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| (Image Source: TelecomDrive/Smart Communications Inc.) |
PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) recently partnered with the Philippines Partnership for Sustainable Agriculture (PPSA) to roll out a digital upskilling learning session for Filipino cooperatives (coops), Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), and local entrepreneurs. Under the digital upskilling-to-ecommerce program ‘eBiznovation’, PLDT, Smart, and PPSA provide local entrepreneurs, including those in the agriculture and fishery sector, with the right digital tools to help them grow their businesses online.
“In this rapidly evolving digital world, learning the fundamentals of digital marketing unlocks plenty of livelihood opportunities. Through eBiznovation, we aim to assist small- and medium-scale local enterprises in navigating the digital space efficiently and safely, and eventually help them boost their income,” said PLDT and Smart Assistant Vice President (AVP) and Head of Stakeholder Management Team Stephanie V. Orlino. During the session, participating coops and MSMEs learned about effective strategies on boosting online presence, creating engaging content, and capturing an online market and turning them into loyal customers using basic social media platforms. “PPSA collaborates with a network of different stakeholders across the agricultural value chain to attain inclusive and sustainable agriculture in the Philippines. Through this particular initiative with PLDT and Smart, we aim to accelerate the adoption of digital innovations and ICT solutions and interventions across the agri-fisheries sector,” said PPSA Country Director Ma. Angela Primitiva Bautista.
Apart from digital upskilling, PLDT and Smart also offer fundamental cybersecurity learning sessions for coops and MSMEs to ensure a safe and secure online business environment for all. The Group recently supported the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and conducted a learning session among Laguna-based MSMEs on how to protect themselves and their businesses against fraud both offline and online during DTI-Laguna’s "Fiesta Kucha: A Cultural Celebration of Likhang Laguna". The PLDT Group continuously finds ways to promote inclusive technologies that can help boost livelihood opportunities among farmers, fisherfolk, cooperatives, and MSMEs, leaving no one behind. The eBiznovation program also highlights the PLDT Group’s commitment to contribute to the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals (UNSDG) #1: No Poverty, #2: Zero Hunger, and #8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
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Watsons Hosts Biggest Health Expo On February 2024
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| (Image Source: Manila Bulletin/Watsons Philippines) |
Watsons holds the biggest Watsons Health Expo 2024 on February 1-4, 2024 at the SM Megatrade Halls 1-3, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City, bringing Watsons brand of caring to more Filipinos. This event is brought by Watsons Club which is the brand’s customer loyalty program wherein members can enjoy exclusive benefits and promos at Watsons. As early as now, you can already become a Watsons Club member by simply downloading the Watsons app from the Google Play Store and App Store or through https://bit.ly/WatsonsMobileApp and registering with your mobile number to enjoy more perks and services from Watsons.
Among the services available during the four-day expo are the range of health and beauty products that are up to 70% off, brand booths and activities, free health consultations, informative and educational talks, raffle draws and prizes, wellness sessions, and pharmacy services under Click and Collect Express. The participating brands in the Watsons Health Expo 2024 are Watsons Generics, Watsons Brands, Unilab, Belo, Puritan’s Pride, Goli, Reckitt, P&G, UL Skin Sciences, Berocca, Orahex, Cetaphil, Sanofi, Trianon, QuickFX, NOW, Mosbeau, Thiocell, Bestshape, Sleepasil, Snow, Biofitea, Sole Pharma, Health Fusion, NuWhite, Inmed, Regroe, Trust, Premiere, EZ, Sawaday, Koolfever, Ammeltz, Mead Johnsons, Salonpas, Difflam, Dequadin, Valda, Bactidol, Buscopan, Dulcolax, Mucosolvan, Claritin, Elica, Bewell-C, Cherifer, Propan, Fern-C, Poten-Cee, PNKids, Centrum Kids, Pharmaton Energy, Sangobion, Neurobion, Glucerna, Ensure, Nestle, Lipton, Emco, Skinny Mamas, Sofy, and many more.
You can now start your journey to health and wellness by downloading the Watsons app. Enjoy Php100 off when you download the Watsons app through https://bit.ly/WatsonsMobileApp. Terms and conditions apply. You can also visit any of 1000+ Watsons stores nationwide or pick up your orders at the nearest Watsons store in 30 minutes or less via Click & Collect or have them delivered to you in 3 hours through Express Delivery.
