Last November 23, 2010 the Final Technical Meeting for the upcoming Philippine Physical Therapist Association (PPTA) National Convention, slated December 4-5, at Traders Hotel Pasay, was conducted.


It is a fun exercise.

The meeting is fun in the sense that all the planning that everyone discussed and agreed upon is already coming to its end – and boy an end that everybody is very excited about.

It is a dry run.

The meeting is a dry run of all the details things that must never be overlooked. All the salient points that must be noted and delivered during the actual event are discussed and re-discussed.

The final meeting for the PPTA working group took place in Traders Hotel and we are just very happy to be part of it, all the hard work is slowly in its final finishing touches ensuring that SUCCESS is not a distant dream but a reality that is about to happen this week.

by Rafael Santos


Mega Balikbayan OFW Expo is more than meets the eye.

In fact MBEX- Mega BalikBayan OFW Expo 2010 is a single event, as what it looks like, but if you’ll just dig on it, there are lots of rooms for opportunities, name it, we have it. It features business firms; either small-scale or large scale ones from different industries of different specialties. Even this enthusiast amateur business-minded guy (me) wants to be part of it; it triggers my adrenaline rush to go all the way at its full speed. Some might say that I must be kidding, but wisecracks aside, hmmmm... maybe a bit, just to step aside from intensity. That’s what it feels like when you are truly passionate not just to what you’re doing, but also to where it might take you along the long, winding road to success. It must have been an entrepreneurial mindset guys, so don’t limit your thinking. In business redundancy is better than plain profitability, always on a positive note, meaning adherence to moral beliefs is a must.



So what are you waiting for hop in this great roller coaster that is about to hit the city called Mega Balikbayan OFW Expo, happening this December 10-12, 2010 at Megatrade Halls, SM Megamall.

The Philippine Physical Therapy Association (PPTA), Inc. shall hold its National Convention this December 4-5, 2010 at the Traders Hotel, Pasay City, Philippines.


The much awaited annual convention offers a lot of learning seeds for all the attendees that will surely upgrade and enhance their knowledge and professional skills in their continuous effort to become an excellent global physical therapist.

Some of the convention sessions are “Filipino Physical Therapists in collaborative practice” (working with an NGO, in a corporate ergonomics program, in sports injury management, and advocacy), “Culturally congruent care in physical therapy”, Physical therapy services: Universal Health Care and Philhealth”, “Professionalizing home care PT practice”, and a lot more informative and skills oriented topics and workshops.

“Our aim for this year’s convention is to broaden the reach and maximize the potential of the Filipino physical therapist”, said Ms. Gayline Manalang Jr., President of the PPTA. “We want to build a stronger practice of the profession in the Philippines, and this is one step towards that vision.”

Co-presented by Signature Healthcare, the PPTA 2010 National Convention is expected to gather around 300 physical therapists and students of physical therapy from institutions all over the country. Showing their support to the Filipino PT as Major Sponsor is TGS Healthcare Solutions, with Gold Sponsors being Avant Healthcare Professionals, Ultimate Care Inc., and Health Carousel Philippines. Media partners are Businessworld, Business Mirror and Philippine Star.

The event is managed by EX-LINK Management and Marketing Services Corporation. For inquiries about participant registration, call EX-LINK at Telephone No.643-3887 or 640-1280. Further details about the PPTA and its upcoming convention are available at www.philpta.org.

Today’s tourism congress only validated the impact that tourism industry can do to eradicate poverty in our country.


In the report given by Ms. Ma. Cherry Lynn Rodolfo, Economist, University of Asia and Pacific she reiterated the MULTIPLIER EFFECT of tourism to 2.5% per tourist that visits our country.

Mr. Khoo Swee Chiow, one of the speakers in the congress shared his testimony of how beautiful the Philippines is. He is a Singaporean who toured the Philippines by using kayak. He showed different pictures and the audience in the tourism congress is in awe.

There is so much to be done in order to realize this potential which we have been harping around for so many years and to different government regime that led this country. Sadly, the movement forward is nowhere to be seen.

Senator Dick Gordon made a very interesting point when he said in this important gathering, “ Lahat tayo ay magagaling, ang problema lahat tayo ay magagaling”.

What ails our industry is not the lack of talents and capabilities, instead we are hampered by all wanting to be leaders and nobody wanted to be relegated as followers.

Let us get our acts together, our potential is just there waiting to be harness to improve the lives in our country.

PAAN Asia Holdings Inc. offers attractive properties for Balikbayans and OFWs in the upcoming Mega Balikbayans OFW Expo, slated this December 10-12, 2010 at Megatrade Halls, SM Megamall.


