Tag: business

DTI lauds signing of Tatak Pinoy law (Republic Act Number 11982)

DTI lauds signing of Tatak Pinoy law (Republic Act Number 11982)

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In relation to the recent signing of Republic Act Number 11982 (RA11982 or Tatak Pinoy law) into law by Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) lauded the signing stressing that it will empower the nation’s industrialization, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA article. Some parts in boldface…

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual reaffirmed the department’s commitment to boost its science, technology and innovation-driven industrialization agenda with the enactment of Republic Act (RA) 11982 or the Tatak Pinoy Act on Monday.

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s priorities in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, the newly passed legislation will empower Philippine industries to manufacture a broader range of higher quality and sophisticated products, elevate the country’s position in the global value chain, and enhance productivity and competitiveness in the global market.

The Tatak Pinoy Law lies at the core of the nation’s industrialization strategy, revitalizing and driving the economic agenda with precision. With its focus on promoting industrial excellence, embracing innovation and navigating contemporary challenges, Tatak Pinoy is a transformative legislation that empowers Philippine industries to thrive in an intensely competitive global landscape.

Under the law, a Tatak Pinoy Council will spearhead the development and implementation of a multi-year strategy focusing on five key pillars: human resources, infrastructure, technology and innovation, investments, and sound financial management.

“We are confident that this legislation will bolster our ongoing programs, propelling industries towards greater global recognition and success. It underscores our commitment to implement measures that enhance the competitiveness of our local industries, ensuring that the world gets to experience what the Philippines has to offer,” Pascual said in a news release.

The Atlas of Economic Complexity, which measures the level of sophistication of export products being produced by countries globally, ranks the Philippines as 33rd among 133 countries, with an overall economic complexity index of 0.76.

This is driven by the country’s exports of high to moderate complex products such as electronics and integrated circuits, electrical machinery and equipment, as well as information and communications technology (ICT) services.

The country ranks 4th in Southeast Asia, trailing behind Singapore (5th), Thailand (23rd), and Malaysia (28th), and above Vietnam (61st) and Indonesia (64th).

“The Tatak Pinoy Law is a significant milestone that will enable our industries to climb up the economic complexity ladder, making the Philippines a more formidable player in the global market. Tatak Pinoy will enable our industries to embrace new technologies and effectively overcome the challenges of the modern world,” DTI Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba said.

With the implementation of the Tatak Pinoy Law, the DTI aims to elevate the country’s ranking by supporting and promoting the production of more sophisticated and high-quality products.

Tatak Pinoy will build on the existing flagship initiatives of the DTI, such as the One Town, One Product (OTOP) and Malikhaing Pinoy Program, which cultivate and promote unique products and empower local entrepreneurs and innovators to elevate the quality and marketability of locally made products.

Tatak Pinoy is poised to revolutionize industries, particularly Philippine manufacturing, amidst the entry of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies. It will amplify DTI’s efforts in building an Industry 4.0 Pilot Factory, establishing a Center for Artificial Intelligence Research (CAIR), and supporting the country’s Regional Inclusive Innovation Centers (RIICs).

The new law will also drive innovation and facilitate Industry 4.0 adoption, especially among micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

Pascual said a critical provision of the law is the mandate for the Philippine government to prioritize Filipino products and services in government procurement, strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors.

“This initiative serves as a catalyst for creating a robust market environment, particularly beneficial for SMEs and startups,” he said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction about this recent development? Do you think the new Tatak Pinoy law will improve the nation’s industrialization in the years ahead? Do you think it will lead to even more new jobs in the future?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (SLIMTC) anticipates strong Philippine economic growth for 2024

Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (SLIMTC) anticipates strong Philippine economic growth for 2024

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As far as Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (SLIMTC) is concerned, the Philippine economy can achieve strong growth this year with favorable economic factors supporting it, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA news report. Some parts in boldface…

The government’s 6.5 to 7.5 percent economic growth target for this year is attainable as the projected decline in interest rates will help boost consumption and investments, a top official of Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (SLIMTC) said on Thursday.

