Business Visayas

4th OTOP Visayas Island Fair on November 18 - 22

2009-11-03T14:27:00.003+08:00

More than a hundred OTOP Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) from Region 6, Region 7, and Region 8 are expected to join the 4th Visayas One Town One Product (OTOP) Fair from November 18 to 22, 2009 at the SM City Cebu atrium.

Products for sale are souvenir items, novelty items, gift items, furniture and furnishings, natural fiber, and fashion accessories such as bags, shawls, headgears, processed food and footwear. Tourist destinations have also been included in the OTOP marketing program.

Cebu was chosen as the venue this year because it is the center of trade and commerce in the Visayas and Mindanao areas.

Invited to attend the fair are buyers from Manila and from the regions, governors and mayors and other government officials from the National Government Agencies, among others.

The 4th Visayas OTOP fair will focus on selling the products produced by the MSMEs of the three regions under the OTOP Philippines program.

OTOP is one of the priority programs of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to promote entrepreneurship and create jobs in the countryside.

It encourages the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to produce and market distinct products or services using indigenous raw materials and local skills of every municipality or city.

While DTI is the project’s marketing arm, OTOP is a “collaborative” effort of all sectors in the society, with the local government units (LGUs) as the lead.

Executives of the Local Government Units (LGUs) take the lead in identifying, developing, and promoting a specific product or service which has a competitive advantage.

The DTI through its Provincial Offices assist the LGUs in identifying the specific product and coordinated other forms of assistance from other government agencies such as the Departments of Agriculture (DA), Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Interior and Local Government (DILG), Science and Technology (DOST), Tourism (DOT) and the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA), among others.

Package of assistance include business counseling, skills and entrepreneurial training, marketing, and introduction of appropriate technologies.

The 1stand 3rd OTOP fair was held in Cebu City, while the 2^nd fair was held in Boracay.

It is focused on the product development initiatives of the DTI highlighting the tourism and market potentials of the Supra Region, the Central Philippines , which attracts more than half of the foreign tourists in the country.

For businesses that lack high level of marketing, an intra-regional exhibit like the Visayas Otop (One Town, One Product) Fair is a good opportunity to showcase “the best of Philippine products. This is a venue for them to be recognized, especially that this fair covers the entire Central Philippines.

Cebu still top emerging outsourcing city of the world

2009-10-26T14:59:00.001+08:00

For the second consecutive year, Cebu has emerged as the number one “Emerging Outsourcing City” of the world.

Based on the latest report released by Tholons, a leading full-service strategic advisory firm for Global Outsourcing and Investments, Cebu bested other cities in the world like Shanghai and Beijing in China, Krakow in Poland, and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.

In its fourth year, Tholons not only lists/ranks the eight established and 50 emerging destinations, but also ranks the Next 10 aspiring cities ‘on the Tholons Radar.’

The report also provides relative scores of each of the cities for the six parameters of scale and quality of labor pool, cost, business catalyst, infrastructure, risk and quality of life, which are a part of the Tholons Location Assessment Framework.

The study views offshore destinations and location assessment from the perspective of the clients.

The Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector is now under pressure to improve its rank from number one emerging BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) destination in the world, to fully emerged BPO destination.

NERBAC – 7 receives public service award from CSC

2009-10-08T15:06:00.002+08:00

The National Economic Research and Business Assistance Center in Central Visayas (NERBAC – 7) was awarded a recognition by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) on September 25, 2009 at the CSC Multi-Purpose Hall in Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City.

This was the result of the CSC’s conduct of the Public Service Delivery Assessment (PASADA) covering the period August 26, 2008 and August 2009 with a rating of “VERY GOOD” in exhibiting the value of customer care and meeting the expectations of the transacting public for prompt, courteous, responsive, facilitative and pleasant service.

DTI – 7 Regional Director and NERBAC Chairman Asteria C. Caberte shares the award with the NERBAC’s members of the Governing Board, specially the heads of the participating mandatory agencies and the Cebu City Government, without whose cooperation and commitment, the Center would not be possible.

NERBAC is a project created by RA # 7470 that aims to reduce red tape, improve effectiveness and efficiency in government services. One of NERBAC’s functions is to create a friendly business registration, permitting and licensing environment.

The Center, located at the ground floor of the LDM building, Lapu-lapu and Legaspi Sts., Cebu City, houses representatives from the mandatory agencies like the (BIR, SSS, PhilHealth & Pag-IBIG) in registering business and the Cebu City Hall for the initial processing of new applications for Mayor’s Business Permit. It functions as a one-stop-shop for business registration.

Members of the NERBAC-7 Governing Board from the government are the Department of Agriculture, National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Social Security System, Bureau of Internal Revenue, PhilHealth Insurance Corporation and the Pag-IBIG FUND. From the private sector, Cebu Investment Promotions Center, Bohol Investment Promotions Center, Negros Oriental Investment Promotions Center, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and the University of San Carlos.

FAME Foundation holds fashion accessories exhibition in Cebu, Sept 26-28

2009-09-01T16:34:00.001+08:00

On September 26-28, 2009, international buyers will converge on Shangri-la’s Mactan Resort And Spa in Cebu, Philippines for a unique Fashion Jewelry & Accessories Fair that merges business and pleasure.

Organized by the Fashion Accessories Manufacturers And Exporters Foundation Philippines, Inc. (FAME Foundation), Bijoux Cebu is a trade-only exhibition that showcases an extensive collection of fashion accessories - costume jewelry, bags, sandals, components - focusing on the highly popular trend of eco-fashion.

This year’s exhibition will present the Spring-Summer 2010 Collection - an extensive and all-original collection of Philippine green jewelry.

In addition, Bijoux Cebu 2009 will be an interactive and experiential trade show that builds on industry knowledge, business relationships, and social responsibility, and will share exclusive behind-the-scenes peeks at the industry.

Bijoux Cebu is scheduled right after the September 2009 edition of the Asia’s Fashion Jewellery And Accessories Fair (AFJAF) in Hongkong. A good number of AFJAF’s buyers already visit Cebu after the show, either for business or pleasure. Bijoux Cebu, offering both a commercial and social experience, will give them an even stronger reason for going to Cebu after AFJAF.

