20
Editor in Chief: FRANCIS THEODORE INITORIO
Writers: NOEMI CRUZ ANNA LIZA MENDOZA
Photographers: CHARM CHAVEZ ANGEL ORTIZ LUIS
Graphics/Layout : FRANCIS ANTHONY EMATA
Editorial Telefax: (047) 935-4009E-mail Address: [email protected] all correspondence and advertising inquiries to The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), 2F Administration Bldg., The Freeport Area of Bataan, Mariveles, Bataan 2107.
For the FAB’s maiden issue, the
cover shows aerial views of the
Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB).
Gracing the picture is Ms. Melissa
Joy Punzalan, the reigning and first
Ms. FAB.
THE FREEPORT AREA OF BATAAN
AFAB Honors Outstanding Performance
MAN OF THE HOUR THE MEN BEHIND AFAB
AFAB Approves 14 Companies as FAB Enterprises AFAB Opens First Exhibit AFAB Opens Immigration One Stop Shop More than 300 Students Join AFAB Job Clinic AFAB Seeks to Strengthen Bataan Work Force
AFAB Promotes Tourism Development
Mariveles Locals Win Mr. & Ms. FAB
4
5
6
7
9
11
14
15
16
17
12
We are very excited to share with you the maiden issue of the FAB, the official news magazine of the Freeport Area of Bataan.
Barely ten months in the job, the AFAB, with the support of Governor Tet Garcia and Congressman Albert Garcia, and leadership of Chairman & Administrator Deo Custodio, is very happy to bring you good news about the FAB. We now have fourteen (14) locators coming in this year. With this accomplishment, thousands of jobs will be generated within the 3rd quarter of this year. And with the continuing improvements and developments at the FAB, both in its systems and infrastructures, we are optimistic that more enterprises will come in before the year ends.
We would like to thank all authors and photographers for their contributions. We are committed to providing our readers with broad coverage of timely and important news about the FAB. If you have feedback about this issue, or would like to submit an article for publication, please contact the Corporate Affairs Group of the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan; telephone - 9354004; email - [email protected].
Again thank you and happy reading!!
RENATO M. FERNANDO, Teacher III, is an ICT/Mathematics teacher at the Bataan National High School (BNHS), who specializes in photo editing, web de-signing and other software applications. He has joined different ICT trainings, contests and seminars that contributed to his ICT expertise. Last January, as the coach/moderator of the SMART Schools Doon Po Sa Amin (DPSA) Chal-lenge, he led his group (the sole contender from Region III) to be one of the National Finalists, competing against the best schools nationwide.
VILMA S. FERNANDO, Teacher III, is an English teacher and a Theater Arts Specialist/Adviser at the Bataan National High School (BNHS). She teaches both the Special Science Class (SSC) sopho-mores and Special Program in the Arts (SPA) juniors and seniors. She has been a consistent speaker in the School Press
Conference in BNHS for two years now tackling “Copy-reading and Headline Writing”. She is currently taking her Masteral degree in Language Education at Bataan Polytechnic State University(BPSU).
CHARMAINE C. CHAVEZ started work as a web designer and developer in the Philippine E-sports Entertainment Net-work, Inc. while still in college. She cur-rently works as AFAB’s Planning and Re-search Assistant. Even though her present job is on research and development, she
continues to hone her talent in web design by doing part time graphics and web-related works for friends.
Charm is an intrepid traveler with an adventur-ous soul. Exploring breathtaking sceneries, snor-keling and surfing are some of her favorite activities.
ANGEL ORTIZ LUIS is presently the Sen-ior Political Affairs Officer of Congressman Albert Garcia. She previously worked as a consultant at the House of Representatives, and as a freelance production manager. She has a background in making AVP’s and oth-er advertising paraphernalia. A photography enthusiast, she shot most of the aerial pictures featured here at “The FAB”.
Your Freeport of Choice
Fab!Slang for fabulous and wonderful. A word one usually hears from fashion enthusiasts who cannot contain their excitements over a piece of garb or fashion accessory that costs a fortune. But the FAB that Bataan knows is more than fabulousand can even provide opportunities for better living. Just at the tip of Central Luzon, straddling the Manila Bay and South China Sea, the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) presents a magnificent vista of land and sea. With a total land area of 1,742 hectares, 481 hectares of these are already developed, and the rest still available for economic expansion. It is no won-der why the FAB is fast becoming a premier tourism and industry destination.
Through the authorship and full support of Congressman Albert Raymond S. Garcia of the 2nd District of Bataan, the former Bataan Economic Zone (BEZ) under the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) was transformed into the FAB. And in June 28, 2010, the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) officially took over the administration of the FAB under the leader-ship of its current Chairman and Administrator, Atty. Deogracias G.P. Custodio.
If you are looking for a place to locate and invest your money into, FAB gives you five superior competitive advantages that will satisfy your business and investingappet i te :
FAB is strategic. FAB is the only freeport in Manila Bay, which is the coun-try’s center of trade. It is the nearest and most accessible freeport for ship-ping to Manila. FAB’s tactical location makes it very ideal as transship-ment point to nearby domestic ports and economic zones, as well as base for trade networks with major industrial cities in the Southeast Asian region.
