24pg philippine embassy supplement
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Cultural exChange:Filipino au pairs share in the Danish way of life
on the up in the philippines
business ConFiDenCe
DisCoveryour islanD
paraDise in the
philippines
It’s more fun in the Philippines was brought to you by The Copenhagen Post in association
with the Philippine Embassy
mlindberg
8571 · Patented
The Cph Post_1306.indd 1 16/05/13 09.06
President Benigno C. Aquino III has led
his country’s bid to become a globally
competitive place for doing business
through reforms that have aimed to
eliminate corruption, improve infrastructure
and strengthen the government’s finances.
From his inaugural address to the present, the
President has held steadfast to his promise of
dramatically cutting red tape and implement-
ing stable economic policies to level the play-
ing field for investors and make government
an enabler of business. His administration has
helped boost the already heightened investors’
confidence in the Philippines. “We will be a pre-
dictable and consistent place for investment, a
nation where everyone will say ‘it all works’,”
says the President at almost every appropriate
opportunity.
As you will read in this supplement, the Philip-
pines is an economic bright spot in the Asian re-
gion, and recently the country has won a credit
rating upgrade from Standard & Poor’s a year
after it was raised to investment grade, aided
by President Benigno Aquino’s efforts to im-
prove the nation’s economy and government.
ImprovIng InfrastructureAquino has overseen the resurgence of a na-
tion once called the Sick Man of Asia and is
seeking faster expansion to reduce unem-
ployment and poverty. The benchmark stock
index continued its upward trend and recently
ranked as among the biggest gainers in Asia,
buoyed by the longest stretch of inflows into
Philippine equities since at least 1999.
Aquino is increasing spending this year to lure
investments and boosts economic growth as
much as 7.5 percent after a 7.2 percent gain
last year. Builder Ayala Land Inc., brandy
maker Emperador Inc. and cement producer
Holcim Philippines Inc. are among companies
that reported higher profits in the last quarter
on rising demand.
Pres. Aquino has also recognised the need
to improve the country’s infrastructure to at-
tract investments, and as a result public works
spending on improving the country’s infra-
structure is now on the rise with various pro-
jects on the go. “Gradually, we will add and
improve on infrastructure for transportation,
tourism, and trade,” the President has said.
Improvements in infrastructure will also further
boost the Philippines’ strategic location in the
Asia Pacific region, which, in itself is already a
competitive edge and serves as a natural entry
point to the other markets and economies in
the region, including Southeast Asia.
our success factorsThere are many factors why the Philippines
has been an attractive area for foreign invest-
ments. The country, with a democratic gov-
ernment that continues to institute reforms to
make its economy competitive, provides basic
rights and guarantees to investors, including
the repatriation of investments, remittance
of earnings, access to foreign loans and con-
tracts, freedom from expropriation and requi-
sition of investments.
Top quality workforce
Filipino workers are recognised as among the
world’s best because they have a fast learning
curve. It takes only eight weeks to train Fili-
pino workers compared to 16 to 24 weeks for
workers in other countries. The Philippines has
an abundant supply of quality labour with a
large pool of knowledge-based, multi-skilled,
highly educated, highly trainable, literate,
English-speaking workforce. Filipino workers
are also known for low employment turnover
(less than 1%), high productivity yields, highly
adaptable to model changes and familiar to
quality work needs.
Business competitiveness
The Philippines is highly rated as a suitable re-
gional hub for the following activities:
❚ Labour-intensive manufacturing
❚ Regional operations centers and
outsourcing operations
❚ Marketing support base for the region
❚ Center for regional human resource and
training functions
❚ Construction and telecommunications
❚ Top tourist destination
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority
(PEZA) has made economic zones (econ-
zones) attractive to investors by providing
world-class, environment-friendly sites for
manufacturing facilities and other business
and tourism-related activities.
an economIc poWerHouse In asIa:
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
President and Publisher: Ejvind Sandal ● Editor: David Nothling ● Layout: Lyndsay Jensen ● Sales & Marketing Director: Hans Hermansen, hans@cphpost.dk, Tel: +45 2420 2411 ● Picture credit for images: Department of Tourism – London and Thinkstock
presIDent aQuIno Boasts aBout tHe pHILIppInes’ success factors
It is with great pleasure that I greet the Filipino community in Denmark on the
occasion of the 116th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independ-
ence. This year’s theme, “Following the Footsteps of Great Filipinos towards
a Comprehensive and Permanent Change,” resonates particularly strongly. In
the wake of Typhoon Haiyan, we have witnessed greatness amongst ordinary
people with extraordinary hearts. I thank the Filipino community for your gen-
erosity and compassion towards our Kababayans in need.
I also take this opportunity to extend our deepest appreciation to the Danish Govern-
ment and citizens for their assistance to the victims of Typhoon Haiyan. The survivors
draw strength from the support of friends in the international community such as Den-
mark, and have embarked on the path towards recovery and rehabilitation.
The Philippine considers Denmark a true friend and ally. Our countries have expanded
cooperation across various sectors, particularly in the maritime industry and clean en-
ergy. I expect two-way trade to continue to flourish and people-to-people exchanges
to improve significantly, especially with the re-opening of the Embassy of Denmark in
Manila in August this year.
On this auspicious occasion, I am hopeful that Philippines-Denmark relations will con-
tinue to expand and grow on the basis of our shared democratic values and ideals.
ALBERT F. DEL ROSARIO
Secretary of Foreign Affairs
a specIaL message from tHe secretary of foreIgn affaIrs
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
The past year was an eventful and challenging one for the Phil-ippines. Last November, The strongest typhoon on record hit the Central Philippines and caused massive loss of lives and prop-erty. This tragedy, however, failed to stop economic growth in the Philippines which reached 7.2% at the end of 2013.The Phil-ippines is currently undergoing extraordinary levels of growth. Sound economic policies, consumer spending and an increase in tourism have boosted the economy.
I hope that after reading this supplement you will be interested in visiting or doing business in the Philippines. Listed in this edition are briefs on business opportunities in the Philippines and some of the most beautiful places to see in our archipelago. Every is-land in the Philippines is eager to welcome travellers, investors, students, adventurers and everyone in between, to our shores. We want you to have fond memories of your journey and spread the word that “It’s more fun in the Philippines”.
Danish-Philippine relations and cooperation are as strong as ever, with many Danish enterprises present in the Philippines.Our skilled, professional, English speaking workforce is a great asset for Danish multinational companies. And with the Danish Embassy in Manila due to open later this year, Danish-Philippine relations are only bound to get stronger.
Typhoon Haiyan was a catastrophe of unprecedented propor-tions. In its wake, it left millions of Krone in property damage, thousands of lives were lost and many more were displaced. The
message from tHe amBassaDor
It is with great pride that I join our kaba-
bayans and Danish friends in commemorating
the 116th anniversary of the proclamation of
philippine Independence.