Bijoux Cebu provides buyers a never-before-revealed insight and deeper understanding of the Philippines’ craftsmanship & ingenuity, design capabilities, and wide variety of raw materials

The trade exhibition provides buyers with the opportunity for on-the-spot product design & development based on their requirements, since samples of all raw materials will be readily available during the show. It also supports the Go Green initiative of the Foundation and provides numerous livelihood opportunities to the rural communities

There is no admission fee to Bijoux Cebu for all buyers and special guests.
Special rates for accommodations at Shangri -la’s Mactan Resort And Spa have also been arranged and are exclusive for pre-registered buyers. (http://www.bijouxcebu.com/events.html)

Philippine exporters hold grand sale of quality products in Cebu

2009-08-07T10:33:00.002+08:00

On August 27-30, more than 70 exporters in the country will unload their inventories for the local market at the least possible price during the Exporters’ Expo in Cebu

Spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-7), the event is slated at the SM City Cebu Atrium as part of the agency’s effort to help the ailing export sector amid the weak market interest due to the financial crisis.

Cebu, the furniture export capital of the Philippines accounting for about 60 percent of monthly exports, is feeling the brunt of the global financial crisis with foreign orders steadily declining.

According to DTI, the Exporters’ Expo is just one of the ways DTI assists exporters survive the crisis.

DTI added that the event is also an opportunity for the local market to avail of the world-class furniture products at very affordable prices.

Aside from furniture products, the Exporters’ Expo will feature world-class products such as fashion accessories, gifts-toys-and housewares, among others.

The furniture manufacturers in Cebu is tapping the domestic market in order to survive but focus is on selling to institutional customers.

The four-day exposition is expected to attract buyers from all over the Philippines, as well as foreign tourists.

This is the first time that the government has extended its hand to invite exporters to join the Exporters’ Expo and allow local retail market to avail of the export quality products.

For more information on the Exporters’ Expo, interested parties may call the Trade Development and Promotion Division at 412-1868, 255-0036-37, or 412-1989 local 601 or 602.

DTI 7 and Cebu GTH receive 2009 Presidential Citation for Best Practice in improving access to markets

2009-07-31T14:11:00.002+08:00

The Department of Trade and Industry Central Visayas (DTI7) and the Cebu Gifts, Toys and Housewares Foundation (Cebu-GTH), represented by DTI regional director Asteria Caberte and exporter Jenifer Cruz, recently received a 2009 Presidential Citation for Best Practice in improving access to markets for implementing the Subcontracting Partners for Innovation (SPIN) program during the Micro Small and Medium Enterprise Development Week at the Megatrade Hall 3 , SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

The SPIN Program, a government-private undertaking, not only generates employment for weavers but likewise assists exporters in increasing production volume of exported products.

Under the program, weavers in the countryside are made to undergo skills training on weaving and craftsmanship after which, their hand-made products are bought by the exporters once these passed quality standards. In this way, rebel returnees and indigents can immediately earn an income after a hard day's work with their earnings dependent on the number of products they make.

SPIN trainings are focused on a “market driven” scheme wherein the products to be made by the trained group are actual export orders. Most exporters who do not have enough workers to do the job orders of their clients subcontract some of these processes.

SPIN training outputs pass the quality standards of the Cebu GTH member-exporters. The trainees will have immediate purchase orders (POs) which would mean immediate income for them.

The SPIN program is developed and spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry Region 7 (DTI) upon the directive of President Gloria Arroyo. The program is in line with the thrust of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on employment generation which is enshrined in her 10-point program of action for 2004-2010.

Months after the Subcontracting Partners for Innovation Network (SPIN) program was rolled out to cleared conflict areas and marginalized sectors in the country, residents who have been beneficiaries of skills trainings conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Cebu Gifts, Toys, and Housewares Foundation (Cebu-GTH) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, have already delivered the booked orders of exporters.

As of June 2009, the SPIN Program has been rolled out to 9 regions in the country including regions 1, 3, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, and CARAGA. Around 109 trainings already benefited 35 MSMEs and 2,622 people. It has received booked orders amounting to Php 67.17598 M.

In Central Visayas, 45 municipalities have benefited from the program. Around 77 trainings have generated 1,791 jobs. Booked orders for hapao baskets, placemats, tip towels and trays have reached Php 59.863 M.

SPIN weavers showcase products during the Sandugo Regional OTOP Trade Fair 2009

2009-07-09T11:23:00.003+08:00

Months after the Subcontracting Partners for Innovation Network (SPIN) program was rolled out to cleared conflict areas and marginalized sectors in Central Visayas, residents who have been beneficiaries of skills trainings conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Cebu Gifts, Toys, and Housewares Foundation (Cebu-GTH) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, have already delivered the booked orders of exporters.

As of June 2009, the SPIN Program has been rolled out to 9 regions in the country including regions 1, 3, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, and CARAGA. Around 109 trainings already benefited 35 MSMEs and 2,622 people. It has received booked orders amounting to Php 67.17598 M.

In Central Visayas, 45 municipalities have benefited from the program. Around 77 trainings have generated 1,791 jobs. Booked orders for hapao baskets, placemats, tip towels and trays have reached Php 59.863 M.

SPIN trainings are focused on a “market driven” scheme wherein the products to be made by the trained group are actual export orders. Most exporters who do not have enough workers to do the job orders of their clients subcontract some of these processes.

SPIN training outputs pass the quality standards of the Cebu GTH member-exporters. The trainees will have immediate purchase orders (POs) which would mean immediate income for them.

The SPIN Program, a government-private undertaking, not only generates employment for weavers but likewise assists exporters in increasing production volume of exported products.

Under the program, weavers are made to undergo skills training on craftsmanship after which, their hand-made products are bought by the exporters once these passed quality standards. In this way, weavers can immediately earn an income after a hard day's work with their earnings dependent on the number of products they make.

