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ICT spending in AsPac reaches $1.3 trillion in 2023
Information and communications technology spending in Asia and the Pacific reached the $1.3 trillion mark in 2023, as companies increased their investments on automation and cloud to survive and thrive in the digital era......»»
Accelerating Scientific Discovery: The Power of AI and High-Performance Computing
Microsoft has joined forces with the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) to harness the power of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing in order.....»»
Lenovo treats Phl as top Southeast Asian market
Even if neighboring countries in the Southeast Asian region are advantageous in terms of being technology savvy, the Philippines remains an integral market according to an official of Lenovo, a Chinese multinational technology company specializing in designing, manufacturing, and marketing consumer electronics, personal computers, software, business solutions, and related services. “We see strong demand for the Philippines, the only question is how the consumers get the technology. The pandemic has even made the demand for the Philippines surge because of the digital transformation, unlike pre-pandemic where everyone is scrambling. Right now, because of the transformation, growth is very evident. In other words, investments, including Lenovo technologies are still in demand in the market,” according to Giancarlo Nogales from the Infrastructure Solutions Services Sales of Lenovo Philippines at the sidelines of the VST ECS CXO Tech Summit at the Dusit Thani in Mactan Cebu. “In terms of devices, the Philippines is actually doing well,” he added. Last August, the company said that over the next three years, Lenovo is committing a further $1 billion in investment for artificial intelligence that will focus on providing AI devices, AI-ready, and AI-optimized computing infrastructure, and embedded AI-generated content into the intelligent solutions of vertical industries to help customers improve their productivity. Lenovo in September 2023 has unveiled new cutting-edge tech tools and essentials tailored to empower the dynamic, evolving needs of today’s business end-users. It said that the new monitor, software, and accessories are not only designed to boost the capabilities of today’s remote and hybrid workforces but also to address significant challenges faced by businesses as they digitize operations across departments. “Lenovo research shows that managing a remote workforce and global teams remain central tasks for CIOs.1. That is why the new offerings integrate impressive processing power, immersive 3D, and advanced security to create a unified, human-centered experience,” the company said. Further, Nogales added that sales for Lenovo in the Philippines will continue to soar as the country has a bigger population which connotes demand compared to other nations in SE Asia. What Lenovo can count on with the Philippines is the demand for laptops and tablets that are now being used by students, educators, workers, and even the government. “Actually, we have an ongoing engagement with the government sector. I was at an event with the DICT (Department of Information and Communications) and we had discussions with the Department of Education as well, but we still understand what they are looking for. Of course, with DepEd, it’s a big agency, and what I can say is we are working with them across whatever we can offer—cloud technologies, among others,” he told the DAILY TRIBUNE. Nogales said he sees an ongoing digital transformation within organizations and will continue over the coming years. Digital transformation is an ongoing journey Meanwhile, VST ECS president and CEO Jimmy Go stressed that in the ever-evolving world of technology, organizations are charting a course - through a landscape that has seen profound advancement in recent years. “It's important to understand that digital transformation is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey. Every day, we bear witness to the unveiling of new digital technologies. In this dynamic environment, the lines between the physical and digital worlds are blurring, creating a phenomenon known as phygital convergence," he said. He said organizations nowadays stand at the threshold of a remarkable technological revolution. “Generative AI is the talk of the town with Chat GPT and other AI, offering organizations the power to intelligently automate customer experiences and streamline internal operations. The implications of this technology are far-reaching. Microsoft is launching CoPilot and most software applications are incorporating AI in their applications. Gartner predicts that by 2030, a staggering 80 percent of people will interact with smart robots daily, and in just two years, these smart robots will become workforce partners for 90 percent of global companies,” he said. Further, Go stressed that AI and machine learning, once a novel concept, have become integral to the products and services offered by major companies. “A mere decade ago, we were learning to communicate with machines. Today, machines understand and adapt to our language, erasing the boundaries between humans and technology. While AI is currently the headline in the tech world, we must not lose sight of the critical need to modernize our IT infrastructure,” he stated. For organizations to embrace technology, he said it’s a pivotal step in allowing organizations to embrace the latest technology trends, including Multi Clouds, Quantum computing, Data explosion, RPA, Generative AI, and more. “Investments in Connectivity solutions, Digital Infrastructure, Cloud technologies, Cybersecurity, Big data, Storage, Automation, and Collaboration tools remain vital to prepare for the ever-evolving Tech landscape. In the Israel-Hamas and Ukraine-Russia wars, Technology plays a very important and critical role in their war strategies. Computers, AI, Starlink, and drones are heavily used in their strategies,” he said. The post Lenovo treats Phl as top Southeast Asian market appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PEZA chief lures potential Rotarian investors with ecozone perks
