AIM Policy Center Launches Global Accountability Report 2008

On February 12, 2009, the AIM Policy Center and Konrad Adenauer will present the 2008 Global Accountability Report at the Global Distance Learning Center of Asian Institute of Management. The One World Trust prepared the report in order to help corporations, NGO’s and intergovernmental organizations address leading crisis all over the world.

Michael Hammer, Executive Director of One World Trust, believes that “a step change is required if we are to avoid more global crises that can affect millions of people in the not so distant future. Today it is finance; tomorrow the accountability problem may hit people failing to respond to climate change or health care issues”.

The launch of the report comes at a time when the Philippines joins the entire world in facing various crises over the past year. Against this backdrop, organizations with power are called to be accountable actors in the search and implementation of solutions. The 2008 Global Accountability Report provides a study of how thirty of the world’s most powerful transnational companies, intergovernmental and non-government organizations operate vis-à-vis their various stakeholders.

This event is free of charge. Seats are available for registrants on a first-come, first-served basis.

Interested participants for this forum may e-mail Ms. Leticia Labre (Projects Manager) of One World Trust at lclabre@oneworldtrust.org, or Mr. Carlo Francis Raymundo (Program Coordinator - Infrastructure Governance & Regulation) of the AIM Policy Center. For more information about One World Trust and the report, you can check www.oneworldtrust.org.

AIM-Policy Center Hold Forum on Peace and Financial Crisis

At the E-Library of the AIM Conference Center Manila, representatives from civil society, academe and private sector convened for a discussion forum on "Peace, Conflict Transformation and Global Financial Crisis." This was organized by AIM Policy Center in partnership with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Center.

The session was primarily led by Professor Johan Galtung, Founder of the Transcend International. Transcend is a peace and development network aiming to "bring about a more peaceful world by using action, education/training, dissemination and research to handle conflicts with empathy, non-violence and creativity." Professor Galtung is a respected international expert on peace-building for 50 years now.

He emphasized that in order for the Philippines to solve issues on poverty and peace, the people need to change mindset and be more creative. They should not be be limited to the old paradigms, and not see things in a very simplistic perspective but actually approach things in multi dimensions. This implies that the citizens have to break old models of economic analysis, which apparently led to the global crisis everyone is now experiencing. Instead, they have to be courageous to create new compelling solutions that they believe would address the poverty gap and need for peace.

Youth Brings Up the Peace Antenna at AIM

The Young Moro Professionals publicized their advocacy for peace through a round table discussion at the SGV Conference Hall, AIM Conference Center Manila on February 6, 2009. The discussion was entitled "Our Peace, Your Peace: Mindanao YSpeak, Upping the Peace Antenna".

TV personality and Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) awardee, Karen Davila, acted as the moderator for the forum participated in by representatives from various sectors, national leaders, foundations, private sector, academe and the media. The forum is designed to translate the words of young leaders into concrete actions, and engage national leaders, media, academe and non-government organizations as partners of the Young Moro Professionals Network (YMPN) and Mindanao Young Leaders Parliament (MYLP).

“Youth leaders express themselves so passionately! We need the energy, imagination, and idealism of the youth -- Muslim or non-Muslim. Old paradigms lead us nowhere. They should show their values in action, show their highest ethics, and show what Islam really represents. The Institute will heighten its commitment to bridge the divide,” according to AIM President Francis G. Estrada.

Other comments from the forum participants include:

“Here in AIM, we have always promoted an Islamic perspective. Peace means a lot of people setting aside their differences. We need to get people do things together, so the more we do this, the more we realize that we have similarities and move forward from there.” -Professor Jun Borromeo, AIM Faculty

“If it doesn’t work the first time, try other avenues. This is your country.” – H.E. Kristie Kenny, US Ambassador to the Philippines

“Peace and Development is long overdue. Young Moro Professionals can help.” - Sec. Avelino “Sonny” Razon, Jr., Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP)

“We need effective communication. Young Moro Professionals are inspiration, living proof…” – Christopher Wright, British Embassy

“I encourage young people to support their advocacy for peace.” – Diether Ocampo, KIDS Foundation

AIM Conducts Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) Seminar

AIM conducted a Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) Seminar for its employees. This is designed to orient the staff on how to work around the office environment with awareness on implementing safety measures in case one encounters any occupational hazard within the premise. At the same time, it also aims to instill a proactive attitude to everyone at work, where everyone can be prepared for any unforeseen conditions in the office. The sessions were led by EMS Associate, Rey Balbiran last February 5, 2009 at the Indonesian Caseroom.

AIM Preview Goes on a Road show this January

AIM reaches out to prospective students from Manila and the Visayas. This January 2009, the Enrollment Team headed by Dr. Eli Santos, conducted a series of AIM Preview sessions in Manila, Cebu, and Bacolod.

