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AMGEN Grant to UPR Undergraduate Science Research Program The AMGEN Foundation announced the approval of a $1,000,000 grant over four years to the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) to establish the AMGEN Biotechnology Mentorship Initiative to Develop Science Program (“Bio- Mentes”), an undergraduate research program at five UPR campuses: Rio Piedras, Mayagüez, Medical Sciences, Cayey and Humacao. In addition, UPR has committed to providing $628,000 over the four years in matching funds to support the initiative. “Bio-Mentes” will take place throughout the academic year to strengthen students’ undergraduate science education, and the sustained level of engagement offered by the program will inspire students to explore summer research programs, graduate school and science-based careers. During the four years, approximately 200 undergraduate students will have completed a long-term academic year research experience under a UPR faculty mentor. Each student will receive a monthly stipend for performing supervised hands-on research in areas such as Industrial Biotechnology, Industrial Microbiology, Bioprocess Engineering, Bioengineering, Bioseparations, Biochemistry and Biostatistics. “This program will foster Puerto Rico’s development into a high-tech, knowledge-based economy, by exposing our science students to research experiences at the undergraduate level. Such exposure will better prepare them for the challenges they will meet as future professionals in the life-sciences sector,” said UPR President Antonio García Padilla, who added that “By doing this, we support the island’s economic development strategies, and we continue fostering knowledge generation in this important field.” AMGEN’s leadership in Puerto Rico expressed its strong support of the grant approval, as the company has been working closely with universities and schools throughout the United States and Puerto Rico to enhance the quality of science education. The “Bio-Mentes” program builds on the AMGEN Foundation’s AMGEN Scholars program, a hands-on summer research experience currently running at 10 leading universities in the United States. In 2007, fifteen undergraduates from Puerto Rico spent the summer at MIT, Stanford, Berkeley and other top universities and were among the 238 college students who participated as AMGEN Scholars. “This is an excellent opportunity for Puerto Rican college students to enhance their knowledge in biotechnology and science in general. We are delighted that the AMGEN Foundation continues its collaboration with UPR in initiatives that strengthen the island’s competitiveness as a biosciences manufacturing jurisdiction, while also enhancing the quality of science education on the island”, stated AMGEN Vice President of Puerto Rico Operations Emilio Rivera. All students will perform their research under the mentorship of a faculty member at their corresponding UPR campus. The 200 students will have the opportunity to communicate through a biotech blog, submit a report on their findings, and present their research at the annual AMGEN Biotech Undergraduate Research Meeting to be held at one of the five UPR campuses. Volumen 12/ Issue 3/March 2008 PPA Raising Awareness of Chronic Disease increases in PR too Representatives of The Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA)—a nationwide effort sponsored by America’s pharmaceutical research companies that is raising awareness of patient assistance programs and the need to effectively address the rising and alarming rates of chronic disease—were in San Juan on February 4 at the Puerto Rico Convention Center to help uninsured and financially-struggling Puerto Ricans access information on programs that provide prescription medicines for free or nearly free. PPA also informs patients on innovative new medicines in development to fight chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and asthma. To date, it has helped nearly 5 million patients nationwide, including over 14,000 people in Puerto Rico. Launched in April 2005, the one-stop PPA clearinghouse has helped provide information on more than 475 patient-assistance programs, including nearly 200 programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. Patients can visit the easy-to-use PPA Web site (www.pparx.org) or call the PPA toll-free phone number (1-888-4PPA-NOW) where trained operators field calls in 150 languages. `PPA is helping thousands of patients every day,` said Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) President and CEO Billy Tauzin. “No one’s helped by a medicine that sits on the shelf and is out of reach financially. We will keep coming back to Puerto Rico as long as there are people who need our help. With the number of people affected by chronic disease increasing every year, the PPA and its message of hope is now more relevant than ever,` Tauzin added. According to the Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease (PFCD)—a national coalition working to save lives and reduce healthcare costs through the prevention and management of chronic disease—more than 133 million Americans have at least one chronic disease. Chronic diseases are responsible for seven out of every 10 deaths in the United States, in addition to causing a myriad of health problems. These chronic diseases shorten lives, reduce quality of life, and create considerable burdens on caregivers, making it imperative that those who suffer have access to the medicines they need. Chronic disease is an unremitting problem on the island as well. PFCD information is available at their Web site (www.fightchronicdisease.org). PhRMA Chief Medical Officer Dr. Paul Antony has stated that `Puerto Rico residents have one of the highest rates of diabetes and asthma in the nation. Breast cancer is the most common and most deadly type of cancer among Puerto Rican women. It’s time for us to change how we fight these chronic diseases. Chronic disease is a major portion of healthcare costs, and its rates are rising. We want to do our part to help uninsured and financially-struggling Puerto Ricans with chronic disease get access to information on programs that offer free or nearly free prescription medicines.` New medicines are in development to fight chronic disease: America’s pharmaceutical research companies are currently working on 646 medicines to treat several types of cancer, 95 medicines for diabetes and 59 medicines to treat asthma. These innovative medications and treatments, along with improved access to prescription assistance program information through the PPA, may help to reduce the number of deaths caused by chronic disease every year. More than 1,300 national, state and local partners—including the Coalición de Coaliciones Pro Personas sin Hogar, Proyecto Amor Que Sana, and Centro de Orientación Mujer y Familia—are working with America’s pharmaceutical research companies to spread the word on the program. Trained specialists work with doctors, pharmacists, healthcare providers and community groups, educating them on the process and use of the PPA’s easy-access Web site and toll-free number. Volumen 12/ Issue 3/March 2008 PIA-PR to Sponsor First PIA-PR Foundations Summit PIA-PR is< Volumen 11/ Issue 10/October 2007 Leading Local Newspapers Endorse Tax Incentive Law extension On August 9 Volumen 11/ Issue 9/September 2007 New Trade Organizations Join the Coalition of the Private Sector Members of the Soci Volumen 11/ Issue 9/September 2007 PIA-PR Affiliate Member Brighton Associates Announcements PIA-PR Affiliate Member Brighton Associates LLC announced the appointment of Orlando Muñiz as their new Chief Operations Officer. Mr. Muniz holds a BS degree in Industrial Engineering from the Polytechnic University in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico and brings 11 years of experience in Consultant in pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device manufacturing processes in both in the US and PR. Orlando’s primary area of expertise is with aseptic processing and the manufacture of various cell culture, filtration, and harvesting processes (solid and liquid dosage forms). Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 Clarkston Consulting Chosen to Perform SAP Implementation PIA-PR Affiliate Me Clarkston Consulting Chosen to Perform SAP Implementation PIA-PR Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 Construction Meeting On June 27, 2007 a group of pharmaceutical executives led by Pfizer Vice President Carlos H. del Río met at the PIA-PR offices with a group of local construction executives to share international best constructions practices and to identify areas of common interest for collaboration to improve Puerto Rico’s competitiveness. A report is forthcoming. Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 Johnson & Johnson Presents Donations to Nonprofit Groups The Johnson & John Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007
Pfizer`s Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 PIA-PR Meets the Press PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez-Veglio met with El Vocero Newspaper Business Editor Edward Zayas on June 20 and with Associate Press Correspondent Mike Meliá on July 12 to review the status and implications of House Bill #3278 (a bipartisan initiative to amend Section 21 of the Tax Incentives Law of 1998 (aka Law #135 of December 2, 1997). Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 Municipal Executive meets with PIA-PR Executive On July 3, 2007 Ponce< Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 PIA-PR Suppliers Vendors & Consultants Directory If you are currently a supplier, vendor or consultant of the pharmaceutical industry and would like to appear in the PIA-PR Web Page Directory, please visit the PIA-PR Web Page (www.piapr.com) Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 PIA-PR Committees` Chairpersons Meeting The PIA-PR Board of Di Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 PIA-PR Publishes Open Letter to Endorse House Bill #3278 On Friday, June 29, PIA-PR published an open letter in the local newspapers urging the House of Representative to endorse House Bill #3278, a bipartisan initiative to amend Section 21 of the Tax Incentives Law of 1998 (aka Law #135 of December 2, 1997). Copy of the letter was send to all legislators and mayors as well as to industrial and community leaders in Puerto Rico. Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 Mark Your Calendar: PIA-PR General Managers Meeting Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 PR Trade Coalition Meets with Gov. Acevedo-Vila On July 11, a Coalition of Puerto Rico’s main trade organizations—including the Manufacturers Association, Chamber of Commerce, Bankers Association, Puerto Rico Products Association, Hotel and Tourism Association, ACODESE, Home Builders Association, General Contractors Association, MIDA, Society of Engineers, Export Council, Society for Human Resources Management, Society of Authorized Public Accountants, Securities Industry Association and PIA-PR—met with Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá to reiterate the Coalition`s endorsement of House Bill #3278, the bipartisan initiative to amend Section 21 of the Tax Incentives Law of 1998 (aka Law #135 of December 2, 1997). The amendment will extend the benefits of the law through December 31, 2009. In addition to the main trade organizations, the Bill has been endorsed by top-level representatives of the main political parties, the House of Representatives Treasury Commission, the Senate, the PR Resident Commissioner to the US Congress, and the Executive Branch. The Caribbean Business, El Nuevo Día, El Vocero and San Juan Star newspapers have also written editorials endorsing HB#3278. PIA-PR supports HB#3278, the bipartisan initiative to help promote the island`s economic development and strengthen its image internationally as the best jurisdiction in which to do business. Volumen 11/ Issue 8/August 2007 PIA-PR Affiliate Member Brighton Associates Announcements PIA-PR Affiliate Member Brighton Associates LLC announced the appointment of Orlando Muñiz as their new Chief Operations Officer. Mr. Muniz holds a BS degree in Industrial Engineering from the Polytechnic University in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico and brings 11 years of experience in Consultant in pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device manufacturing processes in both in the US and PR. Orlando’s primary area of expertise is with aseptic processing and the manufacture of various cell culture, filtration, and harvesting processes (solid and liquid dosage forms). Construction Meeting On June 27, 2007 a group of pharmaceutical executives led by Pfizer Vice President Carlos H. del Río met at the PIA-PR offices with a group of local construction executives to share international best constructions practices and to identify areas of common interest for collaboration to improve Puerto Rico’s competitiveness. A report is forthcoming. Johnson & Johnson Presents Donations to Nonprofit Groups The Johnson & John Pfizer`s Dr. Kelvin Cooper — PIA-PR Annual Meeting Keynote Speaker Pfizer Global Research PIA-PR Suppliers Vendors & Consultants Directory If you are currently a supplier, vendor or consultant of the pharmaceutical industry and would like to appear in the PIA-PR Web Page Directory, please visit the PIA-PR Web Page (www.piapr.com) Municipal Executive Meets with PIA-PR Executive On July 3, 2007 Pon PIA-PR Meets the Press PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez-Veglio met with El Vocero Newspaper Business Editor Edward Zayas on June 20 and with Associate Press Correspondent Mike Meliá on July 12 to review the status and implications of House Bill #3278 (a bipartisan initiative to amend Section 21 of the Tax Incentives Law of 1998 (aka Law #135 of December 2, 1997). PIA-PR Publishes Open Letter to Endorse House Bill #3278 On Friday, June 29, PIA-PR published an open letter in the local newspapers urging the House of Representative to endorse House Bill #3278, a bipartisan initiative to amend Section 21 of the Tax Incentives Law of 1998 (aka Law #135 of December 2, 1997). Copy of the letter was send to all legislators and mayors as well as to industrial and community leaders in Puerto Rico. PIA-PR Committees` Chairpersons Meeting
