TMC is interim operator

February 2008
The Manila Chronicle, home to the country’s
best journalists
“A classic case of the intersection of media
power and political power in the Philippines”
Catch the pre-launch special price
Now available at the Lopez Memorial
Museum
See story on page 9
Available online at www.benpres-holdings.com
First Gen gains
100% ownership in
Red Vulcan ... page 2
SCTEX to open
TMC is interim operator
aFTer making its name from its successful operations of the North Luzon
Expressway (NLEX), Tollways Management Corporation (TMC) is now
the new operator of the 94-km SubicClark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).
The interim contract is good for six
months and can be renewed for another six months. SCTEX concessionaire
Bases Conversion and Development
Authority (BCDA) awarded the operation and maintenance (O&M) of this
P21 billion project to the joint venture
of TMC, First Philippine Holdings
Corporations (FPHC), and Egis Road
Operation (ERO). TMC is primarily
engaged with the operations and main-
Turn to page 6
Witnesses expose
tampered TV ratings
... page 3
2008 ayon kay OML
Taon ng mga CFOs
Check out Power
Plant Mall finds this
Valentine’s ... page 12
Tinaguriang “taon ng mga CFOs
o chief financial officers” ni Lopez
Group chairman Chairman Oscar M.
Lopez (OML) ang taong 2008 dahil sa
mga hamong takdang harapin ng mga
finance executives ng grupo.
Una sa listahan ng mga kailangang gawin ngayong bagong taon ang
pagtatapos ng financial restructuring ng
Benpres Holdings Corporation.
Sa kanyang taunang pambungad
na pananalita sa mga senior executives
ng Lopez Group of companies, sinabi ni
OML na umaasa siyang mareresolba na
ang mga isyu ukol sa debt restructuring
sa madaling panahon.
“During the past year (2007), Angel Ong (pangulo ng Benpres) and his
staff have done a commendable job
Turn to page 2
LopezLink
LopezLink February 2008
February 2008
TAON NG...
from page 1
quietly reducing the size of the
debt overhang that has to be restructured…Angel indicated that
he expected the debt issue to be
resolved by the middle of 2008.
Let us work together to make it
so,” sabi ni OML.
Noong Nobyembre, bumaba
ng US$43 milyon ang US$400
milyong pagkakautang ng Benpres sa pamamagitan ng debt
buyback o pagbili ng debt papers
mula sa isang creditor, ang Asian
Infrastructure Fund.
Samantala, sinabi ni OML
na masusubok din ang galing ng
mga finance executives ng First
Philippine Holdings Corporation
at First Gen Corporation upang
mapondohan ng pang-matagalan
ang mga naglalakihang investments nito noong 2007.
Halos dinoble ng First Holdings ang pag-aari nito sa Meralco
mula 18% hanggang 33.4%
sa pamamagitan ng pagbili ng
Meralco shares na hawak ng
Meralco Pension Fund at ng
Union Fenosa sa halagang P125
per share o kulang-kulang P20
bilyon. Binili naman ng First Gen
ang 60% ng PNOC-EDC mula sa
gobyerno sa halagang P9.75 per
share o P58.5 bilyon.
Dahil sa malalaking halaga ng
mga investment na ito, kakailanganin muling mangutang o humingi ng pondo mula sa shareholders
ang First Holdings at First Gen.
Pinaalalahanan ni OML ang mga
kumpanya na pag-ibayuhin ang
pagsisikap upang malaman ng lahat
na tama ang mga desisyong pangnegosyo na ginawa noong 2007.
Sinabi niya, “I am fully convinced that, in both cases, we
have paid a good price for the
assets that we acquired, and we
have come in when the valuecreating potential of those assets
were at their highest. It is for us
to now unlock and realize that
potential…2008 will be about
execution and performance.”
Partikular sa Meralco, ang
hamon ng magandang “execution
at performance” ay nakasalalay
sa maraming bagay. Bagama’t
maayos ang takbo ng ekonomiya
at patuloy na tumataas ang pangangailangan para sa kuryente,
hindi ganoon kabilis ang pag-angat ng demand mula sa industrial
at manufacturing sectors. Gayunpaman, patuloy ang pagbuti
ng performance ng Meralco lalo
na sa pagpapababa ng systems
loss at pagpapataas ng customer
satisfaction rating nito.
Bilang pagtatapos, inulit ni
OML ang paghimok sa lahat ng
kumpanya na pag-igihin ang pagpapalaganap ng business excellence initiatives upang masukat
ang kakayahan ng bawa’t isa at
maikumpara sa mga pinakamagagaling na kumpanya sa mundo.
“To compete with the best
in the world, we must be able
to compare ourselves with the
best in the world. To match their
best practices, we need to start
and persevere in our journeys to
excellence, for which we have
adopted the Baldrige framework,
employing programs and tools
like ISO, ESH, IiP, Six Sigma,
and LEAN Manufacturing. We
have to measure our progress
using the Baldrige application
and evaluation…this is not a
quest that we can turn on or off
whenever a crisis occurs. It is
a quest that we must persevere
with, knowing that the crisis will
pass and that we will always be
responsible for transforming our
companies into world-class competitors.” (Carla Paras-Sison)
80 years old na ang Lopez Group
TaOng 1928 ng pirmahan
ng magkapatid na Eugenio H.
Lopez, Sr. (Don Eñing) at
Fernando Lopez ang co-ownership agreement para sa business operations ng E&F Lopez
Enterprises, ang ninunong
kumpanya ng private holding
company ng pamilya Lopez
na kilala ngayon bilang Lopez,
Inc.
Sa loob ng 80 taon, ang
itinayong negosyo ng magkapatid na Lopez ay yumabong
upang mapabilang sa mga
premyadong conglomerate sa
Pilipinas, ang Lopez Group of
companies.
Magbabalik-tanaw
ang
Lopez Group sa makulay nitong kasaysayan hindi lamang
bilang pag-alala sa nakalipas
na panahon, kundi para na rin
magsilbing gabay para sa higit
pang mapang-hamon na hinaharap.
Nagsimula sa mga hacienda
ng asukal at sa pag-publish ng
diyaryo sa wikang Kastila at sa
wikang Ingles, ano pa’t nasubukan ng Lopez Group sa pamumuno ni Don Eñing ang mga
negosyo na shipping, bus and
taxi transportation, aviation,
cinema houses at theaters, textiles, hotel, banking, sorbetes,
semento, eskwelahan, radyo at
telebisyon, at kuryente.
Sa kasalukuyang panahon,
pinamumunuan ni Lopez Group
chairman Oscar M. Lopez, anak
ni Don Ening, ang grupo ng
kumpanyang binalangkas ng
kanyang ama 80 taon na ang
nakakaraan. Ang Lopez Group
ngayon ay kinikilala sa husay at
kakayahan nito sa mga industriya
ng media and communications,
power generation and distribution, at infrastructure, particular
sa toll road, and property development. Mayroon din itong mga
investments sa manufacturing at
health care. (Carla Paras-Sison)
ABS-CBN
ABS-CBN: Corruption Witnesses expose tampered journalists
file Writ of
of AGB-NMR panel
panel homes in Bacolod
Amparo
homes is the issue
Meralco-QC ink agreement.
Meralco Chairman & CEO Manuel M. Lopez
(right) shake hands with Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte (center) after signing a Memorandum
of Agreement to minimize losses from electricity pilferage. Signed at the Quezon City Hall Bulwagan, the
agreement also commits the two parties to minimize third-party accidents, electrocution, or fatal contact
with Meralco’s primary lines or distribution facilities. Looking on are Meralco President & COO Jesus P.
Francisco (far left) and city and Meralco officials. (Meralco Corp Comm)
Meralco applies for new rate structure
Says shift to PBR will lead
to service enhancements
THE Manila Electric Company
(Meralco) said that it is filing a
proposed set of rate schedules
that will implement the Energy
Regulatory Commission’s (ERC)
decision on the utility firm’s
Performance-Based Regulation
(PBR) application. “The proposed
rate schedules, however, will first
have to undergo public hearings
and ERC scrutiny before it can be
reflected in the customers’ bills,”
Meralco Vice President for Corporate Communication Elpi Cuna
said.
“It has been almost four years
since Meralco was last allowed
to increase its rates,” Cuna said.
“The last time Meralco had an adjustment was in June 2003, when
the bill was unbundled.” Adjustments in distribution charges
have consistently lagged behind
increases in the consumer price
index and the prices of other basic
services and commodities, such
as transportation fares and diesel
fuel.
Under Meralco’s proposal,
lifeline discounts ranging from
20% to 50% will continue to be
granted to small residential customers consuming up to 100 kWh.
Meralco is also seeking approval
to provide a 10% special discount
on distribution-related charges to
government hospitals and charitable institutions. Meanwhile, a
reduction in the generation charge
of streetlighting customers is being proposed, since streetlights
use electricity mostly during offpeak periods, when the generation
cost is lower.
The proposed rates aim to avoid
price shocks to any customer
segment, following the side-constraint limit set by the ERC.
Under ERC Resolution No.
36, Series of 2006, the Commission adopted its “Rules for Setting Distribution Wheeling Rates
(RDWR) for Privately Owned
Distribution Utilities Entering
Performance Performance-Based
Regulation (First Entry Point),”
signaling a shift to PerformanceBased Regulation (PBR) from
the current Return on Rate Base
(RORB) methodology. Cuna
concluded, “With this shift in the
distribution rate-setting methodology, consumers can likewise
expect higher levels of service as
PBR incorporates incentive and
penalty mechanisms related to the
electric and customer service performance of distributors.” (Maite
Bueno)
First Gen buys out partner
in PNOC-EDC acquisition
Lopez brothers Eugenio Lopez Sr. and Fernando
FirsT Gen Corp. has acquired
the 40-percent stake of Netherlands-based Spalmare Holdings
BV in Red Vulcan Holdings,
Inc.
“However, Spalmare has the
option, exercisable until Feb. 27,
2008 to rejoin the consortium and
fund its equity portion, failing
which the option will lapse,” First
Gen said in a disclosure to the
Philippine Stock Exchange.
Red Vulcan won the bid for
60-percent ownership in PNOC-
Energy Development Corporation
(PNOC-EDC) last November. Its
P58.5 billion-offer for the stake
bested those of FDC Geo-Energy
Holdings Inc., Panasia Energy
Holdings Inc. and AP Renewables.
Spalmare is a joint venture
between Icelandic sustainable
energy firms Reykjavik Energy
Invest (REI) and Geysir Green
Energy (GGE). First Gen said that
REI and GGE have decided to divest themselves of their 40 percent
stake in the consortium, and confirmed their intention to continue
to support business development
and technical assistance efforts.
First Gen president Federico
Lopez said that PNOC-EDC “will
become a very strong asset for
First Gen.”
PNOC EDC is currently the
largest geothermal producer in the
country with an installed capacity
of 1,149.4 megawatts. This represents 60 percent of the country’s
total geothermal capacity.
ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation said
the disparity between cable and non-cable
TV ratings is a non-issue, but the corruption of AGB Nielsen Media Research Philippines’ panel homes is the real issue.
Vivian Tin, ABS-CBN Head of
Research and Business Analysis, said the
disparity is due to reception problems and
ABS-CBN continues to lead in the nationwide TV ratings except in Mega Manila where it suffers blurry
reception in some areas.
She said increasing urbanization has led to higher consumption
of electricity, resulting in noise that leads to “snowy” reception
on television sets. Switching of lights, other electricity activities,
and even the backfire of tricycles due to spark plug action lead to
a deterioration of television screen reception.
“Connection to cable takes away the vulnerability to noise. It
is common for ordinary people to notice that once they have cable,
they suddenly get clearer free TV channels (including ABS-CBN)
than before. Cable provides a level playing field as all channels
become clear with cable,” she said.