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
recovery was only made possible with aid and assistance from our friends in the international community. Denmark was among the first to come to our aid in this time of need.
Seven months later, the disaster stricken areas show signs of re-covery, and the Philippines says “Maraming Salamat”, many thanks to our Danish friends and to the Filipino Community in Denmark! We appreciate the continued support and mutual cooperation from Denmark. We are also proud of what the Filipino community has accomplished in Denmark.
mabuhay ang pilipinas!
BAYANI S. MERCADOAmbassador
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AuPair_Forsikring.indd 1 30-05-2013 15:55:38
Advertisement
tHe resIDent pHILIppIne emBassy In osLoThe Philippines established its resident em-
bassy in Oslo, Norway on 30 April 2007. It is
the Philippine government’s official contact
point with the authorities in the entire Nordic
region covering the Kingdom of Norway, the
Kingdom of Denmark, the Republic of Finland,
the Republic of Iceland and the Kingdom of
Sweden.
The main tasks of the Embassy are to work
for the enhancement of Philippine political,
economic and cultural relations with these
countries, to protect and promote Philippine
interests throughout the Nordic region and to
provide consular services to the approximately
50 000 Filipinos who reside in the region.
The Embassy also oversees the operation of
six Philippine Honorary Consular posts in the
region: The Philippine Honorary Consulates
in Reykjavik, Iceland in Växjö, Sweden and in
Stavanger, Norway and the Philippine Honor-
ary Consulates General in Copenhagen, Den-
mark, in Helsinki, Finland and in Stockholm,
Sweden.
HIstory of tHe emBassyThe Philippines established diplomatic rela-
tions with Norway on 2 March 1948. Minister
Nikolai Aal was the first official to represent
Norway in the Philippines (based in what was
then Nanking, China). From 1952 to 1956, Nor-
way was represented by a Consulate, later, by
a Consulate General in Manila. The Norwe-
gian Embassy in Manila was opened in 1967.
In the past, the Philippine Embassy in the
United Kingdom was responsible for Philip-
pine relations with Norway. In June 1986, this
responsibility was transferred to the Philippine
Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden.
On 30 April 2007, Second Secretary and
Consul Porfirio M. Mayo, Jr. opened the res-
ident embassy in Oslo and was the Embas-
sy’s Chargé d’Affaires, ad interim (CDA) until
Ambassador Victoria S. Bataclan arrived in
Norway in May 2007. In January 2009, Am-
bassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso took over
the Post as Ambassador to Norway, Denmark
and Iceland. In September 2011, Ambassador
Bayani S. Mercado succeeded Ambassador
Buensuceso.
With the closure of the Philippine resident em-
bassies in Helsinki and Stockholm in 2012, the
jurisdiction of the resident embassy in Oslo
was expanded to cover both Sweden and Fin-
land.
pHILIppIne BILateraL reLatIons WItH norDIc countrIesThe Philippines currently enjoys robust and
cordial political, economic and people-to-peo-
ple relations with all the five Nordic states.
On the political level, there are close bilateral
contacts between the Philippines and each of
the five Nordic countries, built largely on a
shared belief in democracy and the promo-
tion of universal human rights. Our countries
have convergent interests in many global and
regional matters and have worked together
in the United Nations and other international
fora on issues ranging from non-proliferation
of nuclear weapons to gender equality and the
protection of the environment.
The Philippines also has mechanisms for reg-
ular high-level political bilateral consultations
with Norway, Sweden and Finland.
the philippines has 84 foreign
service posts around the world.
the nordic region is under the
jurisdiction of the philippine
embassy in oslo, norway.
tHe pHILIppIne emBassy In norWay:
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
tHe Heart of norDIc-pHILIppIne reLatIons
As members of the European Union (EU), Denmark, Sweden and
Finland also maintain engagements with the Philippines through
the EU-ASEAN dialogue mechanism and the ASEM process.
Norway, on the other hand, has been involved in the efforts to bring
about lasting peace in the Philippines playing a significant role as
a third-party facilitator in the peace talks between the Philippine
Government and the Communist Party of the Philippines-National
Democratic Front-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA-NDF). It was also
part of the international monitoring team in efforts leading to the
landmark 2012 Framework Agreement signed with the Bangsam-
oro group.
On the economic front, the Philippines had a total merchandise
trade volume of US$ 585.4 million with the five Nordic countries
in 2013. Total Philippine exports to the region amounted to more
than a quarter billion dollars at around US$ 285.3 million. Sweden,
the largest trading partner of the Philippines in the Nordic region
accounted for 44% of total trade volume, with Finland following
at 28%.
In the area of investments, Denmark and Norway have proven
to be eager investors in the Philippines, particularly in the area of
sustainable energy, other eco-friendly solutions technologies, IT,
pharmaceuticals, and the services sector for Denmark, natural gas
and renewable energy projects for Norway. Sweden which sent a
business and investment delegation to the Philippines last year has
also begun making significant investments in the Philippines in the
area of manufacturing.
The Philippines also enjoys strong maritime relations with Denmark
as major companies like A.P. Moller-Mærsk continue to hire and
train Filipino seafarers for their many ships as well as establish hub
offices for many other maritime-related services in the country. The
Philippines and Iceland also cooperate in the area of geothermal
energy.
In the area of tourism, there has also been a marked increase in the
number of tourists from the Nordic region visiting the Philippines in re-
cent years with Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Norway all registering
continuous growth every year for the past four years. In 2013, the total
number of Nordic tourists visiting the Philippines reached 63 106 up by
50% from the 2010 figure of 42 000.
Right now, only Norway has an embassy in Manila. Early this year, the
Danish Government announced it would reopen its embassy in Manila
on 1 August 2014.
tHe emBassy’s consuLar sectIonAnother major task of the Philippine Embassy in Oslo is providing con-
sular services to Filipinos and the general public in the Nordic coun-
tries. Services include the processing of passport and dual citizenship
applications and providing notarial and civil registry services for Filipino
nationals, the issuance of visas to Nordic nationals and other foreign-
ers intending to travel to the Philippines and the authentication of le-
gal documents. Some of these services such as visa and authentication
are also provided by the Philippine Honorary consular offices in Iceland,
Denmark, Sweden and Finland under the supervision of the Embassy.
The Embassy also regularly brings its passport and other consular ser-
vices to selected cities and regions with large concentrations of Filipino
nationals. Over the past year, the Embassy has conducted mobile con-
sular outreach services in Copenhagen, Stockholm, Reykjavik, Helsinki,
Stavanger, Åarhus, Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
Gastrochef Copenhagen Post Print ad 1/4 page 105mm x 144mm (10mm bleed)
Advertisement
“He who does not look back from whence he
came from, will never ever reach his destina-
tion,” so goes a popular Filipino saying. And
so, each year, as thousands of Filipino mi-
grants pack their suitcases for destinations
abroad, the Philippine government, through its
various Embassies and Consulates, helps Fil-
ipino migrants look back, by celebrating and
representing all-things Filipino, in order for its
citizens and the country to reach their destina-
tion and rightful position in the global stage.
