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Business groups laud passage of Salt Industry Development Act
Business groups Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (Philexport) and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) welcomed the approval of a law that aims to revive the salt industry which is seen to support economic growth and help create jobs......»»
Why Business Should Start Investing in the Mental Well-Being of Their Employees
The pandemic has triggered waves of anxiety, uncertainty, and financial strain, impacting the mental health of millions of employees. Poor mental health leads to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and strained work relationships. With that said, it is crucial to address employees’ mental health issues to have a thriving workspace. Encourage Open Communication and Supportive Culture […].....»»
Ilocos Sur micro-entreps get help from Bong Go
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go’s team, in coordination with Governor Jeremias “Jerry” Singson, Vigan City Mayor Jose Bonito Singson Jr., Caoayan Mayor Germelina Goulart and other local government officials, provided assistance to micro-business owners at the Vigan Conservation Complex and Caoayan municipal gymnasium in Ilocos Sur on Monday, 23 October. A total of 68 individuals received masks and snacks, while select recipients were given shoes, shirts and balls for basketball from Go’s team. Aside from the assistance from Go, the beneficiaries also qualified for the Department of Trade and Industry’s program that Go supported which provides livelihood kits to assist communities affected by crises in their recovery efforts. “Patuloy tayong sumusuporta sa mga programang pangkabuhayan lalo na yung mga makakatulong sa mga mahihirap na nahaharap sa krisis. Sa ating pakikipagtulungan, ang DTI ay nagbibigay ng mga negosyo kits sa mga kwalipikadong benepisyaryo at tinuturuan sila kung paano palalaguin ang kanilang mga negosyo para mapakinabangan ng pamilya ang kanilang kikitain. Nagbigay naman tayo ng karagdagang suporta sa mga benepisyaryo ng programang ito,” he explained in a video message. Also in attendance were DTI 1 Regional Director Grace Falgui-Baluyan and Provincial Director Charry Quodala. Go acknowledged how the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected businesses in the country. In response to this, Go is one of the authors and co-sponsors of Republic Act 11960, known as the One Town, One Product Philippines Act. This legislation serves to institutionalize the OTOP Philippines Program, a strategic initiative tailored to nurturing the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises throughout the country. The essence of the OTOP Program centers on the identification and promotion of distinctive products originating from various towns and municipalities. In doing so, it not only encourages entrepreneurship but also effectively harnesses local resources while preserving our rich cultural heritage. This approach facilitates increased visibility, market access, and enhanced competitiveness for micro-businesses, thereby making a substantial contribution to our country’s economic resilience. "Hindi lamang ito tungkol sa pag-angat ng MSMEs. Ito'y pagkakataon para sa bawat Pilipino, kahit saan man sila naroroon, na magtagumpay sa negosyo," he elaborated. "When communities take the lead in product development, we see more sustainable and culturally relevant outcomes. This is what OTOP aims to achieve," Go said. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized the role played by Malasakit Centers in ensuring convenient access to the government's medical assistance programs. As part of his commitment to alleviating the struggles faced by individuals and families while improving their access to essential healthcare services, Go initiated the establishment of Malasakit Centers in 2018. This was institutionalized in 2019 through the passage of RA 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go. Since its inception, the Malasakit Centers have helped more than seven million poor and indigent patients nationwide. Currently, there are 159 Malasakit Centers, including those at Ilocos Sur Provincial Hospital (formerly known as Gabriela Silang General Hospital) in Vigan City and Ilocos Sur Medical Center in Candon City. Moreover, Go also supported the construction of more than 600 Super Health Centers in strategic locations nationwide including four in Ilocos Sur as identified by the Department of Health which is the lead implementing agency. The initiative was a collaborative effort among lawmakers, LGUs and the DOH. According to Go, Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, consultation, and early detection of diseases, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in rural communities. It will also help decongest hospitals. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, also supported various infrastructure projects, including the road improvements in Magsingal and Narvacan; acquisition of medical equipment for public health facilities in Cervantes, Magsingal, Narvacan, Salcedo, Sinait and Sta. Lucia; acquisition of ambulance units in Burgos, Nagbukel, San Emilio and Tagudin; and construction of multipurpose buildings, halls and gyms in Bantay, Cabugao, Santa, Sigay and Sugpon. The post Ilocos Sur micro-entreps get help from Bong Go appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pilmico on World Bread Day: Bread’s transformative impact on communities
Every year on 16 October, the world celebrates “World Bread Day” to honor all kinds of bread around the world. A dietary staple in people’s lives for centuries, bread plays a much more significant role in the lives of those who bake bread as their primary source of livelihood. Pilmico has been a steadfast partner of bakers since 1962. It has given out 108 bakery kits nationwide since it started distributing livelihood kits in 2016. In honor of the “World Bread Day,” Pilmico reflects on how it has helped change the lives of several people through bread. Feeding the future Pilmico’s “Kutitap Feeding Program” was launched as a sustainable initiative to address malnutrition in public schools while at the same time supporting local bakeries. The program was made possible through the help of its partner bakeries, who went through technical training and received equipment from Pilmico. They provided bread to public schools within their communities. The Kutitap Feeding Program started in Iligan City in 2015 and in Tarlac in 2018. Since then, the program has progressively evolved through the years. Due to pandemic restrictions, it was turned into the “Kutitap Care Package,” where students received baked goods and eggs through its partner bakery, Aguila Bakeshop. Now, the program has also started incorporating meats in the meals served to the daycare students in Bamban, Tarlac. Aside from feeding students with nutritional bread, this initiative also contributed to the success of some partner bakeries such as C&G Bakery from Iligan City. Marlon C. Gecale, owner of C&G Bakery, has devoted his life to baking — from when he was a teen working as a baker to an adult owning his bakery. In between, he worked as an OFW and his passion for baking grew stronger, prompting him to have his own bakery. After buying an oven with his first salary, Gecale and his wife spent the next five years building their small bakery while he worked abroad. In 2017, they applied to become a bakery partner for Pilmico’s “Kutitap Feeding Program.” They were determined to prove that their small bakery could fulfill the demands of the program despite their new and small bakery. By partnering with Pilmico for the Kutitap Feeding Program, C&G Bakery, owned by Marlon Gecale, was able to expand to three more branches in Mindanao. Gecale underwent a month-long training with Pilmico where he earned new technical skills in baking and new recipes, which he still uses in his bakery. Since then, their bakery has grown and has been a reliable partner of Pilmico in various programs including the Iligan Community Pantry. Today, C&G Bakery has expanded to three branches in Iligan City, Misamis Oriental and Zamboanga del Sur. 