Based on the plan, line 5 is on schedule and fortunately, line 6 is ahead of schedule. By WW709, Fab 2 will be room ready and the employees who are assigned at the said plant will start moving in. At the moment there are 30 employees who transferred at Fab 2. By WW723, we will be producing the first batch of solar cells at Fab 2.

If we are to answer the question: Of all places, why Batangas? Well, we could apply the saying, “Experience is the Best Teacher”. And so, the Expansion team has learned a lot in building up Fab 1 and they had found a way to cut the cost dramatically in building up Fab 2.  Rob had enumerated their four point primary lessons.

Point One Lesson: They had to find a good building that will accommodate rapid expansions – more than planned - with a structure and layout that was appropriate for the SPML plant.

Point Two Lesson: Instead of hiring contractors overseas, they hired contractors locally.

Point Three Lesson: Facility Value Engineering meaning they had evaluated, researched and explored the market to acquire modified and upgraded equipment, as well as modified facility designs to be less expensive.

Point Four Lesson: Economy of Scale meaning they had acquired things that are of higher capacity but with the same efficiency and at a lower cost.

The team is aware of the buzz regarding the safety and/or security of the place as a result, he interviewed 8 people who lived within the area of First Philippine Industrial Park and these people had rest assured that the place is safe. In addition, they had organized a task force to be in charge of the security of the employees.

Philippines is a “zone 4” earthquake zone, meaning it is prone to severe earthquakes - Fab 2 is built and designed to handle severe earthquakes.  And because our SPML population is increasing and should be able to cope up with technology, all employees will have special IDs to be able to have an access in the building.

Wire saw team will all transfer to Fab 2. Wire saw will have a total of 40 Saw Machines which will be purchased gradually.

According to Miss Cherrie Ocampo, our Human Resource Manager, there will be a brainstorming on WW642 regarding what will be in store for the Wire saw team especially to those who live geographically opposite from Fab 2. In addition, Rob said that there are plans and/or proposals on relocation allowance, shifting adjustments and shuttle pick up time adjustments.

By WW646, anything that will transpose during the said meeting will be disseminated to the rest of SPML employees.

As of September 10, 2006 we have an approximate of 177 newly hired employees who will be reporting on WW701 and will train here at Fab 1.

SPML will also continue its community relations programs at Fab 2 such as electrification of rural areas and renovating school restrooms among others.

While we are all looking forward for Fab 2, the Expansion Team is now scouting for Fab 3 and Fab 4 sites not only here in the Philippines but also in India and Singapore.