72nd Palanca Awards inducts 4 new Hall of Fame awardees

Sunday, November 24, 2024

72nd Palanca Awards

Celebrates Filipino literary excellence at PICC anew

The Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature made a grand return to the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) to celebrate its illustrious 72nd year. The prestigious event honored some of the country’s finest writers across various genres and categories and proudly inducted new additions to its Hall of Fame.

The Palanca Hall of Fame is an elite circle of awardees who have achieved the remarkable feat of winning First Prize five times, in any writing category. It now has 30 honorees following the inclusion of four distinguished writers, namely, Eros Sanchez Atalia, Mikael de Lara Co, Miguel Antonio Alfredo V. Luarca, and Joshua Lim So, cementing their legacy in Philippine literature.

The Awards also honored achievements across 22 writing categories, including the Novel and Nobela categories. Remarkably, 31 new names were recognized among a total of 54 awardees in four divisions: Kabataan, English, Filipino, and Regional Languages. All entries were meticulously evaluated by a respected panel of literary luminaries.

Gracing the night as Guest of Honor/Speaker and Gawad Dangal ng Lahi awardee was Director Jun Robles Lana. An internationally acclaimed Filipino filmmaker, Lana boasts an impressive portfolio of local and international accolades, including 12 Palanca Awards prizes and his induction into the Hall of Fame in 2006. His award-winning films include “Anino sa Likod ng Buwan,” “Die Beautiful,” “Kalel, 15,” and “About Us But Not About Us.” Lana’s achievements underscore his immense contributions to both Philippine literature and cinema.

The Palanca Awards stands as the longest-running and most prestigious literary competition in the Philippines. It was named after the businessman and philanthropist Carlos Palanca, Sr. and sponsored by the Carlos Palanca Foundation, Inc. This esteemed event maintains a tradition of encouraging writers to nurture and develop Philippine literature. A Palanca medal or recognition is a highly sought-after honor within the Filipino writing community, both locally and internationally.

Since 1951, the Palanca Awards has honored 2,580 Filipino authors with medals and certificates. As a champion of Philippine literature, it also serves as a repository of literary treasures, boasting an archive of 2,677 winning works from 1951 to 2024.

Following is the list of winners of the 72nd Palanca Awards:

KABATAAN DIVISION

KABATAAN SANAYSAY

1st Prize 
Glorious Zahara Exylin C. Alesna
Dito sa Kanlungan ng Hiraya't Katotohanan

2nd Prize
Raya T. Mitra
Sinulid at Buhay

3rd Prize
Lancelot MJ T. Edillor
Bura, Sulat

KABATAAN ESSAY

1st Prize
Brant Angelo S. Ambes
The Digital Snowball

2nd Prize
Ruth Mecanelle Magolhado
My Humanly Unhuman Friend

3rd Prize
Glorious Zahara Exylin C. Alesna
Some Things Must Never Change

FILIPINO DIVISION

MAIKLING KUWENTO

1st Prize
Mark Anthony Angeles
Gagambang-bahay

2nd Prize
Hannah A. Leceña
Siya si Ril

3rd Prize
Aljane C. Baterna
Ang Lungga

MAIKLING KUWENTONG PAMBATA

1st Prize
Christopher S. Rosales
Musikong Bumbong

2nd Prize
Brian James S. Camaya
Si Bambalito, ang Batang Bayani ng Bangkusay

3rd Prize
John Patrick F. Solano
Atang Para kay Nanang Toyang

SANAYSAY

1st Prize
Tomas F. Agulto
Tulambuhay ng Isang Makatang Laway

2nd Prize
David R. Corpuz
Autoetnograpiya ng Luksa

3rd Prize
Adelle Liezl Chua
Love Child

TULA

1st Prize
Mikael de Lara Co
Panayam sa Abo

2nd Prize
John Dave B. Pacheco
Paa, Tuhod, Balikat ng Tagakaulo: Higatang sa Pangil ng Pana-panahong Pagkalugmok

3rd Prize
John Brixter M. Tino
Dugo ng Aking Dugo

TULA PARA SA MGA BATA

1st Prize
John Romeo Leongson Venturero
Anak ng Baha! Mga Tulang Pambata

2nd Prize
John Michael G. Londres
Saklolo, Trak ng Bumbero!