“It seems like it’s something that’s still attainable. Let’s see when rate cuts are there and especially when those infrastructure projects are in,” said SLIMTC Chief Investment Officer Ritchie Teo in a briefing at the Milestone Building in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City.

According to Teo, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is projected to cut rates by a total of 100 basis points this year as inflation continues to ease.

Headline inflation, which reached 6 percent in 2023, is projected to settle at 3.8 percent this year.

Teo said the BSP will likely wait for the US Federal Reserve to slash interest rates thus, the first rate cut is forecast to happen around June or the early part of the second half of the year.

“Probably good to say they will only cut when Fed cuts. They will wait for Fed so probably that’s on the latter part. Not in April, maybe in June or early second half,” said Teo.

SLIMTC expects the US Federal Reserve to cut policy rates by 75 to 100 basis points by mid-year as US inflation returns to target.

“They [BSP] will leave some [easing] on the latter part of the year mainly because of risks like the November election. So it’s good to have something on the table,” he added.

Teo said the lower interest rates will boost consumption and private investments, which in turn will help accelerate the country’s economic growth.

“Based on the latest gross domestic product (GDP) forecast, we anticipate 6% growth for 2024, largely driven by higher consumption and private investments,” he said.

Government spending especially on infrastructure projects is also expected to be one of the major growth drivers for this year.

“If you look into the investment side, maybe more on the government, given that they’ve been trailing but for the private investments, especially with the rate cuts, again their spending will improve because with the higher interest rates, some are really holding back,” said Teo.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction about this recent development? Do you think easing inflation, lower interest rates and strong consumption will be enough to help the Philippine economy grow by at least 6% this year?  

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Muntinlupa City Mayor emphasizes many accomplishments and what lies ahead for the city

Muntinlupa City Mayor emphasizes many accomplishments and what lies ahead for the city

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Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, Mayor Ruffy Biazon revealed through his State of the City Address lots of details about what the City Government has achieved and what lies ahead, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. The mayor’s speech happened on the afternoon of March 1 during the cityhood anniversary celebration and Charter Day celebration.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon bared the accomplishments of his administration since assuming office in 2022 and said “there is much work still to be done” for the city.

“But as we reflect on our accomplishments, we also recognize that there is much work still to be done. We must remain committed to our vision of progress and continue working tirelessly to address the challenges that lie ahead,” said Biazon during his State of the City Address (SOCA) held during Muntinlupa’s 29th cityhood anniversary on March 1.

Muntinlupa became a highly urbanized city through Republic Act 7926 or the Charter of the City of Muntinlupa signed into law on March 1, 1995.

During Biazon’s second SOCA, he also recognized the efforts of past mayors of Muntinlupa including Baldomero Viñalon, Ignacio Bunye and Jaime Fresnedi.

“And as we gather to reflect on our past accomplishments and set our sights on the future, I am reminded of the enduring truth that progress is not merely measured by the structures we build or the policies we implement. It is also seen in how included, relevant and heard a person feels as a member of his or her community,” said Biazon.

When he became the mayor of Muntinlupa, Biazon said, “I adopted as my mission two objectives — provide the needs of Muntinlupeños and no one gets left behind.”

“We all want better days for our children and our children’s children. But in order to get there, we have to embark on a journey that begins with accepting the reality that the present isn’t perfect. We have gaps in our service, there are initiatives that are struggling to take off, there are limitations that are unanticipated,” he said.

He added, “We envision a Muntinlupa where every citizen embodies the values of integrity, responsibility, and excellence. Where each Muntinlupeño takes pride in their role as a law-abiding citizen, a dependable worker, a nurturing parent, or a diligent student.”

Among the programs of the Muntinlupa City government, Biazon said the scholarship program tremendously helped students and their families. 

There are about 80,000 scholars in Muntinlupa every year. The city government increased the budget for scholarship to P587 million from P416 million “to provide for the increase of scholarship allowances that began last year.”

About 100,000 public school students were also provided with a free “Balik Eskwela” packages containing school bags, school supplies and leather shoes.

