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| (L-R): PLDT Global Corporation Presales Engineer William Cordova, PLDT Global Corporation Vice President – Americas and EMEA Roselle Dela Cruz, Next Generation Advanced (NGA) 911 Co-Founder and CEO Don Ferguson, PLDT Global Corporation Senior Manager Jelly Mojica, NGA 911 Chief Financial Officer Ishka Villacisneros (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/PLDT Inc.) |
PLDT Global Corporation (PLDT Global), the international unit of PLDT Inc. (PLDT), is enabling United States-based technology solutions provider Next Generation Advanced 911 (NGA 911) to help boost emergency response systems in the Philippines with advanced technology, delivered through the nationwide PLDT network infrastructure. Under the partnership, NGA 911 will be able to provide its NG9-1-1 solution to Philippine customers like LGUs and public safety teams. NG9-1-1 is an IP-based emergency communications system that aims to improve emergency response by enabling callers to send text, photos, and videos to 911 centers, as well as receive real-time data on the location and status of responders. With NG9-1-1, responders can gain access to precise and comprehensive information regarding emergencies, leading to expedited and enhanced response capabilities.
“We are excited to partner with PLDT Global to bring the NG9-1-1 platform to the Philippines. NG9-1-1 will transform the practice of emergency communications and response in the Philippines. We have delivered this solution to public safety agencies across the United States. Soon, Philippine customers can gain access to NGA 911’s advanced emergency communication technologies that are currently only available in the United States. We look forward to working with PLDT Global to make this a reality," says NGA 911 CEO Don Ferguson. “With PLDT’s extensive network and digital expertise, we hope to make this technology accessible to Filipinos and create an opportunity for the Philippines to be a 911 hub in Asia,” says PLDT Global Vice President – Americas and EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) Roselle Dela Cruz.
Apart from servicing the needs of overseas Filipinos, PLDT Global is also committed to bringing international solutions to the Philippines. This opens more opportunities for the country to deliver the technology needs of the global market, by leveraging on the PLDT group’s digital infrastructure. “We are here to provide innovative platforms to our global network of carriers and enterprise customers, linking them to potential clients who might need their services not only overseas, but also in the Philippines. Through this partnership, we hope to deliver world-class next-generation 911 services to local public safety agencies and emergency responders,” says PLDT Global President and CEO Albert Villa-Real. This PLDT Global initiative contributes to PLDT’s broader goal of enabling the Philippines’ digital infrastructure and boosting its ambition to become the hyperscaler hub of the region and a key destination for digital transformation and investment.
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TechLife Philippines Introduces Mikee Reyes And CK De Leon As Brand Ambassadors
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/TechLife Philippines) |
TechLife Philippines officially welcomed media personalities and real-life power couple, Mikee Reyes and CK De Leon, as its first-ever brand ambassadors. The partnership marks an exciting milestone for both parties as it is the first brand-and-ambassador collaboration between the couple and the tech brand. Young, hard-working, and engaging, Reyes and De Leon are a fitting representation of TechLife’s core principle which is to Make Life Simple for every young Filipino by providing easy-to-use and reliable tech that enriches user experience.
The new ambassadors, fondly called “Tito” and “Sizzy” by their supporters online, are popular digital creators known for their relatable content about lifestyle, career, and relationships. The duo has amassed a combined 1.8 million followers across major social media platforms. “TechLife resonated with us because as individuals and as a couple, we value hard work and being efficient without losing sight of what makes us unique. We learned that TechLife integrates their principles in their products and they give the best value for money. We’re glad to join the TechLife Fam in the mission to make life simple,” the couple said.
The TechLife Fam can expect exciting projects and campaigns with Reyes and De Leon in the future in order to promote the brand and its products – such as audio devices, smartphone accessories, home appliances, and other tech essentials. “We’re excited to start this new chapter and we’re glad to have Mikee and CK with us. It’s the first time for TechLife to have ambassadors so we’re looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together,” TechLife stated.
