More rewards, unli fun for customers in Mindanao from PLDT Home

More rewards, unli fun for customers in Mindanao from PLDT Home

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Loyal PLDT customers have one more reason to celebrate this Christmas as PLDT Home Rewards rolls out its partnership with the Romgarjal Group, the company behind Glorious Fantasyland - the largest theme park in Mindanao, Dakak Resort and Properties, Villa Angelina, and many more.

Located in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, this iconic destination offers thrilling rides, magical attractions, and unforgettable entertainment for all ages, especially this holiday season.

Under this partnership, PLDT Home Rewards members can enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on entrance fees and other exciting offers when they visit Glorious Fantasyland, a five-hectare theme park established in 2009 by the owners of the world-famous Dakak Beach Resort, along with other rewarding discounts in restaurants, accommodation, experiences, food and beverage, and even car rental services.

The park features more than 30 rides, live entertainment, cultural parades, and unique attractions like a 5D cinema and Lakbay Pilipinas, a train ride showcasing replicas of Philippine landmarks.

This collaboration between PLDT Home and Romgarjal Group is part of Visitamos Rizal, a unified initiative positioning Dapitan City as Mindanao's premier destination for family-friendly fun and adventure, steeped in history and cultural significance.

“At PLDT Home, we are committed to creating meaningful experiences for our customers through delightful rewards and perks. This partnership also supports our commitment to promoting local tourist destinations to both Filipinos and international visitors, contributing to livelihood generation and boosting the local economy during the holiday season,” said John Y. Palanca, Senior Vice President and Head of Sales and Development at PLDT.

PLDT Home Rewards makes every connection more rewarding by giving loyal customers exclusive perks and benefits. With every payment, customers earn crystals that can be redeemed for exciting rewards such as bill rebates, vouchers, and lifestyle deals. It’s PLDT Home’s way of thanking loyal customers for choosing the country’s fastest and most reliable internet connection. For more information, visit https://pldthome.com/loyalty-and-rewards.

Not a PLDT Home Rewards member yet? Activate your membership for free via https://rewards.pldthome.com/login and take advantage of this and other amazing perks. For more details, visit pldthome.com or follow PLDT Home on Facebook.

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Prothin champions active play with public school outreach

Prothin champions active play with public school outreach

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

This local brand visited Panuca Elementary School in Nasugbu, Batangas to support young learners and athletes.

Filipino fitness supplements brand Prothin has been promoting fitness education and active play as key to achieving better overall health among children through outreach programs at public elementary schools across the country. This is part of the brand’s advocacy to support young learners and athletes.

Its latest stop was Panuca Elementary School in Nasugbu, Batangas, where the brand created a day of active play through fun games and activities including an entertaining dance off with Prothin’s mascot. The program was designed to encourage positive association with physical activities and best engage the young students.

By incorporating fun and interactive activities, Prothin aims to instill the value of fitness early in the children’s lives. The brand further supported students by distributing learning supplies, hygiene kits, and personal items like slippers and umbrellas.

“Experts have said that active play helps develop movement skills like agility and balance while giving children the confidence to be active in different environments. Encouraging physical fitness among students can also benefit their academic performance, as it can help improve cognitive functions,” shares Prothin Philippines CEO Marvin Vinluan. “Inspiring kids to play and get involved in physical activities is aligned with our values as a fitness-focused brand that has been promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among Filipinos.”

The local brand’s outreach programs are also meant to showcase and stand behind young athletes. At Panuca Elementary School, Prothin met and cheered on grade school athletes who have been training in their respective sports—badminton, javelin, track and field, basketball, sepak takraw, and volleyball.

In the past years, the same team has visited other public schools, underscoring their long-time commitment to supporting young learners and athletes, including Brgy. Hondagua Elementary School in Lopez, Quezon in 2017, followed by an outreach program at Coto High School in Masinloc, Zambales in 2018. In 2019, they also extended their efforts to San Jose Elementary School in Baler, Aurora.

“We believe that nurturing potential should start at an early age, especially for young ones who have big dreams but might not always get the support they need. This outreach is our way of encouraging them and affirming their potential,” says Vinluan. “We are happy to be a small but meaningful part of their journey.”

Prothin is a Filipino fitness supplements brand that offers quality and affordable nutritional products. Learn more about Prothin at prothinphillipines.com, at prothinphilippines on Facebook and @prothinph on Instagram.

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HONOR Opens New Experience Store in Fishermall Malabon, Announces Holideals

HONOR Opens New Experience Store in Fishermall Malabon, Announces Holideals

Monday, December 16, 2024

Get up to Php 15,000 worth of Freebies when you buy an HONOR smartphone this December!

Leading global smart devices provider HONOR Philippines just opened its newest store in Fishermall Malabon. After the back-to-back launches of HONOR X7c and HONOR Magic V3 in November, HONOR Philippines just dropped its exciting deals for the entire month of December. You can get up to Php 15,000 worth of exclusive freebies for every purchase of HONOR smartphone until December 31, 2024!

"This is really the season of giving. That’s why we, at HONOR, try our best to give back to our loyal HONOR fans. Get more than what you paid for this December! For every purchase of an HONOR Smartphone, you can get a freebie," shared Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

If you are eyeing HONOR’s flagship smartphones HONOR Magic V3 and HONOR Magic 6 Pro, you will get FREE JBL Soundgear Frames with Camping Light and HONOR Gift Earbuds II with Camping light respectively.

The hot-selling HONOR X8b, HONOR 200 Series, and HONOR X9b will also give you FREE Camping Light for every purchase. On top of these exciting freebies, HONOR 200 will also get a price slash of Php 2,000 and will be priced at Php 22,999 during HONOR Holi-deals 2024!

What are you waiting for? Drop by any HONOR Experience and Partner Store or shop online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONOR_ShopeeHoliDeals), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONOR_LazadaHoliDeals) or TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONOR_TikTokHoliDeals).

For more updates, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on: Facebook , Instagram  and TikTok.

