PARA Board Meetings

	Name & Callsign	Position
1.	Mike Hogar, DU1XX	Director at Large
2.	Ramon Anquilan, DU1UGZ	Secretary General
3.	Ed, Ilagan, DU1DPE	District 1 Director
4.	Efipanio S. Quintana, DU1EQ	Director at Large
5.	Alex Laguisma, DV3LCA	District 3 Director
6.	Joey Panganiban, DU1BP	Treasurer
7.	Butch Pacana, DU1RP	EVP
8.	Jimmy Kho, DU2JAK	President

The meeting was called to order by PARA President Jimmy, DU2JAK at 4:00PM

DU2JAK distributed minutes of the last Board meeting and asked the Board members to review them prior to their approval.

DU1UGZ informed the Board that while the minutes have been approved in principle, he will email all the other minutes for a final review and approval of the Board prior to posting all the documents on the PARA website.

President’s Report:

DU2JAK reported to the Board the alternative transfer of the PARA office to the 6^th floor of Semicon Building as contingency (plan A). The Secretariat updated him that the planned area on the 6^th floor is still bare nor did it have any divisions. It appears that PARA will have to spend for the divisions, electrical, water connections and other requirements to be able to put up an office not to count the required documentations before PARA can occupy it. The Board agreed this plan will be expensive and PARA does not have the budget for it.

Jimmy, DU2JAK, mentioned that Nas, DU1FBY called him earlier and advised him that he will try to talk to Mayor Jejomar Binay, BSP National President and inform the Mayor of PARA’s dilemma and make formal representations with the Boy Scouts of the Philippines to see if PARA can be accommodated in one of their vacant rooms. This move was collectively decided as PARA’s other alternative (plan B). PARA Secretariat will make representations with Mayor Jejomar Binay through the local BSP office that will also schedule a courtesy call where the Board can submit a formal proposal to Mayor Binay. Our last alternative, Plan C is to consider the place suggested by DV3LCA somewhere in Pasay although the details are still incomplete as of this meeting. According to Alex, DV3LCA, their group will meet on November 30, 2008 and he will get all the details and forward it immediately to the Board.

PARA ID – DU1DPE and DU1BP will handle the editing of the new design for the 2009 ID. Our present ID still has the Diamond Anniversary text. The Board agreed and will await for the different designs to be submitted by both DU1DPE and DU1BP in time for the renewal of PARA IDs

DU1RP reported to the Board he will prepare the letter to be sent to Mayor Jejomar Binay after he gets some details from NAS, DU1FBY, so that our proposal will be more specific, appealing and persuasive.

DU1UGZ suggested that in the event that the negotiations will take a little more time as the Christmas holidays are getting closer, to consider instead the offer of Peter, DU1DL where maybe some files and equipments of PARA may be stored in the container van he has offered as an alternate location while PARA will temporarily occupy the small office offered by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines.

DU1XX suggested together with Ramon, DU1UGZ that PARA can probably start already packing some files and non-essential equipments so that we can move out smoothly in the event that we will have to vacate Semicon.

It was also agreed as a timetable that all these alternatives especially Plan B should have some encouraging results on or before Dec 10, 2008. In the event that we get a positive feedback from the Boy Scouts of the Philippines through the Hon. Mayor Binay, we can move PARA on the 20th of December 2008.

DU1BP asked for the inventory of all the equipments and to specify if the equipment is working or not so we would know what to put in the storage area.

DU1UGZ requested the Secretariat to account for and inform the Board how much PARA charges for the new call sign assistance/renewal and how much was the income of PARA on orientation seminars it conducted. He also inquired on the developments with the External Auditor we have tapped to assist us to put PARA’s financial documents in order.

DV1DLY reported to the Board that Joy Vicencio, our External Auditor, has already started and has been reviewing PARA’s financial documents. She will advise the Board on its progress.

DU1DPE endorsed to the Board the documents of Pyramid Radio Society (PRS). He has gone over all the documents that include their SEC registration, Officers, Trustee and other requirements and finding all necessary documents in order is now recommending to the Board its reactivation.

DU2JAK, after going over the attachments in the folders, passed it on to the other members after which the Board moved and adopted the approval of Pyramid Radio Society DX1PRS group, for re-activation and which the Board approved unanimously.

Election of PARA Officers for 2009

DU1XX nominated DU2JAK as President, DV3LCA nominated DU1BP as President. The nomination was closed by DU1EQ and seconded by DU1DPE.

The Board went into an open voting where DU1BP was declared winner based on number of votes. Dr. Joey Panganiban, DU1BP, is now the new PARA President for 2009.

DU1DPE nominated DU1RP as EVP and that was immediately moved for closing and seconded by DV3LCA. Rolando B. Pacana, Jr., DU1RP is now the new External EVP of PARA for 2009.

DU1RP nominated DU1EQ for the position of Treasurer, immediately closed and seconded by DU2JAK. Efipanio Quintana, DU1EQ, is now the new PARA Treasurer for 2009.

DU1XX nominated DU1DPE for the position of EVP-Internal and that was immediately closed by DU1BP and seconded by DU1RP. Ed Ilagan, DU1DPE is now the new PARA EVP-Internal for 2009.

2009 PARA Officers are:
Joey Panganiban, DU1BP	President
Ed Ilagan, DU1DPE	EVP-Internal
Butch Pacana, DU1RP	EVP-External
Efipanio S. Quintana, DU1EQ	Treasurer

The new president, Dr. Joey Panganiban, DU1BP, after being congratulated by the Board was given a free hand to choose his Secretary General. The newly elected president after sharing to the group his vision of a Secretary General made known his choice when he directed his question to Ramon Anquilan, DU1UGZ, if the former Sec Gen can continue to be the Secretary General of PARA as he has been very active, passionate and has accomplished so much for PARA. The sincere request of the new president, DU1BP was graciously accepted by DU1UGZ. He will continue to be the PARA Secretary General for 2009.

