Asian Forum on Enterprise for Society 2023: A Resounding Success in Advancing Corporate Responsibility, Innovation, and Inclusion

Asian Forum on Enterprise for Society 2023: A Resounding Success in Advancing Corporate Responsibility, Innovation, and Inclusion

Friday, September 29, 2023

The Asian Forum on Enterprise for Society (AFES) 2023 has made a triumphant return to hosting in-person gatherings, taking place on September 26-27 at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City, Philippines. This event reaffirms its status as the premier platform in Asia for substantive discussions revolving around corporate responsibility, innovation, and sustainable business practices.

Organized by the Asian Institute of Management Ramon V. Del Rosario, Sr. Center for Corporate Responsibility (AIM RVR Center), AFES, formerly recognized as the Asian Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility, boasts a storied history of assembling in diverse Asian cities. Its unwavering commitment to the pivotal role that businesses play in shaping a sustainable future remains constant. Under the 2023 theme, "Boosting Innovation and Inclusion Together," this edition carries forward the legacy by exploring how businesses can act as catalysts for resilience and inclusivity.

Amb. Jose L. Cuisia, Jr., Chairman of the Board of Advisers of the AIM RVR Center, said, “This year, the Asian Forum will underscore the imperative of sustainable, ethical, and purpose-driven enterprise for societal betterment in an ever-evolving, increasingly complex world. Our world has been reshaped by unprecedented challenges, and it is through thoughtful conversations facilitated by visionary thought and business leaders that we can co-create a brighter, more resilient future.”

With a rich heritage of advancing progress and transformation, AFES 2023 has successfully convened a diverse audience of over 400 participants. This ensemble includes global practitioners, thought leaders, business executives, and community representatives, all united by a shared objective—to address the most pressing societal challenges of our time.

AFES 2023 features a spectrum of action-inspiring conversations, each exploring diverse topics that are pivotal to our collective future. From co-creating nature-based solutions for food security and exploring new pathways for eco-tourism to promoting greener, more resilient fintech, and the responsible use of generative AI, these discussions delve deep into the issues that will shape the world for generations to come.

Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, Chairman Emeritus of the Nestlé Group emphasized in his keynote speech: "Inclusive capitalism places people at the heart of economic progress, prioritizing their well-being over profit. It's the imperative to embed responsibility throughout the entire supply chain, ensuring that every link in the economic ecosystem contributes to a fair and equitable society."

Dr. Jikyeong Kang, AIM President and Dean, reflects on the conference, stating, "Throughout this conference, we have had the privilege of engaging with thought leaders and experts who have shared invaluable perspectives on a wide range of critical topics. From AI, food security, and sustainable tourism to inclusive fintech, supply chain due diligence, and diversity and inclusion in the workforce, our discussions have been marked by a profound depth of knowledge and a commitment to discovering innovative solutions to complex challenges

Read More

The Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines Partners with Singapore Industrial Automation Association in Hosting the AI Asia Expo - Philippines 2023, 7-9 Nov 2023

The Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines Partners with Singapore Industrial Automation Association in Hosting the AI Asia Expo - Philippines 2023, 7-9 Nov 2023

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

AI Asia Expo Organizers announces the official signing of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines (DTI) and the Singapore Industrial Automation Association (SIAA) for co-hosting the AI Asia Expo - Philippines 2023. The MOU signing ceremony took place on August 15, at the Audio-Visual Room, 6/F 385 Board of Investments Building, Makati City, coinciding with the DTI and Analytics Association of the Philippines' "AI Governance and Policy” Workshop.

This ceremony marks a strategic collaboration between DTI, SIAA and LOD Events to foster the exchange of knowledge, promote innovation, and facilitate cross-border partnerships in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). Through this alliance, DTI aims to drive the growth and application of AI technologies across industries, thereby enabling businesses and empowering consumers.

Amplifying its significance as a convergence of top-tier industry players, policymakers, and visionaries dedicated to driving digital transformation and inclusive growth through AI technology across the region, the event will open on 07 November 2023, bannering the Department of Trade and Industry's Industrial Digital Transformation Congress (IDTC), at the Marriott Grand Ballroom (MGBX) Convention Hall in Metro Manila.

At the core of its storyline, the IDTC passionately advocates for pushing forward digital transformation andinnovation across diverse industries by seamlessly incorporating AI. AI, as an essential element of this significant event is the introduction of DTI's National AI

Strategy Roadmap, carefully designed to guide the progress of the nation's four key industry groups. This plan is complemented by a perceptive examination of how AI is being widely embraced in these specific areas.

As the main highlight of the event, the AI Asia Expo - Philippines 2023 is scheduled to take place from 7 - 9 November 2023. This three-day event is expected to draw 4,000 participants and will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, and an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge AI products and solutions from both local and international AI companies. The event is also supported by more than 50 prestigious associations and organizations in the Philippines.

The main expo, spread across four key tracks, will take a comprehensive approach to exploring the applications of AI across diverse domains. These tracks include AI in Healthcare, AI in Manufacturing, AI in Environment and Sustainability, and Generative AI. The discussions in these sessions will shed light on how AI can enhance efficiency, productivity, and sustainability across different industries.

The event will also see the InfoComm Technology Association of the Philippines (ITAP) partner on a Symposium that will focus on key aspects of AI development, covering themes like cybersecurity, IoT, fintech, robotics, and AI infrastructure. This Symposium will facilitate valuable discussions on the challenges and opportunities in these areas.

For more details on our event, visit www.aiasiaexpo.com/philippines-2023. Join us as we shape the future of AI in the Philippines and the broader Asian region. 

Read More

Supply Chain Trilogy 2023 spotlights topics for the future

Supply Chain Trilogy 2023 spotlights topics for the future

Friday, March 17, 2023

Supply Chain Trilogy 2023 (SCT23), the exclusive and premier technology conference for supply chain leaders and logistics professionals, is set to take place on March 15, 2023, at the BGC Arts Center in Taguig City. This must-attend event aims to discuss top industry trends, strategies, and the latest technologies for the future of supply chain management and logistics. With the theme "A future made for you," SCT23 gives you an opportunity to shape the future of your supply chain, gain transformative insights on how to digitalize your warehouse processes, actionable takeaways, and tips from top experts.

Supply Chain Trilogy is organized by AEB in partnership with Honeywell and Primes Sales. The conference is supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Cold Chain Association of the Philippines (CCAP), Procurement and Supply Institute of Asia (PASIA), German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AHK Philippinen), and Business Mirror.

The conference will feature a wide range of speakers and sessions, covering the latest trends in supply chain and intralogistics, warehouse automation, productivity solutions, material handling solutions, warehouse management systems, supply chain sustainability, the latest technology, innovation and strategies, the future of the cold chain industry, government initiatives in supply chain and logistics, and practical insights and case studies.

Must-see keynotes and panels:

Looking ahead: Government strategic initiatives for the future of supply chains in the Philippines, Assistant Secretary Mary Jean Pacheco, Digital Philippines and E-commerce Lead, Department of Trade and Industry

Shaping the future of supply chains: How to adapt strategies and frameworks in this world of uncertainties, Markus Meissner, Managing Director AEB, Arnel Gamboa, VP – Supply Chain, Ace Hardware, Charlie Villasenor, President, PASIA, Brad Santiago, Country Business Leader, Honeywell, Assistant Secretary Mary Jean Pacheco, Assistant Secretary, DTI

The Philippine cold chain industry outlook, challenges, and opportunities, Anthony Dizon, CCAP President and Gilbert Singson, National Cold Chain Head for Logistics

The future of intralogistics: Unveiling the next-generation technology platform for your warehouse operations, Paul Rivera, Product Manager, AEB SE

Participants will also have an exclusive preview of AEB's new warehouse management system (WMS) solution, which is designed to manage warehouse operations and personalize business processes for next-level warehouse automation. There will also be product demos and real-time simulations at AEB's customer experience booth located in the Del Monte Nutriasia Lobby.

"We're thrilled to be hosting Supply Chain Trilogy 2023. This conference aims to establish a platform that provides fresh insights, industry updates, and the latest technology to businesses, supply chain leaders, and logistics professionals to drive business growth. Additionally, we are launching AEB's new WMS solution for warehouse owners and operators that will shape the future of intralogistics," said Frans Kok, AEB's General Manager.

Supply Chain Trilogy is designed specifically for supply chain leaders, logistics professionals, and warehouse operators in the transport and logistics, manufacturing, and food retail industries across the Philippines. This is the ultimate event to learn practical insights, strategies, and how to apply them in your own warehouse operations.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve in supply chain and logistics. Register now and join us to learn, explore, and connect with leaders and experts in the supply chain and logistics sector.

For more information and to check the full agenda, please visit the SCT23 website at https://www.aeb.com/en/events/supply-chain-trilogy.php

Read More

Ebe Dancel to stage repeat of “Sa Wakas: 20th Anniversary Celebration” Concert

Ebe Dancel to stage repeat of “Sa Wakas: 20th Anniversary Celebration” Concert

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

 

The award-winning singer-songwriter will be joined by ex-Sugarfree drummer Mitch Singson to honor the album’s lasting impact in the Philippine music scene

Due to insistent public demand, Filipino singer-songwriter Ebe Dancelstages a repeat of Sa Wakas: 20th Anniversary Celebration, happening on March 31, 2023 (Friday), from 6pm onwards at 123 Block, Mandala Park.

Celebrating the enduring legacy of Sugarfree’s iconic debut album, Sa Wakas The Repeat: 20th Anniversary Celebration will feature a longer, full-length set by Ebe Dancel and drummer Mitch Singson, as well as guest performances and surprises.

Presented by GNN Entertainment Productions and Backspacer Records, in partnership with 123 Block and Balcony Entertainment, the headline show will accommodate more people in the venue as requested by fans who were not able to attend the first one, which sold out in less than a day.

Part of the earnings will be donated to Parokya Ni Edgar guitarist Gab Chee Kee’s hospital and medical expenses. Sa Wakas: official merch is also available via Backspacer Records official website, and will also be sold at the venue.

Sugarfree's Sa Wakas, which came out in 2003, took confessional songwriting to a new level with anthems that reveal stories and experiences that are too embarrassingly painful to talk about in public. Critically acclaimed when it first came out in the early 2000s, the influential album eventually inspired a huge following, and prompted a fan to write/produce an award-winning rock musical centered on its narrative.

Tickets to Sa Wakas The Repeat: 20th Anniversary Celebration are available for purchase starting March 13 (Monday) at 6pm via bit.ly/sawakas20.

Ticket Packages Available:

Regular Admissions (P1,500) - entrance to the event grounds

VIP (P2,200) - entrance to the event grounds, plus meet and greet with Ebe Dancel before the show, and a signed event poster.

VIP + Vinyl Bundle (P3,500) - entrance to the event grounds, a Habangbuhay 10-inch signed silver vinyl, plus meet and greet with Ebe Dancel before the show and a signed event poster.

Read More

Ben&Ben, Zack Tabudlo, Ebe Dancel and more to headline Zark’s Fest 2023

Ben&Ben, Zack Tabudlo, Ebe Dancel and more to headline Zark’s Fest 2023

Tuesday, March 14, 2023

 

This year’s edition of the Manila-based food and music festival gets bigger with a more exciting lineup of performers, activities, and programs

After a hugely successful debut in 2019, Zark’s Fest returns this summer with their biggest offering in live music and comfort grub.

Presented and produced by Zark’s Burgers, a popular burger joint in the Philippines, and organized by GNN Entertainment Productions, the hybrid festival promises to treat its patrons with an exciting music lineup, more inclusive programming, a dedicated space for lifestyle, crafts, and arts merchants, and most especially, a hearty serving of American comfort food, the Zark’s way.

Headlining the festival are the award-winning and best-selling Filipino band Ben&Ben and 2021/2022’s most-streamed solo artist Zack Tabudlo. The Manila-based food and music festival are also set to feature some of the most prominent names in the local music industry, including Ebe Dancel, Urbandub,Sandwich, The Itchyworms, BINI, Kiyo, SOS, Autotelic, Any Name’s Okay, Lola Amour, Hey June!,and Eli & Six The Northstar.

“We’re coming out stronger this year with a more diverse lineup and activities,” says Zark’s Burgers CEO Zark Varona. “Make sure to pack your sunscreen as Zark’s Fest brings a festive experience in the best possible way. We’re scaling up our game with headline-worthy music representing various genres and demos, and we’re also holding the event in a bigger, outdoor venue that allows people to move freely around the site and celebrate food, arts, and crafts with their family and friends. What we have is something game-changing and special, and I hope more people will get to experience that.”

This year’s edition ups the ante of the festival format by doubling down on the experience with fair-themed booths and a more family-friendly vibe. “Our goal is to create a safe space where everyone is welcomed and included,” Varona explains. “Hopefully with Zark’s Fest, we’ll be able to deliver a music-filled destination for people from all walks of life.” 

Tickets to Zark’s Fest will go on sale, starting Monday, March 13 at 12 noon via bit.ly/zarksfest2023.

Check out the ticket prices:

VIP (P2,500)

Express lane, dedicated restroom, 1 free drink, exclusive VIP area near the stage, Zarkada kit

Regular (P1,500)

General admission

Early Entry (P800)

Entrance is strictly until 2pm only

Read More

Women Rise: A Women Artist Exhibit that Promotes Arts, Investments, and Advocacy

Women Rise: A Women Artist Exhibit that Promotes Arts, Investments, and Advocacy

Friday, March 10, 2023

 

Decades ago, women in the art were always playing the role of being the model of the artists. While it is such a meaningful role to be an inspiration of a work of art, women can be more than just a subject. Women can also create. Zonta Club of Makati & Environs (ZCME), an organization empowering women through service and advocacy has been supporting Filipino women artists for years and promotes strong participation of women  through art exhibits to support ZCME's noteworthy projects.

In celebration of International Women's Month, Zonta Club of Makati & Environs (ZCME), Galerie Joaquin, and BDO Private Bank have joined hands in showcasing the works of talented Filipina artists. Women Rise: A Women Artist Exhibit will run from March 9 to 12 at the South Court Power Plant Mall in Rockwell Center, Makati City.

Galerie Joaquin is featuring the works of Olivia D' Aboville, Barbara Angeles, Jo Balbarona, Charming Baldemor, Karina Baluyut, Caress Banson, Jovan Benito, Jesusa Calanasan, Ape Castillo, Katrina Cuenca, Enon De Belen, Aileen Lanuza, Jenny Leviste, Carol Llanillo, April Lopez, Rafaelle Louise, Claudia Luz, Raisa Luz, Rona Manansala, Ann Moneda, Maridi Nivera, Margie Organo, Erlinda Panlilio, Ada Panopio, Jax Pasimio, Victoria Pollisco, Isah Rodillo, Wendy Rondaris, Camille Dela Rosa, Loida Tan, Haraya Tejido, Camille Ver, Migs Villanueva, Melissa Yeung Yap, MM Yu, Vicky Zubiri, and Wence Zyl.

I had the privilege to meet former Zonta Club president and ArteFino co-founder Maritess Mendoza-Pineda. She mentioned how she started her art collection and over the years accumulated pieces that have more than double the price. She said it is wise to invest in art pieces but you should also be able to appreciate the worth of an artwork beyond its monetary value. 

If you wish to invest in art pieces, the work of these women artists at the Women Rise exhibit is the best place to start. Part of the proceeds from the sale will support the following ZCME projects: 

• ZCME Psychological Center for abused women and girls in Marillac Hills, Muntinlupa
• Empowering Women Scholarship Program (EWSP) at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines
• Food Share Program: a platform for community building by using collaborative work to resolve poverty-related issues

BDO Private Bank has been a staunch supporter of Philippine arts and culture for many years. It's parent company BDO Unibank has an impressive art collection at the Ortigas Corporate Center. Both BDO Private Bank and ZCME share the passion for art and the drive to empower women. 

Read More

Rex Education's AECON 2023 gathers over 20,000 Edukampyons online for learning resilience

Rex Education's AECON 2023 gathers over 20,000 Edukampyons online for learning resilience

Monday, March 6, 2023

What awaits on the other side of learning recovery? 

This is the question the Annual Educators’ Congress (AECON) 2023 recognized and answered during the 2-day event, held virtually recently. Under the banner “Learning Recovery to Learning Resilience,” AECON attracted over 20,000 education thought leaders, policy-makers, and practitioners to convene and discuss emerging education topics and trends, and most importantly, to continue the efforts toward learning resilience.