The SPIN program is spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry Region 7 (DTI) upon the directive of President Gloria Arroyo. The program is in line with the thrust of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on employment generation which is enshrined in her 10-point program of action for 2004-2010.

Products of trained SPIN weavers will be featured along with other top quality products of manufacturers in Central Visayas during the Sandugo Regional Trade Fair on July 22-26, 2009 at the Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

With the theme “MSMEs Positioning For Global Rebound”, the trade fair will be a culmination of a series of skills trainings and product development initiatives geared towards improving the quality and design of the export-oriented crafts and ethnic food in the region.

DTI formally launched Project Bayong in Cebu

2009-06-16T09:20:00.002+08:00

To provide a source of income for Filipinos affected by the global financial crisis, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) formally launched “Project Bayong” in Cebu on June 12 during the Kalayaan 2009, a Philippine Independence Day celebration.

During the trade and livelihood fair held at SM City Cebu on June 12 - 14, Bayong utility and fashion bags were on display and bayong weaving was demonstrated to the public.

Project Bayong highlights the hand-woven native bag made of pandan, rattan or buri.

There are several advantages to Project Bayong. It generates employment, maximizes use of indigenous raw materials and provides an alternative for the environmentally conscious.

Project Bayong also supports micro-entrepreneurship. The production of bayong entails low investment, it requires light technology, it preserves our cultural heritage and augments income of rural folks.

Project Bayong is also one way for the government to address environmental degradation in the country aggravated by a high annual population growth rate and improper disposal of solid and toxic wastes, among others.

In the last four months (February-May) DTI initiated a series of product development trainings which include basic skills in bayong weaving, skills upgrading and dyeing techniques.

As of May 2009, Project Bayong has been rolled out to 11 municipalities in Central Visayas. Around 11 basic skills trainings, 5 trainings in dyeing techniques, 6 trainings in skills upgrading benefited 605 people. The municipalities where trainings were held include Barili, Bogo, San Remegio, Sta Fe, Bantayan Island in Cebu; Manjuyod and La Libertad in Negros Oriental; Talibon, Bien Unido, Ubay in Bohol; San Juan, Siquijor in Siquijor.

With more people seeking environment friendly products, there is now an increase in demand for bayong in the domestic and international markets, according to DTI.

The DTI is currently working in coordination with the local government, non-government organizations, retailers and exporters for the project. This is intended to provide sustainable livelihood for the people and create more entrepreneurs.

To implement the project, DTI has partnered with Gateway East, a Manila-based private company that advocates waste reduction and an end to the use of plastic bags.

Project Bayong is a component of the Comprehensive Livelihood Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP) of the national government and one of several poverty-alleviation programs.

The CLEEP is a nationwide effort by the government to protect the country’s most vulnerable sectors --- such as the poor, returning expatriates, workers in the export industry, and out of school youths, from threats and consequences of reduced and lost income as a consequence of the global economic crisis --- by providing emergency employment and supervising livelihood projects.

The program aims to build the capacities of Filipino workers and afford them the skills they need to compete in tougher job markets, and to create as many jobs in the least possible amount of time for the poor through investments in enterprise developmen t. (PR)

NERBAC and DTI conduct free seminars on Business Permits and Licensing and Enterprise Development

2009-06-09T16:03:00.000+08:00

Entrepreneurs who have equipped themselves with sufficient knowledge on the intricacies of business will have a better chance at success, especially in difficult times, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) says.

Amid the growing number of overseas Filipino workers and domestic workers who lost jobs due to the global economic crisis, the government is urging businessmen and future entrepreneurs to take advantage of free business seminars and skills trainings.

Every Wednesday, 1:00 - 5:00 in the afternoon, interested individuals can avail of a free seminar for information on Business Permits and Licensing System at the National Economic Research and Business Assistance Center (NERBAC) located at the ground floor of the LDM building, Lapu-lapu and Legaspi Sts., Cebu City.

During the seminar, participants can interact with speakers from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Social Security System (SSS), Philhealth, Pag-ibig and the Cebu City Government.

Pre-registration is required for interested parties to attend the NERBAC seminar, an activity which has been ongoing since June 2007.
Another free seminar is on enterprise development which is conducted together with a skill training every Tuesday, except 4th week of the month from March to June this year, in all DTI provincial offices in Central Visayas.

The entrepreneurship and skills trainings are part of the Comprehensive Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP) of the Philippine government.
“CLEEP is a poverty alleviation program of the government viewed as an immediate solution to the country's burgeoning unemployment problem and as an immediate response to the global financial crisis”, DTI says.
NERBAC is a pioneering project that offers a myriad of government services for start-up and expanding businesses that include business licensing and registration, and proactive investment marketing, reducing red tape and improving effectiveness and efficiency in government services.

New applicants can file their business name registration with DTI 7 simultaneously with their application for a Cebu City business permit as there is also a representative from the Cebu City government available at the NERBAC aside from four National Government Agencies.
The NERBAC was launched in Cebu in November 2006. It is supported by the Private Sector Promotion Program (SMEDSEP), a development cooperation project between the Republic of the Philippines and the Federal Republic of Germany.

The SMEDSEP program aims to improve the Business and Investment Climate for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines, especially in the Visayas.

SMEDSEP is implemented in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry and the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

DTI temporarily reduces Business Name Registration fees

2009-05-19T15:16:00.003+08:00

To encourage more business activities and generate employment, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) shall charge a business name registration fee of One Hundred Fifty Pesos (Php150.00), an amount fifty percent (50%) lower than the original fee of Php 300.00.

This is in accordance to Department Administrative Order No. 09-01 and shall apply to single proprietorships only. Other charges under Section 5, Art III of DAO No.6, s.1999 shall remain.

According to DTI, such reduction of registration fee shall be implemented until June 2009. After which, the registration fees to be charged shall automatically go back to Php 300.00.

For more information, interested parties may call the National Economic Research and Business Assistance Center (NERBAC) at telephone numbers 255-6971, 412-1944 or 255-3926.