FAB is naturally endowed. It is surrounded by two bodies of water, namely: Manila Bay on the industrial side and South China Sea on the tourism or residential side. As such, it establishes harmony between work (industrial related) and play (tourism and residential). The FAB harbor, with a depth of 11-13 meters, is deeper than the Metro Manila harbor, which has a depth of 9-11 meters. Thus, it is ideal for national and inter-national port operations as it can accommodate bigger ships, hence indirectly reducing cost of trade. FAB offers the best incentives. The FAB is the only freeport where investors can own real property. The FAB also offers all incentives that the PEZA, BOI, and other Philip-pine freeports offer. Aside from these, FAB provides: Income Tax Holiday (ITH) from four years to eight years; 5% tax in lieu of Local and National Taxes after ITH period; Duty Free Importation of Capital Equipment, Raw Materials, Consumer Goods and Per-sonal Items; exemption from wharfage dues, export taxes, imports and fees, domestic sales allowance of up to 30% of total sales; and special Visas for investors.
FAB supplies the best. The FAB is the only Freeport with a 10.9 Million m3-capacity dam complemented by a water treatment plant. Both are capable of delivering 52,995.77 m3 of water everyday. The dam is fed by a well-protected 1,500 hectares of forested watershed. With the abundance of water, the FAB is able to peg its water cost at only Php 4.98 (US$0.12)/m3. The FAB features a sewerage treatment plant that: (1) is eco-friendly and implements a sustainable waste water solution available only in two Free-ports in the country; (2) can process 15,000 m3of waste/day; (3) has more than enough capacity to service the entire zone (it is currently using only 6% of capacity); and (4) charges the lowest sewerage fee in the country – only Php 4.80 (US$0.11)/m3 of water consumption. next page>
4
>cont..............
The FAB also has standard factory buildings in its developed areas capable of housing at least 40 more locators. The whole building lease fee is just Php50.00 (US$1.15) /m2/month, Php53.34 (US$1.23) /m2/month for two floors, Php56.66 (US$1.31)/ m2/month for one floor and Php60.00 (US$1.39) /m2/month for less than one floor.
And by mid-2012, the FAB will have a DEDICATED power supply providing one of the CHEAPEST electricity cost in the country through a 600-MW clean coal-fired power plant that will be operated by GN Power.
FAB is ready. Bataan’s strong manpower is all set to be tapped for employment. Aside from its own considerable local work force, the FAB also attracts workers from other parts of Region III and the vast Luzon area. Furthermore, the FAB hosts the largest
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) training center in the Philippines. It also partners with three local universities (one of which is located inside the freeport) and 13 colleges. In addition, the FAB offers permanent resident status for foreign investors and immediate family members, and tax-free importation of personal equipment for use within the Freeport.
At the heart of all these is AFAB’s individualized service-oriented approach and continuous improvement policy for its locators. The AFAB is constantly looking at possibilities to increase its locators’ productivity that will ensure mutual growth and success. Indeed, the FAB is the Freeport of Choice. Isn’t it something to be more excited about? Now you have the chance to be fab at the FAB.
AFAB Honors Outstanding Performance of 2010The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan congratulates the 2010 outstanding importers and exporters of the Freeport Area of Bataan.
Top Ten Importers
Top Ten ExportersMitsumi is a top ranking importer/exporter. With its production line of electronic compo-nents and IT peripherals, it has now become a consistent key player in the electronics indus-try.
Dunlop Slazenger, on the other hand, supplies the world’s demand for tennis balls specially during Grand Slam tennis events like Wimble-don (in England), Roland Garros (in France) and Australian Open, not to mention other ma-jor competitions in the tennis circuit.
Closing the Top 10 in the Importer’s list is D.I. Dawn Patrol Mfg. Corp., which manufactures quality outdoor products particularly harnesses and packs; and in the exporter’s list is Bahrain Fiberglass International Philippines Inc. which manufactures fiberglass furniture.
Why Choose FAB?Power Rate: at least Php 5.20 (US $ 0.12)/KWH by 2012
Labor: Php 279 - 330(US $ 6.44 - 7.62/day)
*Lease Rate: Raw Land- Php 14.63 (US $ 0.34)/m2/month Standard Factory Building: Whole Building - Php 50.00 (US $ 1.15)/m2/mo 2 Floors - Php 53.34 (US $ 1.23)/m2/mo 1 Floor - Php 56.66 (US $ 1.31)/m2/mo Less than 1 Floor- Php 60.00 (US $ 1.39)/m2/mo *(All rates are subject to negotiation)
Water Rate: Php 4.98 (US $ 0.12)/m 3
Sewerage: Php 4.80 (US $ 0.11)/m3 of water consumption
5
Atty. Deogracias G. P. CustodioChairman & Administrator
When you meet Atty. Deogracias G.P. Custodio, Chairman and Administrator of the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), you will be convinced that greatness is a dream realized not at old age. Young as he is, the man is made to accomplish great things well-ahead of his years.
One of them is actually already happening. Since his appointment in March 2010 to command the AFAB, the governing body that is tasked to ensure the development of the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) as the premier port to rival Subic or even Hong Kong in the Southeast Asian Region, he was able to steer in to the Freeport investors and locators who have established businesses in the area.
According to him, “We have the capacity to bring the Bataan Freeport to greatness”. Once the FAB is developed to its full capacity, it is expected to attract more foreign investors, to become a trade center that will serve both local and international industries. This huge undertaking will transform Bataan into a strategic international logistic hub in the Asian region; and FAB will become an industrial mega-center that will generate thousands of jobs with the many international companies who will want to locate themselves within the Freeport zone.
