COLLECTIVE Issue Number 14 – 2021

COLLECTIVE

is a quarterly publication of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3 Athletics Stadium, new Clark terminal up for international gold awards 7 Philippine Science High School campus to rise in New Clark City 9 Over 3,000 Filipinos raced to build the world-class Clark airport terminal amid COVID-19

13 Clark to house first canine academy in Southeast Asia 14 Widus Foundation Inc.: Giving back to people 18 Female First 23 Beyond the starting line

ON THE COVER

33 Going around Camp John Hay in two wheels

Apart from its iconic architecture, New Clark City Aquatics Center prides itself as the only Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA)-approved swimming facility in the country.

35 Golf is saving this disc jockey's life 37 #BakunaMuna at the Poro Point Freeport Zone 39 The heroes behind the swabbing facilities 42 The Olives Restaurant 44 Icon: Clark Parade Grounds

Gregorio D. Garcia III CHAIRMAN

Vivencio B. Dizon

PRESIDENT AND CEO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Leilani

Barlongay-Macasaet Abellon MANAGING EDITOR Marie Therese Cimafranca ASSOCIATE EDITOR Valore Jaime Veneracion STAFF WRITER Denver Moreno CONTRIBUTORS Patria Iane Balilla, January Guia Caringal-Bawat, Chrisee Jalyssa dela Paz, Zyrelle del Prado, Mary Grace Padin, Suzanne Marie Ramos EXECUTIVE EDITOR Vanessa

EDITORIAL ADDRESS

BCDA Corporate Center 2/F, Bonifacio Technology Center 31st Street cor. 2nd Ave. Bonifacio Global City Taguig City, Philippines CONTACT NO.

(632) 8575-1700 FAX

(632) 8816-0996 E-MAIL

PHOTOS Samuel Luke Galivo, Dennis Borj Meneses,

Budji+Royal Architecture+Design

bcda@bcda.gov.ph WEBSITE

www.bcda.gov.ph

@THEBCDAGROUP 2

Collective / Issue 13

ATHLETICS STADIUM, NEW CLARK TERMINAL UP FOR INTERNATIONAL GOLD AWARDS

By Valore Jaime Veneracion

Collective / Issue 14 3

SMART CITIES

Aerial shot of the New Clark City Athletics Stadium

T

he critics have spoken.

New Clark City’s Athletics Stadium and the Clark International Airport (CRK) new passenger terminal – both sources of pride and joy of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) – are among the best modern structures in the world.

Before the year ends, these BCDA projects could be taking not just two, but three or even more, top honors from prestigious international award-giving bodies.

The World Architecture Festival (WAF), reputed as the largest architectural event globally, has shortlisted the Athletics Stadium in the Sport Completed Buildings category.

Not to be outdone is the new Clark terminal, which has been named as one of six airport finalists at the UNESCO 2021 Prix Versailles World Architecture and Design Award.

By making the cut at WAF, the Athletics Stadium is also eligible for The Engineering Prize. A special jury will review a selec4 Collective / Issue 14

tion of completed buildings for this honor during the festival, which will be held from December 1 to 3 at the FIL Exhibition Center in Lisbon, Portugal.

Should the Stadium advance up to the final round of peer-review judging, it will have a shot at the festival’s topmost award: The World Building of the Year.

Now on its thirteenth year, the World Architecture Festival has been “dedicated to celebrating and sharing architectural excellence across the globe.”

SEAL OF AFFIRMATION

For its part, CRK is the only airport in Southeast Asia to be included in this year’s Prix Versailles. It is also the first time ever for a Philippine airport to make the competition’s list.

“The World Selections pay tribute to the qualities of innovation, creativity, reflection of local, natural and cultural heritage, and ecological efficiency, as well as the values of social interaction and participation which the United Nations holds in high regard,” the

SMART CITIES

Façade of the Clark International Airport New Passenger Terminal Building

Prix Versailles said.

“They exemplify a form of sustainable development in which culture plays a key role, alongside ecological and social aspects,” it added.

World winners will be unveiled and celebrated in late November or early December.

Making it this far into the international contests is already a seal of affirmation for the top-caliber design and craftsmanship that went into these projects, as well as the commitment of BCDA and its partners for innovation and excellence.

“These global recognitions mark a milestone in modern Filipino architecture and design, reflecting local heritage and talent,” said BCDA President and CEO Vince Dizon.

“We in government are very proud that the beauty of the Philippines, particularly of Central Luzon, will be discussed and highlighted on the international stage because of these architectural masterpieces.”

HOMAGE TO NATURE

The driving force behind the design of the two structures are the following: paying tribute to the natural beauty and identity of their surroundings.

“The Athletics Stadium’s design was inspired by its genius loci [or the pervading spirit of a place]. It celebrates Mount Pinatubo and Filipino resilience,” said Royal Pineda, principal architect and CEO

of Budji+Royal Architecture+Design, which served as BCDA’s architectural partner for this facility. “The location is surrounded by beautiful mountains and a boundless horizon, which allowed the architecture to stand out and frame the natural views.”

MTD Philippines, BCDA’s development partner in New Clark City, executed the design of the Athletics Stadium and other structures in the rising metropolis.

Built in only 18 months, the Athletics Stadium was a centerpiece venue for the 30th Southeast Asian Games in 2019. The country’s only facility to receive a Class 1 certification from the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), it has a 20,000-seating capacity, a nine-lane 400-meter track and field, and another four-lane warm-up track.

While these are already hallmarks of quality, MTD Philippines chair Engr. Isaac David said, “The [Athletics] Stadium is set apart from other stadiums due to its inherent beauty, functionality and balance that duplicates the natural surroundings of the area.”

He added that, “We are truly grateful for the opportunity and privilege to have partnered with BCDA for the development of the National Government Administrative Center [in New Clark City] including the sports and non-sports facilities. We’re also glad to have chosen Budji+Royal as design consultants [which prepared the submission to WAF].”

Collective / Issue 14 5

PEOPLE’S CULTURE, ENERGY

For the new Clark terminal, the project proponents and design team sought to not only meet international standards, but to deliver a strong sense of place and cultural heritage for Filipinos.

Aside from prominent views of the Sacobia mountain ranges in the west and Mount Arayat on the east, the natural scenery of lava riverbeds, lush green mountains and teal blue volcanic lakes are reflected in the interiors materials palette.

BCDA and the Department of Transportation are the implementing agencies of the CRK New Passenger Terminal Building. The structure of the new CRK terminal was built by the consortium of Megawide Construction Corp. and GMR Infrastructure, with Budji+Royal Architecture+Design as the architect. Meanwhile, the operations and maintenance of CRK are being overseen by 6 Collective / Issue 14

Interior shots of the Clark International Airport New Passenger Terminal Building

Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp.

(LIPAD), a consortium of Filinvest Development Corp., JG Summit Holdings, Changi Airports Philippines and Philippine Airport Ground Solutions. LIPAD appointed Populous and Casas+Architects for the gateway’s fit-out and interior design.

Populous Principal Architect Ben Dawson said, “We believe

the Philippines will be proud of Clark International Airport, which draws on the energy of the local people and the environment as inspiration for the interior design and key feature installations throughout the terminal’s event spaces … There is a subtlety to the design which aims to showcase the open ceiling and the incredible views outside, rather than compete against them for attention.”

NEWS

Artist's render of the Philippine Science High School campus in New Clark City

Philippine Science High School campus to rise in New Clark City

By Mary Grace Padin

T

he Philippine Science High School (PSHS), in partnership with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), is constructing a 4.6-hectare learning site in New Clark City, Tarlac, which will serve as a campus for its senior high school students and a resource center for teachers and professionals.

Dubbed as the “Infinitum,” the new site of the country’s premier science high school is envisioned to become the “center for learning and service continuity for the entire PSHS System.”

The master plan for the campus was approved in

August by the BCDA Board of Directors.

BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Vince Dizon said the establishment of the new PSHS campus in New Clark City would contribute to the development and training of teachers and future science and technology professionals in the country.

“We hope that with the new PSHS campus, we will be able to give more opportunities for quality education to deserving Filipino students especially in Central and Northern Luzon.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the valuable contribution of science and technology in our society.

We will also be able to build our pool of researchers and professionals who would help us prevent other pandemics in the future,” Dizon said.