PR Trade Coalition Meets with Gov. Acevedo-Vila On July 11, a Coalitio PIA-PR Executive VP Meets With Resident Commissioner Luis Fortuño On Thursday, May 16, PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez-Veglio met with Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner to the US Congress Luis Fortuño in Washington DC to gather his support and endorsement of House Bill #3278. Congressman Fortuño reiterated his public support to extend the local Tax Incentive Law. PR Trade Coalition Holds Press Conference to Endorse HB #3278 On June 12, a Coalitio Kevin Sharer Re-Elected PhRMA Board Chairman Amgen President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kevin Sharer was re-elected Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) at the trade association’s annual meeting. Also elected were Merck President and CEO Richard Clark as PhRMA Board Chairman-elect and AstraZeneca CEO David Brennan as PhRMA Board Treasurer. In addition, it was announced that Pfizer Chairperson and CEO Jeffrey Kindler is a new member of the PhRMA Board of Directors. “Our industry is facing a number of challenges as well as opportunities in the year ahead,” said PhRMA President and CEO Billy Tauzin. “We plan to step up our efforts to inform and educate legislators on issues of critical importance to our companies and patients everywhere. I look forward to working with Kevin and the rest of the board members in the coming year.” Volumen 11/ Issue 4/April 2007 Caguas Unveils 3 Major Science & Technology Initiatives On Volumen 11/ Issue 4/April 2007 Merck held Annual Corporate Event On February 21, 2007, Merck celebrated its Annual Corporate Event under the title Merck: Designing a Future Full of Health. Aligned with the strategy of becoming the industry leader in delivering value to customers, Merck communicated with key customer groups on the value Merck adds to their organizations and how they and Merck can work together to maximize such value. Throughout the evening, the presentations, led by Merck Caribbean Region Sales and Marketing Operations Managing Director Dr. César Simich and Puerto Rico Manufacturing Operations Vicepresident Eng. Daneris Fernández kept customers engrossed on the many angles of the value provided by Merck. Merck`s strong legacy of breakthrough medicines and its ongoing commitment to research were highlighted; these translate into our promising pipeline of products including cervical cancer preventives and a new treatment for diabetes. Customers also learned about Merck`s impact on the wellbeing of patients—beyond the direct effect of our products—in the areas of cardiovascular disease, asthma, osteoporosis, diabetes, and immunization, and the strong economic stimulus that Merck has brought to Puerto Rico. As part of its commitment to PR`s future and health, Merck announced the establishment of a Merck award to excellence for external partners in the areas of education, research, environment and press. More information on this initiative will be forthcoming. Guests included Puerto Rico Secretary of Economic Development Ricardo Rivera Cardona; former University of Puerto Rico President Dr. Norman Maldonado, San Juan First Lady Irma Garriga de Santini; Dr. Harry Jiménez; Dr. Ángel Comulada; Dr. Josefina Romaguera, Dr. Julio Benabé, Caremark General Manager Mildred Muñiz; and representatives from the American Cancer Society and the Puerto Rico Diabetes Association. The Pharmaceutical Industry Association of Puerto Rico was represented by its Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez-Veglio. Volumen 11/ Issue 4/April 2007 PIA-PR Participates on Panel — Puerto Rico Credit Forum 2007 On February 28 - March 2, Puerto Rico hosted the Puerto Rico Credit Forum 2007, to review the island`s fiscal situation. During the event, which was sponsored by the Government Development Bank, 24 local and national speakers presented their varied perspective on the local economy. Under the general forum theme, `The Value of Solid Investment`, PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez-Veglio presented the subject `Why invest in Puerto Rico?` Present at the two-day session were, among others, Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá; Government Development Bank President Alfredo Salazar; the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Jorge Silva Puras; Department of Economic Development and Commerce Secretary Ricardo Rivera; Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group Senior Vice President Rafael Costas; and, Vanguard Group Head of Municipal Credit Research Ruth Levine. Volumen 11/ Issue 4/April 2007 New BoD at Alliance for the Development of Puerto Rico The Alliance for the Development of Puerto Rico (Alianza) elected its new Board of Directors during its Annual General Assembly held on January 25. Outgoing Alianza President & Founder Manuel Cidre said he was satisfied that the discussion brought forth by the Alianza on the need for the private sector to act to improve the economic and social needs of the island had been positive. The incoming President CPA Ismael Falcón said he felt ready to tackle the ambitious plans for this year as he has experienced first hand the changes a country can implement to improve its economy, such as El Salvador did in the 90s. The Board’s Executive Committee is composed of: President Ismael Falcón, CPA; Vice President Edgardo Fábregas; Secretary Francisco J. Rodríguez; and Treasurer Héctor Bernier, CPA. In addition, seven vice presidents—with expertise in specific strategic areas—will form part of the Committee: Education, José Muratti; Labor, Jaime Núñez; Health, Agustín Márquez-Veglio; Public Safety, Rafael O’Ferral; and, Land Use/Environment, Pedro Cardona Roig, Arq. Five directors round out the Executive Committee, including: Alfredo Carrasquillo, Ernesto Córdova, Jaime Fonalledas, Esq., Francis Torres García, Esq., and Dr. Alberto Varela. Leaders of the Alianza’s Strategic Plan for the Economic & Social Development of Puerto Rico are also part of the Board. They, and their corresponding planning areas, are (1) The Puerto Rico Manufacturers Association—Competitiveness /Connectivity and Public Safety; (2) School of Plastic Arts of Puerto Rico—Culture; (3) Community Foundation of Puerto Rico—Education; (4) Puerto Rico Products Association —Entrepreneurship; (5) Puerto Rico Home Builders Association—Infrastructure; (6) PRTEC—Innovation / Science & Technology; (7) Society of Public Entertainment Producers of Puerto Rico—COPEP, Recreation / Entertainment; (8) The Pharmaceutical Industry Association of Puerto Rico—PIA-PR - Health; (9) Association of Insurance Companies of Puerto Rico—ACODESE / Insurance; (10) Puerto Rico Shipping Association—Transportation / Cargo; and (11) Puerto Rico Hotel & Tourism Association—Tourism. The Board held its first meeting on February 15, during which it discussed its upcoming plans to create a strategic plan to implement best practices in different strategic areas, improving Puerto Rico’s worldwide competitiveness and the island`s quality of life. The report is scheduled to be ready for distribution by mid year. Volumen 11/ Issue 3/March 2007 Pfizer Sponsors SaludExpo 2006 SaludExpo, produced by Promotores Latinos, was held at the new Puerto Rico Convention Center on September 22, 23 and 24. Sponsored by Pfizer, for the second consecutive year, and supported by the Puerto Rico Department of Health, SaludExpo is the first exhibition dedicated exclusively to the health and wellbeing of the Puerto Rican community. With free admission to the public, SaludExpo 2006 goal was to educate the community about the prevention and early detection of the most common health conditions of our population. SaludExpo activities included health screening clinics (diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure, glaucoma, depression, and memory, among others); exhibits; conferences; and, providing very valuable information and resources for patients and caregivers. Friday, September 22 was dedicated to Women’s and Senior Citizens’ Health. Saturday, September 23 was Emotional Balance and Men’s Integrated Health Day and Sunday, September 24 was World Heart Day, sponsored by the Puerto Rico Society of Cardiology. Volumen 10/ Issue 12/December 2006 PR Multi-Sector Signs Pact to Achieve World-Class Public Ed System The Puerto Rico Commun Volumen 10/ Issue 9/September 2006 PIA/DDEC Education Task Force produces tools Dear PIA Member: As you may know, PIA and the Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DDEC) have been collaborating for several months on the design and implementation of action plans aimed towards enhancing the Island`s infrastructure, tax structure and education system. In the case of the education, a task force was created to sthrengthen the life sciences knowledge base through collaboration between Industry and Academia. The PIA/DDEC Education Task Force has been working since Q4/2005 on developing tools to guide PIA member companies in developing alliances/programs that can positively impact K-12 Education, University/Industry Linkage and Regulatory Compliance Training. The first set of tools created by the team consists of: These materials may help your company in designing and implementing strategies for improving Puerto Rico`s knowledge infrastructure in life sciences. We encourage you to take advantage of these tools as part of your corporate social responsibility initiatives. Cordially, PIA/DDEC Education Task Force Pfizer joins innovative educational initiative
Volumen 10/ Issue 1/January 2006 America’s Pharmaceutical Companies Increase Katrina Donations America’s pharmaceutical research companies have stepped up relief efforts in the devastated Gulf region with donations soaring to more than $100 million in contributions ranging from desperately needed insulin and antibiotics to infant formulas and personal-care kits. Since Hurricane Katrina struck Louisiana Volumen 9/ Issue 10/October 2005 Partnership for Prescription Assistance The Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA), a groundbreaking national initiative, brings together America’s pharmaceutical companies, doctors and other health care providers, patient advocates, and community leaders to help qualifying patients who lack prescription coverage get the medicines they need and find the public or private patient assistance program that’s right for them. The recently launched PR chapter, Partnership for Prescription Assistance of Puerto Rico, provides single-point access to more than 275 public and private patient assistance programs, including more than 150 programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. These programs provide assistance on more than 1,200 brand-name medicines and a wide range of generics. Patients in need may qualify to get prescription medicines for free or nearly free. Qualifying patients will also be given information on how to contact government programs Interested patients, or their care providers, can visit the user-friendly PPA Web site (www.pparxfl.org) or call toll free at 1(888)4PPA-NOW (1-888-477-2669) to speak with a trained specialist who will guide them through the application process in English, Spanish or any of approximately 150 other languages. Volumen 9/ Issue 9/September 2005 J&J`s Edgardo & Estrella Fábregas to host Down Syndrome Gala The Down Syndrome Foundation appointed Johnson and Johnson Vice President Edgardo Fábregas and his wife, Estrella, to sponsor a gala affair, Entre Amigos, honoring Down Syndrome Children over 18 years of age. The gala will take place at the Wyndham El San Juan on October 7, 2005 at 7:00 PM and we will be celebrated among friends. For more information, contact Olga Incle at the Down Syndrome Foundation phone: (787)747-3788. Volumen 9/ Issue 9/September 2005 UPR Hospital Pediatric Oncology Foundation Invitation The Foundation Pro the University of Puerto Rico Hospital’s Department of Pediatric Oncology and Ivonne Márquez invite PIA-PR Executives’ Spouses and friends to attend the traditional Saks Fifth Avenue Sixteenth Annual Fashion Show featuring The Best of Saks Fifth Avenue. The event, to be held on Tuesday, September 13, 2005 from 2:00 PM at the El San Juan Hotel and Casino Ballroom, will feature The Best of American and European Designers. The activity is a PIA-PR tradition in support of the Foundation, which serves children with cancer, who are terminally ill, and their families. For further information and tickets, please call (787) 622-0500. Donation: $100.00 per person. On behalf of these children and their families, PIA-PR thanks you. PIA- PR also wants to recognize the traditional support of AMGEN, AstraZeneca, Bristol-MyersSquibb, and Wyeth to this noble cause. Volumen 9/ Issue 8/August 2005 Pharmaceutical Industry: Active 20 Years in Communities` Well-being The Puerto Rico pharmaceutical industry has played an important role in the development and impact of the Puerto Rico Community Foundation (PRCF), the first community-based foundation in Latin America and first Spanish-speaking foundation in the United States. The industry’s financial contributions to the PRCF, and to communities on the island, have been essential to facilitate the development and implementation of more than 2,000 community projects. Since 1985, pharmaceutical companies have joined the network of organizations from public, private, and non-profit sectors that seek the social transformation and optimal progress of PR communities. Of the 27 founding partners of the PRCF, 13 were pharmaceutical companies that contributed almost $6.3 million in their initial donation. In a 20-year period, 26 pharmaceutical companies have invested socially more than $9 million to helping communities create, develop, and sustain projects aimed at improving quality of life in PR. The total contributions of these companies from 1985 to 2003 represented 53% of all corporate contributions to the PRCF. Donations made through the PRCF, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, have been invested directly in innovative community projects in the areas of health, economic and community development, culture and arts, education, science and technology, and drug abuse prevention. For more information on the involvement of the pharmaceutical industry in the PRCF agenda, or about the organization’s projects and priorities, please call 787-721-1037, or visit the PRCF web site: www.fcpr.org Volumen 9/ Issue 8/August 2005 Teachers Receive AMGEN Award for Science Teaching Excellence AMGEN Inc. recently recognized four Puerto Rico science teachers, this year`s recipients of the annual AMGEN Award for Science Teaching Excellence. AMGEN established the teacher awards program to recognize and honor extraordinary science teachers in K-12 public and private schools in communities where AMGEN operates, and to demonstrate the company`s commitment to advancing science education. Teachers whose exemplary science teaching has had demonstrated results in student learning are selected. Since begun in 1992, the AMGEN Award for Science Teaching Excellence program has awarded more than one million dollars to educators in the US and PR who have made exceptional science-teaching