To help the education sector, Biazon launched the Womb to Work Program “that stitches together a series of interventions that address the different stages that a child goes through from the womb of the mother up to the age of productivity. The mission is to give each Muntinlupeño child the opportunity to grow up healthy, educated and productive. It begins by providing care for children even while they are in the womb, which means care for the mothers is just as critical.”

Part of Biazon’s program for children is on nutrition – “The good news is we’re on the right track. In fact, Muntinlupa City recently was recently conferred the CROWN or Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition Award dahil sa back-to-back-to-back na pagtanggap natin ng Green Banner Award mula sa National Nutrition Council. Palakpakan natin ang ating City Nutrition Committee,” he said.

He added, “The local government’s nutrition programs continue to bring down the incidence of malnutrition. The number of underweight and severely underweight young children has gone down by almost a third since 2020.”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are you satisfied over what the City Government has achieved since the day Mayor Biazon first took office? Do you think Muntinlupa will stand out as the most dynamic economic city in South Metro Manila by having lots of business thriving and more than enough new jobs created? What do you think the City Government should do in preparation for the 30th cityhood anniversary on March 1, 2025?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

UBS Global Research and Evidence Lab sees Philippine GDP growing 5.7% this year

UBS Global Research and Evidence Lab sees Philippine GDP growing 5.7% this year

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A research firm recently raised its forecast of the Philippine economy for 2024 predicting a gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate of 5.7% this year, according to a news report by BusinessWorld.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the BusinessWorld report. Some parts in boldface…

PHILIPPINE gross domestic product (GDP) may grow by 5.7% this year following the economy’s faster-than-expected expansion in the fourth quarter of 2023, UBS Global Research and Evidence Lab said.

The research firm raised its 2024 Philippine GDP growth forecast from 5.3% previously, Grace Lim, an economist from UBS, said in a note. It also hiked its 2025 projection to 6% from 5.8%.

“This largely reflects carryover effects from the fourth quarter of 2023, rather than a strong bounce in sequential growth momentum through 2024,” Ms. Lim said.

Both forecasts are below the government’s growth targets of 6.5-7.5% for this year and 6.5-8% for 2025.

The Philippine economy grew by 5.6% in the fourth quarter, bringing full-year growth to 5.6% in 2023. This was slower than the 7.6% expansion in 2022 and below the government’s 6-7% goal.

At 5.7%, economic growth this year would be faster than the 2023 pace but is still slower than the pre-pandemic average of 6.6%, Ms. Lim noted.

“On the bright side, we highlight that inflation has been trending down nicely, surprising consensus on the downside for three months in a row,” she said. “Should downside risks to inflation materialize, consumption could surprise on the upside.”

Inflation eased to 2.8% in January from 3.9% in December and 8.7% in the same month a year ago. This was the slowest print since October 2020 and marked the second straight month that inflation settled within the 2-4% target band.

Ms. Lim noted that consumer spending remained robust last year despite inflationary pressures and amid resilient labor market conditions.

In 2023, household spending grew by 5.6%, slower than 8.3% in 2022. Household consumption typically accounts for three-fourths of GDP.

Meanwhile, the unemployment rate dropped to a record low of 4.3% from the 5.4% recorded in 2022.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent report? Do you think the Philippine economy will grow below the national government’s targets for 2024? Do you think UBS’ forecast of 5.7% growth will turn out correct by the end of this year?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

I Love Israel: Israeli water treatment company sees expansion opportunities in the Philippines

I Love Israel: Israeli water treatment company sees expansion opportunities in the Philippines

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As some of you are already aware, I fully stand with Israel which is directly connected with my uncompromising faith in the Lord. I keep on praying to Him for Israel to overwhelm its enemies, rescue the hostages and recover from the effects of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks committed by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas. I can assure all of you that nobody from the evil Islamo-Leftist mob, nobody from the pro-Palestine zealots and nobody from any evil society would stop me from supporting and loving Israel.

Now, on with the news.