But, what made this man?
“We have the capacity to bring the Bataan Freeport to greatness.”In 1981, he entered Xavier School which instilled in him the value and virtue of being a man for others. Deo (as he is fondly called by friends and family), recalls the basic foundation that
anchors his Jesuit education - to become the light for others. “Luceat lux - Let your light shine has always been my guiding principle as a person, a leader, and a good Christian,” he explained.
Carrying this sanguine nature, he went to the University of the Philippines as an Oblation Scholar where he finished Economics (1995) and Law (2000). He
then passed the bar exams in 2001 which allowed him to work with some of the best legislators and administrators in the Philippines. He became
the Chief of Staff of Senator Richard Gordon and later the Chief of Staff of Congresswoman Carissa Coscoluella. He pursued his Masters in Business Administration at Singapore which provided him insights
on doing business competitively in a global environment. Deo also accepted consultancy assignments for one of the major programs under the auspices of the USAID prior to accepting the administrator/
chairman position with the AFAB.
Though he seems to be firm and serious at work, he still finds time to keep himself fit. And he does this by running. Deo
is a firm believer that “A sound body always encourages a clear mind.” The first time he joined a full marathon was
on February 7, 2010 in the Condura Marathon. He then completed the New York Marathon on November 7,
2010. And last December 19, 2010, he also ran in the Corregidor International Half Marathon.
He also has a soft spot for music. Back in high school, he was part of the student band “Axe Turtles,” where he played the bass guitar. He also joined a stage production of Carousel. “It was only a minor role,” he warmly recalls. “I would have tried for a bigger role but it was a musical and I admit my limitations,” Deo recalls fondly.
All of these made Deo the man he is today. When asked how he copes with challenges and undertakings, he replies,”I have big plans and even bigger responsibilities, but my upbringing
grounds me.” Deo asserts, “When I need to make crucial decisions that may affect the lives of many, I always go back to this verse by Rudyard Kipling - For what shall it
profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul.”
MAN OF THE HOUR
THE MEN BEHIND AFAB Michael Dennis M. Ballesteros - is the Channel Coordinating Unit Head of the Malayan Insurance Company, responsible for the sales management, training and admin-istrative functions of the company. With over 15 years of experience in people management, he played pivotal roles in numerous projects in the areas of sales drives, product conceptualization and launchings, and application development. Graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce (Major in Marketing Manage-ment), he brings with him a wealth of experi-ence in business development and has been a key player in the investment promotions efforts of the AFAB. His inputs in the conceptualiza-tion of marketing campaigns and strategies for the Freeport have been invaluable.
Aurelio C. Angeles Jr. - obtained his Law Degree from San Beda Col-
lege and at present, is the Chief Legal Counsel
of the Province of Bataan and representative of
Bataan-Baseco Joint Venture, Inc.
His legal acumen ensured the correct imple-
mentation of the FAB Act of 2009. The conver-
sion of the former Bataan Economic Zone into
the FAB required that contracts, memoranda,
and agreements continued to be honored and
implemented to guarantee the efficient conduct
of business in the Freeport. He has been instru-
mental in protecting the rights of all stakehold-
ers in the Freeport to the benefit of the entire
community.
Pablo M. Gancayco - is an A.B. Political Science and Bachelor of Laws graduate at the University of the Philip-pines. He is a renowned expert on intellectual property and commercial law. One of his no-table accomplishments was the preparation of the final report for the Gancayco Commission in 1995, which was the basis of the passage of the Migrant Worker’s Act by Congress and now protects the welfare of OFWs. As a Senior Partner of Gancayco, Balasbas & Associates Law Office, Atty. Gancayco has made significant contributions to the legal func-tions of the AFAB, volunteering extra time and resources to review legal documents and instru-ments on behalf of the Authority. Among his affiliations are the Intellectual Property Association of the Philippines and the Rotary Club of New Manila.
Conrado G. Marty - is a Certified Public Accountant holding MBA degrees from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and De La Salle University. He is the President of Universal LMS Finance and Leasing Corp. and also the Vice-Chairman of the Hyundai Asia Resources as well as Chairman of the Philippines-Korea Economic Council. He has made tremendous contributions to the AFAB by way of providing guidance and advice on fiscal management. When the AFAB took over the PEZA, it had a very lean staff, and relied heavily on the expertise of its board of directors to ensure the efficient operations dur-ing the early stages. The finance department was able to function properly due to the support of Mr. Marty. Also, because of his vast internation-al network, Mr. Marty has been able to introduce several prospective new locators to the FAB.
THE MEN BEHIND AFAB Jose Reynante B. Sebastian - is a councilor of the town of Mariveles and an
active member of the local community. He is the
current President of the Labor Union Presidents
Association in the Freeport Area of Bataan and
the Region III Organizer of the Confederation of
Filipinos. He finished his Bachelor of Science
in Business Management and Master’s degree
in Educational Management in Polytechnic Uni-
versity of the Philippines.
He is a key player in keeping the lines of com-
munication between government and labor sec-
tor open because he believes that only through
continued harmonious relationship between
these two sectors can business truly thrive in the
FAB and allow for the continued generation of
employment opportunities.