The AIM Preview is designed to give a glimpse of the competitive edge an AIM degree program provides to its students. This is explained by a number of alumni who shared their first hand experience to the participants during the preview sessions.

The Enrollment Team composed of Edythe Bautista, Cathy See, and Rommel Recillo, searched for the best and the brightest down south in Cebu and Bacolod. During the AIM preview in Cebu on January 28-29, Ofel Bisnar a former AIM staff an alumnus (MBM 1988), who is also a Cebuana, shared her story about the rewards and challenges of having an AIM degree. Dr. Eli Santos emphasized the case method approach and the unique learning methodology for both Master in Management and Master in Business Administration programs. He also pointed out the edge in career placement for AIM graduates.

On January 30, 2009 in Bacolod, the Enrollment Team had an audience of 75 senior students (majoring in management, accountancy, finance and hotel and restaurant management). In the evening they gathered in Sweet Greens Restaurant graced by AIM alumni, Enrique Lacson ( MBM 1980), Ramon H.Diaz (MBM 1980), and George Zulueta ( MM, 1980).

The Enrollment Team acknowledges the collective effort of the people who helped make the AIM Roadshow a success, especially the following:

Cebu

• University of Cebu
• Southwestern University
• University of San Carlos
• University of San Jose-Recoletos

Bacolod

• University of St. La Salle

Watch out for more AIM Preview in the country! Interested parties may call Edythe Bautista at 892.4011 local 209, or email her at mbautista@aim.edu.

AIM-EXCELL and Government of India Partners for the Third Time

AIM-EXCELL conducts the ASEAN study tour and training for the 3rd batch of high-level officials from the Government of India. Twenty-six undersecretaries participated in the program that covers discussions on project management and implementation. Company visits were arranged in Malaysia and the Philippines to expose participants to best practices in Asian management. The program runs from February 2 to 13, 2008.

The Season of HeART

The AIM staff took a break from their regular busy work life last Friday, January 30, 2008. Some of them participated in a scrapbook workshop organized by Human Resource Services (HRS). They were spotted enjoying their time at the Soriano caseroom, away from their computers, phones, paper works (and bosses), holding art materials—scissors, colored papers, glue, rulers, and pencils. With the help of Ms. Susan Chupungco, they were able to express their artistic side through creating unique crafts like Valentine heart pocket, Valentine picture wheel card, and a mini blessings journal/album in season for the love month. At the end of the day, everybody were happy with their own “work of art.”

AIM MM 1990 Alumnus Shares Management Insights to MM and MDM Students

The AIM students in Master in Management (MM) and the Master in Development Management (MDM) had the privilege to learn strategic management lessons from the newly appointed Philippine Air Force Commanding Major General Oscar H. Rabena at the ABS-CBN caseroom last February 3, 2009. His talk focused on the importance of different leadership styles, as well as mentoring and coaching.

He is a well respected AIM MM 1990 alumnus. For the past years, he earned citations including a Distinguished Star, a Philippine Legion of Honor, a Gawad sa Kaunlaran Award, a Distinguished Aviation Cross, a Bronze Cross Medal and two Military Merit Medals.

His firm resolute is to inculcate a planning mindset in the Philippine Air Force. “We could dream up the best systems but unless we know how to organize resources, we will fail. This is particularly important given our meager resources and opportunities,” he said.

AIM Moves On!

Today at 10.30 a.m. the AIM staff gathered for a General Assembly at the Soriano Hall. The environment at the Soriano Hall had a positive vibe. The general atmosphere was light and informal, complete with flowing coffee and some snacks.

Everyone was curious about the meeting agenda. Executive Managing Director Carmela Chupungco opened the session, explaining that it was the venue where AIM President Francis Estrada wanted to formally and officially inform the staff of his decision not to renew his contract with AIM. President Estrada said that he enjoyed the responsibility as AIM President and thanked the staff for the consistent positive support. He also expressed that it was an honor to lead the first management school in the Far East, especially at this strategic time when Asia is becoming the center of global economic activity.

President Estrada cited that the positive financial conditions and increased enrollment levels in the Institute were the result of the collective work among the AIM staff. One of the key policies he initiated was the merit based performance reward system, a move that President Estrada believes was instrumental in strengthening AIM's situation. This means that performance of each staff will be evaluated, and will be given due reward. He promised to implement this before his term ends.

Further, he called for a renewal of leadership and passion across the entire AIM community, faculty and staff to re-strengthen the position of AIM as the leading management school of Asia even after his term as AIM President. He reiterated that the staff should continue working as a team, towards the shared goal, moving without an inch of mediocrity, but towards excellence and market leadership.