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Public school teachers benefit from continued support from DepEd and BDONB in reaching their financial goals

Public school teachers benefit from continued support from DepEd and BDONB in reaching their financial goals

Friday, December 13, 2024

PUBLIC school teachers stand to benefit from the continued support from the Department of Education (DepEd) and BDO Network Bank (BDONB), particularly in equipping them with financial knowledge to help them achieve their personal goals.

For many teachers, gaining financial literacy helps them practice financial discipline and make informed decisions on budgeting, saving, and debt management.

On the importance of practical budgeting in particular, knowing where their money goes every month has taken so much stress off teachers’ shoulders already loaded with the daily grind of teaching. This knowledge assists in avoiding debt traps as they are able to manage and prioritize their expenses better.

Saving for future goals also gives teachers tools to start building funds for their imminent needs, including their retirement.

By being financially knowledgeable, public school teachers can also impart these money management strategies to their students.

"Here in DepEd, we're looking for ways to train our teachers on financial literacy because they can't teach that to their students if they themselves don't know anything about it," DepEd-National Capital Region Regional Director Jocelyn Andaya said. “Our teachers play a very crucial role in teaching financial literacy to our students. It's important that at a young age, they (students) are already taught to be self-sufficient financially and know how to budget and plan for their future.”

Important role on financial literacy. DepEd-National Capital Region Regional Director Jocelyn Andaya said public school teachers play a crucial role in teaching financial literacy to their students.

She added that in partnership with BDO Unibank's corporate social responsibility arm, BDO Foundation, financial seminars are held wherein pockets of teachers are trained—a crucial exercise since financial literacy is already part of school curriculum among elementary and high school students.

“Our next plan is to come up with an instrument to measure what level our teachers are in right now in terms of their own financial literacy. That's where the private sector, such as BDO, can come in to help us not just by having more modules but by also capacitating our teachers. It should be a sustainable thing for us so that we will know the progress in say, three years' or five years' time," Andaya added.

BDO Network Bank (BDONB)—the community banking arm of BDO Unibank—truly values the role teachers play as the backbone of education and the true heroes shaping the future of the next generation. BDONB said it is deeply honored to have the opportunity to partner with DepEd in supporting and empowering these educators, recognizing that when teachers thrive, so do their students, their communities, and the nation as a whole.

"The teachers are really the heroes. Day in and day out, they're the ones who sometimes spend more time with our children. So it's very important that we support them because it's like supporting our own family. The success of the teachers will depend on the support they get not only from the government but even from the private sector," said Alberto O. Quiogue, BDONB Senior Vice President and Salary Loans Group Head.

Through BDONB's tailor-fit products, services and financial literacy seminars it regularly conducts, it is envisioned that teachers will be better equipped to reach their financial goals.

Quiogue added that teachers with sufficient knowledge and confidence in their own financial know-how will be able to do their jobs very well and not be mentally burdened by money-related problems.

Festive moment. BDONB brand ambassador and award winning actor Coco Martin wows the crowd with one of his song numbers during the World Teacher’s Day celebration, as public school teachers  enjoy the show.

"We believe that a financially sound teacher can function and be very efficient. Teachers who have many financial problems are the ones who get bogged down and can't teach very well because there are many things in their minds," he said. "The financial literacy program is helping them be more efficient. I think the most important thing that we promote to teachers is responsible borrowing and financial wellness. Every time we have an opportunity, we give them a little talk on financial wellness, how to achieve their financial goals by managing their money well, and knowing the difference between a good loan and bad loan.”

Always ready to support DepEd, all year round

But more than the products it offers, community engagements, and seminars it conducts, BDONB said its full support to DepEd’s cause can be gleaned from its unwavering commitment to the agency’s programs all year round, including as one of its corporate partners for the World Teachers' Day celebration and other DepEd activities.

"We at BDO Network Bank, we're always there to support the teachers and the many endeavors of DepEd. Any support that they need, we're all out for them," Quiogue said. "We support the Palarong Pambansa. We have the yearly Brigada Eskwela where we help clean, paint, and fix the schools. There's also a program wherein at the beginning of the year, we give a lot of donations to the students and teachers. We're always there to help them."

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Sony Music Group Launches Third Annual "Season of Giving" Campaign

Sony Music Group Launches Third Annual "Season of Giving" Campaign

Monday, November 18, 2024

Program dedicated to supporting local communities around the world in partnership with artists and songwriters

  

Sony Music Group (SMG) today announced its third-annual giving campaign designed to address food insecurity, homelessness and music education in local communities around the world. Together with its global roster of artists and songwriters, the company will continue its commitment to support organizations in regions where SMG has a presence. By the end of the calendar year, the annual Season of Giving program will have contributed nearly $2 million in support to more than 12 million people since its inception.

This year, the 25 international beneficiaries of this year’s campaign include:

Achalay (ASOCIACIÓN ACHALAY ESPAÑA) (Spain)

ActionAid Sverige (Sweden)

Bonnie Support Services (Australia)

Camillus House Inc (U.S.)

Covenant House Toronto (Canada)

Cristina’s Academy (U.S.)

Feeding South Florida (U.S)

FoodClique (Nigeria)

Harding Miller (Australia)

Harlem Grown (U.S.)

Impophomo Rushing Waters (South Africa)

Kiwi Harvest Limited (New Zealand)

Los Angeles Mission (U.S.)

Modern Women's Foundation (Taiwan)

New Horizon Youth Centre (United Kingdom)

Orange Sky New Zealand (New Zealand)

Reach Out and Feed Philippines (Philippines)

Rightway Foundation (U.S.)

Rise Against Hunger (Philippines)

Room in the Inn (U.S.)

Saint James Music Academy (Canada)

Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee (U.S.)

The Trussell Trust (United Kingdom)

Toys for Tots (U.S.)

