High-ranking communist terrorist killed in Borongan clash

By DPAO, 8ID PA
January 11, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A high-ranking Communist Terrorist of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Sesame, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) was killed during an encounter with the troops of the 78th Infantry “Warrior” Battalion, 8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division, Philippine Army at the hinterlands of Brgy. San Gabriel, Borongan City, Eastern Samar, January 6, 2024.

Troops while conducting combat operations encountered an undetermined number of CTGs belonging to Apoy Platoon, SRC Sesame which resulted in the death of its leader, Martin Colima Alias Moki.
The NPA rebels retreated leaving behind their slain leader. On the other hand, the government troops seized one caliber 45 pistol, seven backpacks and subversive documents.

The 78IB Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Allan Tria said that alias Moki and his group perpetrated numerous terroristic activities in Eastern Visayas. His group is responsible for the death of six soldiers and wounding of 20 others from the 14th Infantry Battalion in an armed encounter in Brgy. Pinanag-an, Borongan City last November 11, 2019. Alias Moki has multiple existing cases such as murder, attempted murder, frustrated murder, and robbery.

Alias Moki also is the mastermind of an ambush along the National Highway at Barangay Libuton, Borongan City, Eastern Samar last December 13, 2019 that killed a policeman and three civilians, and wounding at least 12 un armed civilian including a minor and one-year-old baby.

"We will relentlessly pursue them, for we are determined to put an end to their atrocities in the region. Despite this, we are still offering you peace to start a new life with your loved ones," Lt.Col. Tria said.

The 8ID Commander, Maj. Gen. Camilo Ligayo extends his deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the slain NPA leader.

"It is tragic that they have taken arms against the Filipinos, it is sad that another Filipino who was deceived by the misleading ideology of the communist terrorist died. on the other hand, I encouraged the remaining members of the rebel group to surrender and be with their families while you still have a chance," Maj. Gen. Ligayo added.

Meanwhile, a soldier was wounded during the encounter and was brought to the hospital for proper medical care.

CARD MRI celebrates entrepreneurs in the PsMLNI 2023

By MARY ROSE JAVIER
January 11, 2024

SAN PABLO CITY – CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institution (CARD MRI) recognized the outstanding microentrepreneurs at the "Pagkilala sa Mga Likha ni Inay Awards 2023" held in San Pablo City, Laguna on December 6, 2023.

The annual PsMLNI awards celebrate the impactful businesses of CARD MRI clients, underscoring their contributions to the well-being of their families and communities. The award also reflects the organization's commitment to empowering members of the communities, especially the MSMEs and acknowledging their remarkable self-sufficiency.

The Executive and Management Committee of CARD MRI attended and witnessed the event, which took place at Maharlika Square.

CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito commended the awardees in a speech during the event for embodying the strength and resilience of Filipino entrepreneurs and providing the institution with the motivation to remain steadfast in its goal of poverty eradication. He also emphasized the transformative impact of the awardees as they generate employment opportunities in their own communities, ultimately contributing to the social and economic growth of the country.

The selection process involved judging based on predefined criteria. After careful deliberation, Juvy Fabro of CARD Bank, Inc. San Fernando Branch secured the institutional winner and the "Gawad Maunlad Micro," while Rosario Agarin of CARD SME Bank Naga Branch earned the "Gawad Maunlad SME."

Three clients from CARD SME Bank won the special awards: Mary Celine Gordon from Manaoag Branch was awarded the "Gawad Malikhain"; Romeo Bustamante from Lipa Branch won the "Community Service Award"; and the "Innovative Family Enterprise Award" for Rizalina Tolentino of San Pablo Branch.

Other institutional winners for this year include Lailane Gomintong of CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO) Sta. Lucia Branch and Rowena Baya of CARD MRI Rizal Bank, Inc. Carcar Branch.

CARD MRI, a group of 25 mutually reinforcing institutions, has been dedicated to poverty eradication through financial, non-financial, and social development initiatives since 1986. The organization is serving more than 9.1 million clients nationwide as of October 2023.