The staff expressed their respect and gratitude for the service President Estrada rendered to the Institute. The policies and reforms he implemented will be a precedent towards more positive changes in the Institution.

Top 10% of MBA Students

While all AIM students undergo rigorous training to develop them into great thinkers and movers in society, a select number of them stand out during the process. The Washington SyCip Graduate School of Business announced the following top 10% of the MBA Cohort 3 for term 1. The Dean's List for the term include:

1. Abalajen, Sheila Grace (Filipino)


2. Chhazed, Rohan (India)


3. Diaz, Johan (Filipino)


4. Echevarria, Joseph Patrick (Filipino)


5. Khandelwal, Mohit Santosh (India)


6. Kumar, Abhishek (India)


7. Lachhani, Rajesh (India)


8. Lau, Lee Leng Kerry (Malaysian)


9. Lim, Jan Clarence (Filipino)


10. Shah, Nirav Shaileh (India)


11. Susarla, Shiva Prasad (India)


12. Walia, Moksh (India)


13. Warren, Carlos Virgilio (Filipino)

East or West, AIM is Still the Best

Every year, selected MBA students of AIM get a chance to cross enroll in a university abroad under the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP) of the Institute. Kishore Daswani, Cohort 1 of MBA 16, shares his ISEP experience at a European Business School from September to December 2008.
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I paced through the cold winds with a pannini in hand and excitement in my heart. I entered a museum guarded by 2 lions, and decorated with paintings of unknown pizza makers. Distracted by the beautiful scenery, I finally found my way to the classroom conducted by Imhotep from ‘The Mummy’ series.

In line with the museum like beauty of the building itself, the classrooms were no less similar. There were numerous seats with the capacity of a 100 people, surround sound speakers, flat screen computer on the teachers desk, retractable canvas screen and a ceiling mounted projector. Very advanced, quite complete … with the exception of basic features, namely that of distributed outlets for our laptops. Considering the school has a good network of Internet services (I will get to this later on), and the professors provide us beforehand the PowerPoint materials before classes. It would be very productive if we could follow the lectures with our laptops and notes we have made therein prior to the class, well this was not the case as everyone’s laptop were on the brink of shutting down due to exertion.

The beauty of the classroom did not amaze me really, nor did the diversity of women in the classroom (Spanish, Serbian, French, Moldovan … need I go on?). What truly amazed me was the learning method in the university itself. I was informed that this was by far one of the most interactive teaching methods in Italy. For their standards probably it is, however coming from the Asian teaching method it fails in comparison. Let me elaborate… in class the teachers are well prepared and are open to discussions regarding the lesson, the PowerPoint materials are complete and you learn thoroughly … however the students themselves don’t question the teachers (unless they are ISEP and come from a CP based learning system like I was accustomed to) I remember one instance where an Italian classmate of mine answered a question poised by the professor, and I quickly rebutted proving his argument wrong, rather than try to prove my argument wrong, he just looked at me in a stern way (kind of hinting that any further transgressions would result in me sleeping with the fishes if you know what I mean!).

This kind of behavior in the learning process baffled me, they only study for the last 2 weeks prior to the examination, they have different options in the studying method (basically if you attend class or not, at the end of the day it all boils down on the final examination anyways). The competitive spirit was boiled down on your exam grades and your grades were based on a ranking wherein your rank in relation to the class curve would determine your grades rather than your absolute performance … it was difficult to determine where you stood throughout the whole process.

This teaching result was further exemplified when we had to present a final group project for a branding class. I noticed that all the groups worked hard on their presentation, with fancy animations and short movies (that looked professionally done) aimed at dazzling the audience. The problem is that they don’t know how to present it, they had their papers in front of them, reciting a script as they went along. The group that I was in just had a very basic PowerPoint presentation with key imagery highlighting what we had to say. I presented of course (being the only one in that class representing Asia in a truly varied form) my presentation was the normal presentation I would perform in my time in AIM. However what was to happen when I ended the presentation I would have never expected. The whole class stood in an uproar, clapping their hands until they were red, a standing ovation! I would have never expected that in a hundred years at that point (considering other presentations looked nicer than ours)

It then dawned upon me that the learning style that they were accustomed to was directed by the paper in front of their eyes, and that despite their ability to be very sociable outside the classroom they have not experienced a self directed learning wherein they enhance their soft skills. The fact that they relied everything on their exams was the reason for it all. I was glad that I studied in AIM where I was exposed to a different learning method. Because this method allowed me to develop skills that are beneficial for a manager, skills such as public speaking (casing point of the presentation), listening (I listened attentively to class as my basis for studying the examinations), communication, and most importantly I learned to be quick on my feet and come up with answers on the spot.