Members — particularly those in such business enterprises as manufacturing — of the Rotary Club of Manila, Asia’s oldest and biggest Rotary organization, were personally enticed by Philippine Economic Zone Authority director-general Tereso Panga of the benefits, particularly tax perks if they expand operations in the country or poured in investments in the ecozone. Panga, who served as guest speaker at RC Manila’s 14th General Membership Meeting at the Manila Polo Club, Makati City, on 5 October 2023, relayed to the prospective ecozone investors the various fiscal and non-fiscal Incentives offered by PEZA. He said the investment promotion agency offers income tax holidays or ITH of four to seven years depending on the industry tier and location, once onboard PEZA-run ecozones. For the National Capital Region, locators are entitled to four years of ITH for those that are in Tier 1; five years of ITH for Tier 2, and six years for those belonging to Tier 3. For locators in Metropolitan areas or areas contiguous and adjacent to NCR, a five-year ITH is given to Tier 1; six years for Tier 2, and seven years for Tier 3. “A five percent Special Corporate Income Tax holiday is also provided for 10 years for export-oriented projects, while enhanced deductions for five years are given to locators involved in domestic-oriented project activities,” Panga said. Other notable benefits awaiting interested PEZA locators include Customs duty exemption on importation of capital equipment, raw materials, spare parts, or accessories directly and exclusively used in the registered project/activity for a maximum period of 17 years unless otherwise extended under the Strategic Investment Priority Plan of the Philippine government; domestic sales allowance of up to 30 percent of total sales for export-oriented companies; value-added tax exemption on importation and VAT-zero rating on local purchases of goods and services directly and exclusively used in the registered project or activity for a maximum period of 17 years, unless otherwise extended under the SIPP; and exemption from payment of national and local government taxes and fees for the period of availment of the 5 percent special corporate income tax incentive Also, PEZA locators are entitled to employ foreign nationals; can enjoy long-term land leases of up to 75 years, and are entitled to the PEZA 2-year special non-immigrant visa issued to expatriates and their dependents as well as foreign workers. [caption id="attachment_194752" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Tereso O. Panga[/caption] PEZA performance Panga earlier reported that the investment promotion agency had reaped an overwhelming 114 percent increase in investments in the second quarter of the year, following the approval of 61 new and expansion projects for the period of April to June 2022. PEZA records showed that total investments are expected to bring in a total of P14.347 billion, 114.93 percent higher than the P6.675 billion approved investments for the second quarter of 2022. Of the 61 approved new and expansion projects, 16 are for the Information Technology industry, 15 for export/manufacturing, 13 for facilities, 13 for ecozone development, and two for IT Facilities and Logistics. Meanwhile, expected jobs to be created by those projects total 11,186, which is 29.06 percent higher compared to the 8,667 projected jobs in the 2nd quarter of 2022. For the January to June period of 2023, a total of 90 new and expansion projects have been approved and are expected to bring in P22.488 billion in investments, $747.093 million in exports, and 14,354 jobs. Japan remains PEZA’s top country investor in the first half with P8.007 billion in investments followed by Singapore with P2.169 billion. Also, Panga said that Japan topped the countries with the highest approved foreign investments at 27.34 percent, followed by Filipino companies at 23.19 percent, and American companies in the third spot at 14.82 percent. “PEZA accounted for 60.5 percent of the total foreign investment commitments in Q2 2023 with P35.75 billion,” he told the Rotary Club of Manila members. From 1995 to 2022, PEZA’s total dividends turned in to the National Treasury was a total of P26,889,567,738.07. Ecozones on the rise To date, Panga said PEZA hosts 422 ecozones and 4,352 locator companies/projects throughout the country. Of said number of ecozones, 299 are dedicated to IT Parks and Centers, 79 to manufacturing firms, 24 to agro-industrial parks, 17 are to tourism and three are to medical tourism ventures. Based on the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has projected that “the creation of ecozones will…maximize investments and promote industrial dispersion, especially outside metropolitan areas. Further, the ecozones will be integrated into the local economy by relaxing the requirements, facilitating the free flow of parts, components, and other inputs, and increasing open trade between zone locators and firms outside the zones.” In the coming years, various ecozones will be sprouting, while the ecozones that have already been officially proclaimed by the Office of the President include Robinsons Cyberpark Bacolod, Lima Technology Center (Expansion), Hermosa Ecozone Industrial Park (Expansion), Philtai Central Luzon Industrial Park, Felcris Centrale IT Park, ECCO 4 Building, Lopue’s Mandalagan IT Center, Marina Town Dumaguete, Naga City Industrial Park and Kamanga Agro-Industrial Economic Zone (Expansion), altogether with investments totaling P3.418 billion. Ecozones pending approval are MetroCas Industrial Estates-Special Economic Zone, Suyo Economic Zone and the expansions of Kamanga Agro-Industrial Economic Zone and Lima Technology Center, with a total investment amount of P773.962 million. As of September 2023, the governing board of PEZA has approved big-ticket investments with a total committed investment of P193.200 billion, and these are the First Pangasinan Property Development Corp., Raedang International Builders and Development Corp., Green Energy with Torrefaction Technology Inc., Dyson Electronics PTE, Ltd. Philippine Branch, Sunpower Philippines Manufacturing Ltd., Isla Import Terminals Inc., MJ Landtrade Development Corp., YCO Cloud Malvar Inc., Savya Land Development Corporation, RLGB Land Corporation, Robinsons Land Corporation, TDK Philippines, P. Imes Corp., Best-one Ever Luck Realty Corp., Knowles Electronics (Phil) Corporation, WIPRO Phils. Inc., Glensworth Development Inc., ACI Inc., Megaworld Corporation and Kyungshin Pampanga Philippines Inc. Currently, Panga said PEZA is focused on seven priority sectors, that is, advanced manufacturing, extractives (green ores processing), agriculture and blue industries, IT services and frontier technologies, eco-industrial park development (renewable energy and alternative energy, clean water and wastewater treatment, circular economy, sustainable development goals, green buildings, smart systems integration), Science, Technology and Innovation and the integration of small and medium enterprises into the ecozone value chain. Cannot be done alone by PEZA Panga, in conclusion during his speech at the Rotary Club of Manila meeting remarked that attracting foreign direct investments cannot be done by PEZA alone or by any other investment promotion agency left to its own devices. He emphasized that what is needed to make things work is a whole government, industry and society approach to lessen the cost and improve ease of doing business in the country. “Through our collaborations and strategic alliances, PEZA, together with the Rotary Club of Manila, other ecozone industries, and stakeholders, will strive for success in attaining our country’s goals and objectives, and continue to push for eco-zoning the Philippines towards inclusive and sustainable development,” Panga said. The post PEZA chief lures potential Rotarian investors with ecozone perks appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Regional economies slowing down — WB
