business chronicles GRO.SAXETCCAP.WWW
VOL. 1 ISSUE 2 - 2ND QUARTER 2019
PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
INAUGURATED!
DALLAS HOUSTON
MCALLEN SAN ANTONIO
“BRIDGING FILIPINO AND AMERICAN BUSINESSES ACROSS THE SEAS.”
PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TEXAS BUSINESS CHRONICLES PUBLISHER PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF TEXAS EDITOR IN CHIEF GUS MERCADO PRODUCTION TEAM ASSISTANT EDITOR DANIELLA FLANAGAN, MINT CHIP PRODUCTIONS @MINTCHIPPRODCO DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS Web: www.pacctexas.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/paccfilam ADVERTISING INQUIRIES PACC-TEXAS 8315 NAVISOTA DR. LANTANA, TX 76226 Tel. (940) 728-2222 info@pacctexas.org CELEBRATING OUR STATE OFFICERS Gary Ilagan, State President Gus Mercado, State Executive Director Flor Guinhawa, Deputy Executive Director Rowena Watters, Regional VP Greater Dallas Bobby Reyes, Acting Regional VP Greater Houston Rhodora Elizondo, Regional VP Rio Grande Valley Robert Sibug, Regional VP San Antonio/Central TX Jennifer Cleveland, State Secretary Elna Mallari, State Treasurer Hon. Ethel R. Mercado, Pres. Emeritus/Founder
PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF TEXAS is in no way responsible for the loss of any unsolicited materials. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts or art. PACC TX is not responsible or liable for any misspellings, incorrect dates, or incorrect information in its captions, calendar, or other listings. The opinions expressed within the fair confines of Business Chronicles magazine do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the magazine or any of its agents, staff, employees, members, interns, volunteers, or distribution venues. Bylined articles and editorial represent the views of their authors. Letters to the editor are welcome. All letters may be edited for style and libel, and are subject to condensation. Business Chronicles accepts advertisements from advertisers believed to be of good reputation but cannot guarantee the authenticity or quality of objects and/or services advertised. As well, Business Chronicles is not responsible for any claims made by its advertisers. As the publisher, PACC TX reserves the right to accept or to reject any editorial or advertising matter. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2019.
PACC TEXAS OFFICERS WWW.PACCTEXAS.ORG
Gary Ilagan, State President Gus Mercado, State Executive Director Flor Guinhawa, Deputy Executive Director Rowena Watters, Regional VP Greater Dallas Bobby Reyes, Acting Regional VP Greater Houston Rhodora Elizondo, Regional VP Rio Grande Valley Robert Sibug, Regional VP San Antonio/Central TX Jennifer Cleveland, State Secretary Elna Mallari, State Treasurer Hon. Ethel R. Mercado, Pres. Emeritus/Founder
MISSION STATEMENT
To inspire the spirit of entrepreneurship among Filipinos, Filipino-Americans and their business associates to promote the growth of business and professions, and to be of service to our communities; To support and promote trade, investments, tourism and other economic relations and activities between the Philippines and the United States.
COVER STORY PHILIPPINE CONSULATE OFFICE OPEN IN HOUSTON TEXAS AFTER 25 YEARS!
Pictured: H.E. Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel G. Romualdez (middle) is joined by the new Houston Consul-General Jerril G. Santos (fifth from left) and all the Philippine Consuls-General and Honorary Consuls. Left to right: Andre Peter Estanislao, Special Assistant to the Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, New Orleans Honorary Consul Robert Romero, Texas Honorary Consul Ethel R. Mercado, New York Consul-General Claro Cristobal, Chicago Consul-General Gina Jamoralin, Hawaii Consul-General Joselito Alegado Jimeno; L.A. Consul-General Adelio Cruz; and San Francisco Consul-General Henry Bansurto.
HOUSTON -The Philippine Consulate General in Houston celebrated its reopening after it closed 25 years ago. Dignitaries and consuls general from all over the world came to Houston at the new consulate in southwest Houston to celebrate the inaugural ceremony Friday. "I would say it's pretty big, because we bring our services to their doorstep rather than have them go to places like Chicago or LA, which used to cover this area. Now they are just minutes away," the newly-appointed Houston Consul-General Jerril G. Santos said. Santos said the consulate shut its doors 25 years ago due to budget issues, but officials say with 200,000 Filipinos in need of its services here in Greater Houston, the Philippine government approved its re-establishment. "Several former ambassadors and all of the former consul generals and then the community at large have been petitioning the Philippine government for 20 years to make this a reality, and finally it's here," Gus Mercado, a longtime Texas Filipino community leader, said. Mercado and his wife Honorary Consul Ethel helped lead the decades-long effort to bring the consulate back. According to consular officials, the plan was finally approved and funded during the term of President Benigno S. Aquino III and came to fruition during the term of President Rodrigo Duterte.