He added: “It is also crucial, now more than ever, to invest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education to stop climate change and provide scientific and technological solutions to issues plaguing our society.”

The PSHS System is an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). It prepares students for careers in Science and Technology and contributes to nation-building Collective / Issue 14 7

NEWS

Artist's render of the Philippine Science High School campus in New Clark City

by helping the country attain a critical mass of professionals and leaders in the science and technology field.

On April 16, 2016, the BCDA and PSHS signed a memorandum of agreement for the establishment of a campus for senior high school students, as well as a learning resource center for teachers, administrative support, and other professionals within New Clark City.

The new campus will supplement PSHS’ modernization efforts by establishing state-of-the-art

8 Collective / Issue 14

facilities, advanced laboratories, academic spaces, training venues and living quarters. It seeks not only to spur immersive learning for students, but also to continue the development of teaching and non-teaching employees.

It will also accommodate the increasing student and employee population in PSHS’ existing campus at the Clark Freeport Zone.

Under the approved master plan, 80 percent of the total campus area will be open space while only 20 percent will be occupied.

The new campus will have facilities for traditional and alternative learning, as well as indoor and outdoor set-ups showcasing the latest technological innovations. The campus will feature a training center, a technology hub, research center, innovation center, multipurpose academic building, administration building, a summer camp area and dormitories, which will be constructed in phases.

The procurement for the detailed architectural and engineering design for the Training Center is ongoing. It is targeted to be completed by 2022.

SMART CITIES

Over 3,000 Filipinos raced to build the world-class Clark airport terminal amid COVID-19

By Chrysee Jalyssa dela Paz

Collective / Issue 14 9

SMART CITIES

B

uilding the globally recognized 116,000-sqm passenger terminal of Clark International Airport (CRK) was no easy feat, especially during one of the most difficult crises in our country’s history: the COVID-19 pandemic.

Even as quarantine restrictions keep millions of people at home and many businesses closed, essential workers continue to man the health and economic front lines to help the nation survive and recover from the pandemic. These workers include over 3,000 Filipino workers, engineers, architects, and designers who built the new CRK terminal, providing the country with an airport infrastructure for the “new normal” in transportation.

Building a new airport terminal from scratch amid travel restrictions and border closures, however, made the task even more challenging, said Noel Regalado, who supervises the International Organization Standardization (ISO) requirements of the new terminal.

From ensuring electrical and mechanical requirements are met to implementing environment controls, numerous details had to be handled and scrutinized for the construction of this state-of-the-art gateway.

“When the pandemic hit the Philippines, I was tasked to implement the COVID-19 protocols and restore the construction operations,” said Regalado, who also delivered coordination duties to secure the facility’s EDGE Green building preliminary certification. He happily shared that a zero-positive-case rate for COVID-19 was successfully maintained among employees and subcontractors.

Adhering to public health and safety protocols, onsite manpower had to be slashed by 50% and construction works were halted for about two months, Engr.

Nilo Caronan shared in an interview with 10 Collective / Issue 14

the Collective. “But those challenges did not stop us from meeting our deadlines,” Caronan said in Filipino. “With airports being vital in our recovery, we worked double time to ensure we provide Filipinos with a new quality terminal they can be proud of.”

WORK OF PRIDE

Completing the airport project in record time during the pandemic is a “work of pride” for 54-year-old Cionnie Ethel Alpas Cabusas, who served as the quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) supervisor for civil works.

“In spite of all the challenges we have encountered together with all the project stakeholders, we were able to preserve our oath of utmost professionalism, maintain the spirit of camaraderie, strictly adhere to the principles of teamwork, and uphold the dignity of the project,” Cabusas said. “Thus, we were able to successfully deliver the project with full pride.”

Even before the doors of the new airport terminal officially open, the new CRK terminal has already been getting recognition from global architecture and design experts. In August 2021, UNESCO’s Prix Versailles World Architecture and Design Award announced that CRK is one of its six airport finalists.

When the news about CRK’s global nomination broke, Engr. Apolonio Habana felt that his hard work was all worth it. Habana, whose duties include overseeing the mechanical, electrical plumbing and fire protection system of the new terminal, said finishing the new terminal’s construction amid a health and economic crisis was a “very challenging” but “rewarding” task.

“I am very, very proud as a Filipino and as one of many engineers who contributed technically and

administratively in the completion of this project,” Habana said.

GREAT HONOR

For Jannah Mae Calica, a QA/QC electrical inspector, being part of the project is a “great honor.”

“The new CRK terminal really deserves to be nominated as everyone involved in this project did their best amid the pandemic,” she said.

The CRK expansion had a groundbreaking and capsule-laying ceremony in December 2017.

Megawide Construction Corporation and India-based GMR Group, the winning concessionaire of the engineering, procurement, and construction of the new CRK terminal, started the construction in 2018. In January 2021, the Megawide-GMR consortium handed over the new terminal building to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

Collective / Issue 14 12

SMART CITIES

As implementing agencies, BCDA and DOTr subsequently turned over the airport’s operations and maintenance to Luzon International Premier Airport Development Corporation (LIPAD), a consortium of Filinvest Development Corporation, JG Summit Holdings, Changi Airports Philippines, and Philippine Airport Ground Solutions.

Expressing gratitude for their efforts, BCDA President and CEO Vince Dizon stressed that the talent and hard work of over 3,000 workers, engineers, architects, and designers “who built this world-class airport for all of us is truly a testament to the skill and talent of the Filipino.”

job opportunities. Upon learning about this project, it was a no-brainer for me to apply. When I got accepted for the job, my family and I were able to move back to Porac. We no longer need to endure the congestion in Manila because job opportunities are now here in our region.”

Regalado, also an Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) supervisor, said that workers from different parts of the Philippines were hired to help in the construction of the project.

“We sourced workers from North to South of the country,” Regalado said.

“Putting everyone together was not an easy task. However, the team was able to maintain harmony at an acceptable level COMING HOME and deliver the project ahead of schedule.”

Being part of the team behind the These 3,000-strong men and women are stunning CRK terminal is fulfilling for just a few of the Filipinos provided with 35-year-old Engr. Caronan, but it is also job opportunities in the time of pandemic. something deeply personal.

Once operational, the modernized and “In 2017, I was one of the Filipinos who expanded CRK is expected to provide were repatriated from Kuwait due to the fresh opportunities for workers not just Middle East oil crash,” Caronan shared. in Northern and Central Luzon but across “I had to go back to the Philippines and the country, with 150,000 to 200,000 move my family from my hometown in expected jobs to be generated by Porac, Pampanga to Manila just to look for the facility. – VDV 12 Collective / Issue 14

LOCATORS

Clark to house first canine academy in Southeast Asia

T

By Patria Iane Balilla

he Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Philippine Port Authority (PPA) have started construction of their canine academy inside the Clark Freeport Zone in Mabalacat, Pampanga. Upon completion, the facility will be the first of its kind in Southeast Asia.

Developed in partnership with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Clark Development Corporation (CDC), the PCG-PPA K9 Academy is being built on a 10-hectare lot that will serve as an elite training ground for canine units.

DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade, PCG Commandant Admiral George Ursabia Jr., PPA General Manager Atty. Jay Daniel Santiago, and CDC President and CEO Manuel Gaerlan led the academy groundbreaking rites on Aug. 26, 2021.

The PPA-PCG K9 Academy will become the country’s center for comprehensive and advanced training for all Coast Guard working dogs and their handlers in search and rescue (SAR) operations, threat detection, and fugitive apprehension. For its part, the PPA will be able to develop its own canine units, thus enabling the government to save at least Php30 million from its annual budget allocated for private working dogs and handlers to maintain port security.

Instructors will provide all the quality training phases, techniques, and best practices for skills and aptitude enhancement.

They will also provide certifications, evaluation, and development of research doctrines.

Tugade highlighted that this is a “dream come true” because of the combined efforts of government offices involved.

“Itong ginawa natin ngayon ay simbolo lamang [What we are doing here is just a symbol],” Tugade said. “Pero ’yong simbolismo na ito ay nagsasabi na tutuloy at tutuloy ang PCG K9 Academy [But this symbol means that PCG K9 Academy will carry on], now in partnership with PPA; now being realized because of Clark Development Corporation.”

