We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Meralco receives 3-Golden Arrow Award for Outstanding Corporate Governance
Recognizing its remarkable corporate governance practices, the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has once again received a three-arrow recognition from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) during the Golden Arrow Awards held on 28 September 2023. The prestigious accolade came as a result of Meralco’s outstanding performance in the 2022 ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) assessment, reflecting the company’s conformance with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission’s Code of Corporate Governance for Publicly-Listed Companies, as well as internationally recommended corporate governance practices as espoused by the ACGS. ACGS is an evaluation tool developed by the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum to assess the governance framework of publicly listed companies in the region. This assessment covers various aspects including board responsibilities, shareholder rights, disclosure and transparency, and stakeholder management. This recognition serves as a testament to the company's unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. By excelling in the ACGS assessment, Meralco has demonstrated its commitment to operating with integrity and safeguarding the interests of its shareholders and stakeholders. Through the award, Meralco highlights the importance of good corporate governance in today’s business environment. It serves as a reminder to all publicly listed companies that adherence to rigorous corporate governance standards is essential to ensure sustainable success and to foster a good relationship among investors, customers, and the community that they serve. The post Meralco receives 3-Golden Arrow Award for Outstanding Corporate Governance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards
With a distinguished legacy spanning five generations, the Aboitiz Group remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering positive change in shaping the future as it adheres to the standards and requirements outlined in the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard. This year, following the 2022 compliance period of the ACGS, Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. received a 4-arrow recognition after scoring 111.68 points, AEV’s highest ACGS score since the Institute of Corporate Directors inaugurated the Golden Arrow Awards in 2018. Aboitiz Power Corporation and Union Bank of the Philippines both received a 3-arrow recognition for scoring between 100 and 109 points. Consistent top performers It’s also important to note that AEV and AboitizPower have consistently been recognized as top performers in corporate governance, both here in the country and in the ASEAN region since 2013-2017 at the PSE Bell Awards. “This distinction is the result of the Aboitiz Group’s work to transform a legacy business into a hyper-innovative, diversified conglomerate that puts corporate governance and citizenship at the core of its operations. We have always believed that transparency and accountability are essential in building trust amongst our stakeholders and forging strong partnerships in order to drive change,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Group’s chief reputation and sustainability officer. AEV, the portfolio management company of the Aboitiz Group, leads investments in diverse sectors including power, banking and financial services, food, infrastructure, land, and cutting-edge fields such as data science and artificial intelligence. The Group is presently undergoing a profound transformation to establish itself as the Philippines' first "techglomerate." This innovative growth strategy, fueled by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, empowers Aboitiz to drive transformative change, shaping the future of its businesses, host communities, and the nation. The Golden Arrow Recognition serves as a testament to Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. Aboitiz has excelled in several key areas such as compliance, sustainability, and innovation — positioning it as a frontrunner in the realm of corporate governance. This honor reflects the Group's ongoing commitment to creating value for its shareholders, stakeholders, and the broader Filipino community. Robust policies Aboitiz Group’s robust policies and procedures across every level of the organization form the bedrock of its commitment to excellence in corporate governance. Furthermore, the company's board of directors is characterized by its independence and diversity, playing a pivotal role in providing oversight and making strategic decisions aligned with the best interests of shareholders and stakeholders. Aboitiz places great emphasis on transparency, providing clear and comprehensive information regarding its financial performance, operations, and decision-making processes to ensure that shareholders and the public remain well-informed. In terms of regulatory compliance, Aboitiz is dedicated to adhering to all relevant laws, regulations, and standards related to corporate governance. The company continuously updates its policies to ensure alignment with evolving requirements. When it comes to ethical business practices, the Group's commitment to ethical conduct and integrity remains unwavering. “This award reaffirms the team’s adherence to the shared responsibility of sustainably managing the organization. This further motivates us to champion the highest corporate governance and ethical standards as we continue to grow the business,” said AboitizPower president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Rubio. “Likewise, we also exert as much effort and diligence in upholding environmental preservation and the societal good within the areas we have the privilege to serve,” he said. Corporate governance For his part, UnionBank lead independent director Roberto Manabat said, “We humbly accept this recognition as a reinforcement of the principles that guide the Bank. Our corporate governance practices reinforce the requirements of a constantly evolving business landscape. We ensure that they comply with new regulations and are ready to adopt best practices.” Aboitiz is deeply committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives. The post Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards
With a distinguished legacy spanning five generations, the Aboitiz Group remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering positive change in shaping the future as it adheres to the standards and requirements outlined in the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard. This year, following the 2022 compliance period of the ACGS, Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. received a 4-arrow recognition after scoring 111.68 points, AEV’s highest ACGS score since the Institute of Corporate Directors inaugurated the Golden Arrow Awards in 2018. Aboitiz Power Corporation and Union Bank of the Philippines both received a 3-arrow recognition for scoring between 100 and 109 points. AEV and AboitizPower have consistently been recognized as top performers in corporate governance, both here in the country and in the ASEAN region since 2013-2017 at the PSE Bell Awards. “This distinction is the result of the Aboitiz Group’s work to transform a legacy business into a hyper-innovative, diversified conglomerate that puts corporate governance and citizenship at the core of its operations. We have always believed that transparency and accountability are essential in building trust amongst our stakeholders and forging strong partnerships in order to drive change,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Group’s chief reputation and sustainability officer. AEV, the portfolio management company of the Aboitiz Group, leads investments in diverse sectors including power, banking and financial services, food, infrastructure, land and cutting-edge fields such as data science and artificial intelligence. The Group is presently undergoing a profound transformation to establish itself as the Philippines' first "techglomerate." This innovative growth strategy, fueled by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, empowers Aboitiz to drive transformative change, shaping the future of its businesses, host communities and the nation. The Golden Arrow Recognition serves as a testament to Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. Aboitiz has excelled in several key areas such as compliance, sustainability, and innovation – positioning it as a frontrunner in the realm of corporate governance. This honor reflects the Group's ongoing commitment to creating value for its shareholders, stakeholders, and the broader Filipino community. Aboitiz Group’s robust policies and procedures across every level of the organization form the bedrock of its commitment to excellence in corporate governance. Furthermore, the company's board of directors is characterized by its independence and diversity, playing a pivotal role in providing oversight and making strategic decisions aligned with the best interests of shareholders and stakeholders. Aboitiz places great emphasis on transparency, providing clear and comprehensive information regarding its financial performance, operations, and decision-making processes to ensure that shareholders and the public remain well-informed. In terms of regulatory compliance, Aboitiz is dedicated to adhering to all relevant laws, regulations, and standards related to corporate governance. The company continuously updates its policies to ensure alignment with evolving requirements. When it comes to ethical business practices, the Group's commitment to ethical conduct and integrity remains unwavering. The company adheres to a stringent code of conduct that guides the behavior of its employees, fostering an environment of trust and integrity. “This award reaffirms the team’s adherence to the shared responsibility of sustainably managing the organization. This further motivates us to champion the highest corporate governance and ethical standards as we continue to grow the business,” said AboitizPower president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Rubio. “Likewise, we also exert as much effort and diligence in upholding environmental preservation and the societal good within the areas we have the privilege to serve.” “We humbly accept this recognition as a reinforcement of the principles that guide the Bank. Our corporate governance practices reinforce the requirements of a constantly evolving business landscape. We ensure that they comply with new regulations and are ready to adopt best practices,” said UnionBank lead independent director Roberto Manabat. Aboitiz is deeply committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives. The company actively pursues environmental and social responsibility, demonstrating its dedication to creating a positive impact on society and the environment. The post Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Classic mooncake offerings
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or the Mooncake Festival, is one of the most important occasions in Chinese culture. It is during this season when families reunite, often traveling long distances to be together. These important days are hardly complete without mooncakes, the beloved pastries filled with lotus seed paste, red bean, or other fillings. This year, the Mid-Autumn Festival falls on 29 September. With the season fast approaching, get your delectable signature mooncakes at these places for your lunar reunions. The Peninsula Manila At the Peninsula Boutique, choose from the rich and iconic egg custard, or the traditional white lotus seed paste with egg yolk. These seasonal favorites come in boxes of six (Mini Lotus Seed Paste with Egg Yolk) or four (Mini Egg Custard). Have the best of both worlds with an eight-piece mooncake box that offers these quintessential flavors in one box. [caption id="attachment_181865" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Mini Egg Custard | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE PENINSULA MANILA[/caption] [caption id="attachment_181861" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] TRADITIONAL mooncake. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NEWPORT WORLD RESORTS[/caption] Email penboutiquepmn@peninsula.com or call 8887-2888 (trunk line), extension 6691 and 6694 (restaurant reservations), e-mail dining PMN@peninsula.com. Visit peninsula.com/manila. Shangri-La The Fort Available until 29 September, Shangri-La The Fort’s generously filled mooncakes come in six flavors: Pineapple and Walnuts, White Lotus with Salted Egg Yolk, Red Bean and Pine Nuts, Mixed Nuts, Jasmine Tea and Black Sesame with Salted Egg Yolk, in mini size (75g) at P588 or regular size (150g) at P788. They also come in elegant and intricate boxes such as the Square Box of two (with two pieces regular mooncakes) at P1,688, Square Box of four (with four pieces regular mooncakes) at P3,388, Cheongsam Box of six (with six pieces mini mooncakes) at P3,688, and Premium Moon Box of four (with four pieces mini mooncakes) at P4,888. Custom Shangri-La hampers are also available with rate starting at P5,888 where you can combine à la carte picks together with your mooncake flavors of choice. Reserve your mooncake boxes and hampers today through eats.slfm@shangri-la.com or 091SLFMEATS (09175363287). [caption id="attachment_181864" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] LUNG Hin mooncakes. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Marco Polo Ortigas[/caption] Newport World Resorts Savor the distinct flavor of autumn with the intricately crafted pastries that come in ube, red bean and lotus flavors at Newport World Resorts. Bring light to these celebrations with these premium cakes that come in a majestic lantern box. The package set of four is available for P3,888 per box. Sample the festive mooncakes in Shanghai Ube for P238, Red Bean for P378, and Crispy Ube and Lotus for P478 each. The signature mooncake collection will be available the whole month of September at the Newport Garden Wing restaurants: Garden Wing Cafe, Victoria Harbour Cafe, Happy 8 and Newport Grand Wing’s Silk Road. Share special Marriott Moments this Moon Festival with The Gold Mooncake Box from Marriott Hotel Manila. Indulge in classic and unique flavors of mooncake like Red Lotus Paste with Salted Duck Egg Yolk, White Lotus Paste with Salted Duck Egg Yolk, Durian, and Wine Cranberry. Available for the whole month of September, each piece is priced at P588, while a box of four is priced at P3,388 and a box of six at P4,388. Every purchase of Marriott Manila’s mooncakes supports a worthy cause with part of the proceeds given to a chosen beneficiary of Marriott Worldwide Business Councils-Philippines. Call +63 917 584 9553, +63 917 624 5980 or email manilamarriottrestaurants@marriott.com. Visit www.newportworldresorts.com. Marco Polo Ortigas Paying tribute to its Hong Kong roots, Marco Polo Ortigas’ award-winning Cantonese restaurant, Lung Hin, is offering a delightful selection of premium mooncakes until 30 September. These authentic delicacies come in four flavors: Red Bean with Double Egg Yolk, White Lotus with Double Egg Yolk, Red Lotus with Double Egg Yolk and Mixed Nuts Flavors, beautifully packaged in auspicious boxes. Available in individual box (P938); box of four (P3,488); box of six (P5,168); limited-edition box of four (P3,688); or limited-edition box of six (P5,368). Reserve your Mid-Autumn Treasures via 7720-7777 or lunghin.mnl@marcopolohotels.com. The post Classic mooncake offerings appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sun Life executives bag back-to-back wins
Two top executives of Sun Life Philippines, namely Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation president Michael Gerard Enriquez and Sun Life general counsel Atty. Edgar Tordesillas, recently received acclaim for their work in their respective films. Enriquez was dubbed as among the Top 25 ASEAN Selectors, an honor given to the most influential product gatekeepers and investment professionals in the ASEAN region, by financial publishing and data group Citywire. The recognition program uses quantitative and qualitative criteria to recognize those who take the lead in investment and product conversations throughout the region and have made tangible improvements in their respective organizations' product selection, digital platform or personnel. “It is a great honor to be among the Top 25 ASEAN Selectors,” said Enriquez. “This award is a testament to our commitment to providing clients with the best investing experience possible. I am proud of the accomplishments we have achieved through steady and confident strides." [caption id="attachment_180613" align="aligncenter" width="511"] Sun Life general counsel Atty. Edgar Tordesillas[/caption] Meanwhile, Tordesillas joins the roster of the vaunted members of the Philippines’ first ever GC Powerlist, a recognition program for the country’s top in-house lawyers as evaluated by publisher The Legal 500. It recognizes in-house lawyers that have been instrumental in changing or forming opinions within their company or industry, developing brilliant technical solutions to complex issues, creating innovative structures to ensure that the in-house function is driving the business and providing a business working model worthy of emulation by other corporate counsel. “Integrity is non-negotiable for us at Sun Life. Along with my Legal Team, it is my privilege to help bring this to life as the company's General Counsel,” said Tordesillas. “This recognition will further inspire us to become instruments of change for our clients' brighter future." The post Sun Life executives bag back-to-back wins appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ADI honored at ASEAN fest
Aboitiz Data Innovation, or ADI, the data science and artificial intelligence, or DSAI, arm of the Aboitiz Group, has been honored with the Digital Transformation–Digital Innovation Award at the ASEAN Business Awards 2023. The recognitions were for the company’s outstanding contributions to embracing artificial intelligence and machine learning in the ASEAN region. Organized by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, or ASEAN-BAC since 2007, the competition spotlights business enterprises and individuals driving economic advancement and promoting sustainability within the region, emphasizing the significance of collaboration and community empowerment to achieve an inclusive ASEAN society. The Digital Innovation award, under the Digital Transformation pillar, acknowledges ADI’s exceptional contributions in operationalizing DSAI and promoting a data-driven culture across the Aboitiz Group’s business units. It celebrates the dedication and efforts of the ADI team in delivering DSAI solutions that create value for stakeholders. This prestigious recognition further solidifies ADI’s mission to provide transformative AI consulting, data-driven IoT, and sustainability solutions across diverse sectors. “The award is a reflection of the team’s relentless pursuit of excellence in technology, innovation, and sustainability to drive digital transformation and adoption in the region,” David Hardoon, Chief Executive Officer at ADI, said. The post ADI honored at ASEAN fest appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Clarence Avant, ‘Godfather of Black Music,’ dies at 92