Entrepreneurs may also visit NERBAC at the ground floor of the LDM building, Lapu-lapu and Legaspi Sts., Cebu City.

DTI 7 POSTS VACANT TEMPORARY JOB POSITIONS

2009-04-29T14:20:00.001+08:00

The Department of Trade and Industry Central Visayas Regional Office (DTI 7) is announcing that the agency will be hiring around 36 workers for temporary job positions in the regional and provincial offices.

Interested applicants to the positions of Financial Analysts, Trade and Industry Development Specialists and Analysts must be at least college degree holders relevant to the position, DTI 7 Human Resource Management Officer Rebecca Basilla said.

Basilla added that for the hiring of Price Monitors, Clerks and Coordinators of the Comprehensive Livelihood Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP) preference will be given to the unemployed, affected, displaced workers and out of school youths.

Basilla is advising interested job applicants to submit a letter of intent with bio-data to DTI 7 regional director Asteria C. Caberte, 3rd floor, WDC Building, corner Osmena Boulevard and P. Burgos Street, Cebu City.

For inquiries, please call DTI 7 HRMO Rebecca Basilla at telephone numbers 412-1989 or 412-1868 local 402

Free seminar on Business Permits and Licensing at NERBAC Cebu every Wednesday

2009-03-31T12:56:00.000+08:00

Entrepreneurs who have equipped themselves with sufficient knowledge on the intricacies of business will have a better chance at success, especially in difficult times, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) says.

Amid the growing number of overseas Filipino workers and domestic workers who lost jobs due to the global economic crisis, the government is urging businessmen and future entrepreneurs to take advantage of their free business seminars and skills trainings.

Every Wednesday, 1:00 - 5:00 in the afternoon, interested individuals can avail of a free seminar for information on Business Permits and Licensing System at the National Economic Research and Business Assistance Center (NERBAC) located at the ground floor of the LDM building, Lapu-lapu and Legaspi Sts., Cebu City.

During the seminar, participants can interact with speakers from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Social Security System (SSS), Philhealth, Pag-ibig and the Cebu City Government.

Pre-registration is required for interested parties to attend the NERBAC seminar, an activity which has been ongoing since June 2007.
Another free seminar is on enterprise development which is conducted together with a skill training every Tuesday, except 4th week of the month from March to June this year in all DTI provincial offices in Central Visayas.

“NERBAC is a pioneering project that offers a myriad of government services for start-up and expanding businesses that include business licensing and registration, knowledge and information management, and proactive investment marketing, reducing red tape and improving effectiveness and efficiency in government services,” DTI stated.

New applicants can now even file for their business name registration with DTI simultaneously with their application for a business permit as apart from four National Government Agencies there is also a representative from the Cebu City government available at the NERBAC.

An additional task of the NERBAC is the promotion of investment in Central Visayas. For that purpose the NERBAC provides all necessary information to future investors.
The NERBAC was launched in Cebu in November 2006. It is supported by the Private Sector Promotion Program (SMEDSEP), a development cooperation project between the Republic of the Philippines and the Federal Republic of Germany.

The SMEDSEP program aims to improve the Business and Investment Climate for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines, especially in the Visayas.

SMEDSEP contributes to the efforts of the Philippine Government to improve the framework conditions for private sector development in the country.

SMEDSEP is implemented in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry the pilot (DTI) at national, regional and provincial levels and the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

DTI, DOST conduct enterprise seminar and training on fruit wine making on March 31

2009-03-25T09:43:00.006+08:00

This coming Tuesday, 9:00 a.m., the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will hold a seminar on enterprise development at the DTI-Cebu conference room, 3rd floor, LDM Building, corner Legaspi St. & M.J. Cuenco Avenue, Cebu City.

In the afternoon of the same day, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will conduct a skills training on fruit wine making min the same venue.

"These business seminars and trainings are for free and open to all who are interested in learning a new skill that they can turn into a livelihood," DTI said.

In a press statement released by the DTI, the seminars and trainings on business are conducted in all DTI provincial offices every Tuesday, except 4^th week of the month from March to June this year.

Everyday, except Tuesdays from March to June this year, the DTI provincial and regional offices will conduct Business Counseling for walk-in clients.

Recently in Cebu, the enterprise development seminar was conducted by Lydia Canalagi, Manager of Lexmark Employees’ Cooperative and Elias Tecson of DTI-Cebu. The training-workshop on candle making was conducted by Moises Miranda of the Argao Business Club (see attached photos).

Displaced workers interested to avail of business consultation or related seminars and trainings may contact the following DTI representatives: Elias Tecson or Mila De Los Reyes for Cebu at tel no. 253-2631 or 412-1863; Marisol Balistoy for Bohol at tel no. 411-3302 or 501-8260; Bing Sumanoy or Araceli Maypa for Negros Oriental at tel. no. 225-7211 or 422-1764; Marlene Patria for Siquijor at tel. no. 344-2238 or 480-9065; Roselyn Suelto for Central Visayas at tel no. 412-1868 or 412-1989.

The seminars and skills trainings are in accordance with President Gloria Arroyo’s mandate under the Comprehensive Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP).

The DTI said the CLEEP program is a “necessary intervention” after several companies in the country streamlined their work force to cope with the global financial crisis.

DTI Conducts Free Business Seminars and Skills Trainings, March –June 2009

2009-03-10T11:17:00.002+08:00

Displaced workers and would be entrepreneurs can take advantage of free business seminars and skills trainings scheduled by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Every Tuesday, except 4^th week of the month from March to June this year, all DTI Provincial Offices in Central Visayas will conduct Business Options Seminars, How Tos, Skills Demonstrations or Trainings for displaced workers.

Everyday, except Tuesdays from March to June this year, the DTI provincial and regional offices will conduct Business Counseling / RISC for walk-in clients.

On March 13, the DTI through the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) and the Cottage Industry Technology Center (CITC) will be in Cebu for the entrepreneurship seminar and skills training at the Cebu Holiday Plaza Hotel.

