Law Students Participated at ALSP National Convention

Hundreds of Law students from colleges and universities from all over the Philippines took part in the Association of Law Students of the Philippines, Inc., (ALSP) 20th National Convention held last May 28 – June 2, 2009 at the Xavier University College of Law in Cagayan de Oro City.

The theme for this year's national convention is “ALSP@20: Responding to Legal Challenges”. During the event, numerous panel discussions and seminars were spearheaded by law practitioners in the Philippines. Also, ALSP members elected its new set of officers for 2009-2010. The newly elected officers are:

• President – Mr. Patrick Borbon (Medina College of Law)
• Vice-President for Northern Luzon – Mr. Sherween Saquing (St. Mary's University) 
• Vice-President for Southern Luzon – Mr. Giancarlo Capco (Far Eastern University)
• Vice-President for NCR - Ms. Calai Alcala (San Beda College) 
• Vice-President for Visayas – Ms. Manilyn Mier (University of San Carlos), 
• Vice-President for Mindanao - Ethelbert Deguit (Xavier University) 
• Secretary General – Ms. Ethel Aurelio (Notre Dame University)
  
• Treasurer – Mr. Sherwin Pulayan (University of Santo Tomas)
• Public Relations Officer – Mr. Ryan Flores (Far Eastern University), 
• Auditor - Mr. Francis Blanca (Philippine Christian University)
  

The convention concluded with the delegates heading out to the Cagayan de Oro River to experience the city's famous white water rafting.

The Association of Law Students of the Philippines, Inc, 20th National Convention is sponsored by Business Mirror, Pepsi, Tanduay, Dunkin Donuts, United Nations Development Programme, Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philtown Hotel, Dela Serna and Associates Law Office, San Jose Law Office, Congressman Rufus Rodriguez, Atty. Dale Bryan Mordeno and Senator Manny Villar.

For more information about the ALSP 20th National Convention, contact the Association of Law Students of the Philippines, Inc, at (0917) 423-67501 (0923) 280-2317, email alsponline@yahoo.com or visit their website, www.aslp.co.nr

Mind Mapping and Learning Secrets Uncovered at Educators and Trainers Conference 2009

Members of academic and business groups learned new techniques in teaching and learning at the Educators and Trainers Conference 2009 held last May 11 – 12, 2009 at the RCBC Plaza Tower 2 in Ayala, Makati City.

The conference was guided by the theme, “Discover a 'Brain New World' of Teaching and Learning”. The two-day event tackled wide range of topics related to learning, critical thinking, teaching methodology, and mind mapping.

Mr. Tony Buzan, well-renowned author and inventor of Mind Maps; Mr. Henry Toi, Managing Director of Buzan Centre Asia ; Dr. Leticia Penano-Ho, Chair and President of the Philippine Association for the Gifted; and Ms. Lilia Vengco, consultant on Basic Education Curriculum (BEC) for De La Salle University graced the two-day conference.

For the first day of the event, Mr. Buzan discussed “Learning in the Brain New World” which was composed of several inter-related subjects designed to inform the participants on the hidden powers of the mind and effective learning strategies. Mr. Toi talked about “Teaching in the Brain New World" that aims to teach about the different skills and design methods for learning that can be applied for both academic and corporate environment.

The Educators and Trainers Conferece 2009 is presented by AHEAD Tutorial and Review , Salt Light Venrtures, and Buzan Organisation.

For more information about the event, contact Salt and Light Ventures at (632) 813-2703, 813-2732, 830-2191 or visit their website at www.saltandlight.ph

SBMA, PCE Signed MOU to Aid Displaced Subic Workers

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE) have joined forces to aid displaced Subic workers through entrepreneurship seminars.

SBMA administrator Armand Arreza and PCE founding trustee Ma. Jose Concepcion III signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) last July 4, 2009 at the Manila Polo Club in Makati City indicating that displace workers will be given Go Negosyo seminars to prepare them to start their own business. Furthermore, the two-day comprehensive seminar, including books and hand-outs, which normally costs about P1,000.00 per participant, will be given for free.

In his interview with the press, Administrator Arreza said the program will initially benefit 200 former workers in the freeport who want to venture into small-to-medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), particularly those related to the tourism industry. Through the Go Negosyo program , he hopes that these workers can become employers and in turn, create more jobs.

Meanwhile, Mr. Concepcion ,who is also the chief executive officer of RFM Corp., said that SBMA made a good decision to encourage displaced workers to become entrepreneurs.

The Go Negosyo program is a flagship project of the PCE to prove that Filipinos can address poverty by engaging in entrepreneurship. According to the Go Negosyo website, PCE is a non-stock and non-profit organization that aims to make the Philippines a thriving entrepreneurial nation. In addition, PCE aims to instill among Filipinos a mindset of optimism and a culture of entrepreneurship, turning them into competitive entre- and intra-preneurs.

The MOU signing was witnessed by SBMA labor manager Severo Pastor Jr., SBMA public relations manager Armina Belleza Llamas, PCE executive director Ramon Lopez, and PCE programs development manager Myra Dorothy Lorredo.