Visions for Children e.V. (Germany)

Additionally, as part of SMG’s commitment to work alongside our talent to support communities around the world, artists and songwriters will volunteer with pre-determined organizations throughout the month of November. Participants include:

Ben Goldsmith (Sony Music Nashville)

BIA (Epic Records)

CANTO (Sony Music Publishing Scandinavia)

Ferg (RCA Records)

JOSH CULLEN from SB19 (Sony Music Philippines)

justin from SB19 (Sony Music Philippines)

Nergiz (Sony Music Publishing Scandinavia)

Sacha (Sony Music Canada)

Additional songwriters from Sony Music Publishing South Africa include 25K, Angie Santana, Benjamin Dube, DJ Fortee, Gino Brown, Kamogelo Mogatwe (Ganja Beatz), Marley Waters, Mustbedubz, Naye Ayla, Ndu Shezi, Nu Edison, Tshepang Ramoba, Tumi Urna, Yung Tyran and Zingah.

In speaking of the annual initiative, Towalame Austin, Executive Vice President, Global Philanthropy, Social Impact and Environment, Sony Music Group, said, “Throughout the year, Sony Music Group is dedicated to uplifting and empowering communities around the world. With our annual Season of Giving campaign, we are so excited to partner with our roster of global artists and songwriters to make a local impact and create opportunities to improve people’s lives."

Season of Giving represents part of SMG’s ongoing philanthropic commitment to sustain and expand its corporate giving efforts. Each year, the Company continues to support a wide range of programs, initiatives and funds informed by five key areas of investment: corporate social responsibility, pandemic recovery, global social justice, employee engagement, and disaster & emergency relief. Every initiative reflects SMG's commitment—both as an organization, and as a collective of individuals who are invested in the future of our industry—to bolster communities around the world where music is created and enjoyed. 

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Prestone Unveils New Look for Brake Fluid and Coolant with 5X Superior Protection

Prestone Unveils New Look for Brake Fluid and Coolant with 5X Superior Protection

Monday, October 28, 2024

The trusted auto care brand introduces its newly designed brake fluid and coolant packaging, offering 5X superior protection to ensure top performance and vehicle safety.

Ang pinagkakatiwalaan niyo na Prestone, may new look at 5X Superior Protection na!

“Our commitment is to ensure road safety among vehicle owners, and we understand our responsibility as the #1 choice of car fluids in the Philippines. The 5X Superior Protection is a step toward enhancing consumer safety and protection. We want to be consistent in providing the best products for our consumers.” said Jaycel Ortiaga, Brand Manager of Prestone Philippines.

Prestone Brake Fluid with 5X Superior Braking Action with maximum braking performance and a high boiling point that exceeds DOT standards, para siguradong safe at protektado.

Prestone Coolant Ready-to-Use and Concentrate with 5X Superior Cooling Protection, provides superior cooling formula to prevent overheating while protecting against rust, corrosion, and engine wear. It keeps engine parts clean, extends engine life, and meets ASTM standards for corrosion protection, offering five times the protection compared to ordinary coolants.

Prestone Brake Fluid and Coolants are available at a suggested retail price of Php 293 for Prestone Brake Fluid 900mL, Php 262 for Prestone Coolant RTU 1L and Php 389 for Prestone Coolant Concentrate 1L. You can purchase Prestone products in auto-supply shops and modern hardware nationwide, including True Value, Handyman, Ace Hardware, Blade, as well as the Official Stores on Lazada and Shopee. Prestone strongly urges customers to buy genuine Prestone products only. Check the new look and label with holographic foil seal to ensure authenticity.

To learn more about Prestone and its products, visit its website at  https://www.prestone.com.ph/. 

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Igloo on Driving Insurance Growth in the Philippines Through End-to-End Digitalization

Igloo on Driving Insurance Growth in the Philippines Through End-to-End Digitalization

Thursday, October 17, 2024

End-to-end digitalization of insurance is becoming a crucial strategy to boost insurance penetration in the Philippines, especially as recent data indicates a decline in coverage across the country. In 2023, insurance penetration in the Philippines sank to 1.6%, lower than the 1.73% recorded in 2022. This decline highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to make insurance more accessible and appealing to a broader population.

Igloo, a regional insurtech, addresses low insurance penetration by leveraging technology and partnerships to streamline operations across the entire insurance value chain–from insurance and intermediaries to consumers. By digitalizing processes throughout the ecosystem, Igloo enables faster, more efficient services, seamlessly integrating insurance into everyday digital interactions such as e-commerce and travel bookings.

Empowering Intermediaries with a Digital Platform

One key aspect of this digital transformation is the creation of digital platforms for intermediaries. Traditionally, insurance intermediaries rely on manual processes from onboard customers to settling claims, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Digital tools allow intermediaries to streamline the entire process from customer onboarding to claim settlement. These tools help manage customer information, assess needs, and complete transactions faster and more accurately. As a result, intermediaries can focus more on building relationships with current and potential clients, rather than being burdened by administrative tasks.

Ignite introduced Igloo, a digital platform that helps insurance intermediaries sell more efficiently. Key features include a user-friendly interface for faster browsing, a quick quote system for instant premium calculations, secure payment processing, and tools for team and data management to simplify reporting. It also tracks referral fees in real time, depositing them directly into bank accounts. Launched in Vietnam in 2022, Indonesia in 2023, and now in the Philippines, Igloo offers 42 products across 9 categories, including Travel, Pet, and Motor protection. It was awarded Mobile App of the Year - Vietnam at the Insurance Asia Awards 2024.

Facilitating a Seamless Digital Experience through Embedded Insurance

Igloo is transforming the insurance landscape by providing a seamless, end-to-end digital experience through embedded insurance. As an insurtech platform, it enables businesses to integrate insurance products into their platforms, facilitating seamless policy applications, purchase, and claims management. This reduces friction for both insurance providers and distributors, streamlining complex tasks such as underwriting, policy issuance, and claims processing, making the entire system more efficient and user-friendly.