IDE Technologies Group, a water treatment company based in Israel, is looking for expansion opportunities in the Philippines, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the BusinessWorld news report. Some parts in boldface…

ISRAEL-BASED water treatment company IDE Technologies Group is eyeing expansion opportunities in the Philippines, the company’s chief executive officer (CEO) said on Wednesday.

“We’re focusing on a specific project, but that project is kind of a very interesting opening for us because it will involve creating a local entity of IDE with mostly local people as employees,” IDE CEO Alon Tavor said during a media briefing.

“We have teamed up with several local partners to come up with very interesting projects,” he added.

IDE is a water company that specializes in the development, engineering, construction, and operation of enhanced desalination and industrial water treatment plants.

Desalination is the process of removing salt from seawater to make it potable, safe for human consumption.

Founded in 1965, it has headquarters in Israel, with offices in the USA, China, India, Chile, and Australia, facilitating client partnerships across the globe. The company has over 400 plants spanning 40 countries.

“We don’t only sell projects. A lot of the time, we own the plant, we operate it, and we simply sell water as a solution,” Mr. Tavor said.

Investing in projects typically starts at “a few hundred thousand dollars for a very small project and can go up to hundreds of millions of dollars for large projects,” he also said.

“We see the fact that the Philippines realizes the level of water issues that need to be managed as an interesting opportunity for us, and therefore we’re here.”

Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss said they are looking into bringing more companies to the Philippines to share their best practices and technologies.

IDE’s focus on the Philippines is indeed a blessing for the nation as water is truly essential for all Filipinos. Experiencing water supply shortages is a constant problem nationwide and to this day, the Philippines still has yet to achieve breakthrough to not only improve access to water but also increase the water supply. IDE’s expertise on desalination could be crucial in helping us Filipinos solve our water problems which will be helpful in building up the national economy.

We should also be thankful to the Lord that even as Israel remains busy fighting the terrorists not only in Gaza but also across the border with Lebanon (Hezbollah), the Jewish state is working to bring more Israeli companies into the Philippines. That being said, Israel-Philippines ties are still essential.

To my fellow Filipinos reading this, I encourage you to accept the truth that Israel is the land God designated specifically for the Jewish people (read Genesis 35:10-12) and His command must be followed without hesitation. If you want to be blessed further by the Lord, do so by loving and blessing the Jewish people (Genesis 12:1-3). I did my part when I was in Israel. Also, let me remind you all that the ties between the Jews and Christians are truly biblical!

We live in a very divided world. Around the world, Leftist forces have been supporting evil forces like the current regime of Iran which is known for supplying and arming the Palestinian terrorists and other terrorist groups around the Middle East. Leftist forces have been supporting the Palestinian Authority and other enemies of Israel. The Leftists and terrorists always go together and their anti-Semitism is clearly obvious. Hamas is purely evil and they are being protected by not only their fellow terrorists but also by mainstream news media outlets who are linked with Leftist forces and people who hate Israel and the Jewish people. Beware of the evil union of the Islamo-Left which is wicked deep within.

With all that said, I encourage you all to pray to the Lord God in support of Israel and believe that He will guide the Israeli forces to another victory which means finishing off Hamas, crushing Hezbollah and force Iran and its terror proxies to give up. Read Joshua 11:1-20 in the Holy Bible for relevance and truth.

If you truly believe in Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit and God the Heavenly Father wholeheartedly and you continue to be faithful, you should be aware that Christians are meant to stand united with Israel and love the Jewish people no matter what. You can do your part supporting Israel by donating to Christians United for Israel (CUFI). Do not forget to read the Holy Bible, then pray in tongues to the Lord in the privacy of your room with the door shut.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus! Always stand in support of Israel and pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

In ending this I Love Israel piece, posted below are Israel-related videos for your enlightenment.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Another tall residential tower to rise soon in Alabang

Another tall residential tower to rise soon in Alabang

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With a growing Philippine economy in this post-pandemic age, the future of progress in Alabang looks a bit brighter as a new tall residential tower in Filinvest City had its symbolic groundbreaking ceremony and construction will follow, according to a Malaya Business Insight news article.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Malaya Business Insight article. Some parts in boldface…

1001 Parkway Residences by luxury real estate brand Filigree recently held its groundbreaking ceremony signaling that the construction is well underway.