What better way to look back than through
the lenses of history and on such an auspicious
occasion as the celebration of the country’s In-
dependence Day.
Here’s a look back at the Philippines’ history
as we invite readers to come look back and
journey with us as the Philippines and its peo-
ple move forward towards promising horizons:
The Philippine archipelago was settled at least
30,000 years ago, when migrations from the
Indonesian archipelago and elsewhere were
believed to have occurred. Additional migra-
tions took place over the next millennia. Over
time, social and political organisation de-
veloped and evolved in the widely scattered
islands. Later inhabitants evolved into four
distinct groups, with the seafaring group even-
tually trading with the Indianized kingdoms of
the Malay Archipelago and nearby East Asian
principalities, adopting influences from both
Buddhism and Hinduism.
spanIsH coLonIaL ruLe anD tHe pHILIppIne revoLutIon (1565-1896)In 1521 Ferdinand Magellan landed on Homon-
hon island, claiming it and its surrounding is-
lands for Spain. He was eventually killed by
Lapu-Lapu when he attempted to claim Mac-
tan island. Manila was established as the cap-
ital of the Spanish East Indies. Spain consoli-
dated its power and waged many futile wars
in the Muslim south.
Spanish rule continued well into the 1800s
amidst resistance from many local factions,
but by 1892 The Katipunan, a secret society
that aimed to overthrow Spanish rule was
founded by Andres Bonifacio who become its
Supremo. The Philippine Revolution ensued,
but The Katipunan split into two factions with
one led by Emilio Aguinaldo, Andres Bonifacio
was assassinated whilst Aguinaldo agreed to a
truce with Spain and was exiled to Hong Kong.
By 1898 conflicts from almost every Philippine
province were on the rise, while the Span-
ish-American war broke out in Cuba. Com-
modore George Dewey defeated the Spanish
squadron in Manila and invited Aguinaldo to
return to the Philippines. On 12 June 1898 Agu-
inaldo declared the Philippines’ independence
in Cavite and established the First Philippine
Republic.
pHILIppIne-amerIcan War anD tHe amerIcan occupatIon (1898-1946)Resentment over the U.S. grew when the lat-
ter refused to support Philippine independ-
ence. Spain and the United States signed the
Treaty of Paris, ending the Spanish-American
War, causing Spain to yield the Philippines to
the U.S. By 1899 the Philippine-American War
had broken out after two American soldiers
killed three Filipino soldiers in Manila. The war
lasts for three years, ending with the capture
of Aguinaldo.
However by 1916 the Jones Act had created
the Philippine senate and promised even-
tual independence. On 24 March 1934 the
Tydings-McDuffie Act created the Com-
tHe HIstory of tHe pHILIppInes:
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
LookIng Back, But movIng forWarD
monwealth of the Philippines and a 10-year
transition period to full independence.
WorLD War II anD tHe Japa-nese occupatIon (1939-1945)Japan brings WWII to the Philippines by
launching a surprise attack on Clark Air Base.
In 1943 the unpopular Second Philippine Re-
public was set up by the Japanese. Jose P.
Laurel served as President, causing guerrilla
and underground activity against the Japa-
nese. The following year the Philippines to-
gether with the 6th U.S. Army station US troops
in the country. By September 1945 Japan for-
mally surrendered.
tHe tHIrD pHILIppIne repuBLIc (1946-1965)Five Philippine Presidents, namely Manuel
Roxas, Elpidio Quirino, Ramon Magsaysay,
Carlos P. Garcia, and Diosdado Macapagal,
served the country during the Third Philippine
Republic. Significant events included: Signing
of a military assistance pact granting the U.S. a
99-year lease on designated military bases in
the Philippines. Land reform is introduced and
poor people from the populous Catholic North
are relocated in traditional Muslim areas in the
South, sparking religious hostilities.
marcos era, martIaL LaW, anD tHe peopLe poWer revoLutIon (1965-1986)The first term of Ferdinand Marcos was
marked by economic prosperity and paves
the way for his re-election in 1969. However,
corruption, and fights with the New People’s
Army and the Moro National Liberation Front
(MNLF) slowed down economic growth and
caused widespread civil disobedience and un-
rest.
In 1973 the constitution changed the form of
government from presidential to parliamenta-
ry, allowing Marcos to stay in power beyond
1973. Marcos appointed Cesar Virata as Prime
Minister creating the Fourth Philippine Repub-
lic. In August 1983 Benigno Aquino, Jr. was
assassinated upon his return from exile in the
U.S. causing nationwide grief and increased
animosity towards Marcos. Eventually by 1986
following years of disapproval towards the
Marcos government, a peaceful People Pow-
er Revolution forced Marcos into exile and in-
stalls Corazon Aquino as President on 25 Feb-
ruary 1986.
tHe fIftH pHILIppIne repuBLIc (1986-present)Five Philippine administrations headed by
Presidents Corazon Aquino, Fidel Ramos, Jo-
seph Estrada, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and
Benigno Aquino III currently make up the fifth
Philippine Republic. Significant events included:
In 1987 the constitution was ratified and enact-
ed, restoring government from parliamentary
to presidential, and the Bicameral Congress.
During 2000-2001, amidst growing evidence
of corruption, Estrada was impeached by the
House of Representatives but the trial in the
Senate broke down, prompting massive street
protests. Estrada was forced from office on 20
January 2001. Post-2010 the Philippine econ-
omy has grown significantly under President
Benigno Aquino III, who has implemented vari-
ous economic policies and advocates for a cor-
ruption-free government. The government and
MILF signed a peace agreement, which further
bolstered peace and order, and a positive eco-
nomic outlook for the country.
The PhiliPPine honorary ConsulaTe General
The Philippine honorary Consulate General offers consular services to the public.
open: Mondays - Fridays (10:00-12:00)*not open during public holidays
For further information, please visit our website at www.filippinsk-konsulat.dk • Jægersborg allé 16, 2.
• 2920 Charlottenlund • Tel: +45 25636711 / + 45 40137711 • email: philcon@philcon.dk
serviCes inClude:✓ visa application processing
✓ legalization or authentication of various documents
✓ Pairing application forms along with daily au-pair
consultation via telephone as well as via email
Advertisement
creDIt ratIng rIseStandard & Poor’s raised the Philippines’ credit
rating to two notches above investment grade,
the first debt watcher to do so, saying reforms
are likely to continue beyond the administra-
tion of President Benigno Aquino.
S&P upgraded the Philippines’ foreign long-
term debt by one notch to BBB from BBB mi-
nus, and foreign short-term debt to A-2 from
A-3, with a stable outlook, saying that the
rating reflects the country’s strong external li-
quidity and investment position, and effective
monetary policy framework.