Igloo partners with online platforms like Lazada and Shopee, as well as payment services like DANA in Indonesia and GCash in the Philippines, and retail chains like Circle K in Vietnam, to develop customized and embedded insurance products that integrate smoothly into digital experiences. In addition, telecom companies like Smart, consumer finance platforms such as Skyro and Salmon, and B2B MSME enabler Growsari also collaborate with Igloo in the Philippines to expand access to insurance across different sectors. This enables customers to purchase insurance directly through these platforms with minimal hassle. As a result, consumers can easily discover, evaluate, and buy insurance products in just a few clicks, making insurance a natural part of their everyday transactions. Consequently, securing coverage for travel, electronics, or e-commerce purchases becomes nearly invisible yet highly convenient.

This frictionless approach allows customers to opt-in with just a few clicks, which improves conversion rates. It also appeals to those who might not have initially considered insurance but recognize its value when offered conveniently.

Bringing Insurance Closer to Consumers, Digitally

Building on its success in embedded insurance and business-to-agent models, Igloo has soft-launched a direct-to-consumer platform in Indonesia, igloo.co.id, where users can explore insurance products like motorcycle, car, pet, and travel coverage from top insurers.

Introducing these platforms is essential for improving insurance accessibility and expanding market penetration. Igloo’s direct-to-consumer platform streamlines the insurance process, enabling users to easily compare products, understand coverage, and manage policies in one place. This approach not only resolves common transparency issues but also empowers consumers to make informed decisions. Digitalization, in this case, increases accessibility, boosts efficiency, and builds trust, ultimately driving higher adoption rates and fostering a more inclusive insurance ecosystem.

As the Philippines experiences a decline in insurance penetration, digitalization offers a clear solution to reverse this trend. By simplifying processes for intermediaries and customers alike, insurers can eliminate barriers to entry. The growing prevalence of embedded insurance and direct-to-consumer platforms also exposes consumers to more coverage options, increasing the likelihood of purchasing insurance and improving overall financial security.

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Puerto Princesa businesses boost MSMEs, tourism resilience efforts with help of PLDT and Smart

Puerto Princesa businesses boost MSMEs, tourism resilience efforts with help of PLDT and Smart

Friday, September 27, 2024

Tourism in Palawan is on the path to recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic and onslaught of Typhoon "Odette" in 2021. In 2023, tourist arrivals in Puerto Princesa City climbed to 556,608—a significant increase from 2021's 32,170, and nearly half of 2019's 1.18 million.

PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. are supporting tourism resilience efforts in the province by enhancing business opportunities with the help of technology. PLDT Enterprise, the corporate unit of PLDT, in collaboration with the Puerto Princesa Tourism Council, recently organized a forum at Costa Palawan Resort attended by hotel and resort owners, travel operators, hospitality business workers, students, and other tourism stakeholders in the city.

The event themed, “#FurtherTogether: Rebuilding Tourism in Puerto Princesa,” featured learning sessions on tourism destination resilience led by former Cebu Tourism Head Boboi Costas and lectures on the use of e-commerce platforms for micro, small, medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to widen their reach. The session also highlighted the significance of the Smart Messaging Suite as a go-to market strategy to reach customers for MSMEs in the region.

“Tourism brings employment opportunities, creates revenue for the local government, and stimulates economic growth for the region. Our goal is to bring our products and solutions to SMEs here in Puerto Princesa. At PLDT Enterprise, we are committed to driving the success of our partners nationwide by helping them expand their business and boost their profitability,” said Rafael P. Davila, SMBiz Regional Luzon Business Head, PLDT Enterprise.

According to Costas, sustainable tourism can be achieved by being resilient. He added that this could be done by identifying risks, engaging stakeholders, and drawing strategies, such as instilling preparedness and investing in early warning systems.

During the activity, the participants also learned about how they could maximize e-commerce platforms, such as TikTok Shop, to increase their income and reach.

“Through our eBizNovation program, we empower MSMEs, which include small-scale tourism-oriented enterprises, with digital skills to market their products online. We collaborated with TikTok Shop to train entrepreneurs on using e-commerce to enhance the competitiveness of their businesses,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, Stakeholder Management Head, PLDT and Smart.

During the event, Cyril Negosa, City Tourism Office's Training and Information Section Chief, emphasized that some of the biggest challenges for residents happened at the start of the pandemic and during Typhoon Odette. Most of the residents relied on tourism for their livelihood, and as tourism later reopened, technology also played a big role in the rebuilding efforts. “How can we promote our products and destinations without technology? Connectivity is really helpful to us, especially because Palawan is an island,” Negosa added.

PLDT and Smart have been supporting the tourism sector by championing digital innovations that promote local destinations, and resilience among communities where tourism is a primary livelihood.

The group's programs designed to uplift farmers and MSMEs through technology signify its commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 1: No Poverty; and 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. These efforts also highlight PLDT Group's support to the Go Digital Pilipinas Movement, as a founding member of the Digital Infrastructure pillar of the Private Sector Advisory Council.

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inDrive’s post-Carina initiatives benefit partner drivers, Sitio San Roque community

inDrive’s post-Carina initiatives benefit partner drivers, Sitio San Roque community

Thursday, August 1, 2024

After Super Typhoon Carina ravaged several parts of the Philippines, global ride-hailing app inDrive organized a flood assistance program for its partner drivers and a local community outreach at Sitio San Roque, Quezon City. 

After Super Typhoon Carina affected the lives of 1.3 million Filipinos, global ride-hailing app inDrive heeded the call of the times to organize a flood assistance program for its partner drivers and a local community outreach. In the spirit of “Bayanihan,” inDrive provided drivers and the community with financial assistance and food packs which amounted to more than Php 233,910.00 to help ease the burden brought by the typhoon. 

“inDrive takes pride in the fact that we are a people-driven company,” said Afanasii Petrov, inDrive’s Business Development Manager for Southeast Asia Macroregion, APAC. “With Carina’s damage affecting multiple parts of the Philippines, we believe our flood assistance program and community outreach is our way of staying true to our company’s principles.” 