'Tinapay Ti Uno' program Aside from Pilmico’s own initiatives, it has partnered with local government units such as the Department of Agrarian Reform Tarlac for the “Tinapay Ti Uno” program in partnership with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Trade and Industry and the Office of Congressman Jaime Cojuangco from the 1st District of Tarlac province. This program aims to create healthy buns using locally sourced ingredients from Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations and provide them to public school students in the 1st district of Tarlac. A total of 11 ARBOs participated in a bun and special bread competition where the winners will be responsible for the distribution of buns to the students. In the competition held last 24 2023, three ARBOs were hailed as the grand winners: Cabayaoasan Farmer Agriculture Cooperative from Paniqui, Tarlac; Bacabac Farmers Producers Cooperative from Brgy. Bacabac, Camiling, Tarlac; and Sinulatan 1st Agriculture Cooperative from Brgy. Sinulatan 1st, Camiling, Tarlac. Each winner received a bakery livelihood package from Pilmico that included an oven, stainless steel table, bread rack, bread showcase, proofer with cover, spiral mixer and 10 Pilmico flour sacks. In addition to the equipment, the winners were to receive technical assistance and bakery management training from Pilmico as they set up their bakery business. During the winners’ onsite bakery training in Camiling, Tarlac last 3 October, it was revealed that two out of the three ARBOs have already opened their bakeries within their communities. In celebration of “World Bread Day,” Pilmico emphasizes its unwavering commitment to providing high-quality flour that helps create nutritional bread products. “We believe in the transformative power that a simple loaf of bread can bring to people’s lives, especially those who rely on it as their main source of livelihood. Pilmico is dedicated to delivering the finest flour for the community’s bread making needs,” said Ma. Katrina Bayog, Pilmico Corporate Social Responsibility manager. The post Pilmico on World Bread Day: Bread’s transformative impact on communities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Museo ng Makati celebrates Patis Tesoro creations
In the vibrant tapestry of Filipino arts and heritage, few threads are as intricate and captivating as fashion. Much like traditions and customs, fashion as a form of artistic and cultural expression has played a pivotal role in shaping the Filipino identity and has evolved alongside the nation’s rich history. It is not just about clothes, it is the tales they share, the craftsmanship they embody, the heritage they preserve, and the patrimony they carry on through generations. The Museo ng Makati, housed in the old Presidencia, which served as the town hall until 1961 and has since been declared as an Important Cultural Property of our islands, proudly presented the Grand Dame of Filipino Fashion herself, Patis Tesoro. Entitled Kasuotang Filipino: Mga Likha ni Patis Tesoro, this exhibition was a testament to the enduring legacy of our people’s artistic expression. Although celebrated for its romantic allure, these also carry expressions of love for our country. The exhibit highlighted the enduring 50-year lifelong friendship between Patis and Mita Rufino, who loaned a part of her personal Tesoro-designed Filipiniana. Rufino’s impeccable taste in fashion mirrors her support for the finest designers and creators in the field, with Tesoro as a favorite due to their numerous collaborations. Maria Beatriz Pamintuan Tesoro, lovingly known as Patis, is the force behind this remarkable assemblage. Her journey began in Iloilo, where she drew inspiration from her mother’s dressmaking skills and honed her own dexterity in embroidery during her time at the Assumption Iloilo. [gallery columns="5" size="full" ids="194543,194542,194541,194540,194539"] Her pursuit of artistic excellence brought her to Marygrove College in Michigan, United States, where she studied Art Education. The visionary’s passion in everything Filipino deepened when she married the late Tito Tesoro, whose family owns the iconic Filipino handicrafts store Tesoros. Together with former Philippine First Lady Amelita “Ming” Ramos, Patis worked tirelessly to protect, preserve and promote the use of pineapple or piña fabric, collaborating closely with local farmers to bolster their production. Even today, she continues to champion Filipino textiles and embroidery traditions, while infusing bohemian styles and practical, everyday clothing into her creations. While Tesoro’s genius was on the spotlight, it was equally dedicated to the exquisite beauty and exceptional craftsmanship of Filipino weavers and artisans, burdareras and costureras. The creations on display were nothing short of breathtaking. The venue showcased 23 long gowns that spanned fashion influences from various regions of the archipelago, which offered glimpses into her sensibilities throughout her illustrious career. These reflected her vision of the elegant Filipino attires. [caption id="attachment_194537" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Fashion innovator Patis Tesoro, curator Albert Figueras and Filipino Heritage Festival Foundation Inc. president Mita Rufino. | PHOTOGRAPHS by Edu Jarque[/caption] Hand in hand, fashion designer Albert Figueras had contributed his private treasure trove of fabrics from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, offering visitors a valuable opportunity to acquaint themselves on native textiles and weaving traditions — a critical endeavor in an era dominated by fast fashion and synthetic fabrics. Figueras played a crucial role in curating the whole affair. In attendance were civic servants such as Makati City Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo and notable diplomats, business leaders, fashion afficionados, textile artists and modern trendsetters. The event was made possible by the Filipino Heritage Festival Inc. spearheaded by its president, Mita Rufino. SM Makati manager Kathleen Anne Cruz and SM Retail president Cielo Monasterio generously supported the show. The exhibit also saw a romantic performance of a string of kundimans from the Choral Society of Makati, joined by the city’s 2018 champion and a member of the University of Makati Chorale Kristina Maniling. The post Museo ng Makati celebrates Patis Tesoro creations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CA junks telco’s frequency plea, mandamus case vs. NTC
The Court of Appeals junked the petition for mandamus filed by NOW Telecom Company Inc. against the National Telecommunications Commission or NTC over the company's provisional authority or PA application to operate a cellular mobile telephone service within specific frequency ranges. In a 16-page decision, the appellate court's Special Ninth Division said "the court is powerless" to grant NOW Telecom's plea, especially since the company failed to show a clear legal right to the frequencies it sought. The CA said the decision, penned by Associate Justice Tita Marilyn B. Payoyo-Villordon and concurred in by Associate Justices Myra V. Garcia-Fernandez and Walter S. Ong, followed a careful examination of the case. The case began from NOW Telecom's request for NTC's automatic approval issued by the Anti-Red Tape Authority or ARTA. NOW Telecom had filed a petition for mandamus under Rule 65 of the Revised Rules of Court to compel the NTC and former Commissioner Gamaliel Asis Cordoba to stick to ARTA's resolution and OAA both dated 1 March 2021. These ARTA documents stated that NOW Telecom's application for a PA to operate in the frequency range 1970 Mhz-1980 Mhz paired with 2160 Mhz to 2170 Mhz and 3.6 GHz to 3.8 GHz frequency ranges was automatically approved by operation of law. It followed Republic Act 11032, otherwise known as the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018. However, an ARTA resolution dated 17 June 2022 reversed the previous decisions and formally recommended NOW Telecom's application for frequency assignment to the NTC. NOW Telecom's mandamus petition was notably based on its claim for the rights to specific frequency ranges, alleging that the NTC had unjustly neglected its duty to assign them. Yet, court records showed that as early as December 2005, NTC already found NOW Telecom to be non-compliant and was disqualified from the assignment of 3G frequency bands due to unpaid supervision and regulation fees or SRF and spectrum user fees or SUF amounting to P2.6 billion. NOW Telecom has a pending petition filed before the Supreme Court for this penalty imposed by the NTC. NOW Telecom received its PA in January 2006, but it was not specific to 3G and under the condition of paying its outstanding SRF and SUF obligations. In December 2017, NOW Telecom was designated the 20MHz contiguous bandwidth, 3520 to 3540 MHz, under the 3.5 GHz on the same condition that it resolved its outstanding SUF and SRF fines. NOW Telecom's Provisional Authority was extended until September 2020, but the NTC reiterated that the company failed to fulfill the conditions regarding SUF and SRF. Despite the issues hounding the company, NOW Corp. CEO Mel Velarde said he hopes the "Marcos administration" will aid the immediate settlement of its cases as a way of maintaining a "level playing field." _ The post CA junks telco’s frequency plea, mandamus case vs. NTC appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards
With a distinguished legacy spanning five generations, the Aboitiz Group remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering positive change in shaping the future as it adheres to the standards and requirements outlined in the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard. This year, following the 2022 compliance period of the ACGS, Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. received a 4-arrow recognition after scoring 111.68 points, AEV’s highest ACGS score since the Institute of Corporate Directors inaugurated the Golden Arrow Awards in 2018. Aboitiz Power Corporation and Union Bank of the Philippines both received a 3-arrow recognition for scoring between 100 and 109 points. Consistent top performers It’s also important to note that AEV and AboitizPower have consistently been recognized as top performers in corporate governance, both here in the country and in the ASEAN region since 2013-2017 at the PSE Bell Awards. “This distinction is the result of the Aboitiz Group’s work to transform a legacy business into a hyper-innovative, diversified conglomerate that puts corporate governance and citizenship at the core of its operations. We have always believed that transparency and accountability are essential in building trust amongst our stakeholders and forging strong partnerships in order to drive change,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Group’s chief reputation and sustainability officer. AEV, the portfolio management company of the Aboitiz Group, leads investments in diverse sectors including power, banking and financial services, food, infrastructure, land, and cutting-edge fields such as data science and artificial intelligence. The Group is presently undergoing a profound transformation to establish itself as the Philippines' first "techglomerate." This innovative growth strategy, fueled by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, empowers Aboitiz to drive transformative change, shaping the future of its businesses, host communities, and the nation. The Golden Arrow Recognition serves as a testament to Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. Aboitiz has excelled in several key areas such as compliance, sustainability, and innovation — positioning it as a frontrunner in the realm of corporate governance. This honor reflects the Group's ongoing commitment to creating value for its shareholders, stakeholders, and the broader Filipino community. Robust policies Aboitiz Group’s robust policies and procedures across every level of the organization form the bedrock of its commitment to excellence in corporate governance. Furthermore, the company's board of directors is characterized by its independence and diversity, playing a pivotal role in providing oversight and making strategic decisions aligned with the best interests of shareholders and stakeholders. Aboitiz places great emphasis on transparency, providing clear and comprehensive information regarding its financial performance, operations, and decision-making processes to ensure that shareholders and the public remain well-informed. In terms of regulatory compliance, Aboitiz is dedicated to adhering to all relevant laws, regulations, and standards related to corporate governance. The company continuously updates its policies to ensure alignment with evolving requirements. When it comes to ethical business practices, the Group's commitment to ethical conduct and integrity remains unwavering. “This award reaffirms the team’s adherence to the shared responsibility of sustainably managing the organization. This further motivates us to champion the highest corporate governance and ethical standards as we continue to grow the business,” said AboitizPower president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Rubio. “Likewise, we also exert as much effort and diligence in upholding environmental preservation and the societal good within the areas we have the privilege to serve,” he said. Corporate governance For his part, UnionBank lead independent director Roberto Manabat said, “We humbly accept this recognition as a reinforcement of the principles that guide the Bank. Our corporate governance practices reinforce the requirements of a constantly evolving business landscape. We ensure that they comply with new regulations and are ready to adopt best practices.” Aboitiz is deeply committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives. The post Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards
With a distinguished legacy spanning five generations, the Aboitiz Group remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering positive change in shaping the future as it adheres to the standards and requirements outlined in the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard. This year, following the 2022 compliance period of the ACGS, Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. received a 4-arrow recognition after scoring 111.68 points, AEV’s highest ACGS score since the Institute of Corporate Directors inaugurated the Golden Arrow Awards in 2018. Aboitiz Power Corporation and Union Bank of the Philippines both received a 3-arrow recognition for scoring between 100 and 109 points. AEV and AboitizPower have consistently been recognized as top performers in corporate governance, both here in the country and in the ASEAN region since 2013-2017 at the PSE Bell Awards. “This distinction is the result of the Aboitiz Group’s work to transform a legacy business into a hyper-innovative, diversified conglomerate that puts corporate governance and citizenship at the core of its operations. We have always believed that transparency and accountability are essential in building trust amongst our stakeholders and forging strong partnerships in order to drive change,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Group’s chief reputation and sustainability officer. AEV, the portfolio management company of the Aboitiz Group, leads investments in diverse sectors including power, banking and financial services, food, infrastructure, land and cutting-edge fields such as data science and artificial intelligence. The Group is presently undergoing a profound transformation to establish itself as the Philippines' first "techglomerate." This innovative growth strategy, fueled by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, empowers Aboitiz to drive transformative change, shaping the future of its businesses, host communities and the nation. The Golden Arrow Recognition serves as a testament to Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. Aboitiz has excelled in several key areas such as compliance, sustainability, and innovation – positioning it as a frontrunner in the realm of corporate governance. This honor reflects the Group's ongoing commitment to creating value for its shareholders, stakeholders, and the broader Filipino community. Aboitiz Group’s robust policies and procedures across every level of the organization form the bedrock of its commitment to excellence in corporate governance. Furthermore, the company's board of directors is characterized by its independence and diversity, playing a pivotal role in providing oversight and making strategic decisions aligned with the best interests of shareholders and stakeholders. Aboitiz places great emphasis on transparency, providing clear and comprehensive information regarding its financial performance, operations, and decision-making processes to ensure that shareholders and the