Tin said another network’s baseless complaints of interference in cable TV ratings have never prospered because these are
“imagined,” unlike ABS-CBN’s complaint about the corruption
of AGB Nielsen Media Research panel homes that is supported by
sworn statements of whistleblowers and panel home members.
“The issue of corruption is real. We have witnesses testifying
how a network has searched for panel homes in different parts of
the country and offered them incentives to watch its shows,” she
said. (Kane Choa)
SkyCable Silver Prepaid
subscribers can now
enjoy Disney Channel
HERE’s good news to all
SkyCable Silver Prepaid
subscribers. Starting last
month, the highly popular
and well-loved Disney
Channel became part of
SkyCable Silver Prepaid
programming, spreading
its trademark family entertainment to more households in Metro Manila.
This strategic move by
SkyCable now makes it possible for
more kids and the big kids at heart
to experience dynamic programming only Disney Channel can
deliver. Disney Channel showcases
award-winning animated live-action shows as well as exclusive
Disney Channel original series and
movies. Now, your kids can enjoy
Disney Channel programs like
Hannah Montana, Kim Possible,
The Emperor’s New School, The
Suite Life of Zack and Cody, and
the smash hit High School Musical
and High School Musical 2.
Disney Channel offers a safe
viewing environment for kids and
its programming taps into their
world through imagination and
optimism helping today’s kids
grow up happy. It’s truly a heartwarming addition to the SkyCable
Silver Prepaid channel line-up.
SkyCable Silver Prepaid is the
most convenient and affordable
way to enjoy 24-hour cable entertainment without having to worry
about settling monthly bills. For
as low as P90, subscribers can enjoy three days of unlimited cable
TV viewing from SkyCable Silver
Prepaid’s more than 50 quality
channels. They can also opt for
the P380-prepaid card good for
15 days or the P636-prepaid card
for a 30-day access to highly
entertaining programs seen only
on SkyCable. What’s more, with
SkyCable Silver Prepaid’s digital
addressable box, subscribers get
clearer and crisper images on their
TV sets.
Start spreading the fun of
wholesome entertainment to the
whole family with Disney Channel. Subscribe now to SkyCable
Silver Prepaid and keep reloading
to get the most out of the kiddriven family inclusive entertainment of Disney Channel and other
program genres for the whole
family. SkyCable Silver Prepaid
is initially available in Manila,
Pasig, Quezon City and Mandaluyong. For details, please call the
Customer Service Hotline at 6310000. (Karen Zabaljauregui)
WiTnesses have approached
ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation and exposed the TV ratings
manipulation in Bacolod. Mark
Dumago, the first whistleblower
whose name was first withheld, revealed last December that the TV
ratings done by AGB Nielsen were
indeed tainted. More witnesses
also came out reiterating the other
network’s effort in anomalously
influencing the viewing habits of
panel homes in the form of monetary considerations.
Dumago didn’t reveal his real
identity when he first exposed the
TV ratings manipulation but now
came out to the public to prove
and justify his testimony. Having
worked as a field coordinator in
a radio station, Mark Dumago
confessed that he was initially offered by an official from another
network to conduct surveys on
the viewing preferences of the
public in April 2006. But, he
was later ordered to locate and
offer monetary considerations to
panel homes in Bacolod after two
months. He was paid P6,200 plus
P115 cellphone load monthly.
Dumago, along with other witnesses “Rico” and “Jonel”, of-
fered these panel homes P500 plus
monthly groceries in exchange of
watching a particular TV station.
They were able to track panel
homes by following AGB technicians from their Bacolod office
and some even collaborated with
them. The whistleblowers went to
each household to convince them
to switch channels. “Mga 80%
naman po ang pumayag at 20%
yung hindi,” Dumago said when
asked how many agreed to the
arrangement. Dumago said that
the same process also happens in
Cebu, Davao and Iloilo.
Upon learning this issue, ABSCBN verified the testimonies of
the whistleblowers. AGB Nielsen
met Dumago and even validated
his claims. To study TV ratings,
AGB Nielsen randomly selects
homes in urban areas to represent viewership in the chosen
areas. Meters are attached to TV
sets and are activated by viewers
to detect channels they are viewing. Identities and information
on these metered households
should be confidential to avoid
any influence on viewing habits.
More witnesses are coming
out as ABS-CBN pushes its
campaign for a clean and fair TV
ratings process. ABS-CBN wants
AGB Nielsen to clean up their
panels nationwide and replace
corrupted ones. ABS-CBN encourages the media industry and
the public to be vigilant and report
any forms of inducement to influence their viewing preferences.
ABS-CBN initiated the fight
to clean the TV ratings process
when it filed a civil case against
AGB-Nielsen Media Ratings in
December 2007 after the research
agency refused to stop releasing
data even after getting information that its panel has been corrupted from what seemed to be
an organized, well-funded, and
systematic attempt to manipulate
the TV ratings. (Sourced from
ABS-CBN Frequency news)
ABS-CBN broadcast journalist Ces
Drilon, together with other ABSCBN media men, filed for a Writ of
Amparo in the Supreme Court on
January 21, alleging the illegal arrest and harassment of media men
during the November 29 Manila Pen
siege. The 35-page petition filed by
ABS-CBN journalists seeks protection from similar actions and threats
which will infringe their freedom of
speech and right to information.
Not only were the journalists’
constitutional rights violated, but they
also received threats from the government. Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez
issued a Media Advisory warning news
organizations of criminal charges if they
disobey authorities during emergencies.
Drilon said that this may result in adverse consequences, making journalists
worry about getting arrested for doing
their job. “We appeal to the Supreme
Court to immediately declare our arrests illegal and to issue a permanent
protection order to restrain government
authorities from enforcing any form of
prior restraint on the press in the form
of thinly veiled threats of government
sanctions or “reminders” of criminal liability,” Ces Drilon said in a statement.
(ABS-CBN Corp Comm)
Bayan Wireless offers
uninterrupted service
ABS-CBN Station head Angelo Palmones says
DZMM’s non-stop coverage of the Manila Pen
siege made possible by the clarity and continuity provided by Bayan Wireless Landline.
“We had a total running coverage time of
seven hours and not one dropped call,” says
Palmones, “no details were missed because
of Bayan Wireless Landline’s unlimited calling feature.”
DZMM reporter, Noel Alamar, who was
the only radio reporter on the scene when
Sen. Antonio Trillanes and company walked
out of the Makati Regional Trial Court, says
Bayan Wireless Landline was with him all
the way to the Manila Pen take over.
Alamar recounts that his cellphone had
no signal inside the Makati RTC and was
very thankful that he had Bayan Wireless
Landline to report the story as it unfolded.
“When authorities arrested us at the Manila Pen, they were trying to confiscate all
the broadcast devices,” says Alamar “but I
refused to give my Bayan Wireless Landline
because it was my lifeline.”
Both Palmones and Alamar agreed that
Bayan Wireless Landline is the future of
radio, its clear and uninterrupted connection
gives broadcasters the confidence to bring
detailed and concise news coverage down to
the most minute detail.
“DZMM reporters are now better equipped
to deliver news that matter with Bayan Wireless
Landline,” says Palmones. (Freyja Santos)
Bayan B2Biz helps
ease mass migration
MORE than 2 million Filipinos leave their
hometowns and families in search of better
opportunities outside the country. A report
from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas says that
from January to November 2006, overseas
Filipino workers have sent home US$11.44
billion making the Philippines ‘the most
overseas remittance dependent economy of
any significant size in the world’.
Based on studies conducted by Bayan
Telecommunications together with the
Institute for Development and Economic
Analysis Inc. (Idea) headed by former National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director General Dr. Cayetano
Paderanga Jr., the solution to curb Filipinos’
mass ‘business trips’ is Outsourcing and
Offshoring (O&O). Presently the country
is earning about $3.3 billion from the O&O
industry, the bulk of which is coming from
the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
segment.
In response to mass migration, Bayan
recently launched Bayan B2Biz, a series of formal studies on emerging industries to spur discussion and shed light on relevant issues facing
these industries. The studies aim to encourage
more investments, generate employment and,
true to Bayan’s credo, make a difference to
make Filipino lives better.
“Bayan B2Biz is our contribution to nation-building by exploring untapped potential
in emerging industries and sharing it with the
public for everyone’s benefit,” says Tunde
Fafunwa, Bayan’s Chief Executive Consultant. “It was only logical that our first edition
would be on the O&O with its unlimited
potential not only to stimulate our economy,
but to dramatically change our perspective
on where the greener pastures are.”
The series’ first installment is on the Philippine O&O industry, touted as the plug that
may stop the brain drain in the country by
providing job opportunities for more than 35
million Filipinos.
Fafunwa further reveals, “Bayan’s purpose with this study is to also highlight that
the term ‘BPO’ is already insufficient and
limiting in covering the breadth of business
opportunities possible. It has now become
our objective to refocus the mindset to the
broader O&O perspective.”
To download a summary of the findings,
please go to www.bayan.com.ph and click
on the B2Biz link. To request for the full
study, please email [email protected]
(Freyja Santos)
LopezLink
LopezLink February 2008
February 2008
couch potato
PR CHALLENGE
Ethical capitalism
treats
How good should your business be?
Excerpted from The Economist print
edition of Jan. 17, 2008.
COrpOraTe social responsibility has
great momentum. All the more reason
to be aware of its limits.
How wonderful to think that you
can make money and save the planet at
the same time. “Doing well by doing
good” has become a popular business
mantra: the phrase conjures up a Panglossian best-of-all-possible-worlds,
the idea that firms can be successful by
acting in the broader interests of soci-
PR CALENDAR
43rd Anvil Awards
February 15, 2008
Hotel Intercontinental Ballroom
For info, contact PRSP at 638-0012
ety as a whole even while they satisfy
the narrow interests of shareholders.
For these are high times for what
is clunkingly called corporate social
responsibility (CSR). No longer is it
enough for annual reports to have a
philanthropic paragraph about the charity committee; now companies put out
long tracts full of claims about their fair
trading and carbon neutralizing. But
the biggest force is the presumption
that a modern business needs to be, or
at least appear to be, “good” to hang on
to customers and recruit clever young
people.
Thus for most managers the only
real question about CSR is how to do
it. Is the CSR craze a good thing for
business and for society as a whole?
Much good corporate citizenship is
a smug form of public relations. A bad
name has seldom been more expensive,
especially when there is a war for talent
and customers can look at your supply
chain in Vietnam on YouTube. Public
companies, remember, are creations
of the state. In return for the privilege
of limited liability, society has always
demanded vaguely good behavior from
them. The cost of this implicit social
franchise, whether shareholders like it
or not, has risen.
Some people complain that this
sort of “good corporate citizenship” is
merely another form of self-interest.
The difficulties with CSR come when
companies get it out of proportion. For
instance, there is a lot of guff about responsibility being at the core of a firm’s
strategy.
An inconvenient truth for advocates
of Csr is that the connection between
good corporate behavior and
good financial performance is
fuzzy at best. The latest academic research suggests that a
positive link exists, but that it
is a weak one. Of course, it’s
not clear which way the causality runs—whether profitable
companies feel rich enough to
splash out on CSR, or CSR brings profits. Either way, there is no evidence to
suggest that CSR is destroying shareholder value, as Milton Friedman and
others feared. But nor is it obviously
the most productive way for managers to spend their energies. Caution is
specially called for at a time when the
CSR bandwagon is on a roll.
Caveat voter
If companies need to be vigilant
about the limits of CSR, the same ap-
Test of
Luck in the
Wheel of
Fortune
plies even more to society as a whole.
A dangerous myth is gaining ground:
that unadorned capitalism fails to serve
the public interest. If the business of
business stops being business, we all
lose.
So the apparent triumph of CSR
should prompt humility, not hubris.
There is money to be made in doing
good. But firms are not there to solve
the world’s political problems. It is the
job of governments to govern; don’t let
them wiggle out of it.
LAA corner
The Oscars Examiners Family Grew by Eight More!