PAAN Asia Holdings Inc. will showcase Dasmariñas Royale Village, a charming little community in suburban Cavite. Paan Asia’s more than a decade endeavour to become a respected realtor and home developer, ensures the quality of this dream project.

Dasmariñas Royale Village is meticulously crafted with designs that offers every would-be settler an ideal living environment both indoors and outdoors—a stylish, comfortable home architecture that he can be proud of, and a friendly atmosphere outside the house that is conducive to play and socialization. It has amenities like basketball court, gym, swimming pool and playgrounds.

Dasmariñas Royale Village is an exclusive estate of about 6.7 hectares in land area, accessible via public transport plying the major roads of Cavite like Governor’s Drive, Molino-Zapote Road and Aguinaldo Highway. It is favourably near major establishments like schools (e.g., De La Salle University), banks, shopping centers (e.g., SM and Robinsons malls), and hospitals (e.g., DLSU Medical Center).

Nestled in Cavite’s lush green landscape, it is also surrounded by historic landmarks (e.g., Aguinaldo Shrine, Fort San Felipe) and tourist destinations (e.g., Tagaytay, Cavite’s tropical beach resorts).

Dasmariñas Royale Village is practically located in the center of it all—right where one can enjoy modern conveniences, as well as bask in the tranquil elements of the countryside.

So all Balikbayans, OFWs and OFW families who are looking for an ideal place to invest or settle their families Dasmarinas Royale Village is one of the best place to consider. The property will be showcased during the event. Sales and Customer Service Associates of the PAAN Asia Holdings will be ready to answer and entertain all your queries to make you a step closer to your dream home.

Other links to give you additional information:

Website - http://www.dasmaroyalevillage.com/

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dasmarinas-Philippines/Dasmarinas-Royale-Village/120364064686496
PRTV Segment on youtube - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIh1JPXffNI

The 7th Mega Balikbayan OFW Expo boosts 200 plus exhibitors that offer a wide array of business and investment opportunities. It also offers free seminars, business competitions, raffle and giveaways prizes – elements that make this event exciting and a must see event for those who wanted to start the year 2011 by running their own business.

For inquiries call tel # 6433887 or email ex_link2001@yahoo.com.

Present this Card at the Entrance to Get a Free Event Souvenir Photo

How times fly, literally! We were just planning it last January. We are planning how to make the once one hall event into two halls. We are planning with trepidation and excitement the increase number of exhibitors that we will accommodate and invite.


Hardwork.

Indeed this is the corner stone of the expanded Megabalikbayan OFW Expo (MBOX), hardwork that is sprinkled with a deeper sense of commitment to educate and assist our balikbayans and ofws to find the right business and investment for them.

We know the effect if ever our deeper reason for staging this event clicks. We know that for every balikbayan and ofw that will turn into a successful businessman is a number of jobs waiting to be created, and a number of cities who will find their economic activities go up.

But most important, we know that every successful balikbayan and ofw businessman is one family saved from separation. This is the most important of all the objectives that we wanted to achieved.

Family is the atomic element that makes Filipinos strong. By forwarding MBOX, we are making the Filipinos strength stable and growing.

16 days and indeed we don’t mind if time flies faster that we expected. The faster it flies the nearer we are to the accomplishment of our objectives for this year.

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I like December.


More than the holiday season where the streets turned to twinkling stars because of the Christmas lights, there is something that is always happening BIGTIME in EXLINK.

Of course, I am talking about the events that we are producing, organizing and managing. It seems that the projects that we are handling happens hand-in-hand with the hustle and bustle of the season. There is this gait that every member of the organization makes. A certain energy that gives you the feeling that we are about to make things happen.

If you are in events, every day we always make things happen. As if we are miracle workers. We create in our minds the idea of how and what shape an event will be formed. After that, we work hard (physical work) to ensure that the shape that we conceived for and event takes place – that is called simply as EXCECUTION.

To show you why there is a rush; let me reveal to you that we will be having three events this December. They are:

a) Philippine Physical Therapist Association Convention, December 4-5, 2010 at Traders Hotel

b) Mega Balikbayan OFW Expo, December 10-12, 2010, Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall

c) Korean War 60th Anniversary, December 14-15, 2010 at Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Yes, a loaded schedule that is in every bit challenging and EXCITING. It keeps us on our feet and motivated to wake-up every morning knowing there is a lot of details to be coordinated and accomplished.

