Discover a New Way of Living at lyf Cebu: Where Every Stay is a Colorful Experience

Discover a New Way of Living at lyf Cebu: Where Every Stay is a Colorful Experience

Sunday, August 11, 2024

Carrying the Ascott Limited name and vision in Visayas, lyf Cebu City is a dynamic destination where guests can gather with friends or like-minded individuals for both business and leisure purposes. Located in the heart of Cebu City, lyf Cebu offers an innovative and colorful approach to urban living, providing a flourishing community atmosphere that enhances every aspect of the guest experience.

Cebu City, known as the “Queen City of the South,” is a bustling metropolis that boasts a rich historical heritage, stunning beaches, and a thriving business district. Its strategic location in the Central Visayas region makes it an attractive destination for both local and international travelers. Whether you are drawn to its cultural landmarks, diverse culinary scene, or booming economic opportunities, Cebu City offers a perfect blend of work and play, ensuring an unforgettable stay for all visitors.

“The Ascott Limited recognized Cebu's potential as a burgeoning economic and tourism hub.” said Joycelyn Agsaway, the Ascott Limited’s Director of Operational Excellence for the lyf brand. “With its robust economic growth, thriving IT and business process outsourcing sectors, and increasing influx of both domestic and international tourists, Cebu offers a promising market for our serviced residences. By establishing a presence in Cebu, we aim to cater to the growing demand for high-quality accommodation among business travelers and tourists, thus reinforcing our commitment to expanding our footprint in key cities across the Philippines.

lyf Cebu stands out with its array of state-of-the-art facilities designed to meet the needs of modern travelers. Upon arrival, guests are greeted at the Say Hi check-in counter, where the property’s friendly and trained staff ensure a seamless and personalized check-in process, making guests feel immediately welcomed and at ease. 

The property prides itself on its customization and wide selection of rooms to fit the diverse needs of its guests. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, lyf Cebu offers a range of accommodation options that can be tailored to your preferences. From cozy studios to spacious multi-bedroom units, each room is thoughtfully designed with modern amenities, comfortable furnishings, and vibrant décor that reflects the dynamic spirit of Cebu. Guests can choose from various room configurations to suit their stay, which include rooms for solo travelers to those traveling in groups. 

For those staying for business or bleisure purposes, lyf Cebu features vibrant coworking spaces equipped with high-speed internet, ergonomic furniture, and plenty of natural light, providing the ideal environment for productivity, creativity, and collaboration. 

Bond, lyf Cebu’s social kitchen, is another highlight of the property. It is a communal space where guests can cook, dine, and socialize. With modern appliances and ample seating, Bond encourages guests to connect and collaborate regardless of their diverse backgrounds and professions, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie through food. 

In addition to these core features, lyf Cebu offers a variety of other amenities designed to enhance the unique guest experience. The Hangout (Mezzanine) provides a relaxed setting for guests to unwind, network, and share stories about their lives. This area is perfect for informal meetings, casual conversations, or simply enjoying a good chat. Guests wanting to stay healthy and maintain fitness while away from home can do so at Burn, lyf Cebu’s social gym. With its range of equipment and fitness classes, Burn helps guests stay active and healthy during their stay. Finally, Dip, lyf’s swimming pool, provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing guests to relax and recharge.

"At lyf Cebu City, we curate a vibrant living experience that goes beyond conventional accommodation,” said lyf Cebu City’s Residence Manager, Rey Vergel Mulat “Our uniquely designed social spaces, community events, and personalized services ensure guests enjoy a colorful lyf experience, fostering connections and creating memorable moments throughout their stay."

At lyf Cebu, every stay is designed to be a colorful experience, both literally and figuratively. The property features an eye-catching thresher shark mural, one of the largest outdoor murals in the Philippines. This stunning artwork not only adds vibrancy to the urban landscape but also celebrates Cebu’s rich marine biodiversity. Inside, guests are greeted by original sculptures by Filipino artist Leeroy New in the Say Hi area, further enhancing the colorful and dynamic atmosphere. These vibrant elements create a visually stimulating environment that perfectly complements lyf’s emphasis on social living and community engagement.

