COMDDAP 3DPi project launching with Sen. Chiz Escudero

The country’s leading information technology (IT) trade group will mount its annual technology sale expo where individual and business consumers, professionals, students and just about every techie can find gadgets to experience or enjoy at marked-down rates.

The Computer Manufacturers, Distributors and Dealers Association of the Philippines (COMDDAP), a non-stock, non-profit trade association promoting sustainability in the IT industry, will hold COMDDAP Expo Manila 2010, the longest-running IT exhibit in the country, from December 2-5 at SMX Convention Center at Mall of Asia Grounds in Pasay City.

“On its twenty-fourth year, the sale expo offers unmatched product offerings at discounted prices. We also timed it close to Christmas so consumers can buy IT gifts at good prices,” COMDDAP director and event chairman Juan G. Chua said.

Over the last three years, Chua said that “many exhibitors ran out of merchandise even before the show ends” as consumers take advantage of wide IT product choices that fit their requirements and concerns such as price and technology suitability.

The top draws are personal computers, notebooks, accessories, security software and gadgets, among others”, which essentially comprise the association’s key products in COMDDAP’s mission and advocacy “to spread the gospel of IT” in the country.

But more than a selling event, it has also evolved into a complete IT marketplace of creative ideas and life-enhancing opportunities as COMDDAP holds seminars, competitions, auctions and a technology initiative.

This year’s expo features a digital art competition called “Imagen.I.T.Pinoy” (visit www.imagen.it), which encourages artists of all ages to let loose their digital creativity and imagination. Two winners—a people’s choice picked through online voting at COMDDAP’s website, www.comddap.org, and a jurors’ choice — will get PhP 20,000 each. COMDDAP will accept entries until November 19, 2010.

Meanwhile, brand-new personal computers await the winning owners of the oldest PC and most popular (people’s choice) old PC in the “Oldest PC Hunt” challenge. Deadline for submission of entries is on November 15, 2010.

There’s also a community-driven project called “3D Philippines Initiative (3DPi) that encourages Filipinos to upload 3D images of their neighborhoods and buildings, among other landmarks, using Google’s free downloadable SketchUp software. A Google representative will guide students on SketchUp in a free seminar during the expo.

Business owners or managers and other professionals can keep themselves in step with the work-smart slant through a free Symantec seminar on “Internet security” and “Unleashing the Power of Microsoft Office 2010” at a subsidized attendance fee of PhP 200.

For the budget-conscious, everyday during the four-day expo, there will be an hourly voice auction of IT items from exhibitors with starting bids at 50 percent off their regular prices. They can also check out bargain items at the designated baratillo area at the expo.

Inquiries on COMDDAP Expo Manila 2010 can be coursed through its secretariat at 810-3814, 892-7947 or 750-9456, email exhibit@comddap.org or info@comddap.org or visit www.comddap.org for event details.