He added: “Kaya mahalaga na sasabihin ko: Kung magsasama-sama ang iba’t-ibang sektor ng gobyerno, magsasama-sama sa isang bisyon, sa isang misyon, magkakatotoo at magkakatotoo ho ’yan 'yan. [That's why what I'm about to say is important: If the various sectors of the government work together toward one vision and mission, this vision and mission will be fulfilled].”

The canine training facility will house five organizations, namely the Canine Development Center, Canine School, Canine Breeding Center, Canine Hospital, and the Kennel Management and Biosecurity.

The DOTr also assured that the academy will be open to all government branches whenever the need for additional canine units arises. – VDV Collective / Issue 14 13

LOCATORS

Widus FOUNDATION, INC. Giving back to people

By Denver Moreno

W

idus Hotel and Casino is the ideal place for you to enjoy and have a memorable time with your friends and family amid the bustling community of Clark, Pampanga.

Currently, Widus Hotel has a total of 233 rooms housed under Tower One, which was opened back in July 2008, and Tower Two, which opened in 2013. The hotel is strategically accessible across key areas being only five minutes away from the Clark International Airport and other entertainment and food spots.

The Widus Casino, which is the biggest and grandest casino in Clark, can also be found here. The Las Vegas-style luxury gaming area has grown to expand its 14 Collective / Issue 14

entertainment facilities that now boasts 53 gaming tables, 242 slot machines, and 20 electronic table games.

Humble beginnings Back in 2007, Widus Chairman Daesik Han began his business venture into the Philippine hospitality industry. This led him to invest and purchase a promising hotel in Clark, Pampanga.

At that time, however, Clark was not yet as economically developed as it is today.

But Chairman Han saw the potential of this property not just in building good business but also in providing a sustainable livelihood for people within the area.

Eventually, the property and business boomed and is now the Widus Hotel and Casino we know today.

Expanding the hotel Experience through food Widus Hotel also relaunched Peppers Twenty One this year after being temporarily closed due to the pandemic.

The establishment is the first finedining steakhouse in Central Luzon and is famous for its dry-aged meats and gourmet dishes that elevate the dining experience.

despite the ongoing pandemic.

“This recognition truly humbles and uplifts us!” said Widus Hotel and Casino General Manager Tarek Aouini who accepted the award on behalf of the group.

“This award wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and dedication of our entire team. Despite the challenging year that has been, rest assured that we at Widus Hotel and Casino will always strive to give you the luxury lifestyle you deserve.”

Giving back to communities The Widus Foundation, Inc. (WFI) was created in 2017 as the corporate identity Recognitions and awards to manage all CSR efforts of both Widus This year, TripAdvisor named Widus Hotel Philippines Inc. and Widus International and Casino as a 2021 Travelers’ Choice Leisure Inc. for Hotels awardee. This recognition is a Foundation Manager Ronnel Golimlim result of Widus’ dedication to delivering shares how WFI continues to do its part a world-class hotel experience for visitors in fulfilling its commitment to advancing communities. “Even though we [Widus Hotel and Casino] are a profit-oriented company, we have a responsibility to give back to the people,” Golimlim said.

What sets Widus Foundation apart, however, is its holistic approach in conducting CSR activities that are sustainable to the communities it serves. Central to its approach is social development, which is primarily the reason why WFI remained efficient when it comes to their mandated CSR activities.

Collective / Issue 14 12

LOCATORS

A holistic approach in CSR To make CSR efforts more sustainable, impactdriven, inclusive, and needs-based, Golimlim introduced “CSR 2.0”—the Foundation’s primary approach in empowering the people and communities.

CSR 2.0 covers five key areas: 1)Health.

Access to medical needs and information that address public health concerns; 2)Environment. Conservation of the planet’s welfare and natural resources; 3) Cultural Heritage. Preservation of the Kapampangan and Indigenous Peoples’ culture; 4) Education.

Access to quality education that empowers the youth; and, 5) Community and Volunteerism.

Empowerment of local communities and cooperatives across Central Luzon.

CSR in action Anchored on CSR 2.0, WFI has achieved for communities the following: HEALTH Wheelchair Donation Program in Angeles WFI, in partnership with the local government of Pampanga, has facilitated the distribution of 238 wheelchairs in Pampanga, 133 of which benefitted indigent PWDs in 33 barangays including 3 resettlement areas in Angeles City.

WFI also frequently responds to families struck by flooding due to heavy monsoon rains such as those in Apalit, Macabebe, San Simon, and Sasmuan.

COVID-19 Response WFI is also one of Clark Development Corporation’s (CDC) benefactors in providing COVID-19 medical relief to hospitals across Central Luzon. These donations include medical PPEs for 16 hospitals in Pampanga and Tarlac.

The group also assisted Medical City Clark in providing free transportation for its medical workers due to the travel restrictions imposed during the lockdown.

As for helping communities, WFI and CDC reached out to six local government units in Pampanga to provide food and supplies to their constituents.

ENVIRONMENT Sacobia Watershed In partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)Region III, WFI will be adopting a watershed through sustainable development and continuous tree planting activities.

CULTURAL HERITAGE “Para sa Batang Ayta” Project Recently, WFI led the “Para Sa Batang Ayta” project, along with various private and local institutions.

This unique initiative helped in donating Php1.6 million worth of learning materials and food packs to the indigenous communities across Pampanga. Approximately 660 Donation of Medical Equipment and beneficiaries from Mabalacat and Angeles City, Supplies Instead of medical drives, WFI makes its impact including those from the municipalities of Porac and Floridablanca, Bamban, and Capas, on healthcare through donations that matter.

This includes Php 1.5 million worth of medical Tarlac were included in this project. supplies given to the Candaba Infirmary Hospital, and a new ambulance van donated to Center for Kapampangan Cultural Heritage WFI is one of the principal sponsors in the local government of Capas, Tarlac. establishing this cultural center in Angeles City.

And today, the Center for Kapampangan Cultural Disaster Relief Operations Heritage houses an Information and Technology Currently, WFI is working with the Nabuclod Center library to digitize historical documents local government to construct proper and make them accessible to students. The housing in the community that can withstand center is also a beneficiary of Widus Hotel’s unforeseeable natural calamities.

Water Containment Project in Sapangbato During the water shortage crisis of Sapangbato, Angeles in 2018, WFI was one of the first to respond by donating potable water to families within the community. This was done under WFI’s Disaster Relief Assistance program.

16 Collective / Issue 14

Tourist Police Unit Office As a means to help the tourism sector while making Angeles more secure, WFI donated a Abacan Loop Bridge: Artist and Cultural Hub collapsible container van as a tourist police The Culture and the Arts Council of Angeles office. This also worked to promote Widus (CACA) became one of WFI’s beneficiaries Hotel and Casino to a much larger audience in establishing a cultural hub on the Abacan through the unit office.

Bridge—a vital and cultural landmark Donation of Idle Items to CDC in Angeles City. The plan is to create an To make use of Widus Hotel furniture and amphitheater-like venue on the bridge, which would showcase different Kapampangan art and items in stock, WFI donated its idle items such pieces, including a stage for live performances. as tables, podiums, and whiteboards, to the CDC convention center for their seminars and The construction is set to finish this year and will be turned over to the city government gatherings. around Q4.

WFI Book Drive In support of the Aeta community’s education GOAL: Football Grassroots Project The Junior Chamber International Philippines in Sapangbato, WFI initiated a book donation campaign with Widus Hotel employees, staff, (JCI) - Pampanga reached out as well to WFI and volunteers as the primary donors. to support the football program for Aeta communities in Sapangbato. WFI helped fund OTHER COMMUNITY INITIATIVES the program, equipment, and tutorials of Golimlim’s involvement in the community beneficiaries involved in the program. development sector has also led WFI to other important social activities that aim to empower EDUCATION the community. These include volunteer work Back2School Project on Brigada Eskwela and the establishment of a What sets this apart from other school supply Learning Academy in schools. drives, is that WFI provides for the needs of “Is it really possible that we can make a students throughout the entire school year, not difference as a private company?” Golimlim just the start of it. remarked on WFI’s past and present CSR initiatives. “We totally believe it’s possible with Container Van Library and Renovation us and Widus.”

Project These, of course, have not gone unnoticed.

WFI is also known to donate container van CDC recognizes WFI as one of the most libraries to schools that are in dire need of learning resources. As for those with dilapidated innovative CSR implementers and effective libraries, WFI funds the renovation and books partners in sparking positive social change requested by these schools. across Central Luzon and beyond. furniture to enhance aesthetics and make the place look more vibrant to visitors.