Trabaho.com thanks its following sources:

Empeño, Henry, Business Mirror. SBMA sets ‘Go Negosyo’ seminars for displaced workers Posted July 7, 2009
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/home/regions/12779-sbma-sets-go-negosyo-seminars-for-displaced-workers.html

Philippine News Agency. SBMA, PCE set 'Go Negosyo’ seminars for displaced Subic workers. (Posted July 6, 2009) Retrieved July 7, 2009 from
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?&sid=6&pfn=215927&arch=1&go=Go&search_arch=go%20negosyo&andor=and&mdte_arch=0&ddte_arch=0&ydte_arch=0
Re-posted by Positive News Media at
http://positivenewsmedia.net/am2/publish/Business_19/SBMA_PCE_set_Go_Negosyo_seminars_for_displaced_Subic_workers.shtml

Central Luzon Desk. Subic program starts for displaced workers (Posted July 5, 2009) Retrieved July 7, 2009 from
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20090705-213862/Subic-program-starts-for-displaced-workers

Manila Bulletin. (Posted by Yahoo! News) Displaced workers to be entrepreneurs. (Posted July 4. 2009) Retrieved July 7, 2009 from
http://ph.news.yahoo.com/mb/20090704/tph-displaced-workers-to-be-entrepreneur-020e1c8.html

JOB FAIRS AND EVENTS Philippine Youth Congress in Information Technology (Y4IT) 2009 by UP-ITTC, UP- SITF WHEN: September 8-11, 2009 WHERE: UP Diliman Campus R2R: Run To Respond Race by UP Mining, Metallurgical, and Materials Engineering Association WHEN: September 13, 2009 WHERE: UP Diliman, Quezon City Jobsfair '09 at Starmall by Amazing Trend Exhibit Link WHEN: September 24-25, 2009 WHERE: 2F Tradehall, Starmall, EDSA Shaw, Mandaluyong City

JOB ADS Bigbest Employment And Manpower Services Company - Design/Project Engineer - Q and TA Engineer - QA Analyst and Inspector - Q and TA Technical Assistant - Q and TA Lab Analyst - Cafe Operations Manager - Account Manager - Accounting Staff - HR Officer - Product Manager - Merchandising Manager - Medical Representative - Graphic Artist - Computer Technician - Secretary - Promodisers - Waiter/Waitress Trabaho Client #247 - Office Manager - Executive Assistant Solutions Partner Inc., - Account Manager - Network Security Engineer Daekyo Philippines - Math Coordinator - Teachers EBU Property Holdings Inc. - Database/System Administrator - Ticketing and Reservations Officer - Human Resources Manager - Lawyer AKATEK Group Company Ltd. - Technical Operations Manager - Sales Support Executive/Engineers (Network) - Sales Support Executive/Engineers (Telecom) - Sales Support Executive/Engineer (Power) - Technical Support/Technicians - Secretary cum Admin Mango International Technology, Co. - Office Assistant DDC Land - Land Development Engineer - Marketing Staff - Encoder - Credit and Collection Staff - Accounting Staff - Marketing Driver - Back Hoe Driver - Transit Mixer Driver - Dump Truck Driver - House helper - Executive Driver - Heavy Round Operator - Heavy Equipment Mechanic JustFlowers.com - Operations Manager (Call Center) - VB/SQL/.NET Developer

Book Lovers, Authors, and Publishers Celebrate 30th MIBF

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PATLS Organized National Conference for Librarians, Students

Teachers, students, librarians, as well as library support staff converged in the National Conference on Library and Information Science Education held at the Ortigas Foundation Library, Ortigas Center in Pasig City last April 13 – 14, 2009.

Organized by the Philippine Association of Teachers of Library and Information Science (PATLS), the conference aims to improve the passing rate of examinees in the licensure examination and to update teachers, students and practicing librarians on current issues and trends in the profession

During the first day of the conference, notable professors enlightened guests and participants on various topics. Ms. Perla Garcial, former De La Salle University Library Director, discussed "New Age Competencies of Library and Information Science Professionals". Dr. Allan de Guzman, 2007 Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) – Jasper Research Awardee, talked about “Integrating Education, Research and Practice”. Prof. Johann Frederick A. Cabbab, Assistant Professor at the University of the Philippines School of Library and Information Studies gave a clear connection between “Social Networking and Library Service”. Prof. Corazon Nera, Director of Libraries of Lyceum of the Philippines University – Manila, led the open forum on librarian licensure examination.

The last day of the conference began with four librarian licensure exam topnotchers Mr. Vernon Totanes (1st place, 2004), Ms. Ma Cristina Nabaunag (1st place, 2006), Mr. Elijah Dar Juan (1st place 2008), and Mr. Eduardo Puzon (10th place, 2008) sharing their secrets on how to ace the board exam. Later on, Members of the PATLS conducted their general assembly while non-members were toured around the Ortigas Foundation Library.

For more information about the event, contact Ms. Lourdes T. David at (632) 426-5961, 426-6001 loc 5555, (63917) 485-2630 or email lourdesdav@gmail.com.

2nd Skills and Training Expo and Job Fair Set This August

Jobseekers, employees seeking to improve their skills and knowledge, and entrepreneurs-to-be are invited to take part in the 2nd Skills and Training Expo and Job Fair slated on August 21 – 22, 2009 at the 4th Level, Expo Trade Hall of Festival Supermall in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

Organized by EventWorx Company, the event is both a skills training exhibit and recruitment fair aimed at gathering employers, authorized recruiters, skills-training institutions, even livelihood training providers, as well as Filipinos seeking employment locally and abroad to meet for a two-day integrated skills training cum recruitment event.

