INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING

DIAGNOSTIC STUDY AND REENGINEERING OF THE BUREAU OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE
The Bureau of Local Government and Finance contracted SEA to review and thoroughly examine the existing mandate, structure, personnel complement, physical condition and equipment capability of BLGF and indicate the gaps, weaknesses and inadequacies of the existing structure and systems including the personnel capabilities in meeting the new responsibilities under a changed environment.

The Reengineering Program for the BLGF is aimed at determining the appropriate focus, structure, manpower complement, position titles and resources that will make BLGF an effective agency of the DOF and the National Government in helping strengthen financial performance of LGUs in order for the LGUs to attain self sufficiency and sustainable fiscal operations.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT ECHO COURSE FOR MIDDLE MANAGEMENT OF THE SHELTER AGENCIES, PHILIPPINES
SEA was commissioned by the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) to conduct seminars on Financial Management for middle managers of the following shelter agencies: National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation, Home Insurance and Guaranty Corporation, National Housing Authority, Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board, and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council.

The course was designed to provide the middle management of various governmental shelter agencies with essential accounting and financial tools and techniques in order to improve their operational monitoring and control capability. A total of 150 managers participated in the 5 seminars conducted. The World Bank funded the project.

TRAINING COURSE ON FINANCIAL AND MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING FOR AGRIBUSINESS PROJECTS FOR THE GUARANTEE FUND FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (GFSME), PHILIPPINES
SEA was retained by the GFSME to train owners and officers of borrower client companies on Financial and Management Accounting. The specific agribusiness sectors covered in the training are poultry, livestock and aquaculture. The course program focused on three major aspects, namely: project monitoring variables, the accounting system, and the cost accounting system. Training sessions were conducted in Manila and Bacolod City.

DEVELOPMENT AND DIVERSIFICATION OF TRADEABLE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS ON DEVELOPING MEMBER COUNTRIES (PHILIPPINES, INDONESIA, MALAYSIA, THAILAND, PAKISTAN, AND INDIA)
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) engaged the services of SEA in organizing and conducting the seminar on Convertible Bonds and Warrant in Manila, Jakarta, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Lahore, and Bombay. The seminar aimed to catalyze the development of a variety of capital market instruments in the capital markets of ADB's developing member countries.

REGIONAL PROJECT MONITORING UNIT (RPMU), AMBON AND SURABAYA, INDONESIA
SEA provided the Bank of Indonesia (BI) the services to the RPMU in Ambon and Surabaya, Indonesia.

With the general objective of promoting the development of small-scale enterprises and the private sector, the consultants were tasked with rendering assistance in: a) project identification studies and project promotion; b) client appraisal and project implementation; c) transfer of technology to counterparts and training of loan officers; d) establishment of lending procedures and client services; and e) improvement of the participating banks' portfolios.

STRENGTHENING OF CHINA INVESTMENT BANK, PRC
SEA assisted the Asian Development Bank in the implementation of the Bank's Technical Assistance No. 905-PRC: Strengthening of China Investment Bank (CIB). SEA provided a Marketing Expert who was tasked with training the professional staff of CIB, particularly those involved in project appraisal and in the area of international marketing/market analysis.

STRENGTHENING OF IGLF ADMINISTRATION, PHILIPPINES
The Asian Development Bank contracted SEA to provide consultancy services to improve the Development Bank of the Philippines’ (DBP) capacities for the Industrial Guarantee Loan Fund (IGLF) administration by improving operational systems and procedures and by training DBP staff assigned to IGLF on the operation of a computerized system. The ADB assisted the Government of the Philippines in promoting the development of Small and Medium Industry and granted a credit line of $100 million to the IGLF for further relending to participating financial institutions.

COOPERATIVE CREDIT AND GUARANTEE SYSTEM, PHILIPPINES
Guarantee Fund for Small and Medium Enterprises (GFSME) contracted the services of SEA to conduct a pre-operational study - curriculum training on Cooperative Credit and Guarantee System.

The study presented: an operational framework of the envisioned cooperative credit and guarantee system; a draft of the Accreditation System and Standard Setting for Credit Guaranty Farmers Groups, Cooperatives and related support vehicles; a listing of credit-granting farmers' groups and cooperatives potentially eligible to participate as non-bank conduits; an evaluation and rating of the pre-identified groups; a standardized system of credit operations; and a complete training program on the proposed system. SEA also conducted the training program on the proposed system.