Every day at lyf Cebu is a vibrant celebration of life and adventure. The colorful environment ensures that there is never a dull moment, making each day worth waking up to. The thresher shark mural and Leeroy New's sculptures set the tone for a lively and engaging experience from the moment you arrive. The artistic and energetic ambiance perfectly guides guests to the vividly brilliant display of origami Thresher Sharks, showcasing a rainbow of paper sharks throughout the property. Guests of all ages are invited to experience swimming with the sharks through the inflatable pool that will be installed throughout the area of the display. The dazzling display of colorful papercrafts looks to bring home the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for “the largest display of origami sharks.” The attempt for the title, to be made on the 29th of August, immortalizes the property’s commitment to raising awareness and educating its guests on the precious endemic life of the local waters. 

Staying at the property means being immersed in an atmosphere where you can feel like you can do anything. With a plethora of activities and events, there’s always something exciting happening. From fitness sessions and cooking classes to cultural workshops and social gatherings, lyf offers endless opportunities to engage with the local culture and fellow travelers. Whether you’re exploring the city’s attractions or participating in on-site events, each day brings new adventures and connections.

Life at lyf Cebu is unmatched and unique, offering guests a chance to experience Cebu in a way that goes beyond the ordinary. The property’s colorful environment represents its commitment to providing a dynamic and enriching stay. Guests can wake up each day with a sense of anticipation and excitement, knowing that a day filled with discovery and joy awaits. The flourishing social living concept ensures that every moment is infused with energy and positivity, making your stay at lyf Cebu a truly colorful experience.

If you’re looking for a culturally immersive experience outside the Metro, lyf Cebu City is currently open and ready to welcome guests from all walks of life. Guests can now book their stay via this website.

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Limitless Possibilities: PFIP Pride Summit 2024 Sets New Standards for Inclusive Corporate Cultures

Limitless Possibilities: PFIP Pride Summit 2024 Sets New Standards for Inclusive Corporate Cultures

The Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP) proudly hosted the 2024 PFIP Pride Summit—the foremost workplace Pride conference in Asia—last July 30 to 31 at Shangri-La at The Fort, Bonifacio Global City, Manila. 

With the theme "Limitless: Inclusion Beyond Horizons," the 7th Pride Summit showcased the importance of LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the business sector, underscoring the collective vision for a truly safe and inclusive future that propels LGBTQ+ talents to new areas of excellence. Industry leaders, allies, and advocates from corporate Pride networks and progressive organizations all came together to explore strategies and approaches for fostering inclusive corporate cultures.

Pride Summit Key Highlights

The summit explored the connections between economic impact and corporate diversity. The keynote speech, "The Economic Case for LGBTQIA+ Inclusion in the Philippines,” outlined the financial benefits of inclusive practices, highlighting how diversity drives innovation and profitability. "Building a Diverse Talent Pipeline Through Inclusive Hiring Practices'' discussed countering hiring biases to ensure diversity, while "A Balancing Act: Understanding and Overcoming the Complexities of Intersectionality," powered by Accenture, provided insights into promoting intersectional programming to avoid losing focus on the unique lived experiences of different minority groups.

Looking into executive leadership and advocacy, the PFIP CEO Round Table and keynotes by Dominic Arnall, Liz Jacobs, and Carl Cervantes focused on the economic benefits of LGBTQIA+ inclusion and the cultural foundations of allyship in the Philippines. Meanwhile, the Embassy of the Netherlands, a staunch ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, encouraged companies to support equal rights beyond their boardrooms.

Exploring the roles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in a future-ready workforce, "Age Is Nothing But A Number: Best Practices for Engaging a Multigenerational Workforce" offered strategies for integrating diverse age groups for better team dynamics at work. "Leveling The Playing Field: Disability Inclusion in the Workplace" discussed mechanisms and investments to ensure equal opportunities for PWD talents.

The summit concluded with the second season of the vibrant and entertaining Lip-Sync Lalaparuzza, reinforcing the message of inclusivity and acceptance.

Join PFIP Today!

The 2024 PFIP Pride Summit highlighted the undeniable business advantages of LGBTQIA+ inclusion, setting new standards for corporate cultures and inspiring attendees via compelling cases for diversity, innovative strategies, and success stories shared in the two-day event. 

Beyond the summit, PFIP encourages companies to leverage insights gained and implement inclusive practices within their own organizations. To achieve this and to further drive change alongside a network of forward-thinking leaders, join PFIP today and contribute to fostering an inclusive corporate environment for everyone.

Visit the PFIP website at https://www.pfip.com.ph/join-pfip. For sponsorship opportunities, email secretariat@pfip.com.ph.

 

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Visa expands consumer choice with e-wallet partnerships in the Philippines and Southeast Asia

Visa expands consumer choice with e-wallet partnerships in the Philippines and Southeast Asia

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

Visa, a global leader in digital payments, is actively supporting Southeast Asia's journey into becoming a cashless society. As mobile wallet usage grows in the region, Visa enhances consumer options by enabling cardholders to use their cards directly with merchants or e-wallets such as Maya and GrabPay in the Philippines.

Jeff Navarro, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines, said: “Visa’s research found that in the Philippines, 87% of surveyed respondents have used their mobile wallets in the last 12 months. Our partnerships with e-wallets in the Philippines enable Visa cardholders to cash in their wallets using their cards issued in the Philippines, which is in alignment with the growing preference for cashless transactions in the Philippines. These partnerships provide consumers with more choices and support small businesses by enhancing their ability to accept payments, keeping pace with the expanding use of digital payment methods like cards and mobile wallets. At Visa, we're committed to broadening access to diverse digital payment options that are seamless and secure, to promote financial and digital inclusion."

In the Philippines, Visa cardholders can cash in their Maya wallets for free as part of the “Cash-In for Free” program, effective starting May 1, 2024. This offer is available during the promotional period to all Maya wallet users with a mobile number from any local telco provider who is currently residing in the Philippines.

Additionally, GrabPay users can continue to cash into their wallets for free with their Visa debit, credit, or prepaid cards, benefiting consumers and small businesses through the wider acceptance of mobile wallets. GrabPay users also have the option to set up automatic reloads, which replenish their wallet balances once they drop below a specific amount, creating a seamless payment experience.

Coexistence of cards and digital wallets, a rising trend in SEA

Across the region, Visa has likewise forged partnerships with Vietnam’s MoMo, VNPAY, and ZaloPay, alongside Indonesia’s DANA to provide Southeast Asia with seamless digital wallet funding options as Visa’s latest Consumer Payment Attitudes study shows that more than a quarter of cash-ins to e-wallets come from either bank accounts or credit and debit cards. This trend simplifies transactions by eliminating the need for repeated credential entry.

Previous Visa research supports this trend revealing that during the first half of 2023, one in three respondents applied for a new card, with 43% motivated by the desire to integrate these cards into mobile wallets, thus highlighting the growing convergence and coexistence of cards and digital wallets.

While the majority of payments are made from existing e-wallet balances, Visa's latest Green Shoots Radar survey found that consumers use their cards as a source of mobile wallet funding at 29% for Indonesia, 24% in the Philippines, and 39% of surveyed consumers in Vietnam. Respondents cited convenience, the ability to track expenses, seamlessness, and security as some of the top factors for topping up their wallets using cards. 

Poojyata Khattar, Head of Products and Solutions, Southeast Asia, said: “Innovation and strategic alliances are vital to advancing the payments system. Visa is broadening consumer options by partnering with leading e-wallets in the region to allow consumers to use their choice of funding methods, including their Visa cards. By collaborating with Southeast Asian e-wallets, Visa is set to revolutionize payment methods, creating a future for the payments industry focused on convenience, reliability, and security”

As Southeast Asia continues to embrace the integration of cards and digital wallets, Visa empowers individuals and businesses by providing access and fostering a more open and inclusive economy.

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EastWest Celebrates its 30 Years in the Industry

EastWest Celebrates its 30 Years in the Industry

Marking 30 years of dedicated service, EastWest eagerly anticipates its year-long celebration commencing this August. As the banking arm of Filinvest Development Corporation, one of the country's leading conglomerates with interests in real estate, hospitality and tourism, power generation and sugar, the Bank proudly carries on the Gotianun legacy of entrepreneurial spirit, perseverance, integrity, and innovation to create banking solutions for its diverse clientele.

Looking back, its journey over the past three decades highlights its blend of the traditional warmth of the East and the forward-thinking mindset of the West. Founded in 1994, EastWest Bank has grown to become one of the Philippines' leading universal banks, known for its customer-centric approach and innovative financial solutions, helping countless Filipinos achieve their financial goals.

"EastWest Bank’s journey over the past 30 years has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. We are proud of our legacy and look forward to further enhancing the financial well-being of our clients through our innovative banking solutions," mentioned Jacqueline S. Fernandez, President of EastWest.

As a testament to the Bank’s continuous improvement, EastWest Bank was recognized by several award-giving bodies for its excellence in digital banking and customer service, including:

2024:

• Best Private Bank (EastWest Priority) by Global Finance Magazine
• Best Wealth Manager – Philippines at The Asset Triple A Private Capital Awards
• Outstanding Digital CX in Banking App Platform (Komo) at The Digital Banker’s Digital CX Awards
• Outstanding Digital CX Transformation in Insurance (EastWest Ageas) at The Digital Banker’s Digital CX Awards
• Mobile Banking & Payment Initiative of the Year – Philippines (ESTA) from Asian Banking and Finance

2023:

• Best Credit Card Philippines (EastWest JCB) by The Asian Banker
• Best Priority Banking Experience (EastWest Priority) at the International Finance Magazine (IFM) Awards

2022:

• Best CSR Initiative (Magenta Race) from The Digital Banker

The Bank’s year-long 30th Anniversary celebration will be marked by several key activities:

Launch of the New EasyWay App

As EastWest marks its 30th Anniversary, the Bank is thrilled to announce a new campaign for its digital banking platform, EasyWay. This platform redefines banking for its retail customers, making it more seamless and convenient than ever. Partnering with actor Donny Pangilinan as the face of EasyWay, the campaign emphasizes simplicity and efficiency for the digital-savvy market. The key message, 'Sit, Bank, and Relax,' highlights the easy and stress-free experience of banking from your phone. EastWest believes this will not only increase brand visibility and service awareness but also encourage potential customers to bank with them.

"Our 30th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past achievements, but also a reaffirmation of our promise to continuous improvement and innovation. The launch of EasyWay and our upcoming initiatives for our channels, both physical and digital, are just the beginning of many exciting developments to come,” emphasized Jerry G. Ngo, EastWest CEO.

Digital Innovation and Enhanced Services

Part of its ongoing commitment to innovation is to highlight its latest digital initiatives aimed at making banking more convenient and accessible for its customers. These initiatives include EastWest System Tech Assistant (ESTA), EW Pay, Komo, the launch of EasyBiz and EastWest Business Class, and the brand awareness campaign of EastWest Ageas.

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

EastWest Pay allows EastWest VISA credit cardholders to transact contactless at merchant point-of-sale “POS” terminals using their NFC-capable Android mobile phone instead of their plastic credit cards.

Komo is an exclusively digital banking service powered by EastWest Rural Bank, allowing customers to open and manage their accounts completely online. This means that there are no physical Stores, and everything from account opening to card blocking can be done using the mobile app.

EasyBiz is an innovative solution designed specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), providing business owners with tools and resources for effective financial management, including accounting, invoicing, payroll, and expense tracking, enabling them to focus on growing their businesses.

EastWest Bank’s new Business Class segment, tailored for entrepreneurs and business owners, offers a range of perks designed to elevate their experiences and allow them to focus on the personal aspects of their day-to-day lives while EastWest handles the routine operations of their businesses. This segment provides personalized services through dedicated relationship officers and priority service in EastWest Stores. Entrepreneurs can benefit from special cash management services, including payroll processing, automated payments, and check collection. Additionally, exclusive perks such as discounted deals at restaurants and coffee shops, and preferential rates at sports centers and golf courses are available.

EastWest Ageas is the joint venture between Ageas, a leading international insurance group from Belgium, and EastWest Bank. This year marks a double celebration as Ageas, its parent company, celebrates its 200th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, EastWest Ageas is launching the "What's Your Purple?" campaign, focusing on brand awareness, memorability, and differentiation. The campaign emphasizes that EastWest Ageas is a PURpose-driven and PeoPLE-centered (Pur-Ple) company, aligning with its core values and dedication to its customers.

Exclusive VIP Events Across the Philippines

To honor and show gratitude to EastWest’s valued clients, the Bank will host exclusive VIP events in Manila, Cebu, and Davao. As a Filipino company for Filipinos, these gatherings will offer clients a unique networking opportunity with EastWest executives and partners, featuring local talent, cuisine, and art to celebrate its shared success through the years.

Wellness Initiatives to Elevate Lifestyles

More than just empowering clients financially, EastWest ensures the overall well-being of its valued customers. Promoting wellness is a key part of its 30th Anniversary celebration, and to encourage health and wellness, EastWest is organizing a marathon open to all in partnership with RunRio, along with exclusive golf tournaments for its affluent customers.

This series of events kicked off with the Bank's Golf Invitational at Mimosa Plus last May 31 2024, marking the beginning of a series of engaging activities. These initiatives are designed to provide a platform for clients to enjoy and participate in various wellness activities, fostering a sense of community and well-being. Through these events, EastWest aims to encourage a healthy lifestyle while offering unique experiences for all its clients.

EastWest and the Community

Continuing its dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), EastWest Bank is actively partnering with the Kasuso Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing support and resources for breast cancer patients and survivors. It aims to enhance awareness, offer necessary medical assistance, and support the emotional well-being of those affected by breast cancer.

EastWest Bank received positive feedback for its partnership with the Kasuso Foundation, particularly the Magenta Race, where proceeds from running and cycling competitions were donated. This initiative is part of EastWest’s broader aim to giving back to the community. In addition, during the Bank’s first Golf Invitational last May, the proceeds from collecting mulligans were donated to the Kasuso Foundation. This contribution highlights EastWest Bank's dedication to charitable causes and improving the lives of individuals in the community.

Commitment to Education

EastWest Bank’s Employee Relations Council (ERC) and its volunteers recently conducted their annual Brigada Eskwela outreach at Baguio Central School during the enrollment period. The initiative included a financial literacy workshop for teachers and parents and the distribution of school supplies to students. This effort is proof of the Bank's dedication to community and education. The team also visited EastWest Stores to assess employee well-being and store conditions, demonstrating the Bank’s commitment to both its workforce and the community. The Bank’s support for education extends beyond community outreach, as demonstrated by EastWest Rural Bank’s Teachers’ Loan. It exemplifies its focus on education, offering educators a financial solution with competitive rates and flexible terms. With loan amounts up to P1 million, this program supports educational expenses, personal needs, and professional development. The easy application process, fast approval, and minimal requirements make it a convenient option, positioning EastWest Rural Bank as a trusted partner in helping educators achieve their goals.

Looking ahead, EastWest plans to expand its social responsibility efforts by launching more projects and collaborating with additional charitable organizations. By engaging in diverse initiatives, EastWest Bank aims to broaden its impact and continue making meaningful contributions to society.