public remain well-informed. In terms of regulatory compliance, Aboitiz is dedicated to adhering to all relevant laws, regulations, and standards related to corporate governance. The company continuously updates its policies to ensure alignment with evolving requirements. When it comes to ethical business practices, the Group's commitment to ethical conduct and integrity remains unwavering. The company adheres to a stringent code of conduct that guides the behavior of its employees, fostering an environment of trust and integrity. “This award reaffirms the team’s adherence to the shared responsibility of sustainably managing the organization. This further motivates us to champion the highest corporate governance and ethical standards as we continue to grow the business,” said AboitizPower president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Rubio. “Likewise, we also exert as much effort and diligence in upholding environmental preservation and the societal good within the areas we have the privilege to serve.” “We humbly accept this recognition as a reinforcement of the principles that guide the Bank. Our corporate governance practices reinforce the requirements of a constantly evolving business landscape. We ensure that they comply with new regulations and are ready to adopt best practices,” said UnionBank lead independent director Roberto Manabat. Aboitiz is deeply committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives. The company actively pursues environmental and social responsibility, demonstrating its dedication to creating a positive impact on society and the environment. The post Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Docu links former chocolate plant head to student beatings
A Swiss chocolate brand has been dragged into a student abuse scandal prompting a film festival organizer to end partnership with the company. The Zurich Film Festival announced late Saturday that it had agreed with Laderach to end a partnership, adding that a documentary aired days earlier on the abuse allegations had “shaken everyone.” The documentary aired by Swiss public broadcaster SRF last week alleged that children at the Evangelical school in Kaltbrunn, in the eastern canton of St. Gallen, had been systematically beaten. The school was founded in 1995 by Jurg Laderach, the former head of the chocolate maker, and according to the documentary, he stands accused of himself administering beatings, something he flatly denies. His son, Johannes Laderach, took over the helm of the company in 2018, and ZFF acknowledged that no accusations had been made towards the current leadership. But, it said, “the suffering of the presumed victims is nonetheless associated with the name of the family and the business.” WITH AFP The post Docu links former chocolate plant head to student beatings appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Former Iloilo solon hurdles graft charges
The Sandiganbayan announced on Friday that it has cleared former Iloilo lawmaker Niel Tupas Jr. of graft and malversation raps over the alleged anomalous utilization of his P4.8-million pork barrel funds to a non-government organization in 2008. In a 99-page ruling dated 13 September but was released only on Friday, the anti-graft court’s Special Fourth Division found Tupas not guilty of breaching Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019) and Malversation through Falsification of Public Documents. His co-accused, Rhodora Mendoza and Romulo Relevo, ex-administrative and finance head, and ex-general services unit head respectively, of the now-defunct National Agri-Business Corporation or NABCOR, were also acquitted of the same charges for failure of the prosecution to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Filed by the Ombudsman in 2018, the case stemmed from the supposed misuse of Tupas’ Priority Development Assistance Fund worth P4,850,000 in 2008, supposedly intended to fund agricultural livelihood programs for Iloilo farmers. The funds were supposed to buy hand tractors, water pumps and grafted fruit seedlings, according to the Ombudsman. Tupas was accused of funneling his pork barrel to dubious NGO Kabuhayan at Kalusugan Alay Para sa Masa Foundation Inc. by utilizing the NABCOR as an intermediary. According to the Ombudsman, Tupas “unilaterally chose” and “indorsed” KKAMFI as a project partner to implement his livelihood projects for his district, notwithstanding that the foundation was “unaccredited” and “unqualified” to undertake such. Tupas and his co-respondents were accused of acting with manifest partially and evident bad faith by giving unwarranted benefits and advantages to the KKAMFI. The probe revealed that NABCOR and KKMFI entered into a memorandum of agreement on the purported implementation of Tupas’ PDAF-funded projects. NABCOR’s Mendoza and Relevo facilitated the disbursement of P4,850,000 to the foundation. The post Former Iloilo solon hurdles graft charges appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden’s son Hunter to plead not guilty to gun charges
US President Joe Biden's son Hunter will plead not guilty to charges of illegally buying a gun when he was using drugs, his lawyer said Tuesday. Hunter Biden, 53, was charged last week with two counts of making false statements when claiming on forms required for a 2018 gun purchase that he was not using drugs illegally at the time. On Tuesday, Hunter Biden's lawyer, Abbe David Lowell, asked the judge presiding over the case in the eastern state of Delaware to hold the first court appearance by video conference instead of requiring his client to attend in person. Hunter Biden currently lives in California. "Mr. Biden understands both the charges against him and his rights... and we believe the Court can be assured of that fact by conducting this initial appearance by video," Lowell said in the letter to US Magistrate Judge Christopher Burke. "Mr. Biden also will enter a plea of not guilty, and there is no reason why he cannot utter those two words by video conference," Lowell said. "Mr. Biden is not seeking any special treatment in making this request," he added. "He has attended and will attend any proceedings in which his physical appearance is required." Hunter Biden is also facing a third charge, based on the same statements, that he illegally possessed the gun during an 11-day period in October 2018. If convicted on all three felony charges, he could face 25 years in prison, though in practice the offenses are seldom punished by any jail time. The indictment came two days after Republicans in Congress opened an impeachment probe against Joe Biden, a Democrat, alleging that when the elder Biden was vice president he benefited financially from his son's foreign business dealings. They alleged, without offering hard evidence, that while vice president in 2015-2016, Biden intervened to protect an allegedly corrupt Ukrainian energy company, Burisma, where Hunter Biden sat on the board. The gun charges against Hunter Biden were filed by Justice Department special counsel David Weiss, who has been investigating him since 2018 over various allegations, mostly related to his overseas business deals. A plea deal between Hunter Biden and Weiss, covering the gun charge as well as alleged tax violations, collapsed two months ago. Hunter Biden is a Yale-trained lawyer and lobbyist-turned-artist, but his life has been marred by alcoholism and crack cocaine addiction and his indictment has cast a shadow over his father's campaign for reelection next year. The post Biden’s son Hunter to plead not guilty to gun charges appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
EU hits TikTok with big fine over child data
