PC&D JULY 2014 issue

PHILIPPINE

THE MAGAZINE FOR CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS VOL. 2. No. 13 JULY 2014

Adhesives and Sealants in the Building and Construction JICA grant-aid Evacuation Shelters project

Defining the true essence of luxury living

Revolutionizing Construction Design and Management Adapting Locally to Fit-In a Global Brand Taking Modern Tiling to the Next Level July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design 

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contents Issue No. 13 -2014

CONSTRUCTION NEWS Viewpoint Senator Loren Legarda: “Role of Women in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management” ........

Calendar of Events July 2014 ..................................................................................

02 05

34

News Roundup

Vigan stays among top 7 cities of the world ...........................................................................

30

06

Association, Organization & Companies

Proactive Equipment Management Course & Workshop..................................................................................... 14

International Reports

46

China constructing fake Islands .................................... 16

FEATURES Special Features

38

Adhesives and Sealants in the Building and Construction.............................................................................. 24

Cover Story

Defining the true essence of luxury living ............... 30

Project Report-Public

JICA grant-aid Evacuation Shelters project .......... 34

Contructor’s Profile

Doing good in business complements giving back to society............................................................................................. 38 Revolutionizing Construction Design and Management................................................................................................. 40

Supplier’s Profile

Taking Modern Tiling to the Next Level ................... 44 Adapting Locally to Fit-In a Global Brand............................................................................. 46

44

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT Project Management

Keeping Effective Documentation .................................. 48

Risk Management

Planning the Cities of the Future ................................. 52

Human Resource Management

Contracts need to be fair .................................................... 54

Products & Technology

Innovative Tiling Technology ................................................

56

Price Movement

Retail Price Index of Selected Construction Materials in the National Capital Region (2000=100) : May 2014 ............................................................... 61

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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VIEWPOINT

SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA

“Role of Women in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management” ASEM Manila Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management 5 June 2014 - Manila

Women: Leaders of Change for Resilience First of all, I wish to extend my thanks to the ASEM leadership for this opportunity to share our country’s experiences on the role of women in disaster risk reduction and management.

As disaster risks abound amid our fast changing environment, disasters affect yearly about 200 million people all over the world, half of them women or girls.

Although disasters do not discriminate between the young and old, the rich and poor, they impact on individuals and families disproportionately --- with the strong and capable surviving and coping better, while the weak and vulnerable losing lives and suffering more. And in settings where gender inequality pervades, the situation becomes even worse for women.

The World Bank reports that in Asia women perish in disasters more than men: 61% in the 2008 Myanmar cyclone; 67% in the Indian Ocean Tsunami in Banda, Aceh; and 95% in the Cyclone Gorky in Bangladesh.

This appalling reality can change.

It can change if disaster risk reduction efforts effectively deliver women from persistent vulnerability and gender inequality, and empower them fully to make their families, homes and community livelihoods disaster-resilient. It can change if we do not miss or ignore gender issues in designing and implementing disaster risk reduction and management programs.

It can change if we are not gender-blind

in our development actions or insensitive to the potential contributions of women in building resilience.

Haiyan impacts on women

More than six months ago, the world’s strongest typhoon hit our country.

The world witnessed the massive destruction Typhoon Haiyan or Yolanda wrought in Central Philippines - how the City of Tacloban, the economic center of Eastern Visayas, was brutally washed away by its storm surge that left more than 6,000 people dead and countless missing in its aftermath.

Haiyan has revealed how vulnerable women are to disasters.

More than 3.5 million women and girls were affected, 250,000 of them were pregnant and 169,000 were breastfeeding.

Their distinct nutritional needs, when unmet, make coping with disasters even tougher for them. Also, their displacement from their homes put them at greater risk of sexual violence and of falling prey to human traffickers.

Haiyan also caused the loss of income sources for almost six million workers, 40% of whom are female workers.

These disaster impacts on women convey to us the importance of making development policies, plans and programmes gendersensitive. This the government must ensure always.

In the face of increasing disaster and climate risks, national and local development

2 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

processes must involve women actively, particularly in planning and integrating gender perspectives in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation measures and actions.

In the immediate aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan, among the first day responders were Filipino women doctors, nurses, paramedics and civilian volunteers. The secretary general of the Philippine Red Cross is a woman and so is the head of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Countless Filipino women responded with almost total disregard of their own safety, operating in what was traditionally viewed as the province of man.

We need to capacitate women not only as primary caregivers in times of disaster and economic distress, but also as part of the overall strategy on disaster risk reduction and management. To empower women is to reduce their vulnerability to disasters.

A number of Haiyan recovery efforts led by women truly inspire.

An international organization, ActionAid, provided support to communities in Leyte, Northern Cebu and Eastern Samar with women leading the activities from planning, procuring, distributing and monitoring of aid, including food packages, hygiene kits, shelter repair kits and livelihood support. To date, the program has provided support to more than 163,000 survivors of Haiyan.[5] Wilma Paloma, a village chief in the Province of Aklan, led her community of

I am sure similar inspiring stories abound in other countries.

All of these stories convey the message: Women are no longer willing to stay on the sidelines. Stereotyped gendered roles have no place in the critical fight against disaster risk and climate change.

The potential contribution as well as effective leadership role of women in reducing disaster risk and building community resilience must be recognized, encouraged and supported.

Let us provide and ensure the pathways for the inclusion of women in disaster risk reduction and management efforts as active participants, leaders and decision makers.

To harness the strength of women in

In the Municipality of San Francisco in Camotes Island, Cebu, 90% of officers in charge of environmental protection and disaster prevention programs in each and every purok are women, since most of the male residents are focused on making a living for their families.

The municipality is a 2011 UN Sasakawa Awardee for Disaster Reduction because of their Purok System, which focuses on addressing the vulnerability of every village in the municipality by mobilizing local resources in creating local and practical solutions based on the unique needs of every community.

Not too far away from here, the Sapinit Watershed Settlers Association, composed of women residents of the area, established a nursery filled with narra and mahogany seedlings, in coordination with the Philippine Disaster Recovery Foundation.

The women members tilled the land, prepared the watershed, and planted the seedlings. This effort is aimed at helping to restore the devastated Marikina watershed.

In the coastal Barangay of Talokgangan in the Province of Iloilo, women are at the forefront of rehabilitation efforts covering 3.5 hectares of mangrove forests. What initially RA 9994 expanded Senior citizens act started as a male-dominated organization in 1996, the Talokgangan Concerned Citizen Association has become, by 2010, a mostlyfemale organization with the mission of restoring, preserving and creating opportunities to save Banate-Barotac Bay from further deterioration. The association was organized through the assistance of the Banate-Barotac Bay Resource Management Council Inc. (BBBRMCI), an inter-local government unit (LGU) alliance among the municipalities of Barotac Nuevo, Anilao, Banate and Barotac Viejo, in the Province of Iloilo.

The Fellowship for Organizing Endeavors, Inc. (FORGE) initiated DRR projects in Cebu City. These include a riprapping project in Brgy. Kalunasan, tree-planting initiative in Bulacao, and household based solid waste management in Brgy. Apas. In all

reducing social vulnerability and increasing local capacity is to ensure the sustainability, inclusivity and resiliency of local and national development pursuits.

To this end, let us align the institutional mechanisms for DRRM with the policies that address gender issues, including livelihood development, women’s welfare and development, protection from violence, anti-trafficking in women, just to name a few.

Let us also ensure that designated sectoral agencies for the welfare and development of women, children, the aged and persons with disabilities work closely and constructively with disaster management authorities.

Let us recognize and empower women as agents of solutions and resilience, indispensable holders of valuable knowledge and skills, and able leaders of change from the grassroots level to the global stage.

These let us pursue altogether to achieve the meaningful change the Filipino people truly deserve.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design 

Photo source: www.article.wn.com

Women also proved themselves effective DRR managers.

of these projects, women were not contented with just being supporters. They were also involved in the project management committee for the riprap construction. The women outnumbered the men in the tree planting activities and women were more zealous in the planning workshops on waste management.

Photo source: www.m2.facebook.com

600 families towards recovery. Having survived a strong storm 30 years before Haiyan, she prioritized setting up the village health center because providing health care is crucial after a disaster.

Wilma also mobilized her fellow villagers for cash-for-work projects provided

by World Vision. With the help of the village council, she encouraged the entire community to join the recovery efforts and enjoined everyone to do their part to make the village whole again.

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Construction & Design P hi l ippi n e

The Magazine for Construction Professionals

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William L. Ogan

Executive Publisher :

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Business Development Associate :

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Editorial Editor in Chief :

William Ogan

Contributing Editor : Ed Velasco

Choy Gaerlan

Ma. Nenevetch Reyes

Rizal Raoul Reyes

Graphic Artist

Anabelle Flores

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS EPC Forum 2014 in Manila August 27-28, 2014 EPC Forum 2014 in Manila will address the challenges faced by owners and EPC contractors from scope of work to delivery of project. Learn key challenges in EPC projects and necessary skills of drafting & negotiating a contract effectively. For further details, contact Sandy Beh: Telephone: +603 27811510, Email: sandyb@trueventus.com Concrete Executive Leadership Forum July 17 – 20, 2014 Location: Santa Fe, NM Web site: http://www.ascconline.org The event includes seminars, roundtable discussions, a golf tournament and other activities. Speakers for 2014 include: social media expert Crystal Washington, former U.S. assistant secretary of health and human services Ben Sasse, constructionindustry economist Anirban Basu, lawyer Ben Tymann.

Roundtables cover topics from preparing the next generation to lead the business, to identifying key performance indicators, to engineering higher margins. These open discussions provide the opportunity for attendees to benefit from their peers’ experience with takeaways that enhance their businesses.

Design & Health World Congress & Exhibition Conference July 9 -13,2014 Location: Toronto,Ontario,Canada The International Academy for Design and Health (IADH) is organizing the 10th Design & Health World Congress & Exhibition (WCDH 2014) in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation, and supported by worldrenowned academic institutions and healthcare industries worldwide.

BEX ASIA 2014 Sept. 01 - 03, 2014 Venue: Marina Bay Sands Location: Singapore BEX Asia - The most comprehensive Building and Construction event is set to be the trendsetter for South East Asia’s Building & construction Industry Façade Design & Engineering UAE Summit Sep 7 - 9, 2014 Venue: Amwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach Dubai Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates The start of 2014 has not only seen a number of projects being announced across

the UAE, but also the introduction of new building regulations. With the enforcement of these codes, has come the challenge of meeting the regulations whilst using a building’s façade to ensure maximum design appeal and minimal costs.

The building regulations have prompted architects and engineers to develop façade designs which are not only sustainable, but also innovative. As a result, more complex combinations of materials, more integration of technology, and more design ideas which are pushing the “envelope”!

material, stone and steel structure to targeted key decision makers of the construction industry.

Future Interiors Qatar September 8 - 9, 2014 Location: Doha, Qatar A specialized interiors conference addressing balancing design, sustainability and innovation throughout the planning, development and fit-out phases to deliver excellence in interior design and construction

Construction Project Manager Course (PMC) September 28, 2014 - October 3, 2014 Location: Bolger Center (Washington, DC area), Potomac, MD PMC is the perfect opportunity for either the well-rounded, early-career project manager with a bright future or for a talented tradesman who has worked his or her way up to project management but could use a bit of polishing around the edges. Everyone who goes through the program has something to gain over the course of six intense

2014 AGC Building Contractors Conference September 10 -12, 2014 Location: Austin, TX Website: http://meetings.agc.org/ austinbcc The 2014 AGC Building Contractors Conference brings together high-level leaders in the building construction industry to share, learn and discuss the issues that are essential to them and their business.

The name of this year’s Conference is “AEC Collaboration 2014: Partnering, Opportunity, Risk, Success & the Future”.

This event will teach the contractor how to incorporate collaboration in various components of their business.

One Build@JB September 11 - 14, 2014 Location: Danga City Mall,Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia Website: http://www.oneinternational. com.my/home.html OneBuild @ JB is dedicated as onestop sourcing and trading platform which is specially designed for the local and international industrial professional to explore business opportunities and obtain the most updated solution in building, construction and infrastructure sectors.

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS EXPO ASIA 2014 September 18 – 20, 2014 Location: Hall 7 Impact Exhibitions, Bangkok, Thailand Website: www.consmat-asia.com The annual industry gathering and market place for suppliers to showcase the latest construction materials and functional

Electronica and Productronica India September 23-25, 2014 Venue: Bangalore International Exhibition Center Location: Bengaluru, India.

For more information call (632) 845-1324 | 759-6680 or send email to cahea@eccp. com

NTEA Executive Leadership Summit October 14 – 10, 2014 Location: Las Vegas, NV Web site: http://www.ntea.com The two-day event will include both industry-specific sessions pertinent to planning in the work truck industry and industry influencers, including: Anticipated developments in truck technologies, Market outlooks and forecasts, The emerging global landscape, Industry innovations, Leadership and management strategies. The Executive Leadership Summit incorporates elements of the NTEA’s Business and Market Planning Summit, an annual fall conference which will no longer be held.

Infra Oman 2014 October 20 – 22, 2014 Location: Oman International Exhibition Centre, Sultanate of Oman As infrastructure investments continue to grow, Infra Oman 2014 is your direct gateway to the opportunities in this sector, enabling your company to play a prominent role in the country’s development. By bringing together all leading companies in the industry, ministry officials, CEOs and other senior managers, Infra Oman will serve as an ideal platform for networking with key decision makers, expanding your business contacts and strengthening your presence in Oman’s vibrant construction market.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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NEWS ROUND-UP

www.en.wikipedia.org

www.northernbcbusiness.com

Vigan stays among top 7 cities of the world

Finnwood to meet wood demand

The city of Vigan is getting its second wind but it is still in danger of being knocked out of the search for the Top 7 cities in the world, according to campaign organizer New7Wonders Foundation.

“Emerging cities such as Vigan, Shenzhen (China) and Quito (Ecuador) have seen improvements but are by no means in the ‘safe’ zone yet, especially as previous experience indicates changes up to the last minute,” the group said of the contest in a statement.

Citing information from its analytics department, the Switzerland-based foundation said that “landmark cities,” such as Chicago, Seoul and Athens, remain strong.

Still, these famous cities are beginning to show signs of fatigue, suggesting that the energy to compete is not always there, the group said.

It added that “iconic cities,” like Kuala Lumpur, Mumbai and Barcelona, are slipping down and really need to pick up the fight in the last weeks before the next qualifier.

Eamonn Fitzgerald, head of communications for New7Wonders, said actual ranking positions would not be disclosed during the finals.

Vigan, a trading port long before the Spaniards arrived in the late 16th century, is also up against Durban (South Africa), St. Petersburg (Russia), Casablanca (Morocco), Prague (Czech Republic), London, Istanbul (Turkey), Perth (Australia) and Reykjavik (Iceland).

Other rivals in Asia include Phnom Penh, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Beirut, Doha and Kyoto. Other finalists in the Americas include Vancouver, Mendoza (Argentina), Havana, Mexico City and La Paz (Bolivia).

New7Wonders said that this put the Philippines on the global stage as an eco-tourism destination and that the planned expansion of the Puerto Princesa Airport—expected to be finished in early 2017—would have an annual capacity of two million passengers. The group said similar developments were happening in other New7Wonders of Nature locales, such as Vietnam (Ha Long Bay), Jordan (Petra) and Peru (Machu Picchu).

“We recognize the importance of regional airports as essential gateways for visitors to the different New7Wonders site,” Fitzgerald said.

“Tourism is a global industry and responsible long-term planning in transport infrastructure has the potential to significantly boost sustainable growth in the areas where the New7Wonders are located,” he added. Source: Ronnel W. Domingo/ Philippine Daily inquirer

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Filipino and Finnish construction engineers are ready to answer the Filipinos’ demand for top quality sustainable wood products and building solutions. Local wood like narra and tanguile, in short supply due to illegal logging and subsequent log bans, are not only expensive but also unsustainable from economic and environmental standpoints to meet the needs of a growing construction industry.

This is the observation of the wood requirements in the Philippines that inspired Arctic-Forest Products, Inc. to be established in 2008. The company presents wood from Finland as an alternative to the regularly used local hardwood because it comes from durable pine trees grown in the arctic conditions.

The most common native tree in Finland, Scots Pine is already being used in the local construction industry.

Arctic-Forest Products has provided many solutions in the Philippines to meet commercial, residential, and furniture industry needs. They have branded this imported wood from Finland as “finnwood.”

Why wood from Finland? What construction professionals and savvy home builders know is that one key aspect in making top quality wood product from this type of tree is to let it mature perfectly before it is finally cut down. To achieve the level of quality and durability fit for use, the tree is cut at a minimum of 75 years or even older. And to achieve sustainability, 10 more trees are planted to replace a single mature tree that is cut.

Furthermore, the beauty of finnwood is that it can be used for a variety of home construction applications such as exterior wood decking, interior/exterior wall cladding, and load-bearing laminated posts and beams.

www.phnompenhpost.com

Thai oil firm to double budget for Philippine Service stations

PTT Philippines Inc., a unit of Thailand energy giant PTT Plc, may spend twice as much for its expansion as originally planned as the oil company ratchets up the number of service stations it will roll out throughout the country.

Company CEO Wisarn Chawalitanon told reporters that the Thai-led oil firm would be putting up 200 stations in five years from the previous target of eight to 10 years.

PTT Philippines currently has 70 service stations nationwide. This means the company will have to spend much more than the original budget of 2.1 billion pesos (US$45.6 million) to put up 75 new stations in five years.

“That [budget] may double, or more than double,” he said.

Of the Thai firm’s current network, 15 were

Iloilo businessmen denounce brownouts Iloilo City businessmen and consumers are complaining against the rotational brownouts in the city that range from 30 minutes to several hours almost daily. The brownouts affecting the city’s six territorial districts have resulted to business losses, breakdown of office equipment and household appliances and additional expenses in the purchase of generator sets, according to Joemarie Agriam, Western Visayas governor of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industries.

“As consumers, we demand a better service from the (Panay Electric Co.) since we pay our bills on time despite the high cost of electricity,” Agriam said. Peco, the city’s lone power distributor, which has been operating since 1923, services 53,000 households, commercial establishments and offices.

Agriam said frequent brownouts also dampen the campaigns of businessmen to attract more investors and tourists to the city.

“Our credibility and integrity are diminished

opened in 2013. The stations are located at the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, La Union, Pangasinan, Laguna and Quezon.

PTT Philippines also said it would want to renovate existing stations, build additional depots and storage facilities, and set up coffee shops and convenience stores in service areas.

The majority of the company’s service stations in the country are of the standard type while a few larger ones are considered premium stores.

Coming soon is the first-of-its-kind, theme-park type station, according to PTT Philippines. That station will be bigger than all the other existing stations and will contain more greenery and amenities for customers.

The first such station will be built on the Macangcung service area of the Subic-ClarkTarlac Expressway (SCTEx) next year. by (the brownouts),”he said.

The women’s group Gabriela said the brownouts have belied assurances of government officials and private power producers and distributors that power supply in the city would be stable and affordable when coal-fired power plants are allowed to operate.

Roxanne Arsaga, chairperson of Gabriela in Iloilo City, said consumers have to bear with inefficient and high cost of service of privately owned power-producing and distributing entities. Randy Pastolero, Peco vice president for operations, said the brownouts, which became frequent starting last month, have been caused mostly by maintenance work to transfer electric poles and lines in many areas where road widening and drainage projects are being implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways.

He said power supply to areas near the project sites have to be shut off for four hours or more while the electric poles and lines are being transferred.

Peco has transferred 500 electric poles with another 700 set to be relocated until Oct. 7, including those along the eight-lane Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue, according to Pastolero. He said there were also instances when the brownouts were caused by technical problems, including

PTT has already signed a 25-year lease with the Bases and Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA). BCDA president Arnel Paciano D. Casanova said at the signing ceremony that the two-hectare property to be developed by PTT Philippines would be located at Barangay (village3) Santiago, Concepcion in Tarlac on the northbound side of SCTEx’s Clark-Tarlac segment.

“It is the only station that motorists can use if they intend to travel unimpeded and exit at the end of the TPLEx (Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Expressway) on their way to Baguio, La Union and Ilocos,” Casanova said.

In developing the SCTEx Macangcung service area, PTT will have to establish a gasoline station; maintain clean, well-kept and separate rest rooms and wash rooms for men and women; open an emergency vehicle repair shop; operate a convenience and/or grocery store; provide sufficient and adequate parking space for all types of vehicles; maintain a wellstocked emergency first aid station; provide sufficient potable water and adequate lighting system; and maintain an adequate solid waste and used oil collection and disposal system.

Based on the contract, the service area must also have a restaurant and/or cafeteria; operational telecommunications facilities; operational public telephone communication (PTC) outlets; adequate number of security guards; operational VHF communication equipment that may be accessed with the tollway O&M Service Provider’s frequency; and other such necessary services. Riza T. Olchondra Philippine Daily Inquirer breakdown in their power line insulators.

Blackouts have also been caused when Peco’s power supplier undergoes maintenance work for its power plants. Peco is supplied by coal-fired power plants of the Panay Energy Development Corp. (PEDC) and diesel plants of the Panay Power Corp. (PPC). The PEDC and PPC are both subsidiaries of the Global Business Power Corp.

Engineer Nilo Madrid, PEDC plant manager, said PEDC supplies 70 megawatts to Peco and another 15 MW from PPC. He denied that maintenance works on their plants are among the cause of the brownouts.

“We have more than enough supply and we even sell our excess power to the energy market during off-peak hours,” according to Madrid.

PEDC and PPC only stop supplying electricity to Peco when their specialized protection systems are activated in response to technical malfunctions of Peco’s distribution systems.

He said the protection system is triggered to protect their plants from being damaged.

In 2012, Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog asked Congress to review Peco’s franchise for the possible entry of other power distributors amid complaints of brownouts and poor service. But no review has been conducted. Nestor P. Burgos Jr./ Inquirer Visayas

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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NEWS ROUND-UP

Baguio seeks plastics ban dump in Capas, Tarlac,” said the petition.