STRENGTHENING MANAGEMENT CAPABILITY OF THE IRIAN JAYA JOINT DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION, INDONESIA
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) contracted SEA to provide the services of a Senior Business Management Expert and Team Leader to the Government of Indonesia. The primary objective of the project was to strengthen the existing capability of the Irian Jaya Joint Development Foundation to become a self-reliant development agency to support the development of Irian Jaya. The key components of the project were in the areas of organization and management, skilled and professional staff training, and loan portfolio recovery procedures.

INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR THE LOW-INCOME UPLAND COMMUNITIES PROJECT, PHILIPPINES
SEA assisted the Asian Development Bank in the implementation of the Bank's Technical Assistance No. 1128-PHI: Institutional Development for the Low-Income Upland Communities Project in the Philippines. The project involved the design and costing of rural infrastructure projects, assessment of watershed areas and design of projects to promote agro-forestry, social forestry and upland farming.

INDUSTRIAL RESTRUCTURING PROGRAM, PHILIPPINES
Together with SRI International, SEA was contracted by the Government of the Philippines through the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), to conduct a comprehensive training program in industrial restructuring of four sectors, namely: cement, pulp and paper, shipping and ship repair, and textile and garments. The training program was attended by middle managers of DBP, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Finance (DOF), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and the Central Bank of the Philippines, who were members of an Inter-Agency Coordinating Committee tasked with the implementation of the Industrial Restructuring Program of the Philippines.

The World Bank-funded training program, conducted in two phases, provided the participants with a common/theoretical framework and a common base of experience needed to put into action the restructuring program of the country.

INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF CHINA LEASING COMPANY LIMITED (CLCL), AND CHINA SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY FINANCE CORPORATION (CSTFC), PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
SEA assisted the Asian Development Bank in the implementation of a technical assistance grant for CLCL and CSTFC (Parts A & B) in Beijing, China with Carl Bro International a/s of Denmark as sub-contractor. Under Part A of the Technical Assistance, consulting services were required for the development and conduct of in-country training programs jointly for CLCL and CSTFC in the areas of project appraisal, environmental impact assessment, investment banking, and financial management of financial institutions. Under Part B, the required consulting services were for the development of a strategic workshop for top management of the two institutions. SEA and Carl Bro consultants were tasked to: (i) prepare the detailed design of the courses; (ii) identify, select and/or develop appropriate training materials to be used including reading materials, case studies and exercise sets; and (iii) serve as faculty in the conduct of the courses.

INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING OF COOPERATIVES, PHILIPPINES
SEA assisted the Asian Development Bank in implementing this technical assistance for the Land Bank of the Philippines. The main objective of the two-year TA was to provide institutional strengthening to about 2,500 cooperatives in order to enhance their financial and managerial capabilities. Specifically, the TA aimed to upgrade the capabilities of 2,500 cooperatives through the conduct of multi-level institutional development program, creation of a core group of local technical specialists and establishment of local network of NGOs and private institutions, which would support the institutional development program. The project was undertaken with Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP).

ENHANCING THE PROJECT FINANCE CAPABILITY OF THE CHINA AGRIBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TRUST AND INVESTMENT CORPORATION (CADTIC), PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
SEA was commissioned by ADB to implement this TA for CADTIC. The professional staff of CADTIC was trained by SEA in techniques and methodology relating to project appraisal (technical, financial, commercial and economic aspects) and supervision of industrial projects. SEA conducted two workshops, the first one focused on concept and principles of project appraisal and supervision, while the second one concentrated on the application of these techniques on actual courses.

PROJECT EVALUATION, PHILIPPINES
The Guarantee Fund for Small and Medium Enterprises (GFSME) commissioned SEA to conduct seminars for officers of GFSME accredited banks on evaluation of agri-business projects. The seminar’s objective was to provide the participants with working knowledge on financial and management tools used in evaluating such projects.

PROJECT MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT, PHILIPPINES
As a follow-through to the Project Evaluation seminar, GFSME contracted SEA to train officers of their accredited banks on the management and monitoring of agribusiness projects. The training program was designed to enable the participants to effectively measure the progress of agribusiness projects against established plans and expected results. Various financial and non-financial techniques were introduced in the seminar.

DEVELOPMENT TRAINING PROJECT: PRIVATE SECTOR COMPONENT, PHILIPPINES
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) hired the professional services of SEA for the management and implementation of the Private Sector Component of the Development Training Project which was being implemented in six selected regions of the country, namely: Regions III, IV, VI, VII, X and XI including Iligan City.