Collective / Issue 14 8 15

PROFILES

SPOTLIGHT

Female First

By Vanessa Abellon

Y

ears ago, Anna Liza Vergara, now the first female general manager (GM) of Sheraton Manila Hotel, was just about to complete her practicum before graduating from the University of the Philippines, with a degree in hotel and restaurant management.

But even before she could receive her diploma, Vergara was hired as an employee at the then Hyatt Regency Manila (now Midas Hotel and Casino) in Pasay City. She didn’t get to march, but the stage she walked on was much bigger.

“It was a baptism of fire,” she says, describing how it was working as a front desk agent, her first regular position. “And if

18 Collective / Issue 14

you have colleagues who will not report for work, you have to cover their shift. Working 16 hours was like a normal set-up. But I stayed anyway. “ After around 18 months, Vergara was offered the assistant manager position. And as someone who never lets opportunities go to waste, Vergara took the challenge.

A year and a half later, she found another opportunity at New World Makati Hotel, Makati City. From a 300-plus-room hotel, she now had to navigate around a 600-room-hotel. It was, in Vergara’s words, “a big jump.” The position, however, was a supervisory position at the front desk.

Vergara had to ask herself, “Why would I want to get demoted?”

Looking back now, Vergara knows she made the right decision to take a step back.

“I’ve always used this story when people invite me to give a talk. This is especially for the young ones, the millennials. For them, it’s all about progress, progress, progress, right? It’s fine. It’s the natural way of doing things. But during that time, I decided to

PROFILES

take a step back. But that stepping back led to me holding the position that I have right now. Because if I didn’t do that, I would have been stuck, in operations, etc.”

After less than year, Vergara was promoted to the role of front office manager, which, back in college, was her ultimate goal. At the time, she felt she had already fulfilled her dream, and would have stopped moving forward.

Fortunately, she had a good mentor.

During this whole conversation with the hotelier, she repeatedly recites the importance of having good mentors. When her mentor asked about her plans, she said, “nothing, this is success for me.” Vergara recalls their conversation: “He said, ‘Why don’t you try to be somebody bigger than that?’”

Vergara listened, and she was assigned in housekeeping.

“If you’re not familiar with hotel setting, housekeeping and front office are not the best friends all the time,” she explain to us.

“The pressure of one becomes the pressure of other. There’s a clash. So I told him, ‘Why do you want me to work in housekeeping?

It’s not my comfort zone? Are you easing me out? Do you want me to leave? Just let me know, why give me a difficult task?’ He goes,

‘Trust me.’”

After training for six months, her mentor and boss, revealed his plan to name her the director of room operations, her first executive committee role. “From there, opportunities just opened up for me.” When the hotel had a change of management, it was then that Vergara began her career at the Marriott International, which manages and owns the Sheraton Hotels.

At present, Vergara has been with Marriott International for 27 years.

The Collective asks the seasoned hotelier what it’s like to be a woman at the top of her game.

How did you end up becoming the first female general manager of Sheraton?

I left New World in Makati City and wanted to apply at the Marriott here in Resorts World Manila, Pasay City. I opened the Manila Marriott Hotel here. My original reason was I didn’t want to work in Makati anymore because the traffic there was horrible. It was very stressful.

I said even if I had to be demoted, I don’t mind. But I had a new boss, a mentor also, who said, “Why do that? Why not aim for something higher?” I asked, “Like what?” He said, “The number two role in the industry.”

Collective / Issue 14 19

PROFILES

I said, “The number two role has never been given to one, a female, and two, a local.”

Then he said to just try.

And I did. I think fate was on my side: the opening GM of Marriott stayed at the New World! So I got to meet him, I got to showcase what I had. That’s what you do, you let people know what you want to do, what you want to become. That was how it all started.

He said, “I heard you wanted to go to Marriott. What position are you looking for?” I said, anything in operations. He opened the opportunity for me to become his number two. It was against all odds for him, but he said, let’s go.

What does having the number two role mean for you?

I think that was a first in the industry, but I was able to prove what Filipinos can do. I opened Marriott Manila in 2009, with 342 rooms. Three years later, the owners decided to invest and build the biggest ballroom in Asia Pacific. It’s a 10,000-sqm space. That basically made our hotel one of the biggest.

Two years later, we added rooms.

It was doing really, really well. I was working then as resident manager, and I had a boss who said, “I want you to go deeper with regards to understanding all the other disciplines of a hotel.” And as such, promoted me to hotel manager, which allowed me to get into anything and everything.

During this interview, you mentioned your bosses or mentors a number of times. How much influence do they have on you?

I had good mentors during my entire career. I got lucky. If it was just up to me, typical of a Filipino, di ba, we’re okay to be in the background, or would prefer to be the support, especially as a woman. But I had good mentors, that’s why I don’t want to take all the credit. They were pushing, pushing, and pushing.

Initially, Sheraton was perceived to be a competitor of Marriott Manila because it was under a different company. But in 2017, Marriott acquired that company. So all of a sudden, we became family. My boss was 20 Collective / Issue 14

saying to me, “In a couple of years, that hotel would need a GM.” And I go, “Okay. GM na local? For an international brand?”

I applied for the role. And that was the most difficult application. I got accepted, and got the support. It doesn’t really happen; normally they’ll go with Caucasian, male to manage their hotel. I guess I got the right ingredients on my side.

I assumed the role in November 2018, and opened this beautiful hotel, that unfortunately got derailed ‘cause of the pandemic. But we’re getting back. That’s basically that. 27 years in the business.

How would you define leadership?

I think the concept of leaders has mainly stayed the same. How do you become successful as a leader? We have opened our minds and have to evolve with the people we work with. In the past, it was a different way of working, you know, traditional, honing yourself for years and years, and proving yourself, and adding skills into your list. It kind of worked for me. Now, for example, my demographics is like 90% millennials, from my last count—and I’m part of Generation X. If I were to impose the Generation X, traditional way of leading, “you do this, trust me on that,” that’s probably not gonna work. They’d be like,

Sheraton Manila Hotel General Manager Ana Liza Vergara (rightmost) with her husband and two children

“You tell me what I will get. What’s in it for me?” Make it exciting. If they’re bored, even if you give them all those perks, they’ll leave.

That’s how it is, adjusting to your workplace. Leading a team is not just about you. The key is to make sure that they become successful because if they are, then you enjoy the success that they are all enjoying.

How is it like being a woman leader?

It has been an advantage, to be honest I’m a mother of two. I have a 22-year-old girl and a 14-year-old boy. Napa-practice ako with my motherly instincts. I think that helped me in my leadership style. Of course, it’s not a bed of roses all the time, don’t get me wrong.

I get mad, I get upset, I reprimand people.

But what they say, parang nanay na calling the attention of the kids, na instead na magalit sila sa akin, parang nahiya na parang I’m disappointed. I don’t know if that’s a compliment because they think of me as a mother.

I have that motherly instinct of nurturing and caring. And sometimes it goes beyond work. You deal with a lot of people, who also have family issues, on the crossroads, personal problems with their boyfriend, wife, husband, children.

It depends on how you carry yourself, too.

Sometimes, they give you special attention because you’re the only woman there. But depending on the situation, I make them feel that I don’t need special attention because you can treat me similar to how others should be treated.

What I have learned through the years is you have to claim your spot. To be able to deal with leaders, you have to be sitting at the table, not sitting at the back. When you’re seated, you have to have a voice. You have to make sure that your voice is heard, that your opinion is brought to the table.

And people will listen, and people will really take that seriously. And if they don’t, you strategize to make yourself be heard.

What’s the biggest misconception about working for a hotel?

I always ask people taking their practicum: Is hotel and restaurant administration your first choice. If they say I was told by my family, or it was the easiest choice, then it probably will not work. Working in a hotel, while it looks glamorous—because it’s airconditioned, you have food, beverage, you’re wearing makeup—it’s not all like that. There’s a lot of hard work.

This means that even if you’re having a bad day, you have to put a smile on your face.

Recently I lost my mother-in-law. I had to Collective / Issue 14 21

PROFILES

“

What I have learned through the years is you have to claim your spot.

To be able to deal with leaders, you have to be sitting at the table, not sitting at the back. When you’re seated, you have to have a voice.