The education system was of course complemented by a very comprehensive IT network. You can do practically anything on their IT network, from registering your classes to registering for your examinations (different exams, different dates). Every student is given an ID card with this card they can access terminals where they can check various information or even get certification from the university for different reasons such as permit of stay or even a monthly public transportation pass. These cards are also used to gain access to the numerous computer rooms in the university, you can access the Internet and print, and you are provided by the university to print up to 20 pages a day per student, which is good because the only reason you need to print is to submit an assignment since everything is provided via the IT network. The best part of the network however is the individual student portal, in this portal you have your class schedules, exam schedules, materials for the classes, links to different departments, your webmail and even an online organizer which helps you schedule yourself in line with your activities in the university.

My experience in the European Business School was a good one, I grew up a lot in those 4 months that I lived on my own. At that time I lived in my own apartment, and did not experience the dorm life in the European Business School (although they did convert a hotel into a dormitory so I think the facilities were nice). I learned to fend for myself, I learned to assimilate myself into a completely different culture, most importantly I learned to appreciate what I had. My experience in AIM is irreplaceable, although the European Business School may have several advanced features in their portfolio, the sheer human touch, the basic elements in the classroom and the high value education (I was pushed, pulled and mashed into the ground in AIM, the WAC nights, the CP, the AC and the oh so dreadful MRR! you cannot get the same valuable education experience anywhere) that I received in AIM is what I hold in high regard over the museum like facilities, over the comprehensive Internet facilities (sorry but this does not go over the diversity in women!)

A Tribute to Retired AIM Faculty

On the evening of January 27, 2009 at the SGV Hall of the AIM Conference Center Manila, AIM gave honor to mentors who contributed meaningful years of service and commitment to the Institute. Dean Licuanan opened the evening with warm welcome remarks, highlighting the seven professors as part of the AIM family. Professor Richard Cruz introduced each of the distinguished league of educators.

Here is how the AIM community remembers the retired professors:

Prof. Soledad A. Hernando, PhD

Professor Sol, as she is commonly known, was a core faculty of the Center for Development Management. Greatly loved by the AIM community, Professor Sol is a respected educator, a committed development expert, and a very devoted wife and a loving mother.

Prof. Jose M. Faustino

“I want the students to become the best that they can be!" Professor Joe Faustino shared in the last AIM Blog interview. This has been his motivation for teaching at AIM. Being the Program Director for years, he is known as the proponent of the Strategic Marketing Course. Before his retirement, he was a core faculty of the MBA program. He also became core faculty of EXCELL. Apart from his marketing expertise, his colleagues and students will always remember his candor and sense of humor.

Prof. Teodoro Ma. P. Dizon

Professor Dizon was EXCELL’s Program Director for the Basic Management Program. His colleagues consider him as an expert on financial and managerial accounting, including control systems. While he is known as a master in the numbers game, he also is a force to beat when it comes to billiards and card games.

Prof. Victor S. Limlingan

Professor Limlingan has devoted his years of service at AIM being a core faculty of the Center for Development Management. He taught courses on development finance and strategy management. He is also managing a business with his supportive wife, Marita.

Prof. Errol B. Perez, DBA

Professor Perez was a member of the MBA core faculty. He taught courses on finance and quantitative analysis. He had recently supervised cases on finance and money markets, and in 2008, gamely did a brownbag presentation on the Sub-prime meltdown. One will not fail to recognize Professor Perez in AIM, as he is probably the only faculty member who wears a bowtie and a bowler’s hat.

Prof. Rafael J. Azanza

Professor Azanza served as a GSB faculty for years at AIM. He taught courses on finance, and also supervised cases on strategic finance for the Case Research Group. Not a lot of people know that aside from having a star appeal, he also had a chance to showcase talent in the movie industry decades ago.

Prof. Purba H. Rao, PhD

Professor Purba Rao was a core faculty of the MBA Program. She taught courses on predictive modeling, quantitative management and was extensively publishing researches on her areas of expertise and advocacies. She is most-loved by her students and members of the AIM staff, with whom she shares her unforgettable Indian cooking.

AIM Welcomes the Year of the Ox

Heavy rains did not stop the AIM community from celebrating the upcoming Chinese New Year. As early as 5pm, students, faculty and staff converged last January 23, 2009 at the Zen Garden. It was a night of dragon dancing and film viewing for those in the campus.

The Chinese New Year is considered as the longest, most important celebration among Chinese. Traditionally, festivities start on the first day of the lunar month and lasts for 15 days. Dragon and lion dances are common. It is said that the loud drum beats and the sound of cymbals, together with the face of the dragon or lion dancing aggressively can drive away bad or evil spirits.

How to Write a Resume - The Art of Selling Yourself

The following is the first in a series of mini-work shops intended to enhance AIM’s MBA graduate employability during and after their program of study.

