National Resilience Core Group renews support for MSME recovery beyond pandemic

AUGUST 2, 2022, MANILA— The National MSME Resilience Core Group (RCG), a public-private sector consortium established in 2016, reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the disaster resilience of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to support their recovery beyond pandemic during the very first hybrid forum held last July 27.

The National MSME RCG is composed of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Philippine Exporters Confederation (PHILEXPORT), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management-Philippines (APAD-PH), and the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC).

Representatives from the MSME sector, national and local government, academe, and the general public attended the annual MSME Resilience Forum with this year’s theme “Negosyong Handa, Negosyong May Bukas.” Cebuana Lhuillier, Landbank, the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), and OCD also participated as exhibitors. The event showcased the RCG’s accomplishments and recent developments to support MSMEs in preparing for and recovering from disasters. The past two forums had been conducted virtually due to pandemic restrictions.

During the event, all core group members signed the new Memorandum of Understanding to reaffirm their commitment to designing and implementing programs for MSME resilience against crises.

DTI Assistant Secretary Domingo R. Tolentino Jr. emphasized in his keynote address that the government must further strengthen the country’s disaster preparedness, ensure the consolidation of the central portal of disaster communication, and implement innovation-driven programs to help MSMEs operate more efficiently.

“Kailangan isaisip natin na ang mga bayan at rehiyon ay kailangang maging handa upang tayo ay makabangon sa hamon ng pagbabago, sa hamon ng kalamidad, at sa hamon ng kahirapan,” said Asec. Tolentino. [“We must keep in mind that our towns and regions must be prepared so that we can recover from the challenge of change, the challenge of disaster, and the challenge of poverty.” ]

The forum also featured two panel discussions tackling policies and success stories and the Resilience Roadmap 2022-2028. Other topics included the establishment of the Department of Disaster Resilience, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Plan 2020-2030, Public Service Continuity Planning, public investment and bottom-up approach to DRRM, microinsurance, and climate resilient programs.

PCCI President George Barcelon reiterated that DRRM is a huge task that must be undertaken by both the government and the private sector and that climate resilience must always be a priority when formulating and implementing programs.

“We should continue to push for the welfare of our countrymen and our businesses, especially the MSMES, for them to thrive and rebound in the coming months and years,” said Barcelon, “We underscore the need to collaborate among our stakeholders and to create the impact that would be beneficial to all of us.”

PDRF Executive Director Veronica Gabaldon also discussed mentorship as an effective approach to training MSMEs in business continuity. She highlighted PDRF’s capacity building activities for MSMEs and the innovative approaches taken to ensure training continued in spite of the quarantine restrictions.

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In his closing message, ADPC Country Program Manager Edwin Salonga summarized the session in three points: (1) Resilience can be strengthened through innovation, capacity building, and backed up by scientific data; (2) The need for a whole of society approach in terms of DRRM and climate change adaptation; and (3) Respecting the principle of leaving no one behind, especially the marginalized and vulnerable sectors of society, including MSMEs.

“May we continue working together in terms of achieving safer, disaster-resilient, climate change-adaptive Filipino communities towards sustainable development,” said Salonga.

The recording is available HERE.

PDRF has been a staunch supporter of MSME resilience since before the pandemic. For more information on the other tools and programs developed to support MSMEs, visit here: https://covid19.pdrf.org/msme-resilience/ 

2021 Philippine Water Challenge winners invite new innovatorsto solicit solutions addressing water scarcity

 

Pasig City, August 3, 2022 — The second round of the Philippine Water Challenge (PhlWC) starts in August 31, 2022.  It is an ideal platform to generate promising innovations, support improvements and promote scale-up of applications.  This year’s theme for the Challenge is on water demand management to help address  water scarcity issues in many parts of the country.

“The PhlWC provides a good opportunity for water utilities – that have innovations – to share these practical, novel and low-cost solutions that address challenges in the water sector,” shared Libmanan Water District General Manager (GM) Rodolfo Jimenez, whose innovation, the low-cost digitization and automation solution in management of water distribution system, won grand prize last year. 

GM Jimenez joined the four other PhlWC 2021 winners in a panel discussion to share their stories of successes and challenges in scaling application of their solutions in utilities, in unserved or underserved communities, as well as in responding to disasters, such as Typhoon Odette.  The winners are in various stages of preparations for commercialization. At the end of the panel, the winners also invited new innovators to submit their solutions to the second round of the challenge.

Co-organized by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through its Safe Water Project, the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), Manila Water, and Maynilad, the PhlWC is an annual competition that aims to identify innovative solutions that benefit both water services providers and users, identify community demonstration projects, and promote cross-sectoral collaboration to address water challenges.

“It is projected that the increased demand from domestic commercial and industrial activities will exert a significant pressure on our country’s water supply system. Because of this quandary, we recognize the glaring reality that we will continue to face challenges in our goal to achieve universal access to safe water. Notwithstanding, this should be seen as an opportunity for us to creatively address such challenges with new ideas,” NEDA Undersecretary Joseph Capuno shared in his message.

The 2nd PhlWC’s theme is  “Smarter for Water: Innovations and Solutions to Water Scarcity”. The organizers will accept entries and solutions that (1) reduce water consumption, (2) recycle used water for other purposes, and (3) capture wastewater, storm water, salt water or greywater for reuse.

Registration for applicants starts on August 31, 2022 at pdrf.org/2nd-philippine-water-challenge/. A partnership fund in cash, incubation support, and networking package await the winning innovators by March 2023.

Achieving Sustainable Development Goals through Science, Technology, and Innovation

 

The Philippine Association for the Advancement of Science and Technology (PhilAAST) is pleased to announce its 71st Annual Convention to be held on 09 September 2022 with the general theme "Accelerating Transformations for Sustainable Development through Science, Technology, and Innovation.” As part of the celebration, the PhilAAST invites all interested parties to join the virtual webinar series this August 2022 that will focus on important issues and concerns on Health

and Wellness; Sustainable Utilization of Water, Land, and Soil Resources; and Accelerating Transformations of Sustainable Development through STI in Digital Revolution.

Recently, the Association conducted virtual webinars on Climate Resilience and

Sustainable Communities, and Integrated Energy Solutions Addressing Security and Sustainability on 19 and 26 July 2022, respectively. It addressed emerging challenges on climate change and energy security and sustainability, where primary considerations in crafting a concrete strategy and implementing integrated energy solutions in the country were brought forth and discussed in detail. This event was jointly hosted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the premier government agency mandated to provide central direction, leadership and coordination of scientific and technological efforts to ensure that the results there from are geared and utilized in areas of maximum economic and social benefits for the people.

As a private organization of scientists and technologists, the PhilAAST recognizes the

significant role of the DOST in promoting and making use of science, technology, and

innovation in the country to its full extent for national development. Over the years, the

PhilAAST has witnessed the irrefutable relevance of the DOST to society through its programs, projects, and activities that encompass almost every socio-economic sector. Moreover, the DOST has been the PhilAAST’s active and reliable partner in the pursuit of promoting and advancing the value of science, technology and innovation in the country.

The PhilAAST also lauds the recognition received by the DOST in the international arena. The United Nations (UN) recognized the DOST on two separate occasions: the UN Public Service Award for the category of "Enhancing the effectiveness of public institutions to reach the SDGs”, and most recently, the "Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program 4.0 (SETUP 4.0),” which is the DOST’s flagship program in the regions, as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) platform. This recognition from an esteemed foreign organization only shows the DOST’s unwavering commitment to the improvement of the quality of life of Filipinos through innovative S&T interventions.

Science and technology was also among the viable solutions identified by His Excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. in his first State of the Nation Address last 25 July 2022, in response to the many and pressing issues being faced by the country. Improvement in the agricultural sector, climate change mitigation, and management of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases are among the priority agenda of the President, and are all within the thrusts and mandate of the DOST. 

The PhilAAST is confident that the DOST is competently able to maneuver the realization of the President’s relevant S&T plans in the next six (6) years for the betterment of the country. In order to realize this, the Department’s S&T plans and programs need to bebolstered and strengthened further, with a strong and able leader in the forefront who understands the dynamic nature of science, technology, and innovation in order to steer the organization in the achievement of better results through excellent and efficient S&T services for the Filipino people.

The PhilAAST is a non-stock and non-profit organization that aims to promote and

broaden the base of scientific advancement in the country. For details on the organization’s webinar series, awards, activities, and membership opportunities, please contact the PhilAAST through e-mail philaast@yahoo.com,  or you can visit the PhilAAST Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/PhilAAST.

Magnificent Klaypel Art Competition! 2022

 

To all artists out there, come & join the KLAYPEL Art Competition 2022

Get a chance to win P500,000! The Usbong Klaypel Art Competition is open to all artists 18 years old and up. 

View the full mechanics: bit.ly/3zYZjhj

Register here: https://www.klaypelph.com/usbong

#artphilippines #UsbongKlaypelArtCompetition2022 #KlaypelArt #UsbongPH #arts #artcompetition #filipinoartist #artwork #artph

Malaysia - Philippines Palm Oil Trade Fair & Seminar Addressing Philippines Oils & Fats Diversity Through Malaysia Palm Oil

Manila, Aug 17, 2022 -- The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) has assured its Palm Oil Trade Fairs and Seminar (POTS) in the Philippines (POTS Philippines 2022) 

In a statement, MPOC said POTS Philippines 2022 is aimed at bringing together reputable Malaysian palm oil industry players to meet with existing and potential users of palm oil in the Philippines from various sectors, with the aim of developing long and successful business relations.  

Speakers at the one-day seminar were prominent local industry captains and international experts from Malaysia, Europe and the Philippines. 

In her keynote address, Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin highlighted the significance of the Philippines as a trade partner and important user of Malaysian palm oil.

“The Philippines is the sixth largest importer of Malaysian palm oil in 2021. With an import volume recorded at almost 580,000 tonnes in 2021, it is a testimony that the Philippines is very important to the Malaysian palm oil industry,” she said.

Palm oil is the major oil consumed in the Philippines, followed by locally-produced coconut oil, accounting for 77% of the total usage of all oils and fats. 

Zuraida said POTS Philippines provides a valuable platform for those in the oils and fats business to meet and explore not only business collaborations and opportunities, but also establish trade partnerships. 

She expressed confidence that the event would widen collaborations between Malaysian and the Philippines' oils and fats industry players.

“This event offers the business communities, particularly from Malaysia, [the opportunity] to synergise and strengthen existing partnerships that have been nurtured over the years, as well as explore new potential for cooperation,” she added.

Themed “Addressing Philippines’ Oils and Fats Diversity Through Malaysian Palm Oil”, POTS Philippines 2022 aspires to establish and continue to complement the Philippines’ growing oils and fats needs, stemming from the country’s rapid economic growth.

Department of Agriculture Supports The Livestock Philippines International Trade Show 2022

The Department of Agriculture (DA) will extend its full support for the fifth edition of Livestock Philippines – the country’s biggest international trade show for the poultry, livestock, aquaculture, and feed market.

Livestock Philippines is the International Trade Fair for Innovative Production and Processing for Poultry and Livestock that brings together local and foreign exhibitors, as well as trade visitors including industry professionals, key stakeholders, owners, and integrators, farmers, feed millers, pre-mixes, meat processors, slaughterhouses, veterinarians, distributors, retailers, and others.  As the country’s highly regarded international trade fair for feed, livestock, and aquaculture since 2011, the show is expected to gather guests from thirty different nations aside from the scores of local visitors coming across the Philippines.

The exhibitions and seminars of Livestock Philippines will feature the latest innovations and expertise in feed, livestock, and aquaculture production that will definitely enhance DA’s programs and initiatives to help the country attain sustainable agricultural productivity.  The event will also provide brighter prospects for industry players as they finally get to experience quality face-to-face discussions with their prospective clients.

Additionally, Livestock Philippines 2022 will feature brand-new highlights like the Eggcellent Corner, Sustainability Square, and Innovation Zone that will promote various causes to encourage exhibitors and visitors to produce livestock, feed, and aquaculture in a more socially and environmentally responsible manner.  On the first day of the event, the Batangas Egg Producers Cooperative (BEPCO) will also host the Philippines Layer Industry Forum to discuss the Egg – Roadmap – The Philippines Egg Industry Plan 365 which aims to make eggs part of the daily of the Filipinos.

All these initiatives are under the auspices of the DA which is helmed by no less than His Excellency, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.  In his recent State of the Nation Address, the President believes that one of the main drivers for growth and employment will be the agriculture sector. Livestock Philippines will be one of the means through which the President will be able to further his goal of economic recovery as the nation prepares for a post-recovery situation.

Informa Markets-the show’s organizers-assures participants that Livestock Philippines will be a safe, more convenient, and efficient trade show experience through AllSecure which will provide health and safety standards for COVID19 on top of the government’s existing protocols. Ms. Rungplech “Rose” Chitanuwat, Regional Portfolio Director -ASEAN expressed confidence that this year’s show will be stronger and better than ever despite the challenges.  “With more than 150 support from the DA, we will make sure that Livestock Philippines is safe and will not pose causes for concern with the best biosecurity parameters that will be set up throughout the vicinity.

Moreover, our stakeholders are assured of getting their target market because all the industry players will be there as this will be the first gathering of the stakeholders in two years.  So expect the best and the finest in the industry to be at the show, particularly at this time when the Philippines is setting its sights towards reviving its economy through agriculture", she said.

For more information about Livestock Philippines 2022 visit https://www.livestockphilippines.com  or email us through the ff:

For Sales:l Ms. Apple Limbo                         apple.limbo@informa.com 

Ms. Rita Lau rita.lau@informa.com

For Marketing: Ms. Jomia Pagkatotohanan jomia.pagkatotohanan@informa.com 

About Informa Markets

Livestock Philippines is organized by Informa Markets, a division by Informa plc. Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow.  Our portfolio is comprised of more than 550 international B2B events and brands in markets including Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals, Infrastructure, Construction & Real Estate, Fashion & Apparel, Hospitality, Food & Beverage, and Health & Nutrition, among others. For morei nformation,  https://www.informamarkets.com

DOST Balik Scientist Program invites public to watch “Ikaw ang Hero Ko!” webinar on August 30

 

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On national heroes day, let us all together learn who are our modern-day heroes as fellow Filipinos speak about their love for the country and the need for more Filipino scientists to come home and serve the Philippines. 

On Tuesday, August 30, 2022, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) - Balik Scientist Program (BSP) invites the public to join the 3rd Episode of the webinar series “BSP Talks.” The online event entitled, “Ikaw ang Hero Ko!” will air on August 30, 2022 at 11 in the morning via the BSP Facebook  (https://tinyurl.com/BSPTalksEpisode3). 

It shall feature local researchers expressing their gratitude for Balik Scientists who have nurtured, strengthened and improved R&D initiatives in their respective organizations. Similarly, the webinar will stir hearts of potential applicants as we witness previous Balik Scientists host new Balik Scientists as they became part of local research institutions.

With the ongoing international health crisis, Balik Scientists have been one of the key groups that provided the needed expertise on virology and vaccine research.  Beyond COVID-19, these Balik Scientists have also assisted other communicable diseases affecting humans, plants and animals, such as the African Swine Fever (ASF).  

Such impressive contributions and commitment translated to the new concept of Balik Scientists as Modern Heroes.

The webinar will likewise be enjoined by members of the Pinoy Iskolars sa Korea, Inc. (PIKO), who will portray on the steps in preparing a Balik Scientist’s Terms of Reference (TOR) or the BSP Form 2 and submitting ones BSP application. The BSP Form 2 is a vital document that details how a Balik Scientist will be able to assist and help his/her host institution through the conduct of R&D activities, seminars and lectures, teaching, and mentoring their local counterparts. Additionally, it also identifies specific and tangible outputs and the expected impact of a Balik Scientist engagement.

Through the Balik Scientist Program (BSP), Filipino scientists, technologists, and experts are encouraged to return to the country and share their expertise in order to promote scientific, agro-industrial, and economic development, including the development of our human capital in science, technology and innovation.  The program was established in 1975 to counteract the nationwide concern on “brain drain” or the emigration of highly trained professionals from our country, in search of a better standard or living and quality of life, higher salaries, access to advanced technology and more stable political conditions in different places worldwide.

For applications or inquiries about the Balik Scientist Program, you may email the BSP Secretariat at bsp@dost.gov.ph.  Interested parties may also visit the BSP website bsp.dost.gov.ph and the BSP Facebook Page.