S&P’s move to a second notch above invest-
ment grade came as a surprise, as the agency
didn’t first raise its outlook before changing
the rating.
the philippines has again
won a rating upgrade from
moody’s Investors service,
whilst standard & poor’s
increased their credit rating
for the country. this com-
pletes the nation’s ascent
to investment rank as pres-
ident Benigno aquino leads
a growth resurgence that’s
outpacing the rest of south-
east asia.
pHILIppInes on tHe rIse:
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
creDIt ratIng & gLoBaL competItIveness rankIngs go up
Sources: http://w
ww
.bloo
mberg.co
m/; http://w
ww
.cnbc.com
/
The upgrade, according to S&P, was “based on our assessment
that even though a change of administration after the presidential
elections in 2016 represents some uncertainty for reforms, the risks
have shifted toward maintaining the impetus and direction of the
process, away from a potential reversal or abandonment of ad-
vances achieved to date.”
It noted improvements in structural, administrative, institutional
and governance reforms in the Philippines.
Aquino, widely credited by markets for a reform drive that saw
the Philippines shrink its budget deficit and raise its infrastructure
spending, serves only until June 2016 and cannot stand for re-elec-
tion, as the constitution limits a president to a single six-year term.
Philippine officials welcomed the credit rating upgrade, noting it
was the 18th positive credit rating action since Aquino took office in
2010, and the fourth upgrade from S&P.
“We will continue to institutionalise good governance so our coun-
try’s economic growth is both sustainable and inclusive,” Finance
Secretary Cesar Purisima said in a statement.
S&P said the Philippines’ current account is likely to remain in sur-
plus, and inflation expectations remain well anchored owing to an
improved monetary policy environment.
In 2013, the Philippines’ long history of junk-debt status ended. The
country got investment-grade status first from Fitch Ratings, sec-
ond by S&P and then by Moody’s Investors Service.
Investment upturnThe rating on Philippine government debt was raised one level to
Baa3, Moody’s said in a statement, citing “robust economic per-
formance,” ongoing fiscal and debt consolidation, political stability
and improved governance. The outlook on the rating is positive.
Aquino, who won control of the Philippine Congress in May 2013
elections, has pledged to accelerate reforms needed to ensure
the nation’s economic revival is sustained. His efforts won invest-
ment-grade credit scores from Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings
earlier this year, while the country’s expansion of 7.5 percent in the
second quarter matched China’s pace.
“The Philippines’ economic performance has entered a structural shift to
higher growth, accompanied by low inflation,” Moody’s said. “The new
growth path is being reinforced in part by improved fiscal management.”
Fitch was the first to upgrade the Philippines in March of last year, with
S&P following in May. In contrast, Fitch cut Malaysia’s credit outlook in
July 2013 to negative from stable, while S&P lowered Indonesia’s out-
look to stable from positive in May 2013.
The World Economic Forum ranks the Philippines 59th in its 2013-2014
Global Competitiveness Index, up from 65 the previous year. Fujifilm
Corp., a maker of cameras and medical equipment, and Sonion A/S,
which makes high-end microphones and components for audio headsets
and hearing aids, are among companies that began production at new
factories in the Philippines this year.
Aquino plans to boost infrastructure spending to a record next year,
and add jobs to reduce poverty levels that are unchanged since before
he took office in 2010. The nation’s unemployment rate is among the
highest in the region.
“Now it is time for the president to sink his teeth into substantial re-
forms,” said Trinh Nguyen, a Hong Kong-based economist at HSBC
Holdings Plc. “Raising public investment, loosening of foreign direct in-
vestment restrictions and improving the business environment are all
required reforms.”
Advertisement
Currently, the Philippines is projected to be the
6th fastest growing economy in the world for
the next 40 years. Around the world, an ap-
proximate ten and a half million Filipinos send
back remittances that support their families
and by extension the country. Injecting much
needed currency into the Philippine economy.
From within the Philippines, there have also
been particular industries that have been in-
strumental in strengthening the economy and
each other: Business Process Outsourcing, Tel-
ecommunications, and Construction.
groWIng economyIn 2012 the Philippines was estimated the
44th-largest economy in the world, according
to HSBC estimates. If current trends hold, it
can leap to the number 16 spot by 2050. About
61 percent of the population in the Philippines
is of working age, between 15 and 64. This fig-
ure is expected to continue increasing, which is
not the case for many of its Asian neighbors,
whose populations are aging.
The current Philippine economy remains re-
liant to its export industry, and in 2005, the
country’s exports alone amounted to US$41.26
Billion. Its portfolio on export products is very
diverse ranging from electronic equipment,
machinery and transport equipment, chem-
the philippine economy has
been on the rise in recent
years. By the end of the pre-
vious year gDp had grown by
7.2%, second only to china
in asia. In addition, as of
may 2014, investment rating
agency standard & poor yet
again upgraded the philip-
pines’ investment rating to
BBB from BBB-.
tHe pHILIppInes:EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
an ecnomIc BrIgHtspot In asIa
Sources: w
ww
.nytimes.co
m; w
ww
.buyfair.org
(ICLE
I-Local G
overnm
ents for Sustainability);
ww
w.thediplo
mat.co
m; w
ww
.adb.org
icals, garments, copper products, to fruits
(mango, banana, nuts, pineapple, and coco-
nut), coffee, handicrafts and medical supplies.
The reason for these exceptional growth rates
and statistics, according to the HSBC, is be-
cause the Philippines has benefited from an
increase in government efficiency and revenue
collection, as well as aggressive actions to ad-
dress corruption. Therefore, it is not only this
short-term growth that draws investors to the
Philippines, but rather the fact that the funda-
mentals are there. This makes long-term in-
vestment, in a relatively stable climate, a big
draw factor when business opportunities arise
in the region.
youtHfuL prospectsInvest Philippines describes the country’s nat-
ural pool of talents and culturally adaptable
human resources, as positioning the country
as the most value-for-money destination for
investments in the Asian region. High-value is
placed on education that which has equipped
the labour force with world-renowned techni-
cal competency and English proficiency.
If you are young, skilled and live in the city, the
country has the brightest prospects in decades.
A high population growth rate is often seen as
a driving force for economic growth. There are
a number of countries in Asia that will see their
working-age populations decline in the coming
years, however the Philippines stands out as
the youngest population in the region. As oth-
er countries see their labour costs go up, the
Philippines will remain competitive due to the
sheer abundance of workers joining the labour
force.