Clarence Avant, the entertainment executive who is counted among the music world's most impactful figures, died over the weekend, a statement from his family said Monday. He was 92 years old. Avant "passed away gently at home" in Los Angeles on Sunday, said his children Nicole and Alex Avant, as well as Nicole's husband, Netflix executive Ted Sarandos. "Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as 'The Black Godfather' in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics, and sports," the statement said. "Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come. The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss." Avant was born on 25 February 1931 in small-town North Carolina, the oldest of eight. After spending most of his childhood in North Carolina he moved to New Jersey as a teenager, getting his start in the music business as a club manager of Teddy P's Lounge in Newark. He later was mentored by the longtime Louis Armstrong manager Joe Glaser. He went on to become one of the most revered players in music and beyond, an advocate and mentor who pushed the boundaries for Black entertainers in an industry rife with racism. Avant helped establish Venture Records, the first joint effort between a Black-owned music company and a major record label, in this case, MGM. He later launched Sussex Records and signed the likes of Bill Withers. Avant worked at an array of other labels, produced films, and also brokered deals for Black athletes including baseball superstar Hank Aaron. "He's the perennial godfather of our business," Quincy Jones said in 2006, in an interview with Billboard. "Everyone in our business has been by Clarence's desk if they’re smart." 'True pioneer' Avant also consulted at Motown and worked with other top producers including Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis as well as Babyface. He's been credited with burnishing the careers of countless artists, including Jones as well as Pharrell Williams, Snoop Dogg, and Whitney Houston. "Clarence Avant connects us all through his incredible impact since before I was born up until now. He's the godfather to so many of us -- and not just African Americans, most of the industry," Pharrell said in a statement in 2019, ahead of the release of the Netflix documentary "The Black Godfather." In 2021, Avant's wife of over 50 years, Jacqueline, was fatally shot at age 81, during a break-in of the couple's Beverly Hills home. Earlier that year Avant received special accolades from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Recording Academy has also bestowed a number of honors on him and in 2007 he received the Thurgood Marshall Lifetime Achievement Award from the NAACP. Tributes to Avant began pouring out upon news of his death, including from Jay-Z's company Roc Nation, which hailed him "a true pioneer" who "burst through doors and tore down ceilings, changing lives and providing opportunities for generations." "Clarence Avant isn't just the 'Godfather Of Black Music,' he is our cultural Godfather," the company said. Bill and Hillary Clinton, the former US president and secretary of state, said in a joint statement they were "saddened by the passing of our friend." "It was impossible to spend time with him and not come away feeling more positive and wanting to follow his example." The post Clarence Avant, ‘Godfather of Black Music,’ dies at 92 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Invest blitz spurs Canadian interest
Major Canadian fund managers have expressed interest in investing in the country’s infrastructure, investments in sustainability and energy transition and sovereign debt issues. The Department of Finance, or DoF, said select funds, including development finance institution FinDev Canada; pension funds Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, OPTrust, Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System, and Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan are exploring opportunities in the country. Investment management companies Black Creek and Vanguard also expressed keen interest in the Philippines’ public-private partnership. Canada roadshow Economic managers successfully brought their US-Canada non-deal roadshow to a close on 14 July. Composed of a series of roundtable meetings in New York and Toronto, the non-deal roadshow served as an opportunity for investors to learn more about the Philippines’ growth outlook, economic and fiscal policy environment, investment opportunities, and growth engines in the medium and long term. “The Philippines has a very interesting story to tell. The meetings we had in New York and Toronto gave us the opportunity to share with current and potential investors the country’s robust growth outlook and the engines that will drive this growth, such as the recently reopened mining industry, the rebound of tourism, and the ambitious ‘Build, Better, More’ program,” Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said. Powerhouse cast Diokno, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona Jr., National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, and Treasurer of the Philippines Rosalia de Leon led in-depth discussions on the country’s priority high-growth sectors. Presented before the forum were the reopening of the mining industry, tourism, manufacturing, the growth of business process outsourcing, renewable energy and green investments, environmental, social and governance issuances, overall growth outlook, and the Maharlika Investment Fund. The economic team met with a mix of fixed-income and infrastructure funds, institutional investors, development finance institutions, mining companies and asset management companies. Closing the roadshow activities, Diokno and Pangandaman led the market close ceremony at the Toronto Stock Exchange, the largest exchange in Canada, on 14 July. During a meeting before the market close, TSX head of government affairs David Clarke presented opportunities to deepen capital in mining, a major industry in Canada, in the Philippines and talked about the huge presence of TSX-listed companies with mining activities in Asia and the Philippines. The non-deal roadshow was organized and supported by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas-Investor Relations Group, DoF, BofA Securities, Canada-ASEAN Business Council, Global Affairs Canada, Citi, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs, HSBC, Morgan Stanley, Philippine Embassy in Canada, Standard Chartered Bank, Sun Life, Manulife and UBS. The post Invest blitz spurs Canadian interest appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Megaworld taps AI for smart towns