The expo will invite skills training institutions to showcase their newest course offerings to the public. The training sessions will be focused on individuals looking to improve their skill set, including those professionals already employed but looking to shift careers and acquire new skills to become eligible for much higher-paying jobs locally and even overseas.

A special section of the trade hall will feature learning opportunities in entrepreneurship, business management, as well as livelihood workshops and seminars to be led by some of the popular names in the local business scene.

Most importantly, the even will feature job openings locally and overseas. Overseas job orders will be offered by Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) licensed recruiters in cooperation with the Philippine Association of Service Exporters (PASEI) and the Department of Labor and Employment http://www.dole.gov.ph/ (DOLE).

The 2nd Skills and Training Expo and Job Fair is sponsored by OFWjobsph.com, Yehey.com, Greenwich Pizza, Wendy's, Pizza Hut, Red Ribbon Bakeshop, Cabalen Restaurant, ClickTheCity.com, JaM 88.3, Wave 891, Magic 89.9, 99.5 RT, and 103.5 MaxFM Trabaho.com, Business Mirror, Business World, and Philstar.com.

For more information, contact EventWorx Company at (632) 994-8998, (63906)245-7831 or email email info@eventsworxph.com

JOB FAIRS AND EVENTS
9th Metro Job Fair 2009

by AdExhibit
WHEN: August 20-22, 2009
WHERE: SM Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall
2nd Skills Training Expo and Jobs Fair

by EventWorx
WHEN: August 21-22, 2009
WHERE: 4th Level Expo Trade Hall, Festival Mall, Alabang
4th Travel Xchange
WHEN: August 28-30, 2009
WHERE: Robinsons Place, Iloilo City

JOB ADS

Bigbest Employment And Manpower Services Company
- Design/Project Engineer
- Q and TA Engineer
- QA Analyst and Inspector
- Q and TA Technical Assistant
- Q and TA Lab Analyst
- Cafe Operations Manager
- Account Manager
- Accounting Staff
- HR Officer
- Product Manager
- Merchandising Manager
- Medical Representative
- Graphic Artist
- Computer Technician
- Secretary
- Promodisers
- Waiter/Waitress

AKATEK Group Company Ltd.
- Technical Operations Manager
- Sales – Support Executive/Engineers (Network)
- Sales – Support Executive/Engineers (Telecom)
- Sales – Support Executive/Engineer (Power)
- Technical Support/Technicians
- Secretary cum Admin

Mango International Technology, Co.
- Office Assistant

DDC Land
- Land Development Engineer
- Marketing Staff
- Encoder
- Credit and Collection Staff
- Accounting Staff
- Marketing Driver
- Back Hoe Driver
- Transit Mixer Driver
- Dump Truck Driver
- Househelper
- Executive Driver
- Heavy Round Operator
- Heavy Equipment Mechanic

JustFlowers.com
- Operations Manager (Call Center)
- VB/SQL/.NET Developer

ZIPP Cargo Corporation
- Finance/Accounting Staff
- Finance Supervisor

Ayala Land Sales Inc. (ALSI)
- Premier Property Specialist

NCH Philippines, Inc.
- Account Consultant
- Technical Support

Convergence Immigration and Business Solutions, Inc.
- Nurse/Medical Practitioner/
- Accountant/Finance Manager or Analyst

ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc.
- Program Accountant
- Finance Officers
- Admin/Office Assistan
- Accounting Assistants
- Resource Mobilization Assistant
- IT Manager
- Project Manager (BayanNiJuan - Calauan, Laguna)

Corporate Visions, Inc.,
For Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
- Electrical & Instrument Supervisors
- Electrical & Instrument Foreman
- Instrument Technicians
- Instrument Tubing Fitters
- Cable Jointers (Mv/ Hv)
- Industrial Electricians
- Cable Tray/Structural Fitters
- Riggers
- Welders
- Cable Puller
For Taiwan
- Factory Workers

Nearly 70,000 Hired at Kalayaan 2009 Mega Job and Livelihood Fair

Around 70,000 jobseekers were hired during the Kalayaan 2009 Mega Job and Livelihood Fair held simultaneously in 16 regions across the country last June 12 – 14, 2009.

In an interview with Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) Director Criselda Sy by Philstar.com, she stated that an initial 67,408 jobseekers from all over the country who attended the first two days of the Independence Day job fair were hired immediately by private firms and government agencies who participated in the event. Director Sy added that from the said number, 56, 299 were hired to work for the government's emergency program.

The Mega Job and Livelihood Fair offered around 400,000 local and overseas jobs; some 64,000 job vacancies offered by government agencies , 63,000 job vacancies from private companies, and 273,00 land and sea-based opportunities abroad from recruitment agencies.

Aside from job offerings, 150,000 workers in 16 regions were awarded Comprehensive Livelihood Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP) services during the event. The beneficiaries included 56,453 workers who were granted emergency employment. Another 32,982 workers received training scholarships while 67,822 workers received livelihood assistance.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Lito Atienza and DOLE Undersecretary Lourdes Trasmonte led the opening of Kalayaan 2009 Mega Job and Livelihood Fair at the Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz, in front of Quirino Grandstand. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo led the simultaneous raising of the Philippine Flag at Koronadal City, South Cotabato. The theme of this year's Independence Day Celebration is “Kagitingan, Kagalingan, at Kasipagan: Tungo sa Tunay na Kalayaan”.

The Kalayaan 2009 Mega Job and Livelihood Fair replaced the traditional Independence Day Parade celebration to help fresh graduates and workers affected by the global economic crisis find jobs to support their families. The nationwide job fair was held simultaneously in the following cities in the country.

