It is without a doubt that Instant Noodles have become basic staple for the lower echelon of the income strata. Studies by survey groups as well by A.C. Nielsen all point to Instant Noodles as one of the top ten items sold at any food retail outlet or supermarket. Investigative journalism in tri-media all point to the same findings. By this token, the Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association (PAGASA) pose no objection to including Locally Manufactured Instant Noodles in the basket of goods considered as Basic Necessity thereby amending the Price Act. Last Updated ( Saturday, 15 March 2008 )

 The Department of Agriculture has called for a consultation meeting with the private sectors for its project called Pork in a box. The meeting was held last April 4, 2005 at the Conference Room of the National Meat Inspection Service branch of the Department of Agriculture. The Pork in a Box project aims to reduce post production losses, reduce the cost of shipment of the products, reduce risk of disease transmission, improve meat quality and safety of pork and pork products and to reduce the cost of pork products in the market. The project is headed by NMIS Executive Director Dr. Efren C. Nuestro. Participants to the meeting included representatives from the Livestock Traders Association, Mr. Francisco Buencamino from PAMPI, a meat processing association, cold chain association president Mr. Anthony Dizon, Mr. Albert Lim from the hog farmers association, Mr. Jesus Cham from the meat importers and traders association, Mr. Steven Cua and Mr. William Villanueva represen

 Mr. Roy Chua of Daily Supermart was appointed by the Board of Directors of the Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association (PAGASA) as its vice president. The position was originally held by Mr. Edgardo Madrazo of Newlife Supermart who has resigned from his position as he and his family will be migrating to Canada. In a unanimous decision by the board of directors during the general meeting of PAGASA held at the Italianni's Restaurant at Libis, Quezon City last April 1, 2005. Due to the responsibilities of the vice president of the organization, there is the urgent need to fill in the vacancy. The vice president of PAGASA had the responsibility to represent the organzation and the industry as a whole in meetings with the government sector including the Department of Trade and Industry , Department of Agriculture , etc. Mr. Chua will hold his term of office until the next election of officers which will be held sometime in September, 2005.