The World Bank expects East Asia and Pacific economies, excluding China, to grow by 4.6 percent this year as the Philippines catches up with digitalization. The WB prediction is slower than the previous 4.9 percent estimate announced by the multinational financial institution in April. If China is included, economic growth in the region is projected to settle at five percent, the World Bank’s report from Washington said last Sunday. “This is higher than average growth projected for all other emerging market and developing economies but lower than previously projected,” the World Bank said. “The East Asia and Pacific region remains one of the fastest growing and most dynamic regions in the world, even if growth is moderating,” World Bank East Asia and Pacific vice president Manuela Ferro said. The multinational financial institution said the region might continue to face challenges in supplies of goods as more typhoons hit the region in the fourth quarter this year and climate change persists. Geopolitical tensions The World Bank added geopolitical tensions aside from the Russia-Ukraine war threatens to further hamper trade. China, the world’s second largest economy, and the US have been exchanging export bans, especially on electronic and technology products. Meanwhile, the Philippines and other Southeast Asian states are protesting against China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea. For these reasons, the World Bank said prices of goods and services might rise, forcing central banks in the region’s developing countries to raise interest rates to prevent inflation from accelerating further. However, this means consumers might cut back spending on certain goods and services, while businesses slow operations. Borrowing costs to remain high “Therefore, borrowing costs will likely remain high, constraining room for spending and raising the risk of debt distress in some countries. Furthermore, high indebtedness, combined with rising costs of servicing debt, will weigh on private investments,” the World Bank said. For its 2024 forecast, the bank is more optimistic that the region’s economy excluding China’s will expand from 4.6 percent to 4.7 percent. “Growth in the rest of the region is expected to edge up, as recovery in global growth and easing of financial conditions offsets the impact of slowing growth in China and trade policy measures in other countries,” the World Bank said. Philippine economic growth is seen to improve to 5.9 percent next year from a 5.6 percent forecast for this year. Meanwhile, China’s economy could shrink by 4.4 percent next year from a 4.8 percent estimate for 2023 due to persisting elevated debt, tamer demand for real estate, and aging population. Sustaining high growth to require reforms “Over the medium term, sustaining high growth will require reforms to maintain industrial competitiveness, diversify trading partners, and unleash the productivity-enhancing and job-creating potential of the services sector,” Ferro said. The World Bank reported digitalization and other reforms in government services in the Philippines increased productivity of firms by 1.5 percent from 2010 to 2019. Digital technologies, for example, can spread education and health services in the provinces to ensure a bigger pool of high-skilled and energetic workers. The post Regional economies slowing down — WB appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The vital role of ASEAN
The ASEAN-UN Comprehensive Partnership is more important than ever. We face tests as far as the eye can see — from the climate emergency to a global cost-of-living crisis, raging conflicts and growing poverty, hunger, and inequalities. All these challenges are aggravated by rising geopolitical tensions. There is a real risk of fragmentation — of a Great Fracture in world economic and financial systems, with diverging strategies on technology and artificial intelligence and conflicting security frameworks. I commend ASEAN for your vital role in building bridges of understanding all over the world. ASEAN has played an extremely important role as a center that convenes all those that, unfortunately, represent the most dramatic divisions in today’s world and these series of summits is a demonstration of that fundamental convening role of ASEAN. And we need it in a world that is increasingly multipolar and that requires strong multilateral institutions to go with it — based on equity, solidarity and universality. I am grateful for your steadfast support for multilateral solutions and your contribution of over 5,000 peacekeepers from ASEAN countries. ASEAN’s convening power, commitment to dialogue and experience in conflict prevention are crucial pillars of stability. Today, tensions remain high from the Korean Peninsula to the South China Sea. I am grateful to ASEAN member states for your pursuit of dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution, rooted in the respect for international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Since we gathered last year, the situation in Myanmar has further deteriorated. Brutal violence, worsening poverty and systematic repression are crushing hopes for a return to democracy. The conflict is exacerbating existing inequalities and vulnerabilities faced by women and girls, including sexual violence, forced marriage and human trafficking. More and more people are crossing borders in a desperate search for safety and protection and the situation is untenable. Over one million Rohingya remain in Bangladesh, in the world’s largest refugee camp. And, regrettably, the conditions for their safe, voluntary and dignified return are not yet in sight. Much more is needed. My call to the military authorities of Myanmar is clear: Free all detained leaders and political prisoners; open the door toward the full restoration of democratic rule. We must also end our assault against the planet. ASEAN ranks amongst the most biodiversity-rich regions — and is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. We can still limit the worst impacts and meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. ASEAN is uniquely positioned to be a leader of an energy transition that is global, sustainable, just, inclusive and equitable. I commend ASEAN member states that are pioneering Just Energy Transition Partnerships like Indonesia and Viet Nam. And I commend all who are accelerating the phaseout of coal and jumpstarting a fair and inclusive renewables revolution. But greater ambition is needed still — along with much greater support. Developed countries must finally deliver on their commitments to developing countries. Resources are also central to rescuing the Sustainable Development Goals. I have called for deep and structural changes to make global frameworks — including the Bretton Woods system — more representative of today’s economic and political realities and also more responsive. Such change will not happen overnight — and I have proposed concrete steps we can take now, including an SDG Stimulus of US$500 billion a year to the benefit of developing countries for them to be able to reach the Sustainable Goals. This and other action would catalyze SDG progress and help developing economies invest in key transitions across energy, food systems, digital, education, health, decent jobs and social protection. I count on ASEAN member states to help raise global ambition in the vital months ahead. And you can always count on my wholehearted support to shape a future of peace and prosperity for the people of Southeast Asia and the world. *** Excerpts from the UN Secretary-General’s remarks at the ASEAN-UN Summit, 7 September 2023. The post The vital role of ASEAN appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