The project aimed to provide management and technical training to qualified personnel from small and medium size firms engaged in manufacturing and other non-farm sectors. It was funded with a $2.5 million grant from USAID and was implemented from 1990 to 1992.

SEA provided the following services:

1. Overall planning for the project resulting in a master integrated training plan for the private sector and definition of the targets and specific business sectors to be addressed;
2. Design of a detailed implementation strategy and monitoring/evaluation systems, including financial and management control mechanisms;
3. Identification of appropriate training programs; and
4. Recruitment, selection, placement, administration of the training fund and monitoring and evaluation of training implementation for the life of the project.

MUNICIPAL TRAINING PROJECT, PHASE I, PHILIPPINES
SEA was contracted by the Department of Interior and Local Government/Local Government Academy (DILG/LGA) to be the Contract Trainor for this World Bank-funded project covering three modules, namely: (a) Public Market Management Module; (b) Slaughterhouse Management Module; and (c) Bus Terminal Management Module. The general and main objective of the training course was to improve and strengthen the capabilities of key government personnel to properly manage public markets, slaughterhouses, and bus terminals as local government enterprises. SEA: a) prepared and developed training programs for the three modules that respond to varying needs and conditions at the project sites; b) planned and administered the training program at the project sites in coordination with key institutions at the local and national levels; c) developed appropriate training approaches and tools that match the project's socio-cultural setting and local resources available; and d) promoted the sustainability and replicability of the technology transfer process through appropriate institutional mechanisms; and e) incorporated in the training programs proper and effective waste and sewerage management as a requirement for environmental compliance by the DENR.

MUNICIPAL TRAINING PROJECT, PHASE II, PHILIPPINES
Phase II of the Municipal Training Program was again funded by the World Bank to continue the training of local government units on the modules: Public Market Management, Slaughterhouse Management, and Bus Terminal Management, with SEA as the Contract Trainor.

SEA was tasked to redesign the training courses previously used in MTP-I. It also organized and conducted six training courses (three on Public Market; two on Slaughterhouse Management; and one on Bus Terminal Management).

WORLD BANK/NMYC VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROJECT, PHILIPPINES
SEA was the accredited training institution for this World Bank funded project with the National Manpower and Youth Council (NMYC), now called Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). This Training Contract Scheme (TCS) project was a sector-specific, cost sharing, training scheme which encouraged private firms in selected priority industries to contribute as much as 30% of training expenses in basic, upgrading, supervisory, technical, and trainor's training of their employees.

SEA, in partnership with NMYC conducted and implemented training courses at the national, regional, and local levels. For the period 1985-90, SEA conducted about 138 courses of which 75 were held at the national level while the other 63 were conducted at the regional and local levels. In 1989, SEA was judged as one of the Top Ten Performers under the project.

DEVELOPMENT OF A GENDER DISAGGREGATED DATA BASE SYSTEMS, PHILIPPINES
The project which aimed to strengthen the planning and policy/program foundation capabilities of the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW) through the development of a statistical data base on the situation of women in the Philippines was funded by the Asian Development Bank. SEA was contracted by ADB to gather and compile quantitative base data and non-quantitative information from the government's data base and other sources as basis for the calculation of gender-based indicators. SEA also assisted NCRFW in setting up a microcomputer-based data processing and storage and retrieval system, including the selection of appropriate hardware and software.

CAPABILITY BUILDING OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS, PHILIPPINES
The National Manpower and Youth Council, now called Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), contracted SEA to undertake the capability building portion of the Training Delivery for the Informal Sector Project, one of the components of the Vocational Training Project II of the World Bank.

SEA was tasked with strengthening the capabilities of local government units (LGUs) in planning, organizing and developing community-based training projects so that on their own capacities, the LGUs can properly identify, prepare and implement local development plans with training as an entry point.

CAPABILITY BUILDING OF THE NON-FORMAL EDUCATION PROJECT, PHILIPPINES
SEA assisted the Asian Development Bank in the implementation of a technical assistance grant for the Department of Education, Culture and Sports. The Project aimed to contribute toward the country's poverty reduction program by: (i) raising the literacy and numeric skills of the poor and enhancing their capacity to engage in self-help and community-development activities, and (ii) expanding access to basic education by establishing NFE equivalency and an accreditation system and programs for ALS to serve the poor communities, which have a large number of school dropout and low school participation rates. The consultants: provided direct support to intensive community-based literacy training for illiterate adults and OSY; established a curriculum framework, based on ELC requirements identified through field research and evaluation; developed a system of equivalency testing and accreditation level for nationwide implementation; and developed prototype self-learning materials and other innovative and cost-efficient delivery systems to provide continuing education support to FELP graduates.

