Wala… ’yun naman talaga.”

The Bicameral Conference Committee, led by Mr. Angara and House Appropriations Chairman Isidro T. Ungab of Davao City’s 2nd District, began its work on Nov. 29, during which both chambers submitted their respective proposed amendments.

The House approved House Bill No. 4228, or the General Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2020, on Sept. 20, while the Senate passed its version on Nov. 27.

The 18th Congress is targeting to have the 2020 spending plan approved and ratified within the week — ahead of its Dec. 21, 2019-Jan. 19, 2020 Christmas-New Year break — in time for submission to President Rodrigo R. Duterte for signing into law before the year ends.

The Department of Budget and Management began 2021 national budget preparations on Nov. 29 as it released the national budget call asking government agencies to draft their proposed budgets.

The government is working to prevent a repeat of the nearly four-month delay in 2019 budget enactment. President Duterte signed the 2019 budget on April 15, but vetoed some P95.3 billion appropriations deemed unconstitutional.

The delay stemmed from an impasse between the House and the DBM over a stricter spending framework. It was further delayed after the Senate found post-ratification realignments made by some House members.

That delay plus a ban on new public works 45 days ahead of the May 13 midterm elections — which left planned new infrastructure projects unfunded last semester — made overall economic growth slow to 5.8% in the first three quarters from 6.2% a year ago and against a 6-7% government target for 2019. — Charmaine A. Tadalan

1...9,2959,2969,297...13,400Page 9,296 of 13,400
© 2024 BusinessWorld Publishing.
All rights reserved.
Read our privacy guidelines
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Youtube