“This year, the city has budgeted P85 million for hauling and tipping fees to dispose of residual wastes, which are largely composed of disposable plastics. One ton of garbage costs P1,833 for hauling and tipping fees and we spend P232,876 per day to dispose of an average of 127 tons of residual wastes to be transported and dumped in a landfill in Urdaneta City. Such an amount could be better spent on social services that are needed by our citizenry.”

The plastics ban ordinance requires consumers to instead use reusable supermarket bags. A plastics ban is already being enforced in Bontoc town, the capital of Mt. Province, which was also slapped with a writ of kalikasan in October 2012 because of its open dump that had been operating near the banks of Chico River.

The ban took effect in June 2013.

But there are still no answers as to how the town will address its abandoned dump. The municipal administrator’s office has disclosed plans to convert the dump into an ecopark similar to the program being developed in Irisan.

Oscar Cabanayan, Cordillera director of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), said he planned to commission a study to

www.rappler.com

Residents have launched an online petition to compel the city government to enforce a ban on plastic bags, which should have taken effect in 2012.

Baguio was the subject of a January 2012 writ of kalikasan after its only dump in Barangay (village) Irisan eroded into a neighboring community in Tuba town, Benguet province, in August 2011, forcing the city government to spend up to P200 million in the succeeding years to haul garbage to commercial dumps.

The city has been developing a waste management facility so that collected garbage can instead be stored to fuel a thermal power plant, according to Romeo Concio, the city’s general services officer.

But the petitioners over at www.change.org said waste management could be sped up once the city government “enforces the ban on plastic bags, as mandated by City Ordinance No. 26 that was crafted in 2007.” It said the ordinance “should have taken effect back in 2012.”

“As litter, plastic bags find their way into our waterways, parks and streets, causing floods and preventable casualties during strong rains … The Irisan trash slide in 2009, which claimed six lives, was an avalanche of our accumulated plastic and mixed wastes from more than three decades. The cleanup after the trash slide entailed gathering these plastics once more to

P2.4B in new quake funds for Bohol Interior Secretary Mar Roxas has turned over P2.4 billion in additional funds to the provincial government to either rebuild or repair government offices and other infrastructure that were destroyed or damaged when Bohol province was hit by a 7.2-magnitude earthquake in October last year.

Alfonso Damalerio, Bohol provincial

administrator, said the funds would benefit 41 towns and the capital, Tagbilaran City. He said the funds would be used on health centers, municipal halls, civic centers, public markets and other government facilities destroyed or damaged by the quake. P80 million would be used to retrofit the Bohol provincial capitol and P114 million to repair the city hall of Tagbilaran.

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determine whether removing the dump from the river is more cost-effective.

The Bontoc dump is about 100 meters from the riverbanks. A major Cordillera river system, Chico River starts from Mount Data in Mt. Province and traverses the towns of Bauko, Sabangan and Bontoc, as well as communities in Tinglayan and Pasil towns and Tabuk City, the capital of Kalinga province. The Bontoc dump was decommissioned in August 2013.

In the Benguet capital, La Trinidad town, officials were given until June 30 to repair and fix its engineered sanitary landfill (ESL) in Barangay Alno after the EMB concluded that its operations violated its own environment compliance certificate (ECC). Cabanayan said the agency had informed the La Trinidad government as early as 2010 about the structural defects in the Alno ESL. Alno’s most pressing problem at the moment is one of its landfill cells containing garbage that is beyond its carrying capacity, Cabanayan said.

“We need to immediately haul out the garbage and stop dumping to give way to the rehabilitation of the Alno dump,” said La Trinidad Mayor Edna Tabanda.

She said the municipal council had allocated P7.1 million to haul garbage from the Alno dump to commercial landfills in Tarlac or Pangasinan provinces.

La Trinidad produces 93 tons of mixed garbage each day but only 50 tons are hauled to the Alno dump. Kimberlie Ngabit-Quitasol, Vincent Cabreza/ Inquirer Northern Luzon

Roxas was in Tagbilaran on June 6 to turn over a check for the funds to Bohol Gov. Edgar Chatto. The amount is on top of the P1.3 billion that was initially given by the national government to the province.

More than 200 people died when the quake struck Bohol on Oct. 15, 2013, destroying or damaging houses, churches, schools, government offices and public infrastructure.

But eight months after the quake, the province has fully recovered, said Damalerio.

He said the province’s tourism industry had bounced back and a sign of this was an 80-percent increase in hotel accommodations from April to May. The province is currently preparing for the Sandugo Festival in July, an annual feast that commemorates the Treaty of Friendship between Bohol chieftain Datu Sikatuna and Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legaspi on March 16, 1565, through a blood compact.

“There will be a whole month of celebration,” Damalerio said in a phone interview.

He said the province was also building permanent shelters for earthquake victims with the help of the group Habitat for Humanity. Carmel Loise Matus/ Inquirer Visayas

www.google.com

Italy, US to help rebuild Tacloban

The Italian govenrnent has allocated US $3 million for the construction of permanent shelters and livelihood for survivors of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” according to an embassy spokesman. Rosario Centola of the Italian Embassy, who visited Tacloban City and Tanauan town recently to assess the condition of the two areas severely damaged by Yolanda, conferred with local government officials on where to construct the permanent houses they intend to donate.

“What we want is to build something that will last. So we’re trying to find, together with the mayors of Tacloban and Tanauan, an area suitable for shelters,” Centola said.

Meanwhile, the United States will continue to provide assistance to the Philippines to rebuild areas hit by Yolanda, according to Denise Rollins, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) acting assistant administrator for Asia, during her visit to Tacloban last Monday.

During the launching of the USAID Rebuild, Rollins said the US-funded reconstruction and recovery program would “provide access to schools and health facilities, and help through newly constructed buildings and livelihood.”

Centola could not say how many houses his government would donate but estimated that these could be in the hundreds. The house, which would measure 56 square meters is a two-story unit, he said.

The construction of these permanent shelters would immediately start once the local government finds the area, as he stressed that the work should be completed before the year ends.

“We have to have the commitment from the local governments on the development of the land. We would prefer to have partners like the local governments developing the land and providing water and power, and the Italian government to build the permanent shelters,” Centola said.

The Italian government also plans to provide help to fishermen by giving pump boats.

Rollins, in her launching speech, said eight classrooms would be constructed at the San Fernando Elementary School at a cost of P21 million.

She added that 165 classrooms and 10 health facilities would be constructed under Rebuild. Thirty “critical infrastructures” supporting agriculture and fisheries, including public markets, boat landings, trading centers, warehouses and grain dryers will be built, and planting and aquaculture materials distributed in Tacloban and Leyte. She also announced that the program would benefit 1,000 sari-sari store owners in Tacloban.

With the Rebuild Program, the US government’s total financial assistance to the Philippines has now reached $142.5 million, Rollins said. It earlier provided $87.7 million in assistance to the country.

Secretary Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, presidential assistant for rehabilitation and recovery, and Leyte Gov. Leopoldo Dominico Petilla and Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, who were also around during the program’s launching, expressed their gratitude for the continued support of the US and Italian governments to the country. Joey Gabieta/ Inquirer Visayas

Shellsoft signs reseller agreement with Newforma Newforma, a project information management (PIM) software company, announced that it has signed a reseller agreement with Shellsoft Technology Corporation, a leading IT solution provider and systems integrator in the Philippines.

Adding Newforma to Shellsoft’s portfolio is a strategic initiative as the company expands its solution set for architects, engineers and construction (AEC) firms.

Shellsoft customers include several AEC firms looking for solutions to help their project teams collaborate more effectively, eliminate unnecessary steps in their workflow and manage project information from the field.

“We see tremendous opportunity in the Philippines as its construction market is growing rapidly,” said Newforma Vice President Asia Pacific Operations Ved Narayan. “We are excited to work with Shellsoft to bring our solution to architects, engineers, construction firms and developers in the Philippines to help them deliver more projects on time and on budget.”

Founded in 1988, Shellsoft’s mission is to provide cutting edge productivity, security and data center solutions at great value. In its 25 years of existence, Shellsoft has a reputation among its customers of delivering quality installations using best-of-breed products.

As a systems integrator for the world’s leading technology companies, Shellsoft is in a unique position to understand the needs of our customers and package the right solutions for them. Shellsoft provides datacenter infrastructure virtualization, security and storage solutions from Microsoft, HP, Symantec, VMware, Citrix, NetApp, RSA, WatchGuard, and Trend Micro.

Shellsoft’s product portfolio also includes well-known solutions from Autodesk, Adobe, Nintex, Newforma, and Chaos Group.

About Newforma Newforma develops, sells and supports project information management(PIM) software for architecture, engineering, and construction firms worldwide, and the owners they serve. Newforma is the first industry-focused and integrated solution to connect firms to each other, to their project information, to their processes, and to remote team members, all for the purpose of more successful project delivery.

Firms in the Newforma Project Network are using Newforma software to manage information on more than one million projects, raising productivity, reducing exposure to risk, strengthening their brands, and freeing time and attention to focus on design, construction, and client service. such. Source: MARKETWIRED

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NEWS ROUND-UP

www.newsinfo.inquirer.net

After tragedy, lahar brings money

“The sand is a gift from nature,” said Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda.

The province has collected at least P1.3 billion in taxes and other fees from quarrying in lahar areas since 2010.

Lahar, the volcanic material disgorged by Mt. Pinatubo in1991, and which erased communities in Pampanga from the map, has become the province’s biggest revenue source. The province collects P150 in sand tax and P200 in administrative fee from every truckload of sand.

The collection from quarrying in the province increased during

the term of former Gov. Eddie Panlilio, a Catholic priest, quarry records at the capitol showed.

Panlilio’s administration generated P611.1 million, which was higher than the P394.5 million when quarry collections were handled by the state-owned Natural Resources Development Corp.

The administration of then Gov. Manuel “Lito” Lapid collected P34.6 million from 2002 to 2003, while his successor and son, Gov. Mark Lapid, collected P81.4 million from 2004 to 2007. Pampanga Rep. Joseller Guiao, as vice governor then, accused the Lapids of committing “graft in plunder proportion” through the collection of taxes and fees at checkpoints in the field, recycling of receipts and use of fake receipts.

The Lapids denied wrongdoing, citing low demand for the low collections or blaming erring checkers.

After suspending the elder Lapid twice for 18 months, the Office of the Ombudsman withdrew the charge for alleged illegal collection against him, exonerating him and enabling him to run for senator.

Former Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez did not find probable cause to indict the Lapids for graft in a case filed by Panlilio. Pineda’s administration inherited the administrative fees amounting to P35.5 million and regulatory fees worth P272.7 million that Panlilio held in a trust fund until the legal conflict was over on Ordinance No. 176. The provincial board withdrew the ordinance that sought to give the whole P300 to town governments.

Pineda said irregularities should not be allowed because these would deprive poor people of government services.

“The sand that buried our villages or killed many of our people should benefit the communities,” she said.

Tonette Orejas/ Inquirer Central Luzon

Solon faces rap for dirtying water Solon faces rap for dirtying water. The city’s water distributor was readying charges against Aliping for violating the Clean Water Act of 2004 (Republic Act No. 9275) when loose soil from a road project in the Mount Santo Tomas watershed polluted BWD’s Amliang Dam 3 and three springs.

Aliping and three Baguio-based contractors were slapped with a complaint by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for illegally cutting trees and for the “unlawful occupation and destruction of forest land”. Royeca said Amliang Dam 3 produced 800 gallons per minute of water while the three spring sources produced 600 gpm.

Suffering the direct impact of the contamination are the villages of Sto. Tomas and Dontogan, some households along Adiwang Road and Balacbac Road, Green Valley Subdivision, Foggy Hills Subdivision and the Bureau of

Animal Industry compound.

The contaminated supply may also affect parts of the villages of Poblacion and Badiwan in Tuba, Atab village, Teachers Village, Suello Village, Gulf View Subdivision, Sto. Niño Subdivision, households along Bengao Road, PNB Ville, some houses in Barangay (village) Bakakeng Central, Chapis Village, Sto. Rosario Village and Nevada Road, BWD said.

Also affected are some houses in QM Subdivision, Rock Quarry and on Legarda Road.

Replenishing the watershed forest would take time, Royeca said.

Aliping has requested for a technical case review. Except for a statement that he would help fix the damage, Aliping has neither confirmed nor denied his alleged role in the development of the road that penetrated the watershed at Mount Cabuyao, which is behind Mt. Sto. Tomas.

10 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Aliping was implicated because of an April 14 letter he supposedly sent to a local village chief, seeking the village council’s endorsement so he could acquire an excavation permit.

The DENR said the existence of the road was a violation of watershed laws. It said the presence of earthmoving equipment at the watershed was also prohibited. The equipment bore the company names of Goldrich Construction and Trading, RU Aquino Construction and Development Corp., and BLC Construction and Aggregates.

“It is evident that the quantity and quality of work introduced to the area were not done by manual labor but undertaken by heavy equipment such as the backhoe loaders parked at the site [when the DENR inspected the road],” the DENR said. Jhoanna Marie Buenaobra and Vincent Cabreza/ Inquirer Northern Luzon

KONE, an innovative leader in elevators and escalators, will be supplying 105 elevators and escalators to KL118 Tower, a 118-storey mixed use tower developed by PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Comprising of a total of more than 400,000sqm of residential, hotel and commercial functions, KL118 tower is expected to be the tallest building in Malaysia, upon completion in 2019, a new landmark of the country. The building will be connected to a metro station and its 2nd phase of development will consist of another 4 residential towers.

To ensure a smooth people flow and achieve space optimization, 18 KONE TravelMaster(TM) escalators, 23 KONE MonoSpace® machine room-less elevators, 23 KONE MiniSpace(TM) elevators, 37 KONE DoubleDeck elevators, KONE People Flow Intelligence solutions including KONE highly innovative Destination Control Systems will be provided. The

installation of KONE’s energy efficient elevators will assist the new complex pursuit of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold or Platinum certification.

12 of the elevators installed at the KL118 Tower have a travel speed of 10m/s and this includes 11 KONE DoubleDeck.

Besides these, two DoubleDeck observation elevators with travel speed of 8m/s, and two service elevators with travel speed of 9m/s and travel height of almost 500m are also included.

Additionally, four KONE JumpLift elevators will make the KL118 construction process safer and faster, with reduced downtime and earlier closing of the building façades. With the KONE JumpLift, all construction workers will experience significantly less waiting time, a safer and more comfortable transportation means.

Furthermore, the elevators in KL118 will be equipped with a fully automated Occupant Evacuation Operation system that executes

EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) Manila Conference 2014 The EPC industry is known for its complex projects and executing challenging projects in all kinds of environment. The time is now for organisation to look into tackling advance situations while delivering projects with superior quality within scheduled time.

No doubt that over time the increase in size and complexity has lead to a growing dependency on contractors’ capabilities and project management skills. Thus, project management has shifted side from the owner to the contractors and with that, the level of risk and cost in running a project increases overtime. Developing a project quality plan and reviewing the project matrix is essential in any EPC projects.

According to 2014 Philippine Report, construction sector is one of the fastest growing industries in the country, with a 32.5% growth in the first quarter of 2013 and double-digit growth in successive quarters.

In Manila alone massive construction projects such as new passenger terminal

for the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), Skyway Stage 3 and Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway Phase 2 will take up to a total of giving due consideration to risks that can span from the project lifestyle with restraining resources available such as human resources, supply of materials and machineries.

As such, Trueventus takes great pride in organising “EPC Manila Conference 2014”. The epitome of EPC Manila is addressing the challenges faced by owners and EPC contractors from scope of work to delivery of project. The forum aims to provide guests with more insights and knowledge on this topic, with special speakers from different related sectors.

Engineers, operation officers, construction project directors and other professionals in related business industry are invited to this event on August 27-28, 2014 in Ascott Makati, Manila, Philippines.

EPC Manila 2014 will address the

www.malaysia-chronicle.com

KONE wins an order for KL118 Tower, the tallest building in Malaysia

building evacuation automatically in event of emergency. Building users will receive automatic messages and evacuation instructions, via the elevator Destination Operating Panels, on every floor.

“We are excited to be a part of this iconic landmark in Malaysia.” said Noud Veeger, Executive Vice President for KONE Asia Pacific and Middle East. “Working closely with PNB and their project manager, Turner International, our innovative technology and people flow planning expertise positioned us well to offer the best solutions for this development.”

The order was booked in the second quarter of 2014.

challenges faced by owners and EPC contractors from scope of work to delivery of project. Learn key challenges in EPC projects in order to mitigate risk, improve a projects’ value and ensure a successful outcome: • Making the right decisions and ensuring projects are completed on time • Mitigating construction and contract risk management for efficient project delivery • Assessing global market circumstances and trends in different market for EPC contracts • Limiting risk management while learning keys to successful project delivery • Working together while communicating goals and objectives in a project • Weighing the success of different EPC models, patterns and project delivery solutions • Ensuring talents are used wisely by focusing on key priorities to achieve target • Bringing owners and EPC contractors together under one roof to achieve profit • Getting ahead of the game: Equip yourself with the latest technologies and services available in achieving cost-efficient EPC projects For more event information, visit http:// www.trueventsglobalinformation.com/ CONTRAMKTG/EN119_PCD_MNL.pdf

*Exclusive 20% discount to Philippine Construction & Design Magazine’s readers/subscribers who are registering to attend this event

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NEWS ROUND-UP

honeylenortega1.blogspot.com

Maguindanao capitol transformation as school

The mothballed multimillion Maguindanao provincial capitol building and compound, now the temporary home of the military’s mechanized Army brigade, would soon be converted into a school, officials said.

Education Secretary Armin Luistro gave the green light to Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Toto Mangudadatu who came up with the idea of converting the provincial government structure into an educational institution.

http://www.philconstruct.com

PCA takes part in 41st IFAWPCA Convention, CONEXPO 2014

Some members and directors of the Philippine Constructors Association, Inc. (PCA) participated in two international conventions for the month of March.

Some members and directors of the Philippine Constructors Association, Inc. (PCA) participated in two international conventions for the month of March.

A PCA delegation led by PCA President Delfin Wenceslao, Jr. attended the 41st International Federation of Asian and Western-Pacific Contractors Associations (IFAWPCA) Convention on March 2 to 5 at

the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The delegation was composed of PCA Executive Director Lito Madrasto, PCA Past President Levy Espiritu and Emilio J. Tumbocon, PCA Directors John A. Bautista and Ramonito “Oging” Sicat and former PCA 1st Vice President Rey Villar.

Members of the Women in Construction (WIC) also joined the delegation, including

12 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Luistro, who visited Maguindanao early June, told reporters that he gave Mangudadatu the go-signal to convert the P120-million three-story former provincial capitol into an educational institution. The building, mothballed after the 2010 local elections that saw Mangudadatu ascending to the governorship, has a 6,000-squaremeter floor area. It was built by the Ampatuans in 2006.

Well-fenced in a six-hectare lot in Shariff Aguak town that also houses a modern wood-tiled gymnasium, the compound, Mangudadatu said, could accommodate more school buildings.

Mangudadatu refuses to hold office at the provincial capitol in Shariff Aguak town, a known bailiwick of the Ampatuan clan, whose members were suspects in the massacre of 53 people, mostly journalists in 2009.

Mangudadatu said he would ask the provincial legal office to find out if there are any legal impediments in the planned conversion. Mangudadatu moved the provincial government center to his hometown in Buluan after assuming as Maguindanao governor.

Edwin Fernandez/ Inquirer Mindanao.

Philippine Daily Inquirer Ms. Ellen Chua, Ms. Rosario Evangelista, Ms. Hedy Barretto and Ms. Ma. Lourdes Fernando.

Since the formation of IFAWPCA, the IFAWPCA Convention has been a tradition, where IFAWPCA members exchange important and timely information about the recent developments in the construction industry.

Themed “infrastructure for a Better Future,” the 41st IFAWPCA Convention featured conferences, seminars, a construction exhibition and cultural events and served as an effective venue for PCA and WIC members to rub elbows with their fellow industry players in Asia and the Pacific.

On March 4 to 8, another PCA delegation graced the CONEXPO 2014 in Las Vegas, USA. PCA Immediate Past President Augusto Manalo, PCA 1st Vice President Ronaldo Elepano, former PCA Presidents Jorge Consunji and Anthony Fernandez made presentations during the event to promote the PHILCONSTRUCT event and the Philippines as a promising investment destination.

The delegation also included PCA Director Gwen Cua and other members of the Association of Carriers and Equipment Lessors (ACEL).

Water Filipinodesigned app cited The contamination of a water source in this city due to an illegal road project linked to Rep. Nicasio Aliping Jr. according a Baguio Water District (BWD) official. The contamination has affected the supply of more than 20 villages here and some households in neighboring Tuba town in Benguet province. Salvador Royeca, BWD general A team of information technology (IT) experts here has developed a mobile application that was cited in an international competition for innovations to address global disaster resilience challenges.

But more than aiming for the grand prize in World Bank’s “Code For Resilience Online Innovation Challenge,” the four-member team behind the mobile application, called “iLigtas,” hoped that the innovative tool would save lives and property during a disaster.

Erlinda Casela-Abarintos, dean of the College of Computer Studies of Gordon College here, said iLigtas is a cross-platform

mobile application that aims to serve as a risk reduction management tool that could provide relevant information to government and nongovernment agencies.

Abarintos is part of the team that recently won a contest called “Readysaster: Hack for Resilience,” held last month in Makati City.

The other members are Armilyn Martinez, Marc Anthony Reyman, and Jedidiah Niñonueva. The competition gathered teams of developers in the country to create apps for better disaster preparation and management.

The contest, known as hackathon, was organized by Open Data Philippines in collaboration with Code for Resilience and the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR).

The Gordon College team’s app is among the 10 finalists from different countries. The team will have the chance to win a trip to London to join the “Understanding Risk Conference” from June 30 to July 4. Finalists were announced on May 23.

“It would be a good opportunity to represent the Philippines in this international contest and we will show the world how resilient Filipinos are when it comes to disasters,” Abarintos told the Inquirer.

She said the application featured three main components to help users get information and

prepare for a disaster, ask for help and rescue during disasters and find ways to recover after a disaster.