STRENGTHENING OF THE STATE EDUCATION COMMISSION (SEdC), PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
In association with Poon Kam Kai Institute of Management, University of Hongkong, SEA handled this technical assistance project which aimed to improve the institutional capacity of the State Education Commission in educational planning and financial management. Specifically, the project aimed to: (i) upgrade the technical skills of the staff; (ii) familiarize them with strategies and techniques used in other countries; (iii) review the existing system of projecting student flows and teacher supply and demand and monitoring allocations and expenditures; (iv) develop an improved computer model of making enrollment and teacher supply projections and for monitoring allocations and expenditures; and (v) design a training program and develop training materials for key personnel and staff in all provinces. SEA provided the following experts: Specialist in Educational Planning and Statistics, Specialist in Computer Applications for Educational Planning, Specialist in Education Financial Management, and Specialist in Computer Applications for Financial Management.

NMYC - TRAINING DELIVERY FOR THE INFORMAL SECTOR, PHILIPPINES
This project, which was funded by the World Bank under the Vocational Training Project - Phase II and implemented by the National Manpower and Youth Council (NMYC), now called Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), aimed to develop the capability of local government units (LGUs) to plan, organize, deliver, and follow up their own skills training program for the (rural) informal sector. The project trained LGU nominees who, after training, would function as community training and employment coordinators (CTEC's) in their respective provinces/municipalities. Two (2) seminars were conducted for the NMYC-Cordillera Administrative Region (with 60 participants from LGUs in the provinces of Abra, Baguio/Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga-Apayao and Mt. Province). An appreciation course was also administered in Metro Manila (for two batches) with participants from NMYC Central and Regional offices, PMDOs and NGOs.

NMYC - TRAINING ASSISTANCE CONTRACT SCHEME, PHILIPPINES
The Training Assistance Contract Scheme was an agreement between NMYC, now called Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and SEA to conduct trainors’ training for medium-sized manufacturing firms with the objective of developing the firms' in-house training capacities. The government, through the NMYC, subsidized a portion of the participating firms expenses in training or consultancy services. Three programs were held in Manila and another in Cabanatuan City with a total of 100 participants completing the training. The agreement included the development of the training design and conduct of the trainors’ training course.

INTERDEPARTMENTAL PROJECT (INTERDEP) IN THE URBAN INFORMAL SECTOR, PHILIPPINES
This project was carried out for the International Labour Organization where a report on People with Disabilities (PWD's) in the Urban Informal Sector was the main output. The INTERDEP project was undertaken by ILO in the cities of Bogota, Der-es-Salaam and Manila. For the Manila portion of the study, the pilot areas covered were Kalookan City, the Municipality of Marikina, and Quezon City. The specific objectives of the study were to: (a) identify disabled entrepreneurs, their associations, and the support institutions for disabled persons in the informal sector; (b) identify the qualitative and quantitative scope of participation and problems of PWD's in the informal sector, and, (c) formulate strategies and implementable action programs addressing the identified problems of PWD's in the informal sector so as to improve their productive livelihood opportunities and working conditions.

INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING OF THE REGIONAL POWER AND ELECTRICITY BOARD - REGION VI, PHILIPPINES
SEA was contracted by the Regional Power and Electricity Board of Region VI for the conduct of training courses on Managerial Development Program (MDP) and Productivity through Effective Human Relations (PEHR). SEA implemented the courses in Iloilo City with 60 participants from water and electric utility companies in the five provinces of Western Visayas.

CAPACITY BUILDING OF RESETTLEMENT MANAGEMENT IN DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS, PHILIPPINES
The Asian Development Bank contracted the services of SEA for the design and conduct of a Resettlement Management Training Program consisting of lectures, readings, small group discussions, video presentations, and field trips to policy planning and operations staff of agencies involved in implementing involuntary resettlement development projects. The project also involved the preparation of a set of operational guidelines reflecting principles of resettlement management and case materials illustrating effective resettlement policy and management methods, as well as an assessment of the status and adequacy of existing legal framework, institutional arrangements, and resource allocations in agencies to meet resettlement planning requirements in the national medium-term development planning horizon.