By Bheng S. Relatado
The Oscar M. Lopez Award
for Performance Excellence or
Oscars welcomes it new batch
of Baldrige-trained Examiners,
growing the number of the Examiners pool to 47. These Lopez Group professionals, whose
rank ranges from Managers to
AVP, successfully passed the
Examiner Preparation Course
and Calibration Session held
last November 21-23, 2007 and
January 15 to 17, 2008 respectively, under the facilitation of
two Malcolm Baldrige National
Quality Award Trainers and
Alumni Examiners, Paul Steel
and Dr. Luis Ma. R. Calingo.
Armed with the knowledge
and skills gained from the 6-day
training, these new Examiners
are given the most important
task of evaluating the health
of the company’s systems,
processes and business results.
They are the lifeblood of the
Asian Eye Institute congratulates Dr. Caguioa and Dr. Dato
Round off high quality eye care
Asian Eye Institute (AEI),
a world-class eye center, is
home to the country’s topnotch
ophthalmologists and optometrists. Two of its optometrists
were recently elected as officers of the Philippine College
of Optometrists (PCO) during
its 2007 Annual Convention.
Dr. Jesse B. Caguioa, AEI’s
Specialist for Low Vision and
Visual Rehabilitation and Chief
Optometrist was installed as
the new President of PCO from
2008-2011, while Dr. Gualberto
E. Dato, AEI’s Senior Optometrist, was elected as Secretary
of PCO for the same term and
was inducted as Fellow.
MNTC Corporate
offices now in
Balintawak!
Trunk line: 479-3000
Fax: 330-8829
From left to right: Dr. Sarah Cairo, Dr. Lynnie Cu, Dr. Aileen Azarcon, Dr. Marose Parao, Dr. Monette Pacheco, Dr. Lexie Lee, Dr. Jesse
Caguioa, Dr. Gualderto Dato, Dr. Ruby Chua, Dr. Aillen Rosales, Dr.
Ruth Atanque, Dr. Jannet Gaspar and Dr. Aicy Serrano.
Dr. Caguioa and Dr. Dato
are just two of the AEI doctors who believe in continuously raising the bar in their
field with patient care as the
ultimate end in mind. AEI
optometrists are also able
to share knowledge and expertise with the optometric
community.
During the
2007 PCO Annual Convention, Drs. Sarah Cairo, Maria
Aicy Serrano, and Mary Rose
Parao presented optometric
management cases.
For complete eye care, visit
the Asian Eye Institute (main
clinic) at 9th Floor PHINMA
Plaza, Rockwell Center, Makati
City or at Level 1 TriNoma
EDSA Corner North Avenue,
Quezon City. For more information about their services and
research activities, visit their
website at www.asianeyeinstitute.com. (Javier Moreno)
Oscars program and are expected to serve either in the Award
program or baseline assessment
project. By taking on the assessment assignment, Examiners are
given the opportunity to expand
their performance management
perspective, learn about the
practices of world class companies that they can apply in
their respective job functions,
and most of all, contribute to
the companies’ continuous improvement efforts.
Names of these new Examiners will be announced once
the 2007 assessment has concluded.
Some
institutions
that
maintain pools of Examiners
and conduct similar training
programs as part of their Baldrige-based award systems are
the Philippine Quality Award,
Thailand Quality Award, New
Zealand Business Excellence
Award and Japan Quality Award.
Some groups of companies that
are reported to have also used
the Baldrige framework are
San Miguel Corporation, Johnson and Johnson Regional and
India’s Tata Group.
The next Oscars Examiner
Training Program will be held
sometime November this year.
WHEEL of Fortune, the longest-running popular game show
in the US, now hits the Philippines hosted by none other than
TV host queen Kris Aquino.
Studio players get the chance
to win up to P200,000 while the
player who gets to the bonus
round can win up to 2 million
or a brand new car. Wit, determination and luck will surely
be tested as the fortune of the
players depends on the spin of
the wheel. Kris Aquino is the
first female host of the said
franchise originally hosted
by Pat Sajak. Along with Kris
Aquino are her puzzle assistants
Zara Aldana of Celebrity PBB2 and Jasmine Fitzgerald.
Wheel Of Fortune airs on Primetime Bida before TV
Patrol World.
Palos now on Philippine
television
ABS-CBN brings you a new drama and action-packed
TV series in its new installment, Palos. It is a remake of
the popular Palos movies from the 1960s to the 1980s
which starred Bernard Bonin. Palos is based on the classic Filipino comics “Alyas Palos” whose main character
is a professional thief, a martial arts expert and as slippery
as an eel. Teen heartthrob Jake Cuenca plays the lead and
teams up with Cesar Montano as his father. Joining the
cast are Valerie Garcia, Roxanne Guinoo, Jomari Yllana
and Sunshine Cruz. Don’t miss the thrilling action TV
series directed by Toto Natividad, Trina Dayrit and Erik
Salud on Primetime Bida this February.
All 4 Love:
DTI: Wala pang nakukuhang
ebidensya ng dayaan sa ‘Wilyonaryo’ Isang Grand
NILINAW ng komite ng Department of Trade and Industry na nagiimbestiga sa umano’y dayaan sa
“Wilyonaryo” segment ng Wowowee noong 20 August 2007, na hindi
pa nila matukoy kung may dayaan
ba talagang naganap sa programa.
Sa isang panayam na ipinalabas
sa TV Patrol World ng ABS-CBN,
sinabi ng fact-finding committee ng
DTI na “probable cause” lang ang
nakita nila para maghain ng posibleng paglabag ng Consumer Act
laban sa ABS-CBN.
Ayon sa komite, ang paghahain
ng administrative charges sa kompanya ay para sa posibleng paglabag
nito sa Consumer Act at hindi dahil
may na-tuklasan silang pandaraya sa
palabas.
Dagdag pa nila, magsasagawa
ng isang mas malalim na imbesti-
gasyon sa mechanics at patakaran ng
“Wilyonaryo” segment para matukoy kung may naganap na paglabag
sa Consumer Act.
Samantala, patuloy na pinabubulaanan ng ABS-CBN na may pagtatangkang manipulahin ang resulta
ng larong “Wilyonaryo” at pinaninindigan ang kanilang sinabi na ang
lumilitaw na pandaraya ay resulta
lang ng pagkakamali sa disenyo ng
mga props na ginamit sa insidente.
Ang segment na “Wilyonaryo”
ay tinanggal na sa programang
“Wowowee.”
Isang parehong imbestigasyon
rin ang isinagawa ng Kapisanan ng
mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP)
at nang wala rin silang nakitang
ebidensya ng pandaraya, agad nilang
nilinaw ang pangalan ng ABS-CBN
sa organisasyon.
Valentine
Concert
Kaugnay dito, inirekomenda
ng DTI na lahat ng game show sa
telebisyon ay kailangan munang kumuha ng permit sa kanilang ahensya
para sa kanilang game segments.
Hindi naman sumang-ayon ang
ABS-CBN sa rekomendasyon na ito.
Hindi na raw kinakailangan na kumuha ng permit sa DTI ang mga game
show segments na ito dahil hindi naman ito maituturing na pagbebenta at
promotional activities. (Bong Osorio)
DZMM and 101.9 revolutionize radio
in this generation, access to information has become more available and
convenient with the advent of new media such as the Internet, mobile phones
and satellite radio, leaving less room
for traditional media. This, however,
didn’t stop ABS-CBN’s DZMM Radyo
Patrol Sais Trenta and 101.9 For Life
from dominating the airwaves. These
two award-winning radio stations, in
fact, made a paradigm shift and redefined Philippine radio.
This brave transformation gave
birth to DZMM Teleradyo which
was launched on April 12, 2007. Almost a year since it started, DZMM
Teleradyo is getting lots of support
from its traditional radio listeners,
cable TV viewers and the advertising industry that sees its potential
in giving information while reaching a wider audience. ABS-CBN
Radio Division recognized the
effects of new media on radio and
made radio available even to TV
viewers. ABS-CBN’s Peter Musngi
said, “First order of business is to
make radio available where both
the traditional and, more importantly, the potential radio listeners
are; that means being available on
the worldwide web, the ubiquitous
mobile phone, the I-pod and yes,
even television.”
101.9 For Life doesn’t slow down
as well as it continues to get high rat-
ings. It is also part of the dynamic
FM landscape where 101.9 For Life
listeners can catch it live on air on
the Web. Radio may be considered
an old medium but its capacity to
reach people is vast and very effective. DZMM and 101.9 For life once
again proved their authority in Philippine radio as they won the Best AM
Station and Best FM Station award
respectively in the recent Gandingan
2008: Isko’t Iska’t Broadcast Choice
Awards.
Also catch DZMM and 101.9 For
Life in Rad-Yo newsletter, featuring
program schedules, special events
and the latest updates of these two
giant radio stations. (Karen Valeza)
Nalalapit na ang Araw ng mga Puso!
Ipagdiwang ang pinaka-romantikong
araw ng taon kasama ang apat sa pinaka-nakaka-in love at pinaka-magagaling na performers ngayon! Sa himig ng
paborito niyong love music at theme
songs, apat na grand champions ang
maghahandog ng isang grand Valentine
concert, All 4 Love!
Talagang mabibighani kayo sa
Romantic Balladeer at Asia’s Pop Idol
Christian Bautista, Ultimate Champion
Rachelle
Ann Go,
Prince of
Pop Erik
Santos, at
Pop Star
Princess
Sarah
Geronimo para
sa isang
gabing
Christian Bautista
hinding-hindi niyo malilimutan! Sa unang
pagkakataon na magkasama-sama ang
apat na grand champions sa iisang concert, maghahandog ang mga singing
sensations na ito ng mga sentimental
numbers at sikat na love songs mula sa
iba’t ibang era na magugustuhan ng kahit na sino, ano man ang edad, sa isang
di mapapantayang musical journey!
Huwag palalampasin ang “All
4 Love” Valentine Concert ng Viva
Records at ASAP Live sa Pebrero 13,
Huwebes, 8 pm sa Big Dome (Araneta
Coliseum). Para sa karagdagang ticket
information, tumawag sa Araneta Coliseum at TicketNet branches sa telephone
number 911-5555. (Katherine Solis)
Celebrity 2 update
HR COUNCIL
HR COUNCIL: 2008
Broad Directions
2008 will be another productive year for
the HR Council. Consistent with its vision, mission and values, the HR Council
will continue to pursue various programs
aimed at “building a community of HR
professionals committed to drive business and organizational excellence in
the Lopez Group.” The plans are focused
primarily on the continuing professional
development of the HR practitioners in
the Group. By encouraging the sharing of
internal and external best practices and
by providing various learning opportunities, the Council can expect to help the
HR people to more effectively carry out
their important role of being organization
“transformers.”
As always, the HR Council will likewise
continue to take the lead in mobilizing the
16,000-strong employee workforce for
Group-wide activities. This has been a key
role of the Council – to help promote the
spirit of oneness in the Lopez Group. It is
a fact that employees, regardless of what
company they belong to, take pride in knowing that they belong to the Lopez Group. The
HR Council has and will continue to play an
active role in organizing such activities that
bring the employees together – either to have
plain fun or to provide support, when one is
in crisis.
There are other important projects in
the pipeline to be firmed up when the Core
Group meets on January 30. Suffice it to say
that these projects are all aimed at enabling
HR to add greater value.
We encourage everyone to actively participate in the various activities and programs
lined up for the year. We can all make 2008
our best year so far. (Yiessa Borbon)
The Big Night at the Big Dome
‘Spring Waltz’ on
ABS-CBN
Koreanovela fever is back on ABS-CBN’s Primetime
Bida as the Kapamilya Network premiered the muchawaited love story of the season, “Spring Waltz”.
Follow the compelling story of Jeric (Seo Do-Young)
and Arianne (Han Hyo Joo), two people whose childhood
friendship was put to test when Jeric had to sacrifice his
own life and assume the identity of a wealthy couple’s dead
son in exchange for Arianne’s heart surgery.
