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88% of Pinoys oppose Cha-cha – Pulse Asia
Public opinion on Charter change, which last year was roughly divided among Filipinos, is now largely skewed toward those opposed to changing the country’s Constitution, a survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed......»»
Most Filipinos reject Charter change, lifting foreign ownership restrictions
An overwhelming majority of Filipinos oppose changing the 1987 Constitution at this time, according to a new Pulse Asia Survey, with results showing Filipinos in all regions and all socio-economic classes did not support the lifting of foreign ownership restrictions in key industries......»»
A positive difference
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” Mahatma Gandhi once said. Marian Wright Edelman states, “Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.” Two memorable statements capture the essence of Attorney Kelvin Lester Lee, hailed by Dean Antonio La Viña of Ateneo School of Government as “one of the finest and most visionary individuals to have emerged from Ateneo Law School.” It’s no surprise that Atty. Lee became a Commissioner at the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2019. While his position may be formidable, those who have met him in person can attest to his kind-hearted nature and willingness to devote his time generously. When expressing his views, he displays a remarkable level of candor, always taking the time to carefully consider his words before speaking. Aside from his sense of humor, Lee possesses a remarkable ability to engage in meaningful conversations. When he speaks, he has a way of looking directly into your eyes, underscoring the significance of his words. Even in intense situations, he maintains a calm demeanor and is known to offer a comforting smile, lightening the atmosphere. In his role as Commissioner at the SEC, Atty. Lee assumes the responsibility of overseeing various crucial departments and divisions. These include the markets and securities regulation department, the information and communications technology department, the PhiliFintech innovation office dedicated to Philippine financial technology, and the international affairs and protocol division. Moreover, he holds authority over capital markets, sustainable finance, Fintech and information technology, and international affairs, ensuring their effective management and implementation. While the enormity of those tasks might induce vertigo in most individuals, Atty. Lee remains unfazed. “It is perhaps the best job I have ever had,” he admitted. “I enjoy making a positive change in the sector I am handling. I enjoy pushing innovations and encouraging improvements in the financial sector and capital markets.” With great responsibility, Lee adopts a heightened level of caution. Recognizing the potential impact of his words, he expressed the need to exercise carefulness in his public statements, as any statement he makes can influence the stock market. This awareness underscores his commitment to acting with prudence and considering the far-reaching implications of his words. Let’s delve into the life of Lee, who began his journey in the humble city of Davao, his birthplace. He embarked on his educational path at the Ateneo de Davao University for his grade school education, followed by his enrollment at Davao Central High School, then called Davao Chinese High School. After completing his schooling in Davao, he ventured to Beijing, China, where he pursued studies in the Chinese language and gained work experience with a foreign company. However, after two years, he returned to the Philippines and enrolled in Ateneo de Manila University to pursue a law degree. This journey showcases his diverse experiences and the foundation of his educational and cultural background. “The Ateneo de Manila entrance exam was the only one I could take that year when I came back from China,” he said, adding that he never dreamed of becoming a lawyer. “I just wanted to give it a try. And found I was a surprisingly good fit for it.” As a lawyer, he has five ideal lawyers. Only one is a foreigner: Sir Thomas Moore, an English lawyer, social philosopher, author, and statesman whom Roman Catholics venerated as Saint Thomas More. “He stood by his faith and principles,” he said. Fresh from hurdling the Bar exam, he worked at the Siguion-Reyna Montecillo and Ongsiako law firm, where he learned the importance of being enterprising and putting in a diligent effort to succeed. However, despite his professional growth, he decided to quit and return to his hometown of Davao, placing the deeply rooted value on family and prioritizing personal and familial responsibilities above career pursuits. As a father to two daughters, Atty. Lee expressed that fatherhood has had a profound impact on him, bringing about significant changes. He considers it one of the greatest blessings he could ever receive. According to him, the love that his children show him is genuine and unmatched. He believes that the love of young children is unparalleled. Experiencing this level of love is indescribable, knowing someone loves you unconditionally. This extraordinary bond makes fatherhood one of the most precious and fulfilling aspects of his life. “The love your kids show you is real,” he said. “You will never be as loved as you are by your young children. There is no feeling quite like it to know that someone loves you as much as that. That’s what makes it one of the best things.” Working in government “It is an honor to serve. Very few people get an opportunity to help the country and serve the president and the people,” said Lee, who is a former assistant secretary at the Office of the Executive Secretary in Malacañang, where he was also designated to sit on the Board of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. Atty. Lee’s dedication to public service earned him well-deserved recognition in his field. In March this year, he received two international accolades for his role in driving the advancement of financial technology in the Philippine business sector, highlighting his visionary thinking and influential impact solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the field. In the 10th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, Lee was bestowed the Gold Stevie award for his outstanding contributions as a Thought Leader of the Year. These awards celebrate workplace innovation across all 29 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. From a vast pool of over 800 regional nominations, winners were selected in various categories, including the Award for Excellence in Innovation in Products & Services, the Award for Innovative Management, and the Award for Innovation in Corporate Websites, among others. “It feels great. It’s always wonderful to be recognized for all the hard work and changes you pursue at a government agency. And I was quite surprised to get the Gold Stevie Award, the highest level of the award for thought leadership. I feel so honored!” In the next decade, Atty. Lee, now 44, envisions continuing his career in law, possibly incorporating elements of technology, and hopes to stay actively involved in government work and make a significant impact by fostering meaningful transformation. “Working in government can be quite fulfilling. I encourage young lawyers and professionals to enter the arena and work in government to try and make a positive difference.” The post A positive difference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Understanding the silent threat
Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, another deadly virus has emerged globally, casting a shadow of fear and concern. The Nipah virus, often overshadowed by its more notorious counterparts, has garnered attention due to its alarming fatality rate and potential for large-scale outbreaks. First identified in 1999, when it caused an outbreak in Malaysia and Singapore, the virus was named after the village of Sungai Nipah in Malaysia, where it was initially discovered. It primarily affects both animals and humans. The primary mode of transmission of the Nipah virus is through direct contact with infected bats or their contaminated excretions, such as saliva or urine. Human-to-human transmission is also possible through close contact with infected individuals’ respiratory secretions or bodily fluids. The virus can be transmitted through contaminated fruits, particularly date palm sap, which has been a common source of outbreaks in South Asia. Nipah virus infection can manifest as a range of clinical presentations, from asymptomatic or mild flu-like symptoms to severe encephalitis. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, dizziness, and nausea, making diagnosis challenging in the initial stages. Patients can develop severe respiratory issues and neurological symptoms as the disease progresses, leading to coma and death. Alarmingly, Nipah virus infections have been known to have fatality rates ranging from 40 percent to 75 percent, significantly higher than Covid-19. Nipah virus outbreaks have predominantly occurred in South and Southeast Asia, particularly in Bangladesh, India, and Malaysia. These regions are home to fruit bats, the natural reservoir of the virus. While sporadic outbreaks have been reported, the virus’s potential for human-to-human transmission poses a serious public health threat. It’s crucial to understand that comparing the Nipah virus to Covid-19 is not a matter of declaring one deadlier. These viruses differ significantly in transmission, scale, and global impact. However, it is essential to highlight the unique challenges posed by Nipah virus outbreaks. As mentioned earlier, the Nipah virus has a significantly higher fatality rate than Covid-19. While Covid-19 has caused immense suffering and loss of life globally due to its wide transmission, Nipah virus outbreaks are associated with higher mortality rates among those infected, making it a deadlier prospect for affected communities. Nipah is primarily spread through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials, limiting its potential for a pandemic on the scale of Covid-19. However, the virus’ high fatality rate and human-to-human transmission potential make it a concerning localized threat. Covid-19 has led to unprecedented global efforts to contain its spread, including the development of vaccines in record time. In contrast, Nipah has received less attention and funding, which raises concerns about the world’s preparedness to respond effectively to potential outbreaks. Given the potential severity of Nipah virus outbreaks, it is crucial to take proactive measures to prevent and control its spread. Although infectious diseases expert Dr. Rontgene Solante, who is also the president of the Philippine College of Physicians, has said that there is nothing to fear about the zoonotic disease, establishing a robust surveillance system to monitor potential outbreaks is essential. Early detection allows for the swift isolation of infected individuals and the implementation of public health measures. Raising public awareness of the risks associated with handling bats or consuming date palm sap without proper precautions can also reduce the chances of transmission. While no licensed vaccines are available yet, progress in this area could significantly improve our ability to combat the virus. The Nipah virus may not be capturing global headlines like Covid-19, but its potential for devastation cannot be underestimated. With a high fatality rate and the ability to spread from person to person, potential Nipah virus outbreaks demand our attention and preparedness. While Covid-19 has dominated our lives for the past few years, we must remain vigilant and proactive to understand and combat other deadly infectious diseases like the Nipah virus. The lessons we have learned from the Covid-19 pandemic can help us respond more effectively to future health threats, whether known or yet to be discovered. The post Understanding the silent threat appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Famed environmental warrior graces RC Manila assembly
The Rotary Club of Manila had a brilliant, unique guest speaker at its last weekly members’ meeting at the Manila Polo Club — the famed, internationally acclaimed author, lawyer, environmental activist, and recipient, in 2009, of what is regarded as the Nobel Prize of Asia, the Ramon Magsaysay Award (non-category), Antonio Oposa Jr. For about an hour and a half last Thursday, 21 September 2023, RC Manila members, officers and guests at the MPC’s Turf Room alternately stood up to sing along and listen to Oposa’s telling of “good stories,” his way, he said, of promoting and creating awareness for his advocacies and his passion for the environment. Oposa earned a law degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law. For a short time, he worked in a law firm, until he realized that his heart was not in the practice of law but rather with nature and the environment. He traveled to Norway and enrolled in a course on energy and the environment at the University of Oslo’s summer program and afterwards, to Boston, where he pursued and later obtained his LLM at the Harvard Law School in 1997. [caption id="attachment_188497" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Valiant environmental warrior Antonio Oposa: ‘My biggest achievement is that I have turned some of my adversaries into co-advocates. And what could be more inspiring now than to see their own children out there, protecting the sea?’[/caption] In 1993, Oposa made global headlines for the landmark case, Minors Oposa v Factoran where the Supreme Court ruled that the 43 children counseled by Oposa, who filed legal action against the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, seeking cancellation by the agency of existing timber license agreements and stopping the issuance of new ones, ruled in favor of the plaintiffs. “The case was brought to court amid the government’s then granting over 90 logging companies permits to cut down nearly four million hectares of old-growth forest when only 850,000 hectares remained. And forests were being logged at a rate of some 200,000 hectares per year! I told the Court how my son, only three at that time, would no longer see these forests by the time he was 10. I couldn’t help thinking, that if this wasn’t stopped not a single old-growth forest would remain for him and future generations to enjoy,” Oposa said. The case had initially been dismissed in trial court on the ground that there was no legal personality to sue. Oposa elevated the case to the Supreme Court, and in a much-hailed case of intergenerational responsibility, the Supreme Court upheld the legal standing and right of the children to initiate action on their behalf and on behalf of generations yet unborn. What was so remarkable about the case is that Oposa sued on behalf of generations yet unborn and today that milestone case is known in Philippine and global jurisprudence as the “Oposa Doctrine.” For its part, the Philippine Supreme Court, too, carved a permanent niche for itself in environmental law with its promulgation of Oposa v Factoran. It secured its place in history, earning praises from the international environmental community and a reputation as a champion of the right to a healthy environment. Oposa also recounted at this talk at the RC Manila meeting last Thursday another epic landmark case involving the legal tussle he waged against 11 government agencies for the cleaning up of severely polluted Manila Bay. In December 2008, a decade after he filed that case, the Supreme Court issued a decision in his favor. In a continuing mandamus ruling, the Supreme Court ordered all defendant agencies to implement a time-bound action plan that would clean up Manila Bay and to give the Court a progress report on the matter every three months. Oposa talked about the Island Sea Camp he organized in 2001 in Bantayan Island where he gave children lessons on coral reefs, snorkeling and sustainable practices. In 2003, 2004, while holding weekend training camps for children in the Sea Camp “we noticed the rampant illegal fishing going on. Dynamite fishing and commercial fishing intrusions into prohibited coastal zones went unchecked. Something had to be done,” related Oposa. Thus, was born the Visayan Sea Squadron. “I organized a strike team with crack enforcers from the National Bureau of Investigation, Navy, fishermen, sea watch volunteers, lawyers, law students and even a few foreigners. The target was not small fishermen but crime syndicates and operators behind the sale of blasting caps and dynamite powder. Seizures and raids followed,” he said. Operations were so effective that word went out that his friend Jojo de la Victoria, the fearless Cebu City Bantay Dagat (Sea Watch) chief, and Oposa were targets of assassination. A local newspaper interviewed De la Victoria, revealing an intelligence report about illegal fishing operators putting up a P1-million bounty for him and Oposa. In 12 April 2006, 48 hours after he was interviewed, De la Victoria was felled by a hired gunman outside his house in Cebu City. “Jojo’s life was not in vain. After his funeral, a core team met for dinner to regroup. The tide of illegal fishing started to turn. Exploits of the Visayan Sea Squadron — and the courage and synergy of the men and women who made it happen — became known far and wide,” Oposa said. He continued, “Four years after Jojo died, Visayan Sea Squadron co-founder Alfredo Marañon was elected governor of Negros Occidental province. He gathered the other governors in the region to begin a restorative plan for the Visayan Sea which encompasses an area of over a million hectares. The governors passed a landmark joint resolution declaring the entire Visayan Sea a marine reserve.” For his valiant work as an environmental warrior, Oposa has been the recipient of many award in recognition of his valiant work as an environmental warrior. Aside from receiving the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2009, he was given the equally prestigious Center for International Environmental Law Award in 2008. Earlier, in 1997, he was conferred the United Nations Environment Programme Global 500 Roll of Honor, the highest UN honor in the field of the environment. Asked if there was anything about his attainments that gives him the most satisfaction, Oposa said, “My biggest achievement is not that I caught this violator and that violator when we were busy with our Visayan Sea Squadron operations; it is that I have turned my adversaries into co-advocates. Some of those who had opposed me are now supporting me in my advocacies. And what could be more inspiring than to see their own children helping us out there, protecting the sea?” The post Famed environmental warrior graces RC Manila assembly appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Circular Explorer boosts Manila Bay rehab
