10Mar, 2017

Acho Regie

Bhutan, IACE, International Academy for Continuous Education, Philippines, Regie Boquio, Training Blogs

Acho Regie

For almost 10 years, Mr. Regie C. Boquio paved ways for arranging training in the Philippines for the clients from Bhutan. He has arranged and successfully managed different training that served more than 1,000 Bhutanese professionals on different fields.

Tracing his work background, he initially worked at Informatics as a Technical Person, where he was first exposed to training for international professionals as he was a Technical Person there and acquired his skills in coordinating training. His good interpersonal relationship skills deep understanding of the Bhutanese culture brought him a lot of clients.

Mr. Regie together with his first ever trainee in 2009, Mr. Birju Sunwar of Ministry of Health

His first client, Mr. Birju Sunwar, whom he met back in January 2009,still contacts him if there are clients who are looking for a training in the Philippines,

“Mr. Regie Boquio, my best buddy, is such a wonderful gentleman. His assistance towards me and the people I introduced him to is immeasurable, in regards to any matter. He is the most trustworthy, selfless and reliable person. He never lets us down while availing training in Philippines. I must say he is our “Bhutanese Ambassador in the Philippines. He really takes care of all the Bhutanese coming to his place of training institute.I wish him and his beloved family all the good luck and successes in their career and future endeavors. All the very best my dearest Buddy!”

Godfather Mr. Birju Sunwar together with godson Matthew (Mr. Regie’s son)

They are very good friends that Mr.Birju even became the godfather “ninong” of Regie’s son, Matthew.

He left his work at Informatics in 2014.

REGIE AND THE COUNTRY OF BHUTAN

RMA’s IT Department hosted Mr. Regie for lunch in Thimpu

Regie has visited the Royal Government of Bhutan twice, which even tightened his relationships, which are grounded on trust and friendship, with every Bhutanese client he has ever served.

Mr. Regie’s friends from Gross National Happiness

His visits in Bhutan were fruitful and pleasing, that when he availed of the local sim card there and posted his number online, a lot of his previous clients were calling him up and inviting him to bond with them that in a day, he had around 6-7 meetings.

Regie’s former trainees from Bhutan Telecom

In the industry that he is working with, it is very important to know and be familiar with the client, especially their culture, tradition, and preferences, and Regie already knows about the Bhutanese, which makes him very loved by them.

Regie’s picture in Tiger’s Nest

He is now working for the International Academy for Continuous Education as the Training Coordinator. He loves his work and is really aiming to give the best kind of training for every client. All clients that he has served are really lucky to have been taken care of by such a work-dedicated person.

Photoshop picture of Mr. Regie together with his clients/friends from different ministries in Bhutan

When asked how he manages to arrange different training for clients, “I have spent years working in a corporate setting and I must say that that has contributed greatly to the development of my work performance. It is very important that one loves his work, I mean, you must not be after the money (but of course, that’s part of it), but you must be after the purpose of your work delivered in an efficient manner, not doing the work just for the sake of doing it, quality is the key. One may do work in a short period of time but in a not-so satisfying manner. But others do work in a slow pace but you are sure that they did their work efficiently. The secret is, you do both. Do work efficiently in a reasonable period of time. But most importantly, aim to provide for the specific need/s of your client. Just love what you’re doing and all will go smoothly. Compassion and hard work will make your work, whatever it may be, effective.”

28Feb, 2017

Institutional Study Visit of Dzongkhag Administration, Mongar on Drinking Water Supply Management, Operations and Maintenance

An institutional study visit on Drinking Water Supply Management, Operations and Maintenance, was conducted by International Academy for Continuous Education last February 20-24, 2017 for the Dzongkhag Administration, Mongar, of the Royal Government of Bhutan. The institutional study visit aimed to introduce to the delegates the existing setting of water management and operation here in the Philippines, so that they may use it as a benchmark for their future program development back in Bhutan.