Topics for the activity will include Franchising, Dealership, Distributorship, Competitive Costing and Pricing, Desserts Galore, Beadworks and Flower Arrangements.

On March 17, the DTI team will be in Negros Oriental to discuss on Franchising, Dealership, Distributorship, Competitive Costing and Pricing, Beadworks and Flower Arrangements.

On March 18, the DTI team will be in Siquijor for trainings on Financial Management and SPIN to be held at the Siquijor Social Center.

Those interested in the DTI trainings and seminars in Cebu may contact Mila De Los Reyes or Elias Tecson at telephone numbers 412-1863 / 4121856 / 253-2631. Those in Bohol may contact Marisol Balistoy at telephone numbers 411-3236 / 501-8260 / 501-8828.

For those in Negros Oriental, they may contact Bing Sumanoy at telephone numbers (035) 225-4781 / 422-1764 / 225-7211. In Siquijor, interested parties may contact Marlene Patria or Nympha Virtucio at telephone numbers (035) 480-9065 / 344-2238.

For inquiries regarding DTI regional activities, interested parties can contact Roselyn Suelto telephone number 412-1989 loc.102

Last March 11, the training team was at JJ’s Seafood Village in Bohol to discuss a range of topics that include Franchising, Dealership, Distributorship, Competitive Costing and Pricing, Beadworks, Flower Arrangement for Special Occasions.

DTI Conducts Entrepreneurships Seminars for Company Workers

2009-02-13T10:27:00.001+08:00

The Department of Trade and Industry will conduct entrepreneurship and business planning seminars for employees of Taiyo Yuden on February 13 and 25 and displaced workers of Janice Minor on February 27 in Cebu.

DTI’s entrepreneurship and business related seminars are in accord with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s mandate under the Comprehensive Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (CLEEP) to save or create millions of new jobs to weather the effects of the current global economic crisis.

With the rising number of workers affected by the present global situation, the DTI is taking the necessary interventions as fast as it can by offering entrepreneurship seminars to employees and displaced workers of companies.

For companies interested to avail of entrepreneurship and business related seminars for its workers, they may contact the following DTI representatives: Elias Tecson for Cebu at tel no. 253-2631 or 4121863; Marisol Balistoy for Bohol at tel no. 411-3302 or 501-8260; Araceli Maypa for Negros Oriental at tel. no. 225-7211 or 422-1764; Marlene Patria for Siquijor at tel. no. 344-2238 or 480-9065

Last month, the DTI worked in tandem with Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to conduct an entrepreneurship seminar for displaced Overseas Filipino Workers.

Of the 173 OFWs who participated in the seminar, 7 are currently doing business, 33 will soon open business and 10 are presently planning their business venture.

During the recent “Tabo Sa Mamumuo”, the DTI fielded queries from prospective entrepreneurs.

DTI, IP Philippines open Intellectual Property Satellite Office in Cebu

2008-12-15T11:01:00.000+08:00

The Intellectual Property Satellite Office (IPSO) - Cebu recently opened at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Visayas Office to cater to entrepreneurs and IP generators in the Visayas who want to protect their intellectual creations for business benefits.

In cooperation with DTI, the IPSO Project is part of IP Philippines' strategic move to promote intellectual property such as patent or invention, utility model, industrial design, trademark and copyright as a strategic tool for business success.

At present, the IPSO in Cebu only accepts applications for trademarks and patents including utility models and industrial designs, IP Philippines' IPSO Area Manager for Visayas Cecilio M. Fernandez said.

Fernandez explained that his Office's initial assessment of the response of businessmen in the Visayas towards the Project indicates a positive feedback as reflected in the increasing trend of IP filings in the region, and that all IP documents will still be processed at the IP Philippines Head Office in Manila.

Processing time for trademarks is within 4 to 6 months if all requirements are met; while that of patents is within an average of about 4 ½ years which is good enough based on IPOs' international standards, and that of utility models and industrial designs is within an average of about 9 months, Fernandez added.

Fernandez underscored that the primary goals of the IPSO Project are to bring IP Philippines' services to the countryside and to build an IP inspired culture of innovation and creativity that will bring about countryside and national development.

With Cebu and Davao IP Satellite Offices launched, IP Philippines will likewise launch its satellite offices in Luzon where the bulk of applicants are also based.

To encourage entrepreneurs' adherence to IP creation, IP Philippines has provided seminar workshops, promotional information campaign, partnership and networking collaboration and commercialization assistance.

Recently, IP Philippines conducted a seminar on strategic management and use of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Cebu City.

Experts from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the European Patent Office (EPO) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) provided the necessary expertise and experience.

During a break in the seminar, the Cebu Gifts, Toys and Housewares; Cebu Fashion Accessories, Manufacturers and Exporters; Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Cebu Furniture Industry Foundation and Association of Negros Producers signed a Memorandum of Understanding with IP Philippines in support of intellectual property rights and the IPSO project.

NERBAC 7 staff adopts Knowledge Management

2008-12-15T11:00:00.000+08:00

In order to better serve its clients, the staff and governing board of the National Economic Research and Business Assistance Center (NERBAC) Region 7 recently underwent a Knowledge Management Workshop in Cebu.

The workshop was made possible with the joint efforts of the Department of Trade and Industry Central Visayas Office and the German Technical Cooperation known as Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) under the Private Sector Promotion Program called the Small and Medium Enterprise Development for Sustainable Employment Program (SMEDSEP).

According to NERBAC 7, Knowledge Management is a method of organizing the sharing of experience and knowledge efficiently.

For the client, adoption of knowledge management at NERBAC can improve efficiency of service and quality of information given, particularly in the area of business counseling.

The Knowledge Management Workshop was participated by representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry, National Economic Development Authority, Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Bureau of Internal Revenue, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, Social Security System, Cebu City LGU, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bohol Investment Promotion Center, Negros Oriental Investment Promotion Center and the University of San Carlos.

NERBAC, located at the ground floor of the LDM building, Lapu-lapu and Legaspi Sts. in Cebu City, was created In line with Republic Act No. 7470 to facilitate business transactions in Cebu and fast track investment entry in Central Visayas.