Yes, December as the cold air whiff in our skin and people swell in all malls and marketplace, we are at one with them with our adrenaline ticking in the Richter scale in the higher levels. Akin to earthquake, our office is shaking because of these exciting events and most of all the people in our organization Rocks!

The Tree500 Movement partners with Antipolo City in planting and growing bamboo trees in the riverbeds of the Marikina Watershed.

The next run will be this October 23,2010. If you want to take part call tel # 643-3887 look for Aldrin Raymundo, the Project Head of Tree500 Movement.



(Photo taken for Philstar.com)

 Much have been said to the Run for Pasig event, all of them positive things. Still, I want to share my thoughts on this very inspiring and important event in our country. Run for Pasig shows that we will and can revive the long lost romantic tales of Pasig River. But more importantly, it shows and bears the heart of the Filipinos.
We are a country that is slowly reaching maturity on moving forward social issues. We are a country the is comprised of people who love our environment and our homeland.

Eclipsing a Guiness Book of Record is not the main highlight of this feat. The highlight is that we want you, the world who loves following us Filipinos, to know that our country is one country you will LOVE to Visit. It is a country where the people are fun loving and friendly to a fault.

The Filipino spirit is in full display in the Run for Pasig Event. This is a symbol that we wanted you - the world to see and share. We hope that you enjoy it and know us more by visiting and marvelling one of the friendliest and caring people in the world.

25 days...

This is the remaining days before those interested for Entrepreneurship Learning get to experience a complete and meaty line-up of seminar topics to be given for FREE at the Kabuhayang Pinoy Expo, November 5-7, 2010 at Trinoma Mall Activity Area.

I am posting the Event Speaker's Poster for you to print and use as a guide.

By the way, those who complete one day seminar shall have a certificate of participation. So what are you waiting for call tel # 643-3887 and register now.

I don’t know if I will be flattered. Google selected exlinkevents as one of the beneficiary for a free adwords advertising. I know this will be beneficial for www.exlinkevents.com or to www.megabalikbayanofwexpo.com.ph. But the deeper issue is how new media like Google is trying to penetrate its market thru direct mail – a traditional form of promotion.

It only goes to show that like any products or services, we need to maximize the available marketing tools in order to attract our market.

Therefore, in light of what I experienced I can say that the competition for all forms of media is fun and the rules is that there is no rules, it is like saying may the best imagination wins.

Last time I saw him in the Makati Medical City he can barely speak. However, the humour is still there. But seeing him one can sense the he has a bigger battle inside him. A battle that even his jovial personality is being torn bit by bit.

I was given a chance to hold his hand in our visit to the hospital, him being one of my idols, higher ups in the Entrepreneurs Society of the Philippines; I said to myself he can still win the battle he has inside his body. I can feel it; the energy that allowed him to propel Center for Pop Music is very much present during that moment.

Months later, I and my wife sometimes unconsciously talk about him, and we are happy to know that the last time we have heard about him he was on his way to recovery.

Therefore, it was a bit of a shock that yesterday my wife received a text telling that he joined our Lord at about 2am.fur

It is a sad story to add to two sad stories that we have received last week about close people we know having lost their love ones, also joining our Lord.

Indeed, death is so common that even if we have accepted it we are still in shock and we still feel the pain of the lost that it inflicts upon us.

I lost an elder who talks to me like I am his kumpare. Every time we see each other we will crack jokes, both of us having that gift of spontaneity always come up of mundane things to laugh about. Humour indeed was his best gift that I enjoyed and bask at experiencing his gift every time I am given a chance.

But most importantly, as an entrepreneur he serves as an inspiration to me and my wife to spread our wings higher and further.

His legacy in bringing music training as a successful business is one for the books. Honestly, I do not know him that much. But for the time that we have been together he has touched my heart. For that, I will always be eternally thankful.

S’ Butch Albaraccin from where you are I know that the Master has now assigned you to be one of the master trainers in making heaven an even more musical and entertaining place to be in.

The first Tree500 Movement tree planting activity in Barangay Calawis, Marikina Watershed, Antipolo City

I was zapping my remote control for T.V. at a frantic pace when I stumble with Disney Channel showing WALL-E, I watched it in the cinema with my family and watched it in DVD and yet here I am glued in the T.V. screen watching the movie for the 3rd time.


Why? You see I cannot help but fall in love with the love story of WALL-E and EVE. It is a relaxing love story. Second and most importantly, the story is about humans stranded in the outer space because the Earth is not liveable anymore.

In the story, humans have become lazy and fat because they have forgotten how to use their limbs resulting to atrophy of sorts. Also, humans are controlled by a supercomputer that is programmed to prevent them from going back to Earth.