A solar-powered, marine waste-removing vessel has removed and recycled 600,000 tons of plastic waste from Manila Bay from January, when it started its cleanup of the polluted body of water, to June. On 10 September, the Circular Explorer also collected 18,415 kilograms of waste, including 7,965 kilograms of plastics, in 3.84 million square meters of the bay. With the significant accomplishment of the Circular Explorer, which is operated by the Holcim Group and One Earth-One Ocean, a partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources is now in the works to align the vessel’s activities with the agency’s Manila Bay rehabilitation program. “We are proud to see the Circular Explorer in action and responding to the enormous challenge of marine pollution. The vessel also plays a key role in amplifying our message on the importance of circularity to preserve natural resources and minimize waste,” Holcim Philippines president and CEO Horia Adrian said. “With the first months of cleanup operations, a vision has become reality. We are now actively helping clean Manila Bay with this unique prototype vessel,” OEOO Circular Explorer project manager Daniel Scheler said. The Philippine Coast Guard Marine Environmental Protection Command participate in the Circular Explorer’s daily cleanup of the bay. The vessel has special sensors for collecting data on marine microplastics, huge concentrations of which endanger aquatic life. The gathered information is shared with the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, which is studying waste management and aquatic conservation strategies. The vessel is also spreading awareness on the importance of a circular economy through an education campaign with the advocacy organization Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation. “I am stoked to see even more important milestones coming up soon, as we are about to take the next exciting steps toward consolidating our Education and Scientific pillars,” according to Scheler. Holcim Group Circular Explorer project manager Christine Bellen, for her part, said, “We are excited to see the Circular Explorer reach new milestones under its waste collection, science, and education pillars in collaboration with our amazing partners. As it gathers more support in its mission, we are confident in seeing it deliver a bigger positive impact that can extend beyond the Philippines.” The education campaign will be run in a number of public and private elementary schools to embed the value of protecting seas and conserving resources among elementary and high school students. The post Circular Explorer boosts Manila Bay rehab appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Creative Industries Month to witness ‘the grandest battle of creativity’
The buzzwords this month and until November are "creativity" and "creative industries." September has been declared the "Creative Industries Month" by the Philippine government, and one reason for such declaration is the activation of the law known as Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, or Republic Act 11904. Pangasinan 4th District Representative Toff de Venecia is the principal author of the law, the chairman of the House Special Committee on Creative Industry and Performing Arts. De Venecia's clan on his mother's side used to be entrenched in film production. He is a son of Gina Vera-Perez De Venecia, daughter of Dr. Jose Vera Perez, the patriarch of pioneering film companies Sampaguita Pictures and Vera Perez Productions. Before he joined Pangasinan politics as son of former senator Jose De Venecia, Toff was active in theater, all the way back to his schooldays at the Ateneo de Manila. Sen. Loren Legarda, aside from being Senate President Pro-Tempore, is chair of the Senate committee on culture and the arts. For years a top broadcast journalist at ABS-CBN, Legarda is the principal author of Republic Act 11961, also known as the Cultural Mapping Law. [caption id="attachment_186378" align="aligncenter" width="511"] ODANG Putik Pottery held workshops on basic pottery. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF IG/ ODANGPUTIKPOTTERY[/caption] National competition DTI has announced that it will launch on 24 September a national competition, Young Creatives Challenge (YC2) "through the support of Sen. Imee Marcos." The competition -- described as "the grandest battle of creativity" in the country with a grand prize of P1 million per category -- "aspires to ignite, acknowledge, and spotlight the brilliance of creative minds... in the fields of Songwriting, Screenwriting, Playwriting, Graphic Novel, Animation, Game Development, and Online Content Creation." The semi-finals are set for October 2023, when the Top 30 creators and the Top 10 Grand Finalists will be revealed. At the grand finals on November 2023, cash prizes will be awarded along with millions’ worth of promotions, incentives, registration of intellectual property and possible production or commercialization of creative works. The competition has an Online Content Challenge with distinct mechanics and a separate prize pool. It offers a platform for content creators to showcase their talents and make a significant impact by raising awareness about the vibrant and dynamic Philippine creative industries. The special category will have TikTok as its main channel for entry submission. The DTI invites all natural-born Filipino citizens aged 18-35, regardless of their level of experience, to participate as either individuals or teams. Entrants are required to submit "entirely original creations." The competition theme is deliberately broad, embracing an "open" and "free subject" approach to allow the participants the creative freedom to delve into any topic or subject matter of their choosing. For more information about the competition, visit www.youngcreativeschallenge.com. Capsule workshops On 17 September, the NCCA launched the Creative Industries Month at the Rizal Park Open Air Auditorium in Manila with creative capsule workshops in the afternoon and a grand concert of songs, dances and puppetry in the evening. The festivities had the full support of the National Parks Development Committee and Concert at the Park. The workshops were anchored on various creative industries in the country. For instance, for the audiovisual media domain, the Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. conducted an introductory workshop on Learning Filipino through Wikaharian. For the digital interactive media domain, Dr. Albert Mulles of METATOKYO tackled “How to Start Your Own Blockchain Game Project” while the Department of Science and Technology presented “Learning Through Minecraft Exhibit.” Under the Design domain, there were workshops on shoemaking, parol and jewelry-making and T-shirt printing Workshop. Under publishing and printed media, Rustico Limosinero offered a basic comics workshop, while the Barasoain Kalinangan Foundation, Inc. discussed book- selling and exhibits. Composer-singer Joey Ayala, meanwhile, held a Songwriting Workshop under the Performing Arts domain and later, at the concert, performed the finale solo vocal numbers. Nanding Josef, artistic director of the Cultural Center of the Philippines' Tanghalang Pilipino, conducted a capsule workshop on Theater Acting. Also within the Performing Arts domain were the dance and puppetry workshops facilitated by the Samahan ng mga Papetir ng Pilipinas. The other domains that presented workshops included the visual arts, traditional cultural expression and cultural sites. Aside from Ayala, the evening concert featured Noel Cabangon, the revived band Color It Red with Cookie Chua still its lead vocalist, Bayang Barrios and her band, the Sindaw Philippines dance troupe, Halili Cruz Dance Company, Teatro ni Juan and a puppetry group. [caption id="attachment_186377" align="aligncenter" width="1440"] HALILI Cruz Dance Company at the evening concert. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF FB.COM/ HALILI CRUZ DANCE COMPANY[/caption] In his remarks, De Venecia pointed out that there are more than 7 million people in the Philippines employed in the creative industries, and the industries' contribution to Gross Domestic Product in 2022 was 7.3 percent percent or P1. 6 trillion, representing an increase of 12.1 percent from P1. 43 trillion in 2021. "This is a sector that has managed to survive and even thrive on its own, but with institutionalized support from the state, it will really help the creative industry sector grow and accelerate to the point where we want it to be — which is by 2030, the Philippines will be the number one creative economy in all of Asia,” said De Venecia. May we be really number 1 just seven years from today! The post Creative Industries Month to witness ‘the grandest battle of creativity’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR spotlights medicinal forest tree research at ASEAN conference