Helping inDrive’s partner drivers recover from Carina’s effects

As part of inDrive’s flood assistance program, the company provided 39 active partner drivers with financial assistance for their daily boundaries. This way, inDrive can help compensate for their lost income during the flooding brought about by Super Typhoon Carina. Additionally, 278 drivers received food packs consisting of rice, canned goods, noodles, coffee, and sugar. 

“In times of disaster, it’s important that we band together as one and emulate the bayanihan spirit,” said Randy Angustia, inDrive Driver Acquisition Specialist. “We cannot do the work we do without our partner drivers. Hence, we must do whatever it takes to help them bounce back from Super Typhoon Carina.” 

Going above and beyond with inDrive’s community feeding program 

inDrive’s commitment goes beyond helping its associates as the platform collaborated with local transport group Laban TNVS and labor rights group Defend Jobs Philippines for an outreach program at Sitio San Roque in Quezon City, one of the local communities greatly affected by the super typhoon. On top of this was the feeding program, with food and drinks prepared by Botchog Crispy Pata Atbp. These efforts aimed to assist typhoon victims as well as build an enjoyable fellowship within the community. 

Dozens of volunteers gathered to participate in this joint community feeding program — an exemplification of inDrive’s cooperation with advocacy groups and its ability to bolster fellow citizens into social action. 

Laban TNVS President Jun De Leon is especially grateful for inDrive’s continued collaboration with the group, saying, “Our partnership with inDrive goes beyond empowering the Transport Network Vehicle Services sector. Together, we can boost our initiatives to serve the local community at large.” 

inDrive’s post Super Typhoon Carina initiative is the company’s first local outreach program since it resumed operations in the Philippines last month. The platform has been dedicated to driving change in communities worldwide by empowering people since its 2013 launch. inDrive is currently involved in seven other global outreach programs spanning 21 countries. 

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MMDA Celebrates Third Anniversary of Mobile Materials Recovery Facility

MMDA Celebrates Third Anniversary of Mobile Materials Recovery Facility

Thursday, June 27, 2024

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) proudly celebrates the third anniversary of the Mobile Materials Recovery Facility (MMRF), an innovative project that has revolutionized waste management practices across Metro Manila. Launched on June 10, 2021, the MMRF initiative has already made significant strides in promoting proper waste segregation, recycling, and community involvement in environmental stewardship.

The MMRF project, tagged as “Recyclable Mo, Palit Grocery Ko,” employs a commodity exchange system where residents can trade recyclable materials such as single-use plastics for essential goods. This initiative is one of the waste diversion programs under the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) Component 2 which aims to “Minimize Wastes in Waterways” by increasing waste diversion, and by encouraging active participation in proper waste management.

In line with the objective of MMFMP, the MMRF initiative diverts waste that could otherwise reach the waterways if left uncollected. By reducing wastes in the waterways, the risk of blockages that can lead to severe flooding is minimized, thereby improving the flood management in Metro Manila. This proactive waste management approach is crucial for reducing the flood vulnerability of the region, especially during the rainy season.

Over the past three years, the MMRF project has already engaged 79 barangays from 17 local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila. With a total of 7,587 registered participants, the project has collected a total of 457,058.97 kg of recyclables, of which 361,135.17 kg were purchased by junk shops and 95,923.80 kg were brought to the MMDA-operated Solid Waste Management Facility located at the Vitas Pumping Station in Tondo, Manila. In exchange, the project has distributed goods worth PHP 1,641,971.88 to participating residents.

After three years of continuous operations, the project is now able to identify barangays that are ready to implement the MMRF commodity exchange system on their own. These barangays are being capacitated to ensure sustained implementation after system turnover. As part of its future plans, the MMDA aims to continue the operation of MMRF in barangays not yet ready for turnover and seeks additional partnerships with LGUs and private sector to further enhance the project’s sustainability.

“The success of the MMRF project over the past three years is a testament to the power of community engagement and innovative waste management solutions. We are proud of the progress we have made and are committed to furthering our efforts to create a cleaner and more sustainable Metro Manila. The support and active participation of our residents and partners have been absolutely crucial in achieving these milestones,” said MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes.

Key Achievements:

Barangay Engagement: 79 barangays from 17 LGUs have actively participated in the MMRF project.

Participant Registration: A total of 7,587 residents (2,201 males, 5,379 females, and 7 LGBTQ+ individuals) have registered and contributed to the project.

Recyclable Collection: The project has successfully collected 457,058.97 kg of recyclables, thereby improving waste segregation and increasing waste diversion among partner barangays

Goods Distribution: Recyclable materials were exchanged for goods worth PHP 1,641,971.88.

Partnerships: The project has formed partnerships with 42 junk shops and several private stakeholders, including Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI) and Packaging Council of the Philippines (PPCP), ensuring the sustainability of the initiative.

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EastWest Joins Vespa Day 2024

EastWest Joins Vespa Day 2024

EastWest recently participated in Vespa Day 2024 held at The Tent at Villar City in Las Piñas City. This is in celebration of the Italian luxury brand’s 78th anniversary. The event, which attracted close to 2,000 participants, provided an opportunity for motorcycle enthusiasts to explore the Vespa brand of scooters and mopeds and take advantage of an exclusive EastWest Personal Loan offer:

Clean Loan - No collateral required.

Generous Loan Amounts – Up to Php 2,000,000, for the purchase of any of their chosen Vespa scooters, including accessories.

Flexible Terms - Repayment terms of 12, 18, 24, and 36 months.

Low Monthly Rate – A competitive monthly rate of only 1.39% across all terms.

Zero Downpayment – An exclusive zero downpayment offer.

Celebrating the Partnership with Autohub Group

In celebration of EastWest Bank's 30th Anniversary and its "Further for You" concept, the collaboration between EastWest and the Autohub Group (distributor of Vespa as well as other brands like Aprilia, Triumph, and Segway) took center stage at a special event. This partnership exemplifies how EastWest's Personal Loan can make owning an iconic Vespa or other premium two-wheelers a reality, aligning perfectly with the bank's mission to take its customers further in their journey.

