ANNUALLY, the Philippine Regulatory Commission (PRC) extends awards for excellence in each profession that is under its commission.

This year, the distinction went to a very accomplished Cebuana, landscape architect, Socorro Borromeo Atega, who was recommended by the Philippine Association of
Landscape Architects (Pala).

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Atega was awarded the prestigious title, Outstanding Landscape Architect for 2009, at the Manila Hotel last month with her family in proud attendance! After all, not just any architect, a lady at that, could achieve such national prominence!

Baging, as we fondly call her, has these enviable facts in her professional file: Practice in government service with National Power Corp. after the graduate program; section chief of physical planning (1983-1987); and manager, Land Management Division (1987-1989).

At present, she has her private practice as landscape architect and consultant for various resorts, subdivisions, parks, and eco-tourism development.

On her academe background, she is a senior lecturer in University of the Philippines-Cebu (1984-1987), professor in University of San Carlos, College of Architecture and Fine Arts (USC-Cafa), and program coordinator of landscape architecture (1992 to present).

Landscape architecture is a profession that applies both art and science in the design and planning of land areas to create an environment in harmony with nature, beautiful and functional outdoor spaces where people live, work and play.

To achieve this and more Baging has this academic excellence tucked under her belt: A graduate of Masters in Landscape Architecture from Harvard Graduate School of Design in Cambridge, Mass., USA.

Locally, she is totally immersed in social development and environmental sustainability as volunteer executive director and past president of Cebu Uniting for Sustainable Water Foundation Inc.

It is with undeniable pride, therefore, that Cebu congratulates Socorro Atega for this award — not only Cebu, but her Theresian family as well, basks in her unfading glory!

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Stars and Stripes is so appropriate, a name for the American Food Festival at the Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, as they sliced the biggest gourmet burger in town, known as “Big Bite.”

No less than US ambassador to the Philippines Kristie A. Kenney and Shangri-La GM Joachim Schutte did the honors, as members of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the American Chamber of Commerce (Amcham) cheered them on!

Scenes from typical America were very visible, including a couple of horses, and cowboys at the Tides piazza where the opening took place. Then it was open sesame for the “All American Buffet,” which features good ole hotdogs, burgers, fries, steaks, and new twists to well-loved staples.

An exciting “Big Burger” eating contest was held for any lady or gentlemen who could consume it in 90 seconds. Everyone fell short, but enjoyed it!

Stars and Stripes food fest will be featured certain days only: July 11 – dinner only; and July 12 – lunch only.

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Here’s an update on Powersales. Selling during a crisis is challenging and Joey Reyes, facilitator of Powerspeak will show you how.

This will be at Parklane International Hotel on July 10 from 9 am to 5 p.m. This is certainly the best time to train your employees in preparation for better times. Please call Leny at 231-2461 for more information.