Region	Venue
CAR	Baguio Convention Center, Baguio City
Region 1	CSI City Mall, San Fernando City, Pampanga
Region 2	Cagayan National High School Mamba Gym, Tuguegarao
Region 3	Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium, Malolos City, Bulacan (June 12 – 13); Event Center, SM City, Baliuag, Bulacan; (June 14)
Region 4-A	Calamba City Hall, Laguna (June 12-14); Kawit Aguinaldo Shrine, Cavite (June 12); Imus Plaza, Cavite (June 13-14)
Region 4-B	Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro (June 12); Calapan City,Oriental Mindoro (June 13 - 14)
Region 5	Albay Astrodome, Legazpi City
Region 6	Amigo Plaza Mall Activity Center, Iloilo City
Region 7	SM Cebu City
Region 8	Astrodome, Tacloban City
Region 9	Summit Center Universidad de Zamboanga, Zamboanga City (June 12); Molave Gymnasium, Zamboanga del Sur (June 13); Siay Gymnasium, Zamboanga Sibugay (June 14);
Region 10	Provincial Capitol Ground, Cagayan de Oro City (June 11-12); SM Cagayan de Oro Car Park, Cagayan de Oro City (June 13-14)
Region 11	NCC Mall, Matina, Davao City
Region 12	Rizal Park, Koronadal City (June 12-14); KCC Mall Convention Center, Gen. Santos City (June 13-14)
CARAGA	Almond Inland Hotel, Butuan City
ARMM	Shariff Aguak (June 12, 2009)

Trabaho.com thanks its following sources:

Jaymalin, Mayen, Philstar.com 70,000 new graduates hired. (Posted June 15, 2009) Retrieved June 15, 2009 from
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=477792&publicationSubCategoryId=63

DOLE Information and Publication Service. More than 150 thousand workers awarded with emergency jobs, training and livelihood assistance at Independence Day sites (Posted June 13, 2009) Retrieved June 15, 2009 from
http://www.dole.gov.ph/news/details.asp?id=N000002343

Burgonio, TJ, and Quennie Ann J. Palafox, Philippine Daily Inquirer. 300,000 jobs available on Independence Day. (Posted June 12, 2009) Retrieved June 15, 2009 from
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20090612-210056/300,000_jobs_available_on_Independence_Day

DOLE Information and Publication Service. Almost 400 thousand jobs offered at Independence Day Job Fair (Posted June 11, 2009) Retrieved June 15, 2009 from
http://www.dole.gov.ph/news/details.asp?id=N000002342

Gov.ph. PGMA leads celebration of RP's 111th Independence Day Friday; nationwide rites highlight jobs generation
http://www.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2000815&Itemid=2

JOB FAIRS AND EVENTS 3rd MedExpo 2009 by AdExhibit WHEN: July 30 - August 2, 2009 WHERE: Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City The Manila Education & Training Expo by Neotrade Enterprises WHEN: August 7-8, 2009 WHERE: Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), Pasay City 9th Metro Job Fair 2009 by AdExhibit WHEN: August 20-22, 2009 WHERE: SM Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City 2nd Skills Training Expo and Jobs Fair by EventWorx WHEN: August 21-22, 2009 WHERE: 4th Level Expo Trade Hall, Festival Mall, Alabang, Muntinlupa City 4th Travel Xchange WHEN: August 28-30, 2009 WHERE: Robinsons Place, Iloilo City

JOB ADS Bigbest Employment And Manpower Services Company - Design/Project Engineer - Q and TA Engineer - QA Analyst and Inspector - Q and TA Technical Assistant - Q and TA Lab Analyst - Cafe Operations Manager - Account Manager - Accounting Staff - HR Officer - Product Manager - Merchandising Manager - Medical Representative - Graphic Artist - Computer Technician - Secretary - Promodisers - Waiter/Waitress JustFlowers.com - Operations Manager (Call Center) - VB/SQL/.NET Developer ZIPP Cargo Corporation - Finance/Accounting Staff - Finance Supervisor Ayala Land Sales Inc. (ALSI) - Premier Property Specialist NCH Philippines, Inc. - Account Consultant - Technical Support Convergence Immigration and Business Solutions, Inc. - Nurse/Medical Practitioner/ - Accountant/Finance Manager or Analyst Trabaho Client #245 - Accounting Staff - Sales Engineer Technilink Philippines Corporation - Accounting Staff Senju Solder (Phils.) Inc. - Accounting Staff ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc. - Program Accountant - Finance Officers - Admin/Office Assistan - Accounting Assistants - Resource Mobilization Assistant - IT Manager - Project Manager (BayanNiJuan - Calauan, Laguna) Corporate Visions, Inc., - Factory Workers (for Taiwan) Perot Systems - Customer Service Associate (Inbound or Outbound) KASAMAKA CBR Foundation, Inc. - Community-based Rehabilitation (CBR) Facilitator

First Philippine Astronomy Convention Staged

More than 230 participants composed of professional and nonprofessional astronomers, professors, and students filled up the Plenary Hall area of the Rizal Technological University  (RTU) in Mandaluyong City last February 15, 2009 for the First Philippine Astronomy Convention (PAC 2009).