It houses representatives from different government agencies that are tasked to process business permit and licenses.

The NERBAC provides prospective entrepreneurs/investors basic information on various business options that are open to them in accordance with the government's IPP (Investment Priorities Plan).

The SMEDSEP is a technical cooperation project between the Republic of the Philippines and the Federal Republic of Germany conceived to help improve the Philippine business and investment climate for Small and Medium Enterprises.

OTOP Visayas trade fair rakes in Php 26.3 million

2008-12-15T10:59:00.001+08:00

The 3rd One-Town One-Product (OTOP) Visayas Island Fair has proven the Visayas entrepreneurs' flair for business by generating total sales of Php 26.3 million.

Held recently at the SM City Cebu Atrium, the OTOP Fair showcased products ranging from gift items, home decors, natural fiber, processed food to fashion accessories produced by 116 small and medium sized firms from regions 6, 7 and 8.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Central Visayas Office, the top seller for non-food category is Bohol Beads and Fibers; while top seller for food category is Maexel Chi Cha Bites.

Among the exporters and merchandisers that visited the trade fair include 33 Point 3, Angelique's Craft, Ran Bros Incorporated, Atin Ito Handicrafts, CTC Export Philippines and Manex Handicraft.

Special guests during the opening ceremony included Cebu Provincial Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and DTI Undersecretary Merly Cruz.

More than just a regular buy-and-sell event, the fair showed the originality and uniqueness of Central Philippines – the intricate designs of ethnic decorative ornaments, the distinctive native touch in classy fashion jewelry and the bursting flavors of local delicacies, DTI said.

The OTOP trade fair is an annual marketing event that aims to generate significant sales; train producers in dealing and negotiating with local and foreign buyers and exporters and develop new exporters from among the participants.

The OTOP Philippines project is a government program to strengthen countryside development by promoting entrepreneurship and creating jobs.

Under the OTOP, local chief executives take the lead by identifying a unique product or service offered by local folks, as well as developing and promoting these.

They have the task of consolidating services needed by industries to develop as a trademark for their respective localities, the DTI explained.

OTOP-Philippines provides a comprehensive assistance package through a convergence of services from LGUs, national government agencies and the private sector. This includes business counseling, skills and entrepreneurial training, product design and development, appropriate technologies and marketing.

The DTI said the OTOP-Philippines is designed to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME's) in the manufacturing and marketing of distinctive products and services to a much better level and achieve measurable results.

Cebu will benefit from weak global economy

2008-12-15T10:54:00.004+08:00

Cebu is considered as one of the few "recession proof" economies in the world that will benefit from the global economic meltdown, according to the world's largest commercial and real estate services firm CB Richard Ellis Group, Inc.

Based on its extensive survey, CB Richard Ellis Group, Inc. projected that Cebu's economy will be saved by its booming Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and tourism sectors.

Officials of the CB Richard Ellis Group, Inc, headed by chairman Rick Santos, were in Cebu the other day to give a briefing on the economic outlook for 2009. The company's chairman presented a rosy picture of Cebu economic development starting next year, backed up by realistic figures and extensive market study.

According to CB Richard Ellis Philippines chairman Rick Santos Cebu is seeing "life" amid the gloomy global economic prospects, and Cebuanos will expect abounding opportunities for employment and other money-making activities next year.

Tourism and BPOs have increasingly made Cebu a hub of foreign direct investment, a trend the company has noticed.

“For the past couple of years, Cebu City has become an emerging hub for the outsourcing industry,” said Santos. He said the BPO industry was Cebu's “biggest opportunity.”

The terror attacks in Mumbai, India where terrorists occupied the Taj Mahal and Oberoi Hotels and the political turmoil in Thailand where protestors took over Bangkok's two international airports present rare opportunities for more investments in the IT and tourism industries in the Philippines, particularly Cebu.

CB Richard Ellis officials also dismissed speculations that the United States (US), under the leadership of President-elect Barrack Obama, will impose restrictions on companies outsourcing or off-shoring certain services to keep jobs within the US.

Santos said the economic factors that make a company decide to outsource or off-shore certain functions or services are “very compelling.” He pointed out that the high salaries and health care costs, as well as labor union issues, are just some of the factors that make a company in the US

Victor Asuncion, director for research and consultancy of CBRE Philippines, said it is “politically correct” for Obama to declare that jobs in US-based companies should be for Americans, but the issue of whether to outsource or not is a matter of economic viability on the part of companies.

“Unless Obama provides margins (for these companies), which he cannot do (at this time), he cannot stop them from (establishing) global operations,” he said in the same press conference.

He pointed out that the US Government has to deal with multi-billion dollar bailouts of its financial sector.

CB Richard Ellis is a Fortune 500 company with headquarters in Los Angeles and is considered the world's largest commercial real estate services firm with more than 300 offices worldwide.
resort to off-shoring or outsourcing.

OTOP Visayas Island Fair boosts business of small entrepreneurs

2008-11-13T13:16:00.002+08:00

"Dako kaayo ug natabang ang kining OTOP trade fair sa akong negosyo," (The OTOP Trade Fair has been a big help to my business), thus enthused Christina Angana, a small-time exporter of fashion accessories in Cebu City.

Angana is one of the 160 entrepreneurs coming from Regions 6, 7 and 8 that is joining the five-day '3rd One Town, One Product (OTOP) Visayas Island Fair' in Cebu City.

During a PIA forum this morning that featured the marketing event, Angana bared that since the annual OTOP Trade Fair was launched three years ago, her establishment called Hanas has since then participated in the yearly activity.

Last year, Hanas was able to sell all its displayed products in Boracay Island in Aklan during the 2nd OTOP Trade Fair held in Region 6.

Angana said that last year, she paid P5,000 for the booth and displayed an array of products mostly fashion accessories and bags made of local raw materials from Cebu worth P120,000. After the fair, her capital grew by 60 percent more, Angana added.

