Pinoy And Peso

CIGNAL TV AUTHORIZED DEALER (Rizal, Marikina,Pasig, Manila) Free Installation

2014-05-09T06:41:00.000-07:00

CIGNAL AUTHORIZED DEALER Digital HD TV Satellite (Rizal, Marikina,Pasig, Manila)

POSTPAID PLANS

Plan 430 = P580/mo (46 channels with 6 HD)
Plan 590 = P740/mo (61 channels with 10 HD)
Plan 790 = P890/mo ( 70 channels with 13 HD)
Plan 990 = P1,090/mo(78 channels with 17 HD)
Plan 1,290 = P1,390/mo (84 channels with 20 HD) w/ Free installation
Plan 1,590 = P1,690/mo ( 89 channels with 24 HD) w/ Free installation
(All Inclusive of Monthly Box Maintenance Fee)

PREPAID PLANS

Plan 290 SD (18 Channels)
Plan 390 SD (25 Channels)
Plan 430 SD (29 Channels)
Cignal Prepaid Kit : P2,990

Plan 590 HD (60 channels + 9HD)
Cignal Prepaid Kit : P5,590

Installation fee: Min of P1000.00
Cignal Satellite Kit includes satellite dish (antenna, mountings, peripherals), set-top box, RCA cable, 15 meters RG6 cable,remote control, and Cignal card

Requirements:
Photocopy of Valid ID
Latest Proof of Billing
Proof of Income

Text/Email/Call Us Now!
No Hassle/No Hidden Charges!

ARNOLD ANCHETA
CastleSky Enterprises - Antipolo City
Cignal Authorized Dealer
09292782008

We install with QUALITY. 6 months warranty and support.
Kahit anong TV pwede! CLEAR lahat ng channels
APPLY NOW! KABIT AGAD!

http://www.olx.ph/index.php/view+classifieds/id/38815362/CIGNAL+TV+Authorized+Dealer+Rizal+Marikina+Pasig+Free+Installation

Henry Sy: Father of Philippine Retail

2012-01-05T08:55:00.000-08:00

“Success is not just good luck. It is a combination of hard work, good credit standing, opportunity, readiness, and timing.” – Henry Sy Sr.

Henry Sy, known as the “Father of Philippine Retail” and the #1 Philippines’ richest man, was born October 25, 1924 in the village of Ankhue, in the Jinjiang county (now city) of Fujian province, south China.

We will look into the business success story of a Filipino entrepreneur, Henry Sy, in this article by Wilson Lee Flores, entrepreneur magazine.

Chinese immigrant Henry Sy survived the loss of his father’s two sari- sari stores at the close of World War II eventually install to himself as Asia’s shopping mall king. He survived other crises as well: the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos’ declaration of martial law (1972), the chaos following opposition leader Benigno Aquino Jr’s assassination (1983), the military coups against the Aquino administration (1987- 89), and the Asian financial crisis (starting 1997). “I don’t give up easily,” Sy, 85, says, “I look for solutions to problems. I want to make things happen.”

And happen they did. In its March 17, 2003 issue, the US business magazine Forbes listed Henry Sy among the world’s billionaires, with an estimated net worth of $1.2 billion and exceeding the fortunes of France’s Michellin, clan of tire makers; Citigroup boss Sanford Weill; publishing tycoon William Hearst III; Richard Marriott of the world- famous hotel chain; and television host Oprah Winfrey. In 1999, the Management Association of the Philippines named Henry Sy as “Management Man of the Year.” In 2005, the Philippine Retail Association conferred him the title, “Father of Philippine Retail,” and the Hong Kong Shanghai Banking Corporation honored him as one of four Business Greats.

Sy’s success has only increase his fame and clout. In 2002 he astounded most analysts when he tapped Asia’s wealthiest billionaire, Hong Kong’s Li Ka-Shing, to invest in the Philippines through a joint venture between the SM group and Li’s Watson retail chain.

Mall of Asia

His retail and other businesses aside, Sy is the power behind Banco de Oro Universal Bank and the 85-year old China Banking Corp., which his group took over in early 2005. He became a major force in promoting Philippine tourism after taking control of Tagaytay Highlands, a prime property and one of the projects Highlands prime Inc. (the real estate arm of publicly- listed Belle Resources), where Sy and sons Henry Jr. and Hans sit as board members. Tagaytay Highlands is a strategic complement to similar projects in Baguio and Cebu, and that gave the Philippines “a world- class resort community.” When “Mall of Asia,” his dream project, is completed in the Manila Bay reclamation area, it will sit on 90 hectares and is envisioned to be the premiere destination mall in the Asia Pacific region.

Indeed it is in the mall business that Sy has eminently distinguished himself. Sy’s SM Group of Companies, one of the Philippines’ biggest conglomerates, started as a shoe-retailing store on Carriedo Street in Quiapo, Manila. (The holding firm for the group, SM Investments Corp., was incorporated in 1960. SMIC became public in early 2005, raising nearly P25 billion in new money that many believed the Sy family will use to expand its portfolio investments and acquisitions). In 2001, the London- based Euromoney magazine named Sy’s retail chain as Best Retailer in Asia. Shoemart Inc., the Philippines’ largest chain of department stores, is an anchor tenant in all SM malls. Supervalue Inc handles the group’s supermarket businesses, including the Warehouse Clubs. The group’s retail chain include Star Appliance Center as well as stores dealing in hardware products, appliances, toys, home and lifestyle products, health and beauty products, export- overrun clothes and fashion accessories. SM also operates the Philippine’s largest chain of cinemas. Its Makro retail chain is a partnership with the Ayala Group of companies, another Philippine giant.

Group Leader

Henry Sy was born in the village of Ankhue, in the Jinjiang county (now city), of Fujian province, south of China. In 1936, when he was 12, he and his father migrated to Manila and here learned the basics of retailing and good customer service in his father’s sari-sari store. (One of his fondest memories of the pre- war era was joining a crowd of onlookers at the inauguration of Quezon Bridge in Quiapo, Manila, with the guest of honor, the flamboyant President Manuel L. Quezon, wearing his famous safari hat. The boy never imagined that he would get to meet and know all Philippine Presidents in the course of his business career). Desperate to study and learn English, Sy asked permission from his father to go back to school. He was already 12, but he had to start from grade one when he enrolled at the Quiapo Anglo- Chinese High School, where his classmates were younger and smaller. On reaching grade 4, Sy asked his teacher if he could be accelerated, and his teacher agreed provided he attained a minimum grade average of 90 percent. He eventually completed grad school in five years. “I used second- hand books and bought only a few pieces of pad paper at a time,” Sy says. “I did not want to ask more money from my father, who was working so hard. I was happy enough to be studying. I was not first in academics, but I was the group leader.”

Near the end of the war, one of the elders Sy’s stores was burned down and the other looted in the chaos. “We lost everything,” Sy says. “My father decided to go back to China and asked me to join him, but it was my opportunity to start a business; I decided to stay behind. My father was pained by the hardships, but I never lost hope.”

After the war, goods were in desperate supply, so the young Henry joined the booming buy-and-sell business and saved enough money for future ventures. He returned to school in the early 1950s, enrolling at the Far Eastern University in Manila, in hopes of securing a degree in commerce. He lasted only two years as a result of pressure from his growing business. More than 40 years later, on January 30, 1999, De La Salle University conferred on him an honorary doctorate in business management. It was a toast to half a century of brilliant entrepreneurship. It has become a cliche, but success came to Sy only as a result of hard work, tenacity, frugality, self- discipline, Confucian values, and an undying thirst of learning.

Julie’s Bakeshop Success Story

2012-01-05T08:49:00.000-08:00

I guess every Filipino knows this bakeshop. Now it has become a common bakeshop with more than 500 stores serving every Filipinos. The owner, Julie Gandionco and her sons as far as I remember was already featured on some TV shows. But little that we know how it started from a humble beginning.

The Julie’s Bakeshop story is the kind that hits close to home, particularly because it was born out of the needs of a family which something most people can relate to. When she reached the age of 47, Julie Gandioco’s duties as a mother were becoming less and less demanding. Her children – Bobby, Rico and Opep were already in college, and the rest Oding, Neil and Patty were in high school. Her kid’s educational expenses were going up and her husband’s sugar farm was not doing well. So she thought that there were something that she must do to help her husband.

The Opportunity Knocks

When she saw a job posting as a canteen concessionaire at PHILDACAN, a rattan factory, she applied and got the contract. Since lady luck has already knocking on her doors, it became a hit after one year and she was offered to run another on PHILDACAN’s sister company, Admacor and a year after at the La Union Carbide factory. The three factories were in the vicinity of Mandaue and the employees being fed daily by her canteen totaled 1,780 which is a big task for a neophyte. But despite of this she have the courage to face such a big task. As a true entrepreneur, she never refuse a challenge and she replicates success. She said so herself that “If you can manage one business efficiently, there is no reason why you can’t with two or three. All you have to do is duplicate what you are doing. This just need good organization hard work and a lot of prayers.”

The Birth of Julie’s Bakeshop

Julie noticed that her customers consumes a lot of bread which she bought from different bakeshops at that time. One of her bread supplier, Vicente Ruiz encourage her to put up her own bakeshop so she could supply her own needs. She realized that it was a good opportunity because the market was already there but she was hesitant at first because she have no experience in baking or bakeshop business.

Eventually she took Vicente’s advice on the condition that he joins her business and take care of all the baking while she took care of the rest. One of the keys for a successful business is hiring an expert which attributed to her success. By hiring an expert to help start her bakery business, she didn’t have to worry about the product. Again I would say that she was lucky enough that she have an expert on her side because if she hired an amateur, then that would hinder her success.

Julie put up her savings which amounts to Php19,000 to open up the family’s first bakeshop on January 6, 1981 in Wireless, Mandaue. She served staples like Elorde, Everlasting, Pan de Coco and Pandesal. Then she opened up another bakeshop in Aznar road near Southwestern University just six months after she opened up the first and she recovered her investment only in one year.

Based on the short success story, it is obvious that age doesn’t matter if we were given a break by our Almighty Creator. Just let us keep ourselves hoping and trusting in Him that someday we will have our break.

Source: Masigasig Magazine

e-Commerce Law Philippines

2012-01-01T23:22:00.000-08:00

Republic Act No. 8792

ELECTRONIC COMMERCE ACT

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE RECOGNITION AND USE OF ELECTRONIC COMMERCIAL AND NON -COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS AND DOCUMENTS, PENALTIES FOR UNLAWFUL USE THEREOF AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Republic of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

PART I

SHORT TITLE AND DECLARATION OF POLICY

Sec. 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Electronic Commerce Act of 2000".

Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. - The State recognizes the vital role of information and communications technology (ICT) in nation-building; the need to create an information-friendly environment which supports and ensures the availability, diversity and affordability of ICT products and services; the primary responsibility of the private sector in contributing investments and services in telecommunications and information technology; the need to develop, with appropriate training programs and institutional policy changes, human resources for the information technology age, a labor force skilled in the use of ICT and a population capable of operating and utilizing electronic appliances and computers; its obligation to facilitate the transfer and promotion of adaptation technology, to ensure network security, connectivity and neutrality of technology for the national benefit; and the need to marshal, organize and deploy national information infrastructures, comprising in both telecommunications network and strategic information services, including their interconnection to the global information networks, with the necessary and appropriate legal, financial, diplomatic and technical framework, systems and facilities.

PART II

ELECTRONIC COMMERCE IN GENERAL

Sec. 3. Objective. - This Act aims to facilitate domestic and international dealings, transactions, arrangements, agreements, contracts and exchanges and storage of information through the utilization of electronic, optical and similar medium, mode, instrumentality and technology to recognize the authenticity and reliability of electronic documents related to such activities and to promote the universal use of electronic transaction in the government and general public.

Sec. 4. Sphere of Application. This Act shall apply to any kind of data message and electronic document used in the context of commercial and non-commercial activities to include domestic and international dealings, transactions, arrangements, agreements, contracts and exchanges and storage of information.

Sec. 5. Definition of Terms. For the purposes of this Act, the following terms are defined, as follows:

a. .Addressee. refers to a person who is intended by the originator to receive the electronic data message or electronic document. The term does not include a person acting as an intermediary with respect to that electronic data message or electronic document.

b. .Computer. refers to any device or apparatus which, by electronic, electro-mechanical or magnetic impulse, or by other means, is capable of receiving, recording, transmitting, storing, processing, retrieving, or producing information, data, figures, symbols or other modes of written expression according to mathematical and logical rules or of performing any one or more of those functions.
c. .Electronic Data message. refers to information generated, sent, received or stored by electronic, optical or similar means.
d. .Information and communication system. refers to a system intended for and capable of generating, sending, receiving, storing or otherwise processing electronic data messages or electronic documents and includes the computer system or other similar device by or in which data is recorded or stored and any procedures related to the recording or storage of electronic data message or electronic document.
e. .Electronic signature. refers to any distinctive mark, characteristic and/or sound in electronic form, representing the identity of a person and attached to or logically associated with the electronic data message or electronic document or any methodology or procedures employed or adopted by a person and executed or adopted by such person with the intention of authenticating or approving an electronic data message or electronic document.
f. .Electronic document. refers to information or the representation of information, data, figures, symbols or other modes of written expression, described or however represented, by which a right is established or an obligation extinguished, or by which a fact may be proved and affirmed, which is received, recorded, transmitted, stored, processed, retrieved or produced electronically.
g. .Electronic key. refers to a secret code which secures and defends sensitive information that crosses over public channels into a form decipherable only with a matching electronic key.
h. .Intermediary. refers to a person who in behalf of another person and with respect to a particular electronic document sends, receives and/or stores or provides other services in respect of that electronic document.
i. .Originator. refers to a person by whom, or on whose behalf, the electronic document purports to have been created, generated and/or sent . The term does not include a person acting as an intermediary with respect to that electronic document.
j. .Service provider. refers to a provider of -

(i) On-line services or network access, or the operator of facilities therefor, including entities offering the transmission, routing, or providing of connections for online communications, digital or otherwise, between or among points specified by a user, of electronic documents of the user.s choosing; or

(ii) The necessary technical means by which electronic documents of an originator may be stored and made accessible to a designated or undesignated third party;

Such service providers shall have no authority to modify or alter the content of the electronic data message or electronic document received or to make any entry therein on behalf of the originator, addressee or any third party unless specifically authorized to do so, and who shall retain the electronic document in accordance with the specific request or as necessary for the purpose of performing the services it was engaged to perform.

CHAPTER II

LEGAL RECOGNITION OF ELECTRONIC DATA MESSAGES AND ELECTRONIC DOCUMENTS

Sec. 6. Legal Recognition of Data Messages. - Information shall not be denied legal effect, validity or enforceability solely on the grounds that it is in the data message purporting to give rise to such legal effect, or that it is merely referred to in that electronic data message.

Sec. 7. Legal Recognition of Electronic Documents. . Electronic documents shall have the legal effect, validity or enforceability as any other document or legal writing, and -

(a) Where the law requires a document to be in writing, that requirement is met by an electronic document if the said electronic document maintains its integrity and reliability and can be authenticated so as to be usable for subsequent reference, in that -

(i) The electronic document has remained complete and unaltered, apart from the addition of any endorsement and any authorized change, or any change which arises in the normal course of communication, storage and display; and
(ii) The electronic document is reliable in the light of the purpose for which it was generated and in the light of all the relevant circumstances.
(b) Paragraph (a) applies whether the requirement therein is in the form of an obligation or whether the law simply provides consequences for the document not being presented or retained in its original form.
(c) Where the law requires that a document be presented or retained in its original form, that requirement is met by an electronic document if -
(i) There exists a reliable assurance as to the integrity of the document from the time when it was first generated in its final form; and
(ii) That document is capable of being displayed to the person to whom it is to be presented: Provided, That no provision of this Act shall apply to vary any and all requirements of existing laws on formalities required in the execution of documents for their validity.

For evidentiary purposes, an electronic document shall be the functional equivalent of a written document under existing laws.

This Act does not modify any statutory rule relating to the admissibility of electronic data messages or electronic documents, except the rules relating to authentication and best evidence.