I like the scene where the plant in a can is the key for the spaceship to be programmed back to Earth. It shows how important are plants and trees in our world. It shows how plants and trees is the most effective measure that Earth is liveable. The plants and trees disappearing spell humanity’s end. I know we all don’t want this to happen.

So having enjoyed WALL-E allow me to invite you to the second run of Tree500 Movement’s Tree Planting Activity this coming October 23,2010 at Barangay Calawis, Marikina Watershed, Antipolo City.

Tree500 Movement is an organization that aims to plant a minimum of 500 trees in every tree planting activity it conducts. It is also a tree planting activity that has a line-up of interesting activities other than tree planting (e.g. nature awareness orientation).

Right now, the focus of the movement is to increase bamboo tree in all riverbeds of the Marikina Watershed. Most especially, near the bridges of the communities residing around the watershed. It is said that bamboo trees are the most effective deterrent to soil erosion. Also, when it grows its roots spread as far as six meters and, since it is identified as related to grass, a single bamboo tree can produce many sub trunks forming a bigger and wider bamboo tree in its mature age.

I know I have said too much but I can’t help my excitement because the first tree planting activity was just last month and here we are again.

Cabalen Chain of Restaurants supports Kabuhayang Pinoy Expo (KPE) slated this November at Trinoma Mall Activity Center.

Cabalen’s support only strengthens Kabuhayang Pinoy’s vision to be one of the tools in promoting Pinoy Hobbies and Passion into Business.

Cabalen is one best example of the passion for food being converted to a successful and well loved business by Filipinos. Right now Cabalen is on its 24th year and is getting stronger proof that having a passion that you loved and turning it into a business is an open secret formula for those aspiring entrepreneurs.

More hobbies and passion turned into business will be showcased in this year’s Kabuhayang Pinoy Expo (KPE). So for those who have a dream, the opportunity to see like minded people is one of the benefits of attending this event.

The event is produced and organized by EX-LINK Management and Marketing Services Corp. for more details visit www.exlinkevents.com

Lucky me without knowing it that the book launching was ongoing at Bestseller Robinson Ortigas, it is a real treat – a fan like me being one of the first to have a hand in this wonderful and much awaited book.

The story is so fast and furious that before I knew it I have finished reading it. This is how good and engaging the story is.

Once you are immersed in the world of Panem there is no going back. You become one of the district 13 wanting to topple the Capitol and energize every time you hear or see the Mockingjay (Katniss Everdeen) forwarding your dream for freedom.

This is the power of symbol at work. In the story the media as the medium for showing and spreading the message of the Mockingjay is what sticks to mind. It shows the power of communication and how to make it attached to the viewers and listeners. It shows how to create a lasting change once a group has identified a rallying point to a certain cause.

Creating a perception – a winning perception compared to its distant reality, this is what catapulted district 13 to victory.

In our present day, advertising and many forms of media dominate our perception of reality. Understanding that it is not reality is very important. Having a critical mind will help in determining this.

Indeed, finishing the book is one memorable event for me as it reinforces some of the thinking I have with media, communication and perception.

It is hitting two birds in one stone; you are entertained and educated at the same time.

I hope that the author has other brilliant plots and stories under her sleeves for she is a great writer to have.

Life as we all know is a very complex matter. One of its complexities is our economic survival. Livelihood as others may want to call it. In this age where speed is the norm of the day, we find ourselves confused on where to source our livelihood.

Good thing that entrepreneurship is a word spreading like a wild fire in our country. Entrepreneurship is an attractive path that allows you to control your destiny in the aspect of your economic wellbeing. Another positive about this is the widespread Filipino business opportunities being offered left and right. All you have to do is find the right event where you can tap the opportunities readily available for you to start your own business.

When it comes to events to realize your business objectives Kabuhayang Pinoy Expo is a dependable event to provide you with a variety of business opportunities ripe for your picking.

Kabuhayang Pinoy Expo slated this coming 5,6 and 7 at Trinoma Mall Activity Area is an event that aims to provide affordable business packages offered by almost 100 exhibitors to people like you who are trying to find a business that will serve as your companion in providing you the economic wellbeing you so desire.

The expo will showcase franchising and dealership on the following areas of your interest like food, fashion, health and beauty, cars, finance, technologies, and services.

It will also provide you FREE Business seminars that will solidify your knowledge and commitment to have a business that you can work on immediately to start you exciting journey as a business owner. The event is expecting thousands of visitors to gather and engage with different Filipino businesses promoting and encouraging people like you to be partners of their business organizations.