Martinez, program coordinator for the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at Gordon College, said the app’s three components were “iHanda,” “iTulong,” and “iBangon.”

She said the iHanda component alerted users by displaying feeds about incoming disasters.

The iTulong component, on the other hand, gives users access to medical aid, food and water, shelter, construction and rescue.

Martinez said the iBangon component allowed users to easily understand infographics and analyze crowd-sourced data. It also allows users to share information with local governments and nongovernment organizations and other individuals to help those who are in need.

She said the team is still working on a fourth component that would make the application interactive and provide a two-way source of information and help users receive responses from concerned agencies in a timely manner.

Martinez said they are looking for private companies or government agencies that could provide financial assistance to help them develop the fourth component. Allan Macatuno/ Inquirer Central Luzon

The approval by President Aquino of a massive infrastructure spending plan that includes the construction of a dam in Sierra Madre is fueling the revival of protests against the dam project from a tribal group and people who stand to lose their homes when the project pushes through.

Elizabeth C. Carranza, chair of the group Save Sierra Madre Network Alliance (Sara), said the project’s cost would be too high in terms of its impact on the environment and the lives of people in communities that would be uprooted by the project. Carranza, in a statement, said thousands of hectares of watersheds in Sierra Madre, considered as Luzon’s last forest frontier, would be lost.

“We have already lost a vast area of our watersheds and forests (to logging and land conversion),” she said.

In an ambitious plan to spur economic

www.bulatlat.com

Fight vs Sierra Madre dam revived

growth following a slowdown because of Supertyphoon “Yolanda,” Mr. Aquino approved a multibillion peso infrastructure spending binge that includes the construction of the P18.7-billion Kaliwa Dam in the mountain village of Pagsanghan in General Nakar, Quezon province.

The area is in Sierra Madre. Delfin T. Mallari Jr./ Inquirer Southern Luzon

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association, organization and companies

Proactive Equipment Management Philconstruct Visayas 2014 takes Course & Workshop Visayas by storm 230 companies took part in Philconstruct Visayas 2014 last June 5 to 7 at the Pacific Grand Ballroom of the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino in Cebu City.

Organized by Philconstruct Events, Exhibitions and Conferences Corporation (PEECC) and the Cebu Contractors Association, Inc. (CCA), together with the Philippine Constructors Association, Inc. (PCA) and the Philippine Society of Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigerating Engineers, the event was held coinciding with HVAC/R Visayas and highlighted a wide array of the latest equipment and technologies in construction and other related industries.

Philconstruct Visayas 2014 also highlighted the Interior Designers’ Pavilion by the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers-Cebu Chapter which showcased the talents of young interior designers, as well as the Architects’ Pavilion of the United Architects of the Philippines-District C 1.

Aside from the exhibition show, the event also featured Technoforum Visayas 2014, a highly informative technical seminar that brought together industry experts and key players to share their expertise and knowledge in the construction sector.

The seminar series covered Transition Management, Strategic Thinking Process, Risk Management, Fleet Management Seminar, Building Emergency Evacuation Plan and AFTA 2015: ASEAN Economic Community Forum.

The sold-out show drew almost 10,000 trade buyers from all over the region and gave participants the opportunity to rub elbows with industry professionals, traders, importers, exporters and other key personalities.

The Association of Carriers and Equipment Lessors (ACEL) will be conducting a Proactive Equipment Management Course & Workshop on June 30 to July 5, 2014, 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. at the ACEL Office, Room 1601 Jollibee Plaza Condominium, F. Ortigas Jr. Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

The program aims to educate participants on utilization & equipment costs, two main factors that affect margin growth and profitability. It is expected to help participants effectively reduce cost.

Training fee is P8,000/participant for ACEL members and P10,000/participant for non-members.

For inquiries and reservation, please contact the ACEL Secretariat at 631-3136 & 633-4994.

CW Home Depot and PCA successfully conclude “Installation and How-to Tips Seminar” The CW Home Depot, in partnership with the Philippine Constructors Association, Inc. (PCA), has successfully concluded its “Installation and How-To Tips Seminar” last May at the CW Home Depot- Makati Events Hall.

Facilitated by Mr. Marcelo Abad of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), the training workshop was organized to give industry players practical “how-to” tips on the many aspects of construction stages which they could apply in their respective worksites.

The two-day training workshop was attended by more than 60 participants who were mostly architects, engineers, foremen, head carpenters, electricians, masons, plumbers and purchasers.

The first day of the training covered Masonry & Tile, Paints & Chemicals, and Façade Shot of CW Home Depot – Windows, Doors & Metal Furring, while Makati branch the second day covered Bath & Plumbing and Rough-in Electrical.

14 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Sorsogon’s‘tree tunnel’ face the axe The “tunnel trees,” the primary landmark of Bulan, are now in danger of being wiped out due to a road-widening project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), that started sometime middle of May, ostensibly to ease traffic in Sorsogon.

DPWH particularly referred to the road project as the Gate-Bulan Highway.

Nelia Gueta, 68, who lives along the highway in Lahong and operates a sari-sari store in Bulan with her husband Salvador, said during the meeting with DPWH, she was told that they would be given just compensation for the properties they would lose because of the road project but they were not told they would also lose the trees around them.

“We were told that only the branches will be cut,” she said.

Lahong village head Wilson Gime said the trees serve as a landmark that let travelers know that they are already in Bulan. “Those trees have been there for almost a hundred years, they’re older than me,”he said.

Gime said DPWH personnel had cut down over 100 of around 380 narra, acacia, mahogany and mango trees that tower over the highway traversing Fabrica and Lahong. He said during successive meetings with local officials in Bulan last year DPWH “did not make clear” that the trees would be affected by the project. The

meetings only tackled the issue of resettlement of 23 residents to be affected by the roadwidening, he added.

Gime said DPWH did not conduct a consultation with the villages regarding the trees and they were not furnished a copy of the permit to cut issued supposedly by the Department of

Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

He said the tree cutting angered the people of Bulan, especially those overseas, who went home to the town for their fiesta last May and found the “tree tunnel” almost gone.

The townsfolk of Bulan, particularly those living in the villages of Fabrica and Lahong, are rallying various sectors of Sorsogon to save the remaining trees forming Sorsogon’s famous “tunnel trees,” a natural wonder of huge hardwood trees hugging the road shoulders in

NEDA Board approves sole offer for LRT 1 extension project

Bulan to form a three-kilometer tunnel of foliage with their canopy.

Gime said the Bulan townsfolk protested via Facebook. Bulan Mayor Marnellie BallesterosRobles, in a phone interview, said the project was opposed because it was not explained clearly to the people and even the local government of Bulan.

She appealed to the national government to “clearly state to us the nature and entirety of the projects” and to “follow the right process.”

Lucy Castañeda, DPWHBicol spokesperson, said DPWH had stopped the cutting of trees after opposition from Bulan. She said Sorsogon-DPWH’s field office had obtained complete documents and obtained a permit to cut from DENR last May. “DPWH was given permission to cut down 301 of the trees… in Bulan to give way to the additional .23 meters by 250 meters on the sides of the road that would span 1,506 linear meters (1.506 kilometers),”said Castañeda.

She said the permit came with a responsibility to plant 100 trees for every one tree that would be cut down, totaling to 30,100 new trees that would be planted by DPWH on a location to be chosen by DENR. Shiena M. Barrameda/ Inquirer Southern Luzon

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board accepted the offer of the Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and Ayala Corp.-led Light Rail Manila consortium for the P69.4-billion Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) extension project.

The sole bidder for the project, the consortium offered a P9.53-billion premium for the LRT-1 deal. The project is so far the biggest public-private partnership (PPP) project rolled out by the government.

PPP Center Executive Director Cosette V. Canilao disclosed that the NEDA Board also approved yesterday the P15.92-billion operations & maintenance (O&M) contract for the Laguindingan International Airport, P2.34-billion enhanced O&M contract for the New Bohol (Panglao) Airport and the P122.8-billion Laguna Lakeshore Expressway Dike Project.

The decisions were confirmed by Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Secretary Joseph Emilio A. Abaya.

Since the infrastructure program was launched in 2010, the Aquino administration has awarded seven PPP deals.

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

The long list of countries with a claim to the South China Sea also includes Vietnam, the Philippines, Taiwan, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand, and many are not happy about China’s island building. A third of the world’s shipping passes through the South China Sea, and huge oil and gas reserves are believed to lie beneath it.

There’s no shortage of islands in the sea; China has just decided to circumvent natural geography. Hundreds of tiny, mostly uninhabited islands dot the South China Sea, and it’s ownership of these islands that determines who can lay claim to the surrounding waters. Since January, China has built three or four new islands in the Spratly archipelago near the Philippines.

If China can build up these islands, it could claim an exclusive economic zone 200 nautical miles around each one under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. That’s also why China’s been pouring money into Yongxing, a

Photo source: www.businessweek.com

China constructing fake Islands

tiny, square mile-sized natural island in another part of the sea near Vietnam, to build an airport, hospital, banks, schools, and roads. The island expansions have also sparked fears the country’s planning a military presence in the South China Sea.

Vinaconex scales up efforts to foster core businesses Vietnam’s state construction giant Vietnam Construction and Import-Export Joint Stock Corporation (Vinaconex) has claimed to have met its restructuring targets after successfully addressing shortcomings in the firm’s assets, capital sources and operations. The firm confirmed it would

focus on core business areas and resolve outstanding debts in the near future.

Vinaconex disengaged from several subsidiaries and member companies from early 2012. In the second quarter of 2012 the corporation put its stakes in Vinaconex Dung Quat and Vinaconex Luong Son-Hoa Binh Cement JSCs up for sale and later that year auctioned off its stake in VinaconexVCN and Vinaconex Hoang Thanh JSCs. In late October 2012 the corporation announced it had transferred its stake in Vinaconex Xuan Mai JSC It also announced its exit from Vinaconex 6 (VC6), Viconstone (VCS) and the North An Khanh project.

Apart from these firms, the corporation

16 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Just last month, a Chinese state-owned oil rig parked near Vietnam’s islands strained diplomatic relations and set off violent anti-Chinese protests in Vietnam.

An island is a lot harder to move than an oil rig. New York Times

also sold stakes in Vinaconex Thanh Hoa, Postal Insurance, Bao Minh Insurance and Ocean Thang Long. Vinaconex also considered divesting from several other firms, including Vinaconex 3, Construction Company No 4, Vinaconex Danang and Vinaconex Quyet Thang, but this proved more difficult as the firms were already struggling.

Vinaconex also recently completed the sale of a 70 per cent stake in debt-ridden Cam Pha Cement together with resolving the debts accrued by Cam Pha Cement with Vinaconex acting as guarantor to the military-run Viettel Group.

The corporation succeeded in raising its chartered capital to over VND4.4 trillion($210 million) driving down its debt/ equity capital ratio with support from major partners – the state investment fund SCIC and Viettel.

Apart from massive capital divestments, Vinaconex has proven proactive in recovering debts, a move prioritised in 2012; recovering over $50 million last year alone.

Lowering investments into non-core businesses and lessening its debts has helped Vinaconex basically fulfil its asset restructuring, capital and operational targets to foster its core construction business. Bui Suong

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international reports

A two-lane asphalt road between Nan, Thailand, to Oudomxay, Laos, designed to boost regional trade and tourism, opened in mid-September with characteristic fanfare. Four Lao hill tribe models coyly held up banners, welcoming a Thai delegation to their village bordering Thailand’s northern province of Nan. They posed next to a shiny pyramid-like marble tablet that bears the flags of both nations and words of gratitude to Thailand for building a rare road in this mountainous region.

The only problem with the ceremonial opening was that the road goes nowhere. Thanks to a Lao dispute with China, a key bridge for connecting the road to Lao’snational highway has yet to be built.

To depend on others or not, that’s the dilemma of tiny Laos in connecting with neighboring nations. A highway, funded and built by Thailand, would connect the undeveloped Oudomxay region with Vietnam, Thailand and China. But a bridge crossing the Mekong River, part of the project, is left unfinished as China and Laos debate contract conditions. China’s population is 200 times larger than that of Laos, and a growing influx of Chinese nationals has alarmed Laotians.

Laos liberalized its economy, allowing foreign investors to use their labor, own residential land and develop entertainment areas during contract periods. And the nation welcomes the infrastructure, trade and technical expertise – but not casinos or corruption that can come with boomtowns dependent on mining and energy development.

The saga of a finished road and missing bridge may not matter much in global politics, but does reveal China’s troubles with small neighbors.

The Thai government spent 840 million baht, just under US$27 million, 30 percent of which is given as a grant to build the 52-kilometer road in the hope of opening the depressed region to international commerce. The new road reduced travel time from a full day to 40 minutes.

Landlocked Laos, lobbying to join the World Trade Organization, was only too pleased to gain infrastructure and a trade corridor to Thailand, eventually connecting the country of 6.5 million people to China and Vietnam via this national bypass. Except the vaunted highway version of this “orient express” to China is still incomplete.

The Chinese government agency that agreed to build a bridge across the Mekong River to link the just-completed Thai road to China’s Yunnan Province and Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam has yet to start work on their waterway sector. No dredging equipment has yet arrived to spoil their catches. Chagrined, a Lao official in charge of the project, Vanheung Chanthasane, would only say, “Yes, [the Mekong bridge] is a problem for us.”

The Laotians and the Chinese are said to be haggling over conditions in the Memorandum of Understanding signed last year with China Road and Bridge Corporation. According to representatives linked to these projects, the Chinese have asked to resettle large numbers

http://yaleglobal.yale.edu/content/laos-spanking-new-road-nowhere

Laos’ Spanking New Road to Nowhere

of Chinese laborers involved in the Mekong bridgeworks into Laos.

The influx of Chinese nationals into Laos is a source of growing tensions for Sino-Lao ties despite 50 years of relations, a milestone crossed this year. The labor issue has now come to a head over the Mekong bridge.

Vanheung explains that the missing bridge, estimated to cost $35 million, could be ready by 2015 when the Chinese disburse a soft loan.

He did not discuss the so-called extraordinary Chinese demands of worker resettlement or reports of Chinese plans to build a casino and entertainment complex in the Oudamxay area for resettled Chinese residents and tourists who are increasingly fanning south for budget travel.

Other Laotian officials who asked not to be named gave contradictory information as to why the bridge plans stalled. Reasons ranged from the benign “long list of projects that [require] Chinese assistance and funding” to outright condemnation of Chinese casinos. “The Lao government has stopped issuing permits for casinos, they create so many problems in our community life,” said one official.

The bridge project is not the only snag. China’s ambitious $7 billion high-speed rail network, its most high-profiled pan-Asian infrastructural investment for integration with southeast Asian cities including Vientiane, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore ran into problems in the border town of Boten in northern Laos, the first train stop outside China.

Local media blamed a flood of Chinese workers and goods into Boten leading to a series of gambling-related murders and the Lao government’s abrupt closure of the town’s casinos. The high-speed rail construction, just begun, is expected to be ready by 2020 when bullet trains will carry passengers from Yunnan to the Laotian resort cities of Luang Prabang and Vangvieng, also popular with western tourists, and then to the capital, Vientiane, in the first phase of the contract.

Laos President Choummaly Saygnasone

18 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

concluded a four-day state visit to Beijing and a “joint communiqué” issued at the end of the visit stated that both sides “will seriously implement cooperation agreements they have signed.” It added that China will support and encourage its companies to participate in Laos’ infrastructural developments but on the “principle of equality and reciprocity,” a reference to Laotian fears of a Chinese takeover of their territory.

In the communiqué, China also sought to reassure the small neighbor and reaffirm “its respect for Laos’ independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.” Both sides signed another nine agreements on economic projects, largely in the resource sectors of hydropower and mining, with China surpassing other neighbors to be Laos’ largest foreign investor.

State figures show China invested $2.71 billion in 397 projects in Laos last year. While the communiqué doesn’t provide information on the nine projects, Chinese investments so far are largely in resource sectors of hydropower and mining.

A Lao official connected to the Mekong bridge project could not specify the number of workers to be resettled as requested by the Chinese or if the requests have been formally tabled, but he said the numbers ultimately depend on the equipment available to carry out the work. Better equipment will require fewer Chinese workers. Describing the bridge as a “good, important bridge,” the official added that the Lao government will agree to any Chinese requests as long as these are “reasonable.”

However, during last year’s signing ceremony with China Bridge President Wen Gang, Lao’s public works director Math Sounmala said the Mekong bridge will help Laos eradicate poverty nationwide by 2020. Lao villagers in the disputed area subsist on rice, ginger and some livestock.

The fact that tiny Laos is resisting some Chinese demands, as evident from the missing bridge, should be a reminder to Beijing about its geopolitical weaknesses and the power of nationalism. Haseenah Koyakutty

Cambodia´s infrastructure sector failed to maintain its red hot pace of expansion in 2013, with real growth dropping from 16.3% to 6.4%.

Although 2013 saw a return of foreign investment and an increase in domestic project financing in Cambodia, several risks continue to dampen the near-term growth potential of the sector - namely greater policy uncertainty following the outcome of the July 2013 general elections - growing competition from Myanmar, limited upside to foreign investment and the resolution of land disputes in the favour of local residents. Analysts therefore envisage only a moderate pick-up in activity for 2014, with the industry´s real growth forecasted at 8.2%.

In February 2014, Malaysia´s GUH Holdings Bhd announced it would acquire asubstantial stake in Leader Universal Holdings Bhd´s 100MW coal-fired powerplant in Cambodia. However, the purchase remains uncertain and officials have since declared negotiations are still in the early stages. GUH Holdings already has a 20% stake in a 37.1MW diesel-fired power plant in Cambodia, making the potential acquisition its second such operation in the country.

Thailand expects construction boom Construction in Thailand is expected to grow at the equivalent of almost 7 per cent per annum for the next five years, according to a new report Data firm Timetric forecast that the sector would be worth THB614bn (£12bn) in 2017 – a compound annual growth rate of 6.7 per cent from now to then.

Experts say the industry’s growth would be driven by the Thai government’s ambition to become the regional hub of the proposed ASEAN Economic Council.

The infrastructure market is predicted to have the fastest growth, with a CAGR of 7.2 per cent. The government has announced a development plan to improve regional connectivity; and a water management plan after devastating floods in 2011.

Commercial work is expected to expand by the equivalent of 6.8 per cent per year over the next five years as disposable income rises and demand for office buildings in Bangkok stays strong.

Industrial construction activity is forecast to grow by a CAGR of 6.5 per cent to 2017 as companies push to meet historic demand still unfulfilled due to the

Photo source: www.chinapotency.com

Cambodia and Laos construction drops

floods. Significant investment is expected in the manufacturing and metal industries, according to Timetric.

Housing – which makes up more than half of the construction industry in Thailand – is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4 per cent amid rising domestic incomes and foreign investment in holiday and retirement homes.

‘The Thai construction industry recorded a very solid recovery in 2012, recording a growth of 7.6 per cent after witnessing a decline in activity in late 2011 due to intense floods,’ said the report.

‘Reconstruction efforts have supported the industry, with the floor area of construction buildings rising to 19m sq m in the fourth quarter of 2012.’ Greg Pitcher

http://www.bridgestone.com

New Plant for Offthe-Road Tires for Construction and Mining Vehicles in Thailand Bridgestone Corporation announced that a foundation stone laying ceremony was held at the future site of the Bridgestone group’s new plant in Thailand that will produce off-the-road radial tires for construction and mining vehicles (ORRs).

The ceremony was attended by representatives from the industrial estate where the site is located, and also from the company that will build the plant. Bridgestone’s ORRs are used on vehicles in mines, quarries, harbors, and construction sites around the world.

In the past, the Group has produced these tires exclusively in Japan and the United States. By constructing this new plant in

Thailand, Bridgestone will be able to establish an optimal ORR production system that will enable the company to respond to growing tire demand, and also to any future changes that might occur in the operating environment. The new plant is scheduled to begin production in the first half of 2015, and total production capacity is expected to reach approximately 85 tons by the first half of 2019.

Moving forward, the Bridgestone Group will continue to develop a global production system necessary to provide customers with the high-quality products, while also responding quickly to changes in market demand.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Mandalay Golden Wings Construction company unveiled plans to build the country’s tallest building in Yangon’s Mayangone township.

The company has started work on the US$60-million, 34-storey Diamond Inya Palace building on a 2-acre block near Inya Lake, and expects to finish by the end of 2015, a Mandalay Golden Wings spokesperson said last week. The spokesperson said the project would be funded entirely by Myanmar investors.

“This site will be wholly owned by MGW Construction and we expect work will be finished in December 2015,” said Ma Khin Ohnmar Tun, the company’s senior sales and marketing manager. “We’re expecting to sell rooms to both locals and foreigners,” she added.

The building will occupy a block that was formerly the Ministry of Industry’s (1) towel factory at 2 U Htun Nyein Street, near the Inya Lake Hotel. Ma Khin Ohnmar Tun said MGW bought the site through a recent government privatization auction but she would not reveal how much the company paid for the block.

The building will have an “L” shaped design and will include 406 residential apartments, six floors of car parking, a spa, gym, mini theatre, mini market and a swimming pool. There will also be four penthouses on the top floor of each building that will have panoramic views of Yangon.

Residential rooms will measure from 850-3000 square feet and sales have begun; the company is also offering hire purchase agreements through participating private banks, Ma Khin Ohnmar Tun said.

http://www.mmtimes.com

MGW plans Myanmar’s tallest building

A Mandalay Golden Wings Construction employee stands next to a model of the company’s Diamond Inya Palace development last week, October 2012. (Ko Taik / The Myanmar Times) “The building is near Inya Lake so we spent months conducting soil tests to make sure the ground can support the weight. We will use a bole pile foundation,” said U Chit Swe Nyunt, chief engineer for the project.

He said Thailand-based firm Process Myanmar had drafted the design and an expert from the Asian Institute of Technology will be on hand to monitor quality control during the construction.

He added that the building will be able to withstands winds of up to 120 miles (192 kilometres) an hour, and survive

earthquakes up to 8.5 on the Richter scale.

The development will include CCTV cameras and 14 elevators.

“We’ll prepare for fires with smoke alarms, smoke detector, fire extinguishers and every room will have a fire alarm. There will also be a 340,000 gallon water tank,” U Chit Maung said.