A European Union regulator hit Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok with a 345-million-euro fine over child data breaches on Friday, in the bloc's latest salvo against the business practices of tech titans. The fine, equivalent to $369 million, is the culmination of a two-year inquiry by Ireland's Data Protection Commission (DPC). The Irish watchdog, which plays a key role in policing the EU's strict General Data Protection Regulations, gave TikTok three months "to bring its processing into compliance" with its rules. The DPC in September 2021 began examining TikTok's compliance with GDPR in relation to platform settings and personal data processing for users aged under 18 years old. It also looked at TikTok's age verification measures for persons under 13 and found no infringement, but found the platform did not properly assess the risks to younger people registering on the service. The regulator highlighted in its ruling Friday how children signing up had TikTok accounts set to public by default, meaning anyone could view or comment on their content. It also criticised TikTok's "family pairing" mode, which is designed to link parents' accounts to those of their teenage offspring, but the DPC found the company did not verify parent or guardian status. Ireland is at the centre of the GDPR regime because Dublin hosts the European headquarters of TikTok and the likes of Google, Meta and X, formerly Twitter. In May, the DPC fined Meta a record 1.2 billion euros for transferring EU user data to the United States in breach of a previous court ruling. TikTok, a division of Chinese tech giant ByteDance, is extremely popular among young people with 150 million users in the United States and 134 million in the EU. TikTok 'respectfully disagrees' In response to the fine, TikTok said it "respectfully disagrees" with the verdict and was "evaluating" how to proceed. "The DPC's criticisms are focused on features and settings that were in place three years ago, and that we made changes to well before the investigation even began, such as setting all under 16 accounts to private by default," a TikTok spokesperson told AFP. The platform insists that it closely monitors the age of its users and takes action when needed. TikTok says it deleted almost 17 million accounts worldwide in the first three month of this year due to suspicions that they belonged to people under 13 years old. Earlier this month, the social media giant opened a long-promised data centre in Ireland, as it tries to calm fears in Europe over data privacy. GDPR came into force in 2018 and was the EU's toughest and most famous law on tech, ensuring citizens give consent to the ways in which their data is used. Friday's fine comes after the EU last week unveiled a list of digital giants -- including Apple, Facebook owner Meta and ByteDance -- that will face tough new curbs on how they do business. The post EU hits TikTok with big fine over child data appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Biden’s son Hunter indicted on gun charges
US President Joe Biden's son Hunter was indicted Thursday for illegally buying a gun when he was using drugs, casting a new shadow over his father's campaign for reelection next year. Hunter Biden, 53, was charged with two counts of making false statements when claiming on forms required for the 2018 gun purchase that he was not using drugs illegally at the time. A third charge said that, based on the false statements, he illegally possessed the gun during an 11-day period in October that year. If convicted on all three felony charges, Biden could in theory face 25 years in prison, though in practice they are seldom punished by any jail time. In attesting that he was not an unlawful user of drugs when he bought the Colt Cobra revolver, Biden "knew that statement was false," the Justice Department said. The indictment came two days after Republicans in Congress opened an impeachment probe against Democrat Joe Biden, alleging that when he was vice president he benefitted financially from his son's foreign business dealings. The legal troubles of Hunter Biden present a target for political rivals of his father, who is bidding for a second term in the White House. Hunter is a Yale-trained lawyer and lobbyist-turned-artist, but his life has been marred by alcoholism and crack cocaine addiction. Without offering any evidence, Republicans have accused Biden's Justice Department of protecting his son and have accused Weiss, a Republican appointee, of going easy on Hunter. Representative James Comer, a Republican from Kentucky who will be leading the impeachment inquiry, welcomed the filing of the gun charges, calling it a "very small start." "Mountains of evidence reveals that Hunter Biden likely committed several felonies and Americans expect the Justice Department to apply the law equally," Comer said. Twice-impeached former president Donald Trump reacted on his Truth Social platform. "This, the gun charge, is the only crime that Hunter Biden committed that does not implicate Crooked Joe Biden," he said. - Plea deal collapsed - But a leading Democrat, Keisha Lance Bottoms, ex-mayor of Atlanta and a former senior adviser to Joe Biden, questioned why Hunter had been charged. "Can anyone tell me how many people have been federally indicted for purchasing a gun while dealing with substance abuse issues?" Bottoms said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "I don't know the answer, but in my over 29 years as an attorney, I have never heard of it." The gun charges were filed by Justice Department special counsel David Weiss, who has been investigating Hunter Biden since 2018 over various allegations, mostly related to his overseas business deals. Two months ago a plea deal between Biden and Weiss, covering the gun charge as well as alleged tax violations, went sour. Biden agreed to plead guilty in federal court in Delaware to two minor tax charges. In exchange he was offered probation, as he had already paid what he owed the government along with penalties. Weiss agreed to suspend the felony gun charge if Biden completed "pretrial diversion," which often involves counseling or rehabilitation. But in a dramatic July 26 hearing, the deal collapsed over whether Biden would have been immune from any other charges also investigated by Weiss, including possible crimes related to his business dealings in Ukraine, China and elsewhere. The judge mentioned the possibility that Biden could be charged as having acted as a lobbyist for foreign governments without registering with the Justice Department. Three weeks later, after the deal collapsed, Weiss dropped the tax charges and said an indictment on the gun charge would come by the end of September. As the 2024 election race swings into gear, Republicans in the House of Representatives on Tuesday formally opened an impeachment inquiry against President Biden. They alleged, without offering hard evidence, that while vice president in 2015-2016, Biden intervened to protect an allegedly corrupt Ukrainian energy company, Burisma, where Hunter Biden sat on the board. Republicans allege Joe Biden and his family reaped large sums for helping Burisma. The post Biden’s son Hunter indicted on gun charges appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Beauty takes the spotlight
Beauty enthusiasts were drawn to a “new light” on the night of 7 September as Rustan’s The Beauty Source, the Philippines' foremost destination for opulent beauty, proudly introduced its annual Beauty Addict event. “See Beauty in a new light” came the invitation, and the retail hub renowned for curating the world’s most prestigious beauty brands in makeup, skincare, fragrance and personal care products, welcomed guests to its revamped Beauty Hall. The transformed space boasts of world-class interiors and cutting-edge retail architecture, providing the perfect backdrop for the most coveted and luxurious beauty brands. The occasion raised the bar for luxury retail and reaffirmed Rustan’s dedication to only choose the best products for its affluent customers. Excitement meets elegance The big day welcomed luxury beauty brands, such as CHANEL, Clarins, La Prairie, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Tom Ford, MAC, La Mer, Clé de Peau Beauté, Shiseido, Hermes, Diptyque, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, L’Occitane, Grown Alchemist, Malin+Goetz, L:a Bruket and many more. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was graced by Rustan’s chief executive officer Zenaida Tantoco, president Donnie Tantoco and executive vice president Anton Huang, accompanied by the radiant Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray. The evening was further elevated with captivating performances by the Halili Dance Group and the Manila String Machine Orchestra, with Bea Tantoco. As the night unfolded, guests reveled in a special afterparty with live music from Renee Dominique and renowned local DJs. The open dancefloor beckoned, while the champagne bar, sponsored by the Philippine Wine Merchants, and delectable hors d’oeuvres by Margarite Forés ensured a night to remember. Exclusive beauty gifts and selfie contest For the early birds, a prized two-sided Beauty LED Compact Mirror was given away to the first 100 visitors at Rustan’s Beauty Hall. With LED lights that mimic sunlight, this attractive mirror has both conventional and magnifying mirrors. Sharing event selfies on social media accounts qualified the selfie-savvy participants for the competition, which gave the chance to win the prized “Best Selfie Award,” which came with a hefty P10,000 Rustan’s The Beauty Source shopping spree. Glamour all the way to November From 8 to 17 September, Rustan’s offered a one-week promotion with exclusive discounts and rewards to keep its customers happy. With the Beauty Addict Holiday Gift with Purchase promotion, which is active until 30 November, Rustan’s continued the celebration throughout the holiday season. A Kate Spade New York Make It Pop Floral Jewelry Box was given out to Beauty Addict members with a minimum purchase. Rustan’s introduced the Beauty Addict Holiday Raffle, with the big prize being a three-night vacation for two in the romantic city of love — Paris, France — to heighten the anticipation. The winner will also receive KrisFlyer miles from Singapore Airlines to use on a Business Class Saver Award ticket to Paris, France. Every P2,500 spent at Rustan’s Beauty Source rewarded Beauty Addict members one entry into an electronic drawing. Every Metrobank card transaction give cardholders two entries. Promo ends 30 November. The post Beauty takes the spotlight appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ERRAMON Aboitiz: Renaissance man
The Aboitiz family is a big player in Philippine business for over a century. With businesses covering a wide range of industries, including power, banking, food, and infrastructure, the clan’s Aboitiz Group has been creating jobs and opportunities for Filipinos. Founded by Paulino Aboitiz, son of a Spanish farmer who migrated to the Philippines in the late 1800s, Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc., or AEV, has grown from being an abaca-trading and general-merchandise business to a conglomerate with interests in power, banking, food, property, biofuel and construction. The group is undergoing its Great Transformation to establish itself as the Philippines’ pioneering techglomerate. This innovative growth strategy, powered by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, empowers the entire group to advance businesses and uplift communities. Among the driving forces propelling the Group’s business revolution is Erramon “Montxu” Aboitiz. Montxu previously served as the president and chief executive at Aboitiz Equity Ventures for 10 years from 2009 to 2019. He also briefly held the role of CEO at Aboitiz Power Corp. in 2018. Presently, he serves as a director at AEV and Endeavor Philippines and as chairman of the Board of Directors at Union Bank of the Philippines. Likewise, he serves as a board observer of the Aboitiz & Company. The Asian Institute of Management named Montxu as the new chairman of its Board of Trustees, effective from 1 September 2023. Montxu joined a respected group of successful business leaders who are dedicated to advancing the progress and welfare of Asia and its inhabitants. He was the 7th chairman of AIM, taking over from Peter Garrucho who held the position since 2017. Montxu graduated from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, USA with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting and Finance. In 2011, he was awarded the Management Man of the Year by the Management Association of the Philippines and recognized as the Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young. Seven years after that, AIM awarded Montxu with an honorary doctorate in management. Social responsibility runs in Aboitiz blood The Aboitiz Foundation, the social responsibility arm of the Aboitiz Group, donated $10 million to AIM in 2019 — known as the Aboitiz 100th Anniversary Commitment Fund. The fund aims to bridge the local and regional gap in data science and innovation. As a result of this generous donation, AIM’s Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship is now able to provide top-notch education and research opportunities in data science, with a focus on practical applications. This is made possible by collaborating with data science professionals and leaders from around the world. Recently, Montxu was elected chairperson of the AIM board of trustees. He is widely recognized for his strong commitment to social responsibility and philanthropy. Regarding the endowment to AIM, Montxu said it targeted assisting AIM in its efforts “to expand its curriculum and facilities towards the direction of a bold future, and the skills and education it will require.” Through his leadership in the Aboitiz Group and the Aboitiz Foundation, he has spearheaded numerous projects that have made a positive impact on local communities. As chairman of the Aboitiz Foundation, Montxu has played a key role in shaping its initiatives. The foundation focuses on three key areas which are education, enterprise development, and environmental conservation. “As businessmen, there is no doubt we seek profits and a return on our capital. But as Filipinos, we are equally guided by a sense of purpose to find meaningful ways of contributing to our communities across the country. This symbiotic relationship of profit and contributing to society is our secret sauce to true sustainability, allowing the Aboitiz Group to drive change for a better world by advancing business and communities,” Montxu added. The foundation implemented various programs and scholarships to improve access to quality education, foster entrepreneurship and livelihood opportunities, and promote sustainability. Aboitiz Foundation has been heavily involved in rehabilitating and improving schools in underprivileged areas. They have renovated classrooms, libraries and other facilities, providing students with better learning environments. The foundation has also donated learning materials and equipment to enhance the educational experience of students. Aboitiz Foundation supports community-based programs that aim to uplift marginalized communities. These programs focus on various aspects such as health, nutrition, livelihood, and disaster resilience. The foundation works closely with local organizations and stakeholders to implement sustainable solutions and empower communities to become self-sufficient. Aboitiz Foundation places significant emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainability. They have initiated projects to protect and restore ecosystems, promote renewable energy, and reduce carbon footprint. The foundation actively supports reforestation efforts, marine conservation, and waste management initiatives. The foundation also has a strong focus on disaster response and preparedness. They have been at the forefront of providing immediate relief and support during natural disasters, such as typhoons, earthquakes and floods. The foundation also works towards building resilient communities by conducting disaster risk reduction and management training programs. Montxu Aboitiz encourages and supports employee volunteerism within the Aboitiz Group. The company promotes a culture of giving back by providing employees with opportunities to engage in community service and volunteer activities. This not only benefits the communities they serve but also fosters a sense of social responsibility among the employees. It also collaborates with various non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to maximize the impact of their social responsibility initiatives. They work together to address complex social issues and implement sustainable solutions that create lasting change. Aligned with the United Nations Global Compact, AEV drives policies, advocacies, and initiatives to make a lasting impact. The post ERRAMON Aboitiz: Renaissance man appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ROLLING WITH THE PUNCHES — Mananquil emerges as Phl boxing’s top power broker