PHILIPPINES-AUSTRALIA WOMEN'S HEALTH TRAINING PROJECT (WHTP) NEEDS ASSESSMENT STUDY, PHILIPPINES
The services of SEA was sought by the Department of Health for the conduct of a qualitative and quantitative survey on the current skill status of target primary health care workers groups; determination of the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of barangay health workers (BHWs), rural health midwives (RHMs), public health nurses (PHNs), and municipal health officers (MHOs) in relation to distance education in women's health; and determination of the capacity of existing regional and provincial trainors to train providers on women's health. The project was implemented in association with HEWSPECS, Inc.

REVISION OF THE PRESEED DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK AND PREPARATION OF TRAINING PACKAGES FOR ACCREDITED CO-PARTNERS (ACP) DEVELOPMENT, PHILIPPINES
This is a staff development project was undertaken by SEA for the Department of Labor and Employment's (DOLE) Promotion of Rural Empowerment thru Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship Development (PRESEED) Program. The project aims to enhance the capacity of PRESEED implementors in project design and implementation, leading to economic productivity and self-sufficiency in enterprise development undertakings. It involves the review of the program's development framework, conduct of training need analysis of accredited co-partners and rural workers organizations, and the preparation and pilot testing of institutional development and intervention needs.

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT FOR POVERTY ELIMINATION IN BEN TRE, VIET NAM
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) contracted SEA for the provision of the services of a Credit and Savings Expert to be fielded on two missions to Viet Nam. The project involved the organization of informal financial markets covering local savings and lending groups, interest rates, demand for and use of credit, and savings behavior, in Ben Tre and two pilot districts in Viet Nam. It also required the conduct of training needs assessment of the local VBP, the development of a human resource development plan, and the participation of the expert in the conduct of the training.

INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY BUILDING FOR POLICY FORMULATION, PLANNING, MONITORING, AND EVALUATION OF THE AGRICULTURE SECTOR, PHILIPPINES
SEA was commissioned by the Asian Development Bank to implement this technical assistance project which was aimed to strengthen the capability of the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) and local government units (LGUs) in policy analysis, formulation and advocacy, program planning, monitoring and evaluation, and implementation. It also aimed to enhance DA's capacity to formulate policies, plan, monitor, evaluate, and implement agriculture projects. The TA was consisted of five components, namely: (i) institutional assessment; (ii) strengthening policy analysis, formulation, and advocacy capability; (iii) improvement in project planning, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation; (iv) improvement of management information systems (MIS); and (v) human resource development/training. The Project was implemented with ANZDEC Ltd. of New Zealand with SEA as the lead firm.

INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING OF FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES, PHILIPPINES
The Asian Development Bank contracted SEA to undertake a technical assistance project which aimed to improve the management and technical capabilities of private financial institutions (PFI's) staff, particularly those assigned to countryside branches, in project appraisal and monitoring (including environmental aspects thereof), and to familiarize them with the Development Bank of the Philippines’ procedures for wholesale lending. Under the TA, a comprehensive training program targeted at account, supervisory and managerial levels of staff, was designed and conducted. The project was implemented in two phases. Phase I entailed the conduct of training needs analysis, design of training program and finalization of the structure of the seminars and preparation of training materials. Phase II comprised of the implementation of the training program.

SOUTH SUMATRA SMALLHOLDER TREE CROP DEVELOPMENT PROJECT IN PALEMBANG, INDONESIA
SEA, in association with Euroconsult, was commissioned by the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) to provide a Group Dynamics specialist who assisted farmers in organizing themselves into farmer-groups, and made a comprehensive review on the existing training materials used in the project. Effective measures for promoting savings and saving-linked credit programs were suggested to promote income-generating activities with emphasis on benefiting women in the project areas.

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES (DENR) HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT, PHILIPPINES
The DENR contracted SEA to conduct a 3-day seminar-workshop to equip Provincial Environment and Natural Resource Officers (PENRO) with proper knowledge and skills needed in written and oral communication within the organization. The program involved leadership, communication workshops and institutional communication processes.

A STUDY OF MUNICIPAL PUBLIC FINANCE, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
SEA participated in the conduct of a study on Municipal Public Finance for the People's Republic of China. The technical assistance aims to assist in identifying the expenditure responsibilities while ensuring that a minimum level of social service delivery prevails across most urban areas. SEA handled the benefits and compensation services portion of the study. This is an ADB funded project.