The Philippines’ growing prosperity has also
been driven by the 9.5 million Filipinos (almost
10 percent of the population) who work outside
the country and who sent home about USD$20
billion in 2011. That is up from USD$7.5 billion
in 2003.
overaLL outLookThe continued growth of these industries
greatly help the development of the Philip-
pine economy. Add this to increased domes-
tic consumer spending, as well as the rising
overseas worker remittances and rising tourist
arrivals will ensure that the Philippines will be
ready for the approaching integration of ASE-
AN economies in 2015, which can only lead to
more opportunities.
future DeveLopmentReviving the manufacturing sector, where the
Philippines has lagged most other larger coun-
tries in Southeast Asia, is critical to further eco-
nomic growth within the region, according to
the Asian Development Bank. This will require
a stronger push by policymakers to improve
infrastructure and the business environment
to encourage manufacturers to locate in the
country. For example LINDBERG, creator of
fashionable glasses started up a finishing lab
in the Philippines in 2000 with 10 people, this
Danish company now employs in excess of
450 workers in the country. Future develop-
ment sparked by stable economic grown and
a generally liberal political climate open to
free-market investment, will certainly further
grow investment in the country.
SEE ThE lInk BElow:As of May 2014, S&P raised the rating again to BBB from BBB - http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-
05-08/philippines-wins-s-p-upgrade-as-aquino-s-changes-seen-enduring.html
In may 2013, standard &
poor’s raised the country’s
debt rating from BB+ to BBB-
, this means that the finan-
cial services now considers
the country and its debt to
be investment grade.
the philippine economy is expected to sustain
strong growth in 2014, with inflation within
the policy target – asian Development Bank
This picturesque country offers just about
everything you can imagine; from wholesome
family vacations, honeymoon retreats and pic-
turesque weddings, to thrilling adventures, na-
ture treks, non-stop partying, impressive music
and entertainment, island hopping, volcano
sightings, unforgettable spas and sporting fa-
cilities, world class medical tourism, amazing
food, and much more! The only thing not on
offer is snow! You are left asking yourself –
where to start? We explore an ever-changing
top ten list of places to visit in this stunning
country, so that you may discover why it’s
more FUN in the Philippines!
1. Batanes group of IsLanDsSituated on the top most part of the Philip-
pines, this group of islands provides the most
picturesque backdrop that will easily rival that
of Austria in the movie Sound of Music. Bless-
ed with beautiful landscape and warm climate,
Batanes will take your breath away. Long
walks and dining with the locals are some
musts in this relaxing spot.
2. mt. pInatuBoThis landscape was a result of the second
most powerful terrestrial volcanic eruption of
the 20th century.
3. sonya’s garDen anD antonIos In tagaytayTagaytay is also known as the nearby sum-
mer capital of Manila. Reason being is that it
is situated on the highlands and offers a cooler
climate than that of the city, and it’s only a
stone throw away. If you are into your organic
food, a visit to Sonya’s garden is a must; they
grow practically everything they serve and
also provide bed and breakfast for those who
want to “escape to the country”. On the oth-
er side of this cliff is a hidden ancestral home
gem called Antonios. It’s a culinary indulgence
as they offer the best steaks in town. Most im-
portantly, Tagaytay is where you can see the
smallest volcano in the world, Taal.
our top 10 tourIst spots In tHe pHILIppInes:
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
WHy not DIscover yours?
Boasting some 7 107
islands, you will need years
(if not a lifetime) to
explore and enjoy the
beauty of the philippines!
1 2
3
4
4. DInagyang festIvaL ILo-ILoThe Philippines has many fiestas, and Dinagyang Festival is one of the biggest and most colourful. Held every fourth Sunday of January to honour the Santo Niño (Infant Jesus), thousands of people gather in IloIlo to join the parade and religious feast. This province is also blessed with beautiful (mostly untouched) white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters that visitors can enjoy.
5. DavaoHome to the Mt. Apo (the highest point in the Philippines) and the Durian (a Philippine fruit). Davao has been constantly voted as one of the 20 ‘Most Livable’ cities in Asia by Asiaweek. It boasts of natural landscapes, gorgeous beaches, scrumptious food, a crocodile farm and the breeding site for the world’s biggest eagle (The Philippine eagle).
6. DumagueteManjuyod White Sandbar North of Bais Bay in Dumaguete is one of the best kept secrets of Negros Oriental. Here you will find a seven kilometre stretch of pure white sandbar that completely disappears during high tide. With depths between ankle-high and chest-deep – it’s like having a swimming pool in the middle of the sea.
7. paHIyas festIvaL In LucBan QueZonThis fun and unique festival happens yearly on the 15th of May in honour of St. Isidroe the Labourer (the farmer). A must see attraction whereby locals decorate their houses with all their produce (fruits, vegetables, agricultural products, a rice made decoration called kiping and lots more) as a sign of thanksgiving for the abundance and harvest. This is also the time to eat the famous Lucban longanisa (sausage) and Pancit Habhab (noodle dish that you eat
straight from the banana leaf to your mouth.
A FUN way of eating noodles!
8. fooD trIp anD partyIng In manILaManila’s nightlife and day scene are equally
vibrant with new restaurants opening almost
weekly and world-class club facilities open
till dawn to entertain. There are hundreds of
things to do but the city is best enjoyed with
friends and family.
9. eL nIDo paLaWanTranquil and paradise are two of the best
words to describe this place. El Nido is a pro-
tected area where big resorts strictly adhere to
eco tourism and is famous for its big and small
lagoons – a truly magical place.
10. Laoag anD vIgan, ILocosOne of the few Hispanic towns left in the Phil-
ippines where houses were preserved and are
part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk
in the streets of Vigan will take you back to
the Spanish Era in the Philippines. On the oth-
er side of town lies Laoag which is home to
the former President (and Dictator) Ferdinand
Marcos and famous Paoay Chuch which is
also famous for its distinct architecture.
5
6 7
8
9
10
Blessed with an abundance of seafood, trop-
ical fruits and creative cooks, there’s more to
Filipino food than the mind-boggling balut
(duck embryo). You just have to know where
to find them and how to eat them.
fILIpIno fooD cuLtureIn the Philippines, food is a serious pastime.
Filipinos tend to usually eat six times a day,
with rice forming part of every meal. Most
countries have a culture which is eating three
times a day from a clearly defined menu. But
in the Philippines, the rules are different. Be-
side the normal three meals a day, there is
also merienda. A light snack which is no longer
just a Spanish style cake or pastry but can be a
small portion of anything!
Filipino food conforms to the St. John’s “nose
to tail” style of food - fish / marine life, pork,
beef and chicken forming the staples. Parts
like knuckles, innards, fat, belly and skin are
normally part of food. On your travels to the
Philippines, you will see many street vendors
selling mais (sweet corn), barbequed pork,
chicken and banana, chicharon (pork skin or
ears or chicken skin or entrails) squid balls,
fish balls, kikiam, squid, eggs in bright orange
batter, siomai, peanuts with or without shells,
skin and chilli and the famous Balut (boiled
duck embryo) and Penoy (Hard boiled duck
egg). There are also many sticky rice snacks,
many with coconut or casava some coloured
with the screaming violet colour of Ube. Just
beware that the hygiene of street food may
not be as good as food courts and restaurants.