Secretary General Report:

DU1UGZ posted a survey letter on the website covering updates from PARA. If they are able to reach PARA affiliated clubs and members and to provide better service by way of asking them to fill in an update form then PARA would be able to check on its efficiency. He also reported to the Board that he has hired an encoder to encode the PARA local Call Book and he has already started sending letters to concerned Districts to help him check on their status whether still active, inactive or otherwise so we can also assist NTC on available call signs they can assign. He made it known to all that all these were with his own expenses and PARA did not spend a single cent. He further reported that as of this day, there were already 5 amateurs who have expressed interest even though their RSL’s have expired for more than 5 years. He reported too that some letters he sent have already returned as the addressee does not live there anymore. He will update the Board on its progress. DU1UGZ also plans to have the old timers treated in a more special way where they will have a specific desk during the Hamvention. He also discussed some modifications in the present email addresses for the Officers and Directors where the call sign precedes para.org.ph like du1bp@para.org.ph. This is being done to give PARA Officers more representations with foreign amateurs and our local community. He will send the invitation to all the Directors on the new web mail for all to register.

In the District 1 meeting, there was a suggestion that the clubs who have their own website can be linked to para.org.ph and the fee is very affordable at only about P1,000/yr. so PARA will have no problem with the domain name’s payment. PARA will also open its website for advertising from members and non-members. This move will greatly help PARA generate income from its website.

DV3LCA reported that this will be his 2nd suggestion for the DY hams. He suggested that DY hams need to attend an orientation seminar to be conducted by PARA where they would get a formal endorsement to the NTC that would legalize them for a year, specifying a date of expiration after which they will have to take the Class C exam. This will help legalize a lot of bootleggers and help NTC put order on the air. This would also generate income for both PARA and NTC.

DU1UGZ stated that he mentioned this suggestion to Engr. Efren Cabanlig but this will be taken up in a more detailed manner when they convene the Amateur radio Consultative Panel (ARCP). The meeting during the ARCP will also include a new and updated Call Book where the objective is simply to have an accurate database.

DU1EQ suggested making a database of all call signs which regularly check into the 40 meter band DU Net, and to submit the list to DU1UGZ.

DU2JAK reported to the Board that when he talked to Nas, DU1FBY, he asked for his help to assist PARA to have a courtesy call with Mayor Jejomar Binay, BSP National President together with the PARA officers. This he will follow-up.

The members of the Board agreed that the next Board meeting will be on January 31, 2009 and the venue will be announced later.

The meeting was adjourned 5:30 PM

Before the meeting started DU1DPE endorsed the payment for the Lifetime International Associate Membership for $100 of Mr. Teodoro Stanley, K6KKK

DU2JAK – started the meeting at 1:30 PM with the following topics to discuss:

1.		opening of dollar account for the payments received covering the Lifetime International associate membership

2.		With regards to 7.045 Mhz and 7.095 Mhz, he clarified that PARA was not abandoning 7.045 as our calling frequency and 7.095 Mhz will only be used during DUNET at night and this is being done to accommodate Filipino hams in Guam who can not transmit at 7.045 Mhz.

3.		Offers received from members to relocate PARA
	a.	DX1BSP --- small room in the National Headquarters. Although free of charge, it includes electric bills and water. Another option is a formal letter from PARA with a higher chance of being provided a bigger room space.
	b.	DV3LCA --- Offered a location in Ermita, Manila at the 6^th Floor.
	c.	DU1BP --- Offered a location in Batangas, free rental only exclusive of electric bill and water
	d.	DU1DL --- Made also an offer subject to confirmation

DU1RP – On some critical issues pertaining to recent events where amateur’s certificate has been manipulated and signatures forged, he explained that Ramon, DU1UGZ, will not move and pursue this unless the PARA Board gives their consent. This will be handled very prudently and correctly to make some revisions on the current practice of license renewal and at the same time enhance the relationship of PARA with the NTC. In the meantime, PARA will submit its list of Club Presidents and their respective signatures. On the planned relocation of PARA where Semicon will now use the floor where PARA office is located, PARA Secretariat has been tasked to talk to Mr. Leo Villalon, on how much would be the rental if PARA considers staying at Semicon Building and the rental if PARA relocates to the 6^th Floor. This move will determine the right time to negotiate with Mr. Leo Villalon

DU1BP mentioned that DU1JMG may also help us negotiate with Semicon if needed.

DU1RP explained that DU1UGZ is pushing for Para’s NGO certification for it to be able to accept donations that are tax free. Options on the rental have been discussed as follows. One, if the rental at Semicon is affordable for PARA in this present time. 2nd, the BSP offer while it is free may have too small a space and may not be presentable especially with some foreign visitors and hams dropping by the secretariat. Thirdly, DV3LCA informed the Board that their Spectrum office in Manila is ready for occupancy and this is located at the 6^th floor. He needs to talk to the owner about how much the rental cost will be to PARA. 4^th is DU1BP’s offer in Batangas where the rent will be free and PARA only has to pay electric and water bills, and the 5^th, DU1DL who planned earlier to join the Board meeting has offered his place. This will be in a vacant lot somewhere in Antipolo.

