WORLDBEX 2010 Goes Green

WORLDBEX 2010 has turned green into more than just a color—it has become a goal, a statement and a mission.

In its 15th year anniversary and its grandest show to date, WORLDBEX (Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition), the first and foremost international construction trade show in the country, has adapted the theme “Constructing the Future Green Communities through Efficient Technologies and Materials.” Here, the latest building materials and technology will be showcased from March 17 to 21, 2010 at the World Trade Center, and Philippine Trade Training Center in Pasay City to aid architects, engineers, contractors and interior designers in making better structures that will stand up to the elements.

While this annual world-renowned expo has become the source of the most premium local and international products and services in the construction industry, local architects and building specialists are also looking forward to it because it has become an indispensable source of information for the latest construction trends and developments. This is all because of the highly anticipated WORLDBEX Seminars.

Acclaimed speakers from different parts of the globe who will grace the event include Engr. Sipco de Jonge (Netherlands); Arch. Timothy Wong (Singapore); Arch. Tai Lee Siang (Singapore); Ken Witherell (USA); and Terry Waterhouse (UK).

Meanwhile, local green advocates and experts will tackle a variety of topics: from living stylishly and efficiently in small spaces (by interior design guru Leo Almeria), to proper urban planning that will avert possible disasters (Arch. Felino Palafox, Jr.). Each day from March 18 to 20 will feature four different speakers who will share their expertise.

Who says the Philippines cannot go green? The country’s top architecture practitioners such as Arch. Jun Palafox, Arch. Albert Yu, and Arch. Philip Recto as well as leading interior designers Leo Almeria, Natalia Benitez, Suzet Cocuaco, Lot Hilvano, Wilmer Lopez, Chat Fores Lozano, Roland Laurena, Michael Pizarro, Tessa Prieto Valdez, Maritess Magcase & Rosalie Si, and Hubilla Design Group will show a uniquely local twist to sustainable design at the WORLDBEX’s Architects and Interior Designers Gallery.

Another facet of WORLDBEX 2010 that proves that sustainable development is now a global concern and responsibility is its Grand Embassy Pavilion. With about 28 countries represented, the Grand Embassy Pavilion will include United States of America, Turkey, Thailand, Finland, Syria, Indonesia, Korea, and Malaysia, among others.

WORLDBEX 2010 is sponsored by Boysen Paint, Davies Paint, Hunter Douglas, HCG, Lepanto Tiles, Mariwasa Tiles, WilsonArt, Puyat Steel, Puyat Flooring, and Cubes International.

For more information about the event, contact the Worldbex Services International at (632) 531-6374; 531-6350; 531-5044; 533-6988, fax (632) 533-2026, email: info@worldbex.com or visit their website at www.worldbex.com

Most Anticipated Food and Beverage Expo Slated this March

The 3^rd Philippine International Food and Beverage Expo (PIFBEX 2010), most anticipated food and beverage expo in the country providing the supply solution in this industry will be staged from March 4 - 6, 2010 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Organized by Trade Advertising Exhibitions & Conventions International, Inc. (Tradecon, Inc), the three-day event will bring together food and beverage industry players and professionals from all over the Philippine and the world to interact, transact, and explore limited business opportunities among themselves. Since its inception, the event continues its advocacy to bringing together the Food and Beverage industry players from the Philippines and around the globe to explore unlimited business opportunities.

PIFBEX 2010 also aims to open the gateway to further trade expansion and reach by offering innovative business opportunities to decision-makers and new potential customers on the latest machinery, equipment and technology related to food processing, handling and packaging.

“The expo will feature programs and activities that offer a timely opportunity to create consumer awareness on new developments on food and beverages and directly promote them in the market and among shoppers, inspired food buyers and enthusiasts,” said Tradecon, Inc. president Mildred Caballero.

Among the highlights of PIFBEX 2010 is its dessert-making competition with the theme “Filipino Desserts” where students from different culinary schools in the country will take part in.