Kabuhayang Pinoy Expo is a unique event that shows you the beauty and power of having a deciding to choose a business that will serve as you economic companion in your walk with life.

The event is more than the opportunities presented in front of your eyes, it may already be an internal awakening closer but not exactly about spirituality. It is an awakening about how you can take hold of your destiny and economic status. It is about you experiencing “Eureka moment” on how to get on top of the hustle and bustle that is called life.

The event is all about you as a Filipino deciding to break free of poverty by running a business, and at the same time, helping others by creating jobs to the business that you started.

Kabuhayang Pinoy Expo is produced and organized by EX-LINK Management and Marketing Services Corporation. If you want to be a partner please call tel # 6433887 or visit www.exlinkevents.com.

As we turn our homes to hues of green and red and decorate it with different attractive lights, a magical atmosphere envelops our streets and cities. Indeed, the spirit of Christmas is upon us.

The entry of “BER” months is also the start of Megabalikbayan and OFW Expo (MBOX) preparation to make its 7th run a very meaningful and enjoyable experience for Balikbayans and OFWs. Slated this coming December 10, 11 and 12, 2010 the event boasts 2,530 square meters of exhibition area and 220 exhibitors at the minimum.

This is bigger and better compared to the previous six years and the promise to serve its main audience (Balikbayans and OFWs) with various knowledge and skills in business, investment and entrepreneurship is the best to happen in December.



The exhibition area will have all the different start-up and medium size business concepts you can ever think of to make the Balikbayans and OFWs dream of owning a business come true.

Studies have shown that for OFWs to have a better and sustainable economic status he/she must learn how to invest and own a business. This finding is not rocket science because entrepreneurship will show anyone how to have a control of his/her economic well being. And if anyone makes a commitment to have a successful business then sky is the only limit one can experience in the area of success.

The exhibition have three components, first is the MEGA INVEST where you are presented with different properties, car, technologies, agri-aqua ventures, finance and investment exhibitors. Second is the MEGA EXPERIENCE where different destinations, health and wellness products and services, food and beverages, pets and hobbies are presented for the human senses to feast on. Third is the MEGA SHOP where discounted items, online sellers, and regional products are in full display for the wise buyers to enjoy.

The event will also have university business plan competition, dog shows, cultural shows and GAWAD OFW – an event where successful OFWs are recognize for their effort to better their lives by investing wisely their money on business inside the country.


As of this moment there are already around 10 OFW Associations that support this event.

The event is produced and organized by EX-LINK Management and Marketing Services Corporation. If you have any inquiries or wanted to be part of the event as exhibitor or sponsor you may call tel # 6433887 or visit www.megabalikbayanofwexpo.com.ph

I will live with a facility that is old and decrepit but I cannot live along with people who are hurting and demotivated. How can they serve well if their soul are bedraggled.

Yes let us tell the pilots to love our country but when the stomach is aching or the respect to oneself is zero a catastrophic scenario is just around the corner.

Moreso, if offers on all sides of the globe is very tempting.

There is a middle ground. However, I think that this is a case of a lazy giant not having a competition that led to this quagmire. A giant that has become so relax that it forgot basic responsibilities to its people.
Haaay PAL.

Yes, something is missing. The action towards making a competitive MICE industry towards our ASEAN country is missing. It seems it is out of the picture for our new DOT leadership. I hope not.

Meetings, Incentive, Convention and Exhibition (MICE) are business boosters and it gives a stronger punch than backpack tourism.

In MICE the economic activities will be more long lasting.

Look at China; a country that sets-up huge convention centres in each of its cities and it is reaping the rewards in return. Look at Singapore and Hongkong, they have a very efficient MICE structure that attract and complement their tourism destinations. Look at Thailand, and even Vietnam they have a better public and private MICE machinery that have overtook us.

To our Department of Tourism, creating a MICE department or office in DOT will not be enough. A concrete and a strategic action plan is needed. The industry and all the organizations involve in MICE are ready to help.

Just don’t dare to forget about MICE, if you do any painkiller will not alleviate the pain and ailments of our tourism and MICE industry – a neglect that is an anti-thesis of targeting high value tourists.

I did not make any argument and dutifully paid the P100.00. As an organizer, I know how it is hard to survive the event even to make it break-even. However, this should not be an excuse. As organizers, what was announced to the public must be honoured regardless what is the financial conditions of the organizer or the event. We have a duty to deliver to the exhibition visitors – to give what was announced and promised.

Between surviving a financially problematic event and being honourable, I would rather lose money than lose face. I would rather side with the ethical dimension of the event than the financial dimension of the event when this two collide.