DU2JAK discussed the coming PARA Anniversary, where the agreed date is November 22. It will take place from 8:00 AM to 5:00PM. The venue will be at the BSP National Headquarters. The agreed registration amount per member was P50. The Board found out when Dolly mentioned that the BSP have no chairs and tables, the board decided to raise it to P100 and that will also include the Certificate of Attendance to be given to all attendees.

Activities will include the following:

1.	NTC exam
2.	Fox Hunt --- pre–registration --- to be confirmed with the Compass Group although the equipments will be from DX1FLR. There will be solicitations for a prize.
3.	DX station – BSP equipment using DX1PAR call manned by Don Bosco students
4.	CW proficiency ---- by DU1XX
5.	Seminar – DXing by DU1XX
6.	Swap meet
7.	Board Meeting -- 3:00 PM – Election of PARA Officers & a segue to the Amendments of By-laws
8.	Dist 1 meeting – 1:30 - 3:00

	Name & Callsign	Position
1.	Jaime A. Kho, DU2JAK	President
2.	Ramon Anquilan, DU1UGZ	Secretary General
3.	Nathan SM. Eamiguel, DV5AOK	District V Director
4.	Butch Pacana, DU1RP	EVP
5.	Joey Panganiban, DU1BP	Treasurer
6.	Alex Laguisma, DV3LCA	Dist III Director
7.	Jett Manuel, 4F7MHZ	Dist VII Director
8.	Ed Ilagan, DU1DPE	Dist I Director

DU2JAK led the invocation and called the meeting to order.

DU1UGZ presented to the members of the Board a manifesto from ACCESS 5 stating the nomination of Nathan SM. Eamiguel, DV5AOK as District 5 Director and formally endorsed to the Board that was duly recognized. DV5AOK becomes the official District 5 Director.

DU1RP talked about what had transpired in the Cebu Board meeting. First was the presentation of the proposals of By-Laws submitted by the different clubs, and mentioned the proposal of DU1UGZ that elections will be via the old By-Laws. DU2LX and DU1BP have submitted their letters of intent last year in Naga City for Directors at Large and this was valid until 2008 and also submitted was the letter of intent from DU2BMD, DV1VEQ, and DW1NSM. He suggest that during the scheduled meeting of the Board the absence of Directors shall be understood as indicating that they have waived their right to be heard and voted upon hence if 51% of the Directors are present such will constitute the majority. He further explained this action is needed so that resolutions can be carried and adopted, and for PARA to move forward.

DU1BP suggested that the Officers must always try their best to be present as much as possible for meetings.

Also taken up was the BPL issue (Broadband over Power Line) although experimental in Bataan at the moment, PARA is monitoring the progress and will bring the matter to NTC should it be proved to be affecting radio transmission and at the same capitalizing what US has decided on.

DU1UGZ stated that the election for Directors at Large will depend on the number of paid members from 2007 and will also be the basis for the number of votes.

DU1EV explained to the Board the new By-Laws that will include a 15 member structure of Directors, and a quorum will be represented by a majority in terms of the Directors’ attendance where 51% becomes the majority vote during the Board meeting. The reason as explained in that meeting of the Board was the recurring difficulty to get a quorum among the Officers because of financial capability and DU1EV considered it a fact of life and therefore understandable.

DU2JAK stated that the Certificate of Membership for the club will be given again for this year even though it has been agreed in the last meeting that there is no more need for it as the ID’s will already suffice. This year Membership Certificates will be issued, however it was agreed that this coming year no Membership Certificates will be issued.

DU1DPE endorsed 3 clubs, Acer and the new specialty clubs AMSAT & FTI where DU1MHX moved for their approval under the new clubs under PARA. This was further discussed with all the attendees in the general membership meeting. Also explained was the initial move of the Secretary General for the application for the donee institution which means that PARA will remain as a non profit organization. PARA will be permitted to accept donations and will be allowed to issue a receipt where the receipt will be tax exempt.

DU1UGZ mentioned that the articles must be reflected in the amendments of the By-Laws and the present 15 members are the ones who may decide to adjust the term of office. Also mentioned was for all Directors at Large to vacate their position today prior to the election as provided for in the By-Laws. He also recognized the person who sponsored the printing of the Review Manual who, many years before was a ham, DU1CC.

Only 4 clubs have submitted proposals for the amendment of some items in the By-Laws, namely Cavite Ace, 480HB, MARS and WESMARC, although one club submitted ideas but did not actually make a proposal except stating that they are behind PARA. Cavite Ace suggested having 17 members of the PARA board; they want to have 2 Directors for Metro Manila, 2 from south Luzon and 2 from north Luzon. It was explained that the perennial problem PARA has is having a quorum for meetings. 480 HB suggested that the 15 members will be recognized as the regular officers of PARA who can vote and be voted upon and DX1MK’s proposal was more on expanding reciprocal agreements. This is already being done by PARA. In the past, we have extended assistance to many licensed foreign ham operators by way of help with application forms and endorsement in order that they can be issued a temporary permit to operate, or to get a Philippine license and this is ongoing. DU8RGL suggested that the amendment of existing By-Laws relative to club proposals be further reviewed so that we can arrive at a more friendly and encouraging By-Laws, in short a win-win move. He also discussed the winning Directors at Large and their tenures for next year.

DU2JAK asked for any motion or comments before the approval of the minutes of the general membership meeting. DU1BP moved for the approval of the general membership minutes and this was duly seconded by DU1DPE.

DU1RP explained to the general membership that the minutes, even though they have been approved, will still allow any legitimate member to continue to submit suggestions with regards to the amendments of By-Laws, provided it will make a better one.

DU1UGZ made it known to all that the attendance sheet where members registered for the Hamvention will also be the basis of attendance of the meeting.