Sec. 8. Legal Recognition of Electronic Signatures. An electronic signature on the electronic document shall be equivalent to the signature of a person on a written document if that signature is proved by showing that a prescribed procedure, not alterable by the parties interested in the electronic document, existed under which -

a.) A method is used to identify the party sought to be bound and to indicate said party.s access to the electronic document necessary for his consent or approval through the electronic signature;

b.) Said method is reliable and appropriate for the purpose for which the electronic document was generated or communicated, in the light of all the circumstances, including any relevant agreement;
c.) It is necessary for the party sought to be bound, in order to proceed further with the transaction, to have executed or provided the electronic signature; and
d.) The other party is authorized and enabled to verify the electronic signature and to make the decision to proceed with the transaction authenticated by the same.

Sec. 9. Presumption Relating to Electronic Signatures. - In any proceedings involving an electronic signature, it shall be presumed that -

a.) The electronic signature is the signature of the person to whom it correlates; and

b.) The electronic signature was affixed by that person with the intention of signing or approving the electronic document unless the person relying on the electronically signed electronic document knows or has notice of defects in or unreliability of the signature or reliance on the electronic signature is not reasonable under the circumstances.

SEC. 10. Original Documents. - (1) Where the law requires information to be presented or retained in its original form, that requirement is met by an electronic data message or electronic document if:

(a) the integrity of the information from the time when it was first generated in its final form, as an electronic data message or electronic document is shown by evidence aliunde or otherwise; and

(b) where it is required that information be presented, that the information is capable of being displayed to the person to whom it is to be presented.

(2) Paragraph (1) applies whether the requirement therein is in the form of an obligation or whether the law simply provides consequences for the information not being presented or retained in its original form.

(3) For the purposes of subparagraph (a) of paragraph (1):

(a) the criteria for assessing integrity shall be whether the information has remained complete and unaltered, apart from the addition of any endorsement and any change which arises in the normal course of communication, storage and display; and

(b) the standard of reliability required shall be assessed in the light of the purpose for which the information was generated and in the light of all relevant circumstances.

SEC. 11. Authentication of Electronic Data Messages and Electronic Documents. - Until the Supreme Court by appropriate rules shall have so provided, electronic documents, electronic data messages and electronic signatures, shall be authenticated by demonstrating, substantiating and validating a claimed identity of a user, device, or another entity in an information or communication system, among other ways, as follows:

(a) The electronic signature shall be authenticated by proof that a letter, character, number or other symbol in electronic form representing the persons named in and attached to or logically associated with an electronic data message, electronic document, or that the appropriate methodology or security procedures, when applicable, were employed or adopted by a person and executed or adopted by such person, with the intention of authenticating or approving an electronic data message or electronic document;

(b) The electronic data message and electronic document shall be authenticated by proof that an appropriate security procedure, when applicable was adopted and employed for the purpose of verifying the originator of an electronic data message and/or electronic document, or detecting error or alteration in the communication, content or storage of an electronic document or electronic data message from a specific point, which, using algorithm or codes, identifying words or numbers, encryptions, answers back or acknowledgement procedures, or similar security devices.

The Supreme Court may adopt such other authentication procedures, including the use of electronic notarization systems as necessary and advisable, as well as the certificate of authentication on printed or hard copies of the electronic document or electronic data messages by electronic notaries, service providers and other duly recognized or appointed certification authorities.

The person seeking to introduce an electronic data message and electronic document in any legal proceeding has the burden of proving its authenticity by evidence capable of supporting a finding that the electronic data message and electronic document is what the person claims it to be.

In the absence of evidence to the contrary, the integrity of the information and communication system in which an electronic data message or electronic document is recorded or stored may be established in any legal proceeding -

(a) By evidence that at all material times the information and communication system or other similar device was operating in a manner that did not affect the integrity of the electronic data message and/or electronic document, and there are no other reasonable grounds to doubt the integrity of the information and communication system;

(b) By showing that the electronic data message and/or electronic document was recorded or stored by a party to the proceedings who is adverse in interest to the party using it; or
(c) By showing that the electronic data message and/or electronic document was recorded or stored in the usual and ordinary course of business by a person who is not a party to the proceedings and who did not act under the control of the party using the record.

SEC. 12. Admissibility and Evidential Weight of Electronic Data Message and Electronic Documents. - In any legal proceedings, nothing in the application of the rules on evidence shall deny the admissibility of an electronic data message or electronic document in evidence -

a. On the sole ground that it is in electronic form; or

b. On the ground that it is not in the standard written form and electronic data message or electronic document meeting, and complying with the requirements under Sections 6 or 7 hereof shall be the best evidence of the agreement and transaction contained therein.

In assessing the evidential weight of an electronic data message or electronic document, the reliability of the manner in which it was generated, stored or communicated, the reliability of the manner in which its originator was identified, and other relevant factors shall be given due regard.

SEC. 13. Retention of Electronic Data Message and Electronic Document. - Notwithstanding any provision of law, rule or regulation to the contrary -

(a) The requirement in any provision of law that certain documents be retained in their original form is satisfied by retaining them in the form of an electronic data message or electronic document which -

i. Remains accessible so as to be usable for subsequent reference;

ii. Is retained in the format in which it was generated, sent or received, or in a format which can be demonstrated to accurately represent the electronic data message or electronic document generated, sent or received;
iii. Enables the identification of its originator and addressee, as well as the determination of the date and the time it was sent or received.

(b) The requirement referred to in paragraph (a) is satisfied by using the services of a third party, provided that the conditions set forth in subparagraphs (i), (ii) and (iii) of paragraph (a) are met.

SEC. 14. Proof By Affidavit. - The matters referred to in Section 12, on admissibility and Section 9, on the presumption of integrity, may be presumed to have been established by an affidavit given to the best of the deponent's knowledge subject to the rights of parties in interest as defined in the following section.

SEC. 15. Cross-Examination. - (1) A deponent of an affidavit referred to in Section 14 that has been introduced in evidence may be cross-examined as of right by a party to the proceedings who is adverse in interest to the party who has introduced the affidavit or has caused the affidavit to be introduced.

(2) Any party to the proceedings has the right to cross-examine a person referred to in Section 11, paragraph 4, sub-paragraph c.

CHAPTER III COMMUNICATION OF ELECTRONIC DATA MESSAGES AND ELECTRONIC DOCUMENTS

SEC. 16. Formation and Validity of Electronic Contracts. - (1) Except as otherwise agreed by the parties, an offer, the acceptance of an offer and such other elements required under existing laws for the formation of contracts may be expressed in, demonstrated and proved by means of electronic data message or electronic documents and no contract shall be denied validity or enforceability on the sole ground that it is in the form of an electronic data message or electronic document, or that any or all of the elements required under existing laws for the formation of the contracts is expressed, demonstrated and proved by means of electronic documents.

(2) Electronic transactions made through networking among banks, or linkages thereof with other entities or networks, and vice versa, shall be deemed consummated upon the actual dispensing of cash or the debit of one account and the corresponding credit to another, whether such transaction is initiated by the depositor or by an authorized collecting party: Provided, that the obligation of one bank, entity, or person similarly situated to another arising therefrom shall be considered absolute and shall not be subjected to the process of preference of credits.

SEC. 17. Recognition by Parties of Electronic Data Message or Electronic Document. - As between the originator and the addressee of a electronic data message or electronic document, a declaration of will or other statement shall not be denied legal effect, validity or enforceability solely on the ground that it is in the form of a electronic data message.

SEC. 18. Attribution of Electronic Data Message. - (1) An electronic data message or electronic document is that of the originator if it was sent by the originator himself.

(2) As between the originator and the addressee, an electronic data message or electronic document is deemed to be that of the originator if it was sent:

(a) by a person who had the authority to act on behalf of the originator with respect to that electronic data message or electronic document; or

(b) by an information system programmed by, or on behalf of the originator to operate automatically.

(3) As between the originator and the addressee, an addressee is entitled to regard an electronic data message or electronic document as being that of the originator, and to act on that assumption, if:

(a) in order to ascertain whether the electronic data message or electronic document was that of the originator, the addressee properly applied a procedure previously agreed to by the originator for that purpose; or

(b) the electronic data message or electronic document as received by the addressee resulted from the actions of a person whose relationship with the originator or with any agent of the originator enabled that person to gain access to a method used by the originator to identify electronic data messages as his own.

(4) Paragraph (3) does not apply:

(a) as of the time when the addressee has both received notice from the originator that the electronic data message or electronic document is not that of the originator, and has reasonable time to act accordingly; or

(b) in a case within paragraph (3) sub-paragraph (b), at any time when the addressee knew or should have known, had it exercised reasonable care or used any agreed procedure, that the electronic data message or electronic document was not that of the originator.

(5) Where an electronic data message or electronic document is that of the originator or is deemed to be that of the originator, or the addressee is entitled to act on that assumption, then, as between the originator and the addressee, the addressee is entitled to regard the electronic data message or electronic document as received as being what the originator intended to send, and to act on that assumption. The addressee is not so entitled when it knew or should have known, had it exercised reasonable care or used any agreed procedure, that the transmission resulted in any error in the electronic data message or electronic document as received.

(6) The addressee is entitled to regard each electronic data message or electronic document received as a separate electronic data message or electronic document and to act on that assumption, except to the extent that it duplicates another electronic data message or electronic document and the addressee knew or should have known, had it exercised reasonable care or used any agreed procedure, that the electronic data message or electronic document was a duplicate.

SEC. 19. Error on Electronic Data Message or Electronic Document. - The addressee is entitled to regard the electronic data message or electronic document received as that which the originator intended to send, and to act on that assumption, unless the addressee knew or should have known, had the addressee exercised reasonable care or used the appropriate procedure -

(a) That the transmission resulted in any error therein or in the electronic document when the electronic data message or electronic document enters the designated information system, or

(b) That electronic data message or electronic document is sent to an information system which is not so designated by the addressee for the purpose.

SEC. 20. Agreement on Acknowledgment of Receipt of Electronic Data Messages or Electronic Documents. - The following rules shall apply where, on or before sending an electronic data message or electronic document, the originator and the addressee have agreed, or in that electronic document or electronic data message, the originator has requested, that receipt of the electronic document or electronic data message be acknowledged:

(a) Where the originator has not agreed with the addressee that the acknowledgment be given in a particular form or by a particular method, an acknowledgment may be given by or through any communication by the addressee, automated or otherwise, or any conduct of the addressee, sufficient to indicate to the originator that the electronic data message or electronic document has been received.

(b) Where the originator has stated that the effect or significance of the electronic data message or electronic document is conditional on receipt of the acknowledgment thereof, the electronic data message or electronic document is treated as though it has never been sent, until the acknowledgment is received.
(c) Where the originator has not stated that the effect or significance of the electronic data message or electronic document is conditional on receipt of the acknowledgment, and the acknowledgment has not been received by the originator within the time specified or agreed or, if no time has been specified or agreed, within a reasonable time, the originator may give notice to the addressee stating that no acknowledgment has been received and specifying a reasonable time by which the acknowledgment must be received; and if the acknowledgment is not received within the time specified in subparagraph (c), the originator may, upon notice to the addressee, treat the electronic document or electronic data message as though it had never been sent, or exercise any other rights it may have.

SEC. 21. Time of Dispatch of Electronic Data Messages or Electronic Documents. - Unless otherwise agreed between the originator and the addressee, the dispatch of an electronic data message or electronic document occurs when it enters an information system outside the control of the originator or of the person who sent the electronic data message or electronic document on behalf of the originator.

SEC. 22. Time of Receipt of Electronic Data Messages or Electronic Documents. - Unless otherwise agreed between the originator and the addressee, the time of receipt of an electronic data message or electronic document is as follows:

(a.) If the addressee has designated an information system for the purpose of receiving electronic data message or electronic document, receipt occurs at the time when the electronic data message or electronic document enters the designated information system: Provided, however, that if the originator and the addressee are both participants in the designated information system, receipt occurs at the time when the electronic data message or electronic document is retrieved by the addressee.

(b.) If the electronic data message or electronic document is sent to an information system of the addressee that is not the designated information system, receipt occurs at the time when the electronic data message or electronic document is retrieved by the addressee;
(c.) If the addressee has not designated an information system, receipt occurs when the electronic data message or electronic document enters an information system of the addressee.

These rules apply notwithstanding that the place where the information system is located may be different from the place where the electronic data message or electronic document is deemed to be received.

SEC. 23. Place of Dispatch and Receipt of Electronic Data Messages or Electronic Documents. - Unless otherwise agreed between the originator and the addressee, an electronic data message or electronic document is deemed to be dispatched at the place where the originator has its place of business and received at the place where the addressee has its place of business. This rule shall apply even if the originator or addressee had used a laptop or other portable device to transmit or receive his electronic data message or electronic document. This rule shall also apply to determine the tax situs of such transaction.

For the purpose hereof -

a. If the originator or the addressee has more than one place of business, the place of business is that which has the closest relationship to the underlying transaction or, where there is no underlying transaction, the principal place of business.

b. If the originator of the addressee does not have a place of business, reference is to be made to its habitual residence; or
c. The .usual place of residence. in relation to a body corporate, means the place where it is incorporated or otherwise legally constituted.

SEC. 24. Choice of Security Methods. - Subject to applicable laws and/or rules and guidelines promulgated by the Department of Trade and Industry with other appropriate government agencies, parties to any electronic transaction shall be free to determine the type and level of electronic data message and electronic document security needed, and to select and use or implement appropriate technological methods that suit their needs.

PART III

ELECTRONIC COMMERCE IN SPECIFIC AREAS

CHAPTER I. CARRIAGE OF GOODS

SEC. 25. Actions Related to Contracts of Carriage of Goods. - Without derogating from the provisions of part two of this law, this chapter applies to any action in connection with, or in pursuance of, a contract of carriage of goods, including but not limited to:

(a) (i) furnishing the marks, number, quantity or weight of goods;

(ii) stating or declaring the nature or value of goods;
(iii) issuing a receipt for goods;
(iv) confirming that goods have been loaded;

(b) (i) notifying a person of terms and conditions of the contract;

(ii) giving instructions to a carrier;

(c) (i) claiming delivery of goods;

(ii) authorizing release of goods;
(iii) giving notice of loss of, or damage to, goods;

(d) giving any other notice or statement in connection with the performance of the contract;

(e) undertaking to deliver goods to a named person or a person authorized to claim delivery;
(f) granting, acquiring, renouncing, surrendering, transferring or negotiating rights in goods;
(g) acquiring or transferring rights and obligations under the contract.

SEC. 26. Transport Documents. - (1) Where the law requires that any action referred to contract of carriage of goods be carried out in writing or by using a paper document, that requirement is met if the action is carried out by using one or more data messages or electronic documents.

(2) Paragraph (1) applies whether the requirement therein is in the form of an obligation or whether the law simply provides consequences for failing either to carry out the action in writing or to use a paper document.

(3) If a right is to be granted to, or an obligation is to be acquired by, one person and no other person, and if the law requires that, in order to effect this, the right or obligation must be conveyed to that person by the transfer, or use of, a paper document, that requirement is met if the right or obligation is conveyed by using one or more electronic data messages or electronic documents unique;
(4) For the purposes of paragraph (3), the standard of reliability required shall be assessed in the light of the purpose for which the right or obligation was conveyed and in the light of all the circumstances, including any relevant agreement.
(5) Where one or more data messages are used to effect any action in subparagraphs (f) and (g) of Section 25, no paper document used to effect any such action is valid unless the use of electronic data message or electronic document has been terminated and replaced by the use of paper documents. A paper document issued in these circumstances shall contain a statement of such termination. The replacement of electronic data messages or electronic documents by paper documents shall not affect the rights or obligations of the parties involved.
(6) If a rule of law is compulsorily applicable to a contract of carriage of goods which is in, or is evidenced by, a paper document, that rule shall not be inapplicable to such a contract of carriage of goods which is evidenced by one or more electronic data messages or electronic documents by reason of the fact that the contract is evidenced by such electronic data messages or electronic documents instead of by a paper document.