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau on Sunday emphasized the importance of advancing research on medicinal plants and forest trees, underlining their crucial role in increasing awareness of their potential benefits and optimizing their use. This message was conveyed at the conclusion of the ASEAN Conference on Medicinal Forest Trees on 7 September in Pampanga, gathering 117 participants from across Southeast Asia. ERDB Director Maria Lourdes G. Ferrer urged all participants to continue championing research, innovation, and responsible management of the country’s natural resources, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and information sharing to bring about transformative change. “Through your rigorous research, innovative thinking, and unwavering commitment to responsible stewardship of our natural resources, we have unearthed possibilities that will undoubtedly expand beyond the limits of current knowledge,” Ferrer said. Ferrer noted that the conference discussions not only deepened understanding but also promoted collaboration for the advancement of medicinal non-timber forest species. Besides the inadequate research support, the conference acknowledged the shortage of published literature on medicinal forest trees. It also emphasized the substantial threats posed by forest degradation and habitat loss to vital medicinal forest tree species. Furthermore, there is a pressing need for more "ethnobotanical" and pharmacological research on medicinal plants and forest trees. The ERDB recommended integrating these issues into the DENR's Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) Agenda, while also continuing efforts to collect data on medicinal forest trees and conducting ongoing ethnobotanical and pharmacological research. To enhance science communication, there will be an improved information and education campaign on the medicinal value of forest trees, along with increased promotion of RDE on medicinal forest trees. The publication of research results will continue to raise awareness and encourage the use of these valuable resources. “Together, we can fully realize the medicinal potential of our forest trees, creating a brighter and healthier future,” Ferrer concluded. The post DENR spotlights medicinal forest tree research at ASEAN conference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BFAR joins coastal cleanup in Navotas
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources reported that around 500 individuals joined the cleanup drive in Barangay Tanza Uno, Navotas City to mark this year's observance of International Coastal Cleanup. BFAR National Director Demosthenes Escoto said that this year’s theme: “Clean Seas for Healthy Fisheries,” reflects the agency’s appeal for the public to cooperate in maintaining waste-free bodies of water to ensure a thriving fisheries industry, "All bodies of water are connected, so I hope we can work together for a clean and abundant ocean. I am optimistic that by working together, we can ensure that our oceans and coastal regions continue to be a source of life, inspiration, and prosperity for all," Escoto said. He led BFAR’s central and National Capital Region offices and stakeholders from New Era High School, Asian Social Institute, and Lingkod Tao-Kalikasan in the activity, held at the Marine Tree Park in Navotas. The cleanup, held concurrently with other activities worldwide as part of the celebration, was supported by the local government of Navotas City, the Department of the Interior and Local Government - NCR, and the Metro Manila Development Authority - Navotas. Escoto noted that the protection of natural resources is a “matter of utmost urgency and global significance,” underscoring the importance of oceans, seas, rivers, and coastal areas for the livelihoods of Filipino fisher folk. “The livelihood of millions of our countrymen depends on our ocean. So it's fair to say that when the ocean is clean, fishing is plentiful, and livelihoods are stable," he said. Escoto also highlighted their commitment to ocean conservation and protection, with partner institutions expressing their support for the agency's programs, particularly those related to coastal resource management. These include the implementation of the “Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan: The National Search for Outstanding Coastal Communities,” which incentivizes local government units to demonstrate exemplary sustainable fisheries development efforts. The BFAR has also launched the “Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa” or BASIL program, wherein they rehabilitate minor lakes and reservoirs located in upland and landlocked areas to restore their ecological health and bolster the populations of native and endemic fish species. The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Plant Industry on the other hand, together with various public and private organizations, also participated in the International Coastal Cleanup Day 2023 at the SM by the Bay Mall of Asia in Pasay City. In a social media post on Saturday, the DA-BPI said that equipped with gloves, sacks, and tongs, their volunteers eagerly picked up debris littering the coastal area, such as pet bottles, discarded clothing, torn cardboard boxes, plastics, and other waste items washed ashore. The annual event focuses not only on collecting trash washed ashore but also on raising awareness of the negative impacts of water pollution on marine life. The ICC is a global initiative to maintain and safeguard coastal ecosystems. The yearly event unifies individuals, communities, and organizations from different countries to work together to clean up and restore the coastal environments. The post BFAR joins coastal cleanup in Navotas appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘India key to taming China’
Only India has the muscle to flex against China in Asia amid overlapping territorial claims by several nations in the South China Sea, political analyst and University of Santo Tomas professor Marlon Villarin told Daily Tribune and Dyaryo Tirada. Guesting on the digital show “Hot Patatas,” Villarin pointed out that India has an ace up its sleeve when it comes to dealing with China, one that is more economic in nature despite the fact that both New Delhi and Beijing are nuclear powers. Villarin cited India’s nearly adversarial reaction to China’s release of a new map that expanded its discredited nine-dash line claim with an extra dash covering the east of Taiwan, which Beijing considers a renegade province. He explained that while China is using military might to assume the role of an overlord in the South China Sea, India holds weight when it comes to another critical trade route, the Indian Ocean. “Within Asia, India has the capability to strong-arm China because of the Indian Ocean and the other important trade routes in India that are crucial to China’s economy,” the political science professor said. [caption id="attachment_179490" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Fostering cooperation Before President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. flew to Jakarta, Indonesia for the 43rd ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, he said he plans to promote ‘a rules-based international order — including in the South China Sea,’ among other Philippine priorities. | PHOTOGRAPH BY YUMMIE DINGDING FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE @tribunephl_yumi[/caption] Rules-based look He noted that India and China have a long history of trade-relation tension between them. “To cut a long story short, China whimpers when it comes to India,” he said. “India has leverage against China, while if it’s the European Union speaking out against Beijing, nothing happens.” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. left yesterday for Jakarta, Indonesia for the 43rd ASEAN Summit, saying he’ll bring to the table a rules-based look at the irritants among nations in the South China Sea. Mr. Marcos said the government was still cementing its response to China’s expanded 10-dash line claim, although several high-ranking Filipino officials have joined their Indian and Malaysian counterparts in denouncing China. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled that China’s nine-dash line claim had no legal leg to stand on as no one country can control international bodies of water. It also affirmed the Philippines’ maritime entitlement in the West Philippine Sea. “What’s sad is that while America is angry over China’s intrusion, here comes the United Kingdom mumbling that ‘it’s not really good to escalate [the situation] with China,’” professor Villarin said. He averred that India protesting China’s new map was just another instance of Beijing intruding into Indian territory. Previously, India had protested Beijing’s claim that the whole of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin region were part of China. Rational view Arunachal Pradesh is a northeastern state in India while the Aksai Chin region is part of Jammu and Kashmir at the center of the long-standing tug-of-war between the two countries. “Taking Indian territories has been an old habit of China’s,” according to an official New Delhi response published by the news website Anadolu Agency. Earlier, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin called on countries to “view this map in an objective and rational manner.” “Updating and releasing various types of standard maps each year is a routine job for competent authorities in China, which aims to provide standard map services for all sectors of society and raise the public’s awareness of the standardized use of maps,” Wang told Beijing-based Global Times. Taiwan, meanwhile, has also protested China’s new map with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jeff Liu saying, “Taiwan, the Republic of China, is a sovereign and independent country that is not subordinate to the People’s Republic of China.” “The PRoC has never ruled Taiwan. These are universally recognized facts and the status quo in the international community,” Liu said. The post ‘India key to taming China’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DIABETIC NEUROPATHY: SAVE YOUR LIFE THROUGH EARLY DETECTION