TRAINING FOR RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT, VIETNAM
SEA was carried out this ADB technical assistance for the Government of Vietnam. The objective of the TA was to assist the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) in preparing and testing training modules aimed at strengthening the capabilities of national and provincial level staff in planning, design, construction, and operations and maintenance of rural infrastructure. Such a task involved training of MARD and Provincial People's Committees (PPCs) personnel in the area of rural infrastructure management in order to prepare them for the work required in the role as facilitator of rural development which should redound to poverty alleviation in the country. The project includes the preparation and testing of training modules for central and provincial Government level staff involved in the planning, implementation, management and maintenance of rural infrastructure projects.

POLICY SUPPORT FOR THE STATE BANK OF VIETNAM, VIETNAM
SEA was commissioned by ADB on this technical assistance (TA) whose objective was to analyze, formulate, and establish a comprehensive set of policies to enable the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) to be more efficient and effective in its central banking functions in a market-oriented banking system. This TA project assisted SBV in strengthening the capability for formulation and enforcement of banking legislations and regulations. It also included setting-up a deposit insurance corporation and a credit information center.

INSURANCE INDUSTRY AND PENSION AND PROVIDENT FUND REFORMS PROJECT, BANGLADESH
SEA was contracted by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to implement this technical assistance (TA) for the Ministry of Commerce of the Government of Bangladesh in assisting in the creation of an enabling, private-sector oriented environment in the contractual savings sector (both insurance and pension and provident funds) through the progressive liberalization/deregulation of the sector together with the effective strengthening of the regulatory and supervisory functions of the concerned ministries. The TA was tasked to contribute to further development of the domestic capital market by facilitating the increased flow of long-term funds to the capital market. It also helped ensure the successful implementation of the proposed Capital Market Development Program (CMDP).

The work also involved the setting up of a computer-based management information and “early warning” system for the monitoring and surveillance activities of the insurance regulator. SEA likewise developed, organized and facilitated a two-week intensive course for middle level managers in both the public and private sectors to strengthen market technical capability.

CAPACITY BUILDING FOR RESETTLEMENT MANAGEMENT IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT, VIETNAM
SEA was contracted by the Asian Development Bank in the implementation of this technical assistance (TA) project. The project focused on the improvement of planning, management and monitoring of the resettlement issues confronting the two focus projects: Irrigation and Flood Protection Rehabilitation Project (IFPRP) and Red River Delta Water Resources Sector Project (RRDWRSP). The TA assisted the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) in developing the organizational structure and build the capacity of the Resettlement Unit to implement resettlement planning, budgeting, monitoring and reporting.

TECHNICAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT PROJECT, INDONESIA
SEA was commissioned by the Asian Development Bank in the implementation of this loan project for the Directorate of Technical Education (DTVE) of the Ministry of Education and Culture (MOEC). A Central Project Implementation Unit (CPIU) was set up at the central level in Jakarta and at each provinces, a Local Project Implementation Unit (LPIU) managed the implementation of activities of the Project schools in the province. SEA provided the Human Resources Specialist who was tasked to: (i) review all progress reports; (ii) hold discussions with executing agency and project personnel at Jakarta and selected project sites; (iii) visit a number of senior technical schools (STMs) and at least one Technical Training Center (TTC), and obtain sufficient information on the pre-post status of the schools, to assess the impact of Project inputs, outputs and components, and how well the Project has achieved its objectives; (iv) assess the lessons learnt both in the design and implementation of the Project and make recommendations for the consideration of the Bank in devising future projects in technical and vocational education sector; and (v) prepare a draft/final completion report based on an outline approved by the Bank.

INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING OF THE INSURANCE COMMISSION PROJECT, PHILIPPINES
SEA was contracted by the Asian Development Bank to undertake this technical assistance project to promote the growth and stability of the insurance industry through strengthening the institutional capacity of the Insurance Commission (IC).

The SEA team of consultants worked on various components of the project, which included: capacity building of the IC in its role as the regulator of the insurance industry through the conduct of seminars and workshops; the design of the legal, administrative and regulatory framework needed for IC’s effective monitoring of the financial conditions and investment positions of the insurance companies through a computer based management information and surveillance system; review of the taxation of the insurance industry; amendment of the insurance code; and the enhancement of the IC’s capability to handle the administrative supervision of the pre-need sector.