PART IV

ELECTRONIC TRANSACTIONS IN GOVERNMENT

SEC. 27. Government Use of Electronic Data Messages, Electronic Documents and Electronic Signatures. - Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, within two (2) years from the date of the effectivity of this Act, all departments, bureaus, offices and agencies of the government, as well as all government-owned and-controlled corporations, that pursuant to law require or accept the filing of documents, require that documents be created, or retained and/or submitted, issue permits, licenses or certificates of registration or approval, or provide for the method and manner of payment or settlement of fees and other obligations to the government, shall -

(a) accept the creation, filing or retention of such documents in the form of electronic data messages or electronic documents;

(b) issue permits, licenses, or approval in the form of electronic data messages or electronic documents;
(c) require and/or accept payments, and issue receipts acknowledging such payments, through systems using electronic data messages or electronic documents; or
(d) transact the government business and/or perform governmental functions using electronic data messages or electronic documents, and for the purpose, are authorized to adopt and promulgate, after appropriate public hearing and with due publication in newspapers of general circulation, the appropriate rules, regulations, or guidelines, to, among others, specify -

(1) the manner and format in which such electronic data messages or electronic documents shall be filed, created, retained or issued;

(2) where and when such electronic data messages or electronic documents have to be signed, the use of a electronic signature, the type of electronic signature required;
(3) the format of an electronic data message or electronic document and the manner the electronic signature shall be affixed to the electronic data message or electronic document;
(4) the control processes and procedures as appropriate to ensure adequate integrity, security and confidentiality of electronic data messages or electronic documents or records or payments;
(5) other attributes required of electronic data messages or electronic documents or payments; and
(6) the full or limited use of the documents and papers for compliance with the government requirements: Provided, That this Act shall by itself mandate any department of the government, organ of state or statutory corporation to accept or issue any document in the form of electronic data messages or electronic documents upon the adoption, promulgation and publication of the appropriate rules, regulations, or guidelines.

SEC. 28. RPWEB To Promote the Use Of Electronic Documents and Electronic Data Messages In Government and to the General Public. - Within two (2) years from the effectivity of this Act, there shall be installed an electronic online network in accordance with Administrative Order 332 and House of Representatives Resolution 890, otherwise known as RPWEB, to implement Part IV of this Act to facilitate the open, speedy and efficient electronic online transmission, conveyance and use of electronic data messages or electronic documents amongst all government departments, agencies, bureaus, offices down to the division level and to the regional and provincial offices as practicable as possible, government owned and controlled corporations, local government units, other public instrumentalities, universities, colleges and other schools, and universal access to the general public.

The RPWEB network shall serve as initial platform of the government information infrastructure (GII) to facilitate the electronic online transmission and conveyance of government services to evolve and improve by better technologies or kinds of electronic online wide area networks utilizing, but not limited to, fiber optic, satellite, wireless and other broadband telecommunication mediums or modes. To facilitate the rapid development of the GII, the Department of Transportation and Communications, National Telecommunications Commission and the National Computer Center are hereby directed to aggressively promote and implement a policy environment and regulatory or non-regulatory framework that shall lead to the substantial reduction of costs of including, but not limited to, lease lines, land, satellite and dial-up telephone access, cheap broadband and wireless accessibility by government departments, agencies, bureaus, offices, government owned and controlled corporations, local government units, other public instrumentalities and the general public, to include the establishment of a government website portal and a domestic internet exchange system to facilitate strategic access to government and amongst agencies thereof and the general public and for the speedier flow of locally generated internet traffic within the Philippines.

The physical infrastructure of cable and wireless systems for cable TV and broadcast excluding programming and content and the management thereof shall be considered as within the activity of telecommunications for the purpose of electronic commerce and to maximize the convergence of ICT in the installation of the GII.

SEC. 29. Authority of the Department of Trade and Industry and Participating Entities. - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) shall direct and supervise the promotion and development of electronic commerce in the country with relevant government agencies, without prejudice to the provisions of Republic Act. 7653 (Charter of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) and Republic Act No. 337 (General Banking Act), as amended.

Among others, the DTI is empowered to promulgate rules and regulations, as well as provide quality standards or issue certifications, as the case may be, and perform such other functions as may be necessary for the implementation of this Act in the area of electronic commerce to include, but shall not be limited to, the installation of an online public information and quality and price monitoring system for goods and services aimed in protecting the interests of the consuming public availing of the advantages of this Act. PART V FINAL PROVISIONS

SEC. 30. Extent of Liability of a Service Provider. . Except as otherwise provided in this Section, no person or party shall be subject to any civil or criminal liability in respect of the electronic data message or electronic document for which the person or party acting as a service provider as defined in Section 5 merely provides access if such liability is founded on -

a.) The obligations and liabilities of the parties under the electronic data message or electronic document;

b.) The making, publication, dissemination or distribution of such material or any statement made in such material, including possible infringement of any right subsisting in or in relation to such material: Provided, That

i. The service provider does not have actual knowledge, or is not aware of the facts or circumstances from which it is apparent, that the making, publication, dissemination or distribution of such material is unlawful or infringes any rights subsisting in or in relation to such material;

ii. The service provider does not knowingly receive a financial benefit directly attributable to the unlawful or infringing activity; and

iii. The service provider does not directly commit any infringement or other unlawful act and does not induce or cause another person or party to commit any infringement or other unlawful act and/or does not benefit financially from the infringing activity or unlawful act of another person or party: Provided, further, That nothing in this Section shall affect -

a) Any obligation founded on contract;

b) The obligation of a service provider as such under a licensing or other regulatory regime established under written law; or
c) Any obligation imposed under any written law;
d) The civil liability of any party to the extent that such liability forms the basis for injunctive relief issued by a court under any law requiring that the service provider take or refrain from actions necessary to remove, block or deny access to any material, or to preserve evidence of a violation of law.

SEC. 31. Lawful Access. - Access to an electronic file, or an electronic signature of an electronic data message or electronic document shall only be authorized and enforced in favor of the individual or entity having a legal right to the possession or the use of the plaintext, electronic signature or file and solely for the authorized purposes. The electronic key for identity or integrity shall not be made available to any person or party without the consent of the individual or entity in lawful possession of that electronic key.

SEC. 32. Obligation of Confidentiality. - Except for the purposes authorized under this Act, any person who obtained access to any electronic key, electronic data message, or electronic document, book, register, correspondence, information, or other material pursuant to any powers conferred under this Act, shall not convey to or share the same with any other person.

SEC. 33. Penalties. - The following Acts shall be penalized by fine and/or imprisonment, as follows:

a) Hacking or cracking which refers to unauthorized access into or interference in a computer system/server or information and communication system; or any access in order to corrupt, alter, steal, or destroy using a computer or other similar information and communication devices, without the knowledge and consent of the owner of the computer or information and communications system, including the introduction of computer viruses and the like, resulting in the corruption, destruction, alteration, theft or loss of electronic data messages or electronic document shall be punished by a minimum fine of one hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) and a maximum commensurate to the damage incurred and a mandatory imprisonment of six (6) months to three (3) years;

b) Piracy or the unauthorized copying, reproduction, dissemination, distribution, importation, use, removal, alteration, substitution, modification, storage, uploading, downloading, communication, making available to the public, or broadcasting of protected material, electronic signature or copyrighted works including legally protected sound recordings or phonograms or information material on protected works, through the use of telecommunication networks, such as, but not limited to, the internet, in a manner that infringes intellectual property rights shall be punished by a minimum fine of one hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) and a maximum commensurate to the damage incurred and a mandatory imprisonment of six (6) months to three (3) years; c) Violations of the Consumer Act or Republic Act No. 7394 and other relevant or pertinent laws through transactions covered by or using electronic data messages or electronic documents, shall be penalized with the same penalties as provided in those laws; d) Other violations of the provisions of this Act, shall be penalized with a maximum penalty of one million pesos (P1,000,000.00) or six (6) years imprisonment.

SEC. 34. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The DTI, Department of Budget and Management and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas are hereby empowered to enforce the provisions of this Act and issue implementing rules and regulations necessary, in coordination with the Department of Transportation and Communications, National Telecommunications Commission, National Computer Center, National Information Technology Council, Commission on Audit, other concerned agencies and the private sector, to implement this Act within sixty (60) days after its approval.

Failure to issue rules and regulations shall not in any manner affect the executory nature of the provisions of this Act.

SEC. 35. Oversight Committee. . There shall be a Congressional Oversight Committee composed of the Committees on Trade and Industry/Commerce, Science and Technology, Finance and Appropriations of both the Senate and House of Representatives, which shall meet at least every quarter of the first two years and every semester for the third year after the approval of this Act to oversee its implementation. The DTI, DBM, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and other government agencies as may be determined by the Congressional Committee shall provide a quarterly performance report of their actions taken in the implementation of this Act for the first three (3) years.

SEC. 36. Appropriations. - The amount necessary to carry out the provisions of Secs. 27 and 28 of this Act shall be charged against any available funds and/or savings under the General Appropriations Act of 2000 in the first year of effectivity of this Act. Thereafter, the funds needed for the continued implementation shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

SEC. 37. Statutory Interpretation. - Unless otherwise expressly provided for, the interpretation of this Act shall give due regard to its international origin and the need to promote uniformity in its application and the observance of good faith in international trade relations. The generally accepted principles of international law and convention on electronic commerce shall likewise be considered.

SEC. 38. Variation by Agreement. - As between parties involved in generating, sending, receiving, storing or otherwise processing electronic data message or electronic document, any provision of this Act may be varied by agreement between and among them.

SEC. 39. Reciprocity. - All benefits, privileges, advantages or statutory rules established under this Act, including those involving practice of profession, shall be enjoyed only by parties whose country of origin grants the same benefits and privileges or advantages to Filipino citizens.

Sec. 40. Separability Clause. - The provisions of this Act are hereby declared separable and in the event of any such provision is declared unconstitutional, the other provisions, which are not affected, shall remain in force and effect.

Sec. 41. Repealing Clause. - All other laws, decrees, rules and regulations or parts thereof which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly.

Sec. 42. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect immediately after its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation.

Approved,

(Signed)

MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR

.
Speaker of the House of Representatives

(Signed)

FRANKLIN M. DRILON

President of the Senate

This Act, which is a consolidation of Senate Bill No. 1902 and House Bill No. 9971 was finally passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives on June 8, 2000 and June 7, 2000, respectively.

(Signed)

ROBERTO P. NAZARENO

Secretary General
House of Representatives

(Signed)

OSCAR G. YABES

Secretary of the Senate

Approved: June 14, 2000

(Signed)

JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA

President
Republic of the Philippines

Tech headhunter says PH is “greener pastures” for IT workers

2011-12-15T05:43:00.000-08:00

As employers in the U.S. and Europe tighten their belts, the best place for Filipino IT workers right now may be home.

“All the jobs are now here… Salaries (and) packages have become very competitive. I don’t see any reason why kids should still leave the country and find work abroad,” said Gina Duminy, president of technology jobs recruitment website ITProsAsia.com.

“The greener pastures they are looking for are actually here.”

The numbers back Duminy’s claim. Entry-level call center agents in the Philippines make more than their counterparts in India, bringing home US$300 instead of $US250. According to data from CBS Interactive, an IT manager with less than five years of experience makes an average of P270,922 per year (P22,577 a month) while a project manager gets P334,854 (P27,905 a month).

People in other industries such as Systems Development (P282,375 per year), Communications (P241,459 per year), Support (P197,453 per year) and Administration (P286,143 per year) make roughly the same amount, with figures rising incrementally according to experience.

Developing countries provide more opportunities

While salaries for Filipino employees remain a fraction of the average earnings in developed countries, there are considerations other than gross income.

Duminy says that workers who migrate to countries like the U.S. have to grapple with a higher cost of living. She adds that developing nations like the Philippines provide more opportunities for IT workers.

RJ, who works for an offshore publishing company, earns P30,000 a month in a middle management position. He asked Yahoo! to withhold his last name and the name of the company he works for. He says that he would work abroad if the opportunity presents itself. However, he says that having to pursue further training is a deterrent. “Masyadong hassle. Kailangan mo pa kasi i-upgrade yung sarili mo.”

Demand surpasses supply

Duminy says that employers are very particular with the skills they want from their new hires. “It’s like ordering at McDonald’s,” she says. Employers often request specific characteristics such as proficiency in certain tools and industry experience. This has led to a shortage of worthy candidates.

“The demand really surpasses the supply. The available workers are not enough to support the business,” Duminy said, adding that Filipinos are the preferred choice compared to Indian workers because of their adaptability to the American language and way of life.

Large companies like JPMorgan Chase and AT&T have set up shop in the Philippines, and more are expected to follow. “Why look outside when they’re all here?” Duminy said.

Source: Yahoo

Elance Admission Test Answers

2011-12-12T17:17:00.000-08:00

Topic: Getting started on Elance
Q . As a provider, what is the benefit of maintaining paid plan?

Providers with paid accounts receive more Connects initially, and the ability to purchase additional Connects and service categories, allowing them to submit more proposals.
Providers with paid accounts are eligible for the Premier Provider Program, Elance chat, and Elance call.
Providers with paid accounts at the Small Business or Large Business level have the ability to create teams.
Providers with paid accounts can add more keywords and skills test results to their profile.
All of the above

Correct Answer: 5
Q. Elance offers both skills tests and code tests to help providers standout. Through these assessments, providers are able to display their passing scores for the potential employers to review. What are some guidelines to keep in mind related to skills and code tests?

If you score higher than 30% of all test takers, you will receive a special indicator next to your score.
All tests are timed.
60% is considered a passing score on the skills and code tests.
You must wait 7 days to re-test the same skill.
All of these are true except d.

Correct Answer: 5

Q. Why is it important for providers to build an effective profile?

It provides employers with information about your knowledge and skills.
It allows providers to promote their marketing messages.
It gives the provider an opportunity to showcase samples of their work.
All of above.

Correct Answer: 4
Topic: Finding Job Opportunities
Q. What tools does Elance provide to enable you to track the time spent weekly on a job and updating an employer on the status of a job?

Status Reports
Timesheets
Tracker
Customer Support Contact Information
All of these except d

Correct Answer: 5
Q. Which of the following statements is NOT true about the Workroom messages?

Public messages are different than Workroom messages.
It is acceptable to market your services in Workroom messages but not in Public messages.
Providers may only use the Workroom messages after submitting a Prebid or a proposal.
Workroom messages are viewable by anyone.

Correct Answer: 4
Q. In order for your provider account to become active on Elance, which step is NOT required?

Create your profile
Pass the Elance Admission Test
Enter a credit card
Verify your phone number

Correct Answer: 3
Topic: Managing Your Work
Q. Which of these provider actions would be considered a violation?

Offering to accept payment outside of the Elance system.
Offering to complete a job for an amount below the stated Elance minimums.
Posting a work sample in the provider portfolio of which the provider does not have legal rights or ownership.
Placing contact details (e.g. a non-Elance website URL, e-mail address, etc.) outside of the designated area on the provider profile.
All of these are violations.

Correct Answer: 5
Q. If a conflict arises between an employer and a provider, which of the following steps is NOT part of the Elance dispute process?

Member resolution: Members first attempt to resolve the dispute on their own.
Elance Dispute Assistance: Elance holds a conference call to facilitate a mutually-agreeable resolution between the employer and provider.
Arbitration: A binding judgment is made by the 3rd party arbitration service offered through Elance.
Elance management makes the decision about whether the employer or the provider is right.

Correct Answer: 4
Topic: Getting Paid
Q. How does Elance Escrow protect providers?

Elance Escrow only protects the employer.
It shows that the client has set aside the funds to pay for the provider’s work.
It enables providers to defer income without paying taxes.
It eliminates the Elance service fee.

Correct Answer: 2
Q. How can providers view a list of all payment activity?

In the “Search” option under the “Find Work” tab.
On the Skills Central page.
In the Get Paid < Account Activity menu.
All of these will let providers view their payments.

Correct Answer: 3
Topic: Advanced Tips for Elance Success
Q. Which of the following are Elance features that are designed to provide resources and information to employers and providers?