Tingling, stabbing pain, numbness or burning sensation in your hands and feet? It could be peripheral neuropathy, the most common type of diabetic neuropathy — and early diagnosis is key to avoid a life of disability. [caption id="attachment_178290" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Aalok Agrawal senior vice president of P&G Health in Asia. | photograph courtesy of P&G[/caption] Neuropathy is no joke. It is a condition wherein the nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord — the peripheral nerves — are damaged or compressed. Infections, traumatic injuries, metabolic problems and inherited conditions are some of the underlying causes of PN. But the most common cause is diabetes. Unfortunately, a staggering 80 percent of patients with diabetic neuropathy were undiagnosed, as revealed by a 2020 study by Georgios Ponirakis et al. Since a patient’s PN symptoms may not seem too severe at its earliest stage, many continue about their daily lives without seeking medical attention. If the underlying cause of peripheral neuropathy is not treated, a person may be at risk of developing a foot ulcer that becomes infected. Untreated, the ulcer can lead to gangrene, and in severe cases, the foot has to be amputated. This is why P&G Health continues to advocate awareness on peripheral neuropathy. Aalok Agrawal, the senior vice president of P&G Health in Asia, India, Africa and Middle East, sat down with DAILY TRIBUNE via video conference to emphasize the need for neuropathy awareness in the Philippines. “Peripheral neuropathy is a significant public health issue that I think needs a significant amount of more awareness from both healthcare practitioners, as well as from patients themselves. It can have a significant impact on both quality of life and serious complications,” he said. “And, to that end, you know, awareness remains very low. We think 80 percent of cases are untreated and undiagnosed. And our efforts, both on Neuropathy Awareness Week as well as World Diabetes Day, are to really bring out just how critical this public health issue is and to bring it up in its awareness. Because the most important thing for collective action here is the fact that this can be managed. This is something that we can diagnose early, and early diagnosis can help improve treatment outcomes, improve quality of life and prevent serious complications.” According to Agrawal, P&G Health’s efforts are tailored across all groups, including the marginalized sector. Hence, they utilize accessible language to better communicate neuropathy to everybody. “Our efforts are tailored across all groups. Our media, for example, is very much in Tagalog in some cases in Mindanao and Visayas, and we also tend to do more local language radio,” he explained. He also shared that P&G Health, apart from gathering global health experts to discuss neuropathy in medical forums and also partnering with media to spread knowledge on neuropathy, sees the importance of pharmacists in the war against PN. “So we have a lot of engagement with pharmacists as they are the frontliners in many cases — especially for marginalized groups that may not even reach out to doctors but they would just go to a pharmacist and say, ‘I have these symptoms; would you suggest something to me?’ And again, our effort has been to educate pharmacists consistently about these risk factors, about asking the right questions, and then about being able to give some sort of first-line therapy while also hopefully referring these patients to a doctor to be able to follow up on their treatment,” he explained. He also explained that demystifying neuropathy is not a one-time event, but is an ongoing effort on the part of P&G Health. “We go quite deep into the community. We’re trying to continue to expand our outreach. We try to make our materials as widely available on as many educational platforms as possible so that we can, again, reach out to doctors who may not be able to physically attend our forum. So, you know, but I think all of the different partners in the community and in the ecosystem will be what will help us create this awareness amongst all of these different groups of patients.” He also underscores the importance of not just seeking immediate medical treatment once you experience unusual sensations on your hands and feet, but also subscribing to a healthy lifestyle to prevent or combat PN. “Diet and exercise are so critical. We’ve got to help patients and consumers understand that a healthy diet with the right combination of fruits and vegetables, a balanced diet and nutrition and exercise for 30 to 60 minutes a day are going to be super critical for us to really overcome and manage both diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. So, it really has to be a combination of lifestyle as well as some early diagnosis and treatment. I hope that we can raise that awareness together to help both the Philippines and Asian consumers in general, who are generally at high risk of diabetes. We want to make sure that the entire region can help combat this public health issue.” When asked about a person’s hesitancy in seeing a doctor for “mild” symptoms due to common reasons like health anxiety or stress over the financial costs of diagnostic tests and consultation, Agrawal gave this advice: “I think the most important thing to help manage both financially and as well from a mental reassurance standpoint is actually an early diagnosis, because, frankly, the costs of not diagnosing early are far greater. You may postpone it for a few months or a year, but then when you’re looking at these serious complications coming from peripheral neuropathy, or loss of sensation in the foot, which can become a foot ulcer and potentially lead to things like amputations and so on, that is a huge and almost unthinkable cost that anybody would have to bear,” he said. “Early diagnosis, I think, can have a very favorable outcome and, in fact, will give you reassurance as well. It can help take care of the symptoms, regenerate the nerves and prevent this from progressing further to the point where it might actually become unaffordable later to do that.” The post DIABETIC NEUROPATHY: SAVE YOUR LIFE THROUGH EARLY DETECTION appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Summit underscores cutting-edge cybersecurity strategies
A group of innovators, technologists, cybersecurity experts and regulators from Southeast Asia gathered at the recent FinTech Alliance Philippines Digital Transformation Summit, known as INDX3.0, to discuss the urgent need for fortified cybersecurity strategies in the nation’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. The summit, marked by its theme of “INDX3.0_Creating What’s Next in Digital” and championed by the ideals of Dare-Drive-Defy, featured Traxion CEO Ann Cuisia, a prominent figure in the Fintech and cybersecurity realm, as the distinguished moderator of the panel on “Strategic Considerations for Cybersecurity in the Philippines.” “The digital age has ushered in unparalleled opportunities, but with those opportunities come significant responsibilities. Our collective responsibility is to proactively shield our financial technologies from threats that can cripple businesses and our nation’s stability,” said Cuisia during an interview about the engaging panel discussion. As the chairwoman of the Cyber Security Committee of FinTech Alliance Philippines, Cuisia led the engaging dialogue attended by Joey Regala, Saurabh Lal, Roberto Tayag and Dr. Mary Joy Abueg, Undersecretary Alexander Ramos, Capt. Michelle Sabino and Fred Yap delved into multifaceted challenges faced by individuals and businesses in the era of digitization. With an insightful and proactive approach, she steered the conversation toward actionable solutions that could ensure the security of the country’s financial technologies. Cuisia’s moderation aptly underscored the gravity of the cybersecurity landscape, wherein modern conflicts transcend conventional battlefields and extend into the cyber realm. The panelists collectively emphasized the alarming rise of advanced persistent threats targeting organizations, influencers, and even ordinary individuals, underlining the need for comprehensive cybersecurity measures. Moreover, the summit unveiled the significant role of Artificial Intelligence applications in reshaping the fintech landscape. Cuisia