The Amazing Race Asia
2 season-ender
Don’t miss the last few episodes of The Amazing Race
Asia 2. The thrill is still far from over as the remaining
competitive pairs battle it out for the top spot. Support
Philippine team Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez
in the remaining legs of the show as they face more
challenges in the quest of winning the US$100,000
prize. Catch the finale this February exclusively on
Sky Cable’s AXN channel.
aFTer almost three months
since Pinoy Big Brother (PBB)
opened his house to 14 celebrity housemates, the public
has finally chosen the PBB
Celebrity Edition Season 2 Big
Winner. Spotlight was on the
Big Four Will, Riza, Gaby, and
Ruben as their families and
fans welcomed them during
the Big Night last January 5,
2008. Roars and cheers filled
the Araneta Coliseum after
komedyanteng promdi Ruben
was declared as the Celebrity Big Winner. Ruben, who is
popular for his Budotz dance,
got very excited and emotional
when he reunited with his
family and fellow housemates.
Truly a big winner, Ruben won
2 million pesos cash from Jack
N’ Jill snacks, a Goodah business franchise also worth 2
million pesos, a condominium
unit from Chateau Valenzuela,
and a Sony Bravia.
Until the very last day,
the Big Four still got surprises
from Big Brother. Araneta
Riza Santos
Will Devaughn
Coliseum was already filled,
but the most anticipated guests,
the Big Four, were still inside
Kuya’s house. The Big Four
all got a 100-second visit from
their loved ones, giving them
enough cheer and support before they faced the real world
again. While they were waiting
for Kuya’s signal to leave the
house, the audience at the Big
Dome excitedly watched the
song and dance performances
of celebrity ex-housemates and
Gaby de la Merced
the jazz rendition of “Pinoy
Ako” from Vina Morales, Nikki Gil, Toni Gonzaga, Mcoy
Fundales, and Kuya himself.
The audience also laughed
their hearts out with the amusing sketches of the Big Four
performed by Tuesday Vargas
as Gaby, Giselle Sanchez as
Riza, RS Francisco as Will, and
Ricci Chan as Ruben.
Elegantly clad in gowns
and suits, the Big Four were
ushered to the mini-confession
room as they waited for the
moment of truth. “True lover”
and hunk model Will Devaugn
gladly accepted his prizes as
the Fourth Big Placer. Will
couldn’t be happier as he was
declared Jag’s newest celebrity
endorser. Being a part of the
Big Four already made them
winners. Although racing goddess Gaby Dela Merced made
a voluntary exit before, she
still managed to be a strong
contender and was declared as
the Third Big Placer, garnering 25.5% of the votes. This
left Riza Santos and Ruben
Gonzaga on the top 2. In the
end, desirable diva Riza won
as the Second Big Placer. Despite her few nominations for
eviction, Riza managed to get
Ruben Gonzaga
27.33% of the total tally.
Ruben who successfully
emerged as the Big Winner
had life-changing experiences
inside Kuya’s house. He was
able to reunite his mother, aunt,
and grandmother with the help
of Kuya. What’s more heartwarming is his wedding with
his long-time partner, Jesselle.
Thus, Ruben shed tears as he
thanked his supporters, fellow
housemates, and family during
the Big Night. PBB Celebrity
Edition Season 2 was truly a
success as shown in the support of its many fans.
This summer, watch out
for the more refreshing and
exciting batch of youngsters
for the PBB Teen Edition 2.
(Karen Valeza)
LopezLink
LopezLink February 2008
February 2008
Safe driving
NLEX
experience in
EVER since Tollways Management Corporation (TMC) took over the operations and
maintenance of North Luzon Expressway
in 2005, there has been a significant difference in the number of accidents and fatalities. Safety measures and traffic regulations
are strictly enforced in the 88-km expressway which connects Metro Manila in the
provinces of Northern and Central Luzon.
TMC’s Traffic Management Department
supervises and monitors the expressway
24/7 with its highly-equipped cameras, radios and speed-monitoring devices.
TMC’s Vice President for Traffic Operations Nicolas G. Manalo says “when
it comes to total accidents and fatalities,
there was a decrease. From 33 accidents
in 2006 down to 26 resulting fatalities in
2007 and from 42 to 36 in 2007.” Before
TMC took over the operations in 2005,
fatalities were running into hundreds and
some of it were not even reported. Because
of the central traffic management system
in NLEX now, all of the incidents that are
happening are being reported to the traffic
control room by the patrol crew, according to Manalo. The significant difference
in the number of incidents, accidents and
fatalities can be attributed by TMC’s effort
in providing the expressway with hi-tech
safety features, strong implementation of
traffic rules and knowledgeable toll crew.
Among the safety measures in NLEX is
its 24-hour emergency assistance consisting of the traffic patrol team, traffic con-
trol team, telephone operators, ambulance
and tow service and the incident response
team.
Traffic enforcement
The patrol crew is deputized by Land
Transportation office (LTO). TMC is implementing Republic Act 4136 and 8794, the
Land Transportation and Traffic Code and
the Anti-overloading law. They also apprehend vehicles which are overstaying
in overtaking lanes, vehicles weaving left
and right, swerving abruptly from one lane
to the other and vehicles overtaking at the
shoulder. The patrol crew apprehends these
violators and transmits the confiscated license and licensed plates to LTO.
Safety education program
Traffic Management is educating drivers
and travelers with BLOWBAG which stands
for breaks, lights, oil, water, battery, air
and gas. BLOWBAG represents the things
motorists have to check before traveling to
avoid any accidents or vehicular breakdowns.
They also sell the Motorists Handbook for
P20. Flyers are also distributed in some toll
plazas. Since the patrol crew are the frontliners when it comes to traffic and emergency
assistance, they are also oriented in customer
service education to convey a welcoming
approach to the motorists. “For the patrol
crews, we’ll be coming out with a handbook
which contains their code of ethics and the
principles behind what they’re doing, the
values and different procedures they have to
follow,” Manalo says. (Karen T. Valeza)
TMC...
Photos from top: TMC president Anthony M. Mabasa
smiles his way as he shares
the success of TMC in winning
the SCTEX interim operation;
Hassle-free, safer and faster
travel awaits motorists with
the new SCTEX experience;
Overlooking the SCTEX, it is
the longest in the country
with a stretch of 94km,
connecting the economic
and tourism zones of Central
Luzon.
from page 1
tenance of NLEX, whereas FPHC is involved
with power, infrastructure, and property, including the tollway subsidiary Manila North Tollways Corporation.
Starting March 16, 2008, SCTEX will take
over operations of the longest tollway system
with a stretch of 94 km Central Luzon region
specifically the Clark Special Economic Zone,
Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Central Techno Park
in Tarlac, and Bataan Technology Park. The
SCTEX is composed of two segments: the
50.5-km Subic-Clark section and the 44-km
Clark-Tarlac section. With the ecozones linked
by the SCTEX and the promise of shorter travel
time, this will definitely open more economic
opportunities for the country.
BCDA first issued their invitation for bidding for the SCTEX project in April 2007. It
was FPHC that spearheaded and submitted
their technical and financial bid documents during the first bidding where BCDA provided a
12.2% financial sharing clause. The technical
bid included components like the toll collection
system, support services, manpower, and equipment. FPHC and TMC were able to meet the
technical bid but submitted a qualified proposal.
Subsequently, BCDA conducted a rebid but insisted on very difficult
commercial conditions.
This resulted in another
failure of tender. The
third time around,
BCDA resorted to “negotiated procurement,”
a modified form of bidding. The consortium
submitted a responsive
bid. On November 20,
2007, BCDA served
a Notice of Award
for the operations
and maintenance to
TMC, FPHC, and the
French group ERO.
The services include
the operation and
maintenance of the
SCTEX, traffic safety and management,
and toll collection.
Meanwhile,
BCDA is preparing for the tender of the long-
term O&M, which could take place before the
year ends.
TMC credits NLEX performance
BCDA required parties to have at least a year
of experience in toll management and a total asset value of P500 million during the prequalifying stage. TMC was able to meet those requirements, having the operations and maintenance
of a modern tollway for 2 years already on their
resume. FPHC guaranteed financial viability
of the consortium. TMC Operations Director
for SCTEX Mr. Denn Charly Española credits
the good performance of the company in the
operations and maintenance of the NLEX to the
undertaking of the 94-km SCTEX. TMC’s outstanding performance and credibility in tollway
management helped a lot in winning the bid. “If
it’s not for the NLEX experience, it’s probably
not going to work well for us. BCDA would
probably be hesitant to give it to a company that
has no proven track record,” says Española.
He also attributes NLEX’s success to its
team. “One of the significant achievements of
TMC is getting the chemistry from these people
who came from different backgrounds. They
worked together to build the group, and delivered,” says Española.
Preparations
So far, TMC has hired 262 people on a project basis to man the SCTEX. All the managers
have also been involved in the efforts since
the first bidding. “We have trained the patrols
and trained the tellers. It is to mitigate rookie
mistakes and to build their confidence. We are
required by BCDA to come up with 99.95%
accuracy in toll collection,” says Española. As
part of customer service, TMC also trains their
patrols as tourist guides. They can help travelers
with queries on destinations and tourist spots.
Española says that they plan to sell destinations,
not just the road itself. “Basically, we’re hoping that the same patrol crew and tellers, if not
better (than in NLEX), will come out from the
mold of the training,” Española says.
Operational plans
SCTEX management has three departments,
namely toll, safety, and asset management.
Operations in NLEX will serve as a model for
the SCTEX, knowing how well NLEX is being
operated. Española says, “The general plan for
SCTEX will follow the NLEX formula for success. It will be anchored on road safety, driver
education, enforcement, and customer service.”
Like in NLEX, the patrol crew for SCTEX will
be deputized agents of Land Transportation Of-
meet the TEAM
SCTEX Management
TMC commits to give motorists a completely new travel experience- shorter travel time- with its top of the
line service facilities: (clockwise from top left) 24-hour dispatching emergency response system; roundthe-clock traffic monitoring at the central control room and frequent patrol loops.
Denn Charly G. Española
SCTEX Operations Director
Denn Española, fondly called Spain,
graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He served
in the Philippine Navy for nine years,
reaching the rank of Lieutenant Senior
Grade specializing in oceanography and
its related systems. After serving the
Navy, Spain worked as the Traffic Management and Safety Manager of NLEX
where he co-pioneered the preparation,
development, and implementation of
policies and procedures for the traffic
management and safety of NLEX. He
also managed the training of 120 newly
deputized members of the TMC Patrol
Crew and the integration of the operations of contracted service providers
with traffic management and motorist
assistance operations in NLEX. Spain
presently manages the operations of the
Subic Freeport Expressway. He also
oversees, secures, and maintains assets
consisting of the expressway, building
facilities, vehicles, and fixed mobile
operating equipment.
Deo Q. Manuel
SCTEX Traffic Management Safety
and Security Head
Deo Q. Manuel joined TMC on March
14, 2004 where he started as a Traffic
Superintendent. Before he joined TMC,
Deo worked as Head of Security for the
Subic Bay Yacht Club. He’s a member
of the editorial team of NLExpress
(safety tabloid) and Interchange (TMC
newsletter) and was elected as the first
president of Volunteer Employees of
SCTEX’s segments: 50.5 km Subic-Clark & 44 km Clark-Tarlac
ground in one of the biggest retail companies and her masteral degree helped
her head the Customer Service Centers
up to the third quarter of 2007. She
handled the sale of various Electronic
Toll Products and customer complaints
as well. With the help of her Manila
North Tollways Corporation (MNTC)
counterparts and her staff, the sales
and the services being offered were improved. Because of West’s exceptional
performance, she was then assigned
to be part of the startup team that will
handle the interim operations of the
SCTEX. She will be handling the Toll
Collection Department. Right now,
West is busy preparing for the operations, coming up with the procedures,
setting up the logistical requirements,
and coordinating with her staff and
BCDA counterparts.