Elance University
The Water Cooler
The Elance Blog
All of these.

Correct Answer: 4

Question 1: As a provider, what is the benefit of maintaing a paid plan?

A: e. All of the above.
Explanation: The answer is pretty obvious when they list a bunch of benefits. How can you go wrong? In any case, the big benefit is the ability to buy connects. In case you don’t know, you need to bid on at least 20 projects before you win your first one. Paid membership is the only option in my book.

Question 2: Elance offers both skills tests and code tests to help providers standout. Through these assessments, providers are able to display their passing scores for the potential employers to review. What are some guidelines to keep in mind related to skills and code tests?

A: e. All except d.
Explanation: You have to wait at least two weeks before re-taking a skills test. Do these at your leisure, and never make them a higher priority than doing work for your current clients. It’s important to pay attention to your test scores, but your work samples are a better indicator.

Question 3: Why is it important for providers to build an effective profile?

A: d. All of the above.
Explanation: If you didn’t get this one right, you are severely lacking in basic logic and critical thinking skills. They just listed a bunch of benefits. Of course it has to be all of the above.

Question 4: What tools does Elance provide to enable you to track the time spent weekly on a job and updating an employer on the status of a job?

A: e. Everything except d.
Explanation: Whenever they give you an option like “anything except d,” go with it. Why would they give you an option like that if d weren’t somehow out of place? Plus, customer service doesn’t have anything to do with helping you keep track of your hours.

Question 5: Which of the following is NOT true about workroom messages?

A: d. Workroom messages are viewable by anyone.
Explanation: Only you, your clients, and a few members of Elance’s staff can look at your workroom messages. The workroom is considered a private conversation between you and your client.

Question 6: In order for your provider account to become active on Elance, which step is NOT required?

A: c. Enter a credit card.
Explanation: You don’t have to enter a credit card unless you plan to hire somebody on Elance. Even then, you can enter your bank account information instead.

Question 7: Which of these provider actions would be considered a violation?

A: e. All of these are violations.
Explanation: You have to really watch out for a. Once you begin a contract with a client, you are required to do business over Elance for at least one year before you start taking your business off of the system. If you fail to comply with this rule, you will lose your provider account.

Question 8: If a conflict arises between an employer and a provider, which of the following steps is NOT part of the Elance dispute process?

A: d. Elance management makes the decision about whether the employer or provider is right.
Explanation: Elance never sticks its hands into any dispute between two parties. They hire a third party arbitration service in order to get an objective and unaffiliated perspective.

Question 9: How does Elance escrow protect providers?

A: b. It shows that the client has set aside the money to do the work.
Explanation: Escrow is arguably the reason why sites like Elance exist in the first place. Elance is like Craigslist, but it’s better because it’s much more secure. Without escrow, you have no guarantee that you’ll get paid.

Question 10: How can providers view a list of all payment activity?

A: c. In the get paid > account activity menu.
Explanation: You’ll be checking this all the time, so it’s definitely handy to know.

Question 11: Which of the following are Elance features that are designed to provide resources and information to employers and providers?

A: d. All of these.

oDesk Readiness Test

2011-12-12T17:11:00.000-08:00

Q: Can I start my own company on oDesk?
A: Yes! oDesk allows you to build and manage a team of workers, colleagues and collaborators.
You can even subcontract other workers on oDesk to other customers oDesk (and take a cut).

Q: Which of the following actions are NOT allowed when applying to job openings?
A: All of the above

Q: ‘How does feedback work on oDesk?’
A: All of the above

Q: Which of the following is true of your oDesk timelog?
A: All of the above

Q: Which of the following break the oDesk user agreement?
A: All of the above

Q: Which of the following statements about the oDesk Team application are true?
A: All of the above

Q: What do you need to do to ensure guaranteed payment on hourly jobs?
A: All of the above

Q: If you have not done so please download and install the oDesk Team application.
With the client running right click on the oDesk Team icon in the system tray (or doc for Mac users).
Which of the following options is listed first?
A: TeamRoom..

Q: Which of the following statements are correct about oDesk fees?
A: All of the above

Q: Buyers set weekly limits on hourly assignments, how do these work?
A: All of the above

Q: How does oDesk’s dispute resolution policy for work?
A: All of the above

Interview Preparation

2011-12-12T16:50:00.000-08:00

In the April 2000 issue of the Reader's Digest magazine, Nick Corcodilos, a famous headhunter, recounts how Zagorski, a professional seeking a new job, wowed an interviewer at a big corporation and got the job.

Zagorski went for an interview at AT&T. At the outset, even before Zagorski could settle in his seat, the interviewer told him that he had only 20 minutes to spare. Instead of feeling belittled or nervous, Zagorski got up and walked up to the marker board. He then started writing down the challenges faced by the company. Fifteen minutes later, he wrote down his estimate of what he would add to the bottom line. When he paused to take a look at the interviewer, he found him completely dazed. The next thing he heard was interviewer telling him that there was no need for any further interview. The interviewer called in his team, introduced Zagorski to everybody and they began a working meeting, which lasted for two hours.

Most people go to interviews hoping to be questioned and assessed by an interviewer (s). They go anxious and worried, wondering whether they would get the job. People like Zagorski approach an interview with a completely different mind-set. They go well-prepared to demonstrate how they would fit into an employer’s needs and bring value to their business. They go as a value provider, not as a job seeker.

Would you also like to impress your would-be employer just like Zagorski? If yes, the next time when you get an interview call, do not lose any time and get down to preparing a powerful presentation. Here is a road map:

Know the employer
Go to the company’s website and learn about its products and services. What initiatives this company is taking? Who are their competitors and what challenges are they facing? Read the “news” section to pick up the latest happenings there.

Review the job
Next, zero down to the job that you are pursuing. What are the employer’s expectations in terms of responsibilities, actions and goals? Also note the job requirements – qualifications, experience and skills – that the employer is expecting the right candidate to satisfy.

Review yourself
Look at your resume and review the assets you have: your experience, education, achievements, skills, knowledge and strengths.

Prepare a presentation
Having done the homework, now it is time to prepare a short PowerPoint presentation. The presentation should essentially comprise the following parts:

Part 1: About yourself
Prepare a short introduction to yourself in terms of education, experience and achievements.

Part 2: Employer’s business
This part is about showing your understanding of the company’s business: products, services, markets, competition, etc.

Part 3: Employer’s needs
In this part, list all of the employer’s expectations – responsibilities, actions and goals – you will be expected to meet. Also talk about the challenges you will be facing in the job.

Part 4: How would you deliver
This is the heart of your presentation. Demonstrate how you would tackle the challenges and go on to show how not only you can meet the employer’s expectations but exceed them. To make it credible, share actual examples from your past experience and use quantitative information.

On the whole, keep your presentation limited to 10 slides and 15 minutes long.

Practise
The last and final step is to practise delivering the presentation. The more you practise, the more relaxed, confident and convincing you will be during the interview.

Source: Jobstreet

How To Invest in Stock Market

2011-12-06T01:13:00.001-08:00

Investing in stocks is one of the best investments you can ever have if you have the know-how and discipline in managing it.

Stocks are shares of ownership of a public company. The stocks are being traded in a stock market or commonly known as stock exchange.

However, as a private individual we cannot directly buy or sell stocks in a stock exchange. You need to have a stock broker who will buy or sell stocks instead of you. A stockbroker has all the responsibility to trade your stocks in a stock exchange. Your part will be to assign the number of shares and the price you want for a certain stock.

For beginners and first-timer in stock investing, you can learn how to invest in stocks by doing the guidelines below. This is my experience and learning when I opened and invested in stocks.

1. Choose A Reliable And Reputable Stock Broker

Stock broker is a company that will be your representative in buying and selling stocks in the stock market. Generally, there are two kinds of stock broker, traditional and online stock broker.

I think online stock broker is the best choice in choosing a stock broker. An online stock broker has a genuine website and platform for stock trading. You will log in to your account using your user name and password and then you can access your online stock account. Some of the most trusted online brokers in the Philippines are Citiseconline, BPI Trade, 2TradeAsia and Metrobank.

2. Prepare requirements

The requirements will be 2 valid ID and proof of billing. You only need to pass the photocopy of each but you need to present the original copy when requested.

3. Mail your application forms and requirements or visit the stockbroker’s office

If you are outside the Philippines or very far from Metro Manila , you can mail your application forms and requirements to your stockbroker’s address. If you want to be sure that your mail will be received by your recipient, you can use DHL, LBC or Air21.

4. Transfer initial deposit for your account

After your approval of stock trading account, you can now put money to your account by depositing money to it through direct deposit or bills payment online. For Citiseconline, the minimum initial deposit is P25,000.

5. Start to buy profitable stocks

Since you are beginner, just choose those stocks that are actively traded and included in PSE Index. Choose stocks that gives good dividends and strong companies.

6. Buy and hold

After buying the stocks you chose, hold it for sometime maybe one month until you can gain 10% or more once you sell it.

Investing in Philippines stocks is a good investment for your money if you are patient and willing to learn. Remember that you will only loose money when you sell the stock you are holding. So be sure not to sell the stock when you are going to lose the money you invested.

How To Teach Your Customer About Your Product

2011-12-06T00:11:00.001-08:00

Educating your customers about the products that you are selling online is one of the best ways to teach them to buy from you. The more you know about your products, the easier it is to show potential customers how they can use the product that you are selling. If your customers do not know how to use your product, they will become dissatisfied with your e-commerce business. You don’t want to take the risk of losing them to your competition because they believe that your products do not work.

Here are some ways you can teach your customers to buy

e-Learning Create your own e-learning training for your customers. Brand your training modules in the corporate colors and overall look and feel of your online business. Provide your potential customers with an engaging and professional product learning experience with your online store.

How To Sessions These sessions are little “teasers”, that give just enough information to entice customers to engage in something of interest with your online business that is educational to them. You can use your imagination and come up with something great. A furniture store might teach customers how to brighten their decor and arrange fabrics together, an online clothing store might teach customers how to create an expensive runway look for under $100. All of these will draw in your potential customers by creating a fun learning experience to teach them about what you are selling online.

Newsletters This marketing tool can build relationships with your customers if it is used properly. Do your research and learn what your target audience is interested in, and give them the information they need. Teach them how they can use your product or service to improve something in their daily lives or business. A loose bead business might give tips on how to make necklaces as gifts and simple do-it-yourself hand knots — implying that the customers will buy their beads and tools from your online business.

Post Articles on Social Media Sites and Blogs Offer how-to tips that encourage customers and prospects to read them. By spreading new tips all the time on various social media platforms, you encourage them to look for your latest offering. Also, YouTube is a great way to show a customer exactly how to use your product through video.

All of these undertakings involve a lot of hard work and commitment, and a reoccurring newsletter or Blog posting will help lock you into a regular schedule. These efforts will not go unnoticed as long as they: give customers ideas and confidence, inspire them and excite them, and make their buying decisions easy for them. By building customer understanding you will increase customer satisfaction and improve customer retention for your e-commerce business.

Network Marketing Tips

2011-12-05T23:48:00.001-08:00

Network marketing is not something you should just get yourself into. You have to find out the things you should know and things you should do in order to know how to succeed in network marketing. Here are some network marketing tips you can use if you are just starting out in this business endeavor or you have been in the business for a while now but is not achieving the success you were hoping for.

First of all, you have to find the right company. You have to have a solid foundation when it comes to having a business in network marketing. It is all about finding the right company that fits your personality, your needs and your preferences.

The company you should be joining should have a reputable background, solid experience and it should be offering the market something that it really needs. Get to know the company more by attending trainings, doing your own research and talking to the employees. Profitability is another matter you should look into.

Next, now that you know what company to join, it is time to create a game plan. You should list down your goals and your plan of action for the day, for the week and for the month. It is important to create an outline of your customer base and the products or services you are about to offer. Having a strategy for your marketing system is essential as well.

Network marketing tips for dummies even include lead generation. This step is very important for your network marketing business. You should not run out of fresh market leads to contact and connect with.

You can generate leads by cold calling, asking for reference, using attraction marketing through the internet and by purchasing leads.

Follow these three simple ways to succeed in network marketing and for sure your income will increase in no time

Source: wikipedia, business blog tips

Identifying Training Needs

2011-12-05T23:38:00.001-08:00

The perception that external training is irrelevant deserves a second thought in view of increasing competition posed by the global market place and recession. Today's globalised economy has led to organisational responses which include drives for quality, technological change and organisational restructuring, which has been the trigger for seeking more cost-effective training.

While internal training such as in-house courses and programmes, on-the-job training, mentoring and open learning are still popular among the Malaysian companies, traditional external training have received criticisms from many companies for its theoretical and academic approach. For example, unrealistic or impractical examples are used to illustrate situation not related to the actual simulation in the workplace. Some courses are believed to be irrelevant as they are not tailored according to employee and job needs.

Hence, it is the need for cost-effective training which has caused the shift away from traditional training over recent years. Cost-effective training is usually work-related and practical by nature. Ideally, cost-effective training enhances the trainee's motivation and understanding, increases their productivity and efficiency at work with a minimum training budget.

As managers increasingly see work-related training to be of importance, budget conscious companies are also aware of problems that arise when training is conducted by external training providers and consultants. There are complaints that the external training are too expensive, while courses provided are insensitive to company's and training needs. Some also find external training disruptive and creating problems rather than solving them.

External training providers should carefully identify the individual company's needs for training and respond to these different needs accordingly. After identifying the needs and problems, training providers should relate the course content to the trainee's work by providing information and hands-on approach to the trainees.

Course content, course time and location are three crucial factors in decision making for training. Managers can request from the external training providers to develop courses where the theory ties to relevant practical examples, at flexible times, and with trainers going out to the workplace as much as possible. In short, training needs of employees must be identified and must not be assumed in order to achieve cost effectiveness for the company.

Source: Jobstreet.com.ph

Bring Your Tech Ideas To Life – Without A Tech Background

2011-12-05T20:53:00.001-08:00

With a flash of inspiration, you’ve conceived a tech idea that could be a game-changer. Unfortunately, all you have is the idea; the tech know-how to make it happen is completely absent. What should you do?

If this is the predicament in which you find yourself, take heart. You are in good company. Several tech firms, including Squidoo, Yammer and Meebo, were started by founders that didn’t major in computer science or talk PHP code in their sleep. If you are one of those lucky few who has conceived the answer to a tech problem and is entrepreneurial enough to envision a business based on that idea, then this post is for you. Here is how to take your tech idea from a daydream to a successfully executed startup.

Step One: Prove the Concept

I know you love your app idea and cannot imagine that it just might possibly be a dud, but the harsh truth of the matter is that it’s more likely to fail than succeed. So before you waste time and money looking for a developer or technical co-founder, you need to run that big idea through the gauntlet of the following tests:

Is there a similar product already out there? Chances are, you are not the first person to think of this idea, so it’s important to thoroughly investigate all potential competitors to see how their products compare to yours.

How does an initial mockup look? You might not be able to program, but you can visualize. Using tools such as Basalmiq, iMockups or Mockingbird, you can quickly create a wireframe version of your app or site. This will allow you to find any conceptual design flaws early on, and enables you to present your idea to users, developers and investors to get feedback.

What are users’ initial reactions? Your friends and family are unlikely to give you an unbiased opinion, so solicit input from potential users. Find out if they think there is truly a demand for the product or if your idea needs to be modified to better fit market needs. Let these users critique your idea from every angle. As painful as it may be, your final product will be stronger. (Note: If you are concerned about idea theft, have your testers sign a simple non-disclosure agreement.)

Step Two: Self-Education

Once you have determined that your idea is viable, it’s time to prepare for adding team members. While you can hire the talent to compensate for your lack of technical expertise, it is still good to have a basic understanding of what is involved in the development process. It is also helpful to have a solid business plan in place to help you attract top talent ⎯ that’s where the self-education step comes in. Here are some steps to guide you in the process:

Evaluate your skill sets and abilities. While it can be agonizing, the process of self-evaluation is vital. You have to be prepared, both in knowledge and temperament, to guide the development of this product, so take some time to map out your weaknesses. Then do all you can to grow in those areas and/or determine what types of people you need on your team to bring some balance.