Armando P. Rubia
- is the municipal secretary of the town of
Mariveles since 2007. He is responsible for
preparing speeches and reports for the local
chief executive and organizing the mayor’s
daily schedule.
He received his Bachelor’s degree in Busi-
ness Administration major in Accountancy
from the University of the East and has been
instrumental in liaising with the local govern-
ment unit of the municipality of Mariveles, the
cooperation of which is essential for the suc-
cess of the endeavors of the AFAB.
Rex Ma. A. Mendoza - holds a Master’s degree in Business Man-agement at the Asian Institute of Management, and currently the CEO of PhilAM Life. Prior to holding this position, he was President of Ayala Land International Sales, Inc and the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. He is also a faculty member of the De La Salle University Graduate of Business. His experience and competence in the field of sales and marketing has been an invaluable as-set to the investment and tourism development and promotions programs of the FAB. Exposed to the needs and demands of the international business community, he has been able to help craft a clear and targeted marketing campaign for the FAB. Furthermore, his background in property development has been helpful to the land asset management initiatives of the FAB to make full and efficient use of its properties.
Paulo M. Tibig - is the president of Vcargo Worldwide/Vintel Logistics. He is also an active member of lo-cal business community as President of Bataan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Asso-ciation of Filipino Franchisers. He is recognized as one of the Top Ten Entrepreneurs of 2005 and finalist in the 2008 Nokia Mobile Entrepreneurs Awards. He received his BS in Airline Business Administration from PATTS College of Aero-nautics. Known as “the entrep champ”, he has been an effective conduit between the AFAB and the local business community. And through his ef-forts, support from local businessmen and entre-preneurs as well as from those in the region has come pouring in for the investment initiatives of the AFAB. He sees domestic investment as a vi-tal part in the development of the FAB and has been aggressively promoting these opportunities to Filipino businessmen.
THE AFAB BOARD OF DIRECTORS
14The AFAB has approved the application for registration as FAB enterprise of several compa-nies, which include: Lewisberg Warehousing and Logistics Corp.; North Binghamton Solu-tions Corp.; Off-Road Adventure and Classic Automotive Restorers, Inc.; Good Sail Trading, Inc.; Greenville River Manufacturing Corp.; Half-Moon Bay Duty Free Inc.; Twenty Oaks Marketplace Corp.; One Source Petroleum Marketing Company; Executive Heights Bed and Breakfast; Clarkes Point Industrial Corp.; Trans-Am Waste and Rags Philippines, Inc.; South Charnwoods Industrial Corp.; Kinetix Industries Corp.; and Interline Realty. Lewisberg Warehousing and Logistics Corp. renders warehousing and logistic services for ex-port enterprises located in FAB. Their prospective clients include Lindberg Subic Inc., manu-facturer of high fashion frames; and Polar Marine Inc., assembly of tank cleaning equipment for ships. The company will handle storage, safekeeping and inventory management of raw materials and production supplies of their respective clients. North Binghamton Solutions Corp. (NBSC) manufactures anti-static plastic pallets, plastic crates and plastic trays. NBSC plans to export eighty percent (80%) of its production output, twenty- five percent (25%) of which are direct exports to Asian countries and fifty- five per-cent (55%) as indirect exports to manufacturing export enterprises located in FAB, CDC and SBMA. Part of its production will be directly exported to Hong Kong, China and Singapore. NBSC will initially employ a total of 19 individuals. Off-Road Adventure and Classic Automotive Restorers, Inc. offers restoration and/or modifi-cation of vintage, terrain, and sports vehicles. Its main products shall include fabricated alloy metal vehicle parts, exhaust system, and seats and interior parts dealing. Clients include trade customers and private individuals. Vehicles for restoration will come from the US and Japan and the finished product will be exported back to the US, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore and Dubai. Off-Road Adventure will employ about twenty six (26) employees during its first year of operation. The Good Sail Trading, Inc. manufactures and exports athletic shoes and other related products. These include shoes and footwear made of rubber, leather, and nylon fabrics. The company’s markets are Latin America, Europe and Asia. On its initial year, the company will require 300 regular and 80 contractual workers. Greenville River Manufacturing Corp. manufactures biaxially-oriented polypropylene (BOPP) roll and polyethylene (PE) sheets and bags for use as packaging materials. Its customers will con-sist of semi-conductor enterprises. Prospective clients include among others, Amkor Anam and Texas Instruments located in Muntinlupa City. Greenville will require a total of twenty eight (28) employees during its preliminary operation. Half-Moon Bay Duty Free Inc. is engaged in the business of maintaining and operating a duty free shop or buying, selling, importing, distributing, marketing at wholesale and retail as may be permitted by the law, all kinds of goods, commodities, wares and merchandise of every kind and distribution. The company provides employment to fifty eight (58) individuals during its first year of operation. Twenty Oaks Marketplace Corp. is engaged in operating duty free stores, warehousing and trad-ing. The company’s proposed activities include wholesale and retail of all kinds of goods, com-modities, wares and merchandise such as auto parts, clothing and footwear and household items. Twenty Oaks Marketplace Corp will require five (5) employees during its initial operation. One Source Petroleum Marketing Company is a gasoline station engaged in trading activities in wholesale and retail of petroleum products. It will employ four (4) employees during its first year of operation. Executive Heights Bed and Breakfast is engaged in hotel and restaurant operation. Bed & Break-fast appeals to guests who desire a more personal interaction with their place of destination. It also offers cosy accommodation for visitors, tourists and officials visiting the Freeport. At present, it has a total of fifteen (15) employees in its first month of operation.