DU2JAK acknowledged the District V delegation that attended the Hamvention and congratulated their representatives for making a successful Hamvention with their attendance and participation, while at the same time hoping to have more delegates for the next Hamvention. Also discussed was the financial status of the last Hamvention that was emailed to him, and further recognized the help of DU1UGZ in the solicitation for the souvenir program. If not for the solicitations made by DU1UGZ, PARA would have lost much.

Treasurer’s Report

DU1BP read the Treasurer’s Report, including the list of paid and unpaid members, merchandise inventory/ sale items, cash position.

DU2JAK mentioned about the time deposit account where the money came from the lifetime members. He further stressed that the principal deposit cannot be touched but only the interest that is being transferred to cover operating expenses.

DU1UGZ explained that all monies to cover operating expenses come from the sale of PARA items, proceeds from the Hamvention, membership dues, aside from the interest on our time deposits where the interest earned is transferred to the account for generating funds. He also mentioned the donation of a continuous ink system for the IDs by DU2JAK, and another donor, DU1BP, also for the continuous ink system. He mentioned also that DU1/DL6CNL donated a PC for PARA.

Report of Directors:

DU1DPE reported his activity in his District covering their monthly meetings, new club affiliates represented by ACER and 2 specialty clubs, Amsat & FTI club. District 1 net call on 2 meters continues every Saturday of the month with different clubs acting as the net control.

DU2JAK reported that the District II Director cannot attend this meeting due to conflict in his schedule.

DV3LCA reported the District III meeting last June and in attendance were UNA, Spectrum, WCC and Scan 3. The meeting included planning to have a District III Hamvention and hoping this move will entice more hams to come back again to PARA. Also included was a plan to have an orientation seminar for District III.

DV5AOK did not mention in detail their activities because they just have too many. It included facilities of the club like Echolink, relay/repeater system, and 7 stations operating on HF. Even though they have many members, most of them are students and married couples, and they are also confronted with monetary problems. They just love to operate the radio but do not have the financial capability. Their club is presently accredited with the provincial government of Leyte and also affiliated with OCD, PIDEA, CCDCC, and CSWD.

DU2JAK explained that the P250 yearly dues of PARA from the members is barely enough to run PARA in 6 months of operation. Other funds come from solicitations to subsidize PARA operating expenses.

4F7MHZ mentioned that he has not yet slept because he has a project in Cebu and just had to rush to Tacloban to be with the Board. He thanked the PARA Board for the all-out support he received and also the District V clubs for making the event more successful. After the orientation seminar that was conducted by PARA he hopes that all the applicants will pass the exam. He talked to some members of Scan International and encouraged them to be members of PARA. He also talked to NORAD 7 for the same reason. He also took time to talk to Bohol Amateur Club who are always promising to return to PARA. He believes that maybe he will try a different strategy to make them reconsider and return to PARA. He says that the Hamvention, according to their assessment, was successful but in terms of monetary status, it is break-even despite the very short time of preparation. He then reported their financial report covering the last Hamvention and requested the Secretary General to have it posted on the PARA website.

Districts 8 & 9 – absent

DU1UGZ discussed that he talked to DU1GM as somebody asked him why PARA doesn’t have ARES during that time we had a typhoon in Manila and he was up on the air. Unfortunately there was no electric power however, if we have many amateurs in the Philippines, new measures will have to be undertaken to increase the membership of PARA and alleviate this situation. Steps are being taken to address this and one of them is the orientation seminar where aspiring members are given basic orientation until they find interest and become licensed. In the new handbook print, the pool of questions was not included. The pool of questions will only be available during the orientation and will only be given to those who attend the orientation. He further talked to Nathan and assured them that the group is willing to go anywhere in their location to conduct the orientation seminar so that everybody will have a standard learning and will benefit from it.

With regards to the donee status, PARA is now updating all documents with regards to its accounting papers in order to be able to get a BIR Certificate of Registration where we await its release covering our printed official receipt duly registered with the BIR. PARA will avail of a bookkeeper then, and work for the accreditation with PCNC that requires endorsement to the BIR.

DU2JAK stated the IARU membership still has maintained the 200 members paid as reported.

Other Matters: (Hosting the Hamvention)

DU1UGZ asked the Board to recognize DV5AOK whose District will host the 2009 hamvention in Tacloban.

DV5AOK mentioned that during the Cebu Hamvention, he formally offered the intention of hosting the next PARA Hamvention and further said that it will not only be a Hamvention but also a Grand Eyeball because many amateurs will be coming home from abroad and they expect other Districts to be joining the event with their families, it being summer.

DU1UGZ moved for the endorsement to accept the offer of DU5 to host the next Hamvention and requested the Board to decide on the request.

As there was no objection, and the approval had been moved by DV3LCA and seconded by DU1BP, DU2JAK then asked the Board for the issuance of a Certificate of Appreciation to District 5 for their hosting of the next Hamvention.

DU1RP requested the Board to fill in the vacant position of Chairman of NTS and endorsed Panny Quintana, DV1VEQ, for the position.

DU1UGZ explained that the NTS chairman position will be good for 1 year and mentioned that Iver’s term had expired in the last Hamvention in Naga. He suggested Panny, DU1EQ, should take over temporarily. He was off the air lately because he was putting up a new antenna. Recently DV4DF organized a schedule for the net controllers and Panny with his antenna system now operational is once again active on the 40 meter net and suggested that the Board can now appoint the new NTS chairman.

The Board therefore appointed Panny, DV1VEQ, to be NTS Chairman for the remaining months of 2008.

