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AIA Philippines Partners with Corazon S. Atayde Memorial Foundation to Bring Healthier Habits to Philippine Schools

Monday, July 22, 2024

AIA Healthiest Schools

AIA Philippines, formerly Philam Life and one of the country’s largest life insurance companies, has partnered with Corazon S. Atayde Memorial Foundation (CSAFM) to bring the AIA Healthiest Schools program to underserved elementary and secondary public schools. This program, which AIA is bringing to the Philippines after successful launches in other countries such as Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Australia, aims to empower students aged five to sixteen and their teachers to adopt healthier living habits.

AIA Healthiest Schools offers free curriculum-linked teaching resources to schools, with the goal of educating students about healthy habits and assisting schools and communities in creating a healthier and happier environment. It is structured around four key pillars: healthy eating; active lifestyle; mental well-being; and health and sustainability. 

In its first year, AIA Philippines will introduce AIA Healthiest Schools in three public elementary schools and three public high schools. The program extends beyond the classroom, encouraging participating schools to develop and implement impactful health projects within their communities. These projects will be showcased in a regional competition in July 2025, where schools will have the opportunity to compete with schools from other countries where AIA is present.

AIA Healthiest Schools is the first of its kind health literacy program, combining education and rewarding good behavior which will revolutionize health-related programs and sustainability in schools. From left to right: AIA Philippines’ Associate Director for Brand Experience and ESG Bernadette Chincuanco, AIA Philippines’ Chief Marketing Officer Melissa Henson, Corazon S. Atayde Memorial Foundation (CSAFM) Executive Director Margarita Atayde and CSAFM Program Manager Rylene Ngeta-a.

"We believe that taking a proactive role in building healthy habits among the youth is one of the best ways we can to bring to life our Purpose of helping people live Healthier, Longer Better Lives," said Melissa Henson, AIA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer. "By collaborating with CSAMF and public schools nationwide, we are not only empowering students to adopt healthier habits, but also creating opportunities for communities to develop a lasting appreciation for well-being.”

CSAFM is a non-profit organization that seeks to provide reliable, responsible, and trustworthy avenues of generosity by developing and implementing programs focused on education. It has reached 54,043 learners across the country and worked with almost 1,000 community coordinators and volunteers. 

AIA Healthiest Schools directly aligns with AIA's ambitious One Billion Goal, which aims to engage, inspire, and empower one billion people worldwide to live healthier, longer, better lives. Through this program, AIA Philippines is taking a significant step towards creating a healthier and more vibrant future for young Filipinos.


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Bangsamoro Government lays out commitments to improve education in the BARMM

Madrasah Education Strategic Pla

The Bangsamoro Government celebrated the signing of the Madrasah Education Strategic Plan for the Bangsamoro region on 18 July 2024. The Plan lays out the commitments of the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education to enhance the quality of formal madrasah education in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in the next three years.

Madrasah is an Islamic educational system that aims to develop Muslim learners to be morally upright and committed to excellence. The Ministry recognizes madrasah education’s significant role in contributing to the peace and stability, and the future development of the BARMM. The goal is to develop future Muslim professionals and innovators who could drive economic growth, peace, and stability in the region. 

The Australian Government provided technical assistance to the Ministry in developing the Plan. They conducted policy reviews of madrasah education, led consultation sessions with relevant partners, and facilitated expert consultations to support the drafting process. 

“As neighbours and strategic partners, Australia and the Philippines share the goal of achieving a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region – and we believe that education plays a vital role in achieving this,” said Dr Moya Collett, Deputy Head of Mission, Australian Embassy.

“I thank our friends and partners from the Ministry for their continued dedication in strengthening education policies and institutions in the BARMM. Australia remains committed to working with you in shaping a more peaceful and prosperous region.” 

Under the Plan, the Ministry aims to increase the number of Bangsamoro learners – regardless of gender, physical ability, and social and economic status – by 30%. By 2025, they also aim to increase the number of formal madrasah institutions by 15%. Institutionalizing madrasahs is important because it allows the Ministry to monitor and regulate the quality of education and services they provide. 

The Ministry has made great strides in integrating traditional madrasah into the Bangsamoro education system. To date, 373 formal madrasah delivering K-12 and Islamic education have been recognised. A policy guide developed with the Australian Government is also supporting the accreditation of 444 non formal madrasah. The Ministry also have plans to develop a standardised curriculum for all madrasahs, including non-formal madrasas, with the aim of accrediting them down the road.

Mohagher M. Iqbal, Minister of MBHTE said: “Strengthening madrasah education represents 'unity in diversity.' It demonstrates Bangsamoro’s firm commitment to preserving our region's rich historical, religious, and educational heritage while creating an inclusive environment where every learner, regardless of background, can succeed.”

“Madrasah education is integral to our people’s aspiration to shape our educational policies and systems. Therefore, the Bangsamoro deserves genuine autonomy that all parties should honor. A thriving autonomy is the true solution to the recurring internal conflicts in the region.”