Hosted by the Astronomical League of the Philippines (ALP), PAC 2009 serves as a venue for all astronomers and astronomy-related organizations, institutions, and agencies in the country to exchange ideas, and discuss matters on astronomy and astrophysics. The convention is held during the National Astronomy Week (NAW), a weeklong celebration participated by numerous astronomical organizations, institutions, schools, and universities in the country.

Representatives from various schools such as Rizal Technological University, Cavite State University, Cayetano Science High School, Valenzuela City Science High School, Trinity University of Asia  - High School, Pasig City Science High School, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, University of the Philippines Integrated School, Asian Institute of Computer Studies, as well as members of Philippine Astronomical Society, National Institute of Physics, and International Year of Astronomy – National Organzing Committee (IYA-NOC) were present to grace the event.

RTU Vice President Dr. Jesus Rodrigo Torres led the ribbon cutting ceremony with ALP president James Kevin Ty, ALP NAW Chairman Dr. Armando Lee and ALP PRO Alice Villa-Real. This was followed by the opening remarks given by Dr. Torres, who spoke in behalf of RTU President Dr. Jose Macaballug.

Different topics were discussed during the convention:

Topic	Speaker
International Year of Astronomy 2009 Celebration at Paris, France	Ms. Pauline Pearl Divinagracia, delegate, International Year of Astronomy 2009
Course Offerings In Astronomy In The Philippines	Dr. Jesus Rodrigo Torres, RTU Vice President
Ethno-Astronomy in the Philippines	Dr. Dante Ambrosio of UP Department of History
Sidewalk Astronomers celebrates IYA2009 (100HA, Global Star Party, IYA)	Dr. Armando Lee, ALP NAW Chairman and Sidewalk Astronomers' 100 Hours of Astronomy Philippines Coordinator
EQMOD Software	Engr. Raymund Sarmiento, ALP
Jupiter's Oval BA (Red Spot Jr.,)	Mr. Christopher Go, 2006 Father Leo Boethin Astronomy Achievement Awardee

The convention was concluded with the telescope exhibit and viewing session held at the RTU Grounds. More than 12 scopes were placed at the RTU school grounds to let the participants get a chance to view the night sky. The telescopes that were used include a WO Zenithstar 80 II refractor on EQ-4 mount, 80mm Orion ST80 refractor, TV-101 refractor on Vixen GP-D mount, TV-101 refractor on Vixen GP-D mount, Orion 5" Apex Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope, and a Celestron 80WA refractor.

Astronomical exhibits were presented during the annual gathering, showcasing astronomical photographs taken by Filipino astronomers. Poster contributions from local and international scientists were also displayed to disseminate their activities and research outputs.

The First Philippine Astronomy Convention is in cooperation with Rizal Technological University, National Museum Planetarium, and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

For more details about the convention, please contact ALP President James Kevin Ty at (0917) 8559863, (0922) 8999ALP (257), ALP Education / NAW Chairman Dr. Armando Lee at (0917) 7922053, or visit the Astronomical League of the Philippines website at http://www.astroleaguephils.org/

Engineers Joined Together for the First Philippine Engineering Summit

Practitioners from all the disciplines of engineering gathered for the first time in the First Philippine Engineering Summit held last January 29 – 31, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center,Seashell Drive, Mall of Asia Complex, in Pasay City.

Bannering the theme, “Challenges in Engineering Education Practice, Governance and Environment”, the event was organized by the Philippine Technological Council (PTC) and hosted by the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE).

First Philippine Engineering Summit over-all chairman Engr. Francisco Bravo, Department of Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes, together with the Presidents of the member organizations of the PTC graced the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Around eighty exhibitors showcased the latest and state-of-the-art modern engineering products and services.

The second day of the summit marked the beginning of the convention proper. PTC President Engr. Alfredo Antonio gave the welcome address during the opening ceremony. Undersecretary Ramon Aquino of the Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH), representing Secretary Hermohenes Ebdane, served as the guest speaker of the ceremony. In his message, Undersecretary Aquino acknowledged the importance of engineers as the builders of the future and the people who lay the foundation for the growth and development in the country. He also added that, without the expertise and experience of the Filipino engineers, the growth of the infrastructure network would not be as robust. In his keynote address, Secretary Reyes encouraged the delegates to take pride in their profession. He also advised them to explore more on renewable energy. Afterwards, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Engineer Register Engr. Romulo R. Agatep headed the conferment of ASEAN Engineers.

Sessions on the third day discussed issues in engineering practice. Amiong the topics discussed were Washington Accord/ Mutual Recognition Agreement, Professional Continuing Education, and Climate Change. This was followed by an open forum where the delegates raised their concerns in the area of engineering education.

Engineering Practice capped the morning session of the third day. Among of the topic discussed were “Addressing the Gap between Engineering Graduates and the Industry”, “Interventions that the Private Institutions and Industry Can Contribute to Produce Globally Competitive Engineers”, “Outsourcing of Engineering Services”, ”Relationship of Engineers with Foreign Consultants in the Country.” The afternoon sessions were focused on the area of Engineering Governance. Among the topics tackled are Regulation, Procurement Act (Republic Act 9184), and Arbitration.

The First Engineering Summit is sponsored by Asea Brown Boveri (ABB) Inc., PPI Pazifik Power, Inc., Polyphase Marketing, Industrial Power and Control System, Inc., RPV Electro Technology Phils. Corporation, Science Centrum Fabrication, Inc., and Corinthians International Placement Services, Inc.