3rd Prize
Eros Sanchez Atalia
Add to Cart at iba pang mga Tula

DULANG MAY ISANG YUGTO

1st Prize
Joshua Lim So
Pagkapit Sa Hangin

2nd Prize
Hans Pieter Luyun Arao
Vengeance of the Gods

3rd Prize
U Z. Eliserio
Ang Trahedya ni Bert

DULANG GANAP ANG HABA

1st Prize
WALANG NAGWAGI

2nd Prize
Miguel Antonio Alfredo V. Luarca
Ardor

3rd Prize
Andrew Aquino Estacio
Ka Amado

DULANG PAMPELIKULA

1st Prize
Andrew Bonifacio L. Clete
Championship

2nd Prize
Raymund T. Barcelon
Paglilitis

3rd Prize
Rian Jay G. Hernandez
Dobol

REGIONAL LANGUAGES DIVISION

SHORT STORY-CEBUANO

1st Prize
Michael Aaron Gomez
Pamalandong ni Antigo Mokayat

2nd Prize
Reynaldo A. Caturza
Anino

3rd Prize
Gracelda I. Lina
Maninibya

SHORT STORY-HILIGAYNON

1st Prize
Serafin I. Plotria, Jr.
Ang Liwat nga Paglupad ni Lolo

2nd Prize
Bryan Mari Argos
Labô

3rd Prize
Al Jeffrey L. Gonzales
Anagas, Anagas, Baylo 'Ta Ngalan

SHORT STORY-ILOKANO

1st Prize
Neyo E. Valdez
Panaggawid

2nd Prize
Ma. Lourdes Ladi Opinaldo
Uram

3rd Prize
Prodie Gar. Padios
Anniniwan

ENGLISH DIVISION

SHORT STORY

1st Prize
Jan Kevin M. Rivera
Muted City

2nd Prize
Antonio Hernandez
The Man Who Sold Dignity

3rd Prize
Kiefer Adrian Z. Occeño
Bee Happy

SHORT STORY FOR CHILDREN

1st Prize
NO WINNER

2nd Prize
NO WINNER

3rd Prize
Edgar C. Samar
A Young Poet Dreams of a Hundred Words that Rhyme with Maynila

ESSAY  

1st Prize
Lioba Asia E. Piluden
Ghost-hunting in Sagada

2nd Prize
Kara Danielle Eraña Medina
Another Hope Entirely

3rd Prize
Jade Mark B. Capiñanes
A Personal History of Sea Urchins

POETRY

1st Prize
Joel M. Toledo
Silangan

2nd Prize
Lyde Gerard Sison Villanueva
La Muerte De La Luz

3rd Prize
Ana Maria Segunda K. Lacuesta
We Are Not Yet Lost

POETRY WRITTEN FOR CHILDREN

1st Prize
Edgar C. Samar
Every Year, J Gained a Power

2nd Prize
Stacy Haynie Bolislis Ayson
Where are the Dinosaurs?

3rd Prize
Peter Solis Nery
Thirteen Ways of Looking at Books

ONE-ACT PLAY

1st Prize
Eljay Castro Deldoc
Unidentified

2nd Prize
Miguel Antonio Alfredo V. Luarca
The Impossible Dream

3rd Prize
Kenneth Theodore Cheng Keng
Line Up

FULL-LENGTH PLAY

1st Prize
Miguel Antonio Alfredo V. Luarca
Corridors

2nd Prize
Dustin Edward D. Celestino
Birdie

3rd Prize
Emilio Antonio Babao Guballa
The Echoist

NOBELA

Pangunahing Gantimpala
Eros Sanchez Atalia
Thirty Virgins

Natatanging Gantimpala
NO WINNER

NOVEL

Grand Prize
Lakan Ma. Mg. D. Umali
The Ferdinand Project

Special Prize
Michael Aaron Gomez
The People's Republic of Negros

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Mastercard Expands Payment Options on BGC Buses


The collaboration between Mastercard and beep™ aims to broaden contactless acceptance in the Philippines, bringing greater convenience to commuters

Commuters can now conveniently pay for bus rides using their Mastercard prepaid, debit, or credit cards on Bonifacio Transport Corporation (BGC) buses. Cardholders can simply tap their Mastercard card directly on BGC bus validators, eliminating the need to buy separate bus tickets. This pilot program introduces contactless payments, expanding the existing payment options available via beep™ cards and beep™ QR codes.