The project was undertaken in association with the Insurance Institute for Asia and the Pacific, Inc. (IIAP), Philippines.

DEVELOPMENT OF LEARNING GUIDES FOR GARMENT INDUSTRY, PHILIPPINES
SEA Consultants, Inc. was commissioned by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to develop Learning guides for each of the selected occupations in identified industries in a standardized format that fits into the National Institute of Technical Vocational Education and Training (NITVET) System – more specifically for the Garment Industry. The Learning Guide was to be used by trainers of technical vocational schools on the garment industry to improve their effectiveness as instructors. In general, it was to contain the general principles for guiding trainers/instructors, methodologies of facilitating learning and administration and follow-up of the assessment tests.

The development of these Learning Materials has been dictated by the growing needs for manpower demand of the country. This activity was managed by the Curriculum and Training Aids Division as part of its program of activities under the 1999 Vocational Training Project II (VTP II) Curriculum and Training Materials Development (CTMD) restructured program.

POLICY AND INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT AND CAPACITY BUILDING OF THE INSURANCE REGULATORY AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (IRDA), INDIA
SEA Consultants, Inc. (SEA) was commissioned by the ADB to spearhead the implementation of this technical assistance (TA) project. The objective of this TA was to promote growth and stability of India’s insurance industry by supporting IRDA in (i) designing a policy framework for the development of the insurance industry, (ii) establishing a monitoring and surveillance mechanisms, (iii) setting up a management information system, (iv) acquiring up-to-date information technology, and (v) training staff to enable IRDA to effectively regulate and supervise the insurance industry.

The SEA team of consultants assessed the present IRDA policy and regulatory framework, institutional capacity, operating systems and information technology as well as their staff skills in order to identify gaps between the current capacity and the requirements of an effective regulator under the new regime. SEA also proposed a policy, regulatory, and operational framework, and a capacity building program based on the insurance industry’s current status and development needs, and IRDA’s objectives and priorities.

This project was implemented by SEA in association with JPS Associates Private Limited (JPS).

PROMOTING GOOD GOVERNANCE THROUGH THE STRENGTHENING OF LOCAL REVENUE AND RESOURCE GENERATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS (LGUS) BY THE DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY OF THE PHILIPPINES (DAP), PHILIPPINES
The Philippines-Australia Governance Facility (PAGF) engaged the services of SEA Consultants (SEA) for a capability building activity for the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) who are involved `in strengthening the local revenue generation and resource mobilisation capacity of Local Government Units (LGUs). SEA is tasked to provide services through research, design and development of a workshop program and production of a ‘Resource Manual on Local Revenue Generation and Resource Mobilisation’.

This project is in association with the Overseas Projects Corporation, Victoria (OPCV).

STRENGTHENING CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT OF STATE-OWNED COMMERCIAL BANKS (SCBs), LAOS
SEA Consultants, Inc. (SEA) had been contracted by the ADB to undertake the first-phase of a three-year program of assistance to strengthen the state-owned commercial banks (SCBs). This TA aimed to enhance institutional reforms to the commercial banking sector in Laos.

SEA’s tasks included introducing and implementing improvements in accounting and financial reporting to make the SCBs become effective participants in resource mobilization and allocation for sustained development of the Lao economy. SEA was also responsible for the enhancement in the field of internal control, internal audit, credit inspection, monitoring compliance with prudential regulations, budgeting and financial control.

CAPACITY BUILDING FOR GOVERNANCE AND PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGEMENT PROJECT, EAST TIMOR
SEA has been engaged by the ADB to provide Training Services that has been instrumental in the development of the Central Payment Office (CPO) in Dili, East Timor. SEA undertook the conception of the CPO recruitment standards and procedures, recruitment of the East Timorese staff and the design and implementation of the agency’s employee training program.

PHILIPPINES ROAD REFORM PROJECT, PHILIPPINES
SEA, in association with Opus International Consultants Ltd., undertook the Philippines Road Reform Project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) through the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

SEA was involved in providing guidance on developing consultative/participatory process and programme with the key stakeholders both within the DPWH and throughout the wider Philippines construction industry and road sector. SEA also planned and conducted consultative workshops for this project.

PRIVATIZATION OF DPWH EQUIPMENT AND WORKSHOPS
SEA Consultants, Inc., together with Crown Agents of United Kingdom was contracted by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the provision of consultancy services to this loan assistance project of the Asian Development Bank.

The project aimed to: (1) determine the optimum strategy for managing the operation and maintenance of DPWH plant, equipment and workshops; (2) identify constraints currently inhibiting the development of the road construction industry from realizing its full potential; (3) identify and advise DPWH on the practical options available to it for enhancing the performance of Bureau of Equipment (BOE), the plant fleet and workshops and providing reliable plant for its core activities; (4) recommend the most suitable and cost effective option for managing the operations and maintenance of DPWH plant and workshops; and (5) identify constraints currently inhibiting the development of the road construction industry, including the private sector, from realizing its full potential and propose remedial measures.

STRENGTHENING MANAGEMENT CAPACITY AND IMPROVING QUALITY OF TECHNICAL EDUCATIONS AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT, PHILIPPINES
SEA Consultants, Inc. (SEA) is currently implementing this technical assistance (TA) project funded by Asian Development Bank (ADB). The TA, which aims to strengthen the capacity, role and functions of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to carry out its mandate more effectively with the ultimate objective of divesting its current function as provider of Technical Education and Skills Development (TESD) to local government units (LGUs) and other agencies. Within, this context the TA will also assist the Government in establishing quality control systems in TESD, strengthening the management and supervisory capacity of TESDA and its network, and enhancing employment opportunities and prospects for TESD graduates. Ultimately the TA will contribute to the improvement of the quality of TESD programs that, in turn will produce better-qualified skilled workers, thus enhancing the competitiveness of the country.

This project is in association with Polytechnic Institute of New Zealand (PINZ) and Melbourne Enterprises International Ltd. (MEI).

PROJECT FORMULATION STUDY FOR THE COOPERATION PROGRAM IN THE GOVERNANCE AND INSTITUTIONS DEVELOPMENT SECTOR, PHILIPPINES
SEA Consultants, Inc. (SEA) was commissioned by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to undertake a project formulation study. SEA explored and outlined the role JICA can play in effectively supporting the governance reforms and programs in the Philippines, more specifically, the key governmental oversight agencies of the Governance and institutions development (GID) sector.

SEA performed the following (i) reviewed and assessed the reforms and developments in the GID sector (past and ongoing efforts and corresponding results), including mandate, vision and mission, strategies, people and organization, process/outputs and technology of each agency concerned of the Philippine Government; (ii) made a profile of major issues; (iii) reviewed key projects of the sector assisted by foreign donors, local funding institutions and major NGOs; and (iv) identified possible areas for assistance by the Japanese Government. SEA task constituted the following activities: collect information materials, review and analyze data, present an oral and written report.

CAPACITY BUILDING FOR FINANCIAL REGULATION AND SUPERVISION, REGIONAL
Assistance was rendered to Asian Development Bank in the provision of regional support for financial regulators in the areas of banking, securities, insurance and pensions. This TA was designed for the capacity building in financial regulation and supervision to promote the development of sound systems, effective implementation and compliance with international best practices. The training programs provided intensive and specialized skills and knowledge for over 150 of the region’s senior and middle level supervisors and regulators, who will eventually have responsibility for management of their regulatory regimes.

SEA performed the following services on insurance regulatory: (i) organized and facilitated 2-3 priority regional training workshops or seminars for the APEC Financial Regulators Training Initiative for insurance in consultation with the Secretariat, of regional needs and existing training programs in the region; and (b) developed a series of self-study materials on the high priority topics identified in accordance with the latter task, to be utilized in the training workshops/seminars and provided in electronic format on the APEC Initiative web site.

INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT FOR NATIONAL ECONOMIC POLICY MANAGEMENT, CAMBODIA
In a project funded by Asian Development Bank (ADB), SEA Consultants, Inc. (SEA) provided a Policy Adviser to the Supreme National Economic Council (SNEC), an agency established to assist the Prime Minister (PM) in formulating policies, making decisions, and monitoring policy implementation for Cambodia.

The Policy Adviser will provide training to SNEC members and assistants in the areas of identification of policy issues, problem analysis, policy analysis, political economy, identification of policy options and ranking, decision making methods, and the writing of policy papers and policy briefs. He will also provide support in developing and planning SNEC’s research agenda.

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Legaspi Village Makati Metro Manila, Philippines
Ph: (632) 816-2954 | (632) 812-3448 email: seacon@seaconsultants.com