NMP 2023 breaks waves; Eyes bigger accomplishment in 2024

By National Maritime Polytechnic
January 3, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) takes pride in announcing a year of remarkable achievements in 2023, setting new standards and exceeding expectations. Committed to advancing Filipino seafarers, NMP's dedication to training, research, and cutting-edge initiatives has propelled the Agency to unprecedented heights.

As to the conduct of maritime trainings, NMP surpassed its annual target of 10,000 certificates by training an impressive 15,260 seafarer-trainees, achieving an outstanding 152.6% accomplishment. Trainees availed of the diverse array of NMP's courses, ranging from STCW-mandated courses (Deck, Engine, Safety and Specialized, Professional Development Courses) and non-STCW or value-adding courses.

Its commitment to expanding offerings and staying attuned to the evolving needs of the maritime industry is further reinforced with the development of two (2) new courses for accreditation with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), namely: Passenger Ship Crowd Management (PSCMT) and Basic Training for Ships Subject to the IGF Code.

NMP successfully passed the 2nd Surveillance Audit conducted by SOCOTEC Certification Philippines, earning a recommendation for continued certification under ISO 9001:2015 standards. In dedication to efficient service, NMP ensured that 100% of trainees received their certificates within seventy-two (72) hours of course completion. Additionally, NMP's exceptional average satisfaction rating of 97.21% on eight (8) service quality dimensions by December 2023 underscores the institution's unwavering commitment to excellence.

In terms of financial stewardship and transparency, NMP, in 2023, achieved notable recognition, securing two (2) prestigious accolades - the Outstanding eNGAS User Entity for Fiscal Year 2022 Award from the Government Financial Management Innovators Circle (GFMIC), Inc., and the 2022 Outstanding Accounting Office Award from the Association of Government Accountants of the Philippines (AGAP), Inc. In addition to this, as proof of the Agency’s efficient fiscal management, the general picture of 2023 revealed a maximum budget utilization rate of 94.74%, totaling to 75,703M against the allotment of P 79,907M, reflecting appropriations from all sources excluding Personnel Services (PS).

In line with its second mandate, NMP has fortified its position as a maritime research center with the successful completion of two pivotal studies: (a) Assessing Filipino Seafarer’s Mental Health and Well-being, and (b) Investments in Distance Learning in Philippine Maritime Training Institutions. Meanwhile, a Maritime Research Forum was conducted on 22 June 2023 wherein the 2022 completed studies were disseminated, namely: "Profile of Filipino Women in Maritime" and "Factors Contributory to Stress of Filipino Seafarers Onboard Oceangoing Vessels". During the said event, the NMP Research Agenda CY 2023-2025 was likewise presented to the industry stakeholders ensuring that the research agenda reflects the diverse perspectives and ever-evolving needs of the maritime industry.

As NMP charts its course into 2024, it remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the standards of maritime training and research. NMP is poised to issue over 15,000 certificates and implement the three (3) research proposals developed in 2023, bearing the following working titles: (a) Comparative Study on Maritime Education and Training in ASEAN Countries; (b) Maritime Industry Trends and Their Implications for Filipino Seafarers on Oceangoing Vessels; and (c) Training Needs of Migrant Fishers.

Supported by a budget allocation of P65.8M in its Capital Outlay, this funding will facilitate the acquisition of a Full Mission Bridge Simulator (FMBS) and Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator (LCHS), along with the enhancement of its maritime equipment and facilities.

In parallel, NMP will enhance its resource generation efforts with the creation and mobilization of the NMP Committee on External Affairs. This committee is tasked with establishing partnerships and creating synergies with various institutions that will contribute to the Agency's growth and progress. This collaborative approach is essential in securing necessary resources and vital support for NMP's continued advancement in the maritime sector.

With the goal of introducing a comprehensive selection of courses aimed at fostering the professional growth and skill enhancement of maritime professionals, NMP is determined to develop the following training programs: Able Seafarer Engine, Management Level Course – Engine, Medical Care (MECA), and Refresher Fast Rescue Boat.