“

switch between grieving and continuing my life at work. You have to learn how to snap out of it, so you can manage both emotions and your work.

I always say, you have to be cut out for it because cannot turn somebody who is not customer-oriented person into a customeroriented person. It’s very difficult. It’s a talent. Either you have it or you don’t. It’s not a skill that you can learn.

You think if you like it, it’s easy? It’s not.

And working in the industry means having to give up weekends, holidays, extend work hours. We cannot tell our guests, we are closed for the day. You are technically on call. It’s important to balance your life and work, or combine it.

22 Collective / Issue 14

What’s your message to young women out there, who want to be on top of their game?

Begin with the ending. I had that end in mind. It basically allowed me to focus on the end that I wanted. In our lives now, there are so many distractions, temptations.

Sometimes, somebody will post on social media an option for you that can confuse you. But if you’re clear on what your end is, then you will do everything and anything in your power to ensure that you go that direction.

Also, don’t be scared to break the glass ceiling. Pag babae, pang middle management lang. Pag matangkad ka, pang-hotel. Putting a branding in each position, that limits us.

And the people that actually do that are ourselves. If we keep putting that in our minds, sayang ang opportunity. Don’t be scared to challenge the status quo. Because if you fail, then okay, think of other things; it’s not the end of the world. Try something else. Just do it. Nobody else can force you to do that, and nobody can assess yourself better than you.

BEYOND THE STARTING LINE Philippine sports is getting ready to rule the world

By Vanessa Abellon & Mary Grace Padin

Collective / Issue 14 23

COVER STORY

T

he few seconds of silence that engulfed professional weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, 30, before she dropped that last 127-kilogram barbell during the Tokyo Olympics in July 2021 defined Philippine sports in the last century. Like the athlete herself, the entire country felt a mixture of thrill and agitation that erupted into euphoria as the Philippines bagged that elusive first Olympic gold medal.

It has always been the case in Philippine sports history whenever a big sporting event comes: We give support to our athletes as much as we could, but there is always that agitation, that doubt that we have not done enough as a country for them to win. But, as resilience is one of our strongest gifts, Filipino athletes have time and again crushed those doubts.

The victory of Hildyn and the three fighters who brought home Olympic medals in 2021— Nesthy Petecio (boxing, women's feather), Carlo Paalam (boxing, men's flyweight), and Eumir Marcial (boxing, men's middle)— proved that Filipino athletes are more than ever ready to conquer sports worldwide.

In the time of pandemic, these moments feel like a big, burning torch, symbolizing the beginning of many other triumphs. It shows how sports can still bring us together, how it can inspire, and how it can revive an economy still trying to win against a global health crisis.

The sports bubble

In the Philippines, sports has acted like a starter pistol for the striving tourism industry, even for the third quarter of the year alone— and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), one of the major forces behind the 2019 SEA Games, has taken heed.

From July 10 to 11, an astounding 116 cyclists pedaled along the trails of Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga for the The Integrated Cycling 24 Collective / Issue 14

Federation of the Philippines’ (PhilCycling) National Trials for Road.

BCDA and Clark Development Corporation (CDC) presented the event, together with Standard Insurance, Smart, MVP Sports Foundation, among others. The races were, of course, held in a bubble setting.

In the same month, the New Clark City Aquatics Center in Capas Tarlac got the attention of the sports world—again. It can be remembered that the facility has been gaining praises from swimmers and other athletes since it was used as one of the main venues during the successful 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

On July 9, the Israel Swimming Association arrived at the New Clark City (NCC) to begin preparations for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

The team, composed of eleven swimmers and six staff members, were warmly welcomed at the Quest Hotel and Conference Center, along Mimosa Drive in Clark, where they stayed during the bubble-set-up training camp.

The athletes trained at the 2000-seater New Clark City Aquatics Center, famous for its tenlane competition pool, eight-lane training pool, diving pool, the magnificent view of Tarlac, and its world-class architecture that embodies Filipino culture and tradition. It is also the only swimming facility in the country that is accredited by the Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA).

Since the start of the pandemic and intermittent lockdowns rustled the country, this was the first time that the Aquatics Center had opened, signaling that the resilient Clark is continually moving forward and upward through the crisis.

On July 15, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Vince Dizon paid the Israelis’ training camp a visit. He was accompanied

by Nir Balzam, Chargé d’Affaires of the Israel Embassy in the Philippines.

Dizon, who is also the deputy chief implementer of the country’s pandemic

The Israeli swimming team trained at the New Clark City Aquatics Center in preparation for the Tokyo Olympics

On July 10 to 11, the Integrated Cycling Federation of the Philippines’ (PhilCycling) National Trials for Road event kicked off at the Clark Freeport Zone

response, said during the visit, “We are thrilled yet humbled at the same time to host our friends from Israel in New Clark City’s first-ever sports bubble. Israel is one of the leading countries in the world for COVID-19 vaccination and response. So, for their athletes, coaches and officials to have the confidence to train in our country and at the Aquatics Center—that is truly a blessing.”

The Israeli Olympic swimming team stayed at the New Clark City facilities until July 19, but not before lauding their training camp.

Balzam echoed Dizon’s gratitude: “We’d like to extend our thanks to Sec. Vince, BCDA, and the Philippine government for being a true friend of Israel and also for hosting our swimmers. Having them here, training in this

bubble setting where they can train freely, get acclimated to the region and the time zone, we really appreciate it.”

David Marsh, a former US Olympic swimming coach and now the professional adviser of the Israeli team, didn’t miss the chance to express his awe: “I travelled all around the world and saw thousands of aquatic complexes. New Clark City’s facility is among the best in the world.”

In retrospect, the sports industry has been on a steady yet encouraging momentum this year. Going back to the second quarter of 2021, it should be noted, too, that the Philippines, through the BCDA, CDC and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (BSP), hosted the third and final window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers. Held in a bubble set-up, the games, Collective / Issue 14 25

COVER STORY

On July 9, the Israel Swimming Association arrived in Clark to begin their training bubble at the New Clark City Aquatics Center

Track event held at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium during the 30th South East Asian Games, where the world-class and awardwinning facility was first used for an international sporting event

played at the Angeles University Foundation Gym in Pampanga, from June 16 to 20, ended with the Philippines sweeping South Korea.

Then, in August, the Athletics Stadium at New Clark City, which has a seating capacity of 20,000, has been shortlisted by the World Architecture Festival as among the best completed buildings in the world.

The facility was nominated for the SportCompleted Buildings category—a perfect complement to the spotlight it has been getting since becoming one of New Clark City’s highlights during the 2019 SEA Games.

It has a nine-lane track and field that is 400

26 Collective / Issue 14

meters long, and a four-lane warm-up track, to name a few.

The World Architecture Festival has been scheduled to take place at the FIL Exhibition Center in Lisbon, Portugal, from December 1 to 3.

The battle in the sports arena is palpably far from over. Winning it lies in sustaining that momentum—as is the nature of sports and an athlete’s profession. Indeed, the success of the Philippine Olympians and sporting events are just catalysts for a better future for the industry, and it should be a striking portent of the things to come beyond the starting line.

COVER STORY

THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SPORTS

N

ever has there been an institution in the Philippines that fully embraces sports as a lasting, crucial influence in a country’s economy and wellbeing than that of the National Academy of Sports (NAS).

NAS was established by virtue of Republic Act 11470, signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, on June 9, 2020.

Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, was one of the principal authors of the bill that led to this law.

According to the RA 11470, the NAS System is mandated to “implement a quality and enhanced secondary education program, integrated with a special curriculum on sports. It shall

Artist's render of the National Academy of Sports

be geared to the early recognition and development of highly talented and exceptionally gifted students and those who have demonstrated the potential of excelling in the field of sports.”

The NAS System is attached to the Department of Education (DepED), and should work in close coordination with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the law states.

If one looks closely at the state of Philippine sports, the opening of NAS could not have come at a better time.

“From an extra-curricular activity, or a hobby as some may call it, sports has evolved and is still evolving in the Philippines,” Joy B. Reyes, Master of Physical Education (MPE), executive director of NAS, tells the Collective.