contributions and who have had a measurable impact on the lives of their students. `AMGEN is proud to honor these distinguished teachers, who remind us that skilled educators play a critical role in inspiring the next generation of citizens and future scientists. We hope this recognition and grant support for the teachers and their schools will continue to advance innovative approaches to science education,` said AMGEN Associate Director of Philanthropy Jean Lim. Award nominations are solicited every Fall, and a panel of independent judges selects the winners based on the following criteria: creativity of teaching method, effectiveness in the classroom, motivational ability, instructional ability, and the plan for the use of grant money to improve science education resources in their schools. Volumen 9/ Issue 8/August 2005 Pfizer Receives Corporate Citizenship Award Pfizer received the Corporate Citizenship Award bestowed by the National Puerto Rican Coalition (NPRC), a Washington, DC-based national organization advocating on behalf of Puerto Ricans (and other Latinos) on the mainland and in PR. Pfizer PR Manufacturing Operations Vice President Carlos H. Del Río is on the NPRC Board of Directors and has worked with them very effectively to promote the Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) program, designed to help patients who lack prescription coverage gain access to the medicines they need. This award recognizes Pfizer’s work and dedication to advance the well-being and quality of life of residents in the PR community, in PR and the US. Pfizer Caribbean General Manager Mike Sweitzer received the award, on behalf of Pfizer and Pfizer Inc. Chairman and CEO Hank McKinnell, from NPRC President Manuel Mirabal. Volumen 9/ Issue 8/August 2005 El Caribe en tu Corazón - Successful Gala Event The American Heart Association 2005 Annual Gala, El Caribe en tu Corazón, was celebrated on May 14 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Casino & Spa. The American Heart Association (AHA) was represented by AHA Florida/Puerto Rico Area Executive Director Nick Buchholz, AHA-PR President Dr. Manuel Quiles, and AHA-PR Executive Director Andrés Morales. PIA-PR Chairperson, Merck General Manager and AHA Gala Committee President César Simich thanked all event sponsors and collaborators while expressing MerckSharpDohme’s (MSD) commitment to AHA’s mission. The Gala will benefit AHA’s heart disease and stroke prevention efforts as well as its educational programs in Puerto Rico. MSD was the event`s main sponsor. PIA-PR Members Launch TOGETHER Rx ACCESS™ Card Thousands of uninsured Puerto Ricans will be able to obtain savings on a wide range of brand-name prescription products through the Together Rx Access™ Card program, officially launched on the island recently by 10 pharmaceutical companies. The new Together Rx Access Card offers savings on a broad range of prescription medicines through a free, easy-to-use Card. To qualify for the Together Rx Access Card, applicants must be legal residents of the United States or Puerto Rico, not be eligible for Medicare, have no public (i.e., Government Healthcare Reform Program) or private prescription drug coverage and have annual incomes of up to $30,000 for a single person or $60,000 for a family of four (income eligibility is adjusted for family size). The 10 sponsoring companies are Abbott, AstraZeneca, Bristol-Myers Squibb, GlaxoSmithKline, members of the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies, Novartis, Pfizer, Sanofi-Aventis Group, Takeda and TAP Pharmaceutical Products Inc. Together, the participating companies offer savings on more than 275 brand-name prescription products, including those used to treat diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, allergy, asthma, arthritis, depression and other ailments. Most eligible, uninsured individuals can expect to save about 25-40 percent on prescription products, as well as saving on a wide range of generic products. Roba Whiteley, executive director of the Together Rx Access Card - who announced the official launching at a news conference held in San Juan - said the strength of the program does not just lie in the savings, but also “in the breadth of choice that we are able to offer patients and their physicians to help bring them the best of healthcare.” For more information, please contact 1 (800) 444-4106. AMGEN Foundation Grants $100,000 to UPR-H for Biotechnology Training Center PIA-PR held its quarterly General Managers Meeting on Thursday, June 23, 2005 at the Bankers Club. Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Office in Washington Director Eduardo Bhatia spoke on his work plan as it pertains to economic development and health initiatives for local residents. DEDC Secretary Jorge Silva Puras presented an update of this administration`s economic development initiatives and IMS HEALTH Vice President Doug Long presented Pharmaceutical Industry 2004 Year in Review. Copies of presentations were distributed to all PIA-PR members. US EPA Program Accepts Schering-Plough, Las Piedras Schering-Plough`s pharmaceutical manufacturing site in Las Piedras, Puerto Rico, was recently notified of its acceptance into the EPA National Environmental Performance Track Program, a voluntary public-private partnership that encourages continuous environmental improvement through the use of environmental management systems, local community involvement and measurable results. In the notification, EPA Acting Administrator Stephen Johnson said, `Performance Track recognizes these facilities as environmental leaders because they deliver results beyond what is expected or required by law.` As part of the program, the facility has agreed to reduce potable water consumption, noise levels, steam and fuel consumption, and hazardous waste generation at different operations in the plant. Las Piedras is the first Schering-Plough facility to achieve this distinction. It was accomplished through the combined efforts of a cross-functional team, with representatives from various departments in the facility. Schering-Plough Las Piedras General Manager Frank Rodríguez characterized the project as a good example of Cross-Functional Teamwork and Collaboration, one of the company`s Six Leader Behaviors. EPA formally recognized Schering-Plough Las Piedras and other new Performance Track members at an awards dinner given in their honor on April 12 at the 2005 National Environmental Partnership Summit in Chicago. PIA-PR joins the EPA in recognizing Schering-Plough. Congratulations! Lilly Promotes Environmental Education On Friday, April 29, the `Conservando Nuestro Ambiente` awards were presented at the Embassy Suite Hotel in Isla Verde, PR. Jointly sponsored be Lilly del Caribe and the El Nuevo Día newspapers` educational unit, El Educador, this contest recognizes and supports student work on behalf of the environment. Lilly del Caribe Human Resources Director Ileana Rivera opened the day`s activities with an environmental awareness talk that emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts that involve communities, educational institutions, government agencies and private enterprise to benefit Puerto Rico`s future generations. The awards were presented by Lilly del Caribe Occupational Health & Safety Director Samuel Ramos who explained the purpose of the contest and the process of selection. The