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Schneider Electric introduces scalable decarbonization roadmap for PH manufacturing, donates P5M worth of equipment to Dualtech


Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and digital automation, announced a scalable decarbonization roadmap for the manufacturing sector in the Philippines during the recent Go Industry 2024: Driving towards a Net Zero Industry event held at The Mills Country Club, Laguna co-hosted with Dualtech Training Center Foundation, Inc.

The event was attended by leaders from the Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Climate Change Commission (CCC) Philippines, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Dr. Song Pei Chua, Business Development Manager for Chemicals, Schneider Electric East Asia discusses the decarbonization roadmap for the Philippine manufacturing sector.


The decarbonization roadmap outlines four key strategies that the sector can implement gradually to reduce carbon footprint:
  • Electrifying operations through microgrid optimization
  • Reducing energy consumption through digitalization and automation
  • Replacing energy sources with renewable energy such as solar energy, wind power, and hydropower
  • Engaging the entire value chain to design and build for sustainability and to offset carbon emissions, enabling a circular economy

"Our approach to decarbonization involves not just transforming our energy supply but also optimizing our processes through electrification," said Dr. Song Pei Chua, Business Development Manager for Chemicals, Schneider Electric East Asia. "Strategic planning, digitization, and a steadfast commitment to efficiency and sustainability are at the core of manufacturing and industrial operations."

Schneider Electric's Sustainability Business Team helps industries achieve their carbon neutrality targets by developing customized digital-centric strategies. They provide advisory services to establish a baseline, understand current energy use, and create a comprehensive roadmap towards carbon neutrality.

Deployment of Schneider Electric’s proprietary and award-winning cloud-based platform EcoStruxure Resource Advisor helps collect and analyze energy consumption data. With this, businesses can develop better energy and sustainability strategies. Software trainings are conducted by Schneider Electric to help educate partners on how to maximize the software to enable effective application into their operations.

During the event, CCC and UNDP both emphasized the significant role the private sector plays in achieving the country's climate goals. “Shifting to digital operations is crucial for sectors aiming to reduce carbon emissions and meet the targets established by the nationally determined contribution (NDC) implementation plan," CCC Executive Assistant Raul Villegas stated. 

Schneider Electric Empowering Youth to Drive Digital Transformation

Schneider Electric's commitment to sustainability extends beyond environmental initiatives. This is demonstrated by the company’s 5-year partnership with Dualtech where Schneider Electric has committed to provide PHP5 million worth of equipment and instructor training. 

Dualtech, accredited by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), offers a 2-year Electromechanics Technology course combining electrical, mechanical, and electronics disciplines. In response to the global demand for skilled workers, the institution is modernizing its training programs and facilities to accommodate more scholars and to address shortages of training equipment and tools.

The company aims to be carbon neutral in operations by 2025, save 800 million tons of carbon annually by 2030, achieve full value chain carbon neutrality by 2040, and reach net zero across all scopes by 2050—urging the manufacturing sector and other industries to follow suit. Recently, TIME Magazine has hailed Schneider Electric as the “Most Sustainable Company in the World”.
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PRSP Celebrates Diversity in Workplace Communication at its 2nd GMM

Monday, July 15, 2024

Right to Care Card

To celebrate #PrideMonth, the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) invited communication experts at its 2nd General Membership Meeting (GMM) last June 28 to talk about the importance of championing diversity in workplace communication as well as fostering an inclusive environment.

Dubbed “Speak Out, Stand Out: Championing Diversity in Workplace Communication,” the event held at the DivinaLaw offices in Makati City featured key speakers from MullenLowe TREYNA, the agency that won last year's Grand Anvil Award for the Quezon City Gender and Development Council's Right to Care Card.

The “Right to Care Card,” which was passed into an ordinance by the Quezon City Council in February this year, now works as a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) card that can grant medical-decision making rights to queer couples. It serves as portable proof that having the right to care for your loved ones should not be limited to a specific gender.


Spearheading the discussion was Jam Pascual, a seasoned copywriter at MullenLowe TREYNA, who talked about how the concept for the campaign all began. He shared, “What is care? Our team wanted to get the idea across that the ‘Right to Care’ card relates deeply to ideas and experiences that the average Filipino can understand. We wanted to convey the importance of such concepts as pag-aalaga and malasakit.”

Three other communication experts shared their insights about the initiative, with each one emphasizing how authentic story-telling and using just the right words to communicate the card’s basic concept of “the right to care” among partners – regardless of sexual orientation – is key to the success of the program.

“A factor in the Right to Care initiative’s success is its straightforward concept -- the basic premise of allowing human beings to care for one another. The support and recognition it had been getting may be attributed to simple, authentic, and heartfelt storytelling,” explained Gerald Lim, PR Head of Accounts at MullenLowe TREYNA. 

“But of course, communications can only do so much! We also need the support of the community for diversity and inclusivity to flourish,” he added.

Sharing insights from a legal perspective, DivinaLaw Associate Atty. Joshy Aguilar stated, “I think we should be more empathic towards the plight of others. Just because you don't experience the same struggle does not mean that it does not exist or that it’s not real. Even the Supreme Court held that the 1987 Philippine Constitution is capable of accommodating a contemporaneous understanding of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics or SOGIESC.”

Krystel Ybañez, a Senior Art Director at MullenLowe TREYNA, for her part, shared, “The team behind Right to Care is made up of queers and allies. We have brave and supportive leaders in the office who encouraged us to make this happen. That’s why diversity, equality, and inclusion are very important in workplace communication.”

PRSP continues to uphold the values of diversity, equality, and inclusion, recognizing their importance in effective workplace communication and community support. As part of the organization’s #PRforAll theme this year, the alliance is now actively encouraging all communication practitioners to champion the values of diversity, equality and inclusivity in their respective fields. 

For more information about PRSP and to register for upcoming events, visit https://prsp.ph.

Not yet a PRSP member? Join the country’s premier PR organization and apply via secretariat@prsp.ph.
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New support for artistic collaborations: The British Council announces Connections Through Culture arts grants

Friday, July 12, 2024

Connections Through Culture arts grants

The British Council is thrilled to announce the opening of applications for its Connections Through Culture arts grants, a £700,000 grant programme designed to foster artistic and cultural collaborations between the UK and Asia Pacific countries, including the Philippines.

Applicants in the Philippines can apply for grants of up to £10,000 (PHP 740,000), for projects that enable genuine international collaboration between the UK and Asia-Pacific countries. We accept applications from all artforms. However, proposals responding to Climate Change and Diversity and Inclusion may be prioritised during final decision-making. Projects supported by the Connections Through Culture Grants must include at least one UK-based applicant and one applicant based in the Philippines. Filipino artists and creatives coming from traditionally marginalised communities are encouraged to apply.

The Connections Through Culture grants support new international collaborations between the UK and the Philippines, offering grant support to organisations and artists in developing their creative projects. 

Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan, British Council in the Philippines’ Head of Arts, shares, “Last year’s projects engaged with diverse communities through multi-artform interventions highlighting how artists respond to the world around them. From creating a climate crisis toolkit for artisan weavers to exploring safer platforms and queer spirituality in alternative urban spaces, the Connections Through Culture arts grants encourage artists to move beyond what is predictable and explore new ways in cross-cultural collaborations.”

“We’re proud to be supporting new creative collaborations between the United Kingdom and the Philippines through our Connections Through Culture grants”, said Lotus Postrado, Country Director, British Council in the Philippines. 

"These grants can spark big ideas and major collaborations. We’re proud to provide this support, keeping the doors open for artists in both countries to make connections and showcase their talents on the international stage. Connections Through Culture grants not only create meaningful artistic exchanges, but help to bring greater understanding that will enrich the global creative landscape.”

Application process

The British Council invites applications that showcase new artistic collaborations between the UK and Asia-Pacific. 

To support applicants, the British Council offers a comprehensive set of resources to assist potential applicants, including an application toolkit with valuable tips and detailed insights into the programme's context.

Potential applicants can find more information on the British Council website, including a toolkit, frequently asked questions, and information sessions to support organisations and artists through the application process.

Key Dates:
Applications deadline: 2 September 2024


Register on website to join our information session:

· Information Session 1, 8:00 GMT, 17 July 2024
· Information Session 2, 9:00 GMT, 18 July 2024
· Information Session 3, 9:00 GMT, 23 July 2024
· Information Session 4, 10:00 GMT, 25 July 2024



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Globe joins 9 Asian mobile operators to bring exclusive travel perks for roamers in Thailand

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

Globe GoRoam Thailand

Traveling to the Land of Smiles? If you're a Globe customer, get ready for an amazing new experience in Thailand!

Globe has joined forces with nine leading Asian mobile operators under the Bridge Alliance to roll out the first-of-its-kind "Welcome to Thailand Privileges" campaign. 

This exciting collaboration led by AIS Thailand with retail giant Central Department Store Group allows Globe roamers in Thailand to enjoy exclusive shopping discounts, dining deals, and more at over 77 Central and Robinson department stores across Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiangmai, Samui and other popular locations until February 28, 2025.

"We're thrilled to team up with our Bridge Alliance partners to make roaming more rewarding for our customers," said Paula Rivera-Castillo, Head of Globe International Business.

"Thailand is one of the top destinations for Filipinos, and now our customers can take advantage of world-class shopping and dining privileges on top of Globe's close-to-local data rates,” she said. 

Other Bridge Alliance members participating in the campaign are AIS (Thailand), China Unicom (China), HKT (Hong Kong), CTM (Macau), Telkomsel (Indonesia), MobiFone (Vietnam), Taiwan Mobile (Taiwan), Maxis (Malaysia), and Singtel (Singapore).

Here's a sneak peek into premium benefits that Globe GoRoam Thailand roamers can unlock in Thailand:

Big Savings While Shopping - Receive discount coupons valued at up to 3,600 baht for use at any Central or Robinson department store location. 

Grocery and Food Discounts - Need to restock during your travels? Use a 140 baht coupon for your grocery haul at participating Tops Supermarkets, Food Halls, and Fine Food stores.

Brand Name Game - Prepare for next-level retail therapy with exclusive privileges and discounts worth 12,000 baht from over 45 world-renowned brands, including La Mer, Estée Lauder, Tom Ford Beauty, MAC, Sabina, Guy Laroche, Marks & Spencer, Sanrio, Smiggle, Adidas, Sunglass Hut, Tissot, Zwilling, PAÑPURI, and Dyson.

Foodie Adventures - Taste the best of Thai street food with discounts at iconic spots like Lofter, Eathai, Living House, and the brand new Public Lane | Public Market food haven in downtown Bangkok.

To enjoy the "Welcome to Thailand Privileges,” just activate GoROAM Thailand, then present your passport and GlobeOne app showing the GoRoam Thailand promo at the Customer Service counter of Central Chidlom, Central at centralwOrld, Central Chiangmai, Central Pattaya, Central Patong, Central Phuket Floresta, Central Samui, Central Hatyai. Robinson Rama 9, Robinson Sukhumvit, Robinson Bangrak, Robinson Chiangmai, Robinson Mae Sot, Robinson Jungceylon, Robinson Chalong, Robinson Thalang, and Robinson Hatyai.

GoRoam Thailand gives you 15GB of all-access data for only Php 800, valid for 8 days. Register now via the GlobeOne app.

Level up your Thailand adventure. Stay tuned to glbe.co/RoamingPerks for the latest updates on accessing these travel perks. 

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/. 

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Metro Pacific Health CEO Summit 2024: A Celebration of Excellence, Efficiency, and Effectiveness


Metro Pacific Health (MPH), the largest group of private hospitals and healthcare facilities in the Philippines, successfully concluded its 2024 CEO Summit last June 3-4. The Summit, which took place across different locations including Sheraton Manila Hotel, The Palms and Asian Hospital and Medical Center, brought together leaders from across the MPH Group to discuss advancements, share best practices, and set the course for future growth and innovation in healthcare.

With the theme "One MPH: Onwards to E3 – Excellence, Efficiency, Effectiveness," the event featured insightful presentations on the hospitals’ latest innovations, collaborative discussions, and a CEO Awards Night recognizing outstanding contributions within the MPH network.

Reflecting on the Journey

Dr. Harish Pillai, Group CEO of Metro Pacific Health, opened the summit with an inspiring reflection on MPH’s remarkable journey from 2022 to 2024. He highlighted the significant milestones achieved, including the expansion of hospitals to a total of 24, an increase in bed capacity, the growing number of doctors, and the rise in patients served, reaching almost 2 million a year. Dr. Pillai also laid out ambitious targets for 2024 and beyond, emphasizing MPH’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in healthcare delivery.

"Our journey over the past year has been nothing short of extraordinary," said Dr. Harish Pillai. "We have expanded our network, enhanced our capabilities, and most importantly, improved the quality of care we provide to millions of Filipinos. As we look to the future, our focus remains steadfast on achieving excellence, efficiency, and effectiveness in all aspects of our operations."

Driving Innovation: Synergy Project Updates

A major focus of the summit was on key synergy projects that are driving innovation across the MPH network. Leaders from key subsidiaries presented updates on projects such as the Digital Front Door (DFD), Hospital Laboratory Management (HLM), and Enterprise Data Warehouse (EDW). Showcasing significant advancements in digital transformation, laboratory management, and data standardization, the latest updates presented during the event further underscored MPH’s dedication to leveraging technology and data to enhance patient care and operational efficiency.

Strengthening Partnerships: Keynote Speech by Hon. Emmanuel Ledesma, Jr.

Hon. Emmanuel Ledesma, Jr., President and CEO of PhilHealth, delivered a keynote address on the evolving role of PhilHealth in the context of Universal Health Care. He emphasized the importance of strong partnerships between the government and private sector in achieving the goals of Universal Health Care. His speech highlighted the critical collaboration between PhilHealth and private healthcare providers like Metro Pacific Health, which is essential for enhancing healthcare delivery across the Philippines.

Sharing Success: Best Practices Sessions

The summit also featured best practices sharing sessions, where leaders from Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and Cardinal Santos Medical Center presented their successful initiatives. Paul Richard Camangian, President and CEO of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, shared insights on achieving better business outcomes, while Raul Pagdanganan, President and CEO of Cardinal Santos Medical Center, discussed improvements in turnaround times. These sessions provided valuable strategies and practical insights that other facilities within the MPH network can adopt to enhance their operations and patient care.

Celebrating Excellence: CEO Awards Night

The summit concluded with a grand CEO Awards Night, celebrating the exceptional contributions of individuals and teams within the MPH Group. Awards were given in categories such as Excellence, Efficiency, and Effectiveness, recognizing those who have demonstrated outstanding performance in healthcare delivery. The awards night was a testament to the hard work and dedication of MPH employees, and it reinforced the organization’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence.

After the event, Dr. Harish Pillai expressed his gratitude to all attendees for their commitment to advancing healthcare in the Philippines. "The MPH CEO Summit is an ongoing testament to our collective dedication to achieving excellence, efficiency, and effectiveness in all that we do. Together, we will continue to lead the way in providing world-class healthcare to our communities," he stated.

The 2024 CEO Summit once again reaffirmed MPH’s unified commitment and position as the leading network of private healthcare facilities in the Philippines, demonstrating its unwavering pursuit of innovation, collaboration, and superior patient care.

For more information about Metro Pacific Health and its initiatives, please visit https://www.metropacifichealth.com/ .

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EastWest Bank’s ESTA Hailed as Mobile Banking and Payment Initiative of the Year at Asian Banking and Finance Awards 2024


EastWest Bank was recently recognized and awarded the Mobile Banking and Payment Initiative of the Year for its innovative EastWest System Tech Assistant (ESTA), which was honored as the Mobile Banking and Payment Initiative of the Year at the Asian Banking and Finance Awards 2024. The award ceremony took place last July 4, 2024 at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Center Singapore, recognizing ESTA for its groundbreaking contributions to the digital banking landscape in the Philippines.

The Asian Banking and Finance Awards remains as Asia Pacific region's most prestigious awards programme for banks and annually recognizes the industry's outstanding players. The Asian Banking & Finance Awards offers a platform for banks, like EastWest, to showcase their innovative solutions, products, services, and deals that have proven to be game-changers in the industry.

Award-Winning Innovation

Since its launch in 2020, ESTA has been redefining the digital banking experience for EastWest Bank’s credit cardholders, marking a significant milestone in the bank’s commitment to technological advancement and customer service excellence. ESTA leverages the widespread use of Facebook Messenger to offer a platform where credit cardholders can effortlessly perform a variety of credit card services, making it the first of its kind in the Philippines.

Key Features of ESTA

Designed to cater to the modern-day banking needs of its users, ESTA provides full-service functionality equivalent to a mobile app or web portal for credit card services, with several enhanced features. Users can access real-time transaction and balance displays, view unbilled, current, and historical transactions, and request limit increases, supplementary cards, and points redemption. Additionally, they can lock and unlock accounts in real-time for security purposes, fulfill installment conversions immediately, and update customer information on the spot. The platform also allows for promotions search and display, submission of customer service support tickets with two-way capability, and querying of EastWest credit card product features and related information through ChatGPT.

As of now, ESTA is the only locally known customer-facing electronic platform with AI capabilities, setting it apart from other industry players. Its exceptional performance is evidenced by a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 60 for credit card servicing and an impressive NPS of 81 for application onboarding.

Outstanding Digital Impact and Adaptability

ESTA consistently generates over PHP 1 billion in credit card installment transactions monthly, with zero fraud incidents, highlighting its high engagement and relevance among EastWest’s credit card client base. The platform’s agility and adaptability are demonstrated by its ability to implement new features rapidly, such as a staff referral program completed within a week upon request.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of digital banking solutions. With Facebook Messenger having a 93% penetration rate in the Philippines, ESTA’s presence on this platform played a crucial role in mitigating the effects of the pandemic on EastWest’s credit card business.

Visionary Leadership at the Awards

Representing EastWest Bank at the awards ceremony were Lawrence Lee, EVP and Consumer Lending Head; Efren Dela Cruz, FVP and Head, Consumer Service Delivery Group; and Anton Gumiran, Senior Manager and Head, Unsecured Systems Department. Their attendance at the prestigious event further cemented the bank’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in digital banking.

“We are incredibly honored to receive the Mobile Banking and Payment Initiative of the Year award for EastWest System Tech Assistant (ESTA). This recognition is proof of our commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions. ESTA has transformed the way our customers interact with their credit card services, providing a seamless and secure digital banking experience. We will continue to enhance ESTA with new features and improvements to meet the evolving needs of our customers and ensure they can bank easily and securely,” said Lee.

Looking Ahead

As it celebrates its 30th year in the industry, EastWest Bank continues to adapt its processes and services for the digital age, with ESTA as a cornerstone of its digital strategy. With ongoing improvements, upgrades, and updates, ESTA will further enhance EastWest’s digital capabilities, ensuring customer satisfaction and continued trust among valued clients.

For more information about EastWest Bank’s digital initiatives and services, please visit EastWest Bank.

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JCI Manila-Ignacio B. Gimenez Awards honors outstanding cops

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

JCI Manila-Ignacio B. Gimenez Awards

JCI Manila, a distinguished leadership development organization in Asia, recently hosted the 5th Ignacio B. Gimenez PNP Awards to recognize exceptional police officers within Metro Manila. These dedicated men and women in uniform showcased remarkable expertise across various fields, including crime prevention, disaster response, and community outreach. 

Nominated by their peers, superiors, and community members, the awardees embody patriotism, integrity, courage, and social responsibility—values closely aligned with those upheld by JCI Manila and the Ignacio B. Gimenez Foundation. 