DV5AOK reported to the board that Lito, DU4DF, is campaigning for the transfer of the DU Net to 7.095 MHz. He asked if this is with the approval of the Board.

DU1UGZ mentioned that 2 years ago the motorboat sound on 40 meters made it impossible to have a QSO and one of the reasons for transferring the net to 7.095 MHz. was to accommodate the KH stations who could not check in due to restrictions in their licenses. It is recommended by the Board to retain the 40 meter net on 7.045 MHz and QSY only when the interference resumes.

DU2JAK also mentioned that somebody had asked him if it would be possible to transfer the net to 7.095 MHz so that KH2 hams can also be accommodated.

DU1BP stated that it’s not only KH2 stations who are listening, we should also accommodate other stations who are listening and who may want to join the net.

DU1UGZ suggested that we study further the proposal and make a procedure on the split and cascade the information by way of posting it in the website.

DV5AOK provided a schedule to the Board for a short sight-seeing tour to take a look at the Hamvention site for the Board’s appreciation.

With no other matters to be discussed, the Board moved for the adjournment of the meeting.

The meeting then was adjourned at 12:00 PM.

DU1RP introduced himself to the general membership and acknowledged the different paid clubs, their Presidents and Members who were present. He then called on DU1EV to explain some details about the legal issues with the SEC and with regards to PARA.

DU1EV explained that last 2003 the PARA was suspended and SEC registration of PARA was revoked due to its failure to submit the required updates, regular copies of minutes of the Board meetings and most importantly the yearly financial report, so that during his time as president of PARA he made the necessary representations and filed a new application with the SEC through their express lane where new incorporators were submitted. He explained all the details related to this move and what he has done during his term to ensure PARA will be reinstated.

DU1RP explained to the members the perennial problems that PARA encountered regularly in the past with regards to scheduled regular Board meetings. Having a quorum has always been a problem and he further explained that despite all notices that were given ahead of time to all Directors of at least more than a month before the meeting, many Directors were unable to attend and important matters requiring decisions and resolutions remained on hold or were deferred to another Board meeting. DU1RP explained that to be more productive, especially where some Directors went out of their way to attend and ensure a quorum, and for PARA to move forward and provide the necessary solutions to pending matters, it has been agreed that Directors unable to make it to a Board meeting with prior confirmation on their attendance but failing to show up obviously means they have waived their right to vote and be heard, hence the remaining Directors present can decide provided the majority of those present approves such resolutions.

DU1UGZ shared to the General membership all his plans for PARA (BIR and the NGO certification – donee – where PARA can accept donations and issue a receipt that can be tax deductible for the donor). He and the group provided orientation seminars from north to south for the aspiring hams. He also recognized the person who initially sponsored the current ham book and a former holder of amateur license. (DU1CC), Willie So-Ong.

DU1UGZ further discussed that articles must be reflected in the amendments of by-laws and the present 15 members who may decide to adjust the terms of office. He also said that all Directors at Large would vacate their positions today prior to the election where the new set of Officers will start their term next year 2009. The next Board meeting has been set for June 28 in Tacloban City, and he further encouraged the different groups to elect among their members the District V Director, since they are the only club affiliated with PARA.

DU1RP discussed highlights of the proposals of 480 HB, Wesmarc, Ace and MARS.

DU8RGL suggested amending some articles of the existing By-Laws as per club proposals so that we can arrive at a more friendly and encouraging By-Laws

DU1RP appointed Mel, DU7EBB, to act as the chairman for the Elecom and members were, Noe, 4F7ELN and German, DW7BGP

DU1RP mentioned that last year DU2LX and DU1BP submitted their letters of intent to run as Directors at Large where he acknowledged them all as valid even if Joey, DU2LX was not present. Other letters of intent were submitted by 4F5TAC, DU2JAK, DU1MHX, DU2BMD, DV1VEQ, DW1NSM, and DU1RP. The club Presidents or in their absence, their legitimate representatives who have written endorsements will be provided with election ballots.

With the approval of the general membership, the candidates were given time to introduce themselves and discussed in a short statement their plans for PARA.

After the counting of votes certified by Elecom Officials and tallied in the board DU7EBB, Chief Elecom announced the winners:

The meeting started at 10:30 PM

DU1RP explained to the group his plan with regards to his presentation covering the submitted proposals on the By-Laws of PARA during the general membership meeting.

DU1UGZ explained also the election of the Directors who in the meantime will adopt the old Elecom rules since the new By-Laws have not yet been adopted. He also mentioned that DU2LX and DU1BP submitted their intents last December 2007 to run for the positions of Directors at Large and that these letters of intent are valid until this year, 2008. He likewise announced that 3 letters of intent were received from the following amateurs, DV1VEQ, DW1NSM AND DU2BMD.

DU2JAK mentioned and certified that he received the letter of intent from Mylvin, DU2BMD to run for Director at Large.

DU1BP suggested that the Officers must try their best to be present always for the regular Board meetings.

DU1RP suggested that when they have advised all concerned Directors of a scheduled Board meeting, and such schedule has been duly acknowledged, their absence shall be understood as indicating that they have waived their right to be heard and voted upon hence, 51% of the Directors present will constitute the majority. DU1RP explained that this has to be the case or no resolution will ever be carried and adopted.

DU1MHX stated before the Board that all proposals and suggestion will be inserted covering the proposed amendments of the By-Laws. He also suggested that all possible benefits of the proposals be presented for the ratification of the By-Laws.

BPL

DU1RP and DU1UGZ both suggested that PARA should be vigilant and capitalize on the experiences of the U.S. when they protest against Broadband over Power Lines (BPL). The test area at the moment is in Bataan. We will monitor its progress before we bring the matter to NTC.