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Boracay Remains AirAsia Philippines' Top Island Destination For 2024
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| (Image Source: When In Manila/AirAsia Philippines) |
Boracay continues to remain AirAsia Philippines’ fast-moving getaway destination for individual and group travelers prevailing over Bohol, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa. Latest AirAsia data shows that 250,000 guests have already planned and booked their flights to the island for travel from February, March, April, and May. This is already 72% of last year’s 377,000 guests flown to the island. The increasing figure is expected to contribute to Boracay’s economy, especially since the Department of Tourism and the Local Government of Aklan expect over 2.3 million tourists to visit the island this year.
“Boracay is top 3 in our most visited domestic destinations. It is not just the summer when we see an influx of guests flying to Boracay, but all year round. During the pandemic, this island was a haven for remote work set-up. Now, the island has regained its fame for short and long vacations”, AirAsia Head of Communications and Public Affairs and First Officer Steve Dailisan shares. To provide more convenience, especially for guests who are planning to extend their vacation on the paradise island, the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline’s travel partner TravelOnlinePH officially opened its Travel & Service Center right on the epicenter of Boracay to cater to tourists who would like to either have their tickets rebooked or book other flights elsewhere, find cheap hotels, activities, and other travel offerings, with the assistance of dedicated travel experts.
Situated at Station 2, AirAsia’s Travel & Service Center is very accessible to guests since its location is also within close range of mid-range hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, and bars. “Guests fly to the island to unwind and spend their holiday and we intend to always make their flight booking concerns hassle-free. TravelOnlinePH has always been an offline reliable partner and we extend our warmest congratulations as they achieve this milestone,” Dailisan added.
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Smart Powers 7-Eleven Run 2024 To Promote A Healthy Lifestyle For Filipinos
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| (Image Source: MegaBites/Smart Communications Inc.) |
PLDT Inc. (PLDT)'s wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) powered the recently concluded 7-Eleven Run 2024 which was staged simultaneously in three major cities across the country – Manila, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro – last February 3-4, 2024. Smart has been the exclusive telecommunications partner of the 7-Eleven Run — which usually averages ten categories ranging from 1KM to 42KM for run enthusiasts of all levels – for the past seven years. “In this year’s 7-Eleven Run, we are happy to provide 5G and fiber-fast internet at the three serving sites of this year’s run in Manila, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro enabling our participants, partners, and guests to seamlessly connect to the internet, post their photos, videos hassle-free, and share their fun experience during the event using our leveled-up PLDT & Smart wireless networks,” said PLDT and Smart Consumer Sales VP and Head of Key Accounts Chito M. Franco.
Runners were also able to visit the Smart booths equipped with charging stations, a lounge area to rest, and participate in fun activities to win some special giveaways. PLDT and Smart customer Shaid-Ali Mohamad from Marawi City, who is an avid 7-Eleven Run participant, joined the 16KM category in Cagayan de Oro. “This year, I convinced my wife to join me. Actually, last year, I also participated in the fun run in Manila. I joined the 7-Eleven Run for health reasons since we are not getting any younger. The second reason is to bond with family and friends, or meet new people as part of the running community,” he said. Iloilo runner Dr. Faye Palmares said that running early in the morning brings her joy, stating, “It refreshes you and instills a sense of tranquility. We purchased as a group and registered through the 7-Eleven CliQQ Mobile App. My running experience was very calm, and I felt very safe, which is quite rare in our running events, so I appreciate 7-Eleven for the great experience.”
From supporting the 7-Eleven Run before the pandemic and when the event transitioned into a virtual run during the COVID-19 lockdown era until finally making a comeback for a face-to-face event once the restrictions eased, Smart’s partnership with 7-Eleven Run has enabled the telco to promote an active lifestyle to its customers, particularly at a time when health and wellness have become such an important aspect of their lives. “We are grateful to have Smart as our constant partner even beyond the 7-Eleven Run, ensuring that we can help provide the telco needs of our customers and elevate their experience in our stores,” said Jose C. Ang, Jr., General Merchandise Head at Philippine Seven Corporation, the local licensee of 7-Eleven. This partnership also underscores Smart and its parent company PLDT’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainability Development Goal to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all (UNSDG #3).