MGW Construction is the developer of Yadanapon Diamond Plaza, the biggest shopping mall in upper Myanmar. Kyaw Hsu Mon

Photo source: www.emergingfrontiers.com

Laos, Myanmar begin bridge construction

20 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Laos and Myanmar have begun the construction of the first bridge to link their countries, and expect to complete it in 2015.

The building of the Laos-Myanmar Friendship Bridge over the Mekong River between Laos’ Luang Namtha province and Shan state in Myanmar was launched after the two countries held a ground-breaking ceremony.

The construction cost is US$18 million (540 million baht) and the two governments aim to use it to boost trade and investment, and enhance cooperation.

BuildTech Yangon 2014 is big success with Myanmar building and construction industry www.kobelco-cranes.com

The inaugural BuildTechYang on 2014 (BuildTechYangon2014) was greeted with much enthusiasm from the Myanmar building and construction industry with 3,500 attendees attending the event held from 22 to 24 May 2014 at the Myanmar Convention Centre in Yangon. Organised by Sphere Exhibits, a subsidiary of Singapore Press Holdings, BuildTechYangon2014 was jointly supported by IE Singapore and the Singapore Business Federation, as well as the Myanmar Construction Entrepreneurs Association (MCEA) and the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI).

The building and construction trade show focuses on areas that addresses Myanmar’s immediate needs like precast, pre fabrication, formworks and scaffolding which speed up project turnaround time and are critical in affordable housing and commercial high-rise building construction; and establish a broad foundation for growth such as building and construction machinery and equipment, building and construction materials, building and construction specific electrical and mechanical engineering, and facilities management. The show was highly

appreciated by authorities and business leaders.

Authorities and business leaders were clearly appreciative of the arrival of BuildTechYangon2014 as they see the show as a catalyst to further Myanmar’s transformation.

At the opening ceremony of BuildTechYangon, the Guest-ofHonour, Mr U Myint Swe, Chief Minister, Yangon Region, said: “We have been building our country based on democratic principles in political, social and economical sphere to promote all round development of the nation.

It is befitting to have this event at an international level in Myanmar where people are striving to build the nation.”

Mr. U Tha Htay, President, MCEA, said: “BuildTechYangon will contribute significantly toward the development of the construction sector in Myanmar. In addition, it will also serve as a platform for companies seeking joint-venture partners, construction professionals and parties interested in construction and engineering business.”

Mr. U Win Aung, Chairman, UMFCCI, applauded Sphere Exhibits for bridging Myanmar’s private sector, the business community, its vast network of chambers and associations

affiliated to UMFCCI, to Singapore companies and the region. He added that such connectivity sets the mark to the start of a fulfilling journey in meeting the needs of the private sector in the construction and engineering industries and businesses.

Being the first building and construction trade event of such magnitude to be held in Myanmar, BuildTechYangon2014 was the go-to show for companies looking to upgrade and pick up skills and technologies to compete for projects that come with the growth of Myanmar’s economy.

120 exhibiting brands from China, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore and Taiwan were present on the trade floor. The atmosphere was exuberant as exhibitors closed many deals on the trade floor over the three trade days.

Caterpillar, JCB Sales Asia Pacific, JPN Industrial Trading and Kobelco Cranes Southeast Asia sold units of their machines early in the show. The Ecoloo Group reported interest from the Myanmar government to explore how their products can be implemented across the country to build a sustainable and sewage free environment at tremendous cost savings.

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

State-run cement producer Semen Indonesia is considering building a 100 megawatt (mw) coal-fired power plant to supply its facilities in Padang, West Sumatra, the construction of which is expected to start next year.

Semen Indonesia president director Dwi Soetjipto said the company was undertaking a study on the plan, particularly on the capacity level of the power plant. Once the power plant is completed, it will supply a cement facility in Padang that will see an increase in electricity consumption following the operation of the Indarung VI factory in 2016.

Dwi said his company hoped to conclude the study before year-end, so that it could begin construction next year.

“Our facilities in Padang need about 150 mw. Once the new factory starts operations, the total power needed might rise to 200 mw, so I think it won’t be too much to construct a new 100 mw plant,” he said.

Semen Indonesia, via its subsidiary, Semen Padang, launched the construction of its Rp 3.25 trillion (US$275.26 million) Indarung VI cement factory late last month. The new factory, which has an annual production capacity of 3 million tons of cement, is expected to commence operations in the second half of 2016.

With the operation of the new factory, Semen Padang’s total production capacity is expected to increase to 10.5 million tons of cement per year, up from the previous 7.5 million tons. “We are focusing on building a plant to support the operation of our facilities, but if there is surplus of power from the plant we might also distribute it to local residents,” said Dwi. He added that power plant construction usually cost the company about $150 per mw in investment. The plant will use unusable coal with a high sulfur content.

Dwi said building infrastructure was becoming more pressing for the publicly listed giant, with higher power plant costs due to the rise in production and

http://inhabitat.com

Semen Indonesia World’s Largest Vertical Garden at Singapore’s Tree House mulls building power plant in West Sumatra

CDL’s Tree House in Singapore just set a new Guinness World Record with the world’s largest vertical garden. The building’s green wall measures 24,638.59 square feet and is expected to save more than $500,000 in energy and water costs annually.

Located in a quiet corner of Singapore’s District 23, Tree House is a 24-storey condo building that boasts the world’s largest vertical garden and features state-of-theart sustainable technologies and elements such as heat-reducing windows and motion

sensors that automatically activate lights.

The vertical garden will reduce the estate’s carbon footprint by filtering pollutants and carbon dioxide out of the air. The green exterior wall will reduce heat absorption, which could result in energy savings of between 15 and 30 percent.

The developer, City Developments Limited (CDL) won the tender for the site in August 2009 and the project was completed in 2013. Lidija Grozdanic

the increase in electricity prices bringing more burdens on the cement industry.

As of May the government raised electricity prices by either 38.9 percent or 64.7 percent, depending on businesses’ power consumption. The increases, however, will be phased in gradually every two months until the end of the year.

Semen Indonesia, according to its published annual report, saw its energy usage rise by 13.2 percent year-on-year (y-o-y) to 2.52 million mw per hour in 2013. Its electricity costs during the year rose by 30.1 percent y-o-y to Rp 1.88 trillion. The company’s electricity costs made up about 39.8 percent of the company’s total costs last year.

In February, Semen Indonesia commenced the operation of Tonasa V facility in Pangkep, South Sulawesi,

which is equipped with 2x35 mw coal-fired power plants to support its operations. The total investment for the factory, which will produce 3 million tons of cement once fully operational, and the power plant stood at Rp 3.5 trillion.

Semen Indonesia also agreed in a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed late last year to cooperate with Japan-based JFE Engineering Corporation to construct a waste heat recovery power generator (WRHPG) in Tuban, East Java.

The system, which is expected to generate 28 mw of electric power using unused waste heat from the cement production process, is scheduled to begin construction before year-end to support the operation of the company’s Tuban facilities. Anggi M. Lubis/ The Jakarta Post,

22 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

photo source: www.setkab.go.id

Indonesia’s Sarulla Geothermal Power Project construction to start

After a long delay, Indonesia will finally start construction of the world’s largest geothermal power plant, the USD $1.6 billion Sarulla project.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Chairul Tanjung said that the groundbreaking of the Sarulla project will start very soon as the government had settled the financial framework. The project was already initiated in 1990 but shelved due to various issues, including the Asian financial crisis in the late 1990s. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed in 2016.

The Sarulla geothermal power project is led by a consortium which consists of Medco Power Indonesia (37.5 percent), Itochu Corporation (25 percent), Kyushu Electric Power Company (25 percent) and, lastly, Ormat International (12.5 percent). Medco Power Indonesia is a subsidiary of PT Medco Energi Internasional, an Indonesian oil and gas exploration and production company.

About USD $1 billion of the project costs will be financed by loans from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and the Asia Development Bank (ADB). Other financial institutions that are involved in the project are the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd, ING Bank NV (a unit of ING Groep NV), Societe Generale, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corportation, Mizuho Bank

Ltd and National Australia Bank.

According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB) “…the Sarulla project will develop the steam resources, and design, finance, construct, operate as well as maintain geothermal power plants with a total net guaranteed deliverable capacity of approximately 300 MW for 30 years.

The project will be the largest singlecontract geothermal power project upon completion, representing the large scale, high productivity and great potential of Indonesian geothermal resources.”

With about 40 percent of total global geothermal energy potential, Indonesia is estimated to have the world’s largest geothermal energy reserves. Indonesia’s largest reserves are located in the western part of the country (Sumatra, Java and Bali). However, the country only taps about four to five percent of its geothermal potential as exploration and exploitation have been hindered by law. Geothermal exploitation is lawfully defined as a ‘mining activity’ (Law No. 27 2003) and thus prohibited to be conducted in protected forest and conservation areas (Law No. 41 1999), despite the fact that geothermal mining activities have a relatively small impact on the environment (compared to other mining activities).

As about 60 percent of Indonesia’s geothermal energy reserves are located

in conservation areas, it therefore seriously blocks the development of its geothermal potential. At the end of 2013 a new bill was submitted to the parliament (DPR) which separates geothermal development from mining activities.

The government targets to enhance the role of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix in order to reduce dependency on expensive and exhaustive fossil fuels. Geothermal energy is projected to contribute 12 percent to Indonesia’s energy mix by 2025. However, this will require large investments and may be an unrealistic target. Demand for power in Indonesia grows by 7 percent per year and therefore the government plans to add 60 gigawatts of capacity to its existing grid by 2022. Moreover, when the 330-MW Sarulla geothermal plant commences operations, it is expected to save the country around IDR 4 trillion (USD $348 million) in annual electricity subsidies.

The Sarulla geothermal power station will replace Star Energy’s Wayang Windu Geothermal Power Station as the country’s largest geothermal power station. The Wayang Windu Geothermal Power Station, located South of Bandung (West Java), has a total installed capacity of 227 MW.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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special features

Adhesives and Sealants in the Building and Construction There are many applications in the building and construction (B&C) industries for adhesives and sealants. These materials are highly valued because: 1. They can be formulated to set outdoors in a relatively short period of time, 2. They have good adhesion to a number of materials of construction, 3. They provide relatively good weathering properties and durability.

The major applications for adhesives and sealants in this market are for on-site and manufactured residential housing, commercial buildings, and infrastructure developments such as roads, bridges, municipal facilities, etc.

Adhesives and sealants fall within the building and construction industry

as part of the much larger construction chemicals market. In addition to adhesives and sealants, construction chemicals also include coatings, grouts, mortars, cement, asphalt additives and polymer and wood flooring systems.

Next to protective coatings, adhesives and sealants make up the largest part of the construction chemicals market.

Today’s demands on buildings, roads, and infrastructure could not be met without advances in construction chemicals that include both adhesives and sealants. Adhesives and sealants are used in the building and construction

24 | Philippine Construction&Design  July-2014

www.mapei.com

industry for applications, both structural and decorative. The market includes both residential housing, commercial building, and infrastructure development.

Building and construction represents a very large market for adhesives and sealants. More than 50% of these products sold in construction are: thermoplastic and water based systems used in wood, concrete and other substrates.

This B&C industry presents processing and field application challenges not usually encountered in factory or assembly line applications.

Often the adhesive or sealant must have a convenient mix ratio and cure capabilities at ambient temperatures as low as 0°C. The cure rate should be fast to avoid environmental effects such as rain, dust, or other contaminants. The adhesive or sealant must be compatible with a wide variety of substrates.

All fastening and joining systems, including adhesives, fall into one of

three general categories: (1) periodic, (2) linear, and (3) area.

Periodic joining methods attach two members by occasionally placing through-hole fasteners or other individual mechanisms.

This is the most widely used joining technique for structures requiring high mechanical strength and a minimum of sealing or other non-strength functions. Linear processes provide a continuous or occasional edge bead attachment, such as welding.

In the area joining process, attachment is achieved by full-face contact and complete union between the two mating surfaces.

Soldering, brazing, and adhesive bonding are examples of area attachment.

The adhesive or sealant may require “indoor” properties such as low toxicity or “outdoor” properties such as moisture and UV resistance. Coloring and appearance is important in many applications. Flexibility and elongation is often necessary because of thermal expansion differences due to different substrates and seasonal and daily temperature variations.

There is a shift to high performing adhesives and sealants, which are most often 100% solids and reactive systems. The reason for this change comes mainly from new regulations regarding construction resistant to hurricanes, earthquakes, water, mold growth, and so forth.

Some of the adhesives, glues and sealants available in the Philippines are as follows: ABC Philippines, Inc.

(02) 842-6891 www.abc.ph

Parex Group

(02) 6721705 loc. 206 www.parex-group.com

E-Hsing Corporation

(02) 852-0308 ehsingcorp@yahoo.com

Technoresins Industrial, Inc. (02) 983-5918 techno@mortabond.com Asiatic Mortar Intergrades, Inc. (032) 239-4334

asiaticmortar123@yahoo.com.ph Jardine Distribution, Inc.

(02 ) 843-6011 - 19 www.jardinedistribution.com

Globe International Distributor Center, Inc.

(02) 410-9158 - 60

marketing@globeinternationaldistributor.com Republic Chemical Industries, Inc.

(02) 414-1593 - 95

Bostik Philippines, Inc.

(02) 900-5656

Eco Green Hub Corporation

(032) 238-7217 egreenhub@gmail.com

Pioneer Specialty Building Systems Inc.

(032) 346-1669 Sycwin Coating & Wires, Inc. (02) 364-6001 - 06

sales@sycwin.com

Classic Tile Adhesive • Silica Sand • Tiling Works • Walls and Floors • Interior & Exterior • Plastering & Topping

COVERAGE: Approximately 25 kgs. of Mortabond Classic Tile Adhesive can fix 7-8 sq. m. of ceramic tile depending on the condition of the concrete substrate.

Technoresins Industrial, Inc. Tel. No.: (02) 983-5918, techno@mortabond.com

Tile Adhesive & Renders

• Suitable as Renders (Palitada) • Regular tiling works • Walls & Floors

COVERAGE: Approximately 25 kgs. of Brute Tile Adhesive can fix 7-8 sq. m. of ceramic tile depending on the condition of the concrete substrate Technoresins Industrial, Inc. Tel. No.: (02) 983-5918, techno@ mortabond.com

Regular Tile Adhesive • Mineral stones • Regular tiling works • Walls & Floors • Interior & Exterior

COVERAGE: Approximately 25 kgs. of EZBOND Tile Adhesive can fix 7-8 sq. m. of ceramic tiles depending on the condition of the concrete substrate.

Technoresins Industrial, Inc. Tel. No.: (02) 983-5918, techno@ mortabond.com

Premium Tile Adhesive Quality Meets the EN std.

• Graded Silica Sand • All kinds of Tiling works • All Purpose, ultra-strength • Tough concrete repair jobs • Tile on tile Application • Walls and floors COVERAGE: Approximately 25 kgs of Mortaband Premium Tile Adhesive can fix 12.5 sq. m. at 3 mm. thick depending on the size of tiles and condition of the concrete substrate.

Technoresins Industrial, Inc. Tel. No.: (02) 983-5918, techno@mortabond.com

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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SPECIAL FEATURES Less Dust is Faster Clean-up

Castle PME-901 (Primer)

• Area coverage: 35-45 sqm • Ratio to water - 1:1.5 • clogs micro pores of the concrete and other porous materials • non-toxicand and water based • Drying Period: 1 hour E-Hsing Corporation Tel. No.: (02 ) 852-0308 ehsingcorp@yahoo.com

Ever dreamed of changing your tiles but thought of the mess it will make? Worried of clean-up and bad health? Well, be relieved because ParexGroup just introduced a first in the Philippines – DAVCO Dustless Tile Adhesives.

The new tile adhesive line reduces dust during the mixing process by over 80% and excels in adhesion because we have designed three types for every kind of tile or natural stone.

DAVCO DUSTLESS Tile Adhesive line is an exclusive technology developed for a greener building process, making tiling a cleaner, safer and healthier experience, most specially, for those who are doing renovations and DIY jobs. “In any innovation development, we always consider the safety of the endusers,” says ParexGroup Managing Director Christophe Lejeune.

DAVCO Dustless comes in Regular, Heavy Duty and Premium, all in 25kg bags, each specifically developed for different tiles out in the market today.

Is tiling a messy job? Certainly not with DAVCO DUSTLESS Tile Adhesives because laying tiles should be healthy and speedy.

ParexGroup advocates green building products as they are committed to responsible and sustainable growth in the construction industry.

Parex Group Tel. No.: (02) 6721705 loc. 206 e-mail: www.parex-group.com

Castle PME-995 (Concrete Sealer)

DAVCO11 Rapid Plug:

Stops leaks by its fast hardening property.

Sets in only 45 to 90 seconds, this ultra-fast setting hydraulic mortar increases in volume as it hardens. Offers protection against recurring water leaks long-term on applied area.

Parex Group Tel. No.: (02) 6721705 loc.

206 e-mail: www.parex-group.com

• Clogs micro pores of concrete • excellent adhesion to paint • saves up to 55% of your painting cost E-Hsing Corporation Tel. No.: (02 ) 852-0308 ehsingcorp@yahoo.com

DAVCO K11 Matryx:

For protecting concrete structures by crystallization.

This cementitious water-proofing system is ideal for exterior and interior below-grade surfaces.

Parex Group Tel. No.: (02) 6721705 loc. 206 e-mail: www.parex-group.com

Castle PME-202 (Top Coat) • Area coverage: 4sqm • excellent flexibility • stickss to any kind of materials • non-toxicand and water based • Drying Period: 1 hour E-Hsing Corporation Tel. No.: (02 ) 852-0308 ehsingcorp@yahoo.com

26 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

DAVCO k11 Concentrate:

This ready-to-mix mortar waterproofing is ideal for protecting concrete structures and masonry. It is also suitable for below-grade masonry structures like cellar walls, basements, underground car parks, foundations and footings, and water basins, to name a few.

Parex Group Tel. No.: (02) 6721705 loc. 206 e-mail: www.parex-group.com

ABC TILE ADHESIVE HEAVY DUTY Nowadays high quality tiles have very low porosity, almost like glass. Some tile manufacturers apply a thin coating of wax at the back of the tile, which protects it from scratches while being stacked. It also makes the tile water resistant to prevent discoloration. The wax coating causes the tile to be slippery which makes it much more difficult for the Tile Adhesive to bond the tile with the substrate. It is now, more than ever necessary to use a strong tile adhesive rather than ordinary cement. ABC Tile Adhesive Heavy-Duty provides the necessary mechanical & chemical bonding to ensure proper and lasting adhesion. Use ABC Tile Adhesive Heavy Duty to bond all low porosity tile types and sizes (porcelain, homogeneous & glass tiles), as well as large format tile, stone slabs and pavers. For light colored tiles and stones use white Tile Adhesive to bring out the natural brightness and beauty of the tile.

ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) 842-6891 or visit website at www.abc.ph.

ZEMCOAT (Skimcoat)

Zemcoat Skimcoat is a thin plastering mortar formulated for interior and REDIFIX exterior applications, varying from 0-5mm in thickness. It covers minor For tile installations that require extra flexibility imperfections, corrects and smoothens (heavy foot traffic areas, overhead tiling & heavy duty surface unevenness of raw concrete and tile fixing), use Redifix as an additive to tile adhesive. plaster surfaces to achieve silky smooth All non-concrete tile installations (tile-over-tile, tiling walls and ceilings. There is no need to on metal, tiling on gypsum or fiber cement board, etc.) use concrete neutralizers, which makes require Redifix surface primer before tiling.

Zemcoat compatible with most masonry ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) 842-6891 or paints. visit website at www.abc.ph.

White colored skim coat is not only time saving, it is also economical. You save on labor & material costs. A thin layer of paint will perfectly seal the silky smooth skimcoat finish. Ideal for thin plastering before painting walls, ceilings, ZEMBOND A strong plaster reflects on your finishing making columns and beams. it long lasting & crack-free. Regular mortar has a ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) tendency to lose its bonding strength over time.

842-6891 or visit www.abc.ph.

Because regular mortar is not resistant to cracks, it will not stop skimcoat / thin plaster or paint from cracking.

To prevent such unwanted cracks, use Zembond, an acrylic based mortar and plaster aid, which doubles the mortar’s bonding strength and makes the mortar crack resistant.

ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) 842-6891 or visit www.abc.ph.

ABC Grout Sealer

This sealer makes the grout water resistant. It is a clear silicone-base solution with Bio-Tech System.

Penetrating the cementitious tile grout, it protects the cementitious tile grout from dirt, stains, grease and other possible contaminants.

Advantages: • Protects grout properties • Improves grout appearance • Protects from bacteria • Easily applied • Formulation is ready-to-use • It is non-toxic and user-friendly ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) 842-6891 or visit www.abc.ph.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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27

SPECIAL FEATURES ABC Tile Adhesive

ABC Grout Waterproofing

This waterproofing is an acrylic-base tile grout additive. It is designed to be directly mixed with the ABC Tile Grout product.

Advantages: • Grout is made water and stain resistant • More durable for easy maintenance • Improves grout color • For bonding and flexural strength • For grout abrasion resistance • With Bio-Tech System ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) 842-6891 or visit www.abc.ph.

This is a cement-base tile adhesive designed for bonding both polished and unpolished homogenous and ceramic floor and wall tiles. It is also applicable for granite, marble, and natural stone on concrete surfaces. ABC uses only the best quality materials for their adhesives, like Portland cement, natural sand fillers, plus chemical additives. The thin-bed method is used for faster, more professional, and durable installation.

Advantages: • Tiles are prevented from cracking and bonding failure • Adhesive tensile strength is high • It has high initial adhesiveness plus non-sag properties • Due to its long pot life and open time, greater workability is possible • For both exterior and interior use • Higher productivity per day per worker • Practical and cost effective ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) 842-6891 or visit www.abc.ph.

Aquashield Plus ABC Tile Grout with Biotech

This is top quality joint filler for homogenous, mosaic and ceramic tiles. This product is supported with a special BioTech System—an anti-bacterial solution for preventing fungus, mildew, or mold growths. Recommended for joint widths from 2 to 5 mm.

