PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
INSIDE: Philippine Exhibit now open in San Antonio, Texas! GRO.SAXETCCAP.WWW
VOL. 1 ISSUE 3 - 3RD QUARTER 2019
business chronicles
"You have to have a dream, whether big or small. Then plan, focus, work hard and be very determined to achieve your goals." -Henry Sy
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, 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.
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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, 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.
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VERY IMPORTANT PINOY TOUR
12TH AMBASSADOR’S TOUR A HUGE SUCCESS! More than 300 Filipino-Americans from all over the U.S. converged in the Philippines on July 24, 2019 for the official start of the 2019 Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour. On its 12th year, the tour, formerly called “Ambassadors Tour” opened on July 25 with a wreath-laying ceremony at Rizal Monument to honor the Philippines’ national hero, Dr Jose Rizal. The popular Manila Mayor Isko Moreno welcomed the Consuls General in the U.S. and Canada led this year by San Francisco Consul-General Henry S. Bensurto, Jr. The 2019 VIP Tour was held from July 14-21 and included visits to Manila, Bataan, Clark and El Nido. It brought to the Philippines Filipino-Americans to rediscover their country of heritage, as well as American tourists to showcase the best of what the country has to offer. This year’s theme is “Spark*Connect*Empower” in line with the movement to Spark love and passion for the country’s heritage and culture, Connect people across generations, and through this, Empower them. The Consuls General and Honorary Consuls who led their respective delegations included: San Francisco Con-Gen Henry Bansurto, New York Con-Gen Claro Cristobal, Hawaii Con-Gen Joselito Jimeno, L.A. Con-Gen Adelio Cruz, Chicago ConGen Gina Jamoralin, Houston Con-Gen Jerril Santos, Agana Con-Gen Marciano de Borja and Honorary Consuls Audie De Castro (San Diego), Ethel R. Mercado (Dallas) and Robert Romero (New Orleans). The Texas delegation was led by Houston Consul General Jerril G. Santos and Dallas Honorary Consul Ethel R. Mercado and joined by Myrna Carreon, Rowena Watters, Emma Ramos, Laura Tamayo, Arlyn Obarr, Robert Abagair, Gus Mercado, Robert Romero and four members of his family. Texas has always been well represented in the annual event since its inception. The traditional wreath-laying ceremony was followed by a luncheon at the Manila Hotel and tours of Intramuros, Sto. Tomas University and Metropolitan Museums. In Bataan, the delegation went on a bus tour that traced the route of the infamous Bataan Death March 77 years ago, a visit to the War Memorial on Mt. Samat and the World War II Museum in Balanga.
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The delegation then spent the night at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar which features historically accurate ancestral houses from all over the Philippines that have been moved (stone by stone) or recreated from photographs and archives. There are now over 60 recreated antique houses on site, with more planned, and includes the original Hotel Oriente where Jose Rizal once lodged.
After a brief tour of the former U.S. Air Force Base now Clark Development Authority, the delegation flew to El Nido in Palawan, which has been constantly voted as one of “Top 10 island vacation destinations in the world”. The Texas delegation was one of 9 boatloads of delegates who went islandhopping and went swimming and snorkeling in El Nido’s famous lagoons. PACC Texas delegates added a business segment to the week-long VIP Tour by meeting with the El Nido Chamber of Commerce and Industry and exploring business and investment opportunities in the popular island. PACC Texas is one of the biggest and most active Filipino-American Chambers of Commerce in the U.S. A memorandum of understanding was signed by Leonides Echague, president of the El Nido Chamber and Gus Mercado, State Executive Director of PACC Texas who initiated the business day segment. Top: The Philippine Consuls General and Honorary Consuls with Mayor Isko Moreno (middle) at Rizal Park. RT Middle: Honorary Consul Ethel Mercado is welcomed by the popular Manila Mayor Isko Moreno. RT Bottom: Head of delegation Con-Gen Henry Bansurto pays tribute to national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal
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VIP TOUR CONTINUED
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Mercado expressed that both chambers are excited about the partnership and that it would be a pleasant challenge to work with the young and dynamic El Nido Chamber and to help and watch it grow. PACC Texas already has ongoing business partnerships with sister chambers in Pasay City, Muntinlupa, San Fernando, Bulacan, Bataan and Davao. The meeting was attended and the signing of the MOU was witnessed by Houston Con-Gen Jerril Santos, New York Con-Gen Claro Cristobal, Hawaii Con-Gen Joselito Jimeno, and Honorary Consuls Ethel Mercado of Dallas and Robert Romero of New Orleans and the officers of both chambers.
Manila’s ABS-CBN TV Patrol Coverage of the 2019 VIP Tour
The Texas delegates led by Consul-General Jerril G. Santos
Con-Gen Adel Cruz sings a duet with local GMA singing sensation Golden Canedo
Tour Chairman Henry Bansurto (middle) with top stage entertainers including world famous TNT Boys (right)
Con-Gen Jerril Santos interviewed by GMA TV
LA Con-Gen Adel Cruz visits with Texas delegates
PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
VIP TOUR CONTINUED During the week-long trip, officers of PACC Texas also met with their NEDA partners in Central Luzon. The July trip culminated in a visit with Dr. Mina Gabor at the International Institute of Sustainable Tourism (IIST) which she runs in Silang, Cavite and has graduated more than 7,000 scholars from different countries. Dr. Gabor has been an active partner and supporter of PACC’s Trade and Humanitarian Missions to the Philippines for many years. She was also the President of PACC Texas’ first of many Sister Chambers, the very active Pasay City Chamber of Commerce and Industry. On the ISST’s Board of Trustees are former President Fidel V. Ramos Honorary Chairman; Dr. Mina Gabor President and Hon. Consul Ethel R. Mercado of Texas, Member of the International Advisory Board.
The delegates stayed at the Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
Diorama of the Bataan Death March
331 delegates from all over the U.S. joined the 2019 Very Important Pinoy (Ambassador’s) Tour
Con-Gens Adel Cruz and Jerril Santos, Honorary Consuls Ethel Mercado and Audie de Castro with the San Diego Mayor
Texas delegates go on island-hopping in El Nido
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Con-Gen Jerril Santos leads Texan tourists at El Nido waters
PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
VIP TOUR CONTINUED
PACC Texas organized a business meeting with its new Sister Chamber, the El Nido Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Consul-General Jerril Santos with North Texas delegates
PACC TX officers volunteered to sell “Save the Corals shirts and raised P15,000 for the El Nido Chamber
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Leonides Echague, President of ENCCI and Gus Mercado Executive Director of PACC-TX sign MOU
PACC-TX met with Dr. Mina Gabor, head of the International Institute of Sustainable Tourism in Silang, Cavite
El Nido Chamber of Commerce and Industry
PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
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PACC HOUSTON SPONSORS BIGGEST AND BEST FIESTA KO SA TEXAS BY: GUS MERCADO
They say everything is big in Texas. The Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce in the state subscribes to this “thinking big” mantra when they sponsor the biggest and best Trade Missions, the biggest and best community service projects that have saved 40,000 Filipinos in Texas and neighboring states $20 million collectively in travel costs, and the biggest and best rapid response relief aid programs for calamity victims. The recently-concluded big Fiesta Ko sa Texas celebration of Filipino culture in Houston was hugely successful as a result of an effective partnership between the co-sponsor Bhong Zausa of One Philippines, Jush Andowitt of GMA TV and the PACC Greater Houston region volunteers led by Region Chair Bobby Reyes and his entire Board of Directors who planned and executed a masterful project plan that included excellent performances from GMA’s top star celebrity Tom Rodriguez and local talents from all over the state, a beauty pageant, 60 food and commercial booths, and a raffle that featured a brand-new Toyota Camry car, round-trip tickets to the Philippines and large screen HD TV sets as prizes. Dallasite Tom McSweeney won the free trip to the Philippines while long-time Houston community leader Wally Arias won the Toyota Camry car.” Guess who caught the missing words? The raffle winner! Houston Consul General Jerril G. Santos and his entire consular staff were in attendance to show support for the annual Fiesta Texas event which has attracted thousands of Filipinos from different parts of Texas as well as other states as far as Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Kansas.
FIESTA KO
PACCTX SA TEXAS
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LOOK: TOM RODRIGUEZ PERFORMED AT THE “FIESTA KO SA TEXAS” IN BAYOU CITY EVENT CENTER, HOUSTON. #FIESTAKOWITHTOM
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FIESTA KO
PACCTX SA TEXAS
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ANG ILAN SA ATING AUDIENCE, ‘DI NA NAPIGILAN ANG SARILI AT LUMAPIT NA PARA MAKASAMA SI @AKOSIMANGTOMAS! MASAYA KAMING MAKITA ANG MGA NGITI NINYO, MGA KAPUSO ABROAD! #FIESTAKOWITHTOM
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TWO POWERFUL COALITIONS OF PHILIPPINEAMERICAN CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE TO PARTNER!
SELCINORHC SSENISUB XTCCAP
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THE TWO BIG GUNS OF THE TWO BIGGEST AND MOST ACTIVE STATE COALITIONS OF CHAMBERS GUS MERCADO OF THE PACC TEXAS AND GERRY PALON OF COFACC SIGNING HISTORIC CROSS-COUNTRY PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT, WITNESSED BY L.A. CONSUL-GENERAL ADELIO CRUZ, TEXAS HONORARY CONSUL ETHEL MERCADO, NATIONAL CHAIR OF COFACC ADVISORY GROUP FAITH BAUTISTA AND THE FOUNDING OFFICERS OF COFACC IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.
The two biggest and most active state coalitions of Philippine-American Chambers of Commerce – the 8-Chamber Coalition of Filipino-American Chambers of Commerce of Southern California (COFACC) and the 4Chamber Philippine-American Chambers of Commerce of Texas have signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation. The historic forging of cross-country ties between the two powerful chamber groups is a significant milestone in the history of interchamber collaborative engagements that will promote Fil-Am business interests nationwide as well as in the Philippines.. COFACC’s vision is to provide support and resources and share best practices to the individual member chambers and serve as their collaborative voice. According to COFACC President Gerry Palon, “the visionary team of community leaders of these dynamic organizations just concluded a roadmap to success and started an exciting journey to excellence as we, the stakeholders, are en route to achieving a united Filipino American business community.” COFACC and its member chambers throughout Southern California,
are noted for organizing and hosting the biggest and most successful business and investment events involving top government and business leaders from both countries. PACC Texas on the other hand, according to State Executive Director Gus Mercado takes pride in its “Three Pillars of Excellence” – Community Service, Trade Development and Aid to the Philippines -- that have been the landmark of its achievements and have won it the vote of the National Federation of National Federation of Filipino-American Associations (NAFFAA) as “Most Outstanding Filipino Organization in the Nation” 4 years ago. PACC Texas has pioneered in organizing successful Trade and Investment Missions to the Philippines since 1996 and forging many Sister Chamber partnerships throughout the Philippines including the latest this year, with the Philippine Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Aklan and El Nido Palawan. PACC Texas has been honored as one of the first responders to natural disasters and providing support to victims of killer typhoons in the Philippines and devastating hurricanes in south Texas and neighboring southern states.
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SBA DISASTER LOANS HELP BUSINESSES WEATHER THE ECONOMIC STORM
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Who’s eligible for an SBA disaster loan? When it comes to seeking recovery assistance in the aftermath of a federally declared disaster—be it a hurricane, tornado, earthquake, wildfire or other catastrophe—the SBA isn’t the first government agency that typically pops to mind. But what many people don’t realize is that they offer support to those impacted by declared disasters too, in the form of low-interest, long-term disaster loans. Despite being administered by the SBA, federal disaster loans aren’t just limited to small businesses. Enterprises of all sizes (including those in the process of launching), not to mention private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters, can apply for assistance if they’ve suffered losses as a result of a declared disaster. In particular, two main types of SBA disaster loans are available to businesses: physical disaster loans, which can be used to repair or replace damaged real estate, equipment, inventory and fixtures; and economic injury disaster loans, which are working capital loans that can be used to cover various operating expenses until normal operations resume. To qualify, business owners still need to show creditworthiness and an ability to repay the loan, just as they would in any other lending situation. Both of these loans go up to $2 million. The terms vary by disaster, but in general, for businesses that don’t have additional sources of credit, the loans carry a fixed interest rate of no more than 4 percent, with up to a 30-year amortization schedule. For those that do have credit available elsewhere, the fixed interest rate will not exceed 8 percent.
In any case, the terms of an SBA disaster loan are generally more favorable than a conventional loan, explains Tim Jeffcoat, district director of the SBA Houston District Office. Although, he says, “We would love it if small businesses never had to borrow from us.” Instead, Jeffcoat recommends owners acquire an insurance policy that can help their business recover without having to incur additional debt. “We really view disaster funding as a last resort,” he adds. “With that said, it happens frequently that businesses need it, and when they do, we want to make sure they get the best terms so that it can be affordable to assist them in recovery.”. Preparation is key. The best advice the Juckers can offer to other business owners is to prepare well in advance with an emergency disaster plan, says Janice. She offers these general tips: Know your insurance policy inside and out, before you ever need to use it. Have employee contact information (as well as other important records) readily accessible in the cloud so you can account for everyone during an emergency. Keep financial documents in order at all times to make it easier when it comes time to apply for a loan. “You don’t want to be doing your finances while trying to manage a disaster,” Janice reasons. Keep a running list of alternative suppliers to replace equipment or inventory. Always have cash. The one thing we learned from Harvey more than any of the other disasters is that if you do not have cash, there is no reason to muck out your business, because you're not going to make it. You can charge practically everything else, but you cannot pay your employees with a credit card. That takes cash.
“The most important thing is that a business takes some time to be ready for whatever they can conceive as the worst happening,” he says. “That sounds simple, but once the disasters are behind us, people tend not to think about it anymore.” If you need help putting together a disaster plan for your business, Jeffcoat suggests contacting your local SBDC for assistance. The SBA Houston District Office also partners with the American Red Cross several times a year to conduct workshops on emergency preparedness.
PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
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WHAT'S
in the news TEXAS ECON
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN TEXAS: Irving, Texas-based Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE: XOM), which has a major presence in Houston, has decided to move forward with a $2 billion project in Baytown, Texas. @exxonmobil is expanding its chemicals plant next to the Houston Ship Channel, creating 2,000 temporary construction jobs. Exxon expects the facility to begin operating in 2022. The recently completed ethane cracker plus other projects in Mont Belvieu, Beaumont and other areas along the coast are all part of the Growing the Gulf initiative. In Beaumont, Exxon recently made a final investment decision to move forward with a major expansion of its refinery. DFW METRO GROWTH
FORTH WORTH: How much has Fort Worth grown? It just passed San Francisco and Columbus in population! Fort Worth surpassed 895,000 residents in 2018, cementing its place as one of the largest cities in the country. Fort Worth grew by 19,500 people, or 2.2 percent, from 2017 to 2018, overtaking Columbus, Ohio and San Francisco, California as the 13th mostpopulous U.S. city. Fort Worth is the fifth most-populated city in Texas, behind Houston, San Antonio, Dallas and Austin. Houston held steady as the fourth-largest city in the nation, adding 8,000 people in 2017.
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PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
HELPFUL INFO
biz advice PHIL STARTUPS
150+ PROFITABLE SMALL BUSINESS IDEAS & OPPORTUNITIES IN THE PHILIPPINES The Philippines has been experiencing solid 6% growth as it develops along with much of Southeast Asia. As such, the Philippines offers unique opportunities for setting up your own business in the Philippines. Dreaming of setting up your own business in the Philippines but don’t know where to start? You’re in luck—here’s our massive list of small business ideas to kickstart your vision into reality. https://grit.ph/business-ideas/ FREE BUSINESS ADVICE
Whether you’re a Texas native, a young entrepreneur, an established business owner, or an international corporation, the Lone Star State is one of the best places to do business. From a diverse workforce to mountains, plains, deserts, hills, rivers, lakes, an ocean, and a land border that acts as a highway into middle America for the nation’s importers and exporters, discover what makes each Texas region suitable to support your business. Check out this regional report showcasing the best of Texas business! https://www.plainscapital.com/media/413170 /pcb-texas-best-for-business-white-paper.pdf
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PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
ECONOMIC DEV
GALVESTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP Galveston Island is the employment center of Galveston County. Galveston's convenient location along the Texas Gulf Coast, has allowed the city to become the economic engine it is today. Businesses locating to Galveston will benefit from the investment in infrastructure, a trained and diverse workforce, world renowned healthcare facilities, excellent centers of education, and an unmatched quality of life. Galveston Island is a national model for resiliency and determination. Galveston known as the "Port and Playground of the South" offers a rich history. Steeped in history, while building on its foundation of innovation and entrepreneurship, Galveston continues to grow, diversify, and expand its importance in the Greater Houston Area, and its value as a place to live, work, and play. Unlike any time in Galveston’s recent history, currently there are close to $2 billion of local, state and national resources dedicated to making Galveston a better place. Efforts have been led by the Galveston Chamber and the Galveston Economic Development Partnership (GEDP) to facilitate a successful economic recovery strategy for the business community of Galveston Island. Galveston Highlights Population: 50,550 Major Industries: Education and Healthcare Maritime | Tourism and Hospitality GALVESTON TX P.O. Box 779 823 Rosenberg Galveston, Texas 77553 Phone: 409-797-3500 https://www.galvestontx.gov/35/Business PACCTX BUSINESS CHRONICLES
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UT S A I N S TI T U TE OF T E X A N C U L T U RE S
MABUHAY FILIPINO TEXANS EXHIBIT OPENS AT THE UTSA INSTITUTE OF TEXAN CULTURES The “Mabuhay Filipino Texans” Exhibit formally opened
Singgalot details the rich history of Filipinos in
its doors to the public on May 18, 2019 in the University
America, honoring early immigrant pioneers and the
of Texas San Antonio Institute of Texan Cultures.
determined generations who came after them.
Hundreds of Filipino Texans and friends including
"Mabuhay,” a Tagalog greeting, presents the story of
dignitaries like Consul-General Jerril G. Santos and part-
Filipinos in Texas. Filipino presence began as early as
Filipino San Antonio Mayor Ron Niremberg attended the
the 1820s, when Francisco Flores, a Filipino sailing on
opening ceremony.
a Spanish ship, took up residence in Rockport. Mabuhay details Filipino culture, culinary traditions,
The Exhibit, the first of its kind in the state, will be open
military service, and other aspects of Filipino life in
until February 2, 2020. The Institute of
Texas. Cultural Anthropologist Evelyn B. Crow who is a
Texan Cultures is in a sprawling facility inside the San
member of the Filipino Exhibit Committee and
Antonio Hemisphere Plaza in downtown San Antonio.
President of KARILAGAN Philippine Cultural Group
The Director of the popular Institute is Angelica Docog,
said that “the images, articles, and objects on display
also a part-Filipino.
at the Philippine Exhibit tell our personal stories as we share with the greater community the richness of our
According to Yolanda Moy, Chairman of the Philippine
immigrant history, our diverse cultural heritage, as
Exhibit Task Force and officer of the Philippine-
well as our creative expressions of contemporary daily
American Chamber of Commerce – Central Texas
life.”
Region, “Mabuhay Filipino Texans" explores how Filipinos have made Texas their home, shared their traditions, and maintained their dual cultural identities as Filipino-Texans,” she said.
The Exhibit features “Singgalot: The Ties that Bind” from the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibit Service, and “Mabuhay: The Filipino Texans,” which it is producing with input from the local Filipino community. Through 100 photomurals and images, “Singgalot” celebrates Filipino Americans as they share their struggles and achievements from the 1898 U.S. annexation of the Philippines to today. Roughly translated from the Filipino Tagalog language as “The Ties that Bind,”
21 Con-Gen Jerril Santos and Vice Consul Marco Lopez with PACC officers who comprised the Exhibit Committee.
Variety of Filipino native costumes on display.
Consul-General Jerril G. Santos and San Antonio Mayor Ron Niremberg with the Exhibit Organizers.
Chamber Collaborations Work! Picture Credits: Tess Tuazon
Maintaining connections with our state's business community, through involvement with the Greater Dallas Asian American Chamber of Commerce (#GDAACC) and the Texas Federation of Asian American Chambers of Commerce (#TFAACC). Seen here with leaders of the various Asia chambers in Texas, our Chair Rowena Watters and member (interim GDAACC President Galileo Jumaoas. CON GEN JERRIL G SANTOS was the Guest Speaker at this joint event with the Asian Chamber of Commerce on June 25, 2019. Top Left: Con Gen Jerril G Santos with Attorney Gary Ilagan ILAGAN Top Right Con Gen Jerril G Santos with Tess Tuazon Middle: Con Gen Jerril G Santos with PACCTX and ACC Bottom Left: Con Gen Jerril G Santos Bottom Right: Tess Tuazon and Atty. Aileen LigotDizon
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 BY: GUS MERCADO
captain monessa catuncan Meet U.S. Air Force Captain Monessa Catuncan who has joined the ranks of world boxing legend Manny Pacquiao and Miss Universe Catriona Gray as elite ambassadors of goodwill for the Filipino people. Monessa is the youngest daughter of proud parents Ramon and Teody Catuncan of Mesquite, a suburb of Dallas, Texas. United States Air Force F-16 fighter pilot and Iraq war veteran Monessa Catuncan doesn’t just maneuver the very complex and state-of-the-art supersonic aircraft of the Air Force. This humble Pinay also carries the Philippine flag and the pride of the nation it represents, a source of pride for the entire Filipino people.
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PINOYPRIDE
CAPTAIN MONESSA CATUNCAN FIRST FILIPINA FIGHTER PILOT TO FLY U.S. AIR FORCE ELITE F-16
The F-16 Fighting Falcon or most commonly known as the “Viper” is a state-of-the-art fighter aircraft. It has been a high-performance weapon system for the US and allied nations which has been used effectively in numerous air-to-air combats. Monessa was born on December 19, 1981. Her father Ramon recalls her saying that she wanted to be an astronaut while a high school sophomore. “I told her it would require a lot of hard work to realize her ambition, but she told me that the hard work would not be a deterrence to her dream,” he said. Always a red-blooded Filipina with “pusong Pinoy”, he said her daughter’s favorite foods are adobo, afritada, and kare-kare. On pursuit of her dreams, Monessa has always exceeded expectations in scholastics, graduating valedictorian in a class of 693 at Mesquite High School in Texas in 2000. And throughout her lengthy and very rigorous pilot training, she consistently excelled. In 2004, Monessa graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Astronautical Engineering. And finally, in 2007, Monessa completed her very intensive fighter pilot training course and graduated with flying colors as the only female in her group and the only Filipino to pass the course. While at the Academy, she served in different positions including Squadron Commander and Pilot Trainer. Since completing the course as a second Lieutenant, she has flown combat missions over Iraq supporting the U.S. Army in their ground missions as part of the 34th Fighter Squadron at Hill Air Force Base in Salt Lake City, Utah. After her combat experience in Iraq, she was promoted to full Captain.
In the intense field of military pilots where male rules prevail, this valiant Filipino lady soldier has beaten all odds and the chances to turn into the first Filipina to fly the supersonic F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jet that carried combat missions in the battlefields of the Middle East. An elite organization, the United States Air Force prides itself on its core values of “Integrity First, Service before Self, and Excellence in All We Do”. Captain Catuncan exhibits those core values and is a shining example of how dedication, hard work, and constant pursuit of excellence will pay off. Monessa, through her sheer determination, perseverance and hard work, has earned not only to fly the F-16 which is a prized possession in the US Air Force, but also the pride and honor of defending the United States and its allies as well as making the Filipinos proud.
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PACCTX MEDIA PARTNERS
Meet Media Maven: Darlene Reyes “Let’s do CPR!” --- These were the
You also need to be smart enough to discuss the plan
words Darlene Reyes heard from the medics who
with the doctors & other members of the healthcare
were trying to help the victims of a traffic collision at
team, at the same time you should maintain your
her hometown in Kidapawan City, Philippines. On
humility and modesty as you follow patients’ commands
her way to a singing competition, the
and deal with the dirty stuff.” She politely said. “But
young Darlene passed an accident and had a
seeing my patients getting better is the most rewarding
glimpse of how the medical team revived a victim.
part.”
That scene was enough to convince her to take a nursing course in college. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing at Cebu Doctors’ University and a Master’s Degree Major in Clinical Supervision at University of San Carlos Graduate School. With her passion in singing, Darlene continued her nursing career while still doing gigs and performing at events. When she got married, she moved to Tacloban City and there she started doing opening acts in concerts of famous artists. Her unforgettable performances as of the moment were during the concerts of Air Supply, Side A Band, David Pomeranz / Rey Valera and Per Øystein Sørensen of Fra Lippo Lippi. Darlene immigrated to the United States with an aim to move towards greener pasture. She is now a Registered Nurse-4 at Memorial Hermann Hospital, taking care of patients and heroically saving lives. “It’s very challenging to be a nurse, you should be knowledgeable enough to know what kind of care or medical treatment to give. You also need to be smart enough to discuss the plan with the doctors & other members of the healthcare team, at the same time you should maintain your humility and modesty as you follow patients’ commands and deal with the dirty stuff.” She politely said. “But seeing my patients getting better is the most rewarding part.”
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@DARLENEREYES
INSTAGRAM @DARLENEREYES_ TWITTER
@MAIDARLENE
26 The entertainment world seems unstoppable in hunting Darlene. 2 years ago, she became one of the tv hosts of the show Howdy Philippines aired
darlene reyes MEDIA MAVEN
in Texas every weekend on Channel 15.3, and with her good public relations, more and more opportunities were offered to her. Early this year, she joined the film industry and was one of the cast in the movie Through Raging Storms by AE Productions and played the role of the reverend’s wife, Ellen Jones. She then was given the chance to sing one of the movie’s theme songs. But Darlene did not end it there. Just recently, she became the Houston correspondent of a major TV network based in the Philippines: GMA, back to back with the one and only news magazine in Texas: One Philippines News. When asked about her being very appreciative, Darlene answered “I’m always grateful for little things and I always give gratitude to the Lord.” “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people who believe in my ability, especially those who pushed me to do things I thought I couldn’t do. To those who did some recommendations, I sincerely appreciate everything.” Darlene jokingly considers herself a superwoman as she does her nursing duties, singing engagements, news reporting and being a mom and wife. It is truly a rare combination of talents & skills. Nevertheless, Darlene remained humble, as the many describes her, and known to be one of the sweetest and the kindest friend you’ll ever have.
Darlene Reyes interviewing Honorary Con Gen Ethel R Mercado and the Executive Director of the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce Gus Mercado at the opening of the Houston Consulate office.
INC magazine names Austin, Houston and Dallas in Top 10 'hottest business startup cities' in US It's not just Texas' weather that's hot. Three Lone Star State cities made Inc. magazine's list of hot startups cities — Austin came in 2nd, Houston 9th and Dallas 10th. The list came out of the Inc. 5000 report — the magazine's list of the fastestgrowing 5,000 privately-held companies in the United States. The list was ranked by the three-year revenue growth of each of the cities'companies. It's not just Texas' weather that's hot. Three Lone Star State cities made Inc. magazine's list of hot startups cities — Austin came in 2nd, Houston 9th and Dallas 10th. The list came out of the Inc. 5000 report — the magazine's list of the fastest-growing 5,000 privatelyheld companies in the United States. The list was ranked by the three-year revenue growth of each of the cities' companies. BY: NATALIE HARMS, EDITOR INNOVATIONMAP.COM
DALLAS TX
HOUSTON TX
AUSTIN TX
Houston had a three-year revenue growth 117 percent with 84 Houston companies on the 2019 Inc. 5000 list. "After Hurricane Harvey hit in 2017, the Houston area's construction industry grew tremendously to help rebuild and repair the storm's damage," the short ranking blurb reads, mentioning two Inc. 5000 companies in Houston in the energy field: oil pipeline services company JP Services and contractor services firm CC&D. Houston (No. 9) beat out Dallas (No. 10) by just 4 percentage points based on three-year revenue growth of the top 10 “Hottest Start-up Cities”. The article extolls Dallas for its "low regulations, zero corporate income taxes, background mentoring support from corporate giants (Dallas has a very large number of Fortune 500 corporate headquarters, second only to New York) and the Dallas Entrepreneur Center, or DEC, which is a nonprofit organization serving as a hub for startup networking, funding, and mentorship." Meanwhile, Austin, which ranked No. 2 on the list, had a three-year revenue growth 259 percent, and has 87 Inc. 5000 companies this year. Austin was praised for its "high rate of entrepreneurship and job creation" in the article, as well as for having outposts for top tech companies like Amazon, Apple, and Google. Here's the full list: San Francisco | Austin | New York City | San Diego | Atlanta | Denver | Los Angeles | Chicago | Houston | Dallas
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HENRY SY A LESSON FROM ONE THE PHILIPPINES RICHEST MEN
ESTIMATED WORTH: $11.5 BILLION US
SM Quiapo or Shoe Mart started as a small shoe shop in downtown Manila by
LESSON: You BEAT the odds
Henry Sy in the 1950s, selling overrun and
and win!
rejected shoes from different shoe factories. Fast forward to the mid-80s, Sy was already able to establish the very first SM Supermall, SM City North EDSA. Amid the global financial crisis, then he was able to earn US$5 billion in 2010 alone.
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Even when the numbers are stacked against you, you could and should still find ways on how to succeed. Rest in peace, Tatang.
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“FASHION GOES GLOBAL“ A Black-Tie charity event held in May 2019 in Dallas was a testimonial that a well-organized global fashion show can be combined with philanthropy. The “Fashion Goes Global” event organized by Jil Lasaca showcased the world-class talent and artistry of Bahrain-based designer Jugger Onate! Jugger was named as one of top 100 global fashion designers by Illustrado Magazine in 2018. Jugger Ornate’s gowns were modeled by models from Bella Modeling School.The keynote address was given by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem, Eric Wilson. A native of Dallas, Eric has dedicated his life to empowering communities through leadership and service. Mr. Wilson is a firm supporter of opportunities through education. The Master and Mistress of Ceremonies were Bruce Jones and Dallas-based Camille Buensuceso, Miss Filipinas International of 2018.“The show aimed to raise money for scholarship programs to poor but deserving students in the Philippines” said Jil Lasaca, the show’s producer. “The fashion show was also a tribute to 10 outstanding mothers of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, as we wanted to highlight their important contributions to society,” Lasaca added.
JIL LASACA, SHOW PRODUCER
JUGGER ONATE AND ABBY HAMDAN
BRUCE JONES AND CAMILLE BUENSUCESO
ABBY HAMDAN AND DANIELLA FLANAGAN
SAN ANTONIO TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT San Antonio is a model city for the new face of America—a diverse, progressive and globally competitive city with a solid vision for national and international economic development. In 2012, San Antonio was named an All-America City by the National Civic League. As the seventh-largest city in the United States, San Antonio is experiencing solid economic growth in 21st century industries such as bioscience and healthcare, aerospace, IT and cybersecurity and green technologies. Economic Development Department Frost Bank Tower 100 West Houston Street, 19th Floor San Antonio, TX 78205 Phone 210.207.8080 Hours Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
The Industry Development Division offers local and state financial incentives, including tax credits, grants, low interest loans, tax exemptions, training funds and reduced utility costs, which help cultivate key industries and enhance San Antonio’s economic base by creating jobs in strategic areas of the city. The Business Retention and Expansion Program ensures your business continues to flourish through continued infrastructure development and other needs your business may have. The International Business Development Division works with local and international partners providing key information and access to investors and global entities to facilitate bilateral trade and investment. The result is job growth in San Antonio. The Small Business Division facilitates small business development and growth through various programs and services. The Small Business Office administers the Small Business Economic Development Advocacy (SBEDA) Program, which leverages the City’s purchasing power to grow small, minority, and women-owned businesses.
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SAN ANTONIO TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Launch SA is a fueling station for San Antonio idea creators, entrepreneurs, and small business owners who seek advice on the road to success. Launch SA opened its doors in downtown San Antonio in 2014 under its previous name, Cafe Commerce. Through a partnership with LiftFund and the San Antonio Economic Development Department, we provide a space where those with an idea or a full-fledged business can access specialty programming, workshops, tailored support, and resources. They are open Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To set up an appointment, contact them at 210-598-6623 or team@launchsa.org. They are located inside the San Antonio downtown public library with available on-site parking. Launch SA 600 Soledad St. San Antonio, TX 78205 210.598.6623 team@launchsa.org
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UBER GOES TO DALLAS Uber will move and set up major hub in downtown Dallas by year-end Uber will hire or relocate about 400 employees to
They will support the company’s
Dallas by the end of the year. It will initially
transportation-related businesses, including
move into a coworking space and then into a
ride hailing, food delivery and the
tower in Deep Ellum.
development of urban air taxis.
It’s official: Uber Technologies will open an office
We really see this as the spine to support all
at least 3,000 employees in Deep Ellum, and it
of our global offices and operations across
plans to turn Dallas into its largest hub outside of
the world,” Miller said.
San Francisco headquarters, company officials told The Dallas Morning News recently.
The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is already the home to hundreds of Fortune 500
Uber will hire or relocate about 400 employees to
national or regional headquarters, second
Dallas by the end of the year, said Chris Miller,
only in numbers to New York City. Its biggest
senior manager of public policy in Texas.
relocation of corporate and operational headquarters in recent years was when
It will move into a tower on the edge of
Toyota moved from Orange County to Plano
downtown Dallas in July 2020 and then into a
in North Dallas, moving with them
taller tower on the same site about two years
approximately 5,000 employees. Dallas is
later.
also the home to corporate giants AT&T, Exxon-Mobil, Texas Instruments, Pepsico
“Uber wants to fast forward to ‘cities of the
Frito-Lay, FedEx, Ericsson, Nokia and many
future’, starting in Dallas”. Most of Uber’s Dallas
others.
employees will work in finance, human resources and sales, Miller said.
Reprint: Dallas Morning News
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WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE RGV Signing of Memorandum of Cooperation
KALIBO, Aklan -- The Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Texas (Rio Grande Valley Region) has officially forged a partnership with the Aklan Provincial Government and the local chapters of Kalibo and Boracay of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). Ramel Buncalan, PCCI-Kalibo president, said Monday, June 24, they held a joint signing of the cooperation agreement at the Provincial Governor's Office last June 20. Buncalan signed the deal on behalf of the PCCI-Kalibo, while Elena Brugger signed on behalf of PCCI-Boracay. Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores and Texas Chamber Chair Rhodora Elizondo also signed the cooperation agreement. "We welcome this development as this is another milestone for business and trade sector in the province," said Buncalan. Under the agreement, the forms of cooperation include the exchange of economic and industrial technical data about the participant's regions for the purpose of educating each other on their respective strengths for possible import and export of products, visits and exchanges of representatives, trade policy analysts and other experts in technical personnel, information exchange on mutual market issues, technical meetings, joint seminars, workshops and exhibitions, bilateral trade and investment missions and business exposition, joint or cooperative programs and projects, establishment of closer links between business interests, education and training participation in an ongoing program, creation of a sister chambers, and other forms of cooperative activities. Source: https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1811249
PACC RIO GRANDE VALLEY SIGNS MEMORANDUM OF COOPERATION WITH PROVINCE OF AKLAN AND THE LOCAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY MEMORANDUM OF COOPERATION: PACC Texas RGV Chair Rhodora Elizondo signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Aklan Governor Florencio T. Miraflores (middle/white shirt), Philippine Chamber of Commerce Industry Aklan President Ramel Buncalan and PCCI Boracay Chapter President Elena Tosco Brugger.
BUSINESS WITH A HEART: PACC Rio Grande Valley Chamber Officials Rhodora Elizondo and Pastor Primitivo Pagayon combine a successful humanitarian project with their business and trade mission to Aklan, visiting underprivileged schools and helping 350 poor school children with school supplies and slippers! Top: PACC RGV Chair Rhodora Elizondo with some of 350 poor children in Banga, Aklan benefitted by the charity mission Bottom: Students of one of several underprivileged schools that received school supplies from the PACC RGV-led humanitarian mission gave thanks
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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
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Texas Metro areas Dallas and Houston lead nation in job growth!
TEXAS LEADS
39 Texas metropolitan areas, Dallas and Houston, led the nation in year-over-year job growth, according to data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).Among the 12 largest Metro Statistical Areas (MSAs) in the country, Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ranked first, reporting an annual job growth rate of 3.5 percent, followed by Houston’s 3 percent, and Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale’s 2.9 percent. If combined, the two Texas cities created 77,300 more new jobs than the New York-New Jersey MSA which posted the biggest gain last year. In July, the Texas economy added 35,200 seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs. The state’s unemployment rate held steady at 3.4 percent matching the alltime record low set in June, its lowest since it was first tracked in 1976. “It is remarkable and a testament to the strength of our industries that Texas continues to maintain a historic low unemployment rate of 3.4%,” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chair Ruth R. Hughs. "Our economy remains strong as a result of the continuing growth of our Texas employers and our thriving industries.” Texas employers added 323,300 jobs over the year. Total nonfarm annual employment growth was at 2.6 percent in July, holding above 2 percent since February 2018.
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THE PHILIPPINES TO LOSE THE MOST IN POSSIBLE U.S. OUTSOURCING BAN
The Philippines would be the ‘biggest loser’ in Asia if United States President Donald Trump follows through with his threat to punish American firms that outsource jobs, an independent economic research company has claimed. In Capital Economics’ recent research brief entitled “Winner and losers from the trade war,” it was revealed that the trade war between the U.S. and China poses a major threat to economies in emerging Asia, which would tip several countries’ economies into a recession. “The trade war between the U.S. and China so far appears to have had a small negative impact on most of the region, although some countries, most notably Vietnam, look to be benefiting as U.S. demand has shifted away from China towards alternative suppliers,” the brief said. It added that in the event of a global trade war, “a number of the region’s economies would be tipped into recession, while no part of Emerging Asia would escape unscathed.” Capital Economics noted that the Philippines is not as dependent on the goods trade to power its economy as its neighbors are, but it does have a robust services sector in which American firms are major players. U.S. corporations such as Citibank, Microsoft, Chevron, Verizon, Fedex, Safeway, Aetna and many others all have BPO operations here, as do smaller companies ranging from a Georgia medical collection agency to a New York spa operator that outsources its customer appointments. The think-tank firm said that while the effect of a prolonged trade war between the world’s two largest economies would be more damaging to economies that primarily engage in goods trade, the consequences for economies with strong service sector like the Philippines may result into greater stagnation due to maintaining barriers. “The long-run consequences would be even bigger if the world also maintained barriers to trade in services and information, to foreign direct investment, and to migration. In this case, there may be a much bigger global downturn, or indeed a long period of stagnation,” it said. (Reprinted from the Asian Journal)
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WHAT TO DO IN AN ACTIVE SHOOTER SITUATION
In an era when senseless killing seems to be far too common, the question is, “if you are the victim of an Active Shooter, will you know what to do?” How would you defend yourself against an active shooter? As a result of increased public awareness, many citizens have asked what individuals can do protect themselves and reduce the dangers faced during one of these events. And unfortunately, multiple active shooter incidents in the United States, including Texas, bring to light the importance of awareness and preparation. At least 20 dead, 26 wounded, after lone suspect was taken into custody after rampage at an El Paso Texas Walmart, where less than a week prior 3 were killed at Gilroy Garlic Festival in California. Avoid | Deny | Defend™ was developed as an easy to remember method for individuals to follow. As we’ve seen that hiding and hoping isn’t a very effective strategy. This campaign was presented to a packed house in Houston Texas. This very timely free event was sponsored by the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Texas Houston Region in partnership with the Houston Police Department as part of the Chamber’s Speaker Series project. Avoid | Deny | Defend™ is an intuitive, easy-to-remember three step plan for survival in the event of an active shooter event or other public acts of violence. Not just for the workplace, ADD is an important skill to share with community groups, churches, and other organizations. Click on the 11.5-minute overview of how to save your life in an Active Shooter Event on YouTube. What You Do Matters. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0It68YxLQQ Picture: Houston Police Department SWAT Team member and discussion leader Edward Kwan (middle) with members of the sponsoring PACC organization
EL PASO STRONG
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