highlighted that AI’s transformative potential comes with a heightened responsibility to ensure the security and integrity of these innovations, urging industry players to prioritize safety during AI development. The summit’s focus extended beyond theoretical discussions as concrete measures were brought to the forefront. Cuisia steered the conversation towards actionable solutions, such as the imperative role of public awareness, collaboration between government agencies and trusted fintech partners, and the swift reporting of cybersecurity breaches by corporations and businesses. In an exclusive insight, Cuisia discussed the concept of a “kill switch” for compromised bank accounts. She revealed that some Southeast Asian countries, such as Singapore, have already mandated this protective mechanism to secure mobile and Internet banking transactions. Cuisia urged a proactive approach, advocating for a similar safeguard in the Philippines, assuring enhanced security for the nation’s banking customers. As the INDX3.0 summit concluded, it became evident that Ann Cuisia’s vision for fortified cybersecurity, coupled with her adept moderation, had catalyzed a platform for strategic planning, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing. With cybersecurity challenges evolving and threats becoming more sophisticated, Cuisia’s call to action reverberates: the onus lies on the collective shoulders of industry leaders, experts, and innovators to safeguard the digital future of the Philippines. The post Summit underscores cutting-edge cybersecurity strategies appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SM Cares, Global Peace Foundation host Global Youth Summit 2023
SM Cares, together with the Global Peace Foundation, recently launched this year’s Global Youth Summit. The event, marking the first of a four-leg series, was launched on 11 August 2023 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City. [caption id="attachment_173711" align="aligncenter" width="866"] UNAIDS Philippines country director Dr. Louie Ocampo, Make A Difference Travel founder and sustainability educator Rafael Dionisio, Angkas CEO George Royeca, Milo Sports head Carlos Sampan, Pacific Asia Travel Association Philippines youth ambassador Nick Chun and GPF Asia Pacific Regional president Ingill Ra.[/caption] The Global Youth Summit is an annual gathering of thousands of students and youth leaders from all over the Philippines, where they are given the opportunity to learn about pressing societal concerns related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and work with each other in addressing them. Guest speaker Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey, Joint United Nations Program on HIV and AIDS Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific and Miss Universe 2015, spoke on how generating awareness and fighting stigma can improve HIV prevention and treatment in the Philippines. [caption id="attachment_173710" align="aligncenter" width="803"] Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey, beauty queen and UN goodwill ambassador, talked about HIV awareness and prevention.[/caption] Make A Difference travel founder and sustainability educator Rafael Dionisio, meanwhile, talked about environmental issues such as deforestation and plastic waste pollution and what steps the youth can do to prevent these problems from worsening. Head of Milo Sports Carlos Sampan touched on how community support can positively impact individuals and encourage them to succeed, with the help of video messages from Southeast Asian Games Gold medalists Jamie Lim and Japoy Lizardo and Olympic pole vaulter EJ Obiena. Angkas CEO George Royeca talked about utilizing digital platforms and social media to develop innovative solutions to existing problems, and shared how meeting the needs of individuals in a micro setting will lead to solving bigger problems on a larger scale. GPF Asia Pacific regional president Ingill Ra gave an impassioned speech on how unity in the face of challenges and adversity can help spark the change needed to move toward a better society. Finally, Pacific Asia Travel Association Philippines youth ambassador Nick Chun shared his insights on how critical youth involvement is in social issues, especially in responsible tourism. The post SM Cares, Global Peace Foundation host Global Youth Summit 2023 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SM Prime, partners hold symposium on wetland conservation
As the world celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity 2023, SM Prime Holdings Inc. joined the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands Inc. in hosting the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium on 29 May 2023 at the MAAX Building in the Mall of Asia Complex. [caption id="attachment_170633" align="aligncenter" width="1131"] SM Prime AVP and head of Marketing, PR and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo.[/caption] Under the theme "Build Back Biodiversity: Wetland Centers and Nature-Based Architecture," the hybrid symposium featured presentations centered on fostering knowledge and awareness about wetland conservation and innovative design approaches. SCPW president Architect Celestino Ulep opened the symposium by sharing his optimism on how collaboration and embracing nature-based architecture can pave the way toward creating a future where wetlands thrive and biodiversity flourishes. Notable experts in the field also graced the event, including Chris Rostron, global manager of Wetland Link International, and Alex Hughes of Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust in London, UK. Ulep introducing the concept of nature-based architecture, highlighting the importance of prioritizing sustainability and harmony in design by creating structures that seamlessly integrate with the natural environment. Meanwhile, Architect Aaron Lecciones, SCPW special projects officer, made a detailed visual presentation on the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park design team's experience. He highlighted the challenges and triumphs of designing a wetland park, to serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and architects. Stakeholder partners Rida Reyes Castillo of SM Prime, Dr. Arvin Diesmos of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Laudemir Salac of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region 3 and Architect Gleo Raymundo of United Architects of the Philippines Student Auxiliary also attended the event. "It is an honor and privilege on the part of SM to partner with the SCPW and UAPSA in realizing its common goal of protecting ecosystems, particularly wetlands, by inspiring the youth to engage and take action on the socio-civic and economic issues in their communities by finding workable solutions towards building a sustainable future," SM Prime AVP and head of Marketing, PR and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo said. Castillo further emphasized that environmental protection and nature conservation are integral pillars of SM Prime's sustainability campaign, along with cultivating the younger generation’s devotion to building a sustainable future. The symposium concluded with a comprehensive discussion on the rules and guidelines of the design competition, followed by an open forum and exchange of ideas among participants. The symposium also marked the beginning of the 4th SCPW Wetland Center Design Competition, which aims to create a platform for talented students in the field of construction and design to showcase their skills and ingenuity and encourages them to address environmental challenges through sustainable solutions. The post SM Prime, partners hold symposium on wetland conservation appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hyundai Philippines announces EV car park partnership with SM Supermalls
Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) revealed plans for six (6) Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations in partnership with SM Supermalls this 2023. At the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) last July 20, the brand formally set off its newest project with the country’s largest developer, operator and owner of world-class shopping centers. “Our global vision is based on the belief that we, as an automaker, have to be more proactive when responding to climate change compared to companies in other industries. So Hyundai Motor Philippines is very fortunate to be aligned with a company whose approach to sustainability is as holistic as ours. We are glad that we get to contribute to one of the four main pillars of their green movement which is energy,” says Mr. Cecil Capacete, Managing Director. “A key component to supporting society’s adoption of cleaner mobility solutions is through public awareness. And we are one with the SM group on their mission to assure customers, who are looking to transition to an electrified lifestyle, wider access to charging facilities outside of their homes”. [caption id="attachment_169453" align="aligncenter" width="724"] Back-to-back World Car of The Year awardees, the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, charging at the SM Mall of Asia EV Car Park.