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GMA INAUGURATES NEW GARMENT FACILITY IN ROSARIO, CAVITE

Rosario Cavite, April 20, 2002 – President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo today inaugurated the new garment facility of the Kosiphil International Incorporated at the Philippine Economic Zone Authority compound here.

The Chief Executive, who arrived here at 9:45 a.m. from Manila, unveiled the marker located at the entrance of the building to formally inaugurate its facility. She was assisted by Kosiphil president Hyeon Chul Lim and Engineer Cecilio Rivas.

After the unveiling ceremonies, the President toured the Kosiphil facilities including its production area. While making the rounds of the facilities, the President received a briefing about the firm and its operations.

Later the President interacted with the workers who were excited to see her in person.

Kosiphil International Incorporated, which is 70 percent Filipino and 30 percent Korean, was established on April 7, 1997 to produce garments and other related products.

The Cavite Export Processing Zone was chosen as the location of the factory not only because of the availability of highly-skilled workers in the area but also for being the most peaceful and productive "free zone" in the country.

With an initial 400 workers in 1997 occupying a building in a 2,000- square meter leased factory lot, Kosiphil is now operating in its own newly-purchased 6,000-square meter building situated in a 15,000-square meter lot worth P45 million.

At present, the factory’s production department is running with the capacity of 10 sewing lines, producing 30,000 pieces of garments per day. Its export volume for this year is worth $23 million.

From Rosario, the President proceeded to Gen. Trias, also in Cavite, to unveil the "Cavite Mutiny Mural of 1872" at the Gateway Business Park.

The mural depicts how 154 Filipinos risked their lives, fortune, comfort and security for love of country.

She then viewed the exhibits of the 19th century photographs and the "Air Space" at the Geronimo Berenguer de los Reyes Museum.

After the tour, the President received a framed photo reproduction of the Bagumbayan Execution from Gateway president Jaime Hidalgo as a token of appreciation for her gracing the unveiling of the Cavite Mutiny of 1872 mural.

Before going to Amadeo, Cavite, the President also conducted a windshield inspection of the sprawling Gateway Business Park with a total of 27 locators and 13,000 employees