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Everything you need to know about the new insurance product bespoke for music lovers

Friday, March 8, 2024

Aurora Music Festival

In celebration of its 10th year anniversary as the insurer of the next generation, FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) continues its commitment to create innovative products by launching a new protection plan meant to celebrate Filipinos’ passion for music. 

Filipinos are iconic for their passion for music—from celebrating life through singing glass-breaking tunes in the karaoke to selling out local concerts of their favorite artists. In fact, a recent study reported that 38% of Filipinos have attended concerts locally or overseas and is expected to continue this 2024. The music streaming market in the Philippines is also anticipated to achieve a revenue of US$54.32 million this year.

Now available at the FWD Online Shop, The One for Music Lovers is an accessible insurance plan that starts at PhP 330. Itoffers customizable coverage for loss of hearing, loss of speech, paralysis, motor neuron disease, stroke, other major critical illnesses, and accidental death for 18 to 70-year-old Filipinos or legal residents of at least six months, and who are in good health.


Policy holders also get a voucher from the Philippines’ leading tech curator, Digital Walker, so they can celebrate their passion for music now, and thank themselves later.

To launch the new plan, FWD became the official insurer of one of the biggest and most anticipated music festivals this year, the Aurora Music Festival, which is happening on April 6 to 7 at Clark Global City, Pampanga. Through the partnership, The One for Music Lovers policy holders have an exclusive opportunity to upgrade their event tickets for free.

For a limited time only, this means their Silver (Php500), Gold (Php1,000) or SVIP (Php3,000) ticket can be amped up into an Orange Ticket for each tier that also comes with its own perks like:

Access to the Orange Lane. Skip the long lines with a special lane exclusively just for limited-offer Orange Ticket holders.

Early entry. Get on the concert grounds 30 minutes earlier than the rest.

Free FWD merch. Fan out with essential festival merch items from FWD.

More surprise benefits on ground to complete your ultimate Aurora Music Festival experience.

FWD Chief Marketing and Digital Business Officer, Roche Vandenberghe emphasizes there is a protection gap among those in the creative industry, including the artists, composers, and those working behind the scenes.

“Aligned with the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, we want to do our part in nation-building by expanding our Celebrate living series with The One for Music Lovers insurance plan,” said Vandenberghe.

“With our new plan, we’re providing accessible and affordable protection for every Filipino who is a music lover, from the listeners to those who make music their livelihood, supporting the country’s creative economy.” 

The FWD Celebrate living series includes the insurance brand’s innovative protection policies including The One for gamers that is designed specifically to complement the lifestyle of the Filipino gaming community.

Ready to thank yourself later and to enjoy 1Oxperiences at the Aurora Music Festival? Get The One for Music Lovers by visiting shop.fwd.com.ph or contact an FWD financial advisor now.
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Bayad clinches Excellence Awards during the Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman's Report

Friday, March 1, 2024


Bayad clinches Excellence Awards during the Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman's Report, held on February 27, 2024 at PICC Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. 

The awarding ceremony highlights Bayad as Pag-IBIG Fund’s Non-bank Top Collecting Partner, having served the highest contribution on Pag-IBIG Fund’s Employer Electronic Submission of Remittance Schedule (ESRS) for the year 2023.

Now on its 6th consecutive year, Bayad has once again proven its commitment to excellence in enabling institutions to conveniently help its employees settle their Pag-IBIG Fund home loan contributions through Bayad’s multi-channel payment platform.

Today, both individual and group contributions can be settled through a variety of Bayad’s payment touchpoints covering its Bayad Centers, its network of partner establishments such as leading supermarkets, department stores, convenient stores, pawnshops, courier services, banks, and other financial institutions. Adding to these are Bayad’s mobile application - Bayad App and its web application – Bayad Online, catering to a more tech-savvy market.

Bayad President and CEO, Lawrence Y. Ferrer underscored “Our drive for excellence is deeply rooted in our purpose of helping Filipinos elevate their quality of life. We are committed to provide solutions to both individuals and businesses that effectively help make payments more convenient and seamless.” We are one with Pag-IBIG in helping our kababayans to become financially empowered and fulfill their dream of owning a home.”

For government and financial institutions that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive biller network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.
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HONOR Wins 45 Media Awards at MWC 2024


Another feat to celebrate! Global leading tech brand HONOR wins 45 Media Awards from global media at Mobile World Congress 


Global technology brand HONOR debuted its new AI-empowered all-scenario strategy with the announcement of the global launch of HONOR Magic6 Pro and the AI PC HONOR MagicBook Pro 16 at MWC 2024 in Barcelona. With the intent-based UI and cross-OS collaboration, HONOR brings the AI-enabled features like Magic Portal and MagicRing, which are widely recognized by the global media. 

This year at MWC, HONOR received 45 awards from the most followed and trusted global media. For the first time in the global launch of the HONOR Magic6 Pro, the media praised it. Android Headlines awarded the HONOR Magic6 Pro "Best of MWC 2024", saying that "The HONOR Magic6 Pro is a step up compared to its predecessor, and not only does it offer great cameras, but it shines in various other aspects". Android Police said, that “With the Magic 6 Pro, HONOR is significantly stepping up its hardware game, leapfrogging the competition in some key areas.”. The tech media CNET also commented that “The Magic 6 Pro is among the most compelling Android flagships available this year.” Impressed by the great performance of HONOR Magic6 Pro, the well-known fashion media GQ Spain said, “The HONOR's Magic Pro series is HONOR’s most prestigious, pouring the best hardware and software.” 

For the first AI PC in HONOR’s history, the HONOR MagicBook Pro 16 has been showcased for the first time globally, winning global endorsements from global media. Mashable included HONOR MagicBook Pro 16 as their “Best Laptops of MWC 2024”. Android Authority awarded the HONOR MagicBook Pro 16 the "Best of MWC 2024" and commented that "HONOR MagicBook 16 Pro is a powerful laptop designed for the age of AI." Also, Trusted Reviews gave the HONOR MagicBook Pro 16 the "Best in Show" Award, saying that "Features like Smart Picture Search, Smart Document Summary, Text Comprehension, AI Subtitle, and Magic Text hint towards a productive future where AI helps take some of the strain out of daily tasks". 