Andrew Tan-led township developer Megaworld Corp. has opened the country’s first data science lab that helps build smarter townships across the country. Through the project, dubbed Township Analytics and Technology Lab, or TAT Lab, Megaworld projects nationwide will be developed with the help of machine-learning models using artificial intelligence. “Megaworld’s commitment to building next-generation townships that are safer, more secure, enjoyable, and sustainable is evident with the establishment of our very own data science lab,” Francis Viernes, chief data scientist and lab director of TAT Lab and head of Data Analytics, said. “Our residents, locators, visitors, and partners stand to benefit from the various innovative programs to be spearheaded by TAT Lab, which are all aimed at creating better experiences in and around our townships,” he added. Predictive existence One of the programs already deployed by TAT Lab is an advanced accident detection system, which is designed to detect road accidents seconds before it happens to trigger a faster, more efficient incident response. TAT Lab’s accident detection system recently won the Innovation Award at the annual ASEAN Innovation Business Platform or AIBP, Enterprise Innovation Awards for leading the way in emerging digital innovations using AI in the region. Another program is the Township-Specific Weather Analytics and Monitoring implemented in partnership with Komunidad, the leader in climate data analytics in Asia. The program aims to help make Megaworld townships more resilient by providing localized and more accurate climate information to help residents and locators plan their day-to-day activities more efficiently. Located within the TAT Lab headquarters is the Megaworld Command Center, a state-of-the-art surveillance facility, that is capable of monitoring and consolidating situation reports across all of Megaworld’s townships nationwide. The Command Center is run by both TAT Lab and Megaworld’s Estate group, with the latter handling its operations. Other programs that will be rolled out soon by TAT Lab include township geographic assessment with real-time traffic information, as well as advanced security monitoring programs aimed at implementing additional layers of security and protection for residential condominiums, offices, malls, hotels, and other major components of Megaworld townships. In the future, more data science and technology programs will be employed in various aspects across Megaworld’s townships, including risks, traffic, security, utilities, waste disposal, and sustainability. Aside from the recognition from AIBP, Megaworld clinched top prizes from World Business Outlook Awards 2023, namely “Best Real Estate Company,” “Most Innovative Real Estate Company,” and “Most Sustainable Real Estate Developer” in the Philippines. The post Megaworld taps AI for smart towns appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The Black Sea Grain Initiative
The Black Sea region is known as the world’s major grain-producing area that includes wheat, corn, and barley. As the world’s significant producer and exporter of various grains, the region influences global grain prices and availability. Its production helps meet the demand for food commodities, contributing to stable food supplies and mitigating risks of food shortages. On the regional economic development front, the region supports rural development, job creation, and export revenues that impact the overall economic growth and stability of many economies. Both Ukraine and the Russian Federation are major players in the global grain trade with exports extending to the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Asia. The Black Sea Grain Initiative or BSGI has already demonstrated its significance to the international trade scene by enabling the export of more than 32 million metric tons of foodstuff from three Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea to 45 countries across three continents. The Food and Agriculture Organization reported that since March 2022, there has been a 22-percent drop in world food prices. The procurement of 700,000 tons of wheat through the BGSI by the World Food Programme helped support humanitarian operations. The continued facilitation of Ukrainian and Russian exports of food and fertilizer remains critical to global food security. From a local business perspective, this initiative holds great significance as it has ensured a stable and reliable source of grains for the Philippines. The accessibility of high-quality and cheaper grains, as well as inexpensive fertilizer from the Black Sea region, has been a driving force behind the growth and sustainability of various sectors within our local economy, including food processing, livestock, and poultry, among others. The availability and affordability of a consistent grain supply is essential to maintaining the competitiveness and profitability of these industries. The International Chamber of Commerce or ICC has played a central role in the ideation of the BSGI and continues to work closely with the United Nations for the effective implementation of the said initiative. Unfortunately, the BSGI is expiring this July and an urgent call has been made for governments, ASEAN, APEC, business organizations, and the rest of the world to speak out — in the media and through diplomatic channels — and express the desire of the international community to see the BSGI extended for a further term. ICC Philippines has written the Russian and Ukrainian envoys to help support the continuance of BSGI. Indeed, allowing the initiative to lapse will put millions of people’s access to the supply and low cost of food in grave danger with devastating social, economic, and human repercussions. ICC Philippines enjoins other business organizations in this move to further the life of the BSGI. The post The Black Sea Grain Initiative appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Clark Freeport Zone ready for business