Additionally, the institutional study visit also helped them understand the technical operation and maintenance tasks associated with supplying water, including the technical aspects of water transport and distribution to ensure a reliable supply of safe drinking-water.

International Academy for Continuous Education led by Dir. Aries Balanay welcomed The District Governor Dasho Ugyen Sonam, District Commissioner, District Engineers, Project manager, Technicians, Surveyor and accountants of the Dzongkhag Administration with the traditional welcoming of putting lei (garland of flowers) around their necks in the airport. They then had lunch at the Food Club and visited the well-known Manila Hotel.

LWUA administrator Andres F. Ibarra together with the participants from Mongar District, Royal Government of Bhutan

They visited the Local Water Utility Administration (LWUA) during the first day of the workshop as they were welcomed by the LWUA administrator Andres F. Ibarra. Hydrology, water supply and water demand management, water transport and distribution were explained by LWUA’s Engineer DaniloBasilio. Engineer Allen Lowe also discussed about water treatment, pumps, pipes and storage the following day.

Attorney Leah Javier (Manager for Corporate Affairs division) discussed the Management structure and the operation of the Bulacan Water District

Engineer Florencio Lorenzo Manager of Water treatment Plant Division discussed about their water treatment process to the delegates from Mongar District, Royal Government of Bhutan

Attorney Leah Javier (Manager for Corporate Affairs division), Engineer Florencio Lorenzo (Manager for Water Treatment Plant Division), and Engineer Jay Limense delivered the lectures about the operation and maintenance of a drinking water supply during the site visit at San Jose Del Monte Water District, Bulacan on the third day.

The Batangas City Water District General Manager, Mrs. Yolanda Oyao and the team had a round table discussion together with Mongar District Delegates regarding Water District Management and Operation

Mongar District Delegates together with Batangas Water District Management and officials. Picture taken in front of their office.

The Batangas City Water District General Manager, Mrs. Yolanda Oyao warmly welcomed the delegates on the fourth day as they are to complete their workshop with the Batangas City Water District. Department Manager Engineer Bernardo C. Hornillaand Engineer Jose Roberto Maranan discussed with them the drinking water and treatment systems.

Engr. Bernardo Hornilla guide the Mongar District delegates in visting wells of Batangas City Water District

The delegates also were able to visit the Batangas Capitol during the afternoon. They were warmly welcomed by the Capitol Administrator Mr. Librado Dimaunahan and Ibaan City Councilor Socrates Arellano.

Mongar District Govern Dasho Ugyen Sonam courtesy call with Batangas Capitol Administrator

The awarding of the certificates by IACE CEO Susana Balanay together with President Dr. Albert Alday took place on the last day.

IACE CEO Susana Balanay and IACE President Albert S. Alday awarding the certificate to Mongar District Governor, Dasho Ugyen Sonam

Dasho Ugyen Sonam commended IACE Management team for delivering the institutional study visit more than expected as he said “Thank you IACE for arranging the training you made our stay here wonderful, not only the training part but all other aspects that go with the training”

The training ended with a send off lunch in Barbara’s Restaurant located in the oldest district of Manila in Intramuros, they were personally entertained by the owner Madame Barbara Delos Reyes and prepared a special recipes, Gambas and Fried Crablets cooked and served by Madame Barbara.

Mongar District Delegates together with Barbara’s owner Madame Barbara Delos Reyes

Mongar District Delegates serenaded by Barbara’s Restaurant musician while having lunch.

26Jan, 2017

Beauty through Simplicity

Women have this thinking that in order to be hailed beautiful, you have to be physically attractive. Even if men are mostly visual, that is not always the case, in fact, it impresses them more to see a girl without make-up or enhancements on, and still be stunning.

That doesn’t mean that women should not fix themselves altogether, though. It would still be a factor if they maintain their beauty through simple ways; the most important ‘SIMPLE’ way to achieve beauty, is by taking care of the first part of a person that is seen, the FACE:

Washing one’s face daily. When washing the face, you have to know thatthere are foam cleansers and scrubs. Foam cleansers are to be used daily, morning and night. Scrubs are to be used twice a week or depending on the need of the face to scrub off dirt. It is used moderately as to not damage the skin and the pores.