PIFBEX 2010 targets over 18,000 trade buyers and guests who are expected to the fair that will showcase everything on food and beverages, as well as food franchising and business systems.

For inquiries and updates on PIFBEX 2010, contact Tradecon, Inc., at (632) 482-5318, 395-5009, e-mail tradecon.inc@gmail.com or visit the event website at www.pifbex.com.

Philippine Beauty Experts Shine at Cosmetologie 2010

The Philippine International Cosmetologists Association (PICA), the leading organization of beauty and wellness professionals and the only association accredited by TESDA, proudly presents Cosmetologie 2010: Beauty, Wellness, and Trends Expo at the SMX Convention Center from February 23-24, 2010.

Cosmétologie 2010: Beauty, Wellness & Trends is the biggest and most prestigious gathering of industry professionals in the country today. With the leading names in the beauty, wellness and fashion industries taking part in this grand occasion, Cosmétologie 2010 will set trends in a country that appreciates beauty inside and out.

Organized by PICA together with Premier Events Plus Group, Inc. (PEPGroup, Inc.), Cosmétologie 2010 is assured of being an effective platform to promoting the latest products and services. The event will provide the most rewarding educational experience to all its participants with different activities conducted by professionals and experts in various disciplines of cosmetology. Interactive workshops on Classic cutting, Comprehensive coloring, Seasonal and trendy styling, Specialty make-up, Nail enhancement, Hair enhancement, Aromatherapy and reflexology will be staged throughout the two-day affair. There will also be live demonstrations where visitors can watch and learn from the best in the industry as international and celebrity experts conduct demonstrations on-stage.

To highlight Cosmétologie 2010, the organizers will stage a fashion fair and runway show where visitors will see total looks come together with fabulous fashion, amazing accessories, spectacular hair and make-up all set to vibrant music and expert commentary.

New to the expo is the complete integration of the “Touch of Excellence”, touted as the most prestigious and most credible competition for the beauty professionals and budding stylists who will take part in a unique competition to showcase their skills and creativity in the following categories: Urban Chic Cut and Color (Ladies and Gents), Red Carpet Glamour Hairstyle and Make-Up, and Bridal Bliss Make-up.

For more inquiries, contact Premier Events Plus Group, Inc., at (632) 4269603, 9280931, 4354790, 9291576, 9297993, email, info@pepgroup.com or the Philippine International Cosmetologists Association at (632) 437-3734. Visit the event website at http://www.cosmetologiefair.com/.

Travel Market Exchange (Tramex)

The National Association of Independent Travel Agencies (NAITAS), which has 17 provincial and city chapters nationwide, held the first Travel Market Exchange (Tramex) in Clark, Pampanga last November 6, 2009.

The one-day event, which was dubbed Tramex North Philippines Edition 2009, succeeded to establish good working partnerships among local buyers, sellers and local travel agents and even foreign buyers from Malaysia, Singapore and India. Aside from doing business, NAITAS members had a chance to mingle with fellow members from Subic, Clark and Laoag.

The Tramex included seminars on Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions; Product Development; and Tour Destinations Marketing. Tramex paved the way to promote new products and packages from regional travel agencies, enabling them to expand their business by bringing allied partners closer to them.

A total of 300 buyers and sellers, 20 of whom came from Singapore and Malaysia, attended the event.

At the launch were Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) president and CEO Victor Luciano, Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Hotel and Restaurant Association of Pampanga president Marco Nepomuceno, Clark Freeport Tourism Association president Philip Golding, Pamela Flores of the Angeles City Tourism Office (Acto); Acto senior tourism operations officer Edeline Angeles-Gozom, Naitas Bulacan chapter president Evangeline Buenaventura, Naitas Bosz (Bataan, Olongapo, Subic, Zambales) president Rosee Lee, CDC Tourism Office manager Noemi Garcia, and Greater Clark Visitors Bureau president Jun Cruz.