North Tollways, Inc. (VENT). Deo is
taking up a masteral course in Technology Management at the University
of the Philippines and was also sent to
France for traffic management training
in 2004. He was part of the training and
management team that prepared the
patrol officers prior to the takeover of
NLEX operations, giving emphasis on
safety, security, customer service, and,
most especially, dignified law enforcement. Deo is responsible for SCTEX’s
Traffic Management, Safety, and Security operation.
Westerly D. Dionisio
SCTEX Toll Collection Head
Ma. Northwesterly D. Dionisio, called
West, was one of the pioneers in TMC
when she started in July 2004. Her back-
fice to enforce Land Transportation and Traffic
Code (RA 4136), Seatbelt Law (RA 8750), and
Anti-overloading Law (RA 8794). Española
also says that the patrol will manage the lanes
as an integral part of their duty, unlike in NLEX
where there are designated enforcement teams
for lane management. They will also be trained
in traffic management and customer service
where they will educate motorists on a thematic
approach based on the month’s premise.
SCTEX management will also have a motorist handbook tailored for SCTEX to educate
motorists about road safety.
TMC will have different teams for emergency, road safety, and maintenance. “We will
also deploy roadside assistance and towing
services with the Automobile Association of
the Philippines as our partner plus emergency
medical services for those who may need
medical assistance. We will also have Incident
Response Teams that will basically handle the
cleanup after incidents,” Española says. The
roadway maintenance team will be responsible
for the inspection, cleaning, and repair of roads
and furniture.
Although the operation for SCTEX is just
a takeoff from NLEX, TMC will also do some
adjustments because of some systems that are
not available in SCTEX. The toll collection
in SCTEX is a closed system as compared to
NLEX, which is both open and closed systems.
Emergency call boxes that we see in NLEX are
not available in SCTEX, so they will instead
put signboards indicating numbers to call for
emergency. “The operational plan for patrol is
the same with a 10-minute response time. We
also plan to dispatch more people in incident
handling and the plan for toll collection is also
the same,” says Española.
Their basic strategy is for the TMC management to fully help the SCTEX management. “It
will benefit NLEX if SCTEX will be running
properly and vice versa,” Española says.
Expectations
The 94-km stretch SCTEX promises a fitting
and shorter travel time going to Central Luzon.
TMC also wants to provide the new SCTEX
with the same good service and driving experience they implemented in NLEX. Once SCTEX
fully operates, people can expect the same good
service. “It’s the same feel, it’s probably faster;
people can expect the same courtesy the same
service that NLEX patrol is giving. Experience
NLEX so you’ll know the services we can give
in SCTEX,” says Espanola. (Karen T. Valeza)
The SCTEX start-up team (l-r): Ed Caleon, Charly Española,
Nathanael Fernandez, Deo Manuel and West Dionisio
Eduardo B. Caleon
SCTEX Asset Management Head
Eduardo Caleon currently heads the
Asset Management Department of
SCTEX. He just finished his stint in
the NLEX Traffic Management and
Safety Department, where he acquired
most of his expertise in tollway traffic management. His various startup
experiences in the semiconductor
sector, coupled with being a mechanical engineer by profession, made Ed
tailor-fit to manage the assets of SCTEX. His expertise in procedures and
lean management acquired from a
multinational arena will be expected
to greatly help him in preparing the
Asset Management team to deliver
excellent results.
.
Nathanael V. Fernandez
the “Coach”
Engr. Nathanael V. Fernandez (NVF)
has more than five years considerable
experience in toll road operations,
construction, management and related
activities. Currently, he is the VicePresident for Commercial Management, formerly Vice-President for Operations, of the Tollways Management
Corporation, and formerly Assistant
Vice-President for Toll Operations of
the Subic Freeport Expressway of First
Philippine Infrastructure Development
Corporation.
He has held various positions
in his more than 20 years of work
experience.Although the SCTEX is
basically a business unit, and thus,
gets all the help it needs from TMC
support units like Comptrollership,
HR and Commercial Management,
TMC chief Tony Mabasa made sure
that the frontline team gets technical
coaching and advice from TMC’s
most experienced in tollways, NVF
or referred to as the “Coach”. As
Head of Commercial Management
Division of TMC that provides the
SCTEX with the special task of support in procurement, contracts administration and legal services, insurance
and risk management, NVF has the
special task of providing depth and
perspective in operating issues in
SCTEX.
LopezLink
CSRACTiviTiES
February 2008
ABS-CBN Bayan Foundation brings PRIDE to the countryside
Rebuilding lives through social
and enterprise management
Working with Bayan-from L-R Ding Blanco, Oscar Esguerra, Dr.
Eduardo Morato, Carla Empeño, Marcel Riñon, Dulce Baybay and
Jabar Esmael.
EXACTLY three years ago, a massive flashflood swept the towns of
Real, Infanta, and General Nakar
(REINA) in Quezon province.
Heavy rains swelled the Agos River
that overwhelmed the three towns
with floods and landslides, causing
the destruction of property.
But now, it seems like the tragedy never took place. The roads are
well-paved, and there are newly built
buildings and commercial centers;
but more than the infrastructure, the
people of REINA have their pride
Zambales is the third provincial recipient of the Proficient Measures for Quality Education project. The
partnership project between Knowledge Channel Foundation (KCFI) and Philip Morris Philippines
(PMPMI) provides Knowledge Channel and textbooks in elementary Math and Science to three schools
in Zambales and an Aeta school inside the Subic Base. Shown here are Rina Lopez-Bautista (KCFI) and
PMPMI Managing Director Christopher Nelson with (L-R) DepEd Division Superintendent Dr. Ligaya B.
Monato, Mayor James Gordon of Olongapo City, Jason Quilat (student beneficiary), and Senator Richard
Gordon.
Ready for NSV?
Dr. Roman S. Manalang, Head
of General Medicine of Meralco
CWC, a surgeon and NSV provider.
By Vanessa Suquila
TWO certificates are displayed
prominently in the office of Dr.
Roman S. Manalang, Head of
General Medicine of Meralco Corporate Wellness Center (CWC).
One is his fellow certificate from
the International College of Surgeons; the other is his certificate
of completion for No-Scalpel
Vasectomy (NSV) training.
The NSV training for selected
Lopez group doctors is part of the
Workplace Family Planning program of the Lopez Group Foundation, Inc. (LGFI) supported by
Private Sector Mobilization for
Family Health (PRISM). It has
been almost six months after the
training and there are reports of
several male employees inquiring
about NSV, but only a few went
through the actual procedure.
“Most of the apprehensions
about NSV are psychological,”
explains Dr. Manalang. A lot of the
male employees expressed fears
that vasectomy might decrease their
“manly” virility. But such notions
were dismissed by Ryan, a Meralco
lineman who recently went through
NSV under Dr. Manalang.
Ryan and his wife agreed that
their fourth child would be their
last. He found out what NSV is from
nurse Emma Navida in the Manila
Satellite clinic (Navida is a trained
FP Counselor who has referred
another NSV acceptor previously).
After consulting further with Dr.
Manalang at the Meralco CWC and
discussing the matter with his wife,
the couple decided to go through
the procedure right away.
“Sandali lang naman yung
process, mga 30 minutes lang,”
recalls Ryan. “Two days after the
procedure, I was back to work. I
didn’t feel any pain.”
Dr. Manalang adds, “Compared to the old type of vasectomy
which has two incisions, NSV just
makes one small incision. There
are no sutures, so there is lesser
chance for infection.”
The wife of Ryan, who is nursing their 3-month-old youngest,
feels relieved. She will be able to
focus on taking care of their infant
and three young kids without worries of having a “surprise baby.”
And what about Ryan’s virility?
“Di po problema yun. I still feel
the same,” he answers with a grin.
For inquiries about Family
Planning in the Workplace, call
Diane of LGFI at 09213725261.
restored—they are now involved in
various enterprises uplifting not only
the lives of their families, but those
who are around them.
This is precisely the vision
of ABS-CBN Bayan Foundation
when it embarked on social and
enterprise management through
the creation of the Pacific Rim
Integrated Development Effort
(PRIDE)—believing that after the
rehabilitation there should be a sustainable development program to
further lift the lives of the people.
“The PRIDE program focuses
on the Pacific Ocean side areas of
the country—from Aurora, Quezon to the whole stretch of Bicol
Region to Samar-Leyte. These
disaster-prone areas will be the recipient of ABS-CBN Bayan’s social development services such as
microfinance. REINA is the pilot
area,” said Dr. Eduardo Morato,
president of ABS-CBN Bayan.
PRIDE takes off by facilitating
and providing its partners—the
LGUs and civil society—urgent social development needs like water
and education and by enhancing the
production of local market goods.
True enough, as part of ABSCBN Bayan’s 10th anniversary
celebration, it inaugurated Phase
2 of the Barangay Gumian Water
System Project which will supply
potable water to the homes of 600
families. Add to that, 35 Educational Television (ETV) packages—9
in Real, 15 in Infanta, and 8 in
General Nakar—were turned over
to schools benefiting more than
15,000 students. A trading post in
Nakar was also recently inaugurated giving easy access to residents
who used to travel to neighboring
Infanta for their basic goods.
“After addressing the social
development needs of these communities, ABS-CBN Bayan Foundation will impart skills training to
these communities to enhance their
entrepreneurship. The provision of
loans to both individual and small
groups will commence. The PRIDE
office will ensure that this new
strategy will be implemented with
a full time coordinator to oversee
the operations,” said Dr. Morato.
In Real, municipal administrator Noel Merana said the opening
of a PRIDE office signifies ABSCBN Bayan’s commitment to help
REINA residents rise from their
present economic status.
He revealed that more people
have expressed their intent to venture into a business through the
assistance of microfinance. “We
want to train every PO (people’s
organization) and NGO (non-government organization) here, so they
can be sustainable. Since we don’t
have the skills of an entrepreneur,
ABS-CBN Bayan has committed
to assist us in this aspect even in the
long run,” Merana said.
Infanta Mayor Filipina Grace
America believes the provision
of livelihood opportunities has
the biggest impact among the
residents. “Mahalaga ang pagbibigay sa tao ng pagkakataon na
makabangon muli at mabigyan ng
pagkakataon na makapag-hanapbuhay. There is still life after the
tragedy. The best way to move
forward is to have a livelihood to
support their families,” she said.
Aside from its existing operations in Quezon, PRIDE is also in
Bicol and Leyte in close coordination with the rehabilitation and
disaster response arm—Sagip
Kapamilya. ABS-CBN Bayan will
bring the PRIDE program to aid
the provinces of Aurora and Cagayan Valley in the years to come.
For inquiries, contact Oscar
Esguerra at (02) 928-0064, E-mail
[email protected], Web site
abs-cbnbayanfoundation.com,
address 3/F Calderon Bldg., 827
EDSA, Quezon City.
Ongoings @Lopez Museum
C2: Cartooning and Comics Workshop with Ariel Atienza
THE Lopez Memorial Museum
showcases comics as an art form
with C2: Cartooning and Comics, a
comics workshop.
Comic strip artist Ariel Giovanni
C. Atienza will facilitate the workshop on the four Saturdays of February, beginning February 2. Slots are
limited to 15 participants, ages 13
and above. Reservations are a must.
Atienza’s works appear in deviant Art and Siglo: Passion. He also
contributes to Philippine News in
San Francisco, CA; Fusion magazine, and LIVEtheLIFE magazine.
He has given talks on comics in vari-
ous seminars in Metro Manila since
2004.
C2: Cartooning and Comics
workshop complements the exhibitions Dime A Dozen and Blur
which are ongoing until April
2008.
The Lopez Memorial Museum is
THE Museo Pambata of the
Philippines is hosting the
first ever Asian Children’s
Museum Conference on
February 23-26, 2008 at the
Manila Hotel.