projects were evaluated by a panel of judges from the local Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Environmental Quality Board, the Solid Wastes Management Agency, and the Environmental & Natural Resources Agency. Students, along with their teachers, were recognized for their efforts at the grammar, junior high and high school levels. This year`s winning teams represented schools in Yabucoa, Río Grande and Utuado. Each team member was award a $50.00 certificate; each school received $500 for the purchase of materials and equipment for their Science programs and a trophy plaque in recognition of their achievement. Congratulations to these, and all the students, who competed! Their ongoing efforts support and improve our environment and the quality of life of all island residents. MD Anderson Cancer Center Execs Meet With PIA-PR Exec On April 2, 2005, University of Texas - MD Anderson Cancer Center Experimental Therapeutics Professor Dr. Gabriel López Berestein, PRCC/MDACC Partners for Excellence in Cancer Research Co-Principal Investigator Dra. Edna Mora, and University of Puerto Rico Cancer Center (UPRCC) Executive Director Mayra Maldonado Colón, an investigator and attorney, attended the PIA-PR Executive Committee meeting. During the meeting, the PIA-PR members were informed of the latest developments in Puerto Rico’s public policy against cancer. With the enactment of Act Number 230 of August 26, 2004, the Government of Puerto Rico, with the support of the University of Puerto Rico, took a strong stance and demonstrated their unequivocal commitment to developing a Comprehensive Cancer Center, designated by the National Cancer Institute, to be supported additionally by a partnership with the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. The Cancer Center of the University of Puerto Rico, a unique public corporation, independent and separate from any agency or instrumentality of the government of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, will be a national and international leader in basic and clinical cancer research, with a highly qualified faculty and staff, able to provide quality patient care and educational programs. In order to achieve its goals, the UPRCC has already identified the location for its temporary cancer research facilities. The current Biomedical Research Building in the Centro Médico de Puerto Rico (after renovation) will harbor these most technologically advanced Cancer Research facilities. Furthermore, the UPRCC is in the process of evaluating and drafting preliminary plans for the site where the new “state of the art” Cancer Center Complex will be located. Slated for 2010, the complex will include a cancer hospital and a 200,000 square feet building to house cancer research laboratories. Presently, the UPRCC is immersed in the recruitment of world-class investigators, to create a critical mass of researchers focused on transitional research. The UPRCC will (1) conduct basic, epidemiologic, outreach and clinical cancer research, including Phase I and II Clinical Trials and Cancer Pharmacology Programs; (2) contribute to the educational advancement of healthcare professionals; (3) increase public awareness regarding cancer; and, (4) promote public policy changes to improve cancer prevention, detection and treatment. As proven in the past - with the combined efforts of federal government agencies (NIH, NCI), state governments, private companies, educational partnerships and community-based organizations - the UPRCC will achieve its goals by working in partnership with other institutional providers of health services and with health professionals towards the eradication of Cancer. PIA-PR Launches Public Relations Campaign On April 13, 2005 PIA-PR launched an island-wide Public Relations campaign. “In an ever-changing environment, it is very important to maintain all our stakeholders informed about the pharmaceutical industry`s many contributions to all our stakeholders, the economy, the employees, the health-care community, the government, the community in general and - above all - our patients. The pharmaceutical industry has a good story to tell and it is our responsibility to let the people know it, feel proud about it and to collaborate in PIA-PR’s mission to strengthen the pharmaceutical industry in Puerto Rico” Said PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustin Marquez Veglio. We hope to share with employees, friends and relatives the enthusiasm and pride of belonging to this industry that has contributed so much to improve the quality of life and health in Puerto Rico and the world. Special recognition is due to PIA-PR Public Relations Committee Chairperson and Pfizer General Manager (Commercial) Mike Sweitzer and his Public Relations Committee members (Lizzie Pérez, Jorge González Monclova, Carmen J. Vélez, Héctor Cabrera) for their time, efforts and leadership “to make it happen”. Recognition is also due to: the public relations firm, PIA-PR Affiliate Member Lopito Ileana & Howie, for their enthusiasm, dedication and creativity; all PIA-PR Chairpersons that during the last years have led the Pharmaceutical Industry Association of Puerto Rico to its position of esteem in our society - SKB`s José L. Rosado (1996), Pharmacia`s Luis Vázquez (1997), DuPont`s William Hernández(1998), GSK`s Eduardo Nieto(1999), J&J`s Edgardo Fábregas(2000), Wyeth`s Héctor Cabrera(2001), AstraZeneca`s Rubén Freyre (2002), Abbott`s Cynthia Anderson(2003), Pfizer`s Carlos H. del Río(2004), and last but not least to 2005 PIA-PR Chairperson César Simich for making the Public Relations Campaign his main priority and for staying on course. Governor presents Econ Dev Plan to Industrial Community On February 3, 2005 Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá and his Economic Development team met with a group of Puerto Rico’s main commercial and industrial organizations to present his economic development plan. Essentially, his strategic plan is to (1) diversify the economy and promote self-sufficiency, (2) emphasize a knowledge-based economy within the current economic base (Pharmaceuticals, Bio-Tech, Medical Devices, etc.), (3) implement key strategic development plans (Roosevelt Roads, the San Juan convention center, the Las Américas port, the Aguadilla airport and the Mayagüez pilot plant). The public sector was represented by: Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá, Secretary of Economic Development and Commerce Jorge Silva Puras, PRIDCO Executive Director Marie Robert, Department of Commerce and Export Director Ricardo Rivera, Eng. and Government Development Bank President William Lockwood. The private sector was represented by: the Chamber of Commerce, PRMA, the Banking Association, Centro Unido de Detallistas, the Community Pharmacies Association, the Puerto Rico Hotel and Tourism Association and the Pharmaceutical Industry Association of Puerto Rico, represented by its past chairperson and Pfizer Vice President Carlos H. del Río and PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez-Veglio. AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson Pfizer and Wyeth join AstraZeneca, Jonson & Jonson, Pfizer and Wyeth joined PIA-PR as members of the “Alianza para el Desarrollo de Puerto Rico” (Alianza). Alianza is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization whose objectives are to push to the top of the