Rex Education and Partners Celebrate Outstanding LGUs in the 2nd Gawad Edukampyon for Local Governance Awards

Rex Education and Partners Celebrate Outstanding LGUs in the 2nd Gawad Edukampyon for Local Governance Awards

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

For the second consecutive year, the Gawad Edukampyon for Local Governance recognizes local government units (LGUs) and their leaders for their remarkable initiatives and extraordinary efforts whose outcomes benefit their communities and help change lives.

This gathering was organized by Rex Education, in collaboration with esteemed partners, including the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Council, and Center for Local Governance and Professional Development, Inc. (CLGPD). The ceremony was a celebration and heartfelt tribute to the integrity, respect and professionalism, unity of purpose, excellence, and resilience of LGUs and local chief executives (LCEs). 

Championing Education: LGUs and LCEs Making a Difference

LGUs and LCEs have integral roles in nurturing their communities, from delivering basic services to going beyond—unfazed by challenges and taking solid action, they contribute to providing quality education and nation-building. As education duty-bearers and public servants, they are resolute champions. Their examples and stories inspire.

Through the Gawad Edukampyon, Rex Education recognizes not only ideals but also celebrates actual results. REX honors all the dedicated LGUs and LCEs—education duty-bearers improving the lives of fellow Filipinos in the communities they serve. 

The 2nd Gawad Edukampyon is also a platform to share their stories, inspire others, and cultivate collaboration among LGUs nationwide.

Honoring Exemplar LGUs and LCEs Nationwide

A total of 37 provinces, cities, and municipalities, along with their respective LCEs, were acknowledged for their achievements and innovations during the awarding ceremony held on May 4, 2024, at Novotel, Quezon City.

Here are the recipients of the Gawad Edukampyon for Local Governance Awards:

Gawad Edukampyon for Capacity Development

● PROVINCE: Cavite: Hon. Juanito Victor C. Remulla (Governor) 

● HIGHLY URBANIZED CITY

Manila City: Hon. Maria Sheilah H. Lacuna-Pangan (City Mayor)

Cagayan de Oro City: Hon. Rolando A. Uy (City Mayor)

● COMPONENT CITY: Koronadal City, South Cotabato: Hon. Eliordo U. Ogena (City Mayor)

● MUNICIPALITY: Barcelona, Sorsogon: Hon. Cynthia G. Falcotelo-Fortes (Municipal Mayor)

Gawad Edukampyon for Learning Continuity Plan

● PROVINCE: Cotabato: Hon. Emmylou Taliňo - Mendoza (Governor) 

● HIGHLY URBANIZED CITY: Cagayan De Oro City: Hon. Rolando A. Uy (City Mayor) 

● COMPONENT CITY: Balanga, Bataan: Hon. Francis Anthony Garcia (City Mayor) 

● MUNICIPALITY: Cabagan, Isabela: Hon. Christopher A. Mamauag (Municipal Mayor) 

Gawad Edukampyon Para sa Barangay

● Gawad Edukampyon for Barangay Social Services: Barangay Talipapa, Quezon City: Hon. Atty. Eric R. Yuan (Punong Barangay)

● Gawad Edukampyon for Barangay Justice, Security, and Disaster Preparedness

Barangay Sta. Cruz, Guiguinto, Bulacan: Hon. Emmanuel S. Joson (Punong Barangay) 

Barangay Caloocan, Koronadal South Cotabato: Hon. John L. Maanay

● Gawad Edukampyon for Barangay Governance: Barangay Malvar, Santiago City, Isabela: Hon. Manuel G. Santiago (Punong Barangay) 

● Gawad Edukampyon for Barangay Accountability: Barangay Malvar, Santiago City, Isabela: Hon. Manuel G. Santiago (Punong Barangay)

● Gawad Edukampyon for Fiscal Management: Barangay Malvar, Santiago City, Isabela: Hon. Manuel G. Santiago (Punong Barangay)

Gawad Edukampyon for Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) 

Province

● BULACAN: Hon. Daniel R. Fernando (Governor) 

● MISAMIS ORIENTAL: Hon. Peter M. Unabia (Governor) 

● APAYAO: Hon. Elias C. Bulut Jr. (Governor)

● QUIRINO: Hon. Dakila Carlo E. Cua (Governor) 

● SOUTH COTABATO: Hon. Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. (Governor)

Highly Urbanized City

● QUEZON CITY: Hon. Ma. Josefina G. Belmonte (City Mayor) 

● ILOILO CITY: Hon. Jerry Perez Treňas (City Mayor)

● MUNTINLUPA CITY: Hon. Rozzano Rufino B. Biazon (City Mayor)

● CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY: Hon. Rolando A. Uy (City Mayor)

● CITY OF MANILA: Hon. Maria Sheilah H. Lacuna-Pangan (City Mayor)

Component City

● SANTIAGO CITY, ISABELA: Hon. Alyssa Sheena P. Tan (City Mayor)

● STA. ROSA CITY, LAGUNA: Hon. Arlene B. Arcillas (City Mayor) 

● TAGUM CITY, DAVAO DEL NORTE: Hon. Rey T. Uy (City Mayor)

● ALAMINOS CITY, PANGASINAN: Hon. Arth Bryan C. Celeste (City Mayor)

● TAGAYTAY CITY, CAVITE: Hon. Abraham N. Tolentino (City Mayor)

Municipality

● SURALLAH, SOUTH COTABATO: Hon. Pedro M. Matinong Jr. (Municipal Mayor)

● MARAMAG, BUKIDNON: Hon. Atty. Jose Joel P. Doromal (Municipal Mayor)

● DUPAX DEL NORTE, NUEVA VIZCAYA: Hon. Timothy Joseph E. Cayton (Municipal Mayor)

● GUIGUINTO, BULACAN: Hon. Agatha Paula A. Cruz (Municipal Mayor)

● NAAWAN, MISAMIS ORIENTAL: Hon. Dennis L. Roa (Municipal Mayor)

● PANDI, BULACAN: Hon. Enrico A. Roque (Municipal Mayor)

● OBANDO, BULACAN: Hon. Leonardo DC. Valeda (Municipal Mayor) 

Congratulations to all the awardees.

Edukampyon is REX's pledge in action. It is an invitation to everyone to consciously champion education. As an advocacy and mission, it engages education duty-bearers and aims to build their capacities for respecting, protecting, and fulfilling every Filipino learner’s right to quality education.

Read More

5 Reasons Why Condos Are Suitable for Starting Families

5 Reasons Why Condos Are Suitable for Starting Families

The journey into parenthood is a profound and life-altering experience. Parents’ world usually revolves around their little one, and the baby’s well-being and happiness guide every decision. As a result, the home becomes more than just a place to live; it’s a sanctuary where parents nurture, protect, and create lasting memories with their growing family.

 

Condominiums can be an ideal home for growth-beginning households. Their convenient locations, safety features, and amenities embody the essence of family-centric living. MIRA, a Nordic-inspired property in Quezon City, is a perfect example of a sanctuary that supports and nurtures families.

 

Find out the reasons why condominium living is suitable for the unique needs and lifestyles of families:

 

Safety and security

One key advantage of condominiums is they typically have security personnel 24/7 to keep residents safe and secure. This feature definitely helps protect the peace of mind of residents, especially moms and dads. For MIRA, the property takes safety and security seriously as all units have a smart lock feature and an AV intercom so parents can quickly check who is at the door. Moreover, the property has state-of-the-art security features, including round-the-clock security, CCTV surveillance, and secure access controls. On top of these, selected common areas in MIRA can also be accessed via RFID. 