High BoI figures show capital swing
As a testament to the strides taken to raise the country’s laggard investments, the country’s main investment promotion agency, the Board of Investments reported registering P720 billion worth of investments for the year until August. In a forum on Thursday, BoI Governor Marjorie Ramos-Samaniego said they now see positive investment growth for the rest of the year. “As of August of 2023, the BoI approvals amounted to 72 percent of the P1-trillion investment target for the year,” she added. Last Tuesday, BoI chairperson and Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said he is confident of hitting and even surpassing the 2023 investment approvals target of P1.5 trillion. He said the investment promotion agency has projects in the pipeline, some of which came from past foreign trips of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and the investment missions of the Department of Trade and Industry. Last year, the BoI approved an estimated P729 billion worth of new projects, which is 11 percent higher than the P655.4 billion approved in 2021. On Thursday, the BoI announced that it granted green lane endorsement to five floating solar power projects in Laguna Lake under Executive Order 18 or “Constituting Green Lanes for Strategic Investments,” meant to expedite, streamline and automate government approval and registration process of priority and strategic investments. “In keeping with the government’s goal of accelerating the realization of green investments in the Philippines, the BOI has given the go-ahead to ACEN Corporation’s requests for Green Lane processing of several renewable energy ventures located in Laguna Lake,” Pascual explained. The approved projects include SolarAce4, AC Laguna, AC Subic, GigaWind1 and Ingrid Floating Solar Power Plants, which are consistent with the government’s mission to accelerate the growth of eco-friendly investments. In accordance with EO 18, the five renewable energy. or RE, projects are now identified and designated as strategic investments, which are expected to be completed between 2026 and 2027. Obtaining green lane status expedites permit and license issuance, including resolving strategic investment issues. Trade Undersecretary and BoI managing head Ceferino Rodolfo awarded the Green Lane Certificates of Endorsement to ACEN president and CEO Eric Francia in an awarding ceremony at the BoI Main Office in Makati City last 6 September 2023. BoI Governor Ramos-Samaniego and Executive Director Bobby Fondevilla of the Investment Assistance Center are present in the ceremony, and ACEN representatives namely Anabelle Natividad, authorized representative; Atty. Lucky Aranas, project lawyer; and Miguel Ignacio, project manager. SolarAce4 covers 100 hectares of the lake surface area in Santa Cruz, Laguna, and will produce a 140-megawatt peak of clean energy. AC Laguna Floating Solar Power Plant — AC Laguna is located on 200 hectares of lake surface area in Victoria and Pila, Laguna, and will generate 280MWp of clean energy. The AC SUBIC Floating Solar Power Plant, occupying 200 hectares of lake surface area in Victoria and Santa Cruz, Laguna, is expected to produce 280MWp of clean energy. GigaWind1 Floating Solar Power Plant covers 200 hectares of lake surface area in Kalayaan and Paete, Laguna and will generate 280MWp of sustainable energy. Finally, Ingrid Floating Solar Power Plant is located on 100 hectares of lake surface area in Lumban, Laguna and will produce 140MWp of clean energy. At the forefront of Asia Pacific’s renewables revolution, ACEN is the first energy company in Southeast Asia to announce a Net Zero roadmap. ACEN, established in 2011, is the renewable energy platform of the Ayala Group. Its portfolio continues to grow with new solar and wind farms under construction in the Philippines, Australia, Vietnam, Lao PDR and India. ACEN aims to be the largest listed renewables platform in Southeast Asia and is targeting to reach 20 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. Its key markets are the Philippines, Australia, Vietnam, Indonesia and India. The post High BoI figures show capital swing appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos to celebrate birthday in SG for F1 race, Asia Summit
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will present his administration's priorities to economic and business executives at the Milken Institute's 10th Asian Conference and attend the finals of the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix 2023 in Singapore this week. In a Malacañang statement late Monday, Marcos is expected to highlight his administration's in improving the life of the Filipinos on 13 September at the Milken Institute. "Marcos will headline the 30-minute talk, highlighting the government efforts in improving the lives of Filipinos amid challenges from significant global events. Marcos will be the first sitting Philippine President to address the Milken Institute's Asia Summit," Malacañang said. "Marcos will be the first sitting Philippine President to address the Milken Institute's Asia Summit," it added, noting that the event will also be live-streamed on the Milken Institute's website. Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, will also speak at the annual meeting. The Asia Summit 2023 will focus on peace and stability, inequality, cultural differences, and irreparable environmental damage. The Milken Institute hosts it and it has been going on for ten years. The Milken Institute is a non-profit think tank that focuses on accelerating progress toward giving everyone a meaningful life, Malacañang said. Malacañang added it brings together the best ideas and practices for how to hold a dialogue on critical global problems. Lee Hsien Loong, the prime minister of Singapore, has also invited Marcos Jr. to the finals of the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix in 2023. In September 2022, Marcos Jr. went to Singapore for a state visit. After a month, he came back for the F1 Grand Prix. The post Marcos to celebrate birthday in SG for F1 race, Asia Summit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden leads US tech push in Vietnam