“We now have an increased number of sports professions and professionals to cater to the growing need in the field of sports, fitness, and wellness. Today, there are a handful of undergraduate sports-related courses being offered in various universities and colleges. Most

Collective / Issue 14 27

Artist’s render of the basketball court

Aerial perspective of the NAS campus

of the sports leaders we have today are athletes or practitioners who experienced little to nothing of the perks that the current generation is enjoying. As I have observed, they are using that past experience to initiate programs for the benefit of our athletes.

With the sports science coming into play, the manner of treating and enhancing the performance of the athletes through scientific approaches and the application of the best practices leveled up the standards in training preparations.”

Reyes says when she first heard about NAS, she knew it would be an institution that would become the “backbone for the constant and progressive production of wellrounded student-athletes, who can be sources of national pride.”

28 Collective / Issue 14

Artist’s render of the table tennis room

BCDA provided NAS the land for its campus, and allowed the use of the existing renowned facilities in New Clark City, where NAS is located.

“We believe it is prudent to establish a national sports school right at the heart of the major sports infrastructures and development,” Reyes says, adding that they will optimize the use of the facilities that have already been approved by legitimate international organizations. “Training in certified facilities bridges the gap in experiencing the actual dimensions of your playing area.”

COVER STORY

Artist’s render of the entrance of NAS

Race to the future

Like any prestigious university, the NAS System ensures that the student-athlete scholars will excel not just in sports, but in academics, as well. Reyes says the Academics and Sports Science divisions have carefully crafted curricula, training programs, and support service programs that will help the students create a good balance of academic and athletic competency.

The NAS team has also been slowly growing over the past few months. “Now there are more than 40 capable and dedicated individuals who ensured that our doors will open this year, and selected teachers from Region 3, who will serve as mentors to help us mold our biggest resource: our students,” Reyes says.

To date, NAS had already conducted the NAS Annual Research for Competent, Exceptional, Notable, and Talented StudentAthlete Scholars (NASCENT SAS), where student-athletes can apply and go through a screening process to be admitted.

Reyes also hopes that the impact of the existence of NAS will go beyond its walls, especially during these times. “The pandemic has deprived our community with the benefits of sports and exercise,” Reyes adds.

“It is evident that majority of the population

feel the effects of inactivity and being sedentary to their health, and it has gravely affected mental health, as well. As such, this is sounding proof that engaging in sports and exercise are important to our wellbeing.

I am certain that sports and the fitness industry will come back harder than how the pandemic hit.”

In the farther future, Reyes reveals that NAS envisions its expansion to the different regions in the country, so it can achieve its goals to be the forefront of global sports development and education.

“The NAS has started its benchmarking activities with international sports academies, with the aim of having a partnership with them,” Reyes says. “We intend to engage collaborative efforts to find innovative ways in improving the experiences of our student-athletes and personnel.” Currently, there are plans for exchange programs for their scholars, coaches, teachers, and other professionals.

For Reyes, NAS can, in fact, serve a bigger purpose outside of pure sports. With the facilities in New Clark City, including those in the pipeline, Reyes says she is confident that these developments can help skyrocket sports tourism not just in New Clark City, but in the entire country.

“I am excited for New Clark City to be the Collective / Issue 14 29

Scholar-athletes can look forward to these facilities and perks!

Artist’s render of the NAS building’s interior

› NAS Campus Construction Phase 1 1) Academic and Administration Building 2) Multi-sport gym

› Training facilities that follow international standards › Buildings that are accessible to persons with disabilities, since NAS will be accepting PWD student-athletes in the near future › Open spaces with lush greens that are conducive for learning › A modern and advanced campus surrounded by nature › A variety of spaces outdoors, where student-athletes can study › Meals and food prepared according to the needs of the athlete › Customized nutrition plans based on individual assessments, which include recommended food portion, food type, etc. › Key additional features in the next phase of construction: › › ›

Dormitory for student-athletes Hostel for guests Sports Science Center

30 Collective / Issue 14

center of sports tourism in the country, and even more excited for NAS to be a catalyst of that development,” Reyes expounds. “I believe that people will be enticed to visit NAS to watch and cheer our athletes when sports events are held in NCC.” There’s much work to be done, Reyes declares: “We still have to make a long climb in the global sports ladder, even with the recent developments. The financial and moral support allows us now to create overall a more extensive program for our athletes without compromising their health, including mental health.”

The executive director explains that mental health is one of the priorities of the system. When athletes train, for instance, they will be away from their core support— their families. “We have to value programs that will nourish their entire wellbeing,” Reyes says.

Being a student-athlete, Reyes reminds us, has a much greater responsibility than winning medals: “We aim to instill the best practices for our young athletes in order to inspire them to work on becoming the future leaders for our country.”

Not far behind is a Philippines where sports is not just a requisite subject in school, but one that can significantly advance a developing country and put it on the map again and again—just like what the magic four Olympians did for us.

COVER STORY

ON THE PODIUM

Get to know NAS Executive Director Joy B. Reyes, MPE, the woman who will lead young athlete-scholars to excellence.

Have you always been into sports?

It was during high school intramurals when I first engaged into sports. I can vividly remember how we freshmen won the softball championship against the seniors. The following years, I joined the school volleyball varsity team and competed in citywide tournaments. It boosted my confidence and built my interest to become a national player one day. Since then, sports has been a major part of my life.

Tell us about your journey towards becoming the NAS executive director.

This journey began with my passion and commitment to sports. It was further honed during my years at the University of the Philippines, as a student-athlete, when I became a member of the national volleyball youth team in 1984.

After graduation, I had the chance to teach physical education (P.E.) at the

Loyola Schools P.E. Program of the Ateneo de Manila University for 14 years. I also served as the program director for three years.

While working in Ateneo, I was offered a consultancy position at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and headed the Sports Physiology Unit, which was in-charge of monitoring and evaluating the performances of our elite athletes through physiological tests, under the Philippine Center for Sports Medicine—now known as the Medical and Scientific Athlete Services.

The grassroots program of the Commission gave me the opportunity to be the technical head of the Sports Talent Identification Program, where I led various trainings and workshops across the regions.

These exposures led me to serve 27 years in PSC. The academic experience and consultancy work combined paved the way to usher the B.S. Sports Science Program of the College of Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Santo Tomas, where I served as department chair for 11 years, and continued on as faculty for another seven years.

While having all these, doors opened for me to give back by strengthening the sports development program of Taguig City University, and raising the standards of the coaches vis-a-vis improving the welfare of the student-athletes for six years. Worth mentioning were the circumstances and stints of being a volleyball coach in the collegiate, high school, and recreational/ club volleyball teams that gave me a chance to build the team members’ characters.

The course of my career coupled with a strong sense of dedication and service led me to become a contender, and I was finally chosen to be at the helm of NAS. Collective / Issue 14 31

COVER STORY

From left to right: BCDA Senior Vice President Engr. Joshua Bingcang, Capas Mayor Rey Catacutan, Tarlac Governor Susan Yap, NAS Executive Director Josephine Joy Reyes, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, Education Assistant Secretary Malcolm Garma, and NAS Deputy Executive Director Emil Arroyo at the unveiling of NAS’ architectural renders

May we get a little personal? How has this position been changing your life?

What sport would you like to engage in that you haven't yet?

This has been a life-changing moment for me because my time and devotion to NAS’ mission has been the focus of my attention.

We’ve been putting up every aspect of NAS together and ensuring the welfare of the student-athletes.

I probably would like to engage in diving. I have this affinity to water and I appreciate and still want to explore the vast beauty underneath—different species of fish, corals, etc. At the same time, I want to overcome my fear of depths.

What is the daily routine of an executive director of a sports academy?

If you had a choice, what sport would you engage in for the rest of your life?

I start and end my day with a prayer. I am consciously attending and corresponding to the concerns of all NAS divisions on a daily basis. Due to the demands of work and the will to maintain a well-balanced lifestyle, I make sure to find time for outdoor activities and moderate workout sessions, and to spend any form of relaxation over the weekend. I try to maintain an ideal weight by eating less carbs, food that’s low in fat and high in fiber.

32 Collective / Issue 14

Biking and obstacle sports. I believe these sports can maintain a certain fitness level that will keep me physically and mentally fit at all times.

What is your personal goal in terms of moving the sports industry in the country forward?

My goal is to be able to do more as the executive director of NAS and maximize every opportunity to make significant contributions to sports development.

FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES

Going around Camp John Hay in two wheels

By Zyrelle del Prado

C

amp John Hay is a place where leafy forest, lovely hills, and dramatic mountainous backdrop meet. The cold breeze and foggy pathways embrace every jogger and biker early morning without fail.

The varied landscapes and cycling paths challenge athletes and health enthusiasts, pushing their rhythm, breath, and discipline to the limit. But always, the Camp leaves visitors in awe, rejuvenated, and refreshed.

But since the pandemic began, the bike trails and jogging paths have become much more of a necessity than areas that are for recreation. As people fight the day-today consequences of the pandemic, most especially the reduction of public transport— which significantly changed our physical mobility—they have slowly realized the importance of using bicycles as a mode of transport.

In Baguio City, various resolutions have been passed, encouraging motorists to share

the road with bikers. Proposals and talks with various stakeholders are ongoing for the establishment of bike lanes all around the city. To date, more and more commuters prefer using bikes around the city.

The Trail Camp John Hay warmly welcomes everyone and shares its roads to allow all kinds of bikers to go around and commune with nature, as they breathe fresh, pine-scented air.

Known for some light and undemanding terrain, the Camp does not discriminate, and can cater to bikers with different skills. It can also serve hungry bikers, who are looking to grab a bite, or those who are just casually hanging around on a weekend.

At the center of this is Camp John Hay’s flagship bike trail, which is approximately three kilometers long. The trail combines an easy zigzag course, a gentle uphill-downhill path, and a few moderately ascending curves.

Collective / Issue 14 33

FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES

As the bikers explore the trail, they will also get to see the historic sites of the Bell Amphitheatre, Bell house, Cemetery of Negativism, the Statue of Liberty, etc.

Foodies will love the different varieties of strong coffee, sweets, delicious meals that abound the area. Retail shops, therapeutic

34 Collective / Issue 14

massage places, and wellness spots are perfect for rest days and recreation.

Travel restrictions remain in place right now as the pandemic continues, but it shouldn’t hinder anyone from taking that necessary time off. It also shouldn’t hinder anyone from planning his or her next ride.

FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES

Golf is saving this disc jockey’s life

By January Guia Caringal-Bawat

W

alter David B. Abuan Jr. or Wally, as he is fondly called, is a businessman and a popular radio personality in La Union. As a young entrepreneur and broadcast practitioner, he was determined to earn a living for his family.

Eventually, at the age of 30, he and his wife Michelle became the owner of two radio stations, Love Radio La Union (FM) and Aksyon Radio (AM).

Known as "Manny Pakwan," in radio, he also works as a disc jockey at the two stations he owns. The couple became deeply immersed in entrepreneurship, and as the radio stations flourished, they decided to diversify and open new businesses, such as a new restaurant, a junk shop, distribution of beverages, and leasing of parking spaces.

Being in such fast-paced industries entailed socializing, which led Wally to smoke and drink a lot. With this kind of lifestyle, by the age of 40, he was diagnosed with diabetes.

This deadly disease immediately forced him to change his lifestyle. It was at this time in his life when he ventured into sports.

“I was into running and airsoft,” Wally recalls. “I played airsoft with my kids because I was young back then. But later, after five years, I was diagnosed as hypertensive. The saying that life begins at 40 is not true at all because at 40, all the diseases came out. My sugar and cholesterol levels began to shoot up. Because of my situation, I decided to stop all my vices, and practice a healthy lifestyle. I looked for activities that would keep my body fit.”

In his mid-40s, Wally discovered what would soon become a huge passion: golf.

His golf journey started when a business associate invited Wally to join him at the course. At first, Wally was hesitant to try it because he had always assumed that it was an expensive sport.

“During that time, I was very busy with my family, and I was at that time in my life when I needed to earn because my kids were growing up and the needs of the family were also increasing,” he tells us. “Before getting into anything, you must balance your finances. This is also the reason why I started playing golf late.”

Collective / Issue 14 35

Now, golf has become Wally’s way of staying physically active. “It helps me maintain my fitness and keeps me healthy,” he says. “It’s not only about the personal happiness I feel when playing. The main reason I play is because I want to be fit because I have my family who depends on me. I need to be fit because I do not want to get sick and leave them behind with nothing. Death is inevitable but by becoming fit, you delay it. I also play golf because of business. The golf community is very small and at some point, you will eventually get to know everyone. Since I am in the radio industry, knowing people who own businesses helps me by means of advertising. They get to advertise on my radio station, and I am also able to introduce my other businesses to them.”

Golf has become Wally’s number one sport.

He has also found good friends through the sport: “There are certain parts during the game when you get to tell stories and laugh—while going to the next tee box, for example. But when you are on top of the green, everyone has has his or her game face on.”

Golf has also become a stress reliever for him, he says, because of the beautiful view on the golf course—the foliage, the trees, the blue sky—and he can even hear the sounds of the birds.

Wally proclaims himself as a golf addict.

Luckily, there’s a great golf course in his area, at the Thunderbird Resorts and Casinos Poro Point–Golf Club in San Fernando City, La Union. The Cliffs golf course is one of the premium courses in the Philippines, as its 3,372-yard, 9-hole, all-weather course was designed by the International Management Group. Apart from its amenities, it has a scenic view of San Fernando Bay. 36 Collective / Issue 14

“Golf is very interesting and addicting,” Wally says. “It’s interesting because no game is similar. It is addicting because you think about how to improve your next game all the time.

You think of the failed attempts and shots and how you will be able to up your game.” Wally also says that golf can be compared to life: golf, too, has many hazards in the course like the creek, water, and hills. It is how you play the game to reach your goal, your hole-in-one, that matters.

Today, Wally is still busy managing his radio stations and other businesses. With the support of his wife and kids, he can balance his time for work, family, and golf. His kids are athletes, who are into swimming and archery.

Wally continues to play golf despite the pandemic. He just makes sure that he and his buddies practice minimum health protocols at all times.

FOR INQUIRIES Please contact Thunderbird Resorts and Casino – Poro Point through the following: +6372-607-9800 pororeservations@thunderbird-asia.com www.thunderbird-asia.com

FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES

#BakunaMuna at the Poro Point Freeport Zone

By January Guia Caringal-Bawat

T

he pandemic continues to affect the lives of everyone. It has especially placed the tourism industry in a standstill. Despite the continuous efforts of the government to mitigate the deadly effects of the dreaded virus, the disease persists and new variants keep emerging.

The Poro Point Management Corporation (PPMC) continues to ensure the safety of its employees and stakeholders by adhering to minimum health protocols and guidelines implemented by the IATF, Provincial Government of La Union, the Local Government of San Fernando City, the barangays, and the PPMC within Poro Point Freeport Zone (PPFZ), in line with its mandate as a socially responsible corporate citizen.

Due to the rampant of cases of different COVID-19 variants, the PPMC Management—through the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer Atty.

Felix S. Racadio, together with the PPMC Board, PPMC vice presidents, managers and the other devoted men and women of PPMC—continues to undertake different programs and actions to ensure the health and safety of its employees and stakeholders.

Bakuna muna In support to the government’s campaign against COVID-19, PPMC also urged its employees to get vaccinated.

A BakunaMuna program of the Provincial Health Office of the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) adopted a paperless vaccination process. This process started during the vaccination program for the tourism front liners, which was held at the Agora Events Center, on August 19, 2021.

With the initiative of PPMC’s Management, it was coordinated to include its employees and various locators within the Poro Point Freeport Zone.

A total of 552 individuals from different sectors including those within the Poro Point Freeport Zone got vaccinated—480 received Sinovac vaccines and 72 received AstraZeneca vaccines.

The paperless vaccination program used the La Union COVID-19 Vaccination System (LUCOVACS), developed by the Information and Communications Technology Unit (ICTU) of the Province of La Union.

The said system is attached and strictly patterned after the NAPANAM contact tracing system, in compliance Collective / Issue 14 37

FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES

with the Department of Information and Communication Technology and Department of Health (DICT-DOH) requirements and guidelines. Napanam is an Ilocano term, which means, “Where have you been?”

The paperless vaccination system aims to give fast and hassle-free vaccination process with its five main key features: registration, vital signs entry, health screening, inoculation and post-monitoring.

It may be recalled that during the past vaccination programs, an individual spends at least 1.5 hours to go from filling out the forms to post-monitoring. However, with the kick-off of the new system, the vaccination processes was trimmed down to a maximum of 30 minutes from start to finish. As a result, the 552 individuals were vaccinated in only half a day.

