Coca-Cola Philippines and Partners Help Empower 2,000 Women Entrepreneurs Through iSTAR Program

Coca-Cola Philippines and Partners Help Empower 2,000 Women Entrepreneurs Through iSTAR Program

Monday, March 31, 2025

The Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), a long-time partner of Coca-Cola Philippines, hosted the first-ever Hybrid Mass Graduation Ceremony for the iSTAR Program in Bacolod, Negros Occidental on February 1, 2025. This milestone aligns with Coca-Cola Philippines’ commitment to economic empowerment, particularly for women in grassroots communities.

The graduation ceremony brought together 2,000 graduates who joined in person or virtually, and reinforced the program’s role in uplifting women entrepreneurs nationwide.

This marked a major achievement for the iSTAR Program in Western Visayas, particularly in Region VI, highlighting its role in equipping entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to build and sustain their businesses.

“For over 112 years, Coca-Cola Philippines has been refreshing the lives of Filipinos and making a positive difference in our communities, said Ivanna Dela Torre, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communication, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Philippines.

The event was attended by key TESDA (Technical Education & Skills Development Authority) officials, including Director General Sec. Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, Deputy Director General for Special Concerns Felizardo R. Colombo, Executive Director of the Partnerships and Linkages Office Floramel Joy C. Songsong, Chief of the National Training Center for Women Mylene H. Somera, and TESDA regional and provincial representatives.

Strengthening partnerships for greater impact

iSTAR graduate and Sari-sari Store and Bakery owner Catherine Gallano, shared how the program equipped her with the essential skills and knowledge for her entrepreneurial success. Through the initiative’s digital learning platform, she also gained confidence in financial management and customer engagement, allowing her to expand her business.

“The iSTAR program has been incredibly beneficial as it empowers women like me to run a sustainable business, allowing us to earn a living and enhance our quality of life”, she shared.

The success of the iSTAR Program is driven by the strong collaboration between Coca-Cola Philippines, TESDA, and the NWTF. TESDA has played a key role in expanding the program’s reach by providing training and certification, as well as making iSTAR’s modules free and accessible nationwide through the TESDA Online Program, ensuring more aspiring entrepreneurs can benefit from the initiative.

“You get addicted to learning; you get addicted to [the] growth of learning for yourself and sharing your learning through training others as well. Spread the message: TESDA is here to make sure that no Filipino potential goes to waste. We are here to ensure that you have the skills that you need for whatever you or your family aspires for. That we are here to help you from training to [trabaho],” said Sec. Benitez.

The NWTF has been instrumental in implementing iSTAR in grassroots communities. Its commitment to championing entrepreneurship has played a key role in ensuring that program participants—especially women—receive the necessary training and support to sustain their businesses.

"Loans are just part of it; we need loans to have capital, but the heart of Project Dungganon is to support, maximize, and protect the business. iSTAR is one of the programs Dungganon delivers in order to capacitate our members to better their businesses,” said Gilbert Stephan Maramba, Director for Operations at the NWTF.

Expanding support through Centers for Entrepreneurship

Launched in 2020, the iSTAR Program is a free entrepreneurship training initiative by Coca-Cola Philippines and TESDA. It is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills for starting and managing retail businesses through digital platforms.

In July 2024, Coca-Cola Philippines launched Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) in seven key areas under the iSTAR Program. These hubs serve as sustainable spaces for ongoing training, mentorship, and financial support, ensuring that small business owners have access to resources that help them thrive.

“To our graduates, your journey does not end here. The CFEs are your "go-to" spaces for continuous learning, business mentoring, and exploring new opportunities for innovation. As graduates, you are always welcome to visit the NWTF CFE, where you’ll find support and guidance to help you grow and sustain your businesses,” Dela Torre added.

For more information about the iSTAR Program, visit the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub: https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability.

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Mayor Marcy Teodoro: Marikina’s Humble Leader with a Big Heart

Mayor Marcy Teodoro: Marikina’s Humble Leader with a Big Heart

    Image courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/AlagangMaanTeodoro

Marikina City is known for its resilience, discipline, and strong sense of community. But beyond its famous shoemaking industry and well-maintained streets, the city thrives under the leadership of Mayor Marcy Teodoro. A public servant who leads with humility and dedication, Mayor Marcy has become a beloved figure among Marikeños, proving time and time again that good governance starts with genuine care for the people.

A Leader Who Listens

One of Mayor Marcy’s most admirable qualities is his accessibility to the people. Unlike traditional politicians who are often distant, he takes the time to walk through the streets, talk to residents, and personally check on the needs of his constituents. Whether it’s addressing flood control measures, improving public services, or ensuring the welfare of local businesses, Mayor Marcy is always on the ground, actively listening and responding to concerns.

Disaster Preparedness and Response

Marikina has faced its fair share of calamities, especially with its vulnerability to floods. However, under Mayor Marcy’s leadership, the city has become a model of disaster preparedness. His proactive approach—investing in early warning systems, strengthening evacuation protocols, and mobilizing quick response teams—has saved countless lives. During Typhoon Ulysses in 2020, he led rescue operations personally, showing his unwavering commitment to his people.

Education and Community Development

Mayor Marcy understands that education is a powerful tool for progress. His administration has continuously provided scholarships, improved school facilities, and ensured that teachers have the resources they need. Through various community programs, he also promotes livelihood opportunities and skills training, empowering Marikeños to build a better future for themselves and their families.

Keeping Marikina Clean and Green

One of the things that set Marikina apart from other cities is its cleanliness and well-maintained public spaces. Mayor Marcy has championed environmental initiatives, including waste management programs, tree-planting activities, and the preservation of the Marikina River Park. His efforts have not only kept the city beautiful but have also encouraged a culture of discipline and shared responsibility among residents.

A Mayor with a Heart

Beyond policies and projects, what makes Mayor Marcy truly special is his compassion. His leadership is not just about governance—it’s about making life better for every Marikeño. From personally assisting senior citizens to ensuring healthcare is accessible to all, he leads with empathy, reminding everyone that public service is about people first.

In a time where good leaders are hard to find, Mayor Marcy Teodoro stands as a beacon of hope and integrity. Marikina is lucky to have a mayor who not only dreams of a better city but works tirelessly to make it happen. And as long as he’s at the helm, there’s no doubt that Marikina will continue to flourish—one step, one project, and one heartfelt act of service at a time.

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CCIP, IPOPHL, and eCommerce giants join forces against online fakes

CCIP, IPOPHL, and eCommerce giants join forces against online fakes

Friday, March 28, 2025

The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP) has joined forces with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) to intensify efforts in protecting intellectual property (IP) rights in the eCommerce space. In a landmark move, 18 CCIP member companies signed the E-Commerce Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during CCIP’s 1st General Membership Meeting at the GG8 Building in San Juan City.

The agreement establishes a framework for closer coordination between brand owners and eCommerce platforms to curb the online sale of counterfeit and pirated products. By facilitating faster detection and takedown of IP-infringing content, the initiative strengthens industry-wide efforts to uphold product authenticity and consumer safety in the digital marketplace.

Among the companies that committed to the MOU are: Amway Philippines LLC; Chemworld Marketing Corp.; Chromaesthetics, Inc. Elegant Fumes Beauty Products, Inc.; Ever Bilena Cosmetics Inc.; Green Cross, Inc.; GT Cosmetics Manufacturing Inc.; Ivy Andrea Beauty Corp.; JRadiance Corp.; Kimiki Solutions, Inc.; Personal Collection Direct Selling, Inc.; Prime Global Corp.; Rainiers Research & Development Institute, Inc.; Scentful Lifestyle Concepts OPC; Snoe Beaute Produits, Inc.; UL Skin Sciences, Inc.; Vivanti Executive Advantage, Inc.; Z Lab International Corp.

Under the MOU, CCIP member companies will work closely with eCommerce platforms, including TikTok Shop, Lazada, Shopee, and Zalora—who are also signatories—to swiftly remove listings of counterfeit cosmetics and personal care products. While IPOPHL is not a signatory to the MOU, it plays a key role as a facilitator in onboarding interested platforms, brand owners, and industry associations. Additionally, IPOPHL serves as the convener for an annual review and assessment of the MOU to evaluate its effectiveness.

“The rise of counterfeit products online poses a growing threat to both businesses and consumers. Through this partnership, we are taking a proactive stance in safeguarding brand integrity and ensuring that Filipinos have access to safe, authentic products,” said Dr. Janina Tan Rch, executive vice president for external affairs of CCIP.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening intellectual property enforcement in the cosmetics and personal care sector, reinforcing the industry's commitment to a fair and trustworthy digital marketplace.

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Online celebs share Smart ways to parent your kids in the digital age

Online celebs share Smart ways to parent your kids in the digital age

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

While the internet provides kids with access to a wealth of educational materials, creative tools, and opportunities for connection, parents still need to guide their children to safely navigate the online world.

This is why Smart is strengthening its campaign for responsible digital parenting and child protection. Recently, it gathered parents who are also content creators for a ‘Family Day’ at its flagship store in Mandaluyong City to discuss and share their best practices when it comes to guiding their kids every time they go online.

The event coincided with the launch of the Smart Junior Plan, a first-of-its-kind postpaid plan designed to enable parents and their children to stay connected while providing access to a curated suite of kid-friendly apps and a safer browsing experience with PLDT and Smart’s Child Protection Platform.

Here are some insightful parenting tips mommies and daddies can adopt to keep their children safe in the digital space:

1. Set limits to screentime and guide them on what sites are safe to visit.

Louise Santos(@mommypracticality) has sons aged 8, 14, and 21. While her two boys in high school and college can now discern which sites are safe and not, her youngest son’s use of gadgets is still regulated.

“We really talk about the sites that they can visit or not,” she shares. “That also applies to us because we have to teach by example.”

For her part, preschool teacher Celine Cornejo (@teachercelineph), who has two boys and one girl aged 2, 10, and 12, restricts her children from using their mobile phones during school nights and only allows them access on a Friday, after school, until the weekend. “Kaya kapag Friday, excited na sila.”

Meanwhile, model-turned-host Kelly Misa-Fernandez (@kellymisa) shares her nine-year-old son has had access to the Internet since he was five “but very restricted.” “We would always be watching what he would consume online and nowadays since he has school and we want him to focus on school, weekends lang pwede, unless it’s a chill week,” she says.

2. Tell kids not to talk to strangers online.

Celine also taught her children not to share their personal information such as their names, address, contact details, and passwords. On top of this, she told them her boys, who are old enough to use gadgets to “never ever talk to strangers.”

“I always remind my kids that there are people out there, they pretend to be kids, that chat with you, but in reality, they are adults,” Celine shares.

3. Teach kids that not everything they read online is true.

Celine also had a tough discussion with her kids about looking up online on her health condition. “When I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer, my husband and I talked to our kids. We told them that, ‘I know you guys are smart kids, but I know you tend to consult Dr. Google’,” she recalls.

“So, I told them that whatever you read online, it doesn’t mean that it will apply with my condition because each patient is unique. And Dr. Google, of course, is not my doctor. I have the best oncologist that they can talk to or consult with, or if they have any questions, they can ask us, their parents, so for our family, our digital measure also overlaps with our social net and emotional support,” she adds.

4. Connect before you correct.

Louise also underscored the importance of building trust with her children. “We go back to having a very honest, open communication where they see us, as parents, as their safety net. Parang tayo ‘yung safe place nila na they can call us on anything, everything kasi before you correct your children, you should first connect,” she said.

Events host Eri Neeman (@erineeman), who has an eight-year-old son, echoes Louise. “Kasi how can your children come to you kung takot siyang pumunta sa’yo? Like kung may masamang mangyari kasi parati mo siyang pinapagalitan, walang connection, walang relationship, how would I feel confident na pwedeng kausapin si Mommy, si Daddy?” Eri says.

He adds that parents also need to be self-aware and assess the parenting styles they might have inherited from their parents. “How can we heal and nurture this person kung ‘yung inner child natin hindi pa healed? Kasi you can’t pour from an empty cup, ‘di ba?”

5. Embrace technology and have fun with your kid in the digital world.

Robin Cruz, one half of the father-and-son duo of @anythingarticulated on TikTok, says that he uses the digital world to strengthen his bond with his eight-year-old kid, Gabe. “We do unboxing ng mga toys, ‘yun yung bonding namin. Ang rule lang namin, during lunch and dinner, no gadgets are allowed,” he shares.

“Na-su-supervise naman namin ano ‘yung nilalaro niya at pinapanood sa YouTube,” Robin says, who adds that him being an Elementary Education graduate also has prepared him for teaching his child, not only in academics, but also in having discipline for following rules.

Kelly relates to Robin, saying that she also geeks out with her kid. “So, when it comes to the games he plays, he likes Mario Bros. and I grew up with Mario Bros. ‘Buti na lang he likes it, hindi ko talaga pinilit, but he’s like obsessed,” she happily shares. Kelly also learned that her son is into ’80s music when she checked her Spotify playlist, another shared interest with her kid. “So parang it’s a positive spin for me, I take it in a very positive way, but I am aware na may mga scary things out there.”

Mommy content creator Ulya Nikita (@ulyanikitaa), who is navigating parenting as a young mom using digital tools, loves the idea that her six-year-old son can now chat with her online. “Parang kinikilig ako when I get a notification - what? That’s my baby!”

Ulya admits that she found playing with her son challenging at first. “As an adult, kids’ games can be repetitive, so I always look for different ways to enjoy playtime, like instead of traditional play I like looking for video games we can play together instead.

She also emphasizes having a direct line with your kid can give you peace of mind while recalling the time she could not contact her son’s adult companion. “There was a time I could not contact his companion, and it sent me panicking. So for your small child to be able to have access to a mode of communication to you, the parent, I feel like it is so, so important,” Ulya says.

Sign up for a Junior Plan now

Available as a supplementary line to Smart Postpaid subscribers on Plan 999 and up, the Junior Plan comes with monthly 10 GB open access data, Unli All-Net Calls and Texts, and unlimited access to the online learning platform Khan Academy, streaming apps YouTube [Kids] and Spotify, messaging apps Messenger [Kids] and Viber, and popular mobile gaming app Mobile Legends – all for only P499 per month.

The Junior Plan is made safer with Smart’s Child Protection Platform, a cybersecurity solution that works 24/7 to block access to illegal sites and links with inappropriate and abusive material, ensuring a more secure online experience for children.

In 2024, the Child Protection Platform blocked 1.6 million malicious sites and 1 million attempts by the users to try to access those sites. Smart has also blocked more than 1 million mobile numbers involved in phishing, SMShing, and Vishing activities.

“Technology is ever-evolving, and we recognize that Internet access comes with both benefits and risks, especially to children as vulnerable end-users. As a responsible provider of connectivity, we aim to undertake safety-by-design in our products. With our Smart Junior Plan, our goal is to keep families connected, while continuously promoting child protection and helping parents ensure a safer and better digital experience for their kids.”, said PLDT and Smart Chief Sustainability Officer Melissa Vergel de Dios.

The Junior Plan is backed by Smart’s superior mobile network, which empowers subscribers to upload and download heavy files in seconds, browse the web instantly, stream videos seamlessly, and enjoy lag-free mobile games. Know more about the Junior Plan at www.smart.com.ph/Postpaid.

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Bossjob Brings Job Hunting to the Fast Lane with Ayala MRT Station Ad Campaign

Bossjob Brings Job Hunting to the Fast Lane with Ayala MRT Station Ad Campaign

Finding the right job should be just as quick and seamless. Bossjob, the Philippines’ growing AI-powered, chat-first recruitment platform, is taking job hunting to the next level with a dynamic new campaign at Ayala MRT Station—one of Metro Manila’s busiest commuter hubs.

With thousands of professionals, job seekers, and business leaders passing through the station daily, Bossjob is meeting them right where opportunity happens. The campaign strategically places high-impact ads across ticket booths, wall panels, lightboxes, platform banners, elevator doors, and post wraps, ensuring that every commuter is reminded that landing their next big career move is just one chat away.

Revolutionizing Recruitment: "Find Job. Talk to Boss."

At the heart of the campaign is Bossjob’s signature message: "Find Job. Talk to Boss." This simple yet powerful tagline underscores what sets Bossjob apart—its Direct Chat feature, which allows job seekers to connect with employers instantly, eliminating lengthy and uncertain hiring processes.

The ads are more than just billboards—they serve as gentle reminders of new opportunities waiting to be discovered. Each placement is equipped with QR codes, enabling commuters to download the Bossjob app on the spot, bringing them one step closer to their next career milestone.

"Job hunting shouldn’t be complicated. Our goal at Bossjob has always been to empower job seekers with speed, accessibility, and real connections. With this campaign, we’re bringing our mission to the streets—literally—by making job opportunities more visible and accessible to thousands of Filipinos every day," said Kimberly Chen, Country Manager of Bossjob.

Beyond Metro Manila: A Growing Commitment to Employment

The Ayala MRT campaign isn’t just about advertising—it’s a statement of Bossjob’s continued commitment to revolutionizing the job search experience in the Philippines. As the platform expands across Metro Manila and regional hubs such as Iloilo, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, and Pampanga, it remains steadfast in its mission to help professionals connect with meaningful careers.

Job growth outside Metro Manila continues to accelerate, highlighting the increasing demand for platforms like Bossjob that connect talent with businesses beyond the capital. This initiative amplifies Bossjob’s role as a catalyst for nationwide employment, providing companies in key industries—from BPOs to retail, hospitality, and IT—with top local talent.

Technology-Driven Job Search at Your Fingertips

Since its launch in 2018, Bossjob has been at the forefront of AI-driven recruitment, using big data and smart algorithms to create highly accurate job matches between employers and candidates.

Unlike traditional job boards, Bossjob’s chat-first model allows professionals to skip unnecessary hurdles, making job applications faster and more efficient. By integrating this user-friendly, mobile-first experience into everyday commuter routes, Bossjob is ensuring that every Filipino—whether on the way to work, a meeting, or home—has access to better job opportunities for free, with just one scan and one chat.

Moving Forward Like a Boss: A Future Where Hiring Is Instant and Personal

As Bossjob continues to expand its footprint across the country, the Ayala MRT campaign is just one of many initiatives to create a future where job seekers and businesses connect faster, smarter, and with more ease than ever before.

"Every train ride, every commute, every scan of a QR code is an opportunity. That’s what we’re bringing to the table—real opportunities that people can take action on, right then and there," added Chen.

Whether you're a first-time job seeker, a professional looking for career growth, or a company in search of top talent, Bossjob is redefining how the Philippines finds jobs—one chat at a time.

Scan. Chat. Get Hired.

For more information, visit Bossjob.ph or download the Bossjob app today.

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BIR Partners with Eastern Communications for a faster, more secure network

BIR Partners with Eastern Communications for a faster, more secure network

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has officially partnered with Eastern Communications, recently holding a partnership briefing at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Information System Group. The BIR enlisted the ICT provider to secure its office’s network infrastructure through SD-WAN (Software-Defined Area Network). Eastern Communications is known for equipping government agencies with fast, secure, and reliable connectivity, cybersecurity solutions, and cloud and data services, aiding them in their journey towards digitalized operations.

To learn more about Eastern Communications’ dedicated internet, cloud, cybersecurity, and other ICT solutions, visit eastern.com.ph or talk to us at 5300-7000.

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Empowering Excellence: How Women Leaders at FedEx Philippines Are Helping Shape an Inclusive Future

Empowering Excellence: How Women Leaders at FedEx Philippines Are Helping Shape an Inclusive Future

FedEx Philippines is a proud advocate of our inclusive culture, and nowhere is this more evident than in the journeys of its remarkable women leaders.