President Joe Biden and senior executives from top US tech firms including Google and Intel met Vietnamese business leaders Monday after the two countries agreed to deepen cooperation as Washington seeks to counter China's growing clout. Biden and Vietnam's ruling Communist Party chief -- the country's paramount leader -- struck a "comprehensive strategic partnership" as Washington pushes to boost its network of allies around Asia and the Pacific. The United States sees manufacturing dynamo Vietnam as an important part of its plan to decrease reliance on China for supplies of strategic resources, and the new pact includes agreements on semiconductors and rare earths. Executives from tech behemoth Google, chip makers Intel and GlobalFoundries, and aviation giant Boeing joined Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken for an "innovation and investment summit". They held talks with senior figures from a host of leading Vietnamese tech and manufacturing companies including electric car maker VinFast, internet firm VNG and digital wallet Momo. At the talks, Biden announced that flag-carrier Vietnam Airlines had agreed a $7.8-billion deal with Boeing to buy 50 medium-haul 737 airliners. Other deals announced include Microsoft developing a "generative AI-based solution tailored for Vietnam" and NVIDIA teaming up with local companies to deploy artificial intelligence in the cloud, automotive and healthcare sectors. Semiconductor security The new partnership includes an agreement on semiconductors, with the United States committing to help Vietnam develop its capabilities and expand production, including by funding workforce training. Tiny semiconductors are vital to modern life, found in every electronic device from children's toys and smartphones to electric cars and sophisticated weapon systems. Biden moved last month to restrict US investment in Chinese technology in sensitive areas including semiconductors, quantum computing and AI. With Washington looking to diversify and strengthen its supply chains after a series of shocks hit the global economy, it is increasingly looking to Vietnam, which has the world's second-largest deposits of rare earths -- another strategically vital resource -- after China. The White House highlighted US investment in chipmaking in Vietnam, pointing to a new $1.6 billion factory near Hanoi due to start operations soon. China difficulties Biden insisted Sunday that he did not want to "contain" China, but accused Beijing of seeking to change the rules of the international order. And in their joint statement, Biden and Trong launched a fresh broadside at Beijing in the sprawling, multi-state territorial row over the South China Sea. They warned against "threat or the use of force", days after the latest clash involving Chinese vessels, and insisted the competing claims to the strategic waterway must be settled under international norms. Beijing claims almost the entire sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored an international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. The president met Chinese Premier Li Qiang -- the country's number two leader -- on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Delhi on Sunday. Biden said the major economic problems Beijing was wrestling with would limit its scope for action, particularly on Taiwan -- which China regards as a renegade province. "China has a difficult economic problem right now for a whole range of reasons that relate to the international growth and lack thereof and the policies that China has followed," he said, pointing to high youth unemployment and real estate issues. "I don't think it's going to cause China to invade Taiwan. As a matter of fact, the opposite -- it probably doesn't have the same capacity that it had before." Vietnam has its own squabbles with Beijing, notably over the contested South China Sea. Hanoi's state media on Monday hailed the deal with former war foe the United States as "historic". Biden will end his visit by paying his respects at a memorial to his friend John McCain, the former US Senator shot down in Hanoi as a pilot during the Vietnam War. The post Biden leads US tech push in Vietnam appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cloud aids banks scale up operations
One of the world’s leading open platforms for composable banking, Temenos, underlined that cloud applications can help banking institutions efficiently scale up operations. Temenos serves 3000 banks from the largest to challengers and community banks in 150-plus countries by helping them build new banking services and state-of-the-art customer experiences. Temenos Banking Cloud, the company’s SaaS offering, is used by over 700 clients across more than 30 jurisdictions. During Temenos Cloud Forum 2023 forum for bank professionals in the Philippines, graced by representatives from the leading banks in the country, Temenos Financial Services Partner for Ernst and Young, Anurag Mishra, discussed “Banking Transformation” explaining that the cloud could help banks to efficiently scale their operations and design customer experiences which are more engaging. “One of the most important shifts that is happening is on the customer side. Banking is going to transition while customers are demanding ‘hyper-personalization’ and that requires new technologies. Today is the best time to shift from a technology perspective because the number of options to deliver on customer experience is huge and the cloud can solve specific problems,” according to Mishra in his presentation. On the other hand, Temenos Business Solution Lead for ASEAN, Rishi Sarin, explained the changing landscape and the challenges in the banking industry. “In a recent report published by Accenture “The ultimate guide to banking in the Cloud 2022,” 94 percent of banking respondents said that about 50 percent of all their banking business and technologies will migrate to the cloud in the next three years, while cloud adoption increased 2x in 2022 compared to 2021. There are currently huge investments by Cloud providers in the market so when we offer it as a service, it’s not only the reliability that comes in, but we can also provide security, stability and resilience,” Sarin said. He reiterated that the traditional set-up in which banks usually manufacture and distribute their own products, is changing fast as end-customers are demanding financial services at the point of need and it doesn’t necessarily matter to them who is providing those services. This fundamental shift is giving rise to new business models like embedded finance or Banking-as-a-Service. Temenos Principal Solution Consultant for Digital Banking Solutions for Asia-Pacific, Bala Carcharla, highlighted the three stages of “Lifestyle Banking.” The post Cloud aids banks scale up operations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AI powers use of public cloud in Asia Pacific
The public cloud market in the Asia Pacific region expanded by a fourth to almost $33 billion in 2022, as countries began to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence in daily transactions......»»