In an effort to broaden its reach and enhance visibility, NMP will extend the offering of its Professional Development Courses (IMO MC 6.09, 3.12 & 6.10) beyond Manila to various locations. This expansion invites maritime education and training institutions (METIs) across the country to collaborate with NMP in the delivery of these courses.

Meanwhile, as aligned with its mandate, NMP is committed to establish a Resource Center for Filipino Seafarers. This strategic initiative encompasses the creation of a database storage for seafarers' information and related statistics, aiming to facilitate evidence-based policy-making and program development. Additionally, it will serve as a valuable resource for seafarers, offering real-time updates on matters affecting their employment.

Furthermore, NMP will actively collaborate with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region VIII for the development of the Terms of Reference (TOR) in line with the formulation of a comprehensive Master Plan, which includes a Site Development Plan for Tacloban, Cavite and Davao.

NMP, under the stewardship of its new Executive Director Victor A. Del Rosario, together with its stakeholders and partners both in the public and private sector, looks forward to a year of continued success and innovation, charting new horizons for the benefit of the Filipino seafarers and the maritime industry.

Region 8 posts 95.1% employment rate in 2022

By PSA-8
December 29, 2023

TACLOBAN CITY – In 2022, Eastern Visayas registered a Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) of 62.7 percent. This was 0.5 percentage point lower than the 63.2 percent LFPR reported in 2021. The 62.7 percent LFPR corresponds to around 2.04 million total population 15 years old and over who were either employed or unemployed in 2022.

Of the six (6) provinces in the region, Northern Samar registered the highest LFPR at 66.3 percent, corresponding to 290 thousand labor force during the year in review. This was followed by Samar, Biliran, and Southern Leyte with 65.6 percent, 65.0 percent, and 64.3 percent, respectively. Leyte posted the lowest LFPR at 60.3 percent. Tacloban City, the lone Highly Urbanized City (HUC) in the region, had 61.8 percent LFPR in 2022.

There were about 1.94 million employed persons out of the estimated 2.04 million labor force in 2022. This placed the region’s employment rate at 95.1 percent, higher by 1.7 percentage points and 3.1 percentage points than the employment rates in 2021 and 2020, respectively. However, this was lower by 0.5 percentage point compared with the 95.6 percent employment rate in 2019.

Among provinces in the region, Samar posted the highest employment rate in Eastern Visayas at 97.4 percent. Northern Samar was next with 95.7 percent employment rate, followed by Eastern Samar at 95.5 percent employment rate. Biliran and Leyte reported the lowest employment rate, both at 94.0 percent. Tacloban City recorded 94.4 percent employment rate during the year in review (Figure 1).

Eastern Visayas posted a 4.9 unemployment rate in 2022. This means that there were around 100 thousand unemployed persons out of the 2.04 million persons in the labor force in 2022. This showed an improvement from the 6.7 percent unemployment rate in 2021. This rate, however, was still higher compared with the 4.4 percent unemployment rate in 2019.

Among the provinces in Region 8, both Biliran and Leyte registered the highest unemployment rate at 6.0 percent, followed by Southern Leyte, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar at 5.5 percent, 4.5 percent and 4.3 percent, respecively. Samar posted the lowest unemployment rate at 2.6 percent. Meanwhile, Tacloban City posted 5.6 percent unemployment rate in 2022 (Figure 2).

Underemployed population is the proportion of employed population who expresses the desire to have additional hours of work in their present job, or an additional job, or to have a new job with longer working hours. Eastern Visayas recorded a 16.0 percent underemployment rate in 2022. This translates to about 310 thousand underemployed persons out of the 1.94 million employed persons in 2022. The region’s underemployment rate has been double-digit in the past three-year period at 20.3 percent in 2019, 20.1 percent in 2020, and 20.9 percent in 2021. However, improvement was noted in employment situation when it dropped to 16.0 percent in 2022, a decrease by 4.9 percentage points.