Learn the basics of the development process. Grab some books on the fundamentals of software engineering and try to understand the ins and outs of the process. You may also want to add some programming blogs to your RSS feed to help you learn the lingo.

Understand what constitutes good user experience design (UX). Play with every app and website that’s anywhere near the scope of your project. Take notes on what design facets make the experience seamless, as well as which elements don’t work well.

Determine your minimum viable product (MVP). What is the most fundamental functionality that your app or site needs to have? Call this “version 1.0″ and make a list of every action and click that should go into it. For some great reading on this topic, check out “How to Hire a Programmer” by Derek Sivers.

Step Three: Build Your Team

Now it’s time to bring on a team. If you have been serious about accomplishing the initial legwork, you will have a much better chance of both developers and investors taking you seriously. Here are some points to keep in mind as you build your team:

Attend networking events in order to find a Chief Technical Officer (CTO). You want someone who has the background and experience to spearhead development. Remember, though, that technical prowess is not the only thing you should be looking for ⎯ personalities are also extremely important. You need to be able to work together harmoniously through the various stresses that life will throw at your business. It is crucial that you get along, because your CTO can make or break your business.

Hire fellow visionaries. Yes, you do need help; but don’t just settle for anyone. Find people who see your vision and are as passionate about the project as you are ⎯ don’t just hire people who will work for the money and then call it a day. A great place to start is by interviewing some of the software developers available through oDesk.

Get your development team’s input to help shape the product. It’s always a good idea to make your vision as succinct and focused as possible for your development team (hence the previously discussed MVP concept), but it can also be extremely valuable to share your big idea with the team and allow them to contribute feedback.

BENEFITS OF VITAL C PRODUCT

2011-12-05T20:15:00.001-08:00

VITAL C – the only Sodium Ascorbate Vitamin C using VEGETABLE CAPSULE in the market today, as per BFAD (Bureau of Food & Drugs).

Vitamin C is a must take nutrient to maintain good health and well-being. Man, through the ages, lost the capacity of his body to produce its own Vitamin C.

Therefore, man has to get it from food. When life on earth was simple, good sources of Vitamin C was not a problem.

However, as progress came in, changes in the environment, ways of farming, food processing and cooking, made the amount of Vitamin C in the form of supplements.

VITAMIN C DEFICIENCY IS THE MOST COMMON BUT UNRECOGNIZED REASON WHY PEOPLE DEVELOP AND ACQUIRE DISEASES.

Due to our present lifestyles, there is a big gap between what our body needs and the amount it is getting in terms of Vitamin C. This results in the development of more chronic degenerative diseases even among the young. People, in order to attend to these health concerns, are now moving away from drug based therapies and more towards natural remedies.

Vitamin C is required for the synthesis of collagen, an important structural component of blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and bone.

In addition, vitamin C is required for the synthesis of carnitine, a small molecule that is essential for the transport of fat to cellular organelles called mitochondria, for conversion to energy (1). Recent research also suggests that vitamin C is involved in the metabolism of cholesterol to bile acids, which may have implications for blood cholesterol levels and the incidence of gallstones.

Vitamin C is also a highly effective antioxidant. Even in small amounts vitamin C can protect indispensable molecules in the body, such as proteins, lipids (fats), carbohydrates, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) from damage by free radicals and reactive oxygen species that can be generated during normal metabolism as well as through exposure to toxins and pollutants (e.g. smoking). Vitamin C may also be able to regenerate other antioxidants such as vitamin E.

Ofcourse, for us to take high dosage of Vitamin C is we have to take SODIUM ASCORBATE Vitamin C in the form of Crystalline Granules not just an ordinary for of vitamin preparation that we usually see and bought in the market.

Sodium Ascorbate Vitamin C is a NON-ACIDIC ALKALINE it is an Immune System Booster.

Here in the Philippines, the most popular and best Vitamin C Sodium Ascorbate is a quality product of VITAL C HEALTH PRODUCTS, INC. Why? Because, it is using a VEGETABLE CAPSULE which is safe to sodium ascorbate.

Vital C, is the first alkaline vitamin C preparation in real vegetable capsule. It is made from only 100% pure Sodium Ascorbate crystalline powder (USP) and encapsulated as a 568.18 mg preparation. It is processed with all the care to preserve the potency of this very effective form of Vitamin C.

The use of vegetable capsule is the safest way to encapsulate Sodium Ascorbate crystalline powder. It produces no unwanted chemical interaction with the Sodium Ascorbate.

Vital C is registered with the Bureau of Food and Drugs with Registration No: DRHR-940. It is classified as a drug and a home remedy. It is classified by BFAD as an essential drug and remedy (always needed in the body).

Vital C Health Products, as a company, wants to produce only the best Vitamin C preparation in the market. With a deep understanding of the characteristics of Vitamin C ( Sodium Sscorbate crystalline powder ), it made certain to consider all factors in manufacturing to preserve the quality of the powder and deliver the best product!

Vitamin C preparation comes in several forms. The most common one is ascorbic acid which is the cheapest but has the disadvantage of being irritating to the stomach. This puts a limit to the maximum amount one can take per day. There are several non-acidic forms, but most popular in the country is Sodium Ascorbate - that which is found in every capsule of Vital C.

Vital is a also certified as Halal by the MUASASA'T EHYAH WAH NASS'R ATHORATH IS LAMIE.

BENEFITS OF TAKING VITAL C

-Strong Anti-Oxidant
-Immune Booster/Anti-Allergy
-Strengthening of Connective Tissues
-Natural Anti-Cholesterol
-Prevents Thickening of the Blood
-Strengthens and Dilates Blood Vessels
-Anti-Stress
-Helps Burn Fat
-Liver Cleanser / Detoxifier
-Removes Heavy Metals
-Anti-Virus
-Enhances Fertility

SOME CONDITIONS THAT WILL BENEFIT FROM TAKING SODIUM ASCORBATE

-Mascular Degeneration
-Cataract
-Glaucoma
-Bleeding and Swollen Gums
-Allergic Rhinitis
-Bronchial Asthma
-Pulmonary Tuberculosis
-Different forms of Arthritis
-Slipped Disc
-Thyroid Diseases
-Bruising
-Tiredness
-Skin Allergy
-Low Resistance to Diseases
-Recurrent Cough and Colds
-Hypertension
-Heart Conditions
-Angina Pectoris (Chest Pain)
-Varicose Veins
-Diabetes
-Alzheimer’s Disease
-Parkinson’s Disease
-Poor Memory
-Flu
-Dengue
-Hepatitis
-Various Liver Conditions
-Psoriasis
-Cancer

CrownLifestyle » Lifetime Privileges | Endless Opportunities

2011-12-04T19:17:00.001-08:00

CrownLifestyle.Net is a state-of-the-art e-commerce platform that gives members the freedom, flexibility and unparalleled convenience to earn, shop, save and transact online. Through a transferable lifetime membership, members can avail of a bounty of perks and privileges, hot discounts and great deals, and the opportunity to earn in multiple and meaningful ways.

A world of possibilities is right at your fingertips from divine dining and pampering options, and various sports, fitness and entertainment facilities to exceptional hotel accommodations in six key destinations in the Philippines and more than 6,000 resorts around the globe.

CrownLifestyle.Net is a

Profit Center

Lifestyle Hub

Virtual Office

Your ticket to PRIVILEGES & POSSIBILITIES

COMPANY

CrownLifestyle.Net harnesses the power and passion of J. King & Sons Company Inc. a globally recognized company that offers outstanding products and services in key business and leisure destinations. Known for innovation, exemplary service to external and internal customers, and superior financial performance, it is making its mark in the industry through real estate development, hotel operations, health and leisure, and now, e-Commerce.

The company portfolio currently includes new properties, registered historic landmarks, exceptional convention hotels, luxurious resorts and a Spa & Lifestyle club. It also operates drive-in hotels strategically located in key cities nationwide, and indoor sports and fitness facilities, laundry service, condominium towers and prominent vertical developments such as the Fuente Triangle Realty Development, Ultima Residences and CityLoft.

PROFILE

CROWN REGENCY HOTELS AND RESORTS

With the finer points of hospitality and luxury in mind, JKSCI’s Crown Regency Hotels and Resorts is dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through innovation and meticulous attention to detail. Since 2003, the company has expanded nationwide, establishing eight upscale full-service hotels in Makati, Mactan-Cebu, Fuente-Cebu, Guadalupe-Cebu, Davao and Boracay Stations 1, 2, and 3. More developments are earmarked for Tagatay, Palawan, Bohol, Iloilo, Bacolod, Cagayan De Oro, and another in Mactan-Cebu.

All Crown Regency Hotels and Resorts developments are members of Interval International, one of the world’s biggest and most established vacation exchange networks. They also boast of state-of-the-art facilities, deluxe amenities, sumptuous dining choices, and warm and exceptional hospitality to make every traveler, from families and tourists to businessmen feel right at home.

For more information visit: www.crownregency.com

FUENTE TRIANGLE REALTY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Established in May 2006, Fuente Triangle Realty Development Corporation (FTRDC) develops, manages, and markets condominiums like Ultima Residences, City Loft, and Ultima Prime. It has also successfully launched its condotel development Crown Regency Resort & Convention Center in Boracay.

The company has completed two condominium towers which are Ultima Residences Tower III in Osmena Boulevard and Ultima Residences Tower in F. Ramos Street in Cebu City. Its newest project introduced to the market is the Cityloft Mango and Ultima Prime, Tower IV of Fuente Towers.

For more information visit www.fuentetriangle.com

PRINCE COURT HOTEL AND SUITES

For the practical traveler seeking reasonable daily rates and value for money accommodations, there is JKSCI’s Prince Court Group of Hotels and Suites.

This chain of drive-in hotels was established in the mid-90s and has since expanded to five branches located in Cebu, Manila and Davao. It attracts cost-conscious business and leisure travelers for its exceptional service and amenities.

For more information visit www.princecourthotels.com

CLUB ULTIMA

Regarded as Cebu’s ultimate lifestyle and wellness hotspot, Club Ultima is a business, leisure, beauty and health hub occupying 12 floors of Tower 2 of the Fuente Towers in Cebu. It is also interlinked with the adjacent Crown Regency Hotel & Towers where it hosts 54 executive suites on the 11th to 14th floor.

Club Ultima members get a slew of benefits including access to Power Gym fitness center and Prana MediSpa, a beauty and wellness center featuring state-of-the-art facial and body care amenities including slimming, body contouring and traditional massage services for the best pampering experience. Members may also access the Metrosports Center and use Metrosports Gym and the multi-purpose courts for badminton, volleyball, basketball & futsal. It also has Vertigo climbing wall, bike-spinning area, boxing ring and aero exercise studio. To date, Club Ultima has about 9,000 members from all over the Philippines.

For more information visit www.clubultima.com

SKY EXPERIENCE ADVENTURE

Have a superbly thrilling, gravity-defying encounter that will take you on the edge of your seat at Metro Cebu’s most exhilarating attraction to date, the Sky Experience Adventure. Located at the top floors of Crown Regency Hotel & Towers, the tallest hotel towers in the city, Sky Experience Adventure offers 360-degree entertainment for kids and kids at heart.

Here, you will find the Edge Coaster, the world's first amusement ride that goes around the edge of the building and tilts its riders down up to 55 degrees. Recently it launched another set of rides called the Sky Extreme Adventure that consists of the Tower Zip, Sky Lift and Paramount Wall. Expect new rides such as the Vertex, Drop Zone, Cliff Hanger and Sky Gliders in 2012. The Sky Entertainment doesn’t limit itself to all adventure rides. At the 18th level is the country’s only 4-D movie theater where the sights, sounds and feel of cinema come alive.

For more information visit www.skyexperienceadventure.com

METROSPORTS CENTER

Opened in 2003, Metrosports Center is a Mecca for Metro Cebu’s sports enthusiasts and athletes. It has the strongest and most active Badminton membership in the city and boasts of superb sporting facilities with year-round amenities that define the private club lifestyle.
Play in any of its 18-pro badminton courts with Taraflex flooring and almost 2,500 square meters of luxury sports and fitness complex. With its state-of-the-art sports and fitness facilities come personalized service in an atmosphere of unprecedented comfort and convenience.

For more information visit www.metrosportcenter.com

ULTIMA SHARP SHOOTERS CLUB

Launched in June of 2010, Ultima Sharp Shooters Club introduced the first indoor shooting range in the country using MANCOM automated retrieval system. Targets can be programmed for advanced shooters and all rails are bullet resistant.
The range has 9 shooting bays and is managed by trained Range Marshals headed by USPSA Champion, Mr. Reynaldo Abad. Shooters can bring their own firearms or choose from any of the pistols and rifles package of the club. The indoor shooting range is located at the basement 1 of Club Ultima.

For more information visit www.ultimasharpshooters.com

24/7 QUICKMART AND PRICELITE OUTLET STORE

Primarily located at Boat Station 1 in Boracay, 24/7 Quickmart is a general convenience store catering to the resort’s guests and locals. From basic grocery items such food and toiletries to prime electrical items, the store can readily provide these needs. 24-7 Quickmart is also at Crown Regency Hotel & Towers in Fuente Osmena, Cebu and at Crown Regency Suites in Mactan, Cebu.

Following the success of 24-7 Quickmart, JKSCI opened Pricelite Outlet Store in February 2011 in Crown Regency Resort & Convention Center. It offers selected US brand items for as low as Php 99 only.

For more information visit www.247quickmart.com

FIRST LAUNDRY

Established in 1991, First Laundry is a leading laundry and dry cleaning provider with service networks in Manila, Cebu and Davao. With over 15 years of superior service, it was recently awarded membership to the Dry Cleaning and Laundry Institute International, formerly the International Fabricare Institute.

Equipped with the most modern upscale laundry equipment and facilities, it offers the very best care for garments in a timely and affordable manner. First Laundry is renowned for its special attention to detail and customer relations.

For more information visit www.firststeamlaundry.com

CROWN REGENCY VACATIONS CLUB, INC.

Avid travelers, businessmen on the go and families always in pursuit of quality vacations will find great value and opportunities with Crown Regency Vacations Club, Inc. Members can get annual room nights in any Crown Regency Hotels & Resorts and in more than 2,800 member hotels & resorts of Interval International. There are three types of Membership under the vacation club¬¬-- Silver, Gold, & Platinum. The club now has about 2,000 members enjoying its privileges and extensive vacation network.

Membership advantages include:
• Create your vacation plans
• Fixed-cost on future vacation accommodations
• Exciting worldwide vacation experiences
• More quality time with loved ones

CROWNHOLIDAYS.NET

Frequent travelers and vacationers can also take advantage of JKSCI’s very own Vacation Exchange Network called CrownHolidays.Net. Unlike other travel networks, it has its own group of condotel properties in Cebu and soon around Asia to facilitate faster, easier and more affordable accommodation. It is also a member of RCI, a vacation exchange network with access to more than 6,000 hotels and resorts worldwide.

What Can YOU Get from Being a Crown Lifestyle Member?