Tramex was supported by the Department of Tourism, Philippine Tourism Authority, Clark Development Corp., Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, CIAC, Pagcor and Holiday Inn Clark.

For more information on NAITAS, you may contact them at (632) 523-8375 or (632) 524-4768, e-mail at naitas_association@yahoo.com, or visit their website at http://www.naitas.org.ph.

13th APHCA Hair Olympics Returned To Manila

The Asia Pacific Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Association (APHCA) took full circle as its annual competition, the APHCA Hair Olympics, returned to where it all started: Manila.

The 13th APHCA Hair Olympics was hosted by the Filipino hairdressers’ association, Fil-Hair Coop, in celebration of its 25th anniversary, last October 21, 2009 at the Philippine Trade Training Center, in Roxas Blvd., Pasay City.

Established by Ricky Reyes in 1997, APHCA has now built a prestigious membership that includes Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United States.

Featuring the best and the brightest hair and beauty professionals in the region, the APHCA Hair Olympics showcased the latest trends in hair and makeup and other new discoveries on beauty and wellness.

Representatives from member countries competed in various categories, including Men’s Cut and Blow, Ladies’ Cut and Blow, Bridal Makeup, and Commercial Makeup. Winners of the regional competitions held all over the country competed with participants from 12 APHCA member-countries. Categories are Men’s Cut, Ladies’ Cut, Bridal Makeup, Fantasy Makeup and Evening Makeup. The judging was done by foreign delegates from participating countries.

In the end, Jackie Rivera of the Philippines was hailed as the over-all champion. Rivera was also second runner-up in the Commercial Makeup category, first place in the Men’s Cut and Blow Dry Category and third runner-up in the Bridal Makeup Category. He went home with the champ’s crown, trophy, various salon equipment and supplies and the Php 50,000 prize courtesy of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Aside from the competition, beauty practitioners and salon owners were also invited to participate in seminars and demonstrations conducted by top professional hairdressers and cosmetologists from various beauty companies. There was also an exhibition of beauty and wellness products, cosmetics, food supplements, natural herbs and aromatherapy, as well as fashion and cosmetology schools.

For more information about the events, call 7268218, e-mail gandangrrpdm@yahoo.com and aphcaasssociation@yahoo.com.ph or visit their website at http://www.aphcaonline.com.

Three New Shows Co-locate at 50th Manila F.A.M.E. International

On its 50th edition, Asia’s Best Design Destination, the Manila Furnishings and Apparel Manufacturers Exchange International (Manila F.A.M.E.) will be held October 15-18, 2009 in two venues— SMX Convention Center and World Trade Center— offering three new shows that put the spotlight on Filipino creativity with its design and quality-driven products that meet global standards.

Ever growing and ever expanding, the bi-annual trade show for home and lifestyle products has always been at the forefront of innovation. Attuned to the international market trends as well as consumer demands, the show continues to evolve in order to meet these demands and open doors to more local manufacturers further strengthening the Philippines’ position as a source of high-quality products and services.

“This Golden Edition of Manila F.A.M.E. International is extra special. It opens in two venues to accommodate [our growing number of] exhibitors and to answer the clamor of our buyers asking for more of the unique and new products from the Philippines,” said Ms. Thelma Dumpit-Murillo, Over-all Project Director of Manila F.A.M.E. and Deputy Executive Director of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry. Aside from holding the 50th Manila F.A.M.E. in two separate venues, three new shows have been created within the said event.

Fashion revolution at FashioNation
Philippine fashion has grown by leaps and bounds over the last decade with young designers armed with fresh ideas and diverse design aesthetic leading the revolution.

Manila F.A.M.E., in its bid to invigorate and fortify the fashion industry, is launching a new show. Dubbed FashioNation, the show will house manufacturers of garments, textile, footwear, and fashion complements such as accessories and bags all export products with exceptional design and craftsmanship.

Also among the highlights of FashioNation include the daily fashion shows that will feature, among others, designer collections and eco-chic apparel. See new collections of established as well as up-and-coming local fashion designers that have wowed international design communities worldwide in the show’s Designer Lane.