In terms of cutting-edge design inspiration, as an iconic identity of global and premium, the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR has also been well-recognized by global media. The prestigious industry award "GLOMO Best in Show", which is judged based on the best-of-the-best products on show, was awarded to PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR this year. In the fashion world, global fashion media COSMOPOLITION included this foldable phone into their Editor's tip for London Fashion Week, saying that the "Porsche Design HONOR Magic V2 RSR has been a total game-changer." 

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ICYMI: TechLife Philippines joined the UP Fair Elements 2024

Monday, February 26, 2024

UP Fair Elements 2024

More exciting deals can be grabbed during the upcoming TechLife Payday Sale


TechLife Philippines marked an exciting debut at the UP Fair Elements last February 16, 2024 at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman. It is the tech brand’s first collaboration with the iconic annual event hosted by UP JPIA.

During the event, a lot of awesome TechLife devices were given away to students and visitors alike. An interactive booth was also installed - decked with thrilling games and a charging station where the TechLife Fam were able to recharge their devices while lounging and browsing different TechLife products. 

One of the main highlights of the night was the special onstage segment where TechLife was introduced to the UP Fair crowd with the help of former courtside reporter and UP Diliman alumna, Doreen Suaybaguio, who amplified the audience’s energy. It was a chance for people to get to know TechLife and its goal: to #MakeLifeSimple by providing easy-to-use and reliable tech products that enrich people’s lives. 

UP students were invited onstage to play the Guess The Price game wherein members of the winning team each took home a TechLife prize bundle consisting of a TechLife See-Through Air Fryer, TechLife Portable Steam Iron, and TechLife Wireless Earbuds. 

At the same time, booth visitors had the chance to win more TechLife items plus TechLife TikTok Shop Vouchers by playing the Basket Pong and Wire Game in-booth activities.

Throughout the night, the atmosphere was filled with amazing performances from various OPM acts including Juan Karlos, Gloc-9, and Itchyworms among others. The event culminated at dawn, and all the guests were left feeling exhilarated.

TechLife Payday Sale deals on TikTok

For those who missed out on the freebies and promos during UP Fair Elements, more exciting TechLife deals are available on TechLife’s Official TikTok Shop in time for Payday Sale starting today, February 26-29.

Free shipping, freebies, and TikTok Mega Vouchers of up to P300 OFF are also up for grabs so add to cart now and don’t miss the chance to catch these awesome deals.
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Social media influencers take on challenge to be Creators #ForEveryChild to protect children from online abuse and exploitation


UNICEF Philippines


As the country wraps up this year’s Safer Internet Month, UNICEF Philippines awarded the first-ever annual badge of recognition to digital influencers who accepted the challenge to be Creators #ForEveryChild. They have lent their unique creative platforms and reach to fight for the rights of every child in the country, especially the most vulnerable to online abuse and exploitation.

The Creators #ForEveryChild - AJ Bacar, Anina Rubio, Buji Babiera, Cat Triviño, Ginger Arboleda, Inka Magnaye, Jing Ruiz, Karl Bautista, Raco Ruiz, Reb Atadero, Riyan Portuguez - received the badge and certificates of appreciation during the Safer Internet Convention on Digital Responsibility held by UNICEF today. These influencers’ have contributed to ending online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, including abusive and exploitative materials. This is very timely, as most Philippine children and young people look up – some of them exclusively - to social media influencers for informative content.

This year’s theme calls on everyone to prevent this scrouge and work with Government to step up implementation of Republic Act 11930, otherwise known as the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Material Act, that strengthens the country’s response and protection of children to online predators. According to a UNICEF-ECPAT-Interpol Disrupting Harm study, 20 per cent of children, 12 to 17, reported being victims of this abuse in 2021. Unfortunately, due to stigma, disclosure is disproportionately low - despite various reporting channels. Only 0-4 per cent of victims ever reported, and only 0-3 per cent know how to report to the police or to helplines. 

The convention was attended by close to 100 children and youth who co-developed a Digital Responsibility Programme which aims to increase the capacity and protective behavior of learners and teachers in navigating online and digital platforms. It was organized by the Positive Youth Development Network, the Department of Education and the local government units of Valenzuela City and Angeles City with UNICEF support. 

UNICEF Philippines underscores the importance of adults and children in growing their understanding of their digital responsibility. Safer internet Month is helping build youth, parent and caregiver’s digital literacy or the skills they need to live, learn, and work in a society where information is increasingly channeled through digital technology and social media. Ultimately, the collective effort will maximize the positive experience that children and young people can get from the internet, while preventing all forms of online abuse and exploitation. 

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Bayad Champions Financial Inclusion with Quezon City Local Government

Sunday, February 18, 2024

QC Pangkabuhayan program

Residents of Quezon City together with honorable Mayor Joy Belmonte, and representatives of Meralco and Bayad during the QC Pangkabuhayan program.


Bayad, the pioneer brand in the outsourced payment collection system in the Philippines, together with its parent institution MERALCO, ties up with the local government of Quezon City as it holds its flagship livelihood training program “QC Pangkabuhayan”.

Now on its third year, the said event was held last January 23 to 25, 2024 at Serbisyong Bayan, Batasan Hills, Quezon City and at Quezon City Municipal Hall.

Over 2,400 residents participated in the event and were trained with effective ways in starting a business. Alongside this, Bayad introduces Bayad Asenso, an easy-to-use bills payment and loading business mobile application enabling micro-entrepreneurs to become Bayad Agents in their communities and earn additional income.

Owners of sari-sari stores, eateries, bakeries, laundry shops, water refilling stations, and other small establishments may register as Bayad Agents and become top-of-heart in their neighborhood with the convenience and accessibility they will be able to provide.

Interested Bayad Agent applicants may simply download the Bayad App, register, and upgrade, to have access to the “Business” section and from there follow the simple registration process. The Bayad App is available in the Google Play Store, App Store, and the Huawei App Gallery.

For private or government institutions that are interested to onboard a group of Bayad Agents, you may send an email to qmgonzales@bayad.com or call us at 09989652330.

Bayad provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

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Enercon Asia Unveils Energy Solution Featuring Renewable and Smart Remote Energy Monitoring to Support Carbon Reduction and Reporting

Enercon Asia

Enercon Asia, a leading provider of comprehensive energy and power system integrator solutions, is pleased to announce the expansion of its services in the Philippines and the introduction of an advanced smart energy assessment and monitoring system to address the growing market demand for sustainability innovations.

Amidst the global challenge of achieving energy sustainability, businesses worldwide are increasingly adopting more efficient energy consumption solutions. This trend is especially prominent in the Philippines, where the Philippine Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) recognizes the need for more efficient energy usage.

To meet the urgent demand for advanced energy efficiency solutions, Enercon has introduced its Remote Energy Monitoring System. This IoT-based power monitoring system seamlessly connects to various energy sources, including generators, solar panels, batteries, and the power grid. Additionally, it is equipped with a data-driven tool to prepare businesses for sustainability management and reporting.

Dr. Azhar Othman, Executive Chairman, Enercon Asia, "Our goal is to advance towards a more intelligent and sustainable energy landscape while assisting businesses in navigating the complexities of energy efficiency. We aim to empower businesses to actively monitor their energy consumption, address challenges in establishing carbon reduction goals, and most importantly, achieve a significant reduction in power consumption costs."

In addition to catering to commercial and industrial sectors, Enercon strategically positions itself to support rapidly growing industries such as microgrids and data centers. Projections from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) indicate a fivefold increase in data center capacity by 2029. Enercon's timely launch of the Remote Energy Monitoring System, combined with their proficiency in integrating Data Centre Power system solutions, is well-positioned to support businesses in adapting to the ever-changing landscape of energy consumption efficiency.

“Recognising that power consumption constitutes a significant operating expense for many facilities and building owners, we are committed to helping them better manage their energy usage. Through site verification, measurement, monitoring, and analysis with state-of-the-art smart energy monitoring equipment, our teams ensure that clients have a thorough understanding of their energy consumption patterns, on top of meeting compliance requirements. By incorporating preventive and predictive measurements, our solution furnishes businesses with insights into their energy consumption patterns. Moreover, it facilitates remote monitoring of facilities' energy usage, empowering businesses with enhanced control and efficiency in overseeing their energy resources,” said Roland Lim, CEO of Enercon Asia.

For the past 50 years, Enercon has been specializing in power generation and control, spanning across commercial, industrial, and emerging sectors. Beyond offering energy audits, Enercon extends its services to include asset management, encompassing regular preventive maintenance, upgrading, retrofitting of electrical equipment, and thorough testing, commissioning and training. This holistic approach ensures the sustained longevity and efficiency of power systems. In the Philippines, Enercon is already an ESCO registered company, backed by a team of energy engineers and energy auditors to help companies comply with RA-11285, the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act.
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HONOR PH inks partnership with Philippine Heart Center, aims to raise awareness on Heart Health

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

[L-R] Present at the MOU signing were Ms. Josephine M. Guillermo-Lopez, Deputy Executive Director – Hospital Support Services, Philippine Heart Center; Dr. Joel M. Abanilla, Executive Director, Philippine Heart Center; Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines; and Erwin Ng, Owner of Jump Manila.  


"HONOR Your Heart” is HONOR Philippines Valentine’s Campaign promoting Heart Health

Jump for a cause! HONOR Philippines today announced its partnership with the Philippine Heart Center and Jump Manila in pursuit of raising awareness on Heart Health this love month. 

Dubbed “HONOR Your Heart: A fund-raising jump rope workout for Philippine Heart Center by HONOR Philippines in partnership with Jump Manila” aimed to raise funds for the beneficiaries of the Philippine Heart Center and promote education about heart health through a jump rope workout. 

The event is open to the public and will take place on February 11 at the Ayala Triangle Gardens. Interested joiners can sign up here: https://bit.ly/HONORYourHeartPHC, and the first 100 to sign up will receive an exclusive HONOR X9b 5G x Jump Manila jump rope and a Dri-fit muscle tee! 

“While HONOR X9b 5G champions durability, we, at HONOR, also promote active and holistic healthy lifestyle. This also sets our Valentine’s initiative aims to raise awareness on heart health. ” said HONOR Philippines’ Vice President Stephen Cheng. 

“Schemic heart diseases and heart attacks remain the No. 1 killer not only in the Philippines but in the world and I'm so glad that at this point in time, there are people outside the health institutions that have advocacies of improving the Cardiovascular Healthcare of our fellow men,” said Philippine Heart Center Executive Director Dr. Joel M. Abanilla.
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Bossjob launches new features to provide better job-hunting experience for SEA talents for 2024

remote job markets

The chat-first platform introduces new features to connect users with global and remote job markets

Bossjob, the chat-first career platform revolutionizing professional hiring in Southeast Asia (SEA), is making career opportunities even more within reach for talents as they introduce new features to enable them to access jobs from abroad and remote work opportunities easily.

The hiring platform has officially launched a new feature allowing recruiters from around the world to connect with talent across parts of Asia, including the Philippines. Employers can now post their job openings globally on the Bossjob website by selecting the 'International' option and targeting specific countries where they seek top talent. 

This feature not only facilitates outsourcing and remote team setups but also helps establish employer presence in previously unsupported regions. With the new feature, Bossjob aims to help companies reduce recruitment costs and streamline their cross-border hiring processes.

Bossjob's new feature comes particularly timely in helping employers seize opportunities to attract top talent. It is anticipated that individuals will be reassessing their career paths at the start of 2024. The start of a new year typically serves as a period for introspection and the setting of resolutions, leading many to reevaluate their professional aspirations and strive to begin the year on a positive note. 

Moreover, Bossjob particularly sees the importance of making these job opportunities more accessible to Filipinos. The Philippines Freelance Market 2022 Report suggested many Filipinos thrive as freelancers, benefitting from overseas freelancing opportunities.

Meanwhile, the platform has also launched the remote jobs section, making it easier for talents to scroll around the opportunities that best suit them. Job seekers can easily go to the "Remote Jobs" section of the Bossjob website and check hundreds of remote job positions across various industries, including information technology, customer service, human resources, sales, finance, manufacturing, banking, and healthcare.

Bossjob CEO Anthony Garcia says the company hopes to bring opportunities not only closer but more accessible to more Filipinos.

“With our new international feature and dedicated remote jobs section, we're not just expanding horizons, but we're actively dismantling barriers to global employment and fostering a more inclusive, accessible job market. At Bossjob, we believe that a great career should be accessible to everyone, everywhere, and our latest features are a significant step towards making that belief a reality,” Garcia said.

Preference for remote work among job seekers continues to rise

Starting in Q3 of 2023, Bossjob began supporting hybrid and remote job opportunities, leading to a significant increase in such listings. The number of jobs posted in these categories has since doubled, underscoring a growing trend in the employment market. 

Key industries embracing this trend include Information Technology (IT), sales, and emerging web3 sectors. Remote roles in high demand range from sales representatives and accountants to administrative assistants and business development managers.

The introduction of these flexible work options has led to a substantial increase in job seeker interest. Bossjob reports a sevenfold rise in the number of candidates seeking remote or hybrid work arrangements, with about 32% of its over 3 million active job seekers exploring these options.

The preference for remote work extends across various job categories, with customer service representatives (CSR), entry-level jobs, and IT roles being particularly sought after.

In addition to increased demand, Bossjob's data shows salaries for hybrid work arrangements are equally attractive to those opportunities that require people to work on-site. For instance, remote CSR roles offer an average salary of Php 29,000, compared to the Php 27,000 average pay for on-site positions.

Bossjob's expansion to supporting remote and hybrid work opportunities reflects a broader global trend and demonstrates the platform's commitment to evolving with the changing job market dynamics.

"In a rapidly evolving job market, Bossjob is at the forefront of the shift towards a project-based economy in the Philippines. Our data shows not just a trend but a reflection of a deeper change in work preferences. As we continue to champion this shift, Bossjob remains committed to connecting talent with forward-thinking employers, reshaping the workforce for a more dynamic and adaptable future,” Garcia said.

With a growing presence in Asia, including the Philippines, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, and Hong Kong, Bossjob aims to reach over 30 million users in SEA by 2026. As part of its efforts to expand its global market, it has started offering free services this year.


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Listerine #FightMouthAging Campaign Wins for Health & Wellness at the 59th Anvil Awards

(L-R: Yoly Crisanto, adviser, Public Relations Society of the Philippines; Nyko Rodriguez, associate business director, Pulse Communications; Ina Chan, account director, Pulse Communications; Miggy Gamboa, marketing manager for Oral Care, Kenvue Philippines; Kate Lu, account manager, Pulse Communications; Crismer Tiria, associate marketing director for Oral & Self-Care, Kenvue Philippines)


Listerine Team, together with Pulse Communications, received the Silver Anvil Award for its #FightMouthAging Campaign

Listerine has emerged victorious at the 59th Anvil Awards, securing the prestigious Silver Anvil in the Health & Wellness category for its #FightMouthAging PR Campaign.

The Health & Wellness category recognizes the most effective programs that promote health and overall wellness through public relations. The winning Listerine campaign’s results were the result of strategic partnerships, engaging KOL content, and outreach efforts that resonated with audiences across various demographics. From informative social media campaigns to interactive community events, Listerine's initiatives effectively communicated the importance of oral care in maintaining overall health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 46% of Filipinos already have gum disease by the age of 30, and if not addressed, this may eventually lead to tooth loss. Most Pinoys are led to believe that tooth loss is a normal part of aging, but Listerine’s #FightMouthAging campaign debunks that myth. The campaign educates Filipinos that having a healthy mouth, even as you age, is indeed possible with the right oral health regimen of brushing, flossing, and using Listerine to protect oneself from plaque, cavities, and gum problems—key indicators of a deteriorating mouth.

(L-R: Alvin Adizon, management trainee for Oral Care, Kenvue Philippines; Maris Rada, brand manager for Oral Care, Kenvue Philippines; Ina Chan, account director, Pulse Communications; Miggy Gamboa, marketing manager for Oral Care, Kenvue Philippines; Kate Lu, account manager, Pulse Communications; Crismer Tiria, associate marketing director for Oral & Self-Care, Kenvue Philippines; Nyko Rodriguez, associate business director, Pulse Communications)


"We are thrilled and honored to have been recognized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines for our Listerine #FightMouthAging Campaign. We hope to inspire and educate more Pinoys on the transformative impact of good oral hygiene. Having healthy smiles that last a lifetime is indeed possible with the proper regimen of brushing, flossing, and using Listerine daily”, said Miggy Gamboa, marketing manager for Oral Care, Kenvue Philippines.

The 59th Anvil Awards, held annually by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines, recognizes outstanding Public Relations Campaigns and Tools from across the industry.

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JCI Manila takes Pasay City to new heights with first ever skateboarding park

Pasay City Skateboarding Park

 
JCI Manila and Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano team up to initiate the construction of Pasay city's inaugural skateboarding park.

Skateboarding has gained significant popularity in the Philippines, with an increasing number of young enthusiasts seen practicing in parks and the streets of Metro Manila. Despite being a popular activity, skateboarders have a significant hurdle due to a lack of designated skateparks and pedestrian-friendly streets.

In pursuit of its goal to empower young individuals and foster positive change, JCI Manila, a prominent leadership development group in Asia, has joined forces with the local government of Pasay City and One Manila Organization to spearheaded the groundbreaking event for the city’s first ever skate park at Barangay 143 Linear Ecopark.

The inspiration for the initiative stemmed from the gold-medal victory of Filipino skateboarder Margielyn Didal at the 2019 South East Asian Games and her subsequent qualification for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. The skate park is intended to provide a safe and dedicated space for skaters to practice, develop, and improve their skateboarding skills.

“2023 marked the beginning of our sport campaign, centered on the development of skate parks and promoting skateboarding in the Philippines. The support of both Pasay City LGU and One Manila Organization for this mission is truly appreciated. It highlights the positive outcomes that can be achieved when diverse groups and individuals work together as a cohesive unit towards a common objective,” said Charles ‘Calel’ Gosingtian, 2024 President of JCI Manila.

This initiative not only aims to produce more local skaters who may one day represent the Philippines on a global stage but also promotes a healthy lifestyle and encourages community involvement, inclusivity, and talent development.

Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, who attended the ceremony, stated that her administration will continue to promote sports initiatives. “The LGU of Pasay City collaborated with JCI Manila and One Manila to determine the best location to establish a skate park, and we proposed the Linear Ecopark. This area was formerly filled with garbage and illegal settlers, but soon enough, it will become a safe space for young people who enjoy skateboarding,” she said.

JCI Manila is now looking to expand this project to other areas in the metro such as Manila City and Paranaque City. The Pasay City skate park is slated to begin construction on February 1, with a target completion of two months.

Ten Outstanding Guro Awards 2024

After the groundbreaking event, JCI Manila also launched its “Ten Outstanding Guro Awards” (TOGA) 2024 project. The TOGA, now in its third year, is JCI Manila’s flagship program that honors the devotion and enthusiasm of teachers who have dedicated their life to students’ enrichment and holistic learning. 

JCI’s project chairman Vjohn Dizon says the main objectives of the initiative are to train 4,000 teachers nationwide in personal development programs such as financial literacy, motivational productivity, and health and wellness, as well as to recognize the top 10 teachers who made a difference in their communities.

To be eligible for participation in the initiative, teachers must meet three fundamental prerequisites. First, the teachers must have at least three years of teaching experience. Second, they must hold a teaching license. Finally, they must get 360-degree testimonials from their fellow teachers, families, and students. 

“JCI Manila’s primary goal of promoting active civic leadership is exemplified through their emphasis on the TOGA and accompanying teacher training programs. By acknowledging and empowering educators, JCI Manila cultivates a community dedicated to excellence and education,” said Dizon.

JCI Manila is a group of young professionals, businessmen, and entrepreneurs dedicated to socio-civic activities. This year, JCI Manila welcomed the Board of Directors for 2024, led by President Charles ‘Calel’ Gosingtian, in its 76th Induction & Turnover Ceremonies held at the Conrad Manila, Pasay City.

Established in 1947, JCI Manila is the oldest leadership development institution in the Philippines and Asia. Its mission is to build leadership abilities in its members and create positive change in the community.
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Jollibee Celebrates Prestigious Anvil Awards Victories

Thursday, February 1, 2024



Jollibee, the Philippines' largest and most beloved fast-food chain, is thrilled to announce its triumphant wins at the prestigious Anvil Awards.

Presented annually by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), the ANVIL is the symbol of Excellence in Public Relations. It is awarded to outstanding public relations programs, tools and now, practitioners after careful screening by select PR professionals and judging by a distinguished multi-sectoral jury.

The brand shined brightly with its accolades in several categories, including a Grand Anvil Nomination, underscoring its commitment to innovative and impactful campaigns.

Anvil Awards Achievements

Jollibee's outstanding entries were recognized in the following categories:

Title of Entry: Jollibee’s "Sarap ng Pasko"
Category: PR Programs – Marketing and Brand Communication
Anvil Award: Gold

Title of Entry: Jollibee’s “Sarap ng Pasko”
Category: PR Programs – Best Use of Digital
Anvil Award: Silver 

Title of Entry: Jollibee’s Christmas Drive-Thru Experience
Category: PR Programs – Marketing and Brand Communication
Anvil Award: Silver 

Title of Entry: Jollibee Chicken Sandwich 2023 Campaign featuring Belle Mariano and Donny Pangilinan
Category: PR Programs – Best Use of Influencer Marketing
Anvil Award: Silver 

Title of Entry: My Kwentong Jollibee Mother’s Day: Louder than Words
Category: PR Programs – Best Use of Social Media
Anvil Award: Silver

Dorothy Dee Ching, Jollibee's Head of Marketing, expressed her delight and gratitude for the wins, "These awards are a testament to our Marketing team's creativity and commitment to excellence, and the collaborative efforts with our partner agencies Ripple8 and Stratworks, which produced these amazing campaigns. After a 3-year hiatus from joining industry awards, we’re glad and thankful to be recognized once again for bringing joy and meaningful experiences to our customers through these campaigns."

About the Award-Winning Campaigns

Jollibee’s award-winning campaigns, such as "Sarap ng Pasko" and the Christmas Drive-Thru Experience, were centered around the joy of Filipino Christmas traditions and the spirit of giving. 

Launched for the 2022 holidays, Jollibee's "Sarap ng Pasko" campaign aimed to rekindle the joy of a Filipino Christmas following two years of pandemic-subdued celebrations. The integrated marketing communications plan was kicked off by a holiday-themed video commercial featuring the megabrand’s all-time favorites Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti, and Burger Steak and exciting new products.

A special feature of the campaign entailed transforming one store’s Drive-Thru into a magical spectacle via Christmas lights and décor, adding to the festive experience. Finally, a special delivery promo also allowed customers to share in the holiday gift-giving spirit by donating group meals to underprivileged families. The campaign performed well, helping Jollibee reach top of mind awareness and delivered growth sales targets to cap the year on a high note.

In the winning Jollibee Chicken Sandwich campaign, the brand demonstrated expertise in influencer marketing, maximizing brand endorsers Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, also known as DonBelle, and their respective followings to create buzz, awareness, and hype for the product.

The brand also revamped its award-winning Kwentong Jollibee films, introducing #MyKwentongJollibee – featuring real stories told by the real people behind the stories. It empowered people to tell their own Jollibee story in their own words. Its Mother’s Day film, Louder than Words, narrates a heart-warming tale of a mother’s love and sacrifice for her son who was diagnosed with Autism. Viewers will see how their shared love for Jollibee enables them to connect and bond better, and also witness the sacrifices she has done to support her son’s development. The film has garnered 20M plus views to date.

All these campaigns demonstrated Jollibee's innovative approach to marketing, blending emotional storytelling with effective PR and digital strategies, thus earning various recognitions in the 59th Anvil Awards.
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MakatiMed broadens horizons through partnership with Asan Medical Center, South Korea

Tuesday, January 9, 2024


Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Asan Medical Center in Seoul, South Korea, in November of last year.

This collaborative initiative involves an Observership Program tailored for MakatiMed's esteemed hepatologists, hepatobiliary surgeons, anesthesiologists, critical care physicians, and nurses at the renowned Asan Medical Center. The primary objective of this program is to enhance the competencies of MakatiMed’s medical professionals in preparation for the institution's upcoming liver transplantation program.

Representing for Asan Medical Center is its President, Seung-Il Park, MD, and Saturnino P. Javier, MD, Medical Director and Interim Co-CEO/President for MakatiMed. MakatiMed was further represented by Mr. Arnold C. Ocampo, Senior Vice President for Finance and Interim Co-CEO/President of, and Catherine S.C. Teh, MD, Section Chief of Hepatobiliary Surgery.

The Observership and Mentoring Program established through this MOU symbolizes MakatiMed’s commitment to continuous learning, skills enhancement, and excellence in medical practice. This alliance is poised to foster a vibrant exchange of ideas and methodologies, ultimately benefiting patient care and medical advancements in the field of hepatology.

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.
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Bayad Strengthens E-commerce Foothold through Expanded Partnership with Pisopay.com


In a strategic move to fortify its position as the premier brand in the outsourced payment collection system in the Philippines, Bayad has intensified its collaboration with Pisopay.com Inc., a leading cloud-based financial application provider. This partnership aims to redefine the landscape of the e-commerce industry by leveraging Pisopay.com's cutting-edge remittance and bills payment services.

Under the enhanced partnership, Pisopay.com will seamlessly integrate its biller brands with Bayad. This integration empowers Bayad's extensive network of physical and digital touchpoints to accept payments for a diverse range of services, including government institutions like the Bureau of Quarantine, LTFRB, and selected LGUs nationwide. Moreover, academic institutions such as the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, National Maritime Polytechnic, Baliwag Maritime Academy, and Scuola Maria in Batangas, as well as notable e-commerce businesses like Palengke.PH, are now part of the comprehensive payment ecosystem.

Bayad President and CEO, Lawrence Y. Ferrer, emphasizes the company's commitment to prioritizing security and convenience in payment collection services. He highlights ongoing efforts to maximize cybersecurity measures and upgrade real-time posting features for enhanced end-to-end transaction processing. Ferrer envisions an elevated payment experience for Filipinos from all walks of life through this partnership with Pisopay.

Pisopay.com's Chairman, Jae Jung Jang, echoes this sentiment, positioning Pisopay as a worry-free financial partner. By powering businesses with fast, secure payments, collection, and remittances, Pisopay.com simplifies complex finances through trusted technology. Jang assures clients that with the collaboration with Bayad, they can expect double security and an expanded nationwide reach, especially in communities that are unbanked.

Jang emphasizes that Pisopay.com respects the value of hard work and assures clients that their transactions will be treated with the utmost care. Through the Bayad partnership, Pisopay.com seeks to provide a seamless service, transcending geographical and financial barriers, ensuring convenience wherever and whenever it is needed.

For fintech institutions interested in joining Bayad's extensive bills payment collection network, Pisopay.com extends an invitation to contact them at partnerships@bayad.com. This collaboration empowers partners to achieve a nationwide presence and offers end-to-end support services, ensuring efficient payment and collection processing.

The strengthened partnership between Bayad and Pisopay.com marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the outsourced payment collection system in the Philippines. With a shared commitment to security, convenience, and nationwide accessibility, this collaboration is set to redefine the e-commerce landscape, providing a seamless and worry-free financial experience for Filipinos across the country.
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Kyndryl and BPI Mark a Decade of Successful Collaboration and Strategic Partnership

Sunday, January 7, 2024


Kyndryl (NYSE: KD), the world's largest IT infrastructure services provider, and the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), a distinguished financial services leader in the Philippines, joyously celebrate the remarkable 10th anniversary of their collaborative journey in shaping BPI's technological landscape. This enduring partnership has played a pivotal role in fortifying BPI's IT governance framework, paving the way for a decade of transformative advancements.

Over the past ten years, BPI has witnessed substantial progress in key areas such as Data Center Operations, Server and Storage Management, IT Service Desk, Security Management, and Asset Management. The strategic collaboration with Kyndryl has enabled BPI to refine standard procedures and deploy cutting-edge tools throughout its organization. These enhancements have positioned BPI as a technological frontrunner in the financial industry, strengthening its commitment to excellence.

With a network spanning 752 branches across the Philippines, BPI has leveraged its partnership with Kyndryl to nurture technical talent and embrace advanced technology solutions. This collaborative effort is at the forefront of BPI's ongoing digital transformation journey, aiming to create a seamless customer experience. The bank's dedication to innovation is encapsulated by Alex Seminiano, BPI Chief Technology Officer, who affirms, "We continue to innovate banking products and platforms, contributing to building a better Philippines – one family, one community at a time."

Kyndryl, demonstrating its commitment to the Philippines, is actively investing in local delivery capabilities. The company pledges to support organizations like BPI, both locally and internationally, as they embark on modernization, digital transformation, and operational resiliency initiatives. With a focus on education, skill advancement, and experience, Kyndryl is collaborating with BPI to empower the local workforce in areas such as automation, cloud services, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

Alex Seminiano emphasizes, "Our continued collaboration with Kyndryl underscores our shared commitment to digital transformation." BPI and Kyndryl are aligned in their dedication to enhancing customer experience, ensuring robust data management, and protecting sensitive information. Together, they contribute to the growth of the Philippines' digital competitiveness.

Wilson Go, Managing Director of Kyndryl Philippines, expresses gratitude for being BPI's strategic technology partner and highlights the commitment to supporting BPI's evolution into a digitally empowered future. Kyndryl looks forward to contributing to the growth of a community of skilled technical experts in collaboration with BPI, particularly in emerging fields such as automation and cloud modernization services.

As Kyndryl and BPI mark a decade of fruitful collaboration, the partnership stands as a beacon of innovation and mutual growth. Their joint efforts not only contribute to BPI's technological excellence but also play a pivotal role in shaping the future landscape of the Philippines' digital economy. Together, Kyndryl and BPI embark on the next phase of their partnership, propelling both organizations into an era of continued success and technological advancement.
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Bayad Strengthens Financial Security for Filipinos through Strategic Partnership with Sun Life Grepa

Friday, January 5, 2024


In a groundbreaking move that aims to enhance the financial security of Filipinos, Bayad, the leading brand in the outsourced payment collection system in the Philippines, has officially sealed its partnership with Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa). This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Bayad's mission to elevate the quality of life for its users by providing seamless access to essential financial services. One of the key outcomes of this partnership is the integration of insurance plans into Bayad's mobile application, Bayad App, allowing subscribers to conveniently manage and secure their financial future.

As part of the intensified collaboration between Bayad and Sun Life Grepa, the Bayad App will now serve as a comprehensive platform for a variety of insurance plans. Subscribers can not only use the app for the seamless acceptance of monthly payments for insurance premiums but also explore and purchase different insurance products directly through the application. This strategic move reflects Bayad's commitment to offering a holistic range of financial solutions to its users.

Lawrence Y. Ferrer, the President and CEO of Bayad, expressed the company's unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Filipinos. He highlighted Bayad's pivotal role in helping individuals safeguard their physical and financial well-being. Ferrer emphasized the increasing need for security in various aspects of life, such as unexpected accidents, hospitalization costs, and retirement financial plans. The collaboration with Sun Life Grepa aligns seamlessly with Bayad's vision of providing worry-free insurance payment solutions and expanding its digital payment offerings.

Sun Life Grepa President, Richard Lim, echoed the sentiments of the partnership, emphasizing the company's dedication to brightening the lives of Filipinos through comprehensive life insurance products. Lim highlighted the alignment of Bayad's extensive network and expertise in payment solutions with Sun Life Grepa's commitment to financial inclusion and security. The partnership not only aims to provide an outstanding client experience but also reinforces the shared goal of reaching more Filipinos with essential financial services.

For fintech institutions interested in joining Bayad's extensive biller network, the company offers opportunities for nationwide presence and end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing. Financial institutions, including Sun Life Grepa Financial, can explore these possibilities by reaching out to partnerships@bayad.com.

The collaboration between Bayad and Sun Life Grepa represents a significant step towards enhancing financial security and inclusion in the Philippines. By leveraging technology and expertise, these two industry leaders are poised to offer innovative solutions that empower individuals and families to secure their future. Visit www.sunlifegrepa.com to learn more about the products and services offered by Sun Life Grepa.
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An Open Letter from realme’s Founder and CEO, Sky Li: Let’s Make it real.

Tuesday, January 2, 2024


realme’s Founder and CEO, Sky Li, issued an open letter at the beginning of 2024, announcing that 2024 will be the year of rebranding for realme. The open letter has clarified realme’s new mission, brand positioning, and spirit. Sky Li says realme will shift its brand outlook from being a brand that is “opportunity-oriented” to being a brand that is “brand-oriented,” and this will be the foundation of its strategic development moving forward. 

A tech brand that better understands young users. 

realme was founded in the fiercely competitive smartphone market and quickly established its position with a differentiation development strategy: bring better technologies and designs to young users around the world. In the past five years, realme gained deep insights into the young generations and continues to provide products with leap-forward performance and design to over 200 million users around the world.

At the beginning of the next five years, based on its deep understanding of young users and guiding the company’s development, realme moved its brand position from a trendy-based strategy to a more open and wide-reaching one, to be A tech brand that better understands young users. Sky Li said, “The focus of our new positioning is not so much a redirection as it is an opening up. This will guide our long-term investment and development which will help us better connect with more young users, in more markets, and more regions of the world.” 

With its 5-year brand assets and young users’ recognition, realme aims higher in its standard. realme focuses more on the brand experience and product experience than before with the goal of exceeding young users’ expectations, beginning with starting from the impossible and raising the standard to make it possible. Therefore, realme revised its mission to more concisely capture its aspirations for future development: To let young users around the world enjoy tech experiences that exceed expectations. Staying true to its original intention, realme will be moving forward with greater focus and ambition, ready to explore new possibilities and make breakthroughs to reach its aspirations.

From “opportunity-oriented” to “brand-oriented”.

realme always puts young people at the core and adheres to the user-centric to drive its competitiveness in three areas: product strength, technological strength, and brand strength. This will guide realme to achieve long-term and high-quality growth. 

To bring breakthroughs in product strength, realme continues to adhere to its “Simply Better” and “No Leap, No Launch” strategies while clarifying the positioning of its three product lines: the GT Series positioned as Next-level Performance Flagship, Number Series positioned as Next-gen Imaging, and C Series positioned as Essential Plus.

Besides, realme will focus on improving the product experience in the three areas of performance, photography, and design, collaborating with more than 30 leading tech partners while investing more heavily in research and development. This will enable realme to bring the latest advances in technology directly to its young users.

On brand strength, realme remains focused on the young generation and will optimize the customer insight mechanism to be more adaptive and responsive in its approach. Sky Li said, realme will be able to directly implement new user insights into its brand and product development, even while in the middle of projects, making for a brand experience that feels more fluid, dynamic, and three-dimensional. 

While focusing on product strength, technological strength, and brand strength, as the core competitiveness, it enables realme to bring the latest advances in technology directly to young users, taking its positioning as a tech brand that better understands young users from an idea into reality.

Moreover, realme puts forward a new slogan: Make it real. The new slogan retains the spirit of realme’s Dare to Leap while focusing more on young users, and bringing real, clear, and tangible benefits to their lives. At the beginning of its next 5 years, realme will stay true to its original intention, growing up with young people to be a tech brand that better understands young users and satisfies their spiritual pursuits and emotional values to make it real.
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Beating the holiday rush: Here’s how 3 business owners winged it this season with these “delivery hacks”

Sunday, December 17, 2023

Christmas is upon us, and you know what that means: traffic, crowded malls, with everyone rushing to buy gifts and prepare for parties. For business owners, this season is great news, but the heightened demand for products and services can be a double-edged sword.