From being an INDEPENDENT RETAILER member in Crown Lifestyle, you will INSTANTLY get these Products, Privileges and Opportunities:

Two (2) Hotel Stay Accommodation VOUCHERS for 2 Days & 2 Nights good for 4 Persons at either Crown Regency Hotel (CEBU) or Crown Regency Resort (BORACAY) – (Worth P40,000)
LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP to Crown Lifestyle and avail ALL the Discounts, Deals, Freebies and Perks offered by THOUSANDS of our Merchant Partners ranging from Restaurants, Gyms, Spa, Entertainment Hub, Hotels and many more! Counterpart for Club Ultima Membership. (Worth P300,000)
Your own CROWN LIFESTYLE ID CARD which serves as your Discount, Rebates, Points, and Debate Card to be used in Merchant Partners (Worth P1,000)
PRESENTATION KIT containing your Quick Guide Manual, Marketing Plan Book, USB drive with Video Presentation and Metro Bank Paycard for your Earnings. (Worth P1,000)
Your OWN SLOT and PERSONAL MARKETING WEBSITE in the E-commerce system which you can use to invite your friends (even abroad!) to earn more POINTS and CASH! The more you invite the BIGGER your EARNINGS! (Worth Px,xxx,xxx)

With Crown Lifestyle, You Can Get These BENEFITS:

EARN, TRAVEL, SHOP & PLAY. A life of amazing privileges starts here.
Enjoy dream accommodations FOR LESS. Discover a life of privileges under the CROWN.
Stay and indulge in some of the finest hotels and resorts in the country and around the world. At CrownLifestyle.Net, you VACATION IN STYLE.
Gives you access to LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP with no yearly fees. Members are given a personal URL which they will use as a marketing tool for presentation & transaction.
It’s an ASSET. Since it’s a lifetime membership, it can be transferred, sold, deeded, inherited, or assigned. Subject to payment of transfer fees ( Php 5,000 ).
Gain unparalleled access to earning opportunities with MULTIPLE REVENUE STREAMS and FANTASTIC FREEBIES and all within your reach.
Reap the REWARDS of your hard work instantly. Grow and manage your Funds, Referral Points, Reward Vouchers and Repeat Sales Commission at the touch of a button.
BUY MORE, EARN MORE. Every purchase at CrownLifestyle.Net lets you earn repeat sales commissions and redeemable reward points.

If you want to be part of this business, please send me an email or you can join LEAGUE OF MILLIONAIRE MINDS by visiting CrownLifestyle.Net

7 Ways To Lower Your Amortization

2011-12-02T08:50:00.001-08:00

For many borrowers, a low, affordable amortization is the primary consideration rather than the total interest expense.

1. Get an adjustable-rate loan, to take advantage of rate dips, but only if there’s a rate cap. And make sure you will still be able to afford the monthly amortization in case the rate reaches the ceiling.
2. Go for the longest term. The typical duration of a mortgage is 20 years for houses and lots and 10 years for condominiums. Nowadays, some banks offer as long as 25 years for houses.

3. Opt for a straight-line amortization schedule. Your monthly payments are fixed for the entire duration, unlike declining-balance, which starts off with higher payments in the first few years.

4. Pay twice a month. It won’t lower your amortization any more than twice a month but it will let you feel less of the pinch. And it’s definitely easier on the wallet than paying fortnightly.
5. Some banks let you pay just the interest for the first year or other set period. You pay a lower monthly amortization in the short run. But do so with extreme caution.

6. Other lenders let you pay very low monthly amortization then require you to make huge balloon payments every quarter or every year. It makes sense only if your earning pattern is similar.

7. Make pre-payments to your principal and ask your bank to adjust your monthly amortization based on the new principal balance.

Source: Moneysense

How to Borrow From a Friend or Relative without Losing the Relationship

2011-12-02T08:46:00.001-08:00

When William Shakespeare said “neither a borrower nor a lender be,” he was probably referring to Evelyn Corpuz. The 37-year old, who used to work for a variety show in a television network, learned that borrowing money indeed can pose a hazardous threat to a relationship. Not only is she P30,000 in debt to both her mother and sister, she admits she feels guilty about not paying them back – it has already been over a year since she borrowed from them.

And aside from not having a job right now to pay back the money lent to her, the sad part about the whole thing is that her relationship with her mother and sister isn’t what it used to be. It has become a little bit tainted, all because she is having a difficult time paying her debt.

Sounds familiar? More than not paying back what you owe a friend or a close relative, the risk of ruining a perfectly good relationship is at stake. At one point in your life, you are faced with a dilemma and a scenario. What if you are not able to pay back the money you owe your mother, what happens next? Are you willing to sacrifice the relationship because you have a hard time paying back the money that was lent to you? And the more important question: if that happens, will your relationship with a family member or a friend ever return to normal?

Actually, it can, as long as you are aware of the things that you need to do to get right on track. According to independent financial planner Josefino Gomez, borrowing money from a friend or a relative shouldn’t even be this risky – if you know what to do. He lists down a couple of things that you should remember in order to be a “good” borrower and still keep that bond with friends and relatives intact.

Avoid borrowing in the first place. If you can avoid it, don’t borrow money. Borrowing costs more since it often involves interest. Even if your mom won’t charge interest, the fact that you need to borrow means something is wrong with your finances. It could actually be a sign that you need help with perhaps your spending or saving habits, or both.

Explain your reason for borrowing. Your lender certainly wants to know how you would use the money. Borrowing money must be used as a last resort and certainly not to obtain unnecessary stuff like a new gadget (your father-in-law will certainly not be amused). You can justify asking for a loan for a real emergency, such as hospitalization, or for something that steadily appreciates, like a house or education, but not for more volatile investments like stocks.

Put it on paper. Treat it as any other loan. This should clear up any misunderstandings in the future. Be sure to state the principal amount, interest rate, term, and frequency of repayment. Also add provisions for possible extensions and remedies for failing to keep your promise. You can do away with formalities if the amount is a few hundred pesos. But for more significant amounts, insist on documenting the loan.

Pay back what you owe in any way possible. Be diligent in repaying. But what if, just like in Evelyn’s case, you are struggling to repay? Josefino Gomez says not to run and hide because the lender might think that you have no intention of returning the money. “Just be honest and be sincere,” he says. “If you owe someone P10,000, you should pay some amount back to show that you are sincere. Even P100 a day or a week will show sincerity. After a year (P100 x 52 weeks), you would have paid about P5,200, more than 50% of what you have owed.” Money can be gained or lost easily but once your reputation – and worse your good relationship – is lost, it is hard to get back.

Exercise humility. If your best friend or sister starts nagging you about your loan, don’t get defensive or agitated. Put yourself in the shoes of your lender. How would you feel if you were on the other side of the fence? You can avoid being nagged or even hounded if you show (and not just promise) earnest commitment to repay. Regardless, swallow your pride. You got yourself in this mess, so suck it up. Better, do whatever it takes to pay back and mend your strained relationship.

Establishing your reputation as a good borrower will pay off. Josefino says, “If you have shown your sincerity and have upheld your honor, you’ll reap the rewards of ready money in the future.”

Source: Excel Dyquiangco

Health Maintenance Organizations Listings

2011-12-02T08:34:00.001-08:00

Blue Cross Health Care, Inc.
8000 Makati Avenue, Makati City
Phone 899-8001
Fax 899-5392
Email: Marketing@bluecross.com.ph
Website: http://www.bluecross.com.ph

CAP Health Maintenance, Inc.
Miriam House, #151 Legaspi St., Legaspi Village Makati City
Phone 892-8562; 810-9481; 810-9438
Fax 810-9329
Website: http://www.cap.com.ph
Email: chealth@pacific.net.ph

CMG of Australia
30/F, Philippine Stock Exchange Centre West Tower
Exchange Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines
Phone 636-2721 loc 501
Fax 636-2778
Email: tracy@cmgphil.com

Cocolife
Cocolife Bldg, 6774 Ayala Avenue, Makati City
Phone 812-9015 to 26 loc 106
Fax 812-3363
Email: healthcare@cocolife.com

Eastwest Healthcare

6/F Makati Executive Center

LP Leviste cor VA Rufino St. Salcedo Village

Makati City, NCR 1227

Email: bdo.sales003@eastwesthealthcare.net
inquiry.eastwesthealthcard@gmx.com

Fortune Care, Inc.

Citistate Center, 709 Shaw Blvd. Pasig City
Phone 637-0872-77

Globus Care, Inc.
Excelland System Ind., #456 Congressional Ave. Quezon City
Phone 925-3545

Health Maintenance, Inc.
Tower Ground, Makati Cinema Square
Don Chino Roces Avenue 1231, Makati City
Phone 844-8806
Fax: 817-1377

Health Plan Phils., Inc.
Suite 204, Limketkai Bldg., Ortigas Ave., Greenhills
San Juan Metro Manila
Phone 721-0025
Fax 722-4618

Intellicare

2nd Floor, Skyland Plaza Condominium, Senator Gil Puyat Avenue
corner Tindalo Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City, Philippines 1258
Contact number: (02) 902-3400

Website: http://www.intellicare.com.ph

Maxicare PCIB Cigna Healthcare Corp.
19th Floor, Medical Plaza Bldg., Dela Rosa cor. Amorsolo Sts.,
Makati City
Phone 812-0561
Fax 813-8713

Medicard Phils., Inc.
9th Floor, Sagittarius Bldg., HV Dela Costa St. Salcedo Village,
Makati City
Phone 819-3471; 817-1670
Fax 810-3855
Website: http://www.medicardphils.com

Omni Care Health Organization, Inc.
4th Floor, One Marian Center, #106 Esteban St.,
Legaspi Village, Makati City
Phone 893-9551; 893-9553

Optimum Health Care Systems, Inc.
Optimum Bldg., #10 Gen. Araneta St., San Antonio Village, Pasig City
Phone 631-3243; 631-3967-69; 631-1135
Website: http://www.optimumhealthcare.8k.com
Email: optimum@wavephil.com

Pamana, Inc.
3rd Floor, Solid Mills Bldg., Dela Rosa St., Legaspi Village, Makati City
Phone 812-0438; 817-7442

Philam Care Health Systems, Inc.
7/F Philamlife Bldg., United Nations Avenue, Ermita, Manila
Phone 523-6002 loc 716
Fax 526-0550
Email: Joemar-L.Escaner@aig.com

Phil. Association of Managed Healthcare Systems (PAMHS), Inc.
Unit 113-B, Tower Ground, MCS Tower, Makati Cinema Square
Pasong Tamo, Makati City
Telefax 811-1828; 811-1844
Cell No. 0(919) 573-4770

Prohealth Care Management
5th Floor, Sedcco I Bldg., Legaspi cor. Rada Sts.
Legaspi Village, Makati City
Phone 840-3370
Fax 840-3409
Website: http://www.prohealth.com.ph
Email: cando@prohealth.com.ph

ValueCare
1401 East Tower, Philippine Stock Exchange Center Exchange Road
Ortigas Center, Pasig City
Phone 638-0750 up to 63
Fax 637-9456
Website: http://www.valucare.com.ph
Email: wecare@valucare.com.ph

10 Tips on Saving Money on Car Insurance

2011-12-02T08:25:00.001-08:00

Buying car insurance coverage is not as simple as selecting a commodity from a shelf. Studies have shown that people don’t shop around for insurance in the same way they shop for a new car. Whereas everybody is always excited to go through all the nitty-gritty of selecting the make, model, color, features, and accessories of the car, including its price, people rarely understand the value of paying the premiums for comprehensive insurance coverage for their car.

Accidents can happen to anyone. According to the Department of Health, road accidents are the 4th leading cause of death in the country today. If an unfortunate car accident claims the life of a person, it will result to emotional trauma and a financial headache for everyone involved.

There are invariably out-of-pocket expenses to pay for medical costs, burial, or property damages. This financial burden can be cushioned by understanding the insurance coverage you are buying. Faced with erratic gas prices, unemployment, and salary increases that hardly keep pace with inflation, everybody wants to find ways to cut costs while maintaining their lifestyle. Many Filipinos are unaware that they are entitled to a reduction in premiums; it is just a matter of making appropriate inquiries.

Below are the factors to consider and ways by which you can redesign your policy and save on car insurance premiums in the process:

Comparison shop

Get your insurance agent to assist you in securing quotes from at least three different insurance companies. When you ask for a quotation or fill out an application form, give complete and accurate information since the premium rates are based on this information. Insurance companies are guided by tariff rates issued by the Philippines Insurance Rating Association (PIRA) and approved by the Insurance Commission. Rates vary for private and commercial vehicles.

There is stiff competition among non-life insurance companies such that some brokers may present a quotation that appears cheaper. Some companies are aggressive in marketing but not financially stable. They underwrite a lot of business by offering low rates. So it is important to take a look at the company’s financial stability. However, they cannot quote way below the tariff rates unless they are willing to take the risk because the governing institution – the Insurance Commission – can slap them with fines and penalties for any violation.

Start by analyzing coverage limits and compare premiums. Is the coverage quoted based on the fair market value? It is possible to lower your premium by buying smaller coverage. However, if your coverage is below market value, that is also the maximum limit that you can claim from the insurance company in case of total loss or damage. Wouldn’t you feel short-changed if that happens? This is the trade-off or risk you have to consider. Look at the term of coverage, is the quotation based on one year, more than a year (to coincide with the TPL period of coverage) or shorter than a year to make the quote appear cheaper?

Check the cost of insurance

Check the cost of insurance when you are purchasing a new or even second-hand car. As a rule of thumb, the more expensive and higher-performance your vehicle is, the higher the premium that you have to pay. Buying a luxury car, sports car, SUV, four-wheeled drive or diesel-powered vehicle is great but it also means embracing higher insurance costs. Hybrids such as the Toyota Prius generally cost more to insure than a typical four-door sedan, because the complex and intricate parts that make up most hybrids cost more to replace than traditional parts.

Companies may also charge more for cars that tend to cause more damage when involved in accidents, such as certain sports vehicles because these car drivers are more likely to test the speed resulting in a higher chance of being involved in a crash. Repair cost of premium cars such as Audis, BMWs, and Mercedes Benzes are higher due to lower depreciation levels making them more expensive to replace.

There are instances when insurers refuse to cover certain imported car models. This is because it takes a longer period to process claims as the parts, which are more expensive, may have to be imported. These cars also have high theft rates due to the higher black market value than a conventional car. Think twice before buying these types of vehicles. If you wish to save on premiums, buy a safe, moderately-priced vehicle.

The premium rate also depends on the age of your car. Brand new vehicles generally have lower rates compared to older vehicles. So if you have an older car, expect more out-of-pocket expenses in case of accidental damage to your car due to the higher level of depreciation. Depreciation is the decline in value caused by the effects of age, wear and tear, use, weather, and similar factors. When a damaged part is replaced by a new part, the insured has to pay the difference between the value of the part at the time of purchase and its value at the time of replacement. Evaluate the costs involved versus the value of the car if it still warrants comprehensive coverage. Other factors to consider are safe driving habits and less frequent vehicle usage. Decide whether it will be wiser for you to eliminate the comprehensive coverage and settle for the minimum CTPL required by the government. Use the money you save in a savings account for repairs and maintenance.

Review the policy information.

When you receive your insurance policy, check the correctness of the data you have previously given to the insurer because this information was used in assessing your premium. Take note if your vehicle is properly classified – private or commercial, the make and model, mailing or home address and the coverage you have agreed upon. Compare it to the quotation which you have previously approved. Make sure that your CTPL (Compulsory Third Party Liability) coverage is still in force since this is required by the government (PD612, Chapter VI).

The law mandates a minimum P100,000 CTPL coverage to cover against liability for death and bodily injury of third parties. For brand new vehicles, the initial coverage is good for three years, after which it is renewed yearly. This coverage is a prerequisite for car registration with the Land Transportation Office (LTO). It is actually a “no-fault” insurance law that is intended to pay medical indemnity of third party individuals regardless of who caused the accident. Over and the above the amount, there is a risk of possibly shelling out-of-pocket costs, which could be minimal or significant depending on the severity of the injuries or property damage. In case of permanent disability caused by the accidental crash, you may have to support the victim for life. This could be a financial knock-out.

To cushion the impact of potential financial loss, you can choose to expand this coverage by buying extra Voluntary Third Party Liability (VTPL) and Voluntary Third Party Liability – Property Damage (VTPL-PD) under a comprehensive cover. You have the option to determine the amount. Check how much premiums to add for the extra coverage.

The Own Damage and Theft coverage which protects against loss or damage on your car is generally based on the market value of your vehicle’s type, make, and model. The purchase or listed price from the dealer, PIRA (Philippine Insurance Rating Association), AMSI (Auto Management Center, Inc), Buy & Sell, and classified ads of leading newspapers are frequently used as references by insurers.