If you intend to travel thousands of kilometres
to get to the Philippines then you are seriously
encouraged to try some of the local gastro-
nomic delights. In Metro Manila, waiters and
waitresses in restaurants that have regular
foreign customers, can speak English and will
advise you on dishes. Keep in mind however
that not all of the dishes will suit the European
palate.
traDItIonaL DIsHNo list of Filipino food would be complete
without adobo. Adobo is considered the signa-
ture dish of the Philippines. Almost all meats,
seafood, and vegetables can be cooked using
this method. Chicken Adobo is an example of
a famous adobo version that is gaining popu-
larity around the world. This simple dish that
once captured the palate of Filipinos is now
making its debut in the world’s kitchens. An-
other good adobo recipe is the Pork Adobo.
This recipe has many versions; almost all fam-
ilies have their unique way of cooking this dish.
From the four basics ingredients; vinegar, soy
sauce, peppercorns, and dried bay leaves, oth-
er components are added to produce unique
adobo dishes.
filipino food may not be as
famous as that of its thai
and vietnamese neighbours.
But with more than 7 000 is-
lands and a colourful history,
this archipelago has some
delicious dishes of its own.
enJoy fantastIc fILIpIno fooD!
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
pork anD cHIcken aDoBo recIpe
Ingredients:1 ½ lbs pork belly, chopped
1 ½ lbs chicken, cut into serving pieces
3 to 4 pieces dried bay leaves
2 teaspoons whole peppercorn
1 head garlic, slightly crushed
6 tablespoons vinegar (white or sugar
cane)3/
4 to 1 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 cup water
Salt to taste
3 tablespoons cooking oil
method:Heat oil in a pan. Once the oil be-
comes hot, add the garlic. Cook until
the colour turns golden brown.
Remove the garlic and set aside. Add
pork and chicken. Cook for 5 minutes
or until the colour turns light brown.
Add whole peppercorn, bay leaves,
oyster sauce, soy sauce, and water.
Let boil and simmer until the meats
are tender. Add the sugar and stir.
Pour-in vinegar and let boil. Simmer
until most of the liquid evaporates.
Add salt to taste. Put-in the fried gar-
lic, stir, and cook for 2 minutes.
Serve.
share and enjoy!
Diplomatic relations between the
Philippines and Denmark were
established on 28 September
1946. In the past, the Philippine
Embassy in the United Kingdom was re-
sponsible for the Philippines’ relations with
Denmark. In 1979, this responsibility was
transferred to the Philippine Embassy in
Stockholm, Sweden, which, at that time,
also handled the Philippines’ diplomatic
links with the other Nordic countries (Nor-
way and Finland). When the Philippine
Embassy in Oslo, Norway was established
on 30 April 2007, jurisdiction over Den-
mark was transferred to the latter. Den-
mark, on the other hand, maintains an Em-
bassy in Malaysia whose envoy exercises
concurrent jurisdiction over the Philippines.
Despite differences in political and so-
cial structures, both countries have found
common causes in both regional and in-
ternational affairs, developing extensive
relations in maritime affairs, among other
areas.
The Philippine Embassy in Oslo is repre-
sented in Denmark by its Honorary Consul
General in Copenhagen, Mr. Poul Krogh
whose office is locaed along Jægersborg
Allé, in Charlottenlund, Denmark. Mr. Hen-
rik Esmann Lindberg is the Philippine Hon-
orary Consul based in Jutland. The services
provided by the Honorary Consulates in-
clude visa application processing and the
legalisation or authentication of various
documents.
pHILIppIne Honorary consuLate generaL copenHagenThe Philippine Honorary Consulate Gen-
eral in Copenhagen extends consular ser-
vices to the public, Mondays to Fridays,
except during public holidays from 10am
tHe pHILIppIne Honorary consuLates:tHe emBassy’s reLIaBLe representatIves In Denmark
to 12 noon. For more information, interested parties may visit www.filipinsk-konsulat.dk or call
+45 2563 6711.
Consul General Krogh is the founder of DEKO LOFT & VÆG A/S, a company in the construction
business since 1967. He also owns Kroghs Vinimport and several other businesses and is a board
member of several Danish companies.
pHILIppIne Honorary consuLate ÅrHusThe Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Århus is open 10am to 3pm on Mondays to Thurs-
days and 10am to 1pm on Fridays, except during public holidays. The Honorary Consulate is
located at Bjarkesvej 30, 8230 Åbyhøj. For more information, interested parties may call
+45 8744 4000.
Consul Henrik Esmann Lindberg is the President and CEO of LINDBERG A/S one of the leading
luxury eye-wear companies in the world. The Philippine Embassy in Oslo is proud to have Hon-
orary Consul General Krogh and Honorary Consul Lindberg as its representatives and partners
in Denmark.
From left to right: Honorary Consul Henrik Esmann Lindberg of Århus, Denmark, Philippine Honorary Consul General Jukka Nyrölä and Philippine Honorary Consul Teresita Ruutu of Helsinki, Finland, Ambassador Bayani S. Mercado, Honorary Consul Renee Ikdal of Stavanger, Norway, Honorary Consul General Poul Krogh of Copenhagen, Denmark.
tHe pHILIppInes marks 116tH InDepenDence Day
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
On 12 June 1898, two years after
the Philippine revolution, led
by Andres Bonifacio, broke out
against Spain, Filipinos gath-
ered below the open windows
of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo’s ancestral home in
the town of Cavite El Viejo to witness Am-
brosio Rianzares Bautista solemnly read the
Acta de la Proclamacion de la Independencia
del Pueblo Filipino (Act of Proclamation of
Independence of the Filipino People) and the
very first unfurling of the Philippine flag and
playing of the national anthem. Gen. Agui-
naldo would later on become the Philippines’
first and youngest President.
64 years later, through Presidential Procla-
mation No. 28 issued by then President Di-
osdado Macapagal, 12 June was officially de-
clared a special public holiday throughout the
Philippines “…in commemoration of our peo-
ple’s declaration of their inherent and inal-
ienable right to freedom and independence.”
And through Republic Act No. 4166 of 1964,
12 June was officially proclaimed “Philippine
Independence Day.”
Today, 12 June is celebrated by Filipinos the
world over, with those based overseas or-
ganising special day-long community events
reminiscent of the Philippine fiesta, which is
a festive and colourful day filled with food
and merriment to be enjoyed with family and
friends.
In the Philippines, all government offices are
closed on this day and so are schools and
other private enterprises save for commer-
cial establishments. Philippine flags can be
seen displayed in some homes and other
places and fireworks displays are the norm.
Independence Day is also a day where many
people, including government officials, em-
ployees, and students, participate in nation-
wide parades. However, the main highlight
is the police and military parade in Manila
headed by the country’s incumbent president,
followed by a speech and a 21-gun salute.
Many Filipinos spend the day in parks and
malls.