“Please continue making our country proud, and become the shoulders that future generations of policemen and women look up to and stand on. Your decisions and actions today onwards will hold a stronger meaning as you are now the recipient of the award, more eyes will be on you, people will start looking at you and thinking, ganito pala ang pagiging isang awardee ng Ignacio Gimenez. Your story will forever be in our award history, and I hope you use this platform to effect bigger and better positive change,” said JCI Manila President Charles Matthew “Calel” Gosingtian.

The annual event serves as a platform to celebrate the police’s unwavering commitment to public safety and tireless efforts to protect and serve the community. Through exemplary service, they have become role models and an inspiration to the next generation of law enforcement professionals.

The Ignacio B. Gimenez Awards underscores the importance of recognizing and appreciating law enforcement officers who go above and beyond their call of duty. By honoring their contributions, JCI Manila aims to foster a culture of excellence and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.



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Pru Life UK hosts nationwide events for aspiring financial advisors


Join Pru Life UK's Build Your Business Sessions this July!

In a bid to nurture entrepreneurial talent and drive financial security across the country, leading life insurer Pru Life UK is set to continue its series of Build Your Business (BYB) sessions throughout July. 

Held both in-person and virtually nationwide, these sessions offer budding entrepreneurs valuable insights into building a sustainable and financially stable business in the life insurance industry. 

By holding these sessions, Pru Life UK aims to expand its 38,000-strong agency force, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of securing the lives of more Filipino families. 

Expanding Nationwide Presence

Pru Life UK will host BYB sessions in strategic locations across the country, providing more Filipinos with the opportunity to explore a rewarding career in financial advisory.

This July, BYB sessions will be held in Metro Manila (Makati, Ortigas, QC), South (Alabang, Laguna), North (Baguio, Cavite, Pangasinan), and VisMin (Cebu, Davao). Additionally, virtual sessions are accessible and open to all.

Participants will learn from experienced financial advisors who will share their knowledge and success stories, providing a roadmap for empowered newcomers to follow. The initiative highlights Pru Life UK's commitment to empowering individuals to achieve their professional aspirations while making a positive impact on their communities.

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MMDA-MMFMP Celebrates Independence Day with 'Freedom from Basura' Initiative

Monday, June 24, 2024


The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), through the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP), proudly held its special Independence Day celebration event during the national holiday, themed 'Freedom from Basura.' This initiative was staged to further promote environmental awareness and encourage the community to adopt good waste management practices.

Event highlights for the special day included the following activities:

Freedom (from Basura) Wall: Visitors were invited to write their commitment to a greener and cleaner Philippines on the Freedom Wall. Participants then peeled off a plantable giveaway from the wall and planted it in a seedling pot provided at the booth. This activity symbolized the collective efforts of Filipinos towards achieving environmental sustainability.

Role-Trash Trivia: Participants were given the chance to spin a roulette and answer questions or trivia related to proper waste management practices. The trivia questions were categorized into easy, moderately difficult, and difficult levels, offering a fun and educational experience for all ages. Successful participants received special prizes.

Segre-game Time: This interactive game challenged players to shoot blocks with images of different types of solid waste into the corresponding trash bins labeled for proper segregation. This engaging activity aimed to reinforce the importance of waste segregation and recycling.


Displayed Products from Solid Waste Processing Technologies: The event showcased innovative products produced through various solid waste processing technologies. Attendees had the opportunity to see Eco Bricks made by the Solid Waste Granulator and Brick Making Facility, Cocopots produced by the Cocopot Making Machine and Decorticator, Compost generated by the Biowaste Converter, and Charcoal Briquettes and Lilipots created by the Water Hyacinth Processing Facility. These products highlighted the potential of waste materials to be transformed into valuable resources, emphasizing the importance of sustainable waste management practices.

“This past Independence Day, we celebrated not only our freedom as a nation but also our commitment to freeing our environment from waste. The recent 'Freedom from Basura' initiative reflects our dedication to fostering a culture of responsible waste management and environmental stewardship among our communities. By participating in these kinds of activities, we continue to collectively contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable Metro Manila,” said MMDA-SWMO Head and MMFMP Component 2 Project Director Dir. Josias E. Syquimsiam, Jr.

The MMDA-MMFMP booth was staged at Luneta Park for a whole day during Independence Day, as the public was encouraged to join in all the festivities and participate in the various activities designed to promote environmental consciousness and community engagement. Almost a thousand IEC materials were also distributed to around 500 booth visitors during the event.

For more information about the 'Freedom from Basura' initiative and other future MMDA-MMFMP projects, please visit the MMDA website or follow us on social media.

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ChildFund Philippines celebrates transformative impacts, strengthens partnerships to support more children

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

ChildFund Philippines recently shared its milestones and impacts in supporting Filipino children, youth, and local partners, emphasizing collaborative action as a key driver in safeguarding and supporting Filipino children and youth.

 

ChildFund Philippines recently gathered partners from communities and civil service organizations to share milestones in supporting Filipino children and youth. (L-R: Allan Lee Nuñez, Advocacy and Child Protection Specialist of ChildFund Philippines; Carla Santos, President of The Civil Society Network for Education Reforms; Dr. Ma. Bella Ponferrada, Nutrition Specialist of UNICEF; Dr. Elizabeth Protacio-De Castro, Executive Director of the Psychosocial Support and Children's Rights Resource Center; Francis Joseph Dela Cruz. Partnership Advocacy Adviser of the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities; Anand Vishwakarma, CEO and Country Director of ChildFund Philippines; and Kim Garcia, Business Development Officer of ChildFund Philippines.)



During their event "Connection for Impact," which gathered partners and stakeholders, ChildFund Philippines announced its goal to reach 5 million Filipino children and families by 2026 and every year thereafter. This will be its contribution to ChildFund International's global goal of reaching 100 million children and families by 2030.

The event also featured a panel discussion with children and youth advocate groups from The Civil Society Network for Education Reforms, Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, UNICEF, and Psychosocial Support and Children's Rights Resource Center. These groups emphasized the crucial role of collaboration between various sectors in creating a sustainable future for Filipino children and youth. 

"We aim to scale up our efforts to address the evolving challenges faced by Filipino children and youth," said Anand Vishwakarma, Country Director of ChildFund Philippines. “Together with our partners, we are driven by the urgent need to create broader and more sustainable impacts through collaborative efforts.”

 

During the event held at Marco Polo Ortigas, Anand Vishwakarma, CEO and Country Director of ChildFund Philippines, announced the organization’s goal to reach 5 million Filipino children and families by 2026 and every year thereafter. 

 



In 2023, the organization reached 21 provinces, 35 cities and municipalities, 365 barangays, and in partnership with 11 local partners, supporting a total of 54 million children, youth, and adults. 

ChildFund supports children and youth through various life stages, focusing on education, health, skilling and livelihoods, child protection and participation, and climate action. “From birth to age five, children should be healthy and secure. From six to their teenage years, they need proper education to build personal agency. By young adulthood, they should have developed skills for employment,” said Dong Waña, Program and Sponsorship Director of ChildFund Philippines. 

ChildFund supported 610 learners with disabilities through Project Advancement of Children's Inclusive Education through Virtual Engagement (ACHIEVE) and developed an e-learning platform that improved children's participation. They also established neighborhood play programs in remote communities with limited access to early childhood care and development. Additionally, the youth are supported in making informed decisions about sexual and reproductive health through inclusive services and information. Under its new Job Opportunity Building for Youth (JOB for Youth) program, the organization has so far provided industry and technopreneurship training to 396 youths..

In terms of disaster preparedness, the Children and Youth-led Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (CYDRM) Program aims to engage children and youth in disaster risk management and climate action initiatives. ChildFund also continuously promotes transparency in disaster relief through Project Relief Allocation Management, Distribution and Monitoring (RAMDAM), integrating technology-based interventions and climate-adaptive innovations.

The organization launched #FunOfAKind campaign that encourages people to volunteer their “time, talent, and treasure” to ChildFund’s programs, supporting children and youth. This will allow the organization to: 

● Improve culturally relevant and developmentally appropriate learning experiences for indigenous children in BARMM through an inclusive education program called Bajau Ongka-kumpit for Access and Transition to School (BOAT School), 

● Enhance social and emotional learning for children and promote safe learning environments, 

● Withdraw more children from the worst form of child labor, 

● Engage more youth in leading their own Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) initiatives; and, 

● Rally for wide adoption of the RAMDAM disaster response app by national agencies.


"The challenges faced by Filipino children are complex," said Vishwakarma. "By working together – government, businesses, non-government organizations, and concerned citizens – we can achieve far better outcomes for them."

For more information on how to get involved, visit https://childfund.org.ph/get-involved/.



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vivo partners with UA&P Men's Futsal Team to launch 2024 Inter-Collegiate Futsal League

Tuesday, June 11, 2024


Global smartphone leader, vivo, has proudly partnered with the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) Physical Education (PE) Department and Men's Futsal Varsity Team on June 3, 2024, underscoring its commitment to health, fitness, and community engagement.

As a prestigious partner of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and UEFA Euro 2024, vivo extends its support to the local level by sponsoring UA&P's Inter-Collegiate Futsal Tournament and High 5 Men's Open Tournament.

The upcoming event, named the UA&P - vivo PH Inter-Collegiate Futsal League 2024, will run from August to December 2024.

Futsal or futbol sala, an indoor version of football, continues to grow in popularity, and vivo’s sponsorship aims to further boost its visibility and participation.

The official contract signing ceremony saw UA&P represented by Tournament Director and UA&P Team Manager Angelica Ysabelle Ang, Tournament Chair and PE Department Head Christian Dominguez, and Team Manager Kassandra Benipayo. vivo Philippines was represented by Brand Marketing Department Head Liu Lu. 

In a symbolic gesture of partnership, both organizations exchanged Little V and Uappy the Dragon dolls.

Liu Lu expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We at vivo are thrilled to support the UA&P Men's Futsal Varsity Team. This collaboration is a testament to our dedication to fostering sportsmanship and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this tournament will have on the community."

Several futsal players attended the event, enjoying the opportunity to test out vivo’s latest smartphone models, further highlighting the brand’s innovative and community-oriented approach.

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Ashoka Philippines is looking for innovators creating systems change

Ashoka Philippines

Founded in 1980, Ashoka has created the first and largest professional network that supports leading social entrepreneurs around the world, with nearly 4,000 Ashoka Fellows from 93 countries.

Fellows are best described by the impactful actions that they take whether that means getting the government to pass beneficial laws, creating new ways to conduct businesses, or shifting the mindset of society around a social issue. Most importantly, their efforts are aimed towards the good of everyone, not just their personal interests.

In short, Ashoka Fellows are pragmatic visionaries who create systems change.

Systems change entails long-term and deep impact. One framework envisions achieving it in three ways: 

Scaling Up: changing policy or impacting laws, to change institutional rules
Scaling Out: replicating a particular social innovation in different communities to reach greater numbers of people
Scaling Deep: changing the deeper values, cultural beliefs, meanings and practices of people, and the qualities of their relationships 


In the Philippines, Ashoka Fellows who pioneer systems change come from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds. Initially, many of them didn’t think of their work as systems change, entrepreneurship or innovation. They generally started their work to solve a problem or close a gap that made them angry, worried them, or affected their community in a negative way. There are currently 17 in the Philippines. Here are a few examples: 

Ryan Gersava is the youngest of eleven and spent his childhood in Sultan Kudarat. Despite living in abject poverty, his parents always put great importance on their children’s education and Ryan and his siblings were always at the top of their class. It was during his first year in college that Ryan discovered he was positive for Hepatitis B. Despite graduating with impressive marks, he failed to secure a job due to his diagnosis. 

In 2015, he co-founded Virtualahan with his siblings to make employment accessible to marginalized sectors, including people with disabilities, solo parents, persons deprived of liberty, etc. Virtualahan has created a program to train students on in-demand skills. This is combined with other equally important elements, namely, wellbeing sessions, coaching, and partnering with companies to make their hiring more inclusive. This approach seeks to address the employment issue holistically. Externally, trainees are set up for success as they are better matched with appropriate jobs. At the same time, trainees also experience a deep internal transformation; Virtualahan nurtures their self-confidence and self-worth so that they advocate for themselves. The company also reports a 60% employment rate for over a thousand graduates. 

Tina Liamzon was an activist all throughout her school years. As a young professional, she immersed herself in civil society organizations, especially those from rural areas. In 1990, she eventually moved to Italy where her husband had accepted a position. She met many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Europe and learned of their challenges. Interconnected problems such as difficulty integrating with foreign cultures, the inaccessiblity of financial literacy, and the scarcity of well-paying professional jobs in the Philippines created systems that trapped OFWs in difficult, demeaning, and dangerous jobs.

It was in middle age when she identified the right combination of elements to activate the agency of OFWs. With her husband, she founded ALSE OF-LIFE (Ateneo Overseas Filipinos’ Leadership, Innovation, Financial Literacy, and Social Entrepreneurship) to equip Filipino migrants with skills and mindsets for self-sufficiency. The program has reached 26 countries globally and has 4500 alumni, many of whom give back to society as volunteers.

Bai Rohaniza “Honey” Sumdad-Usman was born into an inter-faith family. Her father is a Maranao Muslim, while her mother is a Christian who converted to Islam. When she was two years old, her family relocated to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and she was seven years old during the outbreak of the Gulf War. She vividly remembers explosions, missiles, and the daily routine of preparing for a possible chemical attack. 

When Honey returned to the Philippines, she heard similar stories from her countrymen and envisioned peace as a way of life for all Filipinos. She recognized the influence the youth have on society and founded the Teach Peace Build Peace Movement (TPBPM). TPBPM teaches children to aspire to be peace advocates through formal and non-formal Peace Education which includes music, arts, games, sports and community service. At the time of its founding, TPBPM was the only peace program in the Philippines for elementary-aged children in both conflict and non-conflict areas. Focusing on a young demographic follows Honey’s belief and experience that prejudice and discrimination are the foundation of conflict and ultimately normalize violent views within children. 

Achieving systems change is beyond challenging. Though it can feel lonely, no one person can reach it alone. Every changemaker in history was successful because they had a support system or dream team to help them out. 

To support pioneers of systems change who have impact at a national or even continental level, Ashoka offers them a lifelong Fellowship since changing systems is a long-term commitment and solutions must evolve with ever-changing problems. Rather than going through the typical application processes of other fellowships, Fellows are scouted, nominated by people like you. 



Do you know of anyone who is solving an important social issue or problem with an eye towards systems-change and could use support? Ashoka would like to learn more about them!



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