Exclusive Promos for EastWest clients

Credit Cards

EastWest Bank is excited to announce a series of exclusive promotions for its credit card customers as the second half of the year begins. EastWest credit cardholders can enjoy discounts of up to 50% on dining and leisure experiences at top establishments both within and outside Metro Manila. Whether dining at California Pizza Kitchen, North Park, Admiral Club Manila Bay, or Firehouse Pizza at Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Manila, customers can take advantage of substantial savings that elevate their dining experiences without straining their budget. In Cebu, additional discounts are available at AKA by Naoki Eguchi at Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, Chikaan sa Cebu, Puso Bistro and Bar, and The Abalone at Jpark Island Resort. In Davao, special rates and discounts are offered at Acacia Hotel, Apo View Hotel, Club Samal Resort, and Park Inn by Radisson. Additionally, from August 1 to 31, 2024, cardholders can enjoy Php 7 off per liter on all Euro 5 fuels at Unioil, making road trips more affordable with this exclusive fuel discount. With these offers, EastWest Bank ensures that its cardholders can access exceptional deals no matter where they are in the Philippines.

Deposits

The Bank is offering up to 130,000 miles to its Super Saver and Super Checking account holders, and up to 300,000 miles for EastWest Priority clients through incremental growth in their Month-to-Date Average Daily Balance (MTD-ADB). Customers can earn Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles or Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Miles for every Php 500,000 in incremental MTD-ADB growth in their accounts. The promo runs until August 31, 2024, and availment can be made by visiting the nearest EastWest Store or contacting their EastWest Priority Relationship Manager.

Store Upgrades for a Better Customer Experience

EastWest is excited to announce the revitalization of its stores, with the Beaufort Store leading the way as the first to showcase these exciting changes. This strategic move marks the beginning of a comprehensive plan to elevate EastWest Stores in flagship locations, reaffirming the Bank's commitment to excellence and innovation. This transformative process will not only enable EastWest to deliver immersive services to its clients but also play a crucial role in empowering customers to shape their financial future with a personalized touch.

EastWest Bank Going Further for the Philippines

"As we celebrate 30 years of service, we remain dedicated to our mission of empowering Filipinos through innovative financial solutions and exceptional customer service. Our efforts are proof to our dedication to fostering financial empowerment and creating a brighter future for all," said Chairman Jonathan T. Gotianun, in anticipation of what is sure to be an eventful year ahead.

EastWest Bank continues to innovate and deliver outstanding banking solutions that cater to the diverse needs of its customers. As EastWest celebrates its 30th anniversary, the bank’s commitment to providing valuable rewards and superior service remains at the forefront of all initiatives.

Join the Bank in celebrating this milestone and discover more ways EastWest Bank can enhance your financial and lifestyle experiences. For more information about EastWest’s anniversary events and initiatives, please visit EastWest Bank.

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Invest in independence: RLC Residences unveils second phase of Sierra Valley Gardens

Invest in independence: RLC Residences unveils second phase of Sierra Valley Gardens

Monday, August 5, 2024

RLC Residences kicks off August with the highly anticipated launch of the second phase of Sierra Valley Gardens, a premier residential haven nestled within a sprawling master-planned mixed-use development in Cainta, Rizal.

After the stellar debut of its first phase in 2020, Sierra Valley Gardens has emerged as one of RLC Residences' top-selling projects, captivating millennials seeking their first real estate investment with its unique features and prime location. The initial four buildings are now 95% sold, boasting a remarkable 42% price appreciation. Building on this success, Sierra Valley Gardens proudly unveils its second phase with the introduction of its 5th building.

“Sierra Valley Gardens is truly one of our most successful projects to date, which also brought us a lot of learnings from our customers. Over time, we’ve seen how this property answers the needs of our millennial home seekers - whose goals are to seek their personal and financial independence while staying close to their loved ones. The features of this project are inspired by them, and we are grateful to continuously upgrade Sierra Valley Gardens with their needs and goals in mind so they can continuously make their smart move towards growth,” said RLC Residences Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer Karen Cesario.

Embracing independence while maintaining connections

Located inside Sierra Valley estate along Ortigas Extension, Sierra Valley Gardens is a three-phase, twelve-building condominium that promises strategic connections to commercial establishments within the estate such as a mall, retail spaces, and office building. 

Its strategic address, along with future infrastructures soon to rise such as the MRT-4 station, will also link future residents to key destinations in Rizal while offering the convenience of reaching key business and lifestyle districts of the metro without sacrificing the distance between them and their loved ones.

Live out in the open

Set to provide a suburban home close to nature, Sierra Valley Gardens offers multiple indoor and outdoor amenities plus sustainable features that soon-to-be homeowners will benefit from.

Phase Two of Sierra Valley Gardens will have its three-floor clubhouse that will house the amenities of the development, such as ​the Residence Lounge​, Lap & Kiddie Pool​, Game Room, Function Room, Theater Room, and Fitness and Wellness Center. ​On the roof deck, the building will have its own Viewing Deck & Hydroponics Farm that promotes farm-to-table produce residents can buy for a much cheaper price in the future, while solar panels will also be installed to help power common areas in the building.

Additionally, Sierra Valley Gardens will have its own Rainwater Harvesting System to supply water for landscaped areas and other non-potable requirements of the development, while electronic vehicle charging stations on select parking slots will also be installed. All these features and other design elements make the development a sustainable community to live in.

Sparking joy by living smart

Sierra Valley Gardens has smart home features that offer convenience, energy efficiency, security, and cost savings. All units are equipped with smart locks, audio-video intercom, smart lights, and switches - all for enhanced safety and security of the unit owners. Having these makes Sierra Valley Gardens the first in the area to offer future-ready homes for a smarter investment choice.

Exclusive access to digital solutions such as myRLC Home is also offered to home seekers for added convenience. Through this all-in-one app, buyers can settle their payments and monitor their accounts with just a few taps on their phones. By the time they move into the unit, the app serves as their go-to concierge to file passes and permits and settle payments anytime, anywhere.

“Choosing a home at Sierra Valley Gardens is a smart move in the East. Our future homeowners can plant their roots in a sanctuary within a suburban estate, with community-centric amenities that allow them to embrace their independence, while enjoying the long-term financial benefit of real estate investments,” ends Cesario.

Connect with a Property Specialist today to learn more about Sierra Valley Gardens and experience the showroom. Visit rlcresidences.com and follow RLC Residences on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated about this development and other properties.

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Autism Society Philippines Champions Advocacy and Inclusivity with TikTok

Autism Society Philippines Champions Advocacy and Inclusivity with TikTok

Friday, August 2, 2024

TikTok, the leading destination for short-form mobile videos, recently partnered with Autism Society Philippines, the Local Government of Quezon City, and SM Cares to host “Adbokasya sa Social Media,” an event marking National Disability Rights Week.

This initiative underscores a collaborative effort to leverage digital platforms for advocacy and inclusivity, empowering individuals with disabilities and their advocates to amplify their voices and drive positive change.

“Adbokasya sa Social Media” provided participants with practical insights and strategies to turn their social media presence into powerful advocacy tools. The event aimed to equip members of the disability community, NGOs, government agencies, and student organizations with the skills needed to build a purposeful online presence, create strategic content, engage with their communities, and navigate the challenges of online advocacy.

Empowering Through Social Media

TikTok creators Mona Magno Veluz (Mighty Magulang), Chef Gelo Guison, Riyan Portuguez (The Millennial Psych), Your Tita Baby, and Mathilda Airlines shared their insights on leveraging social media for advocacy. They discussed strategies for crafting impactful messages, simplifying content for broader understanding, and the importance of resilience in facing public scrutiny.

Mona Magno-Veluz, National Spokesperson of the Autism Society Philippines, addressed the crucial role of social media in advocacy, focusing on the need for content that is both impactful and respectful. She pointed out that while the digital age offers unprecedented opportunities for amplifying voices, it also demands a high level of responsibility from content creators.

“To truly leverage social media for advocacy, your content must reflect a clear mission and genuine intent. It’s about more than just following trends; it’s about creating meaningful, engaging content that respects and represents the community. Authenticity and consent are crucial, especially when discussing sensitive topics like disability. We need to ensure our content not only resonates but also upholds the values of respect and inclusivity,” Veluz said.

Creating Inclusive Content

The creators underscored the significant impact of content creation on public perceptions and the importance of fostering an inclusive online environment. Chef Gelo Guison and Mathilda Airlines highlighted the need for content that resonates positively and encourages resilience in the face of criticism.

Riyan Portuguez also emphasized the value of crafting messages that are both accessible and thoughtfully presented, ensuring that content is easily understood and impactful. Meanwhile, Your Tita Baby discussed how social media platforms like TikTok are pivotal in reshaping perceptions and broadening the scope of visibility for marginalized communities, including the drag community.

Ensuring a Safe and Responsible Platform

In line with these discussions, Bea Bautista, Communications Lead for Philippines and Malaysia at TikTok, emphasized the collective responsibility of creators, the platform, and users in maintaining a safe online environment.

“Creating a safe and inclusive space on TikTok is a shared responsibility. It’s crucial for creators, users, and the platform to work together to ensure a safe place where everyone can express themselves creatively and authentically, ” Bautista said. “Your posts and interactions matter—by being mindful of what you share and engage with, we can all contribute to a safer and more respectful online community.”

TikTok’s partnership with the Autism Society Philippines highlights its ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, for those fighting for disability rights and other social issues. By providing a platform where diverse voices can be amplified, TikTok continues to strive for a space where creators from all backgrounds can express themselves freely and drive positive societal change.

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Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives Inc. Celebrates First Year Milestone with Inaugural National Leadership Conference

Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives Inc. Celebrates First Year Milestone with Inaugural National Leadership Conference

Established with a commitment to promote and advocate for cooperative enterprises nationwide, the Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives Inc. has swiftly emerged as a pivotal voice for advancing cooperative principles and a leader in addressing critical industry concerns through strategic legislative advocacy and nationwide engagement, the Chamber has fostered an environment conducive to cooperative growth and community development.

Today, The Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives Inc. (Coop Chamber) celebrates its first anniversary with an inaugural National Leadership Conference held at Sequoia Hotel, Aseana Business Park, Parañaque City, Metro Manila.

Themed "Our Coop, Our Voice," the conference marks a significant milestone for the Coop Chamber, coinciding with the completion of its nationwide organizational formation of regional coop chambers across sixteen regions. This event gathers leaders, stakeholders, and members to deliberate on key issues, adopt strategic directions for 2024-2025, and endorse vital executive and legislative agendas.

The Conference features distinguished speakers including Senator Imee R. Marcos, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Cooperatives as the Keynote Speaker, alongside representatives from the House of Representatives, government officials, cooperative leaders, and industry experts. The event’s agenda includes a mass oath-taking ceremony for regional coop chamber leaders and interactive sessions on policy formulation, advocacy strategies, and cooperative development initiatives.

"We are excited to convene our inaugural National Leadership Conference, where we will reflect on our achievements, strategize for the future, and reinforce our commitment to advancing cooperative ideals," remarked Mr. Noel D. Raboy, Chairperson and Founding Trustee of the Coop Chamber.

The event will commence with an opening ceremony featuring presentations from allied cooperatives, and solidarity messages, followed by keynote addresses, panel discussions, and a press conference. The afternoon session will focus on regional reports, strategic planning, and the adoption of key resolutions aimed at strengthening the cooperative movement in the Philippines.

The National Leadership Conference marks a pivotal moment for the Philippine Chamber of Cooperative Inc. as it celebrates a year of dedicated service to cooperative formations nationwide, reaffirming its role as a leading voice in advancing the cooperative movement in the Philippines.

For more information and updates on the Coop Chamber and its initiatives, please visit https://coopchamberph.org

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