Drive Home a Vespa

EastWest invites all motorcycle enthusiasts and prospective buyers to explore the range of scooters from Vespa, a true Italian style icon in the world of mobility since 1946.

For Vespa fans who were not able to avail during the event, the special Eastwest Personal Loan offer is extended for a limited time. Just visit any of the Vespa showrooms or call EastWest’s Customer Service Hotline at +63288881700 for more information.

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Personal Collection wins big at 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, listed among PH best employers

Personal Collection wins big at 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, listed among PH best employers

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Personal Collection (PC), one of the leading direct selling and consumer goods company, has earned recognitions at the recent 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, demonstrating its dedication to sustainable practices and continued product innovation to better the lives of Filipinos.

PC bagged a Gold Stevie Award in the Social Impact Company category for its #GreenLifeGreatLife movement, serving as the anchor for its sustainable operations. These practices entail a steadfast commitment to regulatory compliance and strategic innovations in manufacturing and logistics.

Aside from transitioning to biodegradable packaging, PC has been implementing initiatives such as minimizing electricity and water consumption, enhancing distribution efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, and lessening carbon emissions, among others. Moreover, the company has been taking significant steps to manage plastic waste, surpassing its 2023 goal by co-processing over 98 tons of plastic, in compliance with the Philippines’ Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022.

Additionally, PC continuously delivers groundbreaking solutions for Filipino families through innovation. This dedication inspired its Bronze Stevie Award for Excellence in Innovation in Consumer Products for its White Dove with DreamScentz™ Technology, its Baby Care Line.

Proven to provide HIMBING-BANGO for babies, the DreamScentz™ Technology incorporated in White Dove is a revolutionary fragrance that is clinically proven to help give longer and more restful sleep.

“We're deeply honored to receive awards for White Dove with DreamScentzTM Technology and our #GreenLifeGreatLife Movement. These recognitions belong to our employees, dealers, partners, and customers. Thank you for believing in our innovative efforts and our mission to make a difference now and for future generations,” Chairman of Environment, Social & Governance Committee Leejay Evangelista said during his acceptance speech at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards Night at the Shangri-La The Fort.

Recognized as one of the Philippines’ best employers

As the company advances its eco-friendly practices and innovation, PC simultaneously fosters an inclusive and empowering workplace for every Filipino worker. Recently, PC entered the list of The Philippines’ Best Employers in 2024, conducted by Philippine Daily Inquirer and Statista.

"Part of our values here at PC is people development. We are passionate about helping our employees grow and reach their fullest potential. Because we want them to also reach the "Great Life,” Senior Vice President of HROD and Chief People Officer Ruby Jaucian emphasized.

Dedicated to enhancing the overall employee experience, PC has been implementing initiatives with its people's well-being and growth in mind. These include extending health benefits and group life insurance to employees (including LGBTQIA+), as well as streamlining internal processes for increased efficiency.

The Best Employers list of the Philippine Daily Inquirer in partnership with Statista, assesses employer attractiveness based on tens of thousands of evaluations, opinions from thousands of employees, and scores from hundreds of companies.

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Boehringer Ingelheim and Sun Life strengthens partnership to make quality healthcare education more accessible to Filipinos

Boehringer Ingelheim and Sun Life strengthens partnership to make quality healthcare education more accessible to Filipinos

Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines and Sun Life Philippines expand their partnership with one goal in mind: healthier and fuller lives for Filipinos. 

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. and Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), inc. recently renewed their expanded partnership at the Sun Life Centre in Bonifacio Global City. Designed to improve health outcomes and deliver greater value to Filipinos, the partnership now covers chronic kidney disease (CKD) awareness programs.

With more than 7 million Filipinos affected by CKD , and the disease being among the leading causes of sickness and death in the Philippines, it is important that strategic and meaningful partnerships are forged to make a stronger impact for Filipinos. Sun Life and Boehringer Ingelheim recognize this problem as a trusted name in financial security and a global innovative leader in healthcare, respectively.

Mr. Ermel Teodoro, Interim General Manager Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines, stated that “We collaborate with partners who we see have a common goal in making a real difference and a lasting impact to the lives of Filipinos in patient advocacy and disease awareness now, and for generations to come”.

Sun Life Philippines Country Head and CEO Benedict Sison said, “Since the beginning of our partnership in 2022, Sun Life and Boehringer Ingelheim have remained steadfast in driving towards our shared goal of empowering Filipinos to live healthier, fuller lives.”

The scope of Sun Life and Boehringer’s partnership programs includes disease awareness campaigns on common respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to rare respiratory conditions like pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung diseases. There are also non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, which are two of the primary conditions that often lead to CKD.

“This renewed tie-up allows us to go beyond providing financial products,” adds Sison. “By working together with Boehringer Ingelheim, we can empower the nation to take a more proactive approach in protecting their overall health.”

Teodoro also stated that obesity and sedentary lifestyle are also high risks for CKD, “40% of Filipinos are suffering from obesity. Sedentary lifestyles, – one with limited movements or activities, can lead you to obesity and therefore, chronic kidney disease. ”

Now that the partnership has expanded to cover CKD, Boehringer hopes to reach more Filipinos and raise awareness on the risks of CKD because according to Teodoro, the symptoms for this disease will only show up in the late stages when CKD has severely progressed . The best preventive measure against CKD is to get tested for it regularly. There is a simple 2-step screening process to check kidney health. First is the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eFGR), a blood test that measures the waste called creatinine in your blood; Second is the urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR) test that uses a urine sample to measure albumin, or protein level present in your urine.

Making healthy lifestyle decisions is a must, but there’s only so much we can do when there are inevitable factors such as family history and aging. That’s why getting tested regularly is the best way to keep your kidneys healthy. Teodoro reminds everyone to “let your dependents, friends, and family know about the silent killer that is CKD. Reach out to your doctor as soon as possible and bring a loved one or two”.

