Geoinformation for All

GISDECO is an international network of GIS experts, planners and project managers engaged in GIS applications in developing countries. GISDECO focuses on the exchange of practical experiences with GIS-applications by organizing seminars and workshops in various countries. The purpose of GISDECO is to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and progress in problem solving for GIS researchers and practitioners, either from and working in developing countries or from developed countries and working on the problems of GIS technology transfer and spatial analysis applications in developing countries. The general objective of these two broad groups is common, namely to assist the development process and improve the quality of life of those populations who suffer from lagging economic and social development, while safe-guarding the fragility of the bio-physical realm in truly and newly underdeveloped countries.

The Fifth GISDECO Seminar focuses on GIS tools for rural development. It is appropriate that this Seminar is held in Asia for the first time, for GIS technology has made significant inroads into Asia, particularly over the past decade. The main purpose of the seminar is to bring together experts and practitioners of GIS and related technologies to share practical experiences and the state-of-the-art advancements to gain better insight into how these technologies may be effectively used to support policy formulation, planning and management of the natural and human resources for progressive rural development.

Venue

The 5th Seminar on GIS for Developing Countries will be held at:
The International Rice Research Institute
Los Baņos Research Center, Laguna, Philippines
Phone: (632) 845-0563, 844-3351
Fax: (632) 891-1292, 845-0606
Email. irrigis@cgiar.org
Home page: http://www.cgiar.org/irri

Found a mere five degrees north of the equator, the Philippines archipelago is made up of 7,107 islands and islets, only 3,000 of which have actually been named. The three major island groups are: Luzon (the northern most part), Visayas, (the center) and Mindanao (the southern most). The country is host to many international organization including IRRI.

IRRI is adjacent to the University of the Philippines at Los Baņos (UPLB) campus, located at the foot of the legendary Mount Makiling in Los Baņos, Laguna Philippines.

The institute is located approximately 60 km south of Manila. From the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), travel time to Los Baņos is approximately two hours. In going to NAIA from Los Baņos (see location map or visit Philippine Map), however, you should depart from IRRI at least four hours of your scheduled flight to give allowance for traffic and airport security protocol. A detailed map of the IRRI-UPLB complex will be included in your seminar kit.

Banking and Postal Facilities

Banks are open from Monday - Friday from 0900 to 1500 hrs. Post offices are open from Monday -Friday from 0900 to 1700 hrs. At the IRRI mail room, stamps may be purchased only between 1600H and 1700H, and letters posted, from Monday to Friday.  

Overseas Communication

Cables, telexes, and fax messages may be sent and overseas calls placed (at personal cost) at the IRRI Radio Room and PT&T services during office hours (0800H-1700H). E-mail access will be provided at the Secretariat during the day. 

Climate and Clothing

Temperatures in Los Baņos in November usually vary between 23 - 30°C during the day and slightly lower during the night. Medium to lightweight clothing is advisable; however, since the venue is air conditioned do not forget to bring a jacket or coat. We do not expect rains during the duration of the seminar. No formal dress is required for social events.

Currency

The currency in The Philippines is the Peso (Ph.P). Currency ex-change is possible at banks and exchange offices at the airport. Major credit cards are generally accepted in the Philippines. Currency notes are printed at 10, 20, 50, 500, and 1000. Coins are readily available in dimes (10 cents), quarters (25 cents), fifty cents, one peso, two pesos, and five pesos. The IRRI cashier’s office will provide currency exchange service at the Secretariat Desk. Exchange rate is approximately 42 pesos to 1 USD.  

Water and Electricity

The country’s power is set at 220 volts AC, however, many establishment such as hotels will come equipped with 110 volts. Within IRRI we have 110 and 220 volts, if you are not sure about an outlet’s voltage, be sure to ask first.

Water in the Philippines is considered potable by experts. But many residents still take the precaution of boiling water for at least two minutes. For a traveler’s safety, and convenience, purification tablets are readily available at any local drugstore or you can now buy a variety of bottled water (mineral, distilled and purified) at your nearest supermarket.

Insurance

Participants are strongly encouraged to carry travel and health insurance, as the GISDECO cannot provide coverage for accidents, injuries or illnesses that occur during the seminar. You should check your health insurance coverage to see if you are covered in the event of illness or injury, while traveling outside of your country. If not, we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance coverage for the trip.  

Passport and Visa

A valid passport is required for entry into Philippines. If you are arriving from the United States, Asia or Europe, you can enter the country without a formal visa and stay for 21 days. Visas may be required for those with passports from other countries. For specific information, please contact the Philippine Embassy in your country or nearest your country at least 6 weeks prior to your departure for the Philippines, or email the local organizing committee members.

Local Transportation

Airport/ Los Baņos/Airport. The Secretariat will handle transportation from Ninoy Aquino International Airport to IRRI Los Baņos and back. Upon arrival you should report at the International Organizations assistance booth at the arrival lobby after exiting from the customs inspection area of the airport. You have to inform the Secretariat of your arrival itinerary.

Departure. We recommend departure form Los Baņos to airport at 4 hours prior to flight time. Airport tax is Ph.P 550. You may check your departure schedule at the bulletin board posted at the Secretariat during the seminar. 

Ticket Reconfirmation

IRRI houses a Marsman Travel and Tours office. Please submit your airtickets on the first day of the seminar to the Secretariat for re-confirmation.

Presentation Assistance

Standard audio-visual equipment, i.e. overhead projector, slide projector and multimedia presentation system (for power point presentation) will be made available for oral presentations. Technical assistance will be on standby to assist in the use of these equipment. Paper presenters may go to the Secretariat to check their slides and digital presentation files.