For an additional premium, extra perils such as Acts of God (AOG) for flood, typhoon, hurricane, volcanic eruption, and earthquake may be extended based on the underwriting guidelines of the insurer. These are normally based on the area of residence or where the vehicle is usually stationed or parked. If you live in a neighborhood that is flood- or typhoon-prone, it is unlikely that the insurer will approve such coverage. Some insurers provide a limited coverage. Another extra peril to consider is Strike, Riot, and Civil Commotion (SRCC). These are all subject to a deductible amount.

Auto Personal Accident covers the driver and unnamed passengers of the vehicle. Usually, the premium is relatively small. However, if you are normally the one using the car including your second car, it is your call to get standalone accident coverage for yourself. If your life insurance policy contains an accident insurance rider, you can waive this extra coverage. However, if you often have family members or friends riding with you, then it is worth buying the coverage.

Consider boosting your deductibles

Deductible is the amount which you share or pay first before your insurance company begins paying the rest. You can reduce the premium by reviewing your current deductibles. For commercial vehicles, the usual deductible is 1% of the sum insured with a minimum of P3,000 while private vehicles has a 0.5 % deductible with a minimum of P2,000. This amount must be paid before your vehicle is released from the repair shop. If you think you can afford to absorb a larger portion of your loss in case of an accidental damage to your vehicle, you can raise the deductible to reduce the premiums. Be cautious however in raising the deductible too much because you might find yourself in a difficult financial situation in case of a major claim. Make sure you have enough savings allocated for this to absorb the level of deductible chosen. The key is having the right deductible.

5 ASK ABOUT DISCOUNTS. Ask your agent or company if you are eligible for any discounts such as no claim bonuses, fleet rating discounts , airbags , anti-lock brakes, anti-theft devices , fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment.

6 LOOK AT THE SERVICE, DEPENDABILITY, AND FINANCIAL CONDITION OF THE INSURANCE COMPANY. Premium should not be the sole basis in choosing the right insurance company. Look at the ratings of the company from independent rating agencies. Malayan Insurance for instance, has a rating of B++ (Good) from A.M. Best and BB- (Stable) rating from Standard & Poor. You can also view the rankings of the authorized non-life insurance companies at the website of the Insurance Commission. It is more important to look at the financial soundness and track record of companies that has the ability to settle claims fairly, efficiently, and promptly than the insurance premium.

7 CHOOSE PAYMENT TERMS. You can save more if you pay your premium in full. There are some insurance brokers who allow installment payment terms however, you have to shoulder extra financing cost by extending terms of payment. A word of caution though if you swipe the full amount of premium through your credit card and pay the credit card company in installments, you defeat the purpose of saving.

8 SWITCH INSURANCE COMPANY? Should you decide to change insurer, make sure you get your new policy way before the old one expires. If you have a pre-paid policy, they will give you back the difference based on a scale printed in the policy if you choose not to avail of their services anymore. Normally, you have to make a written request to get this. Notify the insurer ahead of time. There are also instances when it is the insurance company that opts not to renew your policy due to heavy losses sustained in the previous year. In most cases, the insurance company gives advance notice to the client so they can look for another provider.

Shop around for the best deal but be careful about learning the details and consider all angles before you switch auto insurers. Make sure you are comparing the same coverage. Be alert to differences in policies and terms. Do you want to deal directly to a company or an agent? You may have direct link with certain companies and save a little on premiums but get a cold after sales service especially when a claim arises. Some companies might offer an initially low premium just to entice customers to switch then make significant increases in their premium rates the following year.

9 BE A SAFETY CONSCIOUS AND DEFENSIVE DRIVER to prevent accidents and heavy claims from arising. Simply slowing down or avoid aggressive driving, tailgating, and staying off the cell phone while driving are proven ways to dramatically reduce accidents. Once you have a claim history, this will raise a red flag to the insurer and they may charge you higher premiums the following year. The rate depends on the amount of damages claimed. They have a reference manual from which to base the rate. If you have no claims history, you may be eligible for a no-claim bonus.

10 GET MORE VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY. Check if the insurer provides free membership roadside assistance program such as towing, minor repair service, etc. in case of vehicle breakdown or emergencies. Compare the premium of insurer with this add-on feature and those without. If there is a significant difference in the premium for those without this privilege then, it may be a wiser decision to secure a separate membership in an auto club like the Automobile Association of the Philippines because the MMDA has recently slapped higher penalties for stalled vehicles to reduce vehicular traffic and road obstruction along major thoroughfares of Metro Manila.

Buying a comprehensive car insurance policy is a matter of choice unless you have a brand new car under a financing plan. In this case, the bank requires a comprehensive coverage to protect their interest. While buying a car insurance is an annual renewable coverage where you lose the premium if there is no claim, in reality this is not a reason to fret about. Is it not better that you were accident free for one year? It is like having a spare tire in your car. You carry a spare tire so that just in case one of your tire runs flat, you can make use of the spare tire and reach your destination. In the same manner, you buy a car insurance just in case an accident caused heavy damages to your car, property , injure passengers, or a third party, you have the financial protection of an insurer. With a comprehensive cover, your insurance company will cover the costs of repair or replacement of your car based on fair market value. On top of this, your insurer will provide you legal resources to defend you against lawsuit in relation to the accident instead of you hiring a lawyer and pay out of pocket legal fees and any damages awarded by the judge in a settlement. These court cases will not only cost you money that may deflate your wallet like a nail in a tire but also waste valuable time in attending court hearings which could run for years.

Consult your insurance professional how to come up with a package that is responsive to your current needs, lifestyle and budget. Buy only the coverage you need on the vehicles that need it. Overall, taking a closer look at your auto insurance policy and coverage . Insurance deserves the time and energy it takes to comprehend the intricacies and details that make up your own individual situation. If you choose not to buy a comprehensive coverage, you should also be prepared to face the risk involved. A permanent disability caused by an accidental crash can be financially draining whether you are the victim or offending party. Remember that the primary purpose of buying a car insurance is to protect you from financial loss due to major accidental damage or injuries due to collision. Buying a car involves responsibility not just in maintaining the car in good running condition but also being a defensive driver to lessen the risk of accident resulting to injuries to other motorists, passengers, pedestrians, or the public in general and damage to property. Having a comprehensive auto insurance is a great way to give you financial preparedness and a valuable safety net. Becoming aware of all these things and seeking the regular advice of your trusted professional insurance advisor can provide better coverage and save you money down the road. If you take heed and apply these tips , you will reap economic savings which can be allocated for other needs.

Source: Moneysense

Putting Your Money in Time Deposits

2011-12-02T08:18:00.001-08:00

Time deposits have been a favorite financial product of many Filipinos. Apart from real estate, putting one’s long-term savings in time deposits is very typical for most people. So what makes them so attractive? And are they still a good investment, given alternatives like mutual funds, unit investment trust funds, and variable unit-linked insurance products? Here’s a quick primer:

What are time deposits?

Time deposits are interest-bearing bank deposit products that have a fixed term or period, during which they cannot be withdrawn. The advantage, says Jesus Vicente Garcia, Executive Vice President and Branch Banking Group Head of Philippine Veterans Bank, is that “time deposits earn higher interest rates, depending on the amount placed and term.”

In contrast, regular savings and checking accounts are considered demand deposits, as they can be withdrawn at any time. They also offer lower rates. According to Garcia, time deposits are also different from special savings deposit, which also offer higher rates, in that “a special savings deposit is documented with a passbook, but both are subject to documentary stamp tax and final tax.”

How long are the terms?

The minimum term is typically 30 days, with 60, 90, 180, and 360 days (or variations thereof) also available. These days, some banks have also introduced longer-term time deposits, particularly two, three, five, and six years.

Are they available in other currencies?

Time deposits are also available in foreign currencies, usually USD, but increasingly, bigger banks are offering time deposits in AUD, GBP, CAD, EUR, JPY, CHF, and other major currencies.

Do you get a passbook, checkbook, or ATM card?

No. Unlike a savings or checking account, as evidence of ownership, you receive a certificate of time deposit, which usually shows the interest rate, term, and maturity date.

What happens when the term ends?

When it matures, you either withdraw the funds or ask the bank to roll over the deposit for another term.

What are the rates?

Interest rates vary. Most banks usually offer tiered rates for longer terms and higher deposit balances. In other words, interest rates are higher the larger your deposit and the longer the term.

How is the interest earned?

Garcia explains that interest is credited or added to the amount of the principal deposit at the end of the term, “which varies depending on the requirements or requests of the client or the period agreed.” The interest is computed from the day you open the time deposit until the end of the term. For long-term time deposits, some banks credit monthly interest income to your savings account. The interest is net of the applicable final taxes and the documentary stamp tax for some banks, he adds.

What happens if you withdraw before the term?

The bank will charge a pre-termination penalty, such that you receive a much lower interest rate.

What fees and taxes are there?

“There are no fees involved; only the government required taxes, such as the final tax on the interest earned and the documentary stamp tax for the certificate based on the principal amount,” Garcia explains. The documentary stamp tax is P1.00 for every P200.00 while a 20% final tax will be deducted from your interest income. But time deposits of more than five years are tax-exempt.

What’s the minimum deposit?

It depends on the bank. Some have minimum deposits as little as P1,000 while other time deposit products, especially those with longer terms and higher rates, require P100,000 or more.

Are time deposits insured?

Yes, they are insured up to P500,000 per account name by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC).

Can you borrow against it?

Yes, you can borrow against your time deposit. Some banks allow you to borrow up to 90% of your time deposit.

How do time deposits compare with investment funds?

Time deposits compete mainly with investment funds like mutual funds, unit investment trust funds (UITFs), and variable unit-linked linked insurance products. Garcia explains, “Investments in mutual funds are investments in companies, the fund manager of which is appointed by the investment company, and thus it is not a traditional bank product. UITFs are trust products of the bank, managed by the trust group of the bank. Since these are investments, these consist of various investors whose resources are pooled, hence documented with a premium fund certificate.”

The main advantages of time deposits is they are insured by the PDIC for up to P500,000 and the interest rate is fixed and guaranteed, so you know exactly how much you will earn. The disadvantage is they may not earn as much as many investment funds, except for money market funds.

When should you put your money in time deposits?

Garcia says, “It depends on what is the financial goal of the depositor or investor. If the financial goal is not immediate such as retirement or education (if one has a newborn) and the client wanted a safe and less risky investment, a long-term time deposit (5 years or more) is the best option, since the interest rate is higher, fixed, compounded on a monthly basis, tax free, and documentary stamp tax free for individuals.”

He adds that a regular time deposit is also appropriate for short-term or immediate financial goals, since the interest is higher unlike regular savings or interest-bearing checking accounts. “Some businessmen place their investible funds in regular time deposits in view of the higher rates, sometimes with the intention of securing a back-to-back loan they use in their business and still keep their funds earning while the interest for the loan is paid out of the earnings from their business,” Garcia explains.

Philippine Veterans Bank offers three long-term time deposits, namely Hyper Savers, where the client sets the goal or the amount of income he wants to earn at the end of the term (five years and one day), and the branch computes backwards how much deposit should be placed in the present time. These are applicable to clients with future plans and thus save up to earn the amount needed after five years. For Maxi Return, the depositor places his or her funds (minimum of P100,000) and earns the applicable interest from the said investment. And for Advantage Plus, the depositor place his funds (minimum of P100,000) with the intention of withdrawing the monthly interest earned via credit to his savings account. The principal amount is withdrawn after five years and one day. This is appropriate for depositors who need funds on a monthly basis.

Top 10 5-Year Time Deposits

Say you have P100,000 to put in time deposits and can hold it for five years. Which banks offer the best rates? We checked around and found 10 banks that offer the best bang for the buck.

The Most Powerful Wealth Building Secrets Known

2011-12-01T20:44:00.001-08:00

I'd like to share with you 9 of the 26 mindset that all these great masters of business building and life mastery have possessed.

1. Setting And Playing By Their Own Rules. The successful people I have studied did what they wanted - the way they wanted to do it! They didn't hold back. Nor did they follow the status quo.

2. Easily and Effectively Overcome Obstacles. No matter what the setback (financial setbacks, health problems, cash flow difficulties, lack of education) EVERY successful person managed to triumph over their obstacles (and everyone of them had at least one).

3. Turning Negatives Into Positives. The super achievers I studied did one thing better than anyone else they competed against. They reframed every problem or disappointment they faced into a solution or opportunity for greater success.

4. Persistence. Everyone falls off the horse. But the people I studied got right back up, dusted themselves off, and tried again and again until they succeeded.

5. Ethics. The people I've studied have the highest ethical standards of anyone I've been exposed to. They took firm stands on what they believed in and did what was right. They didn't compromise, they didn't sell out, and they didn't lower their standards.

6. Belief And Commitment. Persistence does not work without a clear, strong belief in your unalienable right to have the goal and reward your after. 3SJRURDA4C6X

7. Focus And Unstoppable Drive. Persistence, belief and commitment are all essential to success. Yet, without clear focus and unstoppable drive, you'll only accomplish a fraction of your true potential. Focus is the ability to never let diversions get in your way. It's the ability to cut to the "bottom line essence" in everything you do.

8. Risk Taking. Super successful entrepreneurs know when and where to take astute risks. They know how to take them for maximum yield but minimum down side. Most people I meet however are afraid to take risks.

9. Fearlessness. The sky will not fall ...the world's not collapsing ...you won't go broke or look stupid as long as you continually take forward action. Actually, doom and failure only go to those who stay in the status quo.Simply being aware of these 9 mental factors will make you far more prone to success, starting right now.So take the time to commit these to memory first, and then incorporate them into your being.

Starting A Money Changing Business

2011-12-01T20:37:00.001-08:00

There are many places that have a strong demand for a money changing business. The growth of tourism and our large OFW

population has guaranteed a huge market to be tapped by money changers. This is one opportunity you may not want to miss. It is a simple business if you know how to start and operate it. Below is a shortened and simplified step by step procedure to give you a basic idea on this business:

1. Find an ideal location. The key to success in this business is to secure a location in a place where there are many potential

customers who feel safe when changing money. Previously this was limited to areas where there are many foreigners like the tourist belt. Now, some of the best locations are public markets, commercial areas, malls, and other places where a lot of people find it convenient and secure to change money. A location where you see money changers overflowing with customers are prime spots for putting up this business.

2. Registering a money changing business. A money changer business can be a sole proprietor, corporation, or partnership. Sole proprietors need to go to the department of trade and industry, while corporations and partnerships must go the Securities and Exchange Commission. You then must get a barangay clearance before proceeding to get a mayor’s permit and then registering with the Bureau of Internal Revenue and having your receipts printed.

3. Requirements of the Central Bank. You also need to register with the Central Bank. One of the key requirements of the Central Bank is attendance at the Anti-Money Laundering Law Seminar.

4. Capital needed. While there is no legally mandated minimum amount, it is recommended that you have around five hundred thousand pesos to start this business excluding a minimal amount for renovation, furnishings, and equipment. A bigger capitalization will enable you to have more transactions.

5. Learn buying and selling prices of different currencies. You make your profit from the difference in value between your buying and selling of currencies and so you must know the way of rapidly updating buying and selling prices.

6. Learn counterfeit money detection. The most critical operational skill you and your staff must acquire is to learn how to detect fake currencies. To do this, you must have the tools of the trade: the lens, ultra violet money detector, and white light.

7. Attracting and retaining customers. On the surface it seems that your product or service is hard to differentiate. However, there are many aspects that could be made more appealing to increase the chances of customers preferring your shop. Physically, make external facade look neat with your signage prominent and clean. But the most important is to have well trained staff that can deliver excellent customer service.

The money changing business offers the prospective entrepreneur a solid business opportunity. The demand for this service will most probably continue to grow. If you want to gain more information on money changing, Businesscoach Inc., a leading business seminar provider, offers a two-day seminar on the topic.

6 Things What Every Start-Up Entrepreneur Must Know

2011-11-29T02:19:00.001-08:00

There are a million and one details that you need to look into, and you can easily be overwhelmed by all that you need to know. A key point to remember is that you do not have to be an expert in all these areas, just reasonably knowledgeable. Otherwise, being seriously deficient in one area could ruin your chances.

What are the things that you should know if you want to start a business? Below are the various aspects of a business that you need to know.