With big-scale events in full swing once, Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga is ready to host various MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events with essential infrastructures, from transportation to recreational facilities, already in place to accommodate local and international guests. Supporting Clark Freeport Zone’s business tourism initiatives is Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City, the only leisure township in Central Luzon well-equipped with top-notch amenities to ensure personal and business travelers’ stay is as convenient and relaxing as possible. Strategically located at the heart of Clark Freeport Zone, Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City is a two-hour drive from Manila via NLEX, SCTEX and TPLEX and a short eight-minute drive from Clark International Airport. Access by sea is possible through the Subic Freeport Zone, while public transportation is available through Mabalacat Regional Bus Terminal. Meanwhile, guests from major cities such as Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Seoul can have three- to five-hour direct flights. Additionally, the new state-of-the-art Clark International Airport can accommodate eight million passengers annually and is equipped with the latest technologies to make travel easier. The North-South Commuter Railway, once completed, will also help reduce travel time from Clark to Metro Manila to less than an hour. Award-winning amenities Filinvest Mimosa+ is a leading MICE destination in Central Luzon, providing award-winning amenities catering to various business events. At the heart of the property is Quest Plus Conference Center Clark, which received the 2021 Sports Tourism Awards Hotel of the Year for hosting the PBA & Asian Cup Qualifiers’ bubble in 2020 and 2021. It offers the Magellan Ballroom, a 2022 ASEAN MICE Venues Tourism Awardee that can accommodate up to 550 guests. Aside from the renowned venue, Quest Plus Conference Center Clark also offers 304 rooms and luxurious grand villas, four multiple meeting rooms, and two Hilltop Convention Rooms. Mimosa+ also offers a diverse range of dining and entertainment options for guests. Food enthusiasts can relish the culinary delights of Mequeni Live, Mequeni Lounge and Charley’s Bar. Additionally, they can explore the breathtaking 128-hectare Mimosa Plus Golf Course, recently awarded Best Golf Course in the Philippines at the World Golf Awards 2022. This golf course now boasts two 18-hole courses — the Mountainview, known for its challenging terrain, and the Acacia Lakeview, renowned for its stunning scenery. The newly-furbished Mimosa Plus Golf Course Clubhouse has also added amenities such as the Mimosa Plus Golf simulators to help golfers practice their swing. Afterward, they can proceed to the recently opened Baker J Café, the new go-to café for French cuisine. The ideal destination for large-scale events The outstanding features found within Filinvest Mimosa+ allow guests to enjoy many fitness and recreational activities. They can utilize the property’s vast open spaces by running quickly or biking around Acacia Park, which features tree-lined biking and jogging lanes, a pavilion and seating areas. The enormous green landscapes of Acacia Open Grounds are available for recreational activities, perfect for families and friends. It houses fun and creative installations where some of the biggest cycling and leisure events were held. This includes the Philippine Cycling Festival Fun Ride, the Tri-Factor Duathlon, Titan 77.7 Philippines, and the Clark City Marathon. It also recently hosted The Bull Runner Dream Marathon and the two-day Philippine Cycling Festival 2023, an annual cycling event with more than 3000 participants. Soon, the Mimosa Basketball Court will be transformed into a multi-purpose court that can cater to sports such as Basketball, Volleyball, and Badminton. [caption id="attachment_134421" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Without a doubt, Filinvest Mimosa+ is a vibrant live-work-play township.[/caption] Thriving live-work-play township Complementing this well-balanced nature landscape, Filinvest Mimosa+ offers other developments worth visiting for investment and retail opportunities. The state-of-the-art WorkPlus, which already has four completed buildings and one more underway, offers business spaces conducive to growth and work-life balance. The Crib, a co-living residential area for the contemporary, has two available buildings for leasing and is set to launch two more buildings. There is also the Mimosa+ Retail Strip, a lifestyle and recreational strip that will soon open with various high-end retail and dining options, open for leisure and sports facilities partnerships. For residents looking to relocate to Clark, the Golf Ridge Private Estate, now available for pre-selling, offers an exquisite country-club lifestyle with a picturesque view of the neighboring golf course. Lastly, with the construction in full swing, the Mimosa+ Lifestyle Mall will be the new regional shopping and dining center destination. Moreover, investors and end-users looking to relocate or set up their business in the area can already find foreign investors, including the USA, Japan, Australia and South Korea, as Clark Development Center offers business-friendly terms and incentives. Processing of permits, license registration, and application are made more efficient, with approvals in less than three weeks. Without a doubt, as a vibrant live-work-play township with a host of award-winning amenities, Filinvest Mimosa+ is the destination in Clark Freeport Zone that’s ideal and capable of business tourism and leisure travel with family and friends. The post Clark Freeport Zone ready for business appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Fans in frenzy as Beyoncé kicks off concert tour
Ecstatic Beyoncé fans sang and danced in feverish excitement in Stockholm Wednesday as the superstar kicked off her first solo tour in seven years with a futuristic spectacle featuring a lunar rover, an airborne horse, and wall-to-wall rhinestones. Hours before the doors opened hundreds of people were thronging outside the stadium, including some who had traveled halfway around the world to catch the show, anxious to see the global music icon -- one of the world's best-selling artists. Once the concert was about to begin, the tens of thousands of fans in the 60,000-capacity Friends Arena -- filled to the brim -- erupted in cheers as their "queen" emerged on stage. "Just want to say: Y'all make me so happy," Beyoncé said as the concert began. "I see familiar faces, people that flew from very, very far to come see the first show tonight," she told the audience at the outset of the three-hour space and science fiction-themed show. The show features Beyoncé performing atop a lunar vehicle, playing the role of a news anchor while dressed as a queen bee, and suspended above the crowd as she sits on a model horse completely covered in sparkling rhinestones. "This was another level. Amazing, I can't wait for the rest of the tour," Abdul Ibraimoh, a 33-year-old artist manager from London, told AFP after the show. "There was a lot of anticipation for what she was going to do, and yes I'm speechless, it was just incredible," Shane Barkey, a 31-year-old radio host from Ireland, said. Beyoncé, who has a record 32 Grammy awards; is in the top 10 biggest-grossing female artists. She is also a fashion icon, with designers queueing up for her attention. Many of the fans in Stockholm sported cowboy hats and rhinestones, mimicking the look of the performer's outfit in the ads announcing the 57-stop European and North American tour. Julie Vargas, who flew in from Houston, Texas -- Beyoncé's hometown -- confessed to having a "shrine" dedicated to the star at home. "I don't want any spoilers, I wanted to be the first to see it and take the news back to H-town baby!" the 38-year-old surgical technologist told AFP as she waited in line in the early afternoon. The "Renaissance World Tour", announced in February after being teased last autumn, is the star's first solo tour since 2016. Tickets sold out so quickly for the opening show that tour organizers added a second concert at the same venue for Thursday. From there, she goes to Brussels this weekend. The tour, which continues until September, is expected to earn the international artist nearly $2.1 billion, according to business magazine Forbes. She is already a multi-millionaire. "We love Beyoncé, she's the queen, that's why we are here of course," 36-year-old artist Kasher Bloom from Riga told AFP. "Beyoncé is the queen! Our mother, everything! I would do anything for her," Jarra Jatta, a 21-year-old fan from Helsingborg in southern Sweden. In February, Beyoncé made history by becoming the most successful artist in the history of the Grammys, surpassing the late classical conductor Georg Solti's long-standing record of 31 lifetime trophies. But despite winning another four Grammys, fans were disappointed that she missed out on the award for album of the year for her seventh studio album, the house-tinged "Renaissance". The 16-song 2022 album was an instant hit and earned wide praise for its deep ambition. Born Beyoncé Giselle Knowles, the now-41-year-old has been in the upper echelons of pop music since her teenage years. She initially rose to fame as part of Destiny's Child -- whose smash hits included "Survivor" and "Say My Name" -- before embarking on a wildly successful solo career. From setting the standard for the overnight album drop to delivering her earth-shattering "Homecoming" show at Coachella in 2018, Beyoncé has long bucked the industry's conventional wisdom. She is simultaneously one of music's most private and most watched stars. Her paradigm-shifting 2016 album "Lemonade," which emphasized Black womanhood against the backdrop of America's heritage of slavery and culture of oppression, remains one of the most venerated musical projects in recent memory. Then she dropped the critically acclaimed song "Black Parade" in June 2020, amid nationwide protests ignited by the murder of an unarmed Black man, George Floyd, at the hands of a white police officer. The post Fans in frenzy as Beyoncé kicks off concert tour appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Envisioning smart, sustainable cities at AI Summit PH 2023
What will the cities of tomorrow be like? Aboitiz Data Innovation, the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence arm of the Aboitiz Group, brings together key players and industry movers championing sustainable smart cities, as well as power generation and distribution, at the inaugural AI Summit Philippines (AI Summit PH 2023). Organized in partnership with Aboitiz Equity Ventures and Union Bank of the Philippines, the two-day summit will be held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay, Philippines on 10 to 11 May 2023, with industry and government leaders and forward-thinking entrepreneurs sharing real-world use cases, lessons learned and valuable insights. The AI Summit PH 2023 offers attendees an array of events, including talks, panel discussions, knowledge sessions and networking opportunities with tech innovators and game-changers. The summit will focus on three streams: Powering Smart Cities through Data, Data Science and Transformation in Financial Services, and Operationalizing Data Science and AI. Imagine a city where everything is interconnected, more livable and environmentally friendly — where people can move around seamlessly, where energy is generated and consumed sustainably, where lives are enhanced by efficient services, and where the livelihoods of communities are improved. As the world becomes more urbanized, smart cities play an important role in accommodating the growing population. With AI and advanced technologies as enablers and catalysts, a smarter, greener, more livable world is not impossible to attain. Path to the future Opening the Summit is Third District of Negros Occidental Representative Dr. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez with a keynote on “Reimagining a Sustainable and Equitable Philippines with AI.” Representative Benitez brings insightful expertise as the chairman of the House Committee on Housing and Urban Development and a member of the House Committee on Information and Communication Technology. One of the summit’s highlights is a plenary discussion on “Defining the Smart Cities of the Future.” This path to the future requires collaboration between the government, the private sector and other important stakeholders. From the public sector, panelists include Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, who will share his insights on the government’s role in enabling smart city development. He will be joined by IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines president and chief executive officer Jack Madrid and Aboitiz InfraCapital president and CEO Cosette Canilao. This session will delve into the potential benefits of smart city development, including public services, increased economic growth and enhanced sustainability. AIC is already providing Filipinos with a glimpse of the cities of the future across its economic estates. LIMA Land and Cebu Industrial Park Developers president Rafael de Mesa will participate in a breakout session on “AI and the Future of Sustainable Cities: Challenges and Opportunities.” He will be joined by CAZA Principal and award-winning architect Carlos Arnaiz, Arup Associate principal of Cities and Planning Tony Chan and AECOM Asia ESG Services Business lead Sylvester Timothy Wong. The session will be moderated by ADI chief operating officer for Smart Cities Alvin Ng. Technology trends A breakout session will cover the topic of “Unlocking The Benefits of AI in Achieving Sustainability.” Among the panelists are Environmental Resources Management South and Southeast Asia managing partner Wei Chee Liew and members of the academe Dr. Godofredo Ramizo Jr., fellow and principal investigator, Nanyang Technological University; and Dr. Immanuel Koh, assistant professor, Singapore University of Technology and Design. The session will be moderated by ADI chief marketing officer Felicia Li-Gaillard. In another breakout session, “The Future of Smart Cities: AI-Enabled Innovation and Transformation,” summit participants can learn about technology trends, challenges and opportunities in the smart cities landscape from around the region. Moderated by ADI head of AI and Innovation Center of Excellence Dr. Adrienne Heinrich, the panelists include Amazon Web Services ASEAN Business Development Manager Dr. Chomchana Trevai, KPMG APAC head of Technology Darren Young, Johnson Controls APAC chief technology officer Sachin Gupta and AboitizPower Distribution head of Corporate Services Jokin Aboitiz. On the power front, a discussion on the regulatory frameworks in support of AI in utilities will be tackled by Energy Strat Asia managing director and founder Tim Rockell and Analytics Association of the Philippines president Michelle Alarcon. Another summit highlight is the plenary panel discussion on “Power Fueling Urban Development and Economic Growth,” which will be participated by OceanPixel Chief Executive Officer Dr. Michael Abundo, University of San Carlos Associate Professor and Industrial Engineering Department Chairperson Dr. Lorafe Lozano and Chief Operating Officer for Power Luis F. Gonzalez. There is much more that lies in store. Join ADI and like-minded visionaries for two days of insightful talks, solutions showcase and networking opportunities to share ideas and make meaningful connections that may one day change the world for a sustainable future. For more information about the event, visit www.aiphsummit.ph. The post Envisioning smart, sustainable cities at AI Summit PH 2023 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PayMaya bags award for pandemic response
Digital financial services leader PayMaya has been recognized for its various initiatives to promote cashless payment technologies to help combat the spread of COVID-19 at the recently concluded ASEAN Business Awards 2020 held in Vietnam......»»
DTI s Zero to Hero awardee bags 2020 ASEAN Business Award
SAN FERNANDO CITY, Nov. 8 (PIA) - The Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) 2020 Zero to Hero awardee in the Ilocos Region bagged the most coveted 2020 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (AS.....»»
Unlock business success at Franchise Asia Philippines Expo
The Franchise Asia Philippines Expo 2024 is set to hold a series of dynamic seminars designed to empower entrepreneurs, investors and business enthusiasts with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the ever-evolving world of franchising. Slated from April 12 to 14 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, these seminars offer invaluable insights into key aspects of franchising and business growth......»»
GForest named 2023 national winner of Energy Globe Award in the Philippines
GCash, the Philippines' leading finance app, through its GForest feature, is the 2023 National Winner of the Energy Globe Award in the Philippines......»»
Philippines FDI ‘bound to improve’ in coming years – HSBC
The Philippines would be able to attract more foreign direct investments (FDI) in the coming years amid reforms that improved the country’s business climate, HSBC Global Research said......»»
Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar on overseas deployment to ASEAN, arrives im Phillipines
Manila [Philippines], March 25 (ANI): India Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar, a specialized Pollution Control Vessel, reached Manila, Philippines on Monday, marking the commencement of its (overseas deployment) OSD mission to Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) countries. ASEAN countries includes Brunei Darussalam, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, " acc.....»»
Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar on overseas deployment to ASEAN nations, arrives in Philippines
Manila [Philippines], March 25 (ANI): India Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar, a specialized Pollution Control Vessel, reached Manila, Philippines on Monday, marking the commencement of its (overseas deployment) OSD mission to Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) countries. ASEAN countries includes Brunei Darussalam, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, " acc.....»»