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Module 1

Learning Objectives:

1. The difference between a resume and a CV

2. Different types of resume

3. What a covering letter is and how to write a good letter

4. Format and style tips for writing a resume

What is a resume and a CV – what is the difference?

“Resume is a document containing a summary highlighting the experiences and credentials and education usually written for the purpose of gaining an interview while seeking an employment. Since resume is the first thing that a potential employer encounters regarding the applicant, it carries a great significance.”

A good resume is about self-promotion, but unlike the traditional CV, it is about raising questions rather than trying to answer them.

Occasionally you will see a job advertisement asking for a resume. Although these are more commonly requested in the US, it is useful to learn the techniques of resume.

A resume is short, snappy and to the point. It is a door opener, a piece of personal PR with all the same qualities as any good piece of advertising.

Take a restaurant flyer, for example. A quick glance tells you what is on offer, what the specials are and how to get there. The first person sifting through job applications typically spends only a minute with each resume. Anything you can do to quickly identify yourself as a strong candidate is going to help.

"A good resume raises questions; a CV tries to answer them, there is a fine balance between telling too much and too little".

Types of Resume

A resume may be limited to one or two pages and can be organized in several ways.
Chronological Resume

Highlights a candidate's job experience in reverse chronological order, that is, the main body of the document shows the professional experience beginning from the most recent experience going chronologically backwards through a succession of previous experience. The main aim of a chronological resume is to give an impact of credibility through experience gained.

This type of resume is the most common resume in use.

Functional Resume

A functional resume highlights work experience and skills classified by skill area or job function. The objective of a functional resume is to focus on the skills particular to the kind of position being sought which directly gives weightage to professional capabilities and experiences as a backup. In contrast to chronological resume, functional resume will highlight these competencies and is most suited for jobs that require a particular skill or clearly defined personality traits.

Combination Resume

A combination resume balances both the chronological and functional resumes, which typically leads with a functional list of job skills and then the chronological list of employers.

The Language and style of a Good Resume

A resume is quite short and therefore contains experience directly relevant to the position and many resumes use precise keywords and action words that the employer is seeking for.

A resume should be accomplishment-centered regardless of the format you use - showing not the milestones of your personal history but how you "added value" to each of the situations you were in.

Instead of saying: "spent six months working as database research assistant", you might say, "researched and executed a data management project".

Leaving out pronouns sounds punchier and saves space.

There should be more space for what you did yesterday than what you did two years ago, and you may leave out altogether what you did ten years ago. The most recent events always come first on a resume.

Do not include any of your interests unless they are directly related to the job: the time for this kind of detail is at an interview. As for your life objectives, this should be in a covering letter.

You should not put references on your resume. If an organization wants references they will ask, and this will be a good indication that they are interested in you. When this happens you will find it useful to tailor the referees you offer to the job you are applying for.

At the end of the day, both CVs and resumes are about selling oneself - something that that should server you well as you take the next step in your career.

The Covering Letter – what is it?

The cover letter accompanies each resume and it is sensible to devote the needed time and effort to write effective cover letters because the cover letter may either assist in obtaining a job interview or result in having the resume rejected.

A cover letter should complement the resume. Its main objective is to interpret the data-oriented details and add a personal touch. A cover letter creates the first impression, which is the earliest written contact with a potential employer.

Generally there are three types of cover letters.

1. The application letter that responds to a known job opening

2. The prospecting letter that inquires about possible positions

3. The networking letter that requests information and help in job search

The cover letter to be written should be drafted based on the purpose and also the position sought.

A cover letter need not be sent to every potential employer.

An ideal cover letter explains the reasons for the interest in the company and highlights the relevant skills or experience. Cover letters express a high level of interest and knowledge about the position. In a cover letter:

* The first paragraph should explain why a cover letter is written
* Middle paragraph should explain what the applicant has to offer
* The concluding paragraph details how the candidate would follow up

The language and style of the covering letter

In the case of a prospective letter, which is an unsolicited letter, it is important to capture the attention of the reader and the objective of the job should be stated very clearly.

In a networking letter, the request should be made very clearly.

The cover letter should be like a preview to the resume which is dynamic and attention grabbing. A cover letter is the summary of the most important and relevant information in the resume. Since the cover letter should contain information in an accessible manner, it should be clear, concise and to the point, personalized, catching the attention at first sight, linking the skills and experience and call for an action.

Summary

1. A resume is a selling tool – selling you!
2. It should be short, accurate, concise and above all relevant
3. It can be chronological, function based or combination of both
4. It should be accomplishment centered – making you stand out from the crowd
5. It should have a clean legible font, simple bullets such as Arial, printed on good paper if required
6. A covering letter should add a personal touch – creates the first impression
7. Should fit on one page and have approximately 3 – 4 paragraphs maximum

Always remember what you write in a covering letter and resume in case you get called to an interview.