The excavation works were in full swing in fourth quarter of 2023, while the first pouring is all set to happen in the first quarter of 2024.

“With the recent groundbreaking milestone, future residents of 1001 can look forward to all the benefits of high rise living in a cosmopolitan neighborhood. It is a premium address not only because it is an iconic building located right along the Millionaire’s Row of Filinvest City but also because it perfectly marries two highly sought-after worlds,” said Daphne Sanchez, Filinvest Alabang Inc. senior vice president for residentials & estates

Once completed, 1001 Parkway Residences will be the tallest residential tower in Alabang – an architectural statement that will stand out amidst Filinvest City’s skyline and expansive park system, seamlessly blending beauty and functionality. This will reflect within the property’s interiors and carefully thought out amenities that highlight understated elegance.

The location of 1001 Parkway Residences in Filinvest City.

Residents will get to experience a complete live-work-play concept, starting from 1001 Parkway’s common amenities that foster a healthy lifestyle and community synergy.

In the privacy of the residents’ spaces, the integration of beauty and functionality is incorporated in the design to promote a healthier environment. Every unit comes with a balcony so they can enjoy the outdoors within the comfort of their own spaces. Meanwhile, the living and bedroom areas are built with windows to allow ample amount of natural light and ventilation. 1001 Parkway Residences also offers garden units that offer picturesque views of the future Creekside Park.

Completing an exceptional and healthy living experience at 1001 Parkway Residences is its location in Filinvest City, the country’s first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold-certified central business district.

Located on Millionaire’s Row at Spectrum, considered Filinvest City’s most premium district, residents will have convenient access to all of the essential establishments – from commercial centers and shops to leisure venues and parks – all a stone’s throw away from each other, allowing its future residents to walk from one establishment to another.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are you delighted that another tall residential tower will open with Filinvest City? Do you know anyone with a lot of money who happens to be looking for a new residence or looking for a new investment opportunity?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

DTI intensifies scrutiny of online sellers who engaged with offering mystery boxes to customers

DTI intensifies scrutiny of online sellers who engaged with offering mystery boxes to customers

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If you are fond of ordering items online, better stay away from those mystery boxes offered to you because the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is closely watching online sellers offering those things, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA article. Some parts in boldface…

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has intensified its scrutiny of online sellers, particularly those offering mystery boxes or parcels, to ensure consumer protection and uphold fair trade practices.

In an interview with Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon Wednesday, DTI Assistant Secretary Amanda Nograles said all online shops selling mystery items are subject to stringent verification procedures requiring them to provide evidence regarding the sourcing of the items they offer on their platforms.

Nograles said sellers must substantiate the items’ origin, demonstrating that they have acquired them through legal means. This could include proof of purchase from valid auctions or confirmation that the items were legally obtained from sources such as the Bureau of Customs (BOC) or through legitimate means like through abandoned parcels or “balikbayan” boxes.

“Kailangan iyong online seller ay makapagbigay ng ganoong ebidensiya; ngayon kung hindi, puwede natin siyang ipa-takedown doon sa platform – we have a good relationship with most online shopping platforms and kapag ni-request po ng DTI, napapakiusapan po natin na tini-takedown iyong mga seller na ganito at nang hindi po makabiktima ng mga consumers natin (The online seller needs to provide such evidence; now if not, we can have them taken down from the platform – we have a good relationship with most online shopping platforms, and when requested by the DTI, we ask them to have such sellers taken down so that they cannot victimize consumers),” she said.

Nograles said the DTI is regularly monitoring online stores.

Some items inside mystery boxes or parcels are illegally sourced, such as stolen products from warehouses, which is against the Anti-Fencing Law, the DTI official said.

The Anti-Fencing Law prohibits the selling of stolen goods or items obtained through illicit means. Both sellers and buyers can be charged if these items were stolen.