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Kathryn Bernardo, Century Tuna Superbods Finalists turn up the summer heat at the #BestYouEver Launch

Kathryn Bernardo, Century Tuna Superbods Finalists turn up the summer heat at the #BestYouEver Launch

Thursday, May 16, 2024

The summer just got hotter and fitter as the newest Century Tuna Ambassador Kathryn Bernardo and the Century Tuna Superbods Finalists officially launch the “Best Your Ever” campaign.

 

The premier fitness competition in the country, Century Tuna Superbods 2024 is now on its 9^th season with the “Best You Ever” campaign that promotes self-love and self-improvement. Encouraging that everybod can be a Superbod, the Best You Ever campaign celebrates the journeys, personal growth, and overall wellness of every Filipino as they become the best versions of themselves.

 

“With Century Tuna, I’m embracing fitness and wellness like never before. I hope that the ‘Best You Ever’ campaign becomes an avenue for Filipinos to start or continue their journey to become the best version of themselves. We all start somewhere and with a lifestyle that is centered on our overall wellbeing, we empower ourselves and the people around us to strive for the best,” said Kathryn.

 

Together with Kathryn, the 36 Century Tuna Superbods Finalists continue to reinforce the Best You Ever campaign as they inspire more Filipinos to become the best version of themselves through incorporating the Superbods spirit in their diet, exercise, and overall wellness.

Two months leading up to the finals night, the 36 Century Tuna Superbods Finalists brought their A-game as they showcased their fit and healthy bodies perfectly embodying what it is to be a Superbod.

 

“We are on our 9^th season and this year, we have a solid set of Superbods who, together with Kathryn, we believe epitomize what it is to be a Superbod and what we stand for in Century Tuna. Our common factor in choosing this year’s Superbods is those who we believe will uplift and inspire others in their fitness journeys,” said Century Pacific Food Inc. (CPFI) Vice President and General Manager for Branded Tuna Business, Mr. Carlo Endaya.

 

The finalists will join a series of digital and onsite challenges that will be uploaded on Century Tuna Superbods Facebook page leading up to the Finals Night on July 9, 2024. The Century Tuna Superbods 2024 Male and Female Grand Winners will each receive PHP500,000 tax-free while the Runners-Up will receive PHP200,000 tax-free.

 

For more information, please visit https://centurytuna.ph/ or visit Century Tuna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or @centurytunasuperbods on Instagram for more updates.

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2024 trends transforming Southeast Asia's insurance landscape

2024 trends transforming Southeast Asia's insurance landscape

Monday, February 19, 2024

Southeast Asia's insurance sector is undergoing a massive transformation to keep up with evolving market demands and maintain competitiveness. In the Philippines, where insurance penetration is at a mere 1.68%, the industry is grappling with persistent challenges such as complexities, outdated systems, and regulatory hurdles. However, amidst these obstacles, the industry is forging ahead with innovation and modernization, with insurtechs emerging as crucial drivers of this change, fueling efficiency enhancements and elevating customer experiences.

Insurtechs have facilitated the seamless integration of insurance into the purchase journey across diverse platforms, including e-commerce, fintech, and logistics. They have also made it possible for brick-and-mortar establishments such as convenience stores to become viable distribution channels to enhance accessibility and awareness of insurance products, bringing offline consumers online. Insurtech firms likewise empower insurers to create personalized products, meeting the unique needs of underserved sectors and effectively managing emerging risks in digital consumers' lifestyles today–these include pet insurance, travel insurance, electronic and mobile phone protection, and even micro, small, and medium business insurance.

Amidst the industry's continuous transformation, insurtech Igloo identifies key trends poised to persist in 2024, further elevating efficiency throughout the insurance value chain and propelling the ongoing momentum of embedded insurance and personalization.

AI-Powered Data Analytics for Enhanced Risk Assessment

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fast becoming the cornerstone of the insurance sector, revolutionizing the way companies analyze data and assess risks. This year, we can expect insurers to increasingly leverage AI for advanced data analytics, allowing them to gain deeper insights into customer behavior, preferences, and emerging risks. By harnessing the power of AI, insurers can enhance their risk assessment models, leading to more accurate pricing and better management of uncertainties in the ever-changing market.

Blockchain for smoother claims processing

Blockchain's sustained influence in insurance underscores its pivotal role in streamlining claims processing. The decentralized and transparent nature of blockchain ensures efficient, fraud-resistant transactions, expediting claims settlement and reducing administrative costs. This enduring trend continues revolutionizing the insurance landscape by enhancing accuracy, trust, and operational efficiency.

Zero-Code Platforms for Swift Product Launch

The adoption of zero-code platforms is set to streamline and accelerate the launch of new insurance products across various channels. These platforms empower insurance companies to develop, modify, and deploy applications without extensive coding, significantly reducing the time and resources required for product development. This rapid deployment capability ensures that insurers can respond swiftly to market demands, offering a diverse range of products tailored to the evolving needs of consumers.

Digital Empowerment of Agents to Boost Productivity

As the industry becomes more digital, insurance agents are also set to benefit from advanced technologies that enhance their productivity and improve customer interactions. In 2024, insurers are expected to invest in empowering their agents with digital tools and resources, facilitating seamless communication, quicker policy issuance, and personalized customer experiences. The digitalization of agents also contributes to an overall positive customer journey, fostering loyalty and satisfaction.

Securing Against Climate Change Through Insurance

Climate insurance has emerged in response to the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related events. As businesses, individuals, and governments grapple with the impacts of climate change, insurance has become a critical tool for managing the financial losses resulting from it, such as damage to agriculture, infrastructure, and personal property. This trend exemplifies a proactive approach to mitigating economic losses, aligning with the shift towards sustainability and resilience in the face of climate uncertainties.

Igloo believes the rising demand for personalized insurance in our region is prompting insurers and embedded insurance ventures to embrace the latest tech trends. By seamlessly incorporating these innovations, the leading regional insurtech firm is not just keeping up; it's staying one step ahead, shaping the future of insurance for Southeast Asian communities. Its commitment is to remain at the forefront of industry shifts, ensuring its approach aligns seamlessly with the evolving needs of its valued customers.