AIM Helps Professionalize Public Procurement

The AIM Center for Development Management is currently holding the Procurement Professionalization Project - Government Policy Procurement Board (GPPB) Inter-Agency Technical Working Group (IATWG) Presentation at the Korean caseroom, AIM Campus. The activity, held from January 19-23, 2009, is the second stage of the Procurement Professionalization Project implemented by CDM for GPPB under a World Bank grant. Participating in the event are DBM Undersecretary Laura Pascua, Directors of various agencies, other officials of the GPPB member agencies, and the GPPB Technical Support Office. Mr. Dominic Aumentado of the World Bank Office Manila also graced he event.

Participants were welcomed by CDM Associate Dean Nieves R. Confesor and by GPPB-TSO Executive Director Ruby U. Alvarez. The AIM Project team, led by former education Undersecretary Juan Miguel Luz gave an overview of the project. Members of the project team presented the 15 modules developed for the project. The project aims to professionalize public procurement practitioners and functions through the development of a detailed modular syllabus and materials. Once established, the syllabus and materials will help educate a cadre of trained procurement personnel throughout the public sector. The syllabus and materials will form the core of a certification program that will raise the level of efficiency and effectiveness of public sector procurement in the Philippines and help define the career path for procurement personnel.

The AIM Project Team is composed of former Undersecretary Ted Encarnacion, Engr. Cipriano Ravanes Jr, Mr. Ricardo Aquino, Atty. Amihan April Alcazar, Ms. Analiza Serrana, Ms. Deanna Lijauco and Ms. Daisy Briones. The Project Coordination Committee is composed of Prof. Charyl Malixi, CDM Faculty, Mr. Ador Torneo, CDM Program Manager and Ms. Daisy Gabriel, CDM Research Staff.

-Ador Torneo, AIM Center for Development Management

SWS 2008 Survey Review with AIM Policy Center

Together with Konrad Adenauer Foundation and Social Weather Stations (SWS), the AIM Policy Center presented the much awaited SWS survey review of year 2008. More than a hundred participants from the academe, media, government, business and civil society attended the event last January 13, 2009, from 2 to 4 pm at the J.V. del Rosario Room of the AIM Conference Center Manila (ACCM).

For the past several years, SWS has been getting the pulse of the people through their periodic and special public opinion surveys. Dr. Mahar Mangahas, President of SWS, shared the interesting results of the 2008 surveys under the following categories: Most followed events, Economic well-being, Governance, Corruption, Democracy and Politics Health, Education, Sports, Public Safety and General Morale of the people in year 2008. Details of the results can be viewed at http://www.policy.aim.edu.ph/downloads/GLS/SWS_Surveys_2008_in_Review.pdf.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, Jr. and Lingayen Archbishop Oscar V. Cruz served as reactors to the presentation. Konrad Adenauer Foundation Country Representative Mr. Klaus Preschle opened the event while AIM Prof. Sonny Coloma closed the event with a notable synthesis.

AIM DRC and World Bank Present World Development Report 2009

Over 200 representatives from government, NGOs, private sector, acadame, and media participated in the AIM Development Resource Center (DRC) and World Bank's launch of the World Development Report 2009: Reshaping Economic Geography. Iloilo City's Central Philippine University also got the chance to participate by the use of DRC's videoconferencing facility.

During the event, the AIM Blog Team interviewed Dr. Arturo Corpuz, Vice President for Urban Regional Planning of Ayala Land Corporation on his insights about how the Philippines can learn from the WDR 2009.

What can Philippines do in terms of economic development?

We have to stick to the basics and make things work. The government should spend less time on complicated policies. One thing is we should not be too obsessed with being competitive. We have to focus on our strength as a nation and build from there than keep on comparing how we fare with our Asian neighbor.

For instance, if the government is able to manage and address basic services like education and health, then we are on our way to moving forward.

What is the intrinsic value that must be emphasized to achieve progress?

Development must be inclusive, meaning that opportunities should be given equally shared with to the masses not only to the selected few. At the same time, we should effectively implement strategic economic growth, as it remains a major factor in addressing the challenge on poverty.

What role does the World Development Report (WDR) 2009 have on the Philippines?

The WDR 2009 is a good reference point. It is able to translate mainstream policies into specific conditions. Its emphasis on the 3 dimensions particularly on density, distance, and division serve as variables that allow us to understand development in different perspectives. From here, we are encourage to use the 3D models to address and develop solutions for social and economic challenges in the Philippines.