Advantages: • Non-fading • Uniform color • Crack-free • Anti-bacterial: Mold and mildew resistant •Easy to apply ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) 842-6891 or visit www.abc.ph.

Designed for flexible waterproofing, it is made compatible with any concrete surface. It has two components that use cementitious materials along with the latest trends in polymer latex technology. It can even be applied on newly set concrete surfaces, saving time a nd labor cost. It is also applicable on old concrete surfaces. It is flexible to close cracks and is non-toxic.

Advantages: • 100 percent compatible with all concrete substrates • Easily repairs cracks • Leak-free work • User-friendly • Easy and fast to apply ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) 842-6891 or visit www.abc.ph.

28 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Thermoshield

This heat insulating mortar is best used for high-quality insulation for both interior and exterior applications on concrete substrates.

For instance, it provides top-quality insulation for roof decks, walls, firewalls, ceiling slabs, and under floors to cool rooms.

Advantages: • It is 7x more resistant to heat. Saves you air-conditioning costs • It is non-combustible and thus ideal for fire-proofing walls compared to ordinary cement plaster • About 60 percent lighter than concrete • Less heat absorption and heat transfer • Good for sound proofing ABC Phil., Inc. Telephone No.: (02) 842-6891 or visit www.abc.ph.

Get your own copy now!

visit our website:

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29

cover story

“

Quezon City is the largest city within Metro Manila.

Surprisingly, it has the highest underserved market in the country, which is the upscale community segment, and all the major players are quite absent in this area

”

---- PhilRealty president Amador Bacani.

SkyVillas Bldg Perspective

Defining the true essence of luxury living By: Rizal Raoul Reyes

Just like the legendary phoenix, Philippine Realty and Holdings Corporation (PhilRealty) is back after a 17-year hiatus in the property scene. Reentering the market with a big bang the company is launching the new phase of its highend P25 billion community development project called Andrea North.

Andrea North will meet the demand for luxury living in Quezon City. “Quezon City is the largest city within Metro Manila.

Surprisingly, it has the highest underserved market in the country, which is the upscale community segment, and all the major players are quite absent in this area,” said PhilRealty president Amador Bacani.

Bacani added Andrea North will be a popular choice for the high-end market because of its prime location and quality of the product. The Andrea North is located at New Manila, One Balete Drive. It will have five towers on a two-hectare area. It gives a pleasant view of Quezon City, Greenhills and San Juan reservoir.

“We are challenging how everyone looks at luxury as we make a comeback in the business. With renewed vigor and defined outlook, we intend to move strongly and aggressively towards the upscale market segment beginning with the introduction of the Sky Villas at Andrea North.” Andrea North is a P10 billion project and is expected to be completed within 10 years.

30 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Despite having been stopped in its efforts by financial challenges in the 90s, Bacani said PhilRealty has remained steadfast to bring best-of-class developments to deliver the true essence of luxury living to its clients.

Bacani vowed that clients will get their money’s worth when they buy a unit.

“Luxury living is offering the most generous space and being the least dense development. For us, luxury is empowering the market with an exclusive privilege to own the space they deserve,” said Bacani.

PhilRealty has pioneered in the development of major landmarks in the country such as the Tektite Towers (Philippine Stock Exchange Centre and the La Isla Condo, among others). Furthermore, PhilRealty pioneered the concept of home replacements in the Philippines –the concept of vertical living within urban communities− when it introduced The Alexandra in Ortigas.

Bacani said The Alexandra was a marquee project for the company because it boasted the largest land-to-occupant ratio in its

STAIR-3

DN

BEDROOM-3

DD

T&B

BEDROOM MASTER'S

BEDROOM-2

BALCONY

LINE OF ROOF

ACCU

category. Meanwhile, the 33-storey Tektite Towers held the distinction as the largest office-building complex for decades after its completion.

However, the trailblazer of high-rise living was toppled by the Asian financial crisis during the late 90s and forced the whole company to seek corporate rehabilitation.

As the saying goes there is a “...light at the end of the tunnel....” PhilRealty finally was able to pay its dues totaling P2.2 billion to get out of rehabilitation. “The path towards recovery was a long, arduous climb for us, but with sincere resolve and renewed vigor, we were able to weather the storm and emerge stronger than ever,” said Bacani.

Now that it has achieved stability, Bacani said the company plans to pursue other projects in the country.

This is just the beginning for the ‘resurrected’ company. PhilRealty is also going to work with partners in pursuing development projects. Aside from Andrea North, PhilRealty is set to work with its longtime partners from Greenhills Properties, Inc. to develop Project Cube 5th Avenue—a mixed use vertical development that will host retail, residential, office, serviced apartments, and a hotel facility in Bonifacio Global City.

“We speak quietly and carry a big stick.

The big industry players today have been launching projects but the turnover will

CLOSET WALK-IN

P.R. SERVICE UTILITY / DS

KITCHEN

MAID'S ROOM

PLATFORM

STAIR-2

ACCU

DINING LIVING

BALCONY

UP

FOYER

DS

CONFERENCE ROOM

RECEPTION & SALES AREA ROOF DECK

PANTRY +4.55M

BALCONY

FOYER

MALE TOILET +4.535M

LIVING KITCHEN

MAID'S ROOM

FEMALE TOILET +4.535M

DINING

ACCU

UTILITY / SERVICE

STAIR-1

P.R.

UP

ACCU

BALCONY

DD

T&B

WALK-IN CLOSET

P.E.

900 kgs 14 PAX

MASTER'S BEDROOM

BEDROOM-2 BEDROOM-3

ACCU

T&B DN

DS

LINE OF ROOF

ROOF DECK

ROOF DECK

DD

GUTTER

DD

DD

STEEL-FRAMING CANOPY

N.

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

2

SCALE:

A1-04 A1-04

1:120M

DROP-OFF

E E T S T R

DROP-OFF

3.95%

RAMP UP

PARKING

D R I V E W A Y T O P A R K I N G A R E A

RAMP DN

DS

UP

RAMP UP

F

DROP-OF

”

G O M I N D O

“

Luxury living is offering the most generous space and being the least dense development.

For us, luxury is empowering the market with an exclusive privilege to own the space they deserve

ANDREA SHOWROOM

RAMP UP

PARKING

UP

RAMP UP (12%)

SIDEWALK RAMP UP

B A L E T E

D R I V E

---- PhilRealty president Amador Bacani.

1 A1-03 A1-03

GENERAL SITE LAYOUT SCALE:

1:400M

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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31

cover story

PhilRealty President Amador Bacani

library, clubhouse and swimming pool are present. Further, balconies were designed to be accessible from the living room, master’s bedroom and second bedroom.

Sky Villas will have three levels of basement parking. To ensure continuous power, the management will install a 100 percent emergency back-up power.

Three high-speed passenger elevators and one service elevator are going to be available to ensure residents and goods of smooth movement within the premises. Meanwhile, Sky Villas will have fully equipped automatic fire detection and sprinkler systems to protect the complex from fire. There will be also sewage treatment facilities for domestic waste processing.

To give residents a secured environment, the developer will put up a security control center with close circuit television in all areas.

Providing relaxing moments for residents is a must as Sky Villas has cable

not be until six years. If you will be buying investments then, you will have to wait for a very long time. In our case, you will see what you are actually buying the moment you make your purchase. In fact as we speak, our construction for the 31-storey Sky Villas Tower is already on the 20th floor, and we have not even started selling,” said Andrew Alcid, director of PhilRealty.

“We are also eyeing to expand our portfolio of developments further as we train on our sights on a future township project outside of Metro Manila.

Lastly, we are conceptualizing a future citizenship development , we are also set to break ground on a future citizenship development, which will possibly benefit the market on underserved areas in the country,” added Alcid.

Sky Villas Giving premium to privacy and spacious living, Sky Villas at Andrea North will have 97 units at 205 square meters, each with three bedrooms. Meanwhile, the living room, masters and second bedroom provide access to glass and steel balconies.

Each unit will have a floor-to-ceiling height of up to 3.1 meters, full weight windows per room, and clear lights in the living and third room. By sticking to its mantra of spacious living, Sky Villas’ units will have a separate service area, and a large maid’s room with its own bathroom.

Amenities of convenient living such as gym, meeting room, business lounge,

32 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

ready provisioning in all bedrooms and living rooms. Further, every unit will have audio video intercoms interconnected to the reception and the security center.

The project management team is composed of R.Villarosa+Architects (lead design and architect), CPG Corporation Pte Limited Singapore (master planner), Architect Reynaldo Javier Ng (interior designer), SPCastro, Inc. (project and construction manager), ALZSOR Consulting Engineer (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire consultant), M.A. Coronel Engineering Consultancy (structural consultant), DCCD Engineering Corp. (structural peer review), MEINHARDT Philippines, Inc. (facade engineering consultant), I.P. Santos and Associates (landscape), Rider Levett Bucknall Philippines, Inc. (quantity surveyor) and ASEC Development and Construction Corporation (main contractor). Turnover is expected in the fourth quarter of 2016.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design 

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33

PROJECT REPORT-PUBLIC Turnover ceremony with from (L-R) Prov’l Engr. Dante Baclao, Japanese Ambassador Toshinao Urabe and Albay Gov. Joey Salceda

JICA grantaid Evacuation Shelters project in the Province of Albay, a model for “Build-backbetter-elsewhere” By: Ma. Nenevetch D. Reyes

A

Commemorative marker for project

lbay is most famous for two things; the magnificent Mayon Volcano and frequent natural calamities. Because of its location and geological make up, the province is prone to calamities of all forms; typhoons, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, storm surges, etc. and it is home to many of the worst disasters recorded in the history of the Philippines.

Numerous families are rendered homeless

34 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

every time a calamity strikes and public schools, aside from camps and government set-up evacuation centers, become their temporary refuge. Thus, children’s educations are subsequently interrupted for as long as schools are being used by evacuees.

For example, in November of 2006, typhoon Reming hit the province which turned out to be Albay’s deadliest and

“

The buildings are typhoon and earthquake resistant. They have also passed the geo-hazard survey and were built using the Japanese technology in building construction, which can be considered as the most advanced technology in the world.

Manito Central School

”

--- Gov. Salceda.

costliest disaster since 1993. Based on CDRC (Citizen’s Disaster Response Team) survey statistics, about 60% of residents left their homes and sought refuge elsewhere during the calamity. More than two months after the disaster, WFP (World Food Programme) reported that it continued to support 6,000 families in evacuation centers.

Figures such as these speak of the severity and the underlying need for more permanent, better equipped evacuation shelters. In the words of then WFP Country Director and Representative to the Philippines Valerie Guarnieri said, “It takes time to rebuild after a disaster of Reming’s scale.”

Libon Community College

Gogon Elementary School

“The Project for Evacuation Shelter Construction in Disaster Vulnerable Areas in the Province of Albay”, is a grant-aid project of JICA (Japanese International Cooperation Agency) for the people of the province of Albay which is aimed to provide a safe refuge for evacuees during and after a calamity. It is designed to house displaced families from the different barangays within the recipient municipalities/city which will be affected by natural calamities that may ravage the province. But instead of the customary schools being used as evacuation centers, it is the other way around. The buildings are first and foremost, evacuation centers which may be used as classrooms when no refugees are being housed. In effect, lengthy disruption of classes after huge calamities will be greatly minimized and the basic needs of evacuees well provided for during their stay in the shelters.

Very noticeably, the evacuation shelterscum-classrooms were aesthetically designed and constructed to be a cut above the usual public school buildings which are often crudely crafted and confined to the basics of design and necessities. Yet, there is more to it than meets the eye.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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35

PROJECT REPORT-PUBLIC “The buildings are typhoon and earthquake resistant. They have also passed the geo-hazard survey and were built using the Japanese technology in building construction, which can be considered as the most advanced technology in the world,” said Gov. Salceda.

Six schools from different locations spread across the province, which have consistently served as major evacuation centers in the past, were identified by the provincial government as recipients of the evacuation centers. These are Sto. Domingo Central School, Gogon Central School, Manito Central School, Polangui North Central School, Oas South Central School and Libon Community College.

All the buildings for the shelter are made up of two-storeys except for Libon Community College which has 3-storey buildings. Floor areas ranged from 1,044.770 sq. m. (Polangui North Central School) to 2,623.837 sq.m. (Manito Central School) depending on needs as recorded. The project, which Gov. Salceda said, has a total cost of Php 460M, was completed in 14 months.

Design and project management of the evacuation shelters were under the management of Mohri, Philippine Architects and Associates Inc. (MPAAI) and its affiliate Tokyo office, Mohri Architects and Associates Inc. (MAAI), now being billed as the country’s schoolbuilding design and consultancy experts because of their extensive and continuing involvement not only with JICA projects in particular, but with Dep-Ed school building projects in general. In fact, this is not the first typhoon resistant buildings JICA has gifted Albay with. Between 1988 to 1994, the province was also one of the recipients of the Typhoon Resistant School Buildings Project (TRSBP), which was also implemented under the able hands of MAAI. The TRSBP buildings have proven their resiliency and durability after they withstood many calamities in the past including Typhoon Haiyan in the Visayas.

“The shelter includes two major building blocks, the “dry facilities” and the “wet facilities,” said Arch. Tito Moises S. Encinas, President and CEO of MPAAI. He explained further that the dry facilities consist of Dep-Ed standard sized classrooms measuring 7 meters by 9 meters. The wet facilities on the other hand, include communal kitchen and preparation/ dining area, pantry/food storage area, battery of toilet and bath facilities for male and female, covered laundry area on the roof deck, open deck for laundry drying, rain collector tank, and elevated potable water tank. These facilities are equipped with a reliable water supply and emergency

power system to guaranty operations even during calamities.

When used as evacuation, each classroom can accommodate around 10 families. A folding partition wall is provided between two adjacent classrooms for added flexibility.

Although built chiefly as an evacuation shelter, all classroom design essentials are fully provided over and above Dep-Ed prescribed standards – sufficient lighting and power supply, ceiling fans, generously sized windows, 2 doors that swing out and of course full length blackboards at fixed

“

Utilities like generator sets, water pumps, water cistern tanks are also provided to support the utility requirements of the evacuation centers. A central fire alarm system and public address system is even provided for increased safety and to facilitate information dissemination

”

--- Arch. Tito Encinas partition wall.

Architectural finishes and fixtures were also considered for better durability and performance; tiled classroom floors for easy maintenance; tiled kitchen counters, kitchen

sinks, laundry sinks and preparation/dining tables; best quality door knobs and locks; aluminum jalousy windows provided with steel grills, etc.

“Utilities like generator sets, water pumps, water cistern tanks are also provided to support the utility requirements of the evacuation centers. A central fire alarm system and public address system is even provided for increased safety and to facilitate information dissemination,” said Arch. Tito Encinas.

Disaster resiliency features include RC columns, beams and rafters designed with added structural strenght and high-rib galvalum roofing sheets with tight frame supports for longer durability against strong winds and rust. All buildings are elevated above ground with a minimum height of 0.50 meters or higher than the rest of other buildings in the campus to guaranty against flooding in the area. In some school sites with history of flooding, the elevation is increased by 0.30 meters above the highest recorded flood water level in the school campus.

Recently, DPWH secretary Singson said that he was impressed with the success of the model as part of mitigating measures in disaster risk reduction. He has in fact, decided to adopt the Albay shelters in the reconstruction efforts being done in the Eastern Visayas provinces affected by typhoon Haiyan. In addition, according to Arch. Encinas, “it is now being replicated for possible implementation in disasterprone provinces in the Philippines.”

The success of the Evacuation shelters project was further reaffirmed, when it was considered by a UK study as a successful model using the “building back better elsewhere” as its underlying principle. The study was also cited by the World Bank in its recent climate study of the Philippines.

Dirty Kitchen cooking area at Manito Evacuation Shelter

36 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

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Construction & Design Philippine

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37

contractor’s profile

Doing good in business complements giving back to society By: Rizal Raoul Reyes

“

We noticed that our Filipino workers were very good and efficient

”

----Tadao Tsukamoto

Overseas Filipino workers working with Tokai Industry Inc. in Japan have created a very good impression on their employers that they decided to hire them when they opened an office in the Philippines one year ago.

Tadao Tsukamoto president and chief executive officer of Tokai International Housing, Philippines.

“We noticed that our Filipino workers were very good and efficient,” said Tadao Tsukamoto president and chief executive officer of Tokai International Housing, Philippines.

Tsukamoto said the company felt sad when the contracts of their workers expire because they will not have employment opportunities when they come back to the Philippines.

“They can’t apply the skills they learned in Japan because the technologies are not present in the Philippines,” said Tsukamoto.

“Now we have the chance to give them employment here in the Philippines” he added.

Right now, Tokai has 13 Filipinos working as welders, carpenters and painters working in their office in Kagawa, Japan.

38 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Products

Tokai International Housing, Philippines will sell three products in the Philippines namely the T-Crib container type, T-Cube residential type and the T-Quick prefab type.

Developed as foldaway house in Japan, Tsukamoto said Tokai is International Housing, Philippines is selling a modified version in the Philippine market to suit local conditions. It is an original product to the Philippines. The beauty of the T-Crib is that it can be assembled right away from the factory to ensure a rapid installation. It can be used as a currency exchange booth, lodge, police station, office, small scale retail, among others. If a user wants to expand the T-crib, Tsukamoto said T-Crib’s size can be doubled by the units of 2.4m x 5m and 2.4m

x 4.8m each Based on the T-crib design, the T-Cube residential type is a common assembly type that integrates Japanese technology into the design. Because it is manufactured in an assembly style in the factory, it will take a week to assemble the T-Cube. Building the T-Cube gives the builder flexibility as it can be built into a two-story structure. Further, T-Cube will have bigger size options with the introduction of the Cube2 which is currently in the development stage. The materials used are from the Philippines and infused with Japanese technology.

The T-Quick prefab type is one of the company’s flagship products for the past temporary housing units in disasteraffected areas, as well as temporary offices at construction sites, police stations, dormitories, among others. The size is adjustable by units of 2 meters. Further, the structure can be expanded in to a twostorey building. It can also be a two-storey building. It is a quick assemble product and can be pulled down and re-used.

Tsukamoto said Tokai will sell the prefabricated these products because they are perfect for the Philippine market and are the most affordable for the Filipino buyers.

Tsukamoto said marketing the Tokai products in the Philippines requires a different approach. Since Japan is a developed country, he said the company is finding ways to develop the right strategy and approach.

“We’re adjusting and learning the Filipino way of marketing” said Tsukamoto.

On the long term, Tokai has a grand plan for the Philippine office. He said Tokai wants to turn over the leadership to the Filipinos in the future.

Right now, we need to establish a solid presence in the country. When we become bigger in the future, we will let the Filipinos run Tokai Philippines,” he said.

Tsukamoto said It is part of the corporate philosophy of Tokai to share the benefits of the business. “Aside from being good in business, we also believe we must give back to society to improve people’s lives.”

Corporate profile

Tokai Industry Inc. was established in 1968. It developed a niche in the pre-fabricated materials as well as the construction nature as well as the emergency application aspect of the assembly houses.

Later, it entered the manufacturing of and selling of temporary buildings.

Through the years, Tokai Industry Inc. has developed effective manufacturing and construction expertise that enabled the company to maintain its leadership. Its famous monozukuri-production system has been highly acclaimed in Japan. The

technologies and experiences earned through the years enabled Tokai to establish a footprint in the global market.

Entry into the Philippine market

Tokai Philippines is confident its knowledge, experience and techniques of the industry can benefit prefab enterprise in the Philippines which will eventually improve the housing standards in the Philippines.

Further, the company can improve the economy by providing jobs, and at the same time create opportunities to local industries through outsourcing work-related activities on prefab housing.

Aside from getting good economic benefits that will bring financial stability to their respective families, people working in Tokai Philippines will also acquire worldclass skills that will make them proud and competitive in the world market.

Bio data of Mr. Tsukamoto

Tadao Tsukamoto was born on May 24, 1977 in Takamatsu, Kagawa, Japan.

He studied his elementary education at the Kagawa University of Takamatsu

elementary school.

In 1990, Tsukamoto entered the Kagawa University of Takamatsu Middle School.

As a sports aficionado, he participated in basketball games for the school. In 1993, he enrolled at the Kagawa- kenritsu Takamatsu Traditional Art High School’s department of electricity.

He chose the special high school to enable to broaden his knowledge on electricity.

Later, he got the Japanese Class Two electric work license after passing the examination.

He studied at the Shikoku Takamatsu University to pursue studies in business administration. During his stint in the university, he showed exemplary leadership by organizing a school festival.

In 2001, he joined Tokai Industry. He was appointed the president of Tokai Industry Inc in 2002.

He visited the Philippines for the first time in 2008 to interview Filipinos for employment in Tokai Industry Inc. In March 2012, Tsukamoto led the opening of the Tokai International Philippines, Inc. Tokai International Housing Philippines Inc.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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39

contractor’s profile

Tekla Structures 3D Software:

Revolutionizing Construction Design and Management By: Choy S. Gaerlan

Seeing a construction project in its entirety before any phase of it is actually started—this is what the revolutionary engineering software called Tekla Structures does for the various construction teams involved in a project. It is Building Information Modeling software, or BIM, which allows visualizing the complete integration of parts into the whole before anything is began.

Imagine excavation, materials delivery, form works, carpentry, plumbing, electrical and mechanical works, steel works, concrete pouring and curing, insulation, waterproofing, finishing, painting, interiors and other related works all integrated from start to finish. You see the project in a finished 3D model before any actual construction is done.

Tekla BIM

According to VTS—the company that introduced Tekla in the Philippines— BIM makes possible “the creation and management of accurately detailed, highly constructible 3D structural models regardless of material or structural complexity. (It can) cover the entire building process from conceptual design to fabrication, erection and construction management.”

Tekla BIM is available in various configurations and adaptable to localized environments, providing functionality

for specific segments and the culture needs of the construction industry of a locality. In the Philippines, it is already in use by big construction companies like EEI Corporation, Aboitiz Construction Group, DM Consunji, Inc., Monocrete Construction Philippines, Inc., Datem Incorporated and Freyssinet.