When boxing promoter-manager Jim Claude Mananquil is not attending to his stable of fighters, he can be seen just before daybreak minding his family’s tuna export business in General Santos City. “This is what keeps my boxing promotion going,” said the 29-year-old Mananquil, who started promoting at the tender age of 15. Of course, Mananquil didn’t have the proper license to put up fights owing to his being a minor and somebody with a license had to pose as the promoter-on-record. But it was he who assembled all the fighters and took care of the finances, quite a feat for someone whose main weapon for staging a card was his unparalleled love for the fight game. Instead of celebrating, Mananquil had to endure 16 straight losses as most of his boxers — though solidly built — were all as raw and green as a harvested broccoli. “We got kids who had muscular bodies thinking that they would do well in the ring. But everyone lost and I was devastated,” recalled Mananquil, who manages two-belt world super-bantamweight Marlon Tapales. Born and bred in General Santos City, Mananquil fell in love with the fight game at an early age. “I looked up to, of course, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather and Zab Judah,” he said. Mananquil didn’t just like boxing. He was so obsessed with the sport that he even wanted to proceed with a professional career after a triumphant debut in 2018. “But my mom objected and told me to just get involved in boxing as long as I don’t fight.” Mananquil was already busy promoting even before he turned 20 and in just a few years he was crisscrossing the United States accompanying his boxers signed up to see action under different promoters. At one time, his boxers set up camp in Miami under a Florida-based Cuban trainer but soon found himself relocating to southern California and Las Vegas with influential American fight guy Sean Gibbons lending a hand. Just a few months ago, Mananquil had two reigning world champions: Tapales and Melvin Jerusalem. But Jerusalem’s reign as World Boxing Organization minimumweight titlist was short-lived. After winning the World Boxing Organization 105-lb title in Tokyo in January, he surrendered the championship in Indio, California, several months later. Following Jerusalem’s loss, Mananquil is now left with Tapales, who is being groomed to figure in a megabuck matchup with Japanese Naoya “Monster” Inoue sometime in December. “My responsibility is to give Marlon the very best preparation so he can win this very important fight,” Mananquil said. The odds are stacked against the southpaw but Mananquil swears nothing is impossible. ‘It’s a tough decision but I really love boxing.’ Whether that multi-million dollar showdown happens or not will be known in the coming days and weeks as both camps are going to hold another round of talks very soon in the hopes of putting a deal in place. The youngest of three kids, Mananquil admits he is torn between the family business and boxing. And if somebody’s going to put a gun to his head, Mananquil would not hesitate to make his choice. “It’s a tough decision but I really love boxing.” Coming from a well-to-do family, Mananquil went to five schools during college. Once, he tried studying in America but went home after just a few weeks, saying his heart was not there. Back in the Philippines, Mananquil enrolled at Ateneo de Davao University, Enderun College and even tried schooling in a small college in General Santos City. Likewise, he went to school at Bonifacio Global City in Taguig but wound up backing out for the nth time and returned to General Santos City. He was always on-the-go. But one thing’s clear, though. Mananquil insists his first and only love is boxing. And if that big fight down the road happens in Tokyo before the end of the year, Mananquil says that would end up becoming the highlight of his young career provided his fighter emerges victorious. But in the meantime, Mananquil will continue to look after the tuna business in the morning to assure that boxing gets the sustenance it badly needs. Right now, Mananquil is rolling with the punches as the family business and boxing seem to be blending well. And if things fall into place, there could come a time when Mananquil won’t even have to be forced to sacrifice one but winds up mastering both. The post ROLLING WITH THE PUNCHES — Mananquil emerges as Phl boxing’s top power broker appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US and Vietnam set to expand ties as China worries grow
US President Joe Biden arrives in Vietnam on Sunday set to deepen cooperation between the two nations, in the face of China's growing ambitions in the region. Biden -- who is flying from the G20 summit in New Delhi -- will meet the leader of Vietnam's ruling Communist Party, Nguyen Phu Trong, on Sunday, and is expected to sign off on a "comprehensive strategic partnership", Hanoi's highest level of diplomatic ties. The underlying goal of the short visit will be much the same as during Biden's time at the G20 gathering -- to shore up support against China's increasing influence. For Vietnam, the upgrading of diplomatic ties is significant. It only has top-level ties with Russia, India, South Korea and China. Although it will be careful to be seen as not taking sides between the United States and China, Vietnam shares American concerns about its neighbor's growing assertiveness in the contested South China Sea. The United States and Vietnam -- a key manufacturing hub -- also have increasingly close trade ties, and Washington sees Hanoi as an important partner as it looks to source less from China after supply chain shocks rocked the global economy in recent years. In Hanoi on Sunday, there will be a welcome ceremony, speeches by the two leaders and a press conference by the US president -- who on Tuesday awarded the top US military honor to a helicopter pilot who rescued four soldiers during the Vietnam War. Biden will meet President Vo Van Thuong and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh the following day. Ahead of the 80-year-old US president's arrival, Hanoi's central Hoan Kiem Lake area, packed with families out for a weekend stroll, was adorned with American and Vietnamese flags. Nearby in the city's old quarter, a souvenir shop sold T-shirts with Biden's face emblazoned across the front. "I think the US is a good friend to Vietnam," said the shop's 61-year-old owner Truong Thanh Duc. "With this visit of President Joe Biden, I think he will bring more business contracts and jobs to Vietnamese people." - Human rights - In Vietnam, Biden will be juggling strategic interests with the defense of human rights. The Southeast Asian country has a dire human rights record. Government critics face intimidation, harassment and imprisonment after unfair trials, and there are reports of police torture to extract confessions, Human Rights Watch says. While the president has often criticized China's human rights record, he has largely stayed quiet on Vietnam and campaigners are fearful he may not press the subject. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said prior to the trip that Biden would raise issues related "to freedom of expression, freedom of religion, and other basic human rights". His visit comes days after a US government commission on religious freedom harshly criticized Vietnam for "egregious, ongoing, and systematic violations". On Saturday, Nguyen Bac Truyen, a legal expert and religious freedom advocate who was sentenced in 2018 to 11 years in prison for subversion, said on Facebook he had been released and allowed to travel to Germany with his wife. Vietnam often releases political prisoners prior to US presidential visits. Biden's visit to Hanoi will mean he leaves early from the G20 summit, where leaders agreed on a joint declaration that papered over deep divisions on the war in Ukraine and tackling climate change, avoiding direct criticism of Moscow and any concrete pledge to phase out polluting fossil fuels. His Vietnam trip will also include a poignant visit to the memorial to his friend John McCain, the former US senator shot down and held captive during the Vietnam War who in later years helped rebuild ties between the two countries. burs-aph/sco © Agence France-Presse The post US and Vietnam set to expand ties as China worries grow appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Asian Institute of Management appoints Erramon Aboitiz as new chairman
UnionBank of the Philippines chairman of the Board of Directors Erramon "Montxu" I. Aboitiz has taken on a pivotal role as the new chairman of the Board of Trustees at the Asian Institute of Management beginning 1 September 2023. Aboitiz joins an esteemed group of accomplished business leaders who share the commitment to advance the growth and well-being of Asia and its people. Montxu is the seventh chairman of AIM, succeeding Peter Garrucho who assumed the role in 2017. Montxu served as the president and CEO of Aboitiz Equity Ventures for a decade from 2009 to 2019, and briefly as the CEO of Aboitiz Power Corporation in 2018. Additionally, Montxu is a former trustee of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation before Aboitiz Group president and CEO Sabin Aboitiz assumed the same role. Montxu earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a major in Accounting and Finance from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, USA. In 2011, he received the Management Man of the Year award from the Management Association of the Philippines and was recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young. Seven years later, AIM conferred an honorary doctorate degree in management on Montxu. In 2019, the Aboitiz Group, through its social responsibility arm the Aboitiz Foundation, made a $10 million donation to AIM, marked as the Aboitiz 100th Anniversary Commitment Fund. The said fund is being used to address the local and regional gap in data science and innovation. With this donation, AIM’s Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship conducts world-class teaching and research with real-world applications with data science professionals and leaders. The post Asian Institute of Management appoints Erramon Aboitiz as new chairman appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Forbes Asia fetes start-up enabler
Packworks, a local startup that provides a business-to-business open platform to sari-sari stores was included in Forbes Asia’s 100 to Watch List 2023. The list recognizes companies and startups that are “targeting underserved markets or applying new technologies.” Packworks is one of only nine companies from the Philippines that have made it to the list and one of the nine listed companies from the e-commerce and retail industry. According to Forbes Asia, the final 100 were selected from over 550 submissions and nominations from accelerators, incubators, SME advocacy organizations, universities, and venture capitalists across the region. “We are honored to be recognized by Forbes Asia and included in their ‘100 to Watch List’ for 2023. At Packworks, our mission has always been to empower sari-sari stores through our open platform, and this recognition underscores our commitment to driving innovation in the e-commerce and retail industry,” Packworks co-founder and CEO Bing Tan said. “To every sari-sari store owner, partner, and dedicated team member who has believed in and journeyed with us — this recognition is as much yours as it is ours,” he added. To qualify for the list, companies must have an annual revenue not exceeding $50 million, and have received no more than $100 million in total funding as of 7 August 2023. Tough criteria Metrics such as a positive impact on the region or industry, a track record of strong revenue growth or ability to attract funding, promising business models or markets, and a persuasive story were among the considerations. Packworks will represent the Philippines at the Startup World Cup 2023 in Silicon Valley, USA, in December. It won Ignite 2022’s Startup World Cup x Wildfire Pitch competition in October last year. Packworks was established in 2018 out of a passion project by Tan alongside co-founders Ibba Bernardo and Hubert Yap. The trio started as motorbike buddies before forming a company delivering solar panels to provinces and far-flung places across the country. During their excursions, they saw firsthand the challenges brought by limited access for sari-sari store owners and embarked on developing an application for small store businesses to have a one-app stop for all their needs. Launched as a solution for multinational companies with only a handful of sari-sari store partners, Packworks has rapidly expanded as a platform to ease the supply chain ecosystem, from small sari-sari store owners to wholesalers, distributors, and renowned companies and brands. With about 75 percent of sari-sari stores owned by women, Packworks also works to empower female entrepreneurs. The company raised $2 million in seed funds in August last year and is backed by ADB Ventures, Arise, CVC Capital Partners — Fast Group, IdeaSpace Foundation and Techstars. The post Forbes Asia fetes start-up enabler appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Medical miracle
It is commonly recognized that Taiwan is one of the world’s leading producers of information and communication technology products. However, it is not so widely known that the country is among the world’s top medical-care providers with advanced capabilities in biotech and pharmaceuticals. Taiwan has ranked No. 1 in the world in Numbeo’s mid-year “Global Health Care Index by Country” for five consecutive years with a score of 85.9 this year, on top of South Korea, Japan, France and Netherlands. Numbeo is the world’s largest database of user-contributed data about cities and countries which calculates a health score for each country based on technology, medical personnel qualifications, medical equipment, waiting times, accessibility of medical locations and staff friendliness. When it comes to health expenditure index, Taiwan ranked first as well with a score of 157.8. One National Geographic Channel documentary in 2012 dubbed the medical miracle in Taiwan and mentioned that among the world’s 200 best hospitals, 14 of them were located in Taiwan, which made Taiwan one of the best and most affordable countries in Asia for patients to seek medical help. One of the significant reasons Taiwan is able to provide high quality medical care is because being a doctor is one of the most sought-after jobs and only those who score the highest in college entrance exams can enter medical school. That’s why the smartest and top talents in Taiwan are doctors. On top of that, Taiwan began hospital accreditation programs in 1978, accrediting specific teaching hospitals providing practicum for medical students. The accreditation of hospitals was conducted by the Ministry of Health and Welfare but the Joint Commission of Taiwan was given the task in 1999. JCT aims to help healthcare organizations improve their service with recognition of accreditation and certification, thereby achieving the mission of enhancing healthcare quality in Taiwan. To develop and strengthen bilateral cooperation in South and Southeast Asian countries, the One Country, One Center project was launched in June 2018 with India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam as primary partners. The New Southbound Policy countries are linked with hospitals in Taiwan to expand professional training programs, build medical industry collaborations and provide health consultation services for Taiwanese working and doing business in partner-countries. In 2018, 336 medical professionals from partner countries were trained in medical centers in Taiwan and 69 enterprises were introduced to the target region. Despite its high-quality services and relatively low costs, Taiwan is often overlooked as a medical tourism destination. In fact, Taiwan offers quality medical services especially in living-donor liver transplantation, craniofacial surgery, cardiovascular therapeutics, artificial reproductive technology and arthroplasty surgery. Moreover, to establish a smart health environment, Taiwan is integrating its leading-edge information technology capacities with innovative medical management. For instance, Taiwan has a high success rate of 81 percent for heart, liver and kidney transplants compared to 77 to 79 percent in the United States, and on average, the hospital and surgery costs are just 1/6 of the United Kingdom, 1/5 of the US and 1/3 of Japan, which makes Taiwan one of the best destinations for medical tourism. Another example is infertility treatment. The trends of delayed marriage and nonmarriage in Pacific Asian countries have a great impact on their fertility rates and thus cause infertility problems for many couples. Consequently, healthcare facilities are also promoting tourism packages for couples to receive infertility treatment in Taiwan. The post Medical miracle appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»