Overseas, Philippine Embassies hold diplo-
matic receptions to commemorate the event
and participate in Filipino community festivi-
ties. The Ambassador delivers the President’s
message and gives his or her own speech,
highlighting the significance of 12 June in the
lives of modern-day Filipinos and what the
freedoms won by their ancestors and heroes
mean in the 21st century.
Today, under President Benigno S. Aquino
III, the Philippines continues to celebrate its
independence, so bravely won 116 years ago,
as it perseveres to gain other freedoms for
its people, such as freedom from poverty
and want, through effective policies geared
towards economic growth and a clean and
competent government.
natIonaL symBoLThe Flag of the Republic of the Philip-
pines, representing the country is sym-
bolised by the following:
Royal blue field – peace, truth,
and justice.
Scarlet red field – patriotism and valor.
white triangle – equality and
brotherhood.
Three stars on the corners of the triangle – the three main geographical
regions of the country namely Luzon,
the Visayas, and Mindanao.
The sun at the center of the triangle – has eight rays representing the eight
Philippine provinces that started the re-
volt against Spain.
The flag is seen in various places across
towns and cities in the Philippines dur-
ing the country’s Independence Day.
Many cars also sport miniature flags
on this day.
more tHan Just aID suppLIesTom Meyer of the FDC says that his organisation is both involved
in sourcing aid destined for the Philippines in times of need, as
well as a support structure for Filipino’s living in Denmark. “This
involves assisting in the collection of all kinds of hospital equip-
ment and sending them to the Philippines; from monasteries that
have clinics to small community clinics and hospitals,” explains
Meyer.
Locally, the FDC assists with any problems Filipino’s living in
Denmark may have, including assisting at meetings with public
offices or any private matter. “We do this to the best of our ability
making use of the many resourceful persons in our network. We
are also part of the Au pair network which fights for the rights of
Au pairs in Denmark, and assist in any way we legally can,” says
Meyer. In addition the Centre is involved with the youth through
a basketball team, and culturally by hosting several events
throughout the year. “We celebrate Pista Sa Nayon on June 7,
a festival that showcases Philippine cuisine and show dancers,
as well as other events and concerts including beauty pageants.”
on-tHe-grounD DIsaster reLIefIn cooperation with the Philippine Red Cross, through their Na-
tional Headquarters, the FDC most recently assisted with aid pro-
vision in the wake of the devastating Typhoon to hit central Phil-
ippines. “We assisted them with a 40-foot-high container filled
with hospital supplies, both sterile and non-sterile, wheel chairs,
crunches and orthopaedic items (for broken legs arms knee etc.)”
says Meyer.
In addition to national relief supplies, the FDC also helps on the
ground in communities where tangible aid is sent to. “We spent
one week working with the Tacloban Red Cross and now are ap-
pealing for aid so to help rebuild a nurses college; and in addition
to offering three big boxes of supplies and some equipment we
gave LEGO and DUBLO (sponsored), school books and pencil
sets (300), teddy bears, clothes and shoes and groceries for the
Denmark’s HeLpIng HanD: tHe fILIpIno DanIsH centre
Denmark has the fortune of having a well-estab-
lished welfare system that caters for both the
needs of Danish nationals, and to a certain extent
foreign nationals, who find themselves in Denmark.
In contrast, the philippines’ doesn’t have such a
system in place, and when disaster strikes it often
requires assistance in the form of foreign aid from
organisations like the filipino Danish centre (fDc).
ordinary people in the community,” enthuses Meyer. The food do-
nations were given out in cooperation with the local Department of
Social Welfare and Development office and the mayor. Some of the
sponsors of these aid parcels were; Scan Shipping, LEGO Charity, 7-11
Kastrup Airport, Mr. Møllback, and Poul Area Consul General. Emir-
ates also gave and additional 30kg of luggage free of charge to all
whom went to Philippines during the time of the disaster.
In order to continue with the excellent work that the FDC does Meyer
says that the Centre needs sponsors who are willing to help with sup-
plies, including container shipment at least once a year. “I would like
to thank all our sponsors and want them to know that with their help;
together we can do so much more!”
Denmark’s most effective
Danish courses!
www.kiss.dk
Advertisement
BusIness process outsourcIngAccording to the IBPAP the Business Process Outsourcing Indus-
try in the Philippines is projected to be worth US$ 25 billion in
2016 from US$ 9 billion in 2009. That translates to 1.5 million
jobs from the current 500,000 direct employees working in the
industry today. For 2014, an estimated 124,000 jobs are expected
to be created.
Filipinos’ English language technical proficiency is well known and
much sought after around the world. Filipinos have found work
abroad in various service industries from Health Care, Hotel man-
agement, and even in Casinos. In the Philippines, this language
proficiency is most sought after in Business Process Outsourcing
(BPO) services. While not all BPOs require voice support, it is the
call-centre industry that is undoubtedly the most visible in the
industry. It’s no surprise then that the Philippines has become the
number one destination for voice services and only second to In-
dia for non-voice services. And the Philippine BPO industry is only
getting stronger.
By the beginning of 2014, the Metro Manila has become the 2nd
top outsourcing destination, following Bangalore, India according
to investment advisory firm Tholons. The Department of Science
and Technology-Information and Communications Technology
Office (DOST-ICTO) along with the IT and Business Process As-
sociation of the Philippines (IBPAP) created the Next Wave Cities
programme with the purpose of creating outsourcing destinations
the positive ratings that the philippines’
economy has received by the various
ratings agencies, as well as the levels of
growth seen under the aquino adminis-
tration, firmly positions the philippines
as a first-class business destination in
the asian region. In particular, there have
been specific industries that have been
instrumental in strengthening the econ-
omy and each other, namely; Business
process outsourcing, shipbuilding, and
construction.
BusIness opportunItIes In tHe pHILIppInes
EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
outside Manila. Across the Philippines, oth-
er cities such as Cebu and Davao have also
placed within the list. Other notable locations
such as Laguna, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Baguio
also found their way into the list.
In addition to the low cost of setting up in the
Philippines, the steady pool of ready and well-
trained graduates has made the process all
the more easier to accomplish. The Philippines
enjoys one of the highest literacy rates in the
world. Not to mention Filipinos easily adapt
and understand the primary enabling factor of
the BPO industry: technology. This is due to
a high frequency of internet and social media
use. Thus, there are 36 major firms in the Phil-
ippines competing in the BPO market. Togeth-
er, these companies on their own had a com-
bined revenue of US$ 4.5 billion. Some of the
more notable ones are Accenture Inc., JP Mor-
gan Chase Bank, IBM Daksh, Emerson Elec-
tric, Maersk Global Services Centres, Thomson
Reuters Corp. Pte. Ltd., HSBC Electronic Data
Processing, and Deutsche Knowledge Services
Pte.
sHIpBuILDIng The Philippine shipbuilding industry is the
fourth largest in the world after South Korea,
China and Japan. Shipyards all around the
country are now building more higher capac-
ity ships like bulk carriers, container ships and
passenger ferries. Recently, one of the biggest
South Korean shipbuilding companies, Hanjin
Heavy Industries Corporation chose the Phil-
ippines to construct its 180,000 deadweight
tonnage commercial ship.