The launch in Taguig is the first phase of a pilot program under the strategic partnership between Mastercard and AF Payments Inc. (AFPI), the company behind beep™. Announced in February this year, future phases of the program will introduce contactless payments across other transit systems, including EDSA buses and Metro Rail Transit Line 3.

This initiative also supports the Philippine government’s ambition to accelerate digital payments adoption in the country across various sectors such as transport. It reaffirms Mastercard’s commitment to advancing smart and inclusive mobility in the Philippines. By eliminating the need to carry cash or multiple transit tickets, it will simplify and enhance the commuting experience for Filipinos.

With Metro Manila home to around 14 million residents, many of whom rely heavily on public transport, the introduction of contactless payments in the city’s public transport system will help drive the adoption of digital payments among Filipinos for everyday transactions. This not only enhances convenience, but also delivers a more seamless and efficient travel experience for passengers.

Commuters paying with their Mastercard cards will also benefit from cybersecurity features that protect against card skimming and payment fraud. Mastercard’s extensive range of cybersecurity & intelligence systems draw on identity verification data, machine learning, behavioural analytics and artificial intelligence to help organizations of all sizes enhance security standards. Over the last 5 years, Mastercard has invested $7 billion into cybersecurity and AI capabilities globally.

JJ Moreno

JJ Moreno, President and Chief Executive Officer, AF Payments Inc. (beep™), said: “We are excited to partner with Mastercard to launch the first phase of this important partnership. As an emerging and dynamic hub for global companies and innovative startups, Bonifacio Global City is the ideal location to kick off this rollout, which will not only improve transit options for local commuters, but also raise the efficiency and accessibility of public transport operations in line with global standards.”


Simon Calasanz, Country Manager, Philippines, Mastercard, said: “This pilot program exemplifies Mastercard’s commitment to delivering innovative transit solutions for Metro Manila, while also furthering the adoption of digital payments in the Philippines. Mastercard looks forward to working with beep™ to bring greater convenience to local residents by introducing new payment options, which in turn will help reduce queues and contribute to an overall more rewarding transit experience.”

Mastercard has enabled open loop transit systems in several major cities around the world such as London, Sydney, and Singapore, using its proven expertise to enhance the commuter experience and improve public transportation infrastructure and operations. It is the first international payment network to enable ‘Tap & Go’ on public transport in Metro Manila.
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Eastern Communications Partners with Industry Experts to Share Cybersecurity Insights for Business Protection

Friday, November 22, 2024


In observance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Eastern Communications spoke with industry leaders for insights to help businesses safeguard themselves from the growing threat of cyberattacks.

Between January and August 2024, the Philippine National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-PH) reported over 2,000 cyber incidents affecting various organizations. This is part of a broader rise in cybercrimes in the country, with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) documenting a 21.8% increase in cybercrime cases during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

From January to March 2024, ACG recorded 4,469 cybercrimes — an average of 49 cases per day compared to 40 in 2023. Online selling scams topped the list, followed by investment scams and credit/debit card fraud. This surge signals a sharp rise in cyberattacks across the Philippines, highlighting the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures.

Meanwhile, anti-scam app Whoscall reported a 200% surge in the number of scam calls and messages between January and August 2024, with over 3 million reported text scams and more than 320,000 scam calls.

Forms of cyber attacks have also changed, and cybercriminals are becoming more ICT-enabled as they resort to technologies like Fake Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to directly attack users by sending spam and fraudulent SMS messages.

To address these escalating challenges, Eastern Communications’ Thoughts on Tech podcast series featured in-depth discussions with tech experts, exploring critical cybersecurity topics. These include the government’s role in mitigating cyber threats, safeguarding customer data, managing information technology (IT) risks for enterprises, and the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence (AI).

Cybersecurity Solutions for Every Business

Cybersecurity was once seen as an optional and additional cost for many businesses. Today, it is an essential investment for both small enterprises and large corporations. Rex Evangelista, Head of IT at Eastern Communications, noted this change of perspective for cybersecurity.

