Google deepens commitment to help build a Digital Philippines with no-cost AI skilling courses, AI Startups Cloud Program, and new Google Career Certificates

Google deepens commitment to help build a Digital Philippines with no-cost AI skilling courses, AI Startups Cloud Program, and new Google Career Certificates

Monday, October 2, 2023

 

As part of its ongoing commitment to help build a Digital Philippines, Google announced today the availability of no-cost generative AI skills development courses, the Google for AI Startups Cloud Program, and three new Google Career Certificates.

Nurturing skills and supporting startups for the AI economy

To make career paths in generative AI more accessible to individuals, Google Cloud has launched generative AI skills development courses available at no cost under its Cloud Skills Boost Program. This learning path helps people understand a wide range of topics including Introduction to Generative AI, Large Language Models, Responsible AI and more. Filipinos can now seize the opportunity to build and demonstrate their proficiency in in-demand AI skills to prospective employers. 

Google Cloud is also supporting more seed to early stage startups (Series A startups) in the Philippines who use AI as the core technology to develop products or solutions. Through the Google for AI Startups Cloud Program, startups now have the opportunity to access much-needed cloud credits of up to US$350,000 over two years. The program provides access to AI experts, training, resources and networking opportunities. Interested startups may inquire and apply here.

Equipping the Filipino workforce with three new Google Career Certificates 

Google has added three additional courses–Business Intelligence, Advanced Data Analytics, and Cybersecurity–to its Google Career Certificates program. These certificates are professional credentials that help enable people from all backgrounds to earn job-ready skills in high-growth digital fields such as IT Support, UX Design, E-commerce and Digital Marketing.

In 2022, Google announced it will provide 39,000 Google Career Certificate scholarships to help Filipinos from underserved communities acquire digital skills and earn employer-recognized certificates as a way to realize their career ambitions. Today, the company said it has allocated 1,000 new Google Career Certificate scholarships this year. This is in collaboration with several stakeholders including the Department of Information and Communications Technology and partner NGOs. 

The Google Career Certificates program has created a positive impact in the Philippines. There are over 6,000 Certificate graduates now in the country. Over 80% of the graduates have reported positive career outcomes including landing a job, getting a promotion or raise within six months of completion of a Certificate.

Bridging the digital skills gap

A new study also launched today by The Economist Impact, supported by Google, shows that digital upskilling is becoming increasingly important to Filipino employees to be competitive in the workforce. The study reveals that:

● Self-management skills and digital skills are imperative: Self-management skills (68%) such as stress tolerance, resilience and flexibility are the most important for employees, closely followed by digital skills (52%).

● IT Support is the most important digital skill for Filipino employees: Within digital skills, advanced skills such as IT support (65.4%), data analysis and visualization (55.8%) and cybersecurity (59.6%) would be key to supporting growth in the Philippines, and are selected as “must have” capabilities by the employees. Employees in the Philippines prioritize AI and ML (machine learning) skills at higher rates (42%) than the regional average (33%).

● Government plays a vital role to facilitate a conducive skilling ecosystem: By collaborating closely with companies, organizations and communities, the government can help provide more equal access to skilling for example through incentives and supportive policies. 

As per the eConomy 2022 report, the country’s tech sector is projected to grow rapidly with the estimated value of the digital economy reaching US$150B in the next decade. This massive growth will require the right capabilities and diverse skill sets in the labour market. According to the IT-BPM Association of the Philippines, by 2028, the tech industry is expected to generate 1.1M new jobs, of which 150,000 are developer roles that would need to be filled in the next six years. 

“Google is a committed partner of the country in helping build a Digital Philippines. Through our technology, skilling programs, and partnerships, we will continue to help unleash the potential of the digital economy and empower the workforce of the future,” said Bernadette Nacario, Country Director, Google Philippines. 

“Upskilling is so important for realizing career aspirations and improving lives. Programs like the Google Career Certificates and Google’s no-cost AI skilling courses will empower the country's workforce to thrive in the digital economy. We are grateful to Google for its commitment to helping us build a Digital Philippines,” said Jeffrey Ian Dy, Department of Information and Communications Technology Undersecretary for Connectivity, Cybersecurity, and Upskilling.

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PLDT, Smart, ATRIEV empower visually impaired persons with digital training in Negros Oriental

PLDT, Smart, ATRIEV empower visually impaired persons with digital training in Negros Oriental

Friday, September 29, 2023

PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), together with non-profit organization ATRIEV, held a ten-day Android accessibility training in Dumaguete City to upskill twenty visually impaired persons from eleven municipalities in Negros Oriental.

This training seeks to help participants navigate their Android devices independently with the help of a TalkBack screen reader.

“We want to share with them the power of technology and how it can make a difference in their daily lives. Through this initiative, we also intend to provide them with the knowledge they need to establish their own businesses,” said Jaelene Cristel Mina, Master Trainer II at ATRIEV.

ATRIEV is a non-profit organization that capacitates visually impaired persons using technology-enabled assistive programs. This digital training was also conducted by visually challenged members of ATRIEV.

Participants, composed of students, working adults, and small-time business owners, were also equipped with the basics on financial management and technology for business. ATRIEV trained them on how to use digital tools and applications that they can maximize for their daily activities and businesses, such as social media, email services, editing apps, and online word processors, among others.

Kris John Santillan, 32, from Valencia City, has been visually impaired since he was in high school. He can only see with his left eye now, and it is likewise foggy. “It's my first time using my device's screen reader feature, and it has been very helpful. This training has given me a lot more confidence, especially in my job search,” he said.

To provide additional livelihood opportunities, PLDT and Smart briefed participants about online payments and how they can start their own e-loading business. They also learned about the different types of phishing and how they can protect themselves from online scammers.

“This experience has given me a deeper appreciation for technology. It dawned on me that technology should be most accessible to those who have unique circumstances, like the visually impaired, because they deserve to experience the best things life has to offer,” said Armel Malijan, head of Consumer Business Fulfilment for PLDT Negros-Siquijor Division.

The success of Dumaguete City's training program relies heavily on the crucial support from the local government unit, private institutions such as PLDT and Smart, and NGOs such as NORFIL Foundation/Liliane Fonds and Voice Philippines. These collaborative efforts are vital in ensuring the program's effectiveness and its ability to positively impact the community.

The initiative forms part of PLDT and Smart’s Infoteach program, which is aligned with the group’s commitment to help the country achieve UNSDG #10 on reducing inequality by empowering and promoting the social, economic and political inclusion of all, including persons with disabilities. It also helps underscore the PLDT Group's commitment to innovation and digital inclusion, and to assist in the government's key digitalization efforts. The PLDT Group is a founding member of the Digital Infrastructure pillar of the presidential Private Sector Advisory Council or PSAC.

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Bayad seals partnership with Tala, enabling convenient bills payment services

Bayad seals partnership with Tala, enabling convenient bills payment services

CHAMPIONING DIGITAL FINANCIAL INCLUSION: Executives of Bayad and Tala on their partnership signing. Seen in the photo (from L-R) are Tala President and Head of Finance Charisse Alvarez, Tala Chief Business Officer Jori Pearsall, Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer, and Bayad Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer Dennis S. Gatuslao.

Two fintech innovators – CIS Bayad Center, Inc. (Bayad), the country’s pioneer brand in the outsourced payment collection system, and Tala Financing Philippines, Inc. (Tala) - a global leading money app for the underbanked, has officially sealed its partnership, sharing the same goal of elevating the financial experience of Filipinos.

Since 2017, Tala has been providing financial tools that help its customers manage their household expenses and help them navigate opportunities to invest in small businesses. Tala has recently reached one million wallet users on its mobile application since its official launch earlier this year. Through its partnership with Bayad, Tala now enablesMeralco bill payments in its mobile application, while also offering quick and easy ways to pay loans, allowing its customers to settle their bills on time. 

Today, Tala customers can now pay their bills in real time using their credit of up to PHP25,000 all within the Tala app. With its flexible credit terms, customers have the freedom to choose when to repay within 61 days, aligning with their respective income cycles.

Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer shared, “We continue to strengthen our digital footprint by co-creating payment innovations with forward-thinking fintech institutions like Tala. We are one with Tala as we help boost the financial well-being of our kababayans. We are keen on expanding our biller ecosystem as we bring our one-stop bills payment solution in the Tala App. With this, Tala will also soon be able to accept payments for other electric and water utilities, telecommunications, cable, internet, insurance, online shopping, and many others.”

Tala’s Chief Business Officer Jori Pearsall added, “We believe everyone deserves access to financial services, regardless of their background or circumstances. As the Philippines is Tala’s innovation hub, and its largest market in Asia, we view this collaboration with Bayad as part of our ongoing commitment to financial inclusion as we step up to help revive our economy.”

For fintech institutions like Tala that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive channel 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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Protecting Peatlands with Sustainable Swamp Fishing

Protecting Peatlands with Sustainable Swamp Fishing

The worsening impact of climate change is driving the Philippines to prioritize peatland conservation. In May 2023, House Bill 8204 was approved to help improve the sustainable management of peatlands, recognizing their significance as natural climate change solutions. Peatland ecosystems, characterized by the accumulation of decomposed plant materials, permanent waterlogging, and various vegetation, offer nature-based climate mitigation by acting as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing more carbon than they release. 

In the Philippines, there are two major peatlands: Agusan Marsh in Agusan Del Sur and Leyte Sab-a Basin in the island of Leyte. 

However, peatland fires have frequently occurred in recent years, primarily because of drought and deliberate drainage for agricultural purposes such as palm oil, rice, and corn cultivation. Alam Siak Lestari (ASL), a community-owned enterprise in Indonesia dedicated to peatland protection, shared its best practices on how the Philippines can conserve and boost its wetland conservation by swamp fish cultivation. 

Peat Swamp Fish: Guardians of Peatlands

In the Siak regency in Indonesia, 57.44% of the land consists of peatlands. ASL is taking a unique approach to keep the peatlands wet and prevent forest and peatland fires by cultivating snakehead murrel fish (Channa striata), a native peatland species which is locally called as Ikan Gabus in Indonesia or dalag in Filipino. The fish is chosen after the ASL team immersed themselves in the Malay culture and learned its use as a supplement in postpartum recovery due to its exceptionally high albumin levels.

Gun CEO and founder of Alam Siak Lestari, stated that “The peatland fires in Siak were a significant contributor to the hazardous haze in 2015. To address this issue, the government has implemented stricter policies for peatland protection. On the other hand, local communities have been seeking alternative, peat-friendly sources of income. It's from this quest that a business model has emerged, one that not only benefits the community but also preserves the environment."

The program, aptly named "The Healthy Ecosystem Alternative Livelihood (HEAL) Fisheries" led by ASL, supports the development and marketing of local snakehead fish and other native species, generating value-added products such as Albumin, which boosts community incomes. Through Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDES), community members hold shares, providing them with dividends from annual company profits, fostering economic well-being and long-term sustainability.Sukardi, a veteran snakehead fish farmer in Siak, said, “Initially we were unfamiliar with this type of farming, we found it challenging to start, and unaware of the fish's potential. However, with ASL's consistent support and guidance, we now see sustainable and tangible results,both economically and in terms of health and environmental impact." 

ASL's climate mitigation efforts have safeguarded 76,744 hectares of peatland, with plans to involve 10 fire-prone villages in ecosystem initiatives by 2027, introduce 20 peat-friendly products to the Asian market in five years, and engage 500 local youths in climate change mitigation.

The effectiveness of the initiative has brought in support from the local government unit which has led to the creation of Transfer Anggaran Kabupaten Berbasis Ekologi (TAKE) or Ecological Fiscal Transfer program. This program is designed to provide fiscal incentives to village governments in Siak Regency that excel in addressing regional environmental issues. The goal is to accelerate the implementation of the Siak Hijau policy by fostering collaboration between villages and rewarding both government and community achievements. This initiative aligns closely with environmental economic regulations and the Siak Green Regency's roadmap action plan.

Alam Siak Lestari and Siak Regency show how public awareness, local wisdom, policy enforcement, and community empowerment drive progress and address regional and global issues. The Philippines can also explore adopting similar sustainable practices to conserve peatlands, bolstering both local economies and environmental resilience.

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RLC Residences and Robinsons Land win developer awards and more recognition from PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards 2023

RLC Residences and Robinsons Land win developer awards and more recognition from PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards 2023

Property Guru, Asia’s leading real estate award-giving body, recently announced the winners of this year’s Philippines Property Awards in a gala dinner held September 22 at Shangri-la The Fort in Taguig City.

RLC Residences received the Best Lifestyle Developer recognition, while its mother company Robinsons Land got the coveted Developer of the Year citation, along with the Best Developer Visayas award – three of the most prestigious titles given during the night. 

“Thank you, PropertyGuru, for these awards. Speaking on behalf of RLC Residences, we launched the brand in 2021 - smack in the middle of the pandemic. Despite the challenges, the whole team made all the efforts to bring RLC Residences to where it is now and is continuously bringing the idea to life. So to the whole RLC Residences team, thank you for all the hard work and congratulations to us. Looking forward to more years to come,” said RLC Residences Senior Vice President and Business Unit General Manager John Richard Sotelo in his acceptance speech.

Apart from these prestigious titles, RLC Residences’ developments also received awards. Sierra Valley Gardens situated within a destination estate in Cainta, Rizal won the Best Condo Development in Luzon. Woodsville Crest, located at Merville, Paranaque City, received the Best Smart Home Development accolade in recognition of the safety and security technological features found within the development. “This came very timely, as we had just recently launched the third building of Woodsville Crest. So to the team behind Woodsville Crest, congratulations. This makes all the hard work worth it,” mentioned Sotelo.

The Residences at The Westin Manila, an upscale development in Ortigas Center developed in partnership with Marriott International, was hailed the Best Luxury Condo Development in Metro Manila. The property is home to generously sized living spaces outfitted with branded and signature deliverables and four-level amenities anchored on Westin’s Six Pillars of Well-Being. Meanwhile, SYNC – a pre-selling development located along C5 Road in Pasig, City – received a Highly Commended citation under the Best Integrated Work-From-Home Development for its unique features and amenities designed for working professionals. 

“We are truly honored to be recognized along with the best in the country and be one of its representatives in the regional awarding ceremony in Bangkok. We are also equally proud to be part of Robinsons Land and its quest to bring to life world-class real estate developments here in the country. We dedicate this success to all hardworking and passionate members of RLC Residences and our clients who have been inspiring us to deliver beautiful and well-designed homes,” shared Sotelo. 

Now in its 11th year, PropertyGuru Awards recognizes the finest in real estate in Asia and annually celebrates the extraordinary achievements of different developers at a domestic and regional level. 

Learn more about RLC Residences and its award-winning properties across the country by visiting rlcresidences.com or following them on Facebook and Instagram. 

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BayaniChain CEO bags Blockchain Champion Award at Philippine Blockchain Week 2023

BayaniChain CEO bags Blockchain Champion Award at Philippine Blockchain Week 2023

BayaniChain CEO Paul Soliman receives an NFT as trophy for being named Blockchain Champion at the Philippine Blockchain Week Block Awards 2023.

Next-gen tech firm BayaniChain made its presence felt in the much-anticipated Philippine Blockchain Week (PBW) series of events by not only taking the stage to showcase its technology, but also bringing home one of the events’ top recognitions.

Paul Soliman, BayaniChain CEO and co-founder, received the Block Awards 2023 Blockchain Champion Award for his major contributions in advocating the widespread adoption of blockchain technology. In the past few years, Soliman has been passionately and tenaciously promoting the use of digital assets, localized blockchain, and other Next-gen tech in order to solve various real-life challenges and create a future where everyone benefits. 

“When I began researching blockchain in 2015 to 2016, I knew it’s inevitable for us to be able to use blockchain as the alternative of the normal database since it has immutability and verifiability for the truth of whatever you want to store there,” said Soliman.

He was referring to the technology’s inherent qualities and design that make it tamper-proof and secure enough to handle sensitive information and critical contracts.

Soliman is the First Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) for Business Applications & Regional Director in the Philippines. He studied Computer Technology and Robotics Technology and is also the founder, Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Technology Officer of Hacktiv Colab Inc.

Co-presenting New-gen tech

At the PBW, BayaniChain was one of the presenters that demonstrated cutting-edge technology. In particular, it showcased its “R-Wards” app, which aims to transform customer engagement by allowing businesses to benefit from tokenizing digital assets via membership and loyalty programs in the Next-Generation Web ecosystem. Brands and publishers can use this app to avoid bogus coupons and gift cards while providing new experiences for customers.

BayaniChain also launched “BridgePass,” a platform that allows any user to conveniently access the decentralized webspace using familiar web credentials such as a Google or Facebook account. This allows more people to explore the opportunities available in the next-gen web and possibly reap the benefits of early adoption.

Soliman stated that BayaniChain is open to partners in both the public and private sectors who share the same mission of bolstering blockchain technology for enhancing transparency, security, and efficiency as he emphasizes, “We are here to help, and I will commit to that vision and duty.”

Upon receiving his award, Soliman thanked his wife, as well as his family in BayaniChain and Likha, a homegrown non-fungible token (NFT) marketplace. He took home an NFT trophy showing the SariManok, designed by National Artist Abdulmari Imao and his son TOYM Imao.

The Philippine Blockchain Week Block Awards 2023 is an award-giving body that recognizes global thought leaders and pioneers in the blockchain industry. Dr. Donald Patrick Lim, founding president of the Blockchain Council of the Philippines, led the awarding ceremony at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, Newport World Resorts Manila.

The Block Awards 2023 is sponsored by DynaQuest Technology Services. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Coca-Cola PH, partners collect more than 1,000 kgs of waste in coastal cleanup in Tanza, Cavite

Coca-Cola PH, partners collect more than 1,000 kgs of waste in coastal cleanup in Tanza, Cavite

Coca-Cola Philippines, together with Plastic Bank Philippines and Lighthouse Legacy Foundation, led over 200 volunteers to collect debris and marine waste at Julugan Fish Terminal in Tanza, Cavite, on September 16, as part of the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC).

Plastic Bank Philippines, ICC Philippines, Lighthouse Legacy Foundation, and the Don Bosco School of Theology were some of the organizations that joined Coca-Cola Philippines in collecting debris and marine waste during the coastal cleanup.

Employees from the Coca-Cola Philippines system, together with waste collection members of its Ecosystem Impact Program with Plastic Bank Philippines and volunteers from ICC Philippines, Lighthouse Legacy Foundation, the Local Government of Tanza, Philippine Coast Guard Cavite Chapter, and Don Bosco School of Theology collected more than 1,000 kgs of waste to help address coastal waste issues in the area.

Zed Avecilla, President of Lighthouse Legacy Foundation, commended Coca-Cola Philippines for its longstanding commitment to responsible waste management, highlighting the company's "World Without Waste" strategy that was initiated in 2018, well before the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law was enacted in the country.

Avecilla also emphasized the impact of raising awareness on the importance of managing waste to prevent them from getting into Philippine waters- through events like ICC. “What we are achieving through these events is the creation of awareness on responsible waste management and educating Filipinos about the EPR Law. In a way, we are appealing to their emotions to help the environment,” he said.

The ICC is renowned as the world's largest volunteer effort for ocean sanitation, with The Coca-Cola Company serving as a founding member of the Trash Free Seas Alliance since 1995. In partnership with its local bottling partners, the company is engaging employees, consumers, and communities in cleanups, providing resources, grants, and in-kind donations to help remove trash from beaches and waterways.

In the Philippines, Coca-Cola is doing its part to prevent marine debris through community-based initiatives like the Ecosystem Impact Program with Plastic Bank. This initiative helps build collection and recycling systems in communities to prevent plastic bottles from ending up in places where they should not be, while at the same time, empowering workers in the solid waste management sector.

Dhang Tecson, Global Director for Country Operations of Plastic Bank, thanked Coca-Cola Philippines for its annual coastal cleanup activity as well as the company’s invaluable contribution to advancing the circular economy of plastics in the Philippines. “Maganda ‘yung ginagawa ng Coca-Cola kasi hindi lang sa ating mga bahay nasisimulan ‘yung action, kundi pati sa ating komunidad(What Coca-Cola is doing is great because change doesn't just start in our homes but also in our community),” Tecson said.

Coca-Cola bottles can have many lives

Coca-Cola Philippines President Tony del Rosario emphasized that coastal cleanup activity is part of the company’s wider commitment to help tackle plastic waste. “No one wants to see empty packaging end up where it doesn’t belong. Our World Without Waste program is an ambitious global sustainable packaging strategy that aims to help drive a circular economy for our packaging in the Philippines. Together with our partners, we are making progress with still much more to do,” he said. 

Coca-Cola Philippines President Tony del Rosario reaffirms the company’s commitment to help address the plastic waste problem through the World Without Waste global sustainable strategy and the May Ikabobote Pa consumer engagement initiative

The Coca-Cola Company’s World Without Waste global sustainable packaging strategy aims to make 100% of its packaging recyclable globally by 2025, use at least 50% recycled plastic in its packaging by 2030, help collect the equivalent of every can and bottle it sells by 2030, and bring people together to support a healthy, debris-free environment.

In line with this, Coca-Cola Philippines recently introduced new bottles made from 100% recycled PET plastic (rPET) for Coca-Cola Original (190ml and 390ml) and Wilkins Pure (500ml), in addition to Sprite 500ml introduced in 2019. The company also launched "May Ikabobote Pa" a consumer engagement initiative aimed at educating people about the actions they can take around recycling. Currently, Coca-Cola Philippines is expanding its network of over 2,800 recycling drop-off points across the country to make it easier for consumers to return their empty bottles.

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Crypto Expo Dubai 2023: Doric Network Shines as the Best Blockchain Project Winner

Crypto Expo Dubai 2023: Doric Network Shines as the Best Blockchain Project Winner

Monday, September 25, 2023

The recently concluded Crypto Expo Dubai, held on September 20-21, 2023, at the magnificent Festival Arena, Dubai Festival City, proved to be a resounding success, attracting blockchain enthusiasts, industry leaders, and innovators from around the world. Among the highlights of this prestigious event was the prominent presence of Doric Network, a platinum sponsor, and the recipient of the Best Blockchain Project award.

Doric Network's participation in this event underscored its commitment to fostering innovation and excellence within the blockchain space. The company's robust platform, designed to provide a simple, secure, and user-friendly solution for creating tokens, earned them the well-deserved recognition as the Best Blockchain Project at Crypto Expo Dubai 2023.

"Doric Network is proud to have been a part of Crypto Expo Dubai 2023, and we are truly honored to receive the Best Blockchain Project award. This recognition reaffirms our dedication to empowering individuals and businesses in the blockchain ecosystem," according to a team member of Doric Network.

Doric Network's platform is tailored to meet the demands of both novices and seasoned blockchain enthusiasts. Whether you're a first-time token creator or a blockchain expert, Doric provides the tools you need to confidently manage your blockchain assets. The platform's user-friendly interface simplifies the token creation process, ensuring that it is accessible to all.

What sets Doric Network apart is its foundation on its blockchain, employing the PoA (Proof of Authority) consensus algorithm. This architecture enables faster transactions and enhanced scalability within the network, addressing the critical challenges faced by many other blockchain platforms.

At Crypto Expo Dubai 2023, Doric Network showcased the transformative potential of its platform, offering attendees a glimpse into the future of blockchain technology. The company's innovative approach to token creation resonated with event participants and industry experts alike, leading to their recognition as the Best Blockchain Project.

As the blockchain industry continues to evolve, Doric Network remains at the forefront, dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions and contributing to the growth of the global blockchain community. Their success at Crypto Expo Dubai 2023 serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence.

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MaxiLife announces leadership transition

MaxiLife announces leadership transition

A a significant leadership transition is happening over at Maxilifie, the visionary life insurance start up. After a remarkable journey of growth and success under the guidance of Jose Pastor Z. Puno as President and CEO, the reins of leadership have been passed on to Mervin L. Pobre, Ph.D. This transition marks a pivotal moment in MaxiLife's evolution and is a testament to the company's commitment to continuous growth and excellence.

Mr. Puno's legacy is etched in the foundation of MaxiLife's success story. His visionary leadership propelled the company from its inception, guiding it through remarkable milestones that solidified MaxiLife's position to be a prominent force in the insurance landscape, especially within the pivotal Year One. His strategic brilliance, unwavering dedication, and nurturing of a culture steeped in excellence and innovation have left an indelible mark on the organization.

Under Mr. Puno's guidance, MaxiLife achieved extraordinary feats, obtaining approvals for its pioneering Group Life Insurance products and rapidly insuring 350,000 lives within the first five months of commercial operations in 2023. The company's footprint expanded, earning accolades such as the Great Place to Work certification, while forging robust strategic partnerships. His commitment to innovation, paired with a sincere focus on employee well-being and development, has shaped MaxiLife's distinctive culture, destined to inspire for years to come.

Stepping into this leadership role with enthusiasm and expertise is Mr. Mervin L. Pobre, PhD, the newly appointed President and CEO. Mervin is a distinguished business leader with an illustrious career spanning the insurance and banking sectors, both in the Philippines and the US. His most recent role as Chief of Strategy at FWD Insurance underscores his proficiency in steering organizations toward prosperity. Beyond the corporate realm, Mervin has also enriched the academic landscape, educating the next generation at esteemed institutions such as the Asian Institute of Management, Ateneo De Manila University, and De La Salle University.

Mervin's academic prowess, coupled with his strategic acumen, positions him perfectly to lead MaxiLife into the next exciting phase of its growth journey. Armed with a deep understanding of the life insurance industry, he is poised to uphold the company's commitment to excellence, innovation, and core values.

During this transition, MaxiLife remains resolute in its dedication to delivering exceptional service to valued customers, while nurturing a culture of excellence within its ranks. In this new chapter, the company continues to pursue their mission to simplify the insurance journey for Filipinos and protecting their aspirations for lifelong peace of mind.

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