For more information on the event, visit the Philippine Technological Council website at http://www.ptc.org.ph/

IT-Committed Public Schools Recognized at 3rd Cebu Education Congress

Tayud National High School and Florencio Urot Memorial National High School were among the 65 public high schools in Cebu recognized by Globe Bridging Communities (Globe BridgeCom), the corporate social responsibility arm of Globe Telecom, during the 3^rd Cebu Education Congress held last February 19 – 22, 2009 at the SM City Cebu Trade Hall in Cebu City.

Organized by CEO Events and Expo Organizers, the education expo aims to aid parents and students alike who are looking for excellent education providers. Furthermore, the Cebu Education Expo is geared towards the demystification of career options among students and adults.

The 65 high schools honored came from the school division of Cebu, Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, Talisay City and Toledo City. These schools have been exerting efforts and pooling resources to sustain the donation that Globe has given them for the past three years under the telecommunication company’s Internet-In-Schools Program (ISP).

ISP provides free Internet access to partner schools in the country in contribution to the Gearing Up Internet Literacy and Access for Students (GILAS) program of the Ayala Foundation, Inc.

Other activities during the 3^rd Cebu Education Congress included business seminars on new franchising trends by Willstrong Becker, Franchise Seminar by Rudolf A. Kotik of RK Franchise Consultancy, and Trademark Seminar by Atty. Karlo Nicolas. A job fair rounded up the exhibit event.

JOB FAIRS AND EVENTS ELECTRIFYENGG Zero Resistance - Engineering Opening Week 2009 by University of the Philippines Engineering Student Council WHEN: June 22-26, 2009 WHERE: University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 3rd Philippine International Tourism Fair 2009 by National Association Of Independent Travel Agencies - Phils. Inc. (NAITAS) WHEN: June 25-27, 2009 WHERE: Marco Polo Plaza Cebu 3rd MedExpo 2009 by AdExhibit WHEN: July 30 - August 2, 2009 WHERE: SM Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City

JOB ADS Bigbest Employment And Manpower Services Company - Cafe Operations Manager - Accounting Manager - Accounting Staff - HR Officer - Product Manager - Merchandising Manager - Medical Representative - Graphic Artist - Computer Technician - Secretary - Promodisers - Waiter/Waitress Trabaho Client #245 - Accounting Staff - Sales Engineer Technilink Philippines Corporation - Accounting Staff Senju Solder (Phils.) Inc. - Accounting Staff Futaba Corporation of the Philippines (FCP) - Safety Engineer - Cadet Engineers - Computer Programmers/Analysts - Network Administrator - Line Leader - HRD Staff - General Affairs Staff - Planning Staff - Technicians Andrada Briones Inc. - Sales Person/Sales Manager JF Rubber Phils., Inc. - Accounting Clerk - HR and Admin Manager Paramount Life and General Insurance Corporation - Policy Service Assistant - Internal Auditor - Collection Assistant - Analyst/Programmer - Accounting Staff - Underwriting Clerk - Claims Clerk - Roving Cashier - Senior Trainer - Policy Accounting Assistant - Underwriting/Policy Issuance Staff - Accounting Assistant - Financial Accounting Manager - Purchasing Assistant Net1 Interactive Group Inc. - Stay at Home Telemarketer KASAMAKA CBR Foundation, Inc. - CBR Facilitator

BIOTA Staged 44th National Convention and Scientific Sessions

The Biology Teachers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (BIOTA-Phils., Inc.), in cooperation with the University of Makati and Commission on Higher Education, held its 44^th annual BIOTA National Convention and Scientific Sessions last April 2 – 4, 2009 at the University of Makati in West Rembo, Makati City.

Guided by the theme, “Biologists in Biosource Exploration and Conservation”, the national convention aims to affirm the biologist's vital role as agent of change in the exploration and conservation of the Earth's bioresources. Furthermore, it aims to identify effective ways by which contemporary teaching approaches and practical research methods can be integrated into the Biology course at different education levels. The convention also stressed the responsibility of biology teachers and researches in promoting interest, understanding, and appreciation of biological science. The convention provided a venue for teachers to share their experiences and to enhance their knowledge on research works, teaching innovations, and other creative activities that may help improve and promote Biology education in the country.

The event was attended by biology teachers and researchers from all levels of public and private schools and educational institutions nationwide. Major activities during the event included plenary sessions, seminars, workshops, demonstrations, hands-on activities, poster exhibits/discussions, and commercial exhibits.

Aside from the formal convention, a fellowship night and testimonial dinner was staged at the University of Makati food court. Also, a field trip of the whole length of Pasig River was arranged, sponsored by the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission. Complimentary tickets to the Manila Ocean Park were given to all members of BIOTA where the delegates enjoyed a night of fun filled adventures.

2009 Philippines 21 Young Leaders Forum Now Open for Nominations

Asia Society, a leaading global organization working to strengthen relationships and promote understanding among the people, leaders, and institutions of Asia and the United States, recently announced the opening of a new class of promising young achievers for the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative.

A flagship program of the Asia Society Philippine Foundation, the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative seeks to identify and develop a network of change-makers across various sectors to meet, educate, and inspire each other; collaborate and share ideas on public service and other meaningful initiatives; and build relationships of trust and understanding.

Nominees must be between 25-40 years old, of Filipino citizenship, and must have substantial leadership experience in their chosen field, including but not limited to the following: academe, business, civil society, media, arts and culture, military, and government. Also, prospective Philippines 21 Fellows must be able to commit time and effort to achieve the goals and projects set by their Class.