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'Ka-Pandas' Spark Community Love At Silang Fiesta
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/foodpanda Philippines) |
foodpanda logistics delivery partners from Silang, Cavite displayed an inspiring image of camaraderie as they joined a motorcade to help promote local foodpanda vendors during the town’s fiesta celebration. Led by Ka-panda Rhy Reyes, the delivery partners joined the colorful festivities and reached out to partner vendors to adorn their motorcycles with the stores’ posters. “Kinausap namin yung mga partner vendors na kung pwedeng mag-sabit ng tarpaulin ng tindahan nila sa mga motor namin para mas maraming Silangueños pa ang mag-order sa kanila at sa foodpanda,” said Reyes.
Every year, the fiesta of Silang celebrates the feast of Our Lady of Candelaria with a grand parade, street dancing, and various festivities. It’s also renowned for the strong solidarity among the townspeople, a spirit echoed by Ka-pandas through their close bond with local partner vendors. Reyes shared, “Maganda talaga ang samahan ng mga Ka-panda at partner vendors dito sa Silang. Mayroon din kaming group chat kasama sila para mas madaling ayusin ang mga concerns sa mga orders." Reyes emphasized the significance of such relationships, highlighting their positive impact on customer service for those using the app, saying, “Lahat naman po kami dito ay nagha-hanapbuhay. Mas mapapadali kung maganda ang samahan at nagtutulungan kasi makikita yan ng mga customers na maganda ang serbisyo.”
He also added that Silang Mayor Kevin Amutan Anarna also supported their participation in the fiesta celebration, stating, “Supportive talaga si Mayor sa aming mga delivery partners kaya natuwa rin sya na andun kami para sa motorcade." foodpanda Logistics Philippines Rider Experience Lead Ron Sanders praised the Ka-pandas in Silang, Cavite, for their great idea, saying, “We appreciate their enthusiasm in organizing the motorcade to promote local partner vendors. It’s truly inspiring to witness our Ka-pandas and foodpanda partner vendors working together harmoniously. We’re thankful for their ongoing service to the community, and we’re looking forward to continuing this journey together."
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RLC Residences Powers Up IRONKIDS Lapu-Lapu 2024
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| Gracing the media launch of the IRONKIDS Lapu-Lapu 2024 in Cebu are (from left) The IRONMAN Group Philippines’ regional director Princess Galura, RLC Residences head of brand management Dan Carlo Torres, Lapu-Lapu City Rep. Cynthia Chan, Brgy. Basak captain Jasmine Chan, and The Reef Island Resort manager Gerra Lizares. (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/The IRONMAN Group Philippines/Robinsons Land Corporation) |
The IRONKIDS, the junior counterpart of the IRONMAN series, gets a significant boost with the backing of RLC Residences with the partnership aiming to promote an active and purposeful lifestyle among young athletes. The collaboration kicks off on April 20, 2024 where RLC Residences, the residential brand of Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), will extend its support to youngsters participating in the aquathlon. The event, to be held at The Reef Island Resort in Mactan, will feature participants aged 6 to 15 competing in various age-group divisions.
RLC Residences Head of Brand Management Dan Carlo Torres emphasized their commitment to supporting the IRONKIDS and fostering opportunities for future triathletes. “We are very excited to see this partnership unfold. We’ve been very supportive of IRONMAN, especially IRONKIDS because we also believe in the importance of promoting an active and purposeful lifestyle at such a young age and we hope to continuously be part of IRONMAN as we create more vibrant opportunities for our future triathletes,” said Torres. The IRONMAN Group Philippines Regional Director Princess Galura highlighted the significance of the IRONKiDS event in nurturing the Cebuano youth’s interest in sports and encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle, saying, “The IRONKIDS has had a positive impact on the Cebuano youth over the past 10 years, serving as a stepping stone to a future in sports and fostering a healthy, sporty lifestyle. The partnership with RLC Residences will further contribute to these efforts.”
The Lapu-Lapu event will feature age-group categories and relay events for mixed teams. The swim and run courses, transition area, and finish line will be held at The Reef Island Resort, providing a convenient and secure location. Families attending the race weekend can also enjoy the resort amenities, including the beach, lap pool, game room, and the resort’s restaurant operated by Cebu-based top-tier chain Abaca. Registration for IRONKIDS Lapu-Lapu 2024 is still ongoing and interested participants can register online at ironkidsphil.com.