agenda the long-term reforms and initiatives required to redirect Puerto Rico from a government-dependent, low-cost manufacturing base region - facing gradual economic, social and environmental decline - to a vibrant hub of innovation, services, leisure, and culture. Alianza goals include: To make the government and people aware of the fundamental challenges facing the island, which include fiscal challenges, taxes, liabilities, R&D, enterprise; the economically challenged classes` educational and healthcare needs; the drugs and crime culture; land use and environmental protection; and transportation and utilities. To provide independent, cross-sector pressure to ensure that the executive, the legislative branches and other stakeholders tackle these issues. And, to gather in joint task forces other island groups that address these issues, to ensure consensus and a critical mass behind solutions. Alianza is chaired by former PRMA President Manuel Cidre. Johnson & Johnson Regional Vice President Edgardo Fábregas is the Treasurer. For further information about Alianza Para el Desarrollo de Puerto Rico please call Marta Herrera at (787)766-0800. Pfizer Scholarship Fund Supports Local Talent At the February 24 PIA-PR General Managers Meeting, Abbott Division Vice President Harry Rodríguez presented Abbott`s “Don Quijote de La Mancha del Plátano` award to PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez-Veglio for, `his leadership in strengthening the Pharmaceutical Industry Association of Puerto Rico, his promotion of collaborative initiatives with the FDA, and his contribution to the industrial development of Puerto Rico.” Pharmaceutical Industry More Than Doubles Tsunami Aid An outpouring of cash, medicine and services has pushed the pharmaceutical industry’s contributions and pledges to the global relief effort for tsunami-hit Asia and Africa to a total of $183.4 million, up from $89.8 million earlier this month. “It goes without saying that the pharmaceutical industry’s response to the tsunami victims has been phenomenal,” said Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) President and CEO Billy Tauzin. He added, “We are committed to doing everything possible to ease the suffering of the millions of tsunami victims.” PhRMA represents the country’s leading research-based pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, which are devoted to inventing medicines that allow patients to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives. The industry invested an estimated $33.2 billion in 2003 in discovering and developing new and better medicines for patients. PhRMA companies are leading the way in the search for new cures. Volumen 9/ Issue 2/February 2005 UPR Mayagüez Launches Biotech Research Center The University of Puerto Rico - Mayagüez Campus (UPR-M) will be a key player in the new Biotechnology Center for Research and Training in Bioprocesses to begin construction this summer in Mayagüez. This center responds to the pharmaceutical and biotech industry`s need to train its labor force to develop and implement research that will improve its manufacturing and engineering bioprocesses. A team of experts from the island`s academic, private and public sectors designed and developed plans for the Biotechnology Center, a UPR-PRIDCO joint venture, and presented a joint proposal to the US Economic Develop Administration, which approved $2.5 million for the construction of the center on land to be contributed by PRIDCO. The project is a UPR high priority item. At the recent contract-signing ceremony, UPR President Antonio García Padilla noted the importance of this agreement. He pointed out that it provides the island an instrument for economic development based on Puerto Rican intellect, knowledge and skill, while stating, `Highly advanced societies are characterized by the close link between the economic development and general well-being of their residents and the degree of private and public - as well as academic - investment in leading-edge research.` He also added that investments in research projects `that highlight knowledge and proficiency as our most important asset, are a priority for Puerto Rico and our economic future plans must include support for benchmarking, quality research - in line with the most exacting worldwide criteria.` UPR-M Rector Jorge Iván Vélez Arocho underscored the campus` role in the project: `Our renowned educational and investigative tradition in the biotech field, and our close bond with its industry, will be further strengthened by the presence of this innovative biotechnology center on our campus. Without doubt, it will allow us to contribute additionally to the socioeconomic development of the island.` During this meeting, newly appointed PRIDCO Executive Director Marie Robert stated that, `...the Biotechnology Center will set the bases to ensure the island a place as a world-class competitor in the biotechnology industry.` And, DEDC Secretary Jorge Silva Puras added, `Puerto Rico`s economic transformation has begun and Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá (and) his economic development team, are fully committed to ensure for Puerto Rico the scientific infrastructure to drive a knowledge-based economy.` The Biotechnology Center of the UPR-M campus will give the island an additional competitive edge to attract major industry investments, such as those made by AMGEN, Lilly, Johnson & Johnson and Abbott.` In addition to the meeting participants already mentioned, the following persons also participated in the meeting: UPR Research and Technology Vice President Emma Fernández Repollet, US Public Works Administration Regional Director (Philadelphia) Eng. Phillip Saputo. The pharmaceutical industry was represented by the following general managers: Harry Rodríguez - Abbott; Madhu Balachandran - AMGEN; Ralph Díaz - Johnson & Johnson, and by PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez Veglio. Volumen 9/ Issue 2/February 2005 PIA-PR Meets with Academia On December 2, 2004, the PIA-PR Education Committee chaired by Bristol-MyersSquibb Human Resources Regional Director Ángel Fernández, met with academic sector representatives to identify areas of common interest for collaboration. The following areas were specifically considered: to (1) establish effective relationships with the PR Department of Education; local universities, technical colleges, and selected academic and vocational high schools; (2) provide feedback to universities and colleges on the content of their curriculum; and, conduct needs assessments on specific technologies such as the following: Semi Solids, Liquids, Sterile/Parenterals, Transdermal and Biotechnology; and, (3) design an Education Summit Meeting to be held during 2005. The educational institutions were represented by: Association of Puerto Rico Universities President and Interamerican University President Manuel Fernós, Turabo University Rector Denis Alicea, UPR Industrial Biotechnology Coordinator Rosa Buxeda, UPR School of Pharmacy Dean Ilia Oquendo, Universidad Politécnica Dean Guatemoc Godoy and Universidad Politécnica Dean Carlos González. PIA-PR was represented at the meeting by: Janssen General Manager Ralph Díaz, Bristol-MyersSquibb Public Affairs Director Carmen J. Vélez and PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez. Volumen 9/ Issue 1/January 2005 AMGEN Foundation Grants $240,000 