NCC hailed as model Smart City
With its best practices centered on improving its future residents’ health and well-being, and promoting smart city features, New Clark City, or NCC, was recently hailed by SCI-Japan, a private sector-led, non-profit organization founded by think tank Mitsubishi UFJ Research & Consulting as a model Smart City. Aside from SCI-Japan, media organization Nikkei, in a forum dubbed “Challenge of Japan’s Smart City Initiative Improving Citizen’s Well-being” cited New Clark City for introducing some of the best practices by utilizing well-being indicators for policy design toward sustainable smart city business. “This forum’s key element is how smart cities should be people-centric, which is at the core of the development concept of New Clark City, making it a model on how cities of the future across the world should be planned and developed,” said Hideki Okada, executive director of Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport & Urban Development. A model for future cities From accelerating smart utilities and sustainable infrastructure to conserving biodiversity, Okada highlighted in his presentation what makes New Clark City development a model for future cities. “Since 2016, JOIN, together with our integral partners BCDA and Surbana Jurong, has been involved in the development of New Clark City into a sustainable metropolis for all. And with this forum, we hope to propel more collaborations with the BCDA in the development not just of New Clark City, but the whole of Clark,” Okada added. In 2018, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority JOIN tapped Surbana Jurong of Singapore for the development of New Clark City. Surbana Jurong has been helping BCDA and JOIN with the detailed design standards and guidelines for New Clark City, which includes its detailed urban and infrastructure design and the Public-Private Partnership framework for the provision of utility services such as water and power. For BCDA President and chief executive officer engineer Joshua Bingcang, the state-run organization is putting the well-being and quality of life at the heart of the development of New Clark City. Rising metropolis He added that BCDA is ensuring that the rising metropolis will improve the quality of life of its citizens by utilizing digital technologies and partnering with global experts in creating smart city solutions. “Our vision for the Philippines’ model for sustainable and inclusive cities, New Clark City in Tarlac, will not be possible without JOIN. Along with other global experts, JOIN helped us with the creation of the master plan for New Clark City,” Bingcang said in a video message. Strict open green space Following global standards, New Clark City instituted a strict open green space to the buildable ratio of 60:40, where 60 percent of the area is green, while the remaining 40 percent is buildable. BCDA also makes sure all of the utilities in New Clark City are prescribed to be green and sustainable. In February 2023, BCDA and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization of Japan inked a memorandum of understanding for a three-year demonstration project on smart mobility solutions to be implemented in New Clark City and Clark. This will be executed by a group nominated by NEDO, led by Zenmov Inc., a Japan-based information technology solutions provider specializing in the transportation sector, to measure and verify the effectiveness of a transport service system that operates via a cloud-based technology platform. Under the New Clark City master plan, 1.2 million people will live sustainably and inclusively in the metropolis, while the projected employment is over 600,000 workers. The post NCC hailed as model Smart City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kacific Broadband Satellites discuss cutting-edge satellite tech in mining
On August 4, 2023, Kacific Broadband Satellites, Inc. held an exclusive event in collaboration with the prestigious Philippine Mining Club and their valued partner, Satnet, at Seda BGC Hotel. This event marked a significant milestone for Kacific as it brought together key representatives from prominent mining companies, offering a platform to discuss cutting-edge satellite internet technology in the mining industry. The event featured the expertise of Gino Belgira, Kacific's National Partnerships Manager, who shared insightful perspectives on accelerating last-mile digitalization with innovative satellite technology. Kacific Broadband Satellites, founded by Christian Patouraux in 2013, has a clear mission: to provide reliable, fast, and affordable satellite internet services to businesses, governments, and communities across the Asia Pacific region. In line with this vision, the company launched Kacific1 in December 2019, a High Throughput Satellite aimed at bridging the digital divide by bringing high-speed, low-cost, and dependable broadband connectivity to rural and suburban areas of the Pacific and Southeast Asia. The event commenced with Gino Belgira taking the stage, where he delved into the potential of satellite internet technology in revolutionizing the mining industry. He emphasized the significance of "last-mile digitalization," referring to the critical step of extending internet connectivity to remote and underserved locations. In mining operations, where sites can be situated in remote areas, reliable communication is pivotal for ensuring operational efficiency, safety, and effective management. Belgira emphasized, “Kacific’s satellite broadband internet enables opportunities for a new mining era, where remote operations are integrated to provide seamless connectivity and communication at the last mile to achieve a more digitally inclusive and sustainable future.” Belgira elucidated how Kacific's cutting-edge satellite technology can play a transformative role in the mining sector. By leveraging high-speed satellite internet, mining companies can enhance their operations and efficiency through the integration of IoT (Internet of Things), CCTV and Remote Data Collection, and their award-winning, all-in-one boxed solution CommsBox. Attendees witnessed a live terminal of Kacific in action. The display showcased the incredible speed and efficiency of the technology. Witnessing the tangible benefits of Kacific's satellite internet solution reinforced the attendees' understanding of how this technology could reshape mining operations and accelerate digitalization in the industry. The collaboration between Kacific Broadband Satellites, the Philippine Mining Club, and Satnet reflects a shared commitment to fostering technological advancements and progress. By bringing together thought leaders, decision-makers, and industry experts, this exclusive event created an invaluable platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and fostering strategic partnerships. As Kacific continues to make strides in the satellite internet domain, events like this serve as a testament to their dedication to bridging the digital divide in remote regions and transforming industries like mining through advanced connectivity solutions. With the ever-increasing demand for data-driven decision-making and real-time communication, Kacific's innovative satellite technology promises to play a pivotal role in reshaping the future of mining and other industries in the Asia Pacific region and beyond. The post Kacific Broadband Satellites discuss cutting-edge satellite tech in mining appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Oh my gosh! : Belle Mariano thanks Regine Velasquez for praising her voice
Kapamilya young star Belle Mariano is on cloud nine after Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez praised her singing......»»