Philippine shipbuilding industry is expanding
because of the opportunities in the export
market. Many shipyards in major shipbuilding
countries are often already fully booked for
new order. When it comes to shipbuilding de-
mand is far outpacing available locations that
can produce durable, quality products. The
Philippines with its facilities and nautical histo-
ry is one of the few countries that can deliver.
Skilled manpower in the Philippines is readily
available. The Technical Skills Development
Authority stated that about 95,000 are certi-
fied welders. In addition, Filipino workers are
easily trainable for any other specific skills that
the shipbuilding companies may need. Tech-
nical training for workers have definitely im-
proved Hanjin’s productivity. The Hanjin ship-
yard in Subic is now employing 19,750 workers.
Also, being an archipelago in South East Asia,
the Philippines is ideal as a shipbuilding hub
and does not lack for suitable locations that
can serve as build sites. A number of new
shipyards are opening or being developed
into world class sites like the 54,000 hectare
business hub in Port Irene at the Cagayan Eco-
nomic Zone Authority.
In addition, companies in the Philippines can
easily get their components and raw materials
from foreign sources as importation of such
items have been liberalized since 1989. This
along with the fact that shipbuilders located in
economic zones enjoy tax exemptions and oth-
er benefits allows companies can produce high
quality products at lower costs. Other benefits
include deduction for labor expenses, simplifi-
cation of customs procedures, exemption from
duties on the importation spare parts, etc.
The Philippine government also recognizes the
importance of the Shipbuilding industry. Re-
public Act No. 9295 was passed to promote
the development of the Philippine Industry.
The act provides incentives to encourage in-
vestments. And most importantly, Shipbuilding
is not covered by limitations or foreign owner-
ship, meaning foreign investors can fully own
their companies in the Philippines.
It is expected that the Philippine Shipbuilding
industry will continue to grow over the next
five to ten years and remain one of the biggest
in the world.
constructIonThe Construction industry in the Philippines
is classified into three sub-groups. The first is
public construction which creates public facil-
ities using public funds and is subject to reg-
ulated wages for workers, and a transparent
bidding and later subcontracting process to
safeguard the funds from untoward business
practices. The second is private construction,
which is the creation of facilities for private
individuals or corporations. And lastly, Pub-
lic-Private Partnership projects wherein private
investors invest in government infrastructure
projects.
The Philippines experienced a growth in in-
frastructure spending last year in spite of Ty-
phoon Yolanda. There was a 20% increase
in public infrastructure spending and a 7.6%
increase for private construction spending for
2013. Overall, the construction industry grew
10.9% at the end of 2013 and that is with the
negative impact of Yolanda. At the beginning
of 2014, the construction industry accounts for
8.9% of the Philippine GDP, an increase from
the previous year’s 8.5%. The industry is also
aided by government spending, most specif-
ically the Department of Public Works and
Highways (DPWH). The Philippine govern-
ment has increased infrastructure spending to
approximately US$ 6.2 billion.
As it stands, the whole industry accounts for
US$ 16 Billion of the Philippines GDP and pro-
vides 2.2 million jobs.
cuLturaL excHange:EMBASSY SUPPLEMENT
fILIpIno au paIrs
tHe fILIpIno communItIes In tHe norDIc regIonWorking conditions are generally good in
the Nordic countries. The labour sectors in
these countries are governed by comprehen-
sive laws/rules/regulations which ensure that
mechanisms are in place to address workers’
concerns and basic human rights.
Labour unions are also strong in these coun-
tries ensuring that the rights of workers are
usually promoted and protected. National la-
bour laws in Nordic countries generally pro-
vide sufficient protection for all workers re-
gardless of citizenship or immigration status.
While fiercely proud of their heritage, Filipi-
nos in the Nordic region have also shown a
remarkable capacity to integrate into their
adopted culture while at the same time con-
tributing elements of their own heritage into
Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, Finnish or Ice-
landic society. The positive contributions of
the Filipino community in the Nordic states
have helped to further strengthen the friendly
relations between the Philippines and these
countries.
To date, there are about 100 Filipino commu-
nity associations in the Nordic region that are
registered with the Philippine Embassy. The
Embassy regularly reaches out to many of
these organisations to partner with them in
extending assistance to Filipinos in distress.
au paIrs In DenmarkThe Embassy of the Philippines in Oslo de-
fines an au pair as a young Filipino citizen,
between 18 and 29 years of age, unmarried
and without any children, who is placed un-
der a cultural exchange arrangement with a
Danish host family for a maximum stay of
two years, as permitted by Denmark’s immi-
gration authorities.
The Filipino people are known for their good
spirit and sense of community, and live up to
the Filipino word Bayanihan, used to refer to
a spirit of communal unity or effort to achieve
a particular objective. It means: To help each
other, because this is what should be done. If
you are an au pair for a family in Denmark,
it is the basic idea that you live on an equal
footing with the rest of the family members.
Although many of the au pairs in Denmark
enjoy the chance to learn and discover the
Danish culture, it is important to acknowl-
edge that the exchange can be a bit more of
an adjustment for some. Au pairs are encour-
aged to learn Danish, but in some instances
don’t get the opportunity because they work
too much. But learning the Danish culture is
part of the experience. The money that many
au pairs earn is also sent home to the Phil-
ippines. Most of the wages of these young
women goes towards paying for their par-
ents’ house, their internet, their medication
and food. So having work is often more im-
portant than learning the culture of the host
family.
a HeLpIng HanDBabaylan Denmark is an organisation that
offers a weekly counseling service for au-
pairs from the Philippines. The advocacy of
this organisation is helping the au pairs – for
example, giving orientations and conducting
weekly counseling services. One such service
Babaylan Denmark provides is financial liter-
acy seminars so that these women are able
to better manage their remittances, so the
money they send home can generate jobs, be
used for education and building sturdy hous-
es, instead of just being spent on consumer
goods and non-essentials.
Au pairs working in Denmark have specif-
ic rights. These rights and rules are defined
in a contract, and in Danish legislation. The
au pair as well as host family are obliged to
comply with these rules. For
more information on
these rules and au
pair guidelines you
can visit www.au-
pairnetwork.dk.
equally important to phil-
ippine interests are the
protection and promotion of
the welfare of the growing
filipino community in the
nordic region. there are an
estimated 50 000 filipinos
residing in the nordic region
- a fifth of whom reside in
Denmark, many of whom are
au pairs.
Sources: w
ww
.philembassy.no
; ww
w.
aupairnetwo
rk.dk;
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