to UPR-Mayagüez The AMGEN Foundation announced the approval of a $240,000 grant to the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (UPR-M) for the establishment of a Biotechnology Summer Internship Training Program for Puerto Rican high school students. Through this three-year grant, UPR-M will be able to acquaint public and private high schools students with opportunities and challenges the Industrial Biotechnology field has to offer PR`s future professionals. It will also serve as a forum for enhancing high school students’ scientific knowledge, oral and written communication, and teamwork skills as part of their preparation for college life. `This program will foster Puerto Rico’s development into a high-tech, knowledge-based economy - starting from the raw material represented by our most promising high school students,” said UPR-M Industrial Biotechnology Program Coordinator Dra. Rosa Buxeda. “This target population is often unaware of the relevance and excitement of biotechnology and this new program will address this need,” Buxeda added. She also stated that the summer internship program will be offered each summer for three years (2005-2007). During each session, 30 high school students will be selected, through a rigorous screening process, to attend the program. Selection will be based on each candidate’s science/math grades, a written test and an essay in which the candidates will state why they would like to pursue a career in biotechnology. Selected participants will stay two weeks at the UPR-M campus, attending courses covering such subjects as: Introduction to Biotechnology, Cellular Biology and Biomedical Engineering. They will learn about protein modeling, bioprocesses, protein purification, and techniques for the preparation of technical posters for science contests, etc. In the foundations’ announcement AMGEN Vice President of Puerto Rico Operations Madhu Balachandran stated, “It is good to see Puerto Rican high school students getting additional opportunities to enhance their knowledge in biotechnology and science in general. We are delighted that AMGEN Foundation has extended its programs to Puerto Rico to fund approved proposals from nonprofit organizations designed to enhance the quality of health care, education, and community life on the island.” He also pointed out that AMGEN Manufacturing, Ltd, a subsidiary of AMGEN, has been collaborating closely with UPR-M on different initiatives aimed at improving science education on the island, including the establishment of an Industrial Biotechnology Training Center and scholarships for Industrial Biotechnology honor students. Founded in 1991, the AMGEN Foundation seeks to advance science education; improve healthcare quality and access for patients; and, support resources that create sound communities. Over the years, the foundation’s annual giving has grown steadily. Today the AMGEN Foundation contributes about $10 million annually to regional and national nonprofit organizations in the US and PR. AMGEN is a global biotechnology company that discovers, develops, manufactures and markets important human therapeutics based on advances in cellular and molecular biology. Volumen 8/ Issue 12/December 2004 PIA-PR Program Presented to Res. Commissioner-elect Fortuño On December 6, 2004 representatives of the PIA-PR Executive Committee participated in a very productive meeting with PR Resident Commissioner-elect Luis Fortuño where key PIA-PR issues were addressed. Fortuño demonstrated his awareness of the industry`s importance to the local economy and his willingness to be available to address these issues. His experience (Government of Puerto Rico Economic Secretary, and more than 15 years as a corporate lawyer) is expected to provide him with the necessary tools and information to foment industrial growth and economy development. The meeting, which adjourned with an open invitation to Fortuño`s office in Washington, was part of PIA-PR`s continuous effort to communicate its goals and objectives to Puerto Rico`s leaders in government, the community and business. PIA-PR was represented by PIA-PR Chairperson and Merck General Manager César Simich, Bristol-MyersSquibb General Manager Edda Guerrero, Wyeth General Manager Héctor M. Cabrera, PIA-PR Executive Vice President Agustín Márquez Veglio, Novartis Regional Accounts Manager Olga Lebrón; J&J Vice President for Latin America Edgardo Fábregas, Abbott Division Vice President Harry Rodríguez, and PIA-PR Legal Counselor and FiddlerGonzálezRodríguez Partner Eduardo Negrón. Volumen 9/ Issue 1/January 2005 Transformation of 200 Puerto Rico Middle Schools
Volumen 8/ Issue 11/November 2004 BMS Corporate Social Responsibility Commitment Creating a Legacy of Hope is the theme of the recently published Bristol-Myers Squibb Corporate Social Responsibility 2003-2004 report, which highlights the company’s environmental, health and safety efforts; its programs for employees; and, the support provided to communities where BMS operates. The report marks the fifth anniversary of SECURE THE FUTURE, a $115 million program that BMS and the BMS Foundation initiated in May 1999 to respond to the growing HIV/AIDS crisis. Since then it has developed and funded more than 160 innovative and sustainable community education and outreach, and medical care and research initiatives in nine countries in southern and western Africa. Also highlighted in the report is the BMS Science Education program. For the past 10 years BMS has supported science education reform by training teachers to use hands-on curriculum materials. In Puerto Rico, 50 public elementary schools participate in this program under the theme Ciencia para Todos. More than 400 educators have participated in seminars to advance inquiry-based science and math education through active learning. Volumen 8/ Issue 9/September 2004 UPR Hospital Pediatric Oncology Foundation Event The Foundation for the University of Puerto Rico Pediatric Hospital’s Department of Oncology and Ivonne Márquez invite PIA-PR Executives’ Spouses and friends to attend the Saks Fifth Avenue Fifteenth Annual Fashion Show featuring the Spring-Fall 2005 David Rodríguez Collection on Tuesday, September 21, 2004 from 2:00 PM at the El San Juan Hotel and Casino Ballroom. The traditional PIA-PR activity supports the University of Puerto Rico Pediatric Hospital’s Department of Oncology which serves children with cancer and their families. The contribution is $100.00 per person. For further information and tickets, please call (787) 622-0500. On behalf of these children with cancer, thank you. Volumen 8/ Issue 9/September 2004 MSD Confirms PR Commitment With $2 Million Contribution to Community Organizations Merck Sharp & Dohme recently demonstrated it commitment to improving the quality of life in Puerto Rico through a $2 million contribution to about 70 community organizations and professional associations. The contribution was announced at an activity where the work done by these community associates of MSD, who were represented by their organizational leaders as well as by government agencies and company executives, was recognized. This donation represents MSD`s contribution to these institutions during 2004. MSD has been an integral part of PR`s economic, educational, social and cultural development since coming to the island 55 years ago. Among the recipients of the MSD donation are the |