Clarkes Point Industrial Corp. proposes to engage in the manufacture of pneumatic tires for cars, motorcycles and trucks for direct export to Hongkong, China and Singapore and also targets local sales to enterprises located in FAB, CDC and SBMA. It will require fifteen (15) employees in its initial operation.
Trans-Am Waste and Rags Philippines, Inc. is a company engaged in recycling of clothing materi-als and rags. It manufactures clothing materials, rags, wipers, cleaning implements from recycled materials obtained from used clothing materials, linens and fabrics. In addition, Trans-Am also engages in sorting and packing of used clothing materials, bed sheets, linens, curtains, fabrics and the like and exporting them to Japan, Hongkong, USA, Pakistan, India, Africa and China. At present, it has already forty (40) employees for its initial operation.
South Charnwoods Industrial Corp. is a company that deals with the manufacture of candles including but not limited to decorative candles, aroma therapy candles, votive candles and taper candles for export to Hongkong, Singapore and Canada. It also intends to target local sales within FAB, CDC and SBMA. The company will need ten (10) employees in its initial operation.
Kinetix Industries Corp. engages in the manufacture of bicycles and children’s tricycle and other related products under the brand (RUX), character licensing (Disney, Warner, and Nickelodeon) and OEM. Kinetix export business started in 2010, serving Europe, Middle East and Asian cus-tomers. The company will require 100 employees at the start of operation. Interline Realty, on the other hand, is proposing to build inside the FAB a ferry port, gas station, commercial building, hotel and souvenir shops. Their investments portfolio for the FAB is more than 150Million Php.
AFAB Approves Companies as FAB Enterprises
FAB Facts- Number of locators increased by 40% in less than a year: July 2010 - 39 locators May 2011 - 53 locators- These additional locators commit investments worth more than Php 317M.
AFAB Signs JMO, MOA and IRR with BI and DOLEThe Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) Chairman Deogracias G. P. Custodio recently signed a Joint Memorandum Order (JMO), Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), and Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) with the Bureau of Immigration (BoI) OIC Ronaldo P. Ledesma and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, at the BoI Main Office in Intramuros, Manila.
The signing of the JMO, MOA and IRR aims to facilitate a more efficient procedure for processing and issuance of work permits and visas for foreign nationals working with FAB locators. It will also serve as the foundation of the one-stop shop that the AFAB seeks to establish to service its locators.
In his statement during the signing, Chairman Custodio thanked the BoI and the DOLE for their efforts in facilitating this partnership, saying that it will be a great help to the current locators of the FAB and a good incentive to future investors.
“The implementation of this system will be a reflection of the constant efforts of the FAB to provide a level of service that will enable us to become the freeport of choice for future investors,”said Chairman Custodio.
DOLE Secretary Baldoz acknowledges and fully supports the partnership saying, “We anticipate that these coordinative efforts will attract more investments at the Freeport Area of Bataan that will eventually result to more employment opportunities for our workers in the community.”
BoI OIC Ledesma also responded stating that the signing was good for both the BoI and AFAB because it makes the immigration system more efficient which facilitates good governance in the freeport.
The signing is another milestone in the transition of the former Bataan Economic Zone into the AFAB.
FAB Power Supply SecuredThe Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) successfully renewed its contract with the San Miguel Electric Company, ensuring a steady power supply for all the locators and residents of the Freeport Area of Bataan.
“A steady power supply is crucial to the smooth operation of our registered enterprises because they are mostly engaged in manufacturing. We do our best to ensure that the supply and the rates are as consistent as possible”, said Deputy Administrator for Operation Engr. Emmanuel Pineda.
The FAB is also working to bid out the power supply of the Freeport by 2012. Currently, the AFAB is extending the previous contract between the PEZA and the SMEC on a quarterly basis while it is still preparing its Terms of Reference to bid out a long-term contract, given its new nature as a Freeport. Another major consideration is the ongoing construction of the GN Power 600MW clean coal-fired power plant that can provide an alternative power source for the Freeport once it is operational, and subtantially bring down the power rates within the FAB.
10
Mariveles, Bataan. The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) has opened its first exhibit last October 2010 to celebrate the first Anniversary of the passage of RA 9728, the law that created the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB).
The FAB Exhibit features the FAB’s endowments that make it the most viable port for foreign investors. Several aerial shots of the FAB dam, sea ports, standard factory buildings, water treatment plants and other natural endowments are on display. The exhibit also features various products of the current FAB locators, from lenses produced by Essilor, tennis balls from Dunlop, to the various electronic chips from Mitsumi. At the heart of the exhibit is a scaled model or diorama of the present FAB area.
“The FAB exhibit contains all important facts that you must know about the FAB,” said Chairman and Administrator Deogracias Custodio. “It is a mini-tour of the FAB itself, but the Exhibit is just a teaser to encourage people to see the real thing,” he added.
The exhibit, which was just over a month in the making, relied heavily from the assistance of the Engineering Division on holdover with the AFAB and the art students of the Mariveles National High School, Cabcaben. “We are truly grateful for the help they have extended. With their artistic abilities and keen sense of beauty, we were able to set up the exhibit in just over a month,” said Francis Initorio, AFAB Corporate Affairs Head and curator/manager of the Exhibit.