Angana said her small company is still very new of about five years so she needs all the promotion and marketing she could get to attract new and potential buyers.

The annual OTOP Visayas Island Fair is initiated by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) from Regions 6, 7 and 8 as an effective marketing strategy to provide an avenue for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their products using raw materials indigenous to their hometown or services that promote their area as a tourism destination.

As the trade fair kicked off today that will last until Sunday, Angana said she paid P4,000 for the booth displaying products worth P150,000 as she is optimistic that all her items will be sold and since the venue is Cebu City, she will have no problems getting stocks once all her items will be sold out.

Angana said her products are made of raw materials found in Cebu's various towns like the coco shells of Pardo, the wood from Asturias and other local materials from Bohol, Carmen and Badian.

Some of her bags are already exported to Japan and Dubai, according to Angana.
Through the annual OTOP Trade Fair, "my products will be able to get more attention and attract the local market," claimed Angana.

Elias Tecson, DTI-Cebu Project Management Division Chief said the OTOP Program said there are 33 MSMEs from Cebu that are participating in the trade fair while the total participants from Central Visayas number 57.

Tecson said the OTOP Program which basically supports MSMEs to manufacture, offer and market distinctive products or services through the use of indigenous materials and local skills and talents is designed to encourage entrepreneurship and local patronage of native products as well as generate employment in the countryside.

Business counseling, skills and entrepreneurial training, product design and development, appropriate technologies and marketing are the assistance provided to MSMEs under the OTOP Program, Tecson further said.

In case a small entrepreneur lacks capital to go into mass production, the DTI also helps in facilitating a financial loan to the government financial institutions, Tecson said.

The DTI is the OTOP project's marketing arm although it is a collaborative effort among national government agencies like the Department of Science and Technology, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Tourism, government financial institutions and the private sector as most importantly, the local government units (LGUs), this is learned.

Tecson urged the public to patronize local products to help the MSMEs as this will also have an impact to the local economy and help provide jobs. (PIA)

160 exhibitors join OTOP Visayas Island Fair in Cebu City

2008-11-13T13:13:00.001+08:00

Around 160 exhibitors are showcasing their products and goods made of raw materials distinctively found in the Visayas in the five-day '3rd One Town, One Product (OTOP) Visayas Island Fair' that kicked off today until Sunday at SM City Cebu.

Several booths have been set up displaying an array of products such as souvenir and novelty items, gift items, home decors, natural fiber, processed food, footwear and wearables that include fashion accessories, bags, shawls and head gears among others.

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Regions 6, 7 & 8, the annual trade fair is a marketing event that aims to assist the small and medium entrepreneurs to showcase and promote their products and boost sales revenues as well as find potential buyers for their items.

Elias Tecson, DTI-Cebu Project Management Division Chief during the Kapihan sa PIA this morning that featured the trade fair, bared there are 57 participants coming from Central Visayas and of this figure, 33 entrepreneurs from Cebu are joining the annual event.

Tecson said this is the second time Cebu has hosted the annual OTOP Fair, the first time was when the event was launched in 2006 while last year, the trade fair was held in Boracay Island, a popular tourist destination located in Region 6.
Lea Gonzales, DTI-6 Business Development Division Chief in the same forum disclosed there are 27 participating entrepreneurs from Western Visayas occupying 22 booths.

Well-known products and goods from Region 6 on display include delicacies such as biscocho, baked specialty products, casoy nuts from Guimaras, Barong Tagalog made of pina cloth from Kalibo in Aklan, cut foliage from Capiz and a mixture of gift and home items.

The annual trade fair is an identified marketing strategy under the OTOP Program of the DTI, which is a flagship program of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to promote entrepreneurship and create jobs, according to Tecson.

Through the program, local chief executives tale the lead in identifying, developing, and promoting a specific product or service that has a competitive advantage, Tecson added.

The essence of the program is basically to help and support the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to manufacture, offer and market distinctive products or services through the use of indigenous raw materials and local skills and talents, it is said.

Apart from encouraging entrepreneurship and local patronage of native products and generate jobs, the program also provides the means to experience their culture and heritage through the various towns and their specialties or delicacies, this is learned.

Tecson said the OTOP Program is a comprehensive assistance package through a convergence of services from national government agencies, local government units and the private sector. DTI is responsible for the advocacy of the program and marketing of the OTOP products while the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) focuses on the technology development assistance while the Department of Tourism takes charge in the tourism promotion of the cities and municipalities that are selling their areas as tourist destinations like Moalboal in Cebu, a world-class diving spot while the government financial institutions provide the financial aid to entrepreneurs.

Specific assistance given to entrepreneurs is business counseling, skills and entrepreneurial training, product design and development, appropriate technologies and marketing, Tecson revealed.

The program however, targets MSMEs with an asset size of not more than P100M which accounts for about 99 percent of business establishments. (PIA)

Raw materials showcase highlighted in 3rd OTOP Visayas Fair

2008-11-04T10:59:00.003+08:00

The 3^rd One Town One Product (OTOP) Visayas Island Fair promises to be another best selling marketing event this year as it brings to the fore the bounty and distinctive beauty of Central Philippines on November 12-16 at the SM City Cebu Atrium.

To attract more exporters, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will set-up a special setting showcasing different raw materials and how it can be transformed into novelty artworks.

"We would like to show to the public, especially our institutional buyers, what other natural resources the Visayas has to offer thru the "Raw Materials Showcase", DTI Central Visayas regional director Asteria Caberte said.

Raw materials on display at the trade fair will include Kawayan Tinik, Gmelina or Melina, Ipil-ipil, Fibers of Banana plant, Fossilized Flowers, Corn, Recycled Materials, Woven Fibers, Coconut Husk, Bayog, Tinik, Tickling, Bolo, Lanao, Buho, Fossilized/ Skeletonized Leaves, among others.

Caberte added that for this year's trade activity, new products and new designs will be offered for sale and order-taking. "We hope to generate robust sales with the coming holiday season."