Let this be a reminder to all organizers of exhibitions and conventions. Money will always come back to those who know how to honour commitments and promises.

I may write the organizer even if it is not a member of PACEOS so that they will tow the line of what should be a conduct of a Filipino organizer. By doing this, I hope they will wake-up and realize this major error they have done.

I am not disappointed. He reiterated some of the plans that will take place “in the near future” (the bold words are his favourite; he uttered it many times during his talk). Here are some that might interest you:

•  Fast Tracking of the business registration turnaround time
•  Creation of the Philippine Business Registry – a sort of directory of the population of the all companies existing in the country
•  Focus on certified DTI SMEs that has undergone training and has shown potential for growth, they will be supported of funds and trained further if they pass profitability and marketability metrics of the government
•  Protection of the consumer
• Importation fast tracking system to our importers who have good records
• Tight monitoring of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Trade Agreements that will favour to our country’s interest

Very few but needed and doable action plans. Although I just would like to comment that something must be done to address our Business Competitiveness Ranking, we are now rank 87. Vietnam which last year was rank 70, which we are following (we are rank 71 last year) has improved to rank 57. As you can see we have deteriorated.

Honourable Secretary Gregory Domingo we hope you can do something about it. We have so much potential, we just need strong fundamentals.

The last time I talked about airports it feels like I am ranting. But of course I do. I believe that we must rant in order to be felt by the government and private sectors that are powerful to make some change in our airports.

It seems my ranting is working. I know that I am not the only one making comments about our airports, there are millions of nationalistic Pinoys praying and hoping to someday see an airport that would be like an edifice that everybody can be proud of.

Last time I have heard it was Manny Pangilinan who wanted to develop Clark Airport, I feel elated and looking forward in him making it happen. However, today it hit the major dailies that a consortium backed by the Malaysian government is willing to pour $150 Million in direct investments to jumpstart Clarks Airport Development.

I say things are looking a bit rosy. I say if all transactions are above board then let us do it. Secretary Alberto Lim, Department of Toursim, said that it is his priority. P-Noy emphasized this focus on making infrastructure a center piece of his leadership in the government to uplift not only our economy but our spirit as a country that is eager to embrace development.

Again, let us do it and make a dash to the finish line of having an International Airport that will make tourists feel great upon landing in our country and our Balikbayan and OFWs proud upon returning to their country.

It is what every products and services want. It is what all companies battle to acquire. They know that when their products and services achieve high visibility in a particular event they will have an upper hand in their competition in the long run.


So I ask why are companies not aggressive enough to acquire it when joining expo and tradeshows.

Is it because of the investment requirements?

There are many ways no to spend a lot in achieving high visibility in events. A concentrated activity in a particular timeslot is one way and having said this you have to figure other creative ways to maximize events.

For the engagement the events provide is more than the investment that you will place into it. Just try once and you will see what I mean with it.

The move of Leyte and Mati, Davao to grab a chunk of the local and international market by developing infrastructure is a welcome development.


Leyte has been receiving a lot of inquiries for events but is not able accommodate it because of lack of facilities. Currently, it has an existing convention center owned by the government that can house 3,000 people. In Tacloban, the highly urbanized area of Leyte there is only 870 rooms. Indeed improvement in infrastructure is badly needed in order to attract MICE activities.

One of the famous tourist spot in Leyte is the Mac-Arthur Shrine.

Mati, Davao on the other hand boasts a virgin nature comparable to Palawan. There are also a lot of beaches in Davao that tourists are already visiting. It has Pujada Bay and Dahican beach, a beach is favourable for surfing.

Both these provinces need investors and their aggressive moves are positive signs that these two places will be a MICE hub and tourist magnet in the coming months.

It’s Friday and events in Metro Manila is more than a handful but I will be going around the Metro to see three events that interests me.


First is the 1st Philippine Chocolate and Ice Cream Show at the World Trade Center, new events like this gets me excited. I wanted to know what it is all about and also to show support to the organizer which is a newbie or the first time I have heard of them.

Second, it’s the annual Philippine Franchising Expo at SMX Convention Center. The vibrancy of this event is one indicator of how our economy will fare. Visitors here are all businessmen and entrepreneurs, all wanting to see opportunities in starting a business or expanding an existing business.

Lastly, my life is not about business events because if ever that will be it will be such a bore right? So I am going to watch a Cinemalaya movie, in my top list is “Ang Paglilitis ni Andres Bonifacio” directed by Mario O Hara. I have heard and read good reviews of this one so I am not depriving myself a chance to have it slip by and not watch it.

