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| (Image Source: Punto! Central Luzon/Aboitiz Foundation Inc.) |
Aboitiz Construction and Aboitiz Foundation Inc., in partnership with Connected Women and the local government of Barangay Bagong Pook, officially launched the Elevate AIDA (Artificial Intelligence Data Annotation) Program through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held last October 21, 2025 in Brgy. Bagong Pook, Malvar, Batangas. This initiative forms part of the continuing efforts of Aboitiz Foundation and Connected Women to empower more women through digital skills training with this new partnership contributing to the overall goal of reaching 300,000 women nationwide.
Elevate AIDA is an online skills development initiative designed to empower women in underserved communities by equipping them with digital skills that open doors to new career opportunities in the technology sector. The program aims to train around 50 women in Malvar, Batangas in artificial intelligence data annotation, bridging the technology skill gap and promoting inclusive participation in the digital economy. Through this initiative, participants will gain competencies in digital literacy and financial empowerment, enabling them to pursue sustainable income opportunities through remote employment. The program’s model is designed to be replicable across various communities, supporting both individual empowerment and local economic development. “At Aboitiz Construction, we believe that by using technology as an equalizer, the initiative equips women with competencies that open global opportunities, demonstrating how sustainable impact can be achieved through purposeful innovation,” said Aboitiz Construction Senior Assistant Vice President for Business Transformation Karmine Andrea Ching. The Elevate AIDA Program exemplifies the Aboitiz Group’s shared commitment to advancing education, innovation, and social impact through technology. It underscores the group’s purpose of driving change for a better world by empowering communities to thrive in a digital future.
“The Elevate Aida collaboration reflects our vision of building a future where progress is shared and empowerment is tangible. By working hand in hand with Aboitiz Construction and Barangay Bagong Pook, we are transforming women into catalysts of sustainable growth — proving that meaningful change begins when people, purpose, and progress unite.” said Aboitiz Foundation Inc. Chief Operating Officer Ms. Mardi Mapa Suplido. The graduation is set for December, where participants are poised to gain in-demand skills in AI data annotation — preparing them for remote work opportunities and empowering them to thrive in the evolving digital economy. “We are grateful for this partnership with private institutions. This program empowers our women to gain new skills, build confidence, and take part in the digital economy. We look forward to more initiatives that uplift our community.” said Hon. Lilibeth Lat, Brgy. Chairperson of Bagong Pook.
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De La Salle Lipa And Kilyawan Farm And Resort Sign MOU For Industry-Aligned Learning
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| L-R: Kilyawan Farm and Resort Marketing Manager Fides Ganzon-Ofrecio, Kilyawan Farm and Resort President and General Manager Tina Ganzon-Ozaeta, De La Salle Lipa Chancellor Dr. Teodosia Merlin Suarez, De La Salle Lipa Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academics – College Dr. Nerissa Lucasia (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) and Kilyawan Farm and Resort formally entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last October 22, 2025 at Chez Rafael Hotel, establishing a partnership that bridges academic excellence, industry relevance, and sustainability in hospitality education. Present during the signing were Kilyawan Farm and Resort Marketing Manager Fides Ganzon-Ofrecio and President and General Manager Tina Ganzon-Ozaeta and DLSL officials Chancellor Dr. Teodosia Merlin Suarez; Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academics – College Dr. Nerissa Lucasia; Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academics – Integrated School Kristine Anne Dimaculangan; Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Internationalization Dr. Shiela Maloles; College Dean of International Hospitality and Tourism Management Evangeline Necio; External Linkages and International Relations Director Grace Sanchez; External Relations Officer Celeste Alpino; and International Relations Officer Evadyn Gail Mojado.