DU1UGZ explained further that in the election of the Directors at Large, the highest number of paid members from 2007 or 2008 would be the basis for the number of votes to be given to the club Presidents/representatives when they cast their votes. All the elected Board members will take over in January 2009.

DU1RP said DU1EV will explain the new By-Laws. It will include in the By-Laws 15 members, structure of Directors, quorum majority and the terms of Directors, the Board meeting attendees where 51% becomes the majority to ensure PARA moving forward. There have been a lot of Board meetings in the past where ample time has been given and attendance has been confirmed but on the specific date no quorum is made. Absence in the meeting with prior confirmation means the absentee is waving his right to vote and be heard hence the remaining Directors present will deliberate issues requiring decision and 51% vote on issues discussed is deemed carried.

DU2JAK says that the Certificate of Membership for the club will be given again this year even though it was approved at the last Board meeting that the ID’s will already suffice due to lack of dissemination, but this will only for this year. Next year no more Certificates will be issued.

DU1DPE endorsed new clubs from District 1 for the approval of the Board after all necessary documentations and payments have been complied with. ACER group has complied and documents were already submitted to him at the last District 1 meeting and also included is specialty club AMSAT Phil, Inc.

DU1MHX moved for the approval of the two clubs and was seconded by DU1RP and unanimously approved by the Board.

Meeting was adjourned at 11:50pm

1.	Ramon Anquilan, DU1UGZ
2.	Eduardo Ilagan, DU1DPE
3.	Bienvenido Jose Panganiban, DU1BP
4.	Alex Laguisma, DW3LCA
5.	Butch Pacana, DU1RP
6.	Michael Hogar, DU1MHX
7.	Arnel Nebrida, DU2XXA

PARA Secretariat:

Dolores Gonzales, DV1DLY

Gilbert Galbis, DV1VGO

Guests:

Epifanio Quintana, DV1VEQ

Thelma Pascua, DU1IVT

Bong So, DU3BS

Rod Santos, DU3JIL

DU1RP called the meeting to order at 10:45am.

DU1MHX led the invocation.

DU1RP provided copies and asked for the adoption of the agenda with the Treasurer’s Report and had it read before the Board.

DU1UGZ took the floor and stated that the minutes of the last meeting held at Pili, Naga City had been uploaded to the PARA website but he further explained that while a lot of things were discussed, unfortunately there was no quorum because there were only 6 Directors present. In that meeting, there was a motion from DU4MX that the next Hamvention should not be in November again because in the last few years we had several typhoons. Lastly, there was no discussion on election rules as the newly approved SEC documents of PARA were made through the express lane. This being the case, and since there were no rules on election, those present agreed on a decision for all Officers to be held over until a new set of By-Laws has been adopted and approved at the next general membership meeting during the next Hamvention which is being considered to take place during summer or in the month of May next year.

Amendment of By-laws:

DU1RP said that all PARA officers will remain on hold-over status in respect to previous By-Laws. In the meantime, the Secretary General has been asked to draft a letter to be signed by PARA President Jimmy Kho, DU2JAK, addressed to all clubs to participate and to have their suggestion/comments submitted to PARA with regards to the existing By-Laws they feel should be amended and these issues will be tackled by the interim Board.

DU1RP has set a deadline for the submission of suggestion with regards to PARA By-Laws.

DU1BP asked which can be the host club to handle the suggestions on the amendment of By-Laws. Paid clubs can all participate if no club will host but PARA will be on top to make sure it is done correctly.

DU1RP reiterated that only paid member clubs can participate.

DU1MHX asked who are the official members of PARA as of this meeting? He also asked who are allowed to communicate and who can give suggestions?

DU1UGZ explained and clarified that the members of PARA are the paid clubs and PARA would also welcome individual members who may want to submit some comments through their clubs which are affiliated to PARA.

March 31, 2008 was the agreed deadline for the formal proposal on comments/suggestions with regards to PARA By-Laws.

DU1BP confirmed likewise that the anniversary schedule will be in November and the Hamvention will take place in May.

DU1MHX asked how do we communicate with the clubs to inform them that the deadline is March 31?

DU1UGZ explained that he will revise the letter to be sent, then attach the standard By-Laws which have been approved by the SEC and this will be sent to all club Presidents. Member clubs who are in good standing in 2007 and are officially paid members can send their suggestions and comments

DU1BP said no discount will be given even when one will purchase PARA anniversary watches in bulk, and no orders will be shipped without prior payment. DU1BP also asked if PARA needed to open a separate account for the PARA anniversary watches. He also presented the official receipt for PARA anniversary watches to be delivered c/o RJ, DV7RJ (mailing expenses included) as this will have to be paid as soon as possible.

DU1RP said that there was no need to open a new account but instead to just ensure the separate recording of sales covering the Anniversary watch. We will pay DV7RJ as he has already advanced the payment.

President’s Report : (On behalf of DU2JAK)

Hamvention:

DU1UGZ informed the board that he has spoken to Jett ,4F7MHZ, and inquired if the the next Hamvention could be hosted in Cebu. He replied that it could. Just to make sure, 4F7MHZ will call a meeting this week to bring the matter to District 7 members for their support. DU1BP agreed that Cebu is a very beautiful place to host the next Hamvention and there are many resorts to choose from which could hold the event.

DU1RP agreed and declared that in the meantime Cebu will be the site of the next Hamvention, although no specific date until we get a confirmation from Jett and when a confirmation is given, we will call for an emergency meeting.