Students of fashion schools and colleges will have a chance to show off their talents as well in a design competition with a theme, “The Green Scene: Eco-Pinoy Fashion.” The contest requires a modern yet timeless interpretation of the Philippines— it’s culture, heritage, and people— using recycled, natural, and indigenous materials.

Art and Soul at ART:MNL
ART:MNL is the first-ever venue to internationally showcase the artworks of Filipino contemporary artists. Leading art galleries as well as renowned and emerging artists come together to make available masterful pieces to interested local and foreign buyers.

Aside from this stimulating visual display, the show will also hold seminars and workshops that aim to expand participants’ knowledge on the arts, cultivate an eye for beauty, gather information on art conservation, and serve as a venue to meet the masters. Chosen artists will also get the chance to participate in a close door nude sketching session; their masterpieces put up for sale afterwards.

ART:MNL is a preview to the Philippine International Art Fair 2010. The show is done in collaboration with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), Committee on Visual Arts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Metropolitan Museum of the Philippines, National Museum, Intellectual Property Office, Bonafide Art Galleries Association, Contemporary Art Philippines, and Art Association of the Philippines.

Go Natural at the Philippine Health and Wellness Show
Wellness has been among almost everyone’s priority list, and Manila F.A.M.E. answers this demand for the body’s well being with the Philippine Health and Wellness Show which offers natural, herbal, and organic personal care products. Lemon grass essences and massage oils, VCO-based soaps and balms, and soy-based aromatherapy candles are only some of the all-natural, eco-lifestyle products offered in the show. Also featured are spa services, alternative healing modalities, centers for specialized healthcare, and retirement destinations.

For more information on Manila F.A.M.E. International, visit www.manilafame.com, or contact Manila F.A.M.E. Secretariat at (632) 833-1258, 831-1265 or email manilafame@citem.com.ph.

Tourism Students Gathered for LTSP National Convention

At least 450 students enrolled in tourism and hospitality management courses in various universities, colleges, and schools from around the country gathered for the 2nd League of Tourism Students of the Philippines (LTSP) National Convention held last September 26 – 28, 2009 at the Cebu Grand Convention Center in Cebu City.

Organized by the Tourism Educators and Movers Philippines (Team Philippines), the three-day event aims to update students with the latest trends in the global tourism industry, integrate to them the culture of tourism, and involve and empower the tourism academic sector towards development.

In her welcome remarks, Department of Tourism (DoT) 7 Director Dawnie Roa challenged the tourism students to strive for excellence despite the current global financial crisis once they get employment in the industry. Dir. Roa added, ''The tourism industry will continue to soar despite the crisis and negative stories churned out by the media. Don't be distracted, just do your best and prepare yourself as you embark on the tourism industry in the future,''

Topics discussed during the convention included Basic Exhibition Planning, ASEAN 2015 and Mutual Recognition of Tourism Professionals, Bidding for an International Event, and Organizing an Exhibition. Speakers during the convention were LTSP President Xander Xim Sigua, National Association for Independent Travel Agencies (NAITAS) Chairman Emeritus Robert Lim Joseph, Premiere Events Plus Group, Inc., President Mr. Joel Pascual, and several others, who shared their experiences with the students.

''There are things that can be learned in schools and there are things that can be learned based on experiences of industry movers,'' he stressed. ''The convention, hopefully, will give the students a glimpse of the industry in reality,” said Mr. Joseph.

The 2nd LTSP National Convention is supported by the Department of Tourism, Cebu Provincial Government, Philippine Tourism Authority, and Philippine Airlines.

For more information about the event, contact the League of Tourism Students of the Philippines, Inc. Secretary General at (632) 510-5129 or (63921) 686-8944. Visit their website at http://www.ltsp.org.ph/

Book Lovers, Authors, and Publishers Celebrate 30th MIBF

Book lovers, authors, and publishers from all over the Philippines are invited to be part of the pearl anniversary of the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) scheduled on September 16 – 20, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center , Mall of Asia Complex, in Pasay City.