In her overview, Dr. Lucasia shared how the partnership began from a casual yet meaningful encounter between DLSL Chancellor Dr. Teodosia Merlin Suarez and Kilyawan President and General Manager Tina Ganzon-Ozaeta who is a proud Lasallian alumna and former DLSL Board of Trustees Member. What started as an exchange of ideas on possible collaborations evolved into a shared vision of transforming Kilyawan into a venue for student internships, educational tours, and sustainability-driven learning experiences. Subsequent meetings and engagements solidified the collaboration, aligning academic innovation with real-world industry practices. Ganzon-Ozaeta expressed deep pride in partnering with her alma mater, emphasizing how Lasallian values continue to influence Kilyawan’s business philosophy, sharing, “At Kilyawan Farm and Resort, we strive to run a business that goes beyond profit. Inspired by Lasallian principles, we aim to build a space that promotes sustainability, nurtures local communities, and creates meaningful experiences for every person.” She added that the partnership is an opportunity to inspire students to build purpose-driven enterprises that serve both the market and the greater good.
In her closing message, Dr. Maloles highlighted that the MOU represents “the beginning of a shared journey”. She underscored that the success of partnerships like this depends not only on agreements but on “action, trust, and shared purpose”, expressing optimism for future collaborations that will yield meaningful outcomes for both the institution and its partners. The DLSL-Kilyawan partnership is the institution’s continuing commitment to building strong, purposeful, and strategic collaborations that expand learning opportunities beyond the classroom. It is part of De La Salle Lipa’s ongoing efforts to establish transformative partnerships that give its students a distinct edge in their chosen fields, empowering them to enter the industry with competence, character, and a clear sense of purpose.
(With words by Cristina Alfarita Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
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A Season Of Splendor: SM City Lipa Launches Christmas With Dazzling Centerpiece Unveiling
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| (Image Source: Facebook/Lipa Status/SM Supermalls) |
The magic of Christmas is officially underway at SM City Lipa. In a spectacular celebration of lights, music, and holiday cheer, the mall unveiled its magnificent Christmas centerpiece, marking the official kickoff of its festive season activities. The event, held at the mall's main event center, was a feast for the senses. The air was filled with joyous songs, dances. and excitement as guests gathered for the highly-anticipated reveal. Attendees, including honored representatives from the Lipa City LGU, dedicated mall employees, valued social media partners, and scores of friends and families, were greeted by a stunning display of dazzling decors that have transformed the mall into a holiday wonderland.
Guests were treated to a series of enchanting performances from local talents, setting a magical tone for the celebration. The climax of the event was the official unwrapping of the centerpiece, a breathtaking display that instantly captured the spirit of the season and became the centerpiece of countless family photos. In his welcoming remarks, SM City Lipa Mall Manager Engr John Mauhay shared a heartfelt message with the community. He stressed the profound importance of family togetherness, noting that the holiday season is a cherished time for creating lasting memories with loved ones. He also gave guests an exciting preview of the festivities lined up for the coming weeks. The mall has curated a full calendar of holiday activities designed to bring joy to shoppers of all ages.
Among the events announced, the most highly anticipated is the Grand Christmas Parade, scheduled to march through the mall in December. This parade promises to be a spectacular showcase of beloved Christmas characters and holiday magic. The celebration at SM City Lipa has just begun. Families are invited to visit, bask in the festive ambiance, and participate in the joyful events planned for the most wonderful time of the year.
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DLSL Strengthens Research Collaboration With DLSU Through MOU Signing
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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
Strengthening its commitment to research excellence and innovation, specifically on health research, biomedical engineering, and health technologies, De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) formalized another partnership with De La Salle University (DLSU) and its unit, Evelyn D. Ang - Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Technologies (EDA-IBEHT), through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) held last October 23, 2025 at De La Salle University in Manila.
The ceremony was attended by key leaders from both institutions including DLSU President Bro. Bernard S. Oca FSC and DLSL President Bro. Edmundo L. Fernandez FSC. Also present were DLSU’s academic officers and project leaders from EDA-IBEHT along with members of DLSL’s executive and academic council. The partnership marks a significant milestone in advancing collaborative research in health sciences, biomedical engineering, and health technology-driven innovation. Through the MOU, both institutions commit to joint initiatives such as faculty exchanges, shared research projects, academic linkages, and annual research congresses that showcase Lasallian-led advancements in the biomedical field. By integrating DLSU’s expertise in biomedical engineering and health technologies with DLSL’s growing focus on interdisciplinary research in clinical and medical sciences, the collaboration creates transformative opportunities for groundbreaking studies that address both local and global health challenges.
The signing of this MOU reaffirms De La Salle Lipa’s dedication to expanding its research capacity through strong partnerships within the Lasallian network. It underscores the institution’s mission to promote quality education, innovation, and social transformation through science-based collaboration and shared academic excellence. By building on strategic linkages such as this, DLSL continues to provide its students and researchers with opportunities to learn from leading experts and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of health, technology, and global well-being.
(With words by Cristina Alfarita Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
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Batangas Provincial Government Installs Starlink WiFi Connections At Upland Schools In Lobo Town
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| (Image Source: Batangas Provincial Public Information Office) |
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Batangas led by Governor Vilma Santos-Recto, successfully installed Starlink WiFi connections in upland elementary schools in the town of Lobo, Batangas. Among the beneficiaries of the project are Bignay Elementary School, Pinaghawanan Elementary School, Jaybanga Integrated School, Nagtoctoc Elementary School, Apar Elementary School, San Nicolas Elementary School, Balibago Elementary School, Punas Elementary School, Malabrigo Elementary School, and Calo Elementary School.
The installation aims to provide stable and fast internet connections to schools located in remote and mountainous areas of Lobo to further expand students' and teachers' access to modern technology and information. According to Santos-Recto, this is just one of the concrete steps taken by the provincial government in pushing for digital inclusion and modern education in Batangas. The DICT announced that this project is part of the Free WiFi for All Program, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Batangas, to deliver digital services to schools that have long been without internet access. Teachers and parents of the said schools expressed gratitude to the DICT and Governor Santos-Recto for their tireless support in education. According to them, having internet connection will allow for more effective teaching and wider learning opportunities for the children.
This program is expected to continue in other upland and remote schools across various cities and towns in the province of Batangas, as part of the provincial government's broader goal of making Batangas a "digitally connected province". With the successful implementation of this project, Santos-Recto once again proved her commitment to education and innovation — a step towards a modern, connected, prosperous and stable Batangas.
(With words by Junjun Hara De Chavez, Batangas Provincial Public Information Office)
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SM City Sto. Tomas Welcomes the Holidays With A “Purr-fectly Meowy Christmas” Celebration
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| (Image Source: Facebook/Lipa Status/SM City Sto. Tomas) |
SM City Sto. Tomas officially kicked off the Christmas season with the grand opening and lighting of its festive centerpiece, themed “Purr-fectly Meowy Christmas”, delighting mallgoers with a cheerful and heartwarming celebration. The event was graced by local government officials and mall officials who joined in lighting up the dazzling centerpiece that featured adorable cat-inspired decorations, sparkling ornaments, and a towering Christmas tree that perfectly captured the playful and cozy spirit of the season.
The mall’s “Purr-fectly Meowy Christmas” theme reflects joy, warmth, and togetherness inviting families, friends, and fur lovers alike to celebrate the holidays in a fun and inclusive way. Visitors can enjoy photo opportunities with the charming feline-themed display and experience a variety of holiday surprises, performances, and activities throughout the season. According to the management of SM City Sto. Tomas, the Christmas centerpiece will be open to the public until January 6, 2026, allowing guests plenty of time to visit, take photos, and create cherished holiday memories. As part of SM’s annual tradition of bringing happiness to communities, the celebration also reinforces the mall’s commitment to spreading love, joy, and hope this Christmas — one “meow” at a time.
