January - February 1998

The past twelve months had been a great year working for the cause of amateurism for the country. Not only has it given me the privilege to over-see the day-to-day operation of the national organization of Philippine Amateurs and its local club affiliates but it also has given me a certian kind of fulfillment and wisdom gained through meaningful experiences and interaction among fellow hams, old and new alike both foreign and local.

Our representations in last year's IARU conference in Beijing, China has not only brought us back to the fold of the international ham community but has also enlivened our ideals and the development of ham radio in the future.

It is anchored in IARU insights and recommendations that we will pursue our objectives and program for this year, our major thrusts are to espise better understanding of Amateur Radio Service tot he general public and its usefulness on emergency communications and to impart scientific and technical knowledge among the youth which are some of the noble causes of Amateurism. That is why we are creating an Education and Technical Development Committee tasked to formulate workable programs and oversee the above objectives.

Likewise to effectively reflect the position of the Amateur Radio Services upon the policy of the Administrations, forging of a closer ties among Amateurs and various concerned sectors must be maintained. Hence, the creation of the Public Affairs and Publicity Committee which will serve as the liason and public relations to promote and enhance credence and prestige to the national organization which every Filipino Amateurs can be recognized and be proud of. Other working committees that we intend to establish is the Plans and Program Committee who are tasked to conceive brilliant and workable ideas that will spur amateur activities on national, regional and local level.

Other committees that we will create is the VHF/UHF Advisory Committee tasked to formulate ideas to enhance the use of this frequency band and to address and find solution to problems arising on this band.

Other important committee we will create is the Legal Advisory Committee which will serve as a legal counsellor and and provide legal services to the national organization.

Another important committee is the Finance and Business Management Committee whose task is to conceive ideas, plans to enhance the finances of the national organization.

These various working committees are part of the devolution process for better and effective administration of our objectives which shall be under the operational control and supervision of the Regional Vice-President. Henceforth, all Vice-presidents will be provided with various working committees and "self-determined" Amateur Radio Services in their area of responsibility.

All these sweeping reforms we are introducing shall be contained int he amended by-laws of PARA to effectively magnify its prominence as a National Society of Filipino Amateurs and to preserve its technocultural heritage and national identity. The said amendments will be presented to the General Assembly and Council of Presidents meeting during the National Hamvention in Davao City on may 22-24, 1998.