Book on Philippine Institutions Examines Key Reforms

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 3:46 PM ADBM Resources
Labels: , , , 0 comments

The commitment of President Benigno S. Aquino III to fight corruption and promote good governance is essentially a question of rebuilding institutions. Tackling the definition of institutions as well as the state of the Philippine economy and politics, the book Philippine Institutions: Growth and Prosperity for All,  was launched last August 4, 2010, at the Sining Kamalig Art Gallery, Gateway Mall, Quezon City.   
This volume underscores the decisive role of institutions at this moment and for the long run to achieve prosperity for all. It wants to create a sense of urgency to tackle the reforms of political and economic institutions, considering the cooptation or subversion of institutional forms and arrangements during the past administration. The book also recognizes the interaction of institutions and policies, and attempts to propose policies that not only address the current development obstacles but also have a long-lasting impact on institutions.
There is a diverse gathering of contributors for this volume, well-known in their respective fields which range from economics to law and governance, among others. The contributors are Michael M. Alba on institutional change, Joseph Anthony Y. Lim on the macro-economy, Raul Pangalangan on judicial reforms, Gilberto Llanto and Eduardo Gonzalez on policy reforms,  Nepomuceno A. Malaluan and Solomon F. Lumba on the exercise of executive power, Maita Gomez on fiscal policy, Filomeno S. Sta. Ana III on the exchange rate policy, Yusuf Abu-Bakr Ledesma on the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, Jessica Reyes-Cantos on rice security, Rene R. Raya on education reforms, Eddie Dorotan on good governance, Rene E. Ofreneo on migration and development, and Jenina Joy Chavez on regional cooperation.
Economic Planning Secretary Cayetano Paderenga has said that the book should be required reading in undergraduate and graduate courses in economics.  The book is published by Action for Economic Reforms (AER), with Filomeno Sta. Ana III as editor.  It is  available at leading bookstores. 
AER has several publications lined up, one of which is a book on legal barriers to investments in the Philippines, due for release soon.

New AVT Navigator models launched

3:29 PM ADBM Resources
Labels: , , , , 0 comments

Special reduced price promo at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show
TSL Marketing,AVT,AVT PN501
AVT, the premiere provider of trendsetting, high-quality mobile audio-video  systems, is releasing three new models for its range of AVT Navigator GPS devices with significant hardware and software upgrades, at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show scheduled from August 19 to 22, 2010, at the World Trade Center along Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City.
Introduced in early 2009, the Philippines’ first portable GPS navigation system has gained strong market acceptance and is the only GPS device with extensive local support for updated maps of Metro Manila and many of the country’s key cities and major travel destinations.  iNAV, a subsidiary company, is devoted exclusively to updating and verifying the maps loaded on AVT navigation devices.
The new AVT Navigator PN-501 features the latest navigation technology, with the Sirf Atlas IV 500MHZ central processor and Microsoft Windows CE 6.0 operating system.  In addition to its highly sensitive GPS receiver, it has a 5-inch color touch screen, built-in speaker, bluetooth connectivity and an FM modulator.
The new AVT Navigator PN-401 has a Sirf Atlas V 533MHZ processor and Windows CE 6.0 operating system.  It has a 4.3-inch color touch screen display, built-in speaker, and support for high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity.
Finally, the entry –level AVT Navigator PN-301 is powered by a Sirf Atlas IV 500MHZ processor and Microsoft Windows CE 6.0 operating system.  Its display is a 3.5-inch color touch screen, and it also has a speaker and USB 2.0 ActiveSync support.
The AVT Navigator product line-up is available at leading automotive dealers nationwide at very affordable prices.  As a special introductory offer, visitors to the AVT booth at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show will be able to purchase the AVT Navigator at special discounted prices.   Making it even easier on the pocket, buyers can charge the purchase to their credit card for up to 12-months with 0%-interest.  
AVT navigation devices have received the thumbs-up from leading local car manufacturers, and is factory-installed as OEM (original equipment manufacturer) for high-end models such as the Ford Everest, Nissan Patrol and Nissan Xtrail, Mitsubishi Galant,  Isuzu Alterra, Hyundai Starex Limousine, and other vehicles.  
Aside from the latest navigation hardware, the  AVT Navigator product line-up is supported by a dedicated local iNAV team to ensure accurate and updated local maps.  Comprehensive iNAV map coverage now includes 86,000 points of interest and close to 100% of road networks for Metro Manila, as well as updated maps for over 200 key cities and municipalities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.  Updates are released regularly, and may be done at participating car dealers.  AVT Navigator owners are assured of free update support for at least two years.
AVT navigation systems project team leader William Chong, who is intimately involved in the development process notes, "Our company was the first to make a strategic commitment to a Philippine-based GPS navigation system.  First, we are making a continued investment in product R&D  to ensure that our AVT Navigator devices have the latest available technology comparable to global standards.  Second, through the iNAV, we have made a major long-term investment in our proprietary software and navigation technology to ensure the most accurate and updated maps.  With our dedicated mapping team, we have people on the ground all over the country, continuously updating our map information.  We believe it is this commitment to local support that sets us apart from other brands.  Filipino IT workers are valued all over the globe for their technical skills and creative solutions — we are harnessing this talent to create the leading GPS navigation system customized for Philippine road conditions.”
TSL Marketing,AVT
AVT (which stands for Audio-Video Technology) specializes in premium audio-visual entertainment systems for mobile applications.  It offers a wide range of in-car mobile electronics, including display monitors, DVD players, digital and analog terrestrial receivers, sound processor/high-power amplifiers, specialist speakers, and AV controllers and accessories to suit all types of in-vehicle installations.  For the mobile entertainment market, it also carries all-in-one LCD DVD players in various screen sizes to meet every budget and application.  Aside from consumer products which retail in car dealer accessories shops, AVT is also an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for many of the country’s leading car brands.   iNAV is a subsidiary company dedicated to providing mapping support exclusively for AVT navigation devices.  For more information, visit www.avt.ph.