AIM Policy Center Hosts SWS Survey Review

For the eighth year now, the AIM Policy Center will host the review of the Social Weather Stations' key findings of their surveys of the past year. This year, AIM will hold the 2009 SWS Survey Review on January 13, 2009 (Tuesday), 2:00 - 5:00 pm, at the JV Rooms 2-4, 4F AIM Conference Center Manila, Makati City.

The quarterly Social Weather Surveys monitor the people's sentiments on governance and on their economic and social well-being.

Interested participants may confirm attendance through e-mail at aimpolicycenter@gmail.com, telephone numbers 02 7519182-83 or register online at http://www.policy.aim.edu/SWS2008.asp. You may also reach the AIM Policy Center (through Monique Avila) at 02 7501010 local 2109 or mavila@aim.edu for more details.

AIM MBA Preview

AIM invites prospective students to the MBA Preview on January 21, 2009 from 5 to 7 pm. The event will present the competitive edge of an AIM degree program graduate. The AIM W. Sycip Graduate School of Business offers practitioner-oriented management education programs for up-and-coming managers faced with the challenges of a globalized Asian economy.

Interested participants may contact Edythe at 892.4011 local 209 email: mbautista@aim.edu.

AIM Honors Distinguished Retiring Faculty Members

After rendering years of dedicated service to AIM, eight senior professors availed of the Institute’s voluntary retirement program. They are: Prof. Rafael J. Azanza, Jr., Prof. Teodoro Ma. P. Dizon, Prof. Jose M. Faustino, Prof. Sol A. Hernandez, Prof. Victor S. Limlingan, Jr., Prof. Errol B. Perez, and Prof. Purba H. Rao. Two of the six distinguished professors accommodated our interview about their memories of AIM, their legacy, and their aspirations for the Institute and its graduates.



How did you start teaching?

Professor Faustino: I started teaching in 1980. Before that, I got invitations to teach evening seminars, especially because I graduated from Harvard. I knew from the start that I love teaching, but could not pursue it right away because I was involved in the corporate life. So, I envisioned that I would teach after 10 years when I reach my goal of becoming V.P. in the company. Fortunately, I became the V.P. of Pepsi Cola in 5 years time. Until I realized that corporate life was not very fulfilling. I define fulfillment as being able to develop young people to be the best they want to become. That is when I decided to teach. I got offers to teach in the German Management Institute in Cologne. From 2001 to 2008, Leiden University in Netherlands also invited me to teach the Global Marketing Course.

How do you want to be remembered as a teacher?

Professor Faustino: I always tell my students that in my class, they will have a hard time. However, in reality, my students have fun learning and nobody sleeps. I am also strict in a sense that students have to be well prepared for classroom discussion.

What is your most memorable experience in class?

Professor Faustino: Every class is a memorable one. It keeps me young and working hard.

What is the legacy you want to leave AIM?

Professor Faustino: For the past 30 years, I have been an active Program Director of the Strategic Marketing Course. But most importantly, the legacy I want to develop is to have successful graduates who have taken the marketing class.

What is your greatest fulfillment in teaching?

Professor Faustino: Students grow professionally, mentally and emotionally.

After teaching at AIM, what else do you want to pursue?

Professor Faustino: Start writing a book about Marketing.

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Years of service in AIM.

Professor Azanza: Since 1971, but not continuously. There were work leaves.

What is/are your most memorable experience/experiences here in AIM?

Professor Azanza: There's not just one. For me, the turn-on here is seeing students get good jobs that they would not have gotten without AIM, and seeing them to be successful in their careers It is wonderful when we hear about them and their families prospering. And it is an uplifting experience seeing our alumni provide employment to people, and developing Asia . All that is memorable.

How do you want to be remembered as a Professor?

Professor Azanza: Well, in the long run, we are all forgotten. That's OK. A Professor lives on in his students. I would, if anything, just like to be remembered as part of the AIM team of faculty who tried to help out Asia. That's quite enough.

What is the legacy you want to leave the Institution?

Professor Azanza: My room (It is an urban legend). The words "boom-boom" (an inside joke.) Seriously, I hope my legacy is that I helped a number of students and businessmen appreciate the importance of, and logic in, Finance. I hope that simplifying Finance and making it funny is some sort of legacy, to be carried on by others. I want to write a "serious jokebook" about Finance in my retirement.

What are the changes you’ve seen in AIM through the years?

Professor Azanza: I think the level of psychological normality has somewhat improved. There are also more Doctorates among the faculty, something we should have done a long, long time ago. We started with a small endowment and I regret that we still have, relatively speaking, a peewee endowment, making the running of endless short programs still necessary to make ends meet. We lost the diversity among our student body that made this place such an interesting kaleidoscope of diverging views, smells, religions, social mores, career paths, and marital hookups. May the diversity return.

Now that you’re retired, what will be the things you will be busy with?

Professor Azanza: I still have board directorships, consultancies, vices. And I will still work at AIM on a reduced basis as an Adjunct faculty member. I will write cases and books and teach occasionally, maybe do MRR or other mentorships. The modern trend is that nobody completely retires, and modern medicine keeps us alive excessively.

World Bank Presents the World Development Report 2009 at AIM

In its latest World Development Report (WDR) 2009, the World Bank says that economic growth in most countries in East Asia and the Pacific, is unbalanced and will remain so. Nevertheless, this type of growth should not only benefit the rich but also the poor and the marginalized. To achieve growth that works for the poor, public policy should promote economic integration which, at its core, is about the mobility of people, products, and ideas.

On January 12, 2009, the AIM Development Resource Center and the World Bank will present details of the WDR and its implications for the Philippines. Indermit Gill, the main author of WDR 2009 will be here in Manila to present the detailed findings of the Report. Mr. Gill’s presentation will be followed by comments from panelists.

The forum will be held at the SGV Hall, 3rd Floor the AIM Conference Center Manila (ACCM), from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Interested participants may confirm attendance with Mel Cledera through email at vcledera@aim.edu or by getting in touch with him at 892-4011 extension 254.

Top Management Program at AIM

To survive and succeed amidst this uncertain global economic environment, there is a great need for managers to develop and implement strategies that will keep them ahead in their business. Asian Institute of Management invites key leaders and managers to participate in its "Top Management Program" on February 12 to 18, 2009 at the Hotel Padma, Bali, Indonesia.

The program will focus on helping companies address crucial management questions like:

• How will the downturn affect the different businesses in my portfolio? How deep is the trough, and what is the recovery period?
• How will my customers' purchasing behavior change?
• How flexible is my business model? Can i react quickly to changes in my business environment?
• How well do I understand our competitive position? Are my businesses in better or worse shape than the competition?
• What opportunities are there to be ahead of the competition? Can I use this downturn to my advantage?
• How is the current economic environment affecting my people's needs?

Interested participants may contact Yola Genuino or Apple Ani at 89.32050 / 892.4011, email: excell@aim.edu,website: www.execed.aim.edu

US Loan Program Available to US Citizens Wanting to Study at AIM

The Asian Institute of Management (AIM) is certified by the U.S. Department of Education to participate in student financial assistance programs authorized by Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. As a foreign school, AIM is eligible to participate in the Federal Family Educational Loan Program (FFEL). Prospective AIM students from the U.S. can use this fund to avail of a quality management education in AIM.

The available loan programs are the following:

1. Subsidized direct or FFEL Stafford Loan - US Department of Education pays interest while borrower is in school and during grace and deferment periods; student must have financial needs.
2. Unsubsidized direct or FFEL Stafford Loan - Borrower is responsible for the interest during life of the loan; financial need is not a requirement.
3. Direct or FFEL Plus Loan - available to parent of dependent undergraduate students and graduate and professional students enrolled at least half-time. Financial need is not a requirement. PLUS Loans are unsubsidized. Borrower is responsible for the interest during life of the loan.
   

For direct and FFEL Stafford Loans, the repayment period varies from 10 to 25 years.

On top of the AIM's admissions procedures, the applicant must be able to comply with the basic eligibility requirements of the U.S. Federal Loan as cited in www.FAFSA.ed.gov.

AIM Continues to Accept Applicants for MBA May 2009

The new year presents a new opportunity for people to learn and adapt to the fast changing developments worldwide. What better way to learn than by enrolling in the business programs being offered by the Asian Institute of Management. We invite interested applicants to enroll in the May 2009 offering of the Master in Business Administration program. The application procedures are detailed as follows:

1. Applicants may download an application form online or request for hard copies from the SSAR.

2. The form must be submitted with the following requirements:

a. Admissions essays (see back of the form)

b. copy of birth certificate (for Filipinos) or first two pages of the passport (for overseas students)

c. Transcript of Records (TOR) or Marks Sheets indicating that the student has obtained the bachelor's degree. Sometimes, the information is contained in a separate certificate. In the absence of the certificate, a copy of the college diploma will be required.

d. Recommendation Forms (Professional and Academic). These are also downloadable from the website.

e. Certificate of Employment, indicating at least 2 years of work experience. Aggregate work experience is accepted, as long as a certificate covers each employment period.

3. Submit properly accomplished application form and all the requirements to the Student Services, Admissions and Registration (SSAR), Ground Floor, AIM Main Building, 123 Paseo de Roxas, Legaspi Village, Makati City.

For detailed inquiries about admission to the AIM MBA program, interested applicants may contact Oliver Fabricante at admissions@aim.edu and (063-2) 892.4011 local 268.