All provinces in the region reported double-digit underemployment rates. Biliran registered the highest underemployment rate at 26.5 percent, followed by Northern Samar and Southern Leyte, at 24.0 percent and 20.4 percent, respectively. Tacloban City posted the lowest underemployment rate at 11.4 percent (Figure 3).

Catchwall and slope protection built leading to Bangon Falls

By GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
December 21, 2023

CALBAYOG CITY – Another construction of a component catchwall of the access road from Brgy. Tinaplacan, Calbayog City, Samar leading to Bangon Falls has been recently completed, said Samar First DEO.

The catchwall has a length of 224.8 meters with a height of 4.2 meters as well as a slope protection that spans 78.90 meters with a height of six (6) meters. Also, an open canal is incorporated in the works with a length of 162 meters and Reinforced Concrete Pipe Culvert (RCPC) as well as installed nine (9) solar LED lights along the structure.

This is drawn from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for FY 2023 with a contract amount of P48.94 million.

Bangon Falls is one of the tourist destinations of Calbayog City, Samar which is coined as the “City of Waterfalls.” This will spur tourism activities allowing tourists a safe and seamless travel experience going to the said falls and will eventually create more business and job opportunities in the city.

Phase II FMR road of Brgys. San Jose to Langoyon completed

By FLORSELISSA A. JUSAYAN
December 18, 2023

CALBAYOG CITY – Phase II in the concreting of Barangay San Jose to Barangay Langoyon Farm-to-Market road (FMR), has already been completed according to the Department of Public Works and Highways Samar First District Engineering Office.

The project has a total revised contract amount of P12.91 million funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for FY 2023 in convergence with the Department of Agriculture.

The scope of work includes a 450 meter-long and 5-meter wide of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP). This structure is a continuation of its first phase that was completed in 2018.

FMRs connect agricultural areas to marketplaces, making it easier for farmers to transport their goods to dealers and customers. These roads also help them get better price and a wider market for their products.

Concreting of road continues in San Jorge, Samar

By GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
December 18, 2023

CALBAYOG CITY – A road concreting in Barangay Buenavista has been completed as part of the construction of road from Brgys. Buenavista to Bungliw through Janipon in the Municipality of San Jorge, Samar.

Samar First DEO now constructed a Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) which spans a total of 507 linear meters with a total width of 6.1 meters. This only covers part of Brgy. Buenavista with a contract amount of P9.82 million under the Basic Infrastructure Program.

It can be recalled that this area has been opened and a gravel road has been laid down from Brgy. Buenavista to Janipon in 2018.

Concrete roads will definitely give a better travel experience and lessen time travel thereby decreasing travel costs especially for farmers to transport their harvested root crops, rice and vegetables.

Road construction for farmers is underway in Tarangnan, Samar

By GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
December 18, 2023

CALBAYOG CITY – A farm-to-market road (FMR) is being constructed from Barangays Majacob to Sugod in the Municipality of Tarangnan, Samar to address the problem of farmers in the transportation of goods.

The scope of work will span 820 meters of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) road with a width of 6.10 meters. A stone masonry and embankment will also be incorporated with a length of 752.90 meters.

The project is in convergence with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) having a contract amount of P35.47 million.

The said barangays’ products and nearby areas are mostly root crops and copra which is their main source of income. These FMR projects connect agricultural areas to markets, allowing producers to transport their goods to traders and consumers with relative ease. These roads help the farmers gain better prices and broader reach for their products. Road connectivity is also increased allowing better and easy access to the city proper and neighboring towns.

PH top exporters recognized in the National Export Congress 2023

By DTI-Export Marketing Bureau
December 15, 2023

PASAY CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), together with the Export Development Council (EDC) and Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT), recognized the country’s top exporters highlighting the Philippine’s potential to be an agile export powerhouse during the National Exporters' Week on 07 December 2023, at the Sheraton Manila Hotel.

The highlight of the event was the National Export Congress (NEC), which focuses on the public and private sectors' shared vision for the Philippines' export industry. This year's theme, "Agile Philippines: Empowering Exporters towards Global Excellence," underscores the importance of developing and capacitating exporters to be dynamic and resilient exporters capable of achieving worldwide excellence and recognition.

Following the launch of the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2023-2028 this year, the NEC complements the PEDP's goals of utilizing and expanding the country's capabilities in capturing opportunities in current and emerging global trends. Further, the NEC is also aimed at recognizing and addressing the obstacles that make it more expensive and difficult for exporters to compete in international markets and considering the various levels of development and needs of the export industry, as well as the varying levels of exporter’s readiness.

DTI Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo, who delivered the message on Secretary Fred Pascual’s behalf, highlighted this overall goal: "We recognize and acknowledge the relentless efforts of Philippine exporters to survive and thrive amidst an increasingly challenging business environment. There is no scarcity of challenges that we need to address and surmount. But I am confident that with our shared aspirations, dedication, and a whole-of-nation approach to export development and promotion, we will achieve the desired outcomes.”

Meanwhile, Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis Jr., President of the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT), shared that PHILEXPORT’s work plan includes advocacies and programs that hope to ease the flow and cost of doing business in the country.

“This is a big part of our efforts aimed at opening and expanding more export markets and contributing to sustainable exports while generating jobs to help improve the quality of life of our people,” he said.

Exporters, members of the diplomatic corps, business partners, and various government agencies attended the said event. Likewise, the businesses were honored for their contributions to Philippine export development and growth on the night of the Export Congress event. The awardees were chosen based on their track record, recent export performance, and innovation in service delivery, among others. Despite continuous global challenges, these exporters have maintained competitiveness and boosted Philippine export revenues. The Top Exporters Award was created to honor and appreciate exporters' exceptional contributions to economic development and inspire the exporting community to seek greater success.

DTI Undersecretary Ana Carolina P. Sanchez PHILEXPORT President and CEO, Mr. Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis, Jr., along with PHILEXPORT Chairman Mr. George T. Barcelon conferred the awards to the 16 top-performing exporters of the country, this year, they also awarded six (6) product diversification and new market diversification awards. They also recognized 55 Trade Regulatory Government Agencies (TRGAs) for their contribution and continued commitment to address exports-related initiatives.

Top Sectoral Awardees were TEXAS INSTRUMENTS PHILIPPINES INC for Electronics; PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATED SMELTING AND REFINING CORPORATION for Minerals; YAZAKI-TORRES MANUFACTURING, INC. for Transport; AMERICAN POWER CONVERSION for Electricals; DOLE PHILIPPINES INC. for Food; PILIPINAS KAO, INC. for Chemicals; CARGILL OIL MILLS PHILIPPINES, INC. for Oils, Fats & Waxes; EHS LENS PHILIPPINES, INC. for Fashion Accessories; SANYO DENKI PHILIPPINES, INC. for Machinery; and L AND T INTERNATIONAL GROUP PHILIPPINES, INC. for Garments and Textiles.

For the Services Sector, Awards were given to DIGITEER, INC. for Software Development; POINTWEST TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION for Healthcare Information Management System; THINKBIT SOLUTIONS for Game Development; WIPRO PHILIPPINES INC. for Knowledge Process Outsourcing; TRANSCOM WORLDWIDE (PHILIPPINES) INC. for Information Technology-Business Process Management; TOP DRAW ANIMATION INC. for Animation.

The Product Diversification Awards were given to PIXCEL TRANSGLOBAL FOODS INC., GEM FOODS INTERNATIONAL, INC., UNIVERSAL ROBINA CORPORATION, and IBIDEN PHILIPPINES INCORPORATED while the New Market Diversification Awardees were given to DOLE PHILIPPINES INC. and ALRIVER EXPORT CORPORATION.

In his message, Secretary Pascual stressed, “The DTI is steadfast to our commitment of strengthening the country’s export sector by capacitating industries to be globally competitive ad innovative. Through a strong public and private partnerships, we are confident that we can make Filipino products and services known to the world.

The Exporters' Night is part of a week-long celebration of the 2023 National Exporters' Week, an annual celebration of the public and private sectors' shared commitment to continuously develop and promote the Philippines as a dynamic force in the global export market.

Eastern Visayas posts 5.1% unemployment rate in July 2023

By PSA-8
December 13, 2023

TACLOBAN CITY – Eastern Visayas registered a Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) of 60.1 percent in July 2023. This placed the region’s labor force at 1.98 million persons who were either employed or unemployed out of the estimated 3.30 million population 15 years old and over.

Eastern Visayas’ unemployment rate peaked at 5.1 percent in July 2023, higher by 0.9 percentage point than the 4.2 percent unemployment rate in April 2023. The 5.1 percent unemployment rate was equivalent to around 101 thousand persons in the labor force who were unemployed in July 2023, higher by about 11 thousand unemployed persons compared with the 90 thousand unemployed persons in April 2023. The 5.1 percent unemployment rate in July 2023 was also higher compared with the 4.5 percent unemployment rate in July 2022 which was equivalent to 96 thousand unemployed persons. Eastern Visayas ranked fifth among the regions in the country with high unemployment rate, during the period in review.

The region’s employment rate in July 2023 decreased to 94.9 percent, from 95.8 percent in April 2023. The 94.9 percent employment rate translates to about 1.88 million employed persons out of the 1.98 million persons in the labor force in July 2023. This number was lower by about 177 thousand employed persons compared with the 2.06 million employed persons reported in April 2023. Furthermore, the number of employed persons in July 2023 was lower by around 130 thousand persons than the estimated 2.01 million employed persons in July 2022. Eastern Visayas registered the fifth lowest employment rate among the regions in the country in July 2023.

Underemployed persons are employed persons who expressed the desire to have additional hours of work in their present job or to have an additional job, or to have a new job with longer hours of work. The underemployment rate in July 2023 was posted at 25.3 percent or about 477 thousand persons out of around 1.88 million employed persons in July 2023. The 25.3 percent underemployment rate was 7.4 percentage points higher than the rate in April 2023 at 18.0 percent. This was also higher by 9.3 percentage points compared with the 16.0 percent underemployment rate registered in July 2022. Eastern Visayas recorded the second highest underemployment rate among the regions in the country in July 2023, even higher than the 15.9 percent national estimate.

Schoolchildren in flooded area receive school supplies from DAR

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
December 13, 2023

LOPE DE VEGA, Northern Samar –Though Children’s Month is already over, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Visayas continues to support schoolchildren in agrarian reform communities (ARCs), particularly in disaster-stricken areas.

Last week, 135 pupils at the Lower Caynaga Elementary School in this town received school supplies from DAR after Barangay Lower Caynaga and many other areas in the province were submerged in flood waters due to the heavy rainfall brought by the low pressure area and shear line.

Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer (MARPO) Loradelle Flores, assisted by the school’s head teacher, Bella Doinog, led the said distribution.

Aside from the school supplies, the schoolchildren also received snacks from Flores.

According to Flores, Barangay Lower Caynaga is among the villages within the Northern Samar Settlement project, an ARC area.

Grade five pupil, Jellyn Tonog, expressed gratitude to the DAR for the school items they received. According to her, some of their notebooks and papers were damaged by the flood.

Meanwhile, Doinog became emotional as she reminisced how the water in the river rose at about four early in the morning of November 20 this year prompting residents in low-lying areas to evacuate.

She also shared how grateful they are for the various relief assistance they received from different sectors but stressed that only DAR provided school supplies specifically for the schoolchildren.

Philippine coconut exporters secure $10.98 Million in sales at Anuga Trade Fair

By DTI-Export Marketing Bureau
December 12, 2023

MANILA – 10 Philippine coconut exporters secured approximately US$ 10.78 Million in potential sales and US$ 200,000 in actual sales, after their successful participation in the Anuga Trade Fair held in Cologne, Germany earlier in October.

The Philippine government's Department of Trade and Industry - Export Marketing Bureau (DTI-EMB) in collaboration with the International Trade Center (ITC) supported the companies during the Outbound Business Matching Mission (OBMM) and Promotion of Philippine Coconut Products under the EU-funded ARISE Plus Philippines project.

Anuga is the world's largest and one of the most prestigious food and beverage exhibitions. This year, Anuga Germany attracted an astounding 140,000 trade visitors from 200 countries and featured 7,900 companies representing 118 countries.

The companies also engaged in 417 business-to-business (B2B) meetings; 10 market scoping activities at Anuga Trade Fair and attended four training sessions organized by the International Trade Centre, namely, ITC Arise+ Project Sales Negotiation Training; How to maximize your virtual and trade fair participation training; Getting prepared to exhibit at ANUGA training; and Training on EU agro-food market requirements and trends, key points to prepare for B2B interactions and good practices for successfully trade fair participation. Exporters from the Philippines also learnt about best marketing practices for coconut products during a market-sensing visit to Edeka Mohr, one of the largest supermarkets in Cologne.

The Philippine delegation included AG Pacific Nutriceuticals Corporation, Ahya Coco Organic Manufacturing Corporation, Amazing Foods Corporation, Cocoplus Aquarian Development Corporation, Dignity Products and Services, Inc., Greenlife Coconut Products Philippines Inc., Pasciolco Agri Ventures, Tongsan Industrial Development Corporation, Tropicana Food Products Inc., and Wellnesscare International Corporation.

One of the representatives from the Dignity Products and Services, Inc commented that “This is our first-time exhibiting products in Europe, and it has been an enriching experience. We not only learned about the requirements of European buyers but also got good contacts in Europe. We thank the organizers for giving us the opportunity to showcase our business abroad.”

The business matching mission advanced the Coconut Philippines flagship campaign, a strategic effort to establish the Philippines as a global leader in the export of coconut products. This initiative is closely aligned with the Philippine Export Development Plan 2023-2028 and the DTI's priority Industry Clusters for 2023-2028, with a specific focus on bolstering food security and agriculture.

The participation in Anuga Trade Fair was organized through the ARISE Plus Philippines, a 4-year EU-funded project which aims at strengthening inclusive economic growth in the Philippines, through improved international trade performance and competitiveness as well as economic integration, in partnership with the DTI and other government agencies, as well as the private sector.

NMP enhanced faculty competence through comprehensive training facilitation workshop

By National Maritime Polytechnic
December 11, 2023

TACLOBAN CITY – In an effort to enhance the capabilities of its faculty, the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) successfully conducted a two-day Training Facilitation Workshop on 5-6 December 2023, at the NMP Annex Building in Tacloban City, attended by 14 organic instructors and 9 guest trainers.

Recognizing the important role of faculty as NMP's significant human resource capital, the activity aimed to equip participants with essential pedagogical, communication, and facilitation skills, fostering a transformative learning environment.

The workshop covered a comprehensive range of topics, including Foundations of Facilitation, Designing Engaging Sessions, Managing Group Dynamics, and Effective Communication Techniques. The interactive sessions and practical exercises were designed to empower maritime instructors to create engaging learning experiences, adapt to diverse learning styles, and employ innovative instructional techniques.

In his opening message, NMP Executive Director Victor A. Del Rosario emphasized the importance of continuous learning, citing studies that highlight a decline in sustained attention and learning retention often experienced by students after the initial 20 minutes learning session. Participants were encouraged to adjust and further develop techniques and methodologies to maximize knowledge transfer from faculty to trainees.

"With our dedicated facilitator and their institutional knowledge, we aim to become the anchor in the country, providing quality training to our seafarers," ED Del Rosario expressed. "NMP has a vital role as a stabilizer in the maritime industry, and our potential lies in empowering trainers and instructors to be not only competitive but also ethical mentors."