But three business owners are ready to face the holiday rush. Here’s how Aguirre Office Furniture, Bloomingails.ph, and Etiquetta PH are powering through this season:

Aguirre Office Furniture

The orders and inquiries started pouring in as early as October for Aguirre Office Furniture, a national provider of office furniture, services, and office solutions. 

According to their Chief Financial Officer Ken Arocena, the holiday season has given them a 50 percent increase in orders.

However, Arocena shared that their operations require additional resources to manage the increased demand. “Given this, we have to deal with potential shipping delays and managing customer expectations,” he added.

The solution, according to Arocena: Lalamove. He remarked that Lalamove’s wide array of services, especially affordable rates, helped Aguirre Office Furniture keep up and deliver what they promise to their clients, which is the ease of how they do business.

Arocen also noted that their “secret hack” is using Lalamove’s multiple booking feature. He explained, “It’s how we minimize logistics costs and send our orders to multiple locations in one go.”

Bloomingails.ph

For Bloomingails.ph, one of the most trusted flower shops in Manila, the demand is quite high, especially for their fresh mini pine trees, wreaths, and Christmas centerpieces. According to their Chief Executive Officer Abigail Ang-Santander, their event styling business is very robust as well, as this season is a time for a lot of celebrations.

Since part of their business is making sure every special occasion is perfect for their clients, the Bloomingail.ph CEO explains, “We prepare and send out orders very early or after rush hour if the client is amenable to accepting late deliveries. But we make sure we’re on top of our inventory and don’t have to do lots of rush orders for suppliers.”

This peak season, Abigail also heavily relies on Lalamove. She remarked, “With Lalamove, I can book multiple drops and multiple vehicles, especially for our time-sensitive products to reach our clients on time.”

When asked about her favorite feature of the on-demand delivery app, she shared, “We can always rely on trusted partner drivers. This is crucial because we always need to make sure the items are carefully delivered, plus the partner drivers are courteous not only to us but to the recipients – our clients – especially, despite being stuck in traffic the whole day.”

Etiquetta PH

Every year, Etiquetta PH, a souvenir shop, always urges its customers to book in advance to beat the holiday season. “We offer early bird promos as early as August, as well as scheduled pickups of set date of releasing orders, so by the third week of November, we’re already dispatching the items,” shared Etiquetta PH Chief Executive Officer Ria San Juan-Gumaru.

This mompreneur explained that this is their process in anticipation of the major challenges for their business. These include logistics issues, whether it’s delays in the delivery of raw materials or shipping of orders to their customers due to the heavy traffic.

When the peak season ushers in paired with increased demand for logistics, Lalamove always comes to the rescue for Etiquetta PH. According to Ria, “Lalamove’s user-friendly app makes booking seamless and efficient. It’s easy to schedule deliveries, and you don’t have to fill in a ton of information.”

Her favorite, though, proven to help with their business, is Lalamove’s vast fleet of delivery vehicles. “I can choose the most suitable option according to my needs. This flexibility ensures we can adapt to the ever-changing demands of the peak season,” she adds.

“Supporting the needs of the micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) is always a priority for Lalamove, especially during this time of year. Our platform is here to make the holiday season easier for our business owners, one delivery at a time,” remarked Lalamove Philippines Managing Director Djon Nacario.

No need to worry about the high demand during the holiday season. Learn from these business owners and go for their logistics tactics with Lalamove, your trusted delivery partner in Luzon and Cebu.


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UnionBank and Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Join Forces to Empower SMEs with Innovative Solutions

Sunday, December 10, 2023


In a significant move towards fostering innovation and providing cutting-edge business solutions, Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank), recently recognized as AsiaMoney’s 2023 Best Bank for SMEs, has solidified a strategic partnership with the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) in the Philippines. This collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing ceremony on October 26 at UnionBank Plaza in Pasig City, marks a pivotal step in Tech Up initiatives for businesses.

Through this dynamic collaboration, UnionBank is set to deliver tailored solutions designed to meet the entrepreneurial needs of EO members and their life partners. Key components of the program include the issuance of a UnionBank Platinum MasterCard to eligible EO members and the introduction of an affinity program through the UnionBank GlobalLinker platform. This platform will enable EO members to seamlessly connect digitally and extend exclusive discounts and offers to their fellow entrepreneurs within the EO network.

EO members can expect not only financial perks but also opportunities for knowledge exchange. UnionBank's participation in EO learning events and programs will enable members to gain insights into the latest trends and innovations in the financial sector. Moreover, EO members may serve as mentors and speakers at UnionBank events, providing a platform to share their entrepreneurial expertise and best practices.

The MOA signing ceremony was attended by distinguished representatives from both organizations, including EO Philippines President Benjamin So, Strategic Alliance Partner Heads Jun Lao and Lawrence Cobankiat, and from UnionBank, Head of Transaction Banking Center Mon Duarte, and Head of Institutional Segment Marketing Dino Velasco. The presence of these key figures underscores the significance and commitment of both UnionBank and EO to the success of this partnership.

EO Philippines President Benjamin So expressed enthusiasm for the alignment of values between UnionBank and EO, emphasizing that the proposed solutions are relevant and directly beneficial to their members and the broader entrepreneurial community. Jun Lao, Strategic Alliance Partner Head, highlighted the match-up as a synergy aimed at nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit and simplifying business processes.

Mon Duarte, Head of Transaction Banking Center at UnionBank, shared his optimism about the alliance, envisioning it not only as a catalyst for business growth but also as a source of fresh ideas for both entities. The collaborative relationship is poised not only to enhance banking experiences for EO members but also to stimulate innovation and efficiency in their business operations.

The partnership between UnionBank and EO signifies a shared commitment to foster entrepreneurship, drive innovation, and simplify financial transactions for SMEs. With a focus on delivering tangible benefits to EO members, this collaboration is set to create a positive impact on the Philippine business landscape.
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