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REP Launches The Bridge Project Skills Exchange Initiative In Partnership With MINT College
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| (Image Source: Iconic MNL/Repertory Philippines) |
Leading theater company Repertory Philippines (REP) has teamed up with the Meridian International College (MINT) – A Business, Arts and Technology School to bolster a new generation of Filipino theater practitioners, strengthen the local theater industry, and broaden educational opportunities with a global perspective. REP and MINT College made their partnership official through a ceremonial signing on January 8, 2024 at the Makati Garden Club in Makati City. The noteworthy occasion marks the roll-out of The Bridge Project, the skills exchange program to be conducted by REP’s 2024 season opener Betrayal’s esteemed lineup of theater professionals.
Betrayal is the renowned play by British theater icon Harold Pinter which premieres in March 2024. REP’s Betrayal director, the Manila-born, New York and London-based actor and theater director Victor Lirio, leads The Bridge Project together with London’s West End-based Filipino actors James Bradwell, James Cooney, and Vanessa White, and New York-based Filipino creatives, set designer Miguel Urbino and sound designer Fabian Obispo. The Bridge Project provides Filipino theater artists and aspirants free masterclasses, lectures, and readings that will enhance their theater skills like voice and scene work, set and sound design, and even Shakespeare rhetoric. With the MINT Campus as the official venue, the program is designed to deliver collaborative learning. Founded in 2010, MINT College places a premium on the arts by offering a variety of specialized art-related degrees such as Music Business Management, Multimedia Arts, Film and Video, Performing Arts, and Fashion Management and Design.
“We are delighted to join forces with MINT College on The Bridge Project. This partnership reflects our commitment to nurturing young talent and providing them with the tools they need to succeed in the performing arts industry," says REP President and CEO Mindy Perez-Rubio. “At MINT College, we believe in empowering deserving artists to pursue their passion while developing the essential skills for a successful career in performing arts. The Bridge Project will offer them a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn from theatrical experts," shares MINT College Executive Vice President Hendrik Kiamzon.
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Cebu Pacific Wins Accolades As Among Best Low-Cost, Safest Airlines In The World
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| (Image Source: INQUIRER.net/Cebu Pacific) |
Cebu Pacific (CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, started the year strong — winning three awards from two international bodies for being one of the best low-cost airlines in the world, its sustainable operations, and its safety record. CEB was hailed the Best Low-Cost Airline Brand in the Philippines for 2023 by the World Economic Magazine, a US-based publication that spotlights industry disruptors across the global financial marketplace. It was also recognized as the Most Sustainable Low-Cost Airline in the Philippines by the same publication. CEB was one of the nine (9) Philippine businesses that made it in this list, joining other international companies that were acknowledged for their excellence and drive for continued growth and progress.
CEB also received a separate recognition from Airlineratings.com as among the top 20 safest low-cost airlines in the world for 2024. Airlineratings.com, the world’s leading airline safety and product rating review website, assesses an airline’s safety by reviewing its incident records over the past two years, audit results from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and fleet age, among other factors. Airlineratings.com also previously awarded CEB with a perfect 7-star rating for its multi-layered approach to safety during the pandemic. “It is an honor to be considered as one of the top low-cost carriers in the world commended for safety records and effective safety management systems. Cebu Pacific has indeed grown to become one of the most recognized and trusted names in the industry, synonymous with safe, affordable, and accessible flights. These recognitions inspire us to continue to outperform at the highest level in the industry,” said CEB Chief Executive Officer Michael Suzcs.
Through the years, CEB successfully implemented a low-fare business model, catering specifically to budget-conscious consumers to make air travel more accessible and economical for a wider range of passengers. It has also been recognized in Asia Pacific for its cost-efficient operations and environmentally friendly initiatives. In September 2022, CEB operated its first passenger flight powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Singapore to Manila. This achievement made CEB the first low-cost carrier in Southeast Asia and the first Philippine airline to incorporate SAF in its commercial operations. In the same year, CEB also received the Asia Environmental Sustainability Airline / Airline Group of the Year award from the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) for its leadership in sustainability performance and initiatives in the regional aviation industry. CEB aims to transition to an all-NEO fleet by 2028 and will incorporate the use of blended SAF for its entire commercial network by 2030. CEB currently flies to 35 domestic locations and 25 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
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Enderun Colleges, University Of Hawaii-West O'ahu Unveil Partnership For Seamless Global Student Transfers And Academic Excellence
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/Enderun Colleges) |
Enderun Colleges, a leading management and culinary institution in the Philippines, is pleased to announce an academic collaboration with the University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu (UHWO), solidifying a 2+2 Transfer and Articulation Program. This initiative guarantees Enderun students’ acceptance with Junior standing at UHWO’s Business Administration and Creative Media Programs. Key highlights of the partnership include a seamless transition to a US university, allowing students to enroll in the program and enjoy a pathway to UHWO, saving up to one million pesos (Php1M) in tuition fees. Additionally, students can enhance their credentials with certificates from UCLA Extension integrated into the Enderun curriculum, providing a competitive edge in the professional market.
Immersing in diversity and fostering cross-cultural understanding is a significant aspect of the collaboration as Enderun and UHWO boast diverse student bodies and faculty from around the world. Students will also gain access to invaluable networking opportunities through Enderun’s industry partners and UHWO’s connections in the vibrant technology and media hubs of the West Coast including Silicon Valley. In addition, language proficiency is prioritized through Enderun’s IELTS program, preparing students for success in both academic and professional environments in the US. The signing ceremony was attended by Enderun Colleges’ Chief Operating Officer Daniel Perez and Dean of the College of Architecture and Design Nikki Tayag as well as UH West O‘ahu Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Harald Barkhoff and Chancellor Maenette Benham.
Daniel Perez expressed Enderun’s enthusiasm for this partnership, emphasizing its significance in providing students with a unique cross-cultural academic experience. “This collaboration represents a significant step in global education, offering students the unparalleled opportunity to study in two different countries and at two esteemed institutions,” Perez explains. By immersing themselves in diverse cultural and educational environments, students will gain a broader perspective, enhancing their global understanding and competency. “We deeply value this partnership, as it not only symbolizes our commitment to providing exceptional educational experiences but also bridges the gap between distinct cultures, preparing our students to become well-rounded, internationally-minded leaders of tomorrow. This initiative is a testament to our dedication to fostering global connections and enriching the educational journey of our students," says Perez.
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BSP, DILG, GCash Roll Out Paleng-QR Ph In Calamba, Laguna
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| (Image Source: Bilyonaryo.com/GCash) |
In line with its collective effort to promote cashless transactions and achieve financial inclusion nationwide, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) rolled out the Paleng-QR Ph initiative in Calamba City, Laguna in cooperation with the country’s number one finance super app GCash. Under the joint initiative, market vendors and tricycle drivers in Mercado de Calamba can easily transact with their customers through GCash QR codes. With this, vendors, drivers, and consumers can have a safer and more seamless shopping experience, ultimately boosting the growth of the digital economy, especially at the grassroots.
With the Paleng-QR launch, locals at the Mercado de Calamba can now experience safer and more convenient cashless transactions. GCash has currently onboarded a total of 456 market vendors, over 50 Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODA) in and around Mercado de Calamba, and 380 stores city-wide, making it the second city in Laguna with the highest implementation of the GCash QR code payment method in its public markets. In addition, GCash has also onboarded vendors in the city as GCash Pera Outlet (PO) partners. This feature on the app allows small merchants to earn extra income and grow their businesses by offering customers in the community convenient access to various GCash services such as cash-in, cash-out, pay bills, and claim padala.
To further help its citizens become financially empowered, GCash also partners with the Calamba Local Government Unit (LGU) to launch Pay Online for easier and more convenient payment options for real property tax, business permits, and more. GCash is also set to conduct a series of financial literacy programs and more activities to further educate consumers on how they can use and maximize the GCash app, including access to financial services such as GCredit, GLoans, GInsure, and more. GCash also aims to educate locals on how to better secure their accounts and prevent being scammed to promote trust in using financial technology. By creating more strategic partnerships with LGUs and communities, GCash continues to fast-track its goal of ‘Finance For All', allowing Filipinos to have easy access to safe, secure, and convenient digital financial products and services, empowering communities nationwide.