WRITTEN BY: KPRC2 REPORTER - ROSE ANN ARAGON
CONSULAR NEWS
The Philippine Consulate General in Houston reopens for first time in 25 years
""This is the beginning of a new day, and it bodes well
When the Consulate in Houston was closed down
for the Filipino community," Mercado said. "Honorary
25 years ago, it was placed under the jurisdiction
Consul Ethel Mercado here and the Philippine American
of Washington DC briefly, then Chicago took over
Chamber of Commerce have somewhat filled the void
for a few years. Then, for 15 years, Texas was
and mitigated the Texas Filipinos’ suffering with the
placed under the Los Angeles Consulate, along
Consular Outreach Program that we've been doing here with Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Arkansas and for 10 years with the Consulate General officials and
the entire southern California. It was when
staff from Los Angeles. We've helped 40,000 Filipinos
Houston was a part of the Los Angeles consular
with their consular needs through the Outreach. But
region that the Outreach program was established,
this is a very welcomed development. It's finally here,
managed by the Honorary Consulate in Dallas and
and we love it that the consulate has finally been
the consulate’s volunteer partners, the Philippine-
reopened."
American Chambers of Commerce in Houston, Dallas and McAllen. In addition to Texas, the new
The program included the singing of the Filipino
consulate in Houston under Consul General Jerril
national anthem and the Star Spangled Banner by
G. Santos will now serve New Mexico, Arkansas,
“Filipino Chit Chat” talk show host Vincent Evangelista
Louisiana, Mississippi and Oklahoma.
and Sheryn Regis. Anything and everything that a consulate can offer, Speakers included Santos, the associate regional
we are doing that," Santos said.
director of the U.S. Department of State's Office of Foreign Missions Robert Hopkins as well as the consul
The consulate will also work to expand and
general of Panama, Juan B. Sosa. Ambassador
strengthen ties with the U.S. "Eighty-five percent of
Romualdez was the special guest of honor.
Filipinos believe that the U.S. is our most trusted ally, and we will continue to trust in them, just as
"We have 200,000 Filipinos who actually live around
they trust in us," Romualdez said.
here under the jurisdiction of Houston, and I know it's actually a growing community. We have a lot of Filipinos Many attendees said this day is one they would who are actually migrating here," Romualdez said.
never forget. "Just to hear our national anthem being sung here gives me goosebumps," Santos
Also in attendance were the consul general of Los
said.
Angeles, Adelio Cruz; consul general of Chicago, Gina Jamoralin; consul general of New York, Claro Cristobal; consul general of Hawaii, Joselito Alegado Jimeno; consul general of San Francisco, Henry Bensuerto; consul general of Louisiana, Roberto Romero; and the honorary consul general of Texas, Ethel Mercado.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL INTERVIEWS FROM ROSE ANN ARAGON
Ethel and Gus Mercado with the Ambassador and the Consuls-General in the U.S.
Consul-General Jerril G. Santos and Ambassador Romualdez with Honorary Consul Ethel R. Mercado and Gus Mercado
PACCTX Business Chronicles
The Houston Consular Corps came to celebrate with the Filipinos
GUESTS PLEASE ENJOY SOME PICTURES OF THE GUESTS AND THE GUESTS OF HONOR AT THE CEREMONY FOR THE OPENING OF THE PHILIPPINE CONSULATE! HOUSTON, TEXAS
PACC Texas officers from San Antonio, Dallas, Houston and McAllen with Consul Gilbert Segarra
Top Left: With Reg. Director of US State Department Robert Hopkins and Panama Con-Gen and Dean of Consular Corps Juan B. Sosa. Center Left: Filipino student musicians. Center Right: Consular staff with Ambassador Romualdez. Top Right: Consul-General Jerril G. Santos welcomes the Ambassador and special guests. Bottom Left: The Ambassador with the PACC Region Chairs Bottom Right: PACC Region Officers with L.A. Consul-General Adel Cruz.
ROSE ANN ARAGON KPRC CHANNEL 2 HOUSTON TEXAS Rose-Ann Aragon is a proud Filipina American reporter for KPRC Ch2 News for NBC in Houston. Shooting, writing and editing, she is a FilipinaAmerican multimedia reporter who is thrilled to call Houston her new home. She comes to H-Town from the Midwest. Rose-Ann graduated summa cum laude ind a Bachelors of Science degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Rose-Ann was also a Bronze Tablet Scholar, salutatorian and in the top three percent of the university's graduating class. She speaks Italian, loves old school jazz and is only recently retiring as the starting fullback in an all-girls football league. Rose-Ann firmly believes that journalism is a leap of faith in the future.
As a reporter for ABC in Cincinnati, she sought the voices of those who felt unheard, kept public officials accountable for their promises and covered breaking news from fires to homicides. Working for NBC in Peoria, IL, Rose-Ann was on the ground, leading coverage of the deadly 2013 tornadoes in Washington, IL and was also the economic development Caterpillar Inc. reporter. She also trained photographers as the Multimedia Director of IMPULSE Magazine, a small lifestyle publication. In her spare time, Rose-Ann loves to check out different places to eat! She is thrilled to explore Houston's burgeoning food scene. She also loves to learn, especially about different cultures including her own. She is an advocate for cultural diversity and community engagement. Rose-Ann co-founded a Filipino-American young professional network and cocoordinated the largest leadership development and community building Filipinointerest conference in the Midwest. Rose-Ann Aragon also leads her own award-winning series, Generation Under Fire, traveling the country to produce stories related to school security after the recent school shootings.
She empowers and connects the Filipino American community through her work at KPRC advocating for the Congressional Gold Medal ceremony for Filipino WWII veterans and covering the reopening of the Philippine Consulate General in Houston. Rose-Ann's Filipina identity is something she truly cherishes. She always loves a good story. If you have story ideas, please feel free to email her and/or follow her on social media. Email: raragon@kprc.com Twitter: @RAragonKPRC2
PEZA PARTNERS WITH FIL-AM LEADERS TO GENERATE PHILIPPINE INVESTMENTS LOS ANGELES — The director of the Philippine Economic
Plaza, who heads PEZA, says with the Duterte
Zone Authority met recently with Fil-Am business leaders
administration’s crackdown on drug use and corruption
in the hopes that business will boom in the Philippines by
and the skills Filipinos already have, the timing is right for
forging partnerships with mainstream and Filipino
outside investments to enter the Philippines. She
business groups abroad.
explained that under her watch, PEZA is hoping to reach out to as many industries in as many areas to work
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority led by PEZA
together to create jobs.
Director Charito B. Plaza, paid a visit to the Los Angeles Filipino American business community, inking a new
With initiatives that include industrializing rural areas in
partnership memorandum of understanding with Fil-Am
an environmentally friendly way, Plaza says one of the
business leaders. “We’re going to be pulling all our
biggest goals of PEZA is to draw in US investments into
resources of our six chambers in connecting with the US
certain regions, to create local jobs and a positive domino
mainstream companies, who may be interested in
effect in their areas.
investing in the Philippines. We’ll be creating an event highlighting and promoting these opportunities,” said
“We are also providing them the buying power, so if all
COFACC President Gerry Palon. The Coalition has been
Filipinos can have jobs, through our economic zones and
joined by the four-chapter Philippine American Chamber
industries… they will create a multiplier effect because if
of Commerce of Texas, one of the biggest and most
people have jobs they have money, and businesses will be
active in the country.
created. Their acquisition of property will increase.”
Pictured: PEZA Director Charito B. Plaza signing
Plaza adds that many of the Philippines’ strengths
Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation with the
including hospitality, and lower costs of living will be
leaders of the Coalition of Filipino-American Chambers of
major selling points for outside investors. There will also
Commerce (COFACC) headed by Gerry Palon. Witnessing the
be some tax breaks and incentives depending on the type
historic partnership agreement is L.A.. Consul-General Adelio
of industry that are coming in. Source: Balitang America
Cruz.
INFORMATIVE
BUSINESS CHRONICLES
PACC HOUSTON’S SPEAKER SERIES PROGRAM A HUGE SUCCESS! The signature project of the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston – the Speaker Series Program of helpful monthly seminars -- has generated record attendance since its inception five years ago. The free seminars have featured subject matter experts from the government and industry on various important topics including Building a Small Business, Financing your Business through SBA or Private Financing, Importing and Exporting, Immigration, Taxation, Health and Wellness, Personal Finance, Disaster Planning, Retirement Planning, Coping with Disasters, Doing Business in the Philippines and many other subjects that are helpful to Chamber members, both business owners and professionals. These free seminars are also replicated by the PACC Regions in Dallas, McAllen and San Antonio, although not as frequent as Houston. In addition to sponsoring mixers and business seminars, the PACC of Greater Houston has been organizing and joining Trade and Investment Missions to the Philippines since 2006. The latest installment of PACC Texas Monthly Speaker Series was held on March 21, 2019, titled “2018 Tax Reform Impact: Tax Reform Changes Businesses and Individuals Should Know”. The timely seminar drew an overflowing crowd of excited members and guests of the Chamber. It was given by the all-woman CPA firm run by Filipina CPAs Ari Domingo, Michelle Brumfield and Leya Tacas, who are all members of the Filipino-American Accountants of Texas (FAATX.)
THE TIMELY AND VERY WELL ATTENDED PACC HOUSTON’S SPEAKER SERIES SEMINAR ON THE 2018 TAX REFORM LAW
22
Issue 27 | 234
HOUSTON TEXAS CROWNED AMERICA'S MOST DIVERSE CITY The city of Houston is known for its melting pot of cultures, religions and ethnicities. Now, a new report says it is the most diverse city America! According to WalletHUB.com, Houston is No. 1 when it comes to diversity. The rating is based on race, income, education and other categories. To crown the diversity champion, WalletHub compared 501 of the most populated cities in America across five key dimensions: socioeconomic diversity, cultural diversity, economic diversity, household diversity, and religious diversity. WalletHub measured industry diversity, income, age, religious affiliation, education, language, worker class, and marital status. Other Texas city rankings: [City - Ranking - Percentile] Dallas - 5th - 71.12 Fort Worth - 25th - 69.88. Austin 42nd - 69.2 San Antonio - 62 - 68.42. Wear your crown proudly!
SCORE WITH SCORE'S RESOURCES What is SCORE? SCORE offers the nation's largest network of free, expert business mentors. If you're just starting a business, SCORE mentors can provide the practical action plan, education, and tools you need to open your doors and establish a customer base. If you already own a business, our volunteer mentors can help identify ways to increase profit, improve employee and customer satisfaction, and achieve work/ life balance. With SCORE, you can have the honest, confidential and sometimes tough conversations about managing money, motivating your team, and other business topics. They can be your confidant, your cheerleader and your accountability partner on your path to achieving success. They Help Small Businesses Start and Succeed. Founded in 1964, SCORE (formerly known as Service Corps Of Retired Executives) is a valuable network of tens of thousands volunteers who, through 300+ chapters nationwide, offer small business entrepreneurs practical business advice at no charge for the Life of Your Business (from conception to profitable growth). Because their work is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and thanks to their network of 11,000+ volunteers, they are able to deliver their services at no charge or at very low cost. Find a Location Near You SCORE has offices all over Texas. Use this link to find a location near you: https://houston.score.org/find-location What SCORE can provide Volunteer MENTORS who share their expertise across 62 industries Free, confidential business MENTORING in person or via email Free business TOOLS, templates and tips here online Inexpensive or free business WORKSHOPS (locally) and webinars (online 24/7) SPEAKERS to make presentations tailored to fit the needs and desires of your particular group. Sample Classes and Workshops Legal Issues - What Business Owners Must Know Launch Your Small Business on Facebook Is Franchise Ownership Right For Me? Challenges And Strategies for Women-Owned Businesses Your Business Plan Computer Thursday: QuickBooks for Beginners
PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
BUDGETING TIPS FOR EVERY ENTREPRENEUR If you want to succeed in your business, then you have to make a budget every year. This is because everything in your organization, including putting up a simple advert such as “we sell houses in Pasadena” will require you to spend money, and if you finance it without a plan hoping that numbers will work out themselves, you will be in for a rude shock.
Go to this link to find more great budgeting tips for your own household: https://grit.ph/budget/
Here are some basic budgeting tips every entrepreneur should know. Budgeting is critical in meeting profit targets, and this is why you should treat this undertaking with the seriousness it deserves. It helps you invest your resources to the best interest of your business other than spending them when an urgent matter arises. Also, a good budget will help you to plan for the unknown; hence avoiding pricey surprises that might cost a fortune. Understand what a budget is. - Don’t treat a budget as a document that will help you manage every dime you spend, but rather, let it be a guide that helps you make informed financial decisions. Let it provide leeway for enhanced business success. Take your time. Be Realistic. - Don’t set a budget that is too good to be true. For example, if your business has a monthly turnover of one million dollars, don’t set a budget of ten million. If you do this, even your employees will dismiss it as unattainable, and this might affect their performance. Develop a budget based on what you have achieved in the past. Analyze your profits for the last five years or so, and use them to come up with realistic budget numbers. These budgeting tips are just a few of the ones an entrepreneur should know. Knowing these and others will help you create a budget to maximize your business success. PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF INDEPENDENT BUSINESS (NFIB) TAX INFORMATION Are you ready to file your small business taxes? It’s never too early to focus on upcoming taxes. Naturally, small businesses want to maximize their deductions to minimize taxes. However, they might not be aware of a certain tax code that benefits them: Section 179. According to a survey conducted by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), 70 percent of small business owners plan to take advantage of Section 179 this year. If you’re a bit unfamiliar with Section 179 or what qualifies under it, this guide can help you take advantage of applicable deductions to solidify a strong growth for the future. If you run a small business, you can also use software to help prepare your own taxes. In other cases, it may be best to hire a tax professional to help you make sure that you don’t have problems and ensure that you take advantage of all of the applicable business deductions. If you have to file an extension, you still have to pay what you owe on time. Otherwise, you could face steep penalties. In certain situations, you may also consider looking into funding to help you cover an extension or any other tax bills. Tax rules can impact major business decisions. As a small business owner, you should make researching these rules part of your job or do due diligence to find a tax professional who can assist you. Prioritizing your small business taxes will not only prevent unexpected expenses but can help you more efficiently and effectively run your business yearround. DISCLAIMER: This article does not constitute professional tax advice; it is only intended to be informational and build awareness about possible tax deductions that business owners might qualify for. Individual tax circumstances may vary. Please talk with your accountant or other professional tax adviser before claiming any deductions. LEARN MORE HERE: https://www.nfib.com/content/resources/money/a-guide-tosection-179-for-small-business-owners/ PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
ORAS NG OPINYON - WHERE ARE ALL THE FIL-AM ENTREPRENEURS? The other day I over heard a conversation that about why weren’t there more Filipino American entrepreneurs. We read about Chinese American, Taiwanese American, Japanese American, and Vietnamese American entrepreneurs in the news all the time. However, we see very little news about Filipino-American entrepreneurs. Being curious of nature, I did a few Google searches. Perhaps this was our own ignorance and there are plenty out there that just haven’t made it into the general business news. The searches did not produce a lot of fruit. Great pictures about social events - not a lot about the individuals or the businesses behind them. Of course there are plenty of Filipino entrepreneurs in the Philippines. It's hard to come by news of Filipino American entrepreneurs. Try it yourself. Start your searches in the high tech industries, then expand them to include restaurant owners and shopkeepers, anyone who owned his/her own business, Please note that this by no means scientific research. So what gives? Are these some reasons why? Lack of press? Perhaps there are a lot of Filipino American entrepreneurs and they simply aren’t getting much press from both the mainstream media and social media. Or, they are being reported in non-English articles that don’t show up in English web searches. Less tolerance for risk? Some people believe there’s a culture of risk-avoidance in Filipino culture, especially from older generations. Failure is seen as a major taboo. Add to that Filipinos’ love of criticism of any apparent flaw and you get Filipinos who would rather get a job working for someone else rather than risk starting a business that could fail. Less emphasis on business education? Many businesses, particularly tech businesses, are started up by professors, researchers, and grad students, of population which contains few Filipinos. Are we Filipinos conformist and have some sort of a deep anti-intellectual streak? Anti-ilustrado? As an example, ‘pilosopo’ (or philosopher) is considered an insult. Lack of historical business owners? During the colonial history under the Spanish, most businesses in the Philippines were owned by ethnic Chinese Filipinos (Chinoys) or Spanish rather than Filipinos. With a lack of role models and an absent supportive environment, a culture of entrepreneurship never quite flourished. This may be changing, though most of the well-known Filipino restaurants were started by Chinoys or Spanish, like Goldilocks and Jollibee. Lack of persistence? There’s a culture of great initial enthusiasm, followed by a rapid drop in interest. Someone even pointed me to the Tagalog expression, ningas kugon, meaning “the flame of dry kugon grass, which burns hot and furious at first but rapidly burns out.” Strong family obligations? The family is the most important unit in Filipino culture, as is the obligation to put them ahead of anything else, especially a risky entrepreneurial venture that may require a significant investment of time, focus and money. In this sense, starting a business is seen as a selfish move, rather than one that is ultimately best for the family? Work visa restrictions? Many Filipino immigrants arrived to the United States as nurses and Navy crew members on work visas. Those immigrants risked deportation if they left their employers to go start a business, therefore being an entrepreneur was hardly an option. WHAT'S YOUR OPINYON? SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS WITH ON SOCIAL MEDIA FB: @pacctexas PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
WHAT'S
in the news TEXAS ECON
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN TEXAS: Texas continued double-digit #export growth in November 2018 with $27.7 billion in goods exported - an increase of more than 16% over November of last year, according to @BEA_News Jobs in Texas are booming! According to @BLS_gov, Texas metropolitan areas reported significant over-the-year employment increases between Dec. 2017 and Dec. 2018. Another reason to #GoBiginTexas! Four Texas cities surge to the top of Inc’s list of the Best Places in America for Starting a Business. Read the full list here: https://bit.ly/2QGexnG
DFW TECH DEV
DFW: The Evolution of Dallas - Fort Worth Innovation. There’s always been a history of entrepreneurism in this region. Entrepreneurship has proven to be a viable career path, and young innovators are breathing new energy into veteran entrepreneurs. While DFW is still challenged by its sprawling geography, the community as a whole has improved opportunities for the collision of ideas. #TheSiliconPrairie. There’s still so much room to grow engagement in the innovative ecosystem. Get on board! PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
WOMEN IN BIZ
TEXAS WOMEN IN BUSINESS (TWIB)
Texas Ranked Top State For Women Entrepreneurs Texas jumped from previous 8th ranking to the top in a www.FitSmallBusiness.com study assessing the best places for women business leaders! To read the full study go to this link here: https://fitsmallbusiness.com/best-states-forfemale-entrepreneurs/ Since 2016, the number of women-owned firms in the U.S. rose five times faster than the total number of companies. PACC TX is proud that Texas is one of the best states in the nation at supporting women-led business. RESOURCES FOR WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS Texas Women in Business is a non-profit organization based out of Austin that provides members with opportunities to achieve their goals, both professional and personal. We have three objectives for providing value to our members: professional development resources, social opportunities, and philanthropy. TEXAS WOMEN IN BUSINESS (TWIB) Texas Women in Business is a membership-driven non-profit that is focused on empowering women to achieve their personal and professional goals through education, development, mentoring, networking, service, and leadership. We give you opportunities to connect with people and other organizations so that you can reach your goals! EMAIL: texaswomeninbusiness@outlook.com URL: https://www.texaswomeninbusiness.org/ PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
EXCLUSIVE
TEXAS GOVERNOR SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOPS
The Texas Governor’s Small Business
from the resource providers and gather the
Service Provider Workshops build capacity
information needed to start and
among private and public sector small
strengthen their businesses.
business service providers, like city and county governments, chambers of
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
commerce, economic development
When: April 11, 2019 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
organizations, banks, and more.
Where: Plainview | Texas
The workshops work to establish a network
When: May 9, 2019 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
of small business service providers to create
Where: Paris | Texas
a mechanism for meaningful hand-offs of small business owners and aspiring
DETAILED EVENT INFO and
entrepreneurs from one resource to
REGISTRATION LINK
another, assuring a continuum of services. All types of small business owners and entrepreneurs are invited to attend the workshops to receive interactive, hands-on assistance
HTTPS://GOV.TEXAS.GOV/BUSINESS/EVENTS
ECONOMIC DEV
TRAVIS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUSTIN: EASY GOING AND HARD WORKING Austin is home to a young, educated, bilingual, multi-tiered workforce. Abundant talent. Strong economy. Culture of innovation. Low taxes. Great quality of life. Austin is a one-of-a-kind place that's not just unique to Texas but to the whole country. It defies stereotypes: It's progressive and fiercely entrepreneurial, pro-business and proenvironment. The Austin area won't just welcome your business – even international business. Austin Global Gateway (AGG) Advisory Board members are Austin-based business leaders with extensive international experience in markets in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. AGG meets with prominent business leaders to promote Austin and welcome foreign investors and business executives who wish to examine Austin more closely. AGG is a program of the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce. As a business hub, Austin, Texas is one of the most dynamic cities in the United States. It is a leader in technological innovation, quality of its workforce, and corporate friendly environment. Austin, Texas | You'll fit right in | via @YouTube https://youtu.be/tHj8wPghzIM CONTACT INFO LEIGH CHRISTIE SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Global Technology & Innovation Email: lchristie@austinchamber.com Phone: +1 512.322.5642 ROLAND PEÑA VICE PRESIDENT Economic Development Email: rpena@austinchamber.com Phone: +1 512.322.5684
PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
ADVICE
“The solution is to create your own job and create jobs for others.” - Manny Villar Are you creating/providing jobs for our fellow Pinoys? By “jobs” we mean “what people do to make a living”; meaning it includes formal work and informal work. It covers wage workers and self-employment. It covers businesses of all sizes. By “good” jobs, we mean jobs which raise people’s real income and bring them out of poverty. What is needed now is for all of us to build coalitions, large and small, for jobs. Such coalitions can also be local, in say, a municipality, bringing key government departments together with the other stakeholders in business, labor (including informal workers), and farming. Let us engage in a practical dialogue and partnership, and agree on an agenda on job creation for all Filipinos.
ISHKA VILLACISNEROS With only US$50, LA-based Pinoy millennial starts successful online shopping business. That’s Php 2.5K in capital, but profits include a sports car and the chance to employ her lola! Meet Ishka VillacisnerosTusjakova! This 27 year old immigrant is behind the powerhouse online business Californila.com and other brands! Ishka and her team get four batches of shipments per day! Read about her here: http://ishkavillacisneros.com/
PINOY PRIDE
PINAY ENTREPRENEUR SHOWCASE
business resources U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION: THE SBA PROVIDES PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AND PARTNERS IN A NETWORK OF LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS. HTTPS://WWW.SBA.GOV/ SEARCH FOR YOUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER HTTP://AMERICASSBDC.ORG/HOME/FIND-YOUR-SBDC/ SERVICE CORPS OF RETIRED EXECUTIVES (SCORE): MENTORING AND OTHER ASSISTANCE TO SMALL BUSINESSES THROUGH PARTNERSHIP WITH THE U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION. HTTPS://WWW.SCORE.ORG/ LAWYER REFERRAL SERVICE OF CENTRAL TEXAS HTTP://AUSTINLRS.ORG/ BUSINESS/NONPROFIT FORMS THESE FORMS ARE FOR FILING DOMESTIC BUSINESS AND NONPROFIT ENTITY FORMATIONS, FOREIGN ENTITY REGISTRATIONS, AMENDMENTS, TERMINATIONS, AND OTHER BUSINESS FILINGS WITH THE SECRETARY OF STATE. HTTPS://WWW.SOS.STATE.TX.US/CORP/FORMS_BOC.SHTML REPORT FORMS THESE FORMS ARE FOR FILING PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION ANNUAL STATEMENTS AND PERIODIC REPORTS FOR LIMITED PARTNERSHIPS AND NONPROFIT CORPORATIONS. HTTPS://WWW.SOS.STATE.TX.US/CORP/FORMS_REPORTS.SHTML TRADEMARK FORMS THESE FORMS ARE FOR FILING TRADEMARK APPLICATIONS, RENEWALS, ASSIGNMENTS, AND TRANSFERS. HTTPS://WWW.SOS.STATE.TX.US/CORP/TRADEMARK.SHTML
business resources TEXAS IS AS DIVERSE IN TERMS OF INDUSTRY, CULTURE AND GEOGRAPHY AS IT IS BIG - EACH REGION, COUNTY AND CITY HAS SOMETHING UNIQUE TO OFFER. EXPLORE THE BUSINESS CLUSTERS, WORKFORCE AND INFRASTRUCTURE OF OUR TOP 25 METROPOLITAN AREAS THROUGH THE TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION! THE TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION SERVES AS THE GATEWAY FOR BRINGING JOBS TO #TEXAS. #GOBIGINTEXAS TWITTER: @GOBIGINTEXAS WEBSITE: GOBIGINTEXAS.COM TEXAS BUSINESS PORTAL: OFFERED AS PART OF TEXAS.GOV (FORMERLY TEXASONLINE), THE AWARD-WINNING OFFICIAL E-GOVERNMENT WEB SITE FOR THE STATE OF TEXAS, PROVIDING CITIZENS, LOCAL GOVERNMENT, AND STATE AGENCIES WITH A SINGLE, SECURE STRUCTURE TO CONDUCT BUSINESS OVER THE INTERNET. HTTP://WWW.TEXAS.GOV/EN/DISCOVER/PAGES/TOPIC.ASPX?TOPICID=/BUSINESS TEXAS HOSPITALITY FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS: INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIVISION WITHIN THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE, INCLUDES INFORMATION ON BUSINESS STRUCTURE, EINS, BUSINESS TAXES, AND EMPLOYER REQUIREMENTS. HTTPS://TEXASWIDEOPENFORBUSINESS.COM/START-BUSINESS TEXAS BUSINESS ADVISOR: BUSINESS START-UP INFORMATION OFFERED BY THE TEXAS COMPTROLLER OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS. HTTP://WWW.CPA.STATE.TX.US/TBA BUSINESS.USA.GOV: MANAGED BY THE U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, THIS OFFICIAL SITE OF THE U.S. GOVERNMENT PROVIDES ACCESS TO FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL INFORMATION FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS. HTTP://WWW.BUSINESS.USA.GOV/ STARTING & MANAGING YOUR BUSINESS: GUIDES PROVIDED BY THE U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION FOR EVERY STAGE OF BUSINESS HTTPS://WWW.SBA.GOV/CATEGORY/NAVIGATION-STRUCTURE/STARTING-MANAGINGBUSINESS
Heels & Hustle Professional Networking Event Fri, Apr 26, 7:00pm NETWORKING
5001 Navigation Blvd, Houston, TX
PERSONAL
Price: $0 - $75
AND PROFESSIONAL
How To Start Or Run A Small Business Sat, May 4, 1:00pm
DEVELOPMENT
Crowne Plaza Houston River Oaks, Houston, TX
EVENTS IN
Price: $Free How To Start Or Run A Small Business Sat, May 11, 2019, 1:00pm
Texas
Embassy Suites - Dallas Market Center, Dallas, TX Price: $Free CelebrAsian 2019 Procurement & Business Conference Wed, Jun 5, 8:00am Hilton Americas-Houston, Houston, TX Starts at $250.00 www.eventbrite.com
NOMADIC
|
24
WHY INVEST IN THE PHILIPPINES In an article published by Philippine Daily Inquirer, dated March 05, 2018, Philippines was at the top of a list of “best” countries” to invest in by US based Business Insider. Population: 103.3 million Total GDP: $304.9 billion GDP growth: 6.9% INVESTMENT VIDEO: https://youtu.be/v_M7N3IxC1c
In identifying the best nations to invest in, US News focused on the following attributes of a country: entrepreneurship, economic stability, favorable tax environment, innovation, skilled labor, technological expertise, dynamism and corruption. The Philippines, a country which has a young population of 103.3 million, registered a gross domestic product growth of 6.9 percent in 2016. Its total GDP stood at around $304.9 billion in the same year. The administration of President Rodrigo Duterte unveiled an ambitious infrastructure plan aimed at improving the country’s aging roads, ports and airports. A new taxation regime was introduced at the start of 2018 in an effort to raise funds that would finance its infrastructure and social services program.
@PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE
the philippines The 2017 Oxford Business Group report stated, “Years
“Best Countries to Invest In” were ranked based on
of investment and strong economic development in the
scores primarily from more than 6,000 business
Philippines have fostered a robust real estate sector
decision makers on a compilation of eight equally
that now extends outside of the greater Metro Manila
weighted country attributes: corruption, dynamism,
region and into secondary markets around the country.”
economic stability, entrepreneurship, favorable tax environment, innovation, skilled labor force, and
The Philippines' residential property market continues
technological expertise.
to perform very well, due to robust economic growth. The average price of a luxury 3-bedroom condominium
According to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez,
unit in Makati central business district (CBD) soared
Philippines’ Number 1 Ranking is attributed to the
10.46% (6.95% inflation-adjusted) during 2017 to
following: “young and hardworking workforce, an
PHP199,050 (US$3,825) per square metre (sq. m.), from
excellent inclusive growth momentum, an expanding
y-o-y rises of 9.95% in 2016, 13.43% in 2015, 7.11% in
middle class, politically stable environment, strong
2014, 14.37% in 2013, and 10.06% in 2012, according to
and popular leadership, fiscal discipline, stable
Colliers International.
monetary policy, membership in ASEAN, an achievable infrastructure program, a strong anticorruption drive, and improved revenue collection.”
INVESTING IN ART IN
the philippines When Art Fair Philippines launched in 2013, organizers
She adds, “We believe investing in art
meant to create a platform for artists, galleries and curators
can be part of increasing one’s assets if
to exhibit Philippine contemporary art. The event was also
done right.”
specifically designed so that collectors both seasoned and new could acquire new pieces, interact and possibly get to
Here is your guide to investing in your
know budding Philippine artists up close. Veering far away
first art piece :
from the contrived, glib and oftentimes intimidating setup of museums or galleries, they transformed a multi level parking
1. DEFINE YOUR INNER ART
lot into an otherworldly art galaxy in February 2019 for the
COLLECTOR
7th annual Art Fair. The Bank of the Philippines Islands is one
2. RESEARCH
of the biggest financial institutions in the Philippines and has
3. CHOOSE WITH YOUR EYES
also shown support for Art Fair Philippines. “Other than
4. UNDERSTAND PRICING
creating awareness on art as an investment, we hope to
5. BUY WITHIN YOUR MEANS
create awareness of art in its various forms, and appreciate
6. SIZE MATTERS
the effort and process that go with every piece, especially
7. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING
considering that art is a wise investment,” says BPI Senior
8. GET INSURED
Vice President and Chief Marketing Office Cathy Santamaria.
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? JOIN US TODAY! ANO PA ANG HINIHINTAY NINYO? SUMALI NA NGAYON! You are cordially invited to join the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce (PACC) of Greater Dallas, Greater Houston, Rio Grande Valley and Central Texas (San Antonio/Austin). We serve both business owners by showing them opportunities to expand their business in the U.S. and overseas and professionals by helping them enhance their careers. You will be proud to be a part of one of the “biggest and the best” Philippine-American Chambers in the country with over 500 members. We were honored with a special “Top Filipino Organization in America” award for Community Service, Trade Development and Aid to the Philippines at the National Federation of Filipino-American Associations national convention in San Diego in 2015. Membership in PACC Texas is a privilege! PACC is a 501c6 voluntary organization that has brought to you the Consular Outreach in the last 11 years in all regions of Texas and saved you and your family thousands of dollars by not traveling to L.A. for your consular needs. And we only charge lifetime dues, one time. Your commitment to serve is more important to us than annual dues. As a member of one of four Chamber regions you are entitled to all the member benefits and exposure for your business or company statewide. Apply on-line at www.PACCTexas.org or contact any of the following state officers: STATE: gilagan@fonglegal.com: DALLAS: rowenawatters@gmail.com; HOUSTON: rick@guinhawaphotography.com, RIO GRANDE VALLEY: dho_rome@yahoo.com; SAN ANTONIO CENTRAL REGION: robertosibug@yahoo.com
PACCTX PILLARS OF EXCELLENCE community service trade and business development aid to the philippines
TEXAS - FILIPINO BIZ
NaturElle Skin Bar
NaturElle Skin Bar
Address: 26440 FM 1093 Suite 350, Richmond, Texas 77406 Hours: Monday - Thursday, 9am - 6pm Friday, Saturday, 9am - 7pm Sunday, Appointment Only Phone: 281-665-8230 | Text: 713-448-0884 Email: gemma.gullaksen@naturelleskinbar.com instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturelleskinbar/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naturelleskinbar/ Website for Appts: https://www.naturelleskinbar.com/ NaturElle Skin Bar is the home of natural beauty owned by Gemma Gullaksen. NaturElle is a day spa whose approach to wellness and healthy skin stem from the fact that true beauty comes from within. They provide facials, body treatments, and body massages.
A Proud Member of PACCTX
PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES