Vista Land Unveils Sandera, The Newest Master Planned Development in Davao

Vista Land Unveils Sandera, The Newest Master Planned Development in Davao

Monday, October 28, 2024

An opportunity to embrace the beauty and abundance of life in Sandera, located in Mintal, Davao City.

Vista Land continues to expand its footprint in the southern regions of the Philippines with a strategic focus on master planned developments that anticipate the evolving aspirations of its residents. Through its collection called Vista Estates, the company is creating unique, superior, and sustainable lifescapes that combine a premium quality of life with long-term real estate investment opportunities. Each development, set within premier destinations across the country, showcases themed residential enclaves designed to reflect the character of the estate, offering a unique and engaging living experience.

Davao City: A Gateway to the dynamic Mindanao landscape

The master planned development offers a secure and serene environment where residents can escape the fast pace of daily life.

Positioned at the center of the Asia-Pacific Rim, Davao City serves as a vital link between the Eastern and Western hemispheres, making Davao Region a key player in international trade. With the Port of Davao as the busiest in Mindanao, the city plays a crucial role in facilitating commerce and economic growth.

As a culturally diverse metropolis, Davao has become a benchmark for economic and social development in southern Mindanao. Known as the top agricultural, financial, and logistics center on the island, it boasts a dynamic economic activity driven by both local and foreign investments. With a population that ranks third in the country and the largest land area of any city, Davao is a magnet for migrants and investors seeking advancement in the Melting Pot of the Philippines.

In its mission to create self-sustaining microcities, Vista Land is establishing a master planned development in Mintal, also known as the "Little Tokyo" of Davao City, set to blend the rich cultural heritage of Davao with urban conveniences, allowing Filipinos to nurture thriving lifestyles in one of the country's most progressive cities.

Sandera: A Vanguard in the King City of the South

Sandera spans nearly 20 hectares of prime landscape that blends urban amenities with the natural beauty of the region.

Nestled in a historic district 20 minutes from the city center, Sandera spans nearly 20 hectares of prime landscape that blends urban amenities with the natural beauty of the region. Sandera offers a secure and serene environment where residents can escape the fast pace of daily life.

Children's laughter will fill the air in the safe grounds of play parks in Sandera.

The vertical residences at Sandera blend into the lush surroundings, with terraces offering breathtaking views and an unmatched sense of space. The homes in the sky rise from the verdant canopy, providing residents with a living experience that feels both connected to nature and delightfully modern. Equipped with smart technology and safety and security features, residents will enjoy the benefits of intelligent design and modern-day conveniences.

At the heart of the neighborhood is an exquisitely designed clubhouse, ideal for hosting family gatherings or celebrating special moments. Children's laughter will fill the air in the safe grounds of play parks, while the meandering pathways offer opportunities for jogging, biking, or leisurely evening strolls. Every aspect of Sandera has been thoughtfully considered to promote well-being and connection, ensuring that residents feel at home in a place that nurtures both body and spirit.

Sandera is an opportunity to embrace the beauty and abundance of life. Surrounded by panoramic views, residents can slow down and savor the simple pleasures of living in the master planned development. Whether enjoying a quiet moment on a terrace, sharing a meal with loved ones, or watching children explore open spaces, Sandera encourages its residents to find joy in the everyday.

An investment in a better way of living

As the holding company of the housing ventures of Vista Group, Vista Land & Lifescapes, Inc. is primarily engaged in developing horizontal properties, master-planned communities, and construction of vertical residences in the Philippines' key growth areas.

Filipinos deserve the best—this driving belief has been integral to Vista Land, its day-to-day operations, and is the secret to its success. Creating better, expansive, and global-oriented offerings and experiences for its residents, as well as delivering excellent long-term investment growth for its stakeholders, has always been the impetus behind the conglomerate's continuous evolution.

For more information on  Vista Land master planned developments nationwide, visit the website at www.vistaestates.vistaland.com.ph and follow their social media page @VistaEstatesOfficial.

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PLDT, La Union barangay team up for disaster preparedness

PLDT, La Union barangay team up for disaster preparedness

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc (PLDT) and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) are expanding their disaster preparedness expertise to the barangay level as part of the company's push to help boost the country's culture of resilience.

In partnership with Barangay Baccuit Sur in Bauang, La Union, PLDT engineers assigned at the company’s La Union Cable Landing Station (LUCLS) shared practical tips for creating effective disaster resilience plans to help the community safeguard their homes and families during emergencies.

Jacques Dean O. Gutierrez Jr., Head of LUCLS Operations, led the activity by sharing insights on disaster planning, focusing on how individuals and families can protect their homes and loved ones during disasters. Gutierrez also presented a disaster preparedness guide, providing essential strategies for communities to plan effectively before emergencies arise. An interactive Q&A portion after the lecture also reinforced key lessons.

"Through this activity, we recognize the importance of actively engaging our local communities in order to foster a culture of resilience," Gutierrez said. "This initiative is also aligned with our commitment to the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environment Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), ensuring we provide a beneficial social development program that involves our employees, the host barangay, and other parts of communities where we have critical facilities," he added.

Artemio Yadao, Baccuit Sur barangay captain, hailed the event as a significant step toward building a more resilient community. "The knowledge shared by La Union Cable Landing Station and the practical tools they provided, like the Go Bags and pocket procedure guides, will empower our residents to take proactive steps in disaster preparedness. It is reassuring to see how eager everyone was to learn and how this event brought us closer as a community,” he said.

"This initiative is anchored on the company's Resilient Citizen Program and will be subsequently rolled out at the Batangas and Daet International Cable System Stations in the coming months to boost the disaster preparedness know-how of employees, their families and the communities surrounding PLDT's critical network facilities," said Leo A. Gonzales, VP and Head of Property Facilities and Asset Resiliency Management.

It also boosts PLDT's "Iwas Kable" campaign in barangays near the ocean, whose main objective is to ensure the protection of both PLDT's submarine cable systems and the fisherfolk, who need to be made aware that these cables are energized.

PLDT and Smart’s Business Continuity and Resilience Office Business Continuity Awareness Program supports the company’s thrust for resiliency and industry-leading operational excellence for enhanced stakeholder confidence.

These initiatives also align with the PLDT Group’s commitment to support the Philippine government's digitalization thrust, and the country's attainment of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) No. 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

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USANA Philippines, PBA Mark Four Years of Championing Filipino Excellence and Wellness

USANA Philippines, PBA Mark Four Years of Championing Filipino Excellence and Wellness

USANA Philippines and the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) celebrate four years of fueling excellence, powering performance, and championing the health and wellness within the sports community and beyond through health initiatives and proper supplementation.

Since 2020, USANA Philippines serves as the Official Nutritional Supplements of the PBA, fostering a culture of health and wellness among athletes, sports enthusiasts and the broader community to attain success in both their athletic and personal lives. The benefits of USANA products such as CellSentials have been proven vital to the players’ overall wellbeing.

“Through this renewed partnership, we aim to continuously realize the vision of USANA’s founder, Dr. Myron Wentz, of reaching one million healthy families globally,” shares Ms. Ampig “We aim to achieve this by continuously empowering Filipino athletes and sports enthusiasts to prioritize their well-being through premium, science-backed supplementation and continuous community engagements” she adds.

Over the past four years, USANA Philippines and PBA have collaborated on a variety of health initiatives that ranged from nutrition seminars and fitness workshops to community outreach programs aimed at promoting the significance of healthy living. Among the most notable achievements of this partnership was the biggest fun run the PBA has organized which was the PBA USANA Run 2023 joined by 3,500 runners and nearly 70 exhibitors on site. Other initiatives include annual health and wellness fairs and challenges, fan engagement initiatives, social media campaigns, digital content series, and educational programs.

The partnership was renewed at the Smart Araneta Coliseum with USANA PH general manager Cherry Ampig and PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial. It was also joined by Jara Tayamen, USANA PH marketing manager, Jo Francisco, PBA Marketing Director, Leeo Kim, USANA PH marketing supervisor and Joyce Ramallosa, USANA PH senior sales and marketing manager.

Moving forward, USANA Philippines and PBA aim to further cultivate their shared commitment toward inspiring more Filipinos to lead healthier lives fueled by proper supplements and the right mindset.

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TikTok Shop Brings Holiday Magic with 11.11 Paskong Panalo Sale, Unbeatable Holiday Deals and Business Boost for MSMEs

TikTok Shop Brings Holiday Magic with 11.11 Paskong Panalo Sale, Unbeatable Holiday Deals and Business Boost for MSMEs

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

As the holiday season approaches, TikTok Shop is ready to spread festive cheer with its highly anticipated 11.11 Paskong Panalo Sale. With exclusive discounts, free shipping, and a unique blend of entertainment and e-commerce, TikTok Shop is set to elevate the holiday shopping experience for consumers and businesses alike.

This season’s 11.11 sale, followed by the 12.12 Mega Sale, further cements TikTok Shop’s reputation as the go-to platform for holiday shopping. Shoppers can expect unbeatable deals, while sellers, especially local businesses, gain opportunities to connect with a wider audience.

TikTok Shop: A Unique Holiday Shopping Experience

Running from November 5-11, the 11.11 Paskong Panalo Sale offers more than just discounts. It promises an interactive, dynamic, and smart shopping experience. According to Franco Aligaen, Marketing Lead of TikTok Shop Philippines, “Our aim is to enhance the holiday shopping experience by creating a dynamic space where consumers can discover authentic and quality products in an engaging and accessible way.”

Here are some of the standout deals shoppers can look forward to:

Tipid-O-Clock Live Vouchers up to ₱1,111 – Significant savings during specific time slots.

100% Free Shipping Nationwide – Convenient and accessible for everyone across the country.

₱11 Branded Deals – Top brands at unbelievable prices, offering unbeatable value.

TikTok Shop is also focusing on smart shopping through its #TikTokShopSmart campaign, helping customers make informed decisions, compare products, and find trusted sellers.

Empowering Filipino Businesses During the Holidays

TikTok Shop isn’t just about helping consumers—it’s also a vital platform for local businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Through live selling, interactive content, and creator partnerships, TikTok Shop helps businesses connect with their audience in meaningful ways. This dynamic blend of e-commerce and entertainment allows sellers to engage customers in real time, showcase products, and build authentic relationships.

Aligaen adds, “Supporting local businesses, especially MSMEs, is a top priority for us. We’re not just offering a marketplace; we’re offering a launchpad for growth.”

By offering powerful tools for sellers and maximizing visibility during high-traffic periods like the 11.11 and 12.12 sales, TikTok Shop is empowering Filipino businesses to thrive.

Redefining the Joy of Holiday Shopping

TikTok Shop’s 11.11 Paskong Panalo Sale is more than just a sales event—it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and convenience. As Aligaen puts it, “We believe that shopping should be more than just a transaction—it should be an enjoyable experience filled with discovery and excitement.”

As TikTok Shop transforms holiday shopping into an immersive experience, it creates a vibrant ecosystem where both buyers and sellers can celebrate and thrive together. Whether you're a shopper hunting for incredible deals or a business looking to grow, TikTok Shop invites everyone to join the festive spirit.

Explore TikTok Shop during the 11.11 Paskong Panalo Sale and discover the joy of holiday shopping redefined!

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DepEd and Chalkboard Launch the ARAL Program: A New Initiative to Boost Literacy and Numeracy in Public Schools

DepEd and Chalkboard Launch the ARAL Program: A New Initiative to Boost Literacy and Numeracy in Public Schools

Monday, October 21, 2024

In a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of education in the country, the Department of Education (DepEd) has entered into a formal partnership with Chalkboard, a leading provider of tutoring services, to launch the Academic Remediation, Acceleration, and Livelihood (ARAL) Program. This program seeks to address the pressing challenges in literacy and numeracy faced by Filipino students, particularly in public schools.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed on October 14 at the DepEd Central Office in Pasig City by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and Chalkboard CEO Kristine E. Brown. This partnership brings together the strengths of both the public and private sectors to promote improved educational outcomes for K-10 learners.

A Collaborative Effort for Quality Education

The ARAL Program embodies a synergistic collaboration between DepEd and Chalkboard, leveraging their combined expertise to ensure accessible, high-quality education for all Filipino learners. This partnership aligns with the government’s mandate to provide accessible, quality education as outlined in Republic Act 8525, otherwise known as the “Adopt-A-School Act of 1998,” which encourages private sector involvement in improving public education.

During the signing ceremony, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving the department’s goals. “DepEd is committed to ensuring that quality education is accessible to all Filipino learners, and this partnership with Chalkboard is a significant step toward that goal. By working together with the private sector, we can improve the academic performance and overall well-being of our students,” he noted.

Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Curriculum Powered by Advanced Technology

At the heart of the ARAL Program lies Chalkboard’s evidence-based curriculum, meticulously designed to ensure effective learning outcomes. This curriculum is grounded in the latest educational research and best practices, ensuring that each component is proven to enhance literacy and numeracy skills. A key feature of this curriculum is its integration of advanced technology to process data and inform the progress of each student.

ARAL Program Structure and Implementation

The ARAL Program employs a comprehensive, evidence-based strategy to address learning deficits exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Developed by Chalkboard, the program offers up to 25 days of targeted tutoring over six weeks, delivered through both in-person and digital platforms. This high-frequency, intensive approach is supported by research demonstrating substantial improvements in literacy and numeracy skills.

The program includes several key components:

• Personalized Learning: The tutoring sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, ensuring that every learner receives the appropriate support.

• Nutritional Support: Recognizing the connection between nutrition and learning, the ARAL Program will provide nutritious snacks or meals during each tutoring session to support students’ well-being.

• Community Upskilling and Engagement: The program involves local community members as paid tutors, creating economic opportunities while fostering a supportive educational environment.

• Holistic Development: In addition to academic support, the ARAL Program aims to develop students’ socio-emotional skills, preparing them for success both in and outside of the classroom.

Chalkboard has designed the program to be scalable and sustainable, ensuring it can be replicated in different regions and communities across the Philippines. “We believe that education is the key to unlocking the full potential of every child,” said Kristine E. Brown, CEO of Chalkboard. “The ARAL Program is our contribution to improving the educational landscape of the Philippines, particularly in addressing the learning gaps that have been exacerbated by recent challenges such as the pandemic.”

Target Beneficiaries and Community Impact

The primary beneficiaries of the ARAL Program are K-10 students in public schools, particularly those struggling with literacy and numeracy. The program’s implementation will begin with pilot schools, and its success will be measured through Chalkboard’s assessment system, supplemented by DepEd’s assessment tools.

The program not only benefits students but also the wider community. Local community members will be engaged as paid tutors or food vendors, providing them with meaningful employment opportunities while contributing to the educational success of the students.

DepEd will coordinate closely with Chalkboard to select target areas and ensure smooth program implementation. Monitoring and evaluation will be conducted throughout the program’s two-year duration to ensure that it delivers tangible and verifiable results.

A Model for Future Educational Partnerships

The ARAL Program will be funded through partnerships with private sponsors, local government units, and other supporting entities. With the support of these stakeholders, the program aims to create a lasting positive impact on the academic performance and socio-emotional development of Filipino students.

This collaboration between DepEd and Chalkboard is seen as a model for future public-private partnerships in education. Both parties are optimistic that the ARAL Program will not only help bridge current learning gaps but also lay the foundation for long-term educational improvements in the country.

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AF Payments unveils first-ever Mobile Legends: Bang Bang beep™ cards

AF Payments unveils first-ever Mobile Legends: Bang Bang beep™ cards

Saturday, October 19, 2024

AF Payments, Inc., the brains behind beep™ cards, has teamed up with digital entertainment enabler UniPin and international gaming developer and publisher Moonton Games to launch co-branded beep™ cards featuring your favorite heroes from the popular mobile game, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB).

Get ready to cop the new MLBB collectible card series showcasing 15 different hero designs, to be revealed at different times. Each MLBB limited edition beep™ card also includes a unique code that unlocks exclusive in-game items worth over PHP 300,000 in total, bringing your gaming experience to the next level.

“This exciting collaboration is a game-changer in the world of digital payments. By launching our first gaming-centric beep™ cards with a globally recognized brand such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, beep™ is building a fun and unique connection between digital payments and the passionate gaming community. It’s a fresh way of integrating with pop culture and showcasing our innovative spirit and dedication to our customers,” said AF Payments, Inc. President & CEO Jonathan Juan “JJ” Moreno.

“This collaboration is an exciting partnership for us in UniPin. This allows us to provide Mobile Legends: Bang Bang fans a way to represent their love for their game and their favorite hero through their purchase of exclusive beep™ cards,” said Dennis Christian Dominguez, Country Manager, UniPin Philippines.

This development also marks another significant milestone for Moonton Games, perfectly timed with the 8th anniversary of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, as well as the M6 World Championship happening later this year.

MOONTON Games Business Development Manager for Game Publishing Kevin Acuña said, “It brings us great pleasure to engage in a collaboration with UniPin to provide our gaming community with a new way to express their love for Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. We hope that this partnership also makes commuting a thrilling experience for our fans.”

Calling All Brands: Join the beep™ Movement

AF Payments Inc. is opening doors for brands to leverage the beep™ card as an effective promotional channel. With the opportunity to create co-branded beep™ cards that combine transit convenience with powerful brand visibility, companies can engage millions of public commuters—a key demographic that includes young professionals, students, and everyday consumers. Whether you’re in retail, tech, entertainment, or beyond, beep™ cards can be customized to showcase your brand while delivering a valuable service to your audience.

“With beep™’s extensive network and strong presence in everyday life, brands have a unique chance to reach consumers through an innovative and highly visible medium,” Moreno added. “These cards aren’t just for payments; they’re collectibles, they’re promotions, and they’re part of the digital payment revolution.”

The collectible MLBB beep™ cards fully function as stored value cards usable on train lines, city and P2P buses, modern jeepneys and other transport lines, and at various retail outlets. These cards are now available for purchase in designated booths at the terminals of BGC Bus (McKinley), BGC Bus (Market Market), and One Ayala, as well as online at beep™’s official stores on Lazada and Shopee for only PHP 399.00.

This collaboration is a testament to beep™’s strategic vision to broaden its brand presence and enhance customer engagement through innovative partnerships and product offerings. By positioning itself as not just a payment solution but a brand that resonates with diverse consumer interests, including gaming, beep™ can connect more meaningfully with its audience, reinforcing its market leadership in the digital payment space.

Follow beep™ on Facebook, X, Instagram , and TikTok  for more information.

Meanwhile, organizations and other businesses looking to partner with AF Payments, Inc. may visit the website  or contact the Service Desk at (02) 87379600 (Landline), 09175121319 (Globe Line), or 09985819675 (Smart Line).

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EastWest Honored as Best Wealth Manager in the Philippines at The Asset Triple A Private Capital Awards 2024

EastWest Honored as Best Wealth Manager in the Philippines at The Asset Triple A Private Capital Awards 2024

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

EastWest has been recognized as the Best Wealth Manager in the Philippines by The Asset Triple A Private Capital Awards 2024. This internationally recognized and highly prestigious award further highlights EastWest’s focus on providing exceptional wealth management services and its continuing efforts to innovate and enhance its offerings in the rapidly evolving financial landscape.

EastWest Priority: A Segment Focused on Elevating Affluent Clients

EastWest’s dedication to serving affluent clients is especially evident through its EastWest Priority segment. This segment, which has seen a 20% increase in AUM and a 17% growth in client count, offers a suite of bespoke services designed to meet the unique needs of high-net-worth individuals. The bank’s competitive edge lies in its ability to combine traditional, high-touch banking with cutting-edge digital solutions.

“Our affluent banking services are unmatched in the market,” said Jerry G. Ngo, CEO of EastWest. “From economic briefings with top economists to personalized investment advice, we ensure that our clients receive the best possible service, tailored to their specific financial goals.”

Going Further for You

“Ultimately, this award is a symbol of EastWest’s promise of excellence in wealth management and our dedication to going ‘Further for You.’ As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, this recognition reinforces the strength of our ‘East meets West’ philosophy—blending the best of both worlds to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions that truly meet the needs of our affluent clients. We remain committed to pushing boundaries, embracing new challenges, and ensuring that our clients always receive the exceptional service they deserve as we continue our journey of growth and transformation into the next 30 years,” Rafael S. Algarra Jr., SEVP and Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management concluded.

The Asset launched the Triple A Private Capital Awards for Private Banks, Wealth & Investment Bank Advisers, Solutions and Index Providers mainly to shine the spotlight and showcase the change agents among high net worth individuals and the private banks, wealth managers, bank solution advisers and index providers that partner with them. These awards cover the Asia-Pacific markets, including Japan and Australia.

For more information on EastWest’s wealth management services and digital initiatives, you may visit https://priority.eastwestbanker.com.

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