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_169454" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Steven Tan, Hans Sy Jr. and Dongwook Lee plugs in the IONIQ 6 at the EV charger.[/caption] In the country, HMPH has begun laying the foundation to this journey through the establishment of at least 10 certified Hyundai EV dealers. These not only serve as the official retailers and service providers of the IONIQ 5 and new IONIQ 6 but also equipped with both AC and DC chargers should owners need. Now in addition to these are the following locations: “At SM, we build on our long-term strategy toward net zero emissions by 2040. We commit to address issues that will impact the next generations and welcome Hyundai as our partner in this advocacy. We look forward to this collaboration and working with you in the years to come,” says Mr. Steven T. Tan, President, SCMC. [caption id="attachment_169458" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Cecil Capacete welcomes guests to the inauguration of the SM EV charging station slots in partnership with HMPH.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_169459" align="aligncenter" width="721"] Stevan Tan gives a special message and shares SM’s initiatives and goals for a greener future.[/caption] Each of the abovementioned car park slots have AC chargers with Type 2 connectors which are being offered free of charge to all owners of EVs and plug-in hybrid cars regardless of their badge. Learn more about the brand’s commitment towards sustainability and other news at Hyundai Motor Philippines’ official website, Facebook and Instagram. SM Supermalls is the country's leading mall property developer and operator with 83 SM malls nationwide. Other locations of their EV Charging Stations and how to use them here. The post Hyundai Philippines announces EV car park partnership with SM Supermalls appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoT aims to position Philippines as one of Asia’s LGBTQ-friendly destinations
Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco unveiled plans and programs aimed at inclusive tourism development and towards positioning the Philippines as one of Asia’s most LGBTQ-friendly destinations, including the mounting of the first-ever Tourism Pride Summit this September. Frasco made the announcement during her keynote address at the Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride Summit 2023, where she noted the massive opportunities for the development of LGBTQ+ tourism in the Philippines, with the community being one of the fast-rising sectors of society across the globe, with over 35 million travelers from this sector. Last month, she welcomed a courtesy visit from the executives of the PFIP for its partnership with the DoT on the Tourism Pride Summit in time for Tourism Month. In addition to hosting the Tourism Pride Summit with the PFIP, the DoT has identified LGBTQ+ tourism as a priority under the Office of Special Concerns of the Office of the Secretary. It also sees to it that employees receive training on relevant topics including sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics or SOGIESC awareness and the basics of gender and development. “We at the Department of Tourism take pride in having a multitude of numbers from your community across the tourism value chain in all of the regions of the Philippines–from our personnel and, accommodation and services sector, from the frontline, managerial, supervisory, and upper echelons of the tourism industry, and even including our frontline tourism personnel in our local government units, from our pasalubong makers, to our choreographers, our artistic directors, costume makers, festival dancers, our various members of the Department of Tourism regional offices that are also members of the community. You are very well represented in the Department of Tourism and in the industry itself and your contribution to the success of tourism is invaluable,” Frasco said. She expressed her elation as she joined the organization in celebrating “love, and the gains that the PFIP has made in its 10-year existence” and prefaced her message by sharing her experiences as mayor of Liloan in Cebu. “At that time when I was involved in advocacies concerning various sectors, from women, children, senior citizens, PWDs and the like, I observed that while all of the other sectors of society in our community in Liloan had been organized in and federated and had a voice in local governance, the LGBT community did not have such a voice,” she shared. Directly addressing this observation, she said she organized and federated the Liloan LGBTQ, making Liloan the first municipality in Cebu to have a fully federated LGBT federation in all barangays. “The consequence of that recognition from the local government unit was that we ensured that the LGBT community had a voice, not only in terms of fighting for their rights or equality as far as the passage of laws and ordinances protecting them from discrimination, but rather, also a voice in governance,” Frasco said. Frasco also said that she pursued programs and initiatives in support of the community, including the construction of a gender-equal comfort room at the municipal plaza. Each of the municipality’s council and committee also has an LGBTQ+ representative. “I share with you this story, if only to give you my assurances that the work that you have been doing for the past 10 years has resulted in the grass roots recognition and implementation of the necessity for LGBTQ+ equality, equity, and recognition. It is not a mere aspiration that we must look to but, rather, it is happening, it is succeeding, and I congratulate and thank all of you — especially the PFIP — for your relentless support for this movement,” she said. She added, “This love of country, pride of place, pride of community, I see very well in the PFIP, your Board of Trustees, your officers, your members, your delegates who are present here today, for indeed expressing love for one another, is also an expression of love for our country.” “And so, you have my full unequivocal support, and I am very eager to partner with PFIP and with all of you, to ensure that we accomplish our goal of making the Philippines one of the most [LGBTQ-friendly] places in Asia, and I am sincerely hopeful for your support for our effort to give our fellow Filipinos and the rest of the world all the reasons to love the Philippines,” Frasco further said. To further support the LGBTQ+ community, Frasco during the summit also pledged a personal donation from herself and her husband, House Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco, amounting to P500,000 to support the PFIP’s educational scholarships for underprivileged students that are members of the community. The post DoT aims to position Philippines as one of Asia’s LGBTQ-friendly destinations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Puregold stamps class, wins best TikTok reel
Puregold’s first-ever local TikTok series “52 Weeks,” recently won the gold prize in the Best Social Media Campaign category of Hashtag Asia Awards, a competition that aims to recognize outstanding work in the field of online advertising. “52 Weeks” edged out the Raya Ni Saya Rindu campaign of BigPay, which won the silver prize, and the CP Malaysia TikTok Contents Creation & CP Chicken Roll Challenge of PRK Agro-Industrial Products, which won the bronze prize. Winners were decided by an esteemed panel of judges that included experts from around the world. All entries were judged on the following criteria: challenge, strategy, execution, and results. Retailtainment achievement “We’re very grateful to the Hashtag Asia Awards for the recognition,” Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Puregold’s senior manager for marketing, said. “It is both exciting and rewarding to see that our retailtainment efforts are being acknowledged on an international scale. We share this honor with all Puregold channel subscribers, and the cast and crew who made ‘52 Weeks’ possible,” Piedad said. “52 Weeks” is part of Puregold’s retailtainment efforts — combining retail and entertainment to create delightful content for brand building and product awareness. “52 Weeks” was the company’s first episodic foray into TikTok, followed by several other series released on YouTube via the Puregold Channel. The series was directed by Lemuel Lorca and produced by award-winning filmmaker Chris Cahilig. The campaign was overseen by Republic Creative Creations, led by Sonny Bautista. The digital series starring Jin Macapagal and Queenay Mercado was released last 27 July 2022, and ran for 36 episodes. It told the story of Mina (Mercado), a hopeless romantic who had No Boyfriend Since Birth. Wanting Mina to finally have a love to call her own, her best friends Chem (Derick Lauchengco) and Eya (Herbie Cruz) gave themselves 52 weeks to find the perfect boyfriend for her. The series garnered over 34.1 million views across its run on TikTok. The post Puregold stamps class, wins best TikTok reel appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Filipino helms assembly of science diplomats