1. Technical aspects of the business.

Know everything there is to know about the business that you are entering. The more you know about how things are done in the business, the better you can serve your clients and manage your business. Plus, the knowledge will protect you from scam artists out to fleece newbies like you.

For example, the technical aspects of a bed and breakfast business include such things as room management, food preparation, and serving. It would also include knowing about bed settings and guest management as well as potential suppliers for supplies, food and equipment.

A web business, on the other hand, includes the selection of the right domain name, creation and design of web sites, hosting considerations, and setting up of all the software needed (e.g. shopping cart, discussion forum, etc.). You also need to know the fine points of a site’s usability and understand the measurement of various web metrics. It also involves knowing the process of optimizing the site for search engines, and knowing the basics of banner advertising.

As a start-up entrepreneur, you may find yourself asking, “What are the things that I should know in my business?” Your first resource should be a profile book. There are a number of book publishers (e.g. Globe Pequot Press) and authors that write profiles of particular type of business, from How to Start a Home-Based Travel Business, How to Start a Day Care Business from Home, or How to Start a Home-Based Carpentry Business, and more. These books will give you all the information that you need on starting a particular business. Borrow these books from your library or buy them from your nearest bookstore or online store.

There are also books that profile multiple types of ventures. Paul and Sara Edward’s The Best Home Businesses for the 21st Century provides step-by-step guidelines for more than 100 business ventures. From these types of books, you’ll glean essential information on start-up costs and requirements, self-evaluation, financial projections and management, marketing and contact listings to people in the trade.

2. Financial management and Record Keeping.

Whether you are comfortable with numbers or not, you must have the basic understanding of the financial aspects of running a business. Having a strong grasp of the financial requirements of your business can bring you a long way. These includes record keeping, cash flow management, account receivables management, debt collection, and tax management.

You must be familiar with the concepts of budgets, accounting and profit margins. You need to know the flow of money in your business, ways to improve your bottom line, tips to lessen your taxes, and stretch out your resources during a dry spell. You also need to have a good idea of how much money you actually need before you start looking for money.

3. Legal and Regulatory requirements of your business

When you are decided on starting a business, your first stop should be the business information center of your city or county. A first-stop office can provide you with information packages about licensing, permits, zoning requirements, your particular business type and running a business in your state in general. The packages are usually free, and information very invaluable in terms of starting your business in the right foot. You do not want to start a home business, only to find out after you have bought so much equipment and supplies that your business is not allowed in your residential area.

You also need to determine the legal structure of your business, and how to set that up. Your business information center can provide you with the information on how to go about the steps in business registration and setting up of your business. If you will be working solo in your business, you can register your business as a sole proprietorship. Once you have your business registration, you can then set-up your business bank account. Setting up of partnerships, LLC or corporation may require that you seek the help of a lawyer.

If you are starting a business that uses an innovative technology or process, and the success of your venture depends on you keeping that knowledge, your first stop should be to a lawyer who can help protect your business idea. Imagine seeing your idea brought to life by a competitor, who now prohibits you from profiting on your very creation simply because your competitor was able to secure the patent for your product! Such horror stories abound, and you need to know how to protect your business interests. The drawside, of course, is that getting a lawyer costs money.

4. Operational requirements of running your business.

When your business is off the ground and ready to open, you are in an “operational mode.” You need to know and identify elements that can affect the smooth running of your business. Part of this process include knowing and getting the right insurance for your business.

You also need to look for the professionals who could provide you with support and advice (accountant, lawyer, etc.). If you cannot afford to pay for professional services, you can pick the brain of business veterans through free e-mail counseling offered by the Service Corps of Retired Executives (http://www.score.org) and through the SBA Answer Desk (http://www.sba.gov).

5. Take advantage of industry freebies.

Before you dip into your piggybank, make sure you’re not about to pay for something you can get free. Take advantage of free computer access to databases and software at your local business information center.

You also need to have your marketing and image arsenal, which includes business cards and stationery. There are a number of manufacturers that provide sample packages of office products, software working demos and stationery or paper samples direct from manufacturers.

6. Marketing the Business.

You need to ensure that money continues to flow in your business by getting a steady stream of customers. Before anything else, research to make sure that a market for your business exists. If there are already 20 pet sitters in a community of 100 people, do you think your pet sitting business can still stand a chance in this overcrowded market?

Make sure you understand who your typical customers are, and how best to reach them. Does your market respond well to classified ads; or should you embark on a high profile direct marketing campaign? Can you simply show them your product and expect them to immediately buy them; or do they need know and trust you before giving their accounts to you? Are they impulse buyers; or are they the types who carefully evaluate the product or service before purchasing?

Once you’ve clearly identified them, take steps to ensure that your potential customers will know about your business. Map out a simple plan spelling out in writing the steps you need to take to get more clients or customers for your products or services.

Pricing Your Product

2011-11-29T02:12:00.001-08:00

Pricing is one of the most important factors you must consider in whatever business you plan to put up. The idea is not to price your product or service too high or too low. If your price is too high, not too many people will be able to afford your product or service. If it’s too low, customers won’t buy it because they’ll think what you’re offering is of inferior quality.

There’s no hard-and-fast rule in determining the right price for your product or service, but there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when doing so. One is the cost of your merchandise or service. At the very least, you’ll want to recover the cost of producing your product or service for every sale, and to know your recovery cost you must first determine the cost of producing it.

Your cost has two components: the variable and the fixed. The variable component comprises all direct costs related to producing your product or service, and these are usually your direct

materials and direct labor that are directly proportional to the number of units you plan to sell. (Directly proportional means any increase in production will proportionately increase your variable cost or your cost of producing each unit, while any decrease in production will proportionately bring down your variable cost.) Your fixed component is usually your indirect costs known as overhead, which is inversely proportional-meaning any increase in units produced will result in a lower amount of fixed cost per unit produced-to the volume you plan to sell.

To simplify price-setting, make your operating costs part of your overhead so that your costs are all in when you compute for the selling price. Your cost will set the base in computing for your desired gross profit, which is the other factor to keep in mind when setting the price of your product or service.

Your desired gross profit is of course the amount of profit you’d like to earn for every product you sell or service you provide. This should set the minimum amount of profit you’d like to make in operating your business, and it may be expressed in pesos or as a percentage of your cost. (Use percentage of cost as this is easier especially when you need to raise your prices.) Your gross profit rate could range from 10 to 200 percent, but ideally it should be 20 to 50 percent. Keep in mind that all businesses are established with the ultimate goal of making a profit, and this is one area of your price setting that’s crucial to your success.

Also remember that your desired gross profit rate is likely to be influenced by your payback period. The longer your payback period, the lower gross profit and selling price you need to sustain your business; and the shorter it is, the higher your gross profit should be. Let us illustrate how you may determine your selling price without considering your payback period by looking at your cost of producing, say, fruit juice or fruit shake:

Direct Materials: Fruits (pineapple, mango, orange, banana, apple, kiwi, strawberry, etc.), sugar, water, cups, straw, etc.
Direct Labor: Crew to slice and prepare the fruits, mix them with other ingredients, etc.
Overhead: Juicer, osterizer, chopping board, knives, depreciation of refrigerator or chest-type freezer, air

conditioning, etc.
Rent
Utilities: Electricity and water bills, etc.
Cleaning supplies: Mops, soaps, sponges, etc.
Other fixed expenses related to your business operations

Let’s now assign your hypothetical cost in producing one cup of juice:

Direct Materials (DM) : P7
Direct Labor: P2 (P400 a day with a projected production and sale of an average of 200 cups a day)
Overhead (OH) : P15
Total Cost (DM+DL+OH) : P24
Desired Gross Profit: P12 (50% of total cost)
Selling Price: P36

After coming up with your selling price based on your cost and desired gross profit-the quantitative factors-you may adjust it further using qualitative factors like the characteristics of your target market. If your target market is the upper class, you have room to price your product or service higher; if it’s the lower class, then you should bring it lower as price is a major consideration with its members.

Another factor to consider when setting your selling price is the industry to which you belong and its standards. (Do some research to determine exactly who your competitors are and what they’re charging for the same product or service. Then make it a point to price your product or service within their price range.)

The image your want to project for your product or service is equally important. If you want to project your product or service as something superior, then price it a bit higher-though not too high-in relation to your competitors. If you want to project the image of being inexpensive, reasonable or affordable, then price your product or service lower. The key is in knowing what your market can afford or is prepared to pay for whatever it is you’re offering.

HOW TO REGISTER A BUSINESS

2011-11-29T01:59:00.001-08:00

What’s in a name? A business name is a name under which a business operates. Business name registration is compulsory and must be completed before the business starts operating. Choosing the right name for your new business is extremely important. Your business name distinguishes your products and services from those of your competitors, and helps to establish your identity in the marketplace.

In putting up a business, there are several government agencies you have to register with depending on the type of your business. These are the following:

For Single Proprietorship

STEP 1

Business Name Registration Certificate
Visit Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) Provincial Office or log on to www.bnrs.dti.gov.ph.
Validity: 5 years
Requirements:

Accomplished Business Name Registration Form [Single Proprietorship/Partnership]
Tax Identification Number (TIN)
List of five business names ranked according to preference
Registration fee of P 300.00

STEP 2

Mayor’s / Business Permit
Local Municipality where the business is located
Validity: 1 year
Requirements:

Accomplished Business Permit Application Form
DTI-Business Name Certificate
Sketch of he business location
Fire Safety Inspection Clearance
Sanitary Permit (from City Health Officer)
Barangay Clearance
Lease Contract
2 pcs 2×2 colored ID picture
Registration fee, the amount of which depends on the type of the business

STEP 3

Tax Identification Number (TIN)
Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) National Office
Agham Rd., Diliman, Quezon City
Trunkline: 981-7000; 981-8888
Email: contact_us@cctr.bir.gov.ph
Website: www.bir.gov.ph

STEP 4

Social Security System (SSS) Certificate
SSS Loans and Investment Office
SSS Building, East Avenue
Diliman, Quezon City

Diliman, Quezon City
Tel: 920-6401; 920-6446
Email: member_relations@sss.gov.ph
Website: www.sss.gov.ph

Requirements:

Accomplised R1 form
DTI Business Permit
Mayor’s Permit

STEP 5

Department of Labor and Employement (DOLE) Registration (with 5 or more employees)
DOLE-Labor Standard and Enforcement Division
2/F Dy International Bldg.
San Marcelino cor. Gen. Malvar St.
Malate, Manila
Hotline: 527-8000 Tel: 339-2013
Email: osec@dole.gov.ph
Website: www.dole.gov.ph

Requirements:

Accomplished Rule 1020 form
Lay-out business location
Vicinity Map

For Partnership

STEP 6a

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Certificate
SEC Building, EDSA, Grenhills
Mandaluyong City
Tel: 726-0931 to 39
Email: mis@sec.gov.ph
Website: www.sec.gov.ph
Onine registration: iregister.sec.gov.ph/MainServlet

Requirements:

Verification Slip Form (re: proposed name)
Accomplished Registration Data Sheet
Articles of partnership
Written Undertaking to Change Corporation Name
If the contributed capital is in the form of property, additional requirement is needed:

Deed of Assignment executed by the stockholder who is the owner

For Corporation

STEP 6b

SEC (see above address)

Requirements:

Articles of Incorporation and Buy-laws
Verification Slip Form (re: proposed name)
Accomplished Registration Data Sheet
Treasurer’s Affidavit
Bank Certificate of Deposit
Authority to verify bank accounts
Written Undertaking to Change Corporation Name when necessary
Subscribers Information Sheet
If paid-up capital is a property, submit the following additional requirements:

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

Deed of Assignment executed by the stockholder who is the owner of the property in favor of the corporation. If the property contributed is a building or a parcel of land, the deed must be presented to the register of Deeds for registration.
If the property being contributed is a parcel of land, submit detailed list of the parcel of land showing the OCT/TCT numbers, registered owner, lot and block number, area, location and encumbrances, if any

Registration fee of P360.00

Other Agencies

Depending on the type of products they manufacture or handle and on their market orientation, certain firms are required by law to register with other government agencies. The following is a list of regulatory bodies and industries / business they regulate:

a. For those engaged in the export of coconuts and coconut by-products

The Philippine Coconut Authority
Export Division
PHILCOA Bldg., Quezon Memorial Circle
Diliman, Quezon City
Tel. No. 928.4501
Email: pca_cpo@yahoo.com
Website: www.pca.da.gov.ph.

b. For all manufacturers of garments and textile for exports

Garment and Textile Export Board (GTEB)
New Solid Building
4/F New Solid Bldg., 357 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No. 890.4651 to 52

c. For rice, corn and flour dealers

National Food Authority (NFA)
Regulatory Division
Matimias Building (infront of Q.I)
101 E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue, Quezon City
Tel. No. 712.1768
Email: nfa_admin@nfa.gov.ph
Website: www.nfa.gov.ph

d. For processors and traders of fibers and fiber products.

Fiber Industry Development Authority (FIDA)
License Division
Asia Trust Bank Annex Building
1424 Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel. No. 373.7495 / Fax No. 373.9244
Email: fida@pacific.net.ph
Website: www.fida.da.gov.ph

e. For those engaged in the export of fish and fish products other aquatic products.

Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)
Licensing and Regulatory Division
860 Arcadia Building, Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel. No. 372.5046
Email:info@bfar.da.gov.ph
Website: www.bfar.da.gov.ph

f. For exporters of animals and animal by-product

Bureau of Animal Industry Animal Health Division
BAI Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City
Tel. No. 928.2836 / 928.2778
Email:dir.bai@manila-online.net
Website: www.bai.da.gov.ph

Bureau of Plant Industry
692 San Andres St., Malate, Manila
Tel. No. 525.7313

Email: cu.bpi@da.gov.ph
Website: www.bpi.da.gov.ph

h. For exporters of Forest Products (e.g. logs, number products, plywood, etc.)

Bureau of Forest Development
Forest Management Bureau
Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City
Tel. No. 927.6229
Email: fmbdenr@mozcom.com
Website: www.forestry.denr.gov.ph

i. For those engaged in the production or export of flue-cured Virginia-type tobacco, Burley tobacco and Turkish/Oriental tobacco products.

Philippine Virginia Tobacco Administration
Market Development and Regulation Department
Scout Reyes Street cor., Panay Avenue
Diliman, Quezon City
Tel. No. 372.3186
Email webgroup1@da.gov.ph
Website: www.da.gov.ph

j. For commodity clearance for producers, manufacturers or exporters, whose product quality after due inspection, sampling and testing, is found to meet established standards.

DTI â€“ Bureau of Product Standards (BPS)
3rd floor, Trade and Industry Building
361 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No. 751.0384
Email: bps@dti.dti.gov.ph
Website: www.bps.dti.gov.ph

k. For firms who want to register their patents and trademarks.

DTI-Intellectual Property Office

361 IPO Building, Sen. Gil J. Puyat
Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No. 752.5450
Email: mail@ipophil.gov.ph ; dittb@ipophil.gov.ph
Website: www.ipophil.gov.ph

l. For business interested to tie up with export oriented firms as sub-contractors/suppliers provided they fall under any of the following sectors: garments and handwoven fabrics, gifts and housewares, furniture and fixtures, footware and leather goods, fresh and processed foods and jewelry.

National Subcontractors Exchange (SUBCONEX)
12/F Trafalgar Plaza., 105 H.V. Dela Costa St.,
Salcedo Village, Makati City
Tel. No. 811.8231

m. For enterprises engaged directly or directly in the service, repair and/or maintenance of vehicles, engines and engineering works, electrical, electronics, air-conditioning and refrigeration, office machines and data processing, equipment, medical and dental equipment including the technical personnel like mechanics and technicians employed by such firms.

DTI- National Capital Region (DTI – NCR)
Ground Floor, Trade and Industry Building
361 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No. 7510.384

n. For those engaged in the production of food, drugs and cosmetic products.

Bureau of food and Drugs (BFAD)
Civic Drive, Filinvest Corporate City
Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Tel. Nos. +632-8070721 / +632-8425606
Email: bfad@bfad.gov.ph
Website: www.bfad.gov.ph