These leaders -- Maribeth Espinosa, Jenieryll Jomarie Mangalindan, Anne Marie Liwag-Inawat, and Maria Isabel Novero-Benitez -- illustrate how the company’s "People-Service-Profit" (PSP) philosophy, including its focus on equal opportunity for all, empowers employees to excel, regardless of gender, background, or role.

These shared stories attest to the positive transformation that occurs when organizations provide opportunities for everyone to thrive.

Leadership Without Limits

With a background in chemistry, Maribeth Espinosa, Managing Director of FedEx Philippines, began her career as a Dangerous Goods agent and steadily rose through the ranks—driven by skill, teamwork, and an unshakable commitment to growth.

“I’m not a female leader. I’m a leader. Nothing more, nothing less,” she asserts.

Maribeth credits much of her success to the FedEx People-Service-Profit (PSP) philosophy, which underscores the belief that when employees are valued and supported, they perform at their best.

“FedEx policies and programs create a culture where employees feel safe, respected, and empowered,” she says, reinforcing the importance of equity in the workplace. Through this philosophy, she not only makes strategic decisions but also cultivates future leaders through mentorship, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to spread their wings and create an impact.

Growth Through a People-First Culture

Jenieryll Jomarie Mangalindan, Senior Manager of Operations, exemplifies adaptability and a desire for professional development. Starting as an accountant, she found her calling in operations. Her transition to a role outside her original field was made possible by the FedEx culture which promotes inclusivity and personal growth. Jomarie manages a team of over 200 people, finding strength in diversity.

“A culturally competent and inclusive workplace is one where team members bring their authentic selves to work with great confidence,” she explains.

Jomarie’s leadership style revolves around effective project management, which she believes is enriched by diversity. “Each team member brings unique strengths to the table, enabling us to achieve operational excellence together,” she says, underscoring how the company’s inclusive environment paves the way for innovation and efficiency.

Leading with Skill and Integrity

Anne Marie Liwag-Inawat's journey from accounting to Senior Manager of Sales exemplifies the company’s commitment to fostering a culture where desire for growth is nurtured and enabled.

“Growth and professional development at FedEx are never about gender -- it’s about skills, competency, and a willingness to learn,” she says.

For Anne, mentoring isn’t just part of her leadership—it’s the foundation of it. Her “Three-Question Rule” instills accountability and fosters a culture of self-driven growth, all within a framework of strong support. Under this approach, team members can seek her guidance on the same topic up to three times. After that, they are encouraged to trust their own knowledge and problem-solving abilities to find a solution. This method doesn’t just build confidence—it cultivates resilience and independent thinking, empowering Anne’s team to take ownership of their roles.

Anne emphasizes the importance of setting a purposeful path for success, such as having a five-year plan or a goal to master a new skill. “It’s about making conscious choices, being decisive, and taking ownership of your career,” she advises, illustrating how FedEx’s culture supports individual ambition and nurtures self-driven growth.

Empathy and Excellence in Customer Service

With a career spanning over two decades in the logistics industry, Maria Isabel Novero-Benitez has established herself as a stalwart, creative, and adept planner. In her role as Senior Manager for Customer Experience Operations, she leads with empathy, a value central to FedEx Purple Promise of making every FedEx experience outstanding.

She emphasizes how understanding and valuing different perspectives strengthen both employee satisfaction and customer relationships. “We don’t discriminate based on race, gender, religion, disability, or any other protected status - we look at their skillset, what they can contribute and how they can help in fulfilling our Purple Promise. Making sure that our people feel how much they matter inspires them, and inspired employees do better at their jobs,” she explains.

Through data-driven insights and a commitment to continuous improvement, Isabel ensures her team anticipates and meets customer needs while fostering an inclusive work environment, driving her team up for success. For her, success goes beyond achieving goals; it involves finding fulfillment in the journey and respecting the unique perspectives of everyone.

Building a Legacy

The stories of these women leaders are about actively shaping a more inclusive future for the entire logistics industry.

FedEx initiatives supporting career opportunities for all continue to empower its employees to achieve unprecedented heights.

Learn more about FedEx Philippines here.

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