Suzuki Kizashi @ PIMS

Tuesday, August 10, 2010 5:20 PM ADBM Resources
Labels: , , , 0 comments

Suzuki to unveil concept car at CAMPI motorshow

Monday, August 9, 2010 2:31 PM ADBM Resources
Labels: , , 0 comments

Filipino motoring enthusiasts are sure to have a treat when they visit the Suzuki display at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) at the World Trade Center from August 19-22, 2010.

With the theme Drive the Green Road, the motorshow will feature more than 20 global auto brands, and will focus on the need to pursue significant programs in lowering vehicle emissions as well as the use of alternative energy sources for vehicles.

According to Suzuki president Satoshi Uchida, “We are looking forward to participating in the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show.  Aside from showcasing our bestsellers and newly-launched vehicles, we will also be unveiling a concept car that has been getting raves abroad.”

The highlight of the Suzuki set-up will be a concept car which will be unveiled on August 20, the second day of the motorshow.  According to Suzuki insiders, the concept car is Suzuki’s first foray into the executive car segment which, following excellent market response,  is being launched as a production model across several countries.  

Developed for the global market, the Kizashi was tested to handle diverse driving conditions such as extreme cold weather in Minnesota and hot weather trials in Death Valley.  The brakes were tuned in the Swiss Alps; handling was perfected on challenging country roads in the United Kingdom, as well as on the autobahns and the Nurburgring in Germany.  The i-AWD system was tested in New Zealand.  

The Suzuki display will also feature Suzuki’s popular models — the Celerio, Swift, Grand Vitara, and APV Type II.   The recently-launched  SX4 Aero and SX4 Crossover will also be on display, to give motoring fans a chance to view thse exciting new entries in Suzuki’s model line-up.  Strategically located close to the exit that leads to the tent area, the booth will be a sure crowd-drawer with exciting freebies offered for inquiries and special gifts for customers who avail of a test drive as well as  on the-spot reservations.  Enthusiasts who merely want a photo-op will also be able to take great beauty shots as gorgeous models add glamor to the vehicle display.

Suzuki automobiles enjoy a niche following among local car aficionados, and have earned accolades despite their relatively recent entry in the Philippine market.  The  Suzuki Celerio M/T posted the lowest fuel consumption of 34.34-km per liter in the 2009 E10 Fuel Economy Run of the Department of Energy.  More recently, it was named C! Magazine Mini-compact Car of the Year 2010.  It garnered the Best Value for Money Award in the 2009 Car of the Year (COTY) awards given by the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI). The Suzuki APV Type II was named the 2009 Best Compact People Carrier by C! Magazine.

Suzuki Celerio is C! Magazine Mini-Compact Car for 2010

Friday, August 6, 2010 12:05 PM ADBM Resources
Labels: , , , , 0 comments

Mr. Satoshi Uchida, president of Suzuki Philippines, receives the 2010 Mini-Compact Car Award for the Suzuki Celerio during the recent 4th Annual C! Awards, held last 18 July 2010.  The Suzuki Celerio also hold the best record in fuel efficiency, achieving 34.34 km/li in the 2009 Fuel Economy Run of the Department of Energy.

Suzuki APV GA: The ideal all-purpose business vehicle

Monday, August 2, 2010 5:28 PM ADBM Resources
Labels: , , 0 comments

Quietly making its mark as an excellent light commercial vehicle which can serve the diverse needs of a thriving business, the Suzuki APV GA definitely merits a closer look from enterprising businessmen looking for an excellent value proposition, balancing both affordability and durability in the perfect all-purpose business vehicle. 

The Suzuki APV GA is powered by an SOHC 16-valve engine with multi-point injection and distributor-less ignition system.  Mated to a 5-gear manual transmission, it delivers a maximum output of 91hp @ 5750rpm and maximum torque of 127Nm @ 4500rpm, definitely sufficient power for carrying a full load of passengers or cargo, while optimizing fuel economy.

The Suzuki APV GA has a three-row seating configuration.  With split-fold and tumble specifications for the middle and bench-type seating for the last row, seating and luggage space can be configured as needed.  As a people-mover, it can accommodate up to eight passengers; as a cargo van, there is room for as much as two large balikbayan boxes and other oddly-shaped payloads.  It can haul even more cargo if the second row is also folded.

Power rack and pinion steering improve the driveability of the Suzuki APV GA.  To ensure riding comfort, it is equipped with McPherson strut and coil spring front suspensions paired with rigid axle and leaf spring rear suspensions.  Responsive ventilated front disk brakes and leading & trailing rear drum brakes make for a safer, more secure ride.  Other safety features include two 3-point ELR seatbelts for all three rows, plus a center lapbelt for the second and third row seats.  A third brake lamp is also standard.

The value proposition for the Suzuki APV GA is enhanced by convenience features such as an audio system with an AM/FM tuner and in-dash CD player.  A powerful air-conditioner keeps the cabin cool for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

The Suzuki APV GA is the perfect vehicle for those looking for a delivery van for a small business, a school bus, a guest shuttle for resorts, a fleet vehicle for utility companies, etc.  Perhaps the final clincher for its buyers is its price point. Surprisingly affordable at only P565,000, this all-purpose business vehicle offers entrepreneurs and savvy businessmen a reliable workhorse that is backed by the quality assurance of a world-class vehicle manufacturer like Suzuki.

Suzuki Philippines is the only integrated automotive company in the country, offering passenger cars,  motorcycles and commercial vehicles in its model line-up. Suzuki automobiles are available through a network of 18 dealers nationwide.

Suzuki Invasion offers free service, exciting activities

Friday, July 30, 2010 8:00 AM ADBM Resources
Labels: , , 0 comments

In a bid to strengthen its relationship with Suzuki motorcycle owners all over the country, Suzuki Philippines is traveling to key cities to offer free service as well as other exciting activities in a three-day extravaganza billed as the Suzuki Invasion.

According to Benedict “Lakay” Arreola, Suzuki senior marketing manager for motorcycles, “We want to bring the Suzuki Way of Life closer to the Filipino public, by promoting a fun and enjoyable lifestyle, while continuing to promote safety riding consciousness.  We also want to emphasize the message that Suzuki truly cares for its customers by offering free service check-ups.” 

The Suzuki Invasion covers a three-day program, consisting of free service as well as raffles and games,  plus the Suzuki stunt show and motorcycle display.

Suzuki motorcycle owners can avail of free service with free change oil using Suzuki genuine oil, free oil filter replacement, and check-up.  For the fun activities, the program includes: Day 1 – Skydrive Gymkhana Challenge; Day 2 – Thunder Challenge and Show Me the Moves Dance Competition; and Day 3 – Raider Breed 2-Ball Shootout and Free Concert.

The Suzuki Invasion schedule includes Legaspi City (July 8-10), Puerto Princesa City (July 15-17), Iloilo City and Pagadian City (July 29-31), Vigan (August 5-7), and Surigao City (August 12-14).

Celerio embodies Suzuki small car expertise in fuel economy

Monday, July 26, 2010 10:00 AM ADBM Resources
, 0 comments


The Suzuki Celerio recently added another accolade to its growing list of awards by being named C! Magazine Mini-compact Car of the Year 2010, at ceremonies held last 18 July 2010.

Recognized in the global automotive scene for its small-car expertise, Suzuki  is probably the most successful manufacturer of sub-compact cars with outstanding fuel economy, as embodied in the Suzuki Celerio, with its response to the global trend towards super-compact, fuel-efficient, and space-saving cars.  In the local scene, it made its mark for outstanding fuel efficiency by averaging 34.34-km/li during the 2009 Fuel Economy Run of the Department of Energy.

Packaged as a couture compact car for trendy urbanites, the Suzuki Celerio’s wedge-shaped body, aerodynamic lines, sporty and fun boy-racer look all contribute to making this a style icon.  At the same time, its 996cc lightweight aluminum engine with multipoint injection ensures both fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.  It is able to deliver maximum output of 68hp at 6,000rpm and maximum torque of 90Nm at 4,800rpm, providing sufficient power for zipping through the metro.  

Extensive road testing in Europe during its development phase resulted in coil springs and dampers tuned for optimum handling stability.  The Suzuki Celerio driving experience is characterized by linear response, gentle roll movements, good steering feel, and effective shock/vibration absorption.  Further contributing to its excellent fuel efficiency is a low drag coefficient of 0.3, the result of excellent aerodynamic design.

Despite its compact proportions, the Suzuki Celerio was designed with ultimate passenger safety in mind.  Using Suzuki's proprietary Total Effective Control Technology (TECT), a strong cabin structure absorbs and disperses impact energy for a high-level of occupant safety.  Dual front airbags and energy-absorbing materials provide further protection.   

The Suzuki Celerio is also equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist (BA).  A tailgate-mounted high-mount stop lamp, 3-point ELR seatbelts for both front and rear seats and side-impact door beams complete its safety features.

Enhancing the Suzuki Celerio's value proposition is a host of practical features.  Electronic power steering, power door locks, front power windows, and keyless entry system are some of the convenience features. Audiophiles will appreciate the integrated audio system with MP3 capability, auxiliary input and 6-speakers.  Built-in front foglamps and 14" wheels with full wheel cap add to its sporty and stylish package.

More value-added features include a functional instrument panel that incorporates a dash-mounted tachometer and digital trip meter.  A host of storage spaces such as front cup holders and rear door bottle holders, front/rear door pockets accommodate all the necessary driving gear.  When needed, the rear seats fold down for additional luggage space.

Not common among one-liter cars, the Suzuki Celerio has a 4-speed automatic transmission variant, in addition to the 5-speed manual transmission model.   Trendy color choices include the following options: arctic white pearl metallic, silky silver metallic, desert brown metallic, fortune rose pearl metallic, and paradise blue pearl metallic.  

Aside from long-term savings that Suzuki Celerio owners will enjoy via its fuel efficiency, cost of ownership is surprisingly within reach with the manual transmission model  priced at P528,000 and the automatic transmission variant at P569,000.   The Suzuki Celerio’s award-winning package combined with its affordable price contribute to making this mini-compact car a bestseller in its category.

1st DLS Philippines Open Competition Winners for car audio sound quality competition announced

Wednesday, July 21, 2010 2:29 PM ADBM Resources
Labels: , , 1 comments

A field of 15 entries competed in the 1st DLS Philippines Open Competition held last 17 July 2010 at the Tiendesitas Mall in Ortigas Center, Pasig City.  
Focusing purely on Sound Quality (SQ), the 1st DLS Philippines Open Competition required competitors to set up a standard installation package consisting of a JVC KDR-705 head unit paired with DLS amplifier CA-31, speakers RM6.2 and sub-woofer RW10.  Judging was based on how well the installation produced music which sounded like the original, without noise and distortion.
The Classic Category of the 1st DLS Philippines Open Competition was the first of its kind in the country, as participants were limited to a specific package and were not allowed to add other electronic components.  After stringent judging, the following emerged as winners in the Classic Category:  Champion – Toyota Vios owned by Rico Castillo, installed by Mickey’s Autosound; 1st runner-up – Toyota Yaris owned by Jeffrey Cristobal, installed by JC Car Audio; 2nd runner-up – Honda Fit, owned by Alexander Ong, installed by Autoline Motorsports; 3rd runner-up – Honda Jazz, owned by Rolan Sagum, installed by Rolan Car Audio; and 4th runner-up – Honda Civic, owned by Erick del Rosario, installed by Sun-X/Audio Evolution.
In the Open Category, which allowed any entry with a DLS audio set-up, the winners were: Champion – Mitsubishi Lancer EX owned by Arnel Enero; 1st runner-up - Honda Accord owned by Mark Padernal; 2nd runner-up – Honda Civic owned by Tina Perez, installed by Mickey’s; 3rd runner-up – Toyota Echo, owned by Adison Ocampo/Nesty Lim, installed by Ginza Audio Concept; and 4th runner-up – Toyota Altis owned by John Bertuldo, installed by Audiohaus.
Presented by TSL Marketing Corporation, the 1st DLS Philippines Open Competition was supervised by Peter Flodqvist, a certified international head judge for both EMMA (European Mobile Media Association) and IASCA (International Auto Sound Challenge Association) sound quality competitions.  Flodqvist, who flew in from Sweden, was assisted by Mickey Tang, head of EMMA Philippines.  
Among car audio enthusiasts, DLS is a highly-regarded brand, consistently placing in the Top 3 for the most wins in car audio championships not only in Europe but in the rest of the world.  In the last three years, DLS earned 21 first places, 13 second places, and 8 third places in the IASCA and European finals. This achievement is particularly significant, considering that DLS carries only amplifiers and speakers in its product line-up.  
Since it ventured into the car audio business in 1985, DLS has focused on developing and producing in-car speakers for music lovers.  Aside from its winning record in car audio competitions, DLS products have also won Best in Category accolades in Europe and the United States.  
In the Philippines, DLS products are exclusively distributed by TSL Marketing Corporation, which has been in the car audio industry for the past three decades.  For more information, please visit www.tslmc.com.ph,  send an email to inquiry@winterpinegroup.com or check us out in FaceBook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/dls-car-audio-philippines).





Group Photo EMMA International Head Judges Peter Flodqvist & Mickey Tang
1st DLS Open Competition 1st DLS Open Competition

Peter Flodqvist explaining his score to a participant Mickey Tang checking the installation
1st DLS Open Competition 1st DLS Open Competition

Car being judged by the RTA Classic Class Champion Rico Castillo beside his winning 2004 Toyota Vios
1st DLS Open Competition 1st DLS Open Competition

Open Class Champion Arnel Enero beside his 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer EX Best in SPL (Closed Door) Winners Nesty Lim and Adison De Ocampo frm Ginza Audio Concept with their Toyota Echo
1st DLS Open Competition 1st DLS Open Competition

Classic Class Winners Classic Class Champion
1st DLS Open Competition 1st DLS Open Competition

Open Class Winners Open Class Champion
1st DLS Open Competition 1st DLS Open Competition

Suzuki Raider Breed Wars: The Quarter Mile Battle

Tuesday, July 20, 2010 11:54 AM ADBM Resources
, 0 comments













Suzuki Philippines, one of the leading motorcycle brands in the country, is bringing drag racing to a legal venue by staging the Suzuki Raider Breed Wars: The Quarter Mile Battle.

Aware of the dangers posed by illegal drag racing which is usually held in open roads at night, Suzuki organized the Raider Breed Wars to give drag race enthusiasts a legal and proper venue to showcase their skills.

The first leg kicked off last May 30, on the Old Airport Road Km 10, Sasa, Davao City,  and attracted a crowd of more than 5,000 riders, racers and motorcycle enthusiasts from all over Mindanao.  Dominating the Raider Breed Wars opening were the following winners:  OPEN Category – 1st, Dancen Torcuator; 2nd, Jeff Teopengco;  3rd, Bong Valdez;  R150 Category – 1st, Johnnel Mandapat; 2nd, Herbert Valencia; 3rd,  Stephen Ramiro; and RAIDER J Category – 1st, Rolly Masisay; 2nd, Lemuel Cabatic; 3rd, Arnel Villanueva.

The second leg, held at the Clark Speedway, Pampanga, on July 4, was targeted at motorcycle fans from the northern Luzon area.  After the dust had settled, emerging as winners for this leg were:  OPEN Category –1st, Mark Lalwani; 2nd, Norvin Dizon; 3rd, Jay-R Cabungunay; and R150 Category – 1st, Adrian Gonzales; 2nd, Jojie Ishida;  3rd, Jay-R Cabungunay.

The third leg is scheduled for October 10, at the South Reclamation Project in Cebu City, and is expected to attract riders from the Visayas.  The fourth leg will be on November 7, at the Batangas Racing Circuit in Batangas City, with competitors expected from southern Luzon and Bicol regions.

The top two finalists in each category from all the different legs are expected to vie for championship honors in the Final War to be held on December 5, in Manila.

Considered as the bestselling range in the Suzuki motorcycle line-up, the Suzuki Raider motorcycles have a strong following in the sporty underbone category, particularly among those who expect high-performance features in an affordable package.  The three variants in the Suzuki Raider Breed line-up — Raider R150, Raider J Pro and Raider J — showcase advanced features and innovations in safety, reliability and performance, making them the new leaders of the motorcycle pack in the market today.


Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)