The DTI’s move to tighten regulations on online sellers aims to safeguard consumers from potentially fraudulent or unsafe products while also promoting transparency and accountability within the e-commerce sector, Nograles said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent report? Are you concerned that mystery boxes are harmful to consumers who are often looking for the best deals online? Do you think that items placed inside mystery boxes may have been stolen or smuggled? How many times have you availed of mystery boxes offers online?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Muntinlupa City Government collected P6.4 billion revenue in 2023

Muntinlupa City Government collected P6.4 billion revenue in 2023

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Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, the City Government of Muntinlupa announced that its total revenue collected in 2023 reached P6.4 billion which is an improvement of over 3% over the 2022 revenue, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…

The Muntinlupa City government collected P6.4 billion revenue in 2023, translating to a higher collection efficiency rating.

According to the City Treasurer’s Office, the P6.4 billion revenue is higher by P200 million compared to P6.2 billion collected in 2022.

The 2023 revenue translated to a 100.98 percent collection efficiency rating for the Muntinlupa City government.

City Treasurer Erwin Vibora said the higher revenue was realized through the strict implementation of local taxation and fiscal policies.

“The strategies used by the City Treasurer’s Office – Muntinlupa City to meet or exceed the targeted income is through strict implementation of local taxation and fiscal matters of the Local Government Code or Republic Act No. 7160 and the Revenue Code of Muntinlupa, following the policy and guidelines of Local Treasury Operations Manual (LTOM) of the Department of Finance – Bureau of Local Government Finance, existing laws and ordinances,” said Vibora in his report.

He said offices that achieved high revenues for the city government are: Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) – P2.4 billion, City Treasurer’s Office – P2.3 billion, Colegio de Muntinlupa – P108 million, City Engineering Office / City Building Office – P57.5 million, and City Zoning Office – P34.2 million.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are you delighted with the higher revenue collected by the City Government for the year 2023? Do you consider Muntinlupa’s City Government to be transparent with regards to collections and financial transactions?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Local analysts say Philippine tourism’s recovery is still lacking

Local analysts say Philippine tourism’s recovery is still lacking

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As far as the chief economists of the Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) and China Banking Corp. are concerned, the recovery of Philippine tourism is still lacking and a lot more needs to be done which includes relying on tourists from China, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the BusinessWorld news report. Some parts in boldface…

THE RECOVERY of the tourism market lags the rest of the region due to infrastructure constraints and the slow rebound of visitor arrivals from China, analysts said.

Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., said the Philippines’ tourism performance was lagging even before the pandemic.

“There has been a lot of catching up since the pandemic and also even before the pandemic with other ASEAN or Asian neighboring countries,” Mr. Ricafort said in a Viber message.

“This is largely due to infrastructure constraints that limit the capacity of airports and accommodation and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, & exhibitions) facilities to cater to a much larger number of foreign tourists,” he added.

In 2023, the Philippines logged 5.4 million international visitors which is only 65% of the 8.24 million foreign arrivals seen in 2019, but at par with the 65% average within Asia and the Pacific.

Mr. Ricafort said upgrades are needed to airports, particularly the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), which will share future traffic to and from the capital with the Bulacan and Sangley airports.

“There is a need as well as for integrated tour packages that will be cheaper and more convenient to attract more foreign tourists,” he said.

“There is also a need for more mass transport systems such as railways that are integrated into major airports to make it more convenient for local and foreign tourists to travel,” he added.

China Banking Corp. Chief Economist Domini S. Velasquez said slow growth can be attributed to geographical constraints and absence of Chinese tourists.

“The Philippines lags behind its other ASEAN neighbors in terms of tourist arrivals, which can be attributed partly to geographical constraints, as the country cannot be accessed by land,” Ms. Velasquez said in a Viber message.

“However, another factor contributing to the below-target numbers, especially during the pandemic, is the absence of Chinese tourists,” she added.

Before the pandemic, China was the country’s second top source of international arrivals after South Korea. However, China only ranked fifth last year.