The 30^th MIBF carries the theme, “Proud to be 30: Words Without Borders”. MIBF is organized by Primetrade Asia, Inc., in partnership with Asian Catholic Communicators, Inc. (ACCI), Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP), Philippine Booksellers Association, Inc. (PBAI), and Publishers’ Representatives Organization of the Philippines (PROP).

This annual fair, which began in 1981, has grown to reach out to a wide range of audiences, spanning different generations, interests and socio-economic backgrounds to share and celebrate their love of books. And now, thirty years from when it started, the MIBF continues to promote books and reading by giving the bookselling and publishing industry a venue to promote new titles and authors, dialogue with readers, and discuss ways to improve the quality of books. In its 30-year run, the MIBF has been instrumental in showcasing books in all their forms, encouraging people to read and find their inspiration. Thus, the MIBF serves as a platform for traditional and new media, presenting books and other published works in all their permutations to an ever-growing audience. Yet its vision remains the same: to be a platform for books and other published works, and to promote reading and literacy.

Numerous activities have been lined up during the event such as storytelling sessions, writing workshops, seminars and talks about the issues and concerns of authors and publishers, and more. The 30^th MIBF will be highlighted with the exhibition of Tomas Pinpin's “Librong Pag-aaralan nang manga Tagalog nang Uicang Castilla”, the first book authored and printed by a Filipino. The exhibition is in preparation for the book's 400th Anniversary in 2010.

Also co-located during the event is the Edu.Shop, a trade fair featuring school materials, supplies, equipment, and facilities.

The 30^th Manila International Book Fair is sponsored by Albergus Catering, The Brain Computer Corp., Oishi, ARMVET Printing Company, Immovation Printshoppe, Inc., and the following media partners: The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Veritas 846, 96.3 Easy Rock, A-Z Direct Marketing, Inc., Sambuhay (by Society of St. Paul), 99.5 RT , and NU 107.

For more information, call (632) 890-066, 896-0682, e-mail bookfair@primetradeasia.com or visit their website, www.manilabookfair.com/

Local and International F & B Firms All Set for WOFEX 2009

The finest food and beverage (F & B) industry players, as well as representatives of allied services from here and abroad will again showcase their latest products and services at the 9^th International Exposition on Worldwide Food and Beverage, Technology, and Machinery (WOFEX 2009) to be held on August 5 – 8, 2009 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Dubbed as “The Ultimate Food Show Experience”, WOFEX 2009, organized by Premier Events Plus Group, Inc., will showcase the newest technologies, trends, products, and services in food preparation, storage and packaging, presentation and more. The annual event continues to co-locate events that bring together all segments of the food and beverage industry and allied industries.

Baker's Fair showcases different baked products, confectionaries, ingredients, and bakery equipment. Baking demonstrations are lined-up to provide this growth market up-to-date know how of the latest technologies and techniques.

Foodmatch Expo, on the other hand, brings in the various process and manufacturing machinery, providing solutions to the needs of the food & beverage industry. At Foodmatch Expo, the latest technologies in manufacturing, processing, packaging, handling, kitchen equipment, and other food service equipment will be on display for both commercial and industrial applications.

Taste Expo will highlight the culinary skills of the Filipino chefs and big prizes are at stake plus the prestige of being adjudged as the best by some of the most prominent experts in the field.

And last, the World Food Summit is a series of seminars and workshops that serves as forum for the dissemination of cutting-edge technologies and industry trends. The summit offers well-conceptualized seminars on different sectors of the F & B industry such as restaurants, manufacturing, supermarket, bakery, catering, and others.

The four-day event will be filled with numerous activities such cooking and baking demos, cake decoration competition, product demonstration, barista competition, flare tending exhibition, and seminars to help restauranteurs, managers, and aspiring entrepreneurs know how to improve and expand their business.

WOFEX 2009 is sponsored by Petron Gasul, Sun Cellular, KLG International, Inc., Foodservice Division, Gomeco Metal Corporation, Multi-Mach International, Inc., Cosmic Chemical Corporation, Ajinomoto, Molina Sunbest, Vesmach, Minami Tsushow Co. Ltd., Tefal, JIMAC, Inc., Joe Kuan Food Corporation, The Philippine Star, Business Mirror, Cook Magazine, Flavors Magazine, Philippine Graphic, F & B World Magazine , Appetite Mgazine, and Q11 (The Sweet Life and Events Incorporated)

For more information about the World Food Expo 2009, contact Premier Events Plus Group, Inc., at (632) 9297963, 9297993, 4269603, 4364209, 4364898, email info@pepgroup.com, or visit their website, http://www.pepgroup.com

PAP and Siliman University Hosts Psychology Convention in Dumaguete City

The Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP) and Siliman University invite all psychologists and Social Science researchers and practitioners in the Philippines to take part in the PAP 46th Annual Convention to be held on August 13 – 15, 2009 at Bethel Guest House and Siliman University in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.

Guided by the theme, “Character Strengths of the Filipino: A Positive Response to Current Challenges”, the event aims to reiterate the importance and possible contribution of positive psychology in treating and preventing psychological disorders. Also, the convention will focus on the character strengths of the Filipino people, which should serve as the main source for coping and even thriving in these challenging times. Moreover, the event shall serve as a reminder to Philippine psychologists of their goal of removing distress and at the same time, promoting growth to one's full potential.

Dr. Betty Cernol-McCann, Vice President for Programs of United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia , will give this year's Keynote Address. The convention will also feature several plenary lectures clustered into three areas: courage and justice, humanity and temperance, and wisdom and knowledge. Plenary speakers include:

• Ms. Ma. Carmen Alcuaz-Reyes (Ateneo De Manila University)
• Prof. Rosalea Araneta-De Leon (West Visayas State University)
• Dr. Allan Bernardo and Prof. Ma. Angeles Lapena(De La Salle University)
• Dr. Frederic Boholst (University of San Carlos)
• Dr. Mila Lagrosa (Asian Institute of Management)

There will be research paper presentations and symposia by psychologists from different universities and organizations in the country, organized in thematic sessions.

For more information, contact the Psychological Association of the Philippines at (02) 453-8257, email pap_1962_08@yahoo.com or visit http://www.pap.org.ph/.

Philippine Biodiversity Highlighted at PIFGEX 2009

The conservation and protection of the country's endemic plants and animals was highlighted during the 2^nd Philippine International Flora and Fauna Garden Expo (PIFGEX 2009) held last July 16 – 19, 2009 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Organized by RPN Flora and Fauna, Inc., managed by Ideas, Concepts and Events Inc., (ICE, Inc.,) and co-presented by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the event carried the theme “Protecting and Sustaining Nature”. PIFGEX 2009 aims to promote the concern of Philippine Biodiversity among the youth. Furthermore, the event aims to showcase the Philippine plants and animals to the world, their uses, their conservation status, and the protection of their habitat.

DENR Secretary Jose 'Lito' Atienza, Ms. Philippines Eco-Tourism 2009 and Ms. PAGCOR Adie Adelantar, ICE, Inc., Event Manager Mr. Bon Reyes, RPN Flora & Fauna, Inc. Representative Mr. Stephen Kamphuis, and Las Pinas City Representative Congw. Cynthia Villar, were among the personalities who graced the opening of PIFGEX 2009.

In his speech, Secretary Atienza stated that the knowledge shared through the event will help boost efforts to protect Philippine biodiversity, particularly as it continues to face threats from habitat destruction, over-exploitation of natural resources, pollution as well as weak enforcement of environmental laws. In addition, he urged people nationwide to increase their knowledge about the country's biodiversity so they can protect and sustainably use this resource.

An array of live domesticated Philippine and exotic birds, small mammals, snakes, lizards, butterflies, and fishes were displayed during PIFGEX 2009. Daily lectures were conducted throughout the three-day event. Topics discussed include global warming, roof gardening, banana farming, organic farming, bee keeping, hydroponics, orchid and mushroom growing, cactus cultivation, wheat grass benefits, flower arrangement, landscaping, backyard vegetable gardening and more. Notable representatives from various environment and plant organizations spearheaded the two-day Conference on Flora and Fauna.

The 2^nd Philippine International Flora and Fauna Garden Expo is in cooperation with the Department of Education, Department of Agriculture, Department of Tourism, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Bureau of Plant Industry, and Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau.

The event is sponsored by Pepsi Cola Products Philippines, Inc., Sony Philippines, Scandinavian Woodworks Corp., Brother International Philippines Corp., Sterling Paper Products Ent., Inc., Schering-Plough Corp., East-West Seed Company, Inc., Ramgo International Corp., EDSA Garden House, Zoobic Safari, King Loius Flower and Plant, Inc., Philippine Orchid Society, Pentel, Philippine Association of Landscape Architects, World Flower Council, Flower Club Philippines, Philippine Horticultural Society, Cactus and Succulent Society of the Philippines, Philippine Native Plant Conservation Society, Rizal Technological University – Research and Development Center, Animal House Pet Clinic and Grooming Center, Philippine Canine Club, Inc., Paradizoo Theme Farm, Philippine Arowana and Luo Han Society, EWK Aviaries, Red Ostrich Farm, and the following media partners: Manila Bulletin (Animal Scene and Agriculture Magazine), Business Mirror, Business World, Marid Agribusiness Digest, Philstar.com, and HerWord.com.

For more information about the event, contact ICE, Inc. at (632) 584-5321, (632) 584-5316, (632) 727-2151, email ice.incorporated@yahoo.com, info@ice.com.ph or visit the event website at www.philippinefloraandfauna.org.

RP Celebrates International Dance Day thru Dance Xchange

Philippine dance troupes, together with international dance groups, celebrated the International Dance Day with seminars, workshops, and cultural presentations during the Dance Xchange: 1st Philippine International Dance Workshop and Festival held last April 28 – May 1, 2009 in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.

Organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the annual national dance congress aims to provide a venue for interaction and to facilitate learning among dancers, directors, choreographers as well as t tourism and cultural officers. The event is designed to provide new ideas and inspiration to encourage creativity of dance educators, directors, and choreographers.

Dance Xchange is also intended to showcase the unique dances of each country to promote cultural understanding and to strengthen network among dance organizations and diplomatic relations of the participating countries.

International delegations included Universiti Malaysia Sarawak Dance Troupe, the Dance Academy of Kuching Malaysia, Persadaku Seni Dancers of Singapore, Spanish Dance Troupe, Chinese Dance Company, Beijing Dance Academy, Japanese Dancers, Aswara Dancers of Malaysia, Korea, and Macau Dancers.

Local performing groups also joined the celebration, which included the Philippine National Folkdance Company (Bayanihan) Leyte Dance Theater, Philippine National University Kislap ng Sining Dance Troupe, Lahing Batangan Dance Troupe, Sinukwan Performing Arts, Douglas Nierras Powerdance, Halili-Cruz Dance Company, ADS Performing Arts, University of San Carlos Dance Troupe, Helobung Community Dance Troupe, Inc., Bohol Punta Cruz Cultural Collective, Kahayag of South Cotabato, Professional Dance Teachers Association, Hwa Yi Ethnic Dance Troupe, Jambangan Dance Troupe, Sinanduloy Dance Troupe, and MEV Dance Troupe.

For more information about the event, contact the NCCA-Public Affairs and Information Office (PAIO) at (632) 527-5529, 527-2192 loc. 508, 612 to 615, email at ncca.paio@gmail.com, public_affairs@ncca.gov.ph or visit their website www.ncca.gov.ph

FCBAI Gathered Bakers, Confectionery Suppliers at Bakery Fair 2009

Numerous companies involved in bakery, confectionery, food service, and allied industries gathered under one roof for the 5^th International Exhibition on Bakery, Confectionery and Food Service Equipment and Supplies (Bakery Fair 2009) held last February 19 – 21, 2009 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Organized by the Filipino-Chinese Bakery Association, Inc. (FCBAI), the biannual event aims to showcase the best in the bakery, confectionery, and food industries of the Philippines. It also continues to improve the quality of its exhibitors and enhance the learning experiences for bakery and bakery operations of its visitors.

Bakery Fair 2009 filled up over 400 booths and attracted more than 25,000 visitors. In the three day event, participating companies showcased a wide range of products and recipe applications to meet the needs of growing as well as starting bakeries. Other companies also shared some business opportunities and marketing ideas to assist clients in expanding their operations.

Renowned Chef Heny Sison graced Bakery Fair 2009 and gave baking and pastry decorating demonstration. Other activities during the fair included cake decorating competition, bartending contest, seminars and baking demonstrations.

Bakery Fair 2009 is supported by Bakels Philippines, Inc., Besterm International Corporation, Asia Cold Storage Corporation, Sonlie International, Inc., Ferna Corporation, Puratos Philippines, Mix Plant, Inc., Middleby Worldwide Philippines, Inc., Kerry Ingredients Asia, Handyware Philippines, Inc., San Miguel Mills, Corman Professional, Unicomm Ingredients Phils., Inc., ADSIA Eurobakers Marketing Corporation, Sinmag Bakery Machine Corporation, Eagle Wings International Corporation, Universal Robina Corporation (Flour Division), Ab Mauri Philippines, Inc., Unity Marketing Corporation, U.S. Wheat Associates, Association of Foodcart Owners and Suppliers Philippines, Inc., 3A System Machinery Philippines Corporation, Jismar Equipment Trading and Services, Inc., Chocolate World, Optima Display Systems Company, Zebra Thailand (Satien Stainless Steel Public Co. Ltd.), Alatone Plastics, Inc., Sun-Maid Raisins, Torani, Conlins Coffee World, KLG International, Inc., Foodservice Division, Wills International Sales Corporation, Novozymes, RM Boxes, General Milling Corporation, California Raisins, Sanko Plastics Philippines, Inc., Foodie Magazine, Cook Magazine, Julie's Bakeshop, French Baker, Gardenia Bakeries (Phils.) Inc., and Walter Bread.

For more information about the Bakery Fair 2009, contact the Filipino-Chinese Bakery Association, Inc., at (632) 2542518, 2542526, email fcbai_phils@yahoo.com.ph, info@fcbai.org, or visit their website at http://www.fcbai.org/

Medical and Health Librarians All Set for National Congress

The Medical and Health Librarians Association of the Philippines (MAHLAP) invites everyone in the medical and health library profession to take part in their 21st National Congress and Seminar-Workshop on February 25 to 27, 2009 at Tagaytay Country Hotel in Tagaytay City.

Carrying the theme, “The Challenge of Change: Partnerships and Developments Towards Globalization”, the seminar-workshop will focus on the current practices and perspectives in medical and health libraries as well as uplifting the role of librarians. In addition, the event aims to acquaint the participants to advanced developments and emerging technologies in libraries, medical and health care system; transform conventional services and practices to neo-conventional; and update the participants on the utilization of current tools and resources at-hand.

The seminar fee is PhP. 4,500.00 inclusive of 3 days/2 nights accommodation, certificate, program materials, and meals.

For inquiries, contact Ms. Lot Dorado, MAHLAP Treasurer at (+632) 743-6920 or via email, lotdorado@yahoo.com or Ms. Gina Canceran, MAHLAP Ex-officio at (+632) 526-5851 or via email, ginacanceran@yahoo.com.