Yes, I know majority watch commercial movies meant for entertainment but in Cinemalaya watching movies are not only for entertainment but for mental and spiritual stimulation. I am afraid only few wanted to go there at this point in time but I believe someday soon the public will buy this kind of movies and ideas.

It is a crazy Friday, the Metro is still recovering from Basyang’s fury, but scheduled events and expo must continue and that is a true hallmark of an event organizer that lives in the dictum that the show must go on.

Just before it gets totally out of my head and completely forgotten I must share to you why I enjoyed reading “Catching Fire” of Suzanne Collins her sequel to the equally blockbuster “Hunger Games”.


It has been almost three months since I finished this book but many developments prevented me for giving my say to this nice piece of work.

Anyways, “Catching Fire” as a story shows the importance of symbols. In Katniss Everdeen’s universe she has become a symbol to oppressed people of different districts in Panem. Her insignia the Mockingjay, a hybrid of a mocking bird and a jabber jay, has become her representation, a symbol of their support to the uprising that is about to take place because of Katniss unconscious but witty action in the first book “Hunger Games” where she defied the authoritarian regime of Panem.

This show of defiance stokes the fire of rebellion and the Mockingjay insignia became a symbol of the revolution and of hope in toppling the oppressive regime.

We saw the power of symbols in Da Vinci Code and immediately fell in love with Robert Langdon. Even in the movie American Treasure we fell in love with Nicholas Cage character. In real life, the color yellow symbolizes hope and catapulted PNOY to power in the Philippines.

I know this may have been discussed a lot of times but in events one of the ingredients to make it successful are symbols that create connections with its target audience. One of the symbols or the most important symbol of all is the logo of the event. It maybe trivial to some but to those who knows well a logo that sinks inside the target markets consciousness create a very formidable contribution to the positive results of the event.

Symbols cannot be encapsulated by a number of beautifully stringed words. It lives and grows inside each and every attendee in an event or expo.

This is why I am very thankful for”Catching Fire” for reaffirming in me what I have already known. Now I am in a waiting mode as to when will the third sequel of the book will land in the Philippines that will be one of the best days of my life in the year 2010.

I don’t know what is going on but it seems that organizations are racing against time to develop and grow their people. I said this because I have observed that there is a growing need for events that provides knowledge on how to develop people and talents.

If some say there is a glut they are totally wrong! I talked to one organizer and the demand is so high that he was forced to push thru with another event that is out of his calendar of events just to cater to the demands he is receiving.

At this point, I am only talking with big events like conferences. In fact this year, there are four big events happening to answer and provide knowledge on people management or human resource management.

If we go to public workshops and seminars there are a very large number of these happening every day, not to mention that some big companies that can afford to hold it in-house.

So what does this trend say to us? For one, we have a people problem that we need to address. Second, we are constantly searching on how to improve productivity in the workplace. Third, people are in a constant flux that we need to be abreast on their dynamics and prevent or prognosticate the best way to manage them and bring out their full potential.

Already in a span of two days I have read news about our government’s plan in cornering a chunk of tourism market.


According to AFP, “ the government aims to double tourism revenues in six years while avoiding the mass-market route taken by some of its Southeast Asian neighbours, the country’s tourism secretary told”.

In the article, the government focus on strengthening infrastructure with emphasis on cultural , medical tourism and the beaches.

While I agree in all points enumerated in the news the came out in Business World dated July 12 (just one day after an article came out in Philippine Star on Boracay’s overdensity), I scratched my head that there is no mention of MICE as one of the key drivers in veering away from mass-market and attracting high value tourist visitors.

There are already an excess of study that MICE as an important part of tourism attracts businessmen and potential investors which spend 4 times compared to backpackers and almost always entertain the possibility of setting-up shops in the country that leads to job generation.

The growth of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Hongkong will never be possible without MICE playing an important role. In fact, mega events like F1, ASEAN conventions and meetings are what attract high value visitors.

It is not only that MICE provides higher income they brought along with them new knowledge and technology that our country can enjoy as we push harder in realizing our dreams to be a developed nation.

Yes, promoting our beaches and taking care of it is important. Yes, creating museums and displaying artefacts and giving solid support to cultural activities will make Philippines more attractive to tourist. If we add infrastructure that provides access to our country then will surely multiply the tourism receipts that we are getting.

However, if we do not give a special attention to MICE and neglect it for the coming six years the number of meetings and visitors generated last 2008 and 2009 which are already spiralling down will only get smaller.