Tekla BIMsight

Not only that, through Tekla BIMsight, each team involved in the construction can check the precision of integration and do necessary adjustments right there and then as they view the 3D model in the software. They can do this in coordination with other teams involved to make sure everything fits to a T. This pre-construction project collaboration “enables project participants to identify and solve issues already in the design phase before (actual) construction” is done, says VTS. Moreover, Tekla BIMsight creates a

40 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

visual of the entire construction workflow combining various models, checking for clashes, and sharing information “using the same easy-to-use BIM environment,” VTS adds. In other words, construction engineers, architects, designers, and builders can debate things over and agree on a final design and procedure. They can do this even while in their separate offices by simply seeing the 3D model online.

Then everything can be fitted accordingly while yet in the pre-construction stage.

Tekla BIMsight is downloadable for free at www.teklabimsight.com.

Tekla BIM Solutions saves the project time, resources, and money by simply preventing inaccuracies to crop up during actual construction.

Old School Project Management VS Tekla

To better appreciate BIM technology, take a look at how project management was done before Tekla came to the scene.

“

the creation and management of accurately detailed, highly constructible 3D structural models regardless of material or structural complexity.

(It can) cover the entire building process from conceptual design to fabrication, erection and construction management.

”

Tekla BIMsight Teams contracting or handling different aspects of a construction have their own working drawings, plans and procedures which often were not compared with each other for clarity or confirmation. Work is discussed within teams but seldom among teams. Thus, when each team starts working at the site, proper coordination among teams is seldom achieved and serious problems begin to arise, often incurring huge added costs. Usually, they find out too late that things reflected on plan do not coincide with the actual conditions at the site.

For instance, the plumbing team may find concrete pavements already in place before they could install their pipes beneath the ground. Or, the air-conditioning team may not have enough space left to affix their vents and ducts on because the ceiling has already been placed. Remedying such conflicts often proves very costly.

Tekla BIM technology, specifically Tekla BIMsight, eliminates all that. It

makes possible both inter and intra team consultations prior to construction to iron out differences and do pertinent adjustments using one and the same project model easily accessible to all concerned via online software. “Once each man (in the different construction teams) knows full well what the overall plan is—what’s going on and what his role in the project is—everything can be done smoothly,” said Engr. Romeo P. Francisco, managing director of VTS, in an interview during a product introduction event in Quezon City.

David Lash, consultant at Tekla—the company that developed BIM and 3D modeling technology—is of the same opinion. “Everybody gets a clear idea of what to do at the (construction) site, all the way down to the guy doing the rig bar, the guy pouring concrete, even to the guy operating the crane. The crane driver, for instance, can know how a thing weighs before he picks it up with his machine through the technology using his android.

So, if I were the crane driver, I’d know exactly how it weighs and see if I have the right device to lift it with.

“When I go home from work and get stuck up in traffic, I can take my iPhone, go to the 3D model of the project, study the progress of the work and see what’s up for tomorrow. (The construction worker) knows what he’d be doing tomorrow, what to take with him (to meet the tasks) and what to expect. Nobody at the site can say that they don’t know what to do. Nobody can say they forgot the working drawings or plans or lost it. The model is always updated and available for viewing any time.”

Lash hastily added that, “everyone at construction sites (in other countries) carries an iPhone. Companies issue them iPhones to access (the 3D models) anytime and do accurate work to avoid problems.

“In the Philippines (using Tekla) may be cheap or not, but it will definitely mean more productivity—everybody (at the construction sites) knows what they’re doing, the work will be faster, and it saves money.”

How the Technology was Born “We wanted to solve problems in the construction industry and we were wondering how it could be possible before actual construction was done,” recalled Lash. “We did research on the matter with help from the government (of New Zealand). If you have any need for research on any important subject, it was easy to get financial support (from government).”

Finally, the breakthrough came in 1993.

“We started Tekla with steel design and construction and expanded. We wanted to make sure that when you got to the site everything was settled. Before construction happens, you know what’s coming and you address it immediately so it all fits together.”

After successfully applying Tekla to the steel industry, the precast concrete and overall engineering were next.

“Everyone draws (plans and working drawings) differently. Standards differ from one place to another—there’s the Philippine standard and standard this and standard that,” explained Lash. “But if you do a project where international standards are involved, this (Tekla) technology can help a lot to (reconcile everything to what applies to the present project).”

Tekla on the Steel Industry

Tekla provides an advanced and integrated means to manage fabricating, detailing, and erecting of steel structures like industrial plants, commercial

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contractor’s profile

“

We wanted to solve problems in the construction industry and we were wondering how it could be possible before actual construction was done.

”

---David Lash

management. It offers error-free handling of details with easy-change management.

The resultant Tekla model can support the whole precast workflow, beginning from sales and bidding, to cost estimates, to conceptual design, even up to detailing and integrating manufacturing, putting up structures, site management and then project follow-ups.

Moreover, Tekla helps precast fabricators collaborate effectively with contractors and subcontractors to do everything more efficiently and accurately through almost real-time sharing of information. In addition, Tekla easily interfaces with the production management system used (ERP) and the automation machinery software.

buildings, stadiums, offshore platforms, and pre-engineered buildings, to name a few. It supports building information management or BIM throughout all the processes involved, increasing productivity of especially large and data-rich projects. This is possible through the advanced computerization of fabrication and project management in 4D via interfacing with MIS systems and machinery.

In steel fabrication, modeling the structures speeds up acquisition of data used for bid preparation purposes and aids management in remedying complex construction issues before anything is affixed at the construction site permanently.

Tekla on Engineering

Tekla on Precast Concrete

• For lessening errors and coordinating design reliability • Accommodate or insert changes easily and fast • For a more efficient work and competitive edge

Tekla software affords a very efficient method to deliver any type of precast concrete aggregates at the right time and place by combining detailing and design with manufacturing and project

Tekla allows structural engineers to come up with the best design by putting the accurate and comprehensive 3D model at the heart of everything. This model integrates with design software and analysis, making coordinating with building consultants, architects, and contractors efficient and easy.

Moreover, time for documentation, rework, and routine tasks, like data transfers, is lessened for a smoother workflow and freedom to do things the way you want. Tekla can easily generate precise and updated fabrication, as well as working drawings and reports derived directly from the “constructable” model.

Some Benefits:

42 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

• On-time delivery of projects within allotted budget BIM definitely improves the accuracy and quality of structural engineering information. Urgent alterations in the design are easily done because the software derives construction documents straight from the model. As long as the model is accurate, then everything automatically becomes as accurate down the line, from start to finish.

Vibrant Technology Solutions

VTS introduced Tekla Structures in the Philippines after a study in 1998 of its urgent need in the country, especially in the need to orchestrate every phase in a construction project to the letter. “We started introducing the technology in 2000, so it’s been here almost 15 years now,” said Francisco.

When asked about VTS’ sales volume on Tekla so far, Francisco happily said that their sales goals are hit “on target.”

And they foresee further favorable developments ahead. As other construction companies try to be competitive with their project management. And anyway, VTS has strong clientele relationship.

“We normally do our service to our customers to the best we can, because without them we won’t be here. We work very closely with our customers and give them the best, whether service or technology.

“In a way, to help them, we channel customers to the right people or companies. That’s how we build sales relationship, in hopes (such relationships will translate into sales in the future).”

With the introduction of Tekla to the country, VTS has successfully referred a big client—the local construction industry—to the right technology.

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SUPPLIER’S PROFILE

Taking Modern Tiling to the Next Level By: Choy S. Gaerlan

When tiling was introduced in the Philippines, a masonry worker would spread a thick layer of cement mortar on the area to be applied, as well as on the back of each tile, set the tile and allow time for curing; or more popularly known as the thick bed method. Often due to either lack of craftsmanship or due to constraints in budget, the cement mortar did not completely cover the back of the tile causing adhesion problems and or cracking over time.

B

ut then came Allgemeine BauChemie Phil., Inc., or more popularly known as ABC Phil., Inc., a Filipino - Austrian company that pioneered modern tiling technology in the country. Due to ABC innovations, tiling is no longer just the usual tile-on-cement standard practice that often easily cracks or breaks at the slightest load pressure over time. They have innovated the industry standard by introducing products and methods to improve the living conditions of each and every Filipino.

Enrico R. Micu

Translated as ‘general building chemicals’, their 28 product line up consists of tiling solutions, wall and ceiling finishing solutions, cementitious waterproofing solutions, sealing & gap filling solutions and thermal insulating and construction solutions to address the different needs of the construction industry.

ABC Philippines

To get to its present status, ABC had to go through the narrow road. “It was difficult introducing a new revolutionary product for tiling in the country,” Enrico R. Micu, the national sales manager says. “It took massive education on tile application through information dissemination.” Moreover, part of ABC’s adhesive uniqueness is in the way products are manufactured. The procedure uses a “fully automated and professional system” resulting to product consistency, uniformity and strict quality control that conform to international standards.

The humble beginnings that launched ABC Philippines with key initial know how and recipes of it’s Austrian Mother company, to its present success through commitment fueled by the foresight of it’s Austrian co-founder Axel Brandner Sr. The company matured over the past 32 years to stand on it’s own now and to influence to its present status.

From being a small business, established by the company founder Axel Brandner, Sr. with Mr. Renato Apacible the former president, ABC Phil., Inc. has now grown

44 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

to its 145-strong work force nationwide.

ABC Phil., Inc. currently has distribution centers in Batangas, Pampanga, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo and Cagayan de Oro with it’s head office in Metro Manila.

What’s Unique about ABC Tile Adhesives?

Traditional tile laying methods did not incorporate the needed flexibility for tile movement due to substrate expansions and contractions, which naturally occur from temperature and weather exposure, as well as needed flexibility due to weight loads. The regular mortars’ inflexibility would be transferred onto the tile directly, causing the tile to crack over time.

ABC’s innovation to Tile Adhesive was to incorporate mechanical & chemical additives, which assures the tiles’ adhesion to the surface even in heavy traffic areas.

It also assures a higher tensile strength and added flexibility, which is needed when thermal deformability, substrate shrinkage or tile expansion occurs.

Depending on the variant ABC Tile Adhesive has a Tensile adhesion strength of 200 - 300 PSI. Since cement mortar only has 40 PSI tensile adhesion strength, any expansions or shrinkage makes tiles vulnerable to debonding and/or cracking.

Currently there are several tile adhesives being offered in the market. In fact, a lot of other tile companies are also now into the adhesives business, realizing its practical value-for-money efficacy and the slow but steady shift of local traditional tiling to modern global trends. However,

company’s “workThephilosophy has always been focus, dedication, and passion

”

ABC Tile Adhesive Original and Heavy Duty still have that indisputable edge in the competition. The company confirms and guarantees to using only the highest quality Portland cement, natural sand fillers, and chemical additives for the adhesives. Aside from tough adhesion and bonding quality, you can cut curing time and labor cost considerably by using ABC Tile Adhesives.

Needless to say, the unique quality of ABC adhesives has gone a long way from being initially introduced in the country, as an unknown revolutionary tiling product, to later being preferred by most major developers, to now being among few deserving tile adhesives recognized by government as worthy standard setters to take modern tiling to the next level.

Presently, the company is looking forward to not just meeting the increasing future demands but also making the traditional tile-on-cement system obsolete ten years from now. And understandably,

that’s replacing it with ABC’s innovative tile adhesive products and systems.

However, that may sound like mere big talk to others. So, what’s a good indicator that traditional methods will indeed be outmoded one or two decades from now, especially by ABC products?

It also shows how effective the products are in terms of quality and practicality. In fact, popular patronage is evident through how no less than huge construction corporations such as EEI, Monolith Construction, Hilmarc Construction, SM, DMCI and Ayala Land through MDC are among ABC’s major clients. ABC products can also be found in major retail stores such as Wilcon, MC Home Depot and CW Home Depot to name a few. Can ABC sustain the supply in the face of mounting demands? The company is confident to meet market demands with its fully automated manufacturing system.

ABC Products

ABC Phil., Inc. also provides a complete range of construction solutions both for commercial and residential structures and interior and exterior applications. Their Tiling Solutions comprise not only of tile adhesives, but also tile grout, grout sealer and grout waterproofing. ABC was one of the first to introduce anti-bacterial properties in their tile grout product series - the ABC Biotech Tile Grout , to prevent fungus, mold and mildew growth. The latest addition to their product line up

is the ABC 2 in 1 Mosaic Adhesive and Grout. Specially formulated for mosaic tiles, this product was created to reduced the tiling process for a faster and easier mosaic tile installation proving how they are consistently innovating their products to suit the needs of the FIlipinos.

Another popular product is a wall and ceiling finishing product called Zemcoat skimcoat, which was developed as it’s tagline already says for: “Silky smooth walls and ceilings.” They also offer Waterproofing Solutions, Sealants and gap Fillers. Their heat insulating mortar – Thermoshield is another innovative product that caters especially to the Philippine market. It is easy to apply just like regular mortar, is cost efficient and keeps your carbon footprint minimal.

Man Behind ABC Sales Today

For more than 30 years now, the company has been providing innovative construction solutions, setting the benchmark of tiling and offering products with uncompromising quality that improve structures’ function and durability. “The company’s work philosophy has always been focus, dedication, and passion,” Micu stressed, with the company’s adage that commitment is everything: “At ABC, commitment fuels its work.” Company work principles, on the other hand, are simply hard work, honesty, integrity, and trust, which clients deserve no less. ABC is fully committed to enhance every life that they touch.

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SUPPLIER’S PROFILE

ParexGroup:

Adapting Locally to Fit-In a Global Brand “I

ncorporate a subsidiary in every country and act locally,” was how Christophe Lejeune, President of ParexGroup Incorporated-Philippines, simply put it when asked about the company’s guiding philosophy to better serve its clientele during an interview at their Pasig main office. Having a ParexGroup company in every country will more easily make the company’s global brand compatible with the existing trends in the local construction industry. This is especially true with the use of technical mortars, waterproofing, facade finishes, and tile adhesives.

Industry work conditions and systems prevailing in a locality differ from one region to another, and, in a larger sense, one country to another. To be able to adapt and better serve its clients, ParexGroup manufactures majority of its products

locally and in fact has a plant right in their Pasig office compound.

But local materials should pass their strict laboratory standards before being incorporated into the ParexGroup product line. “A lot of local materials are actually good. They pass ASTM and EN standards and are included for processing at our plant.

Materials not found locally are imported” Gary Bogarin, VP for Sales and Marketing said.

On ParexGroup Main Product Lines

Construction mortars, waterproofing, insulation and finishing systems, plus tile adhesives—both traditional and innovative—are ParexGroup’s cup of tea. Its global leadership in the industry is unquestionable. “For more than 30 years, ParexGroup has maintained a global leadership in supplying specialty chemicals,

46 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

By: Choy S. Gaerlan specialized mortars and dry-mix systems for the construction industry,” Christophe Lejeune stressed.

To date, ParexGroup is in four continents—America, Asia Pacific, Europe - and the Mediterranean-Middle East, setting the pace in the industry in some 22 countries with 60 manufacturing facilities equipped with R and D centers and employing more than 3,500 employees worldwide. This French multi-national company claims to have always been on top of the global industry. “(For decades) we have been, and still are, the global leader in supplying construction chemicals.”

Locally, ParexGroup pushes 3 main brands, namely: LANKO, DAVCO, and PAREX. LANKO is designed to “address the construction requirements of floor preparation, concrete repair, finishing, and

rendering,” explains Lejeune. ParexGroup ushered in the unique and now popular technology of LANKO skimcoating in the country.

DAVCO multifaceted solutions include waterproofing, tile-laying and grouting apt for all types of tile and stone works.

Moreover, “with solid research, ParexGroup has formulated a superior environmentfriendly product line we call Dustless Tile Adhesives and Colorgrouts” for better air quality and thus healthier working conditions, Lejeune reveals.

PAREX is all about façade finishes, aesthetics, and protection, including Exterior Insulation and Finish System or EIFS. Also integrated are Parex-Suzuka Façade Finishes and PAREX Select Finishes. These are all applicable to either “new construction or renovation for façade decoration and protection adopted to suit all architectural styles and construction methods,” Lejeune clarifies.

Lejeune urged the local industry to catch up with the latest advances gaining in the global industry of finishes, waterproofing, technical mortars, and adhesives. In effect, continuous neglect of such is a kind of disservice, forfeiting Filipinos of the benefits of new technology that would help them live better lives, relegating them to old technologies that often result to problems and inconveniences. EIFS is one new technology Filipinos deserve.

The growing popularity of EIFS in the country is due in part to ParexGroup’s effort together with its certified applicators at introducing new and innovative technology in the country with a careful eye to local needs and capabilities. EIFS efficiently incorporates environmental factors into design. The concept is now earning industry-wide acceptance especially with today’s trends on energy conservation, Lejeune hinted in the interview. And this is precisely why ParexGroup is a member of the Philippine Green Building Council, subscribing to its holistic approach and market-based green building advocacy.

“EIFS is a well established technology,” Laurent Galloux explained, Marketing Director of ParexGroup France for Façade Solutions in an interview. “Our products have been installed around the world, in every imaginable climate condition on all types of buildings and structures.” With EIFS energy conservation comes more money saved in the long run. That’s value for money.

DAVCO’s Dustless dry-mix mortar technology is another first “in the drymix mortar industry in the world, a great progression towards the improvement

of working conditions and safety for our factory partners, as well as our applicator customers,” a promotional write-up says.

Some people fail to realize the significance of Dustless dry-mix mortar applications.

“They wonder, why the need for it? They think it’s a feature that just incurs added cost,” said Bogarin while stressing the safety feature of this brand. “They ignore product breakthroughs like this and opt for cheaper brands.”

Dustless technology provides improved air quality in the work area while work is in progress, protecting installers and applicators in the process. Business activity is also not interrupted when work is done during business hours because dust is under control. DAVCO Dustless Tile Adhesive is not just environmentally friendly but also formulated to comply with international standards and to be compatible with new innovative types of non-porous tiles.

How ParexGroup Products Fare in the Market

So far, on a local scale, ParexGroup products are getting its expected share of the market, hitting sales target fairly well.

“Globally, our products perform quite well, even compared to top sellers, no doubt.

But locally, we need to consider the trends in tiling and tile technology. And in that area, there are competitors who have the advantage of having been in the industry a longer time,” Bogarin observed.

Add to that, he said, the trend in the preference for cheaper materials often used in the local industry which is usually below global standards, “so some clients call us asking what’s the cheapest we can offer them,” the ParexGroup VP for Sales and Marketing added. That is a daunting challenge especially when ParexGroup deals with high-end, high quality products already in common use in advanced

countries. In a sense, while understanding the limits of local construction, it dares the local industry to upgrade and join major players in the global scene.

Summarizing the words of Lejeune, it is the company’s vision and commitment not just to market “specialized construction products and solutions that will satisfy (customers)” but most of all “surpass customers’ needs for quality, safety and performance,” doing this with nothing less than global quality standards. He adds: “…our commitment (is) to bring further innovative products to the Philippine Construction Industry.”

Lejeune said that there is still room for improvement for the local standard to be able to improve quality and performances.

Both Lejeune and Bogarin looked forward to a better industry standard in the offing, with major clients catching up with world class standards.

In concrete terms, how has the Philippine market been willing to adjust and patronize ParexGroup products so far? ParexGroup’s plant is relocating to a much bigger site because the present plant can no longer meet production demands. Currently, ParexGroup office and plant are located along Danny Floro Street, Bagong Ilog, Pasig City and has a 60 plus total work force.

Today, ParexGroup major clients include top developers and contractors in the Philippines. It has certainly come a long way. It began with a P25-million start-up capital in 2008 and now considered among few major specialty chemical manufacturers to reckon with in the industry. When quality technical mortars, façade-finish waterproofing and protection, tile adhesives and the apt modern technology involved are the concerns of the day, LANKO, DAVCO and PAREX are sure to be among few brands sought after.

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project management

Planning the Cities of the Future

www.mycommunityrights.org.uk

Imagine a city of the future, a city of clean streets, flying cars and robots. Imagine a city with which you can interact.

A city that acts more like a living organism and that responds to your needs.

Such a city could be just a few decades in the future as new technology develop and adopted for city planning and management. All over the world new cities are being built as population grows, while old existing cities are being upgraded with new ideas.

The smart city can be defined as the integration of technology into a strategic approach to sustainability, citizen wellbeing and economic development. It offers a coherent vision for bringing together innovative solutions that address the issues facing the modern city, but there are many challenges still to be faced. The biggest test for the smart-city concept over the next decade will be to show that innovative projects can be deployed at a citywide scale and are also replicable across cities.

By 2050 it is estimated that 75% of the world’s population will live in cities. This has added more pressure on transport networks, emergency services and the utilities that are already stretched to capacity. It is partly a reaction to over-crowding and pollution and partly because in an ever-connected world it makes increasing sense to hook entire cities

48 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

up to the network.

Urbanization is key to the development of the world’s poorer economies, yet 32 percent of the developing world’s urban population lives in slums. In the developed world, cities are at the forefront of the battle to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to change patterns of energy use. The concept of the smart city offers a potential solution to the question of how to balance environmental concerns, economic requirements and the need to provide for the well-being of the population as a whole.

Large technology companies like IBM and Cisco see smart cities as a huge business opportunity. However there are also smaller grass root projects which propose to empower citizens with ideas and more down to earth technologies that wants a say in how the city will look and operate.

Ideas for what the city of the future will

both new cities needed to sustain an evergrowing population, and retro-fits on the ones that we have lived in for centuries.

The cities of the future will shaped by ideas If the cities of the past were shaped by people, the cities of the future are likely to be shaped by ideas, and there are a lot of competing ones about how such a futuristic urban space should look.

Some of these revolve around the idea that smarter equals greener. Sustainability experts predict carbon-neutral cities full of electric vehicles and bike-sharing schemes, with air quality so much improved that office workers can actually open their windows for the first time. Visions of a green city often include skyscrapers where living and office space vie with floating greenhouses or high-rise vegetable patches and green roofs, as we try to combine urbanization with a return to our pastoral past.

Technology firms such as IBM, Siemens, Microsoft, Intel and Cisco are busy selling their software to solve a range of city problems, from water leaks to air pollution to traffic congestion.

In Singapore, Stockholm and California, IBM is gathering traffic data and running it via algorithms to predict where a traffic jam will occur an hour before it has happened.

be means differently to different people. A smarter city may mean one where traffic congestion and other problems are solved with new technology. Or it could mean a city that joins up services to provide better information for citizens. For many it is about making cities greener and more efficient.

Or perhaps your vision is darker and more dystopian, with a Big Brother-style authoritarian regime, dark alleys full of crime, and people forced to live in hermetically sealed pods because war or some other disaster has rendered whole swathes of the city unlivable, as envisioned by many science fiction movies..

The next 10 years will see over $100 billion spent on technologies to support smart-city development worldwide. By 2020, the annual spend on those core technologies will be almost $16 billion. By the end of the decade, many of the enabling technologies for smart cities will be deployed across the globe. Once in place, this smart-city infrastructure will provide the basis for a wide range of innovative applications and services.

There is no fortune reader with a glass ball that can foretell the future and no one really knows what the future holds. However the present reality is most if not all of the cities of today are overcrowded and polluted, or will be soon. Now is the time, according to experts, to start designing smarter urban environments,

Involving people Meanwhile in Rio, it has built a Nasa-style control room where banks of screens suck up data from sensors and cameras located around the city. In total IBM has some 2,500 smarter cities projects around the world and has even trademarked the term “smarter cities”.

But when, at a recent smart cities event that IBM hosted, one of its engineers joked that the company “tends to look at the pipes and then people come along and destroy all our nice optimized systems”, it summed up the issue that some have with the corporate-led approach to city management.

“Some people want to fine tune a city like you do a race car but they are leaving citizens out of the process,” said Anthony Townsend, director of the Institute of the Future and author of Smart Cities: Big Data, Civic Hackers, and the Quest for a New Utopia.

IBM argues that it does get citizens involved in its smart city projects. In Dublin it has worked with the city council to open up the vast amounts of data it has, which has led to clever little apps such as ParkYa which uses traffic data to find people the best parking space in the city.

And in the US city of Dubuque, Iowa, where it is developing smart water meters, it has offered the data to citizens via a community portal, so that individuals can see their water usage and even compare it with that of their neighbors.

But there is a sense that for the firm, cities are

a problem just waiting to be solved. “We need to build cities that adapt to the needs of [their] citizens but previously it was not possible because there was not enough information,” says Dr Lisa Amini, director of IBM Research.

Steve Lewis has taken the idea of finetuning a city like a racing car quite literally by using technology originally designed by McLaren for Formula 1 cars. Like the sensors in a racing car that constantly feed information to a central helpdesk, so Mr Lewis envisages an urban operating system that control sensors on a city-wide scale.

His technology is being used in cities in China and Brazil and has also been integrated at London City Airport to create a network of sensors to improve services.

But his personal dream is to build a smart city from scratch - and he has bought land in Portugal to do just that. The city, called PlanIT Valley, will become the ultimate showcase for the urban operating system. Everything, including the bricks that will build the homes and offices, will be fitted with sensors to make them smart.

Mr Townsend is not convinced that the technology can so easily be transferred.

“Government doesn’t make decisions like businesses do. Citizens are not consumers,” he says. China is busy building dozens of new cities and is starting to adopt huge control rooms like the one IBM has created in Rio. It worries Mr Townsend.

“The control room in Rio was created by a progressive mayor but what if the bad guys get in? Are we creating capabilities that can be misused?” he asks. Sourced from articles by Jane Wakefield Cities managed by its citizens There is another chapter in the smart city story - and this one is being written by citizens, who are using apps, DIY sensors, smart phones and the web to solve the city problems that matter to them.

Cities were once constructed by the efforts of individuals, until the grand plans of master architects, and then city planning departments took over, making sense of the “chaos.”

The city of the future will be both globally connected and highly local and customized -once again shaped primarily by the individuals living within it. This new power will include sustainable local economies and thanks to the miracle of the Internet combined with fast, easy access it to through ubiquitous mobile devices and sensors throughout our environment.

Don’t Flush Me is a neat little DIY sensor and app which is single-handedly helping to solve one of New York’s biggest water issues.

Every time there is heavy rain in the city, raw sewage is pumped into the harbour, at a rate of 27 billion gallons each year. Using an Arduino processor, a sensor which measures water levels in the sewer overflows and a smart phone app, Don’t Flush Me lets people know when it is ‘safe to flush’.

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project management

“

The control room in Rio was created by a progressive mayor but what if the bad guys get in?

Are we creating capabilities that can be misused?

”

Meanwhile Egg, a community-led sensor network, is alerting people to an often hidden problem in our cities. Researchers estimate that two million people die each year as a result of air pollution and as cities get more overcrowded, the problem is likely to get worse.

Egg is compiling data about air quality by selling cheap sensor which people put outside their homes where they collect readings of green gases, nitrogen oxide (NO2) and carbon monoxide (CO). The data is sent to the internet where it is integrated on a map to show pollution levels around the world.

Getting citizens involved in the process of improving cities is crucial, thinks Andrew Hudson-Smith, director of the Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis at University College, London.

He and his team have created a city dashboard as part of plans to make London smarter. Like Rio’s control room, the dashboard collates data such as pollution, weather and river levels.

The iPad wall is a cheaper alternative to Rio’s command room But it also looks at some things that Rio doesn’t - such as what is trending on Twitter and how happy the city is. A version of the dashboard is hooked up on a wall of iPads in the office of the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson.

Engineering company Arup generated a lot of buzz recently with a report predicting the building of 2050, containing modules for growing food, intelligent facades that change according to the weather and convert CO2, has integrated public transport and green pedestrian bridges and uses algae to provide power. This last isn’t so crazy: a prototype house powered by algae goes on show this month.

In Songdo, South Korea, all homes have video calling as standard and escalators only move when someone’s on them. Masdar in the United Arab Emirates is testing out driverless pod cars, like the system at Heathrow Terminal Five, which could spell the end for multistories as cars would take themselves off to where they’re needed. The Dutch are developing concrete that heals itself. And here in London Intel, Imperial and UCL are already trying to analyse real-time infrastructure data, like traffic flows and water supplies, to deliver better information to us citizens.

IBM also has a Smarter Cities initiative (see video) aiming at linking all the different ways cities run (health, transport, building, services etc) to make everything more efficient. This sounds more like where Smart London will be focusing its energies, but why stop there? We saw one vision of how London could look in 2050 during the Developing City exhibition last summer, by John Robertson Architects; these are more ideas and paths for how we could get there.

The reality is that most smart city projects are currently pretty small scale - creating tech hubs or green areas of the city, experimenting

www.sasdialliance.org.za

with smart electricity grids or introducing electric buses or bike-sharing schemes. As Dr Hudson-Smith puts it, “there is a lot of buzz around smart cities but there is no technology out there that is actually changing people’s lives.”

But he also thinks we are at a tipping point and in five years time he predicts “things will be incredibly smart”. At that point, the data infrastructure of our cities is going to become as important as the train and roads are now.

The purpose of cities Whether such data is controlled by big business or citizens is not yet clear, but it is worth remembering what cities were originally designed for, says Dan Hill, chief executive of research firm Fabrica.

“We don’t make cities to be efficient, we make cities for culture, commerce, community - all of which are very inefficient,” he said. In the rush to make them perform better, we could be missing their greatest asset. “It is going to be smart citizens that make smart cities,” he said

50 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Around the world such cities are already being built, from Masdar in Abu Dhabi to Songdo in South Korea. In the future everything in a city, from the electricity grid, to the sewer pipes to roads, buildings and cars will be connected to the network. Buildings will turn off the lights for you, self-driving cars will find you that sought-after parking space, even the rubbish bins will be smart.

While data may be able to predict where traffic jams will happen, it is not able to take cars off the road.

Israeli firm Waze asks citizens to help solve the problem, crowd-sourcing actual journeys to create a real-time map of traffic conditions. It is estimated that 20% of drivers in its native Israel contribute to and use the app with anecdotal evidence of widespread traffic meltdown when the service goes offline.

The city government of Rio has just announced a partnership with Waze, in an effort to integrate the technology into its operation centre. Interestingly Waze was recently bought

by Google for $1.3bn, possibly paving the way for the search engine to become the next large corporation to enter the smart city marketplace.

But how do we get to this smarter future.

Who will be monitoring and controlling the sensors that will increasingly be on every building, lamp-post and pipe in the city? The first phase of intelligent cities can be exciting.

The city becomes a living laboratory for smart technologies that can handle all major systems - water, transport, security, garbage, green buildings, clean energy, and more.

But at what point does this sensored city become the censored city? In many ways, when we put together all the digitized systems that are at work in a city we already have a sort of “turnkey” censored city in the making. The diverse intelligent systems and sensors need to work within a particular urban context and its multiple types of actors - from neighborhoods with their situated knowledge about the city, to building managers who know the innards of their buildings.

All should be able to connect with the central controls/controllers of intelligent systems that affect people. This is one way in which the censoring capacities built into intelligent systems can be tamed, contained.

All those sensors could lead to a new type of open-source city network.

But importantly, there is also a version available on the web. “The public has the same information as the policy-makers and that has the potential to be incredibly powerful,” he says. “A lot of the big firms are looking at the control room model, but it is backward thinking.”Why put the technology in one room when you can put it in the hands of everyone?” he asks.

Sourced from articles by Jane Wakefield and RACHEL HOLDSWORTH

SUPPLIER’S PROFILE

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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risk management

Maintaining accurate records are vital and could mean the difference between profit and loss www.alligatorstorage.co.uk

Keeping Effective Documentation K

eeping accurate records or documentation is of great importance and a vital function of construction management.

It could mean profit or loss if there are a lot of extra work or as a defense for potential claims. Though you may have records but if records are insufficient the best consultants or the best lawyers in the country cannot create or locate missing items for you. Usually the cost of compilation or reconstruction of lacking or inadequate records may be too high.

Maintaining effective documentation of your activities is not complicated and only needs a few simple guidelines and the keeping of organizational discipline.

Documentation disciplines for keeping of effective records are the same disciplines that management professionals use to make sure that equipment is properly maintained, with safe working practices

observed, and reports submitted on time: Instruction, Repetition, and Follow- up.

It is expected that completing paper work at some time will become burdensome.

This is the time that discipline is needed.

Profitability could depend on effective documentation or lack of it.

Checklist

A minimum checklist of records needs to be established by project managers.

An outline or standardized format for the organization of files required is beneficial for effective documentation. Suggested types of records in a well organized filing system are the following: • Original estimates and data of basis • Legal documents particularly contracts and addendums like change orders • All correspondence including pre-

52 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

contract correspondence • Minutes of meetings • Diaries, daily logs, etc.

• All weekly and monthly reports • Photographs • Engineering drawings, calculation and other technical information • Quality control and quality assurance records • Planning documents and schedules • Financial and cost reports • Assignment of equipment and utilization records • Personnel and payroll records It is vital to remember that the original contract, subcontracts, change orders, and all other legal documents are to be kept in locked fire proof cabinets or safes.

Correspondence, both outgoing and incoming, is normally filed in a

chronological order and since these are control files it needs to be protected from removal.

Correspondence is possibly your most important record. Letters need to be written for the following: To record your compliance with the contract (the same with contractually required submittals and reports); To confirm verbal requests or instructions; To report unforeseen events or conditions; To record your disagreement with a statement or position taken in writing by other sides and lastly; To provide timely notice for a request for time extensions or compensation.

Nowadays subject files are made with photo copies for convenient reference to specific commercial or technical subjects, like “Pipelines” or “Insurance”. Also many companies are computerized with subject files replaced by computerized indices and even correspondence is retrievable via computer.

Records of daily activities in logs or diaries shall include work activities and production of each day; quantities when applicable; milestone events; weather of each day and; events or conditions that affect production. If any operation planned is changed, prevented, or delayed it should be noted with reasons stated for the change.

Accidents that happen on or around jobsites need to be noted in daily diaries with particular attention even if it does not appear to directly your company.

Verbal requests or instructions need to be recorded as with formal inspections or visits to the sites by owner’s representatives, architect or engineer, or contractor. Assignment and utilization of labor and equipment must also be recorded in your daily records unless these are kept separately. Often contractors maintain good separate records of labor utilization but fail to do the same for equipment.

Diaries need to be concise, objective and updated daily otherwise information could be misplaced or forgotten. Field personnel could carry a pocket recorder and make verbal notes for transcription at the end of the day or the morning of the day after.

Minutes of meetings and periodic reports prepared by others need to be reviewed carefully with errors or omissions corrected in writing as soon as possible. Key verbal instructions or approvals issued need to be brought up in meetings thus problems are discussed

openly and recorded in meeting minutes.

“A picture is worth a thousand words” and photographs provide factual information that may not seem important at that time. Date each photo with identity of photographer plus a brief description when necessary. Video cameras also serve the same purpose.

Technical information, engineering drawings, calculations, test certificates, manuals and other technical information can be voluminous. Such documents should be dated and properly identified with revisions indicated. If stored separately or sent or received with transmittal correspondence, make sure those documents are properly crossreferenced with other documents and correspondence. Superseded documents or drawings should be marked “Void”.

Job records should be readily accessible and paper work easy to follow for any project related transactions. Tracking shop drawings from one supplier, for example, and submitted to the contractor three times, then sent to the owner’s engineer three times, returned twice for correction before final approval should not be a time consuming search. The contractor should easily be able to identify the final version upon which fabrication is performed.

Correct cost records are vital and cannot be overemphasized. Auditable, verifiable and accurate records of total job cost may satisfy accountants though it may not indicate costs of a particular item or work or additional extra work. Yet to request extra payment the contractor might be required to demonstrate that costs claimed were actually incurred on the extra work.

Records of costs incurred in the normal course of business carry more weight than after-the-fact reconstruction or estimate.

Accounting for costs need not be complex and many companies maintain uncomplicated cost codes tailored the particular requirements of their specialties.

Costs of equipment utilization should be properly recorded. A separate record of equipment utilization, in the same fashion as of that of labor utilization, by work item on a daily or weekly time sheet should be maintained unless equipment costs are part of the work items in the cost system.

Costs of extra work should be identified and recorded under cost codes set up specifically for extra work. Owner’s representatives shall be asked to sign acknowledging ‘extra work’ on current basis though these could be signed “without prejudice” pending final agreement.

Proper management of records and documents is an essential responsibility of project management and the ability to be able to easily retrieve documentation is as important as the creation and retention of records in the first place. The above check list items highlight the essential documentation that need to be maintained for a project.

Based on an article by Interface Consulting International, Inc.

www.theintegrationengineer.com

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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human resource management

Contracts need to be fair Biased contracts lead to disputes that delay work and increase cost

C

onstruction project contracts are drawn with the intention of avoiding problems and establishing harmonious and productive relations between parties involved. Unfortunately contracts at times also leads to dispute and claims. This normally happens when a contract drawn is one sided and unfair. Experience has shown that this often leads to litigation.

Disputes and other such disruptions are expensive to both owners and contractors and best avoided.

Construction contracts are drafted to assign responsibilities and risks as well as remedies between separate parties. Terms of the contract are based on the fact that someone must pay for all elements of a project under the contract.

When contracts are drafted changes or unforeseen problems that come up on a construction project are normally settled in a pre-agreed manner that will clearly identify the party that is made to pay.

Thus when an owner decides to add to

www.china-briefing.com

the scope of work, contracts will clearly allow for changes of the contract price to compensate the contractor for the cost of additional work.

However when a contract is ambiguous, or inherently unfair, and does not provide remedies, changes can very easily escalate into disputes.

When owners or designers, who traditionally draft contracts, attempt to shift risks that were traditionally theirs to contractors, in the mistaken belief that they are avoiding these risks, often discover that they are mistaken.

Contractors, who normally have little or no bargaining power, will seek recovery regardless of the language of the contract.

They have to do this in order to survive and are encouraged to do so by our legal system which is biased against unfair contracts, particular against the party that drafted the document.

Owners, or their representatives, who establish themselves as arbiters or dayto-day interpreters of the contract, will

54 | Philippine Construction&Design  July-2014

often be biased in cases of conflict of interest when their interpretation affect time and money. But such bias is often erroneous and misplaced. Contractors, denied compensation that they believe is due them under contract, will most likely seek legal redress. Courts often side with contractors, unless the contractor misread the contract.

Legal disputes and other disruptions on a construction project are expensive to both owners and contractors. The owner has costs of invested capital, construction over runs and resources that will not earn income until the facilities are operating and productive; the contractor on the other hand incurs the cost of equipment, salary of personnel, financing interests and bonding that are tied up in the project, plus the loss of opportunity to utilize these resources in other potentially profitable work.

The interest of owners and contractors are best cared when all contracting parties cooperate. This cooperation

makes good business sense and avoids the added costs of disruption caused by disputes.

Contract Language

Strict tightwad contracts written in the mistaken belief that it will control costs is unrealistic and counterproductive.

To assist contract preparation many architectural and engineering associations as well as contractors and subcontractors organizations have created standardized construction contract forms. The intent of these standardized forms is to help minimize the risks of the drafting party preparing biased contracts at the expense of other parties.

There have been a numbers of occasions in recent years wherein contract agreements and specifications biased against contractors and subcontractors.

Clauses preventing contractors from receiving compensation for unforeseen costs in many situations where in the contractors has little, if no, control, have been added. Making contractors fully responsible for unforeseen conditions have been common.

Yet the addition of exculpatory clauses rarely has the effect that owners want. Instead of reducing project costs it increases costs by delays caused by protracted disruptions to the project as well as legal costs.

A study conducted by the American Society of Civil Engineers in project costs and administration of unforeseen site conditions showed the following: • Claims for unforeseen site conditions by contractors because of economic pressures preventing them from including such costs in their bids.

• The share of costs for unforeseen site conditions borne by owners are largely unaffected by contract language.

• Costs of changes and claims are reduced with management techniques that encourage early resolution.

• Contract language that assigns all responsibility for site conditions on the contractor do not prevent claims.

Instead they prevent the situation from being managed in the field since lower management is rarely in position to disregard a contract clause.

• Contracts that permit extra payments for unexpected site conditions do not add to additional costs to the owner. Instead it enable early resolution of disputes and management of the situation.

Contract Administration

A possible conflict of interest could also arise if the construction manager is also the designer of the project. The objectivity of the construction manager could be placed in question when changes to the work become necessary.

The construction manager/designer might be reluctant to authorize additional time or compensation for work that the owner might view as design deficiency, and if professional liability is questioned the conflict gets compounded.

Recommendations

www.allpropertypeople.com.au

Assistance from specialists in areas such as construction management, engineering, architecture, law, insurance, real estate, et al, are often obtained by owners. These professionals are often able to provide owners with insight and expertise that minimize problems and enhance the project. The owner should however review and establish the rights and responsibilities that the various services are expected to perform and their relationships to each other. Disputes are minimized when all parties cooperate with mutual respect.

Prior to selecting professional services, owner should review and establish the rights, responsibilities, and conditions under which the providers of various services are expected to perform and their relationships with each other.

Cooperation and mutual respect are required between all parties if disputes are to be minimized.

Owners, when selecting architects, engineers, construction manager and other professionals should require references from projects these professional have been involved in over the last few years. Owners need information from all parties about past experience with disputes, changes, change order management, and litigation. Owners should determine if professionals have a pattern with involvement in disputes.

Cooperation and Respect

Design work should be completed to the fullest extent possible on “fixed” price projects prior to the issuance of the bid documents. Yet all parties must still need to understand that modifications are still likely needed. Project funds should include a reasonable contingency to such changes and other extras with contract language allowing changes and unforeseen events to handled quickly and fairly.

Projects that are poorly planned and mismanaged will invariably result in higher costs and delays. An owner needs not to ignore the project and leave administration entirely to others. The owner needs to monitor work, review correspondence and periodically meet with the people or companies involved and generally be well informed of the project status.

Recommendations

Contracts need to be thoroughly read, understood and analyzed before contractors submit their bids. If contract terms are onerous and not negotiable, and an appropriate cost for unexpected risks cannot be included in the bid to cover the exposure to unforeseen circumstances then contractors should refrain from submitting bids for the job.

It would also be wise for contractors to study the contracting history of owners, designers and construction manager.

If there is a pattern of disputes then it would be better for the contractor to try negotiating a contract that will protect the contractor; increase the bid price to cover contingencies; or to refrain from bidding for the job.

Construction managers appointed as intermediary should have clear and explicit authority to act as owner’s representative, otherwise the contractor should make sure that the owner is kept inform of any change at all times particularly when orders concern changes in extra time and cost.

Contractors working on projects should perform work in a professional manner; meet the deadlines set in the contract for submittals of the construction; maintain complete and accurate records; and support price changes carefully and accurately with detailed supporting records.

Source: Interface Consutling International, Inc.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY PP-R PIPES AND FITTINGS

For Hot and Cold Water

Advantages: • Resistant to corrosion • Leak Proof • For hot and cold Water • Can be connected to any other material used in existing installations • Easy installation • High Impact strength and flexibility PP-R Pipes and Fittings Manufacutured by Tanay Industries Corp. For more information contact LYS Marketing Corporation with Telephone No.: (632) 4122452; 4127155

Trimble GCSFlex for Excavators Trimble GCSFlex for Excavators is a simple, entry-level technology for that provides the operator with visual guidance of the position and angle of the bucket, stick, boom and body. This can be used with laser catchers for excavation of basements, foundations, and footers; trenching with flat bottom or simple slopes; grading of embankments; profiles of canals and batters; and layering. This is ideal for site development, utilities and public works.

Excavator owners can increase productivity - even less experienced operators become more productive, more quickly. It allows the operators to increase accuracy, avoid rework and perform higher quality work. Installation and calibration takes only 2 hours. No expensive tools or welding are required. The whole system fits on a case.