“I would say that in terms of the importance of the organizations and the shift of organizations in the companies, they are now able to understand the importance of security in their organization,” he said, adding that mitigating cyber risks also protects a company’s reputation.

Evangelista also noted the importance of proactive cybersecurity strategies to mitigate the risks and maintain business continuity.

“They have to liken to insurance, that if [attacks] happen, somehow they are covered. The cybersecurity solutions are actually there to make sure that operations will continue, it will not be disrupted,” he explained.

Educating employees and spreading cybersecurity awareness is another need for a company to ensure employees are also protected against cyber threats, according to Evangelista.

Securing Customer Trust and Data

For businesses, especially in the finance industry, securing customer data is paramount. Pancho Reyna, Managing Director of AI, Data, and Engineering of UBX (UnionBank’s digital arm), emphasized the evolving nature of cyberattacks and the necessity of robust security measures.

“From a cybersecurity perspective, the technology is also rapidly evolving and can be used for any malicious or any form of attacks,” he said.

Reyna shared that cybersecurity in the finance industry is not just about prevention, but also deterrence. “It’s making sure that your systems are difficult, if not impossible, to penetrate,” he explained.

Businesses should anticipate attacks and implement security layers that make them harder targets. Reyna also noted that business owners should be aware of their cybersecurity needs and adopt these necessities accordingly to protect themselves against cyber risks.

The Government's Role Against Cyberthreats

Cybersecurity is not only the sole responsibility of the private sector. Jeffrey Ian Dy, Undersecretary - Infostructure Management, Cybersecurity and Upskilling of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) highlights the government’s efforts to protect the country against cyberattacks and offers key lessons for businesses.

Dy pointed out that while the finance industry is more susceptible to cyber threats, no industry is actually safe from these attacks. The government, telecommunications companies, and the academe are also the most targeted institutions, especially for advanced persistent threats (APTs) like state-sponsored attacks, and cyber terrorism.

The undersecretary emphasized that understanding both the offensive and defensive sides of cybersecurity is crucial.

“Hacking is a lot easier now, and that's the problem. The cost of offensive cyber security capabilities is less than the cost of defending,” Dy said. This means businesses must proactively strengthen their defenses.

He added that small and large businesses alike must prioritize cybersecurity investments in critical areas, such as securing Wi-Fi access points and implementing strong password protocols.

The government’s National Cybersecurity Plan 2028 brings together multiple agencies to address cybercrime. However, Dy stressed that this fight requires cooperation from all sectors, including private businesses.

“Security is not about securing everything. It's focusing your money on where it matters the most. In that way, you can significantly lessen your security cost,” the undersecretary advised.

Understanding AI: Opportunities, Threats, and Training Your People

AI is a double-edged sword that offers both opportunities and risks. Catz Jalandoni, Country Head of the Global AI Council Philippines, emphasized that businesses must understand AI's potential, while also preparing for its associated threats.

AI can streamline business operations, drive innovation, and even help businesses stay competitive — 89% of Filipino leaders agree that AI adoption is key to remaining competitive. Jalandoni noted that AI is one of the tools that is easy to learn and is easy to access, with numerous free online courses available for users.

“Technology is a tool, use it, so that it will benefit you, and embrace it so that you are able to do more things that you thought are impossible or you are incapable of,” she said.

However, like any new technology, Jalandoni warned that AI can still be used. To prevent this, she introduced the concept of “mothering” AI, which involves teaching AI to behave ethically.

“When you mother, you say not only how it's supposed to be done, but also whether it's right or wrong. And that's something that I'm championing, for people to actually ‘mother’ your AI,” Jalandoni explained. “You can teach it not only how to find information that is relevant to you, but how to access information that can actually be functional for you and what type of information it should be accessing.”

Strengthening Your Cyber Defenses

As cyber threats continue to evolve, businesses must stay ahead of potential risks by investing in the right technology, training their people, and adopting proactive security measures. Eastern Communications offers a suite of ICT solutions designed to help businesses protect their data and operations, from secure network solutions to robust cybersecurity tools.

Eastern has also partnered with the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) in mounting a special session entitled "Strengthening Cybersecurity in the Philippines: Best Practices, Emerging Threats, and Future-Proofing Strategies," on October 30, 2024, at Robert Sears Hall, AmCham Philippines, Makati City. The event will help businesses learn how to stay ahead of the curve and ensure their company's resilience in the face of evolving cyber challenges.

For more information on how Eastern Communications can help your business defend against cyber threats, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.
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Why Adding Insurance to Your Cart This Shopping Season is the Ultimate Upgrade

Thursday, November 21, 2024



Insurtech Igloo gives tips on how to make holiday shopping worry-free

The holiday season is all about finding that perfect gift, whether for yourself or someone else. With holiday online sales on the horizon, it’s the ideal time to score great deals on high-value items. Electronics like smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles are in high demand, along with bags, watches, beauty products, and high-quality appliances. While these items bring excitement and joy, they also come with some risks—accidental damage, theft, and unexpected malfunctions can turn a valuable purchase into a stressful situation.

Regional insurtech Igloo understands these concerns and–together with its partners–have provided ways to protect valuable purchases with accessible, comprehensive insurance solutions. By offering instant coverage for everything from tech gadgets to beauty products, Igloo works with leading e-commerce platforms and insurance underwriters to empower holiday shoppers to add a layer of care to each gift, covering accidental damage, theft, and breakdowns so buyers and their recipients can enjoy their gifts with full peace of mind.

Whether you're gifting tech or timeless accessories, adding insurance to these items could be the ultimate extra that makes your gift even more meaningful. Here are some reasons you should consider adding an extra layer of protection to your gifts this season.

Protection Against Everyday Mishaps

Holiday gifts, especially high-value items, are often at risk of accidental damage or loss. New smartphones, laptops, and other electronics are stunning but also delicate. Accidents can happen anytime—a smartphone might slip from someone’s hand, a tablet might suffer water damage, or a high-end appliance might experience an unexpected breakdown.

For instance, Gadget Protection provides comprehensive device coverage, including accidental and liquid damage, with access to professional repairs at authorized centers, available via GInsure and Lazada. Additionally, Cracked Screen Protection offers up to 12 months of coverage for screen damage from accidental impacts for phones and accessories purchased on Shopee, giving recipients peace of mind with their new devices.

Products that fall under these plans and are sold on Lazada and Shopee are available at checkout, making it seamless for shoppers to add insurance coverage to their purchases.

Financial Security for Pricier Gifts

Many premium items come with a high price tag. High-tech electronics, luxury fashion, and specialized gadgets are significant investments, and without insurance, repairs or replacements can be costly.

For non-electronic products, Igloo and Etiqa offer Merchandise Protection, a plan that protects Lazada orders from accidental damage and theft, ensuring peace of mind for a wide range of valuable purchases.

Beyond Standard Warranties

Standard manufacturer warranties typically cover only specific defects or malfunctions and often have significant limitations. They usually do not address the risks associated with adverse reactions to beauty products, which can be particularly concerning. While we want our loved ones to enjoy their gifts, the reality is that there is always a risk that the product may not work for them, and in rare cases, they can have reactions to cosmetics and lotions which can lead to discomfort or even serious health issues.

Product Liability Protection is available for beauty products purchased on Lazada to address these concerns. Underwritten by Liberty Insurance, this coverage protects consumers from chemical burns and severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, resulting from product use. By opting for this insurance, consumers safeguard their well-being and gain access to valuable resources such as teleconsultations, medical reimbursements, and emergency hospitalization, providing peace of mind while indulging in their beauty routines.

As you shop this season, remember that the value of each purchase can be elevated with the added assurance of insurance. By protecting your items, you bring peace of mind and ensure enjoyment without the worry of unexpected mishaps. With accessible and comprehensive insurance solutions from Igloo and its partners, you can make each purchase even more meaningful, safeguarding your investment and enhancing the shopping experience.

This holiday season, invest in the peace of mind that comes with knowing your gifts are protected, allowing everyone to celebrate with joy and confidence.
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EastWest Employee-Athlete Shines in International Dragon Boat Championships, Contributes to Philippines’ Historic Victory

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Peter Arreglado

EastWest proudly celebrated the recent achievements of Peter Arreglado, a dedicated member of their Cebu office’s Real and Other Properties Acquired (ROPA) team, who played a key role in leading the Philippines to an impressive victory at the 2024 International Canoe Federation (ICF) Dragon Boat World Championships held in Puerto Princesa.

The Philippines led the medal standings with an impressive 11 gold medals, showcasing the country’s strength in dragon boat racing and the remarkable talent and resilience of employee-athletes like Peter. Notably, he earned three medals across different events: a silver in the 200-meter small boat, a bronze in the 500-meter small boat, and another bronze in the 2000-meter standard boat.

Peter, who has been an active paddler since 2019, fulfilled a lifelong dream by participating in this prestigious global competition. Selected through a rigorous national selection process, he was honored to be part of the Master’s National Team, representing both the Philippines and EastWest on the international stage. “Being part of this historic event is already like winning a gold medal,” Peter shared, reflecting on the significance of his journey and the pride he feels in contributing to the country’s success.

EastWest extended full support to Peter’s training and preparation, providing him with a flexible work schedule and additional financial assistance to ensure he could balance his professional responsibilities with the demands of intensive training. “EastWest’s support in my training made it possible for me to focus on what mattered—giving my best performance at the World Championships. My success in this competition was made possible thanks to our team effort and their sponsorship in terms of fitness, gym access, personal trainers, and other aspects,” he noted. “This opportunity is a dream come true, and I am deeply grateful for the backing I received from my team and the management at EastWest. I’m so grateful for the chance to work with Eastwest, and for having great leaders, especially from the top level.”

The values of teamwork, resilience, and strong leadership, central to the sport of dragon boat racing, align closely with EastWest’s corporate culture.

“Dragon boat racing is a team sport that requires unity and persistence, values I experience every day in my work at EastWest,” Peter explained. “Having a supportive environment at work has empowered and allowed me to pursue my passion in both my athletic and professional life.”

In addition to his personal triumphs, Peter hopes that his participation will inspire his colleagues and the broader community at EastWest to engage in even more athletic pursuits and strive for excellence. “I hope that my achievements encourage other sports enthusiasts among EastWest’s workforce and employees, showing the rest of our community that the bank is wholeheartedly supportive of our interests beyond the workplace,” he added.

EastWest Human Resources Head Alfie Suarez explained the significance of Peter’s triumph, sharing that "At EastWest, we believe in fostering a culture that values dedication, resilience, and teamwork—qualities exemplified by our very own Peter Arreglado and the entire Philippine team at the 2024 International Canoe Federation Dragon Boat World Championships. Their hard work and commitment to excellence inspire us all, and we are incredibly proud of Peter’s accomplishment as he brings this international recognition not only to our country but also to the EastWest family."

Looking ahead, Peter envisions more opportunities to represent both the country and EastWest in future competitions, with hopes to participate in upcoming invitational races abroad and continue his dragon boat journey at the next World Championships in Canada.

With his success, and in celebration of its 30th anniversary, EastWest once again reaffirms its commitment to supporting its employees in their personal and professional endeavors, celebrating each milestone as they go “Further for You.”

Other premiere clubs that EastWest is currently supporting include the EastWest Motion Dance Group, the EastWest Voices Choir, the EastWest Click Photography Club, the EastWest Milers Running Club, the EastWest Racquets Badminton Club, the EastWest Hoops Basketball Club, and the EastWest Pisotivity Club for Investment Enthusiasts.

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Philippines unveils M.I.C.E. Program at IBTM World 2024 in Barcelona

IBTM World 2024

The Philippines continues to strengthen its position as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions, and Exhibitions (M.I.C.E.) as the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines unveils its “M.I.C.E. Philippines: We Take Your Business to Heart” program in Europe through the IBTM World 2024 in Barcelona.

As one of the leading global events in the M.I.C.E. industry, IBTM World will serve as an ideal platform for the TPB to showcase the Philippines as a top-tier destination for business events. Happening on 19-21 November 2024, IBTM World is expecting about 3,600 Buyers and 131,000 connections/B2B meetings, and 2,204 exhibitors, including the Philippines.

To maximize the presence of the Philippines in IBTM World, TPB is set to unveil the M.I.C.E. Philippines program on 20 November 2024 at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via - one of the world’s most renowned venues for international events. With an exclusive guest list of over 100 media professionals, industry leaders, and VIPs, this gathering will provide a valuable introduction to the Philippines’ M.I.C.E. offerings.

The unveiling will introduce the M.I.C.E. Philippines program as well as treat the guests to breakfast that will feature Arroz Caldo and lumpiang shanghai – to give a peek to the Philippines’ rich culinary heritage.

“M.I.C.E. Philippines: We Take Your Business to Heart”

Launched in July 2024, the “M.I.C.E. Philippines: We Take Your Business to Heart” program reinforces the country’s commitment to delivering world-class M.I.C.E. services, complemented by the signature Filipino brand of service excellence and warm hospitality. The program highlights the Philippines as a destination that offers not only state-of-the-art venues and facilities but also a unique cultural experience, ensuring that business delegates feel valued and well taken care of.

This initiative has played a pivotal role in positioning the Philippines as a top choice for international business events, showcasing the country’s ability to merge professional excellence with warm hospitality.

A Continued Mission for Global Partnerships

TPB is excited to present the Philippines as a global hub for M.I.C.E. events at the IBTM World. This will ensure continued presence in the M.I.C.E. global stage and foster lasting connections and partnerships with stakeholders that will elevate the country’s reputation in the international business events community. From pristine white sand beaches to historic landmarks, the Philippines provides limitless opportunities for enriching pre and post conference activities.
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Manulife Philippines Showcases Sustainability and Community Initiatives Through “Impact Agenda Adventure”

Sunday, November 17, 2024

Manulife PH Impact Agenda Adventure

Manulife Philippines, the local arm of the international financial services company Manulife, hosted global colleagues for its first-ever ‘Impact Agenda Adventure’ — a hands-on, six-day experience that underscored the tangible real-world impact of Manulife’s sustainability, financial literacy, and community initiatives across the Philippines.

Several colleagues from around the globe were selected to participate in the Adventure after submitting a personal story where they shared what Better means to them, connecting their own Better story to Manulife’s mission and purpose.

Manulife’s Impact Agenda focuses on three interconnected pillars of social and environmental commitments: empowering sustained health and well-being, driving inclusive economic opportunities, and accelerating a sustainable future. The ‘Impact Agenda Adventure’ showcased Manulife's deep commitment to its Impact Agenda in the Philippines.

“Manulife’s Impact Agenda is about taking collective action to accelerate change. It highlights our key social and environmental commitments,” said Sarah Chapman, Global Chief Sustainability Officer, Manulife. “Through our community investments in the Philippines, we hope to create a better business that contributes to a better world and share that with our colleagues globally.”

“The Impact Agenda Adventure is a powerful demonstration of how our community partnerships in the Philippines create real impact and uplift communities, showcasing our dedication to improving the lives of Filipinos,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “We are delighted to host our global colleagues as they witness firsthand the significant difference Manulife is making in our communities.”

Strengthening Partnerships with Community-based NGOs

The Impact Agenda Adventure highlighted the following initiatives:

Financial Literacy: Participants visited one of Manulife Philippines’ partner schools as part of the Peso Smart financial literacy program, in partnership with Corazon Sanchez Atayde Memorial Foundation, to observe how Manulife’s commitment to financial education is equipping young Filipinos with essential financial skills, such as saving, budgeting, and investing.

Agriculture, Sustained Health, and Poverty Alleviation: Participants toured the Gawad Kalinga (GK) headquarters in Mandaluyong City, where they learned about Manulife’s efforts to promote organic agriculture through the Community Food Farm program and poverty alleviation initiatives. More than 120 Filipino families have benefited from the program, which provides families with the opportunity to grow their own produce in their villages, allowing them to sell any surplus for additional income. Participants also engaged in a soap-making activity facilitated by Hands On Manila, a Manulife community investment partner that provides public school students access to daily nutritious meals, conducts health screenings for malnourished and undernourished children, and provides meal planning support through the help of licensed nutritionists.

Environmental Sustainability: Participants contributed to Manulife’s sustainability efforts through seedling preparation to aid in reforestation alongside Haribon Foundation. To date, Manulife has planted more than 21,000 native trees out of the committed 26,250 across Central and Southern Luzon provinces, helping accelerate a sustainable future for the country.

Helping Shape Filipino Communities for the Better

To learn more about Impact Agenda and Manulife’s commitment towards building a better business to better the world, visit manulife.com.ph. To watch the highlights of the recently concluded Impact Agenda Adventure, go to Manulife Philippines’ Facebook page.
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