A stellar roster of global leaders in science diplomacy — including executives from Nasa and Interpol — are set to convene this September under the leadership of a Filipino scientist. Internationally acclaimed Filipino science diplomat Glenn Banaguas was designated as chairman of the 6th Asian Science Diplomats Assembly to be held from 18 to 22 September at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Manila. With over 100 science diplomats in the Asian region alone, the annual SDA plays a pivotal role in furthering the integration of science and diplomacy across the region’s diverse countries and cultures as well as its strategic capacities, policy goals, and the development of elucidations for societal challenges — food security, sustainable energy, water sufficiency, human security, health security, biodiversity, marine, cybersecurity, infrastructure, transportation, waste, climate change, disaster risks, conflicts, violent extremisms and terrorism. The specific objectives of the SDA include raising awareness of science diplomacy among the science and diplomatic communities, identifying gaps and challenges in the science diplomacy sphere, and providing strategic solutions for global influence at the intersection of science, technology, innovation, peace, security, and diplomacy, and capacitating science diplomats in the use of tools and participatory mechanisms to shape policy. “It is significant to effectively communicate our scientific work to all types of stakeholders. We do not want our science to be siloed,” Banaguas said. “No matter how technical our work is, we want to make sure that our science will truly create positive impacts and changes in society. It is our commitment to use science for service.” Banaguas is no stranger to the international scene. A distinguished fellow of the UK-based Royal Society for the Arts, he is one of Asia’s leading experts in environment, climate change and disaster risk. He is the chairman of the Asean Science Diplomats and the US-Asean Fellows for Science and Technology, and the Climate Diplomat of the EU-Asia Expert Panel for Climate Diplomacy and Environmental Security. He was also Lee Kuan Yew senior fellow in public service and an executive fellow of the Geneva Center for Security Policy in Switzerland. The post Filipino helms assembly of science diplomats appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Amazon aids SMEs adopt digital trade
Leading e-commerce platform, Amazon Global Selling, on Thursday, announced the set-up of a new remote team to provide dedicated support to local sellers to tap into the opportunities of cross-border e-commerce, reaffirming its commitment to empower small and medium-sized enterprises or SMEs. In a statement, Amazon Global said its team based in Singapore is focused on introducing Amazon’s innovative tools and resources to Philippines-based sellers. “Since Global Selling began to support Philippine sellers three years ago, we have seen more and more local sellers start from zero and gradually build their business on Amazon’s stores worldwide. We are inspired by Philippine sellers and have confidence in their potential,” Anand Palit, head of Amazon Global Selling in Southeast Asia, said. “Meanwhile, we also heard from sellers that they have pain points in developing globally, such as a lack of related knowledge and skills. That’s why we are extending our efforts to set up this dedicated team. With this new team, we will provide insights and resources to support sellers in getting started with Amazon, launching products and building a global band,” he added. High growth potential With the rising adoption of e-commerce and mobile internet, plus an emerging generation of young and tech-savvy users, the company said the cross-border e-commerce landscape continues to show potential growth in the country. According to a research study, B2C or business-to-customer e-commerce export revenue earned by sellers in the Philippines is estimated at P8.7 billion, of which 25 percent goes to SMEs. While based on current e-commerce adoption and export trends, e-commerce export revenues could grow at 9 percent per year to reach P13.4 billion in five years. If SMEs were to accelerate the rate at which they export via e-commerce, the annual B2C e-commerce export revenue could reach P26.9 billion ($555 million) in 2026. An Amazon survey conducted in 2022 among domestic e-commerce sellers and traditional export companies in Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines showed that nearly seven in 10 plan to expand to new countries and regions. Almost all (96 percent) who were surveyed will also consider cross-border e-commerce activities in the future, motivated by the opportunity to build a global brand and increase their customer base from overseas. “Amazon is continuously investing in logistics, tools, services, programs and people to foster the growth of sellers. Amazon has built a physical presence in 22 countries and can ship products to customers in over 200 countries and territories. Amazon had more than 400 fulfillment centers across the globe. Through Amazon stores, sellers, including those from the Philippines, can directly reach over 300 million active customer accounts, including more than 200 million Prime customers overseas,” the company statement read. Recently, Amazon also announced that Prime Day will be held on July 11 and 12. During Prime Day, customers will be able to shop for products from top brands and third-party sellers, including many SMEs from the Philippines. Prime Day is not only a celebration of Amazon Prime members but also an opportunity for sellers to gain customers by leveling up their brand awareness and building more sales performance. The post Amazon aids SMEs adopt digital trade appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Purple Power: Why more farmers should grow purple corn
The demand for healthier food options is on the rise, driven by an increasing number of health-conscious consumers. According to a survey by Food Industry Asia, eight out of ten Filipino consumers are becoming more health conscious and would prefer healthier food choices as long as they are tasty. This growing awareness of the importance of a healthy diet presents a substantial market opportunity for unique, tasty, and nutritious crops like East-West Seed’s hybrid Morado F1 purple sweet waxy corn. With its vibrant color, anthocyanin content, sweetness, and potential to increase income, Morado presents an enticing opportunity for Filipino farmers. Morado can provide farmers with a consistent income opportunity throughout the year as it is suitable to be planted all year round. It is also an early-maturing corn variety – farmers can harvest within 60 to 62 days after planting, enabling them to sell their produce to the market sooner. It also stands out not only for its vibrant purple hue but also for its ear quality. The kernels are soft, tender, and stay sweet even two days after harvest. Another remarkable attribute of Morado is its high anthocyanin content. Anthocyanins are the natural compounds responsible for the purple color of Morado. Studies have shown that anthocyanins possess antioxidant properties, offering numerous health benefits. These include reducing inflammation and preventive potential against cancer. Research also suggests that anthocyanins may be beneficial to the gut, which can contribute to overall improvement of health. Morado’s anthocyanin content makes it an appealing choice for health-conscious consumers. "Morado is very easy to sell in the market. Our buyers always look for Morado because it’s sweet, sticky, and has health benefits," said Levi Llaneta, a farmer from Albay who planted Morado. Mike Paragozo, a farmer from Agusan del Sur, also attests to Morado’s potential to increase income. He shared that the market value of Morado commands a premium, with prices ranging from 50 to 80 pesos per kilo, compared to other corn varieties. From Paragozo’s experience, customers are willing to purchase Morado, regardless of size and higher price, as they prioritize the health benefits it offers. "Every week, we plant 1-2 kg of Morado to ensure a continuous supply," said Paragozo. This consistent planting approach enables him to meet the growing demand for this unique crop and capitalize on its market potential. Mike also shared that it is easy to grow Morado. "From my experience, Morado has a high germination rate at around 95%. It is also strong against diseases," he added. The uniqueness and versatility of Morado also opens up various marketing avenues for farmers like Paragozo. "Morado can be sold to processors of corn coffee, fresh markets or directly to consumers." Moreover, because of its unique purple color, farms planted with Morado have the potential to attract tourists, offering an additional income opportunity for farmers. Mike is establishing Morado as a trademark in his farm in Agusan del Sur to attract tourists who are intrigued by this distinct purple corn. "At East-West Seed, we aim to improve the lives of our farmers by offering them innovative and high-yielding vegetable seed varieties that are suitable to the local growing conditions and needs of the local market," said Jay Lopez, general manager of East-West Seed Philippines. "Morado purple corn combines visual appeal, health benefits, and a significant potential to increase income, making it a favorable choice for entrepreneurial farmers," Lopez added. The post Purple Power: Why more farmers should grow purple corn appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»