Upon selection as Philippines 21 Fellows, the Class of 2009 will convene at a two-day forum where they will engage in roundtable discussions on issues concerning the Philippines and the Asia Pacific region, in preparation for their participation in the international program, with the ultimate goal of developing projects to address these issues.

The annual Forum, co-presented by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, the official media partner of the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative, will be held in the last week of August.

Philippines 21 Fellows will serve as the country’s official delegation to the Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit. This year’s Summit, scheduled for November in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, will bring together some 200 of the most dynamic next generation leaders from Asia and the United States.

Nomination forms may be requested from the Philippines 21 Secretariat via email at philippines21@gmail.comor patriciav@asiasoc.org.ph on or before June 22, 2009. Short listed candidates will be notified by the third week of July 2009.

For more details on the Philippines 21 Young Leaders Initiative, please call Patricia Vega at (632)7524374 or (632)8108983.

Franchising Can Create Jobs and Income for OFWs

Instead of job hunting, overseas Filipino workers (OFW) who were affected by the global financial downturn can engage in franchising and create more jobs in the process.

According to Mr. Samie Lim, chairman of the Philippine Franchise Association, (PFA) in an interview with ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau during the World Franchise Council (WFC) meeting and Franchise Expo Paris in Paris last March 12, there are three specific businesses that Filipinos can engage in, which would not require huge capital. These are ood, fashion, and service sectors such as health and beauty salons. Furthermore, Mr. Lim said that expanded franchising businesses in the Philippines can create an estimate of 100,000 jobs this year.

Aside from OFWs, displaced workers who have enough savings and good network with potential business partners may also consider venturing in the franchising business.

Meanwhile, a week before the WFC, OFWs in Paris attended the Financial Literacy and Wise Investment Seminar organized by the Philippine Embassy, in cooperation with PFA and sponsored by the Philippine Trade and Investment Center, the representative of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in France. The event taught the participants on how to start their business and basic information on franchising.

As a way to further teach Filipinos on the benefits of franchising and as an alternative for OFW, he PFA will spearhead the 17th Philippine International Franchise Conference & Expo slated on July 1 – 5, 2009. For more information, visit the PFA website at http://www.pfa.org.ph/

Trabaho.com thanks its following sources:

Buenafe, Danny, ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau. Franchising business to generate 100,000 jobs (Posted March 17, 2009) Retrieved March 18, 2009
http://news.abs-cbn.com/pinoy-migration/03/17/09/franchising-business-generate-100000-jobs

Philippine Franchise Association Press Release. PFA Sends Trade Mission to Europe (Posted March 11, 2009 Retrieved March 18, 2009 from
http://www.pfa.org.ph/?page=home

PinoyBusiness.org. Turning job seekers into entrepreneurs (Posted March 11, 2009) Retrieved March 18, 2009
http://pinoybusiness.org/2009/03/11/turning-job-seekers-into-entrepreneurs/

Malou Guanzon-Apalisok, Cebu Daily News.Watching one’s pocket entrepreneurs (Posted March 20, 2009) Retrieved March 20, 2009 from
http://www.inquirer.net/specialfeatures/thefinancialcrunch/view.php?db=1&article=20090320-195216

EVENTS Job World Job Fair Roadshow by Neotrade Enterprises WHEN: April 24-25, 2009 WHERE: Victory Central Mall, Monumento, Caloocan City Skilled Jobs Fair and Training Expo by EventWorx Company WHEN: April 25-26, 2009 WHERE: RiverBanks Center, Marikina City Medical and Pharma Career Fair by Neotrade Enterprises WHEN: April 28-29, 2009 WHERE: Robinsons Manila 2nd National Career Fair by AdExhibit WHEN: April 29-30, 2009 WHERE: Glorietta Activity Center

JOB ADS Sybase Mobile Services - Network Operations Centre Engineer - VAS Engineer - Intelligent Network Engineer Paramount Life and General Insurance Corporation - Policy Service Assistant - Internal Auditor - Collection Assistant - Analyst/Programmer - Accounting Staff - Underwriting Clerk - Claims Clerk - Roving Cashier - Senior Trainer - Policy Accounting Assistant - Underwriting/Policy Issuance Staff - Accounting Assistant - Financial Accounting Manager - Purchasing Assistant Redbox/Banana Leaf Cury House - Restaurant Manager - Restaurant Supervisor - Front Desk Associate - Sales & Marketing Officer - Dining Staff - Kitchen Staff - Bartender - Cashier Alara Software, Inc. - Programmer Analyst Prestige Criuses, Inc. - Tour Guide - Sales Coordinators Philippine College of Criminology - Personnel Officer - Maintenance Supervisor (Foreman) - IT Staff (Database Administrator) - IT Staff (Technical Support) - Researcher JustFlowers.com - Human Resources Manager - Operations Manager NERA Philippines, Inc. - Network Engineer - HR/Admin Manager - Sales Executive EventWorx - Sales and Marketing Associates - Creative Writing Interns/OJT - Multimedia/Graphic Design Interns/OJT Justino Corporation - Sales Coordinator

PGMA: Match Jobs with Skills

President Gloria Macapagal – Arroyo stressed during the Jobs Forum on Overseas Employment last March 2, 2009 at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacañang to improve skill matching with the jobs available in the market.

According to the data released by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) during the event, there are 500,000 jobs available for Filipinos overseas. However, DOLE Secretary Marianito Roque admitted that a lot of the job seekers do not have the skills necessary for the jobs available overseas, specially those located in the Middle East.