Lifetime & Regular ID:

There is a question forwarded to the Officers that was resolved as, “ if the club has 15 members who individually paid for lifetime membership, automatically the club is a lifetime member”. However, if there is a new member who does not avail of the lifetime membership, he will just be a regular member of the club and as such, he will pay the regular PARA membership dues. No incentive for the clubs even if they have 15 lifetime members. Further agreed that this be the status quo at the moment.

The PARA ID was also taken up because our printer encountered a technical a problem. It was decided that we will just call the supplier for service so that all paid members could get their PARA ID card.

On the rules for Lifetime Members - P5,000 / $100 or the current exchange equivalent to P5,000. In the meantime, with the current exchange rate, for $100 it has to be adjusted before one becomes a Lifetime Member as approved by the board.

DU1BP said that he had 3 members who paid for Lifetime Membership but they converted the dollar at P41.00 so they paid P4,100.00 and the total was P12,300.00 for 3 Lifetime Members (Family). He asked the board what we would do with this, The Board decided to accept it but future Lifetime Membership applications will be based on the current exchange rate to total P5,000.00.

DU1MHX agreed that PARA should accept the payment of the 3 Lifetime Members of DX1M as there was still no resolution at that time, but next time we will not allow that term of payment.

DU1BP mentioned to the Board that the PARA ID color and design has also been approved. This was included in the Treasurer’s report for the month.

DU1MHX explained and clarified that DX1DBT membership dues are applicable every start of the school year June 2008 up to June 2009. He also reminded the board on the voting rights of the student club.

DU1UGZ confirmed that in the By-Laws student club section, it includes voting rights and membership dues. This was unanimously approved.

It was further suggested that there is no more need to issue Certificates of Membership and it was further suggested to instead have a PDF file in the PARA website to have it downloadable for members and the board will ask DU1GM for his assistance to have it available on the PARA website

DU1UGZ seconded the suggestion that there is no need to issue the PARA Certificate of Membership as the ID will already suffice, and suggested also to have a pdf file on the website.

DV3LCA suggested that if there is no Certificate of Membership to be issued, would it be possible to have the small PARA sticker instead.

Treasurer’s Report:

DU1BP read the contents of the Treasurer’s Report; he suggested to find a way to have a fund raising just like in their recent ALUMNI, Bingo project and maybe a raffle activity.

DW3LCA shared to the Board that in their club, they have conducted several raffle activities and for the appreciation of the Board, he provided a simple example where 100 tickets are sold for every club, then 80% will be remitted to PARA and the remaining 20% will be the incentive for the club.

DU1UGZ suggested to have fund raising projects and if possible this will be included in the PARA By-laws.

The Board unanimously approved a raffle activity this coming Hamvention (car, radios, etc…)

Report for the Souvenir Program:

DV1DLY informed the Board that SMART Communications asked for the BIR certificate of PARA as the payment for their souvenir ads is pending awaiting submission of PARA’s BIR certificate which unfortunately we do not have. Presented also was the letter from Bicol including their expense report on the last Hamvention informing PARA they have incurred losses. PARA will see how we can help them in this dilemma.

DU1UGZ asked the secretariat to inform the Hamvention Committee members to submit all the receipts attached to their expenses.

DU1BP suggested to commence the printing of new PARA Review Manual as we only have a few left.

DU1UGZ responded that he will have to inform Mylvin in Baguio for the next printing of the Review Manual while he will try to solicit funds to cover the printing expenses. He further suggested that the board appoint Thelma, DU1IVT as the Project Director for the Review Manual. This has been approved.

DV3LCA informed the board of his Lifetime Membership and confirmed he will get 20 pcs of PARA Anniversary watches for himself and another 10pcs for DW3TAB.

District Director’s reports:

DU1DPE reported to the board his bi-monthly meetings, and the minutes are posted on the PARA website. He also reported hat District 1 will be joining the DX Contest using DX1HQ, the PARA national headquarters.

Comments from DU1BP and DU1MHX:
DU1BP commented that if DX1PAR is not a contest station the contester will have a very hard time to go on contesting with no logs and computers and suggested that maybe we could help them out. DU1MHX says that if we would like to promote PARA in joining the contest, we must be selective on the operators where we will encourage some members be observers only and if others want to learn he is willing to teach them.

DU2XXA reported that he is not prepared at the moment but reported to the board that DU2LX informed him that he has put up a 70cm repeater and that a new amateur club has been formed with the name BARCADA and they have already paid the club entrance and informed DV1DLY to forward the email to follow-up their papers.

DU1MHX mentioned that some Don Bosco students have passed the Class C examinations and now want to upgrade to Class B but NTC did not allow them to upgrade unless they have a license for Class C and that they are only students.

DU1UGZ informed everyone that he will write a letter about this issue to the NTC Commissioner and furnish a copy to Engr. Efren Cabanlig – he also informed the Board that they already have the pool of questions through an official panel from NTC so we are ready to print the new Review Manual.

IARU Matters:

200 members have been declared members of IARU so the PARA ID will also include the logo of the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU)

Other Matters:

DU1UGZ suggested to adopt a resolution to certify that “DY” class will not anymore undergo examinations but only orientation seminars to be made by PARA. However, PARA will submit a resolution to NTC that Class C licenses which have been expired for more than 3 years and have not been upgraded should be limited to VHF only.

PARA Secretariat confirmed that all Directors will be given 10-20 PARA Watches to sell to their clubs in their Districts.

DV3LCA confirmed that all Directors will be given 10 pcs PARA Watch on the minimum.