Several new products/designs coming from the different MSMEs were developed thru the product development efforts of the DTI. "Products under the One-Town-One-Product (OTOP) program will be the main feature in this fair," Caberte said.

More than a hundred entrepreneurs from Central, Eastern and Western Visayas regions will be selling their wares ranging from souvenir items, novelty items, gift items to home decors, natural fiber, processed food, footwear and wearables.

A side activity during the trade fair is a financing forum on November 14 at the SM City Cebu function room.

The financing forum will have representatives from DBP, LBP, Quedancor, SB Corp. and Planters Bank as speakers.

OTOP Visayas Holds 3rd Trade Fair in Cebu on Nov. 12-16

2008-10-28T10:28:00.004+08:00

Expect five days of pure local goodness as the Visayan leg of the ONE TOWN ONE PRODUCT (OTOP) holds its third annual fair at SM City Cebu Atrium this November 12 to 16, 2008.

Entrepreneurs hailing from different corners of Visayas will be putting their local goods up for sale.

Products for sale are souvenir items, novelty items, gift items, home decors, natural fiber, processed food, footwear, wearables to include fashion accessories, bags, shawls, headgears and many others.

The marketing event is focused on the OTOP products of various municipalities in the Visayas highlighting the tourism and market potentials of Central Philippines which attracts more than half of foreign tourists in the country.

An intra-regional exhibit like the OTOP Visayas Island Fair is a good opportunity to showcase the best of the Visayan Islands.

OTOP is one of the priority programs of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to promote entrepreneurship and create jobs in the countryside.

OTOP encourages the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to produce and market distinct products or services using indigenous raw materials and local skills of every municipality or city.

While DTI is the project’s marketing arm, OTOP is a “collaborative” effort of all sectors in the society, including local government units (LGUs).

Executives of the Local Government Units (LGUs) take the lead in identifying, developing, and promoting a specific product or service which has a competitive advantage.

The DTI through the Provincial Offices and the SME Development Group assist the LGUs in identifying the specific product and coordinated other forms of assistance from other government agencies such as the Departments of Agriculture (DA), Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Interior and Local Government (DILG), Science and Technology (DOST), Tourism (DOT) and the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA), among others.

Package of assistance include business counseling, skills and entrepreneurial training, marketing, and introduction of appropriate technologies.

Cebu now number 1 emerging BPO destination according to worldwide survey

2008-10-21T09:19:00.003+08:00

Southeast Asia’s Cebu City, Philippines, emerged No. 1 on the Top 50 Emerging Global Outsourcing Cities list, followed by the Chinese cities of Shanghai and Beijing respectively.

The choice of the city has become more important than the choice of the country to set up an outsourcing center, according to a study by CyberMedia’s Global Services and investment advisory firm Tholons.

Cebu City currently hosts at least 17 BPO companies (Accenture, Convergys, eTelecare, Sykes Asia, PeopleSupport) and its strengths lie in key processes such as customer service, finance and accounting and HR services. The Filipino city received top ranking for its high literacy rate (97%), strong infrastructure and excellent quality of living which means better workers and lower staff turnover.

Six Indian cities are recognized as among the well-established Top 8 global outsourcing centers, namely Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Pune. Ireland’s Dublin and Makati City from the Philippines are the other two destinations.

In addition, the study has identified the top 50 Emerging Cities for Western companies sourcing IT and BPO services, out of which 19 are from Asia (6 cities among the top 10) and 13 from Central and Eastern Europe.

China has emerged as a strong contender in offering product development, R&D and testing with Shenzhen ranked 10th, Dalian at 16th, Guangzhou at 23rd and Chengdu at 37th position.

Shanghai is already known as a mature destination for providing offerings such as F&A (finance and accounting), product development, R&D (research and development) and testing, and Guangzhou is known for engineering-services. Outsourcing services such as application development & maintenance and business analytics are now being offered from Shenzhen and Shanghai respectively.

Three of the above-mentioned six Chinese cities appear in the emerging top 10 while India is represented by Kolkata (6th), Chandigarh (12th), Coimbatore (17th) and Jaipur (31st). The other Asian city in the top 10 is Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

There are 5 newly-emerging outsourcing hotspots in Asia making their first appearance on the 2008 Top 50 list - Quezon City, Philippines (21st), India’s Jaipur (31st), Singapore (36th), China’s Chengdu (37th) and Mandaluyong in the Philippines (45th).(trendsniff)

Cebu lands on global tourism map as venue of World Tourism Forum

2008-10-16T11:07:00.001+08:00

The conduct of the five-day United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN-WTO) International Tourism Forum in Cebu next week highlights the province as an ideal tourism destination in this part of the region.

Tourism Usec. Phineas Alburo recently bared the international forum on tourism development puts "Cebu on the global map on tourism as an ideal place for international gathering."

Almost 500 participants consisting of parliamentarians and local authorities from 135 UN-member nations are expected to attend the event which will be opened by no less than President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on October 22 at Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort and Spa in Lapulapu City.

Alburo said the UN-WTO global forum is similar to the 12th Asean Summit but on a smaller scale. The Asean Summit was also held in Cebu in January 2007.
The gathering to be held here as mandated by President Arroyo is mainly due to the success of the Asean Summit, according to Alburo.

The tourism undersecretary once again appealed to the Cebuanos to support the government and show the foreign visitors the popular Filipino hospitality and be courteous at all times.

Alburo said he has met with top officials of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB-7) and the Cebu Taxi Association for the latter's cooperation and support as he asked taxi drivers not to overcharge the foreign visitors who might want to explore Cebu on their own.

The foreign delegates will be treated with two complementary tours namely the historical and cultural tour and the other will be an industrial tour. Cebu's old-age museums and other historical attractions will be showcased as well as an array of fashion accessories of export quality as they go on a site tour of export companies that cater on fashion jewelries, this is learned.

A book featuring Cebu, its history and tourist attractions as well as other significant information with brilliant photos of some of the tourist spots will be given to each delegate as a souvenir which is one means to promote the province and maintain its strength as the favored international tourism haven among foreign visitors, this is said. (PIA)