38 Collective / Issue 14

The generation of the Vaccine Information Management System–Vaccine Administration System Report, which is a requirement of the DICT-DOH that needs to be accomplished and submitted daily, is also included.

The ICTU’s development team is in the process of enhancing the system to enable the printing of certificates on-site. With the use of a QR code, the system has the capacity to generate a COVID-19 Vaccine Certification, which includes the full details of the vaccine.

This eliminates the creation of fake vaccines, and the tampering of vaccination certificates.

The PGLU is looking forward to a paperless process for the BakunaMuna Program to get more persons vaccinated in a day.

THE HEROES BEHIND THE SWABBING FACILITIES

By Suzanne Marie Ramos

I

t was in May 2020 when the country’s Mega Swabbing Facilities (MSF) started to fully operate to cater to the Filipino people. The facility managers are composed mainly of uniformed personnel in the medical field, from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Philippine National Police (PNP). It is a fact very few people publicly see or know of.

Despite the health risks being faced daily, it is the dedication and willingness to sacrifice for others that motivate these health care workers to push through this extraordinary challenge.

They may be medical personnel already to begin with, but there has been a dramatic difference in their roles during this pandemic.

With great compassion and pride, let us meet the COVID-19 unsung front line heroes who dedicatedly lead and manage the operations of the Philippines’ Mega Swabbing Facilities.

Collective / Issue 14 39

HEROES

SSUPT. JOHNNY DE LEON, M.D. Bureau of Fire Protection/Philippine Arena Mega Swabbing Facility “Working in the Philippine Arena Mega Swabbing Facility as overall core team facility manager and handling the operations of one of the largest mega swabbing facility set up by the IATF [Inter-Agency Task Force], was an experience that I never thought I’ll have in my lifetime.

I have to admit that I was hesitant at first.

However, I treat this as a challenge, and opportunity at the same time, for me to show and contribute to the welfare of my countrymen and be part in the fight against this pandemic.

My vision is to continue our mission in providing free and accessible RT-PCR tests to all Filipino families and various agencies to help in slowing down or cutting the chain of the COVID infection in our country, and assist in the recovery of our nation.

Despite the risks and danger, I believe my experience as medical doctor and occupational safety specialist can contribute to the mitigation of the effects of this pandemic.

This job inspires me because it helps a lot of people from all walks of life affected by this pandemic, especially those who are financially and emotionally burdened. This also gives me an opportunity to help many people because of the skills, experience, and training given by God to me. And it is an overwhelming desire 40 Collective / Issue 14

and opportunity to give these back to Him by helping others.

To all our countrymen, keep in mind that we can heal as one, as a nation, if we will continuously help one another by whole-heartedly following the minimum health protocols set by our government. We will continue to serve our nation with the best of our abilities and sacrifice our lives until we win this battle.”

COL. ERICKSON L. GOB, M.C. (GSC) Armed Forces of the Philippines/Ninoy Aquino Sports Stadium Mega Swabbing Facility “As a Medical Corps Officer of the AFP, I was called to be part of the team that will operate one of the mega swabbing centers in our country during the height of the pandemic. It was then called the Enderun Mega Swabbing Facility. It was a new experience and way beyond the usual job that I am accustomed to.

But with adequate orientation, biosafety training, and constant briefing by my command and support staff, as well as our BCDA counterparts—who were all very supportive and hardworking—I was able to adjust to my “new normal” as a facility manager. And together as

HEROES

PLTCOL. JESUS OSTREA III Philippine National Police/Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena Mega Swabbing Facility

a team, I believe that it has contributed in the ongoing success of its operations.

I realized that never in our country’s history have we been so threatened. It has affected not just our health security as a nation but our economy as well, and has created a multitude of problems especially for our mental health.

This is a war not fought between two countries, but a war fought with an unseen enemy, which is already right at the very doorstep where our families live. This compelled me to accept this responsibility given to me by higher headquarters to lead this MSF. Maybe through this initiative of the government, we can contribute to our nation’s healing.

This pandemic is still far from over, and our government is doing all it can in its powers to mitigate this crisis. This MSF is just one of the initiatives of the government to control the spread of COVID-19. Our existence is at stake in this battle with an unseen enemy. However, government cannot do it all alone. There should still be a concerted effort and sense of community and civic duty in all of us to ensure our survivability. If we all get our act together, the benefits surely will outweigh the dangers and, in the end, safety, health and life can be preserved and enjoyed.”

“Working with the SM MOA Area Mega Swabbing facility is a challenge and opportunity for me to extend my services as a police officer and medical front liner to all kinds of people.

I adjust and adapt to the new working environment, and with my fellow front liners, to provide excellent and efficient service to our clients. As the swabbing facility administrator, I envision that our facility could reach out to more Filipinos who are in need of our services.

I know that this job is risky, but when this was offered to me, I did not think twice. I accepted the challenge to be of service and to face any risk that I may possibly encounter.

One of the challenges with this job is the constant fear for our own health. Nothing comes easy in this profession, but we all have to make sacrifices to always be in the right mindset to be in control in this field of work.

My loyalty and dedication to the Philippine National Police has been my inspiration. I am inspired to serve, sacrifice, and give my very best. I would like to exude the values of patriotism and solidarity to my workmates and to the force.

I would like to thank the PNP, DOH [Department of Health], BCDA [Bases Conversation and Development Authority], Philippine Red Cross, and other generous support groups for their help in the creating this facility.”

Collective / Issue 14 41

DINER'S DIGEST

The Olives Restaurant Dine by the sea

By Vanessa Abellon

I

n a medley of flavors that brighten up any Mediterranean meal, the olive fruit is a staple. From this distinct trait, the idea of the Olives Restaurant, the main food and beverage outlet of Thunderbird Resorts and Casinos - Poro Point, came about.

The famous La Union food hub opened together with the resort in 2008, and its cuisine enhances the Santorini-inspired design of the whole place.

“As a five-star resort, we follow the highest standards in food preparation, quality ingredients, and excellent service in a clean environment,” Dessa Garcia, Thunderbird’s head of strategic, planning, and development, tells the Collective. “We strictly follow a regular review of our existing menu and 42 Collective / Issue 14

conduct menu engineering every month.

Our kitchen is headed by our executive chef, who has an extensive hotel and restaurant experience from both local and international institutions.”

To support the local industry, the restaurant sources most of its ingredients from La Union and the nearby province of Benguet. “Some ingredients are sourced from known hotel industry suppliers,” Garcia says.

Their best-selling dishes include the Grilled Deviled Chicken and Four Cheese Pizza— these two have been the top crowd favorites in Olives since its opening way back 2008, says Garcia.

Bursting with flavors from Mediterranean spices, the Grilled Devilled Chicken is

marinated chicken thigh in chili oil, herbs and spices, red wine, olive, and rustic herbed potatoes, and is served with steamed white rice or mashed potato. The classic four cheese pizza combines feta, gorgonzola, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese, melted over rich tomato coulis.

Dine safely The tourism and leisure industries have been hit the worst during the pandemic. With the absence of tourists, group functions, and social banquets, restaurants lost a huge share of their businesses.

“We currently rely only on our local patrons,” says Garcia. Unfortunately, they had to shut down or limit the operations of other food and beverage outlets in the resort. Olives Restaurant, the main restaurant, has remained at 30% to 50% operating capacity.

To keep up with the health safety protocols, the restaurant introduced pick-up and delivery services. The resort’s The Pianosa Delishop, which offers gourmet coffee, cakes, and pastries, was also merged with Olives Restaurant.

Despite the challenges, Garcia says diners can still have something to look forward to: “While we are majority catering to local guests, our monthly menu engineering will ensure a new offering for our guests to try.”

For reservations and other concerns, you may contact Thunderbird Resorts and Casino – Poro Point through the following: +6372-607-9800 pororeservations@thunderbird-asia.com www.thunderbird-asia.com

Collective / Issue 14 43

Clark Parade Grounds From multi-sporting events to leisurely walks, Clark Parade Grounds is the perfect go-to destination for outdoor activities. This vast open space at the Clark Freeport Zone boasts a 2.2-kilometer rubberized jogging path lined up with century-old Acacia trees and a world-class football pitch.