South Korea remained the top source of international visitors accounting for 26.41%, followed by the US (16.57%), Japan (5.61%), Australia (4.89%), and China (4.84 %).

“The sluggish growth and high unemployment in China have hindered the phenomenon known as “revenge travel,” wherein Chinese tourists typically exhibit strong travel demand. As a result, the expected influx of Chinese tourists has been limited,” Ms. Velasquez said.

Mr. Ricafort said the Philippines has strong potential in further growing the tourism economy with much room to improve in many elements of the product offering.

“The tourism business is low-hanging fruit that can generate more business, employment, and other economic activities as a major source of growth or a bright spot for the economy,” he said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you agree with the analysts’ findings as to why Philippine tourism is still lacking and what should be done to improve it? Do you think the Department of Tourism (DOT) should focus more on attracting tourists from other nations instead of depending so much on China? What do you think are the five biggest problems of Philippine tourism right now? Do you think the DOT should be more active in promoting local film festivals, fashion shows, sports events and food tours to foreigners?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Philippines wins big at the 2024 ASEAN Tourism Awards thanks to three cities and many stakeholders

Philippines wins big at the 2024 ASEAN Tourism Awards thanks to three cities and many stakeholders

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In the 2024 edition of the ASEAN Tourism Awards held recently in Laos, the Philippines won big as three cities and more than twenty stakeholders won honors, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA news report. Some parts in boldface…

Three cities and 21 tourism stakeholders from the Philippines have been recognized during the 2024 ASEAN Tourism Standard Awards in Vientiane, Laos.

The awarding ceremony was one of the activities in the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 which ran from Jan. 22 to 27, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said in a news release on Wednesday.

The cities of Baguio in Benguet, Ilagan in Isabela, and Tabuk in Kalinga were awarded as the ASEAN Clean Tourist City, the Department of Tourism

According to ASEAN Tourism Standards, these are the areas where the flow of visitors and where cultural, natural and/or man-made attractions exist.

Prime Properties Pearl Farm Beach Resort, Club Paradise Palawan, Bohol Beach Club, Seda Nuvali, and The Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay won the ASEAN Green Hotel Award.

This citation is given to hotel industry players whose operations are based on the achievement of sustainable tourism through environment-friendly principles, human resource development, resource consumption reduction, and local community involvement.

About 15 Philippine venues were given the ASEAN Meeting, Incentive, Convention, Exhibition (MICE) Venue Awards granted to physical spaces with quality facilities and impressive services, designed and provided for MICE activities with purposes for meetings, exhibitions, and events.

The major criteria for the awards encompass the standards of physical aspects, venue management, and people working within venues that competitively meet the requirements of MICE travelers. It is divided into three categories: room, exhibition venue, and event venue category.

Properties Bai Hotel Cebu, Clark Marriott Hotel, Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort, Princesa Garden Island Resort & Spa, Seda Hotel Nuvali won the meeting room category; World Trade Center Metro Manila (Manila Exposition Complex), SMX Convention Center Manila, Cordillera Convention Hall by Baguio Country Club, Isabela Convention Center (ICON), and Iloilo Convention Center won the exhibition hall category; and Palacio del Sur by Marcian Group, Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark Cebu, Infinity Garden by Baguio Country Club, CAP-John Hay Trade and Cultural Center, Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa by Modern Asia, Inc. were named as the winners for the event venue category.

Meantime, Palawan-based property Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort was named as a lead partner for “Enchanting Gastronomical Sabang Delights, Beach Forest and Caves” under the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Awards.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the winners made not only significant revenue contributions but also employed millions of Filipinos.

“These achievements reflect not only the excellence and dedication that you have put in with the development of tourism but also contribute significantly to the overall advancement and sustainability of the ASEAN tourism industry,” she said.

A total of 192 ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards were given to the member countries.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you delighted with the many awards the Philippines won at the ASEAN Tourism Awards? If you are running a local business that benefits from the inflow of tourists, does this development encourage you to move your business deeper into the tourism industry? Do you consider the Philippines more competitive with its Southeast Asian neighbors when it comes to tourism?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco