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6 Things You Should Know about PEZA Zones

August 11, 2022 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA)’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have been critical in spreading economic growth throughout the country, particularly in the countryside. While it is just one of many SEZ authorities in the Philippines, its legal powers are the most comprehensive in scope, effectively giving it the lead in developing industrial parks and other special facilities.

Here are 6 things you should know about PEZA Zones.

1. PEZA Zones Attract Critical Foreign Direct Investments

PEZA zones were designed from the ground up to attract foreign direct investments (FDIs). Historically, FDI inflow into the Philippines has been limited by a combination of red tape, ownership laws, and the lack of infrastructure. PEZA zones and other special zones and parks were set up as a way for foreign investors to avoid these issues.

The perks offered by PEZA zones include expedited paperwork, relaxed foreign ownership restrictions, and reduced tariffs. Offering these has allowed the Philippines to better leverage its comparative advantage—high-quality labor. This combination of benefits has proved to be a winning one, as PEZA zones now attract thousands of foreign locators each year.

2. 16% Of the Philippines’ GDP Is Generated through PEZA Zones

PEZA zones generate immense value for the Philippine economy. In 2019, about 16% of the country’s GDP was attributed to economic activity generated within special economic zones, mostly managed by PEZA. About 70% of the country’s total exports of commodities were produced in SEZs as well. This all amounted to about USD 60.2 billion in direct economic value in 2019.

The economic merit of these zones was further underlined during the COVID-19 pandemic. These areas continued to be a source of income for the country despite the disrupted global supply chains. This recent event has proven that SEZs are now vital to the country’s stability.

3. They Are Key to Decentralizing Job Opportunities

One unfortunate fact about the Philippines is that there is currently a job equity gap between rural and urban Filipinos. While the cost of living tends to be much lower in the countryside, incomes tend to be disproportionately low as well, preventing individuals from saving, investing, or taking entrepreneurial risks.

Job opportunities in the Philippines are overwhelmingly concentrated in highly developed urban areas like Metro Manila and Metro Cebu. Jobs in these cities tend to be more plentiful, diverse, and better paying than in most other places in the country. This has led to massive urban migration from the countryside, simultaneously creating urban blight and negatively affecting rural job markets.

PEZA zones are now helping slow down this general trend of urban migration. The presence of PEZA zones in smaller regional cities has played a key part in convincing many Filipinos to stay in their hometowns. In most cases, these zones offer very high-quality jobs with better salaries and career advancement prospects than is typical for smaller communities.

4. The Biggest PEZA Zones Are in the Countryside

While there are numerous PEZA zones located within major cities, the largest ones are mostly located in smaller cities and municipalities in the countryside. When they are built in less prosperous areas, these zones are responsible for a large proportion of local economic activity.

Large PEZA SEZs are often located outside of big cities because of the much lower cost of land acquisition in rural areas, which consequently brings down the development cost of industrial parts. Additionally, industrial waste from factories is often easier to manage in the countryside, as waste treatment facilities can be difficult to set up in built-up urban areas.

5. PEZA Zones Boost Surrounding Communities

PEZA zones in the countryside do not operate in isolation. Industrial parks and other SEZs contribute significantly to local economies, wherever they are built.

The businesses connected to SEZs pay local taxes, generate local business opportunities, and boost local employment. Many of the service and market gaps that may exist in SEZs are often addressed by local entrepreneurs who, in turn, create additional value for the local economy.

Recognition has already been given to the role of industrial parks in boosting communities in the countryside. In 2019, Malacañang’s Administrative Order (AO) 18, “Accelerating Rural Progress Through Robust Development of Special Economic Zones in the Countryside,” was signed, effectively making SEZs an official tool for countryside development.

6. PEZA Zones Spur Domestic Innovation

Over the decades that SEZs have been in the Philippines, these areas have proven critical for vital technology and knowledge transfers. The establishment of foreign businesses in PEZA Zones has helped Filipinos become more familiar with various technologies and methods that were previously unknown or rare in the Philippines.

Many Filipino professionals and entrepreneurs have already created their own startups that leverage these learnings. A high proportion of Filipino entrepreneurs have gotten their start from working for multinationals located in SEZs. It would be hard to overstate the impact that SEZs have had in bringing local businesses to global standards.

PEZA SEZs have been an essential part of the Philippine economic formula for decades. They are a source of jobs, domestic innovation, and economic stability and have helped improve the lives of millions of Filipinos, especially in the countryside. One day, the successes of these zones may even be copied or exceeded in other parts of the country.

6 Practical Money Management Tips for Newlyweds

August 10, 2022 By FAQ Leave a Comment

As newlyweds, you and your spouse will be blending all aspects of your life, including your finances, which means the two of you will be sharing your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. As such, it’s a good idea to discuss your financial management plan as a couple as early as possible. It’s certainly ideal to talk things through when it comes to money matters since it is one the most common sources of disagreements in the first three years of marriage.

While your household finances isn’t the most romantic topic of conversation out there, it’s a subject that certainly needs to be discussed. It allows you to plot the best ways to handle your money, from paying your bills to managing your savings, all while supporting the lifestyle that you want for yourselves. It also helps you prepare for future plans, like adding new members to your family.

As you transition from handling your finances independently to doing it as husband and wife, here are six practical money management tips you can take into consideration.

Buy Household Items Secondhand

When moving into your new home, it can be tempting to purchase brand new household items to welcome your new life together as a married couple. However, getting new furniture and appliances to match your new home can be a costly choice. Unless you have the budget to buy everything brand new, you can consider getting some of them secondhand. It will help you save up money and still furnish your home.

Additionally, purchasing secondhand is a great way to discover quality items at lower prices. You’re likely to find a second hand sofa or dining set in good condition at a fraction of the cost that you would typically pay for when you get the set brand new. Moreover, you’re also more likely to stumble upon unique pieces when you buy secondhand, since many of these items are no longer being produced or they may come from faraway places where the original owners lived. Think of furniture and decorative pieces of rare designs, or even custom creations you probably wouldn’t find elsewhere.

Open a Joint Account for Household Expenses

Having a joint account mainly for household expenses will help you monitor the money that comes in and out of your coffers. You can also use it as your central fund to pay for your common household expenses such as food, rent, utility bills, and others. Sharing a joint account also allows both of you to access the money should you encounter emergencies.

And if you’re wondering about whether or not it’s advisable to keep separate accounts as a married couple, the short answer is “it’s totally up to you.” Many relationship experts and even long-time couples recommend the practice of letting one’s spouse maintain their financial independence while also sharing financial responsibilities.

Talk about Who Pays for What

If you have a two-income household, be sure to define what your monthly contributions will be for the household. You can also discuss how much you’ll give to the joint account monthly, as well as how much you’ll spend, save, and invest. In case you prefer maintaining separate accounts, you can assign certain payments to each other. This can depend on your earnings and if you have any loan obligations to fulfill before getting married.

Some couples assign between them who will manage certain daily expenses. One might be assigned to handle food, utilities, and transportation, while the other might be tasked to make contributions toward the household’s insurance, retirement funds, and investments. This is a practical approach because you get to distribute your household’s financial responsibilities. That said, make sure that these financial responsibilities are distributed equitably.

Set Up a Luxe Fund

Do you want a new smart TV or go on a vacation? Prepare for these non-essential expenses by creating a “luxe fund” and channeling a portion of your income into it. Doing this will allow you to still take care of essential expenses while saving up for the little luxuries you want. Also, it’s a good practice to splurge on dispensable expenses only when you already have enough budget for them. It will help teach both you and your spouse to plan and control your spending.

Build an Emergency Fund

It’s never too early to set up an emergency fund, and you won’t regret doing it. An emergency fund is a stash of money (ideally a separate savings account) that you set aside in case the unexpected happens, such as a health emergency, a home repair emergency, or a retrenchment at work.

When considering how much of your monthly budget you should set aside for your emergency fund, you can follow the typical recommendation of stashing away at least 6 months’ worth of living expenses. To do this, you’ll need to set aside 10 percent or more of your gross income each month, and you need to keep saving until you have the amount you need—or more.

If you want to ensure you regularly put money into your emergency fund, you can set up an automatic transfer with your bank or take turns with your spouse putting money into the account every month. If you begin creating an emergency fund now, you can slowly grow it over time, which should give you peace of mind should you encounter any unexpected issues in the future.

Update Your Accounts

Many newlyweds move into new homes after getting married. If you’ll have this kind of arrangement as well, make sure to notify the banks, credit card companies, insurance companies, and investment companies you have accounts with about the change in your address or contact information. You also have to inform these institutions about your change in marital status because the union will have a bearing on your legal entitlements to one another’s financial assets and estates.

When it comes to managing finances, it’s up to you as a couple to discuss what works best for you. However, if you’re looking for time-tested pieces of advice, make sure to consider the abovementioned tips. These will help you settle in your new life as husband and wife, and they will help you prepare financially for your future.

Boracay Dubbed One of TIME’s 50 World’s Greatest Places of 2022

July 25, 2022 By FAQ Leave a Comment

It has already been said before, and possibly many times over since—Boracay is one of the hottest destinations in the Philippines. While access to this beautiful island has been temporarily cut off from tourists following the previous administration’s rehabilitation campaign on the area that lasted for several months, momentarily earning the title “Paradise Lost,” not to mention the recent onset of the pandemic that closed the area for its potential to draw the crowd. But the landmass that is known for its fantastic white sand beaches and milieu of clear seawaters easily rebounded from its temporary seclusion—eventually emerging as one of TIME Magazine’s 50 World’s Greatest Places in 2022.

So, yes, Boracay’s path to healing as a result of human pollution may have exceeded the anticipated months-long government-imposed recuperation because of the arrival of COVID-19, stretching its significant isolation to nearly three years. Quite a long time even for avid travelers to consider other more accessible places over it—to which there are plenty all over the world. But with this absence comes the makeover that makes the famously amazing atoll spotless as it originally was. Via TIME, there had been reports from locals stating that Boracay has now a renewed set of flora and fauna, especially sea turtles.

However, while it takes someone who already loves Boracay, be it the locals or tourists, to not ever forget its existence, it is more so for the Department of Tourism (DOT) whose task is to promote the country its tourist-worthy destinations, like Boracay.

Acknowledging TIME’s inclusion of Boracay in its campaign, DOT Secretary was quoted as saying—”The DOT affirms its pride and honor as Boracay Island once again proved its allure as a tourist haven. Such recognition will surely help us attain our goal of regaining our position in the global market.”

Further, “Surely, the Philippines has a multitude of sites and tourism activities that we could offer to the world. And, in addition to natural resources, we look forward as well to developing and promoting the talents of our people and the products that have the potential for national and global marketability.”

Although Boracay’s inclusion in the list was largely owed to its natural beauty, other places to join the roster also included settlements, but are nevertheless worthy of people’s admiration in one way or another, such as the capital cities of South Korea and Qatar.

Want to experience Boracay in all its revamped beauty? Why not book a Boracay tour package, now while you’re at it?

Top 10 Universities in the Philippines

June 3, 2021 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Having been known for its heaven like beaches, the Philippines has attracted thousands of international citizens to visit the country. Apart from its tourism magnet, it has been reported that there are more than five thousand foreign students coming to the country for their academic pursuit every year. The reasons are pretty clear. The living costs and school fees are considered way more affordable when compared with other English speaking countries. Not only that, its tourism spots and mix of cultures (Spanish, American and Malay) make the country far more interesting to young minds who want to explore and have fun while stuying. So far, such large number of students are catered by around two thousand universities in the Philippines.

Choosing the one that suits your academic needs out of so many options might be tricky, but knowing list of the country’s top universities may help you make up your mind. To be noted, the list is based on the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Asia University Rankings of 2021 and so far, there are ten Philippine universities that have made their way into the billboard chart.

University	Ranking
University of the Philippines	69th
Ateneo de Manila University	135th
De La Salle University	166th
University of Santo Tomas	186th
University of San Carlos	451 – 500
Ateneo de Davao University	501 – 550
Mapua University	501 – 550
Silliman University	501 – 550
Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology	551 – 660
Adamson University	600+

1. University of the Philippines Diliman

UP Diliman is the number one university in the country. Although the University of the Philippines is government funded and it is accessible throughout the country as it has 15 different campuses in different locations. UP Diliman in Quezon City is the most reputable one. Being awarded as the 69^th best university in Asia and 367^th in the world by the QS,

UP Diliman has more than twenty thousand students with three most recognized majors: English language and literature, management and social sciences. Other than the three majors, academic programs related to architecture, biology, business, broadcast, chemistry, computer, economics, film, food technology, geology, industry, journalism, mathematics, mining, psychology, tourism and visual communication. In addition to the varied programs, the Commission on Higher Education has declared many of its research centers the National Centers of Excellence.

Type: State University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 40,000-50,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 3,800-51,000 per year

2. Ateneo de Manila University

This university is one of the country’s oldest as it was established in mid 1800’s. Claiming that Lux in Domino or Light in the Lord in English as its motto, this university holds up to excellent education and doing something for environment and community, which can be seen clearly through its sustainability programs.

Academically, Ateneo de Manila is placed joint 95^th among Asian universities and 551-600 in the world. Its widely recognized programs are the English language and literature along with arts and humanities. In fact, the first is ranked among the world’s top 200, while the later among the top 350. Other than the those popular majors, other programs are available, such as economics, management, development studies, communication, and European studies.

Type: Private University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 160,000-180,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 50,000-70,000 per year

3. De La Salle University

The university is highly reputable in the Philippines, popular for its academic quality and researches. Even fourteen of its programs have been declared Centers of Excellence and five Centers of Development by the Commission on Higher Education. Not only that, the university has received an autonomous status from the Commission.

Furthermore, the university has received global recognition. Despite the fact that it is ranked among the 701-750 when compared with other universities around the world and 166^th in Asia, its English language and literature major is indeed quite well recognized as it joins the world’s top 200. There are currently more than eighteen thousand students pursuing their degree in the university. Hundreds of them are international students coming from twenty different countries.

Apart from its excellent academic programs, De La Salle University, which was established in 1911 by the Brothers of Christian Schools, is well known for its community service active involvement.

Type: Private University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 205,000-225,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 37,000-100,000 per year

Doctorate degree: ₱ 110,000-205,000 per entire program

4. University of Santo Tomas

Looking at the university’s academic programs, University of Santo Tomas is a one stop study center. Quite similar to the diverse academic options presented by the University of the Philippines Diliman, this university caters a wide range of academic flairs: accounting, arts, chemistry, biology, engineering, commerce, architecture, computer science, hospitality, education, human resources, journalism, laws, music, literature, pharmacy and many others.

Founded in 1611, this university is the oldest in the country and in Asia. So far, its reputation has been affirmed by the QS four star rating it receives and its 801-1000 global place in the QS World University Rangkings. With the currently formed Academic Programs Quality Assurance Office, the quality of each program offered by the university is closely monitored to meet global standards.

Type: Private University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 100,000-120,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 66,000-78,000 per year

Doctorate degree: ₱ 74,000-94,000 per year

5. University of San Carlos

University of San Carlos (USC) is a Catholic educational institution administered since 1935 by Society of the Divine Word (SVD) missionaries. A University since 1948, USC offers the complete educational package from kindergarten, including a Montessori academy, to graduate school.

USC is ranked by the International/Asia Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) within 451-500 in Asia as of 2021. USC is also ranked by Scopus as 8th (2018) and Research Gate as 7th (2020) among universities in the Phils. with the most indexed research publications.

Type: Catholic Private University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 70,000-80,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 19,500-35,000 per year

6. Ateneo de Davao University

Ateneo de Davao University (Filipino: Pamantasang Ateneo de Davao), also referred to by its acronym AdDU, is a private Catholic basic and higher education institution run by the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus in Davao City, Davao del Sur in the Philippines. The university has five undergraduate schools, namely the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Business and Governance, School of Engineering and Architecture, School of Education and the School of Nursing. The graduate programs are under these units as well. The College of Law is a separate unit within the university. The university also runs a grade school and high school, both Junior High School and Senior High School.

The University was granted “Institutional Accreditation” by the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities in which only six universities in the country were given such recognition, and was also granted Autonomous Status by the Commission on Higher Education (Philippines).

Type: Private University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 70,000-80,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 19,500-35,000 per year

7. Mapúa University

Mapúa University, formerly named Mapúa Institute of Technology and also referred to by its acronym MU is a private, non-sectarian, research-oriented higher education institution located in Intramuros, Manila and in Makati. It was founded in 1925 by the first registered Filipino architect, Tomás Mapúa, a graduate of Cornell University.

With more than 10,500 students, Mapúa has been producing professionals in diverse fields, namely, engineering and sciences, architecture and design, media studies, information technology, business and management, and social sciences. It offers 39 undergraduate programs, 37 master’s degree programs, 17 joint programs, 7 double-degree programs, and 6 doctorate programs.

Type: Private University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 130,000-195,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 44,000-92,000 per year

Doctorate degree: ₱ 65,000-74,000 per entire program

8. Silliman University

Silliman University (also referred to as Silliman or SU) is a private research university in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, the Philippines. Established in 1901 as Silliman Institute by the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions, it is the first American and Protestant founded institution of higher learning in the Philippines and in Asia. In terms of accreditation, Silliman is one of only five universities in the Philippines with “Institutional Accreditation” by the Federation of Accrediting Agencies of the Philippines (FAAP).

Type: Private University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 60,000-80,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 40,000-80,000 per year

Doctorate degree: ₱ 40,000-80,000 per year

9. Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology

The Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology, commonly referred to as MSU-IIT, is a public coeducational institution of higher learning and research university located in Iligan City, Philippines, charted in 1968 by Republic Act 5363 and integrated as the first autonomous unit of the Mindanao State University System in 1975.

Type: State University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 7,000-18,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 28,000 per year

10. Adamson University

Adamson University (AdU; Filipino: Pamantasang Adamson) is a private university in Manila, Philippines, founded on June 20, 1932, by Greek immigrant George Lucas Adamson as the Adamson School of Industrial Chemistry. Adamson University has programs in graduate school, law, the liberal arts, sciences, engineering, nursing, pharmacy, architecture, business administration, and education, as well as secondary, elementary, and preparatory education.

Type: Private University

Bachelor’s degree: ₱ 66,000-120,000 per year

Master’s degree: ₱ 20,500-45,000 per year

Doctorate degree: ₱ 22,000-53,000 per year

Top 10 Best Hospitals in the Philippines

May 28, 2021 By FAQ Leave a Comment

With so many medical facilities in Philippines, it can be it difficult to know which hospital will be the right option for you. Hospitals in both the private and public sectors are typically safe and reliable. Deciding between both is generally a matter of choice, as both systems deliver top-of-the-line medical care.

The largest benefit of going public is the affordability factor. Costs are generally lower than those in private hospitals, as public hospitals are usually subsidized by the government. Public hospitals in Philippines are typically considered to be of a high standard with highly trained medical professionals and world-leading facilities.

In addition to these public hospitals, there are a number of privately run hospitals and centres that do not receive the same funding from government and therefore charge patients directly for services. If ultimate luxury and comfort are what you are after, then chose a private hospital for your treatment. Expect shorter waiting times and a smoother administration and billing process.

If you don’t already have health insurance and get sick, you have to pay the full cost of your medical care.
So make sure you have quality health insurance that covers your medical expenses, including prescriptions.

We have compiled a list of 10 best hospitals in Philippines including options from both public and private sectors.

1. Philippine Heart Center

The Philippine Heart Center is a hospital in Quezon City, Philippines, specializing in the treatment of heart ailments. It was established in 1975 under the Marcos Administration. It ranks as one of the leading medical institutions in Asia for the medical and surgical treatment of heart diseases. The Center admits more than 14,000 patients yearly, of whom more than 3,300 undergo heart surgery.

Aside from offering medical services, the Center is deeply involved in cardiovascular research, training and education and public information. It offers training programs not only for aspiring heart specialists but also for private and government medical practitioners. It engages in various researches on the prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases and undertakes nationwide information programs on the heart and heart care.

Location: East Avenue, Quezon City, Metro Manila

Website: www.phc.gov.ph

Phone: +632 8925 2401

2. St Luke’s Medical Center Quezon City

Considered as one of the best in Asia and renowned the world over, no hospital in the Philippines has gained so much attention over time as St. Luke’s. The hospital has a 650 bed-capacity and also hosts medical equipments such as the 3-Tesla MRI, 1152-slice dual energy CT scanner, PET scanner and Cyclotron. It employs at least 1,700 doctors and about 2,600 non-medical staff.

The St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City is the first hospital in the Philippines and the second one in Asia to be accredited by the Joint Commission International. The hospital first earned the distinction in 2003 and the accreditation has been renewed at least four times. In 2012, HealthExecNews chose St. Luke’s Medical Center as one of the Top 25 Most Beautiful Hospitals in the World.

Location: 279 E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave., Quezon City, Metro Manila

Website: www.stlukes.com.ph

Phone: +632 8723 0101

3. Makati Medical Center

The Makati Medical Center in Manila, Philippines, has been providing top quality care for over 45 years. Their depth of experience and highly regarded reputation make it an excellent option for anyone seeking affordable medical treatment abroad. The Center has a 600 bed-capacity and is known throughout the country as one of the best places to receive treatment for both domestic and foreign patients.

In 2011, Makati Medical Center became the first and only Philippine health institution to be certified with the 4th edition Joint Commission International accreditation and the 4th hospital in the country to be accredited. Also in the same year, Asian Hospital Management Awards (AHMA) gave Makati Medical Center an “A Decade of Achievement” special award. This recognition was given to the top three hospitals who won the most Asian Hospital Management Awards in the 10 years of HMA.

Location: 2 Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati, Metro Manila

Website: www.makatimed.net.ph

Phone: +632 8888 8999

4. Asian Hospital and Medical Centre

Founded in March 2002 by Jorge Garcia, MD – an alumnus of the Faculty of Medicine & Surgery of the University of Santo Tomas – Asian Hospital and Medical Center (AHMC) has been synonymous to advance medical facilities that are at par with international standards of medicine. Located in the Filinvest City in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, the hospital has 296 beds and a thousand medical staff who are trained to provide quality and compassionate patient care.

The first hospital in the Philippines designed with a hotel-like ambiance, AHMC believes in creating an environment which ultimately promotes healing, comfort, and care for the patient and their family. It has also been accredited by The Joint Commission in 2013, with a renewal of the accreditation given in 2016.

Location: 2205 Civic Drive, Filinvest Corporate City Alabang, Muntinlupa City

Website: www.asianhospital.com

Phone: +632 8771 9000

5. The Medical City

The Medical City (TMC), the largest healthcare network in the country, is composed of one flagship complex, four provincial hospitals, and over 50 clinics in Metro Manila and in select provinces in the Philippines. The main facility is located on a 1.5 hectare property along Ortigas Avenue in the business district of Pasig City, Metro Manila. It is composed of 115,000 square meters of floor space, and includes two Nursing Towers with capacity of up to 800 beds.

The Medical City Main has been conferred accreditation by the Joint Commission International for attaining and maintaining the highest standards of quality for healthcare organizations. JCI is widely recognized as the most prestigious accrediting body for international healthcare organizations.

TMC has defined for itself the value proposition: “Where Patients are Partners.” This phrase finds its fullest meaning when the patient is viewed not as a problem to be solved or a charge to be cared for, but as a partner in his own health.

Location: Ortigas Center, Pasig, Metro Manila

Website: www.themedicalcity.com

Phone: +632 8988 1000

6. Cardinal Santos Medical Center

Named in the honor of Archbishop Rufino Cardinal Santos, the medical center is a 235-bed tertiary general hospital. Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) earned its place as a leading hospital in the country that specializes in cardiology, neurosurgery, oncology, and rehabilitation medicine. CSMC is also recognized for its expertise in pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, pulmonary medicine, nephrology, urology, and minimally invasive surgery.

CSMC has defined for itself the value proposition: “YOU are family”. At CSMC, every patient is treated like a family member. Each one is guaranteed to experience not just the best of care but the warmth and dedication we give to our own family.

Location: 10 Wilson St. Greenhills West, San Juan City, Metro Manila

Website: www.cardinalsantos.com.ph

Phone: +632 8727 0001

7. Philippine General Hospital

More than most hospitals, Philippine General Hospital (PGH) has become a household word, and rightly so. Administered and operated by globally-recognized top university in the country, University of the Philippines, the hospital can certainly boast of the best and the brightest medical personnel in the region.

As a public hospital, PGH is regarded as the national public hospital of the Philippines, and because of this, it has been known as the hospital of the indigents. PGH has 1,100 beds and 400 private beds, and has an estimated of 4,000 employees to serve more than 600,000 patients every year.

Location: Taft Avenue, Ermita, Metro Manila

Website: www.pgh.gov.ph

Phone: +632 8554 8400

8. Manila Doctors Hospital

Recently acquired by MetroBank Foundation, Inc., Manila Doctors has certainly become a premiere health-care destination inside the country and right at the tourist district of Manila. It was founded in the City of Manila in 1956 by the group of doctors. The hospital is currently owned by the Manila Medical Services, Inc. It provides services for physical examination, cardiovascular check, and oncology unit.

The hospital slogan is “World Class Care Within Your Reach“.

Location: 667 United Nations Avenue, Ermita, Manila

Website: www.maniladoctors.com.ph

Phone: +632 8558 0888

9. University of Santo Tomas Hospital

The University of Santo Tomas Hospital (simply UST Hospital or USTH) is a hospital located at the University of Santo Tomas. Founded as San Juan de Dios Hospital in 1577, UST Hospital is one of the oldest – if not the oldest – hospital in the country. The hospital has two divisions, a clinical teaching hospital that offers inexpensive medical care for indigent patients and a private hospital for patients with financial means, which is partially used to subsidize the clinical division.

The USTH, the base hospital and training facility of students of the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, the UST College of Nursing, and the UST College of Rehabilitation Sciences, is a level III, tertiary care center within the campus of the University of Santo Tomas, the oldest University in Asia. As a premier institution of learning in the Philippines, excellence in training, education and research is central in the vision and mission of the USTH.

Location: A.H. Lacson Avenue, Sampaloc, Manila, Metro Manila

Website: www.usthospital.com.ph

Phone: +632 8731 3001

10. Chong Hua Hospital

Chong Hua Hospital is a hospital in Cebu City, Philippines. It is a non-stock, non-profit organization, owned and managed by the Asociación Benévola de Cebú. With 660 beds and state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, Chong Hua is considered as one of the biggest, most advanced, fully integrated and comprehensive healthcare facility system in the Visayas and Mindanao.

In 2009, it became the first hospital outside Luzón and third in the Philippines to be accredited by Joint Commission International. The hospital had been able to keep its agency accreditation until 2015.

Location: Don Mariano Cui Street, Fuente Osmeña, Cebu City, Central Visayas

Website: www.chonghua.com.ph

Phone: +633 2255 8000

A Guide on Arrival and Quarantine Procedures

May 23, 2021 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, the Philippine Government has issued precautionary measures, mandatory protocols and requirements for travelers. For passengers in international flights to the Philippines, please be guided on new arrival and quarantine procedures in Manila, Cebu, and Clark.

Passengers, regardless of vaccination status, are still required to undergo respective testing and quarantine as specified by the Philippine Inter-Agency Task Force on the management of Emerging Infectious Diseases.

Taking a COVID-19 RT-PCR Test is a requirement of the Philippine government for all arriving international passengers. Children,including infants, are required to undergo the RT-PCR Test. They must also complete the registration process and pay a separate testing fee. For minimized discomfort, infants will be swabbed through the mouth.

The test is free for OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers), whether they arrive in Manila, Cebu, or Clark.

Upon Arrival

Listen to the briefing to be conducted by the Philippine Coast Guard and airline staff.
Upon deplaning, undergo a temperature check and submit the Health Declaration Form.
Verify your quarantine hotel booking with a hotel coordinator and validate your Affidavit of Undertaking.
Arrange your transfer to the hotel at these desks if you haven’t done so yet. There are shuttles and vans available. If you prefer a coupon or meter taxi, there is a separate desk for that. You will be given a sticker to indicate your choice of transportation to your quarantine hotel.
– Red: Pre-arranged hotel transfers
– Blue: Shuttles/vans
– Yellow: Metered Taxis
– Green: Coupon Taxis
Proceed to the verification booth where medical staff will confirm your eCIF data.
Pay for your RT-PCR test. The test costs P4,000 and you may pay with cash, card, or through the following online payments: AliPay, WeChat Pay, PayPal, and GCash.
Get a sticker. After paying, you will receive a sticker indicating that you have a confirmed booking and you have already paid for your test. Place the sticker on the back of your passport.
Clear Immigration inspection. Submit your accomplished Arrival Card.
Pick up your bags at the assigned carousel at the Baggage Claim area.
Submit your signed Affidavit of Undertaking and accomplished Customs form.
Proceed to your arranged transportation and transfer to your hotel.

At the Quarantine Hotel

On Day 1, check in at your hotel. Follow all the government and hotel policies being implemented within the vicinity. Wait for the schedule of your test on Day 6. Note that Day 1 starts on the day of your arrival in the Philippines. If you exhibit symptoms anytime between Day 1 and the day of your test, inform your hotel immediately. A health or BOQ officer will assess you fro medical management and testing, as necessary.
On Day 3 of your quarantine stay, you will receive a follow-up email for confirmation of your hotel and room number. It will also include an assessment checklist for updates on your health. Answer the form no later than Day 4 of your quarantine stay.
On Day 6, the testing agency may contact your or your hotel to confirm your location and schedule.
On Day 7, undergo an RT-PCR test. You will have to present your passport, QR Code, and payment receipt to the personnel who will administer the test.

Going Home

Get a clearance from the hotel staff. You will need to present your negative test result and BOQ medical certificate.
Arrange your preferred transportation. You may contact your relatives or your LGU to pick you up or arrange another mode of transportation going home.
Complete your 14-day quarantine / self-isolation under the monitoring of your LGU and Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams.

AirAsia Promo for 2021

February 27, 2021 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Catch our summer holiday deals with AirAsia promo when you fly with AirAsia from Manila to several domestic sites.

Rates are exclusive of Domestic & International Passenger Service Charge, Web Admin Fee/Booking Processing Fee and Country Specific Charges/taxes. Terms and Conditions apply.

Booking dates

Feb 22 – Mar 7, 2021

Travel periods

Feb 22 – July 31, 2021

Listed below are the destinations that you can book:

Manila to Cebu at 228 Pesos

Manila to Cagayan de Oro at 228 Pesos

Manila to Kalibo at 228 Pesos

Manila to Tacloban at 228 Pesos

Manila to Caticlan Boracay at 228 Pesos

Manila to Puerto Prinsesa at 228 Pesos

Manila to Bohol at 228 Pesos

Manila to Davao at 228 Pesos

Manila to Iloilo at 228 Pesos

Manila to General Santos at 228 Pesos

Manila to Bacolod at 228 Pesos

Manila to Zamboanga at 228 Pesos

Cebu to Davao at 98 Pesos

Cebu to Boracay at 277 Pesos

Cebu to Cagayan de Oro at 277 Pesos

Cebu to Puerto Prinsesa de Oro at 366 Pesos

How to book this AirAsia Promo?

Before you book the promo, make sure to check the Sale Period and the Travel Period. Promo fares are subject to availability – it means that promo seats are LIMITED. If your desired destination and dates is not available, the website will show you the next lowest fare price or you might want to check other dates/destinations.
You can visit directly the AirAsia website at www.airasia.com and enter your travel details (flight type, destinations,departure, number of guests traveling. If you are going to choose roundtrip, you need to provide return flight date)
You can also call the AirAsia hotline at +632 722 2742 from 6am – 11pm (GMT+8) Monday to Sunday. You can also visit the travel agent near you

Cebu Pacific Promo for 2021

February 14, 2021 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Cebu Pacific Air offers 88 Pesos BASE FARES for the whole year of 2021. If you are planning to have a vacation this year, then better book your Cebu Pacific tickets now.

Just browse the travel dates and destinations for not all dates will be carrying promo fare tickets.

Cebu Pacific promo ticket rates include only the base fare and free 7 kg hand carry baggage. Web Admin Fee, 12% VAT, Terminal Fees and Fuel Surcharge are not included in promo ticket price.

Booking dates

Up to February 11, 2021 or until seats are sold out.

Listed below are the destinations that you can book:

Cebu to Bacolod, Boracay (Caticlan), Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Clark, Coron (Busuanga), Davao, Dipolog, Dumaguete, General Santos, Iloilo, Legazpi, Ozamiz, Pagadian, Puerto Princesa, Siargao, Surigao, Tacloban, or Zamboanga.

Clark to Bacolod, Boracay (Caticlan), Davao, Iloilo, or Puerto Princesa.

Manila to Bacolod, Bohol, Boracay (Caticlan), Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cauayan (Isabela), Cebu, Davao, Dipolog, Dumaguete, General Santos, Kalibo, Iloilo, Legazpi, Masbate, Marinduque, Naga, Ozamiz, Pagadian, Puerto Princesa, Roxas, San Jose (Mindoro), Tacloban, Tuguegarao, Virac, or Zamboanga.

How to book this Cebu Pacific Promo:

Before you book the promo, make sure to check the Sale Period and the Travel Period. Promo fares are subject to availability – it means that promo seats are LIMITED. If your desired destination and dates are not available, the website will show you the next lowest fare price or you might want to check other dates/destinations.
You can visit directly the Cebu Pacific website at www.cebupacificair.com and enter your travel details (flight type, destinations, departure, number of guests traveling. If you are going to choose roundtrip, you need to provide return flight date)
NO PROMO CODE NEEDED for this promo. Cebu Pacific Promo Codes are only used usually for special sale for VISA or MASTER CARD Holder only. For regular promos, you don’t have to put promo codes.
You can also call the Cebu Pacific hotline at (02) 70-20-888 in Manila or (32) 230-8888 in Cebu or visit the travel agent near you.

When to Go to Tagaytay?

January 23, 2021 By FAQ Leave a Comment

In every action an individual takes, there is a goal in mind that encourages them from doing the plan they outlaid. Nonetheless, the one thing that they will gain from what they will experience in their schemes is they will learn from it – regardless of what will happen to the outcome.

Learning is an essential matter of travelling. Thus, tourists travel because they are eager to meet other people and discover something new. Suchlike, enlightenment in life, new languages, trying out the country’s cuisine they are visiting, the culture, and renewing or building up their faith or spiritual belief.

In their eyes, being away from their hometown that stimulated their anxieties and pressure in life is the key to determine a different point of view. It is the kind of fulfilment that nobody or any material thing that can replace.

For over the years, tourism is one of the most successful fields in the economy all over the world – most especially to those with tourist spots that each voyager looks forward to seeing. The Philippines is one of the countries that has a flourishing rate in tourism. In 2019, over 8.2 million tourists paid a visit over the famous scenic places the nation has.

Like their mountains, rainforests, diving spots, beaches, caves, and islands in the provinces, the state’s cultural monuments from their history and cultural heritage, such as festivals and indigenous traditions are also part of the tourist’s attraction. All these civilizations and the picturesque-like monuments that the Filipino’s ancestors fought for in the war are now their country’s prized possession. These valuables are what made the Philippines known across the globe.

Nonetheless, these tourists’ spots are not only seen in one municipal but various cities and provinces. That being the case, tourism in the Philippines has been prosperous for several years.

Tagaytay is a portion of the Creator’s masterpiece that many people desire to visit because of hidden beauty. Cavite is one of the most known provisional councils that are known to multiple tourists. The acknowledgement the place receives is from the natural resources they have in their rural and urban areas.

Locals and tourists can see multiple sightseeing spots in Tagaytay. Taal, Volcano being one, which became known after its explosion in 2020, People’s Park in the Sky, Picnic Grove, Puzzle Mansion, Museo Orlina, Paradizoo, Ilog Maria Bee Farm, and their entertainment theme park known as Sky Ranch.

Howbeit, when is the right time to go to Tagaytay?

Read the infographic below made thoroughly by Tagaytay Staycation hotel, the most recognizable budget-friendly staycation in Tagaytay:

Mga Dapat at Hindi Dapat Gawin sa Forex Trading na Dapat Malaman ng Bawat Pilipino

March 11, 2020 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Katulad ng ibang negosyo, may mga maaaring gawin upang maging matagumpay ang iyong mga transaksyon sa forex trading. Isang halimbawa nito ay ang paggamit ng kalakalan ng kopya ng forex Pilipinas sa iyong mga trade. Ito ay isang mabisang paraan upang maging matagumpay ang iyong mga trade.

Subalit, katulad din sa ibang negosyo, mayroon ding mga bagay na dapat at hindi dapat gawin sa industriya ng forex trading. Ito ay impormasyon na mahalaga at dapat alamin, lalo para sa isang baguhan pa lamang sa mundo ng forex trading.

Anu-ano nga ba ang mga dapat at hindi dapat gawin pagdating sa forex trading? Ipagpatuloy ang pagbabasa upang malaman ang mga ito.

Mga Dapat Gawin:

Dapat ikaw ay may nakahandang plano para sa iyong mga trade.

Kung ikaw ay isang baguhan pa lamang, ito’y isang napakaimportanteng hakbang upang maging matagumpay ang iyong mga trade. Ikaw ay dapat handa at may malalim na kaalaman at pagkakaintindi sa industriyang ito dahil ito ang mga haligi ng matagumpay na mga transaksyon sa forex trading.

Maglaan ng panahon upang masusing mapag-aralan ang galaw ng industriya.

Bago ka sumabak sa industriya ay nararapat lamang na pag-aralan nang mabuti ang industriya at kung paano gumagalaw ang merkado. Dahil ang masusing pag-aaral ay kinakailangan upang maiwasan ang mga pagkakamaling magdulot ng pagkalugi.

Bukod dito, kung malalim ang iyong pagkakaintindi sa kung paano gumagana ang merkado ng salapi ay maaari kang bumuo ng mas maayos na estratehiya sa forex trading.

Isang paraan upang maging matagumpay ang iyong mga trade ay ang pag-aaral nang mabuti sa mga kasalukuyang pattern ng forex trading market gamit ang mga chart at iba pa. Ito ay makakatulong sa isang baguhang forex trader upang lalong maintindihan kung paano gumagana ang forex trading market.

Isaisip ang ratio ng maaring kitain at mawala.

Ito ay dapat gawin bago magsimula ng panibagong trade at siguraduhin na ginagawa ang trade sa panahong nagpapakita ng malaking paglaki o pagbaba ang merkado. Ito ay para maiwasan ang pagkalugi at mawalan ng puhunan.

Magkaroon ng malalim na kaalaman sa Fibonacci Analysis.

Ito ay isang bagay na maaaring makatulong sa isang trader, lalo na sa isang baguhan, upang malaman ang tamang panahon kung kailan dapat lumabas at pumasok sa isang trade. Ito ay dahil nakakatulong ito sa paghula sa mga maaaring maging galaw ng merkado.

Gamitin lahat ng maaaring gamitin upang lalong maintindihan ang industriya.

Isang bagay na maaaring gawin ng isang baguhan ay gamitin ng lahat ng bagay na mayroon siya upang lalong mapalalim ang kanyang kaalaman at pagkakaintindi sa industriya ng forex trading. Lalo na’t marami nang mga kurso online na maaaring pasukin upang lalong maintindihan ang industriya ng forex trading.

Mga Hindi Dapat Gawin:

Magmadali sa mga transaksyon.

Ang isang trader, lalo kung baguhan pa lamang, ay dapat iwasan ang pagmamadali sa mga trade dahil ito ay maaaring maging dahilan ng kanyang pagkalugi. Ikaw ay dapat magkaroon ng mahabang pasensya upang maiwasan ang mga pagkakamali na dulot ng pagmamadali.

Paggawa ng desisyon dahil sa pagmamadali para lamang kumita.

Ito ay mahalaga lalo kung ikaw ay baguhan na trader. Hindi ka dapat magmadali sa iyong mga desisyon para lamang kumita dahil maaari ito maging sanhi ng iyong pagkalugi kung mali ang iyong desisyon. Kung ikaw ay hindi pa nakasisigurado sa maaaring maging resulta, huwag mo munang itaya ang iyong puhunan.

Pagsagawa ng trade sa mga oras na patay ang merkado.

Kahit ang merkado ng forex trading ay hindi natutulog, mayroon pa ring mga panahon na ito ay hindi kasing aktibo kaya hangga’t maaari ay iwasan ito dahil ito ay maaaring magdulot ng pagkalugi.

Gamitin nang buo ang deposit, lalo sa simula.

Ito ay dahil ang maliit na paggalaw ng merkado ay maaari nang maging sanhi ng pagkawala ng iyong puhunan. Bilang isang baguhan, laging tandaan na sapat na halaga lamang ang gamitin upang maiwasan ang pagkalugi.

Pagiging sakim at emosyonal sa mga trade.

Ito ay isang malaking bagay na hindi dapat gawin sa industriyang ito. Ang forex trading ay isang negosyo at dapat iwasan maging emosyonal at sakim sa mga transaksyon lalo’t hindi ito isang bagay na inirerekomenda.

Ang pagpasok sa isang trade na mukhang hindi matatag.

Upang maiwasan ang pagkalugi sa forex trading ay dapat maging maingat sa bawat trade na iyong pinapasok. Kung hindi maganda ang ipinapakita sa mga chart ay iwasan muna ang pakikipagtransaksyon.

Konklusyon

Ang forex trading ay isang industriya na kinakailangan ng pag-iingat at masusing pag-aaral upang maiwasan ang pagkalugi at pagkawala ng iyong puhunan. Ang pagsasapuso ng mga nasabing impormasyon tungkol sa forex trading ay maaaring maging susi sa iyong tagumpay sa industriyang ito.