Moisturize daily. There are different variations of moisturizers and you have to know which one is the most compatible with your skin. There are day-moisturizers and they usually have sunblock contained in them to protect the face from the UV light. There are also night moisturizers and creams. Some use masks to moisturize their face at night.

Drinking lots of water. Water has been proven to wash away toxic substances in the body and being hydrated contributes to the health of the skin.

Vitamin E intake. Not only will vitamin E help maintain skin health, it also contributes to maintain the health of the hair. Vitamin E possesses antioxidants that help maintain healthy skin and keep it smooth and hydrated.

Eliminating stress. This is true, your overall health depends on how you respond to the stimulus around you. If you give in to stress and neglect the necessary activities you need to do to keep yourself happy and healthy, then it would gravely affect your skin, you will get more breakouts and wrinkles. Always make sure that you keep yourself happy and well-rested.

25Jan, 2017

Things to do in the Philippines

Philippines is truly a beautiful country made up of more than 7,000 islands found in Southeast Asia. It is a must-visit nation for its countless destinations and many adventures to try. Some things to do in the Philippines for a guaranteed unforgettable travel experience are:

Sightseeing. Visit Banaue Rice Terraces, a 2000-year old terraces carved into Ifugao Mountains by ancestors, which is also known for being the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”

Go to the well-preserved Spanish-style architecture in historic town of Vigan in Ilocos Sur. The place is definitely good for old time experience.

Visitors can also see the Taal Volcano found in Batangas. It is the smallest volcano and second most active in the world. What more interesting about it is that it is located on an island within a lake within an island.

While, Mount Mayon found in Legazpi, Albay, is a perfect cone-shaped volcano. It is also one of the most dangerous volcanoes because of its disastrous volcanic eruptions in the past.

Swimming. Be amazed with outstanding white beaches and white sand found in the famous island of Boracay. The beautiful island is surrounded with restaurants and hotels. There are fire shows and live music during evening.

Diving. For people who are diving enthusiast, Philippines is a must-go for a memorable underwater experience. Top diving destinations are Tubbataha Reef and Coron both found in Palawan.

Shopping. A variety of items in different brands are all found in the shopping places. “Bargaining” which means buying items with big discounts depending on bargaining skills is a unique experience especially in flea-markets. Mall of Asia is the largest shopping mall in the Philippines

Eat. What is better than satisfying cravings for food? In the Philippines, rice is a staple food. But, there are many Filipino dishes to choose from.

Relax. “Hilot” is a traditional Filipino healing massage which help relax tired muscles and joints. Try spa treatments as stress reliever.

22Jan, 2017

3 Simple ways to help the environment

3 Simple Ways to Help the Environment

We all have read articles about ways to help the environment. Most of them suggest that you plant more trees, take on conservation practices, reducing, reusing and recycling, but every day, there is a calling that we try harder and exert more effort, do more to live more, and everyone is expected to really cooperate and take environmental issues seriously. Just because we are not experiencing its effects firsthand, doesn’t mean we can take things for granted. For all we know, it might hit us in the face someday.

“WHAT SIMPLE WAYS CAN I TAKE TO CONTRIBUTE TO BRINGING EFFECTIVE CHANGE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT?”

If you haven’t asked this question to yourself, then you clearly don’t care about what’s going to happen to you, to your loved ones, and to everyone around you once Mother Earth heats up and collapses.

Remarkably, there are numerous ways to be of beneficial change that we can do every day, some are even activities we actually do but don’t appreciate the effects that they carry.

Take E-Waste as an example, everyone is using smartphones and other different gadgets. The problem on E-Waste comes in once a new model comes out, people tend to just dispose what they currently have and opt for the latest model, well because, it’s the LATEST, they can afford to buy anyway.So where does that old model go? Mostly, they go into waste since these products are already not in the trend and you can’t boast of it, some are usually phase out, people wouldn’t avail of an old model.

LIVE simply. If your phone, doesn’t require you to purchase a new one, then don’t purchase a new one. Of course, you wait until it gets defective and not just drop it on the floor and say “Oops, I need a new one.” Use your money in more charitable ways. Don’t change gadgets as often as you change your underwear.

Transportation is part of our lives, may it be to work, to school, to the mall, to your house, to the cemetery, or to just wherever Dora the Explorer would bring you, it’s is as essential as breathing nowadays.

For those driving every day, select days in a week (other than the Coding days) to use the public transportation vehicles. You may even avail of the services of carpooling, where you get to ride with other people towards the same destination. Not only will you save gasoline and contribute to controlling air pollution, you will also gain friends along the way, who knows, you may even meet your special someone in that bus ride.

Avail of those tumblers or mugs sold by your favorite coffee shops. This is crucial to those people who basically live in those coffee shops. If you’re part of the upper class people, then purchasing those pricey tumblers and mugs is just like throwing a coin in a wishing fountain. Or if you’re a bit tight on budget, then just save up a little enough to get one. If most of you are unaware, using said mugs or tumblers will entitle you to a discounted price (P5.00 off for Starbucks). You saved money, you even saved Mother Earth by not using plastic. Win-win situation.

20Jan, 2017

Benefits of Drinking Tea

There are many health benefits attributed to drinking tea, from calming one’s self and being a medicinal source for curing diseases (cancer-prevention due to tea’s anti-oxidant properties and) to weight loss.

ANYTHING has its own positive and/or negative effects. But this article will mostly discuss about the benefits of tea and of its content.

Caffeine Source

It is common to hear people say “Tea has much more caffeine than coffee”, this is in need of significant qualification. If you need caffeine in your system, then you may have tea.

There is also a way to reduce the caffeine level of any tea if you are sensitive to it. A Chinese method of tea-making known as Gong Fu Cha (Tea With Great Skill) uses small teapots and multiplevery short and abrupt brews to intensify the flavour of tea and reduce caffeine levels. It washes away much of the caffeine which is highly soluble in water.

Tea as Chinese Medicine

The following are the benefits of different kinds of tea common in Chinese medicine.

Black Tea – Reduces fat, protein and low-density cholesterol, protects lungs from damage, promotes dental health and strong bones, reduces fatigue and the possibility of stroke, stimulates the central nervous system, and enhances blood vessel elasticity and strength
Green Tea– Tea catechins have anti-bacterial and anti-virus properties in the mouth and intestines, regulates cholesterol and high blood pressure, lower blood sugar and improve blood flow, reduces risk of neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.
White Tea– reduces inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis, controls insulin secretion, high source of Vitamin A, prevents dry eyes and night blindness, reduces radiation levels and repair DNA damage, it has also been believed to have the most potent anti-cancer properties than processed teas.
Oolong Tea– prevents tooth decay, high source of Vitamin C, good for the skin, thus, reduces skin irritations, improves the performance of enzymes that break down fat and increases fat metabolism, lowers cholesterol and regulates body temperature.
Pu-Erh Tea – Aids digestion and fat break down, also used in the treatment of arteriosclerosis, colds, bleeding and hepatitis, source of High level of Vitamin C.

Herbal Teas

Chamomile Tea – prevent diabetes complications like vision loss, nerve and kidney damage

Hibiscus – lowers blood pressure

Rooibos (red tea) – has cancer-fighting properties

19Jan, 2017

Bhutanese Foods to Try

Traditional Bhutanese food has been influenced by its neighboring countries, China, India and Tibet. The difference is that it’s less oily than Chinese and Indian foods while spicier than Tibetan food.

CHILI

Spiciness is truly popular. They put chili. Not one, but many chilies in their foods. Chilies are not considered to be a seasoning, rather, a valuable vegetable in Bhutan. And that just totally make every dish produce a burning feeling in the mouth for non-spicy eaters.

RED RICE

Rice, just like in the Philippines, is the staple food in Bhutan. It is served with most Bhutanese dishes. Their red rice is more coarse but tasty and more fibrous than normal rice Filipinos eat.

DAIRY

Also, Bhutanese people like eggs and cheese. Once you get to travel to Bhutan, your first chance is to taste their Bhutanese national dish called “EmaDatsi” which means chillies (ema) cooked in cheese (datsi). It’s made with green, yellow or red chilies, cow or yak’s milk, cheese, onions and tomatoes. The chilies are enough to make someone really sweat. It is also served with red rice washed down with Bhutan’s only brewed beer, Red Panda, a light drink to lessen spiciness.

“JashaMaroo or Maru”

The “JashaMaroo or Maru” which means spicy chicken mixed with chilies, tomato, garlic, onion, ginger and coriander leaves. This is a fantastic dish to refuel after a day of hiking.

“PhakshaPaa”

Boneless pork simmered until tender with daikon radish, ginger, bok choy and chili powder topped with green chili strips is called “PhakshaPaa”.

“Momos”

Dumpling or “Momos” are steamed buns filled with minced pork or beef, cabbage, fresh cheese, garlic, ginger and coriander.

“Puta”

A unique dish made from buckwheat noodles served with curd found in the area of Bumthang is called “Puta”.

REFRESHMENTS

For refreshments, Bhutan offers a variety of drinks including green or black tea, wine and beer. In the local, brewed “Ara” is served, which a fermented drink is made from rice or wheat. During morning and evening, “Po cha”, a butter tea made with fresh yak butter, is a must try.

There is a tip taught that when you’re offered food, you can say “meshumeshu”, covering your mouth with hands which means refusal according to Bhutanese manners, and then give in on second or third offer.

18Jan, 2017

Filipino – Bhutanese Friendship: How compatible are they?

The Philippines, located in South East Asia, is considered to be the 3^rd Happiest Country in Asia according to survey. The country boasts of its people as generally happy and friendly. Filipinos are ones who you can easily talk to. Any topic under the sun, they will listen to you and try to converse with you always with a smile. In fact, they smile even if they are already suffering. Foreigners are often fond of Filipinos as they are full of bright ideas and are accommodating, they are mostly optimistic and they look forward to a better event after an unfortunate one, this is why they were hailed to be “Resilient and flexible like a bamboo”.

Bhutan, The Happiest country in Asia, also located in South East Asia, is a home to, yes, very happy people. They are satisfied and contented with their lives and they do not seek for more material things. They live simply and are genuinely happy with it. The Bhutanese people are really nice people and are really friendly. Any visitor of this beautiful country shall gain a lot of friends after his/her trip.

IACE’s Director Aries Balanay and Regie Boquio together with NPPF Friends

So what do the stars have to say with these happy countries in relation to a possible friendship? It will most likely bloom since both people are the types who strive to connect with their friends no matter where they are. They value and remember the people they meet in their lives. You can never regret and go wrong once you befriend a Filipino or a Bhutanese. So you can just imagine the beautiful relationship that might be formed between a Filipino and a Bhutanese. It will be lasting and true.

6Jan, 2017

Institutional study visit on Flood forecasting and disaster management for Ministry of Economic Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan

An institutional visit on Flood Forecasting, Control Room Operations and Hydrological Services Delivery in the Philippines was conducted by International Academy for Continuous Education (IACE) for the Ministry of Economic Affairs of Royal Government of Bhutan last October 30 until November 4, 2016.

IACE CEO Susana Balanay personally welcomed from the Airport the MoEA, Bhutan led by their Chief of Hydrology Division, Mr. Karma Dupchu

IACE CEO Susana Balanay personally welcomed from the Airport the MoEA, Bhutan led by their Chief of Hydrology Division Deparment of Hydromet Services, Mr. Karma Dupchu

IACE opened the program by introducing and briefing the participants of the activities beginning with the Marikina Flood Early Warning System (Urban Setting). Dr. Jenny Fernando gave an overview of the Community-based Flood Early Warning Systems (CBFEWS), its elements, characteristics and functions. She also discussed the factors influencing the design of CBFEWS, its sustainability, structure and experiences, data and information exchange scheme and other related activities, issues and best practices.

Marikina's MDRRMO Chief Dr. Jenny Fernando personally discussed Marikina's Control Room and Monitoring for Disaster Management

Marikina’s MDRRMO’s Chief, Dr. Jenny Fernando personally discussing Marikina’s Control and Monitoring Room for Disaster Management to MoEA’s institutional study visit participants.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA); Hydro-Met and Meteorological Office in Quezon City’s very own Engr. Rosalie Pagulayan and Aldczar Aurelio presented an overview of Flood Forecasting, Flood Forecasting Warning Systems, Monitoring and Prediction, Meteorological Monitoring Networks, Flood and Typhoon Warming Systems, Computer-based Applications for Meteorological Services on the second day.

PAGASA’s Weather Forecaster Mr. Aldczar Aurelio discussing the Typhoon Warning System

PAGASA’s Senior Hydrologist Engr. Rosalie Pagulayan explaining the Flood Forecasting Warning Systems of the Agency

The PAGASA Field Stations: Pampanga River Basin Flood Forecasting and Warning Center, Main Operations Office in San Fernando, Pampanga and the Candaba Rainfall and Water level Station (Rural Setting), represented by Hilton Hernandez, discussed about its community-based flood early warning systems for river basins including its issues and best practices.

PAGASA Pamapanga Field Station’s Head, Mr. Hilton Hernandez, discussing about its community-based flood early warning systems for river basins including its issues and best practices.

The participants met Mr. Edwin Salonga and Ms. Maritess Galang of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in Quezon City on the third day and were familiarized with the Council’s composition and functions and their Flood Disaster Management Programs.

Mr. Edwin Salonga and Ms. Maritess Galang of the National Disaster Risk Reduction discussing the mandate of the agency.

Participants were also able to get an overview of the Community-based Flood Disaster Mitigation and Management Program in the Province of Bulacan conducted by Engr. Lito Pascual and Carl De Leon of the Bulacan Provincial Disaster Coordinating Office in Malolos, Bulacan. They then visited the Operation and Maintenance of Rainfall, River and Flood Stage Observation Stations and were familiarized to how the Review and Enhancement of Draft Response and Flow of Information Plans was done.

Engr. Lito Pascual and Carl De Leon discussing Bulacan Provincial’s Community-based Flood Disaster Mitigation and Management Program

Mr. Alex Pallada was the resource person for the program’s last activity which was located at the Angat Hydropower Plant (Dam Operations). Mr. Pallada discussed about Flood Forecasting and Warning Systems for Dam Operations.

Mr. Alex Pallada discussing about Angat Hydropower Plant’s Dam Operation

IACE closed the program by awarding the participants with a certificate. The Head of the team, Mr. Karma Dupchu gave his warmest gratitude to the International Academy for Continuous Education management and staff for the well prepared itinerary.

“Institutional visit was well organized to all the relevant organization what we expected. I am fully enjoyed with all the appointments experts we have met. Flexible approach assisted rendered during our stay here in the Philippines is fully appreciated. I have nothing to recommends, the institutional visit was fully met my expectations.” Mr Karma Dupchu’s Testimonials

IACE CEO Ms. Susana B. Balanay and President Dr. Albert S. Alday together with MoEA’s Hydromet Division during the Awarding of Certificate held in IACE (Standing from L-R Mr. Ngawang Namgyal, Mr. Jai Ram, Mr. Tashi Tenzin, Mr. Tshewang Rinzin, and Mr.Pema Wangdi) (Sitting L-R Ms Sangay Choden, IACE CEO Susana Balanay, IACE President Albert Alday and Chief Mr. Karma Dupchu)