DU1BP suggested posting the PARA Watch on EBay, then asked who will be the responsible person or the contact person. All inquiries will be through dx1par@yahoo.com

DV1DLY presented the request of VE6EGZ who wanted to order the PARA watch and requested a discount for a bulk order.

DU1BP mentioned that two of his Norwegian members are married to Filipinas and he wants to formalize the reciprocal agreement between the Filipino and Norwegian amateurs. DU1UGZ commented that what we can do is through the CEPT but the problem at the moment is, the Philippines is not a member of CEPT. What we can do to help Norway is to make a formal Board resolution addressed to DFA that we want to be a member of CEPT. If we become a legitimate member of CEPT, all the members of CEPT will automatically have a reciprocal agreement with each CEPT members.

DU1MHX and DU1BP both commented on the DU callsign for the foreigners. If they want to have a DU callsign, they should take the lower class C even though they are extra class holders in their country.

DU1BP asked if they can push through the special call 4D75 in commemoration of the 75^th anniversary of PARA that they intend to use on the WPX contest. The special call will expire at the end of this year.

40 meter Net Control station before 2007 was Iver, DW6ILA, and the new Net Control endorsed by our Secretary General will be Panny Quintana who was unanimously approved and designated as NTS Chairman by the Board.

The next meeting will coincide with the orientation seminar in Baguio on March 8, 2008

Adjourned 4:30 PM

	Name & Callsign	Position
1.	Butch Pacana, DU1RP	Vice – President
2.	Jimmy Kho, DU2JAK	President
3.	Joey Panganiban, DU1BP	Treasurer
4.	Eduardo Ilagan, DU1DPE	Dist 1 Director
5.	Michael Hogar, DU1MHX	Director At Large
6.	Joseph Sy, DU1DX	Secretary – RPI, Inc.
7.	Dolores Gonzales, DV1DLY	PARA Secretariat
8.	Gilbert Galbis, DV1VGO	PARA Secretariat

	Name & Callsign	Club	Position
1.	Jaime A. Kho, DU2JAK	TRIAC	PARA President
2.	Ed Ilagan, DU1DPE	FLARE	Dist 1 Director
3.	Alex Laguisma, DW3LCA	Spectrum Pampanga	Dist III Director
4.	Mel Borja, DU7EBB	CARL	IPP – CARL
5.	Joey Panganiban, DU1BP	Magellan	Treasurer – PARA
6.	Panny Quintana, DV1VEQ	MARS	IPP- DX1MK
7.	Arnold Liong, DV1LFY	PARL INC	Member
8.	German Paredes, DW7BGP	CHARL	Member
9.	Melba Memenzo, DW7MLN	CHARL	Member
10.	Krista-Marsha Ibarra	CHARL	Member
11.	Teodolfo A. Canas, 4F5TAC	ACCESS 5	Member
12.	Noe E. Ares, 4F7ELN	TRACER	Member
13.	Jet Manuel, 4F7MHZ	CARL	Dist 7 Director
14.	Rogelio Larrarochea, DU8RGL	WESMARC	Member
15.	Emmanuel Manor, DW5MNN
16.	Reni G. Aballe, DU5RAG	ACCESS 5	Member
17.	Jun Burgos, DU5JEB	ACCESS 5	Member
18.	Mario Monge, DV5MM	ACCESS 5	Member
19.	Bernard Cajigas, DU5VFA	ACCESS 5	Member
20.	Jocelyn Cajigas, DW5JOY	ACCESS 5	Member
21.	Ed Lozada, 4F4AX	ACCESS 5	IPP
22.	Vic Gerona, DU5GHZ	ACCESS 5	Member
23.	Joe Ilao, DU1JI	ACER	Member
24.	Wilfredo Rodriguez, DU4WLR
25.	Ramon Anquilan, DU1UGZ	PARL INC	President/ Sec Gen
26.	Arnel Nebrida, DU2XXA	TEXINS	Dist II Director
27.	Michael Hogar, DU1MHX	PARL INC	Member
28.	Butch Pacana, DU1RP	PARL INC	Member
29.	Ed Valdez, DU1EV	PARL INC	IPP
30.	Cesar Maligalig, DW1NSM	MARS	Member
31.	Thelma Pascua, DU1IVT	PARL INC	IPP
32.	Sonny Chong, DU9SS	PARL INC	Member
33.	John Chiu, 4F8JVC	SPARC 8	IPP
34.	Danny Pobre, KH2JU	MARS	Member

Joey Panganiban, DU1BP	26
Efipanio Quintana, DV1VEQ	24
Jimmy Kho, DU2JAK	24
Butch Pacana, DU1RP	23
Cesar Maligalig, DW1NSM	18
Mylvin Dalao, DU2BMD	13
Michael Hogar, DU1MHX	14
Jun Canas, 4F5TAC	9
Joey Tamayo, DU2LX	2

1.	DU1BP	26
2.	DV1VEQ	24
3.	DU2JAK	24

1.	DU1RP	23
2.	DW1NSM	18
3.	DU1MHX	14

a.	Invitation for the anniversary rite to the clubs affiliated with PARA.
b.	Letter addressed to the District directors (1-9) to attend the meeting, it being an important occasion and the Election of Officers for 2009 - 2011
c.	Letter addressed to the Chairman of BSP for the use of their location, specifically the covered court for our anniversary program and another letter for the relocation of PARA Office to the BSP headquarters.

Panny Quintana, DU1EQ	DX1MK
Ryan Valencia, DV1UXR	DX1FLR
Jimmy Trinidad, 4F3MJ	DX3WCC
Thelma Pascua, DU1IVT	DX1L
George Szymanski, DU1GM	DX1L
John Fraser, 4F3EW	DX3WCC