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MR.DIY shares top household items you didn't know you needed this 2023

MR.DIY shares top household items you didn't know you needed this 2023

Monday, January 23, 2023

With the holiday season officially over, now is a good time to re-evaluate and set new goals for 2023. Whatever your new year’s resolution is, MR.DIY is here to help you achieve it by providing the most useful things at home for your convenience!

Whether you’re looking at sprucing up your home or taking time to prioritize self-care in 2023, here are household items you can easily buy at the largest one-stop shop for home improvement.

# 1 – Design and decorate your furniture and interior spaces

A brand-new year often symbolizes new beginnings, but starting anew doesn’t necessarily mean leaving everything behind. Do not let your dilapidated but still functioning home furniture go to waste; restore them with wooden PVC foil. If you want to further amplify your space and give it a fresh new look, opt for a nice wallpaper that you can install in any part of your home effortlessly. MR.DIY offers a variety of wallpaper designs and PVC foils that you can choose from!

# 2 – Spice up your bathroom

The bathroom is one of the areas of your home that needs the most attention. Thankfully, MR.DIY has cleaning aids and tools such as a toilet brush set, toilet bowl deodorizer, and gel air freshener to help you get rid of the unnecessary dirt and smell in your bathroom. While you’re at it, add a bathroom holder to keep your vanity and shower area organized!

# 3 – Organize and declutter your space

Keeping your home clean is one way to have a clear mind. Avoid building up clutter with MR.DIY’s storage boxes. Having these home basics will save you from doing trivial tasks and give you more time for more important household chores. As you organize and tidy up, it is inevitable to spot some dirt along the way. Upgrade your regular sponges to MR.DIY’s sponge handles to make it easier for you to scrub those hard surfaces with a sturdy grip

# 4 – Kitchen essentials to keep you prepared and on-the-go

Moving on to kitchen essentials — why not give your refrigerator an upgrade? With all the food stock left behind over the holidays and the Lunar New Year, it’s not a bad idea to clean out your fridge. Upgrade your refrigerator tidying up game for as low as 50 Php!

Come do your post-Christmas and Lunar New Year essentials haul at MR.DIY! Come check out these items and many more when you head to any of MR.DIY’s branches in the Philippines. With over 300 stores, you can surely find a store near you today!

To learn more about MR.DIY and its products, visit www.mrdiy.com/ph. You may also follow /mrdiyPH on Facebook, and @mrdiy.philippines on Instagram and Tiktok for updates and upcoming promos.

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Darwinbox and Microsoft announce collaboration to redefine the future of work

Darwinbox and Microsoft announce collaboration to redefine the future of work

• Darwinbox to empower organizations globally to elevate employee experience through deep integrations between its HCM SaaS platform and Microsoft product ecosystem.

• Demonstrating almost 6.5x growth in the Philippines in 12 months since its Unicorn funding, Darwinbox is sprinting towards market leadership in Asia.

Darwinbox, the fastest-growing HR tech unicorn, and Microsoft today announced a collaboration to empower organizations globally with the right tools to succeed in the evolving world of work. The collaboration will include deep integrations between Darwinbox and the Microsoft product ecosystem, and co-innovation on solutions to enhance employee experience. The relationship will also accelerate joint go-to-market motions in all markets that the leading Human Capital Management player operates in. In addition to the co-innovation roadmap, Microsoft has also made an equity investment in Darwinbox to accelerate their mission of empowering organizations to unify their entire employee lifecycle.

Darwinbox’s cloud-based Human Capital Management (HCM) platform caters to HR needs across the entire employee lifecycle with new-age employee experiences and disruptive AI-powered technology. Powering 700+ enterprises and 2 million employees across the globe, the company has seen 6.5X revenue growth and 300% headcount growth in the Philippines since its Series D Unicorn funding round in January 2022.

Microsoft and Darwinbox collaboration will fuel the global HR tech leader’s growth further while enabling organizations to unlock their workforce’s highest potential.

Commenting on the collaboration, Jayant Paleti, Darwinbox Co-founder said, “We’ve always had the highest regard for the Microsoft brand and ethos. As we align on the joint vision of helping our customers unlock new levels of employee experience and productivity, we’re excited to co-innovate on multiple lines of IP development and take these solutions to our customers globally.”

In the Philippines, Darwinbox works with leading enterprises namely JG Summit Holdings (now Gokongwei Group), Maxicare Healthcare, Shakey's Pizza, Robinsons Bank, Straive, UNO Digital Bank, PLDT, GT Capital Group, Delbros Group, Security Bank, Toyota Motor Philippines, Radius Telecom amongst others.

Ahmed Mazhari, President, Microsoft Asia, said, “In the new world of work, connected and energized employees are a competitive advantage for every organization. We’re pleased to collaborate with leaders like Darwinbox to reimagine employee experience and enable HR teams with the power of technology. Co-innovating with our customers is key to how Microsoft is empowering organizations across Asia to do more with less.”

Deep integrations and multiple lines of co-innovation between Darwinbox and Microsoft will allow Darwinbox to deliver a radically unique and differentiated value proposition to their customers worldwide. As part of this collaboration, Darwinbox will adopt Microsoft Azure for enhancing its Human Capital Management (HCM) SaaS platform.

Darwinbox's mobile-first platform continues to enhance and personalize employee experience (EX) by bringing HR transactions and experiences into the flow of work with Dynamics 365 and Office 365 platforms like Microsoft Teams, Viva, and Active Directory. Darwinbox has leveraged Microsoft's Power BI to further augment its AI-based predictive analytics engine, to build rich visual analytics dashboards thereby helping employees across customer organizations to use data more effectively and power faster business decisions. Strategic product and engineering collaborations between the two companies will amplify innovation around workforce management, payroll management, benefits, talent management, and acquisition.

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