Trimble GCSFlex is distributed by SITECH PHL Inc. Contact (info@SITECHPHL.com to schedule a demo) or visit www.SITECH-phl.com

Hydraulic Breaker Silenced-xseries - Adapted piston idle blow prevention function as standard Enable the vibration to be reduced - Number of parts are minimized - Simplicity of maintenance - Much lower operating cost - Improved impact forces - More powerful and durable structure For more information, call Ecomac Equipment & Dev’t. Corp. Tel. Nos. +63 02 372-7106 +63 02 374-3351 to 55 loc. 12 & 13 Website: ecomac.com.ph ; email: eedc@pdc.bayandsl.ph ; eedc_sales@pdc. bayandsl.ph

INNOVATIVE TILING TECHNOLOGY

9100 system DTM Epoxy Mastic

This 2 in 1 Adhesive & Grout bonds and grouts your mosaic tiles all in one step.

ABC recommends using the thinbed method application for faster, professional and lasting tile installations. The 2 in 1 mortar is economical because it saves time and labor costs. Made of high quality portland cement, natural fillers and selected chemical additives, ABC 2 in 1 is an eco-friendly product that assures lasting adhesion. To meet the demands of the Philippine market, ABC 2 in 1 also comes in color white to beautify and brighten your tiles at the same time.

A pioneer in modern tiling technology, ABC Phil. Inc. Inc has developed the latest building solution for a faster and more convenient Mosaic Tile Installation.

56 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

Superior protection that requires no priming: • Maximum corrosion protection • Applicable floor to ceiling, • Less prep and application time • VOC compliant For more information Contact Holz Coatings Int’l. Inc. at Tel. No.: (+632) 6425022; (+632) 5702491 e-mail: holz@holzcoatings.com, visit www. holzcoatings.com

SCS MODEL ELECTRONIC TRUCK SCALES SCS MODEL ELECTRONIC TRUCK SCALES are the new generation of scales improved on the basis of traditional truck scales. Adopting excellent branded bridge load cells and weighing indicator originally manufactured through Japanese technology with good anti – interference performance.

Our truck scale model is the best choice of trade balance weighing used in metallurgical industry, coal industry, factory and mine, wharf and warehouse.

ADDRESS & CONTACT NO. • MAIN OFFICE: - 25 Arty 1 St., Brgy. Talipapa, Novaliches, Quezon City Metro Manila 1116 - Tel No.: (02) 447 - 1977 / 447 – 7777 - Fax No.: 448 - 1111 - E-mail: monsterweigher@yahoo.com BRANCHES • CEBU Branch: (032) 345 - 6111 • CAGAYAN DE ORO Branch: (088) 310 - 5777 • ISABELA Branch: (078) 652 - 1212 • DAVAO Branch: (082) 233 – 1111 COLOR THEME of ASUKI (BLUE) 1. C=100, M=62, Y=0, K=20 (Primary Color) 2. C=100, M=10, Y=0, K=10 (Secondary Color)

LANKO 101 PARENTDUIT 101 PARENDUIT is a skim smoothing rendering paste to be mixed with cement or gypsum for levelling uneven surfaces and filling small bubbles in concrete surfaces. A smooth surface is obtained by eliminating blemishes such as grooves, seams and rock pockets.

USES: Interior / Exterior, Reinforced concrete; Precast concrete panels; Traditional rendering mortars.

Interior only: Lightweight concrete or lightweight block. Gypsum board (in gypsum mix).

For more information call PAREX Group Inc. Tel. (632) 672 1708 Fax. (632) 672.17.07 e-mail: philippines@parexdavco.com or visit http://www.parexgroup.com.ph.

Tokina® 3 in 1 Rechargeable LED Flashlight TRL-001 Features: • 3 in 1: Flashlight, Emergency Light & Sensor Night Light • 14+6 super bright LEDs • Comes with AC plugin contact-less charging base • Automatically turns on when there is power failure • At night, lights up when motion is detected (IR motion sensor) • Modern, minimalistic

design • Lithium-ion battery lasts for up to 8 hours depending on use For more information call Switch Sales International Tel. No.: (632) 6228922; (632) 7323709 E-mail: aiinno.sales@gmail.com

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY

CP HYDRAULIC POWERPACK Gratings/platforms Features: Anti Thief, Light weight/low installation cost, Corrosion/ Fire Resistant, Very Low noise on impact payload, Many colors available, Bearing and Load Standard.

Serial No. Application Capacity 1 Walk Platform 2kN/m2 equivalent uniformly

distributed load.

2 Platform between 3.5 kN/m2 Equivalent uni

stairs formly distributed load.

3 Overhaul Platform 4kN/m2 equivalent uniformly

distributed load.

4 Staircase Tread Proposed by the clients.

Exclusively Distributed by: D.B. International Sales & Services, Inc. for more information call Tel. No.: (632) 723.4460 to 64 or visit www.dbiphil.com

CP Hydraulic Powerpack is an extremely versatile hydraulic driven power generator construction equipment which has attachments for breaking, cutting, coring, pile driving and water pump. It functions as a compact hydraulic system similar to that backhoes. Attachments such the BRK 70 can be connected to the powerpack can be used as a 70 pound jackhammer. Another useful attachment is the SAW 14 which can be used as a 12-14” concrete cutter. Other attachments can provide other extremely useful functions which will help user accomplish the job faster, can just load it in a pick-up truck or SUV then perform all the necessary road works. Compare to using the conventional screw compressors which need to be towed behind a separate vehicle or a large and heavy concrete cutter which takes up a lot of space, the user can just bring the powerpack and use the attachments to get the same job done. Save time, save space, save effort, cost savings.

For more information contact Elektro Werk at 411-0333; 724-1686.

The rock security

Serious about security?

Having a CCTV installed at your place does not guarantee your safety. But it’s a good start. Choose the cameras for your security system that not only clearly catch the image as it happens, but deliver as crisp images when you review. Can you review/replay the images clearly? Does your system send alerts when suspicious accurrence is detected? Can you view and monitor while you are mobile? Does your system reliably save and put a time stamp on the recorded data? if you are serious about your security for your home or business. Choose the provider that can give you the total solution.

Research and development team continues to develop products using leading technology and innovative design.

For more information call The Rock Security Tel. No.: (+632) 7095125 E-mail: info@therocksecurity.com visit www. therocksecurity.com

full-colour wide series refina

Various colour with the unique design to achieve elegance with style.

For more information call Panasonic Philippines Eco Solutions Group Tel. No.: (02) 886-6291-94, visit www. panasonic.com.ph available in all leading electrical and hardware stores nationwide.

Rite Hite, Revolution Fan, HVLS (High Volume Low speed) Move the most air over the largest area at the lowest cost Benefits. Improve worker productivity, Year round comfort for employees & factory workers, Energy savings, Cools down warehouses to protect product during storage Please visit http://www.ritehitefans. Suite 103, TWG, Makati Cinema Square, TWG, Chino com, Exclusively sold by Basic Roces Ave. Tel. 811 1572 – 73, Fax. 811 1652 Email: Machinery & Acoustics Corporation at info@basicmac.com

58 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

www.equipmentworld.com

Hilti Hollow Drill Bit

Dust-free concrete hole drilling eliminates the tedious task of having to brush and blow to clean out the hole. Conventional hammer drill bits generate a lot of dust, forcing you to blow out the hole with compressed air and then clean around the hole with a brush and blow again. It’s a slow, dirty, annoying process.

Hilti came up with a system that solves these problems by combining a hollow drill bit with a vacuum that cleans the holes as you drill. Perforations in the side of the Hilti TE-CD and TE-YD hollow drill bits pull concrete dust out of the hole when they are hooked up to a Hilti VC 20/40 vacuum system.

And because the holes are cleaned by the hollow drill bit, no hole cleaning is required after drilling. This improves the reliability of the adhesive anchor system with no reduction in performance vs. conventionally drilled holes, saving time and mis-installation of anchors.

The idea for the Hilti hollow drill bit emerged from a combination of market research and brainstorming, says Trey Sklar, business unit manager for power tools and accessories. Hilti sells direct with a crew of more than 1,000 sales people who are in regular contact with customers, and this helped shape the discussion, Sklar says.

Hilti kicked off the process with what it calls a “technology project,” to research and develop prototypes. The initial experiments presented challenges, Sklar says. “You are linking a drill bit with a Combi-hammer, a vacuum cleaner and a chemical anchor, and we had to make sure all that worked together,” he says.

The first round of prototype bits suffered from breakage. The solution was to vary the thickness of the rim on each different diameter bit – thinner for the small bits, thicker for the large sizes.

The connection point to the vacuum had to be engineered to be able to withstand jobsite abuse, and the different dust flow characteristics of each different diameter bit and the number of dust ports in different sizes had to be finessed as well.

akflow.com

www.lmcc.com

Defender LED 6000 Work Light

Somero Laser Screed The Somero CopperHead Laser Screed is a walk-behind laser screed which cuts and screeds to a finish grade with laser controlled accuracy.

The CopperHead XD is the choice for contractors who want better performance when they encounter difficult applications such as: chaired rebar, lower slump or poor subgrades.

Features & Benefits • Improved Performance • More Torque • Power steering • 13 HP Robin Engine • Vibrator soft start Manufacturer: Somero

Genie AWP Super Series Personnel Lift The Genie Aerial Work Platform AWP line emphasizes portability and ease of operation. Reach working heights of up to 46 ft 4 in.

• Ground and platform controls with auxiliary platform lowering • Outrigger storage pockets • Sturdy tie-downs • Will fit through a standard door opening Manufacturer: Genie

Probuilt’s Defender LED 6000 highoutput extreme flood work light produces 6,000 lumens of clean white light and is equivalent to the light output of a 500 watt halogen but can be up to 85% more efficient, according to the manufacturer.

• 120-degree lighting angle • ABS outer casing for durability • Passed 6-ft. drop test • Universal mounting bracket for mounting head onto a floor stand, magnetic base or tripod • Internal cooling fan automatically starts to maintain optimal internal temperatures

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY

The Turn-a-Rack storage and transport rack has been restructured using round steel instead of square to enable the rack to be 30% lighter in weight, yet more durable in strength.

• Use of round steel and closed ends reduces risk of bending • Part of the MatPak (complete package) or available separately to go with the company’s ground protection mats

The Ameripolish SureLock Color System is a three-part kit engineered to lock in and protect color in polished concrete. The three parts SureLock Dye, SureLock Densifier and SureLock Stain Protector - are designed to work together as a total system with each chemically bonding to the concrete and each other. The system protects from moisture, efflorescence, stains, etching agents and ultraviolet exposure.

UV stabilizer is added to the dye to provide additional color protection.

The densifier is a proprietary lithiumbased densifier/hardener. The Stain Protector provides an additional application of UV stabilizers.

American Decorative Concrete Supply Company

Construction Master Pro for PCs and iPhones The Construction Master Pro construction-math calculator is now available on several new platforms including the iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Windowsbased PCs. The iPhone application features a built-in help for full and clear definitions, explanations and examples. With Windows, the calculator image can be displayed in three sizes, includes the CM Pro and CM Pro Trig and an expanded tape function lets you load, save and print calculations. iPhone versions for ConcreteCalc Pro, Ultra Measure Master, Material Estimator, HeavyCalc Pro and Measure Master Pro, plus a couple of Real Estate calculators are also available.

Calculated Industries Inc.

BASF’s ZERO-C Concrete Repair Technology is a line of cementitious repair mortars that exhibit no cracking when tested in accordance with ASTM C1518. Its patent pending mix-and-match material design allows a single base mortar to be modified by using different liquids to change the material consistency as project demands change.

BASF Construction Chemicals

Arrowhead Control Joint Quaker Plastics’ Arrowhead Control Joint features a unique arrow-shape that presses easily into concrete. No channels obstruct installation, and the unit locks into the concrete with minimal seepage. Double-thick peel-off tape protects the top of the joint during installation. The Arrowhead Control Joint is available in 12-ft. lengths in white, tan or gray colors. A snap-on attachment creates a Full Expansion & Contraction Joint.

60 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

www.calculated.com

www.forconstructionpros.com

ZERO-C Concrete Repair Technology

Ameripolish SureLock Color System

www.dynamicdiamondtooling.com

Improved Turn-a-Rack

cardinalsystemsinc.com

PRICE MOVEMENT

Retail Price Index of Selected Construction Materials in the National Capital Region (2000=100) : May 2014

Year-on-Year and Month-on-Month Growth Rates of Construction Materials Retail Price Index

All Items May 2014 April 2014 May 2013

Year-on-Year 1.1 1.0 4.0 Month-on- 0.3 0.1 0.1 Month • Year-on-Year The annual growth in the Construction Materials Retail Price Index (CMRPI) in the National Capital Region (NCR) picked-up 1.1 percent in May. It was pegged at 1.0 percent last month and 4.0 percent in May 2013. A faster annual gain was noticed in tinsmithry materials index at 2.9 percent in May;

Year-todate 0.9

electrical materials index, 1.6 percent; and painting materials and related compounds index, 0.9 percent. On the other hand, annual increments in the indices of carpentry materials and masonry materials correspondingly decelerated to 1.2 percent and 2.3 percent. The plumbing and miscellaneous construction materials indices registered annual decreases of 0.3 percent and 3.1 percent, respectively.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design 

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PRICE MOVEMENT • Month-on-Month

Compared from a month ago level, the CMRPI in NCR advanced 0.3 percent in May. Contributing to the uptrend were the higher monthly increases in the following indices: miscellaneous construction materials, 0.8 percent; tinsmithry materials, 0.5 percent; painting materials

and related compounds, 0.4 percent; and masonry materials, 0.1 percent. The electrical materials index had a slower monthly growth of 0.1 percent while carpentry materials index retained its previous month rate of 0.1 percent. The index of plumbing materials had a zero growth during theofmonth.

Republic the Philippines

Price hikes were seen in steel bars, corrugated GI sheets, selected paints and related compounds, plywood, lockset, wiring devices, cement and hollow blocks.

NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE INDUSTRY AND TRADE STATISTICS DEPARTMENT Manila

TABLE 1 CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS WHOLESALE PRICE INDEX INDEX (CMWPI) IN THE CAPITAL REGION (NCR)REGION (NCR) TABLE 1 CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS WHOLESALE PRICE (CMWPI) INNATIONAL THE NATIONAL CAPITAL (2000 = 100) (2000 = 100)

Line No.

MAY ALL ITEMS

FEB

JAN

AVE

DEC

NOV

OCT

2013 SEP

AUG

JULY

JUNE

MAY

2014

COMMODITY GROUP APR

MAR

225.7

225.5

225.1

224.8

224.5

221.6

224.0

223.6

222.9

222.9

222.3

222.0

221.4

220.9

1

SAND AND GRAVEL

210.4

210.1

209.2

207.9

207.4

202.3

203.5

203.5

203.1

203.1

202.8

202.3

202.3

202.3

2

CONCRETE PRODUCTS

207.8

207.5

207.1

206.9

206.2

204.0

206.3

206.3

205.2

205.0

204.6

204.6

204.6

204.3

3

CEMENT

195.7

195.6

195.6

195.6

194.4

190.2

193.7

193.1

192.0

192.0

192.2

190.7

190.4

190.2

4

HARDWARE

218.7

218.6

217.7

217.4

216.6

214.1

216.3

216.2

215.0

214.9

214.1

213.9

213.9

213.7

5

PLYWOOD

182.9

182.9

182.4

182.0

181.6

180.5

181.4

181.4

181.2

181.2

180.4

180.4

180.4

180.3

6

LUMBER

238.4

238.1

237.1

237.1

235.2

230.0

232.6

232.6

231.3

231.3

230.0

230.0

230.0

230.0

7

G.I. SHEET

189.2

189.2

188.9

188.2

187.3

182.3

184.5

184.5

183.9

183.9

183.7

183.7

183.5

183.5

8

REINFORCING STEEL

253.5

252.3

252.3

251.9

252.9

251.4

252.7

252.7

252.6

252.6

251.8

251.3

251.3

251.3

9

STRUCTURAL STEEL

283.8

283.6

283.4

283.2

283.8

281.1

282.0

282.0

281.7

281.7

281.7

281.7

281.8

281.7

10 TILEWORKS

187.0

186.6

186.6

185.8

185.6

179.8

182.6

182.2

182.1

180.3

179.8

179.8

179.8

179.8

11 GLASS AND GLASS PRODUCTS

182.4

181.9

181.9

181.9

181.9

179.5

179.7

179.7

179.7

179.7

179.7

179.7

179.7

179.4

DOORS, JAMBS, AND STEEL CASEMENT

203.3

203.0

203.0

202.8

203.1

200.7

202.8

202.8

201.9

201.9

200.8

200.8

200.7

200.7

13 ELECTRICAL WORKS

201.8

201.8

201.2

200.8

200.8

197.8

200.0

200.0

199.1

199.1

197.8

197.6

197.5

197.3

PLUMBING FIXTURES & 14 ACCESSORIES / WATERWORKS

167.8

167.5

166.4

165.3

165.3

160.0

162.1

162.1

161.0

161.0

160.3

160.3

159.8

159.3

15 PAINTING WORKS

205.8

205.4

205.1

204.8

204.5

203.8

204.4

204.4

204.2

204.2

203.9

204.0

203.9

203.7

16 PVC PIPES

180.3

179.7

179.7

179.7

179.7

175.0

178.1

178.1

176.7

176.7

175.1

175.1

174.3

174.3

12

17 FUELS AND LUBRICANTS

339.1

340.4

339.1

339.6

338.5

333.3

339.3

335.2

335.3

337.2

335.5

333.9

328.0

324.6

18 ASPHALT

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

464.0

114.6

Philippines 114.6 114.6 Republic 114.6of the 114.6 114.6 114.6 NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE INDUSTRY AND TRADE STATISTICS DEPARTMENT Manila

114.6

114.6

114.6

114.6

114.6

114.6

114.6

19 MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT RENTAL

Table 3 Month-on-Month Percent Change on Construction Materials Retail Price Index in the National Capital Region Table 3 Month-on-Month Percent Change on Construction Materials Retail Price Index in the National Capital Region (2000 = 100) (2000=100) COMMODITY GROUP

2014 MAY

APR

MAR

2013 FEB

JAN

DEC

NOV

ALL ITEMS

0.3

0.1

0.8

-0.2

-0.2

0.0

0.0

A. CARPENTRY MATERIALS

0.1

0.1

0.3

0.4

-0.2

0.1

B. ELECTRICAL MATERIALS

0.1

0.7

0.4

0.1

-0.7

0.0

C. MASONRY MATERIALS

0.1

0.0

3.8

-0.7

0.8

D. PAINTING MATERIALS & RELATED COMPOUNDS

0.4

-0.1

0.3

0.2

-0.4

E. PLUMBING MATERIALS

0.0

0.1

-0.2

0.1

F. TINSMITHRY MATERIALS

0.5

-0.1

0.8

-0.4

G. MISCELLANEOUS CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

0.8

-1.0

1.6

-2.8

Sources of Basic Data: NSO and other reporting establishments Processed by NSO

62 | Philippine Construction&Design July-2014

OCT

SEP

AUG -0.1

JUL 0.2

JUN 0.1

MAY

0.1

0.0

0.1

-0.2

0.4

-0.6

0.1

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.0

0.5

0.4

-0.1

0.0

0.2

-0.1

-0.2

-0.1

-1.2

-0.3

0.1

0.3

-0.3

1.7

-0.1

0.2

0.5

-0.1

0.3

0.4

-0.7

-0.4

-0.3

-0.1

-0.1

0.2

-0.2

-0.1

0.2

0.2

-0.1

0.8

0.1

0.5

0.1

0.1

0.2

-0.4

0.7

-0.5

-0.4

0.3

0.3

-2.1

1.0

-1.0

0.4

-0.2

0.5

Saiber Media Incorporated

Publishers: General

Philippine Construction and Design is published to serve the construction industry and all its stakeholders particularly architects, engineers, contractors and suppliers, providing them news summaries and information on latest developments, management technologies, new products and equipment, cost movements of construction materials, profiles of leading personalities in the industry, construction projects, etc. The e-magazine also discuss’ issues and topics that are important to the construction trade. It serves as a voice for the industry as a whole as well as provide information that construction professionals will find useful to their business and profession.

Publisher

Publisher are Filipino based in Thailand with 40 years of experience in publishing since 1972. They pioneered in the publication of construction, business and tourist publications in Thailand. Publishing Siam Construction, a monthly trade journal for the construction industry, What’s On This Week, What’s On Pallaya, What’s On Phuket, What’s On Chiangmai and What’s On Samui, all tourist publication located in major travel destinations in Thailand.

They also publish a newspaper Samui Express in the Island of Samui.

Over 20 years ago in the Philippines, they also published Philippine Civil Engineer, a professional publication published for Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE), Philippine Construction Management, a professional journal for construction executives; and various directories for professional buyers like the Philippine Construction Directory, Philippine Export Directory, and Philippine Professional Buyers Guide. However, they closed their Philippine operations around 10 years ago after almost 20 years in the country due to political problems at the time and the ensuing financial tumoil.

The Publishers plan to re-establish their operations initially with this construction publication, Philippine Construction & Design, to be followed with other magazines involving trade and logistics, medical hospitals and clinics, travel and hotel management within the next 24 months after the launch of Philippine Construction & Design.

The Philippine Construction & Design is an e-magazine published monthly

by Saiber Media Incorporated with business address at 121 Splendor Hills Aznar Road, Pardo Cebu City.

Telephone Number +63 02.463.4352 Cebu: +63.032.5119499 Laguna: +63 049.5230132 Office Website is www.philippineconstructionanddesign.com E-mail address: saibermediaincorporated@yahoo.com.ph;

saibermediainc@yahoo.com.ph.

Send email for your comments and suggestion to saibercraft@yahoo.com; jo727ph@yahoo.com; jo727ph@gmail.com

Readership, Distribution and Circulation

The publication is published in the web and is made available for free to all interested. The web has potentially millions of readers all over the world though the magazine’s primary target readers are the professionals and decision makers involved in the Philippine Construction, which is estimated to be over 100,000 stakeholders in the industry. Readers include major decision makers and top executives that make buying decisions, leading government officials, and other professionals involved in planning, investing, design and construction.

July-2014 Philippine Construction&Design

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64 | Philippine Construction&Design  July-2014