Jobs available overseas are in line with construction and healthcare services.

As such, the President has ordered the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to intensify its training and retraining of workers in skills that are responsive to the demands and requirements of these industries.

TESDA Director General Augusto Syjuco, during the forum, urged unemployed Filipinos to consider the Authority’s skills training and retraining courses, which are matched to the jobs available overseas.

A joint communiqué was presented to Arroyo wherein stakeholders in the labor sector pledged to enhance skills training, make the hiring of Filipinos abroad easier, improve the welfare of overseas Filipino workers, review employment contracts to enhance overseas working conditions, address the shortage of marine deck and engine officers, fight illegal recruitment, and improve the competitiveness of Philippine vessels at Malacañang during the forum.

Trabaho.com thanks its following sources:

Sy, Marvin with Sheila Crisostomo, Philstar.com. GMA: Plenty of jobs available for Pinoy workers despite financial crisis (Posted March 3, 2009) Retrieved March 6, 2009 from
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=445126&publicationSubCategoryId=63

Samonte, Angelo S., The Manila Times. 500,000 overseas jobs available for Filipinos (Posted March 3, 2009) Retrieved March 6, 2009 from
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2009/march/03/yehey/top_stories/20090303top4.html

Guinto, Joel, INQUIRER.net with Christian Esguerra, Philippine Daily Inquirer. Arroyo: 500,000 job openings abroad (Posted March 2, 2009) Retrieved March 6, 2009 from
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/news/view/20090302-191857/Arroyo-500000-job-openings-abroad

EVENTS Job World Job Fair Roadshow by Neotrade Enterprises WHEN: March 26-27, 2009 WHERE: Starmall Alabang Job World Job Fair Roadshow by Neotrade Enterprises WHEN: March 30-31, 2009 WHERE: Ever Gotesco Commonwealth

JOB ADS Sybase Mobile Services - Network Operations Centre Engineer - VAS Engineer - Intelligent Network Engineer Paramount Life and General Insurance Corporation - Policy Service Assistant - Internal Auditor - Collection Assistant - Analyst/Programmer - Accounting Staff - Underwriting Clerk - Claims Clerk - Roving Cashier - Senior Trainer - Policy Accounting Assistant - Underwriting/Policy Issuance Staff - Accounting Assistant - Financial Accounting Manager - Purchasing Assistant Redbox/Banana Leaf Cury House - Restaurant Manager - Restaurant Supervisor - Front Desk Associate - Sales & Marketing Officer - Dining Staff - Kitchen Staff - Bartender - Cashier Alara Software, Inc. - Programmer Analyst Prestige Criuses, Inc. - Tour Guide - Sales Coordinators Philippine College of Criminology - Personnel Officer - Maintenance Supervisor (Foreman) - IT Staff (Database Administrator) - IT Staff (Technical Support) - Researcher JustFlowers.com - Human Resources Manager - Operations Manager NERA Philippines, Inc. - Network Engineer - HR/Admin Manager - Sales Executive EventWorx - Sales and Marketing Associates - Creative Writing Interns/OJT - Multimedia/Graphic Design Interns/OJT Justino Corporation - Sales Coordinator

Foreign Academes Joined RP in Philippine-Latin American Studies Conference

Members of the local and foreign academe met for the First Philippine-Latin American Studies Conference held last December 15 to 16, 2008 at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) in Intramuros, Manila. The event concluded last December 17, 2008 at the National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development building of University of the Philippines (UP) – Diliman, Quezon City.

Organized by the Philippine Academic Consortium for Latin American Studies (PACLAS), the First Philippine-Latin American Studies carried the theme, “The Philippines and Latin America: Past, Present and Future”. The conference sought to bring together scholars on Philippine and Latin American studies here and abroad and share vital knowledge and information in order to understand the connection between the two races.

During the event, numerous experts from academic institutions here and abroad shared their researches on “Philippines in the world of Latin America”, Philippine-Mexican connections, Galeon Trade implications, perspectives on politics and migration in Mexico, construction of the Trans-Pacific Trade and its effects, Philippine-Latin American relations, development of the country in a colonial and contemporary society, architecture and urban life, regional economic and security issues, representation and consumption, and interaction in the arts.

Some of the resource persons were from the University of the Philippines, University of Asia and the Pacific, Ateneo De Manila University, De la Salle University-Dasmariñas, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and Intramuros Administration.

Foreign delegates came from the Universidad Iberoamericana (Ibero-American University) and Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (Autonomous University of Puebla) in Mexico, Universidad EAFIT in Colombia, University of Vienna in Austria, Universidad de las Palmas de Gran Canaria (University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) in Spain, National University of Ireland, Maynooth in Ireland Instituto Brasileiro de Relações Internacionais (Brazilian Institute of International Relations) in Brazil, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (Pontifical Catholic University of Chile), Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in South Korea, and Oberlin College and University of California-Berkeley in U.S.A.

PACLAS, founded in 2002 and initiated by the DFA, is a consortium of major Philippine universities seeking to promote academic and cultural exchange and to expand studies on Philippine-Latin American relations in collaboration with Latin American consular offices in Manila and counterpart academic institutions in Latin America.

The First Philippine-Latin American Studies Conference is co-sponsored by the City of Manila, Manila Historical and Heritage Commission, PLM, and the Office of the Chancellor of UP – Diliman.