With the theme: “Children’s Museums as Bridges
of Peace”, this international
conference will bring togeth-
er museum workers, educators, peace builders, parents,
teachers, caregivers and
policymakers whose concern
for children can help create a
better future for them.
The Philippines has
such a diverse culture geographically and historically.
Our rich cultural heritage is
something we can be proud
of. But our differences
sometimes lead to misunderstanding, creating barriers
that divide us as a nation. So
many barriers have been created throughout our history
such as language, religion,
cultural practices and social
status. There is no better
time to “build bridges” than
now, as conflicts in and
around the world continue.
Images of children caught in
crossfires, or carrying guns
are an all too common sight
in the news. What kind of
messages do these send to
us? Can we translate to the
youth the meanings of world
peace, tolerance and understanding?
These are just some
of the challenges that the
Museo Pambata tackles
through its various activities. The constant reminder
to let children take part in
decision-making and to
expose them to responsible
adult role models are important when conceptualizing exhibits and programs.
Children’s museums can
be bridges in understanding
these conflicts. We can start
with the young to help build
peaceful adults.
“Peace can exist in so
many levels. In their families, children can analyze
how their identities are
connected to that of their
family members. From their
reflections on the family,
they can move on to discovering their roles in the
bigger families to which
they belong, the community
and the country. “ says Nina
Lim-Yuson, president and
CEO of Museo Pambata.
Topics to be covered
by the conference are: the
Asian child, children’s
museums and peace, the
philosophy of “hands-on”
learning, creating interactive exhibits and educational
programs, fund raising and
networking, marketing and
promotions, and future di-
‘Zero in: Hybridity’ continues
Five companies attended the first Monitoring & Evaluation Training
for family health conducted by Private Sector Mobilization for Family
Health (PRISM). The training consists of lectures and hands-on exercises that will enable the five family health teams with tools for monitoring,
evaluating, and documenting results of the workplace family planning
program. L-R: Meralco team headed by Teresita U. Sicangco, Central
CATV, Inc. team headed by Aileen Sebastian, First Sumiden team headed
by Jocelyn Malitig and ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp. by Liza Rey.
Seated: Diane Minon (LGFI FP Coordinator), Dr. Grace Viola (PRISM
M&E specialist), Dario Pagcaliwagan (LGFI Executive Director).
ON its sixth year, the Zero In museum
consortium of Ateneo Art Gallery,
Ayala Museum, Bahay Tsinoy, Lopez Memorial Museum and Museo
pambata takes on the notion of the
crossbreed in a joint institutional exploration of likeness and variance.
Lopez Museum’s Eileen Legaspi-Ramirez noted that Zero
In 6: Hybridity touches on both
utopic and dystopic inflections of
the shared theme.
“The bad rap accorded ‘hybridity’
comes out of its being looked upon as
an all-too convenient, power-blind,
cop-out against romanticized notions
of the unique and distinct,” she said.
“After all, very few contemporary
portrayals of the Philippines and the
Filipino fail to play up how we come
out of a Sino-Malay-Iberian-Yankee
blend, and that as this clichéd imagining of the postcolonial, we come
branded as one of way too many
Asian variations of the melding of
tradition and modernity.”
“What we are attempting also
plays into what may continue to confront anyone who will become immersed in future cultural work,” she
said. “That said, hybridity appears as
a functional overarching handle to accommodate this year’s outing, which
in the tradition of past Zero In has
been a coming together of polyvalent
energies and museological persuasions. Zero In: Hybridity then is a
hybrid of takes on hybridization.”
Zero In:Hybridity represents a
spectrum of mandates, audiences,
acquisitional and educational
benchmarks. For more information, contact Fanny San Pedro at
631-2417or visit www.zeroinmuseums.org.
Special Feature
5 Valentine’
ways ’'tos Day
Spend
Under P300.00
Lopez Group Foundation, Inc. (LGFI) was one of the sponsors of the Miriam
College Seven Environmental Principles 2008 Calendar (artwork by Jess
Abrera). This calendar is also a poster (which can be used even after 2008)
that can be a colorful visual aid to help school teachers or lecturers for
environmental education. The calendar is being sold by Miriam College (call
5805400 local 1105 for details). Sponsors from L-R: Kirby Chua, Assistant
General Manager of Lexmark, Intl., Dario Pagcaliwagan, Executive Director
of LGFI, Jess Abrera, the artist, Dr. Patricia B. Licuanan, Miriam College
President, and Mr. Lito Rodriguez, Executive Director of E. Zobel Foundation.
at the ground floor, Benpres Building, Exchange Road corner Meralco
Avenue, Pasig City. Museum days
and hours are Mondays to Saturdays,
8am-5pm, except Sundays and holidays. For information, contact 6312417 or email [email protected].
Feb 23-26: First Asian Children’s
Museum Conference At Manila Hotel
ZERO IN 6: HYBRIDITY
Off the Streets,
Off to School
Phil-Asia Assistance Foundation Inc. (PAAFI) is now looking
for donors who are willing to
send underprivileged children
to school this school year
2008-2009. For only P400 a
month, you can keep a child
from working in the streets
and stay in school. These are
children who are determined
to study but don’t have the
funds. For inquiries please call
Leah or Fe at 415.9297.
LopezLink February 2008
iT’s the love month again! As early as
now, plan ahead your date before you
get stuck in the Valentine rush. February is the month where most hotels
and restaurants are booked and almost
all flower shops are overpricing. Don’t
fall into these traps! You can spend a
romantic date with your loved one without putting a hole in your pocket. After
all, it’s the amount of time you share
together that matters the most, not the
bucks you spend. Valentine’s Day is not
just for couples. You can share this day
with your family and friends. Here are
some helpful tips to spend Valentine’s
Day without going over budget. Spread
the love!
Prepare a dinner. You don’t have
to go too far; you can just have your
romantic dinner in the comforts of your
rections for Asian children’s
museums. The conference is
co-presented by the City of
Manila, with additional support from the Department of
Tourism, Globe Telecoms,
The Philippine Star and
Philippine Airlines.
Registration fee for the
4-day workshop is USD 400
for foreign delegates and Php
8,000 for Philippine residents.
Application forms for the 1st
Asian Children’s Museum
Conference are available at
the Museo Pambata office
(Roxas Boulevard corner
South Drive, Manila) or you
may download it from www.
museopambata.org/acmc.
For more information, call
523-1797-98 (Alona) or 4007558. You may also email
[email protected].
Zero In exhibition venues
“Passion and
Compassion”
Ongoing until February 15, 2008
Ateneo Art Gallery
Ateneo de Manila University,
Katipunan Ave., Loyola Heights, QC
Tel no. 426-6488
“Blur”
Ongoing until April 5, 2008
Lopez Memorial Museum
G/F Benpres Bldg., Exchange Road,
Pasig City
Tel no. 631-2417
History, journalistic
excellence mix it up
in Chronicle story
BOrn twice, in 1945
after World War II and in
1986 after the first Edsa
Revolution, The Manila
Chronicle was once
home to the country’s
best journalists, including all four Filipino
Ramon
Magsaysay
awardees for Journalism: Zac Sarian (1974),
Raul Locsin (1999),
Sheila Coronel (2003),
and Eggie Apostol
(2006).
In The Power and the Glory: the
story of the Manila Chronicle 1945-98, author Raul
Rodrigo tells “a classic case of the intersection of media power and political power in the Philippines.” He
weaves together the three stories of a nation, a newspaper and its staff, and the family that oversaw the paper
during utterly tumultuous, if momentous episodes in
Philippine history.
In the book’s foreword, Lopez Group chairman Oscar
M. Lopez calls the Chronicle “a newspaper to be proud
of”, recalling its crucial role in national history, as well
as the unmatched talent and sheer brilliance of the journalists who made the Chronicle newsroom pulse with
excitement for over three decades. The Lopez family
led The Manila Chronicle from 1947 to 1993.
“For those who knew the paper, this book is a chance
to relive what was lost. For the younger generation, this
book is a chance to experience what a great newspaper
was like -- and to see what it took to put such a paper to
bed, night after night. Here you can meet the many colorful characters of the paper and see how they created
a combustible combination of talents and personalities
that made our newsroom so vibrant, challenging, and
fun,” says Lopez.
While tracing the movement of historical forces in Philippine politics and media, Rodrigo notes that the human
element of the Chronicle story is “colorful, dramatic, and
emotionally involving.” He documents great friendships,
intense interpersonal conflict, “moments of high drama and
low comedy, a mentoring process so stringent that it bordered on hazing, and a newsroom bound by hard work, a
quest for excellence, and much after-hours camaraderie.”
Advance praise for the book calls it “a wonderful
read, with lots of colorful and telling detail” (Sheila
Coronel), “an insiders’ history of postwar Philippine
journalism” (Johnny Gatbonton), and “a finely detailed
account...(that captures) the drama within and beyond
the newsroom, (and memorializes) the men and women
whose years with the Chronicle would be among the best
of their lives” (Butch Dalisay).
“The Power and the Glory” is available at the Lopez
Memorial Museum. The special launch price of P2,500
applies until February 7 only. Call Fanny at 631 2417
for orders and inquiries.
home. Clean your house and look for a
place where you can eat together.
Set the table, prepare good
food, light the candles, and
play some love songs to set
the ambience. Preparing for
this is already extra.
Have a themed movie
marathon. since cinema tickets and DVDs would go over
budget, you can just rent DVDs
of your favorite romantic movies. To add
a twist, you can watch movies from your
era where you can also reminisce. Jerry
Maguire and You’ve Got Mail would be
good choices for a 90’s themed movie
marathon. Have some popcorn and
drinks to have the cinema feel.
Go nature-tripping. Experience
the beauty of nature with your special
someone. No need to go outside the
metro because it’s just within your
reach. Invite your special someone to
La Mesa Ecopark and have a picnicstyle date.
Be stargazers. Watch the stars with
your loved one under the moonlight. You
can do it at the park, at the clubhouse, or
even in your garden. Since this wouldn’t
cost you much, you can give small gifts
like flowers or some homemade goodies.
Be a karaoke king and queen
for a night. Render your favorite
love songs to your special someone.
Dedicate each song that you play.
Videoke kiosks in malls are cheaper,
which would definitely cost you under P300.00 for few hours of singing
galore. (Karen Valeza)
10
LiFELONG
LopezLink February 2008
Message from the
Lifelong Wellness Team
FIRSTLY, best wishes for
a better and brighter 2008!
Chairman Oscar M. Lopez
and the Lifelong Wellness
Team look forward to a
collaborative year in 2008
among Lifelong’s partners
to motivate the workforce
to attain a healthy state and
participate in wellness activities.
A crucial thrust this year is
the CEO’s leadership in forming his Wellness Circle to plan
as well as implement his company’s annual wellness program. Following completion
of the ongoing Group-wide
Health Assessment Survey
will be the development of the
Wellness Scorecard.
Lifelong’s bimonthly Wellness Forum will have topics on
health and wellness management on the agenda this year.
One such topic will focus on the
economics of wellness, underscoring the need for smart riskbenefit analysis to optimize the
management of precious human
and financial resources.
If you want to know more
about what Lifelong has in
store for 2008, click on the
icon in the homepage www.lopezwellness.com. If you want
to know more about healthy
living, feel free to browse the
wide selection of topics (exercise, diet, illness prevention,
and cure) and audiovisuals
(humor, music, dance, and
inspirational) in the website.
As Chairman Lopez keeps
emphasizing, wellness is a responsibility. So be healthy and
stay healthy in body, mind, and
spirit!
Rafael M. Alunan III
WELLNESS
Check out this February
Feb. 2 : Vital Switch Workshop
9 am to 5 pm @ Luna Gardens, Rockwell Center
A one-day lecture with Clairvision teachers Samantha Keen and Stephan Gorskiewiez at the Luna
Gardens, Rockwell Center. The lecture provides
meditation and vitaility exercises for people in the
corporate world. Fee is PHP 2,000. For more info,
call or text 0918-9632305.
Feb. 5: Angels and How to Connect
with Them
7:30 to 9:30 pm @ Dasmariñas Village Park Pavilion
Do you believe in angels? Who, what, when,
where, and why do they exist? Kabbalah teaches that
everything positive that occurs in your life is a direct
result of positive angels. Likewise, all blockages, turmoil, difficulties, and distress are the result of the influence of negative angels. Your behavior determines
which angelic influences are aroused in the world.
Leading American Kabbalah teacher David Ghiyam
will be in Manila on Feb. 5, 2008 to give a lecture on
how to become aware of the angel dynamics at work
in the universe. Fee is PHP 1,000. For more info, call
or text 0922-7681040.
Feb. 9: Walk the Talk
6 to 9 am @ MMLDC, Antipolo
Participants must register with their respective HR
departments. Wear comfy attire and walking shoes, and
bring cap, extra shirt, towel
and water/refreshments. For
more info, call Elizabeth canlas at 449-6112/633-3396 or
check the website at www.lopezwellness.com
development; the higher the stage
the lower the chances of survival.
STAGE 1: 92% average survival
rate (tumor size is less than 2cm)
STAGE 2: 71% average (size
is between 2-5cm)
STAGE 3: 39% average (size
is more than 5cm; cancer has
spread to underarm lymph nodes
and tissues)
STAGE 4: 11% average (cancer has metastasized)
The risk factors to watch out
for are:
Sex: Both sexes, male and
female, are susceptible (though
less in men).
Family history: If two or more
relatives, especially mother and
sister, had cancer at a young age.
•
•
Those who inherit
• Genetics:
mutations of the BRCA1 and
BRCA2 genes from their parents.
Hormones: Hormone usage like
oral contraceptives and hormonereplacement therapy (HRT).
Age: Those 40 years and above.
Menarche: If one starts menstruating before the age of 12
or reaches menopause after the
age of 55.
Diet: Alcohol and obesity that
increase estrogen levels.
Women should regularly conduct monthly breast self-examination to detect any suspicious mass
early. It should not substitute for
periodic examinations by a physician and a mammography
once
•
•
•
•
Heart disease and stroke
THERE is an interesting article
in Asian Hospital’s guide book
entitled “Your Health and Wellness” written by Dr. Benjamin
Luna, Jr. and Dr. Ester S. Bitanga,
(Cardiologist and Neurologist,
respectively), that addresses the
top causes of disability and death
among Filipino adults, namely,
heart attack and stroke.
When a blocked artery prevents blood from passing freely
and denies vital oxygen and nutrient supply to the heart, a heart
attack occurs. When blood deliv-
ery to the brain is impaired, then
a stroke (brain attack) occurs.
These two commonly result from
the progressive narrowing of arteries called atherosclerosis.
In such a case, fats slowly accumulate in the walls of the arteries and bring about the formation
of plaques. As plaques build up,
the artery lining narrows and
causes the arteries to harden and
lose elasticity.
The risk factors that lead to heart
attack and stroke are similar. Independently and together, they lead
to an increased workload for the
heart, progressive plaque formation
that further clogs vital arteries and
weakens the walls of blood vessels.
Though most risk factors can be
controlled or corrected, some are
not modifiable such as age, gender
and genetic disposition.
Being aware of these risk
factors and doing something
about them with your doctor will
improve your survival: Hypertension, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, alcohol
abuse, sedentary lifestyle, stress,
family history, gender, age.
The symptoms of a heart attack are: a weak, irregular or slow
pulse; difficulty in breathing; pain
or numbness in the jaw and possibly down either arm; severe pain,
or sense of pressure, in the center
of the chest; feeling faint or dizzy;
indigestion; sweating and nausea.
The symptoms of a brain attack are: dizziness, loss of balance, difficulty walking; severe
headache; sudden weakness in the
face, arm or leg; sudden numbness on one side of the face or
body; sudden blindness in one
eye; sudden difficulty in speaking,
or slurring of speech; inability to
understand what others are saying.
Receiving treatment within
the first three hours from the onset of symptoms, also known as
the “golden period,” gives a fighting chance for survival and limit
a possible disability. It is crucial
that treatment start as soon as
possible before degeneration sets
in.
Preventing strokes also requires living a healthy lifestyle
(proper diet and nutrition, exercise, etc.); proper treatment of
diabetes and high cholesterol
problems; avoidance of smoking
and drinking, moderation at the
worst; avoiding fatty and salty
food; vitamin supplements especially B6, B12 and folate.
In the final analysis, the best
cure is prevention. Wellness is
the best defense. If you care about
your health, you should be able
to influence your family to hop
aboard the wellness wagon.
Sudoku
Maglaro tayo ng Sudoku, ang bagong libangan ng bayan!
Ayusin lamang ang mga numero simula 1 hanggang 9
para ang bawat numero ay minsan lang magagamit sa
bawat row, column at kahon.
Feb. 9 and 10: Awakening the Third Eye (ATE)
9 am to 5 pm @ 13/F ELJCC Bldg., ABS-CBN
The workshop is open to people of all backgrounds and experiences. The techniques covered are
method for developing the third eye, aura reading,
meditation based on activating the body of energy,
awareness and vision, how to quickly recover during the day and use nights for spiritual development,
among others. Fee is PHP 3,500 for new students
and PHP 1,000 for old students. Call or text 09189632305.
Feb. 17: Takbo Para sa Kalikasan
Quirino Grandstand, Manila
Join the Takbo para sa Kalikasan, a 3,
5 and 10km fun run for the benefit of
the La Mesa Watershed. Register for
only P150 and get a free shirt. Get a
chance to win P10,000 as you run for a cause. For more
info, call Rudy Biscocho at 727-9987 or 0918-9158536.
Breast cancer and what you can do about it
BreasT cancer afflicts around
10,000 Filipinas every year and
almost a third, or 30%, die from
it according to Dr. Conrado C.
Lorenzo, Section Head for Oncology at the Asian Hospital.
While it is not possible to
predict exactly who will develop
breast cancer, it can be noted
with proper education and regular
screening for early detection and
cure. As Dr. Lorenzo says, “Yes,
breast cancer is curable – you can
fight it.”
Breasts are composed of fatty
tissue that extends to the armpit,
and have thousands of milkproducing glands. Cancer can
develop in any part of the breast.
There are four stages of cancer
LopezLink February 2008 11
a yeazr for those 50 years and
above. The symptoms to watch
out for are:
Abnormal nipple discharge;
changes in breast shape such as a
flattening or a swelling; dimpling
of the skin like the texture of an
orange peel; rash or crusting on
the nipple or surrounding area;
nipple becomes inverted; constant
pain in the breast or armpit; visually noticeable veins; changes in
sensation, especially in one breast.
Healthy living should be top
priority. Some suggestions:
1. An active lifestyle (moderate
to high-impact exercise) and
a low-fat, high fiber diet are
absolute necessities.
2. Fruits, vegetables and other
foods rich in beta-carotene,
vitamin C, and omega 3 fatty
acids give added protection.
3. Bearing children before 30 may
reduce risk of the disease.
4. Breast-feeding may slightly
lower breast cancer risk if sustained for up to two years from
childbirth.
5. Regular screening by your doctor.
6. Reporting immediately a suspected lump to your doctor.
If a biopsy confirms a malignancy, there are various ways
of combating the disease. These
include lumpectomy (surgical
removal of the tumor); chemotherapy (treatment with cancer-killing
drugs); radiotherapy (exposure to
controlled doses of radiation); and
mastectomy (total breast removal).
Not all lumps are cancerous.
Nonetheless, vigilance and early
detection are the price you pay for
survival and sustainable wellness.
c

c
c
Very Easy
Easy
Medium
Hard
Answer to Dec.-Jan. puzzle
Solution, tips and computer program available at www.
sudoku.com
WELCOME to the Year of the Earth Rat, which
Harvard Business School alum and former bankerturned-feng shui exponent Lillian Too describes
as having “plenty of wealth potential”—but only
if one thinks big and is big-hearted.
The Year of the Earth Rat lacks the elements
of fire and metal, “but it is also a year blessed
with wealth and victory luck, and the key to getting the most out of the year is simply to get the
timing right,” Too advised. Attention should be
focused on spotting opportunities that bring longterm benefits. Here’s some simple advice from
Too: “wear more red and gold to attract positive
energy that will bring wealth and prosperity.”
(Refer to below for this 2008 prediction).
Speaking of thinking ‘big’, Lopez Group chairman Oscar M. Lopez (OML)
shows us the way in his traditional state of the group address or SONA (story
on page 1). OML calls 2008 the ‘year of the CFOs’ due to the myriad challenges faced by the finance executives of the Lopez Group. He commended
Benpres president Angel Ong for ‘quiety reducing the size of the debt overhang
that has to be restructured’ and also added that Finance executives of FPHC
and First Gen will also be tested as they secure long-term financing for huge
investments made last year (refer to page 1 story “Taon ng mga CFOs”).
Congratulations to author Raul Rodrigo on his book, “The Power
and the Glory: the story of the Manila Chronicle 1945-98” which will be
launched at the Palm Grove in Rockwell Club on February 7 (which also
happens to be the first day of the Year of the Earth Rat). This particular
installment in Rodrigo’s series on the different Lopez Group companies is
a must-have for journalists and students of history with its comprehensive
behind-the-scenes look at the hard-hitting martial law-era national daily
led by its publisher Eugenio H. Lopez.
Also check out our Valentines’ tips on how to spend less this year (page 9)
and also recommendations at Rockwell’s Power Plant Mall (page 12)… Wishing this coming 2008 will find our readers in good humor and good health.
ooOoo
There are days that we don’t get cable signals especially when it rains.
Do we get credits for the days we don’t have cable? Can they also
troubleshoot over the phone? —Mona
Jolina Bantayan of SkyCable says you may call SkyCable 24x7 customer care hotline for any signal-related concerns. Their customer care
REDISCOVER THE NORTH
Batanes
Mandy Navasero
Photo Safari
ABS-CBN’s Bon Bon Jimenez with his family and nieces and newphews
in San Vicente Church, Sabtang (left); Meralco president Chito Francisco with wife Mariel and three daughters (right).
Christmas Blitz Tournament.
The
MERALCO Chess Club held a 1-day blitz tournament with National
Master Andrew Vasquez last December 15 in order to give their
senior and junior players the experience of playing with a chess
master one-on-one. Shown here is NM Vasquez (left) versus Jojo Orjaleza of Valenzuela Sales who managed to hold the NM to a draw.
renOWned photographer Mandy Navasero is smitten hard by the
charms of Batanes, and so are her
photography students, varied in age
and profession, bonded together by
love of photography and travel.
Pastureland as far as your eyes
can see, undulating emerald hills,
boulder strewn beaches, and the
changing colors of the seas from
turquoise to lapis lazuli blue. The
Ivatan historic stone houses in
Sabtang built to stand the lashing
winds from the north—these are
the islands of Batanes.
Navasero says Batanes is an
experience to take in the glori-
ous exhilaration and freedom.
“The trip is unforgettable and
nothing one would regret. Everyone should see Batanes,” she
says.
Navasero is conducting another Batanes Photo Safari this
summer, her third trip up to the
northernmost tip. Navasero welcomes interested parties to join
her, flights via Asian Spirit, the
only airline that flies to Basco
daily except Wednesdays and
accommodations at the Batanes
Seaside.
For more information, call
899-1767 or 896-3208.
Dear Rosie
associates are trained to help you over the phone, and will also be happy
to send over a service team if necessary. SkyCable is committed to giving
you clear, reliable cable TV signals all the time. They can also explain to
you in more detail our policies on subscription rebates.
ooOoo
I’m really poor in directions and we’re actually planning to go on
vacation this February. Where can we get the Motorists Guide? Does
it contain maps or destination tips? —Kristine
Robert Bontia of MNTC said you may avail of the NLEX Motorist
Handbook at any of our 5 Customer Service Centers located at Balintawak
NB, Valenzuela NB, Bocaue SB, Tabang and San Fernando NB (NB- north
bound, SB – south bound). The handbook contains tips to ensure safe travel,
NLEX features and equipment, and maps of the different NLEX exits and
neighboring areas that could aid motorists traveling the expressway.
ooOoo
Why does SkyCable keep changing the channels? It’s so hard to keep
up.Just a suggestion. Maybe in the future they can send us a flyer
together with the bill. —Carol
It is SkyCable’s goal to provide only the best programming to its
subscribers. This entails that we regularly evaluate our channel lineup to
determine if certain genres or channel blocks need to be strengthened.
For any major change in channel lineup, subscribers can expect a letter
advisory and/or flyers attached to their Statement of Account. The latest
channel lineup can be found on www.skycable.com
ooOoo
I have bought new appliances recently. Does using a new or old appliance affect electricity consumption? How will I know which appliance
consumes electricity more?
Miguel Lopez of Meralco says it’s better to check the MAC (Meralco
Appliance Calculator) at www.meralco.com.ph to know the electricity
consumption of your appliance.
ooOoo
If you have questions, comments, opinions, suggestions and reactions about anything
and everything about the Lopez Group, please send them to Dear Rosie through fax
no. 633-3520 or to [email protected]. Maraming salamat!
PAKWELA
Annual predictions 2008-Year of the Earth Rat
FOr those who believe in Feung Sheui,
here’s Lilian Too’s version :
Rat—You can look forward to a good
year and benefit from what is known as
“heaven luck”, where many opportunities
come your way. Wealth luck will be there
and with the support of the ‘Tai Sui’ you will
make the most of it. Although luck is on your
side, you face competition from those who
cannot take coming second to you. Display
a Pi Xie in the north to avoid troublemakers.
Tiger—You can look forward to a much
better year ahead as the star of romance and
scholastic excellence pays you a visit. While
2008 promises plenty in the way of love your
intrinsic element of wood may cause you to
be overly aggressive in your pursuit of success, leading to some problems. It is important to keep your emotions in balance.
Dragon—This is a non-stop year for the
Dragon. Your creative energy is at its peak and
you find yourself pulled in many different directions. Refrain from being
too impulsive. Devote more time
to considering your options before
starting on new projects. Make sure
you get your feng shui correct as
you have the most potential to take
advantage of good earth luck this year.
Horse—Horse born people are in for a
tough year as the stars in 2008 are not in your
favour. Your luck forecast indicates a year filled
with, obstacles, mishaps and general bad luck.
You are in direct conflict with Tai Sui, suffer
from the #5 misfortune star, the Three Killings
and the star of natural disasters. With so many
afflictions in your chart, it is paramount that
you apply the required cures.
Ox—2008 will be a better year compared to 2007 as obstacles from the previous
year dissipate and things run comparatively
smoothly. The single Ox looking for a mate
will find their match, while those who are
married will rejuvenate their relationship.
Display a pair of mandarin ducks in the
southwest or wear a 2-eyed Dzi bead to actualize marriage luck.
Rabbit—A good year in store for the
Rabbit with plenty of opportunities to make
money and achieve success; the only setback
is the declining energy star which weakens
the Rabbit. To
strengthen
your
intrinsic energy, display a horoscope
water feature in the east of your home.
Snake—The Snake comes out from under the shadow of the Tai Sui with improved
health and energy. Obstacles faced in 2007
dissolve in 2008, with the Snake gaining
strength and luck from March onwards. There
is good improvement on the career front.
Sheep—This will not be an easy year
with predictions of unfortunate luck at work
and in business, love and health. There is risk
of being cheated by people you trust, and los-
ing money through theft or robbery. You can
expect obstacles to pop up causing disruption
to the flow of projects and tasks at hand.
Monkey—The Monkey will not have an
easy year compared to last year. But while
the financial loss star will affect your luck
this year, you also have some measure of protection with the Golden Deities star. Helpful
people will rescue you out of any predicament. There is a tendency for the Monkey to
lose his cool this year and this could lead to
problems with relationships.
Dog—The Dog is plagued by poor health
and mishaps as the illness star afflicts his sector. Elderly dogs should display the Medicine
Buddha Mandala in the northwest and wear
the Medicine Buddha Bracelet to stay healthy.
It is also recommended to display the Herbal
Wu Luo on both sides of the bed. This is not a
year to be changing jobs even if you feel you
are not getting the recognition you deserve.
Rooster—2008 will be a noisy
year for the Rooster as the argumentative star flies to your sector. This
makes you difficult to get along
with. This year your emotional
temperament hits new highs.
Make every effort to calm yourself, otherwise relationships may
be strained. Carry Ksitigarbha to nullify the
aggressive energies that inhibit you this year.
Boar—The Boar experiences a mixed year
in 2008. Ill health may upset plans. However
you enjoy the Star of the Heaven Seal, which
brings good fortune that is both unexpected
and meaningful. A suitable Dzi for the boar
is the 3-eyed Dzi , which brings prosperity,
health and wealth. Wear on your left wrist.
Source: http://www.wofs.com/index.
php?option=com_content&Itemid=40&task=vie
w&id=515
1
LopezLink February 2008
What’s new
By Joseph Uy
from ABS-CBN Publishing this February
Fall in love with Chalk’s February
issue!
This month, Chalk gives you every reason to fall—and stay—
in love! Get flirty in the latest flower print frocks. Menswear
gets a sexy twist with tomboy-inspired fashion. Learn the
makeup tricks that will get his attention on a date. College
couples give tips on how to maintain a healthy relationship.
Single? The girls of Star Magic reveal how you can still be
fabulous, even when you’re flying solo. Mariel Rodriguez
talks about her Big Brother experience, what she does to stay
fit, plus the real score between her and Jon Avila. It’s all in
Chalk’s February issue, in newsstands now!
Married or alone? Make it work
with the February Metro!
How do you make a marriage work—and how do you make
the most of time alone? Three couples, married for two, 17,
and 52 years, talk about conjugal bliss, while four women
share the highs of solo travel, eating out, movie-going, and
housekeeping in the February issue of Metro, an issue you
won’t be able to put down.
Judy Ann Santos graces our cover in sexy swimsuits
and cover-ups, and talks about life, love, and pursuing new
passions. Read about spa treatments for couples and everyday
aphrodisiacs, find out if a broken heart can really make you
sick, and share one woman’s story of how she found love
on-line. Also in this issue: great makeup looks for that grand
seduction, celebrity doctors’ wrinkle-busting secrets, and
Metro’s big 2008 fashion forecast, from brights and florals
F
Editorial Advisory Board
Executive Editor
Contributing Editors
Carla Paras-Sison (Benpres)
Maite Bueno (Meralco)
Estela de la Paz (First Gen)
Kane Choa (ABS-CBN)
Nicole Carlos (FPHC)
Rafael Alunan III (Wellness)
Circulation
Editorial and Layout
to chic beachwear and the latest from Samsung Metrowear.
All these and more are in the February issue of Metro, the
magazine for the independent woman, available at selected
magazine outlets nationwide.
guide to style and more. Get it now at leading bookstores and
newsstands all over the countries.
Splurge in style in MetroHim
Burying our head about the possibility of sex and our teens
won’t make it go away. This issue, Working Mom talked to
teens to find out what would make them listen to us and what
sex issues we should tackle with them. Need a little more luck
and money this year? Attract them with feng shui, Working
Mom finds out how. What about finally putting together your
baby’s scrapbook? Working Mom shows you how to do so in
one weekend. Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan reveals the six words
that saved her marriage. All these and more in Working Mom’s
February issue. Now available in newsstands and bookstores.
The enduring leading man Albert Martinez graces the cover
of the current issue of Metro hiM. A master at reinventing
himself, Albert talks about his long career in show business
and the extraordinarily disparate roles he has played in real
life. This issue is devoted to luxury, and it lists new status
symbols, from old scents to gray hair to a body defined by
sport. A wide variety of elegant men’s evening clothes are also
explored. And advertising exec and man about town David
Nugent writes a special essay on the price of fulfilling desires
for luxury. The great Rico Puno, pop icon of the ‘70s, finds
himself in the Metro hiM spotlight as his star continues to
shine for a new generation of fans. And the young new hopes
of Philippine cinema, the brilliant directors of the burgeoning
independent film movement, talk about what it’s like playing
god. Metro hiM is the sophisticated Filipino gentleman’s
Working Mom
Get the newest issues of your favorite magazines at leading
bookstores and magazine stands nationwide. Exclusive to Lopez
Group employees within Metro Manila, use your office address
and get a full year subscription discount up to 50% off cover
price. For inquiries, call ABS-CBN Publishing Inc. at 4559434.
lora, fauna and a fiesta
Boo Chanco / Danny Gozo
Rosan Cruz
Marlene Ochoa (MNTC)
John Rojo (Bayan)
Juno Chuidian (SkyCable)
Joseph Uy (ABS-CBN Publishing)
Vienn Tionglico (Rockwell)
Vanessa Suquila (LGFI)
Lucy Torres (Tel. 449-2468)
HIP Custom Publications Department
LopezLink is published by Benpres PR Group
4/F Benpres Bldg., Ortigas, Pasig City
Telefax: 633-3520
For feedback, please email
[email protected]
By Luis Reyes
SOMEONE once said that love
can be defined as the irresistible
desire to be irresistibly desired.
This Valentine’s season, Power
Plant Mall has everything you
need to fuel that desire and make
it all the more irresistible.
A not-so-secret arden
The North Court of Power
Plant Mall will be simply
irresistible as dozens and dozens
of flora and fauna will fill the
place. Instead of the cliché
flower shop and chocolate
kiosks, a not-so-secret garden
will be situated in the heart of
the mall. It promises to entice
the early birds of the season,
as the indoor garden will begin
February 8 and will through
February 17. The event will
boast of colorful long stem
roses, tulips, and other February
favorites, carefully arranged
and exotically vibrant. Relax
in the serene surroundings with
a hot cup of coffee or cocoa
as cafes set-up their stalls in
adjacent spots. The flower items
will be available to mall patrons
either for direct purchase or for
arrangement and delivery.
The North Court of Power
Plant Mall is located underneath
the main atrium of the mall,
right across Marks & Spencer,
Armani Exchange and Philippe
Charriol. Call 898-1702 for
more details.
Stop and See the Flowers
Get ready to dazzle your
dearest friends and family as
The Ikenobo Society of Manila,
together with Power Plant Mall
at Rockwell Center present the
first Ikenobo Ikebana Floral Art
Exhibition. An ancient form of
floral arrangement originating
from Japan, this worldrenowned ability to gently,
gracefully, and surprisingly
transform ordinary flora, fauna,
and stone into magnificent
pieces of art is set to hit
the metro scene like a
brush-fire (if it
has not yet!).
The exhibition
and lecture
series
is
slated to start
February 29
until March
2 and will
be in various
wings
of
Power Plant Mall.
For
inquiries,
please contact Mrs.
Dorie Bernabe at 09178141408 or call 898-1702
loc 110.
How Sweet it Is…
Feed your frenzy with
succulent sweets and delectable
treats from fourteen of the
Metro’s most sought after
home-basked bakers. Get down
and dirty sampling the different
goodies
Reena
Francisco
(Cuptails and Dreams), Karen
Young (Karen’s Kitchen) and
other naughty bakers whip
up in their kitchens. Dubbed
as the Valentine’s Treats
and Sweets
Fair at
the P1 Concourse level, the
event will run from Friday,
February 8 to Sunday, February
17.
For the full list of
participants, kindly call Power
Plant Mall Retail Office at 8981702 loc 200.