The English proficiency which we are so proud of will not be fully maximized because it is in MICE that this competitive advantage we can immediately harness and put into good use.

I understand that there are so many concerns in our tourism industry but in my humble opinion we must never forget MICE – it is a tourism activity that churns lasting impact.

China has set-up many convention halls that dwarf our biggest convention hall here. If this is not an indication that we must use MICE as a weapon I don’t know what else is this sector needs to do to be appreciated by our government.

An article that came out July 11 in Philippines Star and was picked-up by Yahoo News said that DOT Secretary Alberto Lim find Boracay so dense and is alarmed by the algae that grows which he attributes to hotel and many establishments sewerage system.


Asked if the government can do something about it he mentioned that there is a possibility that the government cannot halt overdevelopment in this 10.3 square kilometre paradise.

I feel sad that already the white flag is being raised by our incoming Secretary of Tourism to the difficult situation that Boracay is in. What I know is that the associations and different cause oriented groups in Boracay can be called to action, most especially if the long term view is presented to them in all honesty. I should know I have talked to two of hotel operators and one government official when I was there.

True! Boracay has become dense because the place has turned-out to be one of the best beach party places in the world. We cannot deny the fact that it has also created a lot of jobs. Some nearby provinces have benefited from Boracay in terms of providing jobs for their citizenry.

If ever Caticlan Airport development pushes thru then we can see an additional increase of people visiting to Boracay. Seeing this possible reality, the DOT headed by our new secretary must make drastic actions. Giving-up and raising the white flag is not one of them.

In the face of Boracay’s popularity and the economic benefits that it offers vis-a-vis the threat of losing the island’s beauty because of the overdevelopment I strongly suggest that a strong and firm political will must be imposed in the island.

Our country has a lot of experts to craft a creative solutions to problems that bedevil the island. If there will be no under the table transactions and self interest will be pushed at the back burner, all things are possible.

In India, the public-private initiatives have work wonders. I think this can also happen in Boracay’s case. Our government and the private entities that are involved sit down they must have as the guiding principle in threshing out solutions the operative world BALANCE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT.

Again, it is not yet time to throw in the towel. Also not yet time to suggest that tourist go somewhere else in the country. All of these mean fleeing to the root of the problem.

I strongly believe there are a lot of solutions to this current imbroglio; we just need to sit down and talk.

The celebration is slated this August 16-20, 2010 at the Universidad De Manila Auditorium.

The activity will be free and open to the public which will showcase different business topics and livelihood skills that can be readily use for earning money.

It will also have free certificate of completion to those who have completed the event.

Globalization has change the way we do business. On the other hand, internet made it possible for unknown brands to compete and corner markets around the world.

PACEOS is the national organization of the Philippines for Meetings, Incentives, Convention and Exhibition (MICE).

The 2nd Negosyo Power Expo slated this August 20-22 at Trinoma Mall will feature as one of its topics “Personal Money Management for OFWs” to be conducted by Mark So, CEO of Business Maker Academy.


The seminar is intended for OFWs and OFW families who are seeking ways to manage properly their money. The seminar is for free as part of the advocacy of the event.

The Negosyo Power Expo as an event that features business exhibit and free seminars aims to spread entrepreneurship in the country and support the trade marketing promotion of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the country.

Other surprises like free samplings, raffles and giveaways are in stored for visitors. Most importantly, seminar attendees who completed one day to three days of the seminar will have certificate of attendance.

Produced and Organized by EX-LINK Management and Marketing Services Corp. interested partners may call tel # 643-3887.

The battle cry is well written in everyone’s running shirt’s back, it will remind you each time you are about to give-up. There are 4,000 runners and on this fine day, each has reasons why they decided to participate in this great event.


I am talking about the Milo 34th National Marathon an annual event that exhibits runners and Filipino spirit of tenacity and bayanihan. This year the event is dedicated to giving shoes to less fortunate children in the provinces.

Each runner participating is equal to a pair of shoe to a child. I feel honoured that I have joined the event, that a child will have a shoes because of my participation is satisfying.

This is the reason we make this event an EXLINK event, all the members of the organization are obligated to join the event. It is an event that has a social call, and we can only say yes to this great call.

Of course, the branding of MILO in this event will go down to the deepest recesses of our hearts and minds because it is more that an event for profit. It is an exhibit of an organization that takes care and make sure that its social responsibilities are performed.

Congrats to the MILO Event Organizer! However, just one thing, I hope that the baggage counter will be orderly next year. Some of the EXLINK staff got trapped in the stampede because of this area.

Oh well, this minor improvement will not diminish the experience to be part of this event.

See you again next year!