The FAB exhibit is open to the public Mondays-Fridays, from 8am to 6pm.It forms part of the educational tours for FAB visitors and students from various universities and learning institutions.
AFAB Opens First Exhibit
Are you ready for the FAB? Click HERE
The Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) website made its internet debut last October 2010 during the 1st anniversary of the passage of RA 9728, the law creating the FAB. It signifies the continuous efforts of the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) to promptly update the AFAB stakeholders of FAB’s current events and activities in form of new media, known popularly as the World Wide Web.
The FAB website contains loads of valuable information, specially the history and general information about the FAB. It features FAB events, activities and announcements through press releases. The website also gives business how-to’s and investment opportunities for current and future locators. One could easily navigate through webpages to learn business specifics and how to get started in FAB. The website also showcases FAB tourist destinations and job opportunities.
The FAB website has a user-friendly interface and clean layout. The most significant information can be easily browsed through a navigator placed at the top of the FAB website. Anyone can move through the website using drop down menus and quick links.
With the growing number of net users, the internet has proven its worth as a new medium of communication. As of today, the FAB website gained web presence and now placed on the first pages of different search engines.
Visit our website at www.freeportareaofbataan.com, like our Facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/freeportareaofbataan and stay connected with the FAB.
11
AFAB Opens Immigration One-Stop Shop(IOSS)The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) recently launched its Immigration One-Stop-Shop (IOSS) to ensure immediate processing, stamping and issuance of FAB locators’ visa. Joining AFAB and Bureau of Immigration (BoI) officials for the IOSS Launch were guests of honor Bataan Governor Enrique “Tet” Garcia and Congressman Albert Garcia of the 2nd District of Bataan.
The IOSS, conveniently located at the lobby of the AFAB Building, is a joint project of the AFAB and BoI to provide fast and efficient immigration services to expatriate locators and their dependents. Manned by both AFAB and BoI employees, the IOSS offers a system for the immediate processing of their visa related requirements as well as its stamping and issuance. The IOSS process only takes less than twenty four (24) hours to be completed.
AFAB offers ferry serv ice The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) in cooperation with Sun Cruises now offers regular ferry service for the Manila-FAB-Manila route starting 14 March 2011.
Each ticket costs P 350.00 for the first twenty (20) passengers including pre-booked passengers (those who bought their tickets 3 days from actual travel schedule). For regular walk-in passengers, tickets cost P 400.00. For those planning round trips, 2 tickets cost P700.00. The ferry (Sun Cruises) schedule is on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8:00 AM (Manila to FAB) and 1:45 PM (FAB to Manila). Manila port is at the CCP Complex and the FAB Port is at the Rouvia Port.
“The AFAB has pushed for the immediate operation of the ferry service in line with our development plans and high level service offerings to our stakeholders, specially our locators,” said Chairman & Administrator Deogracias Custodio.
Tickets are available at Sun Cruises Office (CCP Port Complex); Rouvia Port Compound (Mariveles) and the AFAB Administration Building Mariveles.
12
AFAB Joins the PIPP Oversight Structure The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) represented by Chairman & Administrator Deogracias Custodio officially joined the Philippine Investment Promotion Plan (PIPP) Oversight Structure by signing a Supplemental Memorandum of Agreement with the PIPP Steering Committee and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) at the Board of Investments Building in Makati last December 9, 2010.
The MOA formalized the partnership of the parties geared towards attracting a wide range of investors and establishing a stronger network of Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) within the strategic framework of the PIPP.
The PIPP will serve as guide for harmonizing the policy-making, planning and programming of promotional strategies, programs and projects of various IPAs.
The AFAB also joined the PIPP oversight structure, as a member of the Steering Committee and the Technical Working Group. AFAB Deputy Administrator for Business Development Atty. Patrick Ty has been designated by Chairman Custodio to represent the AFAB in the Technical Working Group.
“We are pleased to be working with the Steering Committee and the Technical Working Group, and we look forward to working with other IPAs to formulate a rational set of policies and strategies to bring more investors to the country, and with it, jobs and opportunities for our communities,” said Chairman Custodio.
Officials from the Board of Investments, the Clark Development Corporation, and the TIEZA also participated in the signing.
The other organizations who will be working on the PIPP include the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, the Bases Conversion Development Authority, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, the Clark Development Corporation, the Philippine Retirement Authority, the Phividec Industrial Authority, the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority, the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone and Freeport, the Regional Board of Investments of the ARMM, and the Aurora Special Economic Zone Authority.
Duty Free Shop opens at FABThe Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) billeted two Duty Free Shops to serve the Freeport and the people of Bataan.
Half Moon Bay Duty Free Inc. is now open and offers its customers a wide array of goods. It engages in the business of maintaining and operating a duty free shop or buying, selling, importing, distributing, marketing at wholesale or retail, as permitted by the law, all kinds of good, commodities, wares and merchandise of every kind and distribution.
Dependable Logistics Solutions Co. is currently a registered Clark Freeport Zone Enterprise engaged in duty free store, warehousing and trading. It also offers wholesale and retail for all kinds of goods, commodities, wares and merchandise such as auto part, clothing and footwear, and household items. It is set to open soon.
The approval of the two Duty Free Shops is a major addition to the growing number of investors brought in by The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB).