AirAsia strives ‘doing more with less’
By organizing its first Sustainability Day with the theme “Doing More with Less,” AirAsia began a new phase in its efforts to promote industry engagement and foster better collaboration. Led by Capital A chief sustainability officer Yap Mun Ching, the event featured in-depth exchanges on topics addressing AirAsia’s pathways to decarbonization, as well as challenges and opportunities in the implementation of these strategies. The line-up of speakers comprised of AirAsia technical heads and subject matter experts who tackled topics including how AirAsia is factoring ESG considerations into the deployment of its fleet assets, prospects for switching to greener biofuels, and opportunities for ESG financing and managing talents to meet its future growth needs. Delivering the opening and closing messages of the day, respectively, were AirAsia Aviation Group Ltd. chairperson Tan Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim and AAAGL Sustainability adviser professor Tan Sri Dr. Jemilah Mahmood. Capital A chief sustainability officer Yap said that this day marks the first time they are bringing all their key stakeholders from government officials, regulators, financial institutions, and aviation analysts, business partners, and the media to advance their understanding of the intricacies of aviation sustainability. As they rebuild their business post-pandemic, they are broadening and deepening their sustainability agenda by incorporating robust ESG practices into their strategic priorities so that they recover stronger and better. She added that since the aviation industry is difficult to regulate, obtaining net zero emissions by 2050 will require coordinated efforts from all industry players, not just airlines. Since the world is likely to hit an environmental tipping point quicker than anticipated and since the media practically serves as a reminder of this, it is imperative that everyone takes prompt action to recognize and make available the solutions that airlines need to minimize their carbon emissions. Yap mentioned that under AirAsia’s net zero plan, all airlines have four options for reducing carbon emissions: modernizing their fleet, accelerating the adoption of green operating practices, switching to biofuels and offsetting any remaining emissions. The A321neo, widely regarded as the most fuel-efficient aircraft on the market right now, is being added to AirAsia’s fleet, and the airline is also expanding and deepening its industry-leading fuel-efficiency program. According to Yap, whether the airline is using fossil fuels or biofuels, what should precede this question is whether they are using more than is necessary. AirAsia’s fuel efficiency program is one of the best, if not the best, in the world. Even as the airline explores new solutions, it cannot lose sight of its strength, which has enabled it to achieve among the lowest costs and emissions per seat in the industry. During the panel discussion, AirAsia’s fleet and flight operations leads discussed how the airline is implementing ESG factors into the deployment and use of its expanding fleet. There are presently 362 new A321neo aircraft on order for AirAsia, and they will be delivered between 2024 and 2035. Jonathan Sanjay, senior manager of Flight Operations Projects, Development, and Efficiency for AirAsia, claims to have worked for the company since 2015 and has already saved the company over US$130 million in fuel costs and CO2 emissions. In order to change its fuel mix before 2025, AirAsia is also looking into solutions for incorporating sustainable aviation fuel. Facilitating biofuels use The day’s session continued with remarks on the role of various stakeholders in facilitating the adoption of aviation biofuels by Christoph Behrendt-Rieken, the lead SAF expert of the EU-SEA CCCA CORSIA Project run by the EU Aviation Safety Agency, and options in ESG financing by aviation legal expert Teo Hui Ling, a partner at Reed Smith LLP. The day’s event culminated with a special tour of AirAsia’s engineering complex, RedChain, where participants were introduced to initiatives being undertaken by Asia Digital Engineering to revolutionize aviation. This was followed by a session on how AirAsia has used diversity, equality and inclusion to create its competitive edge over the past 22 years. In conjunction with the event, AirAsia also promoted its Guide to Aviation Sustainability, a handbook of aviation sustainability terms to make more accessible common concepts associated with the subject. The handbook also highlights outcomes from AirAsia’s own implementation of some of the measures listed. Publication of the booklet was supported by the airline’s business partners, namely Avolon, Honeywell, and Mirus. Aircraft Seating, PETRONAS, Shell Aviation, and SITA. More information on AirAsia’s Sustainability achievements, goals, and targets is available in the Capital A Sustainability Report 2022. The post AirAsia strives ‘doing more with less’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Private partnership to upskill Phl education
Alibaba Cloud of the Alibaba Group and the Asia Pacific College will launch a state-of-the-art innovation lab to train and strengthen the cloud computing competencies of teachers and students as part of its efforts on local digital talent empowerment in the Philippines. A joint development by Alibaba and APC, the innovation lab will serve as an incubator that will foster the development of creative industry solutions and promote collaboration among students, faculty, and industry professionals. “Creating a digital future means being proactive and assisting people and institutions that will drive the future of digitalization. This also means investing in students and teachers. We admire APC’s initiative and commitment to its learners, educators, and IT team to provide them with the tools and skills they will need not just to survive but also to thrive in the digital future. We believe that by equipping them with relevant skills and knowledge, more opportunities will come their way,” shared Allen Guo, country manager for the Philippines, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence. The partnership with Alibaba Cloud will enable APC educators, learners, and even its IT team to enhance their cloud knowledge through various cutting-edge technology workshops, online and offline training and certification courses. Alibaba Cloud Academic Empowerment Program will also open opportunities for students to get invited to local community events to meet and learn from professionals and industry leaders. To equip teachers to lead training and workshop sessions in the future, Alibaba Cloud also includes a dedicated knowledge transfer session and hands-on laboratory classes for educators. Through AAEP, students will get local and global internship and competition opportunities as well as invites to campus events through Alibaba Cloud’s well-connected global network, enabling them to learn from world-class professionals. The exposure and experience will help students and teachers develop a digital-forward mindset that can then guide them in pursuing a career or higher education in the future. Alibaba Cloud will also strengthen APC’s cloud infrastructure with the company’s cloud solutions for data backup, students’ management system, and online teaching platform. These will ensure the efficiency and security of the school’s remote access and overall online system. The post Private partnership to upskill Phl education appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM agrees to host Forbes Asia Forum and Forbes Global CEO conference
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the Philippines' hosting of the Forbes Asia Forum and the Forbes Global CEO Conference in the fourth quarter of 2024, Malacañang said on Friday. The Presidential Communications Office stated that the event aims to enhance the country's global visibility, potentially leading to increased foreign investments. The conferences will unite, tycoons, entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders from various regions to discuss significant global matters and forge new alliances. It will prominently feature an intimate conversation between a senior Forbes editor and the leader of the hosting nation. "I hope that we can feature that in this conference, and we can show the Philippines as it is now, as opposed to perhaps some of the ideas that people have had almost for a while," the Chief Executive said in his meeting with senior executives of Forbes Media LCC in Malacañan Palace last Thursday. The President emphasized that his government has promoted accelerating economic growth and attracting increased investments in several sectors, including digitalization, energy, connectivity, bureaucratic reforms, and infrastructure projects like road construction and school building initiatives. Additionally, he proudly highlighted the Filipino workforce as the nation's most valuable resource. "I have the Filipino workforce that, for me, is still going to be, it has been a blessing. You know we have the youngest workforce in the region. They're very well-trained English-speaking (workers)," Marcos said. The international conference this year, scheduled for September in Singapore, has invited Marcos to participate in a fireside chat with visiting executives. Meanwhile, the Forbes Asia Forum in Singapore will also showcase Forbes Asia's Best Under a Billion and Forbes Asia's 100 to Watch. The post PBBM agrees to host Forbes Asia Forum and Forbes Global CEO conference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Maritime evaluators undergo 4-day sim workshop
Evaluators of the Maritime Industry Authority STCW Office are currently participating in a four-day simulation workshop delivered by Kongsberg Digital. The workshop aims to pursue the continual development efforts of the agency and contribute to the steady improvements needed in various areas and issues regarding the European Union's extension of recognition to the STCW System of the Philippines. The simulation workshop began with an opening program led by Capt. Vicente C. Navarro, Deputy Executive Director of the STCW Office, and VADM Eduardo Ma R Santos AFP (Ret), President of Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific and Kongsberg Users Philippines, Inc. Participants of the workshop also include Maritime Education and Training Standards Supervisors, Monitoring Division personnel from the STCW Office, and Kongsberg simulation specialists from the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region. The workshop and training sessions are being delivered by renowned experts and industry leaders with extensive experience in maritime education and related fields covering topics including practical training techniques, regulatory compliance and industry standards, as well as technology advancements in maritime education including maritime simulators on cloud. With Marina striving to promote partnerships and collaborative endeavors among maritime organizations and industry stakeholders, the workshop is delivered in cooperation with DNV, PCI/Seaversity and Integrated Maritime Practical Assessment Center and Technical Solutions. The simulation workshop, with a specific focus on training facilities, simulators, monitoring, supervision, and evaluation of training and assessment, is expected to provide participants with a valuable platform to expand their knowledge and expertise in maritime education. This workshop series stands as a testament to the commitment of all involved parties in staying at the forefront of advancements in maritime education and ensuring the continual improvement of industry standards. The post Maritime evaluators undergo 4-day sim workshop appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Steve Aoki, JJ Lin collab on ‘The Show’
Steve Aoki, two-time Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum artist, producer and DJ, has joined forces with chart-topping international sensation JJ Lin to create a stellar new track, “The Show.” The single is the first release from FLUXGEN, a new partnership between Steve Aoki and 88rising. “The Show” presents a colorful music video filmed in Singapore and directed by Edgar Estevez (Ice Spice, Nicki Minaj, French Montana, Doja Cat, Wiz Khalifa) and Jon Primo of Blank Square. In the video, Aoki and JJ Lin find themselves amid an array of dancers and glowing visuals inspired by the vibrancy of Singapore. The video ends with fireworks above the Singapore skyline, boasting the ultimate party vibe. The jellyfish seen in the video were also designed based on the jellyfish of the legendary S.E.A. Aquarium. Several scenes used AI-generated textures which were created using Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform. JJ Lin’s popularity soared throughout Asia with his consistent release of award-winning chart toppers throughout his illustrious career of 20 years, making him one of the most sought-after artists worldwide. Steve Aoki, who centers every one of his artistic endeavors on creativity and community, is also known for his relentless touring and global following, taking the stage more nights of the year than not. He is also a Guinness World Record holder as the “Most Traveled Musician in One Year,” a title he has held since 2012. The post Steve Aoki, JJ Lin collab on ‘The Show’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UnionBank recognized for IP Awareness and Protection
At the culminating activity of National Intellectual Property Month, the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines recognized the UnionBank of the Philippines for its support for intellectual property awareness and protection. The 2023 Gawad Yamang Isip Awards and Fashion Night, themed “Women and IP: Accelerating Innovation and Creativity,” was held at The Manila Hotel last 26 April 2023. It highlighted the IP protection of Filipino textiles and fabrics through a fashion showcase. UnionBank was presented with a plaque of recognition for its partnership with (IPOPHL) in championing the protection of digital innovation technology intellectual properties. UnionBank’s senior vice president and head of Blockchain and API Business Group, Metaverse Center of Excellence and Government Projects, Catherine Anne Bautista-Casas, accepted the citation for the bank. “One thing we always talk about at the UnionBank Innovation Camp is that, for us, IP patents aren’t just legalities or papers on the wall… it represents the creative ideas of our employees and the values that we had established as a bank when we decided not just to digitize, but innovate,” Casas said. “When we innovate, we don’t just create something for our customers. We promote our society’s development, give people opportunities to create new things, and inspire other companies to do the same.” “As a digital innovator, IP protection is important to us, naturally, because of the numerous patents we file for our solutions and products. But more than that, IP protection safeguards employees’ ideas, who work hard to develop solutions that greatly benefit our customers,” Casas shared. “Whether in technology, science, engineering, or the arts…IP protection gives creators the credit they deserve for their societal contributions.” The 2023 Gawad Yamang Isip Awards and Fashion Night, attended by other distinguished guests, including Sen. Maria Imelda Josefa Remedios “Imee” Romualdez Marcos and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual, was meant to underscore the importance of IP protection in the creative industry and emphasize the significance of IP about the country’s social, cultural, economic and technological development. UnionBank is known for its digital banking innovations. It was the first to introduce numerous industry solutions like selfie banking, an open-source application programming interface platform, and the country’s first-ever fully digital and paperless banking branch, The Ark. UnionBank has consistently been introducing innovative solutions that continue redefining how Filipinos view banking. With the bank’s expertise in a wide range of emerging technologies, including data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning, blockchain, cloud computing, and extended reality, UnionBank is on the way to building a digital banking dynasty as it has collected numerous awards including a 6-time Best Digital Bank recognition from The Asset among others. The post UnionBank recognized for IP Awareness and Protection appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»