 

Convenience and accessibility

Another significant advantage of condominium living is its convenience since majority of these developments are located in key urban areas where almost everything is within reach. MIRA’s strategic location in Quezon City provides easy access to hospitals such as World Citi Medical Center, St. Luke’s Medical Center QC, and Quirino Memorial Medical Center, schools like Jubilee Christian Academy, Ateneo De Manila University, and University of the Philippines, transportation hubs including the LRT Line 2, and commercial areas namely Shopwise, Gateway and Ali Mall, making daily errands and outings with the family a breeze. Everything, whether it’s a grocery, school, or hospital, is just a stone’s throw away, even perfect for starting parents who are adjusting to the new responsibilities and lifestyle. 

 

Community and support

Condominiums also foster a community that is invaluable for parents. MIRA’s family-centric amenities such as the outdoor landscaped areas, pet park, and glamping nooks allow residents to connect with each other and build a support network. The shared experiences and bonds formed within the community can significantly enhance the overall well-being of new and even growing families.

 

Low-maintenance lifestyle

Condo living promises a low-maintenance lifestyle, ideal for parents who juggle multiple responsibilities. MIRA’s well-designed spaces and amenities require minimal upkeep, allowing moms and dads to focus more on their family and personal well-being. At MIRA, residents may also book essential services like water delivery, housekeeping, laundry, and more right within the comforts of their home through the Ring Rob Concierge. In addition, condo payment settlements, form requests for permits and passes with the myRLC Home App are also plus conveniences.

 

Access to amenities

A wide range of amenities is one of the biggest perks of condo living. MIRA boasts a variety of recreational facilities, including wellness and recreational zones. The property’s amenities also cater to the needs of children through the indoor and outdoor play areas, pet park, kiddie pool, and glamping nooks. These provide endless opportunities to relax, have fun together, and grow. Moms can enjoy the amenities without worry, as the onsite clinic offers easy access to healthcare.

 

RLC Residences continues to Raise, Live, Connect with MIRA

“Families have always been our inspiration in designing MIRA. We envision this development as a home where they can grow and thrive together through amenities and home features that are specifically tailored to their needs. We hope that MIRA can be a home where new parents can raise their kids so they can all live smart and productive while staying connected to people and places that matter to them,” says RLC Residences Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer  Karen Cesario.

 

Families looking to build their future at MIRA may learn more about this pre-selling property by visitingrlcresidences.com.  

Read More

Continued Support for Responsible Mining to Drive Economic Growth and Empower Local Communities

Continued Support for Responsible Mining to Drive Economic Growth and Empower Local Communities

   Atty. Mike Toledo, Chairperson of the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines

Mining companies underline the need to balance economic and social development with environmental stewardship to tap the full potential of the Philippine mining industry

Mining companies are calling on industry stakeholders to strengthen support for responsible mining, underlining the industry’s untapped potential to further drive economic growth and support social development at the national and local level, while fostering environmental stewardship.

Mining company representatives echoed the sentiment as the industry gathered to launch “Living with a Brighter Future,” a documentary developed as part of the industry’s Better Mining, Brighter Future communication and advocacy campaign. The campaign, which aims to raise awareness about responsible mining, is a joint initiative of the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines; the Philippine Nickel Industry Association; the Chamber of Mines - Caraga; the Alliance of Responsible MIners and Operators - Visayas; the Eastern Rizal Minders Association; the Mindanao Association of Responsible Quarry Operators Foundation, Inc.; and the Philippine Mining & Exploration Association.

The "Living with a Brighter Future" documentary provides a comprehensive narrative of responsible mining practices, portraying the collaborative efforts between mining companies, local communities, and local government units. Through the eyes of company representatives and community members, the documentary showcased the positive socio-economic impact and environmental sustainability initiatives of the mining industry across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. 

“Mining companies have made substantial contributions to local communities through its Social Development and Management Program or SDMP. Additionally, the industry’s environmental commitments have been significant,” said Atty. Mike Toledo, Chairperson of the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines.

From 2002 and 2027, mining companies have pledged a total of PHP 31.81 billion towards SDMP initiatives, with PHP 20.3 billion earmarked for the period spanning 2002 to 2024. Since 2002, SDMPs have positively impacted over 1,160 barangays across the country. 

SDMPs serve as a collaborative platform where mining companies, the local government, and the community come together to bridge the gaps in both physical and social infrastructures within the communities they operate in. Through constant consultations with the host and neighboring communities, mining projects are able to meet the needs of residents and offer impactful solutions that yield both immediate and long-term benefits. During the event’s panel discussion, industry leaders highlighted initiatives such as employment creation, education and healthcare investments, infrastructure development, and the preservation of indigenous culture through programs like the IP Culture Revitalization Program.

On the other hand, the Philippine mining industry has provided PHP 387.81 billion, as of December 2023, to environmental protection and enhancement programs. In addition, the mining industry has committed PHP 6.72 billion for the rehabilitation of decommissioned mines. One concrete example of the initiatives of the industry is the number of trees planted where, as of December 2023, more than 50 million seedlings covering almost 45 hectares of land have been planted by the industry. Of these planted trees, approximately 90% have survived.

“Through innovation and modern technologies, the mining sector is reducing its environmental footprint and paving the way for a future where economic development and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. Progressive rehabilitation efforts, coupled with investments in reforestation and environmental protection, demonstrate the industry's commitment to responsible stewardship of natural resources,” Atty. Toledo added.

The documentary highlighted that the industry contributed PHP 170.1 billion (in current prices) to the Philippines’ GDP in 2022 alone and employed over 212,000 individuals as of 2023.

In his keynote presentation, PWC Partner, Mr. Pocholo Domondon further reiterated the industry’s economic contributions citing NEDA’s 2023 Philippine Development Report which stated that while there was an 18.5 percent decline in the total net FDI, significant contributions were still noted for manufacturing, transportation and storage, and mining and quarrying in terms of increased net equity FDI. In the same report, the government also listed the fiscal regime for mining as one of the tax measures that the government is discussing as part of efforts to achieve its fiscal targets until 2028. Further, the government has also cited the mining sector, along with the manufacturing sector, as essential sectors expected to support the government’s 4PH program. The 4PH program aims to build 1 million housing units yearly until 2028.

As the industry moves forward, their collective commitment underscores a shared vision for a sustainable future where responsible mining plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth, fostering social development, and preserving the environment for generations to come.

Read More

Impact Pioneers Network accelerates growth for Filipino impact enterprises

Impact Pioneers Network accelerates growth for Filipino impact enterprises

Monday, May 6, 2024

 

● The Network announced three new investment deals facilitated through their Working Capital Facility to provide financial support to three local impact enterprises Magnus Renewable Tech Corp., Agro-Digital PH, and Suds Sustainable Pods to scale their operations.

● Impact Pioneers Network recently partnered with Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), Dungganon Bank, and a local angel investor to unlock growth capital for impact enterprises from various sectors in the Philippines. 

● The Network also unveiled that early-stage impact enterprises in the Philippines can now apply for loans through the gender-smart working capital loan facility throughout the year.

Impact Pioneers Network (IPN), a first-of-its-kind impact investing network in the country, secured key partnerships with Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), Dungganon Bank, and an angel investor to provide growth capital to three impact enterprises growth in the Philippines. 

Through these collaborations, Magnus Renewable Tech Corp., Agro-Digital PH, and Suds Sustainable Pods, have received collateral-free loans to accelerate their growth. “By unlocking crucial financing to impact enterprises like Magnus Renewable Tech Corp., Agro-Digital PH, and Suds Sustainable Pods, the Network and our partners aim to accelerate sustainable development and empower communities nationwide through innovative solutions,” said Priya Thachadi, Co-founder and CEO of Villgro Philippines, one of the Network’s co-managers. 

Magnus Renewable Tech Corp., an enterprise focusing on solar energy solutions based in Negros Oriental, will utilize the working capital provided to increase solar energy access to communities nationwide. "The facility allows us to fund a pilot project which opens up a huge opportunity for Magnus," said Karl Ivan Estadola, CEO and Co-Founder of Magnus Renewable Tech Corp. 

Agro-Digital PH, an innovative digital platform empowering farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity, will harness the loan to advance its technology and broaden its farmer network. Agro-Digital PH CEO and Founder Henry James Sison emphasized, "The working capital loan facilitated by the Network ensures our ability to expand markets and uphold service delivery. It is a critical lifeline for our operations."

These enterprises demonstrate the crucial role of market-driven models in addressing urgent social and climate challenges in the country. “We are excited to support growing enterprises like Agro-Digital and Magnus Renewable as they truly address relevant issues such as enhancing agricultural productivity and clean energy. These enterprises provide real hope in the development of our country,” said Raymond Serios of Dungganon Bank, Inc. & Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation, Inc. “As a member of the Impact Pioneers Network, we hope to be working with similar enterprises so that we can maximize our reach and ensure that more and more Filipinos benefit from the work of these social enterprises.”

Suds Sustainable Pods, known for its innovative personal hygiene and household cleaning products packaged in water-soluble film, also received a working capital loan from an individual angel investor from the Network to scale up operations and further diversify its product line to lessen plastic pollution. "Their support has allowed us to allocate resources towards optimizing essential business processes that strengthen compliance and operational efficiency. This empowers us to continue expanding our reach and deliver greater value to our stakeholders." said Jean Magboo-Yuzon, Co-Founder of Suds Sustainable Pods.

The Network, alongside its investors, shares its commitment to fostering positive social and environmental change through innovative impact investing approaches. 

Impact investing also contributes to economic development. By supporting businesses that create jobs and empower local communities, impact investing helps stimulate economic growth and promote equal opportunities. 

The Network emphasizes this crucial pillar with its gender-smart working capital facility that is now open for applications throughout the year to early-stage impact enterprises in the Philippines. This facility will provide collateral-free, short-term loans ranging from PHP 250,000 and upwards to enterprises creating direct social or climate impact, with a focus on supporting businesses owned or led by women. 

For more information about Impact Pioneers Network and its partners, please visit www.impactpioneers.ph.

Read More

Chinabank Reports Strong Q1 2024 Earnings, Sets High Dividend Record

Chinabank Reports Strong Q1 2024 Earnings, Sets High Dividend Record

 China Banking Corporation (Chinabank) has started the year 2024 on a high note, reporting robust earnings in the first quarter. With a strategic focus on core businesses and prudent financial management, Chinabank achieved significant growth in various key metrics, reinforcing its position as one of the leading banks in the Philippines.

Earnings Performance

In Q1 2024, Chinabank recorded a net income of P5.9 billion, marking an impressive 18% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth was primarily driven by the strong performance of its core businesses, resulting in remarkable returns on equity (ROE) and assets (ROA) at 15.5% and 1.6% respectively, maintaining its position among the industry's best.

Financial Highlights

• Net interest income surged by 18% to P15.0 billion, propelled by higher asset yields and increased loan volume.
• Net interest margin improved by 22 basis points to 4.4%, reflecting enhanced efficiency in managing interest-bearing assets.
• Provisions for loan losses decreased to P302 million, underscoring improving economic conditions and prudent risk management practices.
• Operating expenses were controlled at 6% growth, resulting in a favorable cost-to-income ratio of 48%.

Strategic Initiatives

Chinabank's President & CEO, Romeo D. Uyan Jr., emphasized the bank's commitment to sustaining its growth trajectory. A recent brand refresh campaign aims to enhance the bank's image and appeal to a new generation of customers. From innovative products to customer-centric solutions and a new bank logo, Chinabank is poised for exciting developments.

Asset and Capital Strength

Total assets grew by 11% to P1.5 trillion, with gross loans increasing by 11% to P805 billion, driven by strong demand from businesses and consumers. Despite this growth, credit quality remained robust, with non-performing loans (NPL) ratio easing to 1.8% and NPL coverage improving to 143%.

Chinabank's capital increased by 11% to P154 billion, with strong capital adequacy ratios well above regulatory requirements. This solid financial foundation enables the bank to fund its growth plans effectively.

Dividend Record and Recognition

At the 2024 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting, Chinabank announced a record-high cash dividend of P5.9 billion, representing 27% of its 2023 net income. Shareholders will receive regular and special cash dividends, reflecting the bank's commitment to delivering value to its investors.

Chinabank's stellar performance in Q1 2024 underscores its resilience and strategic agility in navigating dynamic market conditions. With a focus on innovation, prudent risk management, and shareholder value, Chinabank is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities and maintain its leadership in the Philippine banking industry.

Read More

ML Moves: Vital Role of Logistic Services in Business Success

ML Moves: Vital Role of Logistic Services in Business Success

Thursday, May 2, 2024

Efficient logistics services stand as the cornerstone of success for today's businesses of all sizes. From managing supply chains to delivering products promptly, logistics play a crucial role in sustaining operational excellence and fostering growth. Let's probe into the vital role of logistics services and how they contribute to the triumph of businesses.

Streamlined Supply Chain Management

Logistics services streamline the intricate web of supply chain activities, ensuring seamless coordination from procurement to distribution. By optimizing inventory management, transportation, and warehousing, businesses can minimize overhead costs and enhance productivity. Efficient supply chain management enables businesses to respond swiftly to market demands, mitigate risks, and maintain a competitive edge in the industry.

Enhanced Customer Satisfaction

Prompt and reliable delivery is paramount for customer satisfaction. Logistic services facilitate timely order fulfillment and swift delivery, thereby fostering positive customer experiences. By offering various shipping options and real-time tracking, businesses can exceed customer expectations and build long-term loyalty. Satisfied customers are more likely to become brand advocates, driving repeat purchases and amplifying brand reputation.

Global Reach and Expansion Opportunities

Logistic services play a crucial role in facilitating international trade and expansion endeavors. From navigating complex customs regulations to optimizing cross-border transportation, logistics providers enable businesses to access new markets and capitalize on emerging opportunities. By establishing robust distribution networks, businesses can penetrate foreign markets, reach untapped customer segments, and drive revenue growth on a global scale.

Cost Optimization and Efficiency Gains

Effective logistics management leads to significant cost savings and operational efficiencies for businesses. By optimizing transportation routes, consolidating shipments, and minimizing inventory holding costs, logistics services help businesses reduce overhead expenses and improve bottom-line profitability. Furthermore, leveraging technology solutions such as route optimization software and warehouse automation enhances operational efficiency, enabling businesses to accomplish more with fewer resources.

Agility and Adaptability in a Dynamic Marketplace

The business landscape is rapidly evolving. Agility and adaptability are essential for survival and growth. Logistic services empower businesses to respond swiftly to market fluctuations, demand spikes, and unforeseen disruptions. By implementing agile supply chain strategies and leveraging data-driven insights, businesses can make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The ability to adapt to changing market conditions enables businesses to maintain resilience and sustain long-term success.

Logistic services serve as the backbone of modern business operations, facilitating seamless supply chain management, enhancing customer satisfaction, and driving global expansion. M Lhuillier, a trusted name in financial services, has extended its expertise to logistics with ML Moves, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses.

Services offered:

Walk-in transactions

Sending your parcels and documents is as easy as walking into your nearest M Lhuillier branch. With their widespread network of branches offering ML Moves services, you can conveniently drop off your items without hassle. Once you drop off your item, rest assured that they will take care of the rest. ML Moves partner with trusted local courier services for domestic shipments and DHL Express for international destinations, ensuring reliable delivery every time.

E-Commerce Solutions

For online shoppers and sellers, ML Moves offers a range of solutions to simplify your e-commerce experience.

Returns (Lazada & Shopee): If you need to return an item purchased from Lazada or Shopee, ML Moves makes the process hassle-free. Simply drop off the item at any M Lhuillier branch, and they will handle the return shipping for you at no additional cost.

Branch Pick-up (Lazada & Shopee): Gain flexibility and convenience by opting to pick up your Lazada and Shopee packages from your nearest M Lhuillier branch. No more waiting for deliveries – pick up your parcel at a time that suits you best.

COD Payments (Shopee, Metro Manila): For Shopee customers in Metro Manila, you can select a specific M Lhuillier branch as your pick-up point and pay the cash on delivery (COD) amount there. This allows you ample time to prepare for your payment, ensuring a smooth transaction.

Sellers Drop-off (Lazada & Shopee): Selected Lazada and Shopee sellers can take advantage of their drop-off service at designated M Lhuillier branches. Simply drop off your parcels, and their couriers will collect them for delivery to the next stage of the shipping process.

By investing in efficient logistics solutions, businesses can optimize costs, improve operational efficiency, and stay ahead of the competition in today’s fast-paced marketplace. Embracing the importance of logistics services is not merely a strategic choice but a fundamental necessity for businesses striving to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Read More

PFIP LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion Report 2024 Highlights Positive Strides in Philippine Workplace LGBTQ+ Inclusion

PFIP LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion Report 2024 Highlights Positive Strides in Philippine Workplace LGBTQ+ Inclusion

The Philippine Financial Industry Pride (PFIP) unveiled its 2024 LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion Report on April 30, 2024, at the University of the Philippines (UP) School of Statistics Auditorium in Diliman, Quezon City. The event marked a significant step in assessing the current landscape of LGBTQ+ workplaces across the Philippines, drawing insights from hundreds of companies in various sectors and business hubs.

Driven by its commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ workplace inclusivity, the non-profit organization, consisting of LGBTQ+ employee resource group representatives and human resource/diversity professionals from private firms in the Philippines, takes proactive steps to showcase policy progress and identify challenges ahead. The event was well-attended by corporate leaders, HR professionals, LGBTQ+ advocates, and scholars, converging to discuss the findings and exchange ideas for fostering a more inclusive workplace environment. PFIP’s key findings showcased concrete progress in LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion, vibrant discussions and successful corporate examples that underscored the positive impact of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) policies on workplace culture.

The 2024 PFIP LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion Report revealed encouraging trends:

85% of companies now have LGBTQ+ inclusion or anti-discrimination policies in place, while 86% have established grievance procedures for LGBTQ+ employees. Furthermore, 78% offer medical benefits to both married different-sex couples and same-sex domestic partners, and 73% have active LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Groups. Public support for LGBTQ+ inclusion has grown, with 79% of companies expressing this commitment, reflecting a significant cultural shift towards acceptance and advocacy. DE&I training is also on the rise, with 80% of companies providing comprehensive programs.

These statistics show that many Philippine companies are fostering safer and more equitable work environments conducive to employees' success. The launch event also provided an opportunity to review PFIP's broader initiatives, such as the "PFIP Playbook: For LGBT+ Inclusive Workplaces in the Philippines," and the nationwide caravan conducted in 2023 to promote these best practices across the country. The emphasis on partnerships with LGUs, local LGBTQ+ groups, and other allied organizations has proven instrumental in fostering greater inclusivity.

Looking ahead, PFIP announced plans for the July 2024 Pride Summit, the largest DE&I conference in the Philippines, which is expected to further amplify the conversation and drive additional LGBTQ+ workplace initiatives. The summit aims to encourage corporate decision-makers to continue advocating for inclusion and diversity.

Reflecting on the event's impact and future aspirations, PFIP Chairperson, Weena Ekid, said, “To corporate decision-makers, continue to champion for inclusion and embrace diversity. Build a workplace where every individual can thrive authentically, regardless of who they are or who they love. As they embark on this journey towards a more inclusive future, they are urged to lead the charge towards a world where everyone is valued and respected. Join in this transformative endeavor, and together, create a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.”

Read More