13
The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) recently conducted Job Clinics for Polytechnic University of the Philip-pines (PUP) Mariveles, Technical Education and Skills Devel-opment Authority (TESDA) and Softnet Information Technology Center students last January to March 2011 at AFAB Boardroom, Administration Building.
The job clinic was participated by 91 students from Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Mariveles, Bataan, more than 100 students from TESDA (Machining and Welding students, Electronics and Electrical students and Auto-motive students) and 101 students from Softnet.
AFAB conducted Job Clinics to assist graduating students in various fields of expertise to apply and secure employment. The discussions centered on formu-lating an effective resume to ensure marketability and competitive advantage over other applicants.
The clinic also conducted simulation interviews. Most frequently asked ques-tions during actual job interviews were raised to optimize and assess their rea-soning and intellectual capability. “This will develop their skills to answer ques-tions during job interviews,” Mr. Initorio said. These job clinics aim to teach students to promote themselves in the best positive light to make a good impres-sion that will increase their chances of being hired.
The Job Clinic is also in preparation for the special recruitment activity (SRA) that seeks to find more than 500 qualified locals for a BPO Enterprise that plans to set up business in the FAB.
More than 300 Students Join AFAB Job Clinic
14
Duty Free Shop opens at FAB
Moving Forward, Looking BackThe Author i ty o f Freepor t Area o f Bataan (AFAB) has been busy get t ing a l l poss ib le opportuni t ies for job seek ing Bataeños by invi t ing and encouraging companies to loca te a t FAB. Job Cl in ics , Spec ia l Re-cru i tment Act iv i t i es and Job Fa i rs have been organized through the combined e f -for t s o f Gov. Enr ique Garc ia , Cong. Al -ber t S . Garc ia , Mayor Jesse Concepc ion and government agenc ies such as Publ i c Employment Serv ice Of f i ce (PESO) and Technica l Educat ion and Ski l l s Deve lop-ment Author i ty (TESDA) .
To know the impact o f AFAB to people who par t i c ipated in the SRA’s and now undergoing t ra in ing , th i s i s what they have to say about AFAB:
AFAB Seeks to Strengthen Bataan Work ForceThe Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), under the leadership of its Chairman & Administrator Deogracias Custodio recently met with TESDA Bataan and the National College of Science and Technology (NCST) to explore the formulation and implementation of programs to strengthen the Bataan work force to address current and potential job requirements in FAB.
“The challenge right now is to ensure a steady stream of local qualified workers with high productivity levels who can
be immediately hired,” said Chairman Custodio. “We are now in the process of developing a system to ensure that the work force is in sync with the current and future demands within FAB to guarantee immediate hiring,” he added.
TESDA Mariveles is one of TESDA’s biggest training center, offering a variety of training programmes to the locals of Bataan. It provides training modules for workers seeking entrance to a number of FAB Locators, including Mitsumi, Inc.
NCST is a consistent ASIAN CSR excellence awardee. It has formulated several training modules for high profile companies. Its multinational company partners include Genting Malaysia and Intel.
Name: Merma T. CasuncadAddress: Upper Ipag, Mariveles, BataanCourse: Computer Science and Pro-grammingAge: 18“I have to thank the people behind
this great opportunity. Thanks to AFAB, TESDA, PESO and especially to Gov. TET Garcia, Cong. ABET Garcia and Mayor Jesse Concepcion. We don’t have to go to Balanga to look for a job. It’s now here in front of us. I hope that they will continue this en-deavor and I believe that they will be able to help us.”
Name: Rowena B. CandelariaAddress: Balon, Mariveles, BataanCourse: BSEd, Major in EnglishAge: 20“Looking back to what I had been through, I can say that it isn’t easy
get a job nowadays. You really have to work hard for it by doing your best during interviews. But, being an English major helped me a lot in passing all the tests, and here I am, looking forward to be-ing hired after this Sutherland training. I thank AFAB for giving me a chance to prove my worth.”
Name: Sandy I. Sta. AnaAddress: Lucanin, Mariveles BataanCourse: Practical Nursing (undergraduate)Age: 21“I really want to thank AFAB, PESO, TESDA and our local government for getting us near to these job opportunities
because we don’t know where to turn to. But through them and AFAB, people like me will have the confi-dence of getting a job, without going anywhere else.”
Name: Ryan O. MendozaAddress: Duale, Limay, BataanCourse: Associate in Computer Science BS in Accountancy (Undergraduate)Age: 19“I want to help my brother in his stud-ies that’s why I took this training. Not
only because I want to boost my confidence in oral communications (as a customer service representative) but also, I know that I will be well-compensated. But of course, if not for the effort of AFAB, PESO, TESDA as well as Governor TET Garcia and Cong. ABET Gar-cia, this will not be possible. So, I want to express my earnest gratitude to them for generating jobs for us.”
Sharing that same hope, many of the residents of Bataan are looking forward to getting hired and to being given a lot of job opportunities. And geared en route for global excellence and competence, AFAB and its affiliates are also looking for all possibilities of making Bataan the heart of economic constituency.
Bed and Breakfast opens at FAB
The Executive Heights Bed and Breakfast officially opened at the Free-port Area of Bataan (FAB) last June1, 2011.
This was after the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) and The Exquisite Hotel and Business Management Group Corpora-tion signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) last March 8, 2011 to launch the establishment that will answer the need for accommodating visiting officials, investors and FAB guests.
“AFAB continues to build a world class freeport with modern ameni-ties and facilities,” Chairman Custodio said. “With the help of Exquisite Hotel and Business Management Group Corporation, we will be able to convert two (2) housing establishments located within the FAB to func-tion as a commercial Bed and Breakfast (B&B),” he added.
Mr. Luisito Moloa, President and CEO of Exquisite Hotel and Business Management Group Corp., is optimistic that the partnership with AFAB will yield great results.
AFAB Promotes Tourism DevelopmentThe Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) sees tourism development as one of its cornerstone business programs.
“Mariveles is a beautiful municipality, with so much tourism potential,” said Chairman & Administrator Deogracias Custodio. “It possesses a lovely coastline, mountain ranges and flat lands suitable for so many tourism activities,” he ex-plains. “All we need to do is to promote and develop easy access for the public to come to Mariveles,” he added.
Part of the AFAB business plan is to develop interior access that will lead to Ca-maya Coast. Camaya Coast is the most developed Mariveles resort that can be immediately promoted by the AFAB as a tourist attraction.
AFAB is also working on plans to set up a Duty Free Complex that will cater to the needs of the Bataeños as well as other non-locals from the Central Luzon Region and Manila.
“Mariveles is just less than an hour away from Manila,” Custodio said. “Once we get the FAB ferry port operating with fast crafts going to and from Manila, we will be able to tap Metro Manila tourists and populace to sample the attractions, ameni-ties, and the natural warmth and hospitality of the Bataeños,” he added.
He also explained that Mariveles is also a part of the Tourism Triangle that is com-posed of the City of Manila with tourism sites such as the Mall of Asia, Rizal Park and Intramuros; and Cavite with its pristine beaches and dive sites like those found in Puerto Azul. At the very center of this Tourism triangle is the Corregidor Island whose history is intimately linked to the historical pathways of Bataan.
AFAB is also looking into developing an ecopark with horseback riding amenities and outdoor adventure activities.
Tourism activities in Mariveles is expected to generate thousands of jobs for locals.
16
A FAB Fair to Remember“FAB brings excitement back to Mariveles”
This is what the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) Board Vice Chairman Atty. Aurelio Angeles said during the first FAB Fair held last November 2010 at the fair grounds adjacent to the AFAB Administration Building.
And it was indeed felt by the fair-goers as The FAB Fair ’10 kicked off with a Ground Demonstration Competition among ten elementary schools and five high schools in Mariveles. The elementary students wowed the crowd with dances and elaborate costumes from different parts of the world, while the high school students showed their dramatic skills and dance moves combining interpretative and popular dance.
In his message during the Opening Ceremonies, Atty. Aurelio Angeles thanked the AFAB staff for their hard work in putting the fair together and encouraged everyone to participate in the programs. He also emphasized the importance of the support of the people of Mariveles for the FAB saying, “we cannot do it without your help, but with your help, we can do anything.”
The ceremonies lasted the entire afternoon, as the residents of Mariveles turned out in droves to support their favorite competitors. The winners at the elementary level were BEPZ Elementary School for 3rd place, Antonio G. Llamas Elementary School for 2nd place and Sisiman Elementary School for 1st place.
For the high school level, the winners were Mariveles National High School-Malaya for 3rd place, BEPZ Multinational School for 2nd place and Mariveles National High School-Cabcaben for 1st place. Darling of the Crowd Award went to IPAG Elementary School.
The FAB Fair, which offers quality merchandise for shoppers, is a much awaited annual event in Mariveles that tourists anticipate to experience excitement and to see the progress that FAB brings.
Mariveles Locals Win Mr. & Ms. FAB Pageant Mariveles, Bataan – December 21, 2010 – McLawrence Doria bested a field of 20 candidates while Melissa Joyce Punzalan beat out 16 other candidates from all over Bataan to win the Mr. and Ms. FAB titles during the Coronation Night held at the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) on December 20. Both winners are from Mountain View, Mariveles.
They will serve as ambassadors of goodwill for the FAB for the duration of their reign, representing the Freeport to the Bataan community, with special focus on the youth sector.
The Coronation Night was widely attended by Bataeños, as the presence of GMA star Rhian Ramos added greater luster to the event. She served as a judge and delivered a song number to the delight of the crowd. Ms. Soon Hee Mon, President & General Manager of Seung Eun Fabric headed the panel of judges. Trans-Am Owner, Ms. Liling Co, Shinten Production Consultant Mr. Ricardo Ferrer, and FAB Broker Steve Morgan, completed the panel of judges.
AFAB Chairman Deogracias Custodio and Congressman Albert Garcia graced the event and delivered brief messages to the crowd.
The pageant was a testament to the goal of the FAB to serve as a means to bring together the different municipalities of Bataan into a solid force, working for the progress and development of the province. “I am very happy that the FAB and the people of Mariveles have welcomed all of us and even if I am from Balanga, I was given the honor of serving as Pageant Chairman”, said Ben Medina.
The rest of the Mr. and Ms. FAB court included fourth runner-up winners, Verge Pineda and Mary Grace Lugtu; third runner-up winners Mark Anthony Punzalan and Kristel Grace Tolentino; second runner-up winners Jelon Apostol and Helen Gimena; and first runner-up winners Jerico Carlos and Merlanie Masiglat.