AECON 2023 endeavored to support DepEd’s objective of expanding the knowledge base of learning recovery by fostering resilience among learners and education ecosystems. Drawing inspiration from the agency’s 2030 Basic Education Development Plan (BEDP), the event touched on themes of quality and inclusive education, learner empowerment, and positive learning environments. 

“In a sense, this is an affirmation for us that what we are doing contributes to larger nationwide goals,” REX Chief Executive Officer Don Timothy I. Buhain said in his opening speech. “This affirmation fuels us to be more eager and willing contributors—a feeling and sentiment we wish to share with all of you.”

Learning from the experts 

AECON featured renowned local and international speakers across different disciplines. Delivering the keynote address was Hon. Gina O. Gonong, DepEd’s Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching. 

The plenary sessions kicked off with Dr. Yolanda Quijano, Chief of Party of Project Gabay, covering the topic “Expanding Access to Education for Groups in Situations of Disadvantage to Ensure Inclusive and Equitable Quality Service Delivery.” Dr. Quijano highlighted how disadvantaged youth often have limited access to formal education. She named children in geographically isolated or disadvantaged areas (GIDA), youth from indigenous cultural communities (ICC), Muslim students, and persons with disabilities as some of the sectors that are left behind. 

Also present was Dr. Alison Atwell, an International Whole School Improvement Consultant, in a session on the “Teacher's Tool Box: Six Essential Tools to Achieve Comprehensive Student Growth.” Dr. Atwell elaborated on different instruments education professionals could use in optimizing classroom success, namely, creative interactive teaching, positive physical school environment, inclusive classrooms, participative shared leadership, supportive school culture, and engagement with family and community. 

AECON capped off its plenary sessions with Dr. Amy Berry, an International Education Consultant and author of “Reimagining Student Engagement: from Disrupting to Driving”, and her talk on “Pivoting to Quality, Ensuring That All Learners Attain Learning Standards in Every Key Stage in the K to 12 Program.” Berry focused on what she called building blocks that develop the language, partnership, and process of engagement within one’s classrooms. Each aspect was coupled with concrete actions such as the development of teachers’ effective communication, collaboration with stakeholders, and activation of fundamental skills that could facilitate learning. 

In all, Ms. Rita Atienza, Director of the Ateneo Teacher Center, facilitated the Q&A segments after each plenary session. 

Aside from the different talks, participants also had the freedom to choose 2 from the 10 breakout sessions covering varying topics regarding basic education, early childhood care and development, and higher education. These sessions were co-organized by a number of partner organizations within the sector, and allowed attendees to deepen their experience through topics of their interests. 

Organizations that facilitated breakout sessions were the Early Childhood Care and Development Council, Pambansang Samahan sa Linggwistika at Literaturang Filipino, Ink., Samahang Pisika ng Pilipinas, the College of Graduate Studies and Teacher Education Research of Philippine Normal University, the Organization of Social Studies Teachers in the Philippines, the Reading Association of the Philippines, the Values Education Department of the College of Education of University of the Philippines, the Association of Philippine Schools Overseas, the Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association, and the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities.

Paving the road for recovery and resilience 

The congress formally concluded with a synthesis session from Dr. Jerome Buenviaje, Dean of the College of Education, University of the Philippines - Diliman. "We have to understand that resilience is a weapon to fight for empowering our learners [and] creating positive learning environments, so that we will attain quality and inclusive education," he said. "In looking forward to learning resilience, tatayo tayo, dahil tayo ay Pilipino (we will recover, because we are Filipinos).” 

Over the years, AECON has served as a testament to Rex Education’s commitment of service to the public and the country. “The worst may have been behind us, but the journey to learning recovery and on to learning resilience is far from over. And what a joy to have you all as traveling companions,” Buhain said of AECON attendees, who he addressed as Edukampyons, or champions of education. “Ultimately, it will be all of us who will make the difference.” 

Through AECON and the strength of Edukampyons, Rex Education remains committed to the